Part 2: Marriage and a Relationship with Christ

Hello family and friends, another week has passed and after some harsh weather and an intermediate posting, I would like to present you with part 2 of Marriage and a Relationship with Christ.  I want to forewarn you that this may not be the end. God has laid some additional information on my heart in which He thought I should share with you.  

As we begin with the Book of Ephesians,  we should consider how this week went with our spouses and significant others. Please let me be clear about this, although I discuss how to enhance your relationships with those you love, please know that obedience to God is first and marriage is designed by Him.  This will provide you the key to a joyful and God fearing marriage.

On Sunday our church services were cancelled due to the weather,  while listening to the pre-recorded sermon on Nicodemus and Jesus discussing being born again,  we prayed about God's grace and how he forgave us both regarding our past and blessed us with two awesome children, amazing parents, and a great marriage.  This got me to thinking about our class on "2 Becoming One", a Christian marriage program on developing Christ centered marriages. Therefore, if it is okay with you, I would like to utilize information and some portions of the class to begin the discussion.

Prior to reading the scriptures below,  consider what Don and Sally Meridith discussed in Chapter Two; "What are the Six Reasons Marriages Fail?"  Consider the list and we will discuss after you read the scriptures.

1. Differing Backgrounds, Homes, and Environments - This is as it sounds. "It's likely you have married....someone very different from yourself. These differences. ..can lead your spouse and you down the road to hurt and rejection."

2. The Deceptive 50/50 Relationship - "Cycle of Unmet Expectations: unmet expectations,  disappointment,  anger of silence, distance instead of harmony, increased pressure to perform or reject, and you do your part"

3. Selfishness - "You may think you're right; indeed, perhaps you are. But the Lord Jesus calls us to serve one another,  [to put] the well-being of our mate first."

4. Inability to Cope with Life's Trials - Self explanatory,  but dwells on your ability to support one another in the midst of such trials.

5. Fantasy View of Love - "Most couples define love in terms of how they feel. There can be no weaker foundation for a relationship."

6. Lack of a Vital Relationship with Jesus Christ - "Only Jesus Christ can unlock the deepest dimensions of human intimacy that occur at the at the spiritual level. If Jesus Christ does not dwell in your life, you're living at a reduced level of intimacy in your marriage."

Part 2: Marriage and a Relationshipwith Christ

Book: Ephesians

Author: Paul

Time: Around 60 A.D. Somesources say that it was written around the same time as Paul’s letter to the Colossians, since it’s similar in style and purpose.

To whom was it written: Ephesians is primarily written to Gentile (non-Jewish) followers of Christ—most likely the church in Ephesus. (Unlike some of Paul’s other letters, it doesn’t begin with individual greetings. For this reason, there is debate about whether it was specifically intended for the church in Ephesus, or if it was meant to be circulated more widely.)

Why was it written: Paul wrote this letter to encourage Gentile believers, and to make it clear that Jews and Gentiles have been brought together as part of one body in Christ. Paul is also concerned that his audience be made aware of the moral laws they may have been lax in following (or that they were unaware of).

Ephesians 5:  Wives and Husbands

22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. 25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. 33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Matthew Henry Commentary Ephesians 5: Vs. 22- 33. The duty of wives is, submission to their husbands in the Lord, which includes honoring and obeying them, from a principle of love to them. The duty of husbands is to love their wives. The love of Christ to the church is an example, which is sincere, pure, and constant, notwithstanding her failures. Christ gave himself for the church, that he might sanctify it in this world, and glorify it in the next, that he might bestow on all his members a principle of holiness, and deliver them from the guilt, the pollution, and the dominion of sin, by those influences of the Holy Spirit, of which baptismal water was the outward sign. The church and believers will not be without spot or wrinkle till they come to glory. But those only who are sanctified now, shall be glorified hereafter. The words of Adam, mentioned by the apostle, are spoken literally of marriage; but they have also a hidden sense in them, relating to the union between Christ and his church. It was a kind of type, as having resemblance. There will be failures and defects on both sides, in the present state of human nature, yet this does not alter the relation. All the duties of marriage are included in unity and love. And while we adore and rejoice in the condescending love of Christ, let husbands and wives learn hence their duties to each other. Thus the worst evils would be prevented, and many painful effects would be avoided.

For years this passage has created upheaval between the bonds of matrimony and the differences between men and women.  We all can agree that the reason why this was and has been a source of angst, dealt with individuals reading or using only portions of the scriptures to meet their needs.  This is why in the beginning of this message I provided you with six reasons why marriages fail.   Please re-read them and discuss them with your spouse or significant other.  Where are you both on this?

This month my wife and I celebrated 7 years of glorious marriage and 10 years of a oneness experience. God has allowed us to use the tragedies of our past relationships,  pour them in to Him, and He made matrimony the art it was created to be. Man loving (woman) his wife, as Christ loves the church.  

There is more to come,  I hope to begin the revival of marriage family. Maybe we can begin a combined dialogue on the blog.

If you have time and more questions, consider the following:

- http://www.gotquestions.org/marriage-Bible.html

- http://www.2becoming1global.com/staff/don-sally-meredith/

- http://www.5lovelanguages.com/

- http://www.5lovelanguages.com/resource/the-five-languages-of-apology

Former Pastor Says Bible not Relevant for Gay Marriage

Good morning everyone,  

I would first like to start with an apology. I realize that I sent two posting on Facebook regarding the following article on the Mr. Rob Bell.  The title of the article classifies him as a Christian pastor.  According to one of our associate pastor's,  Bell used to be an evangelist.  This obviously had a negative impact on my thoughts and feelings. Therefore,  I felt that the only way to deal with it, was to write about it.

I took a moment to review the video from the show (http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/6723840). The discussion between the couple and the host lasted about 34 minutes. The discussion about marriage and relationship between man and his wife was very interesting.  They made some important statements regarding how couples interact with one another and how they can improve by recognizing each other's space and emotional needs.

It was not until between minute 30:00 to 32:00, where the discussion of gay marriage was discussed. As you will or have read within the article or will hear it from he and his wife, they believe that churches will and have been accepting of gay marriage.  Their rationale is that biblical doctrine is outdated and cultural advancement far out ways God, his Word, and his plan for salvation.  Not in this interview, but on several occasions Mr. Bell expressed his reasons for leaving Christianity.  Specifically, this statement, "I left Christianity because "I couldn't believe in a God that's jealous of me" (http://m.christianpost.com/news/rob-bell-oprah-winfrey-and-other-celebrities-dont-speak-for-the-true-church-on-marriage-issues--134385/). Consider the foundation of a person who releases his or her faith because they don't agree with God’s word. The biggest take away is that you have a choice; you either believe that God is who he says he is, Jesus died on the cross and rose again on the 3rd day for your salvation, or you don't believe that any or all of this applies to you.

First, let's consider the title of the book "The Zimzum of Love: The new way of understanding marriage". The word is actually Tzimtzum. A review of Basics in Kabbalah and Chassidut: Tzimtzum, revealed that the foundation of this comes from Jewish mysticism.  Sod Ha Tzimtzum (“The Secret of ‘Contraction'”) Three stages of the secret of “contraction”: the “removal” of God’s Infinite Light; the “impression” that God “withdrew” from creation; the “ray” of Divine light radiated into the primordial darkness.

The concept of tzimtzum, the contraction and “removal” of God’s infinite light in order to allow for
Creation of independent realities, is elucidated in the teachings of the Arizal. In the generations that followed, two schools of thought developed with regard to the meaning of tzimtzum: one took the concept literally (i.e. that God’s infinite light is no longer present within the “vacuum” or
“womb” of the created universe) while the other (that of the Ba’al Shem Tov and his disciples
after him) understood the concept as not meant to be interpreted literally, but rather to refer to the manner in which God impresses His presence upon the consciousness of finite reality.

I am sure that you are saying, what in the world does this have to do with relationships and my marriage.  This is the whole point.  For some reason humans must always have a title for what something is. Even more,  it is so much against our nature, which is full of sin, to believe that God created marriage in the most simplest form. Oprah and people like her find ways to draw your attention with fashionable words and believe that complicating God's plan and Word is the best way to keep you drawn to them. Think about those who believe that God possibly could not have a problem with homosexuality.  They also say, God is a God of love and would not punish us if we loved who wanted an do what we wanted, as long as no one was hurt.

We can not believe that God created the earth, the fullness thereof, man, woman and marriage and believe that He is infallible and that he has to change to make us feel better.  No, the God we serve is the beginning and the end. Remember the book of Matthew 24:34-35, and The lesson of the Fig Tree "Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away."  Therefore, if this is what we believe is true, than Bell cannot be right.  Neither can these so-called churches who are changing to meet cultural times.

In closing,  I could provide you with a series of scriptures laying out God’s design for marriage and salvation.  Even more, I could provide scriptures devoted to lives of sexual purity and abstaining from immorality. Just because society says that it's ok for us to people of the same sex to get married or adopt children, or women freeze thier eggs and have babies out of wedlock in order to beat thier body clock, doesn’t make it right in the eyes of God.  Whether we believe it or not, we will have to face God.  I pray that in everything, you place Christ first.  He will never lead you astray. If you desire to have an enduring marriage and personal relationship with your family,  place Christ first. The Bible teaches you how to do just that.  Yes there are many authors who have written books on ways to apply the scriptures to you pursuit of the above.  What is key is that you forgoe trying to change your faith with the times and remain faithful to the scriptures. They have never and will never fail you.

http://www.ijreview.com/2015/02/254052-christian-pastor-rob-bell-advice-church-can-stay-relevant-including-bible/?utm_source=dailynewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=12&listID=%7BlistID%7D

Part 1: Marriage and a Relationship with Christ (2 - part message )

Greetings,
This was a quick turn around and I am honored to have an opportunity to reach out to you again regarding the Word of God and to provide you with another chance to consider giving Christ a try. Due to the length and the importance of God's message, this will be in two parts.

On February 14, 2015, we celebrated Valentine's Day. Maybe some of you were alone, with a significant other, your child or other family member or person you care about deeply.   My wife and I spent time together by going to dinner, to a place called Society Fair, in Alexandria, VA, and then to the Kennedy Center,  in Washington DC. We saw an amazing performance by a jazz singer, Kurt Ellington.  This guy and his band was truly amazing. But, that is not what made the day special.  The time we spent together, the way we held hands, and the conversations we had, that was awesome.  

As my bestfriend, she has been everything, she has shown me the importance of "Oneness", Gen 2:24 "For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh."  Watching her as she enjoyed the show,  I took a few moments to thank God for the blessing of having her in my life. I then began to think about what I heard on the Christian radio station about marriage.  The author Gary Chapman was speaking about the problems of marriage today and how so many people are getting divorced or getting married to people, they never got a chance to know. Initially, the message was uncomfortable,  because I considered my past life. Unfortunately,  I have made my share of mistakes and many of them happened because Christ was absent or I turned my back on Him.  I must admit, that I am glad that I went through those painful parts of my life. I  believe today, that although I may have been disobedient at times, but I wholeheartedly believe that it prepared me for the wonderful marriage I have today.

Ladies and gentlemen, my wife and I have had an opportunity to meet and learn about relationships and marriage from some amazing people.  One specific couple has been married for more than 70 years.  Every couple we met that took the time share their success, they all explained that without Christ leading the way, the marriage will not work. I don't care what Oprah, Steve Harvey, or Dr. Phil, has told you about relationships or marriage, if Jesus Christ was not part of the discussion,  the information was useless. Please read the scriptures below and see the comments afterwards.

Book: Genesis

Author: The author of the Book ofGenesis is not identified. Traditionally, the author has always assumed to have been Moses. There is no conclusive reason to deny the Mosaic authorship of Genesis.

The Book of Genesis doesnot state when it was written. The date of authorship is likely between 1440 and 1400 B.C., between the time Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt and his death.
Purpose of Writing: The Book of Genesis has sometimes been called the "seed-plot" of the entire Bible. Most of the major doctrines in the Bible are introduced in "seed" form in the Book of Genesis. Along with the fall of man, God's promise of salvation or redemption is recorded (Genesis 3:15). The doctrines of creation, imputation of sin, justification, atonement, depravity, wrath, grace, sovereignty, responsibility, and many more are all addressed in this book of origins called Genesis.

Gen 2:18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”

Matthew Henry Commentary: 2:18; Power over the creatures was given to man, and as a proof of this he named them all. It also shows his insight into the works of God. But though he was Lord of the creatures, yet nothing in this world was a help meet for man.

Gen 2:23-25 The Creation of Woman: The man said, "This is now bone of my bones, And flesh of my flesh; She shall be called Woman, Because she was taken out of Man." For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed.

Matthew Henry Commentary:  Gen 2:23-25; God caused deep sleep to fall on Adam; while he knows no sin, God will take care that he shall feel no pain. God, as her Father, brought the woman to the man, as his second self, and a help meet for him. That wife, who is of God's making by special grace, and of God's bringing by special providence, is likely to prove a help meet for a man. See what need there is, both of prudence and prayer in the choice of this relation, which is so near and so lasting. That had need to be well done, which is to be done for life. Our first parents needed no clothes for covering against cold or heat, for neither could hurt them: they needed none for ornament.

Book: Ephesians

Author: Paul

Time: Around 60 A.D. Somesources say that it was written around the same time as Paul’s letter to the Colossians, since it’s similar in style and purpose.

To whom was it written: Ephesians is primarily written to Gentile (non-Jewish) followers of Christ—most likely the church in Ephesus. (Unlike some of Paul’s other letters, it doesn’t begin with individual greetings. For this reason, there is debate about whether it was specifically intended for the church in Ephesus, or if it was meant to be circulated more widely.)

Why was it written: Paul wrote this letter to encourage Gentile believers, and to make it clear that Jews and Gentiles have been brought together as part of one body in Christ. Paul is also concerned that his audience be made aware of the moral laws they may have been lax in following (or that they were unaware of).

Ephesians 5: Walk in Love

1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous ( that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not become partners with them; 8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14 for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, 15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Let's consider what we just read. 1st we understand that God created a "help meet" for man. For more several thousand years  (or far more than time we can understand), humans in every corner of the globe has recognized that woman is the only piece of the puzzle which completes man, regarding human conception. No matter how we feel, and how much people would like times to change, and we care about the feelings and desires of those we love, God's Word will never change.  In any event,  my point is that we consider the importance of relationships, you and your spouse were designed to have a relationship with Christ.  Secondly,  the two of you were designed to have a friendship like no other. Consider the way God and Adam walked through "the coolness of the garden", imagine the talks they had. Adam had no idea what he was seeing, nor did he understand how became to exist. Imagine having such a  deep discussion with your wife.  

Think of the effect you could have on your relationship with your wife.  My wife once told me that in order to have a better sexual relationship with your spouse, fourplay begins the moment you wake up next to each other. It begins with a "Good morning,  my love!" It could begin with fixing her tea or kissing her goodbye as she or I leave for work each day.   

Not only do I desire to out love my help meet each day, but I  think about Ephesians 5:1-22, how having a right relationship with Christ,  prohibits me from straying the path of marriage and righteousness.  Consider how many times you missed out on an opportunity to spend quality time with your spouse and you went to hang out with your friends. As an example,  I have friends who routinely ask me to hang out with them and the fellas. Even more,  they want to travel to places like Rio, Vegas, or Dominican Republic with just the guys.  To me, that is ludicrous,  why leave my fine wife at home, to go to an exotic location and hang with a bunch of guys.

Christ desires that we as Christians keep away from anything that would cause us to stumble or stray from Him. (1 Corinthians 10:31-33;   Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God; just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit but the profit of the many, so that they may be saved.) So in your marriage consider the environment and relationship between you and your wife.  Reconsider where God is in the relationship.

We will continue next week with part 2. May God richly bless you.

 

What Will it Take for You to Believe?

Greetings brothers and sisters in Christ. If you are new to this blog,  greetings to you also in the glorious name of Christ.  I hope that you had a good week, and everything has been going well.  I began preparing this message on this past Sunday,  but a series of events intervened the completion.  In any event,  it was for the best. Often times we all search for God's voice and we desire his counsel in major challenges in our lives.  I am sure many of you often ask the question,  how do I know God is speaking to me,  or what does His voice sound like.  

Over the past several weeks we have been going through some challenges. As I stated last week, my thoughts and prayers remain heavily based on several important people in my life regarding their health, the opening of thier hearts, and an earnest desire for thier increased relationship with Christ. I pray that through building their respective relationships with Christ, that they will learn discernment and beginto hear His voice and know when the Holy Spirit is upon them.

Obviously,  I have placed my petition before the Lord, and I too desire to grow stronger through Him. This search for answers has not been easy. Making the choice to believe in Jesus is one thing.  For some the hard part is believing that he died on the cross for you and rose on the 3rd day in order to fulfill the scriptures.  This sacrifice was the atonement for us all. I know for many it's not logical.  However, it is the truth.  Please read the scriptures below and see the comments afterwards.

Book: Hebrews 2:5-15

Author: According to Nelsons New Testament Survey, As early as Origen, the Alexandria church father who died about A.D. 255, no one knew for sure who wrote the Epistle to Hebrews. The vocabulary and style of the epistle point to a creative theologian who was also an effective expositor of the Greek Scriptures, probably a Hellenistic Jewish Christian... the writer was probably either an apostle or a close associate of at least one of the apostles.

Time: Most probable, A.D. 68 - 69.

Purpose: According to GotQuestions.Org, the late Dr. Walter Martin, founder of the Christian Research Institute and writer of the best-selling book Kingdom of the Cults, quipped in his usual tongue-in-cheek manner that the Book of Hebrews was written by a Hebrew to other Hebrews telling the Hebrews to stop acting like Hebrews. In truth, many of the early Jewish believers were slipping back into the rites and rituals of Judaism in order to escape the mounting persecution. This letter, then, is an exhortation for those persecuted believers to continue in the grace of Jesus Christ.

The Founder of Salvation
5 For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. 6 It has been testified somewhere, “What is man, that you are mindful of him, or the son of man, that you care for him? 7 You made him for a little while lower than the angels; you have crowned him with glory and honor, 8 putting everything in subjection under his feet.” Now in putting everything in subjection to him, he left nothing outside his control. At present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to him. 9 But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. 10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. 11 For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, 12 saying, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.” 13 And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children God has given me.” 14 Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. 16 For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. 17 Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. (ESV)

Matthew Henry Commentary
Hebrews 2:5- 9 Neither the state in which the church is at present, nor its more completely restored state, when the prince of this world shall be cast out, and the kingdoms of the earth become the kingdom of Christ, is left to the government of the angels:Christ will take to him his great power, and will reign. And what is the moving cause of all the kindness God shows to men in giving Christ for them and to them? it is the grace of God. As a reward of Christ's humiliation in suffering death, he has unlimited dominion over all things; thus this ancient scripture was fulfilled in him. Thus God has done wonderful things for us in creation and providence, but for these we have made the basest returns.

Hebrews 2:10- 13 Whatever the proud, carnal, and unbelieving may imagine or object, the spiritual mind will see peculiar glory in the cross of Christ, and be satisfied that it became Him, who in all things displays his own perfections in bringing many sons to glory, to make the Author of their salvation perfect through sufferings. His way to the crown was by the cross, and so must that of his people be. Christ sanctifies; he has purchased and sent the sanctifying Spirit: the Spirit sanctifies as the Spirit of Christ. True believers are sanctified, endowed with holy principles and powers, set apart to high and holy uses and purposes. Christ and believers are all of one heavenly Father, who is God. They are brought into relation with Christ. But the words, his not being ashamed to call them brethren, express the high superiority of Christ to the human nature. This is shown from three texts of Scripture. See Psalm 22:22; 18:2; Isa 8:18. (MHC)

Book:Romans 15:1-13

Author : Paul

Time : On his 3rd missionary journey Paul left Ephesus and traveled by land to Macedonia and continued south, spending the winter of A.D. 56 - 57 in Corinth. Then he wrote the Epistle to the Romans and sent it by Phone to the Roman church.

Purpose : According to BlueLetterBible.org, Paul was writing to a church that he had never visited and a casual reading of the epistle does not convey the idea that he was dealing with situational issues (cf. the epistles to the Corinthians). Here Paul wrote with regards to the big picture-laying down the doctrine of soteriology. He wrote that they would know the gospel of Christ. He also wanted to inform the church regarding his future plans because those plans would involve them. At the time of writing the epistle, Paul was about to take the offering that he had collected from various churches to the poverty stricken church in Jerusalem. After that, he intended on going to visit the Roman church for a time to preach the Gospel to them. His subsequent plans were then to go westward to preach the gospel in Spain.

Gunter Klein argued that the letter was written in order to address the need of an apostolic foundation. Paul declares that he would not build on another man's foundation, yet at the same time he informs the Romans that he is going to preach the gospel to them. In trying to reconcile these two verses, Klein states that the lack of an apostolic foundation opens the door for Paul to preach the gospel to the Romans while still being true to his own convictions. [8]

It was thought that Romans was a "carefully planned, doctrinal presentation of the Christian faith," yet Kümmel notes that such a view is untenable because the epistle is lacking in such key elements of Pauline doctrine like eschatology, Christology, the Lord's Supper and, church order. [9]Walt Russell contented that Romans was a letter of exhortation that treated the issue of Jewish/Gentile relationships and that Paul was urging them to "participate fully in God's present harvest of all peoples." [10] Still others have theorized that Romans was an encyclical or general epistle.

The Example of Christ
1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Christ the Hope of Jews and Gentiles 8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.” 10 And again it is said, (ESV)“Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol him.” 12 And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (ESV)

Matthew Henry Commentary
Romans 15:1 Christian liberty was allowed, not for our pleasure, but for the glory of God, and the good of others. We must please our neighbor, for the good of his soul; not by serving his wicked will, and humoring him in a sinful way; if we thus seek to please men, we are not the servants of Christ. Christ's whole life was a self- denying, self- displeasing life. And he is the most advanced Christian, who is the most conformed to Christ. Considering his spotless purity and holiness, nothing could be more contrary to him, than to be made sin and a curse for us, and to have the reproaches of God fall upon him; the just for the unjust. He bore the guilt of sin, and the curse for it; we are only called to bear a little of the trouble of it. He bore the presumptuous sins of the wicked; we are called only to bear the failings of the weak. And should not we be humble, self- denying, and ready to consider one another, who are members one of another? The Scriptures are written for our use and benefit, as much as for those to whom they were first given. Those are most learned who are most mighty in the Scriptures. That comfort which springs from the word of God, is the surest and sweetest, and the greatest stay to hope. The Spirit as a Comforter, is the earnest of our inheritance. This like- mindedness must be according to the precept of Christ, according to his pattern and example. It is the gift of God; and a precious gift it is, for which we must earnestly seek unto him. Our Divine Master invites his disciples, and encourages them by showing himself as meek and lowly in spirit. The same disposition ought to mark the conduct of his servants, especially of the strong towards the weak. The great end in all our actions must be, that God may be glorified; (MHC)nothing more forwards this, than the mutual love and kindness of those who profess religion. Those that agree in Christ may well agree among themselves.

Romans 15:8- 13 Christ fulfilled the prophecies and promises relating to the Jews, and the Gentile converts could have no excuse for despising them. The Gentiles, being brought into the church, are companions in patience and tribulation. They should praise God. Calling upon all the nations to praise the Lord, shows that they shall have knowledge of him. We shall never seek to Christ till we trust in him. And the whole plan of redemption is suited to reconcile us to one another, as well as to our gracious God, so that an abiding hope of eternal life, through the sanctifying and comforting power of the Holy Spirit, may be attained. Our own power will never reach this; therefore where this hope is, and is abounding, the blessed Spirit must have all the glory. "All joy and peace;" all sorts of true joy and peace, so as to suppress doubts and fears, (MHC)through the powerful working of the Holy Spirit. (MHC)

The above scriptures are part of a 5 - day study on "Comfort in the Lord".  If we consider my opening statement, it is easy to understand why it is difficult to wholly trust Jesus. If you have never heard of him, and/or this was your first introduction, while you were experiencing a tragic or life altering event; you like most humans would find it hard to believe that a God would allow such an event to occur. Think about all of the recent deaths, terrorism, floods, earthquakes, and the list goes on.  What kind of God would watch his creation self destruct?  Well, I believe this is the point. At some point in our lives we will all have to d ace God and explain what we did with our lives. In the interim,  He gives you the freedom to do whatever you choose. Fortunately for you,  he adds the consequences in effort to keep you grounded.  Unfortunately, many chose not to recognize the signs.

As a Christian, you acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord and He is the only way to get to heaven and the Father. You are not required to do all of  these other things that people and man add to religion.  You will always find someone who searches for a particular scripture to explain how messed up Christianity is. You must remember that person is often hurting and needs God help.  By deflecting with atheism, and other religion based isms, finding faith in God is to difficult for them.  They would rather believe in evolution,  man changing from a monkey to a man, or that there is no such thing as evil. Remember,  free will is God's gift to you. At some point,  all of us will die and have to face what happens afterwards. If you choose not to receive Christ now, there is no later.  Have a great rest of the week and be blessed

How is your Faith, are you ready for something more?

Greetings everyone, I pray that God's grace is and has been sufficient for you and your family. Initially, my message was planned around parenting and the importance of leadership in the home. However, as I have stated on more than one occasion, God and I converse on a daily basis and His plans supersede mine. Over the past several weeks I have been dealing with concerns of several people battling some health issues. What struck me were the past two messages that our Pastor, Lon Solomon has been preaching about, regarding prayer. Even more so, was the message today regarding being "All In."

I realized that our faith in Christ requires a commitment beyond our wildest dreams. As one of the Associate Pastor's (Dale Sutherland) stated, this commitment is scary. Many of us think that we have to give up having fun and happiness to follow Christ (When fun and happiness is what Christ is). Others feel that their past is so bad, God will never forgive them. My problems don't involve sacrifice, but patience, wisdom, service. My lack of faith caused me to believe that I didn't know enough to help someone, or could not wait long enough for God to move, or never thought I did enough to help. Whenever it came to speaking with the Lord, the response came back cloudy. However, I believe that God does and is what He says He is/will. For some time know, that weakness has been depleting. My daily studies and desire to be better acquainted with Christ, has increased my faith. I pray daily for the Lord to intercede regarding the status of those who are dealing with health issues, and for the strength to help were I can, be patient with their care, and be wise in my actions. Please read the scriptures below and see the comments afterwards.

Nelsons New Testament Survey (1999)
Book: Matthew 14:22-33

Author: Matthew - Tax collector, son of Alpha us, also held the name Levi (Mark 2:14; L use 5:27).

Time: The Gospel was written before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., because he referred to the city as it was still standing (4:5; 27:53). Based on the other verses; 28:8 & 28:15, it implied sometime after Jesus' resurrection and ascension. Most believe that it was written in 50 A.D.

Purpose: Matthew recorded select events from his life and ministry of Jesus Christ in order to confirm to a Jewish audience that Jesus is indeed the Messiah and to explain God's kingdom program for the present age in light of Israel's rejection of her King.

Jesus Walks on the Water 14:22-33
22 Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. 23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24 but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. 26 But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” 28 And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” 29 He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” 31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Matthew Henry Commentary: Matthew 14:22- 33 Those are not Christ's followers who cannot enjoy being alone with God and their own hearts. It is good, upon special occasions, and when we find our hearts enlarged, to continue long in secret prayer, and in pouring out our hearts before the Lord. It is no new thing for Christ's disciples to meet with storms in the way of duty, but he thereby shows himself with the more grace to them and for them. He can take what way he pleases to save his people. But even appearances of deliverance sometimes occasion trouble and perplexity to God's people, from mistakes about Christ. Nothing ought to affright those that have Christ near them, and know he is theirs; not death itself. Peter walked upon the water, not for diversion or to boast of it, but to go to Jesus; and in that he was thus wonderfully born up. Special supports are promised, and are to be expected, but only in spiritual pursuits; nor can we ever come to Jesus, unless we are upheld by his power. Christ bade Peter come, not only that he might walk upon the water, and so know his Lord's power, but that he might know his own weakness. And the Lord often lets his servants have their choice, to humble and prove them, and to show the greatness of his power and grace. When we look off from Christ, and look at the greatness of opposing difficulties, we shall begin to fall; but when we call to him, he will stretch out his arm, and save us. Christ is the great Savior; those who would be saved, must come to him, and cry to him, for salvation; we are never brought to this, till we find ourselves sinking: the sense of need drives us to him. He rebuked Peter. Could we but believe more, we should suffer less. The weakness of faith, and the prevailing of our doubts, displease our Lord Jesus, for there is no good reason why Christ's disciples should be of a doubtful mind. Even in a stormy day he is to them a very present help. None but the world's Creator could multiply the loaves, none but its Governor could tread upon the waters of the sea: the disciples yield to the evidence, and confess their faith. They were suitably affected, and worshiped.

Nelson ' s New Testament Survey: Walking on the water (14:22-33): Jesus needed to pray and the disciples needed to exercise faith. So Jesus dismissed the crowds and sent the disciples out in a boat. The lake of Galilee was a place of danger, and several times storms were occasions for Jesus to test and teach the disciples. Twenty-five to thirty stadia would equal between 3 and 4 miles. The 4th watch of the night was between 3 and 6 in the morning. Several important lessons can be learned from this account. (a) Courage comes from knowing Jesus is present. (b) The answer to fear is faith, and faith is best placed in the One who is identified as the "I Am." (c) Doubt is an evidence of a divided mind. (d) Confessing Jesus' divine son ship is evidence of faith. (The final statement about the continuing miracles of Jesus [14:34-36] verified the truth of the disciples' confession that He is the Son of God.)

Ok, so you have got to admit, fear at one time or another has been a barrier to much of our success. Even more, our lack of faith has been a greater barrier to our relationship with Christ. It is so easy for people who are on the outside of your life to tell you that everything will be ok, or that they have either been in, or know someone who has been through your situation. This was similar to those who sat around Job (Job 2:11-13). However, just as Job's friends forgot, they weren't Job (you). However, remember these scriptures, (Prv. 19:20-21) “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand; and (Prv. 15:22) Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” Focus on those who consider friends and those within your circle.

Often, this interference and the ways of this immoral society, has the potential to prohibit any chances of getting to know Christ. However, with Christ all things are possible. Again, I know that God will provide and prevail. Your choice today or the next will be to determine your level of faith. What are you willing to give up, to enter into this awesome friendship? What are you afraid of? The 12 Apostles were experiencing a level of fear that we could not have imagined. Giving their lives to Christ during a time where the Bible did not exist, the Jewish and Roman laws guided everything and their following Christ, was certain death. Therefore, I pray that you chose to seek Him, and build a new or renew your relationship with Christ. May God richly bless you.

If you have time, please take a look at this video sermon - http://www.mcleanbible.org/media_player.asp?type=large&messageID=201142, if you are unable to find it, please go to the McLean Bible Church website and look at the sermons link for the 2/1/15 message, "All In.”