Sinners Like Us

I love David. He is always the first person I think of as a representation of God's amazing grace to sinners like me. God's people have always been epic failures and disastrous sinners...like us. But discovering or remembering our own sin or the sin of others should not astound us. If one man is capable, we are all capable of the same sin. We are all made of the same stuff. And although I wouldn't advise sin, even that serves a purpose. Forgiving, cleansing and separating it from us, in Jesus, is His way of showing off. All our sins are washed away because He lived, died, was buried and rose again for us, and I am so grateful.

Psalm 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.

Jeremiah 31:34 ...“for I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.”

I Corinthians 6:9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, 10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.

Cleaning Up Your Act?

If you're waiting to turn to Christ after you've cleaned up your act, you'll never come.

Christ came to save His people, His natural enemies from our sins, from what He hates and

what we naturally love.

Romans 5:6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.

Jesus says, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest"(Matthew 11:28).

Today, if you hear His voice don't harden your heart, and do not put off believing on Him for another day. Trust. Believe on the One who was sent to rescue you from your sin. He lived a life you could not live and He died the death that you deserved. He was buried and rose again for your justification. So, stop trying to justify yourself. Stop waiting to clean up your act. Today is the day of salvation for sinners like you and me.

18 “Come now, and let us reason together,”
Says the Lord,
“Though your sins are as scarlet,
They will be as white as snow;
Though they are red like crimson,
They will be like wool" (Isaiah 1:18).

Dear Younger Self... Love, Myrtle

Today's wisdom to younger sisters comes from Myrtle, who says,

"FOLLOWING GODS WAYS ARE ESSENTIAL TO ONE'S LIFE AND IN EACH GENERATION TO COME. God's real, profound truth is to be loved obeyed in one's life, so that in LIFE we can carry on God's ways; producing the example He left in His Word, to carry into this kingdom and prepare for our Heavenly kingdom in Eternity  ...Not learning from man's ways or devices which stem from an evil stone heart, but from a heart of flesh that God in his grace and mercy we will recieve upon His faith and trust He gives us."

These precious thoughts from our older sister remind me of Proverbs 14:33 "Wisdom rests in the heart of one who has understanding, But in the hearts of fools it is made known," and Proverbs 16:16 "How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver." 

Myrtle goes on: " how I wish going back in remembering my young self ..that I would have listened with  great love, out of great  respect towards my parents and those whom God put in authority over me. God so graciously gave to me, as he put me  in that family, for a reason and for my own good. He chose the parents for me."

Proverbs 6:20 instructs, "My son, observe the commandment of your father And do not forsake the teaching of your mother" and Exodus 20: 12 “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you.

Although, we have never perfectly obeyed and honored our parents, Myrtle would advise us to keep these words in our hearts, knowing that our parents are given to us for our instruction. As our Father in heaven has provided all things for us, for our good, let us also remember His perfect Son, Who always did the will of His Father in our place. Let us take heed to our parents' wisdom for His honor and out of love for Him, as His beloved children. 

Dear Younger Self Love, Cindy A

Dear Younger Self,

"I am 60 years old, and this is the best advice I can give a woman concerning how to treat her husband, and naturally, it's all about communication. When he talks, stop what you're doing, fix your eyes on him, and give him your undivided attention. When you speak to him, even when you're upset about something, watch your tone."

                                                                                                                           Love,
                                                                                                                           Cindy A.

How often do we lose our patience with those we love most. Cindy's advice to her younger self is a great reminder to remember, even in the midst of a difficult or tense situation, we can show love, respect and deference to our husbands.

As women beloved of the Lord, Who lived and gave Himself for us, let us love our nearest neighbors, our own husbands.

I Peter 3 1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. 5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. 7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. 8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Forgiving: Jerry Bridges

"Forgiving costs us our sense of justice. We all have this innate sense deep within our souls, but it has been perverted by our selfish sinful natures. We want to see “justice” done, but the justice we envision satisfies our own interests. We must realize that justice has been done. God is the only rightful administrator of justice in all of creation, and His justice has been satisfied. In order to forgive our brother, we must be satisfied with God’s justice and forego the satisfaction of our own."
~ Jerry Bridges

via White Horse Inn

The Gospel: John Fonville on Mark 1:15

In Mark 1:15 Jesus declares: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe in the good news!” What is fulfilled? All the promises He has made since Genesis 3:15...The Gospel is an announcement that God's Kingdom : His rule and blessing has come to man in the life, death, burial and resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ who is now Lord and Messiah in fulfillment of ALL of Israel's Scriptures. ~John Fonville

#JohnFonville #ParamountChurch #ProclaimRadio Full audio sermon: http://player.subsplash.com/6fzxqa2

Racism, Sin, The Gospel, & Gospel Unity: A Commentary on Charlottesville and Our Response

Racism, Sin, The Gospel, & Gospel Unity: 

A Commentary on Charlottesville and Our Response

"The usually quiet university city of Charlottesville, Virginia, erupted into chaos Saturday when far-right extremists gathering for a "Unite the Right" event clashed with counterprotesters, leaving more than a dozen injured and several under arrest.

The day turned deadly when a car plowed into a group of counterprotesters, killing a 32-year-old woman and leaving 19 others injured, five critically. The driver was charged with murder in the afternoon incident that a bystander described as 'the most horrible thing I've ever witnessed.'" #ABCNews

As the news from Charlottesville erupted, my Facebook news feed was cram-packed with posts about the incident. What was striking to me, was not that it was being reported or re-reported, and not that bigotry was being condemned, but what was missing: the solution. My Facebook is populated by believers, but all night I saw nothing of the gospel. As I tried to open dialogue with people, my confusion only intensified as I was seeing some friends of color take to stero-typing and generalizing about white people: making ethnic and cultural distinctions that have nothing to do with the gospel. 

So, let's get down to brass tacks. 

Jesus' incarnate ministry and mission was to live His life fully God and fully man, perfectly in every area we have failed. ...and we have all failed regardless of our pigmentation. Then he bore our sin and God's wrath for it, suffering the most unspeakable shame and pain in world history, being buried and rising again the third day for our justification, so that we could be restored to fellowship with the Triune God.This is the gospel.

After His Gospel mission was complete He prayed His high priestly prayer. "And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one."

I think that is the part that people are missing, sadly even in the Christian community. We are not united by making distinctions, but by recognizing and owning our Gospel heritage...our Gospel-created family. We must be salt and light as the preserving agent and illuminating source exposing truth: the truth about sin and drawing attention to Jesus. One of my friends beautifully stated, "Just my two cents: (coming from an African American who is not only hated by whites but blacks too... I'm mixed... go figure) I think if you're an unbeliever you see racism as the problem, but if you're a Christian you know that at it's core...the stuff that's underneath racism is just Hate, which is sin." I fully agree. When we fail to identify the actual sin at the root of racism, we cannot effectively bring the gospel as the remedy.

My plea and my message to my friends is to not let the enemy of our souls get a foothold, but to live in accordance with His revealed will for us, and as He prayed to His Father and our's "that they may be one, even as we are one." Let us live and pray likewise for His glory and the furthering of His kingdom. 

God's Law & Its Uses

God's Law & Its Uses

(Thoughts, Scripture, and Orthodox, Historical Teaching): 

The Law

1. exposes sin and drives us to Christ 
2. acts as restraint and evidences what is and is not right in society
3. illuminates love or lack thereof of God and our neighbors.

This post focuses primarily on the uses of the law as it applies to believers.

The Law cannot justify and it cannot sanctify. For the believer it is no longer, Do this and live, but Live and do this. This is not new teaching, but something that orthodox teachers have believed for generations. Moreover, it was enforced by Jesus, our Lord and Savior, when He said, If you love me, keep my commandments (John 14:15).

The imperatives of Scripture (not Levitical) reflect the moral Law of God, summarized by the I Am to Moses in ten commandments (Exodus 20) and by the I Am in the New Testament in two great commandments (Matt 22:36-40). Suggesting that Christ's Law is something other than what falls into this designation, can be spiritualizing what is clearly laid out, and outside of the bounds of how Scripture defines the Law.

When we are born of the Spirit, we walk in the Spirit, and caused to walk in God's statutes (His rules and Law). (Ezekiel 36:27). Not that we can or will keep it perfectly, but will grow in grace until glory. Be ye holy, for I am holy. The Lord didn't save us so that we could deny His law, live in sin, never repent, or make some mystical thing out of obedience. His yoke is easy and His burden is light, because we are no longer trying to please Him in the flesh, but walk in obedience as beloved children (Eph 5:1), by the power of the Spirit. Beware of gnostic, spiritualized, antinomian dispensationalism. Heterodoxy leads to heteropraxy, meaning, bad teaching leads to bad conduct.

The Word of God is the ordinary means by which the Spirit speaks to, sanctifies (Gospel), and matures His people. His Law is perfect, converting the soul (Psalm 19:7), and serves to always: before conversion, and in sanctification, convict us of sin, and lead to repentance. Repentance is not a one time event, but lifelong.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I John 1:9 (written to regenerate Christians)
I had not known sin, but by the law. Romans 7:7 (Written by Paul in His sanctified state)

114. Q. But can those converted to God keep these commandments perfectly?
A. No. In this life even the holiest have only a small beginning
of this obedience. 1 Nevertheless, with earnest purpose
they do begin to live not only according to some but to all the commandments of God. 2
1.Eccles 7:20; Rom 7:14, 15; 1 Cor 13:9; 1 Jn 1:8.
2.Ps 1:1, 2; Rom 7:22-25; Phil 3:12-16.
115. Q. If in this life no one can keep the ten commandments perfectly, why does God have them preached so strictly?
A. First, so that throughout our life we may more and more become aware of our sinful nature, and therefore seek more eagerly
the forgiveness of sins and righteousness in Christ. 1
A. First, so that throughout our life we may more and more become aware of our sinful nature,and therefore seek more eagerly so that, while praying to God for the grace of the Holy Spirit, we may never stop striving to be renewed more and more after God's image, until after this life we reach the goal of perfection. 2
1.Ps 32:5; Rom 3:19-26; 7:7, 24, 25; 1 Jn 1:9.
2.1 Cor 9:24; Phil 3:12-14; 1 Jn 3:1-3.#Heidelberg

Chapter XIX Of the Law of God
VI. Although true believers be not under the law, as a covenant of works, to be thereby justified, or condemned;[11] yet is it of great use to them, as well as to others; in that, as a rule of life informing them of the will of God, and their duty, it directs and binds them to walk accordingly;[12] discovering also the sinful pollutions of their nature, hearts and lives;[13] so as, examining themselves thereby, they may come to further conviction of, humiliation for, and hatred against sin,[14] together with a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ, and the perfection of His obedience.[15] It is likewise of use to the regenerate, to restrain their corruptions, in that it forbids sin:[16] and the threatenings of it serve to show what even their sins deserve; and what afflictions, in this life, they may expect for them, although freed from the curse thereof threatened in the law.[17] The promises of it, in like manner, show them God's approbation of obedience,and what blessings they may expect upon the performance thereof:[18] although not as due to them by the law as a covenant of works.[19] So as, a man's doing good, and refraining from evil, because the law encourages to the one and deters from the other, is no evidence of his being under the law: and not under grace.[20] #WCF

Chapter 19 The Law of God
2.The same law that was first written in the heart of man continued to be a perfect rule of righteousness after the fall, and was delivered by God upon Mount Sinai, in ten commandments, and written in two tables, the four first containing our duty towards God, and the other six, our duty to man. ( Romans 2:14, 15; Deuteronomy 10:4 )
6.Although true believers be not under the law as a covenant of works, to be thereby justified or condemned, yet it is of great use to them as well as to others, in that as a rule of life, informing them of the will of God and their duty, it directs and binds them to walk accordingly; discovering also the sinful pollutions of their natures, hearts, and lives, so as examining themselves thereby, they may come to further conviction of, humiliation for, and hatred against, sin; together with a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ and the perfection of his obedience; it is likewise of use to the regenerate to restrain their corruptions, in that it forbids sin; and the threatenings of it serve to shew what even their sins deserve, and what afflictions in this life they may expect for them, although freed from the curse and unallayed rigour thereof. The promises of it likewise shew them God's approbation of obedience, and what blessings they may expect upon the performance thereof, though not as due to them by the law as a covenant of works; so as man's doing good and refraining from evil, because the law encourageth to the one and deterreth from the other, is no evidence of his being under the law and not under grace.
( Romans 6:14; Galatians 2:16; Romans 8:1; Romans 10:4; Romans 3:20; Romans 7:7, etc; Romans 6:12-14; 1 Peter 3:8-13 )
#LBCF

"Another lawful use of the law is, to consult it as a rule and pattern by which to regulate our spirit and conversation. The grace of God, received by faith, will dispose us to obedience in general, but through remaining darkness and ignorance we are much at a loss as to particulars. We are therefore sent to the law, that we may learn how to walk worthy of God, who has called us to his kingdom and glory; and every precept has its proper place and use" (John Newton: Letters, p. 47).

Commentary on Romans 7:14-17
Compared with the holy rule of conduct in the law of God, the apostle found himself so very far short of perfection, that he seemed to be carnal; like a man who is sold against his will to a hated master, from whom he cannot set himself at liberty. A real Christian unwillingly serves this hated master, yet cannot shake off the galling chain, till his powerful and gracious Friend above, rescues him. The remaining evil of his heart is a real and humbling hinderance to his serving God as angels do and the spirits of just made perfect. This strong language was the result of St. Paul's great advance in holiness, and the depth of his self-abasement and hatred of sin. If we do not understand this language, it is because we are so far beneath him in holiness, knowledge of the spirituality of #GodsLaw, and the evil of our own hearts, and hatred of moral evil. And many believers have adopted the apostle's language, showing that it is suitable to their deep feelings of abhorrence of sin, and self-abasement. The apostle enlarges on the conflict he daily maintained with the remainder of his original depravity. He was frequently led into tempers, words, or actions, which he did not approve or allow in his renewed judgment and affections. By distinguishing his real self, his spiritual part, from the self, or flesh, in which sin dwelt, and by observing that the evil actions were done, not by him, but by sin dwelling in him, the apostle did not mean that men are not accountable for their sins, but he teaches the evil of their sins, by showing that they are all done against reason and conscience. Sin dwelling in a man, does not prove its ruling, or having dominion over him. If a man dwells in a city, or in a country, still he may not rule there.#MatthewHenry

Its [the Law's] third function is to guide the regenerate into the good works that God has planned for them (Eph. 2:10). The law tells God’s children what will please their heavenly Father. It could be called their family code. Christ was speaking of this third use of the law when He said that those who become His disciples must be taught to do all that He had commanded (Matt. 28:20), and that obedience to His commands will prove the reality of one’s love for Him (John 14:15). The Christian is free from the law as a system of salvation (Rom. 6:14; 7:4, 6; 1 Cor. 9:20; Gal. 2:15-19, 3:25), but is “under the law of Christ” as a rule of life (1 Cor. 9:21; Gal. 6:2).” #Ligoneer

The Law of God has no power in itself to save or justify anyone, but it is used by the Holy

Spirit to convert the soul (Psalm 19), and convict of sin, leading the sanctified believer to confess and repent (Romans 7, I John 1). It serves to illuminate what is and what is not loving toward God and our neighbors. Obedience is a promised benefit of the Gospel to God's children (Ezekiel 36:27)

Ramifications:
Christians who suggest the idea of no Law for believers must consider the ramifications of that.
Just a few:
*Undermines the holiness of God, which the Law reflects.
*Undermines the holiness of His children, which is a gospel benefit
*Undermines the existence of sin, by leaving it undefined and spiritualized.
*Undermines the necessity of ongoing confession.
*Undermines the necessity of ongoing repentance.
*Leads to antinomianism.
*Leads to legalism.

Repetition of the Law in the NT:

How many of the OT commandments (Law) are repeated in the New?

violation 1st , 2nd commandment: : Romans 1: 25 because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. Gentiles guilty!

1st Commandment Revelation 14:7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

2nd Commandment Galatians 5:10 *idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, Ephesians 5:5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an *idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

3rd commandment: 1 Timothy 6:1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
James 2:7 Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

4th commandment: 1 Cor. 16:2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come. (Reformed position)

5th commandment: Romans 1:29-30 They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, ... inventors of evil, *disobedient to parents,
Ephesians 6: Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

6th commandment: Rom Romans 13:9
6th commandment: Thou shalt not kill,
7th commandment: Thou shalt not commit adultery,
6th commandment: Thou shalt not kill,
8th commandment Thou shalt not steal,
9th commandment Thou shalt not bear false witness,
10th commandment Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

5th, 8th & 9th Commandment - Then he said to Him, "Which ones?" And Jesus said, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER; YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY; YOU SHALL NOT STEAL; YOU SHALL NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS; 19 HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER; and YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. (Matthew 19:18-19) NASB 

We conclude that a man is justified by faith, without the deeds of the law; and so he is dead to the law,” (Rom. 3:28,31). Now, does this doctrine destroy our living to God? Nay, “Do you make void the law, through faith? God forbid! Yes, we establish the law:” We establish it as a covenant of works, while we believe in Christ for righteousness, to be imputed for our justification; and we establish it a rule of life, and holiness, while we believe in Christ for strength, to be imparted for our sanctification; and so being dead to the law, in point of justification, we live unto God in sanctification." #RalphErskine

Additional Resources on This Subject:
1. The Threefold Use of the Law: Blog Post from Ligonier:  http://www.ligonier.org/blog/threefold-use-law/
2. Law, Gospel, and Three Uses of the Law: Scott Clark: The Heidelblog: https://heidelblog.net/2013/07/law-and-gospel-and-the-third-use-of-the-law/

Abusive Speech and Gospel Hope

Verbal Abuse:
“Because verbal abuse is misunderstood by many people, understanding verbal abuse is extremely important to people’s wellbeing and safety. Abuse can affect the lives of people regardless of age, gender or social status.

Although people most often associate abuse with physical violence, it can come in many different forms including verbal abuse. Because of the nature of verbal abuse, its damaging effects are often underestimated and misunderstood…

WHAT IS VERBAL ABUSE?
Verbal abuse is a type of emotional abuse in which a person uses words, body language, or

behavior to cause emotional pain or distress to another person. Although it is not physical in nature and does not leave visible bruises, it is just as damaging and can leave an individual with emotional scars and trauma. With verbal abuse, the abuser uses words as a way to exert control and dominance over the victim. It is a behavior that is often thought of in terms of domestic violence; however, it can occur in places of work, school, etc. Spouses, teachers, employers, girlfriends, boyfriends, or friends can be verbally abusive. When it comes to relationships, it is often a precursor to physical violence.” #MorningsideRecovery

“Verbal abuse is one weapon in the arsenal of emotional abuse. While the tactics of abuse are many, the ultimate goal is to gain control over someone in order to establish dominance in a relationship. Verbal abuse is not the occasional flare after a bad day or temporary lack of verbal self-control in the midst of a tense moment. It constitutes psychological violence. Verbal abuse is a habitual sin that seldom goes away on its own and can potentially escalate into physical abuse.

Overt verbal abuse could include angry outbursts, screaming, swearing, ridicule, name calling, blaming, accusation, criticism, threats, orders, mockery, manipulation, coercion, put-downs, shaming, word twisting, rewriting history, and attacking personal character. Covert verbal abuse is more subtle and cloaks hidden aggression. It feigns concern and has the effect of brainwashing, leaving the victim confused, off balance, and questioning his or her value and abilities.

Over the long term, any kind of abuse can leave the victim feeling uncertain, unable to make decisions, and drained of any sense of personhood or value. The victim begins to accept the blame and believe the crushing words that are convincingly and repeatedly thrown at him.” #GotQuestions

As I have been addressing this most grievous issue of abuse and domestic violence, the question is asked, what about emotional abuse and abusive speech? How is it defined and qualified? Rather than coming up with some arbitrary measure, let's consider what the Word of God has to say about emotional abuse and abusive speech:

Warnings and condemantion of abusive speech:

6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. 7 Every sea creature, reptile, bird, or animal is tamed and has been tamed by man, 8 but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 We praise our Lord and Father with it, and we curse men who are made in God’s likeness with it. James 3

The words of the wicked are a deadly ambush, but the speech of the upright rescues them. Proverbs 12:6

A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. Proverbs 15:4

Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Prov 18:21

But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer who is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or verbally abusive, a drunkard or a swindler. Do not even eat with such a person. HCSB I Cor 5:11

9 Don’t you know that the unrighteous will not inherit God’s kingdom? Do not be deceived: No sexually immoral people, idolaters, adulterers, or anyone practicing homosexuality, 10 no thieves, greedy people, drunkards, verbally abusive people, or swindlers will inherit God’s kingdom. I Cor 6: HCSB

Gospel hope and comfort for those who were verbally abused:

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord. Isa 54:17

Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand double for all her sins. Isa 40:2

33 Who can bring an accusation against God’s elect?
God is the One who justifies.
34 Who is the one who condemns?
Christ Jesus is the One who died,
but even more, has been raised;
He also is at the right hand of God
and intercedes for us. Romans 8

Gospel hope for those who have been verbally abusive:

9 Don’t you know that the unrighteous will not inherit God’s kingdom? Do not be deceived: No sexually immoral people, idolaters, adulterers, or anyone practicing homosexuality, 10 no thieves, greedy people, drunkards, verbally abusive people, or swindlers will inherit God’s kingdom. 11 And some of you used to be like this.
But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. I Cor 6: HCSB

33 Who can bring an accusation against God’s elect?
God is the One who justifies.
34 Who is the one who condemns?
Christ Jesus is the One who died,
but even more, has been raised;
He also is at the right hand of God
and intercedes for us. Romans 8

Gospel encouragement and instruction for those who have been abusive:

13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Romans 13

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I John 1:9

Sources:
Morningside Recovery: https://www.morningsiderecovery.com/blog/understanding-verbal-abuse/

Got Questions: https://www.gotquestions.org/verbal-abuse.html

See also: Abuse In The Church: Gospel for Help for Victims: Gospel Gal Blog: Marissa Namirr: http://gospelgalblog.blogspot.com/2017/07/abuse-in-church-gospel-help-for-victims.html

Do Not Pass Go or Collect $200

Think about the first commandment. Do not pass go or collect $200. We can't get past the very first commandment! We're toast at "no other gods," because every subsequent broken commandment is a violation of the first.

When we choose to rebel, by choosing other sins, we are idolizing our own will and mind and so many other things. Maybe we didn't form gods out of wood, stone or metal, but we have not honored God as God. Our love and loyalty to God are broken.

As we walk through the day today, we have choices to make. We will likely make some

decision to elevate our own will over God's by taking something that is not ours, by losing our temper with someone we love, by ruminating on a lustful or hateful thought, or just by leaving the Lord out of our thought processes and decision making completely.

We might violate the first commandment, and every other command if not in our deeds, in our thoughts.

Let this thought capture you. Do not pass Go or collect $200. Stay in jail for just a minute.  and then let the truth of your guilt drive you to Christ.   

Meditate on His life, lived perfectly in your place and His suffering and death that you deserved; His life being exchanged for your sin, His atoning work substituting for the endless wrath of God against us. 

"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God" -I Peter 3:8.

Stay right there. Think about it and let it motivate you to love Him, honor Him, and share the Gospel: the story of His amazing grace, with those around you, who have also broken the first... and all of His commandments. 

Gospel-Driven Older Women and What It Means to Adorn the Gospel

Titus 2: 3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, 4 and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, 5 to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. 

To spin off last night's post on Gossip & Slander, I thought it fitting to post some thoughts from a sermon I recently heard on Titus 2.

A life that adorns the Gospel is consistent with sound doctrine.

Older women are reverent, sober, and informally teach younger women what is good.

Gospel-driven older women posess an inward and outward demeanor that beautifies the gospel, because she, herself, has been beautified by grace.

Listen to the full audio sermon: John Fonville: Paramount Church, Jacksonville; Proclaim Radio: http://player.subsplash.com/bjhakwy 

Gossip & Slander

Last night I had a long, heart to heart with a new friend about gossip and slander, and our experience being the target of it over time. The most heart-wrenching thing about each of our experiences is that the slander occurred within the context of the church. Nothing hurts and stings more than a betrayal by those you once considered brothers and sisters in Christ, and watching them take on the characteristics of our adversary the Devil. In case you believe I am over-emphasizing the quality of these sins of the tongue, consider what the Westminster Shorter Catechism has to say about it.

Westminster Shorter Catechism
Question 77

Q: What is required in the ninth commandment?
A: The ninth commandment requireth the maintaining and promoting of truth between man and man,1 and of our own2 and our neighbour's good name,3 especially in witness bearing.4
Zechariah 8:16. These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates.
1 Peter 3:16. Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
Acts 25:10. Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.
3 John 12. Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we alsobear record; and ye know that our record is true.
Proverbs 14:5. A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.
Proverbs 14:25. A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.

Westminster Shorter Catechism
Question 78

Q: What is forbidden in the ninth commandment?
A: The ninth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is prejudicial to truth,1 or injurious to our own, or our neighbour's good name.2
Proverbs 19:5. A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.
Proverbs 6:16-19. These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, a false witness thatspeaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
1 Samuel 17:28. And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle.
Leviticus 19:16. Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the Lord.
Luke 3:14. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.
Psalm 15:3. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.























And the Heidelerg Catechism:






















112. Q.

What is required
in the ninth commandment?
A.
I must not give false testimony against anyone,
twist no one's words,
not gossip or slander,
nor condemn or join in condemning anyone
rashly and unheard. 1
Rather, I must avoid all lying and deceit
as the devil's own works,
under penalty of God's heavy wrath. 2
In court and everywhere else,
I must love the truth, 3
speak and confess it honestly,
and do what I can
to defend and promote
my neighbour's honour and reputation. 4

1.Ps 15; Prov 19:5, 9; 21:28; Mt 7:1; Lk 6:37; Rom 1:28-32.
2.Lev 19:11, 12; Prov 12:22; 13:5; Jn 8:44; Rev 21:8.
3.1 Cor 13:6; Eph 4:25.
4.1 Pet 3:8, 9; 4:8.

Please especially take note of the words in the first part of the answer to question 112 of the Heidelberg: "rashly or unheard". If a person comes to you, speaking evil of another person, it is vitally important that you continue to believe the best about the person who was spoken of. If you have concerns, then confront them about it. Hearing the other person's side of the story is the loving thing to do. "4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." I Cor. 13











Love does not bear false witness against a neighbor. Another phrase worth our extra attention is the indictment against the tale bearer: "






I must avoid all lying and deceit







as the devil's own works,







under penalty of God's heavy wrath.

"

















We, who are in the Lord, who have been purchased by Him, learn of His great love which He has lavished upon us, personally. The result of that is gratitude, rather than bitterness and wrath against our neighbors. Whether we have maligned our neighbors or joined in it, let us repent, and call to repentance those who have taken part in it. Let us not take it lightly. There are no respectable sins, and this one is no less damnable than the rest.

My Rescuer

Tonight, I'm thinking about my Rescuer, and I hope you are too.

Once I was in a valley...A pit of muck and miry clay, of self-absorption, selfishness, and self-destruction. I became spiritually depressed, despondent and craved nothing more than death. I was crying out to God with no words, because when the words would come, they seemed to dissipate or evaporate into the air, rather than reaching His ears. 

I was there for three years. But I have since learned, that even in the darkness, He was there. In spite of my desperate attempts to flee from Him, He never let me go. The long leash He gave me, only served to prove that the world outside of His presence is a horrible and terrifying place.  And finally, my not so patient waiting, ended with Him coming to the rescue. My time of marinating in the miry clay was over, and He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.

This Rescuer is the Lover of my Soul. He showed Himself to be faithful in spite of my faithlessness, loving in spite of my lovelessness, gracious in spite of my gracelesness, and strong in spite of my weakness. And I can't praise Him enough. I can't think of Him enough. I can't boast about Him enough. He lived for me. He died for me. He rescued me. And He ever lives to make intercession for me.

And so I will encourage you tonight, in the words of an old Puritan, "... I beseech you set your souls upon HIM. Methinks such an object as here represented should compel love from the coldest and hardest heart. Away with this vain deceitful world, which deserves not the thousandth part of the love you give it; let all stand aside and give way to Christ. O did you but know His worth and excellency, what he is in himself, what he has done for and deserved from you, you would need no arguments of mine to persuade you to love him."  ~John Flavel 

What has He done for you? Meditate on Him and your heart will fill to overflowing. 

Speak Tenderly to Jerusalem...

Speak Tenderly to Jerusalem...

Marissa Namirr, Gospel Gal

The Gospel call is both external (the call issued by God's people to their neighbors to hear and believe the gospel), and internal (the effectual call issued by God that effectually brings them from a state of spiritual death to life; Lazarus being raised from the dead is an example; John 11). The call is always the same, and it is always good. It is a clarion call, a victory cry, and a glorious announcement that Jesus conquered sin and the grave, by His life, death, burial, and resurrection for sinners.

But for many of us, the message we heard was not so clear. The gospel was distorted. We heard the message that the gospel is something we do. More doing. Less resting. More demands. Less trusting. But the message of the gospel is not "do". It is "done". It is the grandest theme in all of history, but the simplest truth that even a child can grasp: Jesus WON! He fulfilled His incarnate mission: to save His people from their sins. This gospel is the power of God unto salvation to sinners like you and me.

RC Sproul said: "Being justified, we have peace with God. We have heard and received the

gospel. We have heard the clarion call of God. Comfort, yes, comfort My people! … Speak comfort to Jerusalem, and cry out to her, That her warfare is ended, That her iniquity is pardoned' (Isa. 40:1-2). The worst holocaust of history is the war between a holy God and His rebellious creatures. For the Christian that war is over, once and for all."

Never were there words so loving and tender, so glorious and wonderful than the words that communicate to us our salvation. This is the gospel, and it is glorious! Meditate on it. Know it. Live in it. Love it. Proclaim it.

Sproul quote: https://www.monergism.com/fruit-spirit-r-c-sproul

Four Reasons TULIP is NOT the Gospel

Let me first affirm that my husband and I are Reformed Presbyterians. We are covenantal and confessional. We affirm the doctrine of grace, and are solidly Calvinists. However, being Reformed does not mean that we believe TULIP IS the gospel. On the contrary, being Reformed we realize that TULIP is NOT the gospel. We believe that the gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16). We believe that the gospel is the doing, dying and rising again, of Jesus for sinners, like us. (I Corinthians 15:3-5). The gospel is the redemptive work that Christ did for His people; His finished atoning work on their behalf. It is not who we are. It is not what we do. It is finished.

1 Now I would remind you, brothers, of **the gospel** I preached to you, which you received...3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures I Corinthians 15

We believe TULIP is Scriptural and sound doctrine, but it is not THE gospel for four reasons:

1. T: Total depravity, (Romans 3:9-11) is bad news, not good. It defines our state on our own apart from redemption.

2. U: Unconditional Election (Romans 9) is God's blueprint for saving His people, ensuring that He would save, by the Gospel, but again, itself is not the gospel. In addition, we are not saved by believing something about election. Election ensures the gospel, but election is not THE gospel.

3. I: Irresistible Grace: (John 6:44) We are drawn into relationship with God irresistibly by the Holy Spirit. In this way, and only in this way can be come to God. We have no warrant to approach Him apart from being drawn. We are drawn to the gospel as a result of the gospel, but irresistible grace is not THE gospel.

4. P: Perseverance of the Saints: (Philippians 1:6) Once again; This is something that describes the us, not Christ or His work for us. We persevere, because He preserves us, but this does not describe His atonement or the application of redemption. It is the benefit of the gospel. It is not THE gospel. 

Holiness and Perfection

For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are sanctified. Hebrews 10:14

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. I Peter 2:9
And some of you used to be like this. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. I Corinthians 6:11

Holiness is indicative of God's people, by virtue of what the Trinity has worked for us and in us. It is not something that we can naturally strive for and attain, but a result of our union with Christ and our relationship to Him, because of His work for us.

When the Lord commands perfection (Matthew 5:48) our attitude can be one of humble reliance. It is only because we are found in Him that we can be found perfect.  And we can be assured that we will be conformed to His image, because He never fails. 

I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6
...keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith Hebrews 12:2

Proclaiming Jesus: Encouragement and Resources

Proclaiming Jesus: Encouragement and Resources

Why proclaim Jesus? 

1. Jesus commanded His disciples to do so. (Matthew 28)
During the course of their lives in Christ, His disciples are all called upon to share their faith. There is no such thing as a Christian who is not a missionary.  We share our faith, because we are commanded to; not for our own merit, but to glorify the Father, as salt and light in the world. As a result of the love He has shed abroad in our hearts, we love. We love Him, because He first loved us, and love expresses itself in words and deeds. When we love someone, we naturally talk about them...even boast about them.

2. Sinners need to hear the gospel.
Jesus' mission statement is stated in the Gospels. His very name means, He shall save His people from their sins. Romans 10 presents some very pointed questions:
"But how can they call on Him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about Him? And how can they hear without a preacher?" The gospel is the power of God unto salvation. His people must hear it, to believe it.

3. By the advancement of His message, Christ will build His church.
As believers call the lost to hear and believe the gospel, He is believed upon in the world, and the church expands. Disciple making begins with the proclamation of Christ.

If you ever wonder what your purpose in life is, Christian, take note of 1 Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His possession, so **that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.** (HCSB)

What a joy to be able to proclaim our Great Savior, Who brought us out of darkness, out of our bondage to sin, protected and secured from the wrath of God. And now we, instead  have  fellowship the OUR FATHER, in Heaven, and the Triune God, all because of the work of Jesus for us!

There is no time wasted that is spent in proclaiming Jesus. Take your opportunities, and make them. His Word will not return void.

How can we become involved in telling others about Jesus? 

Various ways:
1. We can invite others to visit with us at a Biblical church. (See: http://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/the-marks-of-the-church/ ) Discuss the sermon after. 

2. We can make conversation, showing an interest in what concerns our neighbors, and pointing to Jesus, Who is concerned for His sheep.
3. We can hand out gospel messages in our communities and in our travels.
4. Get involved in open air evangelism. Go with others who are more seasoned, to outreaches.

Resources: What is the Gospel? Julius J Kim: Westminster West: Youtube video: (***Before you begin sharing the gospel, be sure you understand what it is and what it is not.) 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0XSDsaZ7uM

Tracts I have written for Gospel Tract Planet:
1. A New Heart: http://www.tractplanet.com/A-New-Heart_p_194.html
2. The Bad News and Good News:  http://www.tractplanet.com/Bad-News-Good-News_p_19.html
3. Making the Grade: http://www.tractplanet.com/Custom-Tract--Making-the-Grade_p_299.html
4. Jesus is the Sinner's Savior:  http://www.tractplanet.com/Custom-Tract--Repent_p_399.html
5. Paid In Full:  http://www.tractplanet.com/Custom-Tract--Paid_p_418.html
*These tracts can be customized and translated.
Sermon for futher consideration: (Audio) Why Share My Faith? ~John Fonville, Paramount Church, Proclaim Radio:  http://player.subsplash.com/42jvxky