Ask The Pastor

Pursuit of Purpose

2012-02-09T11:59:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 02/16/2012

“What is the meaning of Life?”

Marveling over the cosmos since an early age, I remain fascinated by everything “out there.” Solar flares, cosmic storms, moon missions, the rings of Saturn, the Kuiper belt, the Voyager mission, the Hubble Deep Field, etc., awaken in me a childlike fascination with the universe’s wonders. Science provides much to fuel this joy.

As a believer, I see no conflict between faith and science—quite the contrary. Some scientists hear creation singing a symphony to the God who is there. Psalm 19:1 suggests that this should be no surprise, for, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Romans 1:20 chimes in: “For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made.”

However, some cannot hear this glorious refrain. Researchers commission experiments to explore the cosmos, the ocean's depths, or the human genome, in search of “the meaning of life,” without any clue that only God can provide such meaning. Certainly, God gave humankind an innate desire to know and to understand the world around us. This is good. The quest for knowledge develops every realm of knowledge. But for some, the meaning of life itself forever eludes definition.

This is nothing new. Consider the first-century conversation between Paul the Apostle, and the Athenian philosophers. These scholars, these men of science, spent much time debating life’s meaning without ever coming to an answer. Paul, however, cuts to the chase: “The God who made the world and everything in it... gives all men life and breath and everything else... so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:24-28).

So while we can commend spirited philosophical debate and celebrate ongoing scientific experimentation, some are “always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth,” (2Tim 3:7). However, the meaning of life is as close as the breath that God gives.

In brief, the meaning of life is that we, God's creation, should discover our Creator. God made everything, and made it wonderful, so that inquisitive minds should seek Him, believe Him, know Him, and follow Him. He made us for Himself and in him we live and move and have our being.”

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

A New Society

2012-02-02T08:13:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 02/09/2011

“Is the church supposed to be a social club or a spiritual movement?”

The church is both a spiritual movement, united with God in His work of redemption, and a spiritual family. The answer is not “either/or” but “both/and.” When Jesus called His Twelve Apostles, He purposed “that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach” (Mk 3:14). Note that relationship precedes mission. The church, therefore, is both a spiritual movement (on mission with God) and a new society (in community together with God).

The early church modeled that new community (Act 2:42-47). They not only worshiped and witnessed together, they lived as a family—that most elemental social unit. After all, the church is not a building, but a living web of relationships.

Most often, the label of “social club” comes packaged as an accusation, as if church-sponsored social events incurred the frown of God. Some people appear to think that only prayer, worship, and preaching constitute true sacred activity and that social activities are non-spiritual, secular.

Those who seek to live with such a sacred/secular dichotomy wind up with a split personality. One personality is the holy sanctimonious so-and-so on Sunday morning, and the other is “hell-bent for leather” on Monday. No, God expects us to integrate our Christian faith into our everyday worlds, without us becoming a part of the fallen world-system itself.

Furthermore, the Bible has much to say in favor of friendship (Pro 17:17, Luke 7:34, John 15:15). In my pastoral experience, I have observed that those believers with strong connections to others in their churches stay strong and faithfully participate in ministry. However, those who fail to develop friendships, tend to languish spiritually. Often, they leave their church in the hope of better relations. Oh, they may give some other reason for leaving, but the “friendship factor” typically provides the crucial difference.

Now, if a certain congregation is merely a social gathering, lacking spiritual content, then some critique is in order. If a church fails to make Kingdom priorities its priorities, then it must certainly ultimately fail, for it lacks the transformative power and transcendent values that alone can form the citizens of God’s new society.

The church is not just an organization on assignment. It is not simply a spiritual schoolhouse. Nor is it a place where individuals go solely to be connected to God. No, the church is a spiritual community, an extended spiritual family, cared for by our Heavenly Father (Eph 3:15). We are brothers, sisters, friends, and fellow-citizens in the City of God (Psa 46:4-5).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Works of Darkness

2012-01-26T12:27:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 02/02/2012

“Why do some Christians participate in occult practices?"

I know far too many believers who, out of ignorance, dabble in forbidden spiritual activities. Most often, these immature believers have yet to purge all remnants of occult or prohibited religious practices. Some of these things—on the surface—may appear spiritually harmless or even helpful.

In direct opposition to Christian teaching, they unwittingly consent to what God disallows. They are like those who see no conflict between having a wife and having a mistress. True marriage allows no competing lovers. Neither does true faith allow competing deities. Scripture is clear, “You shall have no other gods before me” (Ex. 20:3).

Deuteronomy 18:10-13 spells out a short list of forbidden occult activities, including (either explicitly or by implication) child sacrifice, witchcraft, fortune-telling, conjuring spell-casting, prognostication, Tarot cards, tea-leaf or water reading, astrology, sorcery, snake-charming, the casting of spells, the manipulation of spirits, necromancy, black and white magic, consulting familiar spirits, calling up the dead, séances, and channeling.

Furthermore, God forbids idolatry (Ex. 20:4), not only the worship of images but also any participation in non-Christian religions. In the name of exercise, no Christian should ever invoke Yoga's Hindu deity, “Om.” The Yin-Yang, Self-realization, Transcendental Meditation, Tai Chi, and Centering prayers of Easter religions have no place in the Christian life. Calling upon spirits, angels, or power words, for healing, is inconsistent with Christianity.

In summary, any supernatural means directed toward supernatural ends—to be sanctioned by God—must be done God's way and in accordance with God's Word. Such shall have God's blessing.

My dear, precious, beloved fellow believers—I appeal to you: “The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly as in the daytime.” (Rom 13:12-13). Why use the low and dark means that God forbids when the God of the universe is ours to call upon. He alone is more than enough!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Misplaced Faith

2012-01-19T12:41:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/26/2012

“Can someone lose their salvation?”

No one loses their salvation like someone loses their car keys. Christ holds every believer in His sure and strong grip (John 10:29). However, those believers who persistently and willfully abandon their faith shall one day have their desire.

Now, before I proceed, let me point out that two schools of thought exist on the issue, and “never the twain shall meet.” One camp insists that God's sovereign election forbids our resistance. “Once saved, always saved” is their creed. The other camp emphasizes “free will,” man's autonomous ability to either accept or reject God’s grace. Few people adhere to the extremes of either position, but it is my conviction that the truth lies somewhere near the middle.

Scripture teaches both positions (Phil 2:12-13). God is sovereign, and His will cannot be thwarted (Eph 1:11). Man is responsible, and He can resist the will of God (Luke 7:30). Our finite minds cannot easily reconcile these two diverse positions. Nevertheless, this is the picture presented throughout the Bible.

On the one hand, let us have great confidence in God's keeping power. He is “the author and finisher” of our faith (Heb 12:2). He began the first chapter. Though our personal story is full of ups, downs, and detours, He is writing the book of our lives to the final sentence. God will never “leave or forsake” His people (Heb 13:5).

On the other hand, most agree that saving faith perseveres. The heirs of salvation continue to the end. Whether you were baptized, confirmed, “prayed the prayer,” or responded to an altar call, only those who continue to believe in Christ and follow Him in obedience have a secure faith (Rom 16:26).

No, faith is not so fragile that it is casually lost, but it can be willfully rejected. The book of Hebrews addresses Christians who were suffering for their faith. The book simultaneously encourages perseverance and warns against apostasy. Hebrews 6:4-6 describes those who at one time knew God but now, no longer follow Him. Hebrews 10:26-31 further describes those previously “sanctified” who now spurn Jesus and profane His blood.

These “once saved”—after a conscious, calculated, and unrelenting “about face”—have no legitimate claim to salvation. Jesus said: “No one can snatch [believers] out of my Father's hand” (John 10:29). All the same, God will not hold—against his will—the one who is determined to escape.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Beginning of Wisdom

2012-01-12T10:10:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/19/2012

“Have You No Fear of God?”

At one time, watchful communities, moral education, painful consequences, shame, spanking, church-going, the death penalty, and the Judgment all worked together to limit the scope of evil behavior. One needs only to remember thirty or forty years ago when these restraints helped to deter evil and to promote good.

However, the more our government forces God (and morality) from the public sphere, the more our societal conscience grows calloused. Murderers, suicide shooters, rapists, thieves, hackers, liars, parents who kill their children, etc., face increasingly limited consequences for their heinous actions.

Today, many people—even some Christians—no longer believe that God punishes the wicked with everlasting hell. Well, I do! The fear of God makes people think twice before they act, and helps to foster “the better angels of our nature.” Better to do what is right now than to face heaven’s righteous Judge in the hereafter, culpable.

Proverbs 9:10-18 says: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” However, the villainous evil person that disregards God's commands will make their bed “in the depths of Hell.” “For it is written—each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Rom 14:11-12).

“On the wicked he will rain fiery coals and burning sulfur; a scorching wind will be their lot. For the LORD is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see His face” (Psa 11:6-7). Better to “see His face” through Christ's mercies than to face His fires of judgment.

Now, some of you may consider me a hell-fire preacher who takes pleasure in holding feet to the fire. Not at all! I would rather you heed God’s loving warning. For He takes no “pleasure in the death of the wicked.” Rather, God would have the evil man “turn from his [evil] way and live” (Eze 18:23). The fear of God helps keep us on the straight and narrow.

If I could accomplish one aim by raising this somewhat uncomfortable subject, it would be to plant a seed in the hearts of those contemplating evil, reminding them that “we will all stand before the judgment seat of God” (Rom 14:10). That being the case, let’s make sure we don’t arrive with a smoking gun in hand!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Existence of God

2012-01-05T14:28:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/05/2012

Does God Exist?

Does love exist? Does beauty exist? Does the mind exist? Can anything exist outside or beyond our physical senses? Knowing these things for certain, we must—literally—know everything before we can absolutely know anything. However, Christians and open-minded thinkers, humbled by the vast unknown, see much evidence that God exists.

Cosmologists wrestle with the great unknowns of the galaxy, and may teach us much humility and awe at the wonders of creation. The subjects of Dark Energy and Dark Matter blow their minds. They hypothesize that Dark Energy exerts the primary force in the expansion of the universe, and postulate that Dark Matter exists, based upon its gravitational effects. In fact, scientists identify 70-80% of all the energy and matter in the universe as Dark Energy and Dark Matter—though neither form of energy can be physically proved.

In other words, scientists typically agree that the largest force in the universe cannot be seen, felt, touches, tasted, or heard. No instrumentation measures or quantifies the effects of Dark Energy or the presence of Dark Matter, and yet, Something wonderfully large and powerful exerts enormous cause and effect upon all things.

Therefore, if such a comprehensive force defies physical description, how can any conclude that God does not exist, based exclusively upon sensory perception? Like Dark Matter, we cannot see God, but we see the effects of His Presence all around us. “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork” (Psa 19:1-4).

Yes, all of creation declares God’s “invisible qualities, eternal power, and divine nature… from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (Rom 1:20).

We see evidence of God in the vast systems and designs of creation—from subatomic particle to black holes and quasars. We see evidence of God in the innate religious disposition of all peoples—denied only by great effort. We see evidence of God in the blessings of life (Mat 5:45) and in its sorrows (Rom 8:20). We see evidence of God is the wisdom of His Word and in His plan of redemption (Rom 3:20-28).

A cartoon illustrates the point of this essay neatly. Two fleas are walking amidst a tall forest of a dog’s hair follicles. Obviously involved in deep discussion, the one turns to the other and says, “Do you believe there is a dog?” You see, these fleas, though living off the dog’s provision, questioned his existence, though he was all around them. How about you—is there a God?

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Total Makeover

2011-12-21T14:28:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/05/2012

“Can people change?”

At one time, people thought that Psychology, properly applied, could correct all the maladies of the psyche. However, the growing professional consensus is that “people do not change.” Accordingly, counseling helps smooth out some rough spots, but—since “people do not change”—the best chance at a manageable existence lay in new and creative medicines.

Therefore, some "professionals" mock and scorn the Christian view of conversion, which insists that people can truly change. No doubt, psychological and emotional disorders pose formidable challenges—even for converts—but in Christ, people can truly change.

One need not have mental disorders to need a total makeover. Many people, unhappy with the hand dealt them, live in quiet despair. Some live lives broken by their own choices. Still others desire to have unwanted personality quirks changed: pessimism, anger, fear, loneliness, discouragement, compulsion, and addiction. They’re discontented with life but hoping for a better day. Can people really change?

The Scripture promises: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2Cor 5:17). Those believing in Christ are “born again,” made spiritually alive “through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” (1Pet 1:3).

The Bible offers many examples of those changed by encountering God. Moses exchanged his fears for faith and became a mighty deliverer. Paul changed from an angry persecutor of the Church to her most prized theologian. John the zealot became John the Beloved. Moreover, since the time of Christ, billions of people have laid claim to new life in Him. While not laying hold of a perfect life (at least not yet!), they do lay hold of a new life nonetheless.

Now, the nature of change differs for each person. Some change immediately; others take more time. Either way, the life given to Christ begins the life-long process of transformation, by which it is renewed, becoming at last the whole and happy person which God intends (Rom 12:2; Col 3:10).

Perhaps you’ve heard the old joke that inquires, “How many psychologists does it take to change a light bulb?” “One,” we’re told, “But the light bulb has to want to change.”

What is true of the light bulb is true for all of us. We can change—if we truly want to.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Christmas Incarnation

2011-12-15T07:55:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/22/2011

What is The Wonder of Christmas?

Many children experience a certain wonder about Christmas. My fondest childhood memories of Christmas include the lighted décor of (seemingly) every house, songs of the season, like Jingle Bells, TV specials, caroling, Charlie Brown's Christmas tree, presents, wrapping paper, and the yearly reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” One Christmas eve, I woke in the night, crept into the living room, and actually saw "the big guy" putting presents around the tree. Yep, I saw him, and no one could persuade me otherwise.

However, some Christian parents fear the tainting of the true Christmas message by the secularization of the holiday. I say, let your kids dream. Too often, I've heard the concern that Christmas myths undermine faith. Quite the contrary. Investing in our child's imagination prepares them for seeing, by faith, the unseen realities of God. Moreover, if they see you living year-round for Jesus, you need not fear that they will confuse the myth with the Messiah.

No doubt, two Christmas traditions fill the December holidays. Reindeer, Santa, mistletoe, decorated trees, gifts, and frenzied shopping represent the one. The other focuses on the Nativity, the Christ Child, songs of redemption, and gratitude for salvation.

As fun and marvelous as this season can be, in the hustle and bustle, we can lose sight of the profound wonder that far exceeds every other Christmas wonder: God became man. Jesus, the fully divine Son of God (Phil 2:6), existed before all things (John 1:1). God established an eternal plan to rescue man from his sin (Rev 13:8). Jesus set aside His eternal majesty to set the plan in motion and entered our world as a baby.

Christmas celebrates, above all, the love of God reaching out to all humanity through the incarnation of Christ: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). “Whoever” means you and me. None need “perish,” if they place their faith in the Christ of Christmas.

Now that is truly wonderful!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Evil's Exploitation

2011-12-08T07:26:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/15/2011

“What good is the devil?”

Satan—a fallen angel, the personification of evil—plagues the world with many evils. We think, “Get rid of the devil and the world will be a better place.” And yet, God allows the devil freedom to carry out some of his evil schemes. It seems to me that—much to Satan's chagrin—God gets much good out of Satan's activity.

A greater good came to Job's life through Satan's oppression. In short, God allowed Satan to torment Job. Job endured great hardship. In the end, however, these circumstances produced for him much benefit (Job 42:12).

Israel benefited from oppressive enemies. Judges 3:1-2 says that the Lord left enemies in the land of Israel “to teach warfare to the descendants of the Israelites who had not had previous battle experience.” Therefore, we may reasonably assume that God uses Satan's tactics—opposite to Satan's intent—to train God's people in the spiritual warfare.

Joseph, oppressed by his brothers and sold into slavery, saw God’s purpose in his trying circumstances. To his bothers He said: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Gen 50:20). In the same way, Satan purposes harm, but God turns it toward the good.

In summary, “All things work together for good,” as the apostle Paul informs us (Rom. 8:28). Every Satanic trial and temptation earns the Christian another graduate degree in the School of Hard Knocks (Rom 8:28).

Yes, Satan has great power to work havoc, but Jesus, has even greater power (1Jn 4:4) to thwart every demonic design and to use hardship, not for our harm, but for our ultimate good and for the glory of God.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Religion vs. Relationship

2011-12-01T09:00:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/08/11

“Is Christianity a Religion?”

Christianity is and is not a religion. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines religion as “a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices.” So, in this sense, Christianity is a religion, due to its institutional church structure, possessing a “system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices” in its doctrines, ethics, and polity.

However, Christians often go out of the way to say that Christianity is not a religion, rather a relationship with God. Reasons for this include: a desire to distance Christianity from other religions; to emphasize Christianity's unique capacity to connect people to God; and to minimize legalistic rule-keeping and maximize devotional love for God. Let us consider each of these aspects in turn.

First, consider the desire to distance Christianity from other religions. In the beginning, the Creator God made man and established faith as the basis of a relationship with Him. Yet human beings have shown a remarkable capacity for inventing religions that depart from true faith (Gal 4:8; 1Tim 4:1). Not all religions, then, are created equal.

Secondly, consider Christianity's unique capacity to connect people with God. The deity of Islam, by contrast, stands aloof and unknowable. Eastern religion exalts an impersonal Force, not a loving Father. But in Christianity, God is personal, knowable, and communicative. He feels, He laughs, He grieves, He loves, and He seeks relationship. To those who come to Him, He gives His Holy Spirit to help them know him better (1Cor 2:10-12; Gal 4:6).

Finally, consider how Christianity minimizes rule-keeping in favor of devotional love for God. Every religion outside of Christianity says in effect, “These are the rules. Keep the rules and God will favor you.” This means that these religions depend completely upon the adherent’s ability to “keep the rules.” Our problem is that we don't keep the rules very well. As a result, the adherents of these religions live with perpetual fear and uncertainty, wondering if they have done enough to pacify God.

Only in Christianity does salvation depend upon God and not man (Eph 2:5-8). We come into a right relationship with God, not because of what we do, but because of what God does (Rom 3-4). We are saved because God loves us and seek us out. Left to ourselves, we would never seek God (Rom 3:10-11). We are saved because Jesus bore our sins on the cross and provides the means for our reconciliation with God (Col 1:20). We are saved, not because of our own moral excellence, but because of the goodness and grace of God.

In one sense, then, Christianity is a religion like other religions. It has institutional structures (like the local church) and accepted practices and beliefs. But because it uniquely connects people to God through Jesus Christ, it stands alone. Where do you stand in relation to Christianity—and to Christ?

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Knowing Jesus

2011-11-25T19:22:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/01/2011

"Do you know Jesus?"

Christians sometimes ask this of others to determine whether they are believers or not (1Th 4:5). However, the response of non-believers typically reveals they misunderstand the question—precisely because Christians use the in-house language of the church.

Knowing Jesus does not mean: "Do you know 'about' Jesus." Nonetheless, many people appear to understand the question this way. So, it shouldn't surprise us when the most ardent unbeliever responds in the affirmative, insisting that they do know something 'about' Jesus. Well, devils also 'believe,' in this sense (Jas 2:19).

Knowing Jesus does not mean: "Do you believe in the existence of God or Jesus?" The vast majority of people believe in "God" and accept the historicity of Jesus (Tit 1:16). Even non-Christians often speak favorably of certain aspects of Christ's teaching, such as His insistence on love for others and concern for the poor. However, what He says about sin and obedience to God separates the sheep from the goats (Mat 25:32).

Technically, knowing Jesus means believing in Christ in such a way that His influence becomes the central core of one's being (Gal 4:8-9). True conversion reveals itself in—among other things—repentance from sinful habits, obedience to God's commandments, morality, generosity and sacrificial love (Act 20:21; 1Jn 3-4).

What most believers mean by knowing Jesus, is that we know Him by experience. Believers pursue a relationship with God and experience His presence in their lives through prayer, Bible reading, faith, circumstances, obedience, and the supernatural. Not that Christians claim to know God fully. How can the finite ever fully comprehend the Infinite? We do know Him truly, however, however partially (1Cor 13:9).

Finally, I propose we find a better way to address the question of a person's salvation. Rather than asking whether a person "knows" Jesus, we should, instead, inquire: ""Do you follow Jesus?" Even devils believe; only disciples follow.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Thanks-giving

2011-11-22T10:11:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 11/25/2011

“Why is giving thanks, so important?”

While our nation pauses again to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, our giving of thanks should continue as a vital part of every day. Those Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony, facing many hardships, gave thanks for a bountiful harvest, their Indian friends, and for God's gracious hand upon them. Yet, giving thanks flowed naturally out of their daily lives—in both seasons of plenty and seasons of want.

Thanksgiving Day ought to serve as a reminder that our lives depend wholly on God. God, who does “good to all,” (Psa 145:9). God “makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Mat 5:45). For believers and unbelievers alike, all good things come from God.

Consider how the farmer depends upon many things beyond his control. Yes, he plants the seed and tends the ground. But without the blessing of rain and good weather, his crop will fail, no matter what else he might do. So for all of us. Little do we realize how much the Lord provides. Some take complete credit for their good fortune. Nevertheless, what can anyone do apart from God's generosity?

Thanks-giving matters for these reasons: Thanks-giving acknowledges God, as the giver and sustainer of life. Thanks-giving acknowledges our dependence upon Him. Thanks-giving is an attitude, reveling more upon “the good” of life, rather than brooding over “the bad.” Therefore, thanks-giving feeds hope, optimism, and happiness. Most importantly, thanks-giving embodies a resolve to live life in grateful response to Christ's salvation, mercy, and love.

Edward Sandford Martin reminds us, “Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow.” Grateful hearts are thankful hearts. “Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Psa 118:1-4).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Science and Faith

2011-11-10T12:34:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 11/17/2011

“Do you believe in science?”

Science allies itself with the believer, when properly followed (1Tim 6:20 KJV). No doubt, some manipulate science to promote specific ends. Nevertheless, where true science goes, so must the Christian. Truth is truth, no matter its means of discovery (2Cor 13:8). If Science conclusively proves the earth round, then the earth is round. Period.

Science is the systematic effort to understand how the physical world works. Science and faith both (or ought to) concern themselves with the discovery of truth. This makes them, ultimately, compatible. Truth, scientific or otherwise, must prove accurately and reflect reality. It must stand upon facts, rather than bias and speculation.

However, some politicize science to promote a social agenda. In order to serve a particular viewpoint, some scientists fail to subject their theories to the rigors necessary to either prove them or falsify them—which genuine science demands. One simply has to say that "studies suggest," or that "recent testing points to," or "it is commonly held that," and a host of supporters, eager to make their point, will herald the new "discovery."

The problem with science does not lie in the discipline itself but in the humanistic worldview to which many scientists adhere.

Christians need not fear true science. Science often verifies the very things we believe. Science helps reveal the amazing complexity of the smallest particle and the vast expanse of the cosmos. Science uncovers the systematic and orderly workings of all created matter. Science uncovers a creation best explained by a Creator of infinite power, wisdom, and love. Science celebrates the marvels of life and human consciousness. Science helps us to think transcendently, to dream largely, to stand in awestruck wonder, and to worship the God who made it all (Col 1:15-16).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Perfect Prayers

2011-11-03T07:01:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 11/10/11

“Is there a perfect prayer?”

God alone is perfect (Deu 32:4). At a store, I studied a beautiful marble chess set. Looking over its exquisite workmanship, I lifted a marred chess piece. American Indians, I learned, intentionally blemish every work in order to indicate that perfection belongs only to God.

That lesson from years back remains as a reminder to me of my limitation—the limitation of all people—before the perfection of God. Our sin and mixed motives mars even our best efforts to live perfectly before God. This affects even our prayers (Jer 17:9).

The Redeemed, freed from sin’s bondage and progressing in transformation, still fall short of perfection in this life. The true contents of our hidden motives color our prayers. We may pray, assuming selfless intent, and yet—in the depths of our being—desire a selfish design.

Thank God that He provides to the Christian, a “throne of Grace” to run to in times of need (Heb 4:14-16). Moreover, since our need remains constant, the throne-room remains open.

However, this must not deter us from learning to pray, from purging our evil desires, and from praying wisely. We pray better only as God transforms our minds—and that takes time (Phil 3:12). Nevertheless, as we study and meditate upon God's word, as we do His will, and as we seek Him in prayer, we will gain better insight into good and effective praying.

However, those seeking shortcuts emphasize formulas. Such activity describes the Pharisees who perfected formulaic religion. Such approaches appear spiritual but inevitably lead the pray-er into the bondage of legalism.

No, the best prayer, aided by the Holy Spirit, flows out of our relationship with God (Rom 8:26). That takes more work than following a formula, but allows us to know the joy and freedom of effective prayer.

The “acceptable” prayer we offer in “faith... through Christ,” from an authentic heart of love for God (1Pe 2:5). Consequently, our best effort at a perfect prayer goes something like this: “O Lord, forgive this sinner. I boast no righteousness. I come humbly before You, repenting of my sin, and trusting Christ as my Savior. I give myself to you. I am Yours, O Lord. Take me to Yourself. Help me to follow and love You, all the days of my life. Amen” Such a prayer gets us moving in the right direction, and a good starting place if you want to pray perfectly.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Spiritual Battle

2011-10-26T08:16:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 11/03/2011

"What is spiritual warfare?”

Spiritual warfare is a term describing the spiritual battle that Christians wage against the devil and his demons in the supernatural realm (Eph 6:12). Christians engage with this issue to varying degrees, from passive denial to excessive preoccupation. No matter where Christians fall along that continuum, every person who takes Jesus Christ as Lord awakens an avowed enemy of God.

To place faith in God means we accept all that goes along with believing, including the acknowledgment of the devil's existence and activity. The believer joins a battle, whether they like it or not. It goes with the territory. The battle will not go away if we turn a blind eye to it. No, we must learn to fight.

In the preface to his classic, THE SCREWTAPE LETTERS, C. S. Lewis writes, “There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors and hail a materialist or a magician with the same delight.”

A balanced approach is best. Some temptations, some problems, some thoughts, do in fact have a demonic source. Others do not (James 1:4). Discernment, wisdom, and prudence prove important weapons in the believer’s arsenal, helping us maintain our spiritual equilibrium (Pro 8:12).

God has given us mighty weapons (2 Cor 10:4). The believer need not live in fear of defeat (1 John 4:4). Every sinner who turns to follow Christ enters the victory (1 Jn 4:4). Believers fight the spiritual battle by praying, by trusting, by renewing their minds, by witnessing, and by following Christ. Every word, deed, or prayer that promotes “the kingdom of light” delivers a deathblow to “the kingdom of darkness” (Col 1:12-14).

So, keep your perspective in the spiritual war. Always remember that devils and demons are fallen, finite, created beings, which the uncreated, unlimited, all-powerful God, has put on a short leash, so that they might be yet one more means to accomplish His eternal purposes.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Bible Bigots?

2011-10-20T12:19:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/27/2011

“Are Christians, bigots?”

A bigot is “a person obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudices, especially one exhibiting intolerance, and animosity toward those of differing beliefs” (Wikipedia). Christians experience “intolerance and animosity” for their beliefs, but are they, in turn, bigots?

No doubt, some organizations carry the title “Christian” and yet are full-fledged bigots, such as the Klu Klux Clan or the Westboro Baptist group. Every organization, whether secular or religious, has its fringe element. However, few Christians recognized these aberrants to represent the spirit of Jesus.

Authentic Christian's are to love all people without prejudice, because of their intrinsic value to God. God has made them in His image (Gen 1:27). The Lord loves and desires to save even those with whom we sharply disagree (Jn 3:16).

Because we embrace the values and ideals of the Bible, we naturally oppose their opposites. Such opposition is not arbitrary but the result of the loving and logical outworking of a Christian worldview.

For example: God is the author of marriage because it promotes what is “good” (Gen 2:18, 24). Therefore, God hates divorce because of the great harm it causes. (Mal 2:14-16). Christians concur with God, and experience confirms our view. Divorce injures children, produces poverty, wounds divorcees, and worsens society. Because of these things, Christians hate the idea of divorce. However, we love the divorcee and labor to bring healing to the wound.

By loving and affirming the biblical view of a wholesome social order, Christians unavoidably find themselves combating things like cohabitation, drug use, premarital sex, abortion, gambling, homosexuality, etc. Nevertheless, in all these issues we “hate the sin yet love the sinner.”

The fact that we are “for” what is good, inevitably sets us “against” what—from a Biblical worldview—ultimately harms the individual, undermines society, and hinders salvation.

Yes, some may consider us bigots for the stances we take. Nevertheless, we hold no “animosity toward those of differing beliefs.” Love alone separates the Christian from the bigot. That love, flows from the heart and lips of Christ on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luk 23:34). However, it’s the conversation about “what they do” that has repercussions.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Jesus' Death

2011-10-13T09:24:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/20/2011

“Why did they kill Jesus?”

This question comes from a child. While the adults are throwing around terms like “substitutionary atonement,” the mind of the child is considering the more basic—and essential—aspects of Jesus' death. Such a question reminds us preachers to be careful to “set forth the truth plainly” so that all may benefit (2Co 4:2).

First, the “they” who killed Jesus is “we.” We must not think the Jews or the Romans of that time to be more uncivilized than we are. Injustice and violence occurs across every century. Those killers represent all of us. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom 3:23). This means that all manner of sin and violence is comes from our unconverted hearts.

Secondly, we killed Jesus, exactly as every generation has done to its prophets and reformers—killed the messenger to silence the message (Luk 11:49). Jesus' call to faith, repentance, and holy living, runs against the grain of our fallen nature, and some will do anything—including murder—to avoid that voice. Singer-songwriter, Larry Norman, describes this tendency in his lyric: “We shot all our dreamers, now there's no one left to lead us.”

Thirdly, they/we killed Jesus because he claimed to be God (John 5:18). To the Jews, Jesus did not fit their image of the Messiah-God, which made him a blasphemer in their view (Mar 14:64). To the Romans, the Messiahship challenges the rule of Caesar (Joh 19:12).

Finally, we killed Jesus because of God's intention from the beginning (Rev 13:8). God uses our murderous intent towards Christ to plan our salvation (Isa 53:10; Joh 12:27). Jesus did not “come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mat 20:28). “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification” (Rom 4:25).

Let me say this in a way that any child may understand: “They” killed Jesus because of the evil in their hearts. They killed him because they didn't want to listen to what he had to say. He made them feel guilty for their sins. They killed him because they did not want him to be their Lord and King. But they killed him according to God's plan, so that he would rise from the dead, and so that “whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Right Church

2011-10-04T06:50:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/13/2011

“Which church denomination is right?”

The general intent behind this type of question suggests that different church denominations mean disagreement and opposition. No doubt, some dissonance exists but most denominations hold to the orthodoxy of true Christian faith. Nevertheless, behind the question is sometimes the subtle work of Satan, giving people another excuse to avoid the church, and more specifically, the Gospel of Jesus.

Consider a similar question; “There are too many restaurants, which one is right?” Not every restaurant appeals to me. Only just so many people go out of their way for blood pudding, tripe, and liver. But take me out for Steak, Chinese, or Mexican, and I’m ready and willing.

Now, I’m not promoting a consumerism approach to church shopping, but we cannot deny that different churches help different types of people. Churches are as diverse as the many people who fill them, and God seems to like a lot of variety in His creation.

Yes, some denominations organize out of church-splits and disagreement, while others to fulfill a specific vision or to meet a dire need.

Jesus’ disciples saw someone ministering outside of their group and they asked the Savior to put a stop to it. His reply rings true today; “Do not stop him, for whoever is not against us is for us” (Mark 9:39-40). Paul the apostle echoes a similar statement in Romans chapter 14, calling for great patience & tolerance in non-essential issues.

No matter how different we might look on the outside, as long as we hold to the truth of God’s word and the centrality of Christ, we are family. There’s plenty of room for a wide variety of “tastes.” Anyone for Mexican?

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

An Attractive Faith

2011-09-29T12:33:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/06/2011

"Are you the disenchanted?"

Author, Gabe Lyons, in his book, 'The Next Christians,' asks the question: "What does it mean to be a Christian in a world that is disenchanted with our movement?" His concern is the concern of every thoughtful Christian who desires all others to see the beauty of our God and the appeal of the Gospel of Christ.

In all honesty, many people want nothing to do with the church, the trappings of religion, nor the Christian lifestyle—sometimes, for very good reason.

It is true that some churches are out-of-touch with modern society. It is true that some Christians reduce faith to rules punctuated more with a "thou shalt not" than a vibrant “yes.” It is true that too many “Christians” talk-the-talk but do not walk-the-walk. It is true that some of our members present anything but a compelling attractive witness.

However, these views do not represent all churches, believers, or the truth of the Bible. Nevertheless, this perception is a reality that Christians must face if we are to offer a positive presentation to the world.

Now, the Bible teaches that the primary reasons people refuse Christ, are deception (2Cor 4:4) and selfishness (Jn 3:19). However, my feeling is that some people are not out-and-out rejecting Christ, but Christianity—there is a BIG difference! The first is a willful rejection, while the second is more a disdain for an unappealing characterization.

The truth of Scripture is reasonable, consistent, reliable, authentic, and truthful. God wins on truth every day of the week! But in my opinion, it's not just truth that unbelievers dislike—it's believers.

Christian, your life is the only Bible some people will ever read. Wherever others see Christians who are faithful, stable, reasonable, joyful, contented, loving, etc., their hearts open wider to the truth of Christ. Such a winsome witness, makes “the teaching about God our Savior attractive” (Tit 2:10).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Offering Criticism

2011-09-22T13:06:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/29/2011

How can I best offer criticism?

Criticism is “the act of passing judgment as to the merits of anything” (dictionary.com). Outside of various specialized disciplines, such as literary criticism, most often our criticism involves the negative appraisal we make of others.

In spite of its negative aspect, when we offer criticism in a correct manner, it produces more good than harm. For example, critical analysis of company procedures can help a company be its best. Critical self-examination and self-correction makes for better organizations. In the personal realm, critical self-examination, followed by behavioral changes, make us had better people.

However, due to our sin nature, we can easily assume a high view of our personal perspective, criticizing and condemning in judgmental fashion. We know not the deep recesses of our motivations, therefore, let us go deep in humility of heart, whether giving or receive criticism. The book of Ephesians offers a wealth of guidance on how to best offer criticism:

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen... Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, fighting and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Eph 4:29-32).

Those who heed its counsel introduce God's love into the conversation. We may freely and openly criticize, provided we do so without “unwholesome talk” and with the goal of “building others up.” Effective criticism must purge all “bitterness, rage, anger, fighting, slander, malice” and the like. Rather, criticism that respects God and reveals Christian character is “kind, compassionate” and full of “forgiveness.”

When we must criticize, these following principles contribute to good communication: Speak openly to those you critique, not behind their backs (Pro 27:5-6). Speak for yourself, not for others. Avoid bolstering your position with unanimous criticism (Deu 17:6). Carefully evaluate actions (1Cor 6:3), not intentions (Matt 7:1-2). Speak face to face, when criticism involve offense (Mat 18:15). Finally, make peace, not war (Mat 5:23-26). Practiced like this, criticism promotes moral excellence, bettering oneself and “those who listen.”

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Aging Gracefully

2011-09-16T06:31:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/22/2011

“What are the benefits of getting older?”

The story of “The Woman Caught in Adultery” is a wonderful demonstration of Christ's mercy towards sinners (John 8:1-11). The Law of Moses required her death by stoning. Jesus never calls her innocent, nor excuses her sin, but rather he answers with the now famous response: “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.”

By doing this, Jesus affirms the justice of God and, simultaneously, indicates that all people are sinners. Jesus, the only one present “without sin,” withholds judgment in favor of mercy. (We are all sinners, then, deserving God's judgment. Only through Christ may one receive pardon!)

Now, observe the response of the mob, that those “without sin” have Christ's permission to stone the adulteress—provided they meet His condition. Rather than delivering a hail of stones, the hostile crowd stands dumbfounded at the implication—none is without sin. None qualifies to judge or condemn another.

More importantly—for today's question—notice what happens next. “They went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him” (John 8:9). The “older ones” were the first to feel the stab of conscience, to drop their stone, and to leave the scene.

As one old enough to receive AARP mailings, I do recognize a number of benefits to aging, such as peace of mind, contentment, and stability. However, this side-story highlights the very necessary benefit of a developing humility—especially as we prepare to meet our Maker.

In our youthful idealism, we grow impatient with the faults of others. We find it easier to judge, while considering ourselves paragons of virtue. In fact, only after a lifetime of observing one’s own faults, errors, and sins, does one adequately grasp the imperfection and corruptible motivations in our heart. That's why—I believe—the older ones were the first to feel the pangs of conscience and to put away their condemnation of the woman. In condemning her, they would also condemn themselves.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Judgment or Discernment?

2011-09-08T11:57:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/15/11

“Is it wrong to judge?”

To be wise in this life, one must judge whether a thing is good or bad. We judge when considering a marriage partner, entering into friendship, or finding good child-care. Judgment is essential for business transactions, political persuasions, and all moral choices.

Often, when trying to rescue a friend from a moral failing, we get the defensive response: “You’re judging me!” Typically, people retreat to this fortress in order to escape responsibility. However, Jesus does not condemn this type of judgment.

Jesus said, “Do not judge or you will be judged” (Matt 7:1). In context, this means that all people should refrain from 'condemnatory' judgment—judgments devoid of love and intent upon injury.
However, Jesus also teaches us to “judge with righteous judgment” (Joh 7:24). In this context we must judge, that is to 'discern' and 'distinguish' between good and bad, right and wrong. “Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more then, matters pertaining to this life!” (1Co 6:3).

David Guzik says, “Jesus calls us to know people by their fruits [behaviors], and some sort of assessment is necessary for that. The Christian is called to unconditionally love; but he is not called to unconditional approval—we really can love people who do things we do not approve of. Instead, Jesus is speaking against being judgmental, that is, judging motives and the inner man, which only God can know. Jesus is not prohibiting judgment of others; He is only requiring that it be completely fair, and that we only judge others by a standard we would also like to be judged by.”

Consider a necessary and positive facet of fair judgment: Discernment and appraisal of something as bad or evil, is on the other hand, the ability to appraise the more valuable nature of the good and the holy, and as a result, to love. Love requires fair judgment.

Christians must call a spade, a spade. If something is morally right, good judgment knows its right and why it is right. If we forbid all judgment, then good and bad must cease to exist, making all things of equal value—whether murder or generosity. Fair judgment knows the difference.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Nominal Christians

2011-09-01T11:56:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/08/2011

“How can we reach people who think they are Christians but really are not?”

To reason with someone who thinks they are a Christian, when in fact they are not, is as easy as convincing the mentally ill that they are mentally ill. Our human predisposition defends our motives, pronounces our innocence, and justifies all sorts of things.

Estimates are that about 80% of Americans consider themselves “Christians.” However, start to unpack that statistic, and significant portions of these who say that they “believe,” simultaneously adhere to values, behaviors, and attitudes that are diametrically opposed to true Christian faith. A quick look around the classroom, the workplace, or the public arena, reveals the startlingly reality—very few Americans live an authentic Christian life.

The word, “believe,” is now so empty of meaning, that many think the merest mental assent to “some” of the Bible's claims is sufficient to carry the title, “Christian.” John Piper in his book, DESIRING GOD, says: “We are surrounded by unconverted people who think they do believe in Jesus. Drunks on the street say they believe. Unmarried couples sleeping together say they believe... All kinds of lukewarm, world-loving church attenders say they believe.”

The one who believes, who has a true faith in God, will progress in spiritual growth. True faith leads to repentance—a turning from sinful patterns (Act 20:21). True faith follows God's commands in obedience (Rom 1:5). True faith leads believers away from all false religions and new-age spirituality (Gal 4:8-9). True faith is evident in love for God and others (1 Jn 5:1). True faith is morally & ethically upright (Gal 5:16-26). Such in not the case for the “make-believer.”

If we are to reach these lost who merely think themselves saved, then I have three suggestions:

First, let's change the conversation. When we throw out the faith buzzwords such as “faith, belief, and Christian,” then let us precisely define them. John Piper suggests that, as we invite people to follow Christ, that we ask them: “Do you receive Jesus as your Treasure?” By this question, Piper is clarifying that faith means treasuring Jesus, more than anything else. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Mat 6:21).

Secondly, let’s make our pulpits ring out with the “kindness and the severity of God” (Rom 11:22). Kindness to those living in covenant relationship with Christ, severity to those who abuse and violate God's grace. We must proclaim the doctrines of Heaven, Hell, Grace, and Judgment, if our converts are to be the real deal.

Finally, let's revive the practice of taking responsibility for others. Yes, we are our brother's keeper! If we see our neighbor's house burning, a good neighbor will do what he or she can to help. And when so-called “Christians” live, literally, like Hell, love must come to the rescue.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

True Revival

2011-08-25T12:33:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/01/2011

“What characterizes true revival?”

Revival is God's work of spiritually restoring believers who falter in their faith. The word “revive” appears only in the Old Testament. It describes one who faints under some exertion, but revives (for example) with rest, food, and water (Psa 85:6). As a metaphor, revival describes God breathing new life—much like a medic administering CPR—into a spiritually fainting or dying believer (Isa 57:15).

Today, many believers begin the marathon of the faith with a spring in their step and a determination to finish the race. However, through spiritual neglect, distractions, or discouragements, some lose strength and quit the race. One does not need to look too far to see tired and dehydrated runners falling behind and longing for the sidelines.

Historically, God has worked across the centuries and throughout the world to rescue the church from apathy or demise. Today, some associate revival with “madness and mayhem,” with bodies jerking, limbs flailing, people falling, demonstrative preaching, and a charged emotional atmosphere.

But to understand the characteristics of revival—true revival—let us look beyond these experiences and the anecdotal to the scriptural. The New Covenant necessitates above all, love for God, love for people, and the making of disciples (Mat 22:36, 28:19).

Therefore, true revival should produce: First, a whole-hearted love for, faith in, and obedience to God (1Jn 5:2). Second, an authentic love for the people of God, and all others—including enemies (Mat 5:43-44) Finally, a life of witness that desires to see others saved (Acts 1:8).

These three qualities describe a vibrant spiritual life empowered by the Holy Spirit.

One outstanding biblical example of revival occurs during the life of Ezra (Neh 8-9). Because of Israel’s idolatry, God allowed his people to go into exile in Babylon, where they served their enemies. After seventy years, however, God restored them to their homeland, but as a broken and humbled people. This provided the right climate for spiritual renewal. As Jesus says, “Blessed are the poor in Spirit,” who know they need God.

Ezra preached from the Scriptures, the people repented, and they renewed their love and obedience to God. Simple. No flamboyant preaching—just God's Word expounded, believed and followed. No need to go through gyrations to “get more of God." When people turn from sin to follow God, God's blessing and restoration comes.

Revival is not some high prize that God withholds or reserves for special moments in history but that which He longs to continually impart to every believer who hears and follows His Word. No believer need wait for revival to come while the promise of Christ remains: “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water'" (Joh 7:38). Today, you have as much of God as you want.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

To Change The World

2011-08-19T16:52:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/25/11

“What is Christian Service?”

“Amazing Grace,” the 2006 movie portraying the true-life story of William Wilberforce, offers telling insight into this question. William Wilberforce, 18th century member of the British Parliament, led the long and arduous charge for the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Early in his political career, Wilberforce converts to Christianity and finds himself torn between pursuing Christian ministry or political activism.

While Wilberforce struggled in the throes of indecision, his friend and fellow Member of Parliament, William Pitt, offered him this challenge: “Do you intend to use your beautiful voice to praise the Lord, or change the world?” Indecisive, Wilberforce finally settles the matter when, in a private meeting with abolitionists, they appeal: “We respectfully ask that you do both.”

Christian service means both using our voices to “praise the Lord” and to “change the world.” The Christian, on one hand, walks with God in daily devotion and, on the other hand, he or she walks in service to others. If we retreat into a life of personal devotion without service, we will find ourselves obeying only half of the Great Commandment to “love the Lord... and your neighbor” (Mat 22:37-40). As I read it, half obedience equals disobedience.

God calls every Christian to be in “the world,” among the people—like Jesus (Mat 5:14; John 17:15). Two great quotes on this matter are worth considering:

John Keith Falconer, missionary to the Arabian peninsula, said: “I have but one candle of life to burn, and I would rather burn it out in a land filled with darkness than in a land flooded with light” C.T. Studd, missionary to China said: “Some wish to live within the sound of a chapel bell; I wish to run a rescue mission within a yard of hell”

Likewise, William Wilberforce determined to both praise the Lord and to change the world. His devotion to the Lord, fueling his determination and inspiring his political efforts, lead to the end of slavery in the British Isles.

What about you, my fellow Christian? Do you want to use your voice to praise the Lord or to change the world? I respectfully ask that you do both.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Reader expresses thanks

2011-08-17T09:12:00.001-07:00

From the 8-11-11 publication of the Clarinda Herald Journal

Good Enough for Heaven?

2011-08-11T07:37:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/18/2011

“Do all good people go to heaven?”

In our work-a-day world, we base approval upon merit. If you work hard, promotions are forthcoming. Those who strive the hardest, get the most return.

With God, many think that if—from their perspective—their good deeds outweigh their bad deeds, that God will say “good enough,” and reward them with eternal life. But that’s not how God works.

In reality, when we judge ourselves good, we are—pridefully—measuring ourselves against the behavior and efforts of others. And since it easy to find those worse than us—murderers and such—we conclude we’re not that bad.

From God’s perspective, “There is none good, no not one” (Romans 3:10). Yes, we can find much good in human experience, and yet, apart from Christ’s work in our heart, our best efforts are inevitably self-centered. Our trying to be good enough for heaven is more about us than about God.

Truthfully, no matter how good we may be, our best efforts fall woefully short of God’s holiness and perfection. We can never do enough to deserve God’s favor and achieve salvation. Salvation must be given to us as a gift, if we are ever to enter the paradise of heaven.

Titus 3:5 says: “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy.” Romans 3:5 reads: “And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.” Faith in Christ, not meritorious effort, is “counted” as right standing with God. The believer's “work” is faith (John 6:29); “For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law” (Romans 3:28).

Now, to be clear, it matters to God whether we are good or bad. But goodness does not precede faith; it follows faith—and repentance from the “bad” as well. Whether we’re “good” or not does not determine whether we wind up in Heaven or Hell, but rather upon whom we rely—ourselves or God. We must have no gods above Him (Exodus 20:3), including ourselves. Believe in Christ, keep God first, and the undeserved gift of Heaven awaits.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Heavenly Realm

2011-08-06T04:58:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/11/2011

"Where is heaven?"

Consider a riddle. Heaven's address is both unknown and known. Heaven is not contained by any universe, yet it exists in the smallest of places. Heaven is outside of the created order, and yet it permeates all of creation. Where, then, is it?

First, heaven is simply the dwelling place of God, existing in a different dimension, beyond our comprehension. Heaven is a supernatural realm, the seat of God's throne, where His full glory is unveiled, and His will fully performed. With Him in this realm are the deceased redeemed, the angelic host, and whatever else there is—unknown to us.

Heaven is Paradise, Abraham's Bosom, God's House, the Better County, and the Holy City. It is there we are to lay up treasures, to put our hope, and to look forward to its coming.

Furthermore, heaven is the eternal dwelling and true home of believers, where they are citizens, both now and in the life to come. In heaven, God's people will be clothed with immortality and will live endlessly in complete joy, rest, peace, righteousness, and glory. Heaven is the believer's reward and inheritance for a life of faith and obedience. Heaven is the presence of all that is good, where death, pain, sorrow, night, and wickedness, cannot exist.

A second local of heaven—this place where God lives—is in the hearts of those who believe in Christ. God does not live in a temple built by man (Acts 17:24) but indwells all who come to Him by faith (Eph 3:17), making us His holy temple on earth.

These two realms of God's dwelling show Him to be simultaneously remote and accessible—far and near—exalted and personal. It is a fact we should never cease to marvel at, that the Holy One, who is separate and distinct from all that is not Himself, should choose to live inside of us.

Perhaps we should be less concerned about heaven's location than whether we ourselves have a heavenly vocation. Have you believed in Christ? Are you following Him now so that you may enjoy life in His presence forever in the life to come?

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Doubts about God

2011-07-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/04/2011

How can I resolve my doubts about God?

Faith is not the absence of doubt, but the overcoming of doubt. Apparently, doubt is a very important ingredient of faith, because it forces us to know what we really believe.

Do you remember “Doubting Thomas?” Though skeptical by nature, he was one of the twelve apostles, whom Christ chose. This man of doubts, after witnessing the crucifixion of Jesus, came to the conclusion that it was all over. Even after others had seen the risen Christ, Thomas was adamant: “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it" (John 25:20).

Finally, as if saving the best for last, Christ appears to Thomas. That stunning encounter was enough to chase the dark clouds of doubt away. In a profound reversal, Thomas declares: “My Lord and my God” (John 25:28)! Thomas’ faith revealed--not the absence of doubt—but the overcoming of doubt.

Doubt poses no spiritual problem, provided we don’t give up on the journey. Along the way we must look for resources to guide us through the struggle: good friends we can confide in and from whom we can receive encouragement; prayer; bible reading; and good Christian books. And don’t forget the church! When doubt is greatest, we most need to be with other Christians. As the Scripture says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

According to tradition, after Thomas' encounter of with the risen Christ, he overcame his doubts, and became a bold herald of the Gospel, traveling as far as India, where he died. Apparently, he learned from his doubts, as all others may, provided they too encounter Christ in the question.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Hell's Only Visitor?

2011-07-21T12:32:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/28/2011

Did Jesus Descend Into Hell?

The Apostle's Creed, though not directly authored by the Apostles, has historically been the most common confession affirmed by orthodox Christians. One line from the Creed says of Christ: “He descended into hell.” Though I remember reciting this weekly as a young child in the Methodist Church, only as an adult have I come to recognize the beauty of the Creed as a cohesive statement of faith. Nonetheless, both then and now I’ve had trouble wrapping my mind around the idea that Jesus went to Hell for my salvation.

A few preachers even go so far to say that Jesus suffered the torments of Hell so that believers would not. However, no Scripture clearly supports this idea. Rather, the Bible goes to great lengths to say that by shedding His blood on the cross Jesus bore God's wrath (Romans 5:9).

This creedal reference to Christ in Hell is extrapolated from two biblical texts. Let us consider each.

Ephesians 4:9 says: “He [Jesus] who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens.” A reading of this verse in context shows that Paul is speaking about the ascended Christ giving gifts that build up His church. Indeed, the place of his “descent” is not Hell at all, but earth. Jesus descended to earth to minister among us, and later ascended to sit at the right hand of God the Father. The text makes no reference to Hell at all.

1 Peter 3:18-20 mentions Christ's sufferings, but places the time of this agony at His “death,” not afterwards. The passage goes on to say that Christ “went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison,” in “the days of Noah.” John Piper explains: “I think it means that when these people were alive in the days of Noah, in the Spirit Christ spoke to them through the preaching of Noah; and now they are in prison.” Once again, Hell is not mentioned at all.

Therefore, we have no clear biblical basis to insist that Jesus “descended into Hell.” He descended to earth, walked among us, died for our sins, and then entered the Paradise of heaven. One clear indicator that this is so, is evident in Jesus' promise to the believing thief on the cross: "Today you will be with me in Paradise." No, Jesus did not go to hell upon his death; he went to Paradise—to the heavenly realm.

Yes, Jesus did suffer God's wrath for our sins—on the cross! Therefore, we who believe in Him need not suffer Hell for our sins, “IF” we come by faith.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Work & Grace

2011-07-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/21/2011

“Does grace rob motivation?”

The grace of God is the undeserved favor of God (2Tim 1:9). We can never do enough to earn God's favor. God's mercy and forgiveness are so vast that we could never repay them. God's grace comes to us through faith in Christ—upon Christ's merits, not our own (Eph 2:8).

Now, people respond to God's grace in (at least) three ways. Some respond with an exacting legalism and cold obedience. Others take grace for granted and continue in apathy and compromise. But some choose the third (and best way). They follow God with a heart of love and faith that produces a “life worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Phil 1:27).

The second response prompts today's question: Does grace rob motivation? Well, it's not supposed to—quite the opposite (Rom 6:2). Nonetheless, far too many “believers” live shallow Christian lives and presume on God's grace. Perhaps they went forward for “altar call” or prayed with Billy Graham on the TV set, as if they might get their ticket to heaven punched and never need to do anything more. Others look on their water baptism, confirmation, Spirit-baptism, or church attendance with a smug, “I'm in” attitude. Yet they exhibit no spiritual growth (Rom 12:2).

Imagine how a new bride feels when her husband continues to live as a single man—residing elsewhere, dating others, looking out only for his own interests, etc. Well, that's exactly how some people treat the grace of God. They go through the motions of the Christian life, they say the right things, but their hearts are far from the One whom they have pledged to love (Isa 29:13).

However, the heart of gratitude responds to God’s amazing gift with love and obedience. We will never deserve His mercy—no matter what we do—but let us spend the rest of our lives saying “Thank You” by loving, obeying, and following Him with all of our hearts.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Re: Matthew 15:21-28

2011-07-12T06:26:00.001-07:00

And [Jesus] answered, "It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." (27) She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." (28) Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire." And her daughter was healed instantly.

Yes, this one is interesting... that he calls her a "dog," but in the original language, he uses the more affectionate term; "puppy." One of my teachers described this passage as saying Jesus said this with a twinkle in his eye and a slight smile on his lips. The obvious intent is not offense, but to draw her out to see if she would still pursue him.

That Jesus said: "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel," to a Canaanite women (when there are numerous events where Jesus reached out to the forgreigners (the Roman Centurion, the demoniac of Gadarene, parable of the Good Samaritan, etc.) we note two things. First, Jesus' initial ministry on earth was the preparation of the 12 and the Jewish nation, for their ministry to the nations, so yes, his work--at this time--is primarily to Israel. Secondly, Jesus ministered to pagan gentiles and did short forays into pagan lands to stretch the apostles to confront their prejudices--which is proven successful in the book of Acts.

The Barnes Commentary says: The “lost sheep of the house of Israel” were the Jews. He came first to them. He came as their expected Messiah. He came to preach the gospel himself to the Jews only. Afterward it was preached to the Gentiles, but the ministry of Jesus was confined almost entirely to the Jews."

Vincent's Word Studies says about "dogs": "Diminutive: little dogs... the little whelps. The picture is of a family meal, with the pet house-dogs running round the table."

So, he loved her, drew out her faith, and did so to demonstrate cross-cultural ministry to his apostles.

Well, I wrote longer than I intended, but this is a good prelude perhaps for an article I'll write on the subject. Love you Dad!

On 7/11/2011 6:48 PM, kentucky32 wrote:

I have been stumped by the meaning of this passage for years; ever my old Clarks Commentary won’t help me.. Love you, dad.

Party Hearty?

2011-07-07T07:48:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/14/2011

“Why shouldn’t Christians be considered world-class partiers?”

Every year, during the first week of February, many churches—ours included—plan outreach or fellowship events surrounding the Superbowl. The Superbowl is an American cultural touchstone, amalgamating a mixture of super-teams, costly commercials, food, friends, and half-time gala.

One Seattle area church, desiring to “reach the lost,” in a relevant manner and to show the world that Christians have fun, had a Superbowl tailgate party with pulled pork, beer, big-screen TVs, and trucks. Pastor Ryan Meeks of the 4,000 member Eastlake Community Church launched the event with a sermon asking the question, “Why Christians shouldn’t be considered world-class partiers?”

In a Seattle Times interview, Meeks said: “The church is the last place in the world where you’d expect to find people happy or excited or partying. But why do we have to be so separate from what’s happening in our culture? You should celebrate when cool things happen in your community.”

No doubt, Scripture prohibits being under the influence of alcohol (Eph 5:18), and notes the awful behavior and bad judgment that drinking produces (Pro 20:1; 31:4-5). Christians are to keep their heads in all circumstances. But does this mean that Christians can’t have fun?

While many view believers as one-dimensional killjoys—who limit their activities to Bible-reading and church going, and call everything else sin—the majority of believers I know are living normal lives, experiencing the same excitement and boredom as everyone else—without the intoxicants.

Meeks raises a valid point. He is right to say that believers should be happy about the life they live in Christ. He is right to say that we should not withdraw from our culture. He is right to say that we should be the best in the world at celebrating the joys of life. Nevertheless, he is seriously mistaken on the means.

Christians must “separate” themselves from all that is sinful (2Cor 6:14-17). Otherwise, we may freely enjoy all that Scripture and conscience allow. So, “party hearty,” but not at the expense of your virtue.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 9

2011-06-16T11:42:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/30/2011

"What is the Ninth Commandment?"

God's Ninth Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exo 20:16). The commandment is a general prohibition against lying. More specifically, prohibits saying or doing anything that slanders the character of another, whether publicly or in a court of law. Let us consider the following implications.

First, God commands all people to love the truth. We must not lie, misrepresent ourselves, or vilify others. Christians, especially, should abstain from lying, which is inconsistent with their new nature in Christ (2Th 2:10, Rev 14:5, Col 3:9). The devil is "the father [the originator] of lies," and his work continues in the mouth of the unbelievers who are under his power (John 8:44). Lying is certainly a serious sin against God, for in the Judgment, those who "love and practice" lying, will suffer the same sentence as "sorcerers... the sexually immoral... murderers, and idolaters" (Rev 22:15).

Secondly, Exodus 23:1-7 amplifies the Ninth Command with this clarification: "You shall not spread a false report... nor shall you bear [a false] witness in a lawsuit." We must not willfully give a false report or testimony with the intent to harm and abuse the character of another. To bear false witness in court proceedings is to hold the court "in contempt," and serious penalties follow (Deut 19:18-19). If you "take the stand," tell the truth and you shall have God as your defense.

Finally, other Scriptures shed further light on the subject. "The Lord hates... a false witness who breathes out lies" (Pro 6:16-19), and such "will not go unpunished" (Pro 19:5). "Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit" (Pro 12:17). "For out of the heart come[s]... false witness [which] defile[s] a person" (Mat 15:19-20). Lying and bearing false witness dishonors God and injures our neighbor. It contradicts the "law of love," for it harms rather than helps. Let us consider a better way.

The Apostle Peter offers this antidote against deceitfulness and a prescription for a happier life: "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For 'Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it'" (1Pe 3:8-11).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 8

2011-06-09T09:03:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/16/2011

"What is the Eighth Commandment?"

God's Eighth Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "You shall not steal" (Ex. 20:15). The Hebrew word for "steal" means to thieve by stealth. Stealing takes away the property of another by force or fraud, against the will of the owner. Inherent in the prohibition against stealing is the positive promotion of the God-decreed right of property and personal ownership, which contradicts any ideology forbidding the ownership of property—such as communism.

The Jewish Study Bible notes that "stealing" includes the "stealing" of a person (kidnapping) or the "stealing" of sex (rape). The advance of technology brings new forms of stealing, such as "identity theft," the "pirating" of software, music, movies, and the like—all these by stealth and against the will of the owner. Stealing is a violation of the Great Commandment: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Mat 22:39), because "Love does no harm to its neighbor" (Rom 13:10).

Albert Gills Commentary says, concerning the command, that "thefts are of various kinds; there is private theft, picking of pockets, shoplifting, burglary... breaking into houses... public theft, or robbing upon the highways; domestic theft...children rob their parents, and servants [take] their masters' effects."

Jesus said the Pharisees were stealing by teaching deceitfully and carrying away as plunder those who listen to them (John 10:10). Absalom stole the hearts of the people away from their rightful allegiance to his father, King David (2Sa 15:6). Satan is a thief who "takes away the word" that is sown in some who hear the Gospel of Christ (Mar 4:15).

Stealing is taking what does not rightfully belong to us. Therefore, we ourselves steal from God when we continue in sin and immorality. "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own" (1Co 6:19).

Ephesians 4:48 has these words of admonition against stealing: "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need" (Eph 4:28). You see, stealing is rooted in selfishness—but the follower of Christ is to turn from such through responsible work, and generous giving to satisfy—not their own greed—but the needs of others.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 7

2011-06-02T11:03:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/09/2011

"What is the Seventh Commandment?"

God's Seventh Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "You shall not commit adultery" (Exo 20:14). Adultery is marital infidelity—cheating on your spouse. Some commentators include in the command a prohibition on all sex outside of heterosexual marriage, whether prostitution, fornication, homosexuality, incest, sodomy, or bestiality.

The bottom line is that God commands that marriage "be held in honor" and reserves sexual intimacy to the sanctity of the marital embrace (Heb 13:4). The command forbidding all sexual immorality is a loving commandment, promoting the greatest good of all people. Obey the Lord, and you, your family, and society-at-large will experience the positive blessings that come from matrimonial faithfulness. You see, adultery (all sin, for that matter) is a sin against our intelligence, because "He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself," along with the rest of his family (Pro 6:32).

Jesus says: "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery'; but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matt 5:27-28). The Law of Moses forbids the external action of adultery, but Jesus completes the command, by addressing the heart and mind—the internal person. Spiritual adultery occurs with every lustful thought, because: "The Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1Sa 16:7).

Adultery violates love. The commands of God relating to our fellow humans are "summed up in this saying; 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself,' [because] love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law" (Rom 13:9-10). Adultery "harms" those who pursue it. It separates families, wounds children, breeds hatred, destroys trust, and incurs God's judgment (Jas 2:11-13, Heb 13:4).

Therefore, let me encourage you to love and cherish your spouse (Pro 5:18-23). Be faithful to your God in this matter. Hold to your marital vows: "To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish 'till death do us part. And hereto I pledge to you my faithfulness."

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 6

2011-05-26T07:50:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/02/2011

"What is the Sixth Commandment?"

God's Sixth Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "You shall not murder" (Ex 20:13). This Hebrew word for "murder" primarily refers to malicious and premeditated killing, different from killing by accident (Josh 20:9), self-defense (Ex 22:2), judicial decree (Ex 21:12), or war (Ex 17).

Most people agree that the foundation of a just society must include a strong prohibition against murder. Natural Law itself reasons murder to be unnatural and contrary to our innate sense of human value and the good of society. Therefore, we may see nothing exceptional in a command to "not murder." Nevertheless, some ancient tribal cultures still value murder and revenge, and as a result, are on the point of extinction. Such was the case of the Waodani people until the gospel of Christ ended the murdering—changing an entire culture.

The farther a people drift from following and valuing God's Laws, the less restraint people have against murder. Anymore, it is a regular occurrence for distraught people to kill their family, their coworkers, or to kill indiscriminately—before taking their own life. Have they no fear of God? Do they not know that upon their death they shall stand before the Judge of Heaven and give an account for their actions? Apparently not!

Those that exchange this Judeo-Christian worldview for a naturalistic orientation, who treat human life as something less than sacred, often lend consent to its termination—to murder—whether in the abortuary or by euthanasia. God's negative command against murder is also His positive promotion of life.

Love God and you will value human life—all human life. That includes your own life. Suicide, is yet another form of murder, for it is a premeditated choice to enact violence against ones priceless life, "made in the image of God" (Gen 9:6).

Now, Jesus takes the Sixth Command one step further: "You have heard that it was said; 'You shall not murder,' but I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment" (Matt 5:21-22). Therefore, Christ completes the command. Not only does the command inhibit the social consequences of murder, but the "judgment" consequences of hatred. Christ does not want to merely regulate our external behavior; He wants to change our hearts. Love can neither murder nor hate another.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 5

2011-05-19T14:20:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/26/2011

"What is the Fifth Commandment?"

God's Fifth Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you" (Exo 20:12). The Hebrew word for "honor" means to give weight to something, in this case it means to regard parental authority with appropriate respect. Ephesians 6:1 amplifies this command to include obedience.

Jesus summarizes the Ten Commandments in the Great Commandment, calling us to love God and all others (Mat 22:37-40). The first four commandments teach us how to love God, while the final six commandments teach us how to love people. Learning to love and honor father and mother is perhaps foundational to us learning to love all others.

Parents serve as a sort of stand-in for all others. When children honor parental authority, they are more likely to honor other forms of authority—with God being the highest authority of all. As we honor our parents, we learn to have orderly and loving marriages and homes ourselves. Learning respect at home helps us to be respectful employees, citizens, and neighbors. Therefore, teaching our children to respect parental authority is the most important thing we can do to contribute to the maturity and morality of our children.

The apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 6:1-3: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ' Honor your father and mother' (this is the first commandment with a promise), 'that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.'"

First, this verse reveals that "obedience" and "honor" are synonymous terms. If the child speaks politely, yet passively rebels, then he violates this command. Secondly, to obey parents "in the Lord" assumes that parents will not lead their children into sin. Thirdly, to respectfully obey parents is "right" before God and therefore, shall ensure His blessing. Finally, the command comes "with a promise,"--"that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." Blessing comes to those who respect and obey their parents.

Now, we are to obey our parents only until we marry or go to live on our own. However, respect is to continue for as long as our parents live. Once we have left home, we should still consider our parents' advice. If we disagree, we should do so lovingly and respectfully. In addition, when we learn to respect our parents, a respectful attitude becomes a part of our character, bringing blessing to our own home, workplace, country, neighborhood, friendships, and (most importantly) our relationship with God!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Judgment Day?

2011-05-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/19/2011

Is May 21st the end of the world?

Concerning the time of the End Jesus said: "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone” (Mat 24:36). Furthermore, Jesus emphasizes in Acts 1:7: “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.” However some people are unwilling to simply believe this and feel there to be an asterisk (*) footnoting an exception.

No doubt, with our unwillingness to live with mystery, many will continue to make predictions. In fact, these failed predictions number into the hundreds, with virtually every generation since the time of Christ, reading dismal forebodings in the tea leaves of the circumstantial. And don't forget, if May 21st doesn't “get us,” then the Mayan calendar proposes world's end in 2012. If both dates fail, not to worry, other dates shall be forthcoming. Stay tuned!

The May 21 prediction is being fostered by Harold Camping, President and General Manager of Family Radio, who claims to discern the date by mathematical computation. Since October 2010, Mr. Camping has been daily proclaiming Judgment Day across his worldwide network of radio stations, broadcast in 61 languages. (The reader should note that Mr. Camping also predicted Judgment Day to occur in 1994.)

Here's how he arrives at this newest date. Noah's flood destroyed the earth in seven days (Gen 7:4). And since “with the Lord one day is as a thousand years” (2Pe 3:8), then Noah's “seven days” points to “seven thousand years” until the world's ultimate destruction. Camping pinpoints May 21, 2011, because it is—in his estimation—seven thousand years to the day since God destroyed the world by flood (Gen 7:11).

However, Scripture simply and clearly teaches that the date of Judgment Day cannot be foretold (Mat 24:36). Rather, God expects us to live in a state of readiness—knowing that Jesus could come at any time. This means the sinner needs to “get right with God” now, and believers must continue strong in faith, hope, and love (1Th 5:1-9).

Therefore, Jesus could return at any moment—including May 21. But it is more likely that the current prediction will enter the record books along with other failed prophecies. No doubt, on May 22nd, the usual claim of miscalculation will be made and a new date proposed, leaving intact a faithful following to await the next prediction.

One thing is certain. Jesus will return to judge the world in righteousness—be ready!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 4

2011-05-06T06:37:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/12/2011

"What is the Fourth Commandment?"

God's Fourth Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work... For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy" (Ex 20:8-11).

What a radical command, in a world that worked seven days a week! Apart from this command, slaves, workers, and animals suffered greatly from lack of rest. Today, however, having "a day off" is the expected norm—all because of this commandment. God made us and knows us. He knows our need for a day of rest. Jesus said the same: "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mar 2:27). The Sabbath is "for man," that is, for our good.

To "keep" the Sabbath "holy" means to combine this restful day with the regular habit of worship—seeking God in prayer, the study of His Word, and in corporate worship. In addition to our daily walk with God, we have "need" to gather with other Christians, to seek the Lord together. For where the people of God gather in Jesus' name, He is among us in a special way that He is not when we're by ourselves (Mat 18:20).

Now, just for the record, the Jewish Sabbath begins on Friday at sundown and ends at sundown on Saturday. The early Messianic Christians continued to go to Synagogue on the Sabbath, to "witness" among the Jews. On Sunday, however, they gathered at the temple for Christian worship—commemorating each Sunday the resurrection of Jesus.

That being said, the Bible student should note that no verse establishes Sunday as the new Sabbath for Christians. Rather, the fourth commandment points to its future fulfillment in Christ. Consider the book of Hebrews: "There remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest" (Heb 4:9-13). Then it goes on to speak of Christ "The Word" and "High Priest."

The Sabbath requirement is fulfilled like this: God rested from His works in creation. We rest from our works by faith. Said another way, no meritorious effort can put us right or at rest with God (Rom 4:2-5). The only way one gains salvation is by faith in Christ alone (Rom 3:20-22). Therefore, Christ is our Sabbath rest. If you would enter the rest of God, you must come by way of His Son (Jn 14:6).

In the covenant of Christ, Christians are no longer commanded to observe a literal Sabbath, since Christ is their Sabbath, and the daily preoccupation of their lives (Rom 14:5-6). However, Christians are obligated to attend regular worship and enjoy fellowship with other believers (Heb 10:25). The Sunday tradition is a good place to start. Besides, the Sabbath is for our good. We neglect it at our peril.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 3

2011-04-28T09:31:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/05/2011

"What is the Third Commandment?"

God's Third Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain" (Ex 20:7).

The original Hebrew word for "vain" carries two different ideas. First, it means 'to make empty or worthless.' Second, it means 'to ruin or destroy.' In addition, Hebrew thought does not separate God's name from God's character. For us, a name is just the handle we attach to an object or person. However, for the Hebrew, the name IS the person, their character, and attributes. To abuse God's name, then, is to abuse God.

Therefore, whether in word or thought, we must be careful to attach deep meaning to God and shun any idea that demeans His character. You may have questions about God, but this is vastly different from entertaining thoughts or employing words that vilify God. Here are four things to consider as we seek to obey the Third Commandment.

First, we are to respect God's name. God created us and gave us life. That alone is enough to deserve our respect, but He also offers to save us through our faith in Christ. He is infinitely good and worthy of honor, love, and obedience. If any finite person is worthy of respect, how much more his or her Maker?

Second, we must not use God's name in vulgar speech, which degrades the meaning of "God" to both speaker and hearers, thereby dishonoring God and even promoting unbelief.

Third, we must not empty meaning from God's name, nor must we treat Him so casually that we reduce Him to something low and base.

Finally, God will charge with guilt those who abuse His name. Jesus said, "I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned" (Matt 12:37).

Now that Christ has come, the Third Command takes on a broader and deeper meaning, for "Jesus" is "the name that is above every name," and the only name "given to men by which we must be saved" (Php 2:9, Acts 4:12).

It's not that God can't handle the offense. Taking God's name in vain does not hurt God, per se, but it degrades and defiles those He desires to save. Therefore, speech that devalues God or ruins His reputation, hinders those who speak and those who hear from turning to God for salvation. That is a serious matter indeed (Matt 18:6). Better to respect God's name and hold it to the highest place, "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Rom 10:13).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 2

2011-04-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/21/2011

"What is the second Commandment?"

God's Second Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth. You shall not worship them or serve them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, on the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing lovingkindness to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments" (Ex 20:4-6).

Like the First Commandment, this Commandment prohibits any other god to assume a place in our devotion to the Most High God. We must abstain, not only from idolatry itself, but also from directing our worship towards any other object, be it statues, images, icons, and works of art, as objects of worship.

This means we also must not make any object of the True God as THE end of our worship. To do so is to unwittingly seek to confine God within the limits of the object. Psalm 115 lays down the principle that finite idols are deaf and mute objects that impoverish and corrupt the worshiper.

However, the artist is free to fashion objects that portray heavenly realities. Consider the tabernacle of Moses, whose architect—God—instructed the artisans to create beautiful and ornate imagery to portray transcendent spiritual realities. The intention of God is for the image to direct the worshiper away from the image to God Himself.

Note the rest of the Command: God is "jealous" for us and will allow no other deities to compete for our affection. Disobedience has a profound effect on our descendants. Idolatrous sin "visits," that is, it influences the children, to "the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me." Yes, God considers idolatry as "hatred" of Him.

Nevertheless, consider how much greater the blessing is than the curse, for God shows his love and faithfulness to thousands of generations of those "who love Me and keep My commandments."

So, when we avoid the snare of idolatry, our vision of God can soar beyond the outer reaches of the universe to perceive the God who "fills the heavens" (Jer 23:24). God is so infinitely beyond all His creation. To see God BIG fosters faith, engenders love, and assures the believer with the knowledge we are held His almighty hands.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Ten Commandments—Part 1

2011-04-07T08:10:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/14/2011

"What is the first Commandment?"

God's First Commandment in the Law of Moses reads: "You shall have no other gods before me" (Ex 20:3). The Hebrew word translated "before," means "above, over, and higher." No other so-called "god" should exert influence over the believer's life. God is to have first place in our lives.

At its simplest level, the command is a prohibition of idolatry. God alone is worthy of worship, love, and obedience. No room exists in the heart of the believer to allow for any competing deities.

Today, in our country, very few Americans bow before a carved graven image. However, this ban on idolatry is also an all-encompassing ban on all other religions. One cannot truly be Christian, and also Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, New Age, and the like. To try to amalgamate such religious syncretism is equivalent to attempting to mix the proverbial oil with water—such is impossible if you desire the approval of God.

Luther's Shorter Catechism says this Commandment means: "We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things." The First Commandment is a comprehensive commandment. If you love and worship God "above all things," then you won't be stealing, killing, coveting, and so on. Keep the First Commandment, and all the other commandments are a walk in the park.

The First Commandment reminds us to keep God first in our lives. We do love other things, but they find their proper place—by comparison—as a distant second. Jesus said if we love others more than God, we cannot be His disciple (Luke 14:26). Neither can we "serve two masters," else our allegiance is divided and God set to one side by default (Luke 16:13).

Nevertheless, if we will hold God to the highest place, purge ourselves from the overt and subtle influences of other religions, and place our faith in Christ alone, then we may rest assured of the smile of God and the promise of eternal life. (John 17:3).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Why Marriages Fail

2011-03-31T09:51:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/07/2011

“Why do marriages fail?”

No doubt, the “experts” can cite many reasons for the demise of marriages. However, I submit to you a perspective—a theory—that might explain, in part, why marriages fail. I have a growing suspicion that one significant cause, safely undetected beneath a stealth shield of modern cultural norms, is often overlooked.

On the surface, we may recognize conflict, financial disagreement, disrespect, abuse, infidelity, and such, but might there be an underlying cause to all of this? What has happened to change our nation? Once, couples weathered the hard times and stayed faithful, “'til death do us part.” What now fosters such a climate of unbridled divorce?

May I suggest to you that one underlying force fueling divorce is (drum role please) gender role confusion. Consider the following quote from the book, Preparing for Marriage: “Few people are happy with the way responsibilities in many marriages are handled today. As women become more assertive in the marriage relationship, many men have become increasingly passive in their homes. Women then become less respectful of their husbands, and husbands in turn show less love to their wives. Meanwhile, as our society grows more sexually ambiguous, boys and girls grow up with little concept of what it means to be a man or woman.”

You see, once men and women understood their differing roles in society. The Bible was taught in the public schools and had influence in the public sphere. The Christian worldview had a societal presence. Even those skeptical of the Bible saw value in following “The Golden Rule.” More generally, people knew right from wrong. That was then.

With over a hundred years of vicious attack upon the Bible's claims, and a staunch denial of absolutes, we are now adrift upon a sea of ever-changing values. We should not be surprised that gender role confusion characterizes our culture.

Therefore, when husbands do not embrace their divine design as loving, selfless, servant-leaders in their homes, they tend towards passivity. They head for the easy chair while their wives pull out their hair, trying to make the children obey. Many men today are off in their own little worlds, while their wives carry burdens and responsibilities for which they were not designed.

Likewise, when wives do not embrace and value their role as respectful helpmates, submissive to their husbands’ leadership, then they tend toward dominance. They may not want this role, but the vacuum created by their husbands’ resignation, gives them the lead by default.

Such a scenario, which reverses divinely ordained roles, is similar, in effect, to subatomic atom smashing, causing marriages to “go nuclear.” Nevertheless, if we will humbly, and lovingly, apply the wisdom of God to our homes and our marriages, we can have something just short of Paradise on earth.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

2011-03-24T07:45:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/31/2011

"Where was God in the Japanese earthquake and tsunami disaster?"

The recent Japanese earthquake and the subsequent tsunami, which killed many, destroyed infrastructure, and threatened nuclear disaster, begs the question: “Where was God in all this?” Even God acknowledges that human suffering perplexes His people, and causes them to question His goodness (Gen 18:23). Now, there is much we do not know about God's ways (1Co 13:12). God gives us enough information to lead us to salvation (2Pe 1:3), but often the explanation of human suffering eludes us.

The Bible teaches that God is loving, just, wise, and powerful. God loves all people, including the Japanese (John 3:16). Since every nation is equally deserving of judgment (Rom 3:23), I see no reason to insist that God has singled out the nation of Japan for destruction.

I believe that cataclysmic events occur because of the sin that began in Eden's garden and has since been perpetuated by all of us (Rom 5:12). Adam and Eve disobeyed God and, in His love, God subjected the world to a curse. What followed was hardship, pain, suffering, disease, weakness, death, natural disasters, and the like (Genesis 3:14-19). All suffering throughout history originates in sinful human choices. However, “the curse” is not punitive, but redemptive—the means by which a soul may be awakened to its need for God (8:20-21).

In my opinion, a “cursed” earth is simply an earth left to its own nature. In nature, things decay, volcanoes erupt, tornadoes destroy, tectonic plates shift, and disasters ensue. This is natural. On occasion, God interrupts nature in response to prayer or to fulfill some divine purpose. This is supernatural—the exception, not the norm.

So, where is God in the Japanese earthquake and tsunami disaster? God is near to every heart that calls out to Him and keenly aware of every human need (Rom 10:13, Mat 10:29). God is reaching out to the Japanese through the kindness and compassion of Christians and the preaching of the Gospel. God is planting the seeds of hope that the nation will turn to Christ for salvation. God is loving the Japanese through you and me, as we offer our prayers, our hands-on help, and our generous gifts.

In a world where nothing is unshakable, let us turn to the immovable rock of Christ (1Co 10:4) and hold fast to that “kingdom that cannot be shaken” (Heb 12:28-29).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Changing Churches

2011-03-17T12:54:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03.24/2011

"Under what conditions should a Christian change churches?"

Many churches, I dare say, probably have a revolving door, with people making their way in-and-out for a various reasons. Sometimes people move away for work, college, or ministry. However, when this is not the case, I see four primary reasons why a person should change churches.

First, Christians are obligated to change churches if its teaching becomes heretical. This requires a willingness on their part to be well informed enough to know what doctrines are indispensable to Christian faith (Jude 1:3-4).

Secondly, practical reasons may necessitate a change. Soaring gas prices may hamper a long distance church commute.

Thirdly, you may need to change if the ministry to your children is woefully inadequate, or of there is a drastic change in the vision and direction of the church in which you cannot conscientiously continue.

Finally, you should change churches when God leads you out to help another church. Sometimes, out of concern for a neighboring church, a gifted leader will switch to that church to help carry the bulk of the preaching. If this is the case, communicate your desires to godly leaders, seek their counsel, and ask their support. Most churches I know would rather send their leaders as a blessing, than to hold them back from a God-sized opportunity (Acts 13:3).

Members should not change churches just because there is a change of ministers. This is a consumerist attitude that says: “I’ll check out the new guy, but if he doesn’t’ measure up to what I’m looking for, then I’m outta here!” Such an attitude fails to recognize that the church is greater than any one person is, and that relationships within a congregation are of great value.

Christians should not change churches because they are hurt or offended by the actions of others. Rather, we must forgive the offense for the sake of love (Col 3:13). Yes, some circumstances may require a firm but loving confrontation, but we must ‘work at’ our problems rather than run from them. Besides, you can be hurt in any number of good churches—provided they have people!

If you must leave a church, ‘how’ you leave will reveal much about your Christian character. If you’re tempted to leave because of church conflict, you are responsible before the Lord to first diligently seek a resolution. If the situation remains unresolved, then ask for your church’s blessing, and—if possible—leave on friendly terms. Those Christians are most honorable who keep their guns holstered, and speak well of former congregants, no matter what their failings (Pro 25:2). We might as well learn to get along “down here.” We ARE going to be spending a lot of time together in the future!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

To Hell in a Handbasket

2011-03-10T09:19:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/17/2011

“Is the world getting worst?”

The Bible teaches both of the growth of the Kingdom of God (Luke 13:18-19) and the decline of civilization (2Tim 3:1-4). Even a casual glance at history supports the fact that the influence of Christ transforms whole nations, promotes love, and contributes to the good of societies. Yet, growing right alongside those who are being transformed by Christ are those who delve deeper into the dark depths of the human heart—promoting immorality, spawning violence, and fostering fear, all amidst a growing threat of nuclear jihad.

It is easier to be negative than positive. Just check the nightly news. Sensational journalism thrives on the red meat of decadence but ignores commonplace day-in-and-day-out goodness. With such a diet, there is little wonder that hope is wanting and many fear the future.

No doubt, we see moral decline in our nation. Nonetheless, the world is not as bad as the pre-flood world when “every intention of the thoughts of [humankind's] heart was only evil continually.” (Gen 6:5). Certainly, the world is safer today than in its ancient barbaric times. Though some nations are in moral decline, others are rising. We need a historical and global view to better asses our current condition.

Let me suggest to you that we have a psychological tic that causes us to idealize the past and denigrate the present. Thinkers from every century have tended to celebrate a glorious past and dread a fearful future, lamenting the intellectual, moral, and religious decline in their day. Whether it’s Socrates, Plutarch, G. K. Chesterton, Allan Bloom, or Paul the Apostle, their concerns are the same.

What if the world—fallen as it is—is not changing? What if it’s we who are changing? In our sheltered youth, the world had endless possibilities. We were told, “Who knows, you could be President someday!” However, as maturity gives us a clearer view of the world's ills, youthful idealism wanes.

Likewise, God has always been at work in the world, calling humanity to a life “true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable” (Phil 4:8). Therefore, in every culture, some are always in moral decline, while others are growing in grace. Good is progressing right alongside the deterioration—and at the same rate.

Therefore, in spite of clear evidence of goodness, people tend to focus attention on evidence for the increase of evil. We wind up with a distorted view of reality, in which every generation sees theirs as the worst in imagines the end at hand. So yes, the world is getting worse, and also getting better—at the same time.

For clarity's sake, I do interpret the Bible's “End Times” verses as referring to the End as a season in which evil grows exponentially. However, because of the tendencies previously cited, I see no reason to conclude that we are necessarily in that time. So let’s shake off our natural pessimism, put a spring in our step, enjoy the journey of faith, and do what we can to make this a better world.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Crisis in the Middle East

2011-03-03T07:19:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/10/2011

“How should we pray for the Middle East?”

In the increasingly globalized world, the current political unrest in the Middle East has great potential to foster madness and mayhem everywhere. However, we must never lose sight of the fact that God has the final word on human history, and He calls believers to partner with him in prayer.

Today, as I write, protest and unrest are unsettling Libya, Egypt, Yemen, Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain—with other states likely to be similarly disrupted. Add to the mix the terrorism-supporting states of Iran, Syria, Lebanon, and the Palestinian State, and you have an entire region threatening to boil over and spill its contents. Their despotic leaders, and an upsurge in radical Islam, increase the likelihood of attacks on Israel and the persecution of Christians within their own borders.

Yes, now would be a good time to pray for the Middle East!

However, we must be careful that our view of the end times does not hinder prayers for a peaceful outcome. Since we do not know the time of the End with absolute certainty, let us follow Paul's exhortation in 1 Timothy 2:1-4: “First of all, then, I urge that [prayer] be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

This verse teaches us that we are to pray “for all people,” which encompasses every nation. Secondly, we pray for “kings,” that is, all governmental leaders, with the desired result of “peaceful” societies, where people are free and believers can follow and witness for Christ without reprisal. Finally, this kind of praying “is pleasing” to the Lord, for he “desires all people to be saved.”

Therefore, let us pray like this: Pray for governmental leaders to lead well and to promote the common good. Pray for the safety of believers in these nations, that they may live out their faith, without fear of retribution. Pray for open doors for the preaching of the gospel, that it might have free rein in each land. Pray for the salvation of all, that they may come to know the Prince of Peace, Jesus! Finally, “pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” that Israel be preserved, in spite of the animosity of her neighbors (Psa 122:6-9).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Are Christians Emotional Cripples?

2011-02-24T07:38:00.000-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/03/2011

“Is Christianity for emotional cripples?”

Some say faith is a crutch for those too weak to stand on their own. While it is true that we lean upon Christ for salvation, the comment implies that something is abnormally wrong with the average believer. This perception rests, in part, on the fact that the church is a haven for all—including those with emotional needs. In addition, the devil is intent on demeaning believers (Rev 12:10). However, the biggest reason that some people think of Christians as emotional cripples is the unhealthy amalgamation of theology and psychology within many contemporary churches.

No doubt, well-meaning preachers are not immune to the pervasive psychology, or the effects of a culture increasingly filled with troubled people. In our desire to help the whole person, it is possible for what is secondary to become primary.

Far too often, some represent their faith as a spiritual enhancement to emotional health. Our witness sounds like an infomercial: “Are you having trouble in your marriage? Do alcohol and drugs bind you? Are you depressed? Try Jesus! Operators are standing by!”

And what of the preachers who sound more like motivational speakers than ministers of the gospel? They are very good at making their congregants feel good about being bad. They touch on every ill of the human heart but hedge the sin issue, for fear of harming someone’s self-esteem!

For some, “the truth that sets us free” is not the truth of Christ's salvation, but the freedom from lies that damage the mind and emotions (John 8:32). The danger of making the gospel merely therapeutic is that it pushes God to one side and makes our emotional neediness central.

No doubt, God concerns himself with the restoration of the whole person (Rom 12:2), but first things first. “Jesus came to save sinners” (1Tim 1:15). Beyond essential salvation—which provides forgiveness and fellowship with God—everything else pales by comparison. C.S. Lewis wrote: “We are not merely imperfect creatures who must be improved; we are rebels who must lay down our arms.”

Humankind's greatest problem is the sin which separates us from God (Isa 59:2). Because of sin, the Bible says we are under God's wrath (Rom 1:18). Sin harms us, injures our relationships, and frustrates the good that God intends for us (Jer 5:25). Therefore, the Gospel—the good news that Jesus forgives those who believe and obey him—is the greatest need of the human heart (John 3:16). To skirt the main issue is like putting a band-aid on cancer. No, we must first cut away the life-threatening malignancy—later, we can deal with the bothersome hangnails.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

A Great Church

2011-02-17T12:01:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 2/24/2011

“What makes a great church?”

A great savior makes a great church. After all, Jesus himself promised: “I will build my church” (Matt 16:18). Therefore, whatever good things we identify within his church, the ultimate credit belongs to the Builder! Thank God that “in his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1Pet 1:3).

Now, we must always measure a church by the unchanging truth of God's Word, because it is God—not men—who sets the standard for excellence. Therefore, the first characteristic of a great church is that it is comprised of people who believe and follow the truth of the Bible (2Tim 3:16).

Secondly, a great church prioritizes the Great Commandment, which calls us to love God with all we are and to love others as ourselves (Matt 22:37-40). In addition, a great church follows Christ's new command: “Love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (John 13:34).

Let's break down this last point a little further. Love for God means more than merely adhering to some dictum or following some ritual, it demands genuine relational love. We believe in and follow God because we love him—with a love that is overshadowed by his greater love for us (1Jn 4:19). However, a genuine love for God will undoubtedly result in our obedience to him (1Jn 5:2). A great church loves and obeys the Lord.

Moreover, if we love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, then we will love fellow believers. Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35). A great church is a loving church.

Finally, a great church follows the Great Commission to “go” and to “make disciples of all nations” (Mat 28:19-20). If we love God, we love what he loves. God loves the sinner, “not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2Pet 3:9). Every believer is an “ambassador” to whom God has given “the ministry of reconciliation” (2Co 5:18-20). God's indwelling Spirit compels every believer to be his “witnesses” (Act 1:8). A great church actively seeks the salvation of all people by sharing the message of Christ in word and deed.

Every church has flaws, because it is comprised of sinful people—like us! We are, after all, “sinners saved by grace.” Therefore, a great church isn’t a perfect church, but any church that loves God, obeys God, loves fellow believers, and loves all others is a great church. Make sure you are doing your part to make your church a great church.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Image and Symbols in Worship

2011-02-10T12:45:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 02/17/2011

“What is the place of images and symbols in Christianity?”

Ancient churches, and contemporary churches with deep historical roots, employ statues, icons, paintings, and architecture to portray the transcendent spirit world of God, devils, and angels. However, in most contemporary churches, image and symbol is alive and well in the use of PowerPoint, video, logos, decor, and lighting. Let me give you an example.

Recently, I attended a Christian conference in Kansas City with almost 30,000 young adults in attendance. Entering the conference, I saw a half dozen large video screens and an extravagant light show to rival a Pink Floyd concert. As the laser lights painted a flowing river of color, contrast, and texture, I wondered if today's techno art is no less rooted in this ancient tradition.

Now, for clarity's sake, we ought to mention that the Law of Moses does not forbid the creating of images, except for idolatrous worship (Ex 20:4; Rom 1:23). Before we are too critical of such a “show” in the arena of worship, here is a short-list of the representative art we find sanctioned by God in the Bible.

1. God specifically created a beautiful and orderly universe to reveal his divine character (Rom 1:20).
2. God employed skilled artisans in the Tabernacle (and later in Solomon’s and Zerubbabel’s Temples), to craft ornate designs of things heavenly (Ex 35).
3. The prophets, the psalmists, and Jesus, all used the mental iconography of hyperbole, allegory, metaphor, symbol, and parable, to fire the imagination to see the unseen God.

No doubt, the danger of image and symbol—as a friend once said—is that “the image will swamp the Word,” that is, call more attention to itself than to the Truth. The shadow must never eclipse the substance. God promotes and allows every legitimate form of art, so we may look beyond the temporal to the eternal. We must NEVER fix our attention solely upon the earthly representation. Instead, we must use it to catapult our gaze upward, where we fix the eye of faith upon the unseen realities of the invisible God.

What allows an image or symbol to be a powerful tool, instead of a distraction or an idol, depends upon the worshiper—where he or she chooses to focus. Some see mere lights, while others dream of God.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Value of Life

2011-01-27T09:43:00.000-08:00

"Is abortion morally wrong?”

Abortion is morally wrong because God made humankind in his image and gave us incalculable value above all other created things (Gen 1:26, Psa 8:4-6). Since conception produces a viable living ovum, and because God is actively at work in the womb (Psalm 139:13), and because life is so valuable, then to interrupt these processes is to destroy human life, and incur guilt before God.

Apart from war, judicial decree, or self-defense, it is morally wrong to take the life of another human being (Gen 9:6). In my opinion, abortion is permissible only when the pregnancy threatens the life of the mother, for in this case, abortion is an act of self-defense (Ex 22:2). However, since less than 1% of all abortions are due to life-threatening conditions, rape, or incest, consequently the vast majority choose to abort because of social inconvenience (Guttmacher Institute).

If you bring God into the equation, abortion is a grievous offense. No doubt, if you remove God from the conscience, the more respect for life diminishes. But if there IS a God—and there is—and IF you want to do what is right before a loving, holy, and just God, then you must respect life—all human life.

Women who have abortions are both victims and offenders. Victims because the father or the family typically, coerce her to aborting. Responsible because ultimately she makes the choice. Equally responsible those who coerce, as well as the lawmakers and judges who promote death by decree (Psa 94:20-21).

What makes abortion most reprehensible is that the womb, designed by God to be a place of safety for the weakest and the smallest among us, becomes hostile territory—a battleground, in which the combined death stats of all the world’s wars are eclipsed. Since the legalization of abortion in 1973, estimates are 1 to 1.5 millions babies die from abortion every year. Unthinkable! Hard to believe that some celebrate abortion as a civil right, while the rest of us mourn before the Lord, crying out for God to forgive the sin of our land and to be merciful to us as a nation.

If you support abortion at any level—from the clinics, to activism, to counsel, or to the ballot box—I plead with you, by the mercies of God, to repent. "If you will humble yourself and pray and seek God's face and turn from your wicked ways, then He will hear from heaven and will forgive your sin and will heal our land" (Paraphrase of 2 Chr 7:14).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Capital Punishment

2011-01-20T09:29:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/27/2011

“Should Christians support the death penalty?”

In my opinion, under very narrow circumstances, the death penalty provides a necessary deterrent to horrendous crimes, upholds the dignity and value of life, and promotes the good of society. However, some object to capital punishment, saying that only God has the right to take a life—not the State, nor any individual.

Nevertheless, Scripture is replete with commands by God to kill enemy armies (1Sam 15:3), to put criminals to death (Num 35:16), and to kill by judicial process (Deut 17:6). Soldiers, by necessity, may kill as combatants in war (Deut 2:24), and people have the right to self-defense (Ex 22:2). Of course, murder is never acceptable (Ex 20:13). These Scriptural principles had some influence on the US Constitution and the criminal justice system.

The Bible teaches that all human life is of incomparable worth (Psalm 139:13). This value is rooted in humankind’s creation in the likeness and image of God. This fact sets human life apart from all other life and gives it unrivaled value (Gen 1:26, Psa 8:4-6).

Because human life is so valuable, if a life is taken, then only a life given might pay for the crime. The death penalty, because it deters crime, promotes a safer society, and upholds the rights of all, is—in the strictest sense—a loving act. It is loving because it chooses society’s highest good. Besides, the bad man—confronted by his imminent death—has time to right his heart with God and escape the biggest punishment of all—Hell. (Even in the case of severe justice, we see the mercy of God at work, ready to forgive and save sinners. Praise God for His infinite grace!)

Chuck Colson of Prison Fellowship writes: “For years, modern psychology has argued that the criminal is not guilty of crime; he’s just sick, and in need of therapy. C. S. Lewis argued, however, that this view strips man of his dignity: It says we’re not free moral agents, responsible for our actions, but rather patients to be manipulated for the good of society. ‘To be punished, however severely, because we have deserved it, because we ‘ought to have known better,’ is to be treated as a human person made in God’s image.’ The Scriptures teach that people are responsible for their own behavior. The object of justice is not to rehabilitate or create some new person, like scientists in a Viennese laboratory, but rather to balance the scales of justice. And sometimes the only way to do that is to give the offender his just deserts: capital punishment. [So as those who die for violent crimes this] isn’t about therapy, or retribution, or getting even. It’s about justice and preserving the dignity of man.”

Yes, even in capital punishment, the good of the offender is in view, his or her human dignity upheld, and the intrinsic value of human life confirmed.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

An Unknowing God?

2011-01-13T13:08:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/20/2011

“If Jesus is God, why didn't he know when he'd be returning?”

Jesus said about his future return to earth: "That day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only” (Matt 24:36). Jesus is fully divine, eternal in being, having neither beginning nor end (John 1:1; Col. 2:9). That Jesus does not know what the Father knows seems to undermine his claim to deity, until we consider the following:

Jesus, in taking on human form and human nature, did not cease to be divine. Jesus is both fully human and fully God. By becoming human, he “emptied himself” of some of his divine privileges (Phil 2:5-8). Which divine privileges did he set aside? We do not know. Christ's omniscience—the knowledge of all things—is perhaps one of those qualities. As a child, “Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature,” suggesting this very thing (Luke 2:52). Such a self-imposed limitation is no denial of his deity, but a validation of his humanity.

This is not to say that he still does not know the hour of his return. Having ascended to heaven, he resumed his divine prerogatives and all the powers and privileges of his deity, including omniscience, for in Christ “are hidden all the treasures of... knowledge” (Col 2:2-3).

The Bible Knowledge Commentary offers this explanation: "The precise moment of the Lord’s return cannot be calculated by anyone. When the Lord spoke these words, that information was said to be known by only the Father. Christ was obviously speaking from the vantage of His human knowledge, not from the standpoint of His divine omniscience".

By pointing out Jesus’ specific lack of knowledge, while he was on earth, the writers of the New Testament did not intend to question Jesus’ deity. Instead, they intended to emphasize the impossibility, from a human vantage-point, of predicting the time of his return. You see, God knows our propensity so well. If we knew the time of his return, we would “work the system,” putting off repentance to the last possible moment. And then, before the clock strikes midnight, we'd clean up and smile like the angels we think we are. No, for our good, the time of his return must remain secret, for we are to live everyday as though it is our last.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

contacts

2011-01-11T14:57:00.001-08:00

Orval

Devan

Pride & Prejudice

2011-01-06T12:22:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/13/2011

“Why do we think ourselves better than others?”

This question comes from a longer conversation about innate human pride. Such pride is manifest in the way spouses put each other down, and in the way employers and employees demean each other. In fact, it’s evident in virtually every kind of relationship. It appears that thinking better of ourselves, and lesser of others, is as natural as breathing air.

We do this because our sin nature has pride hard-wired in. We do this also because pride, is a psychological defense that shifts attention away from our own sins and inadequacies.

Paul the apostle writes: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves” (Phil 2:3). This is not to say that you might not be better at a thing—at artistic design, say, or math. Notice that we are to “consider others better.” Again, others may not be better at some specific skill, but this is an attitude of heart, a perspective towards people, that promotes love and good relationships.

Paul goes on to exhort us: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Phil 2:4). That is, if we are to overcome our innate self-centered disposition, then we must appropriately value others and the things that concern them.

The Scripture goes on to say that the way we turn our priorities from ourselves to others is by following the example of Jesus (Phil 2:5-15). Though He is God, he humbled himself by becoming man. He did this, not for himself, but for us. He set aside his interests for our benefit—that we might be forgiven and saved. Because of this, God the Father exalted him to the highest place in the universe. The Bible reminds us, “God is opposed to the proud but gives grace to the humble, therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time" (1 Pet 5:5-6).

Now, I do not see anything wrong with feeling satisfied when we've done a good job, or with enjoying an accomplishment. Nor do I believe that all self-interest is selfish. Humility does not require us to beat ourselves down or deny our abilities. We can be considerate of others without such self-denigration.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Judas: Conflicted or Culpable?

2010-12-29T13:17:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 01/06/2011

“Why did Judas betray Jesus?”

Let's begin with what we do know about Judas. Judas was one of “the twelve” that Jesus chose to be His disciple (Matt 10:4). Judas was Jesus' treasurer, and he was a thief (John 12:6). Satan entered Judas and incited the betrayal (Luke 22:3). Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silvers (Matt 26:15), felt remorse, gave the money back, then hanged himself (Matt 27:3-5). Of Him, Jesus said it would have been better had he not been born—implying a severity of judgment (Matt 26:24).

No one can say with finality, the motive for Judas' actions. Based upon what we do know, we may surmise that, Judas never truly believed Jesus to be the Messiah, and he was an avid thief and he saw an opportunity to make some quick cash. As a result Satan found “opportunity” to use Judas to oppose Jesus (Luke 4:13).

However, I find it interesting that various “Jesus” films portray Judas as a thoughtful scholar, a selfless idealist, or a misguided follower. Few in Hollywood seem willing to present him as the evil, unbelieving, and demonized thief that he was.

We should be careful not to underestimate Judas' responsibility. He is no victim of psychosis or genetic disposition. He is not conflicted because “he changed his mind” (Matt 27:3). He is not lacking in self-esteem because he felt guilt for his actions (Matt 27:4). He did not need counseling because he killed himself. Judas willfully chose to do evil with selfish intent—plain and simple.

Like Judas, we too have the power of will to choose good or evil, Christ or unbelief. Very few will admit to being evil, but consider the following: Do you deny him your faith? Have you betrayed Christ by your actions? Do you use Christ for greedy intent? Such is the essence of Judas' rebellion.

Nevertheless, if Judas had fallen on his knees before the crucified Lord, confessed his sin, and looked on Christ in faith and love, what might have been different for Judas? This we do not know, but we do know with certainty, that all who come to Christ in such an attitude shall undoubted have God's forgiveness (Act 13:38).

It all comes down to the choice to which we will serve. Bob Dylan put it this way: “It may be the devil or it may be the Lord, but you're gonna have to serve somebody.” Let us heed Joshua's exhortation: “Choose this day who you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15).

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Fully Human

2010-12-23T13:08:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/30/2010

“What does it mean to be fully human?”

Being fully human means living at the pinnacle of our being, according to God's design, and by means of God's mercy and strength. Jesus Christ, though fully divine, fully embodies authentic humanity. In his humanity, Jesus walks closely with the Father, lives in moral excellence, loves people extravagantly, opposes evil fervently, offers compassion generously, sorrows deeply, and lives joyfully. In a word, he lives human life to its fullest.

To all who believe in and follow Christ, he promises: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). The Greek word for “life” means to have the breath of spiritual vitality. Furthermore, to have that life “to the full” means to enjoy this vitality to the utmost degree. In Christ, we can grow into the very life of Christ. No, we are not gods nor can never hope to be all that he is but, oh what fullness is ours when we abide in him (Eph 1:23)!

St. Irenaeus, second century Bishop of Gaul, said: “The glory of God is man fully alive... moreover man’s life is the vision of God: if God’s revelation through creation has already obtained life for all the beings that dwell on earth, how much more will [Christ's] manifestation of the Father obtain life for those who see God.”

So, as we look to a New Year, let us reevaluate who we are and who we hope to become. What would it look like for us to become more “fully human” in Christ? First, let us mature in our walk with God, trusting him, loving him, obeying him, and growing in our knowledge of him (2 Pet 3:18). Secondly, let us aspire to increase in godly character and moral excellence (2 Pet 1:2-8). Finally, let us advance in our love for all people and practice compassion to those in need (Col 3:12). To life!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Essence of Christmas

2010-12-16T06:52:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/23/2010

“What is most important about Christmas?”

The trappings of Christmas—reindeer, Santa, Christmas trees, and such—comprise a wonderful festive tradition. Furthermore, the manger, the wise men, and the Christmas star, help to remind us of—as they say—the reason for the season. However, the most important aspect of Christmas is the Incarnation.

The Incarnation (from the Latin, 'in flesh') is the doctrine that Jesus (who is God) takes on the flesh and blood of humanity for the purpose of redemption. You see, before the creation of all things, God existed in eternity—one God in three persons—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

This Holy Trinity planned and fashioned the world's creation along with humankind. Foreseeing our future rebellion, the members of the Trinity devised a way to redeem sinners (Rom 5:8; Rev 13:8). Jesus the Son, “emptied Himself” of His divine prerogative as God, and “made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Phil 2:6-8).

He then rose from the grave, resumed His heavenly position, and conferred salvation upon all who believe and obey Him (Rom 1:5).

As man, Jesus understands us our human struggles, but as God, He is able to do something about it. Because of the Incarnation, the book of Hebrews states that Jesus is the perfect High priest: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Heb 4:15-16).

Author Louis Cassels offers an illustration on the importance of Christ's Incarnation. In “The Parable of the Birds,” Cassels writes about an unbelieving farmer, who tries to lure some birds into the warmth of his barn on a cold and snowy Christmas day. Desperate for shelter, the birds fly against his window. As the birds struggle to survive, he goes to his barn, opens the doors, and attempts to coax them in with breadcrumbs—to no avail. So, he tries to shoo them in, but they run away, fearful of his advances.

Cassels concludes the story: “ ‘They simply find me a strange and terrifying creature,’ he said to himself: ‘I have got to think of a way I can let them know they can trust me. The answer would be if I could only become a bird myself. Then they would trust me to lead them to safety, to life out of the cold.’ At that moment, the bells of the church began to ring in Christmas Day—and as they did, something strange happened. The man stood silently for a while looking at the birds, then he looked for a time at the barn door. Then, oddly, he knelt for a time in the cold and wet snow. He had come with some suddenness to realize something for the first time in his life, and it would not let him go. ‘If only I could become a bird myself then they might trust me to lead them to safety, to life out of the cold.’ ”

Jesus came as a man, to lead us to safety—to salvation. That's the essence of Christmas.

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Merry Christmas to All

2010-12-09T12:43:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/16/2010

“What's wrong with the public promotion of Christmas?”

Our country is at the crossroads of decision on whether we will continue to freely allow Christian expression, or embark on eradicating every semblance of religion.

Statistically, a majority of Americans claim to be Christian—regardless the depth of their allegiance. Many of our Founding Fathers were sympathetic to the Christian faith— apart from their religious persuasion. Evidence of this is the many Scriptures that adorn the buildings and monuments of Washington D.C., as well as a Constitution that protects religious freedom.

George Washington declared: “It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.” John Adams wrote: “The Christian religion is, above all the religions that ever prevailed or existed in ancient or modern times, the religion of wisdom, virtue, equity, and humanity.” Even the deist, Ben Franklin, concluded; “He who shall introduce into public affairs the principles of primitive Christianity will change the face of the world... God governs in the affairs of men; and if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, neither can a kingdom rise without his aid.”

Christianity has always played a major a part of our history and openly promoted in our culture. The Bible was the first textbook in our early public schools, and taught up to the 1960s. It is only in our present age that these freedoms are increasingly under fire in the public arena.

Those who object to public expressions of faith, should consider that all Americans, Christians or otherwise, are subject to ideas, morals, and norms, that they consider offensive. This is inescapable where freedom exists. For the believer, the agnostic, or the atheist, our Constitution protects our freedom of speech and religion. Similarly, the God of the Bible is not a god of coercion, and forces no one to believe.

Therefore, the work of God, and the Constitution, calls to all of us to respectfully disagree, and the values of all—provided they be within the scope of Law and decency—allowed its expression. It's called tolerance.

Have a very Merry Christmas!

–Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Jesus' Birthday

2010-12-02T13:00:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 12/09/2010

“When Was Jesus Born?”

We do not know the exact date of Christ’s birth. It is unlikely, however, that he was born December 25th, a date provided by various traditions. The Bible offers no definitive date, nor is it vital to life, ministry, or the message of Christ.

In the Christmas story, Caesar Augustus calls for a census throughout the Roman Empire (Luke 2:1), requiring all Jews to register in their family’s hometown. That’s why Joseph and Mary traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Such a great undertaking would almost certainly occur at a time with favorable weather. Besides, the shepherds—who are intrinsic to the story—withdraw their flocks from the fields for the winter months (Luke 2:8).

As to a more precise birth date, here is a greatly abbreviated theory worth considering. In Luke 1:5-17, we encounter Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist. He was of the priestly order of Abijah, which means that he would have been on duty towards the end of May (1 Chr 24:10). After serving, Zechariah returned home to his wife Elizabeth, who conceived their child John. This places John’s birthday about the time of the Passover. Elizabeth was six months pregnant when Mary conceived (Luke 1:24-26). Christ, therefore, would have been born in the fall, about the time of the Feast of Tabernacles.

Some Messianic scholars go so far as to suggest a birth date of September 29, 4 B.C., which is the first day of the Feast of Tabernacles. This is interesting, but not essential to the story, or the historical veracity of Jesus’ advent.

What we do know for certain, is that Christ came “at just the right time” (Gal 4:4), at the perfect moment in the Father's plan of redemption. More importantly, we know why he came—“to save sinners” (1 Tim 1:15), which makes knowing the exact date pale by comparison.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Claustrophobic

2010-11-23T07:23:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal Publication Date : 12/02/2010

“Should Christians teach their children to believe in Santa Claus?”

Imagination is of great worth to the believer, for it plays an important part in that faculty of the mind, which ponders spiritual realities. Ephesians 3:20 reads; "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…” C. S. Lewis, of Narnian fame, says that God gave us imaginations that we might see Him who is unseen, and come to worship the Infinite God.

I am of the opinion that there is no harm in our children believing in Santa Claus, and great good in fostering and feeding their imaginations with higher and better thoughts. Certainly, someone as good and selfless as Santa is a much better figure to admire, than some found in cartoons, on the sports field, or in video games.

If we give more attention to the birth of Jesus, however, Santa finds his proper place in our celebration of Christmas—overshadowed by gospel truth: the nativity, the wise men, the virgin mother, and the Christ Child. When dealing with our own children, we might simply inform them that Santa is (1) a real historical person—St. Nicholas of Myra—who loved Jesus and gave gifts to children, and (2) that the red suited fellow from the North Pole is a “real imaginary person” like Peter Pan or Superman. Let us release their young minds to dream and to fly!

The argument against Santa Claus goes something like this: “If we teach our children that Santa Claus is real, and one day they discover he’s not, then they may come to the same conclusion about Jesus—that He’s just another imaginary figure from their childhood to be discarded as they mature.”

There is a small measure of truth in this, but here’s where the argument breaks down: Do our children see us praying to Santa Claus and studying his book? Do they see us going to Santa Services year round to worship and to learn more about him? Do they see us seeking to daily do the will of Santa? Year round, do we make Santa the center of every endeavor? Is it to Santa that we have pledged our lives?

If not, we need not fear our children will be lead astray. They know reality by what they see in us. I do fear, however, that far too many homes give as much attention to Santa as to Jesus—certainly a problem in its own right.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Just Deserts?

2010-11-18T15:08:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 11/26/2010

"Why should God be good to us?"

By far, the largest God-question that I encounter has to do with the goodness of God. We have a hard time reconciling divine goodness with a world of suffering. However, I rarely hear the aforementioned question—a question every bit as important.

After all, why should God be good to us? After our initial rebellion in Eden, and the subsequent revolt of following generations, God could justly condemn us for all eternity. I see two reasons why we expect a painless existence.

The first is that we see ourselves better than we are, and we see God as less than He is. In truth, we are all—without exception—insurrectionists. We overthrow God in our hearts, seizing His throne and crown by our own decree: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom 3:23).

God is holy, pure, and undefiled. God is the perfection of beauty, wisdom, power, justice, goodness, and love. He is so infinitely transcendent in nature and character. That is why the Psalmist marvels: "What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?" (Psalm 8:4). That's because it is sheer miracle that He even considers us, mere dust-motes in the galaxy, raising our fists against His rightful rule.

Secondly, living in a democracy, cutting our teeth on equality, justice, and fairness, the average citizen expects divine goodness as a civil right. You would think a life of good and ease is due us by divine Fiat. However, if we want the holy rule of Heaven's law, then Hell is our only "just" reward.

However, consider this providential goodness. God is unwilling to abandon us to simple justice. “God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom 5:8). You see, while we were living without God, not caring a straw for Him, He was thinking of us and planning our redemption.

Consider the genius of “the cross,” whereby God deals justly with sin and provides a way of forgiveness. God desires to forgive the sinner and yet must uphold divine law. In Christ's crucifixion, justice and mercy meet. In the cross, Jesus—God come in flesh—bears the full penalty of the Father’s wrath. He pays the debt we owe, and we, by faith in Him, are justified—pronounced innocent and placed in right standing with Him. “Whosoever believes in Him” (John 3:16), whoever surrenders the throne of his heart to its rightful king, is pardoned!

We should puzzle less over the seeming inequities of life, and stand in shocked amazement that any good comes to us at all. If the only goodness we experience is God's salvation, that is far, far beyond anything we deserve. It is more than enough.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Ensuring Spiritual Health

2010-11-11T13:29:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 11/18/2010

“Why are there so many unhealthy believers?”

One day, as I marveled at a beautiful grove of trees, deep green in the splendor of summer, I saw, standing in stark contrast, a dead tree. All its limbs were attached, but the bark had fallen off, and it stood bleached-white in the summer sun. Such disparity between vitality and destitution reminds me of my fellow believers. Many live healthily in the sun of God's transforming work, while others are barren and near to collapse.

One does not have to wander too far into the forest of our humanity to witness the same. Some have been struck by the lightning of rejection, bitterness, or oppression. Others need the water of authentic love and satisfying acceptance. Conversely, others are over-watered with unhealthy doctrines or abusive relationships.

No matter what our life experience, we have every reason to hope that God—through faith in Christ—will bring us to spiritual and emotional health. Consider the promise of the Lord, to "restore the years the locusts have eaten" (Joel 2:25). The passage lists four types of locusts. One type eats the leaf, one eats the bark, still another eats the wood. When the plant is all but gone, the final type of locust eats the roots. With nothing left of the tree, its devastation is total.

The analogy is clear. When life and our own sinful choices devastate us, God still restores. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" Your future need not be determined by your past; instead, it may be determined by the bright promises of your Heavenly Father. “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Philippians 1:6).

I cannot promise a magic restorative fertilizer, guaranteeing a healthy yield in 30 days. No, change takes time! However, vitality surely comes as we engage in the Christian disciplines. Watering our spiritual life daily with prayer and Bible reading, ensuring adequate sunlight through introspection and repentance, adding the nutrients of godly friendships and church fellowship—such careful tending is indispensable to new spiritual growth. The locusts will need to find their meal elsewhere.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Goodness of God

2010-10-28T08:19:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 11/04/2010

“How can God be perfectly good in a world of evil and suffering?”

The Bible teaches that "God is Love" (1 John 4:8). Love is the core attribute and defining quality of God’s nature. That means that He does all that He does to bring about the highest good for all He has made.

The Bible reveals a God whose love is self-sacrificing, a God forever looking to the good of His creation. This is most evident in the crucifixion. The Bible says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). God loves you so much that He endured the cross, so that salvation could come to those who believe—that’s self-sacrificing love!

However, many a saint and sinner have wrestled with this seeming contradiction: God is all-powerful and all-loving, but enormous evil and cruelty exist. Why does He seem to look on with benign indifference to pain?

God values our freedom, and therein lies God's vindication—from a human perspective. Free moral agency—the power to choose—is a precious gift from God. This is not to say that our will is completely free from other influences, but that we have sufficient freedom to make responsible choices. Our freedom may not be absolute, but it is genuine.

God will not force us to love Him; nor will He control our decisions. Were He to stop bad people from doing bad things, He would have to control all free choices. This God will not do. If He were to eliminate moral freedom, we would no longer have a capacity for evil, but we would no longer have a capacity for good either. Under such domination, we could only render to Him mere robotic obedience, and be entirely incapable of love.

Newbery Award-winning author, Madeleine L'Engle, writes: "The problem of pain, of war and the horror of war, of poverty and disease is always confronting us. But a God who allows no pain, no grief, also allows no choice. There is little unfairness in a colony of ants, but also there is little freedom."

It is reasonable to conclude that if we are to experience love and make choices, if we are to choose to love God, then we must invariably have the freedom to make bad choices—even those that might harm us or others. Freedom is an awesome and wonderful responsibility. Remove freedom, and you remove your divinely-imparted uniqueness. With freedom you might turn out to be a tyrant; without it you might just as well be a turnip!

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

God on Trial

2010-10-21T11:53:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/28/2010

“Why aren't more people healed by God?”

The Jesus who heals in the New Testament still answers prayer today for healing (James 5:15). However, honest observation leads us to conclude that most people are not recipients of supernatural healing. God does heal through doctors and medicine (2 Kings 20:7), but physical infirmity is a reality for the most people, even faithful believers.

My short answer is that healing is an exception, not the norm. That's why we still call divine healing a miracle. Miracles are not commonplace. In my view, Jesus' healing in the New Testament served primarily to reveal His deity and that He was the Messiah. When He heals today, it serves different specific ends, which are—at times—shrouded in the mystery of God's eternal purpose.

Now, when I hear this question (which I do on a regular basis), I sense deeper underlying questions, questions hidden in the deep recesses of the heart. “Is there a God? Is God really good? Does God love me? ”

I see two sources for these questions. The first is our human nature's insatiable desire for meaning. From humanity’s very beginning, people have sought to discover the meaning of life, the nature of God, and the reason for existence. We have many questions!

The second source is the subtle and nefarious accusations of the devil. He is, after all, “the accuser” (Rev 12:10), and He was the first to question God's goodness and intentions (Gen 3:1). From that first lie in Eden, people have been listening ever since. Against such accusations, Christians are not immune.

Christian, let me encourage you to settle this question and thereby develop a layer of protection against enemy accusation. This will require diligent personal study and willingness to reexamine your doctrine on healing. Two books that I find helpful are C. S. Lewis' The Problem of Pain and Jack Deere's Surprised by the Power of the Spirit. Both books provide great insight on suffering and healing.

Finally, let us resolve to trust the Lord, holding tightly to what we understand and loosely to the unanswered and mysterious. Let us joyfully surrender the unanswered questions of this life to the grand mystery of God. In addition, let us resist every doubt that contains an accusation against our good, loving, powerful, and redemptive God.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

God's Loving Discipline

2010-10-14T09:05:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/21/2010

“What else can I do?”

This week's question comes from God, in Jeremiah 9:7. In this passage, God addresses an erring people to whom He has extended every kindness. From Israel's beginning, God was watching over them, guarding them, and providing for them. In spite of God's mercies, they now turn from the Living God to serve idols and indulge selfish whim.

Isaiah, in chapter 5, echoes the same sentiment. Israel is like a vineyard that has “gone to weeds,” in spite of God's careful gardening. “What more was there to do for my vineyard that I have not done in it? When I looked for it to yield grapes, why did it yield wild grapes?” (Isa 5:4).

“What else can I do?” says the Lord. He knows that only one remedy remains. If salvation is to come to Israel, then only one prescription is strong enough to heal their malady: the oppression of enemy armies. God will draw the Babylonians and Assyrians into the Promise Land, where the severity of their conquest will shatter the nation. Many will die. The rest will be left destitute or in slavery.

You may ask: “How can a God of love do this to His own people?” Well, consider how this occurs in families. Every parent knows that to raise a good and responsible child that discipline is necessary. Character cannot be formed any other way. Now, if we see discipline as a part of good parenting, then perhaps we can begin to see the love of God behind any “redemptive hardship” He may bring.

The book of Jeremiah proceeds, and Israel is conquered. However, God's disciplinary action ceases after 70 years, and Israel begins their healing in the Promise Land. From this point in Israel's history, they never return to idolatry, but follow only the Lord. Therefore, you see how a loving God uses the pain and problems of this life to expose our need for Him and to call us to repentance.

What about your life? God is incredibly good to you on a thousand fronts, whether you know it or not. Like Israel, God wants you to believe in Him and to walk with Him. Like Israel, He will not tolerate self-idolatry nor habitual sin. If we miss the message in the good things, then God may bring adversity: “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves... For what son is there whom his father does not discipline?” (Heb 12:6-8).

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Muslim Neighbors

2010-10-10T06:26:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/14/2010

“How should I relate to my Muslim neighbor?”

We should be the best neighbors they’ve ever had. The “love your neighbor as yourself,” command applies to all people (Matt 22:39). Our human nature makes it easy to reason away our neighborly responsibilities—especially in light of the nefarious deeds of a few high-profile Muslims, and the looming threat of Al-Qaeda—but Jesus offers no loophole (Luke 10:29-37).

Yes, there is no denying that a very small percentage of Muslims are extremists, but the vast majority are “regular folk” who want kids with straight teeth, a bargain when they shop, and a good neighborhood in which to live. They are people—like you and me—whom “God so loved… that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John3:16).

Many missionaries think that because of the relatively few Christians engaged in world missions, that the Lord is bringing them to America to hear the Gospel here. Think of the potential! Many Muslim countries are hostile to Christians, but on American soil, we can befriend Muslims and share freely about the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

That being said, we should be careful not to make our neighbors our “evangelism project.” This approach befriends the neighbor on the “condition” they come to Christ. If there is no response, however, they are dumped for our next project. This mindset is wrong, for God's love is unconditional. That means we befriend people whether they follow Christ or not. Of course, we want all to know our Lord, but if not, nothing changes. Good neighboring continues. That’s unconditional love.

What Christians should not do, however, is retreat to the fortress of their homes and churches, withdrawing from every perceived threat. Besides, with the rise of globalism, everything in the world can be anywhere in the world. Already, Islam (and every other world religion) is making its home in our very Anglo Midwest.

Here’s a case in point: Clarinda once housed German prisoners in WW2. They were the evil “Krauts,” regarded as Nazis, and Hitler’s henchmen. However, as people and prisoners got to know one another, all the preconceptions faded away and friendships formed. These Germans helped work on our farms, and in the day-to-day exchange, mutual respect grew. Indeed, at war’s end, some of the released prisoners chose to make southwest Iowa their home—and these, quite possibly, are reading this article. That’s the power of “loving your neighbor.”

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Atheists and Agnostics

2010-09-30T06:34:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 10/07/2010

“What is the difference between an atheist and an agnostic?”

Both atheists and agnostics do not believe in the infinite-personal God revealed in Scripture. This they hold in common. Atheists adhere to a belief system called naturalism, believing that nothing exists outside of nature—that is, nothing supernatural exists. Agnostics, on the other hand, believe that one cannot know for sure that God exists. Scripture says of them that they are “always learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim 3:7).

The word atheist comes from two Greek words that together mean “without God.” Some claim to be atheists, but very few can honestly boast that they have no doubts (Psa 14:1). It takes a stubborn and willful mind to deny the evidence of creation, which constantly testifies to God’s existence (Rom 1:18-20). Apparently, it takes a lot of work to sustain faith in God's non-existence!

The word agnostic means one “without knowledge.” Agnostics are people who just cannot make up their minds about God. They are indecisive on the greatest issue of all. No doubt some, having been spoon-fed a steady diet of moral relativism, have come to believe with absolute certainty that nothing is certain. Hmmm. How ironic.

I thought at one time, that if I would only articulate the claims of Christianity, present evidence of its truth, and give a rational explanation for my faith, that people would inevitably believe. I have since come to think that the reason for unbelief is not intellectual, but spiritual. Christ must be “revealed” to the unbeliever by the Spirit of God. The atheist has his arguments, and the agnostic his questions; but when God reveals Himself, the choice will be either faith or a deliberate refusal.

Atheist or Agnostic, I want you to know that you matter to God, and to the people of God. He loves you (John 3:16), and “wants all men to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim 2:4). These are weighty issues with eternal implications. A thorough, honest, and diligent inquiry into these matters can be the only proper response, and (I believe) increases the likelihood of revelation.

Many a doubter has prayed this daring prayer: “God, if you’re real, reveal Yourself to me.” I double-dog dare you! What do you have to lose?

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Who Speaks for God?

2010-09-23T12:13:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/30/2010

“Who speaks for God?”

We usually ask this question against the backdrop of some absurd situation, in which someone feels that God has told them to do something outlandish, like a mother who hears a voice to drown all her kids in the bathtub, or someone who feels God wants them to leave their wife for another, or the Jihadist who, under divine mandate, is to kill the infidels. These examples, stemming from mental illness, selfishness, or deception, are great “copy” for the nightly news.

Unfortunately, we rarely hear of the greater number of those who seek to follow the Word and will of God. These are prompted by God to give to the poor, to help someone in need, or to speak a word of encouragement. I guess this day-to-day adherence to the loving and rational leading of God's Word is not provocative enough for the news-hour.

While the bizarre and freakish behaviors of the few are the exception, what about the day-to-day adherence to God's Word in the life of the church? The daily fare of televangelism promises of prosperity to those who fund their TV programs. And what about the “prophet” or well-intentioned person who has a directive “word” for you? They say, “God showed them” something about your personal circumstance, and if you will do “this and such,” then everything will work out just fine.

Well, Christians are called to follow the Word of God—the Bible (John 8:31). In addition to this, God promises to speak to His people and to guide their lives—usually by an inward prompting (John 10:27). No matter 'how' God speaks, Henry Blackaby, in his book, "Experiencing God," notes this pattern throughout scripture: “When God spoke, the person knew that it was God who was speaking. They knew what God was saying. They knew what God wanted the person to do in response.”

Today, God primarily speaks through the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments (2 Pet 3:16). God speaks through Church leaders (Eph 4:11-16)—those who “rightly handling the Word of Truth” (2 Tim 2:15). God speaks to the submitted believer when reading and meditating upon the Bible (Psa 119).

No matter how God speaks, the disciple must hold the Written Word of God as the highest and final authority (2 Tim 3:16). The Bible alone is without error (Psa 119:160). People have biases, can make mistakes, or be heretical. That's why, we are commanded to “test” what we hear in our hearts, or hear preached, and to “hold fast what is good” (1 Thes 5:20-21). Who speaks for God? God speaks for God.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Are Christians Judgmental?

2010-09-16T11:54:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/23/2010

“Why are Christians so judgmental?”

First, to set the record straight, judging is no respecter of persons. It isn't like Christians are the only ones who offer judgments. Actually, I hear the vilest unrestrained criticism and judgment from non-Christians. But dare the Christian to breathe a critical word, and you would think the fires of hell had opened beneath the condemned.

Now, there is no doubt that Christians without wisdom, love, maturity, constraint, or all the above, can sometimes make accusative remarks. May God forgive us and help us do better the next time. Yes Pogo, “we have met the enemy, and he is us.”

Jesus said, “Do not judge or you will be judged” (Matt 7:1). This kind of judgment is like that made by a judge in a courtroom, who casts a guilty verdict upon the condemned with no chance of parole. This is a condemnatory attitude that is hateful and proud, spoken from a position of assumed superiority.

This, the Christian should never do, for we are called to love all, even our enemies (Luke 6:27). Rather, “Love hopes all things,” and therefore hopes the best for all people, even the ones who are the most difficult (1 Cor 13:7). Furthermore, Jesus taught, that to the degree we judge others He will judge us (Luke 6:38)! That's incentive for me to resolve to err on the side of kindness and to assume the best of others.

However, we must look at both sides of this issue. Jesus also said: “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment" (John 7:24). Moreover, the Apostle Paul adds that we must “judge... matters pertaining to this life” (1 Cor 6:3). While we are not to be “down on others,” we must, nonetheless, judge (i.e., discern) between good and evil. Some things are sinful and others are admissible. On these matters, we must take a firm, and sometimes public, stance. This is where we “draw fire.”

We live in a fallen world, under the influence of dark forces (Eph 6:12). This combined with widespread adherence to “moral relativity”—the philosophical position that there are no absolutes—sets us in conflict with culture. We do not confront evil for the sake of confrontation or because we’re hateful, but because we love God and people enough to say something with the hope of a positive outcome. We desire the greatest good for all. Therefore, when we say something about a bad behavior, we are called judges. It's the old "shoot the messenger" ploy to avoid the implications of the message, and the One who gave it.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Drinking Disciples?

2010-09-09T09:38:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/16/2010

“Is it OK for Christians to drink?"

Jesus and His disciples drank wine. As to what precisely they drank, we cannot say for certain. Historians from that period show that respectable Jews would only drink a weak table wine, further diluted with water. (The Jewish Talmud insisted that fermented wine be mixed with at least three parts of water, to keep the drinker from defilement. Homer mentions a ration of twenty, and Pliny, eight parts. Such would likely have been the tradition of Jesus' time.)

In any case, we never see Jesus or his disciples the least bit “tipsy.” After all, Scripture condemns drunkenness (Deut 21:20), forbids being “under the influence” (Eph 5:18), and warns against the dangers of drinking (Pro 20:1, 23:21, 31:4-5).

Furthermore, there are the cultural implications to consider. The Bible exhorts us to not do anything that might cause a fellow believer to stumble, or might tarnish our reputation as a follower of Christ (Rom 14:21).

What the New Testament makes crystal-clear is that the Christian should not be under the influence of alcohol, but rather under the influence of the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18). A person under the influence of alcohol will do things they would never do otherwise—often bringing shame and injury to others or themselves. About them, we say, "That's the liquor speaking," or "He's not himself when he's drinking." In the same way, a person under the influence of the Spirit of God is able to live a supernatural life that can only be explained by the presence of something, or rather, Someone, else—the Holy Spirit who has become the dominant influence in that believer's life.

If Jesus' disciples drank, then obviously some Christians DO drink. However, since alcohol is easily abused, a significant source of traffic fatalities, contributes to domestic violence, health problems, alcoholism, crime, and physical abuse—to name a few of the problems associated with drinking—then the wisest course of action would be to abstain from drinking altogether. Besides, drink and the culture of drinking are only shallow substitutes of man's true longings for peace, joy, and enjoyable social relationships. Why settle for the imitation when God offers the real?

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

All Dogs Go To Heaven

2010-09-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/09/2010

“What does the bible say about animals? Do they go to heaven when they die?”

Genesis 1:24 makes a distinction between “wild animals” and others, suggesting to us what common experience proves—there are untamed animals, and then there are domesticated animals who exist very comfortably among us—livestock as well as pets.

Animals work for us (Num 7:7), transport us (Gen 22:3, 31:34), and help protect us (Ex 11:7). Animals are God’s provision for our food (Gen 9:3) and our enjoyment. They are not departed family members come back as cows and chickens! You may be a vegetarian by choice, but no Biblical reason should hinder a believer from eating meat. The person of faith should never kill needlessly, and the animals under his care should be treated well (Gen 49:6, Pro 12:10; Ex 23:12).

Animals possess a measure of intellect and emotions, but only man possesses God’s image and likeness. God breathed His life-giving spirit into man, setting him apart from the animal kingdom with a unique capacity to worship the God who is unseen. The naturalist's view of creation negates the sacredness of human life and puts man and animal on an equal footing. This the Christian must never do.

Animals and pets can provide some degree of companionship, but they lack the capability that human relationships offer (Gen 2:20). There is little doubt that we get attached to these little furry creatures. As a pet owner, I know what it is like to experience and enjoy the exchange of affection between man and beast. I also know the grief and sorrow of losing them to death.

The Scriptures do not clearly say whether animals will be in heaven. The book of Isaiah suggests a future time when God will re-create the heavens and the earth (Isa 65:17-25), a future in which “the lion lies down with the lamb.” This may be an allegory describing the peace and serenity of heaven, but I would like to think that the things that have brought us joy in this life will bring us joy in the life to come as well.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Christian or Follower of Christ?

2010-08-28T05:49:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 09/02/2010

“Why is it that some Christians refuse to be called Christians?”

Some Christians refuse to be called “Christians” because they want to distance themselves from every negative connotation associated with the word “Christian.” Never mind that most Christians honor God in word, life, and deed. Nevertheless, those who carry the title “Christian,” yet live the life poorly, bring disrepute upon the word. In addition to this, the media has successfully vilified Christians as crusading killers, narrow-minded bigots, lifeless automatons, sexless puritans, hypocrites, and homophobes.

In general, those who avoid the Christian label are hoping to convey that they are not pew-sitting nominal Christians but serious disciples committed to following Christ. In this regard, the motivation is laudable, and we should all ascribe to such a position. However, some go too far, railing against those who don the traditional title and avoiding every gathering deemed “Christian”—including the church.

My own cursory research, namely perusing my Facebook account, yields the following designations of my Christian friends: “God Seeker,” “Jesus Freak,” “really optimistic about the after-life,” “Born Again Christian,” “Catholic,” “Disciple of Jesus Christ,” “Jesus Christ is the Answer,” “Christian Protestant,” “I'm romanced by the creator of the universe,” “Ephesians 2:8-9,” “Christ Follower,” with “Follower of Jesus” filing the top spot. Very few list “Christian.” Interesting.

The original biblical designation for Christian is “disciple” (Matt 28:19), along with “believer” (Acts 5:14), follower of “the Way” (Acts 9:2) and, finally, “Christian” (Act 11:26). Personally, I don't care what title you take up. What matters is a life of faith in Christ, obedience to God, and a love for all others.

No doubt, if “Christ Follow” becomes the new designation, then that too will eventually fall into disrepute. I see two reasons for this. First, those who carry the title but do not live the life, discredit the genuine. This cannot be helped as long as people are free to ascribe titles to themselves, no matter how unsubstantiated. And secondly, every Christian (permit me to use the appellation one more time) is in a spiritual battle with demonic adversaries, intent upon destroying and discrediting all that is good and holy. These will continue to be issues until that day when Jesus returns to set it all aright for the “whatchamacallems.”

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Good Guilt

2010-08-19T07:03:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/26/2010

“What's wrong with guilt?"

Guilt for bad behavior is a positive force for good, serving to direct the erring toward better conduct, better relationships, and a better society. However, the purveyors of self esteem see guilt as a cardinal sin, a puritanical hold-over, that they are intent on excising from the English lexicon.

I see three forms of guilt. The first is “actual guilt,” when one is guilty of a true offense against God or others. The second is the “feeling of guilt,” a normal emotional response to bad behavior, produced by a sensitive conscience. Actual guilt may or may not produce feelings of guilt, depending on personality type and or whether the conscience has become calloused. Finally, there is the “obsessive feeling of guilt,” resulting from a predisposition of personality, a damaged conscience, or both.

On this third form, we should seek to be free of its crushing voice of condemnation, through God's work of redemption, revelation, and renewal. Upon this point alone, do we agree with the advocates of self-esteem. Even so, the first two forms of guilt are normal and healthy, providing a positive motivation to the development of personal character and virtue.

When the Bible mentions “guilt,” it never refers to feelings, but actual offenses. If we have done wrong it does not matter what we feel, we are guilty! A thief who is caught may have no remorse for his crime, but “tell it to the judge!” For feelings of guilt, “conscience” seems to be the primary biblical word used. Conscience is a sort of internal mechanism, much like heat sensors in our body, warning us of danger and protecting us from spiritual harm.

Scripture teaches that those who do not believe in Christ nor follow him are guilty of sin, whether they feel guilt or not (John 9:41). Guilt before God increases with knowledge of what God expects (John 15:24). Each person has enough understanding of God's expectations, that all are guilty of sin (Rom 2:15). Immoral behavior renders one guilty before God (1Cor 5:11), but those forgiven in Christ are free from God's condemnation and judgment (1 Cor1:8).

Those who adamantly oppose all forms of guilt unwittingly, fall prey to demonic influence, and oppose the very thing that is God uses to awaken the human heart to its need for Divine mercy.

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The End of the World as We Know It

2010-08-12T07:39:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/19/2010

"What is the book of Revelation really talking about?"

It is easy in our day where "sin abounds," where terrorism is rampant, and where rogue countries possess nuclear technologies, to conclude that imminent disaster looms on the horizon of human history. What helps me maintain perspective is a comment I heard a comedian say: "Jesus is coming back to the earth, so there must be an earth for Him to come back to!" Many are the plans of mice and men, but it is the will of God that will decide the future history of the world.

The book of Revelation contains both literal and allegorical language. At some points, it speaks very plainly; at others, the reader is left to ponder its mystery. Christians have interpreted Revelation in various ways across the centuries. Some have seen it as a description of historical events within the Roman Empire during the early church age. Others have understood it to describe the end of the world, as we know it.

In spite of these different interpretations, Christians agree that Christ is coming again to judge all men (2 Tim 4:1), to take His followers to be with Him forever (John 14:3), and—yes—to end this world and begin the next (2 Pet 3:13).

The book of Revelation is both a terrifying and comforting book. It terrifies because it records the dire end of all those who do not believe in Jesus. Numerous warnings address those who do not obey the Lord nor repent of sin (Rev 3:3). Nonetheless, six times, the book declares us "blessed" if we heed the warnings, and persist in faith and obedience (Rev 14:12).

In truth, God intends this book to provoke a varied response: fear and uncertainty in those who continue in sin, peace, and assurance to those who follow the Lord. However, we need not suffer His just wrath, provided we believe in and follow Christ—who offers salvation freely to all.

Scriptures teaches God's overarching desire to forgive rather that to judge (Lam 3:33). However, on the unrepentant, God's holy judgment will fall with severe finality. The book of Revelation is a provocative call to repentance and faith in Christ. To all humankind He says, "Come," while there is still time (Rev 22:17).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Suffer The Children?

2010-08-05T13:54:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/12/2010

"In a conversation about a friend's sick child he stated: 'If there was a God, he wouldn't let this child suffer.' How should I have answered him?"

I would say that God loves this childthis we know for sure (John 3:16). The existence of an all-loving, all-powerful God, in a world of human suffering, has always perplexed people. If there is no God, then suffering is part of the natural order, and the answer is silence. However, if there is a God, some think that He cannot be good, because a good God would use His power to prevent all that is evil or painful.

Add the suffering of a little, child, and our dilemma compounds. Christian or not, we all have questions about suffering, especially when it strikes close to home.

The answer is simple but not easy. On most accounts, barring a few exceptions, God allows human suffering as a means of redemption (Rom 8:20). That's simply stated, yet difficult to accept. No matter what the source of sufferingaccident, illness, evil, or SatanGod allows it to occur.

Because of the original sin of our ancestors, and humanity's perpetuation of sin, suffering inevitably follows (Rom 5:12). However, in the pain of life, the pretense of our independence is stripped way and our need for God exposed. I wish this could happen through the good things, but apparently, it takes pain to get our attention.

That God answers prayer, averts harm, and alleviates suffering, is a great tribute to His mercy and love. God does, upon occasion, miraculously intervene in suffering. Yet, there is no denyingmany miseries continue to plague humanity. (I highly recommend reading C. S. Lewis' The Problem of Pain for a thorough and helpful answer on the subject)

Now, as to why any one individual suffers, I cannot say, but here are a few possibilities. 1) We live in a sin-cursed world of evil and suffering that we brought upon ourselves (Genesis 3:14-19). 2) The devil is at work, wreaking havoc (1 Pet 5:8). 3) People make poor choices with painful consequences. 4) Genetic predispositions. 5) Accidents. 6) An eternal purpose working towards a greater good (Gal 4:13).

That's where faith comes in. Faith holds loosely to what it does not understandsuffering includedand yet holds tightly to what is does understand, namely, that "The LORD is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made" (Psa 145:9). Faith affirms that God is intimately aware of all our problems (Matt 10:29) and that the one who believes in Christ will one day lay down suffering for all eternity (John 14:1-3). Faith insists that in heaven, God "will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away" (Rev 21:4).

Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Problem With The Church

2010-07-30T07:08:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 08/05/2010

“What's wrong with the church?”

By “the church,” we mean the worldwide, history-spanning, Christ-instituted, body of believers that expresses itself in local congregations (Matt 16:18). The church is not a building, nor a particular denomination, but a movement of “fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God” (Eph 2:19).

The church is a high ideal, flowing from the absolute perfection that is God. Fault is absent in the nature, intention, structure, and purpose, of the church. A better organization cannot be found. The church, as God intends it, is the perfect society. Believers are fellow citizens, living under the wise and protective rule of our Kingly Father (Phil 3:20). We are his children—brothers and sisters united in common cause (Matt 12:50). In our assembly, help and resources course through our ranks. We gather to grow in the knowledge of the Lord, and to better develop a love for all.

However, in all of life, there is a gap between the ideal and the actual. The church, as instituted by Christ, is perfect—it is the members that mess it up. Far too often, Christians from among our ranks, soil the testimony of the church. You don't have to look too far to find another “somebody done somebody wrong song.” Sad, but true.

What is wrong with the church is not God's part, but due in part, to the faults and sins of Christians. Our witness is further tarnished by all who call themselves "Christian," but are so, in name only. This second part we must allow—the church refuses to control people's lives, or to lock them out until they are perfect (which will never happen!).

Any sinner is welcomed in the church. They may choose to live scurrilously and yet claim salvation. Yes, this harms people's view of the church, but consider what would happen if we so tightened the rules to allow only those who prove the high ideals of faith. I dare say that the church would become a dictatorial and Pharisaical club of the proud elite. No, we choose to open the doors to all, regardless of the consequences.

If you are one who stays away from the church because of her human deficiencies, let me suggest to you the inconsistency your position. Do you still invest in spite of Stock fraud? Do you still shop in spite of rude sales clerks? Do you still attend the ballpark in spite of the sports tithe required? Of course you do. Get my point?

Human failure is a part of every human institution, without exception. Every flaw in the church is in every organization. Why? Because we are all sinners. We all fall short of the ideals we espouse (see Romans 7:15-25 for the reality check). Well, if you're staying away from the church because of all the hypocrites, there's room for one more!

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Gimme, Gimme!

2010-07-22T07:50:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/29/2010

"Will God give you anything you want?"

A surface reading of the Bible seems to indicate that God does indeed give you what you want. Jesus says, in Mark 11:24: “Whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Mat 7:7 says: "Ask and it will be given to you.”

Is this some sort of divine “carte blanche,” or are there stipulations to answered prayer? Some see these promises as though God is handing over a signed check. Just fill in whatever amount you want and it's yours! On the opposite extreme, some expect so little from God that they get what they want—little.

May I suggest the radical middle? Psalms 37:4 strikes the balance: “Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” God gives to those whose preeminent delight is God himself. Those most occupied with the glory of God, the advancement of His kingdom, and eternal values, have the desires of their hearts granted. Why? Because their motives are pure and the will of God is their chief desire.

I see four primary stipulations to “getting what you want.”

First, God considers our motives. James 4:3 says: “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” If the motive is wrong or selfish, then the prayer unanswered.

Secondly, God gives what is “good.” That is, he considers whether what we ask for serves Himself, the good of our neighbors, and our good— in that order. "No good thing does He withhold." (Psa 84:11)

Thirdly, God honors our faith. We must ask God in “faith...not doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord” (James 1:6-7).

Finally, God answers prayer in accordance with his will. His eternal purpose ought to be the ultimate end of all we pray for. Jesus taught us to pray: “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven” (Matt 6:10). This requires continued and careful study of the New Testament, not the shallow reasoning that has all kinds of folks asking for all kinds of things. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things (the stuff of this life) will be added to you” (Matt 6:33). You see, God meets our needs, not our greeds.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Teach Your Children Well

2010-07-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/22/2010

"What should we do if our child doesn't want to go to church or youth group? Should we make them go?"

Yes, make them go. End of discussion. You are the parent and hold enormous responsibility for the spiritual well being of your children. They may whine for a time, but when they're in their 30s, they will thank you.

Think of this another way: If your children don't want to go to school, do you make them go? Of course you do! Our kids know that this is a battle they cannot win. Meeting your firm resolve, they resign themselves to going to school and, as a result, gain great benefit. I don't know too many adults who now wish they had never gone to school.

So, if a conventional education is valuable for this life, how much more a religious education for eternal life? Proverbs 29:15 says that firm guidance helps our children grow in wisdom, and that "a child left to himself" will go astray—and break your heart in the process.

One argument made for not enforcing church attendance goes something like this: "When I was a kid, I was made to go to church, and I hated it. No child of mine is going to go if they don't want to!" That kind of thinking has kids eating only candy and passing on the fruit and vegetables. As parents, we do what's best for them. That's what love does.

Single parents have a special challenge. They are so busy and stressed with all their responsibilities that it's tempting for them to give up. They get tired of fighting these battles with their children. They may want to throw their hands up, throw in the towel, and hope for the best—which will not occur without consistent parental direction.

Others have said they want their child to be free to explore and discover spiritual things by themselves. Those who say such things are sending the message that they have no convictions worth passing on—no certainties—nothing worth living or dying for. "Just go for it kid… hope you find something out there!" This kind of parental entropy will not help your child form a solid spiritual foundation—quite the contrary.

Parents, who go to great lengths to befriend their children, but neglect their upbringing, create nothing but trouble down the road. Be the parent now, and you will have their friendship to enjoy in their adult years.

When our kids complain about church going—or eating vegetables for that matter—they are testing the boundaries. They want to know where the lines are drawn. A firm and loving yes or no, adds to their security. Ultimately, they will love you for it. Until then, stay the course!

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music?

2010-07-09T07:24:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/15/2010

“Is any music style forbidden to be used by Christians?"

Among some Christians, certain music styles are considered immoral—even demonic —partly because some styles have been inundated with debauchery. Others condemn a style because the beat sounds like voodoo drums. Never mind that the voodoo beat is a simple 4/4 timing signature used by almost every music style. It that's the case, we might as well condemn all photography because some use it shamefully.

Be it music, art, the Internet, or any medium, these things are "amoral"—meaning without morality. They are neither good nor bad. Only people—free moral agents—determine how a thing is used, whether towards the immoral or the virtuous.

No doubt, our biases are as vast as our unique differences. Because we object to a certain music style, let us avoid the "thus saith the Lord" of private conviction. Yes, I too, loathe certain styles, but we should allow music that promotes the good or the worship of God—no matter the style. True art finds its first source in God, from which all artistry is borrowed.

As with any cultural question, the final answer must come from the Word of God. God is the author of music and art, and we, created in His image have the essence of God's creativity (Ex 31:2-5). The Bible contains hundreds of songs, numerous instruments, and many references to music. In most instances, the use of music is positive, promoting joyous celebration or the worship of God (Luke 15:25). The few exceptions say nothing about the music style itself. And where music is absent, joy is lacking (Eze 26:13).

Today, as in the days of the early church, music styles continue to change along with the flux of our ever-changing culture. Let us be sure to hold to the unchanging truth of God's Word, and may our Christian values permeate every music style, for the glory of God. Rock on!

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

What Is Man?

2010-07-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/08/2010

“Who are we?”

For five years, I have been writing the “Ask The Pastor” column—collecting your questions and offering my best answers. The questions most often asked have to do with evil and suffering—and why God allows it. However, I believe there is a larger, more universal, question that few venture to ask, either because it exposes our fears, has moral consequences, or because we are unable to articulate this deepest of longings. That question has to do, specifically, with who we are individually and, corporately, with who we are as a people.

Judeo-Christian theology says God makes us for His pleasure. Darwinism says we are the product of blind chance. Other religions identify a divinity that is either unknowable, impersonal, or dictatorial. I propose that the answer to this question is only found in the knowable, personal, and liberating God of the Bible.

David, the Shepherd/King/Psalmist, ponders in Psalm 8:4: “What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?” You see, this question is as old as the hills. All humans, from every century, seek the truth of their origin and purpose, because God “has put eternity into man's heart” (Ecc 3:11). Augustine echoes our universal vexation: “Our hearts are restless until they find rest in Thee.”

Now, I am a fan of The Science Channel. I especially love the inferences of Einstein's theories, and the speculations surrounding wormholes, black holes, and my favorite—dark matter. No doubt, there is much admirable zeal directed toward unlocking the mysteries of the universe. But let the reader beware: there are as many theories concerning man's origin as “Doans has pills.” Science proves to be of vast importance regarding the practical physics of engineering, the quantifying of knowable facts, and such. Nevertheless, there is much uninformed perception that Science can answer all of life's perplexities. It cannot.

Ultimately, you and I only find who we are, and the purpose of our life, in relationship with God. Again, David marvels at the realization that humankind is the highest of God's creation and that God has given us dominion over the earth (Psa 8:5-6). Furthermore, David marvels at the sacred life of the womb, the wonder of our bodies, God's attentiveness to us, and the preciousness of His thoughts towards us (Psa 139:13-18). Amazing!

So who are we? Fantastic creations of the living, loving God, who are made to love Him, and who find our greatest destiny in relationship to Him. So the choice is yours. You can either follow every philosophical rabbit-trail to a dead-end, or you can come to know the God who loves you, who made you, and who has a plan for your eternal good (Jer 29:11).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Don't Touch Me!

2010-06-24T09:35:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 07/01/2010

“What did Jesus mean when he told Mary Magdalene; 'touch me not'?”

When Jesus rose from the dead, he first appears to Mary Magdalene. As she runs to embrace Him, Jesus says: “Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father” (John 20:17KJV). The King James translation leads some to conclude that contact would either harm Mary, or hinder Christ's ascension. Classical art depicts the scene with Jesus gesturing 'halt' to Mary, that she dare not cross the line of safety.

However, the original Greek language gives the true meaning: “stopping clinging to me.” Matthew's Gospel explains further, that Mary Magdalene, and Mary, the mother of James, “took hold of his feet, and worshiped him” (Matt 28:9). Not long after this event, Jesus invites Thomas, and all the apostles, to touch Him (John 20:27; Luke 24:39).

So, Mary, nor the others, is forbidden to touch the risen Jesus. The reason why is a little less clear. Here are three possibilities: First, Jesus may be using a colloquialism to say, in a lighthearted way: “Stop hanging all over me, I've got to be going.” Secondly, Jesus may be signaling to Mary that His earthly mission is complete, and that she cannot hold on, for He must go. Finally, Jesus, intent upon His mission, is calling the greeting to an end, with the command the women go the apostles and tell them of His resurrection (John 20:17).

Either way, the post-resurrection contacts are a loving exchange between Christ and his disciples. Today, we cannot physically touch our Lord, and yet, are invited to “draw near" to the risen Christ, because He “is able to save completely, those who draw near to God through him” (Heb 7:25). Therefore, “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith” (Heb 10:22).

Hebrews 12:18-24 offers a stark contrast between the giving of the Old and New Covenant. In the first, you held your distance, but now in Christ, you are called near, to touch Him by faith, and to cling for all eternity. “Touch me, and see” —Jesus (Luke 24:39).

—Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Finding A Good Church

2010-06-16T13:22:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/24/2010

“What should I look for in a good church?”

It can be a daunting challenge when searching for a new church, whether you're new to the community, or needing to make a church-change. (Some of you may find the best church for you is the one you're in—but that's another subject for another day)

By a good church, we mean “the real deal” as Christ intended on earth. Here are my suggestions for finding a good church:

First of all, a good church will hold Christ—His death, resurrection, forgiveness, salvation, and glory—as primary and central to the church's ministry (1 Cor 15:3). Not the End Times, not political activism, not the Holy Spirit, not spiritual gifts, or social justice, but Jesus, first and foremost.

Secondly, a good church will adhere to the truthfulness, inspiration, and authority, of God's truth—the Bible (2 Tim 3:16). A simple question can easily settle this: Ask if they believe that the Bible is true. A short enthusiastic “yes” speaks volumes, and reveals their implicit beliefs concerning the Scriptures.

Thirdly, a good church prioritizes love for God and for all people—beginning with one another (Matt 22:37-39; Gal 6:10). This take time to ascertain, but you need to know if the congregation's love is more than theoretical, but practical.

Fourthly, a good church is obedient to the Great Commission—the call to “go” and to “make disciples of all nations” (Matt 28:19). Christ's church is to carry on His mission. Good churches encourage their members to live a witness for Christ, to proclaim the Gospel, and to organize ministry toward this end.

Fifthly, a good church respects its members, refuses to control or micromanage their lives, and promotes grace, mercy, and freedom—with utmost integrity (Gal 5:1; 1 Pet 5:3). Control and binding extra-biblical regulation is at the heart of the Phariseeism that Jesus decries.

Finally, most of us need a church that contextualizes its ministry in such a way that our family or we may benefit the most. Contextualization means a ministry methodology that is adapted to its target audience. These contextual elements include worship-music style, children's ministry options, philosophy of ministry, and the like.

In our church-search, we will not find perfection—wherever humans are involved—but a diligent and prayerful search should land us where God intends.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

World Youth

2010-06-10T10:37:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/17/2010

“What’s the biggest issue facing Christian youth, today?”

I posed this question to a teen recently, and she replied, “To be in the world, but not of it.” From my vantage-point, I could not agree more.

All other issues are secondary to this issue. Rebellion, partying, and sleeping around—all are symptomatic of those who are “of the world.”

The apostle John writes: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 John 2:15). John refers to “the world” as those values, attitudes, and behaviors, which are contrary to God’s loving wisdom as revealed in the Bible. “Worldly” therefore, is the antithesis of “Christian.”

Though living in the world, we must live as citizens of heaven. Our ultimate allegiance is to King Jesus. Our culture is the kingdom of God. Our constitution is the Scriptures. Our values are eternal. Our love for God and others has priority over our own selfish needs. These are the ideals toward which we aim.

If Christian youth (and everyone else for that matter) choose to live up to these ideals, then it will take a genuine, personal walk with God, one cultivated by daily prayer, serious Bible study, and believing friends to help along the way. Church, Youth Group, and Sunday School, are great places to start.

Now, to be “in the world” is the mandate of every disciple (John 17:16-21). We are like ambassadors residing in a foreign country. We have different values, a different culture, speak a different language and, though being far from our true home, we carry it in our hearts.

Christian Teen, you are in the High School, but you are not of it. You must respect and honor your teachers, and be a good fellow student, but as a “foreigner” you are different. Christian culture holds to sexual purity, honesty, and integrity. Your “country” believes that God created all things and that life is sacred. You value forgiveness, kindness, and reconciliation. You are willing to deny your needs for the greater good of others. Life is not about you—you standing in your strength, you plotting your own course. You are on a holy mission, set apart as God’s representative.

Just as every ambassador has the full weight of his nation behind him, every disciple—teen or otherwise—has the support of God through the power of the Holy Spirit to live “in the world, but not of it.”

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Cliques

2010-06-03T09:07:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/10/2010

"I am excluded by the cliques in my church. Please address this issue!"

A clique is a small group of people within the boundaries of a larger group. Cliques share common interests, and—in churches—are usually united by the bonds of family or friendship.

On one hand it is natural and normal for like-minded or related people to gather together. I see nothing wrong with peer groups. Preference is not a sin. These types of friendships are healthy for any church.

On the other hand, we do want to guard against becoming isolated groups huddled together in dark corners, like secret societies, forbidding entrance to all but club members. Christians are to love all people and have a welcoming hospitable heart to all.

To prefer the company of friends is not a sin but discrimination is! For example, the book of James exhorts us to treat the rich and the poor alike. When we favor one over the other, James asks: "Have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?" (Jas 2:3-4).

Rather, the church is to be a family that is loving and gracious toward its members (Rom 12:16). "God sets the lonely in families" (Psa 68:6), and there is no better place than the church, where folks can experience that type of familial love.

From my viewpoint, very few of these cliques are intentionally exclusive. More often than not, a clique forms naturally, as people with similar interests gravitate toward one another. Admittedly, some cliques share a prejudice towards certain individuals, and so fall short of the ideal of Christian love. So, while cliques of some sort will form in every church, we must make sure the circle is kept open.

To the clique or "cliquee," let me exhort you to work at developing a mindset of outreach. If we see someone at church off by himself or herself, let's go out of our way to introduce ourselves and to draw them into conversation. Outside of church, let us welcome them into some of our activities.

To those who feel on the outside, be gracious and forgiving. Do not assume the worst of people; rather, assume the best (1 Cor 13:7). Your feelings of censure may be incorrect. Rather than harboring hurt, however, you be the proactive one, pursue relationship, and delve into the conversation. You just might find a welcome.

Proverbs 22:11 says: "He who loves purity of heart, and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend." There's a key principle here: If we will grow in godly character (purity of heart) and gain some relational skills along the way (gracious speech), then relationships will not be a problem.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Modern-Day Pharisees

2010-05-27T11:47:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 06/03/2010

“How can we guard against becoming modern-day Pharisees?”

Every serious disciple of Christ must address this question. Just like the Pharisees, it is possible for genuine believers to begin well on the journey of faith and then veer off into something less than true faith. Paul the Apostle rebukes the believers at Galatia for doing just that: “Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?” (Gal 3:3).

Phariseeism, as I see it, is the rigid adherence to strictly defined tenets applied with exacting legalism. Impossible to follow, Phariseeism’s strictures foster hypocrisy. However, the Pharisee movement began well, calling the people of God to a genuine faith and devotion. Nevertheless, over time, the movement gave way to religious regulations, joining the other “isms” of the world—possessing the shell of religion, but lacking true content.

Now, the Christian has a new nature in Christ, but our old nature still exerts influence upon us—bending us towards the Pharisaical. Our new nature, meanwhile, seeks to draw us into an inward close relationship with God. However, if neglected, relationship gives way to religion, and outward observance flourishes.

Here are four strategies for guarding against Phariseeism.

First, keep your relationship with God, priority number one! If we will keep God as our chief delight, obeying his commands, loving Him, worshiping Him, and communing with Him, then, we will not be susceptible to the Pharisaical pull of the “doctrines and commandments of men” (Matt 15:9).

Secondly, avoid man-imposed burdens—excessive obligations that exceed Scriptural warrant. Jesus warns us of those who “load people with burdens hard to bear” (Luke 11:46). The Apostle John says that God's commands are not a burden when we love Him (1 John 5:3). Let us be on guard against purported “commands” that are without biblical sanction, that subjugate rather than liberate.

Thirdly, go deep in honesty and authenticity, both with God and others. Jesus cautions us: “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy” (Luke 12:1). Being more concerned with external appearances and what others think, rather than inward honesty, is the hallmark of the Pharisee (Matt 23:25-26). Better to be real and to have God's approval, than to play a role in order to gain the approval of others (1 John 1:7).

Finally, pursue the freedom given you in Christ: “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery” (Gal 5:1). Jesus came to liberate, not to enslave. He came “to bring good news to the poor... to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Isa 61:1-2; Luke 4:18).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Come On Down!

2010-05-20T07:02:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/27/2010

“Where is 'the altar call' taught in the Bible?”

“An altar call is a practice in some evangelical churches in which those who wish to make a new spiritual commitment to Jesus Christ are invited to come forward publicly. It is so named because the supplicants gather at the altar located at the front of the church” (Wikipedia). The altar call has its origin in the 19th century in the ministry of American revivalist, Charles Finney. More recently, it has been popularized by Billy Graham.

You know the drill. At the end of a sermon that calls people to spiritual commitment, a challenge is set forth. The penitents are urged to come forward and to profess their faith in Christ. Those embarrassed to do so are warned of the dangers of being "ashamed" of Jesus (Mark 8:38). Churches avoiding 'the altar call,' are considered shallow and lacking evangelical zeal.

Some cite the altar call's positive benefits in helping the wavering come to a firm faith. Others see it as an artificial barrier that keeps the timid away, or as a misleading guide to the assurance of salvation. However, I know of no clear teaching of Scripture that mandates an altar call.

The Bible does call people to make public professions of faith (Matt 10:32), without specifying a particular mode. Historical orthodoxy promotes public confession following salvation at baptism (1 Tim 6:12; Rom 10:9). However, public faith is a way of life, not a church service rite (Heb 13:15).

Now, the bulk of my Christian relationships are among believers who value highly the altar call. At one time, I viewed it as a valuable tool, one vital to salvation—but no more. I still call people to respond in faith to Christ, but I do not think that responding to an altar call is the only way they can do so. Jesus warned against our making hard and fast rules which lack Scriptural authority (Mat 15:9). Otherwise, we may lay an unneeded “burden,” barrier, and rule upon those who might otherwise be ready to respond to Christ (Matt 23:4).

The power of salvation lies in no particular evangelistic methodology but in the unashamed preaching of the gospel: "For it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes" (Rom 1:16). Better to trust in the Father's work of drawing people to salvation (Joh 6:44), and the Holy Spirit's convicting of sin (John 16:8), than to any extra-biblical evangelistic strategy.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Purposeful Living

2010-05-13T08:14:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/20/2010

"How can I discover what God wants to do with my life?"

Few there are who know precisely the purpose of their life and live it to its fullest potential. Yes, life can be enjoyable and rewarding, yet fall short of divine purpose—a purpose, only found in relationship with God.

God’s purpose for every person is both universal and specific. The universal purpose we share is the will of God, as revealed in the New Testament. This is our starting point. As we follow the will of God, growing in the wisdom and knowledge of God, we are better equipped to discern His all-encompassing purpose (Romans 12:2). Under the umbrella of His universal will, we may grasp God’s specific purpose for our lives.

The Bible teaches that all believers have different gifts from God, no matter how inconspicuous these gifts may be in the eyes of men (1 Cor 12). We live in a culture that exalts the individual, the celebrity, and the achiever. The gifts most widely celebrated may, indeed, be good and useful, but God sees and honors the less conspicuous gifts (v24).

So never think that, though your place in God's divine plan, takes place “in the wings,” that it is of lesser value to the Lord. On the contrary, those placed “on a pedestal” need beware less they fall, not to mention the greater responsibilities such positions carry. Nevertheless, whether you are multi-talented or posses just a few gifts, God has wired you for His purpose.

Remember, God loves you personally, is intimately aware of you (Psalm 139), and desires you to live at the pinnacle of His will for you (Romans 8:19). In Christ, you are a person of divine destiny. Still, to uncover your specific purpose is more of a process than an immediate revelation.

I am convinced that far too many Christians, in their quest to discover their specific purpose, ignore their general calling, thereby fulfilling neither. However, if we will be faithful in whatever the Lord puts before us, no matter how small it seems, God will lead us into our specific purpose. As you seek the Lord, serve Him faithfully, and (do not neglect this part) serve others, your destiny will manifest. Let the adventure begin!

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Turn The Other Cheek

2010-05-06T12:49:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/13/2010

“How many times do you turn the other cheek—until it's black and blue?”

Eight times in Scripture there is reference to striking on the cheek. In each case, this metaphor signifies an offense of some sort. Micah 5:1 likens Babylon's attack on Jerusalem to striking God on the cheek. Jesus said: “If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matt 5:39). By employing this metaphor, Jesus does not command pacifism, per se; rather he offers a general principle for dealing with offense. Namely, Christians, in the face of offenses, are not to be hateful or retaliatory.

The Christian is to 'run against the grain' of our society's bent toward hatred and violence. We are to love our enemies, pray for our persecutors, and forgive our offenders (Mat 5:43-48, 6:14). In a world of conflict, we are to be peacemakers and promoters of love (Matt 5:9). When offended, the Spirit-filled disciple is to guard against their base passions and respond, instead, with wisdom, self-control, and love. Though we often fall short, these are the ideals to which we aspire.

Jesus’ saying provokes a larger question: Are Christians permitted to defend themselves? To this, I see a resounding “yes” in the biblical record. Scripture teaches our lives are valuable, worth protecting, and that self-defense is necessary to deter evil (Ex 22:2; Neh 4:14; Est 8:11-9:16). Even Jesus allowed that his disciples may need a “sword”—a weapon necessary for protection against wild animals and thieves who preyed on travelers (Luke 22:36).

Natural law, those innate moral impulses, planted within us by God—promote the preservation and protection of human life. Thomas Aquinas reasoned: “Those acts that are in accordance with natural law are lawful. The preservation of life is a precept of natural law. Therefore, the preservation of life is lawful. Therefore, self-defense is lawful.” I agree.

Therefore, it is necessary and good to one defend oneself and others against violence. This is especially true where there is physical violence, rape, bullying, and the like.

However, to “turn the other cheek” means to let go of all the petty offenses of this life. “Live in harmony with one another... Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." To the contrary, "if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom 12:16-21).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Tools of the Trade

2010-04-29T07:55:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 05/06/2010

“How can I discover my spiritual gifts?”

Everyone—without exception—wants to know who they are, how they are 'wired,' and for what purpose they might live their lives. The Christian finds his or her design in relationship to God, and in God's eternal purposes. However, that is not to say that this comes easy for believers, because (usually) our spiritual gifts only become evident as we grow in Christ.

All believers are indwelt with God's Holy Spirit and are given spiritual gifts (Acts 2:38; Rom 12:6). These gifts are practical—intended for the ongoing ministry of Jesus, through His church. “All these [gifts] are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills” (1 Cor 12:11).

Though not a comprehensive list, the primary passages on spiritual gifts are Romans 12:6-11,1 Corinthians 12:8-11, and Ephesians 4:11.

Churches tend to fall into three general categories on this subject: Those who see the "sign gifts" of 1 Cor 12 as no longer in operation, those who use them to an excessive degree, and those who hold to “the radical middle”—the position to which I espouse.

Without delving into the debate on differing approaches, I find no definitive Scripture that states that spiritual gifts shall cease before Christ returns. Neither do I find biblical warrant for the excesses typified by some televangelists. However, the New Testament is replete with accounts of common folk who have been supernaturally empowered and gifted to accomplish Christ's mission. Other instructive portions of the New Testament indicate spiritual gifts as part of the church's “tools of the trade.”

That the gifts can be misused is unarguable. However, “disuse” is not the proper correction for “misuse.” Rather, we need a clear, straightforward, Biblical framework, being careful not to “go beyond what is written” (1 Cor 4:6 ). Next—and this is the harder part—we need to look past what we see in “church-culture” and stick with the simplicity of the New Testament model.

I have four suggestions for discovering your spiritual gift(s). First, you must be a Christian, for only in Christ do we begin to know our destiny and unique calling. Secondly, we should seek to discover our gift(s) through service. As we selflessly serve the Lord and those around us, our gift(s) will become manifest, for gifts are typically revealed only as they are given away. Thirdly, we should consider what kind of ministry gives us joy. Often we find that we are spiritually gifted to do the very things we most desire to do. Finally, we should enlist the counsel of godly and mature Christians, who often see our gift(s) before we do.

We should desire spiritual gifts because we love God and want to see Him glorified through the ministry of His people. Moreover, because we love all humanity, we need all the tools that God provides to be used by Him to impact our generation. “Love should be your guide. Be eager to have the gifts that come from the Holy Spirit” (1 Cor 14:1CEV).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Grappling with Guilt

2010-04-22T12:34:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/29/010

Grappling with Guilt

"I love and serve the Lord, but I feel guilty about everything. Is there hope for me?"

First, let us separate actual guilt from feelings of guilt. Actual guilt means you did wrong and are responsible, whether you feel guilty or not. On the other hand, guilt feelings can remain, even when we do what's right. Qualms of conscience are not always a good barometer of real guilt, but given God's transformational work in our lives, the conscience can become a good ally.

That one should feel guilt for sin is normal. Guilt provides us with an important motivation to turn from sin. But some of us are ‘wired’ to feel guilty to an unhealthy degree. Many factors account for this—including an unhealthy upbringing or various medical problems. For most, however, the solution to excessive feelings of guilt lies in God's progressive work in our lives.

When we enter into our walk with Christ, we are made “a new person—the past is forgotten and everything is new” (2 Cor 5:17 CEV). However, we often carry the 'baggage' of old attitudes that may contribute to guilt. Some define this guilty mindset as ”scrupulosity,” which is defined as an obsessive concern with one's personal sins. The term is derived from the Latin 'scrupulus,' a sharp stone, implying a stabbing pain on the conscience" (Wikipedia).

No matter what contributes to our current state of mind (provided we've eliminated the medical aspect) we can have every hope that God will help us in the matter. As we continue to serve and seek the Lord, He will give us a deeper revelation of His love for us (Eph 3:18), a richer apprehension of His amazing grace (Eph 2:7), a larger appreciation for Christ's sacrifice (Heb 9:26), and a sounder mind in Christ (Rom 12:2; Phil 4:8-9).

So, God is a work in every believer, placing guilt in its proper context. For our part, we participate with His transformative work through the regular engagement of corporate worship, prayer, Bible study, right choices, and "doing the will of God from the heart" (Eph 6:6).

I find it helpful to have an aggressive strategy in place for those times when guilt feelings are most pronounced. First, ask the Lord if there is any sin prompting the guilt. Because "God is light" (1 Jn 1:5), if we are guilty of sin, God will make the offense perfectly clear, and also make a ready offer of forgiveness. If there is sin, confess it openly and honestly before the Lord. Secondly, accept God's forgiveness by faith. Period. Thirdly, if feelings of guilt continue, we must conclude they are not from God and to be rejected—forcefully.

Finally, rehearse what the Scripture says about who you are in Christ: "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!"" (Rom 8:15).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Taking God's Name in Vain

2010-04-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/22/10

“Why do people take Lord’s name in vain--why not Buddha, Confucius, or some other god?”

The name of Jesus is “the name that is above every name" (Phil 2:9), and yet it is misused above all others. To take the name of the Lord in vain, means to treat it as something with no worth. Take God’s name in vain enough, and you will no longer respect it enough to use it when you need it the most.

The Scriptures teach that there is power in the name of Jesus—for salvation, for the miraculous, for overcoming evil. No similar promises are made concerning the name of Buddha, Confucius, Vishnu, Mohammed, or any other so-called god. For this very reason Satan works to minimize the power of that name. Many people have been used, unwittingly, as his tools to treat God as worthless—to their own harm.

I do believe, by and large, that those who curse with Christ’s name, or the infamous “GD”, do so, unaware of the implications. Cursing may be a bad habit picked up in the home, the military, or on the job, but it is a blasphemy against a holy God who will judge the world in righteousness. Use the Lord’s name in vain, but remember: “Men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew 12:36-37)

If you’re someone who can curse a blue streak, or if only the occasional profanity escapes your lips, you must, either way, consider the eternal implication of Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”

So bite your tongue, and show a little respect for the One who paid a terrible price to save you. Someday you will need that tongue to confess your sin, to ask His forgiveness, and to proclaim Him as Savior.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)
PS. To submit your question for Pastor Scott, you may email him at harvestnow@gmail.com or write him at PO Box 98, Shambaugh, IA 51651

Faith Without Doctrine?

2010-04-08T09:02:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/15/2010

"Is it possible to believe in Jesus without having any concern for doctrine?"

I often hear this sort of question. What one intends by saying such a thing is that they desire a genuine faith without being encumbered with a host of mind-numbing, apparently irrelevant, details. Their premise seems to be that if one focuses in too much on the doctrines of Christian faith, they will undermine humility, love, the Spirit, and relationship with Christ.

However, this is not the case—quite the opposite. Doctrine is indispensable to true Christian faith. Without sound doctrine we have no saving faith. Christian doctrines are simply the God-given, fundamental teachings and principles of the Bible to aid the disciple in knowing and serving God.

In a sense, every perspective, value, and attitude we posses, on any given matter, is the result of fundamental teachings and principles. These fundamental beliefs—whether derived from Scripture or elsewhere, shape our belief systems. To be doctrinally neutral is to be without opinions, convictions, and values worth defending. Therefore, everyone has doctrines by which they make their way in the world. The only question is whether those doctrines are true or false.

Good doctrines are supremely important! Ephesians 4:12-14 teaches that "doctrines" equip the believer with the tools needed to be mature and stable in Christ. 1 Timothy 1:10 advocates that "sound doctrine" is a means to promoting morality. Hebrews 13:9 says that "strange doctrines" can lead people into erroneous beliefs—beliefs that can lead to eternal condemnation. Clearly, then, doctrine is of eternal significance.

Every believer needs to apply themselves to learning doctrine. My Christian brothers and sisters, let me appeal to you to avoid the anti-intellectualism that is pervasive today in the church. You would think that to study doctrine, to develop the mind, to exercise the powers of reason, means that one has embarked upon the path of Pharisaical hypocrisy and turned their back on the Spirit. No doubt, knowledge may foster pride, but ignorance can lead to deception or destruction. What we need is the humble engagement of our minds with God's truth, in such a way that it promotes greater faith in Christ, love for others, and dependence upon the Holy Spirit.

We can't believe in Jesus without knowing something about Him. That "something" is doctrine.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Bad Things, Good People

2010-04-01T12:24:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/08/2010

“Why do bad things happen to good people?”

Bad things happen to good people because bad things happen to all people. Not doubt, it troubles us to see evil people get away with their crimes, while, at the same time, good people suffer. Some of the causes of “bad things” are accidents, heredity, poor health habits, the actions of others, the work of demonic forces, and such—all of which God allows to occur. We should not assume that an evil reaped is the result of an evil sown (Luke 13:2-5).

Ultimately, bad things occur because of the sin begun in Eden's garden, since perpetuated by all of us (Rom 5:12). Adam and Eve disobeyed God, and in His love, God subjected the world to a curse. What followed was hardship, pain, suffering, disease, weakness, death, and the like (Genesis 3:14-19).

But you may protest: “God is love! How can a loving God allow such things to occur?” The answer is simple, but not easily accepted—especially when the true meaning of love is not grasped. Romans 8:20-21 gives explanation as to 'why' God placed the world under this curse: Because hardship is the only possible means to awaken the human heart to its need for God and, thereby, be saved from God's just judgment on sin.

You see, God's love is not merely emotional, but rather a commitment to the ultimate good. He knows our nature—He made us! He knows that we never turn to Him in the fair seasons of life. When life is going well, we feel we don't need God, and so live in the illusion of our independence. But introduce pain into our circumstance, and our frailty is exposed. “Bad things” accentuate our need for help—for God. God loves us so much that He is unwilling to let us to live in a deception that keeps us from Him.

When I was 19 years old, I was hit by a car, broke my leg, spent a month in the hospital, and took a year to heal. In one moment, my youthful sense of immortality was shattered. Years later, I came to appreciate my season of suffering, as I encountered the following illustration:

When a shepherd has a wandering sheep, it's just a matter of time before it falls prey to the wolf. So that shepherd, to save his beloved lamb, will break its leg. Now, wherever the shepherd goes, he must carry that broken lamb. As the lamb heals, he comes to know the shepherd. When the lamb has finally healed, he will graze close to the shepherd—he will never leave. He has come to love his shepherd through suffering.

So you see, “bad things” can become a catalyst for great good, if you'll let them.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Is Your God in a Box?

2010-03-25T09:37:00.001-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 04/01/2010

In Christ's 'Triumphal Entry,' we believers see ourselves in the crowd supporting Jesus, but is it possible that we could have, in their shoes, sided with his opponents?”

Jesus rides into Jerusalem, to the cheers of the crowd, and the jeers of the religious elite (Matt 21:9-15). With which side would you have stood? Don’t answer until you’ve considered the following:

By-and-large, those who stood with him were the sinners who knew their need for God. Those who jeered were the bible scholars—the defenders of God’s truth.

What determines where we would have stood, and perhaps where we might presently stand? If we could reduce it to one characteristic, perhaps it would have to do with the degree we are willing to yield and bend our lives to the ways of God.

The Pharisees were unable to recognize God’s Messiah because He did not fit within the rigid structure of their religious views. Jesus, at every turn, pushed the envelope of their narrow perspective. He healed on the Sabbath. He forgave adulterers. He preached mercy over Law. He declared His deity. For these leaders, it was inconceivable that Jesus was the Messiah, but He was!

The danger today is that people make assumptions about faith-matters, adopt an immovable position, and then refuse to change their views, no matter what truth presents itself. We are in great spiritual danger when we think we have God all figured out and become closed to anything that does not fit our predefined template. But remember: You can’t put God in a box!

All people develop over time a worldview—a framework of core values and beliefs—by which they evaluate what is true, what is right, and how they should live. However, if we frame God in a box and prohibit anything that exceeds our predefinition, we may very well fail to see God on the most important issues or all, with devastating consequences: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to [spiritual] death” (Proverbs 14:12).

Now, I’m not saying that anything goes. Nor am I suggesting that truth is relative, unknowable, or changeable. We should hold firmly to the clear doctrines of Scripture, such as: the Trinity, the Deity of Christ, the Atonement, the Way of salvation, and the reliability of the Bible. However, we should hold loosely to those speculations that have unwittingly made their way into Christian thinking.

So, let us come as unworthy sinners, yielding ourselves to all that Christ is, following Him in faith, listening to all He teaches, staying open to His unfolding revelation, and lending our voices in worship: “Hosanna to the Son of David!” (Matt 21:15).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

Bible Translations

2010-03-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/25/2010

"If the Bible is trustworthy, then why are there so many versions?"

The Bible is a translation from the original manuscripts of Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Differing versions occur because language is in constant flux and therefore in need of constant updating. This explains why the Elizabethan language of the King James Bible has been updated to the modern English of the New King James Bible. Other translations target specific groups, such as children, people learning English as a second language, those speaking International English, and the more casual American English. This explains the many translations. Notice I said "translations," not "versions." There are no differing "versions" offering contradictory stories but different approaches to translation.

The fact that we have many Bible translations does not necessarily imply contradiction or error. Usually, such an accusation is not the result of serious inquiry, but rather the ill-informed musings of skeptics. However, with a little bit of effort, this issue is easily settled.

Though there are different schools of thought on translation, the basic rule to which most Christians adhere is that the Bible is inspired and without error in the original text (2 Timothy 3:16). Most translations hold fast to this rule, coming about through teams of Christian scholars and years of research.

There are many excellent English translations. The English Standard Version (ESV) is an "essentially literal," word-for-word translation. The New American Standard (NASB), is also a fine word-for-word translation. The New International Version (NIV) is a great thought-for-thought translation and very readable. The New Living Translation (NLT) is an easy-to-read paraphrase, well suited for young people or new Christians.

No doubt, the Bible does contain 'some' complexities. However, the difficulty with understanding the Bible does not usually come from its vocabulary or grammatical complexity—there's a translation to fit almost anyones reading preference. More likely, this issue has to do with whether we're willing to follow the Lord, or not. Jesus said: "Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own" (John 7:17 NLT). So, the truth of Jesus' words—the Bible—is spiritually discerned by those willing to follow. Honestly, many concur with Mark Twain who said: "Most people are bothered by those passages in Scripture which they cannot understand. The Scripture which troubles me most is the Scripture I do understand." Well said!

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Resurrection of the Body

2010-03-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/18/2010

"Why do we need our bodies after we die?"

Our bodies await future full redemption (Rom 8:19-23). When Christ returns, the "perishable body must put on the imperishable" (1Co 15:53). Our risen bodies will be raised in "glory" and "power," as spiritual bodies (1 Cor 15:42-44). We do not know what all that entails, "but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:2).

However, some may think that because the inner person is the eternal person, that future bodies are just an afterthought. Some of these ideas are the result of the pagan "dualism" that made its way—unbidden—into the early church. Simply, dualism elevates the inward person, and relegates the body to little more than a cardboard container to be discarded after use.

This kind of thinking has devastating consequences. To the dualist, since the spirit/soul alone is of eternal value, and the body a temporary container, then it doesn't matter what the body does, as long as the spirit/soul is in union with God. Such philosophy leads some to allow sexual immorality, drunkenness, gluttony, and other abuses of the body—as long as one remains, inwardly, committed to God. Some feel they are Christians because they believe in God, pray to Him, and think spiritual thoughts. Yet, all the while, they engage in physical behavior that the Bible says is, literally, damnable (Gal 5:19-21).

Our bodies are more important to God than we can imagine. No, we are not just a "ghost in the machine," able to serve God in our hearts while living carelessly with our bodies. In fact, "The body is no mere extrinsic instrument of the human person, but truly part of the personal reality of the human being. Human beings are not merely centers of consciousness or emotion, or minds, or spirits, inhabiting non-personal bodies. The human person is a dynamic unity of body, mind, and spirit" (The Manhattan Declaration: manhattandeclaration.org).

Theologian Gordon D. Fee, writes: "In the Christian view, there is no dichotomy between body and spirit that either indulges the body because it is irrelevant or punishes it to purify the soul... Not the immortality of the soul but the resurrection of the body is the Christian creed... both the physical and spiritual orders are good because God created them... the whole fallen order, including the body, has been redeemed in Christ and awaits its final redemption."

The application of this truth leads us to conclude that the whole person needs to be submitted to God—spirit and body (Rom 6:13,19). This affects how we think about sexuality, health, and even issues like tattooing, piercing, and the like. Realizing that God cares about the body impacts the way we behave towards our fellow humans. We should do as much to feed them physically as spiritually. May we be good stewards of all that God entrusts to us, and that includes the body!

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

In Christ

2010-03-04T09:01:00.000-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/11/2010

"What does it mean to be 'in Christ'?"

The phrase, "in Christ," appears 89 times in the New Testament. The phrase, "in Him," or something similar, appears over 100 times. Those "in Christ" are those who, by faith, "abide" like the branch in the vine (John 15). Just as the vine is the life giving source for the branch, so is Christ to those who follow Him. Being in Christ, we are in union with Him, having salvation and every spiritual blessing (Eph 1:3). Christ alone is the means by which all things good and eternal come to those who believe.

One further insight comes as we contrast the phrase "in Adam." 1 Corinthians 15:22 says: "For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive." To be "in Adam" is to be spiritually dead, ruled by the sinful nature, and facing a future of eternal death. By contrast, being "in Christ" is to be spiritually alive, governed by the life-giving Spirit, and having eternal life. "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old is passed away. Behold, all things are new" (2 Cor 5:17).

C. S. Lewis addresses the subject this way: "There is no other way to the happiness for which we were made. Good things as well as bad, you know, are caught by a kind of infection. If you want to get warm you must stand near the fire: if you want to be wet you must get into the water. If you want joy, power, peace, eternal life, you must get close to, or even into, the thing that has them. They are not a sort of prize which God could, if He chose, just hand out to anyone. They are a great fountain of energy and beauty spurting up at the very center of reality. If you are close to it, the spray will wet you: if you are not, you will remain dry. Once a man is united to God, how could he not live forever? Once a man is separated from God, what can he do but wither and die?"

So, in Christ, God's blessing flows over His people. However, some want the blessings of Christ without Christ. It is safe to say that people in general want such things as Lewis describes. People do experience, upon occasion, the thrills and ecstasies of life, yet they quickly spill through our hands and are gone; because no person has power to posses them ultimately and absolutely. None has the power to create or to sustain them. That is God's prerogative alone. It cannot be earned, but is given freely for those who believe "in Christ" (1 Cor 2:12).

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

The Chose People

2010-02-28T11:53:00.001-08:00

Clarinda Herald Journal publication date: 03/04/2010

"Are the Jews still the chosen people?"

The Old Testament, beginning with Abraham (Gen 12), recounts the history of God's work with His covenant people, Israel. In Deuteronomy 7:6-8, God designates the nation as His "chosen people," His "treasured possession," and those upon whom He has "set His love." The reader should note that this "chosen" status is no guarantee of salvation. Each individual must personally address that issue with God.

God's choosing of the Jews has much to do with the coming forth of the Messiah and His future call to all nations (Isa 49:6). When we come to the New Testament, the Jewish people, by rejecting Jesus the Messiah, do not cease to be uniquely God's, but they are under a "partial hardening"—something God intends to reverse in the End Times (Rom 11:25). The New Testament enlarges upon the idea, insisting that the chosen people are those who believe in and follow Christ, regardless of ethic origin (Gal 3:28, Col 3:12, 1 Pet 2:9).

Ephesians chapter two states very specifically that Jews and Gentiles now share one covenant. The election and salvation of Jews and Gentiles alike, no longer depends upon the Old, but rather the New Covenant of Christ. One Lord, one covenant, one chosen people, united in Christ.

However, God has not "rejected" Israel, as a whole, nor forgotten His covenant with Abraham (Rom 11). God promises a future time when many Jews will turn to follow Christ. Even now, Jews are turning to Christ in ever-increasing numbers. It is possible that "the End" is closer than we know!

I do not claim to know the specifics of election, but this much is certain: all who follow Christ by faith, are His elect—His chosen people. God has unique intention, not only for the Jews, but also for all humankind. Since God's call is available to all (John 3:16), and since all in Christ are God's elect people, you need to "make your calling and election sure" (1 Pet 1:10). How? By placing "faith" in Christ (1 Pet 1:1), and by following in a lifestyle that reflects the knowledge of God (1 Pet 1:5-8).

One final word on Israel. They have a unique place in God's heart and purpose. When I read the book of Romans, it's clear that Paul loves his fellow Israelites to such a degree that, were it possible, he would go to hell for them, if it would ensure their salvation (Rom 9:3). All Christians should have a similar love for Jews and cannot participate in anything that remotely resembles anti-Semitism. As for me, I choose to bless Israel and to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, because one day, our Jewish Messiah will come for all His chosen people—Jew and Gentile alike.

--Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)

PS. To submit your question for Pastor Scott, you may email him at harvestnow@gmail.com or write him at PO Box 98, Shambaugh, IA 51651