Why go to a foreign country when there are people here that need Jesus?

The question posed as the title of this blog is one that I have heard too many times. The answer is simple, Because Jesus mandated us to.

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8

But here is another reason. In our community there are over 50 churches for a population of maybe 75,000 people. In fact a great majority of the US population profess faith in God and Jesus Christ. So considering that 85% acknowledge a faith and that there are a high number of churches spread through the communities of the USA it is easy to surmise that the Gospel has and is being heard or is known.

But what of the rest of the world? In the 1040 window of the earth where there is the greatest population there is as few as 2% Christian of 3.15 billion population. For this reason missions to foreign countries is imperative. The mandate of Christ has yet to be fulfilled. This is why it has been an emphasis and purpose of our fellowship. So we pray and trust the Lord to empower us and provide the resources for 2019 to expand our mission work and to see more missionaries teams sent to take the message of Jesus to a lost world.

I ask you to pray and we enter this new year. Seek the Lord’s will and Great Commission to be fulfilled in us until, he returns.

Blessings

pastor Bob

The Mission Mind “Let this kind be in you...”

photo: Tim Marshall, https://unsplash.com/@timmarshall

A frequently remembered and quoted text is the apostle Paul’s encouragement to have the mind of Christ. But do we grasp the totality of his words? 

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Philippians 2:5-8

Likely when reading this verse you raise up praise for what he did to make possible your salvation.  This would be a just response.  However, the words are not written to induce praise but a change of mind following the servant character of Jesus.  

So the question must follow, “How did Jesus demonstrate what a servant is?  Paul answers, “...humbled himself (though equal to God) and became obedient (to God his Father), so much so that he was willing to sacrifice himself , even to the point of death.  Humility was the mind of Christ and the manifestation of this mind was his leaving his home in heaven and coming to this world as a man to give himself for the undeserving. Jesus the great missionary fulfilled the great commandment to love God and love others (Matt.  22:37-40). 

So to have his mind is to have his ministry of service to sacrifice for the spiritual benefit of others.  This is the foundation of all ministry and missions. Our life given for the lives of others.  You can’t have his mind without the other. 

I pray that you would give yourself to Paul’s encouragement to join our Lord in service and perpetuate his mission. 

Blessings 

Pastor Bob 

Greater, a surprise find of a film for the family.

Christian based movies are regularly hitting our theaters these days and often the producers send information and flyers to our church to support by encouraging the congregation to buy a ticket.  Those I appreciate the most and am more likely to go see, are about real Christians living out their real faith.  The first such film I saw was the Hiding Place, the story of Corrie and Betsie ten Boom, two women who with their father hide Jews during WW2, are caught by Nazis and sent to a death camp.  Wonderfully filmed and acted this true story of faith and perseverance  became the bench mark of Christian films for me and impacted me immensely as a young Christian.

While buzzing around Netflix I came across the movie Greater (2016), the story of Brandon Burlsworth, an Arkansas Razorback walk-on who trusted God as he filled his dream to attend and play for the University of Arkansas.  He earned a scholarship and became an All-America offensive lineman during the late 1990s.  His Christian faith not only filled his life but impacted many fellow players and coaches until his life was taken in a car accident before he started his first year in the NFL.  Although it did not rise to the story and quality of Hiding Place it was very inspiring and moving. 

While Greater was a surprise find what was even a greater surprise was discovering the faith of actor Neal McDonough.  Holding major roles in many Hollywood films you will know him as the partner of Tom Cruise in Minority Report and as Lieutenant Lynn "Buck" Compton in the HBO miniseries Band of Brothers.  I have always admired his acting and was happy to find him playing Marty Burlsworth, Brandon Burlsworth's older brother who is Brandon's biggest fan and has filled the gap where their alcoholic father has failed.  But what even more rocked my boots was to learn of Neal McDonough's personal faith and his honest conviction "not to use God's name in vain or kiss another woman on screen."  His true commitment to God with his quality of acting caries the movie as a man struggling and questioning God after the tragic death of his brother.  In fact, though the movie was centered on the life of Brandon Burlsworth I'd say McDonough's character nearly takes the spotlight and fills the movie with emotion every believer can relate to. 

Greater is a great find and worth watching with your family.  Be sue to have your tissue ready.

Blessings

Pastor Bob

Its Time: Read the Bible in a Year

photo by: Savio Sebastian

Ever read through the whole Bible?  Surprising many Christians have never done so.  What better time to start your journey through God's Word than January 1st.  You may think that the major benefit of reading through the whole Bible is having a better perspective of the Books of the Bible, You would be right, but I believe the first time you accomplish this it is the personal satisfaction that you did it that is the benefit.  Sadly many Christians seldom even read the Bible, according to this LifeWay study.   I also seem to recall a report of the benefits to a congregation when they corporately read through the Bible. 

So how do you go about this?  You could just start with Genesis and push through as fast as you can to reach the end of Revelation by December 31.  Honestly, not a good way to go about it.  There are actually other helpful methods to do this. 

Buy a One - Year Bible.  It’s a Bible that is arranged with a portion of New Testament, Old Testament, Psalms and Proverbs for you to read each day. One problem, today is January 1st so may be problem finding one to start today.  But you may find one at your local Wal-Mart.  You can also order online.

Bible Reading chart.  This is a simple download from the internet that you can print out and follow.  It simply gives you a regular reading plan for each day that you can check off as you go. 

Online One Year Bible service.  Yes, thanks again to the internet you can go to http://oneyearbibleonline.com and begin reading today from their website.  They have it in a every version and translation possible and in multiple languages. 

Your Bible App is a third option.  Many of the mobile apps today provide you with a Daily Reading Plan.  I use the Olive Tree Bible app that provides over a dozen different One-Year plans.  Usually these Bible apps are free with the King James Version only.  So, if you desire to read with a particular translation you may have to purchase the version.

Here is the important point ... read God's word and read through it all. Not just once but regularly.  You can do it, even in a year.  You really have no excuse and its needed to see your way.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105

Memories triggered by the Blue Cut Fire

Fire Officials said at yesterday morning's news conference that the Blue Cut Fire is doing things that they have never seen in thirty years. When fire officials say this they mean it.  In one day this fire engulfed over 30,000 acres.  As I listened to the reports and the interviews with people not willing to evacuate my thought immediately returned to my experience in 2003.

It doesn't seem that long ago that I was called to go to San Diego for the Cedar Fire that burned 600,000 acres in October of 2003. Having had training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) I was called by a Cal Fire Captain to join a team to serve firefighters at the Base Station.  When I arrived the situation and the need changed. A strike team lost a team member when setting up a defense to protect some homes.  These were veteran firefighters from Northern California.  They were well trained and well equipped.  The area around the home and those adjacent to it had been well cleared by a bulldozer leaving behind over 50 feet of bare land and yet winds pushed the fire with enflamed debris and jumped the cleared land.  Flames towered over the structures and fire raining all around the strike team and upon the house. Once any defense was hopeless they ran into the home for temporary protection.  You see, the fire will engulf the house but remains as protection for a short period of time.  Once the fire blows past where it started leaves opportunity for the firefighters to exit the home where they entered.  However, the fire moved so fast and with such force that one firefighter didn't make it into the home and was killed.  A life lost to protect a house.

In San Diego I joined a team of people trained as I was to come along side that strike team minus one for three days helping them cope and deal with their tragedy. I have so much respect for all firefighters but even more after being with this crew and knowing what they endured in loosing their friend and fellow firefighter.

At the same time I was in San Diego fire raged in the San Bernardino Mountains.  The Old Fire did not burn as many acres but it did act in a way that veteran firefighters expressed they had never been seen anything like it.  It was explained to me that as ash rose into the higher atmosphere it collected moisture and becoming heavy fell straight down forcing the fire out at the base of the mountain.  Large balls of flaming debris exploded out into neighborhoods from the main fire, over fire trucks, to hit a roof, then bounce over an adjacent house to finally ignite the roof of that house.  When I later visited those neighborhoods I saw houses burnt to various degrees but scattered.  Two houses then a charred house then another three houses then another charred frame.  It was as if the fire picked and chose what houses it wanted to burn. 

What is quite upsetting to me are those people who resist or even refuse to evacuate their homes when they are warned by law enforcement or fire personnel. They endanger themselves and the firefighters that are called upon when such home owners are trapped.  I understand their desire to hold onto valuables. What they do not understand is fire and its hunger for fuel.  They value their stuff to the point of risking their lives and the lives of others.  

There is a spiritual comparison here.  There is a fire headed at mankind, God has called people to leave behind their old life so to be saved from the wrath to come.  Like those refusing to leave their possessions hoping to save them themselves, many refuse to heed the call to evacuate and leave behind their old life to safety in Christ. What is it about that old life that is worth dying for?  What real value is there in something that is temporary, that can burn, rust or melt, over a human being's eternal future?  I know, people will say, "I got time," but to wait is to jeopardize the peace of experiencing safety, for as long as you are in the path of a fire there is always the uncertainty of the unknown, an internal fear and unrest.  Christ came to deliver sinful man from the eternal fire, He has called mankind to evacuate into his lovingkindness and to his kingdom. It is a matter of time that the fire will engulf the world but salvation is available right now.  The warnings need only be heeded.

“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation”       (2Corinthians 6:2)

Blessings

pastor Bob

My discussion with an Iranian doctor

Me - I heard someone say you are Armenian? ( I had an Armenian professor in college I really liked).

Dr - Oh no (chuckled), I'm Iranian

Me - I'm sorry (spoken nervously for the mistake).  I heard someone speaking to another commenting you were Armenian. There are differences.

Dr -  Oh, but there are really similarities, in features

Me - Yes, but big differences in cultures. 

Dr - That is true. Did you know that there is a very large population of Armenians in Iran? 

Me - I didn't realize that. 

Dr - Yes, centuries ago they migrated south to Iran and today there are over 150,000 in Iran. They are Christian and are a happy people. They follow the Muslim requirements publicly, their women cover with the hijab. But when they are together or have their own events they don't.  Their events,  likeweddings, are so wonderful, so happy. You know, young Iranian people always want to know the Armenians because they enjoy life and are so happy.  

Our discussion was then interrupted and I was not able to continue my inquiry or to interject my faith. But consider the simple witness of these Armenian Christians. "They are happy people." Even in Iran.  

Reminds me of the words of the psalmist, "Happy are the people who are in such a state; Happy are the people whose God is the Lord!"  Psalms 144:15

Jesus also said: "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full."  John 15:11

Be happy, be joyful, for your God is the LORD! You just don't know who is watching.

pastor Bob

Thoughts on Roseburg, Oregon, Umpqua College shootings and death.

The events in Roseburg are of great sadness to me.  A cold callus shooter taking the lives of innocent people. It is not merely a tragedy but a horrendous event that should shock us all and move us with compassion for the victims and their family.

The reports of the gunman's question to his victims if they had religious beliefs or were Christians appears verified, but it must be known that all were shot whether they answered yes or no.  So this is not an issue to magnify.  The shooter was simply filled with evil.

The response by politicians on both sides is questionable.  Democrats want more gun control.  Republicans blame it on mental health.  Some want the Douglas County Sheriff to resign because of a controversial Facebook post he made. But is the answer really more laws?  Politics as usual. Laws do not change a person and may only make a person, bent on evil, find a different way. 

So do we need more laws? The Old Testament was based on Laws and according to the apostle Paul didn't make people righteous but only revealed guilt to be punished.  

Ro 3:20* Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.  

So what is the answer if not more laws?  I understand the fear of many who want to respond to the danger.  Can anything, even the removal of all guns or the medicating of all mentally ill, make our world safe from the possibility of being killed by a gunman?  What is the extent of the danger?  What are the real statistics?  How many people are killed in mass shootings?  I tried to find out but most websites disagree what constitutes a mass shooting. Is it based on the amount killed or the amount shot or how many were there?  It is all very curious but difficult to know.  It is certain that the information will be spined as needed to push an agenda.  Here is one website that has a very thorough chart.  But look at the numbers, they're not as high as you may think and vary from year to year.

So what is the answer, is there one?  If the shooter said it was caused by his broken home, could we fix it?  If the shooter said it was his prejudice, could we fix it?  If he said, it was his autism, could we fix it?  You see the issue isn't as easy as more laws is it?  Is it society's responsibility to regulate any of these needs for individuals?  Can we regulate it?  What if the person refused our help, what then since he hasn't yet committed a crime?  Do we incarcerate him and force him to submit to the treatment and practice pre-crime?  (That reminds me of a movie).  

Here is my point, you ready?  We are not in control and are unable to make the world absolutely safe.  We could cry out to government to make it safer for us and our family, add more labels on food, remove all GMO, make smoking illegal, remove jungle gyms from playgrounds (oh, already did that), make everyone wear a seat belt or their car won't start, add more scanners at airports, make it harder to own a gun, etc., etc.  But for me as a Christian my only hope to having peace in a dangerous world is to have an eternal hope and expectation.  Death is inevitable, whether by event or old age, but since my life is the Lord's I will continue on into eternity.  

Now I know there are those who scoff at the Bible and at the existence of God and do not believe in life after death.  That's fine, but who will be happier while waiting for death to come, because it  will come in some form for all.  Just ask yourself, if you were walking down a dark street and heard footsteps behind you and saw three men walking with something in their hands, would you be relieved to know that they were going home from church and that they carried Bibles? Of course you would so your not so anti-Christian after all.  So where does your hope lie?  

Now before anyone starts shouting that I don't care about the issue of people murdering others and am doing nothing to change things, please consider that as a Christian and a pastor the answer to these issues is a changed life and perspective that comes from Jesus. I am doing my part to present this truth to those that are entangled in their lives.  My church has many who have come out of unsavory pasts. Lifestyles that were corrupt and dishonest with some even being incarcerated.  Evil doers in the eyes of society.  But Jesus delivered them and changed them so that you would never know it.  I'm not the only one, Christians all over the world are doing this and we are making a difference in a dark and dangerous world one person at a time.

Blessings and be safe in Christ

pBob

Mama Maggie - Living like Christ

Every once in a while I am surprisingly informed by secular radio programs.  Today I heard a doctor share about Mama Maggie on a KFI radio program.  The doctor was a surgeon that travel to Egypt with a medical team as he has done in many countries before.  There he met Mamma Maggie who has for many years ministered to the pour or the pour who live among the garbage. God is truly glorified by her testimony.  

Her ministry is called Stephen's Children. I'll let her speak for herself in the attached video from 2011. 

The following are interviews with Doctor Marty Makary, author of a book on Mama Maggie just broadcast today, 4/29/15.

Gay Marriage before the Supreme Court in 2015

Arguments began today before the Supreme Court for the Obergefell Vs. Hodges case.  This was one of several court lawsuits over the past couple years challenging state measures in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee that defined Marriage between one man and one women.  Each case had a different catalysts for the lawsuit.  One related to adoption, another to recognizing their marriage in another state, etc.  Federal District Courts listened to the arguments and struck down the state's measures as unconstitutional. The Michigan case of BeBoer v. Snyder went before the US Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit Court in 2014 and a decision was handed down in the state's favor.  This decision then reversed the other cases in favor of the states.

The Obergefell v. Hodges case was an Ohio lawsuit on behalf of Jim Obergefell and John Arthur seeking recognition of their marriage in Maryland on John's death certificate.  Due to the 6th Circuit Court decision this case is now before the Supreme Court.  

The central question of all these cases is whether it is unconstitutional to deny recognition and full rights to a homosexual couple as married or to be married as is given to a heterosexual marriage.  Now I can share with you my thoughts but I will leave this to two men much wiser and eloquent of speech.  I strongly encourage you to read what they have to say.  

First, there is an excellent article by Dr. R. Albert Mohler Jr. who serves as the president of the Southern Baptist Seminary.  In it he gives an overview of the BeBoer v. Snyder case decision of the 6th Circuit Court.  To read go HERE . . .  

Second, is the actual majority opinion of the BeBoer v. Snyder case rulling written by judge Jeffrey S. Sutton of the 6th Circuit Court.  It is a lengthy read but I believe an essential one for you to fully understand and appreciate this week's case before the Supreme Court.  You can open a PDF and read HERE. . .   He gives clear understanding of the different cases and shares wisdom about how our Constitution is to approached and understood in light of these cases. 

Third, I also suggest listening to the recorded arguments or reading the transcripts of the Obergefell v.. Hodges case that will be uploaded as they are ready.  Go listen or read HERE. . . 

Obviously these cases trigger a flood of emotion from both sides of the argument and this is why I believe it is of value for us as Christians to be knowledgeable as we discuss and speak with others about this case and subject.

Blessings

pastor Bob

Iron Sharpens Iron - Sparks that are Good

Photo credited to Charlie Kellog https://www.flickr.com/photos/papa_charliegeorge/

Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.

When hearing this proverb what may be envisioned are two swords clashing with sparks flying.  But the author likely was imagining the local farmer sharpening his tools.  It didn't cause sparks as that would heat the metal to much but there would be friction as the sharpening wheel turns and the tool is methodically and purposefully held against the sharpening wheel.

Why the need to be sharpened?  The tool has become dull, the edge is uneven or worse damaged.  This hinders the tool's ability to do its job well.  So the sharpening is favorable and for the benefit of the tool.  It is a slow caring process meant to improve the tool to be its best.  The final result is a tool ready for service and to fulfill its purpose.

So how does this pertain to you and I as believers, as members of the Body of Christ, as disciples of Christ?  When we engage with one another, get close to one another, joining arms in service with one another, it is inevitable that we will have opportunity and circumstances that will cause friction between one another.  Sound uncomfortable?  of course.  Is this a bad thing?  Not at all.  It is an needed thing?  Yes it is.  But is it for the better?  You bet ya.  For end result is a stronger character, a spiritual maturing, an improved servant and a more perfected tool for the Lord.

The sad thing I find is that many are afraid of experiencing sharpening. It's actually seen as a negative, something to avoid, even an offense. The love of the friend is somehow forgotten and an adverse response follows.  The result?  No strengthening of character, no growth in maturity and the servant goes no further in his service for the Lord.  There may occur a ending of the friendship.  Maybe even a resentment and turning from the faith.  I believe you can not strengthen, mature or better what isn't there in the first place. Just like the tool being flawed beyond repair or sharpening because the metal wasn't well made in the first place. So it is that the person who's life does not rest on the Lord, or his truth, or his spirit, will not respond well to the sharpening.

I have come to appreciate those who have been instruments of the Lord to sharpen me.  Those dear friends that have shown me grace like an ocean breeze but  have also played the sharpening wheel in my life to produce a better me.  Because I know their love an commitment to the Lord and to me I assured they intend good and not evil and know they are God's instrument.  May we receive the sharpening wheel of the Lord as easily and openly  as we receive his generous blessings and kind touch.  May we see its benefits and respond with anticipation of being better than we were and ready for service.

Blessings

pBob

Does the Church respond like Cable News?

Over the years I have seen the Church respond to the numerous natural disasters of tornados, tsunamis, earthquakes and hurricanes.  This, in itself, is not bad nor am I against the Church responding financially, materially or with sending volunteers.  However, has the Church become just as reactionary and temporary in its attention span as a CNN or FOX news? These news services focus and exploit these attention getting events for ratings, but once the event has lost its excitement or some other event is more extraordinary or disastrous then the interest ends and the story fades.  

The case in point is Japan the earthquake/tsunami of 2011.  We, with other ministries and churches, responded following the disaster.  We sent a team soon after to help in the area of Ishinomaki, north of Sendai.  The devastation and loss of life was horrible.  Teams and ministries from the US as well as others from or out of Japan flooded into all the areas most affected. But once the ministry of relief was no longer needed so was the influx of funds and volunteers. However, when the relief ends the real ministry actually begins for there are still lives that are shattered, in fear and without hope and most importantly people are still without Jesus.  This is why we have committed to continue our support to the ongoing mission work in the area and sending teams to come along side the missionaries to perpetuate the witness.  Consistency is where the real witness exists.  

In our last trip in July I was able to speak with many and there was reactions of surprise and then deep thankfulness when they heard of my returning five times since the tsunami.  Questions like, “Why do you come back?” or “Why did you care about us?” are presented to me.  Many times with tearful eyes.

There is one gentleman with his mom who own a stationary store that I met on my first trip.  They were busy scavenging through the pile and debris in their store.  They were not willing to do more than acknowledge my hello. On the 2nd and third trip the same or they were not at their store.  But in 2013 I was able to visit them the week they reopened their store. They didn’t remember me but as I shared my joy for their reopening their hearts opened to listen and hear God's love for Japan. They sat and share with me the horrible experience they had when the tsunami hit and the struggles they had with reopening their store.  Their thankful hearts were obvious when they insisted I accept a gift. Then this year I visited again and to my surprise the son remembered my name as soon as he saw me.  He and his mom again welcomed me into their store with my translator in tow.  The time was even more precious and personal for they asked deeper questions about my faith and listened intently as my translator shared her personal testimony.  Again the door of their hearts squeaked open a little more.  

So in a manner of speaking a relief effort still exists in Japan. It is no longer the delivering of food and resources to a battered community but the delivering of God’s living water to thirsty souls. The opportunity is turning white for harvest but the laborers are less than before so we will pray as the Lord of the harvest that he send more laborers.

"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things.” Rom.10:14-15.

Blessings

pBob

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2014 Japan Mission Team #5

Emerson Fittapaldi Man of Faith & a Champion

You may or may not know that I am an auto racing enthusiast.  Primarily open wheel like Formula 1 or Indy Car.  Emerson Fittapaldi is a 2 times Formula 1 champion and a 2 time Indy 500 winner.  Incredible driver to watch.  But what I love and admire about the man is not his being a winner on the race track or his having what it takes to drive all out  but more his sincere faith in Jesus Christ.  Here is a wonderful video and encouraging words to believe and follow Jesus.

Be encourage.

pBob

Does Hebrews 6:1-8 teach that Believers can Lose their Salvation?

Hebrews 1:1-8

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit. For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.

The common approach to this text is with a presupposed question, "Does Hebrews 6 teach that a believer can lose their salvation?"  The best way to answer this is to first recall how one receives salvation.  Salvation is a deliverance from sin and death (the judgment of God).  The very message of Jesus was to "repent and believe."  In Acts 2, according to Peter, all who call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  He also added that repentance was needed.  In Romans 10 Paul teaches that it is a belief of the heart and a confession of that belief acknowledging that Jesus is Lord and Savior.  

Next, lets read the text from a Jewish perspective for the author is giving argument for why Jesus is the capstone of all they held to and trusted in as Jews.  They had the prophets but God sent his son, they had Moses who delivered them from Egypt and gave them the Law, but Jesus delivered them from sin, fulfilled the law and delivered a the Law of grace, etc, etc, etc.  

Then turn your attention to Hebrews 5:12 where he reveals that his readers are immature and behind in their spiritual growth.

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.  

Moving on to Hebrews 6:1 he begins to exhort them to move on from what he calls "the principles of the doctrine of Christ." or more literal, "leaving the first sayings (logos) of Christ." But with this exhortation comes a warning starting at verse 4 that if they are not "going on onto perfection" or growing in Christ, then they are in danger of falling away.  Now this is where it gets controversial.    

The phrase, "For it is impossible," does not mean "never possible," but literally means, "without strength" as in an inability.  What is unable for those?  "To renew them again unto repentance," if they "fall away," after experiencing the Lord in all the ways mentioned (which is all the ways every believer experiences the Lord when they believe).  But "fall away" from what? Well, since they are exhorted to grow in Christ then to fall away is a falling from Christ. Its going the other direction back to what they were. If they fall away after having experienced Christ and after failing to grow and mature in Christ then they are unable or without the strength to (hear comes some more important words) "renew them again onto repentance,"  or "renew them anew into repentance."  Remember that repentance was what led to salvation and simply means "change of mind."

So, "there is no strength or an inability for those. . . if they fall away, to re-new them anew into a change of mind."  Why?  (The author at this point adds the ????.)  Because those who have fallen away "crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame."   To understand what the author means by this we simply need to recall why Jesus Christ was crucified in the first place.  He was accused of blasphemy, insulting God, by saying he was the Son of God and so claiming equality with God (John 5:17).  Therefore, to "crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh," tells us that those he refers to that "fall away" have returned to the same belief that put Christ on the cross in the first place and that they regard him as guilty of blaspheming God and deserves to be crucified and put to an open same.  

Now the author is not warning of becoming a carnal believer who has gotten caught up in some kind of sin or false doctrine as did the Corinthians, though this is a real danger as well for Christians not growing, but more directly of those who potentially would return to a denial that Christ is the Son of God and so in themselves and in their mind crucify him.   it is a return to disbelief.

So does this answer the question, "Can a believer lose his salvation?"  Let me answer with a question.  Can a person be called a believer if they don't believe that Jesus is the Son of God?  No, so then a believer can not lose their salvation, but for the one who returns to disbelief, well that is a different story.  They have not lost their salvation but fell away from it and are turned against Christ. 

The real answer is, just keep growing and you have nothing to worry about.

Blessings

pBob

I will miss pastor Steve Mays

"And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power,that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God." 1Cor 2:3-4

Steve Mays 1950 - 2014

Pastor Steve Mays went home to Jesus today after complications following major back surgery.  He will be dearly missed.  

I met pastor Steve when I became pastor of CC Perris Valley.  He oversaw the the community of Calvary Chapels and was the connection for new pastors at that time.  Our discussion was short and to the point but I will always remember his simple but profound exhortation, "Bob, just love the sheep."  Sounds too simple?  Not at all as I have learned that this endeavor to love the sheep encompasses all that is ministry.  

I had many opportunities to hear him teach at pastor conferences but at one pastor luncheon at CC Pasadena he share one of the most incredibly honest and personally revealing messages I have heard a pastor share.  Again, I was forever impacted.  

Thanks pastor Steve for your wisdom and continual influence in my life and ministry. 

Heartfelt prayers for his wife and family.

pastor Bob

You say, "I Believe in GOD". . . But is he the God I believe in?

I have heard many make the statement, “I believe in God.”  I have also been told by many, "We believe in the same god."  As nice of a view as this may seem it is far from the truth.   You may believe in a god but is he the same God I believe in?  

Let me present a short list of questions for you to consider regarding your god and so to determine if we believe in the same GOD.

• Did your God create this world?
• Did your God create and breathe life into man?
• Does your God condemn evil?
• Did your God judge by flood?
• Did your God deliver man from that flood?
• Did your God create languages?
• Did your God create a nation?
• Does your God do miracles?
• Did your God create moral law?
• Did your God lead the Jews in the wilderness?
• Did your God speak through prophets?
• Did your God return a people to their land?
• Did your God promise a savior centuries before he came?
• Did your God send his son?
• Did your God’s son come as a child born of a virgin?
• Did your God sacrifice his son for your sin?
• Did your God raise his son from the dead?
• Did your God save man by grace alone?
• Did your God make men new creations through faith?
• Did your God create the church?
• Did your God fill you with his spirit?
• Did your God promise a new earth and a new heaven?
• Did your God tell you He loves you?
• And did your God inspire 40 different men to write 66 different books over a 1800 year span to reveal himself to you?

To make the claim, "I believe in God," actually tells me nothing. To make a general statement "We believe in the same God" cannot be true if your god did not do all that I listed above and more. 

Now please understand that these questions are not presented to prove that my God is real, but to merely give a clear perspective of who my God is so that you may conclude whether we believe in the same God.   

Blessings

pastor Bob 

9/11 Remembered

Thirteen years has passed since two airliners were flown into the World Trade Center, one into the Pentagon and one crashed after heroic passengers attempted to take on their high-jackers. It doesn't take much to remember what I was doing when I heard of the attacks. The trips I took to respond, as so many other Americans did, to support and minister to New Yorkers immediatly invokes a lot of emotion. At times in discussion with others that responded I will even smell the stench of the rubble as if I was still there.  But most of all my heart cries for those who were lost and the many I met, prayed with, spoke with and cried with that lost loved ones or had the haunting experience of being in Manhattan that day.  

I haven't had the opportunity yet to return to see the 9/11 Memorial but I will. However,  with tears, my prayers continue to be presented to the Lord on behalf of those still hurting, for those wives and children of first responders who gave their lives saving others, for the people of New York and for our nation.   

Blessings

pBob

Pastoring a small church. . . or do I?

So I pastor a small church, or do I?  According to the information I have seen on the internet the average church congregation in this grand country is 75-80 adults.  In an age of "mega-churches, any church may be perceived as small, but 2000 plus congregation churches are actually few.  Yet pastors measure their success by them like a company measuring their market share.

Living in So Cal where there are a number of churches within 30 minutes that have 1000 plus congregations it would be easy to see our attendance as small.  But since when was quantity a sign of ministry success unless success is measured by warm bodies rather than actual servants and disciples of Christ ready to take up their cross.

Consider the ministry of Jesus, he had multitudes gathering to hear his sermons, houses filled so that you couldn't get through the front door, throngs so dense that the disciples couldn't get how Jesus sensed the touch of one ill stricken woman.  Yet, there was only 120 passionate people gathering in that upper room following His resurrection.  

I am of the view that the church was not meant to be gathered in a mass but to spread and so it did with churches in towns, villages and cities from Jerusalem to the outer most parts of the world.  Some of which were smaller than my congregation.  Sure that was the culture and nature of the times but consider the benefits.  Today, I hear pastors dismayed because another church was planted in their town like salesman seeking to protect their territory.  But why is this an issue?

But while I am not against another church starting in my town I am more so a proponent of planting churches where the Gospel is not preached or sparsely preached.  This is why I emphasis foreign missions so much.  

The bottom line is that I do not see our fellowship of believers as small, not in todays terms and not in Biblical terms.  This is because I measure size by the spiritual growth and maturity of the congregations and in this case we are growing, growing in His love, grace, truth and Spirit.  Is there any other growth to measure a church or a believer?  Consider these words of Jesus that set the bar for us as believers.  As a pastor my calling is to see His will fulfilled in the congregation He has given me to shepherd.  

"Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:31-32.

"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." John 13:35

"And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:27

Blessings

pBob

Makes me Loco - Ministry Junkmail

So why why why have Christian pastors and ministries followed the world of Internet junk e-mail advertising?  What makes a pastor think he is the best thing since Jesus Christ and assumes all other churches are failing and he has the answer for every church's lack of growth?  What makes a church decide that their discipleship program, several states away, is something I must have a need for?  

Yes, I get these kind of e-mail newsletters produced through online services like Constant Contact and Mail Monkey.  So many that at times I waste 30 minutes unsubscribing from their mail lists that I didn't ask to be on.  

So why? Why do these ministers and ministries even advertise in the first place?  I have two thoughts on this.  The first relates to having a self promotion mentality.  In business this is acceptable but not in ministry.  Here is a biblical reference to make my point.

Luke 14:7-11

So He (Jesus) told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places, saying to them: “When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Jesus' simple instruction is let others promote you.  Be humble, be discrete, be submitted and let others acknowledge you and promote you.  You say, "but Bob, how would people know about their ministries otherwise?" Hmmmm, trust God?  Let's refer to the example of Jesus to answer that.

 Jesus came to the world in this manner.  When he was baptized by John the Baptist he came without any notice by the people there at the Jordan.  He was just another Jew brother in their eyes.  No self promotion for the Messiah.  Instead he allowed himself to be acknowledged by the prophet of God, the Holy Spirit and the Father.  As he ministered he even worked against himself by telling those he healed or delivered to "tell no one."  Regardless people flocked to the shepherd to hear and be touched.  Word spread and God was glorified.

Second reason is because many pastors are found wanting.  Wanting to see their church grow in numbers, wanting to see people grow spiritually, wanting to see the spirit move, wanting for there to be deep worship, wanting of a vision, and wanting to hear God's voice.  But instead of a day of prayer and fasting before God, rather than seek the scriptures for their wisdom, rather than holding to the principles taught by Christ, they seek the vision of others, the latest  trend, the next big program or the latest marketing technique. So they become the focus group but it is a shot gun approach that scattered email buckshot in my direction.  

Let me finish with a personal example.  I and my family began attending Calvary Chapel Moreno Valley after relocating.  Previously, I was ordained and served as a assistant youth pastor at a church in Riverside, CA.  I remember so vividly The Lord speaking to me these words, "Bob, don't tell others that you are ordained, don't say what ministries you have served in, don't say anything about experience, just be quiet and watch what I do."  He said this right when I was about to do so.  So I obeyed and asked, "So what do you want me to do in the mean time, Lord?"  "Just serve where there is a need," was his simply replied.  So I did and it was remarkable what my God did.  Within a year I was leading a home fellowship, within two years I was on the board of elders.  It wasn't until my third year at the church that the pastor even discovered my previous service and ordination.  I let the man of God, the Holy Spirit and the Father promote me.  How much sweeter can it be than that.  

You may think I am doing the same by having a website, being on twitter and Facebook.  But I do not invade your email or the email of another pastor with these.  People find me, ask to follow or friend me, are led to my site by a friend or family member, or through a web search.  If you have found me and are ministered to, than "tell know one and give God the Glory."  

Blessings

pBob

Get out of the way so people can get saved - Just saying.

Just how easy is it to come to Jesus?  It's so easy a child can do it.  A wonderful story found in Luke 18 reveals just how true this is.  

Lk 18:15-17 Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it

So let me get this straight.  The children want to come to Jesus.  Jesus wants the children to come to him.  But the adults, his disciples, get in the way because in their mind, belief, perspective, conviction, rules, or culture, the children had no access.  

Jesus, beautifully enlightens his disciples and all that were there that the children have what it takes to come to him.  No child heart - no entrance to his kingdom. What was it they had that the disciples failed to see?  The children simply and sincerely wanted to be touched by Jesus so moved towards him.  

What is sad is how it was the disciples of Jesus that nearly made that impossible.  Throughout the ages Christ's disciples have created more obstacles and detours for people to be saved than clear paths.  The roadblocks are man made requirements that define everything from dress codes to altar calls.  Yes, an alter call can become an obstacle in that some believe that if a person doesn't come forward when the preacher invites them then they just ain't saved.  

I recall a sweet and sincere Christian sister excitedly share with me that her sister called her and declared she accepted Jesus. Wonderful news soon turned sour as she said to me, "I can't wait for her to come to church with me this Sunday so she can walk forward at the altar call."  My shared joy came to a grinding halt.  "Why," I exclaimed, "does she need to go forward, she already came to Jesus?"  The dear sister looked at me like when my dog hears a strange noise.  I continued, "She said she accepted Jesus, right? Yes. "She called you to give testimony that she believes in Jesus, right?"  Yes.  "So, why does she need to go forward on Sunday?  Well, uh, I, uh, doesn't she?   Now fortunately she hadn't told her sister this was required, as yet.  Her sister was the child seeking to be touched and sis was about to say, oh no, you have to do this . . . (fill in the blank).  

Friends, it is bad enough that the enemies of Jesus mislead those wanting to be touched, but even worse is when it is his disciples doing so.  Remember the teaching of the apostle Paul, "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. (Rom. 10:13).  Yep, Paul cleared a path with that statement. Let's join him and take a machete to those obstacles and detours so the unsaved can be touched.

Blessings

pBob