From My Perspective - - -
There are two ways for one to face the
world of today: (a) Everything is alright and we’ll be just fine, or (b) The
nation and world is on a slippery slope accelerating downward and beginning a
death spiral – and – no one knows or cares to apply the brakes to slow this
trend and momentum. To suggest there is Instability in the world today would be
a major understatement. Regardless of where one looks, there are the marks and
evidences of corruption and unconscionable acts and behavior. Yesterday, I
submitted on Facebook the following: “In the 70s, Dr. Francis Schaeffer said:
"as American society turns away from the concept of absolute moral values,
the result will inevitably be rampant abortion, euthanasia, infanticide and
increasing homosexuality." Surprise, Surprise?! We have arrived!”
Within the nations and various cultures, a
discerning person is able to identify the trends and direction for the world as
we have known it and are beginning to learn it. Equally disturbing is the
decline and compromises of the “church” so-called. Long ago, a question was
posed that has application for the overall “church of today: (I Corinthians
14:8), “And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will
get ready for battle?” In the place where stability for life and practice ought
to be found, the trumpet is giving an uncertain sound. The ‘church” is sliding
down a path where its message has become confusing, and its standards have
become suspect. The question must be asked: “If the trumpet call can't be
distinguished, will anyone show up for the battle?”
What does the “church” do when it no longer
has impact in the changing and shifting culture? When people no longer find “church”
meaningful and absent themselves from it and forsake assembling together, who
or what should be held accountable? When several of the mega-churches deliver
their homilies on hope and feeling good about oneself – and continue to grow –
is that what the Bible champions as the success standard for what a local “church”
should be and do? Too often, that’s exactly what occurs. When growth isn’t
happening, then someone has to be blamed for it. Who is the most likely “someone”
in the local “church”? Regardless of how diligent and faithful one has been,
the Pastor is the cause of the decline in attendance and finances. Those who
make these kinds of decisions have chosen to ignore some very basic and vital
Biblical teaching. In most cases, they need a fresh and large dose of Hebrews
10:22-25. These verses are marked by the use and implication of the Hortatory
Subjunctive (in the Greek). The characteristic of the phrases is that they
begin with “LET US” and always mean inclusively there is an action that must be
taking place among those who profess to follow Jesus Christ. It is not a finger
pointing and the verbalization that “HE” hasn’t done… (usually referring to a
Pastor) – but rather – “WE” haven’t done all of what God wants us to do.
The directives of Hebrews 10:22-25 are clear.
This is what we are COLLECTIVELY to be doing:
(1) “LET US” draw near with a true heart in full assurance
of faith…
(2) “LET US”
hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering…
(3) “LET US”
consider how to stir up one another to love and good works…
(4) “LET US”
not neglect to meet together...
Hebrews 12:1
If we want to secure Stability and reclaim it
from the Instability of our culture and
time, we must return to The Stable and
seek The One Who was in the manger. We
must endeavor to know Him. Stability for
one’s life, world and “church” are found
in that Stable of so long ago. Paul
prayed in Philippians 3, “I want to know Him…”
Is that your longing and prayer?
Consider these things with me!
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