Pastor Buddy’s Blog

Hi Journal,

Draped? over my small library case in the parsonage office are two shoulder sashes, a white one and a purple one. The white one? says, ‘Survivor’. The purple one? says, ‘Caregiver.’ Of course the? survivor is me and the caregiver is Betty.

It was this last Saturday that we attended the American Cancer Society Relay For Life survivor’s luncheon. We enjoyed the luncheon. Had a chance to visit with Leon and his beautiful wife. (She is a survivor.) There were 86 cancer survivors at the banquet along with their caregivers. All together over 200 people attended.

One of the survivors shared her testimony. She was very gracious in lifting up Jesus to the people.

Now for a bit of? bit of update on my journey of life.? Tomorrow I go for my 7th chemo treatment. My 8th and final treatment will be Thursday, May 10th.

It really has been a journey of life. My sweet Betty has tended to me with all her heart. If I even mention something I’d like to have, she is going to see that I get it. Wish I knew how to express my love for this lady in my life. Well,? if I were to spell ‘love’ another way, I’d simply? need to spell it ‘Betty.’

Today I’ve been going over? my? blog entries to save them on a computer program. (Not sure why.) The memories have? been there. Now that it’s not that far from the end of my treatments, my thoughts have? been making their own journey.

I realize how strange this may sound, but this journey of life has had its blessings attached. Not only have I done? considerable writing, but I’ve also done more than my share of? reading.

The only thing that has given? me pause is this strange thought, ‘Have I forgotten how to preach?’? ?

That part has been odd — My entire adult life has been one of preaching and teaching God’s Word. Since December 2006, I haven’t stood behind a pulpit. I’ve never been out of the pulpit for any length of time.? (When we first started Christian Challenge in 1976, I was actually ministering seven times a week.)

Don’t misunderstand me. I’m not talking about regrets. I know beyond any doubt that I’ve been in? the center of God’s will. On top of that I know that I’ll? continue preaching and teaching the Word of God in the future. It’s all in wondering what direction my future ministry will take.? No problem on this end — Faith began the journey. Faith will carry it on.

I know that everyone is painfully aware of the tragedy that happened in Virginia. It truly sets forth the horror of evil. While keeping up with the news? I was reminded of something? I heard a psychologist say many? years ago on a secular tv program. During the interview she said something like,? ‘We have to accept that there is a principle of evil in the world.’ (A near quote.)

I thought to myself, ‘Lady, you don’t know the half of it.’ There is only one? hope for the world. That hope is contained in the message of? Jesus Christ.? Paul said that the gospel ‘is the power of God? for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.‘ (Rom1:16)

Jesus said, “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14 nasb.)

Well, the whole world includes our door steps. We must always keep that in mind.

Ok, I’ll sign off for now. General Claudius Josephus is doing well. He is lying on his pillow with his head on the window sill. What a handsome chap.

Much love,

Buddy

?

Journal,

Betty and I will? be attending a ’survivor luncheon’ tomorrow, April 14th. The invitation reads, “Please join the American Cancer Society Relay For Life survivor’s luncheon and share your strength with others who are facing the journey through cancer.”

Sponsers are? Hafez Halawani, M.D. (my doctor), Lawrence P. Menache, M.D., Ulla Ule, M.D., Christus Cabrini Cabrini Cancer Center.

Believe they? have a local survivor who will? share their story. Not sure if I’ll be asked to say? anything. (Probably not.) It will be a pleasure for Betty and me just to be a part of what’s going on.

I shared earlier that my last PET scan shows no lymphoma detected. To complete the program I? have two chemo treatments left; one next Thursday and the last one on May 10th. Need one more? PET scan as a point of reference. After that I’ll have periodic checkups simply as followup precautions.

It’s getting closer to a great change for Betty and myself. How I look forward to being in services at Christian Challenge. There is nothing like congregational worship and listening to the Word of the Lord taught.? I don’t see how people can miss services for little reason at all.

What’s for the future —

I look forward to? a new Shepherd’s Heart class. Had to short-change? my last students due to my journey of lymphoma. Hopefully I’ll? pick up my former students plus a few more. Actually the Shepherd’s Heart class seems to do? better with a? group of from six to twelve students.

As for my future work with the ministry,? I could not be more? pleased than I am with Nathan’s leadership and the direction? Christian Challenge is taking. That is certainly not going to change. Time? and need will determine? what I should be doing with the ministry.?

My plans are simply to? be an ‘evangelism arm’? for? Christian Challenge.? Betty and I? will? minister out? as the opportunities present themselves.

And of course in my semi-retired status I plan to continue? my fishing ventures.?

What about ‘the wisdom of their wise men will perish’?

This statement comes from Isaiah 29:14, where the Lord says, “Therefore behold, I will once again deal marvelously with this people, wondrously marvelous; and the wisdom of their wise men will perish, and the discernment of their discernment will be concealed.”

The ‘wise men’ reference is? to the leadership of the Jewish peoples? under? their Rabbis and their doctors who? took the forefront of Judaism after the rejection of Jesus Christ, and thereby after the destruction of the temple in 70 a.d. A new Judiasm was created out of the ashes of the temple.

In the rejection of Jesus there was a rejection of God’s true Light. Even Maimonides the great Jewish theologian contributes the afore passage with how Judaism became ignorant and unlearned. (More Nevochim, par. 2.c11.p. 212)

The apostle Paul said, “For the word [message] of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God … Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?” (Cf. 1Co1:18-20 nasb.)

Over the years I’ve been a great student of the Hebraics of the Christian faith. During these years I’ve also studied Judaism in its many facets. I find it no? wonder that most Jews today are non-practicing and pay little to no attention to the vast volumns of Talmudic literature and? to the mystics of the Kaballa.

Here is a breakdown of Judaism in Israel.? Only 5% define themselves as Haredim (Ultra-orthodox), 12% see themselves as religious, 35% as traditionalist (not adhering to Jewish law), 43% as secular, and 3% non classified.

Here is a further breakdown:

According to a 2004 survey commissioned by the BBC, 15% of those in Israel do not believe in God. According to Yuchtman-Ya’ar (2003), 54% of Israelis identify themselves as “secular.” According to Dashefsky et al (2003), 41% of Israelis identify themselves as “not religious.” According to Kedem (1995), 31% of Israelis do not believe in God, with an additional 6% choosing “don’t know,” for a total of 37% being atheist or agnostic.

There are? other startling statistics concerning Jews in Israel: Only 65% believe in God and as we see with the foregoing? statistics up to 37% Jews in Israel identify themselves as agnostics or athiests.

There is no question that the? wisdom of their wise men is perishing.?

But what about the statement, “Therefore behold, I will once again deal marvelously with this people, wondrously marvelous.”

I believe the ‘wondrously marvelous’ has to do with Jesus Christ.

Some years ago I took the Jerusalem Post on a weekly basis. There was an ad that always caught my attention. It was placed by a rabbi who was very much anti-Christian and especially anti-missionary. But it always amazed me how he came across in his ad. I did not see him as very wise at all.

The ad said something like this (a near quote): “What are they doing right that we are doing wrong. Why have more Jews converted to Christianity in the last 19 years than in the last 1900 years.”

Now his objective was to get people to buy his anti-missionary tapes. However, if I were a Jew reading his ad, I’d ask myself the question, “Why indeed have more Jews converted to Christianity?”

See the issue? The wisdom of their wise men could hold nothing for the true need of the Jewish soul. Their need can only met when they find Jesus Christ in a personal way. And, of course, this is what the Bible says is going to happen.

I quote from Zechariah 12:9,10:

“And in that day I will set about to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. I will pour out on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the Spirit of grace and of supplication, so that they will look on Me whom they have pierced; and they will mourn for Him [Jesus Messiah], as one mourns for an only son, and they will weep bitterly over Him [Jesus] like the bitter weeping over a firstborn.”

The more I study Jewish literature the more I realize? why they are so? empty and why they are becoming more and more secular. At the same time I also know why more and more Jews are turning to Jesus. The greatest moment is yet to come.

A lesson on faith…

Faith? by its very nature is neither? rational or even logical. True faith is intuitive. This is why so many? people keep searching for reality.? When they don’t find it? in religion they turn to other things. This is? a primary? reason for the secularism, the agnosticism, and even athieism with the Jews.

Such is the case for humanity at large. Genuine rest for the soul can only be found in a faith union with? Jesus Christ. This is why Augistine prayed, “My heart, O Lord, does not rest, until it rests in Thee.”

There is an empty space in the heart of every human. The sage calls this space, “eternity in their heart.” (Eccl3:11 nasb.) Only when we meet the Son of God can this space be filled. It was made for Him.

Well — I know people who are still searching. They go from one ’strange’ teaching to another, and from one ‘odd’ religion to another. It is like the song that says, ‘When will they ever learn.’

Just some things to? think about.

Blessings,

Buddy

?

Journal,

Resurrection Sunday (Easter) was an awesome day indeed. Betty and I watched? it via the computer. Got plenty of waves. Of course I wave back but no one can see me.? ?

The worship was wonderful as always. Equally wonderful was the baby dedication of Donaven Reilley McDaniel. What a handsome little man? the Lord gave to Brent and Tammy.

Before ministry time a short film was shown on ‘The Women of Faith Conference.’ I understand that Warren signed Lane up. (All in fun mind you.)

Nathan ministered on the subject ‘How Much Does Love Cost?’ During the ministry we saw a short allegorical film clip about a switchman who was forced to choose between the loss of his son and a passenger train where many people would have lost their lives. The clip was heart touching. It fit into Nathan’s message. (Christian Challenge overflowed with members and guests.)

Johnny and Britanny and Johnny’s friend Olivier did a wonderful drama skit.? These young folk? have such a? love for Jesus.

Couldn’t help but think about what is happening at Christian Challenge. It reminded me of the passing of a baton. When Nathan took the baton from me, he continued with the strength and energy that belongs to this move that the ministry is now in. Looks like we will soon need to kick out the walls.

Service ended with communion. Nathan had each section come one at a time. It was another high-light of the day. The thought came to me how that Christians everywhere were celebrating the resurrection of Jesus on this very special day. Planet earth was giving praise to her King. What a thought.

Betty reminded me that it was two years ago on Easter morning that mama went to be with the Lord. What better time could there be to meet the Lord of all creation. While I miss mama so much, it does my heart good to know that the Lord came for her on the one day that speaks so wonderfully to our Christian faith. Resurrection Sunday!!!

Thought I’d do something different in this entry. Here are some news items you may find of interest.

Did you know that 65% to 80% of Americans believe that Jesus - body and soul - rose from the dead on Easter Sunday.

It’s true. According to Religion New Service by Daniel Burke, varied polls show that the vast majority of Americans believe? Jesus physically rose from the dead.? Many are not aware that this nation by far is the most Christ-centered nation on the earth.

Ok - Now for you coffee drinkers. Here is part of a clip you may be interested in –

‘New research shows there’s no reason to feel guilty about you daily cup of? joe. Studies find that drinking coffee may reduce your risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, colon cancer and cirrhosis of the liver. Coffee has even been shown to reduce the risk of inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women. One reason? It contains significant amounts of flavonoids, antioxidants that can combat a host of illnesses.

While drinking too much coffee can have adverse health effects, however, it’s best to limit yourself to one to four brewed cups per day…’

See, I tried to tell you that coffee is the miracle drink.?

Ok, what did I mean in the subject title, ‘In a moment of time.’?

It means that yesterday was just a moment in time. And the only time we can live is the very moment we now have. The apostle quotes from Isaiah, saying,? “‘At the acceptable time I listened to you, and on the day of salvation I helped you.’ Behold, now is ‘the acceptable time,’ behold, now is ‘the day of salvation.’”? (2Co6:2 nasb.)

We must learn to put all the yesterdays behind us. Nor can we live in the tomorrows. The true? walk of faith always concerns itself with, what’s going on in your heart right now?

Time for a short devotion ….

What caught my eye this morning was? Psalm 73:21-25, which reads,?

“When my heart was embittered and I was pierced within, then I was senseless and ignorant; I was like a beast before You. Nevertheless I am continually with You;? You have taken hold of my right hand. With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom do I have in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth.”

The Psalmist came through a time of? bitterness where he felt senseless and? ignorant.? Can we as believers identify with that? I think so. Most all of us have faced a time? of deep resentment. Perhaps it? was a divorce, or the loss of a loved one.? Perhaps it was a time when? it seemed everything was? against us. Whatever the case bitterness brought its toil.?

But this is? where we need to understand something about our walk with the Lord. Jesus does not leave us in these disturbances. Not even in those cases where we have a relapse of worldliness.

How would I know that. I know it by experience. I know it because of God’s Word.

Listen again to the Psalmist — “You have taken hold of my right hand. With Your counsel You will guide me,” Not only will the Lord take ahold of our hand, but He will guide us out of these moments of despair and darkness.

What kind of Savior is only a Savior in the good times? What kind of Savior who could save us but not keep us? Not so with the Lord. Jesus said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” (He13:5)

Then again in Isaiah 41:13, “For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, who says to you, ‘Do not fear, I will help you.’”

It is in these bad times that our need for? the Savior is even more pronounced. Here is a case in view:

Peter? denied Jesus three times. His soul was embittered within? him.? What kind of disciple am I? I am worthless! I’ll go back to the world that I came from. These kinds of thoughts must have filled Peter’s mind.

Did Jesus leave him in this state of worthlessness? Never. Jesus sought Peter out and brought healing to his soul. That is the kind of Savior Jesus is. He will walk right into our backsliden and embittered life and bring healing.

Have you ever been a Peter?

Just something to think about. Pass it on.?

Blessings,

Buddy

?

Journal,

The title of this study is,? ‘Hear the Trumpet Sounding.’ It has to do with the Christian liberty that is found in Jesus Christ.?

Have you? wondered why the greater body of Christ has always attended worship on the first day of the week rather than? on the? Jewish Sabbath? This has been the case from the earliest moments of Christianity.? There are reasons? for this.

Let’s begin with some questions. — Did you know that Jesus arose from the dead on the first day of the week? Did you know that His first appearance to the disciples in? the upper room was on the first day of the week? Did you know that His second appearance? to the disciples one week later was also on the first day of the week? (As recorded in John.)

Did you know that the? day of Pentecost? always came the day after the? 7th day Sabbath, that is, on the first day of the week?

Did you know that the first day of the week held prophetic inferences under the Law of Moses; that the great day of the feast of tabernacles was always on the first day after the Sabbath? (There is much more on the ‘first day’ testimony? to be found in the former testament.)?

Interesting questions. But what does all this tell us? For one thing it? tells us that the new covenant of Christ is entirely new. It does not? bring with it anything from the Law of Moses,? including the 7th day Sabbath. The 7th day Sabbath was an intregal part of the Law. It cannot be separated from the Law of Moses as though it applied to Christians.

Jesus said that it is not good to? put new wine into old wine skins. The old wine skin was the Law of Moses. The new covenant has to have its own? embodiment.? The new covenant? is embodied? in Jesus alone.?

Jesus said, “Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal.” (John 6:27)

When a person truly receives Jesus Christ as their own Lord and Savior, the seal of God is placed on their heart. It is called the seal of redemption. There are no conditions or strings attached. The reason is because the new covenant is a covenant of the heart, that is, a covenant of the Spirit. And when the seal of the Holy Spirit is placed upon a new believer, that believer’s heart belongs to the Lord. When God has a believer’s heart He has jurisdiction over the whole of his life.

But before we go any further,? let me share? a song? I wrote? years ago concerning the liberty that we find in Jesus. If you care to listen to it, go to http://www.christianchallenge.org/JubileeCD.html, and click on Song #1 - Year of Jubilee.

Or go directly to this mp3 recording:
http://www.christianchallenge.org/audio/music/01_Year%20of%20Jubliee.mp3

Here are the words:

HEAR THE TRUMPET SOUNDING

In the year of the Jubilee,
A trumpet sound would fill the land, declaring liberty.
From the mountain high to the fields below,
The trumpet sound would mean, Let your servants go!
Give the land its rest. Set the debtor free.
Open prison doors. Let the blind man see.
Sing the happy song. Let there be no need.
Hear the trumpet sound, the year of Jubilee.

-Chorus-

Hear the trumpet sounding, the year of Jubilee.
Listen to it’s message, a day that was to be.
For in the time that was to come, God would send His only Son.
He would be the Jubilee. Born to die to make men free.

And so the prophets told, in ages long ago,
That there would come, the holy One, sent from the Father’s throne.
Taking His place with men, in Him there’d be no sin.
Messiah He would be, the Lord of Jubilee.
Bringing in holy rest. Sealing up righteousness.
Glory of God we’d see. Fountain of liberty.
Then the redeemed would know, the song of long ago.
When God spoke of His plan, of Moses and the Lamb.

Now we are free indeed. Made free at Calvary.
Born of the Son, the holy One, giver of life is He.
Conquering sin and death, He rose in righteousness.
Setting the captives free, this Lord of liberty.
But then there’s more to this. Great news of happiness.
He brought us to the throne. And said, You are now My own.
I give you power to be, trumpets of liberty. Go set the captives free.
Sound forth the Jubilee.

I realize that there are a few Christian or Messianic groups who insist on keeping a 7th day Sabbath. I’ll have to leave that with them. But once the truth of “Behold, I am making all things new,” really strikes our hearts, perhaps first day worship will make much more ’spiritual’ sense.

One thing I need to make clear? is that there is no certain-day definitive commandment? for worshipping God in the new covenant, neither first day nor seventh day. The reason is because every day is to be holy for Christians. Yet why did the ancient Church from the very beginning take to themselves first-day gatherings as their tradition?? (This can be easily proven both by the Scriptures and by Christian and Jewish history. To the Jews ‘first day worship’ was ascribed to Jewish believers. Ancient Jewish writers called it ‘the day of the Nazarene.’ An anathema was placed on Jews who observed the Christian Jewish day.)

Without laboring this too much let me simply point out the number one struggle that took place among the early Jewish Christians. Jewish believers in Jesus? needed to come to? grips with how the law of Moses would fit into the new covenant.? Some thought that the new covenant was simply the law of Moses refurbished.

Then some were under the impression that because they were Jews, the new covenant could only apply to Jews, and? that to enter into the new covenant you had to become a Jew and a keeper of the Law.

It was a bit confusing. Was keeping the? Law of Moses? and believing in Jesus inseparable?? Even the apostles weren’t quite sure about this. The Holy Spirit would have to clear things up for them. (Keep in mind that all the early believers were Jewish.)

What began to? blow the cover off things? was when a Roman centurian named Cornelius and his whole household, that is, a people who were not Jews, nor did they adhere to the Law of Moses, were? given the Holy Spirit as sign and seal of their acceptance into the new covenant.

After Cornelius, Gentiles begin entering the new covenant like a trickle. Soon afterwards they became a? mighty stream. It is in the Council in Jerusalem that we? hear a clear answer for the Church at large, with regard to the Law of Moses. Listen and you will catch it:

Peter speaks — “Brethren, you know that in the early days [time of Cornelius] God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles would hear the word of the gospel and believe. And God, who knows the heart, testified to them giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us;

“…and He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith. Now therefore why do you put God to the test by placing upon the neck of the disciples a yoke which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?

“But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are.”

Did you notice how Peter referred to the Law of Moses as a yoke? The point is that the yoke of the Law and the yoke of Christ are entirely different and have no relationship one with the other. The Law was given to a fleshly people. It is not an extension of the covenant of Abraham. The yoke of Christ is given to a spiritual people who are governed by one law alone. The law of love.

In fact the covenant of Abraham is realized in Jesus Christ. John wrote, “For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.” (1:17)

Paul wrote, “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.”? (Gal3:26-29)?

The Law of Moses cannot be broken into parts by saying one part belongs to Christians while the other part does not. The Law of Moses cannot be treated that way. It is an entire body of legislation designed for a particular people at a particular time. Its primary purpose was to serve as a school master in bringing the people to Christ. Once the people come to Christ there is no longer a need for a school master. (According to Paul.)

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden [under Law of Moses and sin], and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you [walk with Me] and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart [not demanding], and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

None of this could be said about the Law of Moses. There was nothing easy and light about the Law of Moses. It had a curse attached to it. It demanded full and perfect obedience. To disobey just one part of the Law called for the curse.

Where the Law of Moses could demand obedience it could not provide the wherewithal to accomplish it. Where the Law of Moses could condemn, it could not provide the freedom of life that only Christ could give. This is why the Law of Moses is called ‘the law of sin and death.’

The new covenant is a spiritual covenant where the ways of the Lord are enscribed in human hearts and not on tablets of stone. The new covenant is a covenant of the heart, and where the Lord has one’s heart, He has the total of that person’s life.

Of course this brings us back to the ancient tradition of first-day worship. The first day was also known as the eighth day among the Jews and among Jewish Chistians. The first day was the beginning of the original? creation of God. The first day was also called the eight day because the number eight was the symbol for new beginnings.?

So, why did the Lord choose to make his appearances on the first day rather than on the Sabbath? Why did the new covenant actually begin on the day of Pentecost, which always falls on the first day of the week? It was because the new covenant was to consist of a new creation. All? things would be made new. It was to be a new beginning.

Paul said, “Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer.

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. Now all these things are from God…” (2Co5:16-18)

In the covenant of Moses you had servanthood. In the new covenant you have the spirit of sonship. The Law treated Israel as servants. The? Father receives us as? His own ‘born-of-heaven’ children.

The covenant of Moses was a covenant of shadows, and types, and figures. In the new covenant we have the reality of God’s life given to us in Christ. (The real thing.) Think about it — No woman would wish to marry a man’s shadow. (Or vice versa. I’ll leave that to your imagination.)

Jesus said that the love commandment would set the tone and the boundaries for the people of the new creation. The issue is that a spiritual kingdom is not governed by ritualistic laws.

The end of the story is that believers are not to try and mix the Law of Moses with the covenant of Christ as though they belonged together. The Law contained a curse. Paul said that the only way we can view the Law of Moses is through the lens of the new covenant.

Paul wrote, “For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written ‘Cursed is everyone who does not abide by all things written in the book of the Law, to perform them.’

“Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, ‘The righteous man shall live by faith.’ However, the Law is not of faith …” (Cf. Gal3:10-12)

So — What is the test of discipleship? It remains forever the same. The test of discipleship is the walk of love. We are to live as sons and daughters of the living God, not under a yoke of slavery, but as those whom Christ has made free. Free to sin? Never. Freedom to live in the life of the Son!

What think ye?

Blessings,

Buddy

?

Journal,

Let’s pick up with another study.

There is a four-fold reason? why Jesus came into our world. First, He came to give us Himself. Secondly, He came to destroy the works of the devil. Thirdly, He came to separate a people for Himself. And fourthly, He came to give His people one heart together. All four purposes can be broken into varied parts. But there is one word that speaks to all these purposes and that is the word ‘godly.’

Let’s call this study, What Makes a Godly Person, Godly.

The simple answer for what makes a person godly, is God Himself. The word for godly in the Hebrew language speaks of people who reflect in their actions and in their personality the very character of God. So, the godly people are those who have a personal relationship with God.

This is why we have to separate the term godly away from the term religious. Anyone can be religious. Not all religious people are godly. Paul actually warned that in the last days there would be ‘forms’ (appearances) of godliness, but these forms would be without godly power, that is, these religious forms would be worldly and without the true character of God in them. (You can always tell a fruit tree by its fruit.)

Sometimes God’s people flounder around looking for the best religion, or even a better religion. The problem is that Jesus did not come to give us another religion, or a better religion, or even the best religion. He came to give us a wonderful relationship with heaven.

In fact Jesus settled the argument about religion in His conversation with the lady at the well. Listen:

Lady - “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet, our fathers worshipped in this mountain, but you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship”

Jesus - “Woman, believe Me, and hour is coming when neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father.”

The Lord goes on to say, “But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshippers.” (Cf. John 4:19-23)

Jesus is saying that in the new covenant true worship will not be about the place. It will be about a heart alignment with God. This is why God’s people should never confuse the place we worship with true worship itself. True worship is deeply personal. It is in true worship that we experience oneness with God and with one another.

Why is it so important to understand this? It is important because it dismantles the very heart of religious division. Many sectarian groups do better at attacking other Christians than anything else. (Sectaranism speaks to that narrow-mindedness of a particular sect or party or denomination who see themselves as right and everyone else as wrong.)

This brings us back to the word ‘godly.’ The Greek for ‘godliness’ in simple terms simply means ‘good worship. (God-towardness.) Godly people have a true heart of worship and a true reverence towards God. This is why godly people cannot simply be religious. Religion is outward. Godliness is inward.

With this in view a point must be made — We should never credit a denomination or any religious group for making a person godly. A good godly Baptist would make a good godly Methodist, or a good godly Pentecostal, or a good godly Presbyterian. Certainly our Christian traditions can differ, but godliness will always be a thing of the heart. Godliness is the same with all godly people.

Jesus said that the true worshipers would worship the Father in spirit and in truth. Truth means realness in contrast to appearances. Think about it — If godly people live in tune with heaven, then they will also be in tune with one another. This is why godly people have no problem recognizing one another. They speak the same language. Their desires are one and the same. Their worship comes from the same heart of truth.

Are godly people hard to find? Not really. Godly people have the Spirit of God in them. They all share the same love for Jesus. This is why Paul instructed young Timothy to find those worshippers who have a pure heart towards the Lord.

Listen: “Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” (2Ti2:22)

True worshipers are to gather with other true worshippers. We are to be cautious about sectarianism or any group that implies, ‘we are the way’ group. Every ‘we are the way’ group is divisive at its very core. These kinds of groups like to say that they are creating a unity. All they are doing is causing a fresh stripe upon the back of Jesus. (I take responsibility for this term.)

Paul defines these ‘we are the way’ groups as self-made religion. Hear what he wrote: “If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, do not handle, do not taste, do not touch.”

He goes on to say, “These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-make religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.”

Paul’s entire contention in Colossians centers upon not getting caught up in sectarianisn. He earlier said, “Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day–things which are a mere shadow of what is to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.” (Cf. Col 2)

Paul also warned the Corinthians in the matter — “But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.” (2Co11:3)

So - Did Jesus come to give us a religion? I think not. He came to give us Himself. He came to give us the reality of the Father, and a purity of worship and devotion to Him. He came to give us one heart together. He came to give us Christian love, a love that transcends all boundaries of the Christian groupings. He came to make us one with Himself, with heaven, and with one another.

We are to gather with those who see true worship as relational to Jesus and to the heavenly Father, and not with some group who sees themselves as being the truth. Jesus alone is the truth.

It is not a matter of finding a church with no flaws. As long as the human element is involved, there will be human issues to deal with. We are all sinners saved by grace. However, we should seek to gather with other believers who recognize that there are true believers among all who gather in His name.

One other point I need to make — I believe one great sign of the endtimes is sometimes overlooked. (In my opinion.) The great sign of the end time church will be the separation between the godly and those who are merely religious.

Listen carefully to this prophetic Psalm — “He summons the heavens above, and the earth, to judge His people: ‘Gather My godly ones to Me, those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.’” (Ps50:4,5 - The judging here is the separating of His godly ones from all others. The sacrifice speaks to? those who have come through the cross and have passed out of death into life. They are eternally saved.)

Is this greater sign happening in the church today? Yes. I am seeing it take place in groups like the Women of Faith Conferences, missions groups by the hundreds, such as Christians Sharing Christ, in youth programs such as Awana, in untold para-church organizations. We are seeing vast gatherings of youth who are wholly devoted to Jesus and not to some sectarian idea. (No, we are not children of Azuza. We are children of God.)

Godly people are gathering all over this planet to join in true worship, and they are recognizing one another as true worshippers should and will do. They are lifting one voice to the Father.

Not long ago Betty and I went on a Gaither Home-Coming Cruise with several thousand people from all Christian backgrounds. What made the cruise so awesome was that there were no religious distinctions to be found. It did not matter who you sat with at the breakfast table, you instantly fell into sweet fellowship. And the spirit of worship was totally heavenly. No need to pump people up into emotional frenzies. The worship was often like a quiet river of heaven flowing through the peoples who had gathered.

Does this mean we should forsake our home churches? Never. Our home churches are our personal family-gathering places of worship. The Lord has always flocked His people into groupings. He gives us under-shepherds to help teach us His ways. Church families are ordained of the Lord. We should always see the church as Jesus taught us — “I am the Vine. You are the branches.”

What we should forsake, however, is any notion that our denomination or our group is exclusive to God. Nor should we set about to try and create a unity. The unity we are to keep is our unity in Jesus Christ. Jesus came to give us oneness with the heavenly Father. Let’s keep that oneness.

Just something to think about.

Blessings,

Buddy

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Journal,

(The first part of this? entry is for? yesterday.)

Shana I were were enjpying the Christian Challenge service via the internet this morning when my ears perked up at a new musical sound.? At first I thought it was the piano doing it. Then Shana said it was? Nicholas Spurgeon on the electric guitar. Wow. That boy has some cool? strokes. As a guitarist? I dearly love good guitar music.? Good job Nicholas. I am looking forward to seeing you work that guitar over on the worship team.

I thoroughly enjoyed the service. Nathan brought another outstanding ministry entitled ‘The Sons of Korah.’ It always amazes me at Nathan’s command of English and his ability to bring out points that would have eluded me. His style of ministry is so practical. Not only that, but there is a move at Christian Challenge that is awesome to behold. Dedications and rededications are at the forefront. What a great moment for our ministry.

Well, I’ve been sending studies quite a bit. Here’s some things on a more personal note.

Sunday afternoon was one exciting moment after another. Betty and I love it so much when the kids come by. First was a call from Andre. They were coming? over with crawfish. What a way to begin the afternoon.

Here comes Andre, Judy, and Justin. We sat down to a feast of mudbugs.? Then Nathan came by for a short visit before Awana.? Betty insisted that he dig in to the crawfish. Not much insisting needed. Course he had to high tail it back to the church.

Well, it? would not be complete without Shana.? So I called Shana and here she comes with Hunter, Jared and Abbey. Shana loves crawfish just like the rest of us. All afternoon was filled with Martin laughter and our happy-way of kidding and? visiting.?

It didn’t end there. After Andre and Shana and families left, Betty and I? settled down on our love seat, when through the door comes ‘excitement’ personified. Here comes Nathan, Lori, Joy, Faith, and Hope. The kids are bubbling. Faith runs over to let me know that she will be playing the base guitar for the worship team.

Wow! How much excitement can there be? Nathan and the whole family were just beaming. They talked about? how? Christian Challenge young folk are on fire for the Lord. Betty and I couldn’t be happier for the upward direction? taking place on ‘the holy hill.’? (That’s a term I tagged Christian Challenge with a great many years ago.)

Well, that was yesterday. This morning I received a call from Lane. Never guess where he was? He and Jerry were catching bream right and left up on Cane River. Now, something just ain’t right with this picture!? How come the fish disappear when I have a fishing pole in hand? I will get to the bottom of this one way or the other.?

That’s alright — Lane and Jerry are going to take me fishing on Cane River as soon as I’m up to it. And Andre wants me to check out these good fishing holes. Actually I have a couple more good buddies who are waiting to take me fishing. All I can say is, ‘Fishies, you cannot elude me. Like General MacArthur said, “I will return.’”

What else can I add? Me and my shadow General Claudius Josephus (CJ)? made our morning round. Had my coffee, newspaper, devotion, answered emails, and just regular ’stuff.’

Can you believe it? Its almost noon. Better check on ‘what’s for lunch.’ Talk with you’ins later.

Much love coming your way,

Buddy

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Journal,

Yesterday our Christian Challenge 31st Homecoming Jubilee was no less than awesome. Yep, had a reserved table for me and Betty.? There we were — Shana, Hunter, Jared, Abbey, Andre, Judy, Betty and myself, surrounded by a sea of love. Hugs and greetings galore. It was like a bit of heaven on earth. (No such thing as ‘be careful about hugging Brother Buddy’.)? ?

What can I say? Watching a service via the computer can no way be compared to? actually being in a service. The worship was like a heavenly stream of? water.? Nope - There is nothing like? being in the fellowship of brothers and sisters in the Lord.

David described this fellowship atmosphere as best as it can be said. He wrote:

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, coming down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, coming down upon the edge of his robes. It is like the dew of Hermon coming down upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing–life forever.” (Psalm 133 nasb.)

Nathan did a wonderful job putting the service together. He is such a great worship leader.? (Jeff was unable to attend due to sickness.)? Without any prejudice on my part, I think that Christian Challenge is especially blessed to have Nathan in leadership. He and Lori are moving the ministry forward in a wonderful way.?

Nathan? and Donna also put together a? slide show on? Christian Challenge and the early years. Boy, have folk changed. That was such an? extra-plus? part of our Jubilee. Brought back so many memories. I was 35 years old? when Betty and I started the ministry in Boyce. This August I’ll be knocking on? 67. What a journey. (Our very first service was on Shana’s second birthday.)

Nathan wanted me to share a bit from our table. It was a? tender moment for me. I could hardly hold the tears. Saw a lot of misty eyes around. Course you know me — Had to begin with, “I can out shout, out worship, out dance, anyone in the house.” (Don’t know how anyone puts up with me.)?

Brought folk up-to-date on my progress. (Which is all positive.) Spoke of how [humbly] proud I am of Nathan and the direction that? Christian Challenge is taking. There is such a feeling of? adventure and purpose in the ministry.

Our young people shared a wonderful skit. It had to do with the bondages of darkness and how Jesus breaks the yokes. That was another moment when tears filled my eyes. Noticed that I wasn’t the only cry-baby around.? Jon is such a good youth pastor. And our young people are moving forward with? such a? passion for? the Lord. It thrills my heart.

Before the? ministry of the word, Edward Dorsey shared a song.? He? left everyone standing with? their hands clapping.? This brother can say more with the expression of his face and eyes that many of us can say with our words. Edward just gleams with a love for Jesus. ?

Christian Challenge overflowed with members and guests. Had to bring out extra seating. What a? blessing to have so many friends with us.?

Right at the top of the blessings was our guest speaker, Alan Stroud. He? came all the way from San Antonio, Texas, just to be with us. (Alan? came to the parsonage for a short visit both before services and after the service. Had to drive back to San Antonio that afternoon.)

Alan was one of our earliest disciples. He has such a passion for the Lord. On top of that, Alan is an excellent speaker. He can be humorous without even trying. One thing he shared that really touched my heart is how the Lord is now using him to mentor other young men. He touched on memories of how I had mentored him. (Alan is helping raise up a new church work in San Antonio, called ‘Cross Point’. Believe I have that right.)

What else can one say about a wonderful day. To mention dinner-on-the-grounds goes without saying.? We had a feast par exellance.? That is the norm for Christian Challenge. We feasted and fellowshipped with plenty of food left over.?

Could share a lot more but I don’t want to write a document. Just take my word for it — It was awesome, simply awesome.

Ok, nuff for now. General Claudius Josephus sends his best.

Talk with you later.

Lots of love,

Buddy

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