Change is good

When President Obama ran for President he won the race because he promised "change" in the way the Nation would be run after he won the Office. I do not wish to enter the political part of the this but one thing I do need to say is that "change" is good when it comes to serving God. When someone needs change in their lives from sin and disappointment then change is exactly what one needs to get to the place of real peace and joy in their lives. I am not just encouraging someone to attend a Church (some of the most vile people I know go to a church) I am sharing the truth of God's promises to those who come to him for real change. Being Born Again is "real change" when the transforming power of the Lord enters one's life. The change happens when sins grip in that persons life is released by the blood of Jesus. Looking for change? Look to Jesus!!

Reaching forth

"Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead" Phil 3:13

This scripture has become a focal point in my Ministry now more than ever. When we observe Paul in this writing he uses the first person singular “I” fifteen times from verse four to fourteen shows us the growth of his own soul before God. This maturity process is triggered by the life changing event of becoming a true Christian. Being a Christian is a life long process of becoming mature. When we see Paul address the brethren he is writing those who know and serve Christ without doubts. Paul addresses the brethren and draws them by his experience and also reminds us we must continue to grow. One thing I have noticed about persons who claim be a Christian is their walk with God. Paul writes that "the Lord apprehended me. Now I need to apprehend what he has apprehended me for". We must embrace the purpose for which you have been apprehended. Do you have unfinished business in your life? Sometimes God will allow us to fall on our face to keep us from the delusion that we are better than other Christians. We sometimes become spiritually smug. This fault creates a spiritual fat head. God then will bust our inflated ego and deflate our pride. Remember this ...."Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall". (Prov. 16:18).

Bringing the point home

I remember the first time someone came to me and was offended by the sermon I preached that day. I stood there in shock as the person unleashed a volley of concerns about the need to air peoples dirty laundry over the pulpit. I asked the person to share with me who it was that I was talking about? They stated "I promised them not to tell you". I replied that that was interesting and I also realized that people confide in some individuals and not come to me as the Pastor. I told the person that while maybe the dirty laundry came out in the message I would be more concerned with the fact that the person even had dirty laundry. I believe that the Bible reveals this in Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins". So the next time you hear me preach be prepared to have your dirty laundry aired by the word of God. The wages of sin is still death......

What does the Bible say about Holiness ?

Greetings in Jesus Name,

This Blog comes from Pastor Donald Watson from Solid Rock Full Gospel Holiness Church in Claire, Michigan.

The UPC (again, I am using the word UPC as a general term for any holiness Oneness Pentecostal organization or church) believes that there are specific "holiness standards" that we must adhere to. Some churches debate whether or not adhering to these standards is required for salvation, but–in my experience–people who do not adhere to the "standards" are considered rebellious. Many Oneness Pentecostals view these people as unsaved. Also, people who initially adhere to the standards and then begin to doubt their validity are viewed as being "backslidden."

So, once again, the problem lies in the UPC view of holiness.

The question we must ask is, "What does the Bible say about holiness?"

The flagship Scripture used by the UPC is Hebrews 12:14, which says:

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord… (Heb 12:14 KJV)

The word holiness that is used in this Scripture is "sanctification." Sanctification means "Separation unto God1." That’s it. Separation unto God. It has nothing to do with standards of dress. Every time that the word was used in Scripture it referred to separation from sin or general separation from the old, unregenerated lifestyle. To illustrate this point, here is a list in context of all the times this particular Greek word that we translate "sanctification" or "holiness" was used in the New Testament:

(Rom 6:16-22 NASB)

Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness, resulting in further lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, resulting in sanctification. For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. Therefore what benefit were you then deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the outcome of those things is death. But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.

(1Co 1:26-31 NASB)
For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, so that no man may boast before God. But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, so that, just as it is written, "LET HIM WHO BOASTS, BOAST IN THE LORD."

(1Th 4:1-8 NASB)

Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more. For you know what commandments we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in lustful passion, like the Gentiles who do not know God; and that no man transgress and defraud his brother in the matter because the Lord is the avenger in all these things, just as we also told you before and solemnly warned you. For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification. So, he who rejects this is not rejecting man but the God who gives His Holy Spirit to you.

(1Th 4:1-8 NASB)

For this reason God will send upon them a deluding influence so that they will believe what is false, in order that they all may be judged who did not believe the truth, but took pleasure in wickedness. But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.

(Heb 12:12-14 NASB)
Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.

(1Ti 2:9-15 NASB)
Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness. A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.

Now, I saved 1 Tim. 2:15 for last, because this is a Scripture that is commonly misunderstood in UPC circles. The reason for the misunderstanding is two-fold:

1. First, the KJV translated (sanctification) as "holiness" in 1 Tim. 2:15.
2. Second, since the UPC already has the concept of "holiness" as being a standard of dress, and since the UPC uses the KJV almost exclusively, this Scripture passage is often used to teach that women should not wear jewelry (note the reference to "gold and pearls" in verse 9). I will cover this more when I deal with Jewelry, but even the casual reader will see that if Paul is saying that women cannot wear jewelry, then he is also saying that women cannot braid their hair or wear "costly clothing." Obviously, Paul is teaching a concept, not giving specific rules on how to dress.

So, once again, is holiness (sanctification) necessary? YES! Our goal should always be to be separated to God in everything we do, not just in specific "holiness standards." Women and men should both dress modestly. But does a church have the right to dictate certain rules such as "women can’t wear jewelry," "women can’t use make-up," "women can’t wear pants," and other similar rules? I cannot find any Biblical basis for doing so.find any Biblical basis for doing so.

Honoring Pastors

This Blog is in response to the group of people who made the choice to disrespect Pastors who labor for the Lord.

The Scripture says,

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” (I Tim. 5:17,18)

In the Bible the term, “elder” or “elders” is speaking of pastors. Under the inspiration of God, Paul wrote that faithful pastors are “worthy of double honor” (vs. 17).

True Saints of God are highly supportive of their pastors and gladly submit to his God-given leadership role. However, some do develop a wrong attitude towards his or her pastor. There are few things more harmful and dangerous to the local church than a wrong heart about the pastor because unless corrected it will eventually bring some degree of discord and division.

Honor your Pastor for their “work’s sake”

I Thessalonians 5:12,13 says, “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.”

Here we see that honoring a pastor isn’t so much about “who he is” as a person, but “what he does” alluding to his God-ordained office.

What makes up the works of the pastor?

Well, as the elder (ruler), bishop (overseer) and under-shepherd (leader) the pastor’s works involve the mission and welfare of the local church. He’s to lead the church to follow God and His Word in carrying out the most paramount mission which exists, propagating the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As part of this his works also entail following the Lord’s leadership in the care of the church which includes trying to help all members to grow in Christ, doing whatever’s required to ensure that sound doctrine and practice are maintained, leading in bringing forth Godly services, overseeing business matters, and a whole list of other duties.

So, since the works of the pastor involve the mission and welfare of the local church, the members need to do everything the Bible and Holy Spirit direct in order to help him, including giving him a high degree of esteem and honor.

Esteeming and honoring the pastor have to do with actively demonstrating great respect for his under-shepherd role, which inherently includes willingly submitting to his God-given leadership.

The word “rule” seen in I Timothy 5:17 means just what it says, “rule.” It speaks of “presiding over” and “having the care of.” Obviously, it’s indicating that the pastor has the undisputed leadership role.

The thing is, when a person or persons don’t highly esteem the pastor — when people don’t provide him with the proper respect through attitudes and actions — it hinders his work, which “is unprofitable” to the church and the entire cause of Christ. Pay careful attention to what it says in Hebrews 13:17,

“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”

Remember, the pastor’s work is the mission and welfare of the church, so when a member doesn’t respect him and his office, but instead resists and rebels against his God-appointed and anointed leadership, the work of that entire local body of Christ is hindered. And guess what can happen when such disrespect of pastors grows within churches?

Those churches may be destroyed, at least as true New Testament Churches.

Who was the first in history to refuse to esteem and honor the One in spiritual leadership over him? It was Lucifer, the devil. So who is the church member emulating when he or she has a wrong attitude toward the pastor? Yeah, that’s right!

Folks, what is the devil always trying to do to churches? He and his forces are continually seeking to hinder and destroy. The serpent will be very happy to use you to try to run off God’s man and tear apart the Lord’s church. Only a lost person could enjoy being used in such a way. Christian, don’t ever allow yourself to become a pawn of the devil against Christ’s church!

A church cannot possibly be of one accord, of one heart, and of one soul for the Lord unless every member has the proper attitudes and actions of respect for the pastor. (Acts 2:42-47; 4:32,33)

We can become so consumed with self that we refuse to see the biggest and most important picture. The mission and welfare of God’s church are much more vital than anyone’s personal whims, fancies and feelings! Every Christian must fight self. We must always love the Lord and His church enough to get “me” and “I” out of the way so that we can see and focus on the biggest and most important picture – the mission and welfare of the Church of Jesus Christ! You know, when one gets right down to it, to refuse the proper respect to a God-called pastor is to disrespect the Lord Almighty Himself. First, it disrespects God’s plan and organization. The Lord’s plan has always involved using under-shepherds in the position of spiritual leadership (i.e. – Moses, Joshua, the Judges, prophets, priests, several Hebrew kings).

To the God Who is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34), all believers are equal in person, but we’re ordained to different roles. As much as some folks might desire the leadership role in the church, it’s clearly and undeniable bestowed upon the pastor by the Lord Himself. Filled with pride many believe that they can improve on God’s plan which gives rise to board-run churches, committee-run churches, domineering man or woman run churches, family-run churches and devil-run churches.

I Corinthians 14:33 tells us “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.”In verse 40 we read, “Let all things be done decently and in order.”

When there’s rebellion against a faithful pastor’s leadership, when there is slander being brought forth about him within the church, when a certain member or members are dedicated to getting their way, it certainly doesn’t bring peace. Rather, it brings chaos. We know that God isn’t the author of chaos, so who is?

Secondly, refusing proper respect to a God-called pastor disrespects the Lord by disregarding His Word. How can someone who truly fears God read Proverbs 6:16-19 and still possess a wrong attitude towards his or her pastor? There we read these words, “These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”

Not honoring pastors brings discord to churches; and God hates sowers of discord.If the church member believes that the pastor has offended him or her in some way, or done some grievous wrong, the Bible explains what to do. (Matt. 18:15-17) Jesus taught that we’re to “go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Why is it then that folks usually go to everyone except the pastor to tell about his alleged fault(s)?

We should strive to be behind the pastor. If someone comes with complaints about him, you should immediately tell them that you don’t want to hear it, and to take the matter to the pastor alone, not to anyone else.

If fact, for the welfare of the Lord’s church, those who even smell the slightest stink of discord from anyone should be quick to report it to the pastor so that he can deal with the situation. Certainly the welfare of the church should be of much higher priority than any human relationship.

Honoring or not honoring a pastor really comes down to a person’s heart. Those who are humble and seek to be servants will have little trouble submitting to a Godly pastor’s leadership. Those who are prideful and seek to have their own ways will not properly submit to a pastor’s leadership until they get their hearts right with God.

Indeed, we should love the Lord and our pastor so much that we love him as Jonathan loved David. Do you know what I mean? Jonathan was supposed to be the next king of Israel after his father Saul would die. However, even knowing that David would still get that honor instead of himself, Jonathan stood behind the one who God had called to that position. (I Samuel 23:16-18)

The church member who truly loves God will love his pastor as he loves his own soul. Rather than tearing him down to people, we should stand up for him if anyone ever dares to disparage him, raising up in righteous anger against such enemies of the church.

(II Thess. 3:1) Let us hold up our pastors, their wives, and children in fervent prayer everyday. Let us seek to encourage them often. And, let us have the courage to stand up for them whenever anyone would seek to tear them down.

God holds the future in His hands

Did you know that God has planned all your days, and holds your future in His grip?

I know that God is in Control of His Earth.We also see that God has protected the earth since the flood for His purposes only God knows the perfect timing ahead for His people. In the word it says, “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.” Mt 24.36-37 I believe that God Gives You Time—In His Timing. I also believe that God wants us to recognize Him as Creator. Sometimes what God Asks of You Will Be Bittersweet. But remember that when God offers you His Kingdom, you must desire and take it Our Christian duty remains to witness until He comes again. The Bible reminds us “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Mt 24.42-44

Will you still follow the one who holds the future in His hand?

Dread not the things that are ahead,The burdens great, the sinking sands,The thorns that o’er the path are spread,God holds the future in His hands.

Words: James Rowe (1866-1933). Music: James Vaughan, ca. 1922.

Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving as you’re seated,

At the table, in your place,

And you bow your head in humbleness,

Prepared to offer grace,

Don’t thank Him just for what is there,

Before you on the platter,

For these are just the extras,

And they really do not matter,

What are the blessings we recall,

Where do we even start?

The answer to this question lies,

Deep down inside the heart,

I can only answer for

Myself and so you see,

The thanks I offer Him this year,

Is relative to me.

I’m thankful for the freedom

Of this nation where we live,

And for the military and

The sacrifice they give,

The firemen, policemen,

And the teacher in the school,

For democracy in action that

Allows each one to rule,

I am thankful for the food we eat,

For we are truly blessed,

Clean water, and the air we breathe,

My bed wherein I rest,

For homes to shelter, clothes to wear,

The shoes upon my feet,

And for the ones that share my life,

This blessing’s extra sweet,

For health and wealth the world can know,

But only in their dreams,

We have it so abundantly,

We’re bursting at the seams,

Yes I’m thankful for His blessings,

He’s bestowed upon this nation,

But most of all I’m thankful for

His offer of salvation,

His willingness to die for me,

That I be cleansed of sin,

That someday I might hear His voice,

As he says, “enter in”.

So as you bow your heads this year,

Prepared to do your part,

Don’t speak to Him with just your mind,

But open up your heart.

Author unknown