Join me for my next message in the series: Habakkuk, A Minor Prophet with a Major Message.

Join me for my Sunday Message in the Series "Habakkuk" - "A Divine Answer to a VERY Mortal Question." In our grief, pain and sorrow we so often ask the "why" question of God. So also His ancient servant Habakkuk regarding the pressure of invading armies and sieges upon the major cities of Judah. Why was God allowing such things to happen to His people?

The answer to Habakkuk's initial questioning did not include a rebuke for even asking the "why" question. In fact if anything God affirmed the Prophet's concern for his nation and disarmed his protest. In His response God describes the instrument of His judgement that is coming to discipline His people and hopefully finally turn them from their idolatrous ways and back to a pure relationship with Himself. God gives the prophet a detailed description of the Chaldeans/Babylonians and their savage power.

In this response, however, we also learn something crucial about the character and nature of God. We learn of His severe mercy, His retributive justice, His extreme patience and His unfailing, steadfast love. Indeed, we will learn much about this Almighty God we serve. Join me at 1:30 or later on Facebook. Or also on our church Youtube channel, bethanyassemblyonline.

Join me for my Sunday message from the new series from the Prophecy of Habakkuk, entitled "The Grumpy Prophet."

The Book of the minor prophet Habakkuk is only three chapters long (hence its designation as 'minor") but its impact for those of us reading and digesting it is more powerful than the space it occupies. This prophecy could very well have been given regarding America today.

The prophet is distressed because he thinks God is ignoring his pleas to rescue the people of Judah from the invading armies that are seeking their destruction. He cries out for justice to be done. However, it is quite apparent that the Prophet's understanding of justice is both temporal and human whereas God's justice is divine, eternal in scope and providential in plan.

Are we not just like the prophet? We whine and complain to God that He does not listen and does not save, tolerating the many wrongs we see about us. But God's justice is never hurried, often does not seem to us to be all that helpful and certainly does not at first leave us hopeful. However if we, like the prophet, will learn to wait and trust God's wheels of justice will ultimately prove to be for the best possible outcome.

Join me for my Sunday Message "There's a Change a Comin!'" I had announced previously that last week would be the final message the Last Words series, but upon further review I feel constrained to speak to the changes that continue to transpire in our culture and society in this one additional message from John 14-16.

Jesus repeatedly warned His disciples of the changes that would be coming to their lives and their relationship with Him. However, like most of us today they ignored His warnings and proceeded to act as if everything would continue as it had. It did not. Jesus would go to the cross, die and they would be left to wonder what would become of His Kingdom and their place in it.

The same could be said of us today and I wish not so much to issue a warning but to assist us in surviving the changes not through compromise and adaptation but through constant focus upon the God who does not change, the Gospel that does not change and the Master Jesus who has never changed nor abandoned His church. Even in the midst of uncertain days, God is still at work accomplishing His sovereign, providential plan.

Join me for the final message in the series LAST WORDS: The Last Supper Discourses in the Gospel of John, "Know Jesus, Know Peace, No Jesus, No Peace."

Jesus promised His Disciples many things while He was with them by curiously, the thing He seemed to promise most often was "trouble" (and that with a capital T). However, He also promised them repeatedly that though trouble would certainly come - after all if the religious, social, cultural and political systems of the world hated Him, they would hate His followers as well.

Which brings us to this final study and the great promise of Jesus in 16:33 which closes His teaching: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.””

This is not some "pie in the sky when we die" promise. It was given for the time in which we live and work to complete the mission Jesus left to us, that of preaching, teaching and proclaiming the Gospel to the whole world. And it is my contention that we will not be "rescued" until we have completed that mission. Yes, there is and will be opposition, but the Master has already been there and done that. IF we cling to Him in fellowship His victory is our victory.

If we are truly His Disciples and living "in" Him we have nothing to fear from the coming days (elections, rogue government, persecution by "religious" groups and idol worshipers). WE HAVE ALL WE NEED IN CHRIST and He is enough to give us the perfect peace that defies human reason! So stay in the fight my friends. The victory has already been won at Calvary and the Empty Tomb.

Join me my Sunday Message "A Delegated Authority." This is the next to the last message in the series, "Last Words, the Last Super Discourses in the Gospel of John."

In John 16: 23ff Jesus proclaimed, “In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete."

For my entire life I have heard preachers and laymen alike conclude their prayers with the words "In Jesus name." Indeed, we are instructed by the Master to present our petitions "in His Name" but is that supposed to be some tag line that ensures that God will hear us and we will then end up with the answer to our prayer that we desire? It seems that Jesus was talking about something much deeper and personal.

In ancient times, the name of the King or leader bore the “authority” and authenticity of his message as seen in the use of the “signet” ring. Whenever the Sovereign was sending out a message with orders or instructions or even that of affirmation or acclamation the impression of his name in wax upon the document gave validity and authenticity as to its origin.

When we pray "in Jesus Name" we are praying in His authority, a delegated authority that requires a relationship. There is no authority without identity. We must be His disciple and be in the process of taking up our cross dying to self and selfish ambition and becoming more like our Master moment by moment. Then and only then dare we ask the Father for anything, in Jesus' name. And by the way, for an example of how it can turn out poorly, check out how that worked out for the Seven Sons of Sceva in Acts 19.😄

Join me for my Sunday message in the continuing series, Last Words, The Last Super Discourses in the Gospel of John, "I'll Be Back."

“In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.” A very enigmatic statement that His first disciples had a hard time understanding. They, like us, had so many questions: Where is He going? Why is it a good thing that He is going? Why can’t we go too? Who or what is this “advocate” He keeps talking about and what will He do that we have not already done?

Questions of this kind are a natural part of living the Kingdom life and serving our Master Jesus. The disciples were struggling to put their traditional Jewish teaching on the mission of Messiah into the context of Jesus' statements about the purpose of His coming.

Here, He undoubtedly was talking about His pending death and the joy of the resurrection that would follow. However, within this promise of His return from the dead we can also draw the promise of "joy out of sorrow" when our Lord returns, not from beyond the grave, but this time from a place He has prepared for us.

Many today are grieving over the loss of a dear loved one but the promise that joy will come in the morning gives us hope and restores our joy. In a little while, He is coming, and He will not delay.

Join me for my next Message the series, "Last Words: The Last Supper Discourses in the Gospel of John," "Not On Our Own."

The second great secret of the Kingdom that Jesus shared with His Disciples in these Last Words was the truth that even though there would be opposition (see last week's Secret Number One) they would not face the opposition alone. The Advocate, Counselor, Comforter and Friend, the Divine Holy Spirit would be alongside them to assist them with the work of the Mission Jesus was leaving to them. Yes, many in the culture and religious offices would hate them because of the message of the Gospel but the Holy Spirit would be their constant companion in the journey to assist them in the tasks.

In this passage, Jesus reveals the three essential things the Spirit would perform in order to complete the Mission through them.

1. He would pronounce guilt upon the world.

2. He would provide guidance to the Disciples

3. He would proclaim glory to the Father through Jesus

As Believers, we must always remember that it is not our task to create conviction in the sinner. Our only task is to allow the Spirit to lead us into the truth of God and use that truth to witness to the reality of what real faith in God can do for a lost soul. Only the Spirit can convict but we do play a vital and essential role in the work of Salvation. We bring glory to God by allowing the Holy Spirit to use the Word He has revealed to us to bring about the ultimate saving of souls.

Join me for my Sunday Message in the continuing series, Last Words, the Last Supper Discourses in the Gospel of John: "Like Master, Like Servant".

In the first of several "secrets of the Kingdom" that Jesus shared with His Disciples, He revealed to them that there would be opposition. If the world hated Him, they would hate them also. No servant is of more importance or stature than his master and so it would be with them, persecution for the sake of their message would inevitably come. Both the religious and cultural world of their day did not readily accept their message. People steeped in darkness were greatly offended by the light bearers and their message of escape from the darkness. And yet with the opposition came great growth and maturity for the church as a whole and its members individually as well.

If we take a look at the worldwide statistics regarding martyrdom and persecution today it is a grim and growing concern. Here in America our opposition is often of a more subtle variety but make no mistake, it still exists and the threats to our religious freedoms are growing exponentially. Since there may be very little we can do to stop it, how can we better prepare for the coming opposition that Jesus promised would befall His true followers? Paul in fact said it best to his young protege Timothy. "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted," 2 Tim 3:12. Join me for a primer on preparation for the coming storms of opposition.

Join me for my Sunday message "Friendship with Jesus" in the continuing series "Last Words - The Last Supper Discourses in the Gospel of John"

What does it mean to be a “friend of Jesus?” He is our Master, and we must never confuse our status to be anything more than that of a servant. And yet in John 15:9-17, Jesus makes it clear that He no longer considers the Twelve to be mere servants but now He calls them “friends” as well because they have been given “inside information and insights into His mission.” So, what then does it mean to be both a servant and at the same time a friend to the Master Jesus? And by no means should we interpret “friend” in a limited way either.

For sure He is not our "buddy" but in a greater sense the Greek language gives us clue in that the word "friend" is a unique word meaning "a friend at court." Warren Wiersbe notes, “The “friends of the king” would be close to him and know his secrets, but they would also be subject to him and have to obey his commands. There is thus no conflict between being a friend and being a servant.”

An Old Testament illustration of this concept is Abraham who the “friend of God” (Isaiah 41:8) but was also a “servant of God.” Genesis 26:24. SO, both friend AND servant. Join me as I bring to light the special relationship that exists between the Master and His servants. Friendship with Jesus, fellowship divine!

After a 4-week absence due to my knee surgery, I will be returning to the pulpit at Bethany tomorrow, June 16th. As such I will also be returning with a message entitled "Come, Follow Me."

It is interesting to note that the invitation to become His disciple was most typically conveyed to those bidden by this phrase, "Come, follow me." The invitation to follow was often to connected to a specific task such as "making them fishers of men." However, there is a passage in Matthew 11: 28-29 often quoted for its encouragement to weary souls. Upon further examination, the invitation is not simply to "come and find rest" but to come and follow in order to do Kingdom work more efficiently and with less mental and emotional strain.

Eugene Peterson in his Biblical Translation/Paraphrase "The Message, quotes it like this: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

Notice, "walk with me and work with me" in the same yoke. Yoked up together with Jesus we can get more accomplished because we learn to do it "His Way." Perhaps the reason we don't get more done for the Savior is we keep trying "our way". Frank Sinatra was dead wrong when he sang, "I did it my way." There can be only one way, His way, in the unforced rhythms of His grace.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Last Words, A Walk in the Vineyard." The final verse of John 14 reflects the words of Jesus entreating His disciples to go out from the Upper Room where they had just finished celebrating the Passover Meal. The Teaching of the Last Supper Discourses would continue, but now they would happen as they walked through the streets of Jerusalem, through the gates and outside the walls toward Gethsemane. No doubt as they walked, they likely came near or through one of the many vineyards that dotted the hillsides around the city.

It would be here, using the vineyard as an illustration that Jesus would give is teaching regarding the vine and branches. His words would be both an encouragement and admonishment to His faithful friends. In order for them to bear "much fruit that would last" in the future, they would doubtless need to stay connected, endure correction and enjoy the conception of fruit from their efforts to continue and complete the works of the Master.

This will likely be my last teaching on Sunday Facebook Live for a least a couple of weeks. I solicit your prayers as I undergo a knee replacement surgery on Wednesday, May 15th. I will be back as soon as possible. Until then, keep abiding in the Vine!

Join me for my Sunday Message in the Series, Last Words, the Last Supper Discourses, "Another Helper, Just Like Me."

Who doesn't need a counselor from time to time, especially in such radical days in which we live. Jesus Himself said there would come a time when “men’s hearts would fail them for fear, apprehensive of what is coming on the world.” (Luke 21:26) In addition, we struggle with the perils of aging, the prospect of the unknown and the possibility of untimely disease or death. Our mortal humanity and the struggle with the death of loved and dear ones leave us with almost inconsolable pain and grief. Our hearts are broken by loss.

How good it is to know that Jesus promised to send to us “another counselor” to be with us to provide needed comfort and assistance to face life’s burdens. The lion’s share of Jesus’ teaching on the Holy Spirit is contained in these chapters that we are studying called “The Last Supper Discourses". He is revealing many things around the table regarding what the Disciple’s lives will be like once He is gone from them; especially what they can anticipate in way of things that will cause grief and pain. But with that grief and pain there will be an “advocate” that will assist them through empowerment and empathetic ministry.

There is much we have to learn about this wonderful member of the Godhead whom Jesus promised would be "one called alongside to help." But this Divine Helper would not be different in any respect from Jesus Himself but would in essence stand in for Him in and with those who had placed their trust in Him.

Join me for my Sunday Message, the latest in the series, "Last Words, The Last Supper Discourses in the Gospel of John." Tomorrow I am addressing the "greater works" Jesus promised we would do in a message entitled, "Greater Works, After I Go. . ."

Jesus makes it clear to the Disciples that to know Him, to see Him and to hear Him is to know the Father, see Him and hear Him as well. The critical doctrinal contribution John makes in his faithful recording of Jesus' words gives us a sound basis for our Christology and Soteriology. Jesus was in fact God, incarnate bring the new covenant personally to the earth and humanity. God was personally involved in restoring the broken relationship between humanity and Himself.

But having established this with His Disciples, Jssus reflects to them that if they have faith in Him they will do "greater works in His name." In the biblical period, one’s name represented the person; it was a summary statement of someone’s character, reputation or especially authority as it applied to those in political power. The use of the name of Jesus pointed to his attributes, his person, and all that he had accomplished. It was and is no mere magical formula added to a prayer to ensure results, guaranteeing that God will answer but a confession of dependence, trust, and confidence in the person and work of Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.

The “whatever” in 14:13 and the “anything” in 14:14 are both qualified by all that God has revealed in His Word about prayer.

God is not giving us a “blank check” to simply fill in with our desire or what matches the need we perceive. The controlling element here is “in My name.” To know God’s name means to know His nature, what He is, and what He wants to do. God always answers prayer in order to honor His name and bring glory to Himself. Therefore, our prayers must be in agreement with His sovereign, providential will. “Your Kingdom come; Your will be done.” Matthew 6:10.

Join me tomorrow for my Sunday Message in the ongoing series "Last Words, The Last Super Discourses: "Which Way Did He Go?"

In His early remarks to the disciples, Jesus has stated He will be leaving them, but He also promised He would be preparing a place for them that they may join Him later on. He states plainly that they know both where He is going and how to get there. Thomas suddenly speaks what undoubtedly everyone else was thinking: “How do we get there if we do not know where you are going?”

Jesus throughout His ministry had been showing them the “way” but Thomas’ question indicated they remained clueless as to His real mission and Kingdom. Thomas question invokes a response from Jesus that is given as the sixth of the "I am" statements John uses in his Gospel to illustrate the place of Jesus as Messiah and the Son of God. "I am the way the truth and the life." And then He adds, "no one comes to the father except through me."

Jesus is here indicating that He alone is the way to achieve eternal life. Simply put, Jesus is the “way” to heaven and eternal life because He is the “Truth and the Life.” Since the Father is the only source of genuine truth and the author of all life, Jesus is stating definitively that HE also is embodiment of God making access to God intimate and personal. No longer at a distance. (Genesis 20:18-21) Jesus is also teaching here that He is not simply teaching the way or even pointing the way to God, He is the WAY.

Of course, this understanding of the "exclusive" nature of Christianity draws all sorts of venom and rhetoric from the lost world around us. Bigotry, prejudice and intolerance are a few of the words thrust in our direction. However, if we do truly believe He is the only way to salvation, we will only be able to convince them and prove them wrong about us if we live according to the Master's single command: "Love one another (and the others) as I have loved you."

In the continuing series last words the Last Supper discourses of Jesus this message covers the first three verses of chapter 14 of John and is entitled comforting words for troubled times. There is no question that we are living in a period of time in which Jesus said men's Hearts would fail them for fear. Listen at 1:30 today for a message that hopefully will bring comfort and security to your heart and mind in the midst of an insecure discomforting world.

Join me for the next message in the series, Last Words: The Last Supper Discourses, "A New Commandment."

It is interesting to note that the bookends that form the framework for Jesus' introduction of this 'New" not previously known commandment is the prediction of Judas' betrayal and the forecast of Peter's denial. And yet in the midst of these obviously painful revelations, Jesus shows his love for both Judas and Peter. a love that was deep, as deep as that for any of the other ten gathered at that table for the Supper. However, unlike our conditional love His love was not tied to their loveliness or certainly their loyalty. His love and the love He expressed in this new, amazing command was a selfless, sacrificial love that considered others a priority.

To cap off his comments on this new command Jesus states further, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35) The distinguishing mark of a true believer, the sign that sets you apart from the world and distinguishes you as truly “HIS” is not the cross around your neck, the bumper sticker on your car, or the well-worn Bible under your arm. It has absolutely nothing to do with Church membership or the amount of money you give in tithes and offerings. The only true and distinguishing mark of a real Christian is that he or she has a genuine, authentic, sacrificial and heartfelt Christlike love for both the brothers and the others. Join me at 1:30 as we explore the further implications of this remarkable passage.

Join me Resurrection Sunday for my Sunday Message "I Am the Resurrection and the Life."

Perhaps no other doctrine of Christianity has both historically and currently been at the center of controversy than that of the reality of Jesus' resurrection from the dead. Historically the Greeks never embraced the possibility of any rescue from death and its permanence. People today still stumble over the resurrection, perhaps choosing to embrace the “idea” of Jesus as a great teacher and maybe even anointed by God to do good works but fail to embrace Him as the “Lord of life.”

Jesus encounter with the sisters of Lazarus after his brief sickness and subsequent death was in itself a revelation of the power of Jesus over death, that which the Apostle Paul describes as the "last enemy." Martha, in her comments, expresses hope in the coming resurrection at the "eschaton" but falls short of faith in Jesus as having power over death itself. "If only you had been here my brother would not have died." Her hope had been for a rescue from the immediate threat of death rather than putting her hope in the one who had power over death.

Today we find the church, especially the evangelical church, focused on the "parousia" or coming of Jesus because we want to be rescued from the evils and hardships of the culture. But the "rapture" was never supposed to be about rescue. Instead, it is all about resurrection and therein lies our hope, a sure and certain hope, a hope that will not disappoint, the blessed hope that when our Lord returns the dead in Christ will rise and we who remain alive will all be caught up together to meet Him. Because He lives, we shall live also!

Join me today for my Sunday message in the "Last Words" series on the Last Supper Discourses, "Do as I Have Done." Pictured here is a towel that we gave to each new deacon or trustee at their installation service when we were pastoring the Altus church. I would preach from John 13:1-17, the story of Jesus washing the Disciple's feet and then during the installation I would place this towel on each person's shoulder and tell them, "Here is the symbol of your high office. Go now and do as the Master has done for us"

Service that is many ways "humiliating" is becoming a lost art in our "me first" world. And yet it is the very thing Jesus calls His disciples to demonstrate to the world every day. " Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him."

Humbling ourselves to do the best for the least, the last and the lost is a universal, unyielding call to all who serve the Master and the Mission.

Join me tomorrow for my Sunday message, the first and introductory message of the new series, "Last Words, The Last Super Discourses in the Gospel of John."

The teaching of Jesus as faithfully recorded by the four evangelists are presented in stages with each succeeding stage accomplishing a different goal, unique from the others. The Sermon on the Mount, a series of instructions given to His closest followers at the start of His ministry proclaimed the “Gospel of the Kingdom.” This served as a “differentiation” of the Old and New Covenants.

The parables and allegories of His daily teachings in the Temple courts and in the countryside were proclaimed to large audiences, growing each day. These were the explanation, illustration and illumination of the “Gospel” (euangelion) He proclaimed. Only those who had “ears to hear” understood.

The “Last Supper Discourses” which we shall study are again with an “intimate” group of hearers and are specifically targeted at them as the ones who would carry on the mission after His removal. They are the very culmination and application of this “Gospel of the Kingdom” which would ultimately (when embraced) change people's lives.

In order to obey His commands, we must know what they are and the demands they place upon our lives as His disciples of this era.

In order to know what He has commanded we must study carefully His teaching found in the records of His life. In order to study and learn the Gospel teachings, we must understand their purpose with the assistance of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, who lives in us.

In order to truly “know” Christ and live “in” Him, we must know more than just information about him, we must know His commands and live by them.

Ultimately if the lost will know our Jesus we must know Him and to know Him we must keep His commandments. "If you love me, you will obey what I command." John 14:15

Join me for my Sunday Message: "Prayers for Prodigals." The story of the Prodigal Son found in Luke 15 is not just the story of a "rebellious, wasteful son" but more likely the story of a "prodigal" (extravagant) father. Becky and I, like many in ministry and in our congregations, have a prodigal child. In order to know how to pray for them we must first understand the meaning behind the parable of the "Lost Son" and how it fits in context with the parables of the Lost Coin and the Lost Sheep. In each instance there was someone looking for something lost, a single woman looking fora single coin of the bride price, a shepherd looking for a single sheep and a father diligently looking daily for his lost son to return on the road home. In each instance and especially in the case of the lost son, the illustration is bold and convincing: God is always searching for the lost and will not give up until they come home.

Join me for my Sunday Message, "A Future with a Hope." Regardless of how random and chaotic life seems to be at the time we must always depend upon the fact that God always has a plan. As his plan unfolds we may not perceive or recognize that He in fact is working His plan until we see the outcome. And yet again I say He ALWAYS has a plan. Even when we are clueless regarding how to proceed, even when we think that there is absolutely no way the circumstances will turn in our favor, and certainly when hard circumstances are staring us down we must understand that his ways are perfect his counsel is without equal and his sovereign Providence is always at work to produce the greatest amount of good for us and glory for him.

2 Samuel 22:31, “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.”

Hebrews 13:21, “May the God of peace, . . .equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.”

Psalm 33:10–11“The LORD foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.”

Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, . . . plans to give you a future WITH a hope."

Join me for my Sunday Message, "Marks of the Master's Servant." What we have come to know as the "Parable of the Talents" is an illustrative teaching of the Master Jesus regarding faithfulness and obedience. Perhaps one of the most often overlooked aspects of this teaching is the fact that in the economy of God's Kingdom at the final judgment of His servants, Jesus will commend faithfulness and obedience in proportion to the opportunities given to His servants.

It is not then the “quantity” or size of the servant’s production that matters but his faithfulness to do his Master’s bidding and his obedience to remain in place until the task is done. In our culture where growth in terms of the tangible and measurable results are all that is valued, it is difficult sometimes for servants of Christ who are given little, by comparison, to think of themselves valued as much as those given much. The size and scope of what is produced is in reality the Master's business. All He is looking for is a few "good and faithful" servants to use what He embodies into their lives and callings in order to build and develop His Kingdom.

Join me for my Sunday message "Why the Blood?" The answer to the probing question of mankind since the garden has been what can wash away my sin? The answer comes at Calvary nothing but the blood of Jesus. Today I wish to explore the role of the blood of the savior in our salvation which came as a result of his sacrifice at calvary.

Join me for my Sunday message "Love Lifted Me." When Jesus encountered Peter and the rest of the disciples at the seaside in one of his post-resurrection visitations, He engaged Peter in a dialogue that was designed to "clear the air" so to speak. This was undoubtedly welcomed by Peter since he assuredly felt great remorse for his betrayal and abandonment of the Master in His hour of great struggle and passion.

The initial question was simple and direct, "Simon, son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" More than what? More than the other disciples? More than the profession of fishing? More than the family and friends he left behind? More than the rhythms and routines of life? And yet it is a legitimate question for any follower of Jesus today or any of the days down through the passage of time since Jesus walked among us. Do we really love Him MORE than __________? (And I leave it to you to fill in the blank.)

The love God has for us has never been in question. The real question remains, do I love God in a reciprocal relationship? Loving God means loving people, His people, people who are not His people (yet) and especially people who are not at all like us.

Join me for my Sunday message, "It's the Little Things." Much like the little jackals (foxes) that came in under the hedgerows in the Old Testament Vineyards to spoil the vines and eat the ripened grapes, so also the "little things" come under the defenses in our lives to spoil our relationships with each and especially with God.

Most of us see the "big things" coming and are quite prepared to fend off their influences. But the little things that accumulate, aggravate and acclimate us often come upon us stealthily when we are lest prepared for them. Today I will discuss five "little foxes" that if left to do their devastation will ruin our relationships with friends, and the Creator.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Strategies for a Strategic Year."

There can be no question that the year 2024 will be a truly strategic year in the life of not only western culture but that of the whole world. To start the elections that take place in November are destined to be a turning point for the Nation. In addition, the condition of the economy and the fate of working families and especially of those living on a fixed income are all critical concerns. Hatred, bigotry and warfare are still all too prevalent as well as the growing lawlessness we see manifest all around us. And yet in many ways the people of God, called by HIs Name, are indifferent to the developments in the political, social and relational realms. We just seem to be banking on the idea that Jesus is coming, and it just doesn't matter if, when or how we should respond.

The Apostle Paul faced such indifference in his day as well and the solution he offered to the church at Thessalonica was as valid then as it still remains today. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19, he offers nine strategies for coping with the curse of the culture and in return advancing God's Kingdom. If you want a fresh approach to a new year then listen in tomorrow.

Join me tomorrow for my Sunday message "What Can God Do With a Bunch of Leftovers?"

Every year the day after Thanksgiving the discussion arises as to what to do with all that leftover turkey. If you consult the internet, you will find websites like a Taste of Home who will demonstrate 50 recipes for leftover turkey.

If man can find extensive use for leftover turkey, just think with me about what He can do with a "remnant" of people, by definition, "a small surviving group". Again and again in scripture we find circumstances where the odds of success looked bleak at best and yet God took the remnant that remained and worked powerful and mighty works through them.

Such is the case with the remnant that returned to Jerusalem from captivity during the reign of Persian King Cyrus the Great. The Prophet Haggai was given a powerful message to communicate to the leaders and the people regarding the immediate need to reinstitute the worship of Yahweh, building first the altar of God and next the Temple of God.

It seems today that the number of Bible believing Christians is by many measures shrinking in America. With this shrinkage comes also the loss of God's influence in our culture and society. However, the good news is that there is a "remnant that remains" faithful to God and the Mission. As the old song says, "We'll work 'til Jesus comes."

The question must never be "What can God do with a remnant?" Rather the statement, "What God CAN do with a remnant!"

Join me for my Sunday Message, "Pressing On in '24." In Philippians 3:13–14, the Apostle reflecting on his journey with the Master Jesus made this remark. "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

I truly believe this is the very verse for this hour as we, the soldiers of Kingdom of God, face the uncertainty and angst of a new year. Undoubtedly there will be victories (Jesus promised it would be so). But there will also be trials and tempestuous days that will try the very devotion and commitment of God's army (Jesus ALSO promised this would be so as well.)

Facing the uncertainty of the new year and the transitions that will very likely occur, I would propose there are three possible responses we could make: 1. anxiety (worry about what to do) 2. apathy (what difference does it make) 3. anticipation (I just can't wait to see what new thing God is going to do in and through me this year!) So, tune it tomorrow for a message to start your New Year's celebration right.

Join me for the final message in my Advent series, "God Has Provided the Lamb." Today's message: "Worthy is the Lamb That Was Slain." It is apparent to me that so much of the true meaning of Christmas is lost in the over saturation of tinsel, trimmings, trinkets and tunes. Is anybody else beside me sick of Christmas Music by the time Christmas week rolls around? I mean how many renditions of Sleigh Ride could you possibly want to collect in your brains????

Yes, the Manger and the kids and the star and story are all essential to the incarnation, but the truth is this: "We do not come to worship either a baby in the manger or a corpse on a cross. We come to glorify, exalt, praise and adore the slain but living, reigning Lamb of God who has taken away, carried away, borne in His body on the tree my sin, your sin and the sin of all humanity. A mighty Warrior in His own right. O Come, Let Us Adore Him, CHRIST THE LORD!

Join me for my Sunday message in the continuing Advent series God has provided the lamb. The message this week "When I See the Blood. . ."

The Passover is a Jewish celebration commemorating the Deliverance of the Hebrew people from their Egyptian slavery. There are many parallels between the celebration of Passover with the Slaughter of the Passover Lamb and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. So much so that Paul in 1st Corinthians 5:7 said Christ Our Passover Lamb has been slain. Join me as we explore the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world as foreshadowed in the Jewish feast of Passover.

Join me for my Sunday Message, the first in a four-part series for the Season of Advent, "God has provided a Lamb." The plan of God to bring about the rescue of mankind from the Adversary began long ago, before time in the agelessness of eternity past. Revelation 13:8, “All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the book of life belonging to the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world.”

Yes, God had been preparing for the final and complete sacrifice that would end the misery of humanity's lost state since before humanity or anything else existed. The sacrificial lamb to be offered would be His only Son, the Savior, Messiah, King, Jesus. But all throughout the scripture God was setting the scene for the final chapter to be written at Calvary.

Join me as we explore together the history and progress of the provision of the perfect Lamb, God's Lamb, as a sacrifice, a final once and for all time and all people sacrifice.

Join me for my Sunday Message, "The Spirit of Thanksgiving." The story of the Pilgrim fathers and the origins of Thanksgiving Day is quickly being eroded in our secular society. I often hear the observance being referred to as "Turkey Day." However, as people of faith we should know and tell the story often in this season.

The reasons for the voyage to these shores by this relatively small group of people was anything but commercial. The true nature of their adventure was spiritual. If you are ready for a little non-revisionist history lesson, I encourage you to tune in tomorrow to hear, as Paul Harvey often said, "the rest of the story."

Join me for my first message in a new series "Love: is too small a word." In our common English language, the word "love" covers a multitude of types, intensities, passions and situations. It really is a difficult word to ponder and use because of the diversity of situations to which it is applied. I happen to love a good filet mignon. I also love my new computer and my friend Dale. However, these are all different from the love I have for Rebecca, my wife of 46 years.

The Greek philosophical world made a pretty good stab at resolving the issue with as many as five words that we would translate "love" with each descriptive of a specific kind of love. However, the Old Testament Hebrew word "chesed" covers all the bases in a single word that is most often used for the love of God; a steadfast, uncompromising, committed love that is best defined within the context of God's covenant agreement with Abraham and his descendants.

Over the next several weeks we will together explore the deep and abiding love of God and hopefully discover how that love for us is transmuted to a higher form of love in all of our other relationships.

Join me for my final message in the series, "Where is the Promise of His Coming? A Thief in the Night." Over the last two weeks my messages were specifically crafted to encourage us to not be distracted by all of the current world and cultural events and thus lose our passion for the lost and the completion of the mission of Jesus. Today however I wish to move to the final paragraph of 2 Peter 3 where he admonishes his readers to be aware of the suddenness of Christ's anticipated return and understand the reason for the "doctrine of imminence."

In all of His teachings and parable, The Master was constantly reminding His Disciples, old and new, to be "READY" for His return. That readiness does not just include our work to be on mission when He returns but also to be constantly on guard to be found living" holy and godly lives." Peter gives us a word of encouragement but also of exhortation regarding these very things.

The Holy Bible: New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1984), 2 Pe 3:11.

Join me for my Sunday Message, "Plans and Promises," the second in the series, "Where is the Promise of His Coming." As i reflected in last week's message, the airwaves and pulpits are currently preoccupied with the war in Israel and many dire predictions of the end of the world and excited announcements that "Jesus is coming in the very short term."

Even though I continue to believe in the ""Doctrine of imminence" (that Jesus could return at any time) there are some things we need to consider rather than get caught up in the rhetoric of the day. 1. The Apostolic Church believed that Jesus would be gone only a short while and His return would be almost immediate. 2. The war on Israel is nothing new but more of the same historically. Hatred of the Jews has been the order of the day since the day that Abram went down the Hagar's tent (at the suggestion of his WIFE!) 3. The key to the return of Jesus, according to His own words is the preaching of the Gospel in al the "ethnic peoples of the world" Matthew 24:14, Luke 24:47, Mark 13:10. The word used there is translated nations but is the Greek word "ethnos" - ethnic groups. There were no nations on the earth at the time Jesus spoke these words.

An observation from history - anytime the church has become overly focused on the coming of Christ, the mission to reach the world suffers. By the way, Missions sending organizations tell us there are over 7,000 language groups in the world and we have thus far reached 43% of them.

Yes! Jesus IS coming. YES! He has promised! YES! God has a plan and has had that plan BEFORE creation. Our role in all of this to "work til Jesus comes" to finish the mission of reaching ALL the peoples of the world.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Digging New Wells in the Valley of Gerar." Two weeks ago, I opened this passage in Genesis 26 regarding Isaac's return to the ancient campsite of his father Abraham in the Valley of Gerar, in Philistine territory.

The first order of business was to unstop the old wells Abraham's servants had previously dug which were subsequently filled with dirt and debris by the Philistine herdsmen who were jealous of Isaac's success and prosperity as he competed with them for grazing territory.

However, Isaac was not content to merely rely upon the old wells but instead ordered his servants to begin work digging new wells to supply his growing flocks, herds and servants with a constant supply of life sustaining water. Isaac would not be content with a sufficient supply but desired an abundant, overflowing supply of "living water."

Of course, this new exploration did not go unchallenged by the opposition who were concerned about Isaac's expansion into precious grazing lands. The rest of this story and its implications for those of us who are today trying to find new sources of the Living Water of which Jesus spoke are quite amazing.

Join me for my Sunday Message, "Digging Wells in the Valley of Gerar." In Genesis 26 we have the details of the nomadic herdsman and son of Abraham, Isaac, resettling in the Valley of Gerar, located in the south of what is now known as the Gaza strip in Palestine. His Father Abraham had once lived there grazing his flocks and herds in season. However, when Isaac returned to Gerar he found the wells that his father had previously dug to provide fresh water for his animals and servants had been "stopped up" by the rival Philistine herdsmen in the area.

The scriptures record that Isaac "reopened" the stopped wells and dug new ones beside. However, this did not end the dispute with the rival herdsmen who believed all the water rights in the valley should belong to them. Isaac kept digging new wells until there was no more dispute as to their ownership. Water was a very valuable resource in the arid climate of the "high desert." Survival in such a climate would depend upon keeping the existing wells open and finding new sources of water as well.

The lesson I wish to draw from this is the fact that through much of life we allow the adversary to "fill up our wells" with the refuse and rubbish that remains after disappointment, failure, the remnant of poor choices and broken relationships pass through our lives. We can even accumulate this stoppage while doing honorable and advantageous things if we do not keep our eyes and hearts fixed upon the Master. Let us all propose today that we will allow the Holy Spirit to take His "excavation tools" and begin to dig again the wells of Salvation from which we will draw water with great joy. While the reopened well of Living Water may not resolve all our issues of present it will certainly go a long way to refresh us and give us joy in the journey.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Fruit that remains, lessons from the vineyard." During the Last Supper discourses, in John 15, Jesus gives a teaching illustrated by the agricultural process of grape growing. He declares Himself to be the "vine" connected to the soil with roots deep in the Kingdom of God. He further describes His followers to be the "branches" which are the fruit bearing appendages upon which the fruit of the vine grows and develops.

The lessons are clear but also a bit more difficult for those who believe the Christian life to be nothing more than a series of boxes checked in order to get a ticket to eternal life. The anticipation of the "gardener," whom Jesus identifies as His Father, is that when he comes to inspect the produce of His labor in the Vineyard, He will find the branches of the Vine bearing "much fruit." The insight Jesus gives here regards the process of pruning the branches in order to stimulate the development of "fruit that will last, having the seed of generations in it.

Join me as we together explore this pivotal passage in the last hour development of His closest followers.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Unto the Least of These." My recent trip to Cuba left me with a powerful reminder of why I answered a call to ministry int he first place. Without appearing to be harsh, the call to ministry was not about taking care of a group of grumpy church goers (no particular church in mind here) but about bringing the lost to Christ and teaching them to become strong, reproductive Disciples. I will be giving a report on my trip, what I saw and especially what I experienced.

I can leave you for the moment with nothing more than the scripture I read to the students and our team at the Men's Teen Challenge Center outside Havana:

““When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:31–40, NIV84)

Join me for my Sunday Message, the final in the Evangelism Series: "Why are we sitting HERE?" The story in 2 Kings 6 & 7 is intriguing in itself, but its implications for the modern church are even more pressing. Famine in the besieged and shut up city of Samaria was so horrible that cannibalism was one of the few options left to starving Israelites. The Arameans had the city surrounded and shut off from the rest of the world. No relief was in sight.

But the real story here is the plight of four leprous men who were sitting outside the city walls. They too were starving but they also came up with a plan to remedy their situation. They realized, as most of us should as well, if they kept doing what they were doing they were only going to get the same result. They asked each other "Why sit we here til we die?" A haunting question for the church especially in America. JOIN me for the REST of the story.

Join me for my Sunday Message: "Evangelism: What's YOUR Excuse?" Moses was 80 years old, a shepherd keeping watch over his Father-in-law's sheep on the backside of the desert in Midian. He could not go back to Egypt because he was a wanted man. And yet everything that had occurred in his life to that point had been part of God's plan to be the very one He would send to Pharaoh of Egypt to say, "Let my people go!"

Of course, Moses had a whole list of reason why he could not possibly accomplish the assignment and at each excuse God pointed to a resource He would provide to complete the Mission. So what is our excuse when God wants to use us, regardless of our age or situation? As my Seminary Counseling Professor Dr. Brock used to say, there is no such thing as an excuse. There are reasons why we do what we do or fail to do what we ought to do. However, none of those reasons can be used as an excuse.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Excuses, Excuses, Excuses." In Luke 14 Jesus tells a parable about a man who give a banquet for invited guest who all asked to be excused from attending. Various reasons were given that were thin at best and outright rude at the worst. The thrust of the story is to remind us that on that day when the redeemed of the Lord gather for the great Wedding Feast at the end of the age of opportunity only those who have accepted the invitation and made their reservation will participate.

There are typically dozens of excuses that people give in the present age for why they will not receive the Gospel message and make Christ the Lord and Savior of their lives. In this message I will explore the core of these excuses and propose how those who seek to be winners of souls may counter their excuses and get them to consider that time is running out. The call of God is about to go out, "come, for all things are now ready."

Join me for my next message in the Evangelism series: "Crisis at the Crossroads." Surveys from a number of sources all point to the fact that most people who receive Christ as Savior in their adult years do so in the teeth of some crisis situation. The American Psychological Association defines ‘crisis’ as: A time of intense difficulty, trouble, or danger, when a difficult or important decision must be made and a turning point is reached. It is an event that typically has tremendous effects upon the emotional, physical and even spiritual health of an individual.

Interestingly, the Latin from which it is derived indicates “a place of judgement or decision in which a choice must be made.” It is akin to the word “crucis” which is Latin for “cross” – the instrument of execution upon which the Savior died. Therefore, I would propose that a crisis is a “crossroad” in the life of an individual, a time in which he may choose a path toward or away from God.

The story in Acts 9 of the conversion of Saul on the Road to Damascus is just such an occurrence of a "Crisis Salvation." How grateful we ought to be that at the ready was an ordinary disciple of the Lord Jesus who was listening and watching for his next assignment. Are you ready to respond when someone you know that does not know the Savior enters that crisis mode and needs to hear from God at the "Cross"roads?

Join me for a new Sunday Message: "Fear NOT, for I am with you." In March, 1933, the United States and most of the Western world was being battered by a severe economic downturn, known since as "The Great Depression." Franklin D. Roosevelt had been elected President in November of the previous year and was now standing on the steps of the Capitol of the United States to give his inaugural address. In the introduction of the speech, He said this, “This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.”

The story of Jesus and His Disciples crossing of the Sea of Galilee during a ferocious storm is a story of just such fear. The disciples, at least seven of which were seasoned fishermen, were terrified so it is likely this was the "storm to end all storms." Jesus was present but asleep from the sheer exhaustion of relentless days of ministry (remember He was God but in a mortal body subject to fatigue). When they awakened Him with a question, "Do you not care that we perish?" His response was to rise from His sleep, rebuke the storm and then rebuke the Disciples for their lack of faith and their abundance of fear.

So, what keeps you up at night? What do you fear in this modern, cyber mad world? In this message we will address the subject of the things we fear and the Word of the Master, "Peace be still."

Join me for a special Sunday Message in honor of our Nation's 247th Birthday: "Whose Nation Is It Anyway?"

It has been well observed by historians that no great nation or empire in history has lasted IN ITS PRIME more than 250 years. Think of that! Babylon ,Persia, Greece, Rome, even Great Britian could not sustain their world dominance and leadership more than a quarter of a millennia. So where are we on the timeline of history and in the sovereign plan of God?

In Psalm 33, the writer/composer reflects upon the keys to a nation's survival saying that only a nation whose leaders and populus who are united under God's rule can expect to receive the blessings of prosperity and protection long-term. Otherwise, if the Nations and its leaders choose to follow the ways of the Pagan nations, they will suffer the consequences of their poor choices. God has thus far been VERY patient with The United States of America, but could it be that His patience is running short? Blessed is the Nation whose God is the LORD. Psalm 33:12.

Join me for my Sunday message and the next in the series, "Evangelism, the heartbeat of God:" "Citizens of Two Kingdoms: How to Coexist as Light in a Dark World." In His High Priestly Prayer for His Disciples (and us as well) in John 17:13-23, Jesus prayed, " My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.

In the world, but not OF the world. But it seems to me that the church struggles mightily to find the "sweet spot" somewhere in the center of that equation. Often, we are either so much like the world that most non-believers cannot see any difference. Or we are "so heavenly minded we are of no earthly good" to those who are perishing in sin. In this brief passage that is a part of the Last Supper discourses, Jesus makes it very clear the role His disciples old and new are to play in the dark arena we find ourselves. We truly are citizens of two kingdoms, one earthly and full of sensuality and one heavenly filled with the promise of eternal life. As ambassadors for the Kingdom of our Lord and Christ let us yearn to take His message of love, grace and forgiveness to a world full of the darkness of sin and death.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Headship: A Biblical Pattern of Leadership and Service." The culture and New Testament Christianity are increasingly in conflict over the subject of leadership. Who is in charge and who is supposed to be in charge? The scripture in Ephesians 5:22-33 leaves No Doubt that God has placed men in a unique role as the head. In this message I explore the real meaning of the Jesus kind of leadership as expressed by Paul in his instruction to the Ephesian Church regarding the relationship of husbands and wives. Now before the men get excited about the opportunity to be the brains of the outfit they should be careful what they wish for.

In the account of creation in Genesis 2 there can be no doubt that God created the male human first and left him in charge of the tending of his created world. The woman was not an afterthought but was designed carefully and strategically to be a suitable helper for man. This in no way means that she was inferior to the man nor does it imply that she lacked any of the abilities and virtues that God planned for Humanity. However it is apparent that she was created to stand alongside and in every sense of the word complete God's design for Humanity. So when in Ephesians Paul speaks of headship and submission he is careful to point out that the man's responsibility is clearly to lead love and serve as the master Jesus has so said that example for us. The woman's responsibility is to bring herself under that servant leadership in order to complete God's design for Christian marriage. I have much more to say about all of this.

Join me for the first in a new series of messages "Evangelism: The Heartbeat of God." According to the National Association of Evangelicals, the statistics on the modern church are sobering. A study done by them reveals that the vast majority of "growing churches" are doing so through "transfer growth" rather than reaching lost people with the Gospel. While 73% of born-again Christians will say they feel an obligation to share the Gospel with others, only 52% will say they actually did so at least once last year.

The problem may well be that Christ never intended that evangelism become a "program" or an endeavor of the organized church. And in order to most effectively reach the whole world He likely never intended that our efforts to win the lost be relegated solely to the "evangelistic" crusade held in the large auditorium or in a local fellowship. The key to effective evangelism has always been and will always be about relationships: a mature, committed disciple of the Lord Jesus developing a real and genuine relationship with a lost person and through his lifestyle and example lead them to a relationship with the Master.

The so called Great Commission is great because it is all encompassing and all inclusive. Everyone is commissioned to Go into their own world and tell of the good news! In the current culture we will not likely get them to come to church we must BE the church. they will not come to us so we must GO to them. According to Paul in 2 Corinthians 2:1-3, each of us individually are the only letter most of the people already in our circle of life will ever read. So, what does your letter say to those lost folk in your orbit?

Join me for my Sunday Message, "Stones of Testimony." In the Older Testament it is recorded that when God spoke to his people in a unique manner or when He demonstrated His power by rescuing them from danger or when He worked some great victory on their behalf, it was customary for them to set up a "standing stone" as a way of memorializing the event so that not only would the current generation be reminded but also that future generations might know of the faithfulness of God to deliver His people.

We too must have a stone of remembrance or testimony to keep us refreshed in our memory of the past when God "came through." However, this stone also can become a powerful rock of testimony regarding the present as it helps us reckon the fact of God's continuing faithfulness. Finally, as we look to the future a standing stone of testimony will serve as a reminder of what God can do for us in the uncertain days that lie ahead. A recollection of the past; a reckoning of the present and a reminder for the future.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Why Pentecost?" This being Pentecost Sunday, the day we recognize the birth of the Church of Jesus Christ, I am bringing a message that seeks to answer not only the why question but in reality, the "when" question as well. How is it that God in His infinite wisdom chose the Jewish Feast of Pentecost as the day to pour out the Holy Spirit upon the believers gathered in one place with one purpose? It might seem a trivial thing to some but upon deeper analysis it is quite apparent that there was much more to the plan than would meet the initial analysis. Why Pentecost? The mission of Christ upon the earth had in reality only begun with the relatively short termed ministry of Jesus. An empowered people would be needed to spread out over the known world to continue the work of drawing people into a relationship with the timeless, eternal God. Why Pentecost? Harvest celebration was a perfect time for the Holy Spirit to infuse the gathered believers and bring them into the community of the King known as the Church. Oh yes, there is much, much more! Join me tomorrow and we will explore it all together.

Join me for my Sunday message, "Plans: Yours, Mine and God's." Most of us have at one time or another glibly quoted Jeremiah 29:11 because of the promise of God's blessing of a hopeful future or end. However, if we explore the context of the rest of the letter Jeremiah was writing to the exiles in Babylon, we discover that BEFORE God would deliver them and give them a hopeful future there would first be a protracted period of captivity.

Simply put, the exiles were told to ignore the prophecies of the false prophets who were predicting a quick return to the homeland and instead "settle down and make a life in the land of captivity for indeed it would be seventy years before a different Royal administration would send them back to the Land of Judah. The people Jermiah was addressing in his epistle would not be alive to see the fulfillment of God's promise of repatriation.

God's plans for us are no different than that He had for His ancient people. His desire is indeed to "bless us and prosper our lives" but the manner in which He does so may seem at first to be the very opposite of His stated intent. But always remember, "His judgments are unsearchable and His ways past finding out" (Romans 11;33). In addition, He says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.” (Isaiah 55:8).

God's plans for us are not in the past, for the past is done. Neither are they in the present for that is a tale still being told. God's plans are always somewhere in the future. But for the present we must trust Him and continue to obey.

Join me for my Sunday Message, "Preach the Word - patiently and carefully." The Apostle Paul was in his final hours before execution, likely writing from the depths of the Mamertine Prison beneath the streets of Rome. He penned what was likely his last letter to his son in the faith, Timothy and in it offered up his last will and testament of his ministry. In the final chapter, Paul extends to Timothy a charge which is still used today in many Ordination Services. The command is "to preach the Word, in season and out of season."

The original language here indicates the idea of a "favorable time" and an "unfavorable time." In other words, the command to preach and teach the living, active Word of Our Sovereign God was without apology a charge and an exhortation to faithfully communicate the whole of God's message even at times when it would not be well received. The business of preaching is not to "tickle the ears or the fancy" of the gathered congregants. But instead our purpose must always be to "correct, rebuke and encourage" the Word which is "living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword.

Eternity is always on the line when a pastor-teacher steps into the pulpit to deliver not a speech, but a sermon. Sermons call us to make decisions, hard decisions. No preacher worth his salt would ever take the responsibility lightly.

Join me for my Sunday Message, "What DO We Know?" We are living in the age of instant information. In the days of my youth if we needed some small bit of information, we had to consult a book, or books in order to learn the facts we sought. Today, I have the world at hand, or should I say "IN HAND" as my Google assistant stands ready to find the answers in less time that it takes to clear my throat.

Yes we know a lot. But it is what we don't know that can sometimes catch us off guard and defenseless. In this message I am going to explore Paul's comments to the Romans in the 8th chapter. He makes it clear that we do not and cannot know the future and many times we don't know what to pray. However, we do know this: In all things that happen in life God is at work for our GOOD and HIS GLORY. Of course, there are some provisions in this incredible verse of promise that we must meet to come under its blessing.

Join me for my message, "He Spoke Her Name." Last week I introduced the story of Mary of Magdala, a woman, a supporter and a disciple of Jesus Christ. Her story is brief but consistent in the early accounts of Jesus' life and ministry. However, as we will discover today, she plays an inordinately large role in the story of the Resurrection. She was the very first person to whom Jesus revealed Himself on Resurrection Morning.

This is unusual for a number of reasons. Jewish women were of such low status in the First Century that their reliability as witnesses was considered so poorly that they could not give testimony in court. And yet Jesus chooses to encounter her at the open tomb and to give her the commission to "go to my brothers and tell them." Even though it would be tough for them to accept the word of a woman, Jesus commits to her the responsibility of being the first to proclaim the news, HE IS NO LONGER DEAD, THE LORD IS RISEN. HE IS RISEN INDEED."

She from whom Jesus powerfully delivered from Satan's grasp was now not only a trophy of His grace but also now the very first "evangelist." Good news! Because He lives, we shall live also.

Join me for my Palm Sunday message, "Mary Magdalene, a Soul Set Free" The scripture does not give us much detail about the life of Mary of Magdala except for the fact that she was liberated by Jesus, set free from possession by seven wicked, demonic spirits. Hers' is truly a story of incredible deliverance and a story of a life of gratitude expressed in her service and support of the activities of Jesus and His disciples. One has to wonder, if she was indeed a "woman of means" as the scriptures indicate, then how did it happen that she wound up bound by Satan's emissaries? Well, tune in tomorrow and we will take on that question and discuss how demons may in fact progressively occupy the lives of the unsuspecting.

Join me for my First Easter series message "A Supper of Significance." Jesus' final celebration of the Passover with His Disciples became more than just the ritual Jewish meal. During that supper He set down a pattern for us in "The Lord's Supper" in order that we might always "remember" and keep in mind the sacrifice of Calvary. The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 11 lays down some fairly straightforward teaching regarding the practice of this supper in order to correct some gross misbehaviors among the members of the church in Corinth. And by the way, I am fairly certain many of them still exist in the church today.

Join me tomorrow for my Sunday Message, "Building Bridges for Those Who Will Follow." The statistics are grim. The National Association of Evangelicals has said for many years that the likelihood of someone finding Christ and making Him their Savior after early adolescence is meager at best. 80% of Christians received Christ before the age of 14. Of the remaining 20%, only 1 in 8 will get saved before death. In addition, we are told that only 1 in 11 "Millennials" (23-42) will admit to having any regular corporate spiritual experience of ANY KIND, and only 4% of those are true evangelical Christians.

So, what are we, the established church, doing to aggressively reach these lost persons in our culture? Are we indeed building "bridges" to help them get to the other side? A true bridgebuilder is someone who exemplifies true faith even in the midst of crisis,

leaves behind a legacy of faith for others to copy, takes the necessary steps, makes the necessary sacrifices to leave behind a “bridge of faith” over the chasms of doubt, fear and frustration.

They are pathfinders, way-makers, pioneers, and trailblazers.

Moses was and is an example of a bridgebuilder and the "faith Hall of Fame" in Hebrews 11 documents this well. Moses knew his history, where he came from, his identity, who he was and where he lived, and his destiny, where he was going. Along the way he accomplished the purposes of God for his life and left behind a legacy of faith in Joshua that enabled him to lead the people of Israel into the Promised Land.