"Masterpieces in Progress" (Ephesians 2:4-10)

Introduction

We can carry a whole lot of frustrations and disappointments from an old year into a new year (with others and ourselves), but it's probably a good idea if we don't. When I read the following quote, and reflect on Ephesians 2:4-10, I'm persuaded to leave my frustrations and disappointments behind, and look for the positivity, hope and possibility of the new year. 

Here’s a quote from Rob Wegner:

"Every disciple is a unique, handcrafted-by-God vessel for expressing the fullness of Jesus. Every follower of Jesus is made to be the unique masterpiece God designed them to be within the context of a healthy, biblical community of faith."

Can we think of ourselves as masterpieces in progress? What is our next step toward being so??

We can think of a sportsperson or an artist, and we see their early performances or work, and we can just see how great they are going to become. Australian cricketer Pat Cummins is surely an example of this - early potential and success followed by a long period of injury, prior to his recent meritorious success. God says that our lives have the potential of being masterpieces as we grow into our potential – the potential God put there in the first place. This happens, in reality, as we more and more express the fullness of Jesus – which means living in the ways of Jesus. This, in turn, happens as we more and more abide in Jesus (within the community of faith).

I grew up in the sort of theological environment that often talked about how I was a miserable sinner. But this was only part of the story – and this was very redeemable. The New Testament certainly has another story to tell. Once we are touched by God’s grace, and we start to follow Jesus as our master and teacher … we are on the way to becoming unique works of art! Being a ‘sinner’ is actually the launching pad from which beauty can come out of the ashes.

As we look at this quote, and recall our passage from Ephesians 2 (especially verse 10), there are various points to make.

1. We Were Created With Great Intent

God brought us into being to have a relationship with Him. God, in the creation of the world, was broadening the community that already existed (Father, Son & Spirit) … for the purposes of investing His love in other beings, and having this returned. There was also a strong intention that this level of relational love … would be paid forward across communities in human relationships. As Leonard Wolcott put it, “God made us to carry out His goodness”. From the dawn of creation, as God appointed us ‘stewards’ of everything He made, God points to the world around us, that we might love as He has loved.

2. God Has Done All The Initial Groundwork

Though humanity has failed, and reaped the consequences of rebellion, God has NOT changed plans NOR lost hope. God continues the search for disciples, and made an ultimate sacrifice in the quest for masterpieces who could reach their potential. As we read our text from Ephesians (2:4-10), we see that the beginnings of each masterpiece happen … when we are met by grace. Our brokenness and rebellion from God … is met by an offer of mercy and forgiveness by God. As we, in faith, accept this free gift, everything changes.

We accept what Jesus has done for us, we begin on a new path. Where we previously did our own thing, we now to defer to the ways of Jesus. Where we previously had NO accountability to anyone, we now voluntarily become accountable to brothers and sisters in the church. Where we were previously limited to our human abilities (and confined by certain limitations), we now have access to the Holy Spirit … through whom we gain new gifts, new effectiveness, new capacity to be part of a team. We are a masterpiece in progress!

3. We Have Become A New Creation with Purpose

Verse 10 shows where we are now heading. We start to re-claim the perfection in which we were created (in the image of God); we clearly recognise that where we have fallen short has been remedied at the cross and at the open tomb of the resurrected Jesus; we understand that we are being re-created in that image of Jesus through God’s Spirit; and, we acknowledge that we are being returned to the purposes for which we were created in the first place. And that purpose is here given as … “good works” – which can be categorised as ‘acts of love’.

Clearly our mindset should NOT be ‘eternal heavenly bliss’ nor ‘luxurious inward experience’, but rather “good works”. We are saved by grace, a gift which has been accepted through faith – which will now be activated and proved in “good works”. As Luther wrote: “Faith is a living restless thing: it cannot be inoperative; we are not saved by works, but if there are no works, there must be something amiss with [our] faith”. Good works prove faith. Good work, sometimes costly service, demonstrates faith.

4. We Are Being Mobilised For Good Works

The “good works” that God planned beforehand for us – are to be our way of life. Having moved from death to life, through God’s grace, we have been renewed and equipped to fulfil our purpose. And as we embrace this … we are masterpieces in progress. The NLT of verse 10 reads: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago”. So heads up, you’re a masterpiece in progress!!

And so the motivation toward doing good works … now comes from the right place. Our motivation comes from the heart of God, i.e. God’s love for us, our love for God, and the fullness of Jesus now, increasingly so, operating within us. It is NO longer a matter of guilt … that we should do good works; for any guilt we have for doing the wrong thing, or failing to do the right thing, has been lifted off us … so that we become free to act out of uncomplicated love.

It is also NO longer a matter of obligation … acts of love simply become a free-moving-part of who we are becoming. We should NOT be motivating people toward service through obligation or guilt (as if they owe something), but rather, be encouraging people to service … because they know Jesus, and want to naturally respond to the brokenness around them. In other words, rather than being under undue external pressure, good works should derive from a natural and progressive outflow from a relationship with Jesus.

Having said that – if we find ourselves resistant to what would normally be considered a fairly normal area of service, we may have to look deeply into why, and whether this is saying something about the seriousness of our response to Jesus. As the letter of James would clearly remind us … faith without works can be seriously questioned.

But remember – it’s NOT about guilt; service and ministry to others … is all about love!! We see a person, or a family, or relationships within a community, or this nation, or the world as a whole … in a downward spiral – and because we know Jesus, and the fullness of his love, we are prompted to respond … in some positive way.

5. These Good Works Were Prepared Beforehand

I think verse 10 is really talking about “good works” being, generally speaking, the way we do life – our general attitude. As we journey through life we just do good. This was God’s creative plan for us, that, although interrupted for a period of time, has been re-established through our reception of God’s grace – both in the sense of forgiveness, and also in the sense of Holy Spirit giftedness. The road on which good works can travel has already been built. Now, we serve, as a natural regular course of action!

However, I think there is room to move in translation here – where we could consider that there are particular “good works” God had in mind for us (a long time ago) … to be completed today. So, it might be good for us to think what these “good works”, in very particular terms, could be!? A person, a cause, an issue, some level of conflict or disruption that needs healing, a word of encouragement, a practical expression of love – what is it – what could it be?! We could have been carefully fashioned for particular moments of care.

Whereas we all have the great and general commission to be witnesses and make disciples, building the church and loving our neighbour – within this there would be very unique and particular roles for us to play. NOT that we would take these on alone, but rather see this as part of our corporate adventure together. I do this, you do that – we pray for each other!

We should refer again to our Wegner quote -"Every disciple is a unique, handcrafted-by-God vessel for expressing the fullness of Jesus. Every follower of Jesus is made to be the unique masterpiece God designed them to be within the context of a healthy, biblical community of faith."

God has known forever, who our neighbours would be today … and what their needs would be. God has known for a long time, where the gaps of service are in our community. God knew even before we started our current job, who our colleagues would be. And as we talked about recently, God is always preparing the way, and equipping His people.

Conclusion

We are God’s workmanship through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. We are God’s handiwork – becoming more like Jesus every day. God’s hands are at the potter’s wheel … shaping us. We are masterpieces in progress.

The painting that is our life, is starting to show a promising form. Sometimes the brushwork gets stalled, because we get bogged down in the past. We need to throw off any shame that still inhibits us, and that we can be tricked into dwelling in. The forgiveness of God is flowing our way … along the highway of mercy, and we should be claiming our victory in Jesus.

We are masterpieces in progress!

Christmas Day Message

For me the greatest news around Christmas time, is that, no matter what, God is with us. And surely, given all the complexity, difficulty, loss and trauma (close to hand and across the world) that we have endured in 2018, it is indeed good news to know that – God is with us. This should surely change the lens through which we view everything … and also how we react to everything! And we know, here, from our recent look into Hebrews, that God is with us especially in any times of suffering. The God who is with us, is truly with us, because this God enters into our pain. Through all of this, there is a way in which our more challenging times are likely to produce more faith and growth than our comfortable times.

The fact that “God is with us” indicates that God is personal and relational. Whereas the world may think that it cannot see God, the world has had God living within it. In a way, many in the world still search for God, when God has already found us – if we were just to recognise this! Jesus, the Son of God, member of God’s divine community of three, left heaven behind to enter the world. Christmas reminds us that, because we and all creation are so highly loved and valued, God came as a human in the person of Jesus. And while Jesus didn’t come in our time, but rather 20 centuries ago, we have records of Jesus’ life – how he lived and the impact he made.

From beginning to end, the Gospels tell of how “God is with us”. And the story goes on from there – as many millions have encountered Jesus and followed him, based on the change he has brought … through his sacrificial service on the cross, and the death-defying open tomb. This was NOT just an everyday common life – Jesus brought light into darkness, hope into despair, and life where there was only death. The Gospel of Matthew begins with an assurance to Joseph (and to us) … that God has entered our neighbourhood, and ends with a promise that this act of personal human identification can continue – as Jesus says to his disciples, “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (28:20b).

Each Gospel writer is keen to show that every positive thought, intention and promise delivered in Old Testament times, and seen in the Hebrew Scriptures, has culminated (and been fulfilled) in the coming of Jesus to earth. This is God’s BIG and only response to our need for compassion, forgiveness and salvation. Jesus was and IS God’s rescue plan to reclaim humanity, inaugurate God’s Kingdom, and see the barriers between heaven and earth diminish. We might pause to admit, that we have a long way to go. We might debate whether we are in better or worse shape than we have been before!? But, in any case, we don’t lack for a solution.

When we see in Matthew, how Isaiah (7:14) has been quoted, we note that this indicates … that no matter how deep and punishing are the problems a community faces, God is available to us. God is firstly faithful, and then, because of this, merciful. God deeply desires to know people who have an open and humble heart that will return to Him. And God was willing to pay a heavy price for this level of love. For Jesus to “save his people from their sins”, meant taking upon himself a huge weight.

The name of Jesus means “God is salvation”. The name “Emmanuel” more indicates a role or personal description, just like other names Jesus was known by: ‘Christ’, ‘Messiah’, ‘Anointed One’. In Isaiah, the promise of “Immanuel” reflected a hope that God would make Himself present with his people – to rescue them from their feelings of defeat. So it was, that salvation wouldn’t just come impersonally from a distance, but rather close-up and intimately. As D A Carson puts it, “No greater blessing can be conceived than for God to dwell with his people”.

Again, this doesn’t mean that we will live pain-free in this world, Joseph and Mary had many complications – but it DOES mean we will have a sense of guidance through whatever comes across our path. “God is with us” is the good news of Christmas! Yet, good news is only really good news, if it is activated (rather than just celebrated). There are at least three levels of activation of the good news – which are, of course, all closely connected.

The first is where we look inside, and see whether we need to receive the grace and mercy … which is on offer … and is also very close-by. If any sin, or sense of guilt or shame, or any feeling of brokenness, is separating us from God’s best for us, then we need to find our release through the Christ-child – the God of salvation. In this we will have a measure of freedom from fear, and can give our total allegiance and trust to Jesus (and Jesus alone) … never to be easily diverted again. Joseph heard well the voice of the angel, and did as he had been commanded (v.24).

The second recommended activation is getting to know Jesus and following in his ways (as recorded in the Gospels). In this you will find ultimate peace and joy, with the life and ways of Jesus likely ‘rubbing off on you’; or, as we often say, becoming closer and closer to the image of Christ. At the same time you would likely recognise the presence of Jesus in those times where this would be most appreciated, e.g. at the doctors’, in the hospital, with the children, at the job interview, at all times of crisis – relational and otherwise. Sometimes Jesus walks beside us, sometimes he leads from out front, sometimes he gently pushes us forward from behind; other times … Jesus carries us!

The third necessary (and recommended) activation, is where we look outward, to all the dislocation, disharmony and dysfunction in the world, and consider our role in being peacemakers and change-agents. As our load has been lightened through forgiveness, and as our faith strengthens, we become such light-filled and hopeful people, that we can seriously make a difference for others … on an ever-increasing scale. We find again the purpose for which we were created, and our particular calling in partnering with God. Even small gestures of love, of tenderness, of care, make people feel that the Lord is with us. This is how the highway of mercy begins.

Jesus actively ministered to the outcasts, oppressed and sick. Followers of Jesus over the centuries have participated in successful efforts to include the needs of children and women, release people from slavery, and improve access to education and medical care.  Before quoting from that great early Christological hymn in Philippians chapter 2, Paul writes that we should have the same mind-set that Jesus did (2:5). This was the serving mind-set, that takes us beyond our own interest to the interests of others, and the needs of the world (2:4).

Before we cower at the complexity of this, we should quickly remember that, yes, “God is with us”! Mountains can be moved by the faithful followers of Jesus!! And this all starts in a simple place – in a humble place – in a stable, bowing before a manger, recognising that the child within … is the Christ Child, the King of kings, the Redeemer of the world – “God is with us”. Will you believe in him? Will you trust him? Will you follow him?

Christmas Message for Bright Carols in the Park

I am a person who enjoys putting up lights around the front of our house each Christmas. This simply lifts my spirits. I also enjoy the fruit of other people’s labour – like we see here in Bright each year down Delany Ave and other places. I think this, for me, recaptures some of my boyhood wide-eyed love of Christmas – certainly a special time of the year. We need this brightness and joy and excitement in our lives. I have recently read about a scientific study – that has shown that Christmas decorators are doing themselves, and their neighbours … a lot of good.

I do hesitate though … before putting up the lights. There is often so much sadness around – which you don’t want to ignore, or be seeming to ignore, or to take too lightly. For some, Christmas can be a difficult time because of the loss of loved ones or loneliness. Most of us know people who are unwell in hospital, or are living with mental-health challenges. There is stress within many relationships. So many people are suffering in war-torn countries or refugee camps or in homelessness. We have to be realistic that all is NOT as it should be in the world, even in our own neighbourhood.

But then, I stop hesitating, and put up my lights; because any of that sadness or unfairness around us, actually means that we need Christmas all the more! We need hope, peace, and a way forward; and Christmas has great potential to give us these gifts. For Christmas represents a time where love has been shared across humanity. Christmas is the time when Jesus came into to world (as a child) to bless our lives. A new born king is here. So putting up some lights, or enjoying other people’s decorations, are part of a celebration of God’s love … that brings so much potential for better outcomes.

Lights that brighten the neighbourhood, and Christmas trees, the sending of greetings, the giving and receiving of presents, and the singing of carols, all serve to remind each other that there is hope of a better world, where people come closer together, where people look beyond the person in the mirror … to the needs of others, where fear gives way to compassion and hospitality. We can take this opportunity to share words of encouragement in our family and toward our neighbours – in the hope that these expressions of goodwill spread abroad, and break down some of the existing barriers between people.

Christmas lights speak to me about so many things. Christmas can come around quickly – but it is oh so important! Christmas is a time, where, as the much loved carol says, “… the weary world rejoices – for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn”. This is indeed a thrill of hope. The King of kings … laying in a lowly manger – has been born to be our friend. God's gift to humanity - Jesus. So, joy to the world; peace be with you! Happy Christmas. Let’s continue to celebrate.

"Do This in Remembrance of Me" (communion talk)

Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me”. Originally, in the early church, communion was attached to the normal household meal. As worship developed in other places of meeting, the sacrament of communion was included as an important way of focussing on the source and means of our salvation. “Do this in remembrance of me”, Jesus said.

For we would NEVER want to forget, yet humans so easily forget. The joy, for me, in celebrating communion every Sunday, having come from a slightly different tradition in the Baptist Church, where you usually only have communion at certain services – is that, in our worship together here, we can never drift from the centrality of Jesus. Jesus – in his sacrificial service on the cross; and Jesus – in his resurrection … leading to our new life. “Do this in remembrance of me”!

But what is, “this”? Yes … taking the bread, and sharing the cup. But surely this “remembrance” is also, or even mainly, about what these symbols represent – sacrificial service and new life. Doing “this” … today”, also means doing the meaning of “this” … tomorrow. We would live as those who have received forgiveness by offering forgiveness. We would live like those who have received sacrificial service by serving others. We would live like those who have received ‘new life’ by offering the reality of joy, hope, peace and faith to others.

And this is how, we can, with integrity, pray those words, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done – on earth as it is in heaven”. We can pray these words, because we are also committed to be part of the outcome. We want to see the lines between heaven and earth fade away. So we live out our lives in forgiveness, service and peace. “Do this in remembrance of me”!

We also come … each time … to that place of mercy at the communion table, because, sometimes, “this” is NOT that easy! But here, every time we come, we find Jesus to be faithful to us in his commitment to our well-being … and to our spiritual growth. We can, not only, say, “Joy to the World, the Lord has come – but also “Great is Your faithfulness”.

We are being enlivened, enabled and equipped for life. Through the Holy Spirit, moving around us and within us, we can indeed … “Do this is in remembrance of Jesus”! So this “remembrance” is NOT just about things past, but also the great hope that lies in the present and future … because of what this bread and cup symbolise. We want to say, “I will never forget – I never will forget!!

"Preparing the Way" (Isaiah 40:1-5)

Prelude

We have arrived again at the Christmas season.

What are we going to make of it this year?

Will the world be better prepared for Jesus this year?

What is our role in this?

Do we find ways to point toward Jesus??

Or, do we let other things predominate our thinking??

Introduction

The ancient prophets of Israel in the Old Testament were constantly reminding people to focus on the big ticket items in life. Like being humble, kind and just – looking after vulnerable orphans and widows – loving our neighbour. The ability to live and serve in this way, always depended upon the strength of the people’s relationship with God. And … when God was forgotten, and this was revealed in the people’s lifestyle and behaviours – life for the people of Israel and Judah usually went pear-shaped. On two famous occasions the kingdoms of Israel were militarily defeated, and large numbers were taken off to the north into exile under the control of Assyria or Babylon.

Despite this, prophets like Isaiah … would also want to remind such people, that, even though they had rebelled, God had NOT forgotten them, and desired to bring them back into full relationship with Him. [This all plays out in Jesus' parable of the prodigal son.] Even though they had been attracted to other gods of various descriptions, and, even though they had often ignored the injustice in their midst – God still loved them, in the hope that the great potential created within them could still be brought out (to the good of all). And, as we recently talked about, God just cannot forget the world He created, and all its inhabitants (Psalm 24:1). As Alec Motyer wrote, “They have abandoned [God] but He has not abandoned them; like tiny children they have stumbled in the uncertain paths of the world and will be bruised by their fall – but they have a God rushing to pick them up in His arms”.

Our Lord is a missionary God – who is constantly leading us back to His ways and will – so that others, too, may find the right road. So, the TRUE prophets like Isaiah, would, along the way, provide clear insight as to how God would respond and act, bringing direct challenges for God’s people of all generations … of how to get on board! Part of this is the repeating call for a change of heart (also picked up in the New Testament). The forgiveness, that comes out of God’s great heart of love, is NOT offered begrudgingly, rather, offered in the hope that it will result in the ongoing transformation of lives toward God’s great purposes.

Isaiah chapter 40

An example of all this is Isaiah chapter 40 (with similar words found also in Malachi chapter 3). In verses 1 & 2, Isaiah reflects God’s loving heart. God looks upon what His people’s lives have become, and can only respond with emotional tenderness (v 2a). This is because, despite their rebellion, and … their own responsibility for this situation, the results have certainly brought great suffering, and perpetuated a sense of spiritual desolation. Enough is surely enough, and you would think that they would want to return to the God of their forefathers, and to live again in their promised land.

The Babylonian exile has certainly been a punishing experience. It’s surely time that they have learnt their lesson. And God is always planning a new season, which will always be better than the previous or present one. In very well-known past history, God had planned for a blessed time for the Israelites following their time of slavery in Egypt; and now God was planning a new season following more recent defeat and exile. God will surely take the initiative! The relationships people have with God need to be renewed – and can be renewed!! AND, “A VOICE CRIES OUT” (v 3a)!!!

“A voice cries out”. This could be the voice of God. This could be the voice of the prophet … Isaiah. This could be the voice of one who has heard the call to return to God, and (desperately) wants to find their way back. This could be the voice of one who is on the way back … and wants others to come too. In any case, this, I reckon, is a voice of FUTURE HOPE! This is the voice that communicates … with an ultimate level of cooperation with God. This is a rally call! Some will join rapidly, others will take some time, others will need some convincing, others will sadly decline. But, we need to hear this voice, and we also need to be this voice!!

Whatever our situation, and in the everyday earthly chaos that sometimes resembles a “wilderness” or ‘desert’, we need to hear what God is on about, grab hold of this, and partner up with it. God is on the move – it’s time to get the roads ready – “prepare the way for the Lord” (v 3b)! [We see in any new housing development, how they have to build good roads to provide easy and proper access.] The ‘exiles’ have suffered enough – their rebellion, sin and trauma has bound them for too long already!! Their spiritual desolation must be addressed. Rather than just despair at the state of the world (like we might just throwing our hands up in the air in pointless judgment), God is preparing the world for a new season!

We should want to be one of those voices that cry out (in one form or another), “make straight a highway for our God” (v 3c)! But, more to the point, and much more relevant to our contemporary situation, we need to live lives of integrity … that say on our behalf … “make straight a highway for our God”? We need to demonstrate that God’s new season is working for us (in real and practical ways). Never forget that the fruit of our lives must always be consistent with the words we wish to speak.

If we can pull this off in any sort of credible and noticeable way, joining voices in harmony with God – there will be evident changes right across our community, right across our nation, and right around God’s world (refer to verse 4). The depths of the valleys, and the enormity of the mountains, and the pitfalls of uneven ground, and the roughness of our environment … will all be levelled, so that life can be lived again in peace! This is how much a difference God can make to each and every life He enters.

And … we will all again hear the call – to be good stewards of the earth, love our neighbour, and be advocates for the redemption of people’s lives to their Creator! As we continue to remark on the significance of verse 4 – the low-points, the huge challenges, the relational tripping-points, the daily grind … can all be levelled out, at least to the point of gaining new perspective; and more than likely … a whole lot more, for we know the power of mercy and forgiveness, love and grace, coming into our lives.

This is where we are captured by God’s heart of emotional tenderness, and pay that forward … heart to heart. Ultimately, as more and more people experience the Lord in a transformative way – more and more the “glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all the people will see it together” (v 5a). This is why we gather in worship, this is why we get involved in ministry and mission – that “the glory of the Lord will be revealed … “. Surely all the peoples of the world, need to know about the creative might and wisdom of this glorious God – majestic beyond compare!

John the Baptist

We have heard these words (from Isaiah 40: 3-5) in the New Testament too! Who spoke these words??? John the Baptist spoke these words (e.g. Mark 1:1-11), in preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry. Despite a rough exterior, here was a man motivated by the heart of God for His people. We see John the Baptist’s fearless prophetic ministry culminate in identifying Jesus as the Messiah. This also culminated in Jesus being baptised by John in the Jordan river, showing that Jesus (the Son of God) was fully identifying with humanity, and would be our ‘great high priest’ (Heb 4:14-16). Then this stunning and breath-taking ministry of Jesus … was all confirmed by the Holy Spirit falling upon Jesus with God’s commendation.

John the Baptist, in everything he said and did, pointed to the One who would bring the “glory of the Lord” to the earth. John the Baptist sought to “make straight a path for Jesus”. John the Baptist did this by alerting people to the need to “repent” – meaning to change their ways, to turn around, in some cases to totally change direction, to look in a different place for their allegiance. John the Baptist came out from where he was living in the desert, having very meagre resources (and an ordinary diet); but a complete clarity of mind – pointing out that forgiveness was possible! John the Baptist was truly a voice of FUTURE HOPE. Here was the rally call! Some joined rapidly, others took some time, others needed some longer-term convincing, others sadly declined.

And despite some concerted opposition to the ‘new Jesus season’, we read in the Gospels and Acts how thousands came to believe and follow Jesus over the next decade and beyond. Now, lest we idolise or elevate John the Baptist too much, and then think that we couldn’t do what he did – John is quick to put himself in perspective. Compared to Jesus, John the Baptist was not worthy enough to even stoop down and undo Jesus’ sandals (Mark 1:7). Yet, John was chosen, called and empowered – and we are still talking about his role (in preparing the way) today! The point is: the humble servant … can be used mightily – which can be any of us, and hopefully … will be … all of us.

Our Christmas Message

We live in that space between Jesus’ ascension and his second coming. Can we “make a straight path for Jesus”? To be “straight” here means: unmistakable, level, smooth, and pictures a journey made without difficulty … with certainty of arrival. So, this is a path that is NOT confused with hypocrisies or unessentials or disunity. For, this is the ‘mercy’ highway! Not just any road! In a largely broken, fragmented and polarised world – it is words of ‘mercy’ that will touch base. “Comfort [encourage] MY people”, says the Lord (Is 40:1)!!! Speak with emotional tenderness. Speak from our own lives; that like John the Baptist, have already been encountered by the saving forgiveness of God. Speak as one blessed by the Holy Spirit. Be fruitful!

Sadly, there is much about Christmas, even the fun bits, that tend to mask the Christ Child who came to save the world!! Don’t expect the Christmas sermons or the Christmas music to create the “highway” to Jesus alone. The Christmas message of Jesus has to be lived out with honesty, creativity and integrity. As we again recall Psalm 24, a pure heart and clean hands are what we need. To be adequately and effectively preparing, we need to give God our complete loyalty, and defer to Him alone. The Christmas message of Jesus will NEVER make sense when there is a lack of mercy and grace evident in our relationships or opinions. The world watches to see … who the God we worship … is!

Conclusion

Let us prepare the way for Jesus this Christmas, so that people might see beyond the gloss – and experience the Christ child … who can actually change everything for the better! [We prepare the way … for the One … who is 'the Way'!] Let’s echo the voice of FUTURE HOPE that says, “The Glory of the Lord shall be revealed”, and be expectant that people will indeed experience the fulness of God’s personal presence – that all people shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken”. There is so much spiritual poverty around us – can we present another alternative … so that this state of being is fully recognised, and the better alternative can be fully embraced?!

I was reflecting on the scene of the two friends of a particular blind girl, trying to describe to her … the wonderful toy displayed in the shop window. Yet, it is so difficult to describe something to a person who has never been able to see. So, the antidote to spiritual blindness has to be demonstrated. We prepare the way for others to meet Jesus – as our faith, peace, light and joy point to him. Joy to the World – the Lord has come! Jesus is OUR reason for this season – let’s make the most of it! As we get ourselves ready for another Christmas, is there something fresh we can do with our lives or with our homes … that can publicly display God’s message of welcome, mercy and hospitality? Amen.

"God Understands" (Hebrews 4:14-16)

Introduction

It could be that someone has let you down badly, or even betrayed your confidence. Trust has been broken. God understands! How so?

After being together for three years, Jesus had his best friend Peter deny even knowing him. Another long-term follower, Judas, when he didn’t get his own way, betrayed Jesus to his death. God understands.

It could be that you feel lonely or abandoned – people aren’t connecting with you like they once did (even family members) – you feel isolated. God understands! How so?

When Jesus returned to his hometown of Nazareth, the people there refused to accept him, or acknowledge him as a wise teacher and healer – they weren’t going to allow him to grow and develop into someone that they couldn’t control or handle. God understands.

It could be that you have suffered disappointment – having been kind to someone, or sought to be friends, or having shared the good news of Jesus with them … only for them to have walked away. God understands! How so?

Jesus had people approach him (the rich young ruler was likely typical of others), only, sadly, for them to walk away, because they could NOT give Jesus first place or put their priorities properly in order. God understands.

It could be that you feel misunderstood or rejected – that people are NOT listening to you anymore. God understands! How so?

Jesus only wanted to bring a new dynamic of love, peace, healing, truth and hope, but the powerful and loud people of the day were more interested in themselves, and were unwilling to listen. Jesus came in love, and the crowd cried “Crucify Him”! God understands.

It could be that you are finding the pressure too much, and just want to take a different path, a seemingly easier path – one without so many challenges and possible dangers and potential pain. God understands! How so?

Before Jesus courageously decided to follow through with God’s will, he was sorely inclined to go another way as he prayed, “Please take this cup from me”. Here was real human anguish. God understands.

It could be that you feel beaten, and that all is lost – that you can’t take it anymore. You are plainly suffering. God understands! How so?

Even Jesus felt this way, when on the cross he felt that he had lost touch with God – the agony there was such that even Jesus felt forsaken by God (even though this was far from the case). Here was spiritual desolation. And we know Jesus suffered physical torture before and during his crucifixion. Jesus even experienced what death was like (prior to his resurrection). God understands.

It could be that you feel constantly under temptation and testing. God understands! How so?

As part of being human, Jesus was drawn into considerable temptation. This really tested his capacity to be God’s person. In the wilderness, on his own, hungry from a fast, the Devil offered Jesus control, fame and fortune in his own right … if Jesus would only worship the Devil instead of God. Even though Jesus resisted strongly, utilising the Word of God in his triumph, we cannot deny the power of the temptation. God understands.

Today, I want to suggest, from looking at three verses from Hebrews chapter 4, that God understands us … and all that is happening in us and around us. God was human too! And this makes all the difference … it really does!!

Excursus

Just a further comment on Jesus’ temptation (in the wilderness and any other time). We might think that because Jesus couldn’t or wouldn’t sin, that this lessens the power of the testing. But it is actually quite the opposite. This text and many others are clear about Jesus being human in every way. Therefore this temptation on Jesus would have been unrelenting. Past the point where we may have given in, Jesus continues to be tested. This is the point of the comment (at the end of verse 15), “yet without sin”. Jesus lived under a constant stream of pressure to take a different path, rather than be God’s person. God understands!

But also … Jesus not only can help us because he understands our dilemma … on top of this, Jesus knows how to help us fully deal with all the tests and completely dismiss the temptations!!

Purpose

The further proposition in these verses, is that because God understands, we can maintain our faith. It is because Jesus has endured the full range of testing and tempting that we do, that we can be fully guarded when we might tend to waver. And, because we can hold on to our faith, we can continue to be a positive witness to Jesus (through our daily lives). Our text from Hebrews says, “Let us hold fast to our confession … meaning “confession of faith” (v.14b)! So, as God does understand our various predicaments, we should NOT be easily swayed or diverted from faith, nor give in to disappointment or any perceived failure – lest our witness (to the truth) be diminished.

Our faith, being such a great treasure, should NOT be lightly abandoned … not when it has been so thoughtfully supported and resourced. This text takes us away from the possibility of dismissing faith … right across to the need to advertise it! As Jesus died for our faith ‘outside the gate’ – outside of his heavenly home – at ‘Golgotha’ – our faith needs to have life within the glare of the public. For, we can be assured, that when various troubles or temptations come, each of us can approach the “throne of grace” with boldness, and find Jesus there … welcoming us! Can we truly be encouraged and sustained by knowing that Jesus understands?!  

Hebrews Text

Jesus, the Son of God, second person of the Divine Trinity, is described here (in verse 14) as, “a great high priest”. This grand description signifies that Jesus is the ultimate One (above all others) … far superior to all other persons described as “priest” or even “high priest” – both in the range of what Jesus can do, and also in the effect that he can bring. As we also read here, Jesus “has passed through the heavens” – so Jesus has been with God and is God. Here is One who is Divine, but One who will also fulfil the highest form of ‘priestly’ service for us.

Jesus does not just provide entry to the inner sanctum where God lives … like the ‘priest’ did at the ancient temple. Jesus gave his life so that we could have free access to God anytime and all the time! The temple “priest” used to take people’s sins behind the altar curtain so that these could be forgiven; however, the “great high priest” Jesus … has torn the curtain right down. Jesus is not just the sort of ‘priest’ who grants forgiveness, so that we can go on to sin again (and repeat the process); rather, Jesus, as the “great high priest”, provides a way through which our whole life changes, as we respond to temptation and testing in completely different (and more productive) ways. We are NO LONGER slaves to sin!

But, I hear people say, isn’t God too holy, too perfect, too remote? Can God really understand me enough to love and forgive me? Well … the answer is yes! Look at verse 15: “For we DO NOT have a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses …”. Because Jesus lived a real and complete human life, he is NOT aloof NOR distant from our daily situations, but rather completely in tune with the trials we face. Human frailty is not something Jesus has just heard about, this is something he has experienced for himself. Earlier in Hebrews (2:17) we read, Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, {to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people}.

Yes! Jesus perfectly understands what it means to be human – fragile, vulnerable, complex, mortal. Such states as these build inherent “weaknesses”, especially in the area where we often fight for our own needs (and sometimes ‘wants’) to the neglect of the others around us. Yet, in sharing our life, Jesus has “sympathy” with our weaknesses. This is the key truth of Christianity – the ‘incarnation’ – the close identification that God has formed with humanity – the compassionate face of God intersecting human life … a God (in Jesus) who saves and brings forgiveness, not from a distance, but from alongside! God is NOT distant – God is with us!! And because Jesus suffered, he has a natural connection to all those who suffer – Jesus suffers along with those who are (currently) suffering.

So, why would we ever hesitate, from throwing ourselves before Jesus (seeking help in “our time of need”)! Jesus has both provided our way forward into salvation and freedom, but also in the process, become fully understanding of the difficult path we often travel. We don’t have to be hesitant or tentative; rather, because we know how much God loves us, and that Jesus understands, we can be “bold” in our “approach” to “the throne of grace”. This is where God wants us after all, at the “throne of grace”, where we will find all of what we require for life … “in our time of need”.

The “throne of grace” in the old tabernacle was where the sacrificial blood was sprinkled. Now we are met by Jesus, who has done everything necessary on our behalf. We are met at the “throne of grace” with understanding for however we feel in life. We bring … our sense of betrayal or rejection, our loneliness or despair, our pride or sinfulness (as we have fallen for temptation) … all this … to the “throne of grace”, where we are received by Jesus, and then given the two most important life-changing gifts of all – “mercy” and “grace”. Jesus just wants to pour these out on us … like water from a jug – “mercy” and “grace”!

“Mercy” means that our sin, guilt and shame are set aside and forgiven, because Jesus has dealt with them on our behalf. As we humbly regret what our life has sometimes become, we are overcome with God’s “mercy” that sets us free. This IS NOT so much a repeating pattern, as it once may have been under the ‘old covenant’ – because we also receive “grace” (under the ‘new covenant’) – the ongoing favour of God that means we are accepted into Jesus’ Kingdom … this is where we belong now! This “grace” starts changing us into the image of Jesus, and giving us spiritual gifts through which to serve others, so we can make a difference for good, and grow Jesus’ Kingdom.

The Resource of Prayer

As the “great high priest” Jesus, understands us, sympathises with our weaknesses, and provides us with redemptive “mercy” and masses of “grace” – of course we would hold fast to our confession [of faith]! Wouldn’t we?!? Well, it’s still not always that easy! And we often get ourselves into a confused mind-space, and an emotional (and spiritual) pickle … even, at times, a bit of a panic. So, we have to remember that the “throne of grace” remains continually open and available to us.

Prayer is a vital resource tool here! Here we can express freely to God (and sometimes others as well) what is going on for us. Not that God doesn’t already know, but sometimes expressing how we feel brings new perspective and lessens the burden. This prayer can also open a new space for God to work! We then know for sure that God is on our side – and in some way or another … is bringing help (in this “our time of need”). As well, when we can’t find the words … and maybe can only groan, or weep – the Holy Spirit intercedes for us – and we can be in no doubt that God understands!

On the other hand … prayerlessness … let’s consider the implications of that. Prayerlessness suggests … that either … we can go it alone (which is prideful) and a bit ridiculous really (although we might easily drift that way), or, prayerlessness suggests … that there is NO God (which is basically atheistic). We need to always be prayerfully approaching the “throne of grace” … in humility … and in faith – expressing our needs. Then, God can only but help us – that is His promise!!

Conclusion

Thus, we should all be well-placed to live with some confident assurances. First … that the sin-barrier between us and God has been removed, and that we have free access and open communication with the God who loves us. This ‘sin-barrier’ was once-and-for-all broken through by the work of Jesus on the cross. We are forgiven in mercy, and spiritually recharged in grace. Second … that when we feel anything less than forgiven and free, or feel oppressed by the circumstances around us, or feel that our life is NOT as it should be – that God understands this fully, and draws us back to the “throne of grace”.

And, as we spend more time at the “throne of grace” – as we experience new resurrection life – we, like Jesus, will have the victory, and we will grow into His image, and more and more experience a victorious daily life. Jesus, our “great high priest”, makes all the difference and changes everything – especially how we think and react to our circumstances. In all this we can form a determination to cling to our “confession” of faith. This should become easier and more natural as we grow (emotionally and spiritually) over the journey of life. Amen!

"A Psalm for Today" - Psalm 24

Prelude

How do you react to the first verse of this psalm – The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it; the world, and those who live in it. What are the implications of this?

Introduction

Psalms, like this one, were written out of the life and faith experience of each writer. Psalms deeply reflect the highs and the lows of ancient people of faith. Because of their connection to real life, and the ultimate confidence in God often expressed within these psalms, they became very special writings to the people of God. Here were inspired words, set to music, to be used as part of community worship. Such words, as they were read and sung, would express how people felt about God and what they believed about God.

The gathered people of God, in synagogues and temples, would wholly engage with the faith contained in the words of such psalms. As the Jesus-following Christian community, from the first century on, also adopted these psalms, they would seek to understand how such words might apply to their current life situations. As an inspired Word from God to us now, we might also consider how the Holy Spirit is leading us to understand and apply these words today! So, this IS a Psalm for today.

My intention here, is to show that, through a full and growing appreciation of God’s intent in creation, we will be more prepared to embrace God’s active love toward all our neighbours right across this community and beyond. In being so convinced (in God’s creative genius), we will be more likely to get involved in the sort of initiatives that the Holy Spirit is already preparing the way for. As John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, the Holy Spirit is preparing the way for us. Simply, this psalm brings exciting possibilities!

God’s Creation

The first two verses identify that everything created belongs to God. Everything belongs to God by creative right (because God created it). Yet God is NOT claiming this in any tyrannical or possessive way, but mainly to remind us … as to whom we should always be deferring  … for our own benefit and blessing. This, of course, has strong implications for how we treat all God's creation … including the environment and animals. From the beginning, God called humanity to be good stewards – to care for the earth and all its benefits (Gen 1:26-31).

We, as the tenants, are supposed to look after well … this place in which we are blessed to be living – just as the Owner would look after it Himself! The basic question to ask is whether we are exploiters of God’s generosity to our own ends, as if the earth belonged to us (instead of God), or, conversely and more correctly … are we grateful and good stewards (of all God’s gifts and resources)? Do we store up for ourselves and potentially waste, or do we share – giving away what is beyond our needs?

As part of the outcome of the ‘fall’ … that followed God’s perfect act of creation … in that inappropriate use of human freewill, came the inequitable distribution of resources … that just gets worse and worse from generation to generation. And humans have abused God's generosity, by using natural resources intended for good purposes ... to make weapons of war and erect fences of separation. Bad stewardship has resulted in a world full of injustice, unfairness, and huge economic inequality!

That the world belongs to the Lord, also indicates that God would ideally want to have a relationship with every human being ever born. This is borne out further when Jesus came for everyone, seeking out each and every one that was lost (John 3:16-17, Luke 15:1-10). In verse 8, there is a sense that God is actively in a "battle" for the hearts and minds of people of all generations everywhere. As we shall see, God enlists us to be part of this "battle", via his 'great commission' to make disciples from all nations (Matt 28:18-20).

God called Abram to the promised land, so that ultimately ALL nations and ALL people could be blessed (Gen 12:3). Jesus knows and loves everyone, including those that we don’t yet know nor yet love. God’s wants us to join with that vision of all the earth being the Lord’s. This is why we need a broad view of how God is moving around us, and what God might be leading us into. All of this locality and the community around us … ultimately belongs to God; God desiring that nothing is lost.

To the issue of the earth's fragility, where we witness, or even experience, events like drought, flood, cyclone and earthquake – this reminds us of our dependence on God … and that we can’t take life for granted. When you can’t trust the ground you’re standing on, what (or who) can you have faith in? Where is God in this? Answer: right in the midst! The very name of Jesus means, “God is with us” (Matt 1:23). Paul says that NOTHING can separate us from God’s love found in Jesus (Rom 8:35-39). 

As we know, with all the various diseases and medical conditions that can affect us – life itself is fragile. And then when we remark on the amount of evil and violence in the world – our need of God and a large measure of his peace (through which we can endure) is amplified in our minds. All the noise around us, all the stresses of living in a broken world, should lead us back toward placing our ultimate trust and allegiance in the God who only wants to love us. Whatever awaits you around the corner, God is already there. And the God that has defeated evil on the cross and at the open grave, can grant us victory over our circumstances.

This is a crucial element of faith, because, as Tim Costello puts it, “the earth is clearly in agony”. We live under various levels of stress, particularly relational anxiety. Yet, despite all this, we should, for the sake of the future, keep celebrating God’s creative and abundant goodness. The apostle Paul looks forward to the children of God being revealed as the creation is healed (Rom 8:19). And, ultimately we have the vision of the “new heaven and new earth”, where suffering and evil are past history.

In the meantime – our discipleship of Jesus … includes the good and just stewardship of where we currently live. Ultimately, God’s ways will win the day, but, in the present, God calls us into the “battle”. This also leads our thoughts in the direction of the need to help one another through the traumas of life. Some need to learn how to help others, some need to learn how to let others help them. As God’s intention for the earth, was for us to multiply and fill it (Gen 1:28) – we cannot think individually or selfishly, but rather see ourselves as part of a huge human family, which is represented by our own neighbourhoods.

And, as we come to know Jesus as our king, rather than Caesar (or whatever other alternative is before us), we also come to appreciate our local church as our spiritual community within our neighbourhood. Yet this spiritual community (or church) is NOT exclusive – it does NOT exclude our neighbourhood … NO! Rather we are a particular and unique resource for our neighbourhood. This is all the long way of saying that, on earth, and in life, we need each other ... we need each other to successfully tackle life's challenges. Community and teamwork is the genius of God’s creation! We were created by Divine community FOR human community!!

God’s Procession

We see in verses 3 to 6 of our Psalm 24, a description of those who are proceeding into the full appreciation of God’s creative and redeeming glory. These are worshippers, worshippers with integrity, integrity that counts! As the statement of the opening verses is a call to embrace God’s universal concern and care for all that he has created – verses 3 to 6 provide an explanation of how we are to partner God in this concern. This is about our character – who we are – who we are in Christ (Galatians 2:19-20)! We are supposed to be reflecting the character of God – the person of Jesus.

We could see this as worshippers heading for the ancient temple or synagogue, or to the modern church; or we could see this as the attitude of our hearts having already arrived in the place of worship. But as God is everywhere … at all times, this is best seen as the attitude we should bring to the whole of our lives. How can we be seen as God’s person in the cut and thrust of world affairs? As we read in verse 5 – how can we receive the best blessing, how can we prove the reality of our faith, and how can we enjoy the best relationships?

Answer: clean hands and a pure heart (v 4)! Here is an assessment of both our … visible conduct … and our internal motives!! This covers all our external behavioural patterns and actions (“clean hands”), and all our internal thought patterns and motivations  (“pure heart”). This means that we are given over to the truth, and do not follow any false paths. We do NOT give our ‘soul’ over to any ‘shams’ … that can only betray us and leave us empty! We should NEVER have intentions of misleading or harming our neighbour (CC Broyles). Jesus himself famously said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matt 5:8).

A fuller appreciation of God’s magnificent creative purpose, combined with a desire for “clean hands and pure hearts”, will open up space within this community for a great and broad response to the movement of God’s Spirit.

God’s Presence

As mentioned by both John and Rhett in their recent messages, we can’t allow other pursuits … that we might describe as ‘worthless’ or ‘less than best’ … get in the way of our peace, nor stop us moving forward (out of our comfort). As we look at verse 7, we need to have the “gates” of blessing wide open! Wide open – so that “the King of Glory may come in” (v7,9)!! And lest we be wrongly individualistic about this – this is also about opening the “doors” so that others might receive the blessing. And we know that so many people need the blessing of knowing the “King of Glory”!

Verses 7-10 envision open “doors” for the strong and mighty One to enter and transform our lives, and the life of our church, and the life of our community. This may have been acted out in ancient times with the “ark of the covenant”, representing the presence of God, being ushered through the gates of the holy temple. We need to acknowledge the Lord’s presence in our spiritual gatherings ... if we are to avoid just being at another meeting … if we are to experience something new from the Holy Spirit … if we are to fulfil God's intentions for us.

As John said two weeks ago, we need to worship God, so God can minister to our needs. God wants us to worship Him, because God knows the good results this can bring – as we humble ourselves and look into the face of purity and compassion (Matt 5:3,8). We need to acknowledge the Creator of the Earth … to release God’s power!

At the same time, these verses (7-10) also envision open invitation, welcome, hospitality, acceptance and belonging. There is space for everyone here, if they could just experience the “King of Glory”. How wide do we keep the “gates” of God’s Kingdom open for others, through the integrity and faith of how we do life (ourselves)? Do we see the possibilities of Jesus in the faces of all people (including of different backgrounds, experiences and lifestyles). Can we serve them in Jesus’ name (Matt 25:34-45)? If we were to exclude any people … by design or in effect, then we also would exclude ourselves!!

Conclusion

This takes us back to verse 4, and to whether we have humbly and fully surrendered ourselves to Jesus. It is the righteousness of Jesus himself that is being offered to us. Through the cross we find forgiveness and freedom, through the resurrection we find new hope and purpose. We become part of what God is seeking to achieve in the minds and hearts of all the people who live around us.

We become part of celebrating and serving all creation, as a forerunner for the time when we will live in the ‘new heaven and new earth’. Despite the pain around us, and the suffering within us, we come to recognise and appreciate God’s peace. And, in living and worshipping in all integrity, we open the “gates” of God’s Kingdom to all those that God loves. Amen!

"Companions of Jesus" (Acts 4:5-14)

Introduction

What a great compliment was paid to Peter and John, here in Acts … to be described as “companions of Jesus”. Could we be easily described in the same way … as “companions of Jesus”? What evidence would be available to support this description? These are the challenging thoughts that enter my mind when I get to verse 13.

In a recent book by Phil Cooke & Jonathan Bock, they provocatively ask, “Why did the early church succeed where we are failing?” They go on to say … that the early church did things that astonished the Romans: they took in their abandoned babies, they helped the sick and wounded, they restored dignity to slaves, they were willing to die for what they believed – after a while, their actions so softened the hearts of the Romans, that they wanted to know more about who these Christians were, and who was the God they represented.

Context

This passage, from Acts chapter 4, is the culmination of the incident where a man that had been lame from birth went walking and leaping and praising God … following his meeting with Peter and John. This incident, of miraculous healing, caused a bit of a ruckus, and Peter and John were arrested and brought before the ruling authorities to explain themselves. You would have thought everyone would be happy about such an event – a man who had been unable to walk from birth and likely living in destitute conditions begging for food … having been liberated! Good eh!!

But such is the human propensity to be negative, and want to keep their own measure of power, there had to be an interrogation. What was Peter and John’s crime? We read earlier that they had upset the ruling authorities by claiming that Jesus had risen from the dead. These rulers thought they had dealt with this – thought that they had got rid of Jesus and his threat to their seat of power. They did NOT want to have any aspect of Jesus’ mission carry on; they wanted the memory of Jesus to die away! They thought if they could threaten Peter and John enough … they would retract this notion of Jesus still healing people.

What a Change!

In response, it was Peter who spoke, and this is significant, given what happened in the hours leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. This was a very different Peter now! We know that Peter had been very scared and denied even knowing Jesus three times. Under guilt and shame, he even began to give up following Jesus and went back to the fishing business. But very quickly, he was met by the resurrected Jesus, forgiven, reinstated as a disciple, and given leadership within the future mission. Most impacting of all, Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, and never looked back from there!

Yet this still was a remarkable change in a very short time, and we should never underestimate how hard it is to muster courage in the face of fear, failure and disappointment. If the resurrection and the Holy Spirit were to make such an amazing difference in the life of Peter, then Peter was going to have to be willing and open and ready enough for all this to happen – it was still a choice Peter had to make! Through humility, Peter was indeed ready to embrace a new and different future – even under a real and even greater threat to his life!

Peter immediately and confidently testified to the reality of Jesus’ resurrection; and to the fact that this previously ‘lame’ man had been healed because Jesus was alive and still active in the affairs of humankind. And at great personal risk, Peter also pointed out rather strongly, that although certain people had sought to destroy Jesus – quite clearly they had failed in their objectives. Jesus remains the centre piece of human functioning, and would be the cornerstone … the major building-block … of God’s Kingdom.

The Result

On the basis of their clear and strong testimony, though they were NOT trained public speakers, together with the clear evidence of the 'fruit' of their ministry, Peter, with John standing next to him, were described by their interrogators … as "companions of Jesus". The act of healing stood for itself - it could NOT be denied.

The people of that district knew well the circumstances of this formerly ‘lame’ man's life (refer Acts 3:9-10); it is later noted that he was 40 years old (4:22). This was an undoubted and significant healing event! If Peter and John were able to effect such remarkable change in this ‘lame’ man's life, when they were clearly just ordinary Galilean fisherman, then something else must be happening. Obviously summoned as a witness in this ‘trial’, this ‘lame’ man just walked in, and stood before them – stunning everybody. This COULD NOT be a hoax!

The rulers would NOT yet be prepared to admit to Jesus’ divinity nor resurrection, but the credibility of the healing, and the disciples’ testimony, could NOT be questioned any further. And (new) possibilities were being raised in these people’s minds. Ultimately, Peter was saying that, on the basis of what has been publicly seen by all, Jesus cannot be sensibly rejected.

The Means

We read in verse 13, that Peter and John acted and spoke with “boldness”. The word translated “boldness” here, also conveys courage and clarity. Peter and John were, in a good way, ‘uninhibited’; meaning they were NOT in any way muddled or fearful in the way they spoke or acted. They were free of inhibitions, and had received wisdom from the Holy Spirit. [They were completely unashamed of their testimony.]

There is a back story to all this! Some time previously, when they were still fearful young disciples, Jesus had said to them, “When they bring you before the synagogues, the rulers and the authorities, do NOT worry about how you are to defend yourselves, or what you are to say; for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that very hour what you ought to say” (Luke 12:11-12). How true was that!! Because of the progress of their lives under the Holy Spirit, Peter and John knew instinctively what to say … when the moment came.

Peter and John were no longer worried about putting up a ‘defence’ – they didn’t need to be ‘defensive’; for they had on the tip of their tongues the most positive message of all – the positive message of the Gospel! Their words (in tune with their acts of mercy and kindness), cut through, with authenticity, the closed mind-sets and resistance of their detractors. The ruling authorities recognised that these men, Peter and John, not only healed like Jesus healed, but also, that they argued their case with the same intensity and credibility as Jesus had. Indeed, they were “companions of Jesus”.

Our View

As we read this text 20 centuries down the track, our hearts are enlivened, and our faith is enriched, as we conclude that the resurrected Jesus was working through these disciples. Yet we also sense the challenge being put to us! Can we be so confident and so real and so fruitful and so effective ... despite being normal and human ... that people will see us as "companions of Jesus"?

Lying behind what has been translated here as “companions of Jesus” is the idea of ‘having been with Jesus’. This means walking with Jesus, having learned from Jesus. This means travelling on the same pathways as Jesus walked, and heading in the same direction toward the same destination. Companions or friends going on a hike together … ideally start to together, travel together and finish together. This is to choose to walk the road of life with Jesus.

This means that we will be achieving two things: firstly, directing other people’s thoughts … beyond ourselves … toward the person of Jesus – as the old hymn said, “speaking in living echoes of [Jesus’] tone” {“Lord speak to me, that I may speak – in living echoes of Thy tone”}. And, secondly, we sometimes get to contribute to some miracles – leading to transformed lives. As we live in the light, we get to shine brightly, bearing grace and peace (often against the norm).

Application

This all does require the words of our mouth and the practical output of our heart ... to be totally in sync! We have to be worshipping – lifting up the name of Jesus, explaining who Jesus is and what he means to us; at the same time as reaching out our hands with serving love. And when we are loving and serving our neighbour with a practical hand and hospitality, we would want to be able to point to the One – Jesus – who has made all the difference for us, and can have that same effect for others. This is what we see Peter and John doing … acts of mercy and kindness in the name of Jesus – therefore people came to describe them as "companions of Jesus".

For maximum influence, we need to be careful NOT to be distracted by minor issues that having little bearing on the mission of God. When all is said and done, it is NOT the correctness of our beliefs or the breadth of our knowledge that will save anyone, but rather the fruit of our lives. We have to guard against becoming fixated on things that will just bring division, confusion or just be a turn-off for others. Jesus was content with his major focus on serving through love of neighbour, that led him all the way down the path of sacrifice.

An Example From Modern Literature

What I loved most about reading the novel "The Robe", was how when the Roman tribune Marcellus, who was part of the squad who crucified Jesus, actually became convinced that Jesus had risen from the dead and thus was the Son of God, he became more and more transformed into the image of Jesus each day, and because of this, had such a remarkable effect on everyone he met. In his previous life he was only receiving orders, obeying orders, being used on the one hand, and being feared and hated on the other. Now things were totally different. People couldn’t believe the transformation that had occurred, and the light that Marcellus now exuded.

The people around Marcellus were so keen to seek and find an explanation for all this. Just through the character of his new life, whole communities changed, newly expressing love and compassion; and (in this novel) the barriers between masters and slaves started breaking down - because it just didn't make sense anymore. If we truly follow Jesus, lots of things that may have seemed logical or important - just don't make sense anymore! This should be so simple! Just living as Jesus taught us to!! And when those challenges and threats come - there is enough of the life of Jesus available to us (in Word and in Spirit) that we can still emulate him.

Conclusion

What is there in our lives that demands an explanation? Joy, hope, peace, purpose? What "fruit" do we need to be growing in? The fruit of the Spirit (in Galatians 5:22-23) is always a good guide.

Also, I reckon in the teaching of Jesus himself we find some 'no-brainers' (yet, admittedly, these often require a preparedness for some degree of sacrifice):

• peace-loving & peace-making;

• speaking the truth (rather than half-truths or lies or being divisively secretive) – following Jesus entails being a person who tells the "truth" – not only the truth of the gospel, but also the "truth" about who we are (as we deal in the reality of each moment); in this way we become a more trustworthy community member;

• a desire to maintain and reconcile relationships where at all possible (rather than divide and conquer); and,

• looking after the vulnerable and hurting.

While these are often counter-cultural and against natural human tendencies, they remain ESSENTIAL behaviour patterns of the growing Christian, and prerequisites for being seen as "companions of Jesus".