Man, The Image of God #13: Something Worth Dying For

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal. 2:20).

As I reflect over this past month I can’t help but think of a few individuals who are a part of our congregation who are currently serving in our country’s armed forces. These young men (and all who have served in our armed forces for that matter) have made an oath to support and defend our constitution as a nation against all enemies, and to obey the orders given to them from the President and their commanding officers. Thus, by affirming this oath, they have stated something that is worth dying for, namely the protection and freedom of our nation. For this I believe that we should always be grateful for these individuals and their families!

This month as we celebrate Good Friday and Easter, we remember Someone else who saw something worth dying for. Jesus died for the sins of all people so that all might be able to receive eternal freedom. Jesus knew that in order to bring the possibility of eternal freedom in Heaven with God to mankind, He must pay the ultimate price, His own life. And He willingly gave His life for us on His own accord. Thus, in Jesus’ eyes, you are worth dying for.

Throughout the ages, many men and women have recognized that the cause of Christ is something worth dying for. During the years following Jesus’ ascension, tension developed between the Jews and Christians. In order for a person to be saved prior to the cross of Christ, they had to become a Jew, placing their faith in the One True God. However, with the coming of Jesus, He claimed to be the fulfillment of all the Old Testament (OT) prophesies concerning the Anointed One who was to come, the Christ (John 4:25-26). Some recognized this reality, and affirmed who Jesus was and is (Matt. 16:16). And Jesus’ death and resurrection affirmed His identity (John 20:28-29).

Since the time of the cross and resurrection of Jesus, in order for anyone to be saved: Jew and Gentile (those who are not Jewish) alike they would now have to recognize that Jesus is the One True God and place their faith in Him. This meant that for those living during that time as believing Jews would have to now place their faith in Jesus (becoming Christians) in order to remain saved. There were many Jews who were unwilling to accept this. Some of these Jews so adamantly opposed this that they sought to hunt down and kill Christians for their faith in Jesus. All of the remaining 11 disciples (excluding Judas Iscariot) died for their faith in Christ, as they sought to share the Good News of Jesus with others.

At the heart of the opposition was the fundamental Biblical truth in the Trinitarian God, and the Trinitarian God alone is to be worshiped. Most of the Jews rejected the idea of the Trinity even though it can be seen clearly in the OT (see http://eugenechristianchurch. blogspot.com/2014/05/god-revealed-7-case-for-trinity.html). While on the other hand, many of those who experienced opposition including death from those with non-Jewish backgrounds did not have any problem with the claim of Jesus being God, or God the Father, or God the Holy Spirit. Their problem was the exclusive claim of the Trinity: One God in 3 persons. This non-Jewish opposition thought that it was ok to worship 1,000s of gods (and some saw Caesar, the Emperor of the Roman Empire, as superior to the others). Yet the foundational issue that these early Christians stood for to the point of death was their belief in the Trinitarian God, and the Trinitarian God alone is to be worshiped. A similar opposition still exists today. 

 As we travel through the history of Christianity, we find numerous individuals dying for this foundational teaching. Prior to A.D. 1232, the Bible was primarily only available for those within the religious hierarchy. However, from that point on began a movement to get the Bible into the hands of the common man. John Wycliffe (A.D. 1329-1384) stood as the leading reformer. He taught, as the Bible itself teaches, that the Bible is the sole authority for faith and practice (see Deut. 4:2; Pro. 30:5-6; Matt. 15:3, 6; Luke 10:7; 1 Cor. 4:6; Col. 2:8; 1 Tim. 5:18; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 3:15-16; Rev. 22:18-19). Thus, believing this foundational principle of Christianity, Wycliffe produced the first English manuscripts of the Bible. Those who opposed the teaching of the Bible alone as the sole authority for faith and practice, and that every person has a right to have God’s Word in their own language were so infuriated by Wycliffe that after he died a natural death they dug up his bones, crushed and burned them then scatter them in a river. Similarly, many of Wycliffe’s associates and succeeding individuals who believed in the Bible alone as the sole authority were likewise put to death (Peter Waldo, William Swinderby, William Tyndale, etc.). A similar opposition still exists today.

Meanwhile, throughout the history of the church there have been many who have stood for the foundation doctrine of justification by faith alone; that is that a person is saved by faith alone in the Trinitarian God alone (John 3:16; Rom. 3:20-28; Gal. 2:16; 3:2-14; 5:1-13; Eph. 2:8-9). The opposition has claimed that yes faith is necessary but so are works in order to be saved; while the Bible teaches that good works are a natural result or evidence of salvation (Eph. 2:10; James 2:18). In A.D. 1517, Martin Luther sounded the battle cry of the Protestant Reformation which focused primarily on the foundational elements of the Bible alone and justification by faith alone (see The Encyclopedia of Christianity, “Reformation Principles,” pgs. 531-532). And as a result Luther and other reformers experienced persecution, some even died for these foundational doctrines of Christianity. And the same is true today.  

During my lifetime, I too have experienced opposition from those who oppose these same foundational principles of Christianity. While going to Bible College, my wife and I had a certain “Christian” church financially support us. After graduation, I learned that this “Christian” church did not adhere to Christ’s deity and the doctrine of the Trinity. Upon learning this, I showed them numerous passages supporting these foundational teachings, yet they rejected them. It was from that moment that I rejected our partnership with them costing me hundreds of dollars monthly. However, it was the right thing to do.

Since then, I have similarly seen people leave churches because they rejected the foundational teachings of Christianity. My heart has broken over each one of them, as I love them all dearly. While there are many doctrines that Christians can agree to disagree upon, the foundational principles are worth dying for as so many throughout church history have demonstrated. And at the end of the day, if we do not stand for anything, we will fall for everything.

Thus, I want to make very clear, I love all people regardless of their religious beliefs! Yet I challenge you to consider why you believe what you do; is it worth dying for? God bless!

In His service,

        Matt

Man, The Image of God #12: The Assurance of Salvation

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may KNOW that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13 NASB).

Do you know for a fact where you are going to spend eternity? What evidence can you provide that proves that you are in fact saved and on your way to heaven?

Last month we considered how the teaching that once a person is saved they are always saved is false. The doctrine of once saved always saved offers a dangerous sense of security which will provide a very rude awaking for some when they stand before the Lord. Furthermore, those who teach that once a person is saved they are always saved will tell you that if a person followed the Biblical plan of salvation yet ended up not going to heaven, then they will tell you that that person was never truly saved to begin with. Therefore, what concrete assurance can a person who holds to that teaching truly have? The answer is none!

On the other hand, the Bible does teach that a genuine follower of Jesus Christ can know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are in fact saved. There are three evidences that a believer has proving their salvation.

First, do you have a present active trust in Christ for your salvation? The Greek word that gets translated as “believes” in John 3:16 speaks of a present active trust in Christ for their salvation. This is something that begins when a person receives Christ and continues until the Lord calls them home. Paul tells the Colossians that they will be saved on the last day, “provided that you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel which you heard” (Col. 1:23). And Hebrews 3:14 says, “We share in Christ, if only we hold our first confidence firm to the end.” Therefore a person should ask themselves: Today, do I trust in Christ to forgive my sins and take me without blame into heaven forever? Do I have confidence in my heart that He has saved me?

If I were to die tonight and stand before God’s judgment seat, and if He were to ask me why He should let me into heaven, would I begin to think of my good deeds and depend on them, or would I without hesitation say that I am depending on the merits of Christ and am confident that He is a sufficient Savior? When a person is able to answer these questions positively, it affirms that they have saving faith.

Second, is there evidence of the Holy Spirit in your heart? The Holy Spirit testifies within our hearts that we are God’s children (Rom. 8:15-16; 1 John 4:13). This testimony will usually be accompanied by a sense of being led by the Holy Spirit in paths of obedience to do God’s will (Rom. 8:14). Similarly, the Holy Spirit will be producing the fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal. 5:22-23). Of course, the question is not, “Do I perfectly exemplify all of these characteristics in my life?” but rather, “Are these things a general characteristic of my life? Do I sense these attitudes in my heart? Do others (especially those closest to me) see these traits exhibited in my life? Have I been growing in them over a period of years?”  

Third, is there a long-term pattern of growth in your Christian life? Peter tells us that there are some character traits which, if we keep on increasing in them, will guarantee that we will “never fall” (2 Peter 1:10). He tells his readers to add to their faith “virtue…knowledge…self- control… steadfastness… godliness…brotherly affection…love” (2 Peter 1:5-7). Then he says that these things are to belong to his readers and to continually “abound” in their lives (2 Peter 1:8). He adds that they are to “be more zealous to confirm your call and election” and says then that “if you do this (literally, “these things,” referring to the character traits mentioned in verses 5-7) you will never fall” (2 Peter 1:10).

Everyone who gains assurance through a self-examination such as the one above should know, “I am truly born again; therefore, I will certainly preserve to the end, because I am guarded by God’s power working through my faith (1 Peter 1:5) and therefore I will never be lost. Jesus will raise me up at the last day and I will enter into His Kingdom forever” (John 6:40).

Once one stops trusting in Christ and obeying Him (I am speaking in terms of outward evidence) they have no genuine assurance of salvation, and they should consider themselves unsaved, and turn to Christ in repentance and ask Him for forgiveness of their sins.

In His service,

        Matt

Man, The Image of God #11: The False Security of Once Saved Always Saved

“The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced” (Matt. 13:22 NLT).

Last month, we considered the Biblical teaching on the unpardonable sin. As you recall, this is the sin of apostasy. Apostasy means to fall away from saving faith in Christ and thereby lose one’s salvation. Many Christians will think that they have committed such a sin. However, the very fact that they have had such a thought proves that they have not; the Holy Spirit is still convicting their conscience. Thus, it does not matter how far a person strays from Christ, His grace is still available for them to receive. Yet this does not negate the possibility of a genuine follower of Christ from choosing to no longer follow Him and thereby forfeit their salvation as we saw last month.

This month, I’d like us to consider some common objections that people have to the possibility of a genuine Christian losing their salvation. The first false belief that many Christians believe is that once a person has received God’s grace of salvation, they are always under that grace. However, the Apostle Paul plainly states some of the members of the church in Galatia had fallen from grace. “You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace” (Gal. 5:4). A person can only fall from a chair, if they are on a chair and a person can only fall from grace if they were in grace. Peter thinks of the conditionality of covenants and caution of God’s people, “If you do these things, you will never fall” (2 Peter 1:10). If falling from grace is impossible, then why would Peter give this warning?

A second false belief many Christians believe is that once a person is a child of God, that they are always a child of God. However, in the account of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), we see a clear picture of our relationship as Christians with our Heavenly Father. In this passage, the loving father considered his son “lost” when he was away from home (Luke 15:24). The son had to return to the father (Luke 15:17-20), and the father had to restore him into the family (Luke 15:20-24). Therefore, the son, while away from the family was no longer considered to be a part of the family.

A third false belief that many Christians believe is once a person has their name recorded in the Book of Life that their name could never be erased. However, the LORD told Moses, “Whoever has sinned against Me I will blot out of My book” (Ex. 32:33). Jesus also stated that the promise of having one’s name written in the book of life is conditional. “He who overcomes…I will never blot out His name from the book of life (Rev. 3:5).

And a fourth false belief that many Christians believe is that once a person is in Christ they are always in Christ. However, John 15 relates Christians to branches in the vine (Jesus) and God is the gardener, who, “cuts off every branch in Me (Jesus) that bears no fruit” (John 15:2). Jesus plainly states, “If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned” (John 15:6).

After considering these points, one can see that the teaching that once a person is saved, they are always saved, is clearly false. On the other hand, there are several passages which affirm that we, as faithful followers of Jesus Christ, do have assurance of our salvation. Yet those such passages do not teach unconditional perseverance. “They teach assurance, but an assurance that is consistent with our continuing to meet the conditions upon which salvation was given to us in the first place. In fact, the overwhelming testimony of the NT is that staying saved is just as conditional as becoming saved. These are gracious conditions of course, and not legalistic ones. As Christians, we remain justified by faith, not by good works as Romans 3:28 teaches” (Jack Cottrell, The Faith Once for All, p. 376). 

 There are several places throughout the Bible that teach saving faith must have continuing implications. First, in the original Greek of John 3:16, the word belief speaks of a faith that begins at a certain moment but continues to make a difference in a person’s life. It is a present active trust in Christ for one’s salvation. Second, Jesus said, “IF you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine” (John 8:31 NASB, emphasis mine). Third, in John 15 Jesus teaches that those who do not remain in Him will be cast out and burned, a clear reference to hell. Fourth, the Apostle Paul said, “Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, IF you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain” (1 Cor. 15:1-2 emphasis mine). Cottrell also points out how in Romans 11:22, Paul describes Jews who became unbelievers as “those who fell,” and he says that any Christian who does not continue to trust in the provisions of God’s grace “will be cut off.” In the former case the lostness is actual, and in the latter case it is potential; but in both cases it is real (The Faith Once For All, p. 378).

Our salvation is much like the following illustration: picture a father crossing a busy highway with a small child by his side holding his hand quite firmly. The father has good judgment and he is capable of shielding the child from any calamity and protecting him from any outside force harming him as they make their way across the highway. The one which the father cannot prevent is the child being willful and wrenching himself free from his grasp, running off and being struck by a vehicle. This seems to me an adequate parable of what Paul means in Romans 8:31-39. God has a firm loving grip on the believer, and no outside force can separate the believer from God and God’s love.

A believer cannot lose his or her salvation as one might lose one’s glasses. But by willful rebellion, there is the possibility of falling away, of making shipwrecking of one’s faith. The Good News, then, is that one cannot lose or misplace one’s salvation or simply wander away by accident. Indeed, only by an enormous willful effort could one throw it away. Such is the loving grasp God has on His children (Ben Witherington III. Paul’s Letter to the Romans a Socio-Rhetorical Commentary, p. 235).

In His service,

        Matt

Man, The Image of God #10: The Unpardonable Sin

“Every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven—except blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which will never be forgiven” (Matt 12:31 NLT).

The Bible teaches that a person receives salvation (the forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life) by God’s grace through our faith in Jesus’s death on the cross. However, Jesus says that there is a sin that is unpardonable. What is the unpardonable sin?

The unpardonable sin is best explained in an illustration. Think of a person’s saving faith like a rope that has several knots in it to help a person climb up and hang on. The knots are things like personal experiences where God worked in recognizable ways in their life, the love of other Christians, the truths contained in God’s Word, creation itself testifying of God’s existence, etc. The last knot is the Holy Spirit.

Scripture teaches that the Spirit convicts our hearts about sin. When a Christian repeatedly rejects that conviction, their hearts begin to harden. Eventually, this person reveals by their thoughts and actions that they want nothing to do with following God. They made the freewill choice to place their faith in Christ and now, they are making the freewill choice to reject Christ.

So, how does one know if they have reached the point of rejecting Christ?  Let’s consider this: “For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame” (Heb. 6:4-6 NASB). Here we find 5 descriptions of a genuine Christian.

First, they were “enlightened.” Only genuine believers can see the light for “the god of this world (Satan) has blinded the minds of the unbelieving” so they cannot understand the Gospel (2 Cor. 4:4, 6; Matt. 13:19-21; Acts 26:18; Heb. 10:32). This is why some of your non-Christian friends look at you like a deer in the headlights.

Second, they “tasted of the heavenly gift.” The gift of salvation is only for genuine believers (Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:8-9). It is Jesus who gives this “heavenly gift” only to those who come and ask Him for it (John 4:10).

Third, they “have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit.” Only genuine believers receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 7:37-39; Acts 2:38; 1 Cor. 12:13; Titus 3:5).

Fourth, they “have tasted the good word of God.” Non-believers do not understand the incredible palate of spiritual food in the Bible ((Psalm 34:8; 119:101-103; Jer. 15:16; Eph. 6:17; 1 Peter 2:2-3). It is also important to recognize that “tasting” does not imply a sampling (Heb. 2:9).

And fifth, they “have tasted the powers of the age to come.”  Jack Cottrell explains this as already having experienced resurrection from spiritual death (Eph. 2:5; Col, 2:12-13), in anticipation of the future redemptive resurrection of the body (The Faith Once for All, p. 380).   

On the other hand, numerous passages teach that a person can choose to turn away from God after becoming a genuine follower of Christ (Matt. 13:1-23; Luke 15:11-32; Gal. 5:4; Heb. 10:26-27; 12:15; 2 Peter 1:10; Rev. 3:5; etc.). Alger Fitch said, “It is difficult to understand why the Holy Spirit would give us 21 New Testament books to tell us how to abide faithfully in Christ and only the one book of Acts to tell us how to become Christians, if there were no possibility of falling. Why is there such a disproportionate ratio, if falling away is impossible?” (Pick The Brighter Tulip, p. 65) 

In conclusion, the unpardonable sin is choosing to ignore the Holy Spirit’s conviction. This ultimately takes places in every person who never chooses to receive Christ as Lord of their lives and it can happen in the life a Christian who decides they no longer want to be a Christian. This is known as apostasy; it is a falling away from Christ, rejecting the salvation He made available and there is no forgiveness for this sin. 

Next month we will consider objections that some make to the possibility of a believer giving up their salvation. But for now, let’s consider how a person can give up their salvation and thereby commit the unpardonable sin. First, spiritual suicide: the deliberate decision to stop believing in Christ and His saving work, thus renouncing the Christian faith (Heb. 6:4-6; 10:26-29). Second, slow spiritual starvation: faith must be continually nurtured and practiced (2 Peter 2:10-11). And third, the strangulation of sin: if a Christian continually practices sin without fighting against it, sooner or later it will  choke the life out of their faith (Matt. 13:7, 22).

It is my prayer that you continually respond to the Holy Spirit’s conviction so you do not find yourself committing the unpardonable sin.

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #9: Sin in the Life of a Christian

“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).

As embarrassing as it is, I have a confession to make…I still struggle with certain sins at times. Chances are, you can relate to this as well. The Apostle Paul confessed that he too struggled with sin (Rom. 7:14-25). And as we saw last month, sin is serious. God in His perfect love, holiness, and justice must punish sin. For if He does not, He is not truly loving, holy or just as He would be leaving crimes unpunished. Yet what about God’s justice concerning sin in the life of a follower of Christ? Thus, what happens when a Christian sins? 

There are several things that need to be considered about sin in the life of a believer. First, their legal standing before God is unchanged. Romans 8:1 states, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” God tells us in His Word that when we became followers of Christ that “He forgave us all our sins” (Col. 2:13). Thus, the punishment for our sins: past, present and future was dealt with on the cross (Col. 2:14). Does this mean that we can just go on sinning since we have received God’s grace? By no means! (Rom. 6:1–2).

Second, God convicts believers of their sins. This was clearly the case with the Apostle Paul. He agonized over his sins that he struggled with as a believer (Rom. 7:23-24). Paul’s heart was saddened by his guilt of sin. David expressed this same emotion as he recognized the seriousness of his adultery with Bathsheba and murder of her husband (Ps. 51). All true believers experience God’s conviction of their sins. And thankfully the letter of First John was written to believers and it includes the remedy which removes God’s conviction. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

However, if the believer continues in that sin, they experience God’s hand of discipline (Heb. 12:5-11). Just as discipline from our earthly parents was painful as a child, so too is discipline from our Heavenly Father painful. Thus, there are times in which believers experience sickness, great trials, and hardships as a result of God’s discipline. This was the case for certain individuals who partook of the Lord’s Supper in an unworthy manner, such as having unconfessed sin in their lives (1 Cor. 11:27-32). Sometimes God’s hand of discipline in the life of a believer can even include death before their time (1 Cor. 11:30).

Fourth, if a Christian has unconfessed sin in their life, God refuses to answer their prayers (Ps. 66:18; Isa. 59:1-2). Thus, the fellowship that the believer shares with God can be damaged and disrupted. Wayne Grudem said, “When we sin, even though God does not cease to love us, He is displeased with us. Even among human beings, it is possible to love someone and be displeased with that person at the same time, as any parent will attest, or any wife, or any husband” (Systematic Theology, pg. 504). This, along with the other consequences of sin in the life of a Christian are meant to bring about repentance and restoration of our relationship with God.

Fifth, when we as Christians sin, we can suffer the loss of heavenly rewards (1 Cor. 3:15; 9:25-27).  “Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully” (2 John 1:8).

And sixth, a believer who continues in sin can find their spiritual life being choked out. Next month we will consider what this means in detail. But for now, let us once again recognize the seriousness of sin, confess them to God, and thank Him for the deliverance that we have through Christ (Rom. 7:25). 

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #8: The Seriousness of Sin

“For the wages of sin is death...” (Rom. 6:23a).

One writer asked, “What would you put on your list of the most important things to pursue and attain during your life-time? Some of the things that a lot of people would probably put on their list would fall under the categories of wealth, respect, happiness, and health. However, two things that Jesus said should be at the top of our list are avoiding sin and obtaining eternal life” (Pastor Jeff Miles).

Society has a way of downplaying sin, yet Jesus and the Bible do not. Sin is a very serious issue. Studies have proven that sin can add sadness to our hearts. It can lower our self-esteem. It allows bitterness and resentment in. It can leave us with a significant amount of guilt. And it can allow doubt to creep in. But more than any of these things, sin creates separation from God (Kelli Mahoney, What are the Emotional Effects of Sin, see http://christianteens.about.com/od/christianliving/tp/What-Are-The-Emotional-Effects-Of-Sin.htm).  

God hates sin since He is infinitely good and just. He banished Adam and Eve from His presence in the Garden of Eden on account of their sin. He had Joshua and the Israelite army destroy the Canaanites on account of “every abominable act which the Lord hates they have done for their gods” (Deut. 12:31). God had been patient with them for 600 years (Gen. 15:16: Deut. 9:4), yet eventually His justice for their sins had to be served. And it was on account of sin that Moses never entered the Promised Land (Num. 20:12).

So why does God hate sin and consider it to be as serious as He does? “Sin is a violation of God’s law, and His law is a description of His own perfect moral character, a mirror or transcript of divine holiness. We cannot separate God’s law from God Himself. Thus, to commit a sin is not just to break some impersonal, arbitrary rule; rather, it is a rebellion against God personally. To break God’s law is an insult to God, a blow against God, a slap in His face, a contradiction of His very nature” (Jack Cottrell, The Faith Once For All, p. 163).

R.C. Sproul said, “Sin is cosmic treason. Sin is treason against a perfectly pure Sovereign. It is an act of supreme ingratitude toward One to whom we owe everything, to the One who has given us life itself. Have you ever considered the deeper implications of the slightest sin, of the most minute (sin)? What are we saying to our Creator when we disobey Him at the slightest point? We are saying “No” to the righteousness of God. We are saying, “God, Your law is not good. My judgment is better than Yours. Your authority does not apply to me. I am above and beyond Your jurisdiction. I have the right to do what I want to do, not what You command me to do.”

The slightest sin is an act of defiance against cosmic authority. It is a revolutionary act, a rebellious act where we are setting ourselves in opposition to the One to whom we owe everything. It is an insult to His holiness…What could be more serious than this? (Holiness, p. 151-152).

Thankfully, we are not saved by keeping the law; we are saved by grace through faith alone in what Jesus has done for us on the cross (Eph. 2:8-9). “He became sin who knew no sin so that we might become the righteousness of Christ” (2 Cor. 5:21). Even still, we are commanded to avoid sin at all possible cost, for sin is a snare with serious consequences (Mark 9:42-50). Therefore, I encourage you to “throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy” (Eph. 4:22-24 NLT).

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #7: Do All Babies Go to Heaven? (Part #3)

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it” (Pro. 22:6)

This past month school started. Public education can be a wonderful thing. We have been blessed with many wonderful teachers and staff members here in Eugene and the surrounding areas. Yet educating our kids is not just something that is to take place in the classroom, we as parents have a huge responsibility.

Over the past 2 months we have considered how the doctrine of original sin (that mankind inherited sin from Adam and Eve) is not Biblical. A person cannot be held accountable for the sins of their parents or children (Ezek. 18:4, 20; Rom. 14:12). And Scripture confirms that originally all people are created morally upright just like Adam and Eve were (Ecc. 7:29).

Furthermore, the Apostle Paul spoke of a time in which he was alive spiritually but then when the law came, he says that he died spiritually (Rom. 7:8-9).  The only time then that a person could be alive spiritually in the absence of God’s law is prior to them understanding good from evil, right from wrong (Deut. 1:39; Jonah 4:11; Rom. 9:11).

From these passages we find the doctrine of original grace, every person who does not come to the point of understanding right from wrong yet perishes is assured of their salvation. This naturally leads to the doctrine of the age of accountability. When a child does understand right from wrong they are now accountable for their sins.

Unfortunately, Scripture tells us that at that point all sin, and thus, die spiritually just like Paul explained (Rom. 3:23; 7:9).   This places a huge responsibility upon us as parents. The Bible teaches that we are to raise up our kids in the ways of the Lord. Dr. James Dobson said, “There is nothing more important to most Christian parents than the salvation of their children.”

The Lord commands us to tell our kids about the Lord as we go through life (Deut. 6:6-7). So don’t just drop your kids off at the mall. Go with them. Talk to them about what they see. When they see the outfits that have necklines that meet the hemlines; it is an educational moment. Ask your kids what they think an outfit like that is trying to tell you about your bodies, and how you should think about yourself? What do you think that that kind of outfit will tell others when they see you in it? What do you think that boys will think when they see you in it? This should be the case in all of life. So while you are watching TV, use it as a teaching moment to discuss what is going on. Class is always in session, and dad and mom are the teachers. That is what Scripture commands us to do. Remember, this is about the salvation of your kids.

As parents we are to teach our kids about the Lord through our words and through our actions. If you want your kids to follow the Lord, do you follow Him? Sadly, there is not much difference between the majority of Christian parents and parents who are not Christians. So are you modeling what a Christian is supposed to look like?

Can they tell by your actions that your faith in Christ matters to you? Do you communicate with God on a daily basis through prayer, and reading the Bible? Are you actively a part of His body, the church? And are you taking part in the Great Commission through sharing your faith?

Remember, there is nothing more important than the salvation of your kids. Therefore, may we as parents teach our kids about the Lord and model what it means to be a genuine Christian to them.    

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #7: Do All Babies Go to Heaven? (Part #2)

 “Don’t you see that children are God’s best gift, the fruit of the womb His generous legacy? Like a warrior’s fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! (Psa. 127:3-5a MSG)

Children are such an amazing blessing from the Lord and a great responsibility at the same time! Therefore, this month we are going to finish the discussion on what happens to babies when they die and then begin to consider how we as parents should respond to blessings that God has entrusted us with in our kids. As we saw last month, the Bible teaches original grace. Every person is given the same opportunity to choose God or choose to give in to the sinful desires before us. Sadly, every person who has ever been born (with the exception of Jesus) has chosen to give into that temptation once they had the ability of knowing right from wrong. At that time we died spiritually (for more information see http://eugenechristianchurch.blogspot.com/2016/07/man-image-of-god-7-do-all-babies-go-to.html).

On the other hand, some Christians/churches believe in original sin: everyone is held accountable for Adam and Eve’s sin in the Garden since they are our original parents. But if this teaching does not come from the Bible (as explained in last month’s article), then where did it come from?

It came from Origen (AD 185-254). Initially, he taught that all souls lived in a previous celestial existence before coming to earth as a baby. Eventually Origen was banished from Alexandria, and upon coming to Caesarea, he came in contact with the practice of infant baptism. Since in the early church, baptism was connected with the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21), it became necessary to “find” some sin an infant could be guilty of, for which he would need to be baptized. Since it was not possible for the infant to have personally committed any sin, it must be some inherited guilt.

Origen found that sin. He borrowed the idea of seminal existence from Hebrews 7:9-10, and applied it to everyone. It was from the Old Testament ceremony of purification that he also developed his idea of inborn “uncleanness!” Thus, the false doctrine of original sin began with Origen and was later taught by Augustine.

Tertullian (AD 160-220), arrived at the same conclusion because of Stoic philosophy, in particular the belief that the soul of an infant is procreated or transmitted to the child during conception, by which all qualities of the parents are reproduced in the child. Tertullian believed that the qualities Adam and Eve passed on were their fallen nature and being corrupted by the curse, contrary to Genesis 9:6. Thus, none of these 3 church leaders (Origen, Augustine, Tertullian), got their doctrine of original sin from Scripture (for more information see Gareth Reese, Romans, p. 233-234).

Thus, the idea of original sin is not based on Scripture. Therefore, it is my prayer that you see the grace God has poured out on your children and that they are a blessing from the Lord. Furthermore, we can rest assured that, heaven forbid, they should die prior to coming to the knowledge of right and wrong, good and evil, we know where they are spending eternity.

On the other hand, the Biblical doctrine of original grace through the age of accountability does give us as parents a large responsibility. The Bible does not give a specific age at which a person becomes accountable for their sins since we all mature at different rates. Some it could be as early as 4 or 5; but most will mature a little later. Remember, the age of accountability is when they know the difference between right and wrong. Therefore, the Bible admonishes us repeatedly to train up our kids in the ways of the Lord. There is nothing more important as parents than the salvation of your kids.

Next month we will consider some specifics of how to lead our kids to Christ. But for now, I would encourage you to never forget what an incredible blessing God has given you in your children. May we never take them for granted.

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #7: Do All Babies Go to Heaven? (Part #1)

In August, Beth and I will celebrate 15 years of marriage. Over that time we have suffered from 4 pregnancy losses. The pain that one experiences from this loss can be intense. A beloved child has died.

Likewise, in the news lately we have heard stories of a 2 year old being eaten by alligators, and if we looked elsewhere we would find more accounts of people dying at extremely early ages. When tragedy of this magnitude strikes, a lot of questions come racing into our minds. We naturally wonder why they happened, and what the destiny is of our dearly departed loved one, who was so young. This article will address what the Bible says about their eternal destiny. The same could be said of those who are severely mentally handicapped from birth.

 At first glance this can be a very confusing topic because certain passages seem to teach that all people without distinction are sinners from the womb and are therefore headed to hell without them placing their faith in Christ. Take for example the following passages. “There is no one righteous, not even one” (Rom. 3:10). “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23).

The two most significant proof texts that are used to teach the belief that people are sinful from the womb and all headed to hell from that point on are Romans 5:12 “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man (Adam), and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned.” And the NIV translates David’s words in Psalm 51:5 in the following way: “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.”

It is on the account of passages like these that many Christians and churches teach something called the “Doctrine of Original Sin.” That is, since Adam and Eve are the original parents of all mankind, when they sinned, all of their descendants— every person who has ever lived— is likewise held accountable for their actions. To quote one writer, “As much as it pulls on our heartstrings, children and the feeble-minded are just as deserving of hell as the rest of us.” 

However, 2 Timothy 3:16 states that “ALL Scripture is inspired by God…” Thus, God’s word is without error or contradiction. Therefore, proper Biblical theology MUST take into consideration ALL passages concerning a topic. So what else does the Bible teach on this topic?

The Bible plainly states that a person cannot be held accountable for someone else’s sins, specifically in context, for the sins of their parents or their children (Ezek. 18:4, 20; see also Deut. 24:16; 2 Chron. 25:4; Ecc. 11:9; Matt. 16:27; Rom. 2:6; 14:12; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rev. 2:23; 20:12). Interestingly, this is contrary to the teaching of original sin— that all mankind is held accountable for our original parents’ sin. So which is right??

How do we explain Romans 5:12 and Psalm 51:5 with the other passages? Let us start by considering the context of Romans 5 since it is the clearest of these two passages.

In the previous 11 verses the Apostle Paul stresses that salvation is from God. Even when we were against God, Christ died for us (Rom 5:8). We have been made right with God and now enjoy reconciliation with Him thanks to what Jesus has done. Then we come to the passage in question. In verse 12, Paul says, “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned.” As a result of Adam’s sin, death entered the world, and physical death does affect every person.

Verse 13-14 continue on, “for before the law was given, sin was in the world. But sin is not taken into account when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, (CATCH THIS) even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who was a pattern of the One to come.”

Paul is telling us that certain laws and guidelines do not apply to certain individuals. For example, a five-year-old does not know what a speed limit is, nor does this law apply to them because they do not drive. However, at the appropriate time, this law will apply to them when they start driving with a permit or drivers’ license. The speed limit laws will then apply to them because they are of age and operating within the limits of our society. The law existed when they were 5, but its application and authority over them came later in life.

Paul speaks of the time in his own life in which he was alive spiritually but then when the law came, he says that he died spiritually (Rom. 7:8-9).  The only time then that a person could be alive spiritually in the absence of God’s law is prior to them understanding good from evil, right from wrong (Deut. 1:39; Isa. 7:16; Jonah 4:11; Rom. 9:11).

Furthermore, back in Romans 5, the Apostle Paul continues by explaining that whatever mankind received from Adam has been completely nullified by the atoning work of Jesus Christ! "...through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men" (Rom. 5:18 NASB). Thus, the only consequence which remains is physical death yet this is overcome by the promise of eternal life!

But what about David saying that he was sinful from birth (Ps. 51:5)?  Contrary to the NIV, David does not apply the sin and iniquity to himself. The phrases “in iniquity” and “in sin” are used to modify the act of being conceived and the act of being born...the sin belongs to the mother. "In sin my mother conceived me" would be grammatically the same as saying "in drunkenness my father beat me." On the other hand, it's possible that the phrases "in iniquity" and "in sin" are meant to describe the pervasiveness of sin in the world into which David was born. Thus, David is expressing and confessing his awareness of the depth of sin in his heart and the seriousness of his sin with Bathsheba (see Jack Cottrell, The Faith Once for All, p. 181-182).

Therefore, what is the answer to the question of the eternal destiny of young children and those who are severely mentally handicapped from birth? The answer is original grace. Jesus said it like this. “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mark. 10:14).

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #6: The Choice

“This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live” (Deut. 30:19). 

God did not force Adam and Eve to love and obey Him. Rather, He gave them a choice. He placed them in the Garden of Eden that was full of wonderful delights and invited them to partake of any tree except one, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If they chose to pursue their own desires for what they had been warned not to, consequences would result. The primary consequence would be a separation from the One who greatly loved them, God Himself. And that is the type of death that Adam and Eve experienced on that day for we know that they chose their own desires rather than God (Gen. 2:17).

True love demands a choice. Likewise, love cannot be forced; it requires a freewill decision. With the freedom of Adam and Eve’s choice came the potential for the highest love or the gravest peril. Unfortunately, they chose not to love the One who gave them life, and the One who sought to protect them from the dangers of going down the wrong path.

This was a catastrophic decision. “The corruption and condemnation resulting from sin are experienced not only by human beings but also by the entire universe. Man as the image of God is designed to stand in a particular relationship with both God and the world. When sin corrupts the image, these relationships are also distorted. Thus, when the human race fell into sin, in a real sense the physical creation as a whole experienced a fall. The penal consequences of sin apply not only to human beings, but also to the whole of creation. Thus, in addition to human death there is a kind of cosmic death, a cosmic curse” (Jack Cottrell, The Faith Once for All, p. 215).

Much of the evil and suffering that is in our world today is a result of Adam and Eve’s sin. Like it or not, other people’s choices do impact us. An example of this is the choice of one person to drink and drive which can result in the death of an innocent individual who was merely in the wrong place at the wrong time. And unfortunately, the consequences of our original parents in the Garden have far reaching affects. Much of the suffering, cancer, diseases and death are a result of the fall.

On the other hand, we should not point the finger too harshly at Adam and Eve since, given time, every one of us would have done the same thing. How do we know that? Ecclesiastes 7:29 states, “God made humankind upright, but they have sought many evil schemes” (NET). And Romans 3:23 says “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

While mankind has maintained the likeness of God despite the fall in the Garden (James 3:9), we are not fully like God as prior to the fall. Wayne Grudem explains this in the following way. Man’s “moral purity has been lost and his sinful character certainly does not reflect God’s holiness. His intellect is corrupted by falsehood and misunderstanding; his speech no longer continually glorifies God; his relationships are often governed by selfishness rather than love, and so forth.

Though man is still in the image of God, in every aspect of life some parts of that image have been distorted or lost. The full measure of the excellence of our humanity will not be seen again in life on earth until Christ returns and we have obtained all the benefits of the salvation He earned for us. Nonetheless, it is encouraging to turn to the New Testament and see that our redemption in Christ means that we can, even in this life, progressively grow into more and more likeness to God” (Systematic Theology, p. 444). For example, Paul says that we as Christians have a new nature which is “being renewed in knowledge after the image of its Creator” (Col. 3:10).

Therefore, as we grow in Christian maturity, we grow and radiate more of His glory (2 Cor. 3:18). The evidence of this glory can be seen in the fruit of the Spirit being present in our life: such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23). Thus, may we make the choice to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength.  

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #5: What in the World Am I Here for (Part 6)?—At the End of the Day

Jesus said to His followers, “Go everywhere in the world and tell the Good News to everyone” (Mark 16:15 NCV).

As Christians, we are blessed and highly favored. We are blessed by God’s presence, love, grace, wisdom, strength, and hope. Likewise, we are blessed by other followers of Jesus who can help us along the way. We have a lot to be thankful for. I wonder, have you ever thanked those who had an influence in you becoming a Christian?

Jesus commands us believers to share the Good News with others who do not know; in this our lives find purpose and meaning. But unfortunately, many in our world have not received the blessings that we as Christians have. There are 2 billion people alive today who have seldom if ever heard the name of Jesus. Of these, 70,000 people die every day without Christ. Of all the full-time Christian workers, only 5% are working among these unreached people groups. And only 1% of the money given to Christian causes actually goes to reaching these people with the hope of Jesus Christ.

Why do these statistics exist? The reason relates to the two different classes of Christians. “You will either be a world-class Christian or a worldly Christian” (Paul Borthwick, A Mind for Missions). Rick Warren contrasts these two groups in the following way. “Worldly Christians look to God primarily for personal fulfillment. They are saved, but self-centered. They may love to attend concerts and enrichment seminars, but you would never find them at a missions’ conference because they aren’t interested. Their prayers focus on their own needs, blessings, and happiness. It’s a ‘me-first’ faith: how can God make my life more comfortable? They want to use God for their purposes instead of being used for His purposes” Purpose Driven Life, p. 297).

Frequently, when you talk with worldly Christians about sending missionaries and/or financial resources to help those who have never even heard the Good News of Jesus, they will point to people here who are not yet Christians even though they have heard the message numerous times. In our country it is virtually impossible not to hear the message numerous times from the churches & radios that are in almost every town, from various TV programs, holidays, etc. In this, worldly Christians selfishly refuse to consider those who are lost and have very few going to serve them.

When the early church began carrying out the Great Commission in Jerusalem and the land of Israel, not everyone became believers. What would have happened if they refused to move out and share the Good News with others living in different parts of the world? The simple answer is that we would be in the same position that some 2 billion people are currently in: without hope. That is the result of worldly Christians.

In contrast, “world-class Christians know they were saved to serve and made for a mission. They are eager to receive a personal assignment and excited about the privilege of being used by God. World-class Christians are the only fully alive people on the planet. Their joy, confidence, and enthusiasm are contagious because they know they’re making a difference. They wake up each morning expecting God to work through them in fresh ways. Which type of Christian do you want to be?” (Purpose Driven Life, p. 298)

Making the transition from a worldly Christian to a world-class Christian is not easy. We need God’s help so it starts with prayer. Second, we have to change our thinking to consider the interests of others (Phil. 2:4). This is exactly what those who shared the hope of Jesus Christ with you did; and we should do the same. Thinking of the needs of others includes thinking globally. “For God so loved the world…” (John 3:16). 

Does this mean that we are to ignore those around us to focus exclusively overseas?  NO! The Great Commission commands us to fulfill all areas at the same time (see Acts 1:8). But how is that possible? This takes place through prayer, financially sending others, going ourselves on short-term trips, training and mobilizing others to go, while at the same time seeking to make disciples wherever the Lord has you.

In conclusion, it is my prayer that you would pass on the hope that we have in Christ to a world in need of Jesus. It is a life worth living.

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #5: What in the World Am I Here for (Part 5)?—A Battle to Fight

John Eldredge said, “Deep in his heart, every man longs for a battle to fight, an adventure to live, and a beauty to rescue”
(Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul).

The same could basically be said for every woman as well. Deep within every person is the desire to accomplish something with their life; something that will make a difference in the lives of others. The Apostle Paul said it like this: “The most important thing is that I complete my mission, the work that the Lord Jesus gave me” (Acts 20:24 NCV). The mission that God gave Paul was to share the hope that is found only in the Good News of Jesus Christ. That is your mission as well.

God has placed you where you are at in this world so that through you others might know about Jesus. And some people will never know about Jesus and what He has done for them unless you tell them. Rick Warren said, “Telling others how they can have eternal life is the greatest thing you can do for them. If your neighbor had cancer or AIDS, and you knew the cure, it would be criminal to withhold that lifesaving information. Even worse is to keep secret the way to forgiveness, purpose, peace, and eternal life. We have the greatest news in the world, and sharing it is the greatest kindness you can show to anyone” (Purpose Driven Life, p. 283-284).

While there are 6 different evangelistic styles listed in the Bible, sharing your faith with someone is as simple as telling them what your life was like prior to becoming a Christian, how you came to the conclusion that you wanted to become a Christ-follower, and what God has done in your life since becoming a Christian.  “It is easy to get distracted and sidetracked from your life’s mission of sharing the hope that you have in Christ because Satan would rather have you do anything besides sharing your faith. He will let you do all kinds of good things as long as you don’t take anyone to heaven with you. But the moment you become serious about your mission, expect the devil to throw all kinds of diversions at you” (Purpose Driven Life, p. 286). Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “The righteous (person) is the one who lives for the next generation.” 

If you had a family member who was in a burning building and you knew that it was on fire but they denied it, would you not do everything that you can to get them out including tackling them? You know that they might even be upset with you at first or even hurt from the force which you had to use to get them out. But these things would not matter in the end because you saved their lives.

In fact after they realized just what danger they were in and how you saved them even though they fought you, they would be forever grateful for what you did. Sometimes this may even mean taking classes to be a firefighter, or learning kung-fu to knock them down in order to get them out of the burning building. Even if it took a lot of time and effort to accomplish the goal of getting them out alive, wouldn’t it all be worth it? Of course it would!

That is the exact picture many of us find ourselves in with our family members, if we really love them then we must do whatever it takes to open our family members’ eyes to the truth! And in so doing you will be fulfilling one of your God-given purposes in life, and blessed with the joy of knowing that your life has made an eternal difference just as someone did for you.

In His service,

     Matt

Man, The Image of God #5: What in the World Am I Here for (Part 4)?—Blessed to be a Blessing

“It is God Himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ago He planned that we should spend these lives in helping others” (Eph. 2:10 LB).

One thing that I’ve learned talking to people over the years is that both Christians and non-Christians alike have a desire deep within them to make a difference in other people’s lives. This is frequently why people become medical professionals, firefighters, police officers, school teachers, social workers, etc. Rick Warren said, “In God’s kingdom, you have a place, a purpose, a role, and a function to fulfill. This gives your life great significance and value… (When we serve others, being motivated by a love for God, we are actually serving the Lord). We don’t serve God out of guilt or fear or even duty, but out of joy, and deep gratitude for what He’s done for us” (Purpose Driven Life, p. 228). 

You and I have been blessed to be a blessing. We are meant to help others. When you help others, needs are met, lives are changed, you feel better about yourself, and the world becomes a better place.

Unfortunately though, many suppress their God-given purpose of helping others. “Serving tends to be the opposite of our natural inclination. Most of the time we’re more interested in ‘serve us’ than service. We say, ‘I’m looking for a church that meets my needs and blesses me, not ‘I’m looking for a place to serve and be a blessing.’ We expect others to serve us, not vice versa. But as we mature in Christ, the focus of our lives should increasingly shift to living a life of service. The mature follower of Jesus stops asking, ‘Who’s going to meet my needs? And starts asking, “Whose needs can I meet?” (Purpose Driven Life, p. 231).

Corrie Ten Boom said, “The measure of a life after all, is not its duration, but its donation.” You and I were born to be a blessing to others. Therefore, in the words of John Wesley, “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as you can.”

This is one of the reasons that we at Eugene Christian Church seek to offer a variety of opportunities to serve and help those within the community and abroad. And God has blessed us with several very gifted and skilled individuals who can serve in a great variety of ways. However, one’s gifts and talents do not exclude them from being a blessing to others.

The Bible tells us that there will be a Day when Jesus returns and He will say to some as they give an account for their lives: “…Come, you who are blessed by My Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited Me in, I needed clothes and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you came to visit Me.' "Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? When did we see You a stranger and invite You in, or needing clothes and clothe You? When did we see You sick or in prison and go to visit You?' "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' (Matt. 25:34-40).

What matters is the little things we do for others. So may all of us seek out ways that we can be a blessing to others, and you my friend, will be blessed in return.   

In His service,

     Matt