by Terry Laughlin | Apr 30, 2016 | Christian Living Truth's
Over the course of time the Apostle Peter oversaw his work with the Lord in a way that showed spiritual maturity. He, like every servant of the Lord who is sent to bring forth a new work, faced criticism. The Book of Acts records one of the times when the cancer of traditionalism kept Christians from recognizing a powerful move of God. “The apostles and the brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him and said, ‘You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them.’ Peter began and explained everything to them precisely as it had happened:” (Acts 11:1-4) “When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, ‘So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.’” (Acts 11:18) A ministry matured in the Holy Spirit defeats criticism.
The Holy Spirit reveals the importance of God’s work through Peter by moving Luke to refer to the events of the ministry in Cornelius’s household three different times in the Book of Acts. I would propose to you if the work of the Lord was important enough to have the Holy Spirit move Luke to write down the events of Peter’s ministry, it should be important enough for the Body of Christ to take note of the truths surrounding Peter’s ministry.
It is important to note that those who criticized Peter’s ministry to the Gentiles were Jewish Christians, “circumcised believers” who needed a fuller understanding of the whole counsel of the Word of God. Everyone in the church can easily fall into the same spiritual blindness as the religious people of Peter’s day. Thus Christians prayerfully seek Holy Spirit illumination of the whole of Scripture to cleanse them from the cancers of traditionalism, legalism, faddism, and denominationalism. They desire to mature in ministry and give Biblical accountability, like Peter did.
When Christians learn how to Biblically seek revelation from God and Biblically present His revelation to the Body of Christ, spiritual leaders will rejoice in the work of the Lord. Seek Biblical maturity and defeat human criticism.
by Terry Laughlin | Apr 29, 2016 | Christian Living Truth's
You or Christ Glorified
Matthew 6:1-4 says, “Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
These are the very words taught by Jesus Christ, given for the purpose of protecting individuals and churches from ostentatious giving. Any true born-again teacher of God’s word knows that Christians must reach out to people who are hurting, ill or have a real need. I recommend how the communitarian, Matthew Henry had put it: “It is a great duty, a duty which all the disciples of Christ, according to their ability, must abound in.” It is my conviction that we are to minister to the needs of the Body of Christ (Galatians 6:2) and to the non-church in hopes of drawing them to the love of God and His Son Jesus Christ. (Luke 10:27)
The problem in meeting a need–without the Holy Spirit bringing illumination to the truths in Matthew 6:1-4 may only reveal how generous the persons or organizations are, thus bringing glory only to themselves. Jesus makes it clear: all love gifts should be given in such a way so that there are no temptations for others to glorify the giver, but ministered in a way that brings praise to God. When that is done, God will bless the love offering in a way that brings the hurting and needy into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. (New American Commentary; Commentary and Explanatory on the Whole Bible; The Pulpit Commentary; Matthew Henry Commentary).
During my 25+ years of preaching and teaching God’s Word, I have observed the church–as the world sees it–reaching out to the non-churched. Too often, it comes across to them as, “that person or church only wants us to become members of their church.” When that thought occurs, ministry outreaches appear to be administered through ulterior motives. We deceive ourselves if we think we are not in great danger of the subtle sin of drawing attention to ourselves or our churches as we reach out. Not following Jesus’ principle of meeting the needs of the hurting, as taught by Him, can spoil our efforts, like flies in healing oils can ruin the entire box of precious ointments. (The New American Commentary; Commentary and Explanatory on the Whole Bible; Matthew Henry Commentaries)
A Spirit-anointed love ministry that reaches out to the needs of the hurting is guided by the following truths: 1.) A Christ-appointed overseer that assists the Body of Christ to exercise their gifts for the good of others and not themselves (Ephesians 4:11-16; Philippians 2:4) 2.) Everything is being done in a manner that brings clarity to the whole counsel of God’s Word. (Matthew 28:18-20) 3.) Full accountability presented to those who have Biblical authority. (Acts 11:1-4, 18) 4.) It must have someone who is gifted in collecting and distributing the love offerings. (Acts 6:1-6) 5.) It must have someone opening doors of opportunities for participation during the out reach. (1 Corinthians 16:1-4)
In the following passage of Scripture, Jesus does not contradict Matthew 5:16, “the letting your light shine before men.” The Lord’s principles are for us to govern our own hearts, which is paramount to Him. Truthfully, this way of ministering to needs protects His personal honor and us from being worshiped by men. (The New American Commentary, Commentary and Explanatory on the Whole Bible)
Let the Holy Spirit examine your heart with these questions: 1.) What is the purpose of your giving to meet a need? 2.) Are you exercising your Spiritual gifts for the Lord or you own recognition? 3.) When your giving is complete, who is getting the praise?
by Terry Laughlin | Apr 29, 2016 | Christian Living Truth's
Christians and Non-Christians Must Give an Accounting
Oswald Champers in My Utmost for His Highest wrote “The deadliest pharisaism to-day is not hypocrisy, but unconscious unreality.” Jesus spoke a truth that awakens the human soul to a reality that is going to be experienced by all of mankind, “For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:34b-37)
The Message (Bible) translates what Jesus taught, “Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going to come back and haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously. Words can be your salvation. Words can also be your damnation.” (Matthew 12:34b-37)
This truth is taught by Jesus during his teaching to the Pharisees. (Matthew 12:1-14; 12:22-37) Here in this teaching Jesus tells His listeners to come clean, examine their own hearts by what they speak to see if they are letting the Holy Spirit season their speech with God’s grace.
Careless (idle, literally thoughtless words) are spontaneous expressions which reveal what is in a person’s heart. It has been well written, “Let a man examine his words, that he may discover the state of his heart. And let him remember that God will not only judge the words he speaks under careful deliberation, but also by the words he speaks when the conventional restraints are gone and the real feelings of his heart are spoke forth.” (Barclay, W. (Ed.). (1976). The Gospel of Matthew (Vol. 2, pp. 46–47). Philadelphia, PA: The Westminster John Knox Press)
People may say in anger words that hurt others. After their discourse they may say, “I never meant it.” That does not free them from the responsibility of what they have spoken. What they have spoken, has wounded a heart. Thus, they will give an accounting. A person may say things in an relaxed moment that brings question to the character of others, cause people to lose heart, entice people to rebel against truth and positive leadership. For saying such words, there will be an accounting. The fact is, the words that we speak are a reflection of what is really in our hearts, revealing who we really are.
What does your speech reveal to others? Are you a person who is positive in your speech or a person who is known to speak negatively. Does your speech reflect a language that is Holy Spirit controlled, or influenced by the sinful nature, a world view or by the lies of the devil. The truth we all must heed to: At the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10) or at the White Throne Judgment (Revelations 20:11-15), everyone will give an accounting for every word spoken.
We should all seek the Lordship of Jesus Christ, so we can set an example in speech. (1 Timothy 4:12) Whoever loves life and desires to see good days must keep his tongue from evil and lips from deceitful speech.” (1 Peter 3:10)DaVinci and Christ
by Terry Laughlin | Apr 29, 2016 | Christian Living Truth's
The Apostle Paul gives instructions to Timothy that applies to all Christians who desire to take on the important charge, “Preach the Word” (2 Timothy 4:2). “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) First, Christians are to study in such a way that would bring them approval to God. Second, they are to be such a quality laborer for the Lord, when their teaching of Scripture are examined, they need not be ashamed. Third, Christians are to be accurate in their delivery of the message of truth so as not to pervert or even distort the Word of God. (The New American Commentary – Lea, T. D., & Griffin, H. P. (1992). 1, 2 Timothy, Titus (Vol. 34, pp. 214–215). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers)
The word “approved” (δόκιμος dókimos) means to be such a workman in the teaching of the Word of God, you would receive a commendation from the Lord. (2 Corinthians 10:18) It is to do your work for God in a way that is honorable. “Correctly handle” (ὀρθοτομέω orthotoméō) is to skillfully interpret, correctly teach and give accurate instructions of the Word of God. (The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament; Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 414; Dictionary of Biblical Languages with Semantic Domains: Greek (New Testament); Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc; A Concise Greek-English Dictionary of the New Testament). Christians who are called to preach are diligent, literally exerting themselves in the hard work of study and are not afraid to have their work examined by others who God is using.
In 1994 the Billy Graham Evangelistic team oversaw the North America Conference for Itinerant Evangelist (NACIE 94). The team held every Bible teacher to the standard the Apostle Paul held Timothy to in 2 Timothy 2:15. Every teacher at NACIE 94 had to present themselves as students approved by God. Every teacher had to present in writing every Biblical truth they were going to teach. Before they could teach at NACIE 94, Bible teachers had to show they were workman who skillfully interpret and accurately instruct the Word of God. Every message to be preached was examined by proven men and women whom God was using to teach His Word all over the world. After five years of prayerful preparation, thousands of Itinerant Evangelist attended a conference that was Holy Spirit anointed. To this day those who attended this conference remember what they learned from the Bible teachers. Because of the team’s insistence, every teacher be held to the Biblical test of 2 Timothy 2:15. Students who could not attend NACIE 94 or were not be able to participate in every class can glean truths from every teacher, because every Biblical teaching was placed in a book, Equipping for Evangelism. Students attending NACIE 94 were given outlines of every teaching in each class so they can takes notes, writing down revelations the Lord gave them as they prayerfully participated in this Christ centered event.
Every Holy Spirit illuminated Christian wanting to enjoy God’s best in their service to Him in obeying their charge, “Preach the Word” will humbly present themselves to those whom they desire to teach as one who is approved by God to correctly handle the Word of God.
by Terry Laughlin | Apr 20, 2016 | Christian Living Truth's
Resolutions
Now comes that time of the year when many people make New Year’s resolutions.
There are three powerful enemies that often work together to keep us from fulfilling resolutions: 1.) The flesh, that sinful nature. Paul specifically describes its power, “I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.” We inherited this sinful nature from Adam and Eve and it controls all unbelievers; 2.) The world, or this world’s system, has a lot to draw us away from what is good and right—that is to worship God with all our lives; 3.) The devil. He was cast out of heaven for pride and rebellion, and he led other angelic beings to rebel with him. Peter warns us, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5: 8).
With these three adversaries constantly opposing us, it is easy to understand how most people fail to achieve or accomplish their resolutions and fulfill commitments. Jesus warns us that apart from Him we can do nothing good. Instead, people do what is right in their own eyes bringing grief, disappointment and destruction into their own lives and the lives of their families.
The apostle Paul wrote about struggling with sin and how to overcome it. Sin is overcome only by being born-again, allowing God’s Holy Spirit to live in us and surrendering to Him (Rom. 8: 9). Paul described it best when he wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20). These words are true for every man, woman and child.
The Bible teaches that Jesus is able to sympathize with your weaknesses. He has been tempted in every way, just as you are, yet He was without sin. Jesus is able to help you overcome sin and set you free from the bondage of sin. Jesus said, “Everyone who sins is a slave to sin.” However, He also said, “If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.” (John 8:34,36).
The only New Year’s resolution that can withstand the flesh, the world and the devil, is to resolve to accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. He is waiting to set you free!
by Terry Laughlin | Apr 20, 2016 | Christian Living Truth's
Resolve to Be Holy
Be Holy: We have just entered into the year 2015. God clearly gives instructions to His children about what they are to focus on this coming year. The Holy Spirit inspired the apostle Peter to write to God’s elect–those who are chosen by God through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit for obedience to Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:1-2). The goal God has set before Christians is high, yet attainable. “…Prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given when Jesus is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’ ” (1 Peter 1:13-15)
The writer of the Book of Hebrews, while warning against falling away from the faith, rebuked his readers for still being spiritual infants. Many Christians continually need someone to remind them of the elementary truths of God’s Word. Messages on forgiveness and salvation are most certainly Biblical, however they alone won’t mature a believer in Christ. Christians must find teaching that will take them from milk on up to the meat of God’s Word. Solid food is for those who want to mature and diligently train themselves to distinguish what is truly worthwhile spiritually from what is only a lethargic form of godliness.
The purpose of the church is not to make people feel good about themselves but to give God’s children an opportunity to become increasingly holy. In our day of social Christianity, the newest fads and latest programs have produced carnal Christians. If the apostle Paul were alive, his letters to many churches today would mirror his epistle rebuking the first century worldly Corinthian church.
“Holy,” “saint,” “sanctification”–all three of these words have been translated from one Greek word that is difficult to translate into English. Its gist, however, is easy to grasp—it means to be separated, set apart or different from. Morally, it means to be striving heartily after God’s purity and righteousness instead of seeking after the ways of the world and the things in it. A Christian who is set apart for the Lord lives his life in a way that pleases God. He uses his talents and the things that God has given him to glorify Jesus Christ, not himself or the church he attends.
People are often guilty of perceiving “church” to be just another club in town competing for numbers or a building where lots of programs are held. Rather, they should come to know that “church” is people who have received Christ into their hearts and who are being changed into His image through the illumination of the Holy Spirit and the written Word of God. Jesus is the Head, the church is His Body.
The Bible instructs Christians to always conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel (Php. 1:27). Paul wrote, “Count yourself dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus…Sin is not to be your master.” (Rom. 6:11,14)
As a Christian, you are purchased by the very blood of Christ and your New Year Resolution for 2015 is a mandate from God, “Be holy.” The Bible teaches that if you love the Lord, then you will obey His commands (1 John 5:3). And you have God’s promise, He will faithfully empower you to live out what He calls you to—an abundant life of holiness.
Recent Comments