Category: Judgment

Seven Last Sights

It’s been a grueling journey through Revelation, but we’ve arrived at the seven last sights. Up to this point, we’ve studied seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven histories, seven bowls and seven words of woe. If you’re still with me, well done–we’ve made it to the final set of seven in the book of Revelation!

First Sight (19:11-16): In John’s vision, heaven opens and a white horse appears. “Its rider is called Faithful and True, and with justice he judges and makes war.” (19:11b) Like the vision of Christ in Revelation 1, His eyes are “like a fiery flame” and a “sharp sword came from his mouth.” This time, the priestly robe He wears is “dipped in blood and His name is called the Word of God.” (19:12,15,13) He leads the armies of heaven riding on white horses and wearing pure white linen. “And he has a name written on his robe and on his thigh: King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” (19:16)

Christ’s entrance here contrasts His previous triumphal entry recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12). “He is no longer riding a humble donkey…[but returns] on a fiery white charger, bringing judgment, just as He had promised (Matthew 25:31-33).”* John’s vision reveals Jesus as a warrior king marching in victoriously. Just as a priest’s garments would have had been stained with blood from making sacrifices, Jesus’ robe exhibits evidence of His blood shed on the cross to atone for the sins of the saints. Simultaneously, He also bears the blood of His defeated enemies, recapitulating a prophecy in Isaiah and showing the fulfillment of His wrath: “I trampled the winepress alone, and no one from the nations was with me. I trampled them in my anger and ground them underfoot in my fury; their blood spattered my garments, and all my clothes were stained.” (Isaiah 63:3) (Jen Wilkin Week 9 video)

Second Sight (19:17-18): John describes an angel calling out in a loud voice to all the birds flying overhead “Come, gather together for the great supper of God, so that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of military commanders, the flesh of the mighty, the flesh of horses and of their riders, and the flesh of everyone, both free and slave, small and great.” (19:17b-18) This “banquet” appears to be the antithesis of the wedding supper of the Lamb. In a gruesome turn of events, those who refuse the invitation to the wedding supper of the Lamb become a feast for the birds.

Third Sight (19:19-21): Moving on to John’s next vision, “the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies gathered together to wage war against the rider on the horse and against his army.” (19:19) Instead of an epic battle between good and evil, the beast (Antichrist) and the false prophet are “thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur.” (19:20c) Furthering their defeat, “the rest were killed with the sword that came from the mouth of the rider on the horse, and all the birds ate their fill of their flesh.” (19:21) This is another view of the sixth bowl judgement described in Revelation 16:16. Jen Wilkin describes this one-sided victory at Armageddon as “the battle that wasn’t.” (141)

Other parts of Scripture clarify the symbolic double-edged sword coming from the mouth of Christ: “For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. No creature is hidden from him, but all things are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give an account.” (Hebrews 4:12-13)

“God’s Word reveals His standard, our obligations, and our shortcomings. It cuts through our veneer of virtue, exposing us as the rebels we are, and promises that we will receive a just penalty… Against the divine standard, we inevitably fall short (Romans 3:23). That’s why we need a Savior.”**

Fourth Sight (20:1-3): Returning to a familiar scene from Revelation 9, John revisits the abyss from which the enemy unleashed locusts in the fifth trumpet judgement. In this vision, an angel holds a key to the abyss and a great chain in his hand. “He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. He threw him into the abyss, closed it, and put a seal on it so that he would no longer deceive the nations until the thousand years were completed. After that, he must be released for a short time.” (20:2-3)

Both Jen Wilkin and Pastor Matt Chandler assert that 1000 years is a symbolic number that references the fixed period of time between Christ’s first and second coming to earth. This interpretation would mean we are currently living during the 1000 years. Chandler asserts that Satan is like a mafia boss calling the shots from behind bars. Because of the death and resurrection of Jesus, His followers can no longer be accused by the enemy (Romans 8:33). And with the arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the devil hasn’t been able to stop the gospel as it spreads from “Jerusalem to Judea to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

Fifth Sight (20:4-10): Next, John sees people seated on thrones “who were given authority to judge.” (20:4b) He also sees martyrs and believers who didn’t take the mark of the beast raised back to life to reign with Christ. While this seems like a future vision, it may also symbolize our present spiritual reality. Consider this in light of Paul’s words: “we were by nature children under wrath as the others were also. But God, who is rich in mercy, because of his great love that he had for us, made us alive with Christ even though we were dead in trespasses. You are saved by grace! He also raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavens in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might display the immeasurable riches of his grace through his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:3b-7)

We’ve already been brought from death to life in a spiritual sense. We are born again and seated at the right hand of Christ. So, the “first resurrection” (20:5) is a spiritual one—when a person chooses to follow Jesus. The second resurrection will occur after Christ’s bodily return when our physical bodies will be raised and made new. The first death is physical death. The “second death” (20:6) is spiritual death—when those who have rejected God will be separated from Him and His goodness, light, and love for eternity. (Jen Wilkin Week 9 video)

Through Christ, believers already have spiritual authority and eternal life: “ [Jesus] said to them, ‘I watched Satan fall from heaven like lightning. Look, I have given you the authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy; nothing at all will harm you. However, don’t rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:18-20)

The fifth sight continues by explaining events following the thousand years when Christ physically returns. Satan will be released from captivity, will go out to deceive the nations and will gather people from the four corners of the earth to wage battle. They will surround “the encampment of the saints, the beloved city.” (20:9b) But just like the battle of Armageddon, they will be shut down before they can attack: “Then fire came down from heaven and consumed them. The devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet are, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” (Revelation 20:9c-10) This is the last we’ll see of the unholy trinity—it’s the final defeat of the dragon and the two beasts. Sin, death, Satan and all the brokenness they bring have been overcome by God’s power and justice. That’s worthy of a Hallelujah!

The Sixth Sight (20:11-14): Next John describes a scene we often fear and misunderstand—the final judgement. “Then I saw a great white throne and one seated on it… I also saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life, and the dead were judged according to their works by what was written in the books… And anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” (20:11a, 12, 15) This is the fourth time we’ve seen the book of life in one of John’s visions (see 3:5, 13:8, 17:8) With every mention, we’re given assurance that those whose names are written in it have nothing to fear.

Jesus uses three parables to describe different aspects of judgement day in Matthew 25: The Parables of the Ten Virgins, the Talents, and the Sheep and the Goats. Each one emphasizes the importance of living in a way that honors the Lord and anticipates His return. From beginning to end, Scripture makes it clear that the way we live and treat others matters. We show we belong to God by keeping His commandments. On judgement day we’ll be called to account for all that we’ve done, but by God’s grace, we can stand before His throne and claim righteousness through the atoning sacrifice of Christ’s blood.

The Seventh Sight (21:1-8): John sees a new heaven and a new earth and a new Jerusalem coming down out of heaven. He hears a voice from the throne saying “Look, God’s dwelling is with humanity, and he will live with them. They will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them and will be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; grief, crying, and pain will be no more, because the previous things have passed away.” (21:3-4)

The Lord comes down from heaven to reveal Himself many times in Scripture but people repeatedly rebel and follow their own desires. Here, at the end of time, we see Him coming down once more. Only this time, He’ll be here to stay and will redeem our broken and fallen world once and for all.

Take a moment to ponder this incredible truth. Consider how you can live in a way that honors the Lord and brings His hope to our broken world. (And keep an eye out for my next post that will bring us all the way to the end of Revelation 22.)

*gotquestions.org “Why is Jesus going to return on a white horse?” 

**gotquestions.org “What is the meaning of the two edged sword coming out of Jesus’ mount in Revelation 1:16?”  

Jen Wilkin, Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom, Lifeway Press, 2024.

All Scripture quoted from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), unless noted otherwise.

To access Matt Chandler’s sermon on this portion of Revelation, click here.

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Seven Histories

So far in our study of Revelation, we’ve covered seven letters of warning and encouragement to seven churches, seven seals opened for followers of the Lamb, and seven trumpets heralding the beginning of God’s judgement of earth dwellers. Now, it’s time to buckle your seatbelts, put your tray table in its upright and locked position, and get ready for some turbulence as we do a flyover of John’s description of seven histories in Revelation 12:1-15:5.

Jen Wilkin explains “the term history is used by commentators to mean ‘narrative’ or ‘description’ versus something that happened in the past. The seven histories form a chronology (or timeline) of events that have happened, are happening, and will happen.” (p. 84) Symbols and imagery with multiple interpretations fill these histories, so we’ll try to stick with what’s clear from the text.

The First History (Revelation 12:1-17):

In John’s vision, “A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head.” (12:1, CSB) The pregnant woman, on the brink of giving birth, cried out with labor pains as a fiery red dragon with seven heads, ten horns and seven crowns “Stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that when she did give birth it might devour her child.” (12:4b, CSB) She gives birth to a son “who is going to rule all nations with an iron rod.” (12:5b, CSB) This vision includes past and future realities. “The twelve stars refer to the twelve tribes of Israel. So the woman in Revelation 12 is Israel… While it is true that Mary gave birth to Jesus, it is also true that Jesus, the son of David from the tribe of Judah, came from Israel. In a sense, Israel gave birth—or brought forth—Christ Jesus.”*

In the vision, John sees the dragon thrown out of heaven and identified as “the devil and Satan, the one who deceives the whole world.” (12:9b, CSB) With the enemy let loose on earth, a voice from heaven warns “Woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has come down to you with great fury, because he knows his time is short.” (12:12b, CSB) Here we’re reminded and reassured that the enemy’s days are numbered, and that God has already secured the victory. We live in the tension of being saved and set apart by the blood of Christ, but still impacted by sin and harassed by the enemy, as John describes: “So the dragon was furious with the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep the commands of God and hold firmly to the testimony about Jesus.” (12:17, CSB)

The Second History (Revelation 12:18- 13:10):

John’s vision continues by describing a beast with ten horns, seven heads, and ten crowns coming up out of the sea and “on its heads were blasphemous names.”(13:11b, CSB) Jen Wilkin’s guide to symbols tells us horns symbolize power, victory and strength; heads symbolize authority; crowns symbolize rule and sovereignty (p. 211). As the description of this beast continues, it becomes clear it is the Antichrist who is given authority by the dragon, Satan, and worshipped by the whole earth. For three and a half years the beast is “permitted to wage war against the saints and to conquer them. It was also given authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation.” (13:7, CSB) The beast has a fatal wound on its head that has been healed and the whole earth is amazed by this and worships the beast. Only those “in the book of life of the Lamb who was slaughtered” refrain from worshipping the beast. (13:8b, CSB) John ends by admonishing followers of Jesus: “This calls for endurance and faithfulness from the saints.” (13:10b)

The Third History (Revelation 13:11-18):

John’s vision continues with “another beast coming up out of the earth: it had two horns like a lamb, but it spoke like a dragon. It exercises all the authority of the first beast on its behalf and compels the earth and those who live on it to worship the first beast, whose fatal wound was healed.”(13:11-12) The addition of the second beast completes the “unholy trinity” that includes the dragon and the first beast. Notice the ways the three imitate the Holy Trinity: the dragon poses as the Father, giving authority and power to the other two; the first beast imitates the Son—it has a fatal wound that is healed and is worshipped by people; the second beast copies the Holy Spirit by performing signs and wonders and pointing people to worship the first beast. (Even writing this comparison makes my stomach churn.) The second beast “makes everyone—small and great, rich and poor, free and slave—to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark: the beast’s name or the number of its name…is 666.” (13:16, 17, 18b) Jen Wilkin’s number chart helps us to understand this as the number of man—it represents rebellion and the unholy trinity of the dragon and the two beasts. (p. 210)

You’ve probably heard about the mark of the beast before but may not have realized it’s just another place the enemy imitates and cheapens the things of God. The mark copies the Lord’s instructions in Deuteronomy 6:4-8 where He tells the Israelites to bind His commandments on their foreheads and hands. Pastor Matt Chandler explains, “It’s about ideology and action, when we’re talking about the mark of the beast, we’re talking about internal character made manifest in behavior.” He then quotes GK Beale who says, “The forehead represents ideological commitment and the hand the practical outworking of that commitment.” We show whose mark we bear by what we think and how we behave.

Remember, in Revelation 7 we learned servants of God already have a seal of ownership and protection on their foreheads from the Holy Spirit? The mark of the beast isn’t given in love, but to assert domination through controlling the economy. It isn’t received with gratitude, but out of fear of not being able to buy or sell goods. The mark of the beast is just another cheap imitation from God’s original design and a tool for the enemy to deceive people. Fear of temporary discomfort leads earth dwellers to take a mark that has eternal implications: “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he will also drink the wine of God’s wrath, which is poured full strength into the cup of his anger…There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or anyone who receives the mark of its name.” (14:9b, 10a, 11b)

The Fourth History (Revelation 14:1-5):

John’s vision shifts to a more encouraging focus in his fourth history where he sees “the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him were 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads.” (14:1) Despite the persecution, destruction, and chaos caused by the enemy, Jesus is still the one with ultimate authority. He stands victorious with those He has redeemed.

The Fifth History (Revelation 14:6-13):

Next, John describes three angels who call out to the inhabitants of earth. The first urges people to “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgement has come.” (14:7b) The second declares that “Babylon the Great has fallen,” indicating that the corrosive effects of sin and worldliness are coming to an end. The third angel differentiates between those who have received the mark of the beast and those who have the seal of God. Those who have worshipped the beast will be doomed to eternity “tormented with fire and sulfur in the sight of the holy angels and in the sight of the Lamb…There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image or anyone who receives the mark of its name.” (14:10b) Those who endure, keep God’s commands, and their faith in Jesus will “rest from their labors, since their works follow them.” (14:13b) Those who remain true to the Lord will have endured hardship for a season but will enjoy the fruit of their faithfulness for eternity.

The Sixth History (Revelation 14:14-20):

John’s vision continues as he witnesses “one like the Son of Man” seated on a cloud wearing a golden crown and holding a sharp sickle. An angel urges Him to use His sickle and reap the harvest of the earth. This scene provides echoes of Jesus’ own words describing His return: “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.” (Matthew 24:30-31, NIV)

A second angel calls for a second reaping of unrepentant souls that will be thrown “into the great winepress of God’s wrath.” (14:19b) (This vision of the “grapes of wrath” inspired lyrics in Julia Ward Howe’s “Battle Hymn of the Republic”  and John Steinbeck’s title for the novel The Grapes of Wrath.)

The Seventh History (Revelation 15:1-8):

This has been a lot of material to absorb but stay with me, we’re landing the plane soon. Next, John says, “Then I saw another great and awe-inspiring sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven last plagues; for with them God’s wrath will be completed.” (15:1) Those faithful to God stand on a sea of glass mixed with fire singing “the song of God’s servant Moses and the song of the Lamb.” (15:3) Seven angels come out of the heavenly temple and receive seven golden bowls filled with the wrath of God. John’s vision repeats a similar scene from Exodus 40:35 where Moses cannot enter the tabernacle because it’s filled with the glory of the Lord. “Then the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from his power, and no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed.” (15:8) Glass mixed with fire reminds us of the refining fires of our faith that Peter describes in a passage that has encouraged me when I’ve felt alone or ostracized because of my faith: “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (1 Peter 1:6-7, NIV)

Final Thoughts

John urges us to keep what we’ve heard from Revelation. I’m struck by the contrast between those who follow the crowd by worshipping the beast and receiving his mark and those who remain righteous and set apart. It’s a clear reminder that going with the flow for the sake of temporary comfort and convenience isn’t worth eternal suffering. Believers have been set apart but will experience trials before the end when God makes all things right. For now, we need patient endurance that doesn’t focus on short term hardships but long-term faithfulness resulting in great joy when we spend eternity with our almighty, just, and incomprehensible God.

*gotquestions.org  https://www.gotquestions.org/Revelation-chapter-12.html

Jen Wilkin, Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom, Lifeway Press, 2024.

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Matt Chandler, “Revelation: Earthly Battle- Week 7” sermon, The Village Church, March 22, 2021. Available on YouTube by clicking here.

Life in the Kingdom

If you’ve ever watched a show and taken a break between seasons, you know the value of the recap after the opening credits that says, “Previously on…”

Since we’ve had some time off, let’s do a quick review of where we left off in From Beginning to Forever by Elizabeth Woodson. Here are the highlights of Session 4 “A Divided Kingdom”: Joshua leads the Israelites into the promised land; judges rule over Israel until the people demand a king. Saul becomes the first king but loses God’s favor when he disobeys Him. David becomes the next king and, although he commits some major sins, he shows repentance and seeks God’s heart. Solomon succeeds David as king and is wise and wealthy, but unfaithful to the Lord by marrying Gentile women and worshipping their false gods. Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, becomes king and the kingdom splits in two—Israel to the north and Judah to the south. Disobedience to God causes both nations to be taken captive and exiled at different times—the northern kingdom of Israel in Assyria and the southern kingdom of Judah in Babylon. After exile, those from the southern kingdom return and rebuild the temple and walls of Jerusalem under the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah. The Jewish people continue to struggle with disobedience and worship false gods in the years that follow. (Phew–we just covered a lot of ground!)

This week, we circle back to the same time period to examine the wisdom literature of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs and all of the major and minor prophets in the Old Testament. These twenty-two books teach us what it means to live as people of God “during the in-between moments of joy, sorrow, anger, and celebration.” (Woodson, 98) With so much rich content in Elizabeth Woodson’s book, let’s pull out some key points that prompt personal reflection, soul searching, and prayer.

Job: Living in obedience to God doesn’t mean we avoid pain and suffering. The wisdom offered in the book of Job focuses on how we respond to hardship.  “Job’s story taught Israel, and also teaches us, that righteousness and suffering are not contradictory but two sides of the same coin.” (Woodson, 100) Often in our culture today, we see pain, hardships, challenges, and trials as “bad” because we’ve been taught to prize comfort and ease. But through Job and others in Scripture, we see pain and hardship are tools God uses for ultimate good.

Our reflex is to avoid pain or to numb ourselves in the midst of it. But, what if, instead of turning away, we leaned into it? What if we asked God what He wanted us to learn from it or how He wanted to reveal Himself through it? What if, instead of being angry or offended when we go through trials, we counted them as joy, just as James encourages us to do: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4, NIV)

Psalms: The 150 songs written by a variety of authors including David and Moses “don’t rush past emotion but give space for our gamut of emotions to be felt and expressed before the Lord…Whether the psalmist was expressing bitter sorrow or exuberant joy, he was ultimately leading the reader to worship the Lord. The life of flourishing is one fully engaged in the worship of God, even during the hardest seasons.” (Woodson, 101)

Is worshiping God the first response you have in difficult times of life? Do you believe true flourishing comes from obeying the Lord? If so, how has your life shown this to be true?

Proverbs: The thirty-one chapters of Proverbs show us “how to live God’s way in God’s world…[but they are] principles, not promises.” (Woodson, 103) Proverbs sets up contrasting ways to live—the way of wisdom or the way of folly. It shows that “Only by following Him can we be formed into the kind of people who experience true flourishing in His kingdom.” (Woodson, 104) If we want the blessing and benefit of living within God’s kingdom, our focus needs to be on aligning with His will, not expecting Him to do things our way.

What practices have you incorporated into your daily rhythms that keep you walking the path of wisdom and aligning with God’s will? When you veer into folly, what safeguards do you have in place to bring you back into the way of wisdom?

Ecclesiastes: This book’s author, Solomon, had all that life could give any one person—wealth, power, relationships, and wisdom. Yet, he “realized that ultimate meaning was not found in possessions, intellect, or experiences but in God.” (Woodson, 105)

Where are you prone to seek ultimate meaning in life other than God? What distracts you most from spiritual pursuits? How might the frustration, disappointment, resentment, fear, or hurt that you experience be an indicator that you’re seeking fulfillment in something other than the Lord?

Song of Songs: This series of love poems reveals a flourishing, vibrant relationship between a husband and wife. Elsewhere in Scripture we see that marriage is a picture of the relationship between Christ and His church. Intimacy, mutual submission, and willingness to serve one another reveal love on many levels.

How has our culture cheapened the sacredness of marriage and sexual flourishing? How are you tempted to buy into the “low view” of marriage as a legal contract instead of a holy covenant?

The Prophets: The seventeen books of prophecy that make up the last chunk of the Old Testament were written by “covenant enforcers” to urge the Israelites to “obey the covenant, reminding them of the blessings that would come from obedience and the curses from disobedience…They spoke of consequences but also gave Israel encouragement, reminding the people of the hope of their promised King.” (Woodson, 107) Prophets warned the people to return to God when they strayed before they were exiled, encouraged them to trust God and not lose hope during exile, and urged them to stay on track once they returned to Judah. In every season of Israel’s history, the prophets admonished the people not to engage in social injustice or idol worship. “God showed His patience through the message of the prophets, giving the Israelites a long time to repent and return to living as His people in obedience to the covenant. But He was also faithful, upholding the promises of judgement He made to Israel, even as far back as Moses.” (Woodson, 110)

In our culture, we are often quick to reject words of conviction or correction and react to the concept of God’s judgement by feeling offended (It’s not that different from the Israelites’ reaction to the prophets). We live in a period when truth is relative and based solely on feelings and opinions. But our choices to ignore God’s Word impact us and others. As my pastor likes to say, “sin splashes.” If we’re following Jesus, we need to be open and responsive to conviction. Rather than hiding our sin or making excuses, we need to follow the example of David and see confession and repentance as an opportunity to restore a right relationship with the Lord: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV) We need the wisdom and discernment to stand firm in a culture that tells us right and wrong are based on personal preference.

Do you float with the current of popular culture without considering where it differs from God’s ways? Do you know where you’re vulnerable to sin? Are you open to conviction and willing to be held accountable?

With so many questions in this post, one or two might have poked at you and made you uncomfortable. Consider stopping to pray and admit your feelings of conviction to God. Invite Him to speak to you and ask for His help to obey Him where you’ve veered off course. His mercies are new every morning and He’s always ready to hear your heart and help you realign with His.

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Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.

No Partiality

Continuing to break new ground in the early church, the Holy Spirit reveals the next stage of God’s unfolding plan in Acts 10.  This chapter pivots from Saul back to Peter, who has an unusual meeting with a Roman Centurion named Cornelius that heralds a significant shift in the early Church. When the Jewish apostle and the God-fearing Gentile meet face to face, there’s no doubt it’s been divinely ordained. Recognizing God’s hand at work, Peter explains what the Lord has shown him: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” (Acts 10:34b-35, NIV)

Luke’s narrative continues, “While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.” (Acts 10:44-46, NIV)

“With one simple act, by the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter shows that in the kingdom of God there is no favoritism—the gospel is for everyone.”1 While we may see this story as a significant turning point in our Church history, it also has relevant application for believers today. Jesus’ brother James writes: “If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.” (James 2:8-9, NIV)

The call to love our neighbors as ourselves appears nine times in Scripture. However, there are moments when we opt out of this command and rationalize our choice to do so. While we may not like admitting it, none of us is without blind spots and unconscious biases. Rather than denying this, we can honor the Lord by asking Him to show us attitudes that dishonor Him and discount others. 

If we’re honest, there are certain people we avoid because of behaviors, attitudes, and lifestyles that we dislike, disagree with, or find distasteful. Beyond obvious differences in race, socioeconomic status, or education, we also make more subtle judgements about others.

It’s natural for people to be drawn to those who are similar and to keep their distance from individuals who cause them to feel awkward, threatened, or uncomfortable. But when partiality shows up in those who follow Jesus, we must admit it and invite the Spirit’s guidance on making healthy changes. While it differs from person to person, here are a few examples that come to mind:

-People who hold different political views. That person who proudly supports a candidate, party, or issue that makes your blood boil is still worthy of God’s love. Jesus’ original twelve disciples included two who were polar opposites politically: “Jesus chose Simon the Zealot, a man who likely desired to forcibly remove the Roman government, and He also chose Matthew, a tax collector working for the Roman government. Both Simon and Matthew, though natural enemies, were part of the Twelve.”2 Two men with opposite political stances put aside their differences through a shared love of Jesus. Like them, we must keep our strong opinions in check and love people regardless of their political affiliations.

-People contending with issues that you don’t understand or haven’t experienced. Maybe it’s the parent of a child with a severe disability. Perhaps it’s a parent with a child struggling with sexual identity or gender dysphoria. Maybe it’s someone with an addiction or mental illness. Often people who are anxious, depressed, or in distress don’t have the energy for good social skills. Sometimes we find it easier to avoid those who have struggles that make us uncomfortable rather than listening, showing kindness, and seeking understanding. 

-People who seem shallow or disinterested in spiritual life. Perhaps there’s someone in your circle of acquaintances who prioritizes fun and socializing above all else. Maybe it’s a person who is always the life of the party or seems to lack depth of character. They hide their hurts and needs behind a broad smile, a boisterous laugh, and deflecting humor. When we judge and dismiss them, we’re keeping the Lord from using us to show them His love. 

-People who have made choices we don’t understand. Maybe it’s someone who leaves a spouse. Rather than reaching out to offer support, we hold back with subtle disapproval. Without knowing the story, we’ve already decided they are doing wrong. Instead of showing compassion or seeking understanding, our avoidance compounds feelings of loneliness or rejection they’re already experiencing; we alienate them from the supportive community of faith they need most.

When we’re quick to judge and draw conclusions based on what we see on the outside of another person, we’re displaying partiality. Maybe, like me, you fear that showing support communicates approval of sins. Perhaps you think withholding affection and warmth equates with maintaining high moral standards. Doing this means missing the opportunity to show God’s love when a person is struggling and feeling alone.

Although not everything described above equates with sin, most of us find certain sins more acceptable than others. But it’s important to remember that God sees all sin as worthy of death (Romans 6:23). We magnify other’s shortcomings and forget that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23, NIV). This makes us prideful, condescending, and judgmental, overlooking Scripture’s assertion that “mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:13b, NIV) We must humbly remember “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8, NIV) So, we’d be wise to take off the judge’s robes and leave that job to the Lord (Luke 6:37). God’s kindness leads to repentance (Romans 2:4) so, our passion should be to share His kindness without partiality. He doesn’t show favoritism, so let’s pray for eyes to see those we may be discounting that the Lord is calling us to love.

  • 1. Acts Part One: The Gospel Goes Out, The Village Church, 2019, 92.
  • 2. https://www.gotquestions.org/Zealots-Bible.html

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The GOAT Week 13: True Christianity

We’re closing in on our final two posts for the Greatest Sermon of All Time. This week we’ll explore Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:13-23 that uses three contrasting pairs to illustrate signs of true Christianity.

The Wide and Narrow Roads

Jesus starts by comparing two paths in life. He says: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”  (Matthew 7:13-14, NIV)

Using the analogy of two roads for our lives, Jesus describes the first as the broad road of destruction. This route is easy to find because we’re born on it and will die on it unless we choose to get off. The wide road is like an eight-lane freeway that’s packed with drivers who don’t know or want a different route. This road is deceptive; it seems and feels right because everyone is moving in the same direction, but it’s leading to a terrible destination. The book of Proverbs describes it this way: “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.” (Proverbs 14:12, NIV).

Conversely, the narrow road requires difficult choices to deny ourselves and surrender our will to God. This road is harder but better because it leads to life. Here’s a harsh truth that is also good news: all roads lead to hell except the one that goes through Jesus. He says this clearly in John 10:9: “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.” He reiterates it in John 14:6: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Trusting Jesus as Savior and Lord of our lives means daily choosing to walk through the narrow gate. This path is open to anyone who decides to follow Him. It leads to an abundant, fulfilling life that’s unlike anything we can find on the wide road. Are you walking the narrow road?

True and False Prophets

In the next section, Jesus continues to address the essence of true Christianity:

“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:15-20, NIV)

Using the analogy of fruit growing on vines or trees, Jesus illustrates that true Christianity produces a fruitful life. If we don’t see any evidence of Jesus in someone’s life, it may be that He’s not there. Conversely, true disciples display specific attributes: “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23, NLT)

When we consider the teachers we listen to, it’s important to evaluate the content of their messages and the fruit of their lives, not just the allure of attractive personalities or pretty words. Do the teachers you follow preach Jesus as the only way? Do they preach the Bible without mixing it with other philosophies? Are their lives consistent with the teachings of the Bible? Do they live full of grace and truth? Are the sermons, podcasts, books, and social media feeds you follow biblically sound?

Scripture provides several descriptions of false teachers, including this one written by Paul to encourage Timothy, a young pastor he was mentoring: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.” (2 Tim 4:2-4, NIV) 

The teachers we follow shape our thoughts about God and His Word. They should be challenging us and sharpening our faith, not just telling us what feels good or flows with current trends in our culture. It’s vital that we’re reading the Bible on our own and not just letting teachers we like interpret it for us. How are the people you follow influencing your faith?

True and False Disciples

In His next comparison, Jesus addresses false disciples:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” (Matthew 7:21-23, NIV)

In this section, Jesus emphasizes that true Christianity is based on the gospel, not on good works. The will of the Father is that all people would know Him (John 3:16-17). There’s a myth some people believe that we’ll stand at the gates of heaven and present Jesus with a list of our good works in hopes of gaining entry. This is not rooted in truth. False disciples believe good works earn God’s favor. True disciples know they are accepted by God only through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Regardless of our “good” or “bad” behavior, the Bible tells us: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:23-24 NIV) Are you trying to “do” for God to earn His favor, or do you believe the gospel and rest in His grace?

Jesus’ words in these passages are direct and may feel jarring, but they are rooted in love. He raises the bar on how we’re called to live, but He walks beside us  and helps us every step of the way.

Celebrate the greatest preacher of all time by listening to “My Jesus” by Anne Wilson. Click here to watch her music video.

This post is based on Tyler Scott’s sermon “The GOAT Part 12” at CPC Danville. Click here to watch.

The GOAT Part 10: Judgement

Bobbing on the ocean’s surface, I listened as the surf instructor reminded me what to do. Standing waist-deep in the water, he shoved my board ahead of a swell and began shouting “Paddle! Paddle! Now stand up!” With one swift motion I pushed myself from my chest to my feet and found my balance as the board moved towards the shore. After years of wanting to learn, it was a thrill to surf in the warm waters of Kauai that day. The long board, low waves, and help from a knowledgeable teacher were key ingredients for success.

As much as I loved the experience, you won’t find me riding the waves in my home state of California anytime soon. There are many aspects of the sport that intimidate me, but the main one is that I’m not an “insider.” There is a whole culture and unwritten code of conduct in the world of surfing. A newbie who doesn’t know better is sure to get a tongue-lashing from locals who don’t appreciate a “kook” messing up their surf session. (Yes, surfers have their own brand of slang and terminology too.)

Of course, surf culture isn’t the only place where “outsiders” may be intimidated to dive in–many people who don’t attend church view it with the same hesitation. There are aspects of our faith that attract them, but much of Christian culture is such a turn-off that they aren’t willing to risk engaging in it.

I’ve had a unique opportunity to spend time weekly with a group of women who once considered themselves “newbies” to exploring faith. When we started meeting, some had church backgrounds but lacked biblical knowledge, while others were discovering the Christian faith for the first time. Regardless of their levels of experience, two things held them back from seeking answers to their spiritual questions before joining our group: hypocrisy and judgment. Most had at least one negative experience with a “churchy” person that had tainted their perspective of God and the Church as a whole.

These honest women have given me an “outsider’s” view into Christian sub-culture. For most of them, our group was the first time they felt safe to ask questions without fearing judgment or criticism. That is why Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount are so striking to me:

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” (Matthew 7:1-5, NIV)

Judging people labels and categorizes them, diminishing their value and dismissing them based on outward characteristics or actions. Many Christians are quick to let the sinful behaviors and attitudes of non-believers deter them from engaging in relationships. Most people tend to gravitate toward others who think and act like them and who agree with their views. This only compounds the problem. It’s so much easier to judge a person for things we see on the surface than to take time to develop a friendship and to discover what influences and worldviews have impacted their perspectives.

Judging people creates a barrier that prevents opportunities for deeper relationships. It intimidates others and often causes Christians to appear self-righteous. Judging others also puts us in a position of superiority that stands in opposition to humility. It causes us to hide our sins and weaknesses for the sake of pride, making us hypocrites in the process.

Jesus gave us the perfect model for engaging others with love. He took time to get to know people in all stations in life–even the worst sinners. His harshest words were directed not towards obvious “sinners” but toward the most self-righteous and superior people He encountered: the Pharisees.

The next time you’re tempted to make a quick judgment about someone, stop and think first. What factors might be contributing to their actions and attitudes? Examine your heart and ask God to help you see the person as He sees them. Make time to understand them before being so quick to dismiss them.

And to be clear, there is a place for using discernment to hold other believers accountable for their sins. James 5:19-20 explains, “My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.” Helping another believer recognize his or her sin needs to be done in the context of a caring relationship. This isn’t judging someone–it’s loving them enough to point them away from the destructiveness of sin and back to God. How we handle non-believers is different. We shouldn’t introduce them to our faith by pointing out their sin: “What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside.” (1 Corinthians 5:12-13a, NIV)

Let’s strive to be more like my surf instructor– coming alongside people patiently and helping them to discover the tremendous joy found through a relationship with Jesus.  When we begin with love and encouragement, they may eventually trust us enough to let us address the areas in their lives that need transformation. And there won’t be any need to judge.

Let’s never forget that God gave us grace when we deserved judgment. May the song “Grace Wins” by Matthew West remind you of this foundational truth and motivate you to share His grace with others. Click here to watch.

This post complements the sermon series at CPC Danville. Click here to watch The GOAT Part 10.

The GOAT Part 3 “Law & Prophets”

Reading and understanding the Bible can be challenging at times. Am I right? It’s tempting to skip over parts we don’t understand or that seem irrelevant to us. But grappling with the harder parts of Scripture strengthens our knowledge of God and deepens our faith in Him. And in a world full of confusing messages and shifting moral codes, knowing the Bible keeps us grounded in eternal truth. 

As we continue our series based on the Sermon on the Mount, we come to one of those challenging teachings of Jesus that you might gloss over:

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.”  (Matthew 5:17-20, NIV)

There’s lots to unpack there. Let’s start with the Law and the Prophets. What Jesus is talking about is the Hebrew Scriptures, which Christians call the Old Testament. He’s saying that He completed what was foreshadowed in those writings.

The Prophets

Jesus’ mention of the Prophets was a reference to the many books of prophecy in the Old Testament that include warnings, instructions, rebukes, and descriptions of future events for the Jewish people. If you look at the table of contents in your Bible, the books of Isaiah through Malachi encompass the Old Testament books of prophecy.

In His teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says He came to fulfill both the Law and the Prophets. First, let’s touch on an amazing truth: Jesus fulfilled hundreds of prophecies concerning Himself that had been written by the prophets in the Old Testament. For example, in Matthew’s Gospel “Jesus was the promised Messiah whose birth, ministry, death, and resurrection were prophesied in the Old Testament. Matthew makes his case by quoting more than sixty prophecies from the Old Testament, revealing how Jesus fulfilled each one.”1  There are far too many fulfilled prophecies to list here, but you can click on the link at the bottom of this post for an overview of some of the most significant ones.2

The Law

Next let’s look at the Law. If you glance at the table of contents in your Bible, Genesis through Deuteronomy encompass the books of the Law. This includes the Ten Commandments found in Exodus chapter 20 plus additional laws written to further clarify them. These books explain the early history of the Jews and incorporate: 1) civil laws explaining cultural responsibilities and moral obligations 2) moral laws dictating how people should live and behave in light of their fallen state 3) ceremonial laws for worshiping and making sacrifices to the Lord. 

Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the civil and moral laws in Scripture by living a perfect life; He fulfilled the ceremonial laws through His sacrificial death on the cross. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NIV)

To understand why Jesus’ fulfillment of these laws is so significant, we need to consider why God gave laws and sent prophets in the first place. When He created the first two humans and they chose to disobey Him in the Garden of Eden, they brought sin into the world. So, the laws the Lord created in the Old Testament didn’t save people from their sins but provided guardrails to keep their sins in check. Laws instructed them how to interact with the Lord and other people and set parameters to right wrongs and get people back on track when they disobeyed.  

The legacy of sin that began at creation has plagued every person since then, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23, NIV). We all face the same consequence for our sins: “For the wages of sin is death”(Romans 6:23a). We must remember above all else that God is holy, perfect, and sinless. Because He is also just, sin cannot go unpunished. All who sin await divine judgement and God’s wrath. However, because of the Father’s great love for us, all the sins of the world were placed upon Jesus. He endured the wrath of God and the punishment of hell because of the Lord’s divine hatred of sin. (See Proverbs 6:16-19 for any idea of what repulses the Lord.)

Remember what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount? Our righteousness must surpass the Pharisees and teachers of the law. He was setting an impossibly high bar that no one could reach. However, when those of us who have accepted Jesus stand before God at the end of time, He won’t judge us based on what we’ve done. We can present ourselves before the Lord robed in righteousness because we’ve been cleansed of sin by Jesus’ blood. 

Talking about judgement sounds strange and isn’t popular in today’s culture, but Scripture tells us that Jesus will return to earth at the end of time when “heaven and earth disappear” and all people will stand before Him to be judged. (Matthew 16:27 & 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10). It also tells us that people will scoff at this idea and mock us for believing it. “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:8-9, NIV)

God gave us life when we deserved death–this is what makes His grace so amazing.  He will judge us as righteous even though we deserve condemnation for our sins—this is what makes His love and mercy so profound. The best news is He doesn’t want to condemn anyone. He waits patiently to ensure all people have the opportunity to hear about His grace and to decide for themselves if they want to receive it.

So, how should we respond to these profound truths?

  • Take Jesus and the Bible seriously! Make it a priority to read and study it on your own and with others.
  • Apply what you’re learning! Let the Bible guide your values, decisions, words, thoughts, and actions.
  • When Scripture shows you where you fall short, confess your sin, receive the grace of Jesus, and continue to pursue righteousness.
  • Don’t neglect the whole gospel! Read and grapple with the hard parts. Gather with others to ask questions and find answers.
  • Share what you’re learning and lead others to repentance so that they can be saved from judgement and receive eternal life too.
  • Stay motivated and be encouraged by Jesus’ words: “whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Meditate on the incredible truth of Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law and Prophets as you listen to “Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)” by Hillsong:

1. Dr. David Jeremiah, Matthew: The Arrival of the King, Thomas Nelson, 2019, vi

2. “55 Old Testament Prophecies About Jesus.” https://www.jesusfilm.org/blog-and-stories/old-testament-prophecies.html

Portions of this post were inspired by:

Tyler Scott’s sermon at CPC Danville on 6/20/21. http://www.cpcdanville.org/ministries/worship-arts/media/the-goat–the-sermon-on-the-mount–part-3–message-on-demand/

https://www.gotquestions.org/abolish-fulfill-law.html

https://www.gotquestions.org/ceremonial-law.html

Jackie Hill Perry’s teaching on Jude 14-15 in the Session 4 video of Jude: Contending for the Faith in Today’s Culture, Lifeway Press, 2019.

Stopping the Spiral with Humility

I’ve called it many things over the years—feeling down, being in a funk, getting triggered, having my buttons pushed, riding the rollercoaster. Now, thanks to Jennie Allen’s book Get Out of Your Head, I have a new name for it: spiraling. Let me paint a picture of it for you.

Imagine you have an interaction with another person that sparks an emotion. Let’s say you feel hurt, which leads to a thought like, “I’m worthless, no one cares about me.” Your emotions spiral downward, affecting your behavior. Attempting to shield yourself from further hurt, you withdraw not only from this person, but from others as well. This behavior, in turn, affects your relationships. People you know feel ignored or rejected by your withdrawal. Your connection with them weakens, causing strained relationships as a consequence. You find yourself isolated and wallowing in hurt, validating your feelings of worthlessness.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Allen explains that spirals can progress in one of two directions, they can go “up toward God, or downward toward the thing we’re fixating on.”1 The progression follows a predictable pattern: emotions trigger thoughts which lead to behaviors that affect relationships that lead to consequences. However, we can learn “to choose thoughts that conform to the mind of Christ”2 and when we do this, “we start seeing better behaviors, better relationships, and better consequences.”3 So, our downward spirals begin to flip upward when we choose to focus on God.

For the past few weeks I’ve been working through Jennie Allen’s Get Out of Your Head: A Study in Philippians. The book identifies the primary enemies of our minds and the weapons God gives us to fight them. I’ve been able to practice what I’m learning with real-life challenges on a regular basis. It’s been powerful using these tools to stop my downward spirals before they go too far. Because it’s been beneficial to me, I’d love to share it with you. If you’re intrigued, consider picking up a copy of the study to do on your own, or with friends.

Self-Importance vs. Humility

The first enemy of our minds highlighted in the book is self-importance. It’s the sense of entitlement that makes us think we deserve special treatment. Allen explains, “We’re fed a continuous message of how much we matter, how very important we are—but in the long run, our urge to protect ourselves and promote our own awesomeness leads to more separation, more disillusionment with each other, and more insecurity and fruitless comparison.”4 Allen explains, “lasting joy will come only when God is in the center.”5 When we put God where He belongs, we rest in His power, not our own. The weapon we use to fight self-importance is humility. Consider this wisdom from Scripture:

Philippians 2:3-4 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Self-importance is rooted in selfish ambition and conceit. So, when we value others above ourselves and look to their interests, this diffuses the inflated view of self that sent us spiraling downward in the first place. 

Ephesians 4:2 “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” It’s impossible to be harsh and gentle at the same time. When someone hurts us and we choose to bear with them in love, we recognize their value, in spite of their offensive behavior. Patience keeps us from making a rash judgement, overreacting, or lashing out in our pain.

1 Peter 5:5b-7 “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” When we’re anxious, worried, or upset, the wise choice is to cast those negative emotions at the foot of the cross. Entrusting them to God keeps us from striking back pridefully and assuming we’re right and the other person is wrong. If God opposes the proud, the wise response is to choose humility. This stops the negative spiral and shows the Lord we trust Him to work out the situation in whatever way He deems best. 

Psalm 25:9 “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.” When we’re experiencing negative emotions and we decide to share them with the Lord, we leave room for Him to show us the healthiest response. A humble heart is a teachable heart.

Imagine how the scenario I described earlier would look if we used the weapon of humility: You have an interaction with another person that sparks an emotion. You feel hurt. You decide to respond with humility. Choosing humility leads to a thought like, “Wow, that person must be having a bad day. Sometimes I say hurtful things that I don’t mean when I’m in a foul mood too. I’m not going to take that personally.” The emotion spirals upward, affecting your behavior. You give the person grace by assuming the best rather than nursing hurt feelings. This behavior, in turn, affects your relationships. Those you know appreciate your tendency to give the most generous explanation for others’ behavior. Your connection to people strengthens, which leads to positive consequences. Your relationships become healthier and you find yourself feeling grateful for the people in your life. You thank God for humbling you enough to see you’re as prone to sin as the one who offended you. Like the psalmist, you pray, “O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you.” (Psalm 69:5, ESV)

If you find your emotions taking the lead and causing you to spin downward, remember you have a choice. Stop the spiral by using the weapon of humility. Spend time focusing on the wisdom of the verses above. Then, pray and ask God to give you the humility you need to focus on Him instead of your feelings.

Let Natalie Grant’s song “My Weapon” empower and inspire you today.

Jennie Allen, Get Out of Your Head: A Study in Philippians, Thomas Nelson Press, 2020. 1. Page 40 2. Page 42 3. Page 42 4. Page 60 5. Page 60

Bad Story, Good Lessons

She was a young teenager, the only daughter among a crowd of sons. Living in a new place, she was curious about clothes, customs, and social events that were different from her family’s. Most likely she was also a little naïve, not considering the harm that could come to her by sneaking away to mix with new friends at a local festival.

He was accustomed to getting his way. As a young man of privilege, he probably carried a sense of entitlement. When he saw something he wanted, he took it and dealt with the consequences later. Maybe he knew his powerful father would follow behind him to clean up the mess. So when he saw the new girl in town, he didn’t think twice about pursuing her. Maybe it started out as a friendly flirtation, but it quickly escalated into something entirely different. No one had any idea how the collision of these two lives would forever change the city and the family who had come to live on its outskirts.

Sounds like the makings of a modern movie, doesn’t it? Actually, it’s the story of Jacob’s daughter, Dinah, and the prince of Shechem, as told in the book of Genesis (with a bit of creative license based on commentaries). It’s a sordid tale that makes us uncomfortable, but there are things we can learn if we’re willing to move past our squeamishness. Finding personal application in it reminds us that times have changed, but human nature has remained the same.

Dinah’s Downfall: “Now Dinah the daughter of Leah, whom she had borne to Jacob, went out to see the women of the land. And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the land, saw her, he seized her and lay with her and humiliated her. And his soul was drawn to Dinah the daughter of Jacob. He loved the young woman and spoke tenderly to her. So Shechem spoke to his father Hamor, saying, ‘Get me this girl for my wife.’” (Genesis 34:1-3, NIV)

Scholars believe Dinah was a young adolescent, somewhere between the ages of 12 and 16. Naturally, she was curious and interested in developing her social life, as most teens would be. But her parents hadn’t equipped her with the wisdom to recognize the dangers of the outside world. No one explained how vulnerable she would be out on her own, even in a place that looked so inviting. In fact, no one seemed to be paying much attention to her until it was too late. 

It’s tempting to point the finger of blame at the family members who didn’t seem to value Dinah enough to watch out for her. But how often can we be guilty of the same today? Teenagers may look like adults who eagerly exert their independence, but we’re fooling ourselves if we think they know how to navigate the world entirely on their own (both online and in real life). Sheltering adolescents seems like a quick fix, but isn’t realistic or beneficial to them. Leaving them to their own devices isn’t the answer either. We need to find middle ground where we’re engaged in their lives and connecting with them consistently so we can earn their trust. Only then will they be open to receiving the truth and wisdom they need from adults to make wise choices. If you’re not parenting a teen, you still have opportunities to connect and pour into them in many ways—whether it’s as a grandparent, an aunt or uncle, a neighbor, a youth leader, a co-worker, a work supervisor, a teacher, a mentor, a coach, a tutor, or any other role that puts you in contact with this precious and vulnerable age group. (See below for helpful resources on understanding teens and their world).

Dinah’s Brothers Misuse God’s Covenant: “The sons of Jacob answered Shechem and his father Hamor deceitfully, because he had defiled their sister Dinah. They said to them, ‘We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one who is uncircumcised, for that would be a disgrace to us. Only on this condition will we agree with you—that you will become as we are by every male among you being circumcised.  Then we will give our daughters to you, and we will take your daughters to ourselves, and we will dwell with you and become one people. But if you will not listen to us and be circumcised, then we will take our daughter, and we will be gone.’” (Genesis 34:13-17, NIV)

Jacob’s sons used the sacred sign of God’s covenant as a tool of manipulation. Insisting that all the men of the town be circumcised was a ruse for making them vulnerable to attack. Using anything God has given us to inflict harm on others has no place in the life of a believer. It’s dishonoring to Him and defiles the sacred things He’s given us. The Church has had many shameful seasons in history when hateful acts were committed in the name of the Lord. We shouldn’t use pressure or manipulation to force people into God’s ways. Our role is to plant seeds of faith, it’s the Holy Spirit who makes them grow and brings true life transformation.

Dinah’s Brothers Take Revenge: “And all who went out of the gate of his city listened to Hamor and his son Shechem, and every male was circumcised, all who went out of the gate of his city. On the third day, when they were sore, two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brothers, took their swords and came against the city while it felt secure and killed all the males. They killed Hamor and his son Shechem with the sword and took Dinah out of Shechem’s house and went away. The sons of Jacob came upon the slain and plundered the city, because they had defiled their sister.” (Genesis 34:24-27, NIV)

Simeon and Levi decided to stand up for their sister and take their revenge to a gruesome extreme. In the process, they ruined the lives of everyone in Shechem and made their family a stench in the land. What they did was so detestable that their father cursed them on his deathbed:

“Simeon and Levi are brothers—  their swords   are weapons of violence. Let me not enter their council, let me not join their assembly, for they have killed men in their anger and hamstrung oxen as they pleased. Cursed be their anger, so fierce, and their fury, so cruel! I will scatter them in Jacob and disperse them in Israel.” (Genesis 49:5-7, NIV)

Dinah’s brothers probably imagined how satisfying it would be to get revenge, but it backfired on them in the end.  When we’ve been wronged, Scripture instructs us not to give in to our thirst for revenge: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:17-21, NIV) Rather than bringing peace and contentment, revenge only escalates painful situations and perpetuates hate and violence. Trust God to handle vengeance and do your best to live at peace with everyone.

How I wish Dinah could have heard the words of “Rescue” by Lauren Daigle. Let the song comfort you and remind you of God’s attentiveness in whatever difficulties you’re facing. (Once you click below, a new window will open, then click “Watch on YouTube”).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgkNB4939YM

Want more info on how to understand teens and their culture? Check out these resources:

Axis.org

Teenesteem.org

Chapclark.com

The Feast of the Lamb

Touching down on the runway, I switched on my phone as the plane taxied to the gate. My mind buzzed with excitement anticipating the weekend of wedding festivities that lay ahead. As we jolted to a stop, I glanced at a text message I’d received mid-flight and my stomach lurched: a close friend’s father had passed away earlier that morning and her husband had reached out to share the news. Stunned, I froze for a moment before burying my face in my hands as tears began flowing. Though I ached for my friend’s loss, I also rejoiced that her father was no longer suffering from a debilitating disease. The news triggered a surprising wave of personal grief as memories of losing my own dad surfaced. Wiping my eyes and taking a deep breath, I gathered my things as we prepared to exit the plane.

After a phone call with my friend, I pushed the pause button on my emotions and changed gears. We’d flown halfway across the country to gather with extended family for a happy reason—the wedding of our nephew. Over two action packed days, we spent time connecting with family members and old friends to celebrate the marriage of a man and woman who loved Jesus and one another deeply. Standing under massive shade trees bordering a meadow dotted with wildflowers, we watched as our beaming nephew awaited his radiant bride. Although the surroundings were picturesque, what caught my attention most was the deep joy that permeated the wedding. It was clear that these two had been covered in prayer throughout their lives. Both sets of parents had prayed fervently for the Lord to lead their children to godly spouses who would complement them perfectly. Their marriage was starting on a firm foundation and the wedding celebration was evidence of God’s faithful provision.

Scanning the crowd during the reception, I marveled at the many meaningful connections there were between the guests. With so many godly and faithful people there, the overlaps in ministry and friendship were plentiful. I loved reconnecting with a mentor I hadn’t seen since college and was thrilled to meet people with common connections to friends and ministries I’d served with in the past. It was an amazing array of faith-filled people and felt like a foretaste of the great wedding feast prophesied by John in the Bible:

 “Then a voice came from the throne, saying: ‘Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both great and small!’ Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:

‘Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean was given her to wear.’ (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.)

Then the angel said to me, ‘Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’ And he added, ‘These are the true words of God.’” (Revelation 19:5-9, NIV)

If you’re unfamiliar with this passage, it’s describing the celebration that will occur after the final judgement: “God’s people are arrayed in fine linen, clean and white because Christ’s shed blood has washed away their sins. They are presented righteous and pure to their bridegroom, Christ. At the marriage supper, individual believers are guests, but collectively they are the bride.”* This links to many passages where Scripture uses a groom and his bride as a picture of God and His people in the Old Testament and Christ and the Church in the New Testament (most notably in Ephesians 5:22-32).

This brings me to an unlikely comparison– I felt the same deep joy that characterized my nephew’s wedding a few weeks later at the memorial service for my friend’s dad. Once again, people gathered to celebrate, only this time it was for the life of a man who met Jesus as a young dad and followed Him passionately for the next four and a half decades. Throughout the service, we heard stories about his love for the Lord and how it informed every aspect of his life in his home, his leisure time, and his career. A lump formed in my throat trying to sing the words to “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace.” It was overwhelming to worship the God who had used this gifted, yet humble, man to love and serve so many. 

Sitting at the service surrounded by old friends once again made me think about the great wedding feast of the Lamb. I’ve learned to savor those sweet moments at weddings and funerals when we get to pause, reflect, and recognize God’s goodness. There was a deep fulfillment in celebrating with others who faithfully followed Jesus and who were intent on seeing His kingdom advance on earth. Over time I’ve discovered that a significant bond connects those who walk the narrow path that leads to life described in Matthew 7:13-14. 

I realized both events gave a glimpse of what’s ahead for all who call Jesus Lord and Savior. One day all believers will gather at the Feast of the Lamb to worship Jesus together. I can only imagine the many joy-filled reunions between old friends and family members that will take place.  After years of following Him, we’ll see Jesus face to face and revel in His glory and grace collectively. 

As I reflect on those recent celebrations, I can’t help but think of people attending who couldn’t fully comprehend or appreciate what was taking place because they didn’t know Jesus. They were unable to access the spiritual significance or marvel at God’s faithfulness like the rest of us. They couldn’t recognize the Lord’s amazing handiwork because they had no context for it. My heart should ache for them more than it does. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will prompt me to sow seeds of faith liberally in the lives of others in hopes that they recognize and receive God’s tremendous love. 

Kristian Stanfill’s song “Even So Come” paints an inspiring picture of waiting faithfully for our Bridegroom to return. As you listen, imagine the joyful reunion you’ll experience with Jesus one day, then go and share it with someone else so they can be a part of it too.

*Halley’s Bible Handbook, Zondervan, 2000, p. 958