Important Question: Will you come to Jesus today?
As we studied the last book of Revelation last night at church, our pastor read the verse..."Come"....Jesus says "Come". He said that we should be asking people just one simple question... "Will you come to Jesus today?'
I got to thinking about that and decided...how easy. Add it to your Facebook entry once a week. Add it to your taped voice mail recording. Hey..and what about asking every salesperson who calls you on the phone at your home...interrupt them and ask "Will you come to Jesus today."
Some of you gals in Knoxville want to begin a study of the book of Revelation. I am not an expert on Revelation, but will dig in and prepare as best I can. I want to do things a bit differently....
Lets start at the end....and get to where it really pertains to us, Chapters 18-21...then we can go back and study the first chapters. Many of us believe that Jesus is due to return at any time. Lets study first what pertains to us after we are raptured; The Judgment, the Mellinnium and Heaven for eternity. After we study that, if we are still here, we can go back and study what will NOT happen to us..the tribulation.
So.....coming soon....A study of the book of Revelation. I will use Dr. David Jeremiah, and Dr. John McArthur as my primary resources, along with Jack VanImpe and John Hagee....any others you might suggest? I am preparing now, but we will not meet and discuss until mid October.
Our first question might be....why study this at all? If we believe that the rapture is pending and we will be going home very soon...why bother??
8/30 on Jimmy De Youngs web site...why study prophecy?...
If you want to be a better witness, (1 Peter 1:5), learn Bible prophecy.
If you want to be pure, (1 John 3:3), learn Bible prophecy.
If you want to learn more about Jesus, (Revelation 19:10), learn Bible prophecy.
If you want to be blessed, (Revelation 1:3), learn Bible prophecy.
Random Thoughts about "Last Days"
I was standing in a long line at WalMart today, people around me were complaining of the busy morning and so few cash registers opened. Someone up front must have complained that a few more aisles needed to be open because the cashier at the ‘end’ of my line said in a loud voice say…”Everyone ain’t got here yet!”
Hearing her say that so loudly sort of startled me. Those words began to go round-and-round in my brain for some reason. Was it just the bad grammar? Was it just the forcefulness of her attitude? Or was it the words themselves telling me a message?
Everyone ain’t got here yet! Now the grammar is not the best(!), but could I imagine God saying those words…and why would He say them? I began to think.
So many of us are speaking of these days possibly being the ‘end times.’ We speak of the rapture. One of my favorite sayings (which most of my friends reading this will know as they read this) is.. “Come back Jesus and get us out of this mess!!”
Scripture says no one knows the exact day or time Jesus will return. Scripture says many scoff at the idea of His returning. I am one of those who know that Jesus is coming back…and I hope He is coming back very soon. But why not right now Lord? When will it be time? Isn’t the world in a mess as never before - and it is time to come and get Your children?
Everyone ain’t got here yet Jeanne!
God knows the exact moment in time of the return of our Lord and Savior. Perhaps He is just waiting for that ‘last one’ to die a natural death before the rapture.
Now when I get anxious to ‘go home’ and ask “When are You coming back for us Lord,” I will remember the words of that cashier at Walmart today. Maybe the answer is:
“Everyone ain’t got here yet Jeanne!
Important Question: Will you come to Jesus today?
Come back Jesus and get us out of this mess!!
Friday, August 27, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Random Thoughts....Why Go To Church?
Random Thoughts….Church on Sunday
(Introductory remarks…what started out as a simple question to me has caused me several hours of study…as usual….wonderful nuggets of truth are now cemented in my brain…now I can pass them on to others…see what you think…)
Why go to church? What does Scripture say about attending church on a regular/weelky basis?
I was visiting with my sister in California and searching the yellow pages to find a church to attend on Sunday. She asked me, “Why bother, it is so much trouble, why don’t you just wait till you get home next month.” Her comment reminded me of some who say, “I don’t need to go to church, I worship at home.” This is an ongoing, often heard theme in faith circles.
The comment that my sister made about waiting a few weeks to go to church made the think, “So what if I miss church for a few weeks? I know what it says about ‘not forsaking the gathering together’…but….” I decided to return to the Book of Truth, and research the issue. I wanted to be able to write it all out and give an organized answer in any conversation that I might get into with someone who said those words.
Being a seminary graduate it is very easy to answer someone who says they do not go to church, that they worship at home, with the simple statement… “God says go to church..you know… ‘do not forsake the gathering together…’ ” No, I wanted a more definite answer.
Precept, Practice, Principle, Progressive Revelation. Those words, learned in seminary, give me an outline to follow in much of the research I do in Scripture, so I decided to use the ‘four p’s” as my staring point.”
Precept – a command. This one is easy. Yes Scripture does give a command, “Do not forsake the gathering together of…..” God specifically says meet together. Also there is much written in the New Testament about spiritual gifts. Commands are given in Scripture about gifts and the proper way to use them. Each Christian is given a spiritual gift to be used for the benefit of the church. If God has given us a gift it must mean we are to meet with other believers on a regular basis to use this gift. I can’t use the gift God has given me if I am not meeting with other believers. It may be something as simple as a word of encouragement to a stranger at church. God never speaks of using our gifts outside of church…so He must want us in group worship.
Many of the letters written by Paul give commands, yes commands, concerning attendance a gatherings of worshippers. Paul says…do this…don’t do this…dress this way…pray this way…etc.. All directed at gatherings of saints in worship as a group. Paul says that we are to worship together. Not alone.
Practice – We do not see any instances in Scripture where God commends or recommends individual, independent worship – unless God is speaking to a person about a specific response to His workings in a specific instance. What we do see from Exodus through Revelation is people coming together to worship. The Jews met together to worship, and the New Testament church met together to worship. God wants us to meet with other believers.
Principle – The principles of worship, praise and giving are a thread throughout Scripture. God gave specific commands that a worship center should be built so that the people could come, and that God would dwell among them. The tent turned into the tabernacle. Jesus attended worship services. The walking, talking God-man thought it was important to meet with other believers on a weekly basis…Jesus is my example. Peter, Paul and New Testament believers went from meeting in the Jewish Temple, to meeting in homes…these turned into churches.
More ‘principle’; we are called members of God’s family. A family meets together. I am to meet with my family each week. If I stay away from my family for lengthy periods of time with no communication I must not think that family is very important. God wants us to meet with our faith family.
More ‘principle.’ Scripture speaks over and over about teaching and preaching. These are group activities. Yes you can learn at home, reading Scripture…but…references to teaching and preaching are made in the context of groups. God must want us to get together with other believers.
Progressive revelation – ongoing unveiling …. From the building of the tabernacle, a portable tent for worship, through the actions of the New Testament church, believers met together to worship. For the people “Israel”, from Exodus to Revelation people met in groups to worship. In heaven all the saints will meet together to worship the God of the Universe.
Why go to church…because it is ‘biblical’ to go to church, and God expects me to go to church. It is a command, and I want to be obedient. I have often said that the easiest command for me to follow…is to give, to tithe. I know God expects me to give to His work, so each month I just figure my 10%, write a check, and am obedient. How easy can that be? (Hey, if you are not tithing you are being disobedient.)
Going to church is another “no brainer.”So easy. God says to go to worship and I go out and worship. I am being obedient. That’s why I make such a fuss about finding a church when I am here in California. It would be so much easier to just forget it for two months…but I can’t.
Finding the right church, where you feel that God wants you to make your home, can seem like a difficult task…but I have to believe that God is not going to call us to worship and then not give us a place to worship. Weeks of searching might be required…too bad…we are commanded to meet together and worship…so get to it Jeanne and find that church where you are comfortable…and can serve….and can give of yourself…and can praise God with others the way God intends it to be. Even if it is during your short stay in California. So its inconvenient. So its difficult…get to it Jeanne…be obedient!
P.S. No I do not go to worship just because ‘I have to.” I love meeting together with other Christians to sing, praise God, hear a message, and to share with others. God blesses us when we are obedient. God is faithful….this past Sunday I had a wonderful experience of worship at a church where I did not expect to find it. Thank You Jesus.
(Introductory remarks…what started out as a simple question to me has caused me several hours of study…as usual….wonderful nuggets of truth are now cemented in my brain…now I can pass them on to others…see what you think…)
Why go to church? What does Scripture say about attending church on a regular/weelky basis?
I was visiting with my sister in California and searching the yellow pages to find a church to attend on Sunday. She asked me, “Why bother, it is so much trouble, why don’t you just wait till you get home next month.” Her comment reminded me of some who say, “I don’t need to go to church, I worship at home.” This is an ongoing, often heard theme in faith circles.
The comment that my sister made about waiting a few weeks to go to church made the think, “So what if I miss church for a few weeks? I know what it says about ‘not forsaking the gathering together’…but….” I decided to return to the Book of Truth, and research the issue. I wanted to be able to write it all out and give an organized answer in any conversation that I might get into with someone who said those words.
Being a seminary graduate it is very easy to answer someone who says they do not go to church, that they worship at home, with the simple statement… “God says go to church..you know… ‘do not forsake the gathering together…’ ” No, I wanted a more definite answer.
Precept, Practice, Principle, Progressive Revelation. Those words, learned in seminary, give me an outline to follow in much of the research I do in Scripture, so I decided to use the ‘four p’s” as my staring point.”
Precept – a command. This one is easy. Yes Scripture does give a command, “Do not forsake the gathering together of…..” God specifically says meet together. Also there is much written in the New Testament about spiritual gifts. Commands are given in Scripture about gifts and the proper way to use them. Each Christian is given a spiritual gift to be used for the benefit of the church. If God has given us a gift it must mean we are to meet with other believers on a regular basis to use this gift. I can’t use the gift God has given me if I am not meeting with other believers. It may be something as simple as a word of encouragement to a stranger at church. God never speaks of using our gifts outside of church…so He must want us in group worship.
Many of the letters written by Paul give commands, yes commands, concerning attendance a gatherings of worshippers. Paul says…do this…don’t do this…dress this way…pray this way…etc.. All directed at gatherings of saints in worship as a group. Paul says that we are to worship together. Not alone.
Practice – We do not see any instances in Scripture where God commends or recommends individual, independent worship – unless God is speaking to a person about a specific response to His workings in a specific instance. What we do see from Exodus through Revelation is people coming together to worship. The Jews met together to worship, and the New Testament church met together to worship. God wants us to meet with other believers.
Principle – The principles of worship, praise and giving are a thread throughout Scripture. God gave specific commands that a worship center should be built so that the people could come, and that God would dwell among them. The tent turned into the tabernacle. Jesus attended worship services. The walking, talking God-man thought it was important to meet with other believers on a weekly basis…Jesus is my example. Peter, Paul and New Testament believers went from meeting in the Jewish Temple, to meeting in homes…these turned into churches.
More ‘principle’; we are called members of God’s family. A family meets together. I am to meet with my family each week. If I stay away from my family for lengthy periods of time with no communication I must not think that family is very important. God wants us to meet with our faith family.
More ‘principle.’ Scripture speaks over and over about teaching and preaching. These are group activities. Yes you can learn at home, reading Scripture…but…references to teaching and preaching are made in the context of groups. God must want us to get together with other believers.
Progressive revelation – ongoing unveiling …. From the building of the tabernacle, a portable tent for worship, through the actions of the New Testament church, believers met together to worship. For the people “Israel”, from Exodus to Revelation people met in groups to worship. In heaven all the saints will meet together to worship the God of the Universe.
Why go to church…because it is ‘biblical’ to go to church, and God expects me to go to church. It is a command, and I want to be obedient. I have often said that the easiest command for me to follow…is to give, to tithe. I know God expects me to give to His work, so each month I just figure my 10%, write a check, and am obedient. How easy can that be? (Hey, if you are not tithing you are being disobedient.)
Going to church is another “no brainer.”So easy. God says to go to worship and I go out and worship. I am being obedient. That’s why I make such a fuss about finding a church when I am here in California. It would be so much easier to just forget it for two months…but I can’t.
Finding the right church, where you feel that God wants you to make your home, can seem like a difficult task…but I have to believe that God is not going to call us to worship and then not give us a place to worship. Weeks of searching might be required…too bad…we are commanded to meet together and worship…so get to it Jeanne and find that church where you are comfortable…and can serve….and can give of yourself…and can praise God with others the way God intends it to be. Even if it is during your short stay in California. So its inconvenient. So its difficult…get to it Jeanne…be obedient!
P.S. No I do not go to worship just because ‘I have to.” I love meeting together with other Christians to sing, praise God, hear a message, and to share with others. God blesses us when we are obedient. God is faithful….this past Sunday I had a wonderful experience of worship at a church where I did not expect to find it. Thank You Jesus.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
More Prayer and Thankfulness
What does Scripture say about prayer .... and thankfulness?
I know when some of you read this you will think I really have lost my mind with this one...This week I increased my praying and ability to say thanks to the Lord....and want to share it with you... I have increased my praise and thanks to God in an easy way.
Those who know me closely will tell you that I travel often. When I am on the road alone, staying in motels, hotels, I have a 'safety' habit of calling our to an imaginary room mate as I enter and leave my room. I turn back and say something like, "OK, I'll get it for you"... or "I'm home..." I usually add some male name like..."Butch!" The purpose to make anyone who is listening think that I have a room mate, and am not alone in the room.
I have recently bought a wonderful condo in Knoxville TN. It is in a safe community with adequate lighting but I have started that same "safety" habit, day and night as I enter and leave. Instead of calling out to Bruce, I have been saying "Jesus.,'...."Jesus I'm home..." Then I began to realize that I really felt like I was talking to Jesus. So now I turn it into an audible prayer, usually thanking Jesus for the beautiful day. "Hey Jesus I'm going out for the day. Thank you for the beautiful weather. Protect me today, and help me be the woman You want me to be."
Coming home I might say, "Jesus I'm home...thank you for my beautiful house."
Now this works well since I am alone...don't know how it would work with two people entering a home...but you might want to try it. Let me know what happens.
Happy entering and exiting for Jesus!!
This has given me great joy!!
I know when some of you read this you will think I really have lost my mind with this one...This week I increased my praying and ability to say thanks to the Lord....and want to share it with you... I have increased my praise and thanks to God in an easy way.
Those who know me closely will tell you that I travel often. When I am on the road alone, staying in motels, hotels, I have a 'safety' habit of calling our to an imaginary room mate as I enter and leave my room. I turn back and say something like, "OK, I'll get it for you"... or "I'm home..." I usually add some male name like..."Butch!" The purpose to make anyone who is listening think that I have a room mate, and am not alone in the room.
I have recently bought a wonderful condo in Knoxville TN. It is in a safe community with adequate lighting but I have started that same "safety" habit, day and night as I enter and leave. Instead of calling out to Bruce, I have been saying "Jesus.,'...."Jesus I'm home..." Then I began to realize that I really felt like I was talking to Jesus. So now I turn it into an audible prayer, usually thanking Jesus for the beautiful day. "Hey Jesus I'm going out for the day. Thank you for the beautiful weather. Protect me today, and help me be the woman You want me to be."
Coming home I might say, "Jesus I'm home...thank you for my beautiful house."
Now this works well since I am alone...don't know how it would work with two people entering a home...but you might want to try it. Let me know what happens.
Happy entering and exiting for Jesus!!
This has given me great joy!!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Random Thoughts - Church
I have just had my 65th birthday and do not consider myself a "grouchy little old lady" (at least not the "grouchy" part). I just need to vent about some things going on in the church community today.
Weekly worship sure has changed since I was a little girl back in the 50's going to church on Sunday....dressed in our best. (In fact, for many churches they have changed the terminology from "worship" to 'gathering' or 'fellowship time'.)I realize that time does change things, and I can accept, even like some of the things that are going on in church....because I believe most things are still Scriptural. I try to make all my judgments based on what I believe God tells us in Scripture. For instance.
Music. Most churches do not have large choirs anymore. They have 'worship teams'. That is ok. Music and singing are in Scripture, yet Scripture never says the choir has to be a large group wearing robes. Today grand organs have been replaced by bands - drums, one or two guitars and a keyboard. Maybe a larger band with trumpets and other horns. Ok, I may prefer the formal type of worship, but all in all I believe the band is Scriptural. Where in Scripture does it mention a grand organ?
In fact, most Scripture talks about a variety of instruments. No problem here, most of this is a matter of tradition vs personal preference.
Now the type of music has come under much attack in the past few years. A study will show that Scripture does not say what type of music we should have. The Psalms give us no idea of musical notes, volume or tunes. Scripture just commands us to sing and worship. It is the words and attitude of our heart that are important. The words give glory to our God, speak of our need, and lift up praise. For those who complain that the music today is 'satanic', most of the contemporary music is based on Scripture. If you will read the Psalms you will very quickly, and very often notice the words of whay you might consider "evil" music - right in front of you. Again, much of this is a matter of tradition vs personal preference.
Look today at the music and joyful dancing that the Jewish community demonstrates at their gatherings. This is tradition passed down through the ages. The joy. The upbeat music. How did Jesus enjoy worship? What type of music did He hear? Did He dance with joy at weddings, worship, etc.... What was His 'practice?'
If you don't like the type of music or the type of musical groups...find another church. Don't complain about the volume, or the pounding of the drums...just go somewhere else. Music, singing and instruments are Scriptural.If you like the hymns, go somewhere that still sings the hymns.
Also, do you not trust your pastor and music leader to be Godly men and to present Godly music?? Lets trust them...they have to explain their choices to God. We should trust them.
So as a grouchy, little old lady I do not complain about the music. I have my own likes and dislikes, but believe music, including bands and worship teams, are Scriptural.
I do have my heartburn about one issue. What about "Attire in the Church" - I mean literally, inside the church. I live in Tennessee, but have been visiting my family in California for several weeks. I have been visiting a church and have been very surprised at the relaxed, informal type of worship.
Last Sunday the Pastor was explaining upcoming events to the church, and lo and behold, he answered some questions for me about why things are informal these days.
His comments included:
1. We want people to feel welcome here.
2. They don't want to come into church and just have someone lecture to them from the pulpit and tell them how to live.
3. We want them to feel like they are sitting on a sofa in our home, so we can have open discussions,after all, its all about what they like...
This churh is planning great outreaches into the community to feed the hungry, care for AIDS patients, provide Recovery Programs for the addicts and clothe those in need. Never was there any mention of sharing the Gospel, or leading people to Christ. Never was the word 'worship' mentioned.
It seems to me that the focus is the people, not our Lord. Its all about the creation, not the Creator. I am totally confused about the new focus of churches. I am trying to remember that I am a little old lady, and that things do tend to change over time...I need to get into Scripture and see what God says about all this.
Let me start with my biggest complaint...attire in the church. As I study this one issue I know that I will find information on all areas of worship.
My mind keeps coming back to the issue of not only what our church leaders should wear on the day we worship, but the attire of the congregation.....so being a good Bible Study student I will use my Stop! Look! Listen! technique to follow through.
STOP!
Here I read Scripture about the topic. I search concordance and biblical encyclopedia for words such as clothing, robes, garments etc... I will gather scripture related to 'worship'. Like a scientist or detective I will ask: Who? What? Where? When? Why? and How? Gather information. Are there any commands (precepts) about attire related to worship?
The Old Testament will give most of the information, for here God first spoke to the people about worship and lifestyle. What did God expect of the priests? What did God expect of the congregation? In the New Testament I will look at the life of Jesus and the apostles, and the other writings to see what pattern and practice they followed. Is the information in the OT and NT revelant to today...yes.
One important aspect might be....today, are we considered 'priests' before God? Hummmm....seems like there is a verse or two that says that....must look into it. If so...how does that apply to me in the pew today?
I want to study what Scripture says about attire to get this matter settled in my mind.
LOOK!
Here I will study the information gathered in the STOP! section.
God first began giving instruction about His expectations for lifestyle and worship to the Hebrews in the book of Exodus. The people had been delivered by the hand of God from the tyranny of the Egyptians. Crossing the Red Sea they stood at the foot of Mt. Sinai as God presented the "Ten Commandments" and then very specific instructions for the construction and use of the Tabernacle (the worship center.) These two are the very basis for our worship today. This is where we begin.
Now before I make my comments, my 'findings' are based not only on actual "commands" in Scripture (precepts), but also on 'practice' and 'principle.' As a seminary student I was taught to always look at these three facets of Scripture. There is a fine line between twisting Scripture to meet our own ideas, and looking at events and words with an open mind.
I also want to look at
1. Precept - this is an actual command to do something, or not to do something.
2. Practice - the day to day routine, tradition that is based on God's direction for the lifes of the people.
3. Principle.
Ask questons Jeanne: Let me think this through. Would one of the shepherds of Moses have come into the tabernacle in his 'work clothes'? Would the midwives or slaves of the congregation come before the priest, and God, on the day of worship in thier day-to-day clothes?
Would the comman man or woman have come into the tabernacle in their recreational clothes? Did the priest wear his day-to-day robes to come before God and the people on the day of worship, or would the have 'dressed up' ?
Did Zipporah, Deborah, Elizabeth, Mary and Martha, Mary Magdalene, the mothers of Moses, James, John, and Peter go to worship in their day-to-day attire...or did they change into something else? We really dont have concrete answers to these quetions. We can only speculate. I do know that Scripture says that they did go forward to give their offering they were only to bring the best of their tithe...the best lamb, cow, dove.... Why bring the best of an offering, and not bring the best of themselves?
Romans 12:1-2 speaks to me of presenting my body, daily, to God as a living sacrifice. This sacrifice brought into the Temble was spotless - the best. How do I come before the Lord on my worship day? Am I at my best....is my pastor at his best?
It seems that we all have 'our best.' Even a person who lives a very simple life style must have 'best' 'better' or 'routine.'
What about the world today. Look around and see when people tend to dress more formally. I have seen basketball coaches wearing suits. And some very well known men dress formally when they are surrounded by the 'communit,' they dont dress less formally to make sure the people feel comfortable....newscasters, Jay Leno, David Letteman, Donald Trump....etc..
NO now stop Jeanne....it goes back to even a more basic question? WHY even bother about this issue? Is it important or just a waste of time to look into this? Hummmmm.
(MORE TO FOLLOW...THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS....)
LISTEN!
Here I will apply what I have found in Scripture to my life today.
In this section I ask...
1. What if God had not given us this Scripture (these instructions)?
2. What would we have missed out on if we did not have these Scripture (these instructions)?
3. How can I apply this to my life today in 2010?
(MORE TO COME...THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS)
(See Random Thoughts 1 and 2)
Weekly worship sure has changed since I was a little girl back in the 50's going to church on Sunday....dressed in our best. (In fact, for many churches they have changed the terminology from "worship" to 'gathering' or 'fellowship time'.)I realize that time does change things, and I can accept, even like some of the things that are going on in church....because I believe most things are still Scriptural. I try to make all my judgments based on what I believe God tells us in Scripture. For instance.
Music. Most churches do not have large choirs anymore. They have 'worship teams'. That is ok. Music and singing are in Scripture, yet Scripture never says the choir has to be a large group wearing robes. Today grand organs have been replaced by bands - drums, one or two guitars and a keyboard. Maybe a larger band with trumpets and other horns. Ok, I may prefer the formal type of worship, but all in all I believe the band is Scriptural. Where in Scripture does it mention a grand organ?
In fact, most Scripture talks about a variety of instruments. No problem here, most of this is a matter of tradition vs personal preference.
Now the type of music has come under much attack in the past few years. A study will show that Scripture does not say what type of music we should have. The Psalms give us no idea of musical notes, volume or tunes. Scripture just commands us to sing and worship. It is the words and attitude of our heart that are important. The words give glory to our God, speak of our need, and lift up praise. For those who complain that the music today is 'satanic', most of the contemporary music is based on Scripture. If you will read the Psalms you will very quickly, and very often notice the words of whay you might consider "evil" music - right in front of you. Again, much of this is a matter of tradition vs personal preference.
Look today at the music and joyful dancing that the Jewish community demonstrates at their gatherings. This is tradition passed down through the ages. The joy. The upbeat music. How did Jesus enjoy worship? What type of music did He hear? Did He dance with joy at weddings, worship, etc.... What was His 'practice?'
If you don't like the type of music or the type of musical groups...find another church. Don't complain about the volume, or the pounding of the drums...just go somewhere else. Music, singing and instruments are Scriptural.If you like the hymns, go somewhere that still sings the hymns.
Also, do you not trust your pastor and music leader to be Godly men and to present Godly music?? Lets trust them...they have to explain their choices to God. We should trust them.
So as a grouchy, little old lady I do not complain about the music. I have my own likes and dislikes, but believe music, including bands and worship teams, are Scriptural.
I do have my heartburn about one issue. What about "Attire in the Church" - I mean literally, inside the church. I live in Tennessee, but have been visiting my family in California for several weeks. I have been visiting a church and have been very surprised at the relaxed, informal type of worship.
Last Sunday the Pastor was explaining upcoming events to the church, and lo and behold, he answered some questions for me about why things are informal these days.
His comments included:
1. We want people to feel welcome here.
2. They don't want to come into church and just have someone lecture to them from the pulpit and tell them how to live.
3. We want them to feel like they are sitting on a sofa in our home, so we can have open discussions,after all, its all about what they like...
This churh is planning great outreaches into the community to feed the hungry, care for AIDS patients, provide Recovery Programs for the addicts and clothe those in need. Never was there any mention of sharing the Gospel, or leading people to Christ. Never was the word 'worship' mentioned.
It seems to me that the focus is the people, not our Lord. Its all about the creation, not the Creator. I am totally confused about the new focus of churches. I am trying to remember that I am a little old lady, and that things do tend to change over time...I need to get into Scripture and see what God says about all this.
Let me start with my biggest complaint...attire in the church. As I study this one issue I know that I will find information on all areas of worship.
My mind keeps coming back to the issue of not only what our church leaders should wear on the day we worship, but the attire of the congregation.....so being a good Bible Study student I will use my Stop! Look! Listen! technique to follow through.
STOP!
Here I read Scripture about the topic. I search concordance and biblical encyclopedia for words such as clothing, robes, garments etc... I will gather scripture related to 'worship'. Like a scientist or detective I will ask: Who? What? Where? When? Why? and How? Gather information. Are there any commands (precepts) about attire related to worship?
The Old Testament will give most of the information, for here God first spoke to the people about worship and lifestyle. What did God expect of the priests? What did God expect of the congregation? In the New Testament I will look at the life of Jesus and the apostles, and the other writings to see what pattern and practice they followed. Is the information in the OT and NT revelant to today...yes.
One important aspect might be....today, are we considered 'priests' before God? Hummmm....seems like there is a verse or two that says that....must look into it. If so...how does that apply to me in the pew today?
I want to study what Scripture says about attire to get this matter settled in my mind.
LOOK!
Here I will study the information gathered in the STOP! section.
God first began giving instruction about His expectations for lifestyle and worship to the Hebrews in the book of Exodus. The people had been delivered by the hand of God from the tyranny of the Egyptians. Crossing the Red Sea they stood at the foot of Mt. Sinai as God presented the "Ten Commandments" and then very specific instructions for the construction and use of the Tabernacle (the worship center.) These two are the very basis for our worship today. This is where we begin.
Now before I make my comments, my 'findings' are based not only on actual "commands" in Scripture (precepts), but also on 'practice' and 'principle.' As a seminary student I was taught to always look at these three facets of Scripture. There is a fine line between twisting Scripture to meet our own ideas, and looking at events and words with an open mind.
I also want to look at
1. Precept - this is an actual command to do something, or not to do something.
2. Practice - the day to day routine, tradition that is based on God's direction for the lifes of the people.
3. Principle.
Ask questons Jeanne: Let me think this through. Would one of the shepherds of Moses have come into the tabernacle in his 'work clothes'? Would the midwives or slaves of the congregation come before the priest, and God, on the day of worship in thier day-to-day clothes?
Would the comman man or woman have come into the tabernacle in their recreational clothes? Did the priest wear his day-to-day robes to come before God and the people on the day of worship, or would the have 'dressed up' ?
Did Zipporah, Deborah, Elizabeth, Mary and Martha, Mary Magdalene, the mothers of Moses, James, John, and Peter go to worship in their day-to-day attire...or did they change into something else? We really dont have concrete answers to these quetions. We can only speculate. I do know that Scripture says that they did go forward to give their offering they were only to bring the best of their tithe...the best lamb, cow, dove.... Why bring the best of an offering, and not bring the best of themselves?
Romans 12:1-2 speaks to me of presenting my body, daily, to God as a living sacrifice. This sacrifice brought into the Temble was spotless - the best. How do I come before the Lord on my worship day? Am I at my best....is my pastor at his best?
It seems that we all have 'our best.' Even a person who lives a very simple life style must have 'best' 'better' or 'routine.'
What about the world today. Look around and see when people tend to dress more formally. I have seen basketball coaches wearing suits. And some very well known men dress formally when they are surrounded by the 'communit,' they dont dress less formally to make sure the people feel comfortable....newscasters, Jay Leno, David Letteman, Donald Trump....etc..
NO now stop Jeanne....it goes back to even a more basic question? WHY even bother about this issue? Is it important or just a waste of time to look into this? Hummmmm.
(MORE TO FOLLOW...THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS....)
LISTEN!
Here I will apply what I have found in Scripture to my life today.
In this section I ask...
1. What if God had not given us this Scripture (these instructions)?
2. What would we have missed out on if we did not have these Scripture (these instructions)?
3. How can I apply this to my life today in 2010?
(MORE TO COME...THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS)
(See Random Thoughts 1 and 2)
Monday, December 21, 2009
Why Visit Israel?
Israel, Read the Sign
by Rabbi Aron Moss
Question
What does the word Zion mean and what are its origins? (I was asked this by my Rastafarian friend.)
Answer
The name Zion holds the secret to the power of Israel. If you understand this name, you understand the magic of the Holy Land.
The word Zion appears 154 times in the Hebrew Bible and has several connotations. Zion can refer to the Land of Israel, the city of Jerusalem or the Temple. But the actual meaning of the word is puzzling. Translated literally, tzion means a "sign" or an "icon".
A sign is always indication of something else. When you see a sign that says "dentist", you know that the sign itself is not the dentist, it merely points out that a dentist is here; same with an icon. When you see an icon on a website, it is not the icon itself that has any use. It is there to click on and it directs you to another page. A sign is never there for itself. It is there to alert our attention, to make us aware of, or to lead us to, some other reality.
So too with the Land of Israel. It is a sign pointing upwards. It is the icon that you click on to be directed to G-d. The very existence of the Land of Israel points to a Higher Force. The beauty of the land, the magic of Jerusalem, the holiness of the Temple Mount are all indicators of a Higher Presence.
The awe felt when entering the Old City of Jerusalem is not due to its impressive buildings, for it has none. It is not due to its sense of history, though that too is fascinating. It is due to the sense of something bigger than life itself that fills the air. You walk the land and you sense G-d's presence. The Holy Land is a sign pointing upwards to G-d.
You can't avoid G-d in Israel. You can seek Him out or run away from Him, but you can't stay neutral. G-d is too real to ignore in Israel. Whether one is a believer or not, whether one admits it or not, the magic of Israel is divine. That's why it's called Zion, a "sign" of the One Above.
by Rabbi Aron Moss
Question
What does the word Zion mean and what are its origins? (I was asked this by my Rastafarian friend.)
Answer
The name Zion holds the secret to the power of Israel. If you understand this name, you understand the magic of the Holy Land.
The word Zion appears 154 times in the Hebrew Bible and has several connotations. Zion can refer to the Land of Israel, the city of Jerusalem or the Temple. But the actual meaning of the word is puzzling. Translated literally, tzion means a "sign" or an "icon".
A sign is always indication of something else. When you see a sign that says "dentist", you know that the sign itself is not the dentist, it merely points out that a dentist is here; same with an icon. When you see an icon on a website, it is not the icon itself that has any use. It is there to click on and it directs you to another page. A sign is never there for itself. It is there to alert our attention, to make us aware of, or to lead us to, some other reality.
So too with the Land of Israel. It is a sign pointing upwards. It is the icon that you click on to be directed to G-d. The very existence of the Land of Israel points to a Higher Force. The beauty of the land, the magic of Jerusalem, the holiness of the Temple Mount are all indicators of a Higher Presence.
The awe felt when entering the Old City of Jerusalem is not due to its impressive buildings, for it has none. It is not due to its sense of history, though that too is fascinating. It is due to the sense of something bigger than life itself that fills the air. You walk the land and you sense G-d's presence. The Holy Land is a sign pointing upwards to G-d.
You can't avoid G-d in Israel. You can seek Him out or run away from Him, but you can't stay neutral. G-d is too real to ignore in Israel. Whether one is a believer or not, whether one admits it or not, the magic of Israel is divine. That's why it's called Zion, a "sign" of the One Above.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Trip - Part IX
(For those who did travel along with me in September – forgive me if I have confused the sequence of the various stops. We saw soooooooo very much and my notes are incomplete. I remember what we saw, just not the exact sequence. I guess I will just have to take better notes on the next trip! And I have not included any pics - having trouble loading them.)
Our last day:
The most special of all sites – the Garden Tomb. We start out a little bit later in the day because we will go directly to the airport this evening. It is clear and beautiful. We sit in view of “Calvary” – or Place of the Skull. It does look like the face of a skull. A tour guide from the Garden Association explains what we are seeing. His theme is…this is great…but remember…the tomb is empty – we worship God, not the empty site.
A short few steps through a beautiful garden and we see the empty tomb. It is always a moving moment. We celebrate the Lords Supper in the shade of a beautiful tree. Our pastor led us in a quiet and serene time of prayer and contemplation. (Thank you God that I am here once again.) What a way to start the day!
A drive across town to the Holocaust Museum, spending a few hours looking though this amazing museum. I am always choked-up when I walk through the museum dedicated to all the children that were killed.
A drive to the south west of Jerusalem to the valley where David met Goliath. We had such a great time as we re-enacted the confrontation between David and the giant. Not any of us will ever read the passage in Scripture again without thinking about this special moment.
A great going-away dinner where everyone who wanted to say a few words about the trip was invited to speak. Several who really did not want to make this trip stood up and said now they were so very glad they had done it. Several said the typical “My life will never be the same!”
What have I forgotten to mention in this blog? We had time for shopping several times, even at a modern mall, and plenty of time for eating! There was time for fellowship with old friends, and the making of new, lifelong friends. We walked, we talked, we cried.
Oh yes, at the Mt. of Olives overlook several people had the opportunity to take a short camel ride, and we had our group-picture taken.
We saw Bethlehem and the Shepherds Field – but from the distance. Bethlehem is now part of the West Bank – and sometimes not very safe to enter. We decided to be safe.
On the boat ride on the Galilee they raised the American Flag, and we sang the National Anthem.
On yes, we had to opportunity to stop at a site that was a coffee shop with the theme of “Elvis Presley” what fun. Even in Israel there is an Elvis sighting!
So much more…but that is it for this blog. My ending thought….I can’t wait to go back again!
Our last day:
The most special of all sites – the Garden Tomb. We start out a little bit later in the day because we will go directly to the airport this evening. It is clear and beautiful. We sit in view of “Calvary” – or Place of the Skull. It does look like the face of a skull. A tour guide from the Garden Association explains what we are seeing. His theme is…this is great…but remember…the tomb is empty – we worship God, not the empty site.
A short few steps through a beautiful garden and we see the empty tomb. It is always a moving moment. We celebrate the Lords Supper in the shade of a beautiful tree. Our pastor led us in a quiet and serene time of prayer and contemplation. (Thank you God that I am here once again.) What a way to start the day!
A drive across town to the Holocaust Museum, spending a few hours looking though this amazing museum. I am always choked-up when I walk through the museum dedicated to all the children that were killed.
A drive to the south west of Jerusalem to the valley where David met Goliath. We had such a great time as we re-enacted the confrontation between David and the giant. Not any of us will ever read the passage in Scripture again without thinking about this special moment.
A great going-away dinner where everyone who wanted to say a few words about the trip was invited to speak. Several who really did not want to make this trip stood up and said now they were so very glad they had done it. Several said the typical “My life will never be the same!”
What have I forgotten to mention in this blog? We had time for shopping several times, even at a modern mall, and plenty of time for eating! There was time for fellowship with old friends, and the making of new, lifelong friends. We walked, we talked, we cried.
Oh yes, at the Mt. of Olives overlook several people had the opportunity to take a short camel ride, and we had our group-picture taken.
We saw Bethlehem and the Shepherds Field – but from the distance. Bethlehem is now part of the West Bank – and sometimes not very safe to enter. We decided to be safe.
On the boat ride on the Galilee they raised the American Flag, and we sang the National Anthem.
On yes, we had to opportunity to stop at a site that was a coffee shop with the theme of “Elvis Presley” what fun. Even in Israel there is an Elvis sighting!
So much more…but that is it for this blog. My ending thought….I can’t wait to go back again!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Trip - Part VIII
(For those who were on the trip with me, my notes are not complete, and as you know, everything tends to run together sometimes. I have been home a few days not...I am not sure of the exact order of these events....so don't e-mail me with corrections :) )
First stop today is the Mt. of Olives overlook. What a view of the ancient walls of the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock! It is a clear, warm morning. We walked down into the Garden of Gethsemane and Church of All Nations. This stop is always very inspiring. This probably is the same site where Jesus came to pray before being arrested. There is a gnarled, twisted olive tree that has been dated as being 2,000 years old. It may have been a silent witness to the scene.
The garden gives an unobstructed view across the Kidron Valley to see the Eastern Gate. Sealed by massive stones this is probably the gate that Jesus entered to reach the Temple from the east. It is also the gate that many believe the Messiah will return in the end days. The Turks sealed it and put a Muslim cemetery in front of it, knowing that few will desecrate a cemetery to get to the gate. Also called the Golden Gate, this is another of my favorite sites.
To the Archaeological Garden/Davidson Center adjacent to the Western Wall (we will visit this later.)
Also called the ‘southern steps’ these are the excavated steps that led into the Temple Mount from the south part of the city. Jesus and so many other characters from Scripture probably walked up these very steps. Then a short walk to see the “Herodian Street” on the south western corner of the walls. When the Romans destroyed Jerusalem in 70AD large stones from the Temple Mount walls were thrown down into the streets below. Ancient, stone pavement, broken and buckled have been uncovered – and now we walk up on them.
To the Western Wall. This is the day of the week for Bar Mitzvah celebrations. Jewish families with someone blowing a shofar and beating a drum, dance and celebrate the passage of the 13 year old boy into manhood. The men on the left and the women, separated by a 6’ high barrier, on the right. I see women of all ages, and obviously from a wide variety of nations – many dressed in their national garb. We walk down to the Wall, stop and pray. It is an amazing site. Again I stand there and breath a prayer of thanksgiving for the blessing of being able to stand there once again, I pray for my family and for several other needs and promises made to people.
To the Museum of Israel. Viewing of the “Jerusalem Model.” What the city must have looked like at the time of Jesus. Into the “Shrine of the Book” to view parts of the Dead Sea Scroll- actual fragments and replicas.
A walk through the Jewish Quarter to the Temple Institute. Few tour groups visit here. This is my second time. A guide tells us of the goal of the Temple Institute to provide all the necessary items for the Third Temple. We saw the actual Table of Show Bread and Garments of the High Priest. When asked if the actual building blocks of the Third Temple are ready, the man sheepishly just says, “We are working on it.” When it is time for the Third Temple to be built on the Temple Mount, I am sure it will take a very short time for it to go up.
We also visited the church over the site of the home of the High Priest, Caiaphas. There is a deep pit in the base where prisoners were kept. It is a sobering thought to think that the Lord Jesus Christ suffered in this area before being taken to the Romans.
Tonight after dinner the group returns to the area of the Western Wall to tour the Kotel, or “Rabbi Tunnel.” This underground passage extends from the area of the Wailing Wall, to the north-west corner of the wall. As we walk the narrow passage we see, and even touch, the original massive stones that made up the base of the walls for the ancient Temple Mount.
First stop today is the Mt. of Olives overlook. What a view of the ancient walls of the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock! It is a clear, warm morning. We walked down into the Garden of Gethsemane and Church of All Nations. This stop is always very inspiring. This probably is the same site where Jesus came to pray before being arrested. There is a gnarled, twisted olive tree that has been dated as being 2,000 years old. It may have been a silent witness to the scene.
The garden gives an unobstructed view across the Kidron Valley to see the Eastern Gate. Sealed by massive stones this is probably the gate that Jesus entered to reach the Temple from the east. It is also the gate that many believe the Messiah will return in the end days. The Turks sealed it and put a Muslim cemetery in front of it, knowing that few will desecrate a cemetery to get to the gate. Also called the Golden Gate, this is another of my favorite sites.
To the Archaeological Garden/Davidson Center adjacent to the Western Wall (we will visit this later.)
Also called the ‘southern steps’ these are the excavated steps that led into the Temple Mount from the south part of the city. Jesus and so many other characters from Scripture probably walked up these very steps. Then a short walk to see the “Herodian Street” on the south western corner of the walls. When the Romans destroyed Jerusalem in 70AD large stones from the Temple Mount walls were thrown down into the streets below. Ancient, stone pavement, broken and buckled have been uncovered – and now we walk up on them.
To the Western Wall. This is the day of the week for Bar Mitzvah celebrations. Jewish families with someone blowing a shofar and beating a drum, dance and celebrate the passage of the 13 year old boy into manhood. The men on the left and the women, separated by a 6’ high barrier, on the right. I see women of all ages, and obviously from a wide variety of nations – many dressed in their national garb. We walk down to the Wall, stop and pray. It is an amazing site. Again I stand there and breath a prayer of thanksgiving for the blessing of being able to stand there once again, I pray for my family and for several other needs and promises made to people.
To the Museum of Israel. Viewing of the “Jerusalem Model.” What the city must have looked like at the time of Jesus. Into the “Shrine of the Book” to view parts of the Dead Sea Scroll- actual fragments and replicas.
A walk through the Jewish Quarter to the Temple Institute. Few tour groups visit here. This is my second time. A guide tells us of the goal of the Temple Institute to provide all the necessary items for the Third Temple. We saw the actual Table of Show Bread and Garments of the High Priest. When asked if the actual building blocks of the Third Temple are ready, the man sheepishly just says, “We are working on it.” When it is time for the Third Temple to be built on the Temple Mount, I am sure it will take a very short time for it to go up.
We also visited the church over the site of the home of the High Priest, Caiaphas. There is a deep pit in the base where prisoners were kept. It is a sobering thought to think that the Lord Jesus Christ suffered in this area before being taken to the Romans.
Tonight after dinner the group returns to the area of the Western Wall to tour the Kotel, or “Rabbi Tunnel.” This underground passage extends from the area of the Wailing Wall, to the north-west corner of the wall. As we walk the narrow passage we see, and even touch, the original massive stones that made up the base of the walls for the ancient Temple Mount.
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