tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15703393825630196702024-02-07T05:38:39.345-08:00Redemption Lutheran SermonsSermons preached at Redemption Lutheran Church, Lynnwood, WA.Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08320504400207760797noreply@blogger.comBlogger686110tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-78292472651365900582021-01-02T10:54:00.001-08:002021-01-02T10:54:08.331-08:001 John 4:7-11 | December 27, 2020 | Day of St. John the Apostle <iframe title="Festival of St. John the Apostle" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/n5py4-f67be6?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p> <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Theme: John Provides a Record of…</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1. The proof of Christ’s birth (Hope and
Expectation)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2. The effect of Christ’s work (Evidence and
Effect)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1 John
4:7-11 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who
loves is born of God and knows God. 8 He who does not love does not know God,
for God is love. 9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God
has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.
10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His
Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we
also ought to love one another.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The idea of <u>record
keeping</u> was a sub-theme within the Christmas story. We’re familiar with the
way that Luke 2 began, </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke 2:1 And it came to
pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the
world should be registered…</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> One major geo-political event
that led up to the birth of Christ was the Roman census – a tracking of the
people within the empire.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">God had his own
records of importance in the Scriptures as well. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 1</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> lists the
complete genealogy from Abraham (the father of the Jewish nation) to Jesus.
This was a vital resource for the Jewish believer. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 3</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> contains a
genealogy that connects Jesus to the very beginning of life with Adam, the
first man. Though we don’t often read through the genealogies around Christmas
time, we cannot discount the value they provide as we witness a historical
record of God’s plan of salvation throughout the ages.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Today, as we consider
the input of the Apostle John on the life and work of Jesus, we see that he
provides another record of sorts. It’s not a genealogical record, or a list of
peoples within a nation. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John’s
record is more like Jesus’ birth certificate.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> John’s purpose is very
simple – to verify that Jesus indeed was born into this world. Now, as we know,
the life of Jesus is not that simple. There’s a lot connected to His birth, as
John certainly indicates. But it all traces back to the birth in Bethlehem when
Jesus took on human flesh. Without that singular moment, nothing else in the
plan of salvation would have happened. John’s message attempts to remind us of
that truth.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Now, a birth
certificate is an important document. It verifies the birth. It can be used
later in life to obtain other documents of importance. It’s essentially the
first record of a person’s existence. But, it is also is quite simple –
typically one piece of paper with an individual’s name, date and location of
birth, and parents. However, imagine if a birth certificate also went on to
state what that child would go on to do in life – what their passions and
hobbies would be, what their occupation would be? Even more than that, what if
that birth certificate also stated how that child would make you feel, what
important memories you would have with them, and a detailed list of their major
accomplishments in life? That would be something indeed.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And that’s somewhat
like what John provides for us in the birth of Jesus. John not only wrote a
Gospel record about the life of Jesus, he also provided three epistles about
the meaning of Jesus’ work for believers. But everything John wrote came back
to the birth of Christ – without that pivotal event, there was nothing. And so,
John spends time showing us the evidence – essentially telling us what
happened.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Listen to the opening
words of John’s first letter: </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That which was from the
beginning, <u>which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we
have looked upon, and our hands have handled</u>, concerning the Word of life--
2 the life was <u>manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare
to you</u> that eternal life which was with the Father and was <u>manifested</u>
to us-- 3 <u>that which we have seen and heard we declare to you</u>, that you
also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father
and with His Son Jesus Christ.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The theme is clear,
John wants you to have a record of Christ’s coming into the world – he wants
you to see as he saw.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">One of the ways John got this point across was an
emphasis on the manifestation of Christ.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> The idea of this
word is to make known something that was concealed or hidden from sight. John
uses it 6 times in this letter, including verse 9 of our text.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">There’s a two-fold
purpose in this approach by John. For Old Testament believers, the
manifestation of the Savior was a critical element in their faith. They were
waiting for God to fulfill His promises. As we see with the genealogies of the
New Testament this waiting extended back to Adam and Eve as the first parents
of all people, and also to Abraham as the father of the Jewish people. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Without the manifestation of the
Messiah, not just in thought but also in human form, there would be no
substance to the Old Testament believer’s faith.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> The peoples’ </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">expectation</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
flowed from God’s promise – there would be a visible Savior who would tangibly
make payment for the sins of the world.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">When you understand
this about the faith of Old Testament believers, you can go back to the Gospels
and see deliberate attempts by Jesus to affirm that He was the manifested
Messiah. For example, in Luke 10:24 Jesus stated, </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">"for
I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and
have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it."</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In other instances,
Jesus would connect His physical presence with Old Testament prophecies. In
Luke 4 Jesus read from Isaiah 61:1-2 and concluded by saying, </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Today, this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> He was telling them, I am the revealed Savior from God. You are seeing
it. You are hearing it. This is not something mysterious and concealed – God is
making it known for all to witness.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But clearly, the
visible and audible witness of Christ was only for a time – and a short time at
that. Though many saw and heard directly, many, many more did not. John is also
aware of this reality and so his message is also directed at New Testament
believers like us. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John
wants us to be able to rely on his eyewitness testimony so that, as he writes,
“you also may have fellowship with us.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Today, more than
ever, people want irrefutable evidence of the claims of Christianity. The birth
of Jesus is not exempted from that discussion. Many modern eyes see Christmas
as nothing more than fable or myth. Many modern ears hear the story as little
more than traditional fairy tale – right up there with Santa and Rudolph. John
sets the record straight – Jesus was manifest. God revealed His Son by natural
birth, and I am giving you the record. Therefore, Christianity is not blind
faith because it is based on evidence delivered to us through the Bible. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John was not just
addressing people who wanted faith, he was addressing people who wanted
evidence. In this way, John had in mind not only the Jewish believer – to whom
religion would have been natural, but also the Greek skeptic – who saw the
world through reason and logic. Those two categories continue to exist today in
our culture, as some people find religion to be natural and others do not. John
provides testimony to both. We see that most clearly in the first verse of his
letter. </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That which was from the beginning, which
we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and
our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life—</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This verse is very
similar to the first verse in John’s Gospel: </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">John 1:1
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> By defining Jesus as the “Word” John is connecting with both groups of
people. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises which God
delivered by words. Jesus continues to be manifested through the Scriptures in
our hearing and using of them. But John also wrote in Greek to a Greek culture.
The word employed by John here was <i>Logos</i>, which is the basis of our
English word <i>logic</i>. We might wonder why it is then translated as word.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It is true, on the
one hand, that <i>logos</i> can mean individual words, it also has a deeper
meaning referring to the substance (effect) of words. In this way, the <i>logos</i>
was extremely important to Greek culture. Greek philosophers throughout the
ages compared the idea of <i>logos</i> to the theoretical goal of their
philosophical pursuits. They indulged in the activity of pursuing wisdom for
the express purpose of finding the <i>logos</i> – the deeper meaning of life.
And the path they walked in that pursuit was rhetoric – the use of words. John
takes that meaning and attaches Christ to it – Jesus is the logos, not just the
fulfillment of words, but the fulfillment of our lives. Jesus is the deeper
meaning, the finish line of pursing wisdom. </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And the
critical point of today’s lesson is that Jesus has been revealed by God as
such. He is manifest for all by His birth.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This is truly an
amazing lesson from John as it was given to him by the Holy Spirit. But, John adds
one more miraculous truth – Jesus’ birth impacts our birth into God’s kingdom. <u>Again,
what a strange thing it would be if a child’s birth certificate also contained
a record of their impact of your life.</u> But this is also what John provides
for us as he testifies about Christ’s incarnation. Just as it was with the word
“manifest” in John’s letter, so we see this come out in the word “born,” which
also occurs 6 times. In our text, John states in the opening verse (the effect
on our lives), </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Beloved, let us love
one another, for love is of God, and everyone who loves is <u>born</u> of God
and knows God.”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The message of Christmas is not just one of
expectation, it is also one of effect.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Because Jesus was
born in Bethlehem (and went on to accomplish what He did) we have the effect of
a rebirth in God’s kingdom by faith in Jesus. John connects this spiritual
truth to the physical reality of Jesus’ birth. Therefore, Jesus is not the only
One that John declares as manifest to the world. We are too. No longer in our
fallen, sinful state, but as holy, redeemed, and cleansed children of God.
Through Jesus, the world sees for the first time, what God intended us to be –
the new self that is born by faith.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And so John concludes
in the final chapter, giving us the final thought about our rebirth - </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1 John 5:1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ
has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been
born of him. 4 For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And
this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">God sets the record
straight through John by giving us the birth certificate of Jesus. The gospel
was built on expectation and now from it flows gracious effects in our lives.
And in the same way, with expectation and effect, we wait for the God’s final
promise to be fulfilled, that we would be born into eternity at His side in
heaven. Amen.</span></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-87045705000950272702021-01-02T10:51:00.001-08:002021-01-02T10:51:17.585-08:001 Corinthians 1:26-31 | December 20, 2020 | Advent 4<iframe title="Wisdom for Preparation" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ecg3k-f67bdd?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Theme: The Tale of Two Faiths</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Find
God (His Word, His Will, His Plan) in Yourself<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Find
Yourself (Your words, Your will, Your plan) in God<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We’ve been studying the creation account in
Genesis the last few weeks in Bible Class & Sunday School. There are many
worthwhile details from that account that are important to meditate upon
regularly and to study. But no matter how often I read Genesis, I am always
amazed at the beginning of all things. The very first words (or word) in the
Bible – “In the beginning.” What a simple statement but what profound
implications come from it.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">If there was a beginning, then there was a time
when nothing existed, except God. From the moment those words are spoken, one
must believe or reject that God is the author of everything – the first cause,
the intelligent designer, the Creator – whatever you want to call it. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The
fact that there was a beginning to all things demands that someone had to be
present to start it all off – to begin the beginning.</u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And from that moment, that first moment of all
moments, mankind has wrestled with understanding, appreciating, and trusting
God. Say what you want about faith – one thing we cannot change is that it is
shrouded in deep mystery. We believers, who may at times think we know a lot
about God, know very little indeed.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Such
is the reality set before us in God’s Word today, as we read from 1 Corinthians
1:26-31:</span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise
according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble
birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God
chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28 God chose what is low
and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things
that are, 29 so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And
because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness
and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, "Let the one
who boasts, boast in the Lord." (ESV)</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">There are many stark
differences in these words. <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">Wise
and foolish. Weak and strong. Noble and lowly. Man and God.</span> But each
difference comes back to one thing – <u>things that are and things that are
not.</u> In terms of Genesis – things that God has begun and things that God
has not begun. And there is an effect to these simple realities – </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The mystery of Advent
is that Jesus Christ, true and eternal God – chose to have a beginning. Paul
writes</span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">, “Christ Jesus, who <u>became</u> to us
wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption.”</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Just like the word “beginning” in Genesis pertains to the mystery of
Creation, so the word “became” in 1 Corinthians pertains to the mystery of
Advent. Jesus <i>became</i> these things. Jesus began these truths. This should
not, indeed from a rational standpoint, cannot be said of God. God is. God
exists. That’s the very essence of His revealed name, Yahweh. “I AM” God says.
But Jesus “became” these things – wisdom for us, righteousness, sanctification,
redemption – the pillars of the gospel truth of salvation. (explain each word a
bit more)</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Here you see the
value of Christmas to your faith. <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">Without Jesus “becoming,” none of these things would be yours.</span>
Yes, Jesus would still be wise, holy, set apart, and capable of loving
forgiveness. But if he never became Man for you – these things would not be for
you. This is a testament of God’s unbounded love for the world – that He would
“become” – something that in theory was impossible for God.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">But we also consider
what it means for our lives.</span></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> When God does
something </span><b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">for</span></i></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> someone, there is an effect – a consequence. And as we consider our
lives we must consider that effect. That God did this for us means that there
is one more division in this text – a tale of two faiths. Just as wisdom and foolishness,
rich and poor, noble and humble are all clear distinctions – so also is
believer and unbeliever. <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">And
this last division dictates how we see ourselves in relation to Christ’s
becoming for us.</span> There are two beliefs:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span> </span>1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Find
God (His Word, His Will, His Plan) in Yourself</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span> 2. </span>Find
Yourself (Your words, Your will, Your plan) in God</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This is the singular
division that exists as a result of Christ’s work. Yet, within it, there is an additional
consequence. Whether we believe or do not believe in Christ has a role in
shaping our lives, specifically in how we view ourselves. There are labels that
we attach to ourselves – wise, foolish, rich, poor, noble, humble, believer,
unbeliever. But just like Christ’s becoming – this is more than an academic
exercise. These labels mean something, or at least they should.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">What Christian out
there would call themselves an unbeliever? No one. Yet the distinction of faith
is not always as simple as the words – believer and unbeliever. It’s about more
than just a label. </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The deeper question is
how many Christians see the effect of that label, namely that they are to find
themselves (their words, their will, their plans) in God?</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> It’s easy to take upon oneself the label, it’s another matter to embrace
the consequence that follows.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Paul speaks about
that very difference in a unique way. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">How many of those who hold to the label of believer also
understand that it means being poor, foolish, and lowly in the ways of the
world?</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> How many of us are willing to trust – literally to stake our eternities
– on the belief that God has things under control? In other words, the belief that
God can make something out of nothing. Everything we have in our faith comes
from God alone – but far too often we live like we are the ones in control.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This was the essence
of Paul’s discourse as he summarized by writing, <b>so that no human being
might boast in the presence of God. </b></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The consequence of faith vs. unbelief can be
witnessed in a person’s boast – in what they glory in.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This section is one of those ones in the Bible
that defy human logic and reason. Why would God choose things that are foolish,
poor, and weak? How can God make something out of nothing? </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">To human nature,
status and outward appearance are more important than anything else.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
Consider the example of the Pharisees and Sadducees from last week’s text. John
the Baptist condemned their outward vanity because their hearts were filled
with poison. This problem was not unique to the Pharisees and the Sadducees –
it’s a human nature issue.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, why would God make this logic-defying
choice? Paul tells us – </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">so that no human being might boast in the presence
of God</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. This is the core of every sin. It all is a matter of glorifying
oneself, rather than God. It’s wanting to take credit for God’s work, wanting
to have our say above God’s Word, wanting to follow our own path over God’s
will, and wanting to turn our object of worship into something of our own
devising. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In terms of
identity – it is finding God in ourselves, rather than finding ourselves in
God.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> And to put it simply – it is the difference between faith and
unbelief.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This is the true division in this text, and
within the world. Every person is either on one side or the other. And it’s as
stark a difference as wise vs. foolish, powerful vs. weak, and noble vs. lowly.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But it’s also the very reason why Jesus
“became” wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. Every person
desperately needs what Jesus alone can grant. And so, on Christmas Day, God
brought to pass what previously did not exist – the divine Creator in human
form – the perfect Redeemer for an imperfect people. </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The beginning of
salvation. Jesus became man so that we could become holy – fit for eternal life
by God’s side.</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> As impossible a notion as it is that eternal God could
become something in time, so also it is impossible that we can earn our salvation
before God. That is why Jesus alone could do it, and He did.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The consequence of this faith vs. unbelief
reality is that we find ourselves in Jesus. He leads our way. He is our truth.
When we seek comfort, we trust in His power. When we are overcome with doubt,
we return to His truth. When we are pressed down by our sins, we rejoice in His
grace. When we face death, we triumph by the life He won for us. Truly, to the
one who glories, let he or she glory in the Lord! Amen.</span></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-2392600207382577932021-01-02T10:48:00.001-08:002021-01-02T10:48:24.188-08:00Matthew 3:1-12 | Advent 3 | December 13, 2020<iframe title="John the Baptist as Forerunner" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/fdiae-f67bd5?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p> Theme: <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Unexpected
(and underappreciated) Gifts from John</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> 1. </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Repent,
for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> 2. </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Bear
fruits worthy of repentance.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> 3. </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“He
(Jesus) is mightier than I”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sermon
Text: Matthew 3:1-12 (NKJV)</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and
saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" 3 For this is
he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">"The
voice of one crying in the wilderness: <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Prepare
the way of the LORD; Make His paths straight.’" <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4
And John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his
waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea,
and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and were baptized by him in the Jordan,
confessing their sins. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees
coming to his baptism, he said to them, "Brood of vipers! Who warned you
to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, 9
and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I
say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones.
10 And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree
which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 I
indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is
mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you
with the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will
thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn;
but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Did you make a Christmas gift list this year? I
usually don’t but I did this year. Typically, when I’m asked to compile a list,
I struggle to think of anything to put down. All throughout the year I see
things every now and then that I would like, but they’re not so easy to recall
when asked to. For those of us that do make lists, I’m sure it would be
somewhat comical to look back on them after several years. Trends and wants
come and go. Needs come and go. Just a year or two ago, every kid on the block
wanted a fidget spinner. I’m guessing that most would be disappointed this year
to unwrap one.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Listen to what one article compiled as the top
toy gifts from each decade of the 20<sup>th</sup> century. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1910s
– Teddy Bear<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1920s
– Yo Yo<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1930s
– Shirley Temple doll<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1940s
– Slinky<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1950s
– Mr. Potato Head<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1960s
– G.I. Joe<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1970s
– Star Wars action figures<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1980s
– Cabbage Patch kids<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1990s
– Beanie Babies and Tickle Me Elmo<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 115.85pt; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2000s
– Nintendo Wii</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Depending on the generation you grew up in, one
or several of these toys probably strikes an emotional chord in your heart.
Maybe you begged mom and dad for one at some point. Maybe you heard the begging
at a different point. The thing about it is, very few of these toys have
staying power. Yes, Star Wars is bigger today than ever, but only because newer
movies have come out. If that ever ends, it too will fade in relevance. Every
toy, every gift in fact, has its time to shine.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Imagine a kid today unwrapping a Yo-Yo or a
Slinky. Not bad gifts in their own right, but chances are kids would be quite
disappointed. Sadly, when a gift fades from the popular limelight, it induces
less joy, even if in reality it is still a solid gift.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If there was an example in the Bible of bucking
the trends of popularity it would certainly be John the Baptist. Matthew tells
us in our text that John wore Camel’s hair, lived in the wilderness, and dined
on honeycomb and locusts. One wonders why John chose this lifestyle. He was different.
He certainly wasn’t trendy. But His message and his work were indeed impactful.
Matthew also tells us that <b>“Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around
the Jordan went out to John.</b>” There was something about John that went
above and beyond the current popularity of the day.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In terms of gift-giving, John was the
unexpected and underappreciated gift that ultimately proved valuable. You’ve
received gifts like that before, haven’t you? Maybe you were upset and
disappointed that you didn’t get what was on your list, the most popular gift
of the year – whatever it was. But you realized later on it was better that you
<i>didn’t</i> get what you wanted, that what you received was more valuable.
That was John in a nutshell. Many tried to shut him down, and eventually John
would be killed for his faith. But, John’s message was eternal, because it
focused on Someone who was greater.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today, in this summary text from Matthew, the
Holy Spirit gives us three unexpected, and in many cases underappreciated,
gifts from John the Baptist. They come to us in the way that God’s revelation
always comes, through words. The first gift is John’s first message, <b>“Repent,
for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Very little of John’s ministry is preserved for
us in the Bible. We knew he had a career of ministering in the wilderness. He
clearly made an impact on the people, as he had a following of disciples and
some even wondered if John was the Messiah. But, given the effort John put into
his work, we have almost nothing of it in the Bible. What we do have is
telling. The first public message we hear from John is verse 2: </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Repent for
the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> We might brush past this verse as the
meaningless ramblings of a desert preacher, but it actually is the greatest
gift John gives. This is the most treasured thought of this section. First,
because John imparts the hope we have of freedom from sin. But second, because
through these words we see past John to Jesus.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Where does Jesus come in? Well, this very statement
was also the first public message that He delivered. You need only to page over
to chapter 4 of Matthew in your Bibles and in verse 17 you’ll see that Jesus
spoke the exact same thing when He began His public ministry. If both the
Messiah, and the Forerunner, began their ministries with this thought, then we
clearly want to take it to heart in our lives.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Repent has a negative connotation in our
culture. But God defines the words He uses, not the culture. Repentance in the
Biblical sense is based on the good news of salvation in Jesus. It means that
we not only turn away from sin, but also that we trust that God has forgiven us
by His mercy. Whenever God calls people to repent, we should consider that a
message of hope. This is why repentance naturally flows into the kingdom of
God. It is the tool that God lovingly gives us to offload the burdens of sin
upon Jesus and to stand righteous and ready to become a member of God’s family.
Both John and Jesus started with repentance, because that’s how faith starts,
and that is the essence of life with God.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The second unexpected gift from John was a
message about the results of repentance. We may not categorize these words as a
“gift” because they sting. John said to the Pharisees and Sadducees, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Bear
fruits worthy of repentance.”</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John shows that he knows the Pharisees and
Sadducees well. On the surface, it seems that John’s message is filled with
hatred. One imagines a scene of two competing influences vying for the peoples’
attention. On the one hand you have the established religious elite, and the
other hand you have the upstart preacher. To the untrained eye, John comes
across as vindictive. But these words were indeed a gift, not because the
hearers wanted them, but because they needed them.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">No better or more loving message could have
been given the Pharisees and Sadducees. John knew this because he knew what was
in their hearts. That’s why he knew what their immediate reaction was going to
be. Notice the connection between what the Pharisees and Sadducees claimed, and
what they really believed. John says, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Do not think to say to yourselves,
‘We have Abraham as our father.’”</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> John knew that these religious leaders
staked their faith in God on their lineage as true Jewish descendants of
Abraham. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">They believed that their bloodline was more necessary for salvation
than the blood of a Savior shed for their sins</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. But by trusting in this
vain idolatry, John states exactly what they </span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">really</i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> were – a brood of
vipers, or in other words, offspring of the serpent.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The imagery is intense. The viper, of all the
species of snakes, seems beautiful and exotic on the outside, yet it is the
deadliest inside. Likewise, the Pharisees and Sadducees adorned themselves on
the outside with rich, ornamental clothing and customs, but in their hearts
they had no true faith in God. On a different occasion, Jesus compared them
with whitewashed tombs, which are decorated in beauty on the outside, but
contain death and decay on the inside.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This was hypocrisy at its core. You couldn’t
find a greater contrast between John and the Pharisees and Sadducees, both in
appearance in belief. The Pharisees and the Sadducees would never stoop to wearing
camel’s hair and eating locusts, but they also would never humble themselves by
repenting of their sins. Their religious acts were hollow and self-centered.
They only cared about what other people thought, to maintain their status in
society, not about what God thought. Indeed, they came to John even to be
baptized by him. They wanted to be accepted into the movement that was growing,
but not because they actually desired to follow the true God, or to accept the
teachings about Jesus that John delivered. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Both of these unexpected gifts from John are
still desperately needed in our time, and especially in our hearts. They may
not be on our gift list, but we need them just as much as the Pharisees and
Sadducees. Growing up in a Christian lineage will not save us from the wrath to
come over our sins anymore than the Pharisee’s and Sadducee’s claim as
Abraham’s children saved them. Repentance is the nourishment each sinner needs.
When that repentance finds its confidence and hope in Jesus, souls are
enlivened with the gospel to bear fruit to the glory of God.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">John marks the difference maker in verse 11. </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is
mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you
with the Holy Spirit and fire. </b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Repentance is a gift from God because it is the
way we receive salvation in Jesus. Without repentance, all signs of religious
virtue and piety are hypocritical.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">John’s words are not only unexpected, but also
underappreciated – especially by our generation. We live at a time of
hyper-sensitivity when it comes to right vs. wrong. But, far too often, the
attitude behind these activities mirrors the religious elite of Jesus’ day –
they look good outwardly but they are filled with deceit and poison inwardly.
Such is the result of any virtue that becomes detached from Christ and His Word.
It ultimately is a dangerous idol leading one away from God. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This hyper-sensitivity plays out today as
people boast of their virtue to others. There is a constant struggle to be
shown more pious, more kind, more compassionate, more empathic, more wise, and
more moral than the rest of the average population. There is great shaming and
criticism given to those who do not reflect the proper virtue of the societal
elite today – the loud voices on social media, in newspapers and television, on
college campuses, and even many churches.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But if you look closely enough at these
movements and the attitudes and beliefs behind them, you’ll see a spiritual
shallowness. The virtues striven for are not from God, but from this generation
of humanity. There is no humility or repentance, only pride and lust for power.
It’s not about bringing people closer to Jesus as their Savior, but shaping the
world to conform to popular belief by mob force. It’s a religion of the self,
and though it is prevalent today, it is not new.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This was the same spiritual fog that John
scattered when he came as such a unique Forerunner of the Savior. Both he and
Jesus preached with an intensity of conviction and compassion based on the
central truth of God’s Word. They did this for the express purpose of
shattering this self-centered framework. It was unexpected and underappreciated
back then, as it is today. But, what a gift from God above! These words from
John, delivered to us by the Holy Spirit, are the exact nourishment our souls
need to be assured of salvation in Jesus Christ alone – not for being lifted up
on a pedestal above others. They protect us from the vain dream of human
ambition and from trying to recreate heaven on earth according to our terms.
They may not be the gift we want, by they absolutely are what we need to be in
heaven with God.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Treasure this gift this Advent season. That you
may be sustained in repentance through Jesus, that you may bear real spiritual
fruits, and that you may have confidence and assurance as a redeemed and
forgiven child of God. Amen.</span></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-65930004456036976472020-12-08T14:12:00.001-08:002020-12-08T14:12:11.067-08:00Psalm 47 | December 6, 2020 | Advent 2<iframe title="Advent Peace from Jesus" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/gexff-f4744a?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peace
Comes at a Cost<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God Subdues the Nations<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Only Two Sides Exist <o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><!--[if !supportLists]--><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Psalm
47: O Clap your hands, all peoples; Shout to God with the voice of joy. 2 For
the LORD Most High is to be feared, A great King over all the earth. 3 He
subdues peoples under us, And nations under our feet. 4 He chooses our
inheritance for us, The glory of Jacob whom He loves. Selah. 5 God has ascended
with a shout, The LORD, with the sound of a trumpet. 6 Sing praises to God,
sing praises; Sing praises to our King, sing praises. 7 For God is the King of
all the earth; Sing praises with a skillful psalm. 8 God reigns over the
nations, God sits on His holy throne. 9 The princes of the people have
assembled themselves as the people of the God of Abraham; For the shields of
the earth belong to God; He is highly exalted.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">When you think about themes around Christmas
time, peace is right at the top of the list. But even something as simple
sounding as peace can be spoken of differently depending on the person. What do
we mean by peace at Christmas time?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I think it’s safe to assume that most people
mean world peace – that being peace among peoples and nations on earth. Peace
in this sense would mean the absence of conflict, war, and anger. This kind of
peace may be a noble goal but it’s hardly close to a reality. The more educated
and sophisticated humanity becomes, the more that insight it put into finding
new ways to get what is wanted and to hurt others if necessary. More lives have
been taken in conflicts since the dawn of the 20</span><sup style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> century than at
any other point in history. Yet, we are regularly conditioned to accept that
the more progressive and enlightened society becomes, the closer we come to
achieving peace.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Others who speak of peace at Christmas time
mean something more generic than world peace. Some take the concept of peace
and make it more abstract, more of an idea in your mind that settles your
heart, without attaching any specific thing or action to it. But what good is
peace if it’s just an idea? Doesn’t there have to be a certain amount of
reality behind the peace that we desire?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">These cheaper imitations of the true peace of
Christmas are popular because part of the challenge that we face is a lack of
desire to truly understand what it takes to have real peace. This could apply
to world peace, but we’re looking past this world into the things of God. To
have divine peace, harmony with one’s Creator, is really what the peace of
Christmas is about. We connect this peace with Christmas because it was for
this peace that Jesus came and was born into this world. Jesus clearly did not
bring an end to earthly conflict among peoples’ and nations when He was born.
Jesus also intended something much more real and meaningful than a different mental
outlook on life. Jesus came to destroy sin and death – not just as an idea, but
as a tangible threat to our eternal futures. Sin destroys and fractions
wherever it exists. This is reality. There are direct consequences. We have to
live, everyday, with the tragic results of sin’s existence in this world. Sin
is what makes world peace in an earthly sense impossible.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, why wouldn’t the entire world beat the
doors down to get this peace from Jesus? Because we who are in the world are
part of the problem. And when you’re part of the problem, you naturally do not
want to be honest about what it takes to achieve a solution to the problem. That’s
why people aren’t lining the streets today reciting Psalm 47. In these words,
God describes the cost of true peace through Jesus Christ. And it’s not the
typical Christmas message we’re used to hearing around this time of year. It’s
a message of power. A battle cry in the midst of conflict. A declaration of God
as almighty and Lord of heaven and earth. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What makes this psalm the atypical message of peace
is because it portrays how peace is achieved. Peace came at a cost. We see that
first come out in this psalm as God speaks of reigning over the nations. It’s
hard to imagine a word more different from peace than “subdue.” Subduing brings
to mind holding others back. It’s a word that heightens the power differential
between two individuals or groups. Peace makes us think of equality. Subdue
makes us think of inequality. But for peace to exist through Jesus, the nations
of the earth needed to be subdued under God’s power. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">What’s interesting about this word for “subdue”
is that the basic meaning in Hebrew is “to speak.” The passage is literally
saying that God “speaks” the nations down under the power of His people. In the
Old Testament, God’s people were obviously the Israelites. We see how the words
of this Psalm applied in a literal sense to the conquest of Canaan, when God
allowed His people to subdue the foreign nations. But that was not allowed by
God because of some worldly nationalistic pride, or because Israel proved to be
a better nation than the others. God’s allowance of this power difference was
solely to provide an avenue for the Anointed One, the Messiah, to be born of
the nation of Israel.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Truly, if you track the nation of Israel’s
history throughout the Bible, you’ll find that they were often the ones who
were subdued. But despite the ups and downs, God remained faithful in His
promise, first to Adam and Eve, and second to Abraham, and then to all
humanity, that a Savior would be born of the nation of Israel. Spiritually
speaking, for peace to come from Jesus, the evil and wickedness of the heathen
nations needed to be put in check. This battle continues to this day. It’s not
about the nation of Israel anymore, they served their purpose in God’s plan.
Now, it’s about the real estate of a person’s heart – of you and God. Peace by
faith cannot exist if sin still has dominion over a person. Only Christ can
subdue that enemy.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">When we understand the spiritual side of this
Psalm, we see not only where we fit into the picture, but also why we have a
unique and powerful peace from Jesus. The battle that was portrayed in a
literal sense through Israel’s conquest as a nation, is now carried on by
believers and continues to be blessed by the same almighty and eternal God in a
spiritual sense. Biblical imagery in the Old Testament often follows this
pattern. There was an intended meaning for the original audience in the Old
Testament, but also a future meaning for believers of all time. This is the
Holy Spirit’s handiwork upon the text. The sons of Korah themselves could only
speak to their generation. The Holy Spirit alone is able to impart truth to all
of God’s people – the universal Church.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, the Spirit-intended meaning as it concerns
our lives is about the battle that continues until time on this earth ends. We
praise the LORD with shouts of joy because He reigns over this battle. We
strive and we fight, but the peace that Jesus brought to earth extends over the
entire story. This is the battle that the Apostle Paul referenced in our
Scripture reading, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life,
to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the
presence of many witnesses. (1Ti 6:11 NKJ). </b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Peace also comes at a cost because there are
only two sides to this struggle. There are those who follow God by faith and
those who do not. We know that when it comes to life with God there is only one
way – as Jesus Himself taught and confessed that He was “the way, the truth,
and the life (John 14:6).” But, for those without God, many and vast are the
beliefs and teachings that are confessed. There is no one standard way of
unbelief. So, while we live in a world of many different faiths, the simple
truth that there are really only two outcomes helps clarify reality. For all
people, a side must be chosen. And whichever path veers away from God’s truth
of salvation in Christ is also subdued by God in His love and power.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And so this peace that comes at a cost is the
only thing that can protect our souls from eternal damnation. The danger we
face around Christmas time is that peace becomes meaningless – empty of Christ
- worldly or generic. Both senses lose the true hope and foundation of Jesus
Christ.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It will forever be true that the value of your
peace is determined by what it cost to achieve. Cheap fluffy peace, the kind in
many Christmas songs or plastered on the media today, comes at a very small
cost. That type of peace is often spoken of in such vague terms that one is
left at a loss as to what exactly necessitates peace. Why do we need it if we
don’t have any problems with our beliefs, our attitudes, or our behaviors? What
value does peace have if we are free to choose what is best for our lives and
no one can say that one way is better or more moral than another?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We wind up in a similar place with earthly
peace alone. How can one argue against advocating for worldly peace? It sounds
inhumane. We certainly should desire earthly peace with fellow humans, but not
as a substitute to eternal peace in Jesus. This is especially striking during a
season when we get gifts for others. Which of us, when considering a gift,
would prefer something artificial to something real? If you bought a diamond
necklace, and had an equal choice – wouldn’t you choose real diamonds over
fake? If you gifted a wooden hutch, wouldn’t you prefer oak over particle
board? If you are going the gift card route, isn’t it better to have a gift
card with actual money attached to it, rather than a fancy looking card with no
value?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">These images impress upon us the stark
difference between world peace and peace by faith in Christ. Both are admirable
goals, but one is clearly more realistic and more important than the other. And
God testifies repeatedly in His Word that the new heavens and new earth of
Christ’s reign will usher in a time of world peace. It’s simply a matter of
which one must come before the other. God does want world peace, as do we, but
the battle reminds us it can only come through Jesus.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Why? Because the cost He paid. You can estimate
the value of peace by the cost it takes. Jesus paid the ultimate cost by laying
down His own holy life for underserving sinners. He did what no one else could
or would. And it started, at least from a physical standpoint, when He was
conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of Mary into this world. From that
moment, the warrior that would win the battle for peace entered the arena. The
lines between faith and unbelief have always been set, just as they are today.
But Jesus struck the first blow toward the serpent’s head as He lay on the
manger in Bethlehem.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This was how God achieved peace, and the battle
language of Psalm 47 is a continual reminder of this cost. We shouldn’t stray
from peace as we read these words, rather we should learn more about it and be
left treasuring such a gift even more. Peace will undoubtedly be spoken about
this Christmas season and all others. Let us make sure our words mean something
– in Jesus Christ. Amen. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 115.85pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-34112901984635915872020-12-03T09:10:00.001-08:002020-12-03T09:10:15.431-08:00Luke 1:68-79 | November 29, 2020 | Advent 1<iframe title="Zechariah's Song of Praise| Luke 1:68-79" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/8ez2b-f3e1c2?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p>Theme: Zechariah’s Song - Prepare Your Heart</p><p>Luke 1:68-79</p><p>"Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, 69 And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, 70 As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, 71 That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, 73 The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: 74 To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life. 76 "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, 77 To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; 79 To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace." </p><p>When was the last time you had a heart-stopping moment? I’m thinking of a time when you were shocked or surprised in such a way that time seemed to stand still. I guess “heart-stopping” really isn’t the best description because usually during such times our hearts race faster. A few weeks ago as I was helping re-shingle the parsonage in Tacoma, I had one such moment. While I was carrying a bundle of shingles, my feet started to give out on the steep roof and my momentum began to carry me toward the edge, with gravity obviously pulling me in that direction. Thankfully, I was able to steady myself and regain my footing, but I just as easily could have completely lost my footing. Even now, my hands sweat a bit thinking about and my heart begins to beat a little faster. </p><p>We have those kinds of unexpected moments from time to time. And that’s part of what makes them heart-stopping – we can’t anticipate them. Today, we begin the Advent season, which is all about anticipation. But our first lesson focuses on someone who was completely surprised by the Lord’s grace and mercy – even if he should have known better. Zechariah was a priest and you can tell from his words that he knew the Scriptures well. Yet, he was dumbfounded at the Lord’s declaration that he and his wife, Elizabeth, would give birth to the forerunner of the Savior – John the Baptist. </p><p>Zechariah is most well-known for the fallout of this doubt - being muted by the angel Gabriel. Zechariah doubted Gabriel’s message because he and Elizabeth were too old to have a child. Because of this unbelief Zechariah was not able to talk for the entire duration of the pregnancy. It was only after the baby was born, and after Zechariah confirmed that his name would be John, that his tongue was loosed. The first words Zechariah spoke after John’s birth are recorded as our text. </p><p>What magnificent words they are! Zechariah confirms for us that despite his inability to speak and his moment of doubting; he held with great confidence to the promise of His Savior. While Zechariah no longer doubted, and certainly was not surprised at what had transpired, he had a heart-stopping moment in reflection of God’s goodness. At the time, Zechariah’s song of praise was quite possibly the greatest confession of the coming Messiah made by someone since the prophecies of the Old Testament. That was a time period of over 400 years! </p><p>We might well ask, how did Zechariah come to such a confession? What caused him to “get it” when he so easily doubted 9 months earlier? We shouldn’t be surprised by the answer, for it’s the same way we have come to confess Jesus as our Savior, and Zechariah clearly states it: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people 69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, 70 as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old.” Zechariah knew about Jesus because “God spoke” about Him in the Old Testament. So often when people want to find out something about Jesus, they look immediately to the New Testament. Surely Zechariah, as well as all other Old Testament believers, would have been at a loss if only the New Testament gave a clear record of our Savior. But certainly that isn’t the case for the Old Testament has much to teach about Jesus, even to us New Testament believers.</p><p>Essentially, Zechariah used what the Lord had given him, and that was sufficient for all he needed to about the Messiah and even more. Look at all the many aspects of Jesus’ life and work that Zechariah knew from the Old Testament:</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would visit His people (v.68)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would redeem His people (v.68)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would bring salvation (v.69)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would come from David (v.69)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus was promised long ago to Zechariah’s fathers (v.72)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would establish that long-awaited covenant from God which was first given to Abraham (vv.72-73)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would allow His followers to serve Him by faith, not by fear (v.74)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would grant holiness and righteousness (v.75)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would bring a message of repentance and forgiveness (v.77)</p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus would bring light and peace in a world of darkness and strife (v.79)</p><p>Zechariah knew all of these truths from what the Old Testament promised about Jesus. And this is only what he chose to share at the birth of his son, surely he knew much more! How many of us, who have the entire Bible, are able to confess such a list of truths? How much of the world around us takes time to consider these aspects of our Savior around the time of Christmas? Talk about putting “Christ” in “Christmas!” Zechariah certainly does that here by specifically outlining the work of the Child who, from his perspective, was not even born yet. </p><p>This type of confession, this type of knowledge, can only come just as it came for Zechariah, through the work and blessing of the Holy Spirit. It was precisely because Zechariah worked with the Word of God that he had the gift of the Holy Spirit. There’s no doubt that Zechariah showed the strength of his faith through this song. But how interesting was the way that this faith grew to be so strong. It was first through humility and lowliness that Zechariah understood his place in the Lord’s work. Whereas he was initially quick to doubt God and to try and figure things out on his own, months later he would boldly confess the truth in great detail, and willingly offer his own son for the work of preparing people for Jesus. </p><p>It’s unfortunate that Zechariah will forever be remembered for that moment of doubt and weakness, because in reality he showed the rock-solid foundation of his faith through this song of praise. But perhaps this is good because it stands as a reminder for us. Just as the purpose of John the Baptist’s life was one of preparation, so also the few short moments of his father’s life that we find recorded in the Bible remind us of a similar preparation. God prepared His people throughout thousands of years to receive the gift of His Son, the “fullness of the time” which John the Baptist ushered in. So, too, Zechariah’s story and song continues to prepare us today by reminding us how the Lord works in our lives. Sometimes He needs to humble us in order lift us up. Sometimes He needs to close a door so that another one can open. Sometimes He needs to shut our mouths so that we listen to Him. Our job is to stay focused on the truths of our faith, the same things that Zechariah confessed: </p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Jesus brings us mercy, salvation, and forgiveness. </p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>God rescues us from all evil through Jesus. </p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>We learn about Jesus through God Word. </p><p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The same promise that was given to Abraham and the Old Testament prophets, is given to you and me. </p><p>All of these truths are part of what made the “fullness of the time” for Christ’s arrival on this earth. They are also what lead us to confess as Zechariah did, that Jesus Christ born of the virgin Mary is my Lord and Savior. May we both keep the same confidence of faith that Zechariah had and keep ourselves from rebelling against the Lord’s work in our lives, even if it often corrects and humbles us. And may we readily prepare ourselves to see and listen to Jesus, not only during His Advent, but at all times and in all places that His powerful Word comes to us. Amen.</p><div><br /></div>Redemption Lutheranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13963366914911492263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-71370651306892986132020-12-03T09:08:00.002-08:002020-12-03T09:08:36.292-08:00Thanksgiving Day 2020 | Lamentations 3:21-26<iframe data-name="pb-iframe-player" height="122" scrolling="no" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ysh8q-f3e1bb?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107" style="border: none;" title="Thanksgiving Day Worship" width="100%"></iframe>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A Portion and a Promise on Thanksgiving Day</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1. The portion of the LORD’s unchanging mercy <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2. The promise of the LORD’s unfailing
compassion<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Here we are at another Thanksgiving Day. But
it’s 2020 – is there really any reason to be thankful?</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A continuing pandemic<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A tumultuous election year in our nation<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Racial discord <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Civil unrest <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Rates of depression and anxiety are
skyrocketing <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Many people in financial distress and
suffering from lost jobs<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">By all accounts, this has been an excruciating
year for many people. Most people can’t wait to turn the chapter on this year
and move on. And yet, we have the annual day of Thanksgiving. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">Is it anything more than a
traditional obligation this year? Are we truly thankful today – do we have
reason to be?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Well, it’s clear that we do. We should always
take stock of the daily blessings that we have. Some may be lacking, but for
most of us we are well taken care of with plenty of blessings from God. Good
health, a loving home, friends and family, food on the table, living in peace
and freedom, good weather, money in our bank accounts and savings. There may be
things in the extended list of daily blessings that come and go, or that we
suffer in from time to time, but for all of us we have much more than we need
or deserve. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And the wise adage that things can always get worse is certainly
fitting in any season of life.</u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">But, today as we reflect with Thanksgiving, let
us take it one step further, a step that can only be taken by faith. Let us
reflect not only on the everyday blessings we have, but the weightier, reaching-to-eternity
blessings that are ours in Christ Jesus – things which our earthly eyes do not
see. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">Today, we consider
how, because of those blessings in Jesus, we can rejoice with Thanksgiving even
in the most troublesome times, as we read from God’s Word in Lamentations
3:21-26</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">: </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. 22 Through
the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. 23
They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. 24 “The LORD is my
portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!” 25 The LORD is good to those
who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him. 26 It is good that one should hope
and wait quietly For the salvation of the LORD.</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">It's hard to imagine a more hopeless scene than
the one surrounding the book of Lamentations – the one book of the Bible that
is literally named after sorrow. Lamentations was written by the prophet
Jeremiah as he witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple. Unlike
Daniel, who was carried off to Babylon, Jeremiah was left behind. We can only
imagine the horrors that Jeremiah witnessed. Indeed, it is difficult because
few of us have ever seen things that could be deemed similar. War, destruction,
famine, pain, captivity, death – and the list goes on. Considering the context
of these verses certainly helps us put our current trials in perspective.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">And yet, in the midst of an entire volume
dedicated to lament – we have these words of hope expressed by God’s prophet. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">Themes such as hope, mercy,
faithfulness, and salvation – where do such blessings come from when one is
trapped in the valley of the shadow of death?</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"> They come from the LORD
almighty – the one, true God. These blessings are also the bigger ones. Yes,
food, home, and family had been taken from God’s people in Israel. Yet, no
enemy could touch God’s mercy, faithfulness, and salvation for them. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">The trials they endured
highlighted the eternal blessings that they treasured, and the same lesson is
played out in each believer’s life when their physical blessings are threatened
or taken away.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">In fact, at times, God strips us of those very
things to lessen the attachment we have to this world. For Israel, God’s
greater plan was to humble their hardened pride so that they would no longer
drift away from their heritage of faith in the true God. Even the pain and
destruction in this sense was used by God for their good. And we’d be foolish
to think that we are </span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">that</i><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"> much different from Israel and the same
principle is not also at work in our lives.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">It’s one thing to understand such things. It’s
a completely different thing to be thankful in the midst of trials. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">We may recognize God’s ability
to work through trial and difficulty in our lives, but how can be thankful for
those very circumstances?</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"> The answer is that a change must take place
and we see that change in the way our text reads. As Jeremiah quotes his own
soul he says, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“The LORD is my portion.”</b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"> The great exchange that must
take place is that God must take our place – both in the punishment suffered by
also in the hope gained. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">First, we see that we have a portion of God’s
unchanging mercy.</u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Part of what makes these words remarkable is
that a few verses before, Jeremiah confessed the exact opposite: </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Lamentations
3:17-18 “You have moved my soul far from peace; I have forgotten prosperity. My
strength and my hope Have perished from the LORD.” </b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">But notice the
difference, that sentiment was based on Jeremiah. His strength. His hope. Those
things were what perished before the LORD – any desire to be sustained by
Jeremiah’s efforts. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">Only
when Jeremiah recalled the LORD’s unchanging mercy did hope return to his
heart.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Both elements can be true, and even must, for
hope by faith to exist. We must abandon any notion that we can accomplish our
soul’s needs, or that we can confront and conquer the enemies of our faith. We
must discard the idea that we can replicate the fulfillment and happiness that
God alone can give. The LORD alone guides and sustains us. Therefore, it is not
wrong for Christians to display weakness, discouragement, or failure. The
strength of our faith is not in ourselves, therefore, we cannot expect life to
look like that. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Many have built their image of the Christian life on what
they do or what they look like – but what hope does that offer when the storms
of life come our way?</u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">When the
LORD’s mercy becomes our portion, we lose that false mindset.</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">
But consider what mercy is. Mercy is kindness and goodness directed toward
those who do not deserve it. Think of it as synonymous with grace. One
scholar’s rendering for this Hebrew word is “kindness (especially as extended
to the lowly, needy and miserable).” That is what we are. That is why we need
the LORD’s mercy. We are lowly. We are needy. We are miserable – and it comes
back to our transgressions before the LORD’s holy Word. We are in need of mercy
because we have messed it. The difficulties we face are not always someone
else’s problem. We are not innocent bystanders. Even as Jeremiah contemplated
Jerusalem’s destruction in great sorrow, he reflected on his own hopelessness
as a sinner that led to that very judgment. Even God’s prophet was not innocent.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">The reason we can be honest about that reality
today and still be thankful – is because of what God’s mercy does. It keeps us
from being consumed, literally “finished,” by our sinful deeds. God does not
give us what we deserve. That is one reason we are thankful today – even if the
year has not been what we expected it to be. And sometimes when things don’t go
our way, it can be a greater blessing because it helps us recall, as Jeremiah
did, the LORD’s mercy in unchanging in the chaos and destruction of life.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Paired with God’s unchanging mercy is the
promise of His unfailing compassion.</span></u><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"> To our ears it may
seem that the LORD is expressing the same thing with compassion as we talked
about with mercy. It is true that they are synonymous, and they are used that
way by Jeremiah. But there is a difference worth highlighting too. The focus of
mercy is upon the individual in need of help. The focus of compassion is on the
individual giving help. <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;">Both
thoughts center on love but from different perspectives</span>. Mercy reminds
us of what God rescues us from while compassion reminds us of depths of God’s
care for us. <u>One word expresses love from the sinner’s vantage point while
the other expresses it from God’s vantage point.</u></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">We see this connection in Jeremiah’s words as
he compares sinners not being consumed with God’s mercy not failing. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">Our lives with God are directly
tied to His compassion and the way His mercy works for us.</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"> Mercy points
to how He removes the wrong – our sin, and compassion points us to the
never-ending supply of His care for us. So as Jeremiah puts it, BECAUSE God’s
compassions do not fail, we are not consumed as we are kept in God’s mercy. The
blessings that flow from this reality are abundant. We can say with Jeremiah,
no matter the circumstance of our lives:</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The LORD’s mercy and compassion are new
every day.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The LORD’s faithfulness is great.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We have hope in the LORD.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The LORD is good to those who wait upon
Him by faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">These truths are valid and certain for every
aspect of our physical lives. When it comes to food, homes, family, health,
finances, studies, jobs, hobbies, and all other things – the LORD is present
and acting upon your behalf in unchanging mercy and unfailing compassion. But
these truths reach highest when you consider your soul and the lengths that God
went to secure eternal salvation for you. Because you have the mercy and
compassion given by Jesus, as your Savior from sin and eternal damnation – you
have heavenly blessings in abundance.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Has 2020 been rough? Sure. Are we ready to move
on? Probably. It’s okay to think that way. But trials, struggles, and personal
obstacles because of sin will always be present in different forms. </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: yellow; font-size: 12pt;">The severity of such things may
come and go, but let us not trust in man’s planning or crossing our fingers
that the next year will somehow be magically better.</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"> More productive,
and more realistic, than bemoaning our present circumstances, is rejoicing with
thanksgiving in the blessings of God that never change. In all things, the LORD
gives you a portion of His unchanging mercy and a promise of His unfailing
compassion. </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Oh give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good! In all things and
at all times. </b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Amen.</span></p>Redemption Lutheranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13963366914911492263noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-11420426163464507142020-11-24T11:17:00.003-08:002020-11-24T11:17:27.066-08:00Matthew 5:13-16 | Pentecost 25 | November 22, 2020<iframe title="The Christian Difference | Matthew 5:13-16" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/abiwn-f330b5?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Theme: The Christian Difference</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Matthew 5:13-16 “You are the salt of the earth;
but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for
nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 "You are
the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15
"Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand,
and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 "Let your light so
shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in
heaven.”</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Most of you know that when it comes to sports,
I am a Michigan fan, especially when it comes to college athletics. I know
that’s tough to hear out here in Husky (or sometimes Coug) country. But when
you’re watching a college game on TV, it’s common for each University that is
competing to have an advertisement (a commercial) for their school. As I happen
to tune into Michigan games, I’ve become quite familiar with their commercial.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In it, they highlight some of the
groundbreaking work they are doing as a research university, as well as certain
studies and disciplines that set them apart from other schools. The overall
theme of the advertisement is “The Michigan Difference.” To the inquiring
student, the University of Michigan wants to be seen as different than the
rest. They want the student to believe that there are opportunities and
experiences at Michigan that cannot be found anywhere else.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It’s a catchy, and I’m sure, effective,
advertisement. The PR group that developed it has tapped into the growing
desire in our culture to be different – to highlight one’s uniqueness and to
strive for things that will set us apart from others. We live in a culture
where being different is highlighted and celebrated. But, as Christians, we
have to be careful with this as well. People are encouraged to strive to find
ways of emphasizing their uniqueness and originality to the world – even if
their expression comes at the expense of God’s design for their life. The
Church has always been on guard against becoming too different from the way
that God intended our lives to be.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It’s not wrong for a public university to
highlight what makes it unique. But, you can take that same line of thinking
and multiple by ten in terms of the prevalence of humanity today to glorify
individual expression and choice above God’s will. On both an individual and
societal level, we tend to take our self-expression to the extreme over and
against God’s Word. We live in a generation that pressures young people
especially to define their lives and express their thoughts and actions in
whatever ways they choose – even more so when it bucks the traditional trends
of Christianity. Newer and bolder ways of identifying oneself are lauded and
celebrated. It’s considered mature and enlightened to push the envelope of what
is deemed acceptable.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I saw another example of this much more blatant
form of being different this past week. It was a web article about a popular
male singer and actor in his twenties who recently conducted a photo shoot for
a trendy magazine where he dressed up in women’s make-up, jewelry, and
clothing. The move was celebrated by many in the media as original, bold, and
brave. The young man was praised as being socially conscious enough to liberate
himself from the shackles of traditionalism. Perhaps this kind of thing isn’t
surprising anymore but it’s also clear that it would not have been celebrated
or accepted to such an extent in a different era. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Our culture has changed and part of that change has been
a desire to be different to an extreme – where choices are deliberately made to
make others uncomfortable, to generate debate, and to stretch the boundaries of
what is deemed acceptable, and even moral.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> The attitude behind such a
movement is nothing new – it’s rooted in sinful human pride that wants to exalt
itself over the rules and laws of the eternal God.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The desire to be different is simply the
current manifestation of this sinful pride. The Pharisees and Sadducees of
Jesus’ day suffered from the same root issue, but they showed it in being
unwilling to change from tradition instead of craving personal liberty above
all else. Many other examples could be brought to mind from history – both as
it concerns those within and outside of the church. Human pride has no limit in
its desire to subvert God’s standards of righteousness. Under the thin veneer
of human acceptance and popular trends lies the rotten, corrupted human heart
that seeks to control your identity and your every expression, rather than
letting the Holy Spirit conform you closer to Jesus.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The impression has long been that Christians
never want to change or be different in any way. There can be isolated
attitudes from Christians which exemplify that stereotype but often it is a
very limited characterization of the Church. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The truth is – Christians are
called to be different – very different, but in a different kind of way.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
The words of Jesus in our text from the Sermon on the Mount talk about what
this difference is to be – and it’s more radical that anything the world can
come up with.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Two illustrations are used – salt and light.
These images encapsulate the Christian difference. Jesus first says, “</span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">You
are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be
seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled
underfoot by men.” </b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Today, we think of the primary use of salt in providing
flavor to our food, but it wasn’t that way in Christ’s culture and many other
ancient civilizations. Salt was used with food, but as a preservative. The use
of electrically powered refrigerators to cool and freeze food is a very new
development in history. For thousands of years before this invention, salt was
used as the standard preservative – to keep food good to eat for a longer
amount of time.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The preserving agent in the life of the
Christian is the gospel message of Christ. When this permeates in our lives, it
acts as a preserving agent in the world around us – both in stemming God’s
righteous judgment of sin but also giving people a confidence and hope for
salvation that doesn’t rest in their own works. Paul put it succinctly in </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans
5:20 Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin
abounded, grace abounded much more.</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> The law of God reveals the rottenness
and corruption of sin – the grace of God in the gospel abounds over the curse
of the law and covers the imperfections we carry in our lives – it’s a
preserving agent against the effects of sin. And God guarantees that wherever
sin’s rottenness resides, the gospel can be more powerful in its effect.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jesus also says, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“You are the light of the
world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 "Nor do they
light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light
to all who are in the house.”</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Believers are also different as lights. A
light has one very basic purpose – to reveal something, to make it known and
open to the world. Jesus mentions the illogical idea of lighting a lamp just to
cover it up with a basket. By doing so, you are defeating the entire purpose of
the light.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We are used to enjoying the blessings of having
plenty of lights to keep darkness at bay – in our homes, on our vehicles, and
on our streets. We might wonder why anyone would want to cover the light that
we are called by God to shine. Well, sometimes we don’t like to see what the
light reveals. You see, that’s the other aspect about using a light as it’s
intended to be used. It shines light on everything – not just on what we choose
to reveal. In terms of our lives with God – there are many areas that we’d rather
keep hidden in the darkness of sin.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">David confessed this of his own life in Psalm
19 saying, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">12 Who perceives his unintentional sins? Cleanse me from my
hidden faults. 13 Moreover, keep Your servant from willful sins; do not let
them rule over me.</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Like mold in a damp basement, sin loves to stay hidden
in the dark – either by willful ignorance on our part of genuine lack of
awareness. When sin stays covered and hidden it can grow. That’s why David
asked the LORD to forgive even the hidden areas of sin that David wasn’t
thinking about. We need God’s light to shine even on the parts of our lives
that we don’t want it to.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It’s no wonder that Jesus would declare Himself
to be the light of the world in John 8, and that John would continue building
on that theme throughout his gospel account and three epistles. The difference
between light and dark in terms of our sin and God’s righteousness is clear and
basic to our faith. Therefore, Jesus, the light, expects the same expression in
our lives - </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Believers are to be willing
to reveal God’s truth in whatever direction it takes. Paul says, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ephesians
5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather
expose them.</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Here you can see that believers are called to
be different, and these differences are something we should celebrate and
support in our lives and in the lives of fellow Christians. But here also we
see the primary difference between the world and the Church. The differences
fueled by human pride are designed to center a person’s identity and expression
on themselves. The differences fueled by faith in Jesus are designed to center
a person’s identity and expression on Jesus.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It really comes down to identity. For the child
of God – his or her identity is no longer in their own desires, efforts, or
even thoughts. But they have been changed – made different – by Jesus. Paul
writes in Galatians 2:20 “</span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer
I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh
I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Differences exist and abound in life and that
reality certainly is present in the Church. Part of the difficultly of being in
a church, at times, is working with the differences of others. But the beauty
of the Church is that it provides a level of unity despite our differences. We
are all the same in Christ Jesus – sinner redeemed to saint – a prodigal son or
daughter who has returned to their Father, and the many differences we have
begin to fade in importance to the oneness we have in Jesus.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Part of that unity of faith is embracing how
God calls us to be difference. The salt preserves in order to keep God’s truth
intact. The light reveals the Savior’s will – not our own. In so emphasizing
Christ, we also indirectly emphasize the most important and valuable aspects of
who we are – how we are identified and found in His name by faith. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Amen. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-39033791029925222692020-11-24T11:14:00.004-08:002020-11-24T11:14:47.705-08:00Daniel 12 | Pentecost 24 | November 15, 2020<iframe title="Daniel 12 - The Final Vision - part 2" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/7b36p-f330af?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Daniel 12 – Pentecost 24</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We’ve reached the end of our study on the book
of Daniel. As it is with any milestone of study, it’s wise to take stock of
what was learned. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, what
have you learned?</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> We’ve covered a lot of subject matter, mystery and
intrigue, and several historical events. Many things come to mind. We’ve been
reminded that God is all-powerful and in control as we’ve reviewed familiar
stories in Daniel’s life. We’ve talked about how God’s kingdom is eternal in
contrast the earthly rulers that come and go. We’ve witnessed Daniel’s strong
faith and his life dedicated to service. We’ve also seen that every message
given by God was about preparing His people for the coming of Jesus. There’s a
lot to be learned, and many of the themes from Daniel fit with our lives as
well.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But sometimes at the conclusion of a study of
Scripture, a different response comes to mind. Sometimes we’re left with more
questions than answers. Daniel experienced this feeling too, as we read in
verse 8: </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Although I heard, I did not understand. Then I said, "My lord,
what shall be the end of these things?"</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I have that verse circled in my Bible. In the
margin I have written “The Theme of Daniel.” That verse is important because it
reminds us that sometimes after an intensive study of God’s Word, we are left
with the same reaction – <b>“Lord, what shall be the end of these things?”</b>
Now, Daniel was talking about this final vision that was being given to him.
And at this point in the vision, Jesus was instructing Daniel about THE end of
days – the same end we’re still waiting for. It’s not just Daniel, or us – this
day is mystery to all people. Jesus mentioned what will happen on that day in
verses 1-2,</span> <b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">And at that time your people shall be
delivered, Every one who is found written in the book. 2 And many of those who
sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, Some to everlasting life, Some to
shame and everlasting contempt.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But Jesus has also stated clearly, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew
24:36 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven,
but My Father only.”</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> When it comes to the Last Day, our task is not to
predict and prophesy – rather it is to prepare. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But the same can be said of
any other time we come before Scripture</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. There’s a thought contained in
Daniel’s words that fits with God’s revelation in general, not just concerning
the Last Day. We have no doubt learned much in our study of Daniel, details and
truths worth remembering, and yet we still can be perplexed at the overall
purpose. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“What is the end
of it Lord?”</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Other more familiar ways of asking the same thing are, “Why
do it this way Lord?” Why must the true teaching be this or that, Lord?” “What
is the impact of this on my life, Lord?” We look not just to learn, but to
comprehend - to understand the purpose of the Lord’s will. And this question
arises whenever we open our Bibles and study His Word.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, when you think to yourself, </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">What did I
learn from Daniel?</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">, the answer is bit harder when we think of that question
from a big picture perspective. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We see that God wants us to listen and to
understand</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jesus lamented the lack of this hearing in His
time, as He stated that a prophecy of Isaiah had been fulfilled in the peoples’
reaction to His teaching, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Matthew 13:14-16 "And in them the prophecy of
Isaiah is fulfilled, which says: `Hearing you will hear and shall not
understand, And seeing you will see and not perceive; 15 For the hearts of this
people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they
have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears,
Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal
them.' 16 "But blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they
hear;</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In this immediate context, the type of
revelation from God was the form of parable. The disciples asked Jesus, why do
you use parables? Essentially, why, Jesus, don’t you speak more plainly? </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The answer Jesus gave was in the
verses we just read. The people did not believe or trust in God – therefore
they did not find truth in His Word.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> The parables were meant to
instruct, but also to get them to dig deeper into issues in which they were lacking
understanding. Parables being much simpler in form - an earthly story with a
heavenly meaning as we know them - are inherently designed to awaken a hunger
and thirst in the listener for more. But unfortunately, that was not the case
with many of the people Jesus ministered to. Their hearts were dull and
unresponsive to His Word. (Same truth apparent in Paul’s ministry at the end of
Acts 28)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sometimes this reaction of listening but not
understanding is a product of unbelief and defiance toward God. Sometimes,
people don’t </span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">want</i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> to understand, even if they present that they do
outwardly. Sometimes, they really aren’t invested in finding God’s truth, but
only the parts of God’s truth align with their personal beliefs. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But, there are instances like
Daniel</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. Every indication we have is that Daniel was the model believer.
The first story we learned about his life was one where he risked his life and
reputation out of faithfulness to God. Daniel was not afraid to defy
authorities and to stand for God’s truth even when no one else would. Daniel
valued faithfulness to God even higher than his own life. Daniel clearly
trusted God, respected God’s Word, and sought to glorify God’s name as much as
he could.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But, here at the end, Daniel doesn’t get it. He
says, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Although I heard, I did not understand.”</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Sometimes, listening but
not understanding happens to believers. What was Daniel to do? What are we to
do? The Lord’s answer is telling, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Go your way, Daniel, for the words are
closed up and sealed till the time of the end.” </b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Also, the very last verse
of the book, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“But you, go your way till the end; for you shall rest, and
will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days.”</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">When Daniel asked the Lord about this struggle,
God’s answer was – “Go,” literally one word in the Hebrew text. When the
believer reaches the pinnacle of faith’s struggle, trying to comprehend and
apply to our lives the divine mysteries of an almighty God, and we reach a
point that stretches beyond the ability of our finite brains and hearts, God
says – “Go.” Not go in the sense of get out of my sight and be gone with you –
but go in the sense of keep going with what I have given you. As our text
reads, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Go your way until the end.”</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This is faith’s built-in safety device. It
leads us to the riches of God’s wisdom, power, and love. It reveals sublime
records, stories, and promises. Paul wrote of this experience saying, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Romans
11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God!
How unsearchable His judgments and untraceable His ways! </b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Faith borne of the
Word of God is continually faced with the divine. Certainly, faith has a great
capacity for understanding, wisdom, and acceptance of the treasures of God’s
Word. Without a doubt, it is the very substance of eternal salvation and hope
in Jesus Christ – the greatest of all truths. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But as faith resides in our hearts and minds, there is a
limit – not of faith’s doing but of our own.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> And when faced with the
incomprehensible from God – we are reminded to keep going. God takes us from
eternally mysterious and divinely complicated, which human words fall short of
fully expressing, and brings the path back down to our comfortable level of one-word
answers.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But just as we see a clear division between the
eternal future of believers and unbelievers in Daniel’s text, so also there is
a marked division between this quest for answers among each. While all people
regardless of belief and confession struggle to understand God and His truth,
what separates the two is the One who fills in what is lacking. The difference
maker is Jesus, of whom Paul wrote, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Corinthians 1:30 But of Him you are in
Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God-- and righteousness and
sanctification and redemption-- 31 that, as it is written, "He who glories,
let him glory in the LORD."</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This is why verse 8 is circled in my Bible.
It’s also why I encourage you to remember it well. It’s a valuable passage
because it reminds me that it’s okay when I hear but don’t understand. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Not because God accepts such an
outcome, but because Jesus fills in what I lack.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> I should always strive
to learn and understand, and God is able to instruct and reveal a lot that I
don’t know on my own. The unbeliever is faced with the same predicament, the
only difference being having to do the heavy lifting themselves. What comfort,
then, is packed into the single word “Go.” I can </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">go my way in life</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">, not
indifferent to God’s truth, but also not in terror of it, because Jesus takes
my place. And that mediation from my Savior applies even to the truths of God
beyond my sinful comprehension. My confidence of faith is not founded on my
intellect, experience, or feeling. Rather, I boast in the LORD, and the marks
of His sacrificial love for my ignorant rebellions.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">H</span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">ere also, is where we see faith in action.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
It is easy to confess Christ in words. It is simple to claim Him as your Savior
as passing thought. But, that confession is measured in the effect your faith
has in your life, precisely when you come face to face with divine wisdom. Here
are some examples of what this looks like:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The believer of a small congregation struggles
to see the Lord’s hand at work. She says, “I use the Word, I come to church, I
receive the Sacrament, but I feel very little. So many people in our community
are indifferent to Jesus. Many have left our church for others. Where is God’s
work? Why won’t He bless our faithful witness and complete reliance on His
Word?” That believer hears, but doesn’t understand. The answer seems
unobtainable, out of her reach. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But God tells her, “Go your way, some answers will have to wait for
eternity.”</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">A different believer struggles with a teaching
from God – call it one that is unpopular, one that many churches have changed
in their lust for attention and approval from the world. He knows what God
says. The Bible is clear. He is encouraged by parents, pastor, and other
faithful friends in what God says. Yet, the struggle is real. He is tempted to
doubt, to despair, to substitute lies for truth. He is discouraged at God’s silence
in the matter. He has prayed and prayed and prayed but the struggle feels the
same. The pressure to conform is overwhelming. That believer hears, but doesn’t
understand. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But God tells
him the same, “Go your way, some answers will have to wait for eternity.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Daniel’s words unlock one of the most
undervalued, yet important aspects of faith in Jesus – it never demands of God
what God does not graciously give.</span></u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> And there is a
simple joy and peace in this, because the inner safety device of faith leaves us
no other option (other than rejection of God) than submitting our cause to Him
and going on our way. <span style="background: aqua; mso-highlight: aqua;">And
whenever you are called to do such a thing, two constants never change – Jesus
will have your back and God will do more with your question than you can do
with the answer.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Every Word of God is true. Every question in
our hearts has an answer from God. With both things, we wait patiently by faith
in Jesus in our quest to hear and understand – and that’s okay. Because, with
Jesus, we are saved for eternity and we are safe for today.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Amen.</span></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-46793129406681273302020-11-24T11:06:00.002-08:002020-11-24T11:06:11.958-08:00Daniel 10 & 11 | Pentecost 23 | November 8, 2020 <iframe title="Daniel 10 & 11 - The Final Vision - part 1" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/u67zx-f330ac?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Theme: Strengthened by Words</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The final three chapters in the book of Daniel
speak of one single event. Today, we cover chapters 10 and 11 because it is
most helpful to study them together. Chapter 10 begins with the final vision
that was given to Daniel. At this point in history, the first wave of Jewish
exiles had returned home at the decree of King Cyrus. Daniel, who at this time was
at least 80 years old, remained behind in Persia. Just as he came to Babylon
with the first group of exiles, in order to prepare to lead God’s people spiritually,
so Daniel’s mission would be to remain in Persia. This was his task from God.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In this final vision, Daniel speaks with a
mysterious man. Daniel’s description of the man is quite unique</span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">: I lifted up
my eyes and looked, and behold, a man clothed in linen, with a belt of fine
gold from Uphaz around his waist. 6 His body was like beryl, his face like the
appearance of lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like
the gleam of burnished bronze, and the sound of his words like the sound of a
multitude. (Dan 10:5-6)</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">One of the big questions of the final chapters
is, who is this man? Our first impression might be that it is an angel from
God. However, in the preceding chapter, when God sent an angel to Daniel, He
specifically stated such (Gabriel). Also, the appearance of this man in chapter
10 doesn’t exactly fit with an angel. When angels are described in the Bible,
they are indeed described at bright and powerful in their appearance, but this
individual is on a different level of glory. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The most intriguing detail in identifying this man is the
effect he has on Daniel.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> As we trace this throughout the chapter, the
most likely answer is that Daniel was speaking with Jesus. Now, this is
obviously a pre-incarnate form that Jesus takes – meaning before His own
conception and birth into this world. It’s clear that if this is Jesus, He has
purposely taken this glorified form to draw attention to the importance of His
message. As God, we don’t know what Jesus’ form was in heaven at this point, or
even if He had a form. But, for the purpose of this vision, Jesus took this
form to reveal this message to Daniel.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And quite a message it was. At this point,
let’s work back from chapter 11. The reason we take chapters 10 & 11
together is because it’s difficult to understand them separately. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Chapter 11 is essentially a very
detailed prophecy about the history of God’s people – first the history of the
physical nation of Israel up to the time of Christ and second, the history of
the Church up to the final day of judgment.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> This vision is very much
along the same lines as the others that we have studied which God gave to
Daniel. They all serve the purpose of preparing Israel for the period of
history leading up to Christ’s first coming, and also to prepare believers for
the period of time leading up to Christ’s second coming.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The prophecy of chapter 11 is probably the most
detailed prophecy in all of Scripture. Like the others in Daniel, it traces the
history of kings and nations that played a role in God’s plan of salvation. We
don’t have the time to go into detail about the entire chapter, </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">but as a
summary, the different parts of the prophecy, and its fulfillment are printed
in the bulletin.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The
transition from v.35 to v.36 marks the transition from Israel to God’s Church</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">.
As we saw in chapters 7and 8, Antiochus Epiphanes was a precursor of the actual
Antichrist. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Just as Antiochus tormented God’s people of Israel, so that
Antichrist torments God’s Church.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> So, Jesus was giving Daniel a message
about both Old Testament and New Testament events as they affected God’s
people. Therefore, the details of chapter 11 were helpful to the people of
Israel in their preparation of Jesus’s first coming. But they are also helpful
to us today in our preparation of Jesus’ second coming. What Israel endured
before the first advent was a picture of what the Church will endure before the
second Advent.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">That is about all we can say at this point
about chapter 11. The more important area of focus is understanding the
connection to chapter 10 within this context. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">As we mentioned at the beginning, everything in
chapter 10 revolves around the messenger – which we believe is Christ. There’s
a reason He spends so much time prepping Daniel for this vision. To start,
Daniel is near the end of his service and he strikes us as someone who is worn
down. He speaks of being in mourning for three weeks and refusing to eat choice
foods or drink wine. When Daniel first witnessed this messenger, he was
terrified and put his face to the ground. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It’s probable that some of Daniel’s anxiety was generated
from the difficulty the returning exiles were having in the land of Israel.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
If you read the historical accounts of this side of the story – from Ezra and
Nehemiah, you will remember that even though the people had Cyrus’ blessing in
returning, they were not exactly welcomed back home. This news may have been
the source of Daniel’s mourning, but clearly there was a lot that concerned him
in this chapter.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Since there is so much emphasis in chapter 10
in the messenger, and because this individual clearly was sent from God to
enlighten and encourage Daniel, we can track the flow of the chapter through
the words that are spoken. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In this way, chapter 10 serves as a timely
metaphor for our lives.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> As we were reminded of last weekend, the age of
prophetic vision has been sealed shut. We should not expect God to appear
before us as He did here in chapter 10. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">He does not reveal His will to us through dream and
interpretation as he did throughout the life of Daniel.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> But here in
chapter 10, we see what God uses in our lives – words.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">When you have the opportunity, I encourage you
to review chapter 10 in your Bible and underline all of the references to words
spoken. It’s the predominant theme. And as the source of God’s revelation to us
today, we trace our life with God through words. Think about our worship
service so far and every other weekend. Every special thing we do, each item of
truth from God, is given and received through Words. Sometimes that seems old
fashioned and boring. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Our
traditions and methods are often criticized by those who are interested in a
much more emotionally and visually stimulating experience – those who desire
the “dream and vision” forms of communication.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> But God has sealed shut
outwardly miraculous forms of communication and so we trust that He works in us
and teaches us through His Word.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">What we also see in chapter 10 is that God’s
Word </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">breaks down to build up</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. It’s not just a matter of breaking down
and building up. Sometimes, we think of the Word’s effect in that way but
there’s a more </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">deliberate process to God’s activity</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. He breaks down </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><u>to</u></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
build up. He’s intentional about doing it that way. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Why is that an important distinction?</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
Because who wouldn’t rather skip out on the breaking down process and focus on
the building up process? (we like to separate those two ideas)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In Christian, Bible-based terms, you’ve learned
about this as the distinction between law and gospel – and it is the heartbeat
of your faith in Jesus. Law and Gospel not only come only through God’s words,
they also are the only way to properly break down to build up.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">You can see the Law and the Gospel come forth
in Daniel 10 when you track the words. The initial dialogue between Daniel and
Jesus is filled with the effect of the Law. In </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">verse 9</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">, we’re told that
upon hearing the first words of Jesus, Daniel put his face to the ground. In </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">verse
11</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">, Daniel said that the words caused him to tremble. In </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">verse 12</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">,
Jesus tells Daniel that he came to Daniel because of Daniel’s prayer (words)
which were offered in the humility of faith. In </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">verse 15</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">, Daniel again
turned his face to the ground and was speechless.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We don’t know what exact words were being given
to Daniel from Christ, but clearly they produced the same effect as the law of
God. The law is righteous and true, and inwardly we desire it because we know
it is good. But, inwardly, we also struggle with imperfection and the decay of
sin. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The law’s effect,
therefore, when we are honest about it, is to convict us of unrighteousness
before God.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Daniel certainly felt that reality and it caused him to
tremble before this divine messenger. Daniel knew that he had no right to stand
before Christ, because Daniel was a </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">justifiably accused</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> sinner before
God. The only thing that Daniel did deserve was judgment.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But what a different response he received from
God. As Daniel bowed in humility, Jesus came and touched Daniel’s lips and
strengthened him. And He said to Daniel, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“O man, greatly beloved, fear not!
Peace be to you; be strong, yes, be strong!”</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> And upon receiving that divine
renewal, Daniel stood, strengthened, and confessing, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Let my lord speak, for
you have strengthened me.” </b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And so, chapter 10 ends, and Jesus proceeds to
reveal the vision of chapter 11.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Everything
changed when the Lord came to Daniel and strengthened him with His Word.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
This scene reminds me of a similar instance for another one of God’s prophets.
In Isaiah 6, Isaiah sees a similarly remarkable vision from God and is overcome
in humility at the prospect of his sin. He confessed, <b>"Woe is me, for I
am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, And I dwell in the midst of a
people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The LORD of
hosts."</b> And in that moment of repentance, an angel from God took a
live coal from the altar and touched Isaiah’s lips with it and said<b>,
“Behold, this has touched your lips, your iniquity is taken away, and your sin
purged.”</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">From that moment, Isaiah was not only equipped
to move forward as a representative of God as a prophet, but he was comforted
in his heart that his own sins had been cleansed by God. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We see the same
thing happen here with Daniel.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> In his weakness, the LORD strengthened him.
He renewed Daniel in this moment of agony, and He used words. So much attention
is given in the book of Daniel to the dreams, visions, and miracles that we
quickly forget – God’s Word has the most powerful effect. (the signs confirm
the Word, just as in Jesus’ ministry) Jesus came here to Daniel in chapter 10
for the express purpose of reaffirming Daniel’s trust in the Scripture of
Truth, so that Daniel would no longer mourn, tremble, or fear. And it worked.
Daniel was renewed. He was at peace. He was strengthened.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Since the truth of Scripture never changes, you
have access to that same source of renewal, peace, and strength. God gives you
words to encourage you. Each moment you spend in God’s Word He is coming before
you to reveal an important message. When you use the Word of God without adding
your opinions to it, without detracting from its intended meaning, and with
confidence that it delivers what God promises – it will </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">break down to build
up</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. Don’t be intimidated or offended that the Word works this way – it is
God’s way; it is His design to encourage and strengthen you.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The law will expose unrighteousness wherever it
is found, whether that be in Satan’s schemes, the world’s lusts, or your own heart.
It will shine the light of truth in an unapologetic way. Many try to hide and
avoid it, but no one can. But don’t let your reactions of sorrow, frustration,
or anger block out God’s purpose through it – to build you up in His grace. The
gospel is good news indeed, sweet and consoling – but only to the sinner
stricken with grief before God. Let it be so in your life.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We can be patient
with the dreams and visions. One day Jesus will appear before us in His full
glory – the day is coming. But for today – we have God’s Words – powerful,
effective, and precious – let us use them as God intended. Amen.</span></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1570339382563019670.post-21523185619821023492020-11-03T16:11:00.002-08:002020-11-03T16:11:24.795-08:00Daniel 9 | November 1, 2020 | Pentecost 22<iframe title="Daniel 9 - Personal Responsibility Before God" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/bne9b-f145d0?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Theme: A shared reality and difficulty.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">We’re covering two very important, yet
difficult topics today: 1. Personal responsibility before God and 2.
Understanding the “why” of God’s will. I’m going to frame today’s study by
referring to #1 as the “reality” and #2 as the “difficulty.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Up to this point in our study of Daniel, in all
the stories we have covered, God’s people have been the protagonists and
foreign entities have been the antagonists. In simpler terms, the problems we
have covered have been orchestrated and implemented by unbelieving rulers and
individuals. Daniel, his friends, and the people of Judah have been the victims
of such abuse. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Because we
have been looking at this limited window of context, it’s easy to forget that
God’s people were not heroes or righteousness in this history.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Today, as
we reach what is really the most important chapter in Daniel’s book, we are
reminded that everything we have covered came about as a result of the
unfaithfulness of God’s people in Judah. Daniel gives us the extended view of
the history.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Throughout our study we’ve learned many valuable
lessons. Faithfulness to God. Humility before God. Trust in God in extreme
trails. Patience and longsuffering in the midst of disaster. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Each one of these important lessons
in Daniel, and wherever else we find them in Scripture, are meant to bring us
to the theme of chapter 9 – repentance before God and hope through His mercy</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">.
Faith is not about academic lessons that we learn and get better at mastering
in our lives. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Faith is about having Christ</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">. The themes and lessons of
the prior chapters have brought us to the theme of chapter 9 – so also this is
the purpose of every other truth (doctrine) from God’s Word. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Every word of
God’s truth is important – but it ultimately it is meant to bring us to Christ</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">.
And one’s relationship with Christ is </span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">personal</i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> – therefore, these themes
also necessitate responsibility. No matter what happens to us in life or what
others do to us that is unfair, the single most important truth of faith
remains what Christ has done for you – and to focus on that you need to retain
personal responsibility.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Too often, people become victims in a
totalistic sense, meaning, they never get back to their personal responsibility
after they have been wronged or mistreated. Therefore, despite the many
atrocities we’ve seen from Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Darius, and many others
– and the lessons of faith we’ve gained from them – God brings us back to
consider our own hearts. Daniel’s entire emphasis is that no matter what
happened to him, or any other person, the single most important thing for them
was confessing their sins before God so that they would be forgiven. This is
the most important lesson, and it is only between you and God. Every other
lesson from God is meant to bring you closer to that most important reality. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, Daniel brought it back to the beginning,
saying: </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Righteousness is yours, Lord, but <u>we are filled with shame this
day</u>—we the people of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and all Israel,
both near and far, in all the lands where you have banished them because of the
treachery with which they betrayed you. 8 Lord, we are filled with shame—<u>our
kings, our officials, and our fathers, who sinned against you</u>. 9 Acts of
compassion and forgiveness belong to the Lord our God, even though we have
rebelled against him. 10 <u>We did not listen to the voice of the Lord our God
by walking according to his laws that he set before us through the hand of his
servants, the prophets.</u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This reality is not to excuse the prevalence of
wickedness, injustice, and persecution in this world – those things abound.
Rather, God’s intention, even through those realities, is to keep your faith
alive and strong, and to do that He needs to re-focus you on your
responsibility in the matter. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Unless an individuals has been flawless in the things Daniel states,
righteousness, obedience, listening to God’s Word and those who teach it, showing
compassion and forgiveness to others – you have no reason to avoid personal
responsibility.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The danger in embracing the victim mentality is
that it gives us a reason to think that our personal responsibility is no
longer important, or in the least, not as important as what others are doing to
us. But in every activity – God is trying to bring you back to considering
yourself as an individual before His divine nature and immutable will. He does
not want you to avoid that reality – which really has eternal consequences. This
</span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">reality</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> about personal responsibility brings directly to the </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">difficulty</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">
– understanding the “why” of God’s will.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sometimes, the more we dig into faith in Jesus
the harder it becomes and the more strain it puts on our senses. This is not to
discourage you from growing in your faith, or in seeking answers to questions of
faith. Rather, it is simply an attempt to be honest about the struggle of
engaging in this as a sinner before God. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Here’s the dilemma.</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> God created
all humans as rational and emotional creatures. This means we have the ability
to perceive and sense the divine nature of God, even if we are unable to fully
comprehend or accept it. We are different from animals and plants – the other
living creatures of the world – because we are designed with an ability to
perceive God – and even more than that – to have a union with Him.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And as
it is with all created things – you prosper best when you do what you were
created to do.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> So, avoiding the reality of God is not going
to work for our lives. It does not help us. We were made to perceive God and to
have a relationship with God. <u>But because of the fallenness of our natures,
the more we attempt to be in union with God, the harder it becomes</u>. The
more we attempt to do what we were created to do in this way, the more
questions surface, the more inconsistencies of our natures are brought to
light, the more concerns we have about life here on earth as it is now. And
naturally, we want to avoid what makes us uneasy or what reveals our
limitations.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Personal responsibility now comes back into the
picture. As Daniel states, to truly commune with God one must deny himself. The
path to God must come through humility and repentance because 1) we are not
equal to God and 2) we are sinners who are naturally separate from God. But no
person feels inclined by nature to embrace repentance and humility. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">When we look at the “Why” of God’s will, the
answer is that it is meant to bring us closer to Christ. This is </span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">why</i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> God
allowed the judgment to happen to Judah. This is </span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">why</i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> God allows
hardship, temptation, and persecution to come into your life. So these
difficulties are meant to bring us back tot eh reality – trust in Jesus by
faith on an individual, personal level.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, what we see through this chapter is that,
not only is there more than what we typically think about as it concerns the
difficulty we face (there’s a loving plan from God behind all that), there’s
also much more than we typically think about as it concerns the blessings that
come out of following God. Taking personal responsibility is hard, and easily
avoided, but it is also a tiny step on the path to receiving eternal blessings
from God.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The
imagery of the 70 weeks was given to describe God’s plan for bringing people
into union with Him by faith.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> This would start with re-establishing
true worship in Israel – the restoration of God’s people going home and
rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple <u>(the first seven weeks)</u>. The next
step would be the arrival of Jesus – the fulfillment of God’s long-standing
promise to send a Savior that was first given to Adam and Eve <u>(the next 62
weeks)</u>. And the final step was the work of that Savior – offering His own
life as a payment for our sins and thereby nullifying Satan’s claim to humanity
through the just curse of God’s law (the final week).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jesus,
therefore, provides the only true and coherent answer to the both the reality
of personal responsibility before God and the difficulty in discerning the “why”
of God’s will.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Jesus provides clarity and peace to both. We
emphasize personal responsibility because faith in Jesus is a gift to the
individual. It does not change the pain or disastrous effects that can come
about at the hands of others. But Jesus also provides fulfillment to our desire
to see <i>why</i> God does what He does. Every word God has spoken, every
action God has committed, every step God leads you upon in your life, is meant
to bring you closer to Jesus. You may not always understand <i>how</i> God is
doing this, but that doubt is of lesser importance to your life than the truth
that you can trust God is doing it. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Notice how Daniel points to the work of God
through Jesus in this chapter. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">He comes back again and again to it as his hope – as his reason for
confessing his sins.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">v. 4: O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps
His covenant and mercy with those who love Him. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">v. 9 :To the LORD belong mercy and forgiveness,
though we have rebelled against Him. (Grace)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">v.17: For the LORD’s sake, cause Your face to
shine on Your sanctuary. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">v. 18 For we do not present our supplications
before You because of our righteous deeds, but because of Your great mercies.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Gabriel to Daniel v.23: “you are greatly
loved.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Daniel did not complain or wallow in
self-righteousness because he was being mistreated by others. Daniel did not
rebel against God because God allowed this. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Daniel accepted his role in the matter – even though
there were other factors beyond his control.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> It was not Daniel’s fault
that the nation of Israel had forsaken so much. It was not Daniel’s fault that
they tolerated idol-worship. It was not Daniel’s fault that they rebelled
against God’s will. </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But, Daniel knew the guilt was collective because they
were all sinners.</u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And Daniel’s willingness to deny himself
created an opening in his heart for Jesus to fill. This led to greater peace,
hope, and sense of purpose than Daniel could ever have achieved on his own. And
Daniel confessed exactly how he received such a tremendous gift. </span><span style="background: yellow; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">In mercy, God acted for His own
sake (out of His own power), to keep His long-standing covenant that He would
forgive the sins of the repentant.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> – that is how Daniel was forgiven.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This, too, is the heritage of faith you share
with Daniel. It’s why we can study the narrative of his life in Scripture and
benefit from it today for our lives – not just in learning moral lessons for
wisdom or good behavior, but to be truly restored and forgiven by the same
Savior in the exact same way as Daniel. This is the heritage that is so often
clouded and obscured by the craft of man’s vanity, as churches become beacons
and havens for humanism rather than justification by faith in Christ. This is
the heritage that was restored from such a fate at the time of the Reformation.
Each one of you has been blessed by God to have been raised upon such a
foundation and to have the opportunity to daily build upon it.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">But just as it was for Daniel and for Martin
Luther, so it is with us. No shortage of dangers surround our faith. The need
to be diligent, faithful in Scripture and the Sacraments, and walking with
wisdom and love is just as great. The reality and the difficulty continue – but
in all things they point us to Jesus. May it ever be to His glory – Amen.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Pastor Tiefelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10579929823707999924noreply@blogger.com0