India and Philippines Mission Support

Dear friend in the ministry,

For the last few years I have had the wonderful privilege of preaching in a pastor's conference at the All India Prayer Fellowship (AIPF) in Delhi, India. In 2012, prayerfully, I will make my third trip. I am delighted to be involved with such a wonderful ministry. The ten acre campus is located at Mission Hospital Road Shahurpur, Fatehpur Beri Post, New Delhi. On the campus is located the India Bible Institute and Immanuel Theological Seminary, as well as grade school up to 8th grade. Also on the campus is the Mission Hospital which the Lord is using greatly, not only to treat the sick but also to minister to those who are in the darkness of Islam or Hinduism. The entire ministry, including the school, seminary and the hospital is overseen by Dr. Koshy Kurien and his wife Dr. Beena Kurien. Dr. Koshy is an orthopedic surgeon and Dr. Beena is a pathologist. While they have been blessed with excellent education and training, and could do very well financially, especially if they chose to practice somewhere in the west, the Kuriens have chosen to follow God's will for their lives and allow their medical training to be used by God to reach the Indian people, their people, for Christ! Praise the Lord!

 Among those many different ways that God is using AIPF one such way is through the annual pastor's conference. Every year pastors, their wives along with other church leaders, from nearly every state in India, as well as several states in Nepal gather on the grounds of AIPF for a three day conference of ministry and preaching of the Word of God. I have been privileged now to preach in two of these conferences, and prayerfully will join the team in February of 2012. As you know, I'm sure, in India poverty is an issue; it is arguably the poorest country in the world. Many of the pastors do not possess the resources to travel and attend such a conference. And so the expense falls to AIPF, in particular those of us from the U.S. who come to speak.

 In the next year we are expecting more than 1,000 pastors with their wives and other church leaders from all over India and Nepal to attend the AIPF Pastor's conference! In addition to this, there will be present the 150-200 students who live on campus and attend the seminary. What a tremendous opportunity there is to literally reach every part of India for Christ by ministering to these pastors and church leaders! Of course, this will have some expenses. It is to this end that I am writing today. Of course, the greatest support you can offer is prayer. Please pray for the conference, pray for the pastors, students and attendees. Pray for those who will travel, not only from the US but also for those from all over India. Pray for those who will preach and ministry to these precious saints: Evangelist Dr. Jerry Spencer, Pastor Dr. Dan Spencer, Pastor Dr. Mark LaRue and me.

Then of course, there is a need for financial support. I will need to renew my visa to India which will cost around a total of $500.00. My flight expense will be approximately $1,500 - $2,000. And then my responsibility to help fund the conference expenses will be $5,000.00. So, as you can see the financial need is substantial, but I believe we serve a great God! And so I ask: what is this expense to Him? It is nothing! I know that where God guides He provides! In addition to this once I leave India I will travel to the Philippines where our church, through Fruitful Harvest Ministries has extensive mission work transpiring. I will be there for about two weeks surveying the ministry, encouraging pastors and preaching the gospel. There will be an additional expense here of approximately $1,500-$2,000. The total expense for this three week mission trip to invest in literally thousands of lives from all over two nations will be approximately $9,000.00

I only ask that you pray and seek the Lord regarding financial support, and then simply be obedient to the Lord's direction. Any amount at all would be a blessing. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to respond. I would be glad to answer them! As far as giving is concerned there are two options for you to choose:

Option 1: Send support directly to me: Jeremy Pruitt 891 FM 2560 Sulphur Springs, TX 75482.                Make check payable to me. (This is not tax-deductible)

Option 2: Send support through my church: New Beginnings Fellowship Baptist Church 155 N. Jackson Sulphur Springs, TX 75482

Make check payable to New Beginnings Fellowship Baptist Church & designate funds as India Mission. (This is tax-deductible).

Thank you for your time. I appreciate your interest in the ministry. I want you to know that I have a heart for the Indian people and I see this as a great opportunity to minister the gospel to them. I hope you will join me in helping to reach India and the Philippines for Christ! Should you have questions either comment or click to email me. Thanks once again, thank you and may God richly bless you! 

The Christian believer and the local church...

As a child I did not grow up in a Christian home and as a result church attendance was seldom at best. Even after I was saved at the age of 12 haphazard attendance might be the most accurate description. At that time my father was lost and my mother was not living for the Lord and so, faithfulness to church wasn't exactly high on the priority list. When I turned 16 the Lord started to do a marvelous work in my life that brought godly sorrow upon me which led me to repentance and right living before the Lord. Since that time faithful, local church involvement has been very important to me. Of course, as a pastor church involvement is crucial, but in reality it is just as important for every member of a local church to be as faithful and committed to the church as the pastor is... we are all parts of the body.  My wife and I will soon be married 16 years. To this date we have never had a conversation about whether or not we would attend church. Even prior to when I began to pastor attending church has always been very important to both of us. Now, there may have been times when we discussed where we would attend, such as when we were on vacation or out of town; but the fact that we would attend was never in question.

I believe in the importance of the local church! I believe that being faithful to attend and serve in some capacity in the local church ought to be important to everyone who names the name of Christ! It seems, however, that the importance of local church involvement is lost upon many in these current days. I have observed that there are believers who seem to just float between churches. They stay at one church for awhile and then float to another, and then to another, and to another and so on, until they start all over from the beginning. The cycle seems endless. And then, of course there are those who claim faith in Christ but see no value in being a part of a local church. They say they are believers but do not attend church and, in fact in many cases are bitter and resent the idea of being involved with a local church. In such cases, not all, but some, it will usually be discovered that at some point the individual was involved with a local church, only to be hurt in some way. Then you have professed believers who exhibit bitterness and anger towards the church and will often use excuses like, 'there are too many hypocrites in the church,' to keep from being faithful to the very institution that Christ sought to establish and build on this earth to advance His kingdom.

In Matthew 16:18b Jesus said, "... upon this rock I will build My church..," the rock being that great confession that Jesus "... is the Christ, the Son of the living God..." Acts 2 describes the birthday of the New Testament church when the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost to seal and indwell those who confess salvational faith in Jesus Christ as Lord of their lives. Prior to this the Lord had promised His disciples: "... But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth..." (Acts 1:8). The point being that God was going to send His Holy Spirit to indwell and empower believers to carry His gospel to every people group on the planet for the sake of His glory. This group of people, this body of people carrying out the Lord's will is called the church. The church is the body of Christ (Colossians 1:18). She is also referred to as the bride of Christ (Ephesians 5: 22-33). Anyone and everyone who is drawn to God by the working of the Holy Spirit, expresses repentance towards God for sin and faith in Jesus Christ as Lord is born again into this family and made a part of this beautiful institution called the church. This is what we call the "universal church." Every believer is a part of the church of Jesus Christ. 

However, the church is expressed on this earth, not through an intangible, universal body, but rather through a literal, physical local church. Now, there are those who fail to see the importance and the need for the local church. There are those who claim to be believers and yet refuse to be a part of a local church. There are even those who see nothing but corruption in the church and therefore refuse to be involved with a local body of believers. But let me be clear: those who hold to such positions allow experience or presupposition to be their guide and authority. Something is their authority, but that something is not Scripture. Even a casual reading of the New Testament reveals the identity, structure, importance, purpose and program of the locally established, New Testament church.

In the New Testament we find that the books of Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians and, arguably, 1, 2 & 3 John were written to specific, local churches. The books of 1 & 2 Timothy as well as Titus are referred to as the "pastoral epistles" because they are written to the pastors of particular local churches with instructions as to the nature, structure, organization and purpose of the local church. In the book of Revelation as the apostle John is being given the great revelation of the apocalypse he is commanded to write letters to seven specific local churches (Revelation 2 & 3). Given the fact that there is such an obvious importance placed on the local church in the Scripture the question must be asked: Why is there so little commitment to the local church today? I mean, let's face it, people change churches all the time; and not just because they've moved to a new city, or even because of some doctrinal heresy being taught in their church. People change churches for most trivial, and I would say unbiblical, reasons!

One day I had a man come to my office at the church where I was pastoring at the time to tell me that he would be leaving our church and begin his search for a new one. I asked him if he was moving to a different part of town, or to a new city. He said, no, he just felt like he and his family needed a change. Of course, as a pastor I never want to see anyone leave the church so I probed a littel bit further. I asked him if he had a Biblical reason for leaving the church. He was confused and asked what I meant, so I clarified. I asked him if he could show me in the Bible where the Scripture allows for the believer to just up and change churches based on "feeling the need for a change." He could not.

Obviously there is allowance for finding a new church when one has moved to a new city or to a distance to far to travel... Paul and others did this in the New Testament. But never do we find a discussion or an allowance for believers to leave their local church to find a new one simply because they feel the need for a change; or, because their feelings have been hurt; or, because they have even been wronged. As I discussed things further with the gentleman I mentioned, I discovered that he had an issue with another man in the church and rather than dealing with and working through the issue to bring resolve to the matter, this man chose to leave. I would submit that this is the case more often than not when people choose to change churches. They place such little emphasis on the importance of the local church and their involvement that when an issue arises they choose to leave rather than work through it.

Furthermore, it's one thing when you are a part of a church that is teaching outright doctrinal heresy and anti-biblical doctrine. One must be careful as to their spiritual diet. However, I still lay out the challenge to those who change churches simply because their feelings were hurt, or their sin was condemned, or even in the cases where they may have been genuinely wronged; the Scripture doesn't allow for that person to just run off to another church! What the Scrpture does do (Matthew 5 & 18) is outline for us, how to deal with those issues and bring resolve to differences with honesty, integrity, forgiveness, grace, mercy and compassion.

And let me add this: the Jews of Jesus' day and even His own disciples (at least until the day of Pentecost) never understood God's real plan in Christ coming to the earth. They looked for a conquering Messiah to come and over throw the Roman empire and rule forever from Jerusalem. They never understood that Christ was coming to establish a kingdom that would be ruled from the hearts of men and that that kingdom would be advanced in the world through the church that Jesus established. Now, let me say this: I think that many people today still don't get it. The don't understand the importance of the local church; that this is how God will advance His kingdom in the world until His return. Thererfore, there is very little commitment to the local church. People focus more on people rather than God's purpose. They focus more on problems than God's power. They focus more on personalities than on God's presence. In this pastor's opinion the church (in America) has become powerless and ineffectual; and that, is in large part due to the fact that Christian believers have so little care and concern for the local church body, and their place in it.

Lastly, let me say that if you are reading this, be committed and involved in your local church. Give your tithes and offerings. Operate in your area of giftedness. Serve the body of Christ. Take your place in the local church and help to advance God's kingdom on the earth. Be faithful, after all this is the church that Christ has built. This is His establishment. Don't be so quick to forsake what the Lord has designed and constructed to change the world!

An issue regarding prayer...

Several years ago I was flipping through the channels on the television while relaxing one afternoon. I came to a block of Christian channels. The satellite company I used grouped all of the Christian channels together. There were several channels that featured different authors, speakers, pastors and evangelists. I came to one channel and the program was that of a well known pastor who has authored several different books, whose name you would probably know if I mentioned it. Of course I already knew that I had much theological disagreement with this particular teacher but I paused for a moment just to see what his subject was. What transpired really caught me off guard and exposed me to something that I have noticed becoming more and more prominent among Christian people. When I tuned the television to the station he was on he was right in the middle of praying. There didn't seem to be anything wrong with his prayer. In fact he prayed for many of the things that I often prayed for before I preach the Word of God. He prayed for wisdom, for God's power and strength. He prayed for the anointing of the Holy Spirit and he prayed for his congregation's ears to be open and hearts receptive to the Word of God. But then, he did something that I found very strange: right in the middle of his praying, he began to talking to Satan. I was a bit surprised and my mind began to flood with questions: why is he talking to Satan? In praying to God why would he divert his attention to the Devil? What purpose does this serve? Well, I soon changed the channel and went on with the rest of my day and attributed this to another misunderstanding of Scripture that I perceived this particular preacher possessed. Since then, however, I have noticed more and more believers doing this very same thing.

I've always firmly believed in prayer. I believe that many Christians miss out on much of what the Lord has for them because they fail to engage the Lord in prayer. James 4: 2 says, "... you do not have because you do not ask..." As a pastor I often counsel with people. Many times I am told something like this: "Pastor, I just feel so distant from the Lord. I feel like God isn't there. My relationship with God is not where it should be." When I hear statements like this I often ask several diagnostic questions and one of those inquiries is: tell me about your prayer life. More often than not the person who makes statements like these has a prayer life that is virtually non-existent. So, let's be clear: prayer is vital to your Christian walk. Prayer is as necessary as breath. If we're to live physically we must breathe. If we're to live spiritually we must pray. And so, I offer this paragraph as my disclaimer of strong conviction on the necessity of a faithful and fervent prayer life for the Christian believer.

Now, on to the issue at hand... I would ask why would anyone begin to address Satan while praying? There are no Biblical examples for such a practice. We find that Jesus addresses Satan in Matthew 4 but this was not a part of His prayer time. Satan approached Jesus with temptation, to which the Lord responded with the Word of God. Peter, Paul, James, Jude or any other New Testament writer for that matter, in none of these men do we ever find them addressing Satan in prayer, much less teaching that believers should ever do so. Then of course, there is the matter that Satan, though very sly, cunning and deceptive, is nothing like the God of the Bible. The Devil is not all-powerful, he is not all-knowing and he is not omni-present, which is to say that Satan is not and can not be present every where at the same time. You see, the Lord is present with me in the person of the Holy Spirit, just as He present with every other believer on planet earth. The Lord can manifest His presence in a church service where I pastor, while at the same time He can manifest His presence in a service at the church down the street, and in a church in an neighboring state, even in a different country. God is omni-present... He can be everywhere all the time, but Satan is and can do none of these things. The Devil's knowledge is limited, his power is limited and his presence is limited. Knowing this, why would anyone waste their time or breath in speaking to Satan in prayer? More than likely he isn't even there and certainly doesn't hear their prayers. Really, if you stop and think about it this is a pride issue. There are about one billion people on the earth who profess to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Now, granted, all of those professions may not be genuine, but, even still, given the fact that Satan can only be in place at one time, what is the realistic possibility of Satan coming against you personally. Consider if there were only one million believers on the earth. If Satan were to personally attack each one for one day, one day at a time it would take him 2,739.73 years to attack each believer for one day; and that is based on there only being one million believers on the earth. Of course we know there to be more than one million believers on the earth. We also know that Satan has and does influence the kingdoms or powers of this world. 2 Corinthians 4: 4 refers to the Devil as "the god of this world." So the figures I have mentioned would not even account for Satan's work in the lives of those who are lost. Don't misunderstand me. I'm not minimizing the work of the enemy, all that I'm saying is that Satan can't attacking you and someone in India at the same time. He can't be in two places at once.

So, why talk to Satan in prayer? Prayer is not meant for Satan and has nothing to do with him, other than seeking God's protection from him and wisdom in response to him. Prayer is ordained for communing with the holy God of the Bible, not Satan. One day the disciples of the Lord ask Jesus to teach them how to pray. And in Luke 11 the Lord taught them about prayer. We often call it the model prayer, for in His teaching Jesus modelled how and what we should pray. He said, "... When you pray, say, Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one..." (vs. 2-4). Notice, that in response to the direct request to be taught to pray, Jesus models prayer and in His teaching there is no place given for addressing Satan. The prayer is to God. God alone is to whom we pray! Now, in His teaching on prayer Jesus models asking God for protection from Satan, but again, this request is made to the Lord and protection from Satan is the subject, but he isn't the addressee. Prayer is where and when we seek God; its when we cry out to Him; its when we cast our cares upon Him; its talking to Him; its listening to Him; its communing with Him; with God, not Satan. The only place Satan should have in the prayer life of the believer is when the believer prays for God's protection from Him, nothing more.

But some would say, 'what about fighting the enemy?' We're never told in Scripture to fight the enemy, the enemy being Satan. In fact, the only fight that we're told to fight as believers is "... the good fight of faith..." (1 Timothy 6: 12). Even in that great warfare passage of Ephesians 6: 10-18 where the Bible beautifully describes the  armor that God has provided for the believers, having been clothed in Christ the believer is told to do only two things: 1. the believer is told to "... stand..." vs. 13-14; and 2. the believer is told to pray, vs. 18-20. The believer is not told to fight. The believer is not told to do battle with Satan. The believer is told to stand and to pray. The significance of this can not be overlooked. Where as in the previous paragraph I point out the issue of pride, because in addressing Satan in prayer places a focus and emphasis on the individual and the spiritual power of the believer who is praying; the words in Ephesians 6 places the emphasis on God! We're to be protected, but God is the one who does the fighting! I'm reminded of what Jesus said in John 15: 5, "... for without Me you can do nothing..." But some would say, 'what about the sword? The sword is an offensive weapon isn't it?' Well, the sword is both actually; it is offensive and defensive. But even more than that, the sword is the Word of God; it isn't speaking to Satan, or casting Satan to hell (which can't be done by a human being any way), or anything like that. What it is, is what Jesus did in Matthew 4: if Satan presents himself and tempts the believer, the response of the believer should be the Word of God, Scripture.

So, why do people do this? Why do some people begin to address Satan in the middle of prayer when prayer is only for communion with God? Well, I don't know how to answer the question any other way than to answer the question, but I'll try to be as delicate as I can. The answer is Biblical ignorance. Those who have such a practice often have had teaching, false teaching, over a period of time that has led them to believe in what they are doing, but they have never really examined Scripture carefully with respect to this practice; had they done so, they would see that there is no Biblical reason to address and speak to Satan while in prayer to God.

When you pray, pray to God... and God alone! Until next time, may God bless you!

Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage

Nearly sixteen years ago now the Lord brought to pass the greatest event of my life, aside from my salvation experience of course, and that event was the day that I married my sweet wife. I was nineteen years old and she was eighteen. We didn't know much, but what we did know mattered. We knew the Lord, we knew we loved each other, and we knew that God's will was for us to be together. So, we stepped out in faith, trusted the Lord, made our vows and before a congregation of people we became husband and wife. Since that time we both have learned much, experientially, about marriage. We've grown in many areas. Now, as a pastor I deal with marital issues in a variety of capacities. There are times that I counsel with couples and attempt to minister to them through some areas of difficulty. Unfortunately, I've seen many marriages end in divorce. These matters present some issues to the church. What does the Bible teach about marriage? Is divorce always wrong, or are there some allowable (Biblically) circumstances? Can a person who has been divorced be remarried?

In our day and time, considering that more than half of all marriages end in divorce, this potentially presents some problems for the church. However, I believe that we can go to Scripture, which is the sole authority on the matter and find the answers that we're looking for. I'm going to begin with a discussion on marriage, and will then move to the matter of divorce, and finally I'll discuss the issue of remarriage.

First, let's talk about Biblical marriage. It must be stated that the institution of marriage is in fact the creation of the God of the Bible. The general description of a husband and wife being created for one another is found in Genesis 1: 26-28. The more detailed description of God's creation of marriage is found in Genesis 2: 18-25. As part of God's creative work He made man in His image and made woman to be his wife. In other words God performed the first wedding ceremony by creating the first man and woman and uniting them together as husband and wife. Of course the language of the text in Genesis 2 makes this clear: God had made the woman "... and brought her to the man... therefore a man shall  leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife..." This is marriage, this is what God created. Speaking on the subject, pastor and author John MacArthur states, "Marriage was God's plan, not man's. In the deepest sense, every couple that has ever been married participates in a union established by the Creator Himself. Marriage, therefore, is a divine institution."

Of course, as is often the case, the creation and intention of God becomes distorted either by Satan's schemes or by man's self-serving pride. Polygamy is one such distortion. Polygamy is a general term referring to multiple spouses. Polyndadry refers to a woman married to multiple husbands. Polygany refers to one man married to multiple wives. Of course, those who teach such a distorted view of marriage are, more often than not, men who teach polygany (one man with multiple wives). I was once told that it is only in this western, American culture that polygany is not accepted. It is Biblical and generally accepted around the world. It was even said that the Bible was filled with dozens and dozens of verses that not only endorsed polygany but in fact commanded it. I suppose this person hadn't read Leviticus 18:18 where the Old Testament Law forbids such a practice. I was thinking to myself, 'uumm, no it's not Biblical'; and I wanted to take that person to the nations of the eastern cultures where I have done some mission and work where polygany is supposedly 'accepted.' I would have liked to have that person speak to some wives that I have spoken to. I would have liked for that person to have heard about the bitterness, the jealousy, the hatred and the outright detestation that women have, not only, towards polygany in cultures where it is supposedly 'accepted,' but also towards one another because of the practice. I would have liked for that person to have heard the hurt and humiliation in the voices of these women who, because of this sinful practice, are often treated more like property than people. Then, of course, there is the Scripture. Those who support polygany often like to site the people in the Bible that God used, yet, who practiced polygany. Of course they fail to recognize that just because the Bible mentions a practice doesn't mean it endorses that practice. In the Genesis account of the marriage creation we're told that God created "... them male and female..." Jesus quotes this in Matthew 19: 4 when He speaks in response to the Pharisees questions concerning marriage and divorce. The words "... male and female..." both in the Hebrew as written in the Genesis account and in the Greek as quoted by Jesus in Matthew 19 are emphatic. This is significant and can not be over looked. Those who try to use Scripture and people in Scripture who practiced polygany often over look this very important detail. Being emphatic, these words would be literally translated "the one male and the one female." And according to what Jesus says in Matthew 19: 4 this has been God's intention for His creation of marriage from the beginning: 'the one male for the one female'  or to say it another way: one man for one woman for one life time; not one woman with several husbands, and not one man with several wives. God's creation of marriage, Biblically, consists of one man and one woman.

Obviously, the Biblical view of marriage also contradicts what is perhaps the most popular distortion of marriage today which is what is being called "gay marriage." I can not be emphatic enough on this point. No where in the Bible will you find an endorsement of homosexuality. In both Old and New Testaments homosexuality is clearly condemned as an abomination before the Lord (1 Cor. 6:9, Lev. 18:22; 20:13). So, the term 'gay marriage' is not even applicable in the Biblical sense because the Bible explicitly condemns the practice of homosexuality.

Time and space would fail me to try and attempt to address, at length, the matters of believer's married to unbelievers, interracial marriages, etc. There are some who would argue that these relationships are not to be recognized by the church as Biblical marriages. I would contend that to say such a thing is to say more than Scripture says. If there is something that would do us all well in the church, it would be to speak where the Bible speaks, but also to be silent where the Bible is silent. Marriage is God's institution. It is His creation. He ceremonially brought together the first man and woman and joined them together in holy matrimony. Biblically speaking, marriage is the relationship between one man and one woman ceremonially brought (or the joining) together by the governing authorities as modeled for us in the first marriage, between Adam and Eve, officiated by the Lord Himself back in Genesis.

Now let's discuss the matter of divorce. I need to first put forth a disclaimer: it is simply impossible, especially in a blog format, to be exhaustive concerning any of these subjects. My intent is not to be exhaustive, but as best I can and as simply as I can put forth my opinion of these subjects as I understand the Scripture. So, there you have the disclaimer.

To begin I think it best to point out exactly how the Lord feels about divorce. In Malachi 2: 16 Scripture states: "... For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce. For it covers one's garment with violence, Says the Lord of Hosts. Therefore take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously..." I'm not sure that it could be made more clear, and I don't think that much explanation is required. God hates divorce plain and simple!

Today, there are four basic views on divorce: First, some say that divorce and remarriage is allowable under any circumstance, for any body and at any time. Secondly, there are those who say that divorce is not Biblically allowed for anyone, in any circumstance at any time. Third, others teach that divorce is allowable under some circumstances but remarriage is never allowed. And finally, some teach that both divorce and remarriage are allowable in certain circumstances.

Divorce is first mentioned in the Scripture in the book of Deuteronomy 24. There the Scripture allowed the man to write a certificate of divorce for the woman if, "... she finds no favor in his eyes, because he has found some uncleanness in her..." vs. 1. Of course, "... finds no favor..." and "... uncleanness..." are matters men have debated since Moses recorded the words on parchment. The certificate of divorce here served as proof that the marriage had been dissolved completely and the man and the woman were free to remarry. As I said men debated what Moses really meant by this. When we come to the days of Jesus' earthly ministry we find that the Jewish leadership was divided into two primary camps. One camp was led by the teachings of Rabbi Shammai, who taught that divorce was never permissible under any circumstances. The other camp was led by the teachings of Rabbi Hillel who taught that a man could divorce his wife for, even, the most trivial reasons such as: taking her hair down in public, talking to other men, burning the bread or putting too much salt in the food. Jesus confronted the false teachings and traditions of men with the heart of God in the matter.

In Matthew 5, what is commonly called the 'sermon on the mount' Jesus, briefly, and without much explanation contradicts both views that were common in His day. In vs. 31-32 He says, "... Furthermore it has been said, 'whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.' But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason accept sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery..." Here, the Lord confronts the liberal and lustful view that a man could divorce his wife for any reason at all, stating that the only reason allowable for divorce is "... sexual immorality..." Porneia is the Greek word used here, which has a broad range of meanings. It is a general term referring to fornication, or illicit sexual intercourse, but it can also refer to a variety of immoral behaviors. It can refer to a moral flaw in one's character (such as an obsessive addiction to pornography), homosexuality, bestiality, premarital sex (such as a man marrying a woman and then discovering that she was not a virgin) and even more heinous sexually perverted acts than this. The context and the spirit of what Jesus says suggests that the Lord is speaking of serious sins of infidelity. The verses focus on marriage and divorce, it would therefore seem obvious that the Lord is talking about adultery. However, we must recognize that 'porneia' while it is not the primary word used for adultery in the Greek New Testament, does include adultery in its meaning along with a host of other sexually immoral and perverted sins. So, in this statement the Lord declares that divorce is allowable, but only for the reason of sexual immorality (porneia). Sorry Rabbi Shammai, but you are wrong. Jesus says under certain circumstances, divorce is allowable. On the other hand, Jesus makes it clear that this (sexual immorality, porneia) is the only reason divorce is allowable. Sorry Rabbi Hillel, you are wrong. Divorce is not permissible for just any reason. The no fault divorce permitted in our society is unBiblical, ungodly and is helping to undermine the very fabric of our society. Again, we find yet another instance of men dividing into their 'camps' of belief, only to discover that Jesus sides with neither. The Lord doesn't take one side or another; the Lord takes over!

Jesus addresses the matter again in Matthew 19. In this instance He reveals more details from the heart of God concerning marriage and divorce. As was often the case the Pharisees followed Jesus around presenting Him with questions attempting to challenge Him. And here their question is "... Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for just any reason..." vs. 3. Jesus responds with Scripture. He takes them all the way back to the Genesis account: "... Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning made them male and female, and said, 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh?' So, then they are no longer two but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate..." vs. 4-6. In other words, to their question Jesus was saying NO! The heart of God, the desire of God, the intention of God from the beginning was that one man would marry one woman and that they would remain married for their entire life time. God's will and intent is that they should not separate! Those two become one before the Lord. And if that wasn't clear enough, in the remainder of the passage Jesus makes it crystal clear. The Pharisees then asked why Moses allowed a man to write his wife a certificate of divorce. and Jesus responds in vs. 8 & 9 saying, "... Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, permitted you to divorce your wives, BUT FROM THE BEGINNING IT WAS NOT SO. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery..." Could it possibly be any clearer? As the Word of God declares through the prophet Malachi, "... God hates divorce..." Jesus is essentially saying the very same thing. There may be reasons that God allows divorce, but the fact is He hates it! No where in God's Word does the Bible command, endorse or speak positively of divorce! In fact, it is divorce, according to the Scripture that promotes and perpetuates adultery.

In today's uncommitted society it would do every man and woman well to hear and heed the Word of God. When you make a commitment of marriage, you had better be prepared to be committed for a life time! And even, in the instance of sexual immorality (porneia) you better pray long and hard before divorce is even considered. Remember the grace that God has extended to you in your sin and extend that same grace to your spouse when they have sinned against you. Consider the outcome and effects divorce will have on the rest of your life. Consider that even though God may allow it, He does not want it! Divorce, should be avoided if at all possible and should be considered only after all means of reconciliation and counseling have been completely and totally exhausted.

Finally, let's address the issue of remarriage following divorce. Recently, I was confronted with this issue which has provoked the writing of this blog. Does the Bible allow for remarriage after divorce? Let me again put forth a disclaimer: the Bible should be studied in context. A word should be studied in context of a verse or sentence; a verse or sentence should be studied in context of a passage or chapter; a passage or chapter should be studied in context of a book; and a book should be studied in the context of the whole Bible. Context is essential in helping the believer to rightly divide the Word of truth!

So, does the Scripture allow for remarriage after divorce? Again, some would say no, not under any circumstance. Others would say yes, under any circumstance. I say, let's look at the Scripture, as a whole. The language of Deuteronomy 24 certainly seems to allow for remarriage. On the other hand Jesus' language in Matthew 5 is much more strict, indicating that a woman (innocent of adultery) divorced by her husband is provoked into adultery by remarriage; and that if a man were to marry a divorced woman (one who was guilty of adultery) is in fact committing adultery through remarriage. Virtually the same language is used by Jesus in Matthew 19. This would seem to indicate that the man who divorces his wife Biblically (for sexual immorality) is free to remarry as long as the bride to be is a woman who has never been married before. Furthermore, the woman who is divorced, whether innocent or guilty of sexual immorality is not free to remarry. She would be considered an adulteress. Taken at face value that is what these Scriptures teach; and under just about any other circumstance there would need to be for further discussion. However, there are other passages to consider, which also provide further explanation of the subject. Remember Scripture must be understood as a whole. All of the Bible, from Genesis through Revelation is the inerrant, infallible, inspired Word of God.

1 Corinthians 7 speaks to the issue. This passage addresses a number of things one of which concerns a marriage which may consist of a believer and an unbeliever. It is made clear that as long as the two are willing to remain married that they should in fact remain married. A believer should not divorce their spouse simply because they are not Christian. But in vs. 15 the Bible goes on to say, "... But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or sister is not under bondage in such cases..." The Greek for "... is not under bondage..." ou dedoulootai (transliteration), is very strong language. The meaning is clearly that willful desertion on the part on the part of the unbelieving spouse sets the other party free. They are in no way held to blame or captive concerning restrictions on remarriage. They are free. So, is Paul contradicting Jesus? Absolutely not! If he were writing his own thoughts then perhaps an argument could made concerning that, but considering that Paul is writing under the guidance and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit we know these Words are just as much the Word of God as are the Word of Christ. The Holy Spirit is simply expanding and giving greater light into the mind of God. Just as the New Testament further reveals the truth of the Old Testament, what is said here in 1 Corinthians further reveals the meaning of what Jesus spoke of in the gospels. And so, I would contend that when a non-Christian divorces a Christian, the Christian believer is free to remarry.

Furthermore, consider the case when divorce has occurred prior to salvation. I would ask the question: how can anyone be held accountable for sin they committed prior to salvation? Are all our sins forgiven accept marital sins? I say no! 2 Corinthians 5: 17 says, "... Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new..." This pastor would say that remarriage is allowable, certainly, in the case when divorce has occurred prior to a genuine salvation experience. One can not limit the atoning power of the blood of Christ; and to say that remarriage is not allowable because of divorce prior to salvation, in my opinion nullifies the work of the cross.

Of course, I can not address every issue of divorce that rises. Scripture doesn't even do this. However, one thing that was said to me was that God doesn't recognize remarriage as marriage when divorce has taken place, especially concerning divorced women. It is interesting to me to think on this while reading of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4. After some conversation the Lord says to her in vs. 16-18, "... Go call your husband, and come here. The woman answered and said, 'I have no husband.' Jesus said to her, 'You have well said, I have no husband, for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; in that you spoke truly..." A couple of interesting things are present here: first, Jesus did not recognize the current, immoral relationship the woman was involved in as marriage. Just because she was living with a man and sexually involved with him did not mean she was married. I wish people today would learn that there is no such thing as common-law marriage! What the world calls common-law marriage (cohabitation) the Bible calls sin! Secondly, it is highly unlikely that this woman had been widowed on five separate occasions, especially considering her current immoral relationship. This woman had been married and divorced. She had been married on five separate occasions and notice how Jesus refers to them: He said to her, "... you have had five husbands..." In other words Jesus recognized the woman's previous relationships as marriages, as wrong as they may have been. I mention this because those who hold to skewed views of marriage, divorce and remarriage would look at some marriage relationships and denounce them as nothing but adulterous relationships that must be ended. I find it difficult to do so in the light of how the Lord addresses this woman. We don't sin to stop sinning.

Now, let me conclude. Again, I must mention that it is impossible to consider every scenario and situation. What I have attempted to do here is to share my thoughts, based on my understanding of what Scripture says, generally, concerning marriage, divorce and remarriage. To summarize: Biblically, marriage is a ceremonial union between one man and one woman, designed, crafted and brought about by God. Concerning divorce: God hates it and it should be avoided , if at all possible. Go to the extreme in reconciliation. However, it is allowable in certain circumstances, which I discussed above. Concerning remarriage: much like divorce it is circumstantial. One must consider the circumstances of the divorce before determination can be made if remarriage is permissible. But Scripture is clear that in certain circumstances remarriage is permissible.

I've enjoyed writing this blog. I hope it is a blessing to you and will challenge you to dig further into the Scripture! God bless you! Until next time remember: JESUS IS LORD!

The Devil's Drink

What is alcohol and why is there such a fuss in the church over it? Is it really a big deal? Aren't there more important things to deal with? Well, in this weeks edition of my blog I'll share not only my opinion, but what Scripture teaches concerning Alcohol.

Alcohol is a deadly, legal drug that is destroying our nation! Proverbs 20:1, says, “… Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler; and those who are led astray by it are not wise…”

Consider these three thoughts:

First, the Danger of Alcohol: Vs. 1, “… Wine is a mocker…” Allow me to give you some statistics: Alcohol is involved in 50% of all driving fatalities. In the United States, every 30 minutes someone is killed in an alcohol related traffic accident. Over 15 million Americans are dependent on alcohol; 500,000 are between the age of 9 and 12. Each year the liquor industry spends almost $2 billion dollars on advertising and encouraging the consumption of alcoholic beverages; Americans spend over $90 billion dollars total purchasing alcohol each year. An average American may consume over 25 gallons of beer, 2 gallons of wine, and 1.5 gallons of distilled liquor each year.

Each year students spend $5.5 billion on alcohol, more then they spend on soft drinks, tea, milk, juice, coffee, or books combined. 56% of students in grade 5 to 12 say that alcohol advertising encourages them to drink. 6.6% of employees in full time jobs report heavy drinking; heavy drinking is defined as drinking five or more drinks per occasion on five or more days in the past 30 days. The highest percentage of heavy drinkers (12.2%) is found among unemployed adults between the ages of 26 to 34. Up to 40% of all industrial fatalities and 47% of industrial injuries can be linked to alcohol consumption and alcoholism. In 2000, almost 7 million persons age 12 to 20 was a binge drinker; that is about one in five persons under the legal drinking age was a binge drinker. The 2001 survey shows 25 million (one in ten) Americans surveyed reported driving under the influence of alcohol. Among young adults age 18 to 25 years, almost 23% drove under the influence of alcohol.
Drunk driving is proving to be even deadlier then what we previously knew. The latest death statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), using a new method of calculation show that 17,488 people were killed in alcohol related traffic accidents last year. 43% of Americans have been exposed to alcoholism in their families. Alcohol is the number 1 drug problem in America.
Nearly one out of four Americans admitted to general hospitals have alcohol problems or are undiagnosed alcoholics being diagnosed for alcohol related consequences. Alcohol and alcohol related problems are costing the American economy at least $100 million in health care and loss of productivity every year. Four in ten criminal offenders report alcohol as a factor in violence. Among spouse violence victims, three out of four incidents were reported to have involved alcohol use by the offender. In 1996, local law enforcement agencies made an estimated 1,467,300 arrests nationwide for driving under the influence of alcohol.
The Bible says in Vs. 1, “… wine is a mocker…” This word in Hebrew is the word – Luts –means to mock, to deride, to scoff at; the root word literally means ‘to make mouths at.’ The truth is that nobody wants to preach on alcohol these days and even fewer people want to hear preaching on alcohol. I certainly realize that there are those who will mock preachers who do and seek to deride the Word of God as being nothing more than old-fashioned, out-dated, irrelevant and illegitimate. But I submit to you that the sad truth is not that preachers will be mocked; not that the Word of God will be mocked, no, the sad truth is that Alcohol will mock, even them that attempt to defend it!

My friends, I want you to know about the danger of alcohol! I’ve seen firsthand what alcohol will do! I’ve seen with my own eyes the danger of alcohol! I’ve seen grown men so consumed by its powerful grip they show up to the bar first thing in the morning begging for their first drink! I’ve known men who wake up at 4:00am just so they knock back a few beers before they go to work. I’ve watched marriages disintegrate because men and women get drunk on alcohol and end up cheating on their spouses. I’ve seen men in their 30s, 40s, 50s – even into their 70s lie and wallow in their own vomit because they drank too much; only to get up and beg for another drink! I’ve buried men who cut their lives 20 or 30 years short because they consumed so much alcohol they poisoned their liver; men who spent their last days on earth in and out of the hospitals to have their bodies drained of fluid because of the effects of alcohol! I’ve watched the undertaker lower the caskets of innocent men, women and children: people who never did anything to hurt anybody, just in the wrong place at the wrong time when somebody who drank too much alcohol was behind the wheel of car and took their life because they were driving drunk! I preached the funeral of man who found out that his wife was going to divorce him and instead of turning to the Bible, he turned to the bottle and drove himself to a public park, put a shot gun in his mouth, pulled the trigger and took his own life! Listen: drinking alcohol isn’t a good thing; it isn’t an ok thing; it isn’t something that’s ok for you and not ok for me… Alcohol, my friend is a horrible, wretched, godless, immoral, sinful, wicked and devilish thing! There’s a danger in alcohol!

The Bible says that, Vs. 1, “… wine is a mocker…” Some people call themselves social drinkers; some “believers” want to claim the right of Christian liberty just so they can have a drink every now and then without ever getting drunk. Some people will make up any excuse they can just so they can experience the cheap thrill that alcohol will give them! But I am telling you that alcohol is mocking you! Friend, alcohol is a mind-altering drug! It is no different than crack-cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine or any other narcotic! Alcohol is a depressant that directly affects the central nervous system; it impairs judgment; it delays reaction time and causes one to lose all sense of logic and reasoning! Alcohol is a drug! And arguably the most damnable day in America was March 23^rd, 1933 when President Franklin Roosevelt signed into law and amendment to the Volstead Act which allowed the manufacturing, distribution and sale of alcohol.

The Bible says that, “… wine is a mocker…” Vs. 1 We’ve told ourselves that alcohol is ok; there’s nothing wrong with it; it’s an individual’s choice, but by the end of day today 62 people will have died as a result of drunk driving; 434 people by the time you go to church next Sunday; nearly 23,000 people by the end of the year! All in all alcohol related deaths will rise above the 100,000 mark before we celebrate the New Year! We’ll say it’s ok but, but the Bible says that alcohol is mocking you! It is making mouths at you! It’s deriding you; and it’ll destroy you! If you want to say it’s ok, I say go and tell that to the family members of one the 100,000 people who will die as a result of alcohol this year! My friend, you need to understand the danger of alcohol!

Secondly there is the Destructiveness of Alcohol: Vs. 1 says, “… Strong drink is a brawler…” The word “brawler” – Hebrew (hamah) meaning: to be in great commotion; to be in an uproar; to be greatly troubled; literally, to be in a rage! This speaks to the violence that alcohol induces! I have seen some of the calmest, sweetest and nicest people you could ever meet transform into the most bitter, angry and violent people you could ever meet when they come under the influence of alcohol! More often than not when police make an arrest for physical abuse, alcohol is involved.

The consumption of alcohol leads to one’s inability to deal with the reality of life and so they must always look at life through the lenses of the liquor bottle, rather than facing life head on. But eventually this is not enough and the frustration with life leads to anger, and anger leads to bitterness, and bitterness leads to violence in some form or fashion. In 2002 more than 1 million violent crimes occurred where the offender was under the influence of alcohol. (Violent crime is defined as: murder, rape, assault, robbery and sexual assault.) According to the bureau of Justice 75% of all spousal abuse situations are alcohol related. The same source found that 66% of abuse victims by some intimate relationship (mother, father, friend, boyfriend, girlfriend) 66% were under the influence of alcohol!

The Bible says that “… strong drink is a brawler…”; not only is alcohol dangerous, BUT IT IS DESTRUCTIVE!!! Alcohol destroys marriages! It destroys families! It destroys lives! It destroys anything and everything that it comes into contact with! Friend, alcohol is a destroyer!

Proverbs 23:29-32 says, “… Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who linger long at the wine, those who go in search of mixed wine. Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it swirls around smoothly; at the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like a viper…” Society may say one thing, but the WORD OF GOD declares that alcohol is poison! It is venom that not only affects you physically, but it adversely affects you spiritually! Alcohol is brawler! It is a destroyer! It causes uproar and sends people into a rage! Not one good thing has ever come from drinking alcohol!

Finally there is the Deception of Alcohol: Vs. 1 says, “… And whoever is led astray by it is not wise…” The words “… led astray…” captures our attention. They mean to waver; to wander; to go astray. The picture painted by the Hebrew language is one of seduction. Wine and strong drink possesses a seductive power of persuasion. Alcohol has the ability to seduce one to succumb to its control, to its dominance! This is why Ephesians 5:18 says, “… And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit…” Don’t be deceived by alcohol, says the WORD OF GOD That is “dissipation,” that is lustful debauchery! Rather than being led astray by alcohol; rather than being dominated and controlled by alcohol; rather than being a slave to alcohol, the Bible says be filled with the Holy Spirit; be under the control of the HOLY SPIRIT; be dominated by the HOLY SPIRIT

The point is that alcohol is deceptive and those who are deceived by it are not wise, says the Holy Bible! The world tells us today, ‘Have a drink; unwind, relax. An afternoon drink will loosen you up and set you free.’ But the Bible says, “… Harlotry, wine, and new wine enslave the heart…” Hosea 4:11. The world says, ‘Have a drink; everybody drinks; a little drink never hurt anybody.’ But the Bible describes the one who drinks as fool and an imbecile: Proverbs 23:33-35, “… Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart will utter perverse things. Yes, you will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, or like one who lies at the top of the mast, saying, ‘They have struck me, but I was not hurt; they have beaten me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake, that I may seek another drink?’” The world advertises its alcohol with beautiful women; images of the guys having a great time at the game; it promotes the idea that real men like a good beer; the party; the good times; the friends; the fellowship; the great times they’re all centered around this brand or that brand of alcohol!

But they don’t show you the piles of vomit all over the place when you drink alcohol! They don’t show you the inside of the jail cell that you live in when you rack up you DUI’s. They don’t show the mangled and mutilated flesh caused by a drunk driver! They don’t show you the casket of a 5yr. old little girl whose life was cut off because some fool drank alcohol and got behind the wheel of his car! They don’t show you the bloated stomachs, yellow skin and painful misery of someone whose liver is destroyed by alcohol! They don’ show the agonizing death of a man who drank the poison! They don’t show you any of that because anybody who’s got half a brain wouldn’t touch alcohol if they thought seriously about its disastrous affects!

Alcohol is the devil’s drink!!! It is a tool in the hand of Satan himself that does nothing but wreak havoc and destruction on any and all that it comes in contact with! It is dangerous! There is nothing good that can come from drinking alcohol; and those who drink it aren’t content; they’re not satisfied with life; if they say their believers, then they’re not satisfied with the Lord and they’re looking for a cheap thrill. It is destructive! Alcohol destroys families; it destroys, marriages; it destroys lives! It is deceptive! It will lead you away from all that is godly, and holy, and righteous! Alcohol goes hand in hand with immorality; and it always fails to live up to promises and expectations!

No Christian has any business with alcohol! As Christians we must take the Bible’s stance! We must take God’s stance! We must take the stance of holiness, and righteousness and that which is pleasing to the Lord! We must stand against alcohol!

When God heals... and sometimes doesn't...

The subject of healing is a fascinating one. Certainly, it is one that has generated much debate in the modern American church. The viewpoints are varied and many; and here I shall offer mine, as I understand the Scripture. As I share my thoughts I would like to do so by attempting to answer three questions: 1. Does God perform healings? 2. Does God always heal? and 3. What do I do when I suffer infirmities and need healing?

1. Does God perform healings?

The simple answer to this question yes. After all, we are talking about the Sovereign, thrice holy God of the Bible! And, of course, the Scripture is filled with examples of God performing miracles of healing. In Genesis 2: 20-22 the Lord took a rib from Adam in order to make woman. He closed up the flesh and healed  the place where He had taken the rib from. In Numbers 21: 4-9 the Lord sent fiery serpents to afflict the people and many of them died. After the people of Israel had repented of their griping and complaining about Moses and God He instructed them make a serpent of brass and put it on a pole and so it was that when one was bitten they had to simply look to the serpent of brass and live (be healed). 2 Kings 5: 1-14 tells us of Naaman, a Syrian general, who was afflicted with leprosy. He came to Elisha the prophet who then instructed him to go and dip himself and wash in the Jordan river seven times and he would be healed. Eventually, Naaman obeyed and was healed. In Daniel 4: 29-36 the Bible tells us that Nebuchudnezzar stole God's glory, attributing the greatness of the Babylonian kingdom to his own wisdom and strength. God afflicted him with insanity for a season to teach him a lesson, that God shares his glory with no man and that kingdoms rise and fall at the bidding of the Lord. God then healed Nebuchudnezzar of his insanity and restored him as king.

Of course the New Testament is also filled with examples of healing. Matthew 4: 23 states that Jesus travelled all throughout Galilee healing the sicknesses and diseases that were among the people. In Luke 7: 1-10 we're told that Jesus healed a Roman Centurion's servant without even being present with the man. In fact, the Lord was a great distance away. In Mark 5: 21-43 we're told of two miraculous healings: one involved a woman who had an issue of blood for more than twelve years; she simply touched the hem of Jesus' garment and was instantly healed. The other example was the daughter of a man named Jairus, who was not merely sick, but was, in fact dead. Jesus raised her to life again. Acts 3 records the healing of man who lame from birth. Acts 5: 16 describes a multitude of people being healed. Acts 19 records even more miraculous healings stating that even handkerchiefs and aprons that the Apostle Paul had touched and handled were brought to the sick and those touched them were healed.

Of course, I could go on and on with more and more examples, but I believe the point is clear: the God of the bible can and does supernaturally, miraculously heal the sick and the diseased. Now, there are some among us today who would say that healings ceased with the end of the apostolic era. I find no Biblical evidence to support such a position. Besides, the healings of the Old Testament took place prior to the apostolic era, as well as those performed by Jesus Himself. There is nothing in Scripture to suggest that God can not heal today just as did in the pages of Scripture. In fact, if any conclusion at all could be drawn from Scripture it would be that God can and does still heal! For, "... Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever..." Hebrews 13: 8. Now, let's move to our second question...

2. Does God always heal?

Again, I'll begin with the offer of a simple answer, which is no. God does not always heal the sick and afflicted. I realize that there would probably be just as many people who would argue with me about this point as there would be to argue the previous question, but I believe that Scripture supports my answer to this question just as it does the previous one. So, let me submit the following Biblical testimonies for your consideration.

In 2 Corinthians 12: 7-10 we find the famous account of where the Apostle Paul talks about the 'thorn in his flesh.' He testifies that He sought the Lord for the removal of the thorn (healing). However, healing is not granted to Paul. In fact, God's answer to Him is "... My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness..." (vs. 9). This was God's way of saying to Paul that He (the Lord) wasn't going to heal him but instead would display His power and His presence by working through His infirmity. Now some have said that this 'thorn' may not have been physical. Some have even suggested that Paul might be talking about a lust issue. But let me be clear: there is absolutely no Scriptural evidence to support such a claim, in fact, it is just the opposite. Paul uses the term "infirmities" to describe his ailment. This comes from the Greek astheneia meaning: sickness, illness, weakness or disease. So, Paul describes his 'thorn' as a physical infirmity for which he prayed to be healed from, yet God chose instead to work through and use his infirmity rather than to heal him from it. It was suggested to me that in his writings to Timothy that Paul spoke of his deliverance (healing) from this thorn. I have read and studied both letters to Timothy and can not find a reference regarding healing from what he discusses here in 2 Corinthians. Furthermore, it seems very difficult to believe that God would heal Paul from this infirmity, especially given the reason he states for suffering from this thorn. In vs. 7 he says, "... And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure..." Paul had been gifted by God in unusual ways, arguably more so than any other man before or since, with exception of course to the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul recognized how blessed and gifted of God he was was. And so, the man, who in Romans 7 so clearly confesses his own struggle with the flesh, reveals an affliction from Satan, but used by God to keep the man of God humble, SO THAT "... the power of Christ may rest upon [him]..." Paul is a prime example of when God doesn't heal and how to respond to that and, in fact, be thankful for it.

I won't be quite as lengthy in the following examples, as I was with Paul. Timothy, the young pastor and disciple of Paul, suffered physical affliction with no record of healing. Paul wrote to him under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit the words of 1 Timothy 5: 23: "... No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your frequent infirmities..." Timothy, obviously had a number of health problems to endure and Paul gave instruction on treating those frequent infirmities, but we're never told that Timothy was ever healed from any of them. It is noteworthy that Colossians 4:14 reveals that Luke the gospel writer, and noted physician was with Paul on at least part of his missionary journeys and could have very well been the one who mentioned the advice to Paul for Timothy. Trophimus is another example of one described as sick, but no mention of healing. In fact, Paul's own words are, "... but Trophimus I have left in Miletus sick..." 2 Timothy 4: 20. In Galatians 4: 15 & 6:11 Paul alludes to suffering some type of hindrance to his eyesight. This could have been the 'thorn' that Paul spoke of, or perhaps even another affliction. 

In my estimation, however, perhaps the greatest Biblical example of the reality that God doesn't always heal comes in the life of a man who was healed! Let me explain. Philippians 2 mentions a man by the name of Epaphroditus. Paul had sent him to Philippi because he longed to visit the church there. He is described as having been "... sick almost unto death..." vs. 27. Then the Scripture goes on to say that "... God had mercy on him..." which is to say that God had healed him. But here is the interesting part: Paul says that God not only had mercy on Epaphroditus, in that He healed him; but, God had mercy on Paul, in that He healed Epaphroditus! In his own words, Paul said, "... but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow..." vs. 27. And he goes on to testify that for this reason, that is the fact that he was sick, Paul made haste to send Epaphroditus to the believers at Philippi so that they may see him and fellowship with him one more time, in the event that he might  possibly die. Had he died and Paul had not sent Epaphroditus to Philippi, the indication of Scripture is that Paul would have greatly regretted that. Now, I mention this example simply to point out that IT IS CLEAR that Paul recognized first that Epaphroditus was sick. Believers sometimes experience physical sickness, suffering and disease. Secondly, Paul obviously did not know, and wasn't sure, that Epaphroditus would be healed. The great man of faith, the one who had been used in so many powerful miracles, so greatly used of God understands that it might not be God's will for his friend to healed. The fact that he wanted to send him quickly to the Philippians is an acknowledgment that while healing is always possible, it isn't always probable. God can choose not to heal. Healing is an act of the mercy of God, which is what this example shows us, but IT IS NOT TO BE UNIVERSALLY APPLIED. You see, God can heal; and God does heal; but He doesn't always heal. These examples I have provided are present to show us that when God doesn't heal, He is still worthy to be trusted!

3. What do I do when I suffer infirmities and need healing?

Well, you pray. You pray and you trust the Lord. Perhaps the better question to ask would be: how should I pray when I suffer sickness? I honestly think that there are several ways to answer this question. I see no reason why a believer wouldn't want to pray and ask God for healing. The Scripture is full of pleas from God to call upon Him in prayer with our requests and needs, and to trust and believe that He will answer. Both Old and New Testaments overflow with such references. The Psalms are packed with David's many requests of deliverance from trials, troubles and tribulations. The New Testament often teaches us to petition the Lord in faith. In fact, Hebrews 11:6 says, "... But without faith it is impossible to Him for he who comes to God, must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him..." As believers we're pray and we're to seek God for "... because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs..." Luke 11: 5. So, why wouldn't a child of God call on his/her Father and ask for healing? Certainly, it would be appropriate to do so.

But at the same time, it is important for the believer to strive to understand the heart of God in the matter. Individual circumstances differ. In the midst of sickness and suffering there may be something much bigger going on... something much bigger than the believer realizes. Like, Paul and Timothy and Trophimus, the Lord may allow the believer to suffer from physical infirmities; and He may not provide an explanation for it, at least one not adequate for our feeble understanding. Like Paul recognizing the healing of Epaphroditus as an act of God's mercy, and seeing that God could have chosen to not heal him, we must approach suffering with the desire of learning the will of God in the matter. If one suffers illness, then perhaps like Paul it is to keep that individual humble; or, perhaps like Job it is to display His Sovereignty; or like the man discussed in John 9:3, simply for the glory of God; or perhaps God has something else in mind altogether. But if you do find yourself suffering illness, disease or some other infirmity consider the words of 1 Peter 4: 19, "... Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator..." Also, remember Romans 8:28, "... And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose..."

Before I close let me address one very important matter. What you do not want to do is to twist or misinterpret Scripture to fit a certain theological construct based on preconceived notions because you are unsatisfied with your circumstance. For example, Isaiah 53: 5, "... and by His stripes we are healed..." is often used as THE verse to state that if a believer properly exercises their faith they will be healed, because we have already been healed. This faulty. It is wrong teaching. It is a misinterpretation of Scripture. It is dangerous, and it is flat out wrong. You must remember that Scripture must be interpreted in it's context; and a study of Isaiah 53 clearly reveals that Christ suffers physically (by His stripes) for our benefit spiritually (we are healed). 1 Peter 2: 24-25 drives this point home. Also, I must note the verses that mention God granting those things asked for "... in His name..." It must be understood that to ask in Jesus' name, Biblically, means to ask according to His will. The name of Jesus is not some cheap magic formula to be tossed around. Certainly, do not take the name of the Lord in vain to try and help yourself feel better!

So, if you find yourself suffering physical infirmity, then pray. Pray and seek God's face in the matter. Get a word from God from the Word of God. Probe yourself and ask the serious questions: Is my suffering the result of sin? Is my suffering a test of faithfulness to God? Is my suffering to be used as an instrument for the glory of God? Could God be using my suffering to humble me and perhaps draw me closer to Him? Is it possible that my suffering is God's will? Is God allowing me to suffer in order to provide a testimony for His healing power? These questions are worth your time, but let me warn you: prepare yourself for God's answer and be ready to abide by His will. Lastly, as you consider suffering, sickness and disease let me leave you with the Words of the Bible: "... My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing..." James 1: 2-4

Until next time...
Love in Christ,
Pastor Jeremy

The trouble with church

Jesus said, "... Upon this rock, I will build my church..." Matthew 16: 18

I was talking with a preacher friend of mine one time when I asked how is church was doing. He said to me, "Brother, my church would be doing great if it wasnt' for the people." Well, we both had a good laugh recognizing that without the people there would be no church. But underneath that simple humor lies an element of truth. The church of God, that is the people of God, not the building or the property, but the people are often times their own worst enemy.

I certainly do not want there to be any misunderstanding here. I love the church! I enjoy church! I will always be a part of a local church. However, there must be recognition given to the fact that the church is made up of imperfect people who, not only can innocently make mistakes, but also sometimes can deliberately sin and rebel against the Lord. Of course, this leads to problems in the church. By the way,it must be understood: THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A PERFECT CHURCH! And as I have so often heard it said: if you find the perfect church then don't join it, 'cause then you'll mess it up!

Now, having acknowledged my love and devotion to Christ's church I do feel it is warranted to examine and evaluate the condition of the church. It has been my observation in 16 years of ministry that people have a tendency to run to extremes. With respect to the church I will classify the extremes as the 'lovers & the haters.' On one hand you have the extreme of the 'lovers' who can go so far in their devotion to the church that they elevate church over Christ. This is sin and can not be tolerated! They forget Colossians 1:18 which says, "... And He [Christ] is the head of the body, that in all things He [Christ] may have the preeminence..." They fail to keep Scripture as the standard and in so doing tradition and men's opinions become the authority and the guide. Soon the church is overidden with dead religion and men live in the misery of their own futile, humanistic thoughts. Self is the new god and the Savior is relegated to the status of a lucky rabbit's foot. I wonder how many churches in America could be described like this?

On the other hand, you have the 'haters.' This group sees absolutely nothing good in the church. Now, mind you, in both groups I'm talking about people who are a part of the church and profess to be believers. The 'haters' are best known for their gryping, grumbling and complaining. They are often control freaks who get along fine with everyone until something happens that causes them to not have their way. It is then that they grumble and grype. They will often politicize church; maneuver themselves against God-ordained authority in the church. They will undermine the pastor, the elders and deacons. Of course such a person never does this in the open. They are usually way too cowardly to do so. No, they do their work in the background, on the telephone, or in secret meetings. Make no mistake they seem to be the greatest and godliest people in the church, until they're crossed. Then their true colors a revealed. 

May God have mercy! I have often said that the reason why there are so few, in this country, coming to Christ is because they've been to church! They've been to church and see nothing there that is any different than any other venue in society! Oh, what an indictment! The truth is we must remember that the church is the bride of the Lord Jesus Christ! She isn't our hobby! She isn't our play toy! She isn't our gang or our group! She is the church! She is the bride of Christ! And no one has any business treating the bride in any fashion less than the way her bridegroom (Jesus)  would have her to be treated (Ephesians 5: 25-33)! At the same time as part of the church we must learn to practice Biblical principles for the purpose of growth, harmony and ultimately the glory of God! We practice examination for the purpose of edification! We examine and unveil our hearts, our motives and our methods before God so that we can change and correct according to the will and the Word of the Lord. But in order to be clear I'm talking about us! I'm talking about the people. For, you see the real trouble with church is not the building, the plumbing or the sound system. The real trouble with the church is when people run to an extreme behavior that is unscriptural, unhealthy and ungodly. The individual believer must daily crucify the flesh and choose to live a surrendered life to Christ. In my estimation this is the only way for the church to overcome her shortcomings and remain spiritually effective for the kingdom of God. Until then I look forward to that grand adn glorious day described in I Thessalonians 4: 13- 18 when Jesus will snatch His bride up out of this world, glorify her, and perfect her and remove ALL the trouble out of her! Even so, come Lord Jesus!

When the Bible doesn't matter...

It has been several years ago now when I served in my first assignment as pastor of a local church. I had many unusual experiences while serving that local body. In fact, I have often referred to that time as my "seminary of hard knocks." I made many mistakes as a young, green pastor. Mistakes I would never want to make again, and yet, now have a sense of gratitude for making because of the lessons learned. There were also many difficult days during those two years of my life. Little did I know when I accepted the call to pastor there that the church had been plagued with problems for years. Of course, as I write this blog the thought comes to mind: "what church doesn't have problems?"

The ususal problems of control issues, decision making, financial matters and personality conflicts were present; but what took me by surprise was the battle fought over the Scripture. Two distinct events stick out in my mind, one of which led to my resignation as pastor. I remember one particular day in study preparing to preach when one of the church members dropped by for a visit. We exchanged pleasantries and visited for awhile. Then we began to talk about Scripture. I'll never forget the statement that he made to me. He said, "Preacher, the ten commandments don't apply to me." I was taken by surprise. He went on, "Those commandments, along with the rest of the Old Testament were meant for another people in another time, but not for me, not for us and not for our church." I understood what he meant. I had just finished a series of messages on the Ten Commandments and he was essentially rejecting everything I had preached for the last ten weeks. It was a subtle yet obvious rebuke. But then I thought and later put the question to him: which one of the commandments didn't apply to him? Was it acceptable for him to steal? Was he free to murder? Was it alright for him to commit adultery? Dishonor his parents? Covet? Practice idolatry? Take the name of the Lord in vain?

I am no legalist. I certainly do not believe that New Testament believers are still under the law, I know that we now live under grace. However, I do believe that Jesus made it clear that the spirit and the essence of the Law is applicable to the Christian. In Matthew 22 Jesus was asked which was the greatest of the commandments. He answered in verses 37-39, saying, "... You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself."  And then the Lord made this statement, "... On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets...(vs. 40)" Then, of course, we find that there are numerous occasions that  the Lord would say, "... You have heard it said by them of old... but I say to you..," a statement that never nullified a command, but one that illustrated and explained the heart of God in the command. This man had missed it. The Ten Commandments that he rejected were lived and accomplished in the life of Christ. And they did apply to him in the sense that Christ must apply to him. You see, what he was doing was segregating the Bible as though the Old Testament wasn't part of God's Inspiration. But, beloved, the Old Testament is as much the Word of God as the New Testament is! God's Word, the Holy Bible starts at Genesis, not at Matthew, and runs through Revelation.

Now, the second event was even more grievious. I had an associate pastor who was not only 50+ years my senior, but he was also well educated. At the time I had no seminary training and this man had a Thd. In Matthew 27: 46 the Bible records the cry of the Lord Jesus Christ: "... Eli, Eli, lama sabachtani, that is, My God, My God why have you forsaken me?" My associate pastor at the time said that this was an incorrect translation of Scripture. Jesus could not have been forsaken. God could not have turned away from the Son. The correct translation, he said, should have been, "But for this purpose I have come." I was shocked to say the least when learning this. I didn't understand his thinking. The Lord had already said "But for this purpose I have come..."  in John 12, not to mention that one simply needed a Hebrew dictionary to see that the words of Matthew 27: 46 were infact translated correctly. And what about Psalm 22? Of course, he rejected any correlation between Psalm 22 and what was taking place on the cross. I made the argument that he was missing the point. The real tragedy of the cross was what Jesus suffered at the hands of men, the real tragedy of the cross was what He suffered at the hands of God! Where "... He who knew no sin, became sin for us that we might become the righeousness of God in Him..." 2 Cor. 5:21. The cross is where something happened that has never happened in all of eternity, and will never happen again; and that is that God the Father forssok God the Son as He bore in Himself the sin of all humanity. It was this forsaking that compelled Jesus to fullfil the prophecy of Psalm 22 and cry out, "... My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?" This was the great sacrifice that was being made on the behalf of a lost humanity; and it was this sacrifice that my associate pastor rejected.

Sadly, everyone in leadership stood with him. They stood with error. They stood against Scripture.Looking back now I think I might have done something different, but at the time I didn't know what to do. I resigned and moved on. Since that time that associate pastor has died and a few pastors have come to that church. I believe they have been correvtly taught and have learned the truth of the cross. But, I'll never forget those days. It was a challenge that stays fresh in my memory and drives me even now all these years later. We can never lose sight of the importance of Scripture! The Word of God must have not only priority, but authority in our lives and certainly in the church! For if we neglect, change or modify the Scripture then, really, what is the point! The Psalmist wrote, "... Forever, O Lord, Your Word is settled in Heaven..." (Psalm 119: 89). Beloved, if the Word is settled with God, it most certainly should be settled with us!