"Restoring Creation" (Romans 8:12-25)

Review and introduction

We saw last week (from 2 Corinthians 5) that as we receive Christ’s forgiveness we become part of God’s new creation. We read: “If anyone is in Christ – [there is a] new creation” (v.17). Through the work of Jesus, the old is passing away and the new is coming. The question then is … where do we stand in this? So often we only look inside, rather than out the window … at the broader picture of what God is doing. What is our part in this “new creation” that is emerging? We will turn [in a moment] to Romans chapter 8 to assist with the answer.

The resurrection of Jesus was the point in time when the old was over and the new came in. However, everything will not be completely new, and creation will not be fully restored, until Jesus returns, and everything is then put completely right. But, what are we called to do in the meantime?

I have seen attitudes that represent various responses (that I might add are contrary to Scripture):

·        Let the world go its own way, and we will find our little safety bubble

·        Criticise everything, blame the devil, and just wait for Jesus to return

·        The quicker the world dies, the sooner Jesus will come

·        God is in control, we don’t have to do anything

·        I’ll just worry about my own salvation and blessing

·        God will win in the end, so don’t worry about it, or,

·        It’s all too hard.

A little bit differently, with people seeing various tensions, the response may be:

·        I’ll give up on faith, because it seems that God has lost interest

·        I’ll give up on the church, because it seems to make no positive difference, or conversely,

·        An attitude of trying to fix everything, without first listening and relying on God.

Much more correctly:

·        We can live lives of active integrity that partner with God in the activity of restoring all creation.

We need to critique both complacency and despair. Any sense of immanence about the return of Jesus should heighten ethical action rather than diminish it. Our suffering and groaning should cause us to pursue with urgency the tasks of love and mutual service in the name of Jesus. God is equipping the church community in numerous ways to participate in His plans. We are called to stand as God’s sign of promise in a dark world, planting hope … by being ‘signposts’ … pointing to what God is going to do. The “new creation” is thus beginning to appear, whether it seems that way or not!

I use the notion of ‘restoring creation’, even though we also think in terms of “new” creation, because there was nothing wrong with the original creation until it was marred by bad human decision-making. It is the harmony and vision of the original creation that we want to re-capture. It is we who live in this environment, who can easily praise God for the wonders of creation. It is we who come to worship, who can easily appreciate the possibilities of redeemed humanity (for we ourselves have been redeemed).

The “old” that has passed away, is not what God described (at the beginning) as “very good”, but rather all those things that marred what began “very good”. “New” creation then, is the perfecting of what has gone astray, whether that be the physical environment (and everything contained in it), or human lives in the depth of their souls.

To put this simply – we are called to make the world a better place. We pray, “Your kingdom come; Your will be done, on earth, as it [already] is in heaven”. This is our prayer … when we hear the news each morning, when another catastrophe has been reported. But at the same time, this prayer engages us in being part of the solution … maybe only in small ways, but engaging us nonetheless.

Great chapter, great verses (Romans 8 verses 19-21)

If I asked you about great chapters of the Bible, I’m sure some really good ones would be suggested. Romans chapter 8 stands as one of those writings … that inspire the Jesus-following life in so many ways. We are here just studying the middle part, and only touching the surface. But this is the verse that fires me up … verse 19: For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God. I have to say that this is the concept that drives my thinking; while at the same time as feeling just as paralysed as many of you may do.

As we are revealed as God’s children before the world, positive things happen! And there is an expectation and longing within creation that people will be revealed as children of God. Despite how things look, there is hope – because God is out and about redeeming people into His Kingdom!

Who are the children of God? How are the children of God revealed?? What impact do they have??? Built into creation is the longing and the expectation for the redemptive activity of the children of God! There was nothing wrong with God’s original creation – it was brilliant; but it did have the capacity to be marred by human sin. And from the day of the “fall” (Genesis 3), and from the moment each of us make wrong decisions, creation is marred. Yet within this freewill for us to do good or evil, stands God’s gracious invitation to obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God (verse 21b). This has happened through what Jesus has done for us.

We become children of God as we accept the gift of forgiveness and reconciliation that God has brought to us. And then, as verse 14 puts it, … all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So it is those who accept God’s gift of forgiveness, come into relationship with Jesus, and go on with this in discipleship, that are the children of God.

We are saved ourselves in the hope that creation itself will receive its freedom (verses 20-21). So thus we take on the challenges that the world presents us with! We think about the issues of our time. Young people in detention being treated so badly! Mental health issues. Loneliness. Problem gambling. Substance abuse. Family violence and dislocation. Bullying … what do many violent offenders have in common? They were bullied; not to lessen their crime, but to understand the social problem that we need to remedy. Is it easier to build bigger prisons than tackle bullying? We can continue to treat symptoms or begin to address evil!

What are the issues that get you going?? We would have a collection of different concerns, some overlapping, some unique. We might differ on how we think about these, or how they should be addressed … which [by the way] still could be complimentary … but at least we are involved. We were given responsibility and stewardship for the earth from day one (Genesis 1:28), and that has never changed!

Suffering and groaning and healing (v.18, 22-25)

We ourselves continue to suffer as victims of sin … both our own sin and that of others. The whole human environment is suffering and groaning in maybe unprecedented proportions. So much violence and shedding of innocent blood. So many cancers. Injustice everywhere. The destruction of forests. Pollution. Here again is the neglect of that responsibility and stewardship! So much greed. What is it about the world today that makes you “groan” [in solidarity with creation] … in frustration, or in anger, on in desperation to see change?? Some of this is likely to be frustration with ourselves – not being able to fully break free, not being able to be as joyful and as thankful as we want to be, not being able to be part of the solution like we want to be.

But within all this, the glory of God still dwells; and dwells most especially in suffering. It might be hard to see; yet here is our hope, here is our vision. God is working his way through tragedy, drawing people toward a new spiritual experience. And God will have the final say when the time comes and everything will be as new. We ourselves want to be … what we can’t seem to be … and groan inwardly. We live in the tension of having the Holy Spirit, yet still having the capacity to fall so short. But there remains this glorious hope … of God ultimately completing in us what he once began.

The “suffering” that Paul refers to in verse 18, may also include the difficulties and challenges of living against the tide. Our Founder and Saviour Jesus, suffered for taking contrary views. Jesus’ first disciples found trouble through following Jesus. Paul suffered in his attempts to spread the Gospel. This very letter was written from prison. We have it easy compared to so many brothers and sisters around the world who are tortured just for holding faith in Jesus.

Where is our suffering? We might just sit a little too comfortably in how fortunate we are! Could it be that we don’t push the boundaries or leave the comfort zones enough? Do we have to be persecuted before our faith stands out? There is no doubt we can experience growth spurts through dealing with pressure. Look at those Masterchef contestants! “30 seconds to go”!!

30 seconds is a very short time when you can see the clock ticking. Well likely there are more than 30 seconds to go for us. Some may say, ‘good job too’! We don’t want to be found unprepared. We don’t see the clock – we’re NOT meant to see the clock, we’re just meant to exhibit faith and trust. Some may be ready! But at the same time, we need to be patient and faithful (verse 25). We need to work towards the outcome that God has always envisioned. In time, God will declare it ‘time’ – all suffering will be over, and all evil vanquished!

Then the effects of the “fall” (Genesis 3) will be reversed, and there will be the ‘new creation’ in all its glory (including the redeemed children of God). In the meantime, we will naturally feel dissatisfied, and thus pray and work. For the now, God’s children will live in solidarity with the pain of an unredeemed creation. For Paul, the redemption of humans goes hand-in-hand with the redemption of all creation, both now, and ultimately. As we read last week, “If anyone is in Christ – new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Being “debtors” (verses 12-17)

I want to go back to verses 12 and 13, to the notion of being “debtors” to the Spirit. How does this concept sit with you?? Being a “debtor” is most often seen as something we don’t like. It means we owe something to somebody, and will be required to pay it back. And severe debt can really monopolise our mind! Although, on the positive side, sort of, is that often the only way we can purchase the house of our dreams, is through going into debt. Yet, we are often paying this loan back for decades.

In a way, the obligation we have to God (in ministry to others), is a debt that needs to be addressed. To put it another way, the great blessing of mercy, grace, forgiveness and redemption we have freely received, brings us into a contract of obligation towards other people. This then, rightly dominates how we see the world! Do we have this idea of being in debt to God [healthily] as part of our mindset? Or, do we take our responsibilities as ‘Christians’ too lightly?

This is not so that we can be saved (that’s already happened freely), but rather puts this salvation into action. Our own experience of Jesus saving us … heightens (not lessens) the intensity of our intuitive understanding of the lostness of others, and the pain in the world. Because we are being led by the Spirit of God, we actually groan more NOT LESS, because we have a keener sense of incompleteness.

We are asked to invest wisely and well what we have received. The benefits we have received were well set out by Paul in verses 1 to 11 (of Romans 8). This is alluded to again in verses 15 to 17; these are the benefits of being children of God. Despite the gravity of our sin, we have not been taken captive as slaves by a tyrant – so much the complete opposite! If we have this, should we not want others to have it as well!

In the Roman world of the first century, an adopted son was deliberately chosen by his adoptive father to perpetuate the father’s name (and inherit his estate), and was by no means inferior to any natural son. We have been adopted by choice by the most loving of parents, who opens their heart to forming the most intimate of relationships with us, and says, ‘Call me Daddy’!! Then our new Parent … gets us to stand beside the perfect Son … and says that you have the same position as he does in my family!!! We are just as welcome and accepted in God’s family as Jesus is!! And so a real ‘trust’ relationship comes into play! Lots of (emotional and spiritual) resources for life here! A ‘child of God’ then perpetuates God’s name before the world – i.e. keeps God’s name alive (with “name” representing character).

But then comes an “if” (v.17b)! Oh, blow!! We have to be serious about this. No gain without pain, they say! Jesus had to suffer crucifixion before his resurrection. We still have to be exposed to the world. We have to engage the world, opening ourselves to suffering – which might just be … more effort than we’d like … but could also be serious opposition – all in the process of becoming like Jesus – being a part of his glory. We don’t get to be like the perfect Son, without putting a bit of time in!

Conclusion

We are heading towards a 'glorious day'. But we are called to be disciples in the meantime. It’s not that we can just eek out time and try to slip through under the radar. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God. The creation is waiting eagerly for those who are in Christ to awaken, rise and step out. God’s master plan is to transform us … so that we can transform the kingdoms of this world into the Kingdom of God. Transformed people will have a positive effect on the total human environment.

This is NOT so we might feel more comfortable (in a place that agrees with us more), which might sometimes be our motivation. But rather, this is so more people will have the opportunity of connecting with God, having witnessed the “new creation” gradually being brought to be. Evidence of God’s loving activity will lead to more transformed people. We are advance representatives in God’s cause of redeeming all creation (in an often unwilling and hostile world).

The best evidence for God we can present to the world is this: the transformation of our lives (under the influence of God’s Spirit), especially as this happens under pressure and challenge, combined with the difference it makes in the lives of others – on a small scale, and sometimes, collectively and accumulatively, on a larger scale.

What do I mean by collective?? What do I mean by accumulative?? This can happen for us together. And this can happen for us in bigger and better ways over time, one effort building on another. The church will bear great relevance with this collective and accumulative service to all creation (through the guidance and equipping of God)! Let’s look forward to the ‘glorious day’ having made all the preparations we can – so that this day is a good day for as many as possible!

"The Ministry of Reconciliation" (2 Corinthians 5:16-21)

Introduction

This passage contains words and phrases that need explanation – new creation, reconciliation, ambassadors, the righteousness of God; if we’re confused, imagine others. The ministry of reconciliation, which I want to address, involves being prepared to live and share what we have been privileged to receive.

Paul is using these concepts (and bringing them together) to inspire a response. The church in Corinth could well have needed these words to focus their minds on what was important. Paul was passionate about the Gospel, and desired that others would become just as passionate as he was. Paul explains the impact of God’s reconciling work for us, so that we would have no ground to hold this back from others.

Seeing Through Spiritual Eyes (verse 16)

There is something happening! Something that cannot be defined in human terms. It is spiritual! We have received Jesus into our life, and things are changing. We now know Jesus, and life looks different! We have become, and are becoming … more and more so, a new person. We have begun to think about other people in a different way. They have greater value now. We have more positive things to say. We see other people through the eyes of Jesus. We acknowledge that there is more at stake than we once thought!

Paul himself had this sort of major turnaround, which allowed him to speak like this. He had once seen Jesus in a purely human way, and rejected that Jesus (as a misguided pretender). Then he came to know Jesus as the Divine Messiah who brings life out of death, and everything changed. Jesus became the centre of Paul’s new existence, which had radical consequences for Paul’s entire life – requiring him to abandon old values and to reorient himself on new values (J M Scott).

Because of coming to know Jesus, Paul’s whole outlook changed. Not only did Paul now see Jesus properly, he also saw all other people in a different way (even those who might oppose him). Heaven knows how frustrated Paul was with the Corinthian church! Yet, these were people that God loved, and desired to know, and was offering grace to (through Jesus). These people needed a ministry of reconciliation. They may appear far from God, or be totally disruptive … but then, so was Paul (when he was known as Saul).

We might look at other people purely from a “human point of view” – with superficial human judgments. In doing so, we would be neglecting a whole lot of spiritual factors. Firstly, there is how much all people are loved and valued by God. Secondly, there are all sorts of prospects for each of these people as they better come to know Jesus, or indeed come to know Jesus for the first time. To look at someone from a “human point of view”, is to look at them in a ‘worldly way’, rather than in the way God looks at them. Once we meet Jesus, like Paul did, we should see people differently.

New Creation (verse 17)

We should strongly desire to become this new person, to grow, to become mature. We do have setbacks; but we should continue to embrace the “new”. Part of moving to maturity is to have learned from all the experiences of the past, especially the less than good ones; to have put all this in perspective, and channelled it into service to God. I should quickly add that, it is nearly impossible to do this in isolation. We need the extended ‘body’ to bring insight, and to aid reflection, if we are ever to become the person we were created to be.

When we become a new creation, “everything old has passed away” (v.17). What exactly has passed away (or should)??? We could list many areas of sin (especially those sins that are destructive to other people). But maybe it’s bigger than that. Maybe it’s the whole way we look at our life. Maybe it’s the whole way Jesus lived that we need to look at – the most selfless person who ever lived! The way Jesus interacted with others!! And Jesus said to his disciples, You will be my witnesses (Acts 1:8).

Just prior to our passage, verse 15 reads: And [Jesus] died for all, so that those who live … might live no longer for themselves, but for him who died and was raised for them. So what is it that needs to pass away?? It’s like when we talked about the ‘idols’ that Paul encountered in Athens. What needs to go?? Anything that stops us following Jesus. This is because there needs to be space for the “new”. And, as we shall see, the “new” doesn’t have to be invented, it already exists (for us to attach ourselves to). The Jesus-following life is NOT just about what we won’t do, but much more so about … what we can now do! This is what the Holy Spirit will do through us.

The “new creation” referred to here, is not just about the individual. There is a broader context. We can look at the translational issues here. The Greek does not have subject and verb – in English the “he is” (e.g. NIV). The literal translation is, “If anyone is in Christ – new creation”. So for flow in English, we might translate, “If anyone is in Christ – a new creation”, or, “ – there is a new creation”. Often this is individualised, but the meaning is really that God is bringing about a new creation and we are becoming a part of that. Change in one person connects with change in others … all working toward God’s purposes.

For each newly ‘saved’ or ‘reconciled’ person there is a broader significance – the ministry of reconciliation. However it does all start with us – and what we allow God to do {or not do} in us! Neil Cole wrote a good book entitled “Search and Rescue”. In this book he writes (p.119): We are not fit to share the good news of God’s Kingdom unless first we are transformed by it; personal transformation precedes community transformation. So if we look around us and see everything that is wrong (in the local community), we would then need to first look within ourselves … to see what needs to become new (in us), so that we can lead (or at least be involved in) this community transformation (with integrity).

Being Reconciled (verses 18-19)

God made all this possible – freedom from all that separated us from Him, and a role in what God wants to do in the whole world, i.e. a bigger number of souls coming to Him from across the earth {unlimited in number}. Our “trespasses” will not be held against us, which is such a positive opportunity for others to hear about as well. God’s mercy rules!! Imagine life without pressure from sin or addiction! Imagine others, imagining life, without any pressure from sin or addiction!! Can we pray into this? Can we live as part of the solution to this??

                Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven,

                Whose sin is put out of sight!

                Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt,

                Whose lives are lived in complete honesty! (Psalm 32-1-2, NLT)

To reconcile means to bring into harmony with – to bring together without barriers. To reconcile is to make peace. God achieves this through Christ’s work of forgiveness on the cross, whereby our trespasses are not held against us (v.19). All those actions that demean humanity or offend God’s majesty, and form barriers all over the place, can be overcome and taken out of the way.

We can forgive (even when it’s not sought), and deliberately look beyond failure, in an attempt to restore relationship (just like Jesus did). It is God’s acceptance of us, warts and all, that frees us not to hold grudges against others. Forgiveness doesn’t ignore past hostility – much more powerfully, forgiveness acknowledges sin and removes it from any relevance.

Reconciliation is complete, in that God has done everything possible, through Jesus, to make it available. However, reconciliation is also a work in progress (or a currently incomplete process), because it requires people to respond, and also for people, like us, to promote it.

An Ambassador (v.20)

Paul uses the term here: “ambassador” – we are “ambassadors for Christ”. Our nation’s “ambassador” to, say, China, represents Australia’s interests in that other nation. An “ambassador” is a representative or an agent of another. An “ambassador for Christ” then, represents Christ’s best interests wherever they travel. They are literally a ‘representative’ or ‘agent’ of Christ. God [who is no longer physically present in Jesus] is making his appeal through us.

As Jesus represented us in his death, we now represent him in his physical absence. This means that those who are looking towards our representation of God, make their judgment (or decision) about God based on what they observe of us!! At this point, we may want to resign. However Paul, Jesus, and the entire Bible, give us NO get out clauses! The ministry of reconciliation is a non-negotiable!!

Since this is the case, we surely need ourselves to be reconciled to God. If we are to be God’s agents of reconciliation … if we are to truly speak for him, then first we must be sure to seek our own reconciliation with God. This is NOT just another missional call for the church; although the Bible is first and foremost a missional book – right from the moment that Abraham was called forward to be father of many nations. A missional call though, is also a deeply personal call to our own personal devotion to God. We decide if we are going to be part of God’s new creation.

But to look at this another way – without the social engagement of witnessing to Jesus through the challenges of life, we will NOT grow! We only grow as our faith is tested in the dialogue of life. I believe in times of personal silent retreat and deep reflection, but when this becomes all that we do (or if this becomes an end in itself), it often becomes just about ourselves, rather than the will, purposes and mission of God (that we are here to embrace).

A Ministry of Reconciliation

Part of a ministry of reconciliation is demonstrating what reconciliation is about. So many people now will NOT understand this concept of being separated from God. God is often not part of the conversation. Go out to dinner with your non-church going friends, and see if God comes up naturally. However, what will likely come up is: human hostility, family division, community dislocation, neighbourhood disputes, world turmoil – these things, unless you’re avoiding this type of subject matter altogether.

We can acknowledge the pain that separation brings. We can weep with those who weep. We can also speak into this: we can reflect the sort of views and values that Jesus would bring to this conversation – e.g. “Blessed are the peacemakers, love your neighbour, love your enemies”; and, “as much as it depends on you, live at peace with all (Romans 12:18)”. Have all possible steps been taken to repair a situation? Have we applied gentleness and patience? Or, have we just given into fear? Have divisions been allowed to form for no good reason?

There would be no greater reconciliation challenge than national reconciliation with our indigenous peoples. Here are people who historically have been stripped of their land, and thus lost their spiritual roots as well (much like when the people of Israel were taken into exile on various occasions). Issues like health and the stolen generations stick out like a sore thumb. Yet, many people are currently participating in the process of reconciliation (and constitutional recognition), as well as making strong contributions to long-standing problems.

As all dissension and disruption has its source in separation from God, pointing towards the benefits and blessing of reconciling as humans, may also lead to reconciliation with God. As love for God and neighbour go hand-in-hand, as does reconciliation with God and neighbour. We will always be guaranteed a good hearing from God; however, there are no guarantees with people, as they have often drawn lines from behind which they will not move. If we have done all we can, we have done all that can be expected of us.

Conclusion

Today there is an opportunity to reconcile with God. There is also an opportunity to pray for reconciliation with others (and consider what the next steps might be). Don’t miss that opportunity. God offers this safe place in which to reconcile. Once the church has caught the vision of living as a sign of the new creation, anything could happen! If God is the creator of the whole world, who ultimately wills to redeem the whole creation, and who bears no favouritism – how can we scorn anyone!?

We started out thinking about a time of spiritual change – old becoming new. The potential of this is unlimited – even described (in verse 21) in terms of us becoming the “righteousness of God”. Pardon me!! Here is the second big turnaround in this passage. Jesus, who knew no sin throughout his life, ironically and majestically had all our sin piled on him. Then we, who were separated from God by our own sin, gained the potential to be the “righteousness of God”. In some sense, we come to share the righteousness that characterises God.

And the plural “we” is used here (in v.21b), indicating that the righteousness of God can really only be embraced collectively. Just as the righteousness of God co-exists in the Trinity (the community of God), it can co-exist in the children of God. It is ‘the church’ that embodies, in its life together, the world-reconciling love of Jesus Christ (R B Hays). May Jesus, who knew no sin, but took our sin upon himself, have his way with us!! We live in God’s embrace! To be continued.

"A Good Aroma" (2 Corinthians 2:12-17)

Introduction

How do you smell this morning?

As soon as you get off the plane at Honolulu airport, you smell the beautiful fragrance of the frangipani. It just lingers in the air, and gently drifts on the breeze. Wherever you go through the Hawaiian islands, you smell frangipani.

Imagine then the potential of the “aroma” of Christ” over a whole town or region! Picture a group of people, completely sold out on the notion of following Jesus, and the potential they have for good within a local neighbourhood (as they bear the sweet perfume of Jesus).

The Background

Life certainly has its challenges. But with God we can get through them. Not only get through them, but somehow thrive. Perhaps not every day. Perhaps not every minute of every day. But at least most of the time. Perhaps, as we grow in Christ, nearly all the time. Our helpful witness to Jesus should be maintained even when things are not going so well. Paul expresses this in terms of Christ leading us in “triumphal procession”.

Yet the passage we read begins (at verse 12) with Paul being a bit unsure about where he was supposed to be – Paul seems to be a bit ‘betwixt and between’! There was an open door in one place (Troas), but Paul was anxious to catch up with Titus to see how some of his previous correspondence had gone down – “his mind could not rest”. Paul may have been concerned about what was being said about him around about – this is quite the human inclination! This is like when we get a bit agitated about certain events, and lie awake at night thinking about them.

Despite this dilemma, Paul resolved to bring the good “aroma of Christ” wherever he was. This potential had been placed within him (by God), and thus it should not be constrained. Even when life is taking unexpected turns, and even if we are unsure with some of the big picture questions … about … what we should be doing, and where we should be ... we should still be (beneficially) fragrant. “Thanks be to God”, Paul says (v.14a) - 'I can do this'!

Collectively, this suggests to me, that while we wait for some of our church vision to manifest itself, we should still be helpfully fragrant in everything we do. Here is reason not to get bogged down in frustration or ever let disappointment get the better of us. There should be NO holding patterns, just forward movement – a “triumphal procession”.

The Metaphor

The image Paul is likely drawing upon (in verse 14) is the scene of a Roman general leading his conquering army back through their home city, complete with the captured prisoners from the defeated army trailing along behind (facing enslavement or death). The assembled crowd would be applauding, and also burning incense and spices, and lavishly sprinkling perfume around (in thanksgiving to the gods who gave them victory).

However, Paul shifts the metaphor very quickly into a different dimension. In the spiritual life, the praise (of the crowd) comes, NOT from a great military victory, nor from human works of any kind, but rather simply from what??? (verse 14b) – “knowing [Jesus]”.

What does it mean that we “know” Jesus??? “Knowing” Jesus means being in relationship with Jesus, and having Jesus as our Saviour and Lord, the One we daily follow. Jesus brings us forgiveness, and is our best friend. Knowing Jesus also means that we believe in the truth of Jesus’ claims about himself, and that the world can be changed in this Name of Jesus.

This sort of parade would NOT be 'triumphalist' in the sense of rubbing people’s noses in it, because this always tends toward judgmentalism and exclusion. “Knowing Jesus” is a privilege to share, not an achievement to take pride in. This was an unmerited gift, attracting our humble gratitude. The victory we are celebrating, is NOT our victory, but Christ’s victory in us. 'Triumphalism' can often mask our human struggles, and detach us from the needs of others (as if we had no needs ourselves). [The 'mask' of 'triumphalism' is worn as if we had everything together, when it is better to be honest.] “Knowing Jesus” should make us more honest with our deficiencies, and thus more open and available to connect with the vulnerabilities of others. It is better that people get to sense a consistent faith through good and bad. Carrying the “aroma of Christ” is NOT about a pretence of perfection, but rather about a positive dealing with reality.

If we consider that historical Roman procession again – equally the prisoners (or captives) of the defeated army were being led in procession. This will often be our experience of life. Who will be most impressive … who will have the best aroma – the victors in the way they handle success, or maybe the captives in the way they handle suffering? The point I am making, is that this procession, spreading the good “aroma of Christ”, should not depend on how we feel … as much as on … who we know!!

The Application

A fragrance is being spread … a good aroma, but this does not come from a bottle or an incense stick, but rather comes from “knowing [Jesus]”. So, we start to think, what makes for this fragrance … this good aroma? How is this evident? What form does this lovely fragrance take? We talk about being ‘light and salt’ quite often. What might aroma add to this level of witness?? Basically perhaps, those things that will make a difference in the lives of those who DON’T know Jesus!! Expressions of joy, peace, hope and purpose.

Ø Followers of Jesus become known for their well-founded values

Ø Followers of Jesus hold true (or stick) to their commitments

Ø Followers of Jesus become known as community-builders, and for their practical love and care for neighbours (rather than forming rigid boundaries)

Ø Followers of Jesus are prepared to not only offer help, but also to seek and accept help

Ø Followers of Jesus are known for their teamwork, and for their commitment to the common good

Ø Followers of Jesus are known for supporting the vulnerable, offering welcome, hospitality and companionship

Ø Followers of Jesus will be more known for their collective generosity than their individual success

Ø Followers of Jesus are known for the encouragement they bring, and the value they place on human well-being

Ø Followers of Jesus are known for their positive message of grace.

Verses 15 and 16 are very interesting. People who “know” Jesus cast an aroma around the whole community, which includes those who are on the road of salvation, and those who are not … those who are lost and “perishing”. Such an aroma would be good both ways. For those “being saved” this is an encouragement, and an expression of solidarity and community. For those “perishing”, this is another chance to meet Jesus – maybe the first chance, maybe the only chance. A person’s own choices will then decide whether this aroma of Jesus will lead to life or death.

It seems this good aroma brings a point of decision. People decide for or against God on the basis of what they experience of God in us. This is a little bit scary!! Part of this good aroma are points of difference that stand out. Sometimes we don’t like to stand out … it can be a bit intimidating or embarrassing. The disciple Peter, at his lowest moment, tried to avoid being identified with Jesus. But, for the sake of others, we are meant to gently stand out as disciples of Jesus. If we were charged with the crime of being a disciple of Jesus, would there be enough evidence to find us guilty?!?

[Refer to Article entitled: 10 Church Growth Strategies That Cost Zero Dollars by Carey Nieuwhof.]

Can This Be Me?

The question is asked (in v.16b), “Who is sufficient for these things”? [Or, NIV, “Who is equal to such a task”?] Who could pull this 'good aroma' off?? The answer is … potentially all of us. Not in our own strength, but in “knowing” Jesus.

Verse 17 gives us some further guidance. Will we have a good aroma? Not if we are “peddlers” … “peddlers of God’s word … like so many”. What does this mean? This would be people who are good at quoting God’s word, but not living it themselves. This would be people ready with fine sounding clichés, but without the depth of faith to explain them. This would be people of self-interest, speaking for their own popularity or profit. This would be people who are good at quoting God’s word, but not loving their neighbour. These would be people more interested in the letter of the word, than building relationships (where the Word might really thrive). These “peddlers” are ‘pharisees’ … not disciples.

But, as we said, potentially we can be sufficient, we can give off a good aroma, we can be good representatives of Jesus! That is (according to verse 17b), if we speak with sincerity … as persons sent from God who also abide in God. In our witness, we should always be thinking about our integrity. To give a good aroma, we must speak as we live – which means we must live as we believe. We should also be thinking about our level of closeness to God – to give off a good aroma we must be continually attuned to God, so we don’t go off on our own paths (where there is less blessing than on God’s path).

Conclusion

Christ spreads the fragrance, through us, “in every place” (v.14). This “fragrance” doesn’t necessarily work for everyone, but it is available to everyone! The “triumphal procession” goes from home to work and back again, past the shops and into the cafes, thanking God for the school and the doctors and the hospital, into worship and out again, off into our service club or committee meeting, into each other’s homes and families, down to the market and around to the football ground, back past the courthouse and by all of our neighbours.

Some will come to join the “procession”. It’s only a matter of time! How do you smell??

"Communicating Across Cultures" (Acts 17:16-34)

1.     Being “Deeply Distressed”

The first thing that gets my attention here, is that, while Paul was waiting for Timothy and Silas to join him, Paul was “deeply distressed” … about what he had observed in Athens. This was because Athens was a city “full of idols”. We should note that Paul could only feel and react in this way because he was being observant – we might say ‘prayerfully observant’!!

There are various ways in which we might be “deeply distressed”. It could be that something has seriously gone wrong, or we have suffered a particular loss. Such “distress” is very understandable. But it could also be when we just don’t get our way – which is not quite so pure, because it’s more based around our own agenda or personal inconvenience. But then, there can be a “deep distress” associated with where a community or a culture is heading, not so much because it offends us, but because it is liable to bring hurt to a whole lot of people. This last description was the case for Paul.

There would also be different ways of responding to being “deeply distressed” – either reactively … because of how we have been (or could be) affected – just with our own selves in mind … where we could either be defensive in hiding away, or aggressive in levels of ranting and raving. Alternatively we could be proactive … where we consider the effect on others, and rationally and carefully do something about it. This last option is what Paul adopted.

Prior to this Paul had been ministering and preaching in a place called Beroea with good success, where people:        … welcomed the message very eagerly and examined the scriptures every day to see whether these things were so. Many of them therefore believed (Acts 17:11-12). This was a good outcome. So, in this sort of mode, Paul would no doubt want to just keep on ministering and experiencing a great reception. And behind this … was his conviction of the perilous lostness of people without Jesus.

Paul himself, in his former life, had been the worst of sinners, and had been persecuting the Jesus-followers. Then he meet Jesus on the road to Damascus, and everything changed. From a negative life bent on destruction of Christians, came a positive life dedicated to the salvation of others. Paul knew well what a difference Jesus made. So, when Paul encountered these barriers to people experiencing Jesus and salvation, of course he was “deeply distressed”. This “distress” was indeed connected to people’s well-being. And it was a complex situation – there were many “idols” being encountered.

Paul went ahead and made himself available in the “synagogue” and in the “marketplace” (17:17) – the main places of gathering and connecting. These days we could think of our own meeting places … cafes, markets, football ground, service clubs, community groups, committees, etc (where I would have to say this church is well-represented). The question is: whether we see ourselves there as a representative of Jesus? Paul wore his commitment to Jesus on his sleeve.

Being “deeply distressed” about our culture, only really means something, if you are willing to do something about it. But how to respond? How to respond in a thoroughly effective way? Paul had shared in Beroea in a certain way, but would that same way be appropriate in Athens? Probably not! There would need to be a re-think! How can I communicate best to this particular Athenian culture? What points of connection could there be?? Do I, thought Paul, just blast into the people of Athens for their idol-worship (because it offends me), or come at sharing Jesus another way (that will really open opportunities and make a difference)? Heady stuff! Highly spiritual stuff!!

How do we share Jesus with people who have no background at all in understanding what we are talking about?? We might use words that only we understand, and will leave the uninitiated completely confused and unimpressed. Or worse, push them away further! Highly religious language is likely to completely miss its target. And we judge others to our detriment. How do we share Jesus with people who do not share our moral or ethical code, for whom righteousness and social justice are completely foreign concepts??

Ø Part of the answer is sports chaplaincy, where the content of our answers is based entirely around the questions and issues that present themselves; and where prior relationships are built on the basis of sincere concern and offers of friendship

Ø Part of the answer is an initiative like FUSE, where the conversation starts in the areas that young people are most concerned about, and then some of the experiences of hope that have made a difference can be fed in

Ø Part of the answer is any initiative that has a sincere quest to build relationship and community, like we do with our women’s and men’s activities; for there … people will begin to share life

Ø Part of the answer is to set an example of caring for the widow and orphan, caring for anyone who is vulnerable and likely to be left out of mainstream concern; like we do when we get involved in causes (like Zoe Hope, or Burmese refugees) that directly bring better outcomes.

Being “deeply distressed” should lead to an effective response based on compassion, and a desire for people to meet Jesus. Seekers abound! There would still be an interest in something that was new and vibrant and life-giving (refer 17:21).

2.     Communicating the Gospel

Paul kept trying to connect … looking for common cultural points of interest to reflect upon. He found some with a background in the Jewish religion, so that would have been quite comfortable (although still a little risky). There were some philosophers – who it would have been fun to talk to … maybe. Others just couldn’t understand and called Paul a “babbler”, and were completely confused over talk of the ‘resurrection’ (for this concept was completely missing in Greek philosophy). This was tough!

But at the same time, there was obviously some credibility, sincerity and power sensed in what Paul was sharing. The LIGHT of the Gospel properly presented WILL SHINE. Paul was invited into their space of public debate … the Areopagus. When Paul was taken before the community leaders at the Areopagus, we read the civic leaders asking: May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? It sounds rather strange to us, so we would like to know what it means 17:19b-20).

Paul had sparked some interest, no doubt using whatever creative means were at his disposal. Now for those “idols” – these are always going to stand between these people and God, if they are not dealt with. But how to address them, while keeping his audience intact and attentive!? What did Paul do? Paul actually complemented their spiritual search. They were clearly off-track, but rather than castigating this, he found something positive and complimentary to say: … I see how extremely religious you are in every way (v.22b).

You might read some cynicism or sarcasm in this statement, but I factor in that Paul was desperate to connect and share the gospel … remember he was “deeply distressed”. The spiritual seeking was real, it was just the ‘finding’ that was deficient. So the attempt made here, was to be truly engaging and open a deeper conversation.

Ø ‘You played well today … you tried very hard’, said the sports chaplain.

Ø ‘It’s great to have you here tonight’, said the youth worker to the heavily tattooed and sad-looking young person.

Ø ‘Why don’t you come to our men’s event this Friday night, and meet some really interesting friends of mine’.

Ø ‘Our church is giving funds to support refugees in Malaysia’.

Today’s appropriate response is very unlikely to be “I see how religious you are”! However it could very well be, “I see how dedicated you are, or how well you serve coffee, or what a great doctor you are, or I see how much you give to the community”.

It’s all about dialogue. A lot of people, maybe now most people, have not had sufficient opportunity to ‘find’ correctly. Others have been hurt badly or turned away. So for them, like it was for the Athenians, the Gospel of Jesus is something really new … “May we know what this new teaching is”? Once Paul had creatively engaged the people at the Areopagus in a way where they were ready to listen, he was able to explain the Gospel very clearly indeed.

3.     Tackling the Idols

As Paul continued his sharing, there was an “idol” that Paul could speak into: an altar with the inscription to an unknown God. Perfect! Paul could do something with this … and talk about a God that was far from unknown – One that had clearly been revealed to Paul. Paul could talk from direct personal experience now, about what a known and personal God could bring. And this he did!!

In describing a personal God who changes everything, Paul actually managed to critique (in a relevant way) a whole list of “idols” that were being used to pay homage to a variety of perceived gods: man-made shrines (17:24), human works and sacrifices (17:25), images or statues made of expensive materials out of human imagination (17:29). Such “idols” were held in obvious contrast to the personal God Paul was describing: the Creator of the whole universe (17:24), the giver of life and breath and everything good (17:25), the bringer of benevolent guidance and ultimate provision (17:26), and the brilliant end of our search for relationship and meaning (17:27). How could any “idol” stand in comparison to this?

Rather than blandly knocking the local “idols”, Paul presented an alternative picture. We need to present that alternative reality today, based on Gospel truth in combination with the success (or at least the good progress) of our lives that bear this truth. This would first and foremost involve the tackling of any prevalent “idols” remaining (or persisting) in our own lives. The call to “repent”, in verse 30, first applies to us, so that we can fully free ourselves to be a part of God’s mission.

We look around us, and we too may be “deeply distressed”. There are things that we hate to see (“idols” if you like), but surely our distress is most about how they negatively affect people. What might some of these “idols” be???

·        Traditions and religious habits

·        Working for success (without any peace)

·        Money, possessions, wealth, power, control

·        Beauty, popularity

·        Any god of our own making that suits us fine, but eliminates others

·        Rampant ‘hyper-individualism’ (in the western world)

·        Bitterness that possesses us and fuels negativity.

[[NB. In the live delivery of this message, there were many examples of "idols" in today's society listed from those gathered.]]

Some "idols" (e.g. guns in USA) are deeply entrenched, and often in a 'blind spot'.

Yes, we should be “deeply distressed” at any of this! And when the truth is told, any of us can easily fall into compliance with such “idols” (even unconsciously). Culture can be very pervasive or persuasive! An “idol” is anything that we put ahead of God … that in effect means more to us than Jesus. [“We are all becoming like whatever we look at and think about most … If our heart is not being captured by Jesus, it is being captured by idols” (G Tarran).]

We need to present an alternative grace-filled Jesus-based reality, based on the success (or at least the good progress) of that … in our own lives. This will look different, and counter-cultural where culture needs to be countered. “Idols” have then been replaced by the disciplines of neighbourly love, compassion, stewardship, confession, self-control and generosity.

Here is that alternative: we know, and love, a personal God who loves us, and draws us into a life of community. We have a relationship with this God, not based on anything we can do, but purely on the basis of God’s own grace … a favour and acceptance we can’t deserve or earn – just receive. This is a God who is interested in every facet of our lives, and seeks to guide us in the best adventures of blessing and growth. This is a God who here and now sets us on a new path that is heading toward life eternal (around the resurrection of Jesus), thus avoiding the implications of judgment. This is a God who forgives us, whereby [as Rhett said last week] we only learn from the past (not dwell in it). What “idol” can be compared with this!?!

4.     A Harvest is Coming

Sometimes, probably most times, this will be an ongoing conversation. To Paul, people that day said, “We will hear you again about this” (17:32b). Some people will need time to process, and come back to us with their questions, like: Why is the Bible so important to you? How can you be so sure, when you can’t see God? How come you seem to be at peace? Who is Jesus? What is church all about?

We must remember to converse in terms of where others are at, because they likely have little background in our beliefs. Yes, Paul encountered some who still scoffed, but that was (and is) no reason to retreat. After all, it is God who is making the way, where there seems to be no way. It is God who is enlightening us to the possibilities, and to the points of connection. As Paul was led from place to place, we can be led from person to person, and from situation to situation.

There is a search on (17:27). But it is possible that people will embrace inadequate pursuits and fall victim to meaningless “idols”. This is the nature of freewill – God desires people to discover him voluntarily, for themselves, in the midst of the challenges of life. There is NO compulsion, only a void to be filled (that only God through Jesus can fill). A relationship can only thrive if it has been entered into by choice. This is the genius of freewill.

So God calls us to creatively and intelligently witness to the grandeur of Jesus, to help people find the right solution. God is already reaching out in his love, and making the opportunities open up. The conclusion to this passage reads, “… some of them joined [Paul] and became believers” (17:34). Yeah!!