pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: sin


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Heart Conditions

Reading: Matthew 5:21-22 and 27-30

Matthew 5:30 – “It’s better that you lose part of your body than that your whole body go into hell.”

As we continue to wrestle with the question of heaven or hell we turn today to some of Jesus’ words concerning what can lead a person into hell. Our two short sections on murder and adultery begin a series of teachings where Jesus also addresses divorce, oaths, retaliation, and love. In all of these teachings, Jesus calls us beyond the minimum of the letter of the Law. He’s really digging down into the condition of our hearts.

One of the Ten Commandments says, “Do not murder.” Yes, Jesus says, but he adds a warning about anger. This first emotion leads to harsh words which can lead to… Jesus could’ve warned about envy or arrogance or… Anger is not the only sin that could lead to murder.

Another of the Ten Commandments says, “Don’t commit adultery.” Again, Jesus goes to the root, warning about even looking lustfully at someone else. And, again, lust is not the only emotion that can begin the journey towards adultery. Illustrating that sin is often a progression, Jesus tells us to cut out our eye if it causes us to lust. And if a hand next continues the lustful action – “cut it off.” Sin is serious. It begins with temptation. It leads to separation from God – often temporarily but potentially eternally. Therefore, Jesus summarizes, “It’s better that you lose part of your body than that your whole body go into hell.” Clearly we must begin with an honest evaluation of the condition of our heart.

Prayer: Lord God, you see all things, know all things. Bring this truth to the fore when our humanity begins to wander towards less than you call us to be. May the voice and the nudge of your Holy Spirit work powerfully in our hearts and minds, aligning us with your charge to love you and neighbor more than self. Guide us to walk faithfully this day and every day. Amen.


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Good and Wise

Readings: Numbers 31:13-18 and Deuteronomy 20:16-18

Numbers 31:16 – “These women, on Balaam’s advice, made the Israelites break faith with the Lord.”

Leading into today’s reading from Numbers, God instructs Moses to “take just reparations” against the Midianites. In the battle the Israelites kill all the adult names and burn the cities. The soldiers take the women, children, animals, and valuable property as the spoils of war. These were the “normal” practices of war. Yet Moses is very angry. He asks why the leaders allowed the women to live, asking, “These women, on Balaam’s advice, made the Israelites break faith with the Lord.” Moses understands the danger of outside influences. These women caused sin to occur amongst the Israelites before. Only the young virgin girls are spared.

Turning to Deuteronomy 20, God instructs Moses in the “rules for warfare.” Our passage today applies specifically to the conquest of the Promised Land. Here we read, “You must not spare any living thing.” These cities fall under the ban. In this holy war all must be killed. Reading on we see why it must be so. All must die so that “they can’t teach you to do all the detestable things” that would lead to Israel “sinning against God.” Early on in their history the Israelites were not secure in who they were as God’s people. They were easily influenced by the people around them. It was necessary at this time to insulate them from the negative and harmful influences of the world. The solution was to remove all possible temptation.

While we do not annihilate those who could tempt us to sin, we do at times avoid them, especially as a young, immature Christian. In principle and when necessary, we ban things from our lives that can lead us into sin. This is a good and wise choice.

Prayer: Lord God, when our walk with you is at stake, help us to make wise and good choices. With your strength and will empower us to say no to the things, places, people, and emotions that can tempt us and lead us into sin. As we do, may we grow in our faith and in our relationship with you. Amen.


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Struggles and Promises

Reading: Revelation 1-2

Revelation 1:8 – “I am the Alpha and Omega… the one who is and was and is coming, the Almighty.”

Photo credit: Noah Silliman

Today we begin Revelation, a vision given to Christ’s servant John. It is to the “seven churches” and is from Jesus Christ, the “firstborn from among the dead.” John writes that when Jesus comes in the clouds, all will see him and the nations will mourn. The Lord God then declares, “I am the Alpha and Omega… the one who is and was and is coming, the Almighty.”

John shared that he also suffers hardship, exiled on Patmos, an island where political opponents were sent. In a “Spirit-led trance,” John receives these words for the seven churches. He receives these words from Jesus Christ, whose appearance is “like the sun shining with all its power.” Jesus directs John to write down these words and to send them to the seven churches.

In today’s reading Jesus addresses the churches in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. There is good to be found: good works, endurance in suffering, faith in hardship, service to others. Some have rooted out false teachers but others have fallen to their lies, following them into sin. Ephesus has forgotten her “first love” – Jesus. To the faithful, promises are made. The faithful and those who change hearts and lives will “eat from the tree of life,” will receive the “crown of life… the hidden manna… the white stone… authority over the nations… the morning star.”

These struggles remain in our churches and in our lives. The promises remain for those who are faithful. Thanks be to God.

Prayer: Lord God, today we are first reminded of your eternal power and mighty. All glory and honor are yours! We are also reminded that faith is not easy, that trials will come, and that temptations are aplenty. Lead and guide us, O God, to remain faithful to you alone. Thank you. Amen.


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Love = God

Reading: 1st John 4-5

1st John 4:7 – “Dear friends, let’s love each other, because love is from God, and everyone who loves is born from God and knows God.”

Photo credit: Freestocks

1st John 4 begins with an invitation to test the spirits. If one confesses the incarnate Jesus as God’s son, it is from God. By holding to this spirit, God’s children can overcome the world because “the one in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” In verse 7 we shift to love – loving God and one another. Although a relatively short book, 1st John uses the word ‘love’ more than any other book in the New Testament.

John declares that love is from God and that all who love are born from God and know God. Love was truly revealed when God sent Jesus into the world as “the sacrifice that deals with our sin.” Because God loved us this way, John argues, we ought to love one another. When we love God and others, then God remains in us. We can live daily and look to eternity with confidence because there is no fear in love. Because of this truth, I believe it is good and right to err on the side of love. It is far better to love too much than to love too little.

Chapter 5 develops love into proof that we are born of God. Love, for John and many others, is the key indicator of being “born again.” Because we love God, we strive to keep God’s commands. Although the one who is in the world is strong, through faith we are able to defeat the world. John then offers testimony about Jesus. He is the one who came through water (baptism,) through the blood (cross,) and through the Spirit (God’s presence in our hearts.) Through him we find eternal life.

Chapter 5 closes with some great tidbits. I can’t help wondering if John was out of ink or out of room on his parchment. In short order, John says to ask in God’s will, then you’ll receive. Pray for a brother or sister who is sinning. Guard yourselves from evil. And, oh yes, avoid idols!

Prayer: Lord God, guide us to love, love, love. Through your Spirit within us, lead us to be people who love well. Doing so, we reflect Jesus to the world. In love, empower us to walk faithfully in your will and ways. Draw us closer to you, deeper into your love – this day and every day. Amen.


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Light and Love to the World

Reading: 1st John 1-3

1st John 3:9 – “Those born from God don’t practice sin because God’s DNA remains in them.”

The opening of 1st John echoes the words and feel of John’s gospel: from the beginning, life was revealed, fellowship with the Father and Son. There is also his firsthand testimony to Jesus’ life. “We” have seen him, heard him, touched him.

John then launches into “living in the light.” Jesus is the light and in him there is no darkness. Living in the light we have fellowship with Jesus and with one another. Living in the light we find forgiveness of sins. John adds, “The one who claims to remain in him ought to live like him.” We should strive to emulate Jesus’ example. As we read on, John equates living in the light to two things: loving God/others and keeping God’s commands. If we love our brothers and sisters, then we remain in the light. But if we hate our brothers and sisters, then we are living in darkness (or sin.) Similarly, if we love the things of this world instead, then we are of the world, living in darkness.

1st John briefly addresses the “antichrists” that have come from within the faith communities. These false teachers have distorted the good news, denying God. John reminds the believers of the Spirit’s anointing that keeps them in relationship with God. This relationship is rooted in love. It was love that makes us God’s children. It is love that keeps us from sinning. In 3:9 John connects these dots, writing, “Those born from God don’t practice sin because God’s DNA remains in them.” The Spirit of God, dwelling in our hearts, empowers us to live and to keep the commands. Echoing James’ words, John encourages us to lay self down for others, loving in action and truth. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, as you have loved us, making us part of your family, may we love others, drawing them into the family. Empower us to love well as you guard our hearts against loving the things of this world. May we be light to the darkness of this world, love to the hate. Amen.


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Hear Well

Reading: 2nd Peter 1-2

2nd Peter 1:4 – “He has given us his precious and wonderful promises, that you may share the divine nature and escape from the world’s immortality that sinful craving produces.”

2nd Peter continues the call to live the Christian life and it also addresses the false teachers that are beginning to negatively impact the believers. In chapter 1 Peter reiterates the fact that the Lord has given all the need, writing, “He has given us his precious and wonderful promises, that you may share the divine nature and escape from the world’s immortality that sinful craving produces.” Therefore, Peter implores them to add “moral excellence… knowledge… self-control… endurance… godliness… affection for others… love” to their faith. Growing in these traits will keep them from becoming “inactive and unfruitful.”

Peter promises to keep reminding them of these things while he’s yet alive. He then shifts to personal witness and prophetic testimony to assure their faith. Peter witnessed the transfiguration and heard God’s voice, bringing Jesus glory and honor. The prophets – led by God’s Holy Spirit – offer a “most reliable” word. Peter instructs the believers that they will “do well” to pay attention to these two things.

Chapter 2 addresses the false prophets (or teachers) that have come into the faith communities. They offer “destructive opinions” and they deny Christ. They are drawing many believers away with their “unrestrained immortality.” Peter pauses to remind his readers about the disobedient angels, the flood, and Sodom and Gomorrah. He also reminds them of Lot – the godly man rescued by God. Peter then returns to these “reckless and brash people” who are like “irrational animals.” These false teachers are ever on the lookout for opportunities to sin. They promise freedom but make others “slaves of immortality.” As chapter 2 closes Peter laments the faithful who’ve turned away. He says it’d be better if they never knew “the way of righteousness.” May we too hear well the warning in these words.

Prayer: Lord God, there is no shortage of false teachers or seductive temptations in our world today. They can still quickly lead to destruction. Remind us again and again of your promises. Surround us with your holy presence. Strengthen and encourage our walk through the witness of your word. Keep our feet on the path that leads to your everlasting kingdom. Amen.


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Sincere Love

Reading: 1st Peter 3-5

1st Peter 4:7-8 – “Be self-controlled and clearheaded so you can pray. Above all, show sincere love to each other, because love brings about the forgiveness of many sins.”

1st Peter 3-5 is mostly about the ways to conduct ourselves as followers of Jesus Christ. In chapter 3 Peter writes about having an inner beauty that can win over non-believers and also about honoring those who are weaker. He encourages all believers to be of one mind (Christ’s), to be compassionate, and to be modest. When someone asks about our hope, be ready to speak with “respectful humility.”

Peter also addresses suffering. He begins with a reminder that Jesus Christ “suffered on account of sins, once for all.” This was so a believer can enter into the presence of God. Peter encourages us to “arm yourself with his way of thinking.” He invites us to rejoice when we share in Christ’s suffering because then one day we will rejoice when his glory is revealed. If we suffer in Christ’s name, Peter declares we are blessed because “the Spirit of God rests on you.”

Christian behavior receives much attention in these chapters. Don’t pay back evil or insults with evil or insults – give blessings. Don’t waste time doing what unbelievers do. Instead, “Be self-controlled and clearheaded so you can pray. Above all, show sincere love to each other, because love brings about the forgiveness of many sins.” Open your homes and serve one another using the gifts God has given. Humble yourselves. Throw your anxiety on God. (He cares about you.) Keep alert – the devil is on the prowl. Resist and stand firm in the faith, knowing that others are also enduring suffering. And in the end, “the God of all grace will himself restore, empower, strengthen, and establish you.” Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, build up in each of us obedience, compassion, and a humble servant’s heart. Walk with us, bringing strength and encouragement during the trials and suffering. In those moments, remind us of the way of Christ, he who suffered for each and every one of us. Daily help us to model a genuine faith, standing firm in your love and grace. Thank you, Lord. Amen.


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Equipped for Faithful Living

Reading: Hebrews 12-13

Hebrews 12:1-2 – “Let’s throw off any extra baggage, get rid of the sin that trips us up, and fix your eyes on Jesus, faith’s pioneer and perfecter.”

Hebrews 12 continues the ‘heroes of the faith’ ideas developed ch chapter 11. We begin today with the encouragement to also run the race of faith, surrounded by this “great cloud of witness.” This would include those names in chapter 11 and those we can make in our hearts. To run this race we are invited to “throw off any extra baggage, get rid of the sin that trips us up, and fix your eyes on Jesus, faith’s pioneer and perfecter.” Without these entanglements of this world we can better live a life of faith.

The author then turns to discipline and hardship. These work together, one ever strengthening the other. These partners benefit our faith, building us up in holiness, yielding “the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” So, the writer says, “make straight paths… pursue the goal of peace… and holiness as well.” Living a disciplined life of faith, one will be drawn towards the city of God and to Jesus, the “mediator of the new covenant.”

The writer of Hebrews then declares that the faithful will receive a “kingdom that cannot be shaken.” Therefore, he or she says, keep expressing gratitude, keep serving in ways that are pleasing to God. Chapter 13 continues to unpack faithful living: love each other, open your homes to guests, visit the prisoners and the mistreated. Be free of the love of money. Be content. Remember and imitate your leaders. Draw close to Jesus and to “that city yet to come.” Do good and share what you have.

Hebrews draws near to a close with a prayer that the God of peace would “equip you with every good thing to do his will, by developing in us what pleases him through Jesus Christ.” May this too be our blessing!

Prayer: Lord God, we invite your power and presence into our lives, equipping us to run the race of faith with endurance and confidence. Remind us of those who have gone on before us so that we can draw strength and encouragement from their example. At the front of this line, keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, our ultimate example of faith and love. Amen.


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High Priest, Mediator, Perfect Sacrifice

Reading: Hebrews 7-9

Hebrews 9:24 – “Christ didn’t enter the holy place… made by human hands, but into heaven itself, so that he now appears in God’s presence for us.”

The focus of Hebrews 7-9 is to establish Jesus as high priest forever, as the mediator of the new covenant, as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world. The writer begins his or her case by looking back to Melchizedek, the priest of God who blessed Abraham. He was not a Levite but remains “a priest for all time.” Yes, earthly priests will collect a tithe and will offer sacrifices again and again. But they die and don’t continue serving. The Levitical priesthood, part of the old covenant, offered sacrifices that “can’t perfect the conscience.” The guilt and the shame and the power of sin, they remain.

Jesus came as the “guarantee of a better covenant.” High priest forever, Jesus is “holy, innocent, incorrupt, separate from sinners, raised high above the heavens.” He offered himself, “once for all,” providing his own blood as the blood necessary for forgiveness. This initiated the second or new covenant. Quoting from Jeremiah 31, the author of Hebrews declares that God revoked the old covenant (written under the Law) and prepared for a new covenant (written on our hearts) and sealed by the blood of Jesus. Unlike the old covenant, Jesus’ blood will “wash our consciences clean,” freeing us to serve the living God. Jesus himself was “the sacrifice without any flaw.”

The mediator of the new covenant, Jesus Christ, offers all who are called the promise of “eternal inheritance.” Leading the way, “Christ didn’t enter the holy place… made by human hands, but into heaven itself, so that he now appears in God’s presence for us.” In heaven, Jesus mediates for us, standing for us in God’s presence. We await Christ’s second coming, when he will save and redeem us and our broken world. In this advent season, we say, come, Lord Jesus, come.

Prayer: Lord God, we are so grateful for the gifts you gave us through the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ. Through his blood we are forgiven and cleansed, sins washed away, made holy in your sight. Christ did what the old covenant never could do. He made a new way, one that opened eternity to all who call on Jesus as Lord and Savior. Thank you for these gifts. Amen.


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The Pioneer

Reading: Hebrews 1-3

Hebrews 2:10 – “It was appropriate for God… to use the experience of suffering to make perfect the pioneer of salvation.”

Hebrews begins by declaring that God first spoke through the prophets (the Old Testament) and then spoke through a Son (the New Testament Gospels.) Jesus is “the imprint of God’s being.” The Son then died to cleanse people from their sins, returning to glory to sit at God’s right hand. It is a powerful opening statement.

The author then exhorts the audience to pay attention to the good news they’ve heard lest they “drift away.” He or she asks, “How will we escape [hell] if we ignore such a great salvation?” Great question. This gift of salvation was announced by Jesus and confirmed by the disciples and apostles. God offered validity through “signs, amazing things, various miracles, and gifts from the Holy Spirit.”

Hebrews then turns to who and what Jesus was and is. First, he tasted death so that we can taste grace. Jesus also lived as a human. In 2:10 we read, “It was appropriate for God… to use the experience of suffering to make perfect the pioneer of salvation.” Christ mediates for us based on experiencing what we experience. Jesus walked our road, experiencing suffering, when tempted. Through it all, Jesus was faithful to God. Because of his example and sacrifice, we can have hope and confidence. We can encourage one another every day so that one day we can “enter his rest.” May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for sending your Son, he who walked this earth as one of us. In those 30+ years he experienced what it is like to be human – the suffering, the temptation, the pain. Yet in living he also revealed your love and the joy, hope, peace, contentment, and forgiveness found in that love. Help us today to walk in step with the Spirit, sharing that love, bringing you all the glory. Amen.