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My Thoughts as I Seek God’s Will in These Times

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Publisher's Note: Dudley and I have been friends for 50 years, and he did the follow-up Bible teaching for hundreds of our citywide crusades. No one has had a more positive and profound impact on my life than this man. He hears clearly and shares thoughtfully what is revealed to him by the Holy Spirit and God's infallible Word. Please read his thoughts concerning this moment in history. - James Robison

The God who created all things did so out of a heart of love. He made it good and blessed it. We are designed for flourishing in his creation and are equipped to manage it in partnership with him. This is not a world randomly spinning in space without purpose, nor are we victims of unknown evil forces. This is God's world.

He has given humans the privilege and responsibility of managing it. He has given his redeemed people the wisdom and power to equip anyone to operate in all situations. As the church (the redeemed ones) does its job, the whole society improves in its skill of discovery and development. The world of possible new inventions is larger than our imaginations. Darkness is not destined to rule. Light will dispel it wherever there is a confrontation.

It is a narrow view that believes that the problems in our nation consist of the wrong political party being in charge. The problems arise when the wrong spiritual kingdom operates incognito. Jesus explained to his disciples that the kingdoms of this world succeed by ruling over each other, with each seeking to find a higher honor than the other. His kingdom is built on us humbly serving and sacrificing for the honor of the other.

A Larger Perspective

God is doing something much larger than teaching us a few lessons on priorities and misplaced values. This is a major interruption with threats to life that have global ramifications. This is not just a test of our ability to hang on until the worst passes. It is an opportunity to see God's purposes in a way we've not seen in many decades, or maybe ever.

He didn't casually put the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ at the center of history. It is not just a part of religious history. It cannot be ignored. Whatever God says has this dynamic in it. The gospel message that captured Saul of Tarsus is the same message that released the light that has empowered civilization in the world. There will be no awakening without this being the center. It is a message that energizes recipients to engage their world with love. When it has been diluted to cause people to run, hide, hoard, and take, it has become a false message.

Recovering the heart of the true gospel is part of what God is doing. Death is a precursor to resurrection. Everything that offered hope dies to be resurrected by God's power to a greater hope. Nothing worthwhile that dies stays dead. God's kingdom is about new life coming out of old. People who really believe that offer a perspective for everyone which empowers them to walk through any circumstance. Yes, we win, but our victory is in serving--even suffering, rather than in bossing others around.

Attributing Blessings to the Wrong Source

Prior to the COVID-19 attack, things in some areas were beginning to flourish in the USA under the present administration. It was undeniable even for those hesitant to give any credit to political opponents. We were seeing more people with jobs, more respect for the dignity of life, a renewed appreciation for justice, a growing economy, and hope for peace in some hostile areas of the world.

Those who have been praying for our country can easily see how God again used flawed people and imperfect systems to initiate some needed change. He has repeatedly done that throughout history.

Support The Stream: Serving the Body During This Crisis With Facts. Faith. And No Fear.

However, the size of government was not shrinking. It is possible that if things had continued to progress as expected, we would have erroneously concluded that right political policy would ensure human flourishing. The role of government (even if it is one more aligned with our convictions) continues to play a larger role and is given credit for our success. It is just a matter of time before others are at the controls of the huge government and human lives pay the high cost of bad ideas.

Small government is better than big government, but neither works when human hearts are fearful and greedy to control. Even small government can only work when men and women are governed internally by a power stronger than greed.

What We Really Need

We don't need a spiritual awakening to just change the minds of radical progressives or right wing extremists. We need all our eyes opened to the reality of the God who loves us; delights in our joy; guides us in paths of righteousness; and partners with us in blessing others.

When love for others replaces suspicion and fear, fewer laws are needed to sustain an orderly society. Good government comes from people who are free inside. They will honor God and bless His world.

 

Dudley Hall is a Senior Contributor to The Stream. He is the founder and President of Kerygma Ventures, a sought-after speaker, an engaging preacher, an effective consultant, and a trusted spiritual father. Dudley has authored several books including Grace Works, Incense & Thunder, Glad to be Left Behind, Men In Their Own Skin, Orphans No More, When Hard Times Come, Follow Me and his latest, a children's book laced with gospel truth: Shorty the Substitute Ram.

The post My Thoughts as I Seek God’s Will in These Times appeared first on The Stream.

The Lurking Danger Behind Disappointment

by

Depression

The deliriously happy couple married and expected to live to a ripe old age enjoying grandchildren and savoring their twilight years together. Cancer! She died at age 27. He was devastated. Another young man studied hard and received good grades in hope of getting a job with the large firm. Another less qualified candidate knew the CEO and got the job. He was downcast.

It happens to all of us. What we expected didn't happen. What we wanted was not granted. Life surprised us with an unexpected turn. Our face fell. Our shoulders slumped. It's natural. We are not in control of everything, and we don't always interpret our hopes correctly.

It is natural, but it is also dangerous. In that critical moment, we are faced with a choice, and the consequences are far-reaching. We are facing an opportunity to identify as a victim, a villain or a victor.

The First Victim

It happened early in the biblical story. The sons of Adam and Eve brought offerings to the Lord. Cain brought from his fields some grain. Abel brought from his flocks an animal. The Lord had regard for Abel's offering but not for Cain's, and he was dejected. His countenance was sad, and the Lord spoke to him, reminding him that he could choose to do what was right or he could give into the power behind victimization. God had not forsaken him. He was speaking to him with encouragement to face the situation and choose to be responsible.

We are well aware of the choice Cain made. His victimization turned to bitterness which led to murder. Abel died and Cain became a wanderer. The human race has been following the model of Cain and many wars have resulted.

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

It feels good to take the victim's role -- for a while. Extra attention, pity, excuses for deviant behavior, entitlement, etc. It is one way of being in control. Victims claim rights they don't really have, and protect them by accusing others of being cruel and insensitive. In today's culture, there is a mad competition to find more ways to be a victim. But the cost is deadly. The crouching tiger of sin is eager to get a foothold of self-justification and bitterness. Hatred begins to spew. Lies are told. People are reduced to pawns, used to prop up the victim's agenda.

To say that victims are not joyful is a massive understatement. Their countenance is sad, and the atmosphere around them is toxic.

The Lurking Lion

The Villain is no better. He or she has identified with the sinful acts committed and concluded that his or her very nature is unredeemable. Villains are tuned into the voice of condemnation, which broadcasts 24/7 from hell's radio station. They wear toxic shame as their everyday garment. Interpreting every problem as evidence that they are both rejected and reject-able, they expect rejection and do whatever is necessary to assure they get it.

It was many years later that the apostle Peter picked up the crouching tiger image. He referred to a lurking lion seeking someone vulnerable to destroy.

Humble yourselves, therefore under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casing all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. -- 1 Peter 5:6-9

Notice how he connects the watchfulness he stresses to the suffering they are enduring. Suffering offers the opportunity to give in to dejection. He reminds them that it is part of the package when we share the life of Christ on the earth. All who share his life will be regarded as he is. Those who don't get him, won't get us.

Embrace the Lamb

Earlier in the letter, Peter explained that Jesus gave us an example to follow as we suffer. It is expected by Jesus. He warned his disciples that it was so. We are not entitled to smooth sailing on our way to heaven. We are privileged to display the very life on Christ in the midst of the turmoil around us. Essentially, Peter counsels us to resist the devil and return to the joy we have in knowing that we are never alone and that Jesus enjoys being with us -- even when we are sad.

People relate to each other in healthy ways when they are not vying for control through victimization or domination. Joyful people can talk and even disagree, without pulling the sword.

If you have been slapped around some by life, refuse to entertain the crouching tiger and the lurking lion. Embrace the lamb on the throne.

 

Dudley Hall is a Senior Contributor to The Stream. He is the founder and President of Kerygma Ventures, a sought-after speaker, an engaging preacher, an effective consultant, and a trusted spiritual father. Dudley has authored several books including Grace Works, Incense & Thunder, Glad to be Left Behind, Men In Their Own Skin, Orphans No More, When Hard Times Come, Follow Me and his latest, a children's book laced with gospel truth: Shorty the Substitute Ram.

The Lurking Danger Behind Disappointment

by

The deliriously happy couple married and expected to live to a ripe old age enjoying grandchildren and savoring their twilight years together. Cancer! She died at age 27. He was devastated. Another young man studied hard and received good grades in hope of getting a job with the large firm. Another less qualified candidate knew the CEO and got the job. He was downcast.

It happens to all of us. What we expected didn't happen. What we wanted was not granted. Life surprised us with an unexpected turn. Our face fell. Our shoulders slumped. It's natural. We are not in control of everything, and we don't always interpret our hopes correctly.

It is natural, but it is also dangerous. In that critical moment, we are faced with a choice, and the consequences are far-reaching. We are facing an opportunity to identify as a victim, a villain or a victor.

The First Victim

It happened early in the biblical story. The sons of Adam and Eve brought offerings to the Lord. Cain brought from his fields some grain. Abel brought from his flocks an animal. The Lord had regard for Abel's offering but not for Cain's, and he was dejected. His countenance was sad, and the Lord spoke to him, reminding him that he could choose to do what was right or he could give into the power behind victimization. God had not forsaken him. He was speaking to him with encouragement to face the situation and choose to be responsible.

We are well aware of the choice Cain made. His victimization turned to bitterness which led to murder. Abel died and Cain became a wanderer. The human race has been following the model of Cain and many wars have resulted.

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

It feels good to take the victim's role -- for a while. Extra attention, pity, excuses for deviant behavior, entitlement, etc. It is one way of being in control. Victims claim rights they don't really have, and protect them by accusing others of being cruel and insensitive. In today's culture, there is a mad competition to find more ways to be a victim. But the cost is deadly. The crouching tiger of sin is eager to get a foothold of self-justification and bitterness. Hatred begins to spew. Lies are told. People are reduced to pawns, used to prop up the victim's agenda.

To say that victims are not joyful is a massive understatement. Their countenance is sad, and the atmosphere around them is toxic.

The Lurking Lion

The Villain is no better. He or she has identified with the sinful acts committed and concluded that his or her very nature is unredeemable. Villains are tuned into the voice of condemnation, which broadcasts 24/7 from hell's radio station. They wear toxic shame as their everyday garment. Interpreting every problem as evidence that they are both rejected and reject-able, they expect rejection and do whatever is necessary to assure they get it.

It was many years later that the apostle Peter picked up the crouching tiger image. He referred to a lurking lion seeking someone vulnerable to destroy.

Humble yourselves, therefore under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casing all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. -- 1 Peter 5:6-9

Notice how he connects the watchfulness he stresses to the suffering they are enduring. Suffering offers the opportunity to give in to dejection. He reminds them that it is part of the package when we share the life of Christ on the earth. All who share his life will be regarded as he is. Those who don't get him, won't get us.

Embrace the Lamb

Earlier in the letter, Peter explained that Jesus gave us an example to follow as we suffer. It is expected by Jesus. He warned his disciples that it was so. We are not entitled to smooth sailing on our way to heaven. We are privileged to display the very life on Christ in the midst of the turmoil around us. Essentially, Peter counsels us to resist the devil and return to the joy we have in knowing that we are never alone and that Jesus enjoys being with us -- even when we are sad.

People relate to each other in healthy ways when they are not vying for control through victimization or domination. Joyful people can talk and even disagree, without pulling the sword.

If you have been slapped around some by life, refuse to entertain the crouching tiger and the lurking lion. Embrace the lamb on the throne.

 

Dudley Hall is a Senior Contributor to The Stream. He is the founder and President of Kerygma Ventures, a sought-after speaker, an engaging preacher, an effective consultant, and a trusted spiritual father. Dudley has authored several books including Grace Works, Incense & Thunder, Glad to be Left Behind, Men In Their Own Skin, Orphans No More, When Hard Times Come, Follow Me and his latest, a children's book laced with gospel truth: Shorty the Substitute Ram.

The post The Lurking Danger Behind Disappointment appeared first on The Stream.

The Gospel and Spiritual Powers

by

War in Heaven - 900

There have been many attempts through the years to explain the relationship the earth and its inhabitants have with the powers of evil.

Views on Spiritual Evil

Some have concluded that the biblical times were so primitive that such language referring to demons, evil personalities, and a personal devil reflect an uninformed worldview. They would more easily describe references to principalities and powers as institutions and social systems that oppress certain classes of people.

Others have suggested that the whole theme of history and thus the Bible is about a war that God has been fighting with the Satan, and that we are soldiers in his army in that eternal conflict.

The more classic protestant view has been that the battle is primary about the process of progressive sanctification. The benefits of the atonement of Christ's death and resurrection are emphasized with spiritual warfare being relegated to lesser attention. The fight with evil is part of the struggle that produces the character of Christ in us.

In recent decades, there has been a renewed emphasis in the territorial jurisdiction of higher-level evil powers. The question has been about the level of authority we as believers have regarding such.

Glorifying Jesus

As always, the danger is in over-emphasizing the role of the devil and diminishing the glory of Jesus, or in under-emphasizing the role and power of evil and becoming captives unaware. We try to interpret the whole of scripture in its context to rightly discern what we believe and therefore how we act. A bad hermeneutic will produce a bad theology.

Because we believe that the Bible is a narrative that culminates in the exaltation of Jesus as the fulfillment of all legitimate hope and promise, we view the Old Testament as authoritative yet pointing to a fuller understanding that is revealed in the New Testament. The images, symbols, predictions, and promises that are found in the in the Old are revealed fully in the person and work of Jesus. The New Testament writers are explaining that, and giving instructions about living in such new understanding.

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

With that in mind, many would agree that Paul's letter to the Ephesians is a high-water mark in such revelation. He begins by declaring what God has done in Jesus and what a radical difference that makes in our own identity. One phrase in the middle of the first chapter is so enlightening: "to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved" (1:6). It describes the purpose behind everything God has done, as well as what he is doing now. In short, he is magnifying the unique nature of his grace.

When all the fog and clouds have faded away, we shall see a glorious grace in the face of a glorious Father. Spiritual warfare must be seen with this purpose in mind.

Grace for the Oppressed

To feature his grace, God has chosen to work through those who need grace. Jesus announced at the beginning of his ministry,"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor" (Luke 4:18).

His target audience was not the well and the good, but the hurting and the bad. He is not embarrassed by the messy lives of those ravaged by sin, and oppressed by evil. His grace shines brightly there. Those blinded by self-righteousness never get to be redeemed by the wealthy Savior who is ready to spend it all to get us out of bondage. They never get to know the comfort of a Father who has daily longed for the return of the prodigal, and bears all shame to celebrate his return. They never get to rejoice in seeing a glory their eyes had never seen before.

God’s Kingdom Displaces Darkness

A contemporary form of the church that aims to entertain the healthy, inform the curious, and congratulate the strong is missing the mark of his mission. When the poor, bruised, broken-hearted captives are made to feel unwelcomed, we have adopted a pharisaical religion that stinks to God.

The Church diminishes the darkness by displacing the deception of shame and condemnation with the good news that a new kingdom has come -- superior to all others.

The church that Jesus commissioned is a continuation of his own ministry on earth. It diminishes the darkness by displacing the deception of shame and condemnation with the good news that a new kingdom has come -- superior to all others. It overcomes hatred and apathy with a kind of love foreign to earth, but common in heaven. It lives in the power of the name that is greater than all names and authorities. It does not live in fear of being overcome by evil, even by the princes of this world. It is not primarily searching for demons to cast out, but if encountered, demons are dispatched in the name of Jesus our king.

The purchase price has been paid for full redemption, and God's people are moving through the earth, one garden at a time, telling the truth and loving their enemies. Where light shines, darkness flees. Minds are freed to think creatively and productively as God designed humans to live. Societies are blessed with freedoms that result when individuals are themselves freed.

We Live in the Light of Jesus’ Victory

We do not live with a bunker-mentality. The roof is not caving in because of the enormous weight of evil. The earth is the Lord's and everything in it. On the cross, representatives of all powers and principalities met the God-installed King. Their authority was reduced to whatever He decides (Psalm 2).

As his subjects, family, and community, we live in light of that victory. We pray, preach, and live with the confidence that he who is in us is greater than he who rules the world of darkness. We do not mock the powers. We recognize their role and their presence, but we do not fear them or try to negotiate with them. We speak and live in Jesus' name. Their defeat in the lives of people who have been previously captured by evil magnifies the glory of his grace.

The outcome is not in doubt. God is summing all things up in Christ Jesus. His victory at the cross and resurrection is bigger than we have yet envisioned. He is reconciling the world to himself. We are his ambassadors, beseeching everyone to be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:19-21).

God's purpose did not fail in Jesus as a man. Though evil forces participated in his death, God's purpose was accomplished. He will not fail in his present body on earth.

Jesus is head of the church and it will prevail against all the authorities in the gates. Though at any one time, with a limited view of what is happening in the whole world, we might conclude that things are helplessly deteriorating, God's purpose is linked to his chosen people, the church. It will not fail.

There is reason to hope. There are resources to proceed. There will be a restoration of both the heavens and the earth. The resurrected life of Christ in his people, both individually and corporately, guarantee it.

 

Dudley Hall is a Senior Contributor to The Stream. He is the founder and President of Kerygma Ventures, a sought-after speaker, an engaging preacher, an effective consultant, and a trusted spiritual father. Dudley has authored several books including Grace Works, Incense & Thunder, Glad to be Left Behind, Men In Their Own Skin, Orphans No More, When Hard Times Come, Follow Me and his latest a children's book laced with gospel truth: Shorty the Substitute Ram.

The Gospel and Spiritual Powers

by

There have been many attempts through the years to explain the relationship the earth and its inhabitants have with the powers of evil.

Views on Spiritual Evil

Some have concluded that the biblical times were so primitive that such language referring to demons, evil personalities, and a personal devil reflect an uninformed worldview. They would more easily describe references to principalities and powers as institutions and social systems that oppress certain classes of people.

Others have suggested that the whole theme of history and thus the Bible is about a war that God has been fighting with the Satan, and that we are soldiers in his army in that eternal conflict.

The more classic protestant view has been that the battle is primary about the process of progressive sanctification. The benefits of the atonement of Christ's death and resurrection are emphasized with spiritual warfare being relegated to lesser attention. The fight with evil is part of the struggle that produces the character of Christ in us.

In recent decades, there has been a renewed emphasis in the territorial jurisdiction of higher-level evil powers. The question has been about the level of authority we as believers have regarding such.

Glorifying Jesus

As always, the danger is in over-emphasizing the role of the devil and diminishing the glory of Jesus, or in under-emphasizing the role and power of evil and becoming captives unaware. We try to interpret the whole of scripture in its context to rightly discern what we believe and therefore how we act. A bad hermeneutic will produce a bad theology.

Because we believe that the Bible is a narrative that culminates in the exaltation of Jesus as the fulfillment of all legitimate hope and promise, we view the Old Testament as authoritative yet pointing to a fuller understanding that is revealed in the New Testament. The images, symbols, predictions, and promises that are found in the in the Old are revealed fully in the person and work of Jesus. The New Testament writers are explaining that, and giving instructions about living in such new understanding.

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

With that in mind, many would agree that Paul's letter to the Ephesians is a high-water mark in such revelation. He begins by declaring what God has done in Jesus and what a radical difference that makes in our own identity. One phrase in the middle of the first chapter is so enlightening: "to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved" (1:6). It describes the purpose behind everything God has done, as well as what he is doing now. In short, he is magnifying the unique nature of his grace.

When all the fog and clouds have faded away, we shall see a glorious grace in the face of a glorious Father. Spiritual warfare must be seen with this purpose in mind.

Grace for the Oppressed

To feature his grace, God has chosen to work through those who need grace. Jesus announced at the beginning of his ministry,"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor" (Luke 4:18).

His target audience was not the well and the good, but the hurting and the bad. He is not embarrassed by the messy lives of those ravaged by sin, and oppressed by evil. His grace shines brightly there. Those blinded by self-righteousness never get to be redeemed by the wealthy Savior who is ready to spend it all to get us out of bondage. They never get to know the comfort of a Father who has daily longed for the return of the prodigal, and bears all shame to celebrate his return. They never get to rejoice in seeing a glory their eyes had never seen before.

God’s Kingdom Displaces Darkness

A contemporary form of the church that aims to entertain the healthy, inform the curious, and congratulate the strong is missing the mark of his mission. When the poor, bruised, broken-hearted captives are made to feel unwelcomed, we have adopted a pharisaical religion that stinks to God.

The Church diminishes the darkness by displacing the deception of shame and condemnation with the good news that a new kingdom has come -- superior to all others.

The church that Jesus commissioned is a continuation of his own ministry on earth. It diminishes the darkness by displacing the deception of shame and condemnation with the good news that a new kingdom has come -- superior to all others. It overcomes hatred and apathy with a kind of love foreign to earth, but common in heaven. It lives in the power of the name that is greater than all names and authorities. It does not live in fear of being overcome by evil, even by the princes of this world. It is not primarily searching for demons to cast out, but if encountered, demons are dispatched in the name of Jesus our king.

The purchase price has been paid for full redemption, and God's people are moving through the earth, one garden at a time, telling the truth and loving their enemies. Where light shines, darkness flees. Minds are freed to think creatively and productively as God designed humans to live. Societies are blessed with freedoms that result when individuals are themselves freed.

We Live in the Light of Jesus’ Victory

We do not live with a bunker-mentality. The roof is not caving in because of the enormous weight of evil. The earth is the Lord's and everything in it. On the cross, representatives of all powers and principalities met the God-installed King. Their authority was reduced to whatever He decides (Psalm 2).

As his subjects, family, and community, we live in light of that victory. We pray, preach, and live with the confidence that he who is in us is greater than he who rules the world of darkness. We do not mock the powers. We recognize their role and their presence, but we do not fear them or try to negotiate with them. We speak and live in Jesus' name. Their defeat in the lives of people who have been previously captured by evil magnifies the glory of his grace.

The outcome is not in doubt. God is summing all things up in Christ Jesus. His victory at the cross and resurrection is bigger than we have yet envisioned. He is reconciling the world to himself. We are his ambassadors, beseeching everyone to be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:19-21).

God's purpose did not fail in Jesus as a man. Though evil forces participated in his death, God's purpose was accomplished. He will not fail in his present body on earth.

Jesus is head of the church and it will prevail against all the authorities in the gates. Though at any one time, with a limited view of what is happening in the whole world, we might conclude that things are helplessly deteriorating, God's purpose is linked to his chosen people, the church. It will not fail.

There is reason to hope. There are resources to proceed. There will be a restoration of both the heavens and the earth. The resurrected life of Christ in his people, both individually and corporately, guarantee it.

 

Dudley Hall is a Senior Contributor to The Stream. He is the founder and President of Kerygma Ventures, a sought-after speaker, an engaging preacher, an effective consultant, and a trusted spiritual father. Dudley has authored several books including Grace Works, Incense & Thunder, Glad to be Left Behind, Men In Their Own Skin, Orphans No More, When Hard Times Come, Follow Me and his latest a children's book laced with gospel truth: Shorty the Substitute Ram.

The post The Gospel and Spiritual Powers appeared first on The Stream.

We Are Here and There

by

Praise and Worship Sunset

Lincoln Steffens went to Russia after the Russian Revolution and saw the new collective form of government, known as communism, being tried. Things looked so good in the early days that he reported back home, "I have seen the future and it works." Of course, by 1989 the country was in big trouble, having witnessed millions of people dead in the tragic experiment.

However, the scriptures testify that we can see the future and it really does work.

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. -- Colossians 3:1-4 (ESV)

In the real world described here, the spiritual and natural intertwine. When Jesus appeared, the eternal invaded the temporal. Or speaking from a linear perspective, the future broke into the present. Jesus announced, "The kingdom of God is at hand." A new era was beginning. A new age was dawning. Though the willfully blind can't see beyond the temporal and thus live based on observation and intuition, those born of the Spirit can see through the temporal to the eternal.

In the mystery of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus, believers share the very life of Jesus the Christ -- called "eternal life." They share his past, present and future. Because they are "in him," they are wherever and whenever he is. The apostle Paul is not talking nonsense when he says, "Your life is hidden with Christ in God."

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

This is confusing to those so focused on trying to get there by some form of merit, that they can't see the finished work of Christ. Many are afraid they will be left behind at his next coming. But, you can't be left behind if you are already there. We are so united with him that we sit with him now and will appear with him when comes. In the present, we are being trained by Jesus to live as "there" people while we are here.

 

Originally published on KerygmaVentures.com. Reprinted with permission.

We Are Here and There

by

Editor’s Note: It’s with heavy hearts we report that Dudley’s beloved wife Betsy was escorted to her eternal home yesterday. We extend our deepest sympathies to our brother and adviser, and pray God’s peace on the entire Hall family. 

Lincoln Steffens went to Russia after the Russian Revolution and saw the new collective form of government, known as communism, being tried. Things looked so good in the early days that he reported back home, "I have seen the future and it works." Of course, by 1989 the country was in big trouble, having witnessed millions of people dead in the tragic experiment.

However, the scriptures testify that we can see the future and it really does work.

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. -- Colossians 3:1-4 (ESV)

In the real world described here, the spiritual and natural intertwine. When Jesus appeared, the eternal invaded the temporal. Or speaking from a linear perspective, the future broke into the present. Jesus announced, "The kingdom of God is at hand." A new era was beginning. A new age was dawning. Though the willfully blind can't see beyond the temporal and thus live based on observation and intuition, those born of the Spirit can see through the temporal to the eternal.

In the mystery of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus, believers share the very life of Jesus the Christ -- called "eternal life." They share his past, present and future. Because they are "in him," they are wherever and whenever he is. The apostle Paul is not talking nonsense when he says, "Your life is hidden with Christ in God."

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

This is confusing to those so focused on trying to get there by some form of merit, that they can't see the finished work of Christ. Many are afraid they will be left behind at his next coming. But, you can't be left behind if you are already there. We are so united with him that we sit with him now and will appear with him when comes. In the present, we are being trained by Jesus to live as "there" people while we are here.

 

Originally published on KerygmaVentures.com. Reprinted with permission.

The post We Are Here and There appeared first on The Stream.

Praying in the End Times

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Any mention of the end times arouses curiosity among those familiar with biblical prophecy. It seems our thoughts run quickly to the end of the world and the speculation that surrounds it.

We imagine that any praying going on during such final tumultuous times would be cries for help, or pleadings for mercy. It might be helpful to define the end times as the Scripture does and see how prayer relates.

Old Testament Pictures of the Christian Journey

The apostle Paul describes the journey of Israel from Egyptian slavery to the occupation of the land of promise as a pattern for the Christian journey.

"These things happened to them to serve as an example, and they were written down to instruct us, on whom the ends of the ages have come." -- 1 Corinthians 10:11 (NRSV)

Since the coming of Jesus to the earth in his incarnation, the last stage of history has begun. God spoke in many ways prior to this event, but Jesus completed the story and fulfilled the promise. We are now "restored partners." Just like Adam and Eve partnered with God to manage the earth, and Israel was God's chosen nation to carry out his plan to bless the world, we have been chosen to represent him on earth.

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The natural phenomena contained shadows of ultimate reality pointing toward a substance that is made real after the resurrection. The rock from which life-saving water flowed was Jesus. The bread that nourished starving people was Jesus. The cloud spoke of the presence of God among his people -- fulfilled in Jesus.

The people of God now consist of those who are "in Christ." We are his "end times" partners, privileged to co-labor with him in magnifying his name in all the earth.

Access to The Father

Jesus made it clear that something was different after his coming to earth. It was on the very night that he was betrayed and tried, that he told his disciples that he was going to the Father to make a place for them to have the same access to him as he, the Son, has. He told them that after his ascension, the Holy Spirit would come and make their new status real.

"On that day you will ask nothing of me. Very truly, I tell you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete." -- John 16:23-24 (NRSV)

We are God's partners on earth making requests from a willing Father that will be answered by heavenly power invading earthly circumstances.

It was clear that Jesus expected them to go straight to the Father, using his name, to receive what they needed to magnify his name in every circumstance. They had been captured by his love and freed by his death and resurrection. They had one primary purpose for living. They lived to make his name great on the earth. Only this would make their own joy complete.

They had been created and redeemed to glorify God. Their living, thus their praying, related to this purpose. The disciples had been confident that the Father would hear and grant the request that Jesus made. But he was telling them that on this day, they would get the same results. It was mind-boggling.

We still live in that day. We are God's partners on earth making requests from a willing Father that will be answered by heavenly power invading earthly circumstances. We are not being forced to pray as an obligation. We are privileged to pray, knowing that our Father is eager to hear and respond.

As end times people, we run to the prayer meeting. We need no shame-based motivation. It is our opportunity to participate in the kingdom of God coming to earth. We ask. He answers. His name is magnified. We worship.

The post Praying in the End Times appeared first on The Stream.

Praying in the End Times

by

Man Praying in Church

Any mention of the end times arouses curiosity among those familiar with biblical prophecy. It seems our thoughts run quickly to the end of the world and the speculation that surrounds it.

We imagine that any praying going on during such final tumultuous times would be cries for help, or pleadings for mercy. It might be helpful to define the end times as the Scripture does and see how prayer relates.

Old Testament Pictures of the Christian Journey

The apostle Paul describes the journey of Israel from Egyptian slavery to the occupation of the land of promise as a pattern for the Christian journey.

"These things happened to them to serve as an example, and they were written down to instruct us, on whom the ends of the ages have come." -- 1 Corinthians 10:11 (NRSV)

Since the coming of Jesus to the earth in his incarnation, the last stage of history has begun. God spoke in many ways prior to this event, but Jesus completed the story and fulfilled the promise. We are now "restored partners." Just like Adam and Eve partnered with God to manage the earth, and Israel was God's chosen nation to carry out his plan to bless the world, we have been chosen to represent him on earth.

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

The natural phenomena contained shadows of ultimate reality pointing toward a substance that is made real after the resurrection. The rock from which life-saving water flowed was Jesus. The bread that nourished starving people was Jesus. The cloud spoke of the presence of God among his people -- fulfilled in Jesus.

The people of God now consist of those who are "in Christ." We are his "end times" partners, privileged to co-labor with him in magnifying his name in all the earth.

Access to The Father

Jesus made it clear that something was different after his coming to earth. It was on the very night that he was betrayed and tried, that he told his disciples that he was going to the Father to make a place for them to have the same access to him as he, the Son, has. He told them that after his ascension, the Holy Spirit would come and make their new status real.

"On that day you will ask nothing of me. Very truly, I tell you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete." -- John 16:23-24 (NRSV)

We are God's partners on earth making requests from a willing Father that will be answered by heavenly power invading earthly circumstances.

It was clear that Jesus expected them to go straight to the Father, using his name, to receive what they needed to magnify his name in every circumstance. They had been captured by his love and freed by his death and resurrection. They had one primary purpose for living. They lived to make his name great on the earth. Only this would make their own joy complete.

They had been created and redeemed to glorify God. Their living, thus their praying, related to this purpose. The disciples had been confident that the Father would hear and grant the request that Jesus made. But he was telling them that on this day, they would get the same results. It was mind-boggling.

We still live in that day. We are God's partners on earth making requests from a willing Father that will be answered by heavenly power invading earthly circumstances. We are not being forced to pray as an obligation. We are privileged to pray, knowing that our Father is eager to hear and respond.

As end times people, we run to the prayer meeting. We need no shame-based motivation. It is our opportunity to participate in the kingdom of God coming to earth. We ask. He answers. His name is magnified. We worship.

The Purpose in Prayer

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Most of us are familiar with the prayer Jesus taught his disciples in the Sermon on the Mount. He was explaining how the people of his kingdom would live as they shared the eternal life he would give them after his ascension.

Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done,   On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts,   As we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time of trial,   But rescue us from the evil one. (Matthew 6:9-13 NRSV)

A central feature of this prayer is our asking for the kingdom of God to come to earth to be implemented as it is in heaven. It is his will that is to be established. His will is for our good. His will is the rule of true goodness. We pray as those commissioned to call heaven to earth. Maybe if we knew better what that means, we might be more inclined to pray as he directed.

A Picture of Heaven

The pictures we have of what is happening in the heavenly realm is one of absolute worship of God as creator and sustainer of all things.

Holy, holy, holy, The Lord God the Almighty, Who was and is and is to come. ... You are worthy, our Lord and God, To receive glory and honor and power, For you created all things, And by your will the existed and were created. (Revelation 4:8, 11 NRSV)

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

If we do not share that adoration of God, we cannot pray the prayer Jesus gave. He is the sovereign, good God who reveals himself as Father, Son and Spirit. After the Lion of the tribe of Judah is unveiled in book of The Revelation, the scene in heaven changes to equal worship of the Lamb, who is the Son.

You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slaughtered and by your blood you ransomed for God saints from every tribe and language and people and nation; You have made them to be a kingdom and priests serving our God, and they will reign on earth. (Revelation 5:8-10 NRSV)

The kingdom of God is the rule of the slain and resurrected Lamb. It is his love expressed in full forgiveness that rules in this realm called the kingdom of God. Those who have been forgiven by the shed blood of Jesus, the eternal Lamb, have the role of expanding that rule throughout the earth. That is how we live and how we pray.

Expanding the Kingdom

In this kingdom, we forgive as we are forgiven. We depend on the provision of the Father for daily needs. We rely on him to rescue us from the evil of Satan's intentions. We are citizens of a new kingdom enjoying the benefits of a new family with God as Father, and others as family members. We have a new mission. We no longer live for our own pleasure, but for the pleasure of our Father. He rejoices in mercy and desires that his creation be restored to original intent.

As we pray and live as restored humans, we find the meaningful purpose of our existence without even asking for it.

This certainly colors our prayers. We pray as kingdom people. We address God as Father. We worship him as the creator-redeemer, who is sovereign and loves us above all. We depend on him for daily provision. We receive his eternal forgiveness of all our sins and thereby extend his rule, forgiving those in our path.

In such praying we offer the world a new alternative to presumption, alienation, bitterness, worry and conflict. We release into the world the power of forgiveness that changes relationships and bolsters cultures. Such praying is not a burdensome obligation, but a privilege. God has graciously given us the role of requesting the intervention of heavenly rule and power. As we pray and live as restored humans, we find the meaningful purpose of our existence without even asking for it.

We have more privilege than we ever imagined. We have access to more power than we ever requested. God has graciously made us his partners in matters of earthly management.

The post The Purpose in Prayer appeared first on The Stream.

The Purpose in Prayer

by

Preach Pray Journal

Most of us are familiar with the prayer Jesus taught his disciples in the Sermon on the Mount. He was explaining how the people of his kingdom would live as they shared the eternal life he would give them after his ascension.

Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done,   On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts,   As we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time of trial,   But rescue us from the evil one. (Matthew 6:9-13 NRSV)

A central feature of this prayer is our asking for the kingdom of God to come to earth to be implemented as it is in heaven. It is his will that is to be established. His will is for our good. His will is the rule of true goodness. We pray as those commissioned to call heaven to earth. Maybe if we knew better what that means, we might be more inclined to pray as he directed.

A Picture of Heaven

The pictures we have of what is happening in the heavenly realm is one of absolute worship of God as creator and sustainer of all things.

Holy, holy, holy, The Lord God the Almighty, Who was and is and is to come. ... You are worthy, our Lord and God, To receive glory and honor and power, For you created all things, And by your will the existed and were created. (Revelation 4:8, 11 NRSV)

Help us champion truth, freedom, limited government and human dignity. Support The Stream >>

If we do not share that adoration of God, we cannot pray the prayer Jesus gave. He is the sovereign, good God who reveals himself as Father, Son and Spirit. After the Lion of the tribe of Judah is unveiled in book of The Revelation, the scene in heaven changes to equal worship of the Lamb, who is the Son.

You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slaughtered and by your blood you ransomed for God saints from every tribe and language and people and nation; You have made them to be a kingdom and priests serving our God, and they will reign on earth. (Revelation 5:8-10 NRSV)

The kingdom of God is the rule of the slain and resurrected Lamb. It is his love expressed in full forgiveness that rules in this realm called the kingdom of God. Those who have been forgiven by the shed blood of Jesus, the eternal Lamb, have the role of expanding that rule throughout the earth. That is how we live and how we pray.

Expanding the Kingdom

In this kingdom, we forgive as we are forgiven. We depend on the provision of the Father for daily needs. We rely on him to rescue us from the evil of Satan's intentions. We are citizens of a new kingdom enjoying the benefits of a new family with God as Father, and others as family members. We have a new mission. We no longer live for our own pleasure, but for the pleasure of our Father. He rejoices in mercy and desires that his creation be restored to original intent.

As we pray and live as restored humans, we find the meaningful purpose of our existence without even asking for it.

This certainly colors our prayers. We pray as kingdom people. We address God as Father. We worship him as the creator-redeemer, who is sovereign and loves us above all. We depend on him for daily provision. We receive his eternal forgiveness of all our sins and thereby extend his rule, forgiving those in our path.

In such praying we offer the world a new alternative to presumption, alienation, bitterness, worry and conflict. We release into the world the power of forgiveness that changes relationships and bolsters cultures. Such praying is not a burdensome obligation, but a privilege. God has graciously given us the role of requesting the intervention of heavenly rule and power. As we pray and live as restored humans, we find the meaningful purpose of our existence without even asking for it.

We have more privilege than we ever imagined. We have access to more power than we ever requested. God has graciously made us his partners in matters of earthly management.

A Picture of Prayer

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Though the book of The Revelation is a challenge to interpret, I love reading it. It is the picture-book of the bible.

I suppose that I'm a visual learner. I love the visualization of spiritual realities presented through visions and symbols. While other New Testament authors carefully explain the conflict between evil and good, and give adequate instruction to live amid invisible spiritual dynamics, I love the pictures Revelation offers.

The Scroll With Seven Seals

Beginning in chapter 5, there's a scene where John sees the one on the throne holding a scroll that has seven seals. It seems no one can open this scroll that, evidently, explains the mystery of the ages. Weeping ensues.

Then John is told that there is someone who can open it. It is the Lion of the tribe of Judah. When he appears, it is as a lamb that has been slaughtered. We know who that is. One by one the seals are broken and the mystery unfolds.

The Prayers of the Saints

In chapter 8 there is a picture of what the prayers of the saints look like. An angel with a censor takes the incense arising (prayers of the saints) and mixes it with fire from the altar (symbolizing all that Jesus has done in his sacrificial death) and flings it back to earth with peals of thunder, flashes of lightning, and an earthquake.

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What a picture of our privilege in partnership with heaven. Jesus forgave our sin, defeated our enemy, reconciled us to God, empowered us as his agents on earth. We engage the conflicts on earth and pray. The results are as dynamic as thunder, lightning and earthquakes.

It is a characteristic of prophetic literature to depict spiritual dynamics in cosmic images. Just like thunder reminds us that we are not in control, and lightning displays more power than humans can ever generate, and an earthquake illustrates how little we can control our security, answers to prayer are powerful. Things change when heaven intervenes in earthly matters.

God's Power Displayed

This picture confirms what we know about the kingdom rule of God on earth at present. Those who fear God have more to say about the events going on than we have recognized. We are not to be dismayed when confronted with difficult or even impossible circumstances. We can pray.

When the first believers were being discriminated against by the civil and religious authorities, they prayed. The place was shaken (earthquake?) and they spoke freely of the resurrected Lord (Acts 4).

We are not hapless victims of evil while we sojourn here. We rule with Christ, speaking boldly about the finished work of Jesus and boldly petitioning our Lord.

When Paul was severely persecuting the early believers, the church prayed. On a trip to Damascus, Paul was struck down by a light (lightning?) and was converted to a great Christian missionary.

Every time God spoke to his people it drowned out and displaced the sounds they were being tempted to trust. (Thunder?)

Confident in Our Lord

We are not hapless victims of evil while we sojourn here. We rule with Christ. We exercise our authority by speaking boldly about the finished work of Jesus, and by boldly petitioning our Lord for heaven's intervention.

Of course, we often face insurmountable obstacles. They are necessary for us to display the enormous power of God as he acts in behalf of his people who seek to glorify him.

The Christian life is, by nature, supernatural. We expect to live confidently in both the visible and invisible realms of reality. As one saint said after reading the account of Revelation 8:1-5, "Let's smoke up heaven."

The post A Picture of Prayer appeared first on The Stream.

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