More and more I find myself feeling socially awkward. It was bothering me until I finally figured out that it's a good thing. After all, we're told in the Bible that as followers of Christ we will be persecuted. In contrast, social awkwardness seems like a blessing. That indicates that the Holy Spirit is working out my sanctification. That I am truly "walking the walk, not just talking the talk."
What is most troubling is not the awkwardness, but the context in which it occurs: in the presence of other proclaimed Christians. As someone has said, pagans are going to fulfill their job description. That is, the unsaved are going to act like the unsaved: behaving in all manner of ways that run counter to how Jesus demonstrated and told us how to live. They're going to get drunk, watch filthy television, use profanity, be boisterous, etc. (not necessarily in that order). Well, being in the world (but not of it), when I'm around those that act in such a fashion, I am not surprised by their behavior, as Scripture allows me to assume they are not saved -you will know them by their fruits as Matt. 7:16 indicates. I am actually refreshed when those who behave in such a fashion tell me that they don't care about religion in general, or the the Bible specifically. At least they're not hypocrites and don't invite criticism of Christians in general, as false professors do. Granted, they have a bigger problem than their hypocrisy; the damnation of their eternal soul, but that is "on them", as all are without excuse.
As a believer, I am always anxious to know where someone stands (or think they stand), concerning their eternal state. One of my favorite movies, Disney's (when Disney was actually still wholesome, for the most part) The Happiest Millionaire has Fred MacMurray in conversation with the new butler. When the butler says that he tries to live by the Good Book, MacMurray asks him how successful is he?That is the dynamic I experience constantly when people claim to be Christian, but by their words or actions demonstrate that they are unsuccessful in living by the Good Book. These of course, are not the words they use, but when Galatians 5 and others enumerate the fruits of the Spirit, and I come across professing believers who behave contrary to this, it is clear that reading (a rarity in itself), and following the Bible are often not a direct corollary. Too many (once is too many?), times I've had someone tell me about their Christianity (whether re: the church they attend or perhaps in response to my testimony), just to have them move on to idle chit-chat about the inappropriate entertainment they enjoy, relationship that they're in, or move on to conversation laced with profanity. At this point I get the feeling that the path leading to destruction is really wide and the one leading to salvation is really narrow. It's not a pleasant feeling, even though I'm glad me and my house are on the narrow path.
It's so perplexing. I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but you don't have to be to know this stuff is not trying to figure out how to split the atom. If you love Me, you'll obey my commandments...be doers of the word, not just hearers...no foolish talk, course language, obscenity...if you love Me, you will be persecuted. It's all so 2 Corinthians 5:17 - the Holy Spirit makes you into something you weren't before: a child of God, and an obedient child of God. Just as our children are occasionally disobedient, I would characterize them as obedient, as that is their predominant state. So, as true followers of Jesus, we will slip up and be grieved, but our predominate state is one of obedience, as this is always our goal.
If you want to live as God would have you, read your Bible. Where there is any confusion use a good commentary to assist (Biblehub.com puts several at your fingertips). We are to be a people separated, longing to be sanctified. That is very difficult to do when you wallow around in all the filth that modern society offers.
At least just admit that you are a reprobate in need of The Lord. Then I'll know how to proceed. Otherwise, you'll probably make me feel very awkward.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Change Your Mind About Repentance
As this is Resurrection Sunday, I'm hoping to resurrect my blog. I plan on starting with the title. "Swim Against the Tide" has served me well in getting me off the schneid, but I want something that leaves no doubt what someone is getting into if they check out my blog. As it stands, my title could lead someone to believe the blog is opining on anything from swimming techniques to alternative lifestyles (I guess I do comment on alternative lifestyles: those who live in an alternative fashion from what God desires). Anyway, I'll be rolling out a new name and look, but the approach you've all come to know and love will stay!
This brings us to the concept I would like to touch on: repentance. If not a dirty word, it sure seems to be a forgotten word in the lexicon of many professing Christians. Per my original "ground rules" I will go light on referencing specific Bible verses or theologians that share my view as anyone can do a search and come up with a legion of supporters and detractors for any theological stance. As I've tried to convey, my purpose is not to persuade as much as it is to over encouragement to those who feel alone when taking similar stances. Also to publicly (ipso facto: before God), unashamedly take a stand for God.
The repentance that precedes salvation is "turning to God" or changing one's mind about God. Basically, it's now realizing you need Jesus, when before, you thought otherwise. It's not a condition for salvation, just a factual occurrence one must experience. You will never turn toward a God you either reject or simply don't consider, until you change your mind (repent). It's been said that faith and repentance are both sides of the same coin: I agree. You can't have one without the other. For those that consider such a statement as borderline Pharisaical (if not heretical); do some research.
After you repent of your attitude toward Jesus and become truly saved, you will necessarily repent of your sinful ways (whether thought, word, or deed).
Why? Because Grace is not cheap. It cost God the life of His Son. And when we accept what Christ did on the Cross and manifest that belief in repenting (turning away from), a rebellious life contrary to Biblical Christianity, we inherit a priceless gift!
If you continue to live like the unsaved, then you need to examine your Salvation, as it may not be authentic. Watching/listening to smutty entertainment, engaging in or finding no fault in fornication or adultery, getting drunk, using profanity (course talk in Eph. 5:4), finding time for anything other than Bible reading, and so on. This is not rocket science folks. Once you are truly Saved, EVERYTHING you do or think has to be measured by God's Standard. Of course you will sometimes fall short, but if you realize you have fallen short, confess, and truly want to do better and grow in your understanding of what God wants from you - you will! It's called sanctification: it is simply growing in Holiness. The Holy Spirit will be there for those who are willing. This sanctification will not occur in those who are christian in name only, while continuing to love the world.
People should be able to figure out there is something different about you after spending substantial time in your presence. Without you declaring up front: "...I'm a Christian and don't engage in certain behavior!"; they should arrive at that conclusion. You are always "walking the walk", not just "talking the talk", as so many do today.
So yes, as the "old time" fire and brimstone preachers would say: REPENT. Because you are a Born-Again Believer, you repent from what the "world" loves. You have changed your mind to harmonize with what God loves (check out Gal. 5:22). You are known by your fruits, you are a new creature, you love not this world. You have repented of just going along and not offending anyone, and now take a stand for Christ - no matter the cost.
Sanctification and discipleship are not "add-ons" to salvation, like options on an automobile. Anyone truly saved is a disciple and will grow in sanctification. Will they still experience sin: absolutely - as none of us achieves perfection in this life. The difference: they will repent and with the Holy Spirit will continue "fighting the good fight" and "run the race to completion", not excusing sin in themselves or others.
This brings us to the concept I would like to touch on: repentance. If not a dirty word, it sure seems to be a forgotten word in the lexicon of many professing Christians. Per my original "ground rules" I will go light on referencing specific Bible verses or theologians that share my view as anyone can do a search and come up with a legion of supporters and detractors for any theological stance. As I've tried to convey, my purpose is not to persuade as much as it is to over encouragement to those who feel alone when taking similar stances. Also to publicly (ipso facto: before God), unashamedly take a stand for God.
The repentance that precedes salvation is "turning to God" or changing one's mind about God. Basically, it's now realizing you need Jesus, when before, you thought otherwise. It's not a condition for salvation, just a factual occurrence one must experience. You will never turn toward a God you either reject or simply don't consider, until you change your mind (repent). It's been said that faith and repentance are both sides of the same coin: I agree. You can't have one without the other. For those that consider such a statement as borderline Pharisaical (if not heretical); do some research.
After you repent of your attitude toward Jesus and become truly saved, you will necessarily repent of your sinful ways (whether thought, word, or deed).
Why? Because Grace is not cheap. It cost God the life of His Son. And when we accept what Christ did on the Cross and manifest that belief in repenting (turning away from), a rebellious life contrary to Biblical Christianity, we inherit a priceless gift!
If you continue to live like the unsaved, then you need to examine your Salvation, as it may not be authentic. Watching/listening to smutty entertainment, engaging in or finding no fault in fornication or adultery, getting drunk, using profanity (course talk in Eph. 5:4), finding time for anything other than Bible reading, and so on. This is not rocket science folks. Once you are truly Saved, EVERYTHING you do or think has to be measured by God's Standard. Of course you will sometimes fall short, but if you realize you have fallen short, confess, and truly want to do better and grow in your understanding of what God wants from you - you will! It's called sanctification: it is simply growing in Holiness. The Holy Spirit will be there for those who are willing. This sanctification will not occur in those who are christian in name only, while continuing to love the world.
People should be able to figure out there is something different about you after spending substantial time in your presence. Without you declaring up front: "...I'm a Christian and don't engage in certain behavior!"; they should arrive at that conclusion. You are always "walking the walk", not just "talking the talk", as so many do today.
So yes, as the "old time" fire and brimstone preachers would say: REPENT. Because you are a Born-Again Believer, you repent from what the "world" loves. You have changed your mind to harmonize with what God loves (check out Gal. 5:22). You are known by your fruits, you are a new creature, you love not this world. You have repented of just going along and not offending anyone, and now take a stand for Christ - no matter the cost.
Sanctification and discipleship are not "add-ons" to salvation, like options on an automobile. Anyone truly saved is a disciple and will grow in sanctification. Will they still experience sin: absolutely - as none of us achieves perfection in this life. The difference: they will repent and with the Holy Spirit will continue "fighting the good fight" and "run the race to completion", not excusing sin in themselves or others.
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Stupid is as Stupid Does
There are many outward signs that we are living in the last days before Jesus mercifully returns. Mostly these fall into the category of things that once were taboo, if not shocking, that are now blase'. Violence, nudity, profanity, etc., give you an idea of what I'm talking about.
What I find particularly disturbing is the widespread fascination with stupid. People love to watch videos of other people doing stupid things - staged or not (which of these is more disturbing is up for debate).
I don't find it entertaining to watch someone trying to fly with a homemade rocket pack that ends up in the neighbor's pool; I find it sad and pathetic. Teens and young adult males get a bit of a pass (I mean they're kinda wired that way at that age), depending on how stupid their antics are. But when adults are doing things that are dumber than Wiley E. Coyote's worst efforts; we are living in scary times. Heck, even Wiley looked embarrassed (or at least sheepish), when his attempts blew up in his face! But these carbon units are deliberately putting their asinine antics on video and highfiving each other.
Enter the idiots who don't intend on being caught on video. This often is the "World's Dumbest Criminal" type or those who just don't care what others think or if they're disturbing other people. I envision the one who argues with the fast-food employee over a missing french fry to the degree that profanity and threatened violence (if not actual violence), is exhibited. Never mind there are children present and that you're berating some unfortunate that's probably making minimum wage.
These are the signs of the times and these reprobates are everywhere, but why are these episodes being shared and promoted on social media and the like? Many will react with dismay or even shock, but just as many seem to think it's a big joke. And sure enough, the next time some moron does something stupid (you may have to wait 15 mins or so), they'll be oohing and aahing over it at the water cooler (or somewhere).
But it's no joke. God says in His Word to dwell on things that are pure, noble, lovely, right, and such. Not to dwell on things that are stupid, moronic, violent, depressing. We have enough of the latter, and the news media does a fantastic job of shoving it down our throats (one of the reasons we got rid of cable several years ago and only follow the news enough to have some sort of clue of what's going on in the world). The realization of another mass shooting somewhere in our country (let alone the world), does nothing to enlighten me. It only adds to the growing list exemplifying the general chaos in this fallen world. It changes nothing, except for the immediate families of those experiencing the tragedy. The rest of us continue going to movies, church, work, and all matter of social gatherings.
For the unbelievers, they just become more desensitized with each occurrence; for believers it's different.
For believers, we know that God protects His Sheep. That doesn't mean we won't experience tragedy in this temporary existence. Many true Christians experience heartache, pain, and "untimely" death (an oxymoron for a true believer). The difference is that we know that the eternity we spend with God, bought through the blood of Jesus on the cross, outweighs any stuff the world throws at us.
I'm not suggesting Believers go Ostrich and bury their heads in the sand. But go Christian and bury your head in the Bible and you will develop a taste for the sublime and distaste for the stupid.
What I find particularly disturbing is the widespread fascination with stupid. People love to watch videos of other people doing stupid things - staged or not (which of these is more disturbing is up for debate).
I don't find it entertaining to watch someone trying to fly with a homemade rocket pack that ends up in the neighbor's pool; I find it sad and pathetic. Teens and young adult males get a bit of a pass (I mean they're kinda wired that way at that age), depending on how stupid their antics are. But when adults are doing things that are dumber than Wiley E. Coyote's worst efforts; we are living in scary times. Heck, even Wiley looked embarrassed (or at least sheepish), when his attempts blew up in his face! But these carbon units are deliberately putting their asinine antics on video and highfiving each other.
Enter the idiots who don't intend on being caught on video. This often is the "World's Dumbest Criminal" type or those who just don't care what others think or if they're disturbing other people. I envision the one who argues with the fast-food employee over a missing french fry to the degree that profanity and threatened violence (if not actual violence), is exhibited. Never mind there are children present and that you're berating some unfortunate that's probably making minimum wage.
These are the signs of the times and these reprobates are everywhere, but why are these episodes being shared and promoted on social media and the like? Many will react with dismay or even shock, but just as many seem to think it's a big joke. And sure enough, the next time some moron does something stupid (you may have to wait 15 mins or so), they'll be oohing and aahing over it at the water cooler (or somewhere).
But it's no joke. God says in His Word to dwell on things that are pure, noble, lovely, right, and such. Not to dwell on things that are stupid, moronic, violent, depressing. We have enough of the latter, and the news media does a fantastic job of shoving it down our throats (one of the reasons we got rid of cable several years ago and only follow the news enough to have some sort of clue of what's going on in the world). The realization of another mass shooting somewhere in our country (let alone the world), does nothing to enlighten me. It only adds to the growing list exemplifying the general chaos in this fallen world. It changes nothing, except for the immediate families of those experiencing the tragedy. The rest of us continue going to movies, church, work, and all matter of social gatherings.
For the unbelievers, they just become more desensitized with each occurrence; for believers it's different.
For believers, we know that God protects His Sheep. That doesn't mean we won't experience tragedy in this temporary existence. Many true Christians experience heartache, pain, and "untimely" death (an oxymoron for a true believer). The difference is that we know that the eternity we spend with God, bought through the blood of Jesus on the cross, outweighs any stuff the world throws at us.
I'm not suggesting Believers go Ostrich and bury their heads in the sand. But go Christian and bury your head in the Bible and you will develop a taste for the sublime and distaste for the stupid.
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