disciple – Page 22 – Dave R Phillips

April 2, 2017

Proverbs 10 of 14 – Thirty Sayings of the Wise

Read: Proverbs 22:17-24:22

Seems like my family is on my mind this morning as these two sayings in particular speak to my heart. I’ve met several new people on this short trip and in the course of events the common request happens, “tell us about yourself.” At my age and season in life, there are two sides to the answer: my parents and my family.

Saying 17
Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.
Buy the truth and do not sell it—
wisdom, instruction and insight as well.
The father of a righteous child has great joy;
a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.
May your father and mother rejoice;
may she who gave you birth be joyful!
Proverbs 23:22-25

Just last week, my daughter Katrina and I went out for coffee and donuts and she encouraged me to reminisce about my father and the ancient days when I got the chance to work with him at Krispy Kreme. Such fond memories of going to the donut shop (as we called it) at 4:30am on Saturday morning to “help” make donuts. Dad ran two shops in Baton Rouge just before the installation of the donut making machines that are essentially the same as the ones we watched make hot donuts last week. In my memory, this happened frequently, but as a parent, I know it probably only happened a few times. Still, the memory is etched in my brain.

My father was kind and strong. He was the proverbial father who never spared the rod (and I’m sure it was appropriate!). He was one of those guys who never met a stranger, who would give his shirt to someone in need. My mom was as well, though she could be feisty at times! Her last days were incredibly difficult as she suffered from Alzheimer’s. My older sister did 99% of the work by moving in with her, but there was one week in the last year of her life on earth when it was my turn to care for mom while Charlotte took a much deserved break. It was frustrating and difficult for me to take care of mom that week, but I learned so much about the real meaning of love. The proverb above is written in a negative tense–I prefer: Love your mother, even when she is old.

I’m sure I wasn’t the easiest of children to deal with, but I pray that the joy I saw in my parents’ eyes years ago outweighed the grief and pain. Great examples of faith, they raised me on the Bible.

Gloating Like Daddy

On a family vacation in 2005 (ish), we had the chance to play of game of four-square with the girls: I won a game!! To celebrate, I gloated over the girls, the old man still has moves!! Oh yeah! Great fun and perhaps a teachable moment. We coined the infamous phrase, “gloating like daddy!” Ask any of our four and they will immediately remember the moment, but the lesson we hoped to impart was serious.

Saying 28
Do not gloat when your enemy falls;
when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice,
or the Lord will see and disapprove
and turn his wrath away from them.
Proverbs 24:17-18

It’s probably too soon to know if we did well in teaching the lesson, but I remain hopeful. My prayer is that we taught them to be compassionate people, not judgmental, adults that appreciate circumstances in this life change quickly. I hope they have learned something from our silly game of four-square.

These days my desire is for them to not only know and affirm Jesus in their lives, but to earnestly seek to become a disciple that follows Christ; one who learns well then teaches others as disciples who will make disciples. The wisdom in Proverbs provides a wealth of tools; timeless thoughts that beg us to be mature in Christ. Jesus started with this wisdom and provided practical words to be sure, but his life on earth was so much more than being the great teacher that he was.

Just weeks before Easter 2017, I pray that we, the big we, will invite others into this understanding of Christ, the crucifixion and most notably the resurrection! Not with gloating, but with wisdom, care and concern for we know the great Good News.

March 25, 2017

Proverbs 2 of 14 – Nothing I Hold Onto

Read: Proverbs 3-4

I’m not sure I should post this, but I hope it’s useful for something. It’s real and transparent, though it only scratches the surface of the challenges of the day.

In particular, Proverbs 3:5-6 forms the basis for Nothing I Hold Onto, (Will Reagan and United Pursuit). This song echoed in my head after discovering the robbery of our empty house a few years ago. Thieves broken in and removed all of the appliances, mirrors, etc., as we served in Monterey, CA. Our insurance company essentially said, sucks to be you and we were left footing that bill completely. In the next week we hope to close on the sale of that same house as we empty our savings to reduce the principal to meet market demands. The financial loss is unbelievable, but very real.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6

While Zoe is left to close on the sale with my power of attorney, I will have the privilege of visiting a church with Healthy Growing Churches in an effort to help them find a path that will reinvigorate their church, to set them on a new life-cycle to be an effective witness to their community for the kingdom. I’ll get to meet with the Management Team for Restore Christian Church in Jacksonville, NC, and finish my part of launching that new church. I’ll get a chance to work other projects with HGC to reshape the way many think about discipleship and I’ll be honored to help out as best I can with the local church here in Anderson, SC.

Here’s the plain truth: I’d rather be doing these activities to support the kingdom than working for some company for financial gain.

Honor the Lord with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.
Proverbs 3:9-10

Honestly, I don’t need barns that are overflowing or vats filled with new wine, but I will trust that God has a plan in all this mess.

Have no fear of sudden disaster
or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,
for the Lord will be at your side
and will keep your foot from being snared.
Proverbs 3:25-26

My comfort comes from knowing that the Lord is at my side.

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Proverbs 4:7

I pray that there is great gain in wisdom as we go through these next few weeks. In this trial my prayer is simply:

Above all else, guard your heart,
for everything you do flows from it.
Keep your mouth free of perversity;
keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Let your eyes look straight ahead;
fix your gaze directly before you.
Give careful thought to the paths for your feet
and be steadfast in all your ways.
Do not turn to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil.
Proverbs 4:23-27

We all have burdens to bear and it’s not my intent to cast this burden on anyone, I’m just being real and transparent. For a few brief moments this week I was able (and will be able) to lose my selfish thoughts in music, in playing guitar as part of authentic worship. That’s the best therapy I can think of.

Lord, help me keep my eyes straight ahead, fixed on you and your perfect plan for my life, for my family and friends. Keep my feet on paths of righteousness when I struggle to see what’s in front of me. I completely trust you have a reason and purpose behind all of this, though it’s honestly very difficult to understand. Perhaps that’s the point:

I lean not on my own understanding,
my life is in the hands of the maker of heaven.
I give it all to you Lord
Trusting that you’ll make something beautiful out of me.
There’s nothing I hold onto.

Nothing I Hold Onto, Will Reagan

March 16, 2017

Rehoboam and Jeroboam

Read: 2 Chronicles 10-12 and Psalm 80

Restore us, God Almighty;
make your face shine on us,
that we may be saved.
Psalm 80:7

Three times in Psalm 80 we see this petition: Restore Us, God Almighty. So many times I’ve prayed for God to heal our land, to show his strength and reverse the tide. I want an immediate response in biblical super-sized proportions, “Come on God, part the waters again!” Childish I know, but there are days like that where I just want everything to magically be set right. What I don’t want is to have to do the daily work of making disciples, reaching out to people that are in need of the loving grace that Jesus offers freely, investing time where it seems fruitless. This isn’t a door-to-door approach, a territory where we check off names from a list, it’s a heart-to-heart process that takes time and a willingness to suffer disappointment. God answered the psalmist with Jesus on the Cross. Help us Lord to tell the world as you commanded. Make your face shine on us, may your radiance be all over us for the building of your kingdom, that we may be saved!

The remainder of Second Chronicles begins with the division of Israel following Solomon’s death. The highlights in these chapters focus on the kings of the southern kingdom. The NIV Study Bible provides an excellent introduction to set the stage and give us perspective:

The Chronicler has written a history of the Davidic dynasty in Judah; the history of the northern kingdom is passed over in silence except where it impinges on that of Judah. (1) The Chronicler is concerned to trace God’s faithfulness to his promise to give David an unbroken line of descent on the throne of Israel. (2) At the time of the Chronicler the restored community was confined to the returnees of the kingdom of Judah, who were actually the remnant of all Israel. NIV Study Bible Notes

A few years ago, I built a chart to help trace all the names of the kings with reference to the prophets. I’m tempted to invest time in building this out further, but the summary helps me appreciate the relationship of names over time. Maybe this is helpful to others. Kings of Israel and Judah

Rehoboam and Jeroboam

Chapter 10 begins with Rehoboam’s rise to the throne. As Solomon’s heir, he begins his reign by seeking advice when challenged by Jeroboam. Rehoboam’s response is anything but wise. He rejects the counsel of elders for the careless thoughts of the youth and propels Israel into a civil war that will cause trouble through the rest of history.

The young men who had grown up with him replied, “The people have said to you, ‘Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but make our yoke lighter.’ Now tell them, ‘My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist. My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.’” 2 Chronicles 10:10-11

btw — the “young men” were probably in their early 40’s since Rehoboam was 41 when he took the throne (2 Chronicles 12:13).

Not surprisingly, that answer was not well received. Chapter 11 begins with Rehoboam mounting an army to fight Jeroboam, but the Lord intervenes through the prophet Shemaiah:

“Do not go up to fight against your fellow Israelites. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.” So they obeyed the words of the Lord and turned back from marching against Jeroboam. 2 Chronicles 11:4

Significantly, Rehoboam listened to the prophet and obeyed God here. To be sure, he fortifies the cities of Judah, knowing they are vulnerable to attack. The priests and Levites gather around Rehoboam for they see that he is following the Lord while Jeroboam goes completely off-rail. We don’t see the story of Jeroboam beyond 2 Chronicles 11:13-17, but he leads most of Israel (10 of 12 tribes) into complete apostasy and invents his own religion, complete with idols, priests, etc. See 1 Kings 12-13 for details.

Sadly, chapter 12 reveals Rehoboam’s lack of commitment to God and the people suffer attack from Shishak, king of Egypt. Shemaiah has the duty of telling the king:

Then the prophet Shemaiah came to Rehoboam and to the leaders of Judah who had assembled in Jerusalem for fear of Shishak, and he said to them, “This is what the Lord says, ‘You have abandoned me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.’” 2 Chronicles 12:5

Rehoboam’s response is noteworthy: Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the Lord’s anger turned from him, and he was not totally destroyed. Indeed, there was some good in Judah. (2 Chronicles 12:12)

The rollercoaster ride of Rehoboam shows us his was not fully in line with God. In his head, he knew what to do, how and when to humble himself, but his heart was not changed. Ultimately, he did evil because he had not set his heart on seeking the Lord (2 Chronicles 12:14).

Change our hearts, Lord. Help us to learn from the stories of old to write the stories of tomorrow for your glory and not our own.

March 14, 2017

Systems – One Lid to a Healthy Church

Systems are the inner workings of strategies, the wires that make them work individually and connect them together. Effective systems only happen with well thought out and very intentional design that is kept up-to-date. Yes, you have to keep thinking about your strategies and systems after the church is launched and throughout its life-cycles. This isn’t new, we see this in the early church in Acts as they begin to grow through the roof:

So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:2-4

Newsflash: You don’t have to DO everything!

No doubt this isn’t news to you, but turning responsibility over to others means you have to define what you are handing over with the appropriate level of detail to achieve your specific goals. This is especially important when you consider most of the work is done by volunteers who only have a few hours a week to support their ministry area.

Here’s a example of a few strategies and potential systems:

Strategy	Systems
Prayer Team	Church database group, email list
Discipleship	Small groups, curriculum, calendar
Outreach	Community needs assessment survey, list of community services contacts
Facilities	Ongoing requirements and updated list of volunteers by time and capabilities
Congregational Care	Matched list of needs to care givers, email list
Assimilation	Connection cards, identified next steps
Ministry Teams	Volunteer availability and assignments, training, transitioning

While there is nothing super insightful about that list above, what is amazing is the simple truth than many churches have not invested the time to create and maintain a table as simple as this! Identify systems that can easily fuel your strategies. Matching systems to strategies is key to achieving consistent excellence in any organization. Think like a volunteer when you select each system. In other words, don’t expect someone to spend 20 or 30 hours learning your system. It has to be current, specific and easy to use. Look for systems that can be used across strategies, especially modern church database management systems–these can really help you by organizing data and staying consistent.

Systems Organize and Extend Strategies

System provide details that support, organize and extend strategies for achieving the unique calling and vision for the local church. The systems that fuel each strategy are customized for your specific needs within your culture. It’s important to prioritize and organize based on your local context and needs–either where you are today or where you are strategically planning to move in the near future. In other words, you can’t pull a chapter out of a book and simply say, “this is our system, do this!” Invest the time to customize each for your needs.

Please hear this, systems don’t have to be complicated! In many ways, we have a tendency to overthink systems and develop complicated logic that people have a hard time getting their minds around. That’s not to say you shouldn’t think through various contingencies, but you don’t have to design a children’s ministry for 500 when you average 50 children each week.

Synergy

When systems are well aligned to the vision of the church, each ministry works together as Paul described in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27: One body with many parts. Open the case to your computer and cut just one wire. How do you think that will work out? Or better yet, think about your physical body and how the respiratory system fuels the cardiovascular system which provides blood to the entire body. Each does their part and when each is fully functioning, your body is able to achieve incredible feats by working together. You know this. My guess is you’ve probably preached sermon series on the topic. Now it’s time to listen to your own advice.

Produce Fruit

The purpose of all of this is to produce fruit, to grow the body of Christ by making disciples that make disciples, to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18). The reminder here is to help you focus on developing and maintaining systems throughout your ministry. Don’t etch your systems in granite! Learn to adapt over time, review them annually and be willing to change when necessary. One of the ways to accomplish this is to have fresh eyes look at individual systems. In other words, listen to your newest member and your most recent guests.

If you have effective, Christ-centered systems in place, your church will have the capacity to grow and the Holy Spirit will no doubt make that happen.

March 9, 2017

Kingdom Promises

1 Chronicles 16-18 and Psalm 77

Chapter 16 – Ministering Before the Ark

Now that the ark of the covenant has been properly relocated, chapter 16 provides details and duties for the Levitical priests to minister before the Lord. The chapter includes a psalm that is not in 2 Samuel or specifically in the book of Psalms, though it is consistent with several psalms.

Part of David’s intentional appointments includes the worship team–those in charge of making joyful noises before the Lord! I find it interesting that instruments are not allowed to be part of Churches of Christ gatherings. For this group, no band equals no distractions. Here’s a brief quote from a post I found:

The church of Christ sang a cappella in the days of the apostles, so the church of Christ sings a cappella today. It really is as simple as that. See link for a concise explanation

The church is the bride of Christ, not a building, but a group of people gathering to build each other up, to strengthen one another. It is the vehicle we drive to make disciples of all nations, all people. If some find instruments distracting, praise God! For me, I can’t imagine a gathering without instruments, but not because of Mosaic law, instead my soul is stirred by strings and drums, by voices crying out. I’m thankful for the talented musicians that give unselfishly at gatherings. I hope this is not just confined to Sunday mornings!

Chapter 17 – God’s Promise to David

David settles into his palace, but want to build a proper place for the people to worship (proper in his mind). He asks Nathan, the same prophet that reveal his sin with Bathsheba, for advice. God then speaks to Nathan in a dream and redirects David’s plans. Essentially God says to David, I’m glad you have a heart and desire to honor me my little child. I didn’t tell your ancestors to build me a house and I don’t need you to do it now. Here’s the way this is going to work… That’s my poor paraphrase, but here’s what’s really interesting, God hears David desire and responds with:

Now I will make your name like the names of the greatest men on earth. And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. 1 Chronicles 17:8-9

This is our God. He is concerned about his children first, to provide a place of refuge for them, free from fighting and distractions. We know by looking at hundreds of years of history that they (well, we) often miss this point, but his intentional design was for us to have a place of refuge apart from the craziness of the rest of the world. Lord, I look forward to that day! Help us to find a piece of that place, the beulah land, here on earth now, even if just for a moment. This is what happens in music for me, a temporary spiritual transport to a place where there is no more hurting or pain.

David’s humble response reveals his true heart for the Lord, regardless of his personal mistakes:

“There is no one like you, Lord, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears. And who is like your people Israel—the one nation on earth whose God went out to redeem a people for himself, and to make a name for yourself, and to perform great and awesome wonders by driving out nations from before your people, whom you redeemed from Egypt? 1 Chronicles 17:20-21

Lord, remind us in ways that ministers to us individually wherever we are that there is no one like you, Lord!

Chapter 18 provides a brief summary of David’s victories with an emphasis on, “The Lord gave David victory wherever he went” (1 Chronicles 18:13). All honor, all power, all glory is directed where it belongs, to the Lord.

March 3, 2017

Elihu’s Speeches; Almighty God

Job 32-37

My intention this morning was to read just a piece of Elihu’s argument; however, I found I could not arbitrarily stop until reading the entire narrative. I’m really glad I did and I encourage anyone who has a chance to bathe in the beauty of these words as he argues against Job and his friends by painting an incredible portrait of our God, the Almighty, the Creator, the lover of my soul.

Elihu “became very angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God. He was also angry with the three friends, because they had found no way to refute Job, and yet had condemned him.” (Job 32:2-3)

Apparently, Elihu has been quietly waiting in the corner as his elders spoke, but he is no longer able to contain himself.

not one of you has proved Job wrong;
none of you has answered his arguments.
Job 32:12

Elihu presents himself as one who is wise, even though he is young; one who will reveal the issues that no one else has been able to articulate. “My words come from an upright heart; my lips sincerely speak what I know.” (Job 33:3). He’s being careful and respectful as he begins, but he is answering the call of the Spirit to speak truth.

God does all these things to a person—
twice, even three times—
to turn them back from the pit,
that the light of life may shine on them.
Job 33:29-20

Elihu boldly tells Job to listen to his speech and if he has something to say to speak up. He sums up Job’s entire argument with this: “For he says, ‘There is no profit in trying to please God.’” (Job 34:9). Listen, men of old, and hear this clear message:

It is unthinkable that God would do wrong, that the Almighty would pervert justice.
Who appointed him over the earth?
Who put him in charge of the whole world?
If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit and breath,
all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.
Job 34:12-15

God is the Almighty, he is to be honored above all else. Elihu begins his argument by realigning his friends thoughts. To underscore the power and majesty of God, he presents these questions:

If you sin, how does that affect him?
If your sins are many, what does that do to him?
If you are righteous, what do you give to him, or what does he receive from your hand?
Job 35:6-7

The rhetorical question is answered in part in the next verse: “Your wickedness only affects humans like yourself, and your righteousness only other people.”

Here we have a very interesting theme presented in the middle of the mayhem: sin disrupts our fellowship. The moral right and wrong is not for adding to our heavenly reward account, it is for the body of Christ, for the building up of each other. How can we make disciples is we are focused otherwise? We simply can’t be effective. God doesn’t need our sacrifices and he certainly doesn’t need our approval.

Elihu makes the case against Job. God does not respond to the cries of the arrogant,

How much less, then, will he listen when you say that you do not see him,
that your case is before him and you must wait for him,
and further, that his anger never punishes and he does not take the least notice of wickedness.
So Job opens his mouth with empty talk; without knowledge he multiplies words.”
Job 35:14-16

The case against Job and his friends is a lengthy one, but here’s a wonderful verse to keep hidden in your heart:

God is mighty, but despises no one
Job 36:5

Elihu continues his vivid description of God well into the next chapter, words that provide perspective, comfort and fear all at the same time. God is powerful, amazing, dancing in the lighting, bathing in the depths of oceans–God is so powerful and majestic while at the same time caring and compassionate. Awesome God indeed!

As he comes to a close of his colorful speech, Elihu leaves a question for Job:

“Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders.”
Job 37:14

All our troubles pale in comparison to God. This may not alleviate the temporary pain of this life, but when held in proper perspective, my cries out to God to explain himself to me fall short and, quite frankly, seem embarrassing. Who am I to question God? When I see the psalms question God, does that give me liberty to lash out at our Creator?

Lord, help me to hear the words of Elihu and learn. As the words flow through my mind this morning I am comforted, humbled, sad, elated, filled with joy and ashamed–all at the same time. In the end, though, I think I have regained some perspective on the present difficulties and my cup of hope is filled, even overflowing. Teach me, Lord, to share this with others. Help me to find words and actions that demonstrate this lesson.

February 20, 2017

Josiah’s Reforms; Fall of Jerusalem; Captivity

2 Kings 23-25

Josiah Finishes Well

Josiah receives the message from Huldah well. Her words from the Lord give him inspiration. (Note: Interesting that a male dominated culture has no problem seeking the advice of a female prophet.) Josiah invited everyone in Jerusalem, from the least to the greatest, to hear the Word of the Lord.

He read in their hearing all the words of the Book of the Covenant, which had been found in the temple of the Lord. The king stood by the pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord–to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes and decrees with all his heart and all his soul… 2 Kings 23:2-3

Everyone recommitted themselves to the teaching, they all agreed to uphold their part of the covenant.

Josiah systematically removed all of the articles of worship throughout the kingdom…a lot of stuff to be burned and destroyed. Remember that Manasseh ruled for 55 years and incorporated all kinds of idolatrous worship. Josiah removed them all. Even the place where it all began:

Even the altar at Bethel, the high place made by Jeroboam son of Nebat, who had caused Israel to sin–even that altar and high place he demolished. 2 Kings 23:15

Josiah served the Lord with all his heart, soul and strength and he gave the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield fighting the Egyptians.

Jehoahaz

Next we have Jehoahaz, 23 years old. He “reigned” for 3 months. I put reigned in quotes because of the extremely short duration of his rise to the throne! In just 3 months “he did evil in the eyes of the Lord” (2 Kings 23:32. Seriously? Pharaoh took Jehoahaz away in chains; he died in Egypt.

Jehoiakim

Pharaoh Necho placed Eliakim, one of Josiah’s sons, in charge as king, but renamed him Jehoiakim. The Pharaoh wanted people to know he was in charge! Jehoiakim was 25 when he was made king and he reigned for 11 years. The puppet of Pharaoh did evil in the eyes of the Lord, again.

Nebuchadnezzar enters the picture during Jehoiakim’s reign. For 3 years Nebuchadnezzar, the crown prince of Babylon, defeated Pharaoh and began asserting his power.

Surely these things happened to Judah according to the Lord’s command, in order to remove them from his presence because of the sins of Manasseh and all he had done, including the shedding of innocent blood. 2 Kings 24:3

Jehoiachin

Another short-lived ascent to the throne, Jehoiachin was 18 and reigned for 3 months. His claim to fame is surrendering to Nebuchadnezzar when he came in person to Jerusalem. He imprisoned Jehoiachin until the 37th year of exile when Awel-Marduk became king of Babylon released him.

All of Jerusalem was taken into exile and all of the treasures from the temple were removed. “Only the poorest people of the land were left” (2 Kings 24:14).

Zedekiah

Zedekiah (renamed by the king of Babylon) was placed as king. At 21 years of age, he reigned for 11 years. There was no real hope that another puppet-king would have a chance, but we always have a choice and Zedekiah chose to do evil in the eyes of the Lord.

The Fall of Jerusalem

At this point it is no surprise that we come to the end of the kings of our ancestors. Nebuchadnezzar takes over in full force:

He set fire to the temple of the Lord, the royal palace and all the houses of Jerusalem. Every important building he burned down. The whole Babylonian army under the commander of the imperial guard broke down the walls around Jerusalem. 2 Kings 25:9-10

The life-work of Solomon was destroyed. Everything that was used to glorify God was removed, carried away to Babylon. Gone.

So Judah went into captivity, away from her land. 2 Kings 25:21

Those who were afraid fled to Egypt to hide. How interesting that they would seek refuge in the very place that Moses led them out of so many years ago.

Conclusion

As those of us who call ourselves Christ-followers go about our daily lives, I pray that we can see the ways we have become like the many who did evil in the eyes of the Lord, but only enough to turn away from the foolishness of idolatry. Jesus gave us a simple command to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19). But simple doesn’t mean easy. It’s truly difficult to discern the difference between paths that are before us. Living in this world while not being consumed by its demands is a challenge. We only have a chance if we put Christ first. Lord, help us to do just that. Help us to love you first with everything we have and love others. Let that shine through us and draw people to Christ.

February 10, 2017

Naaman Healed and More Stories of Elisha

2 Kings 5:1-6:23 and Psalm 64

The story of Naaman is truly amazing. When we step back and look at the context within which the narrative takes place, it’s even more amazing. Naaman is the commander of the Aramean army. When I read that this morning, my brain froze: the Aramean army? How have I missed this in the past. The Arameans are the proverbial thorn in the side of Israel. The were the subject of 1 Kings 20 where 127,000 of their men died in fighting the king of Israel (even though Ahab was horrible, God chose to defeat the Arameans).

Simple put, these were not allies or friends of Israel, yet God listens to those who would honor him.

In their skirmishes, Naaman has gained a servant girl from Israel–she serves Naaman’s wife. Naaman has leprosy and the young girls knows about Elisha and presumably the Lord of all, but that might be stretching it a bit. Elisha’s fame had no doubt spread.

“If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.” 2 Kings 5:3

Naaman goes to the king of Aram and asks permission to go find this prophet. The king writes a letter and sends him with gifts to find the prophet and be healed. King Joram (not a good king, but not as bad as his father) read the letter and tore his robes, afraid that the king of Aram is picking a fight by asking him to do the impossible.

Elisha heard about the request and intervened, “Have the man come to me and he will know that there is a prophet in Israel.” (2 Kings 5:8) So Naaman goes to see Elisha and is given a task from a messenger,

Elisha sent a messenger to say to him, “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” 2 Kings 5:10

Naaman is ticked! It’s already humiliating enough that he has to go into the land of Israel and ask for a favor, now he has to wash in their river? What’s so special about “your” river? Argh!!

Here’s an amazing part, perhaps a side story, but don’t miss this:

Naaman’s servants went to him and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!” 2 Kings 5:13

Naaman listens to his servants. He listened to his wife who listened to a young girl they captured (probably not for honorable reasons!). Here’s the commander of the army, a man of power and position, yet he listens to those around him and hears their wisdom. The environment he had established must have been one where he was approachable even though he commanded many.

He humbles himself, washes in the Jordan and is cleansed. Naaman is super excited, so he goes back to Elisha with all of his attendants to offer a huge sum of money, but Elisha refuses to accept any contribution. God alone is honored in this story.

Naaman acknowledges that God is the one true Lord of all. He vows to serve only God, but asks for one favor, more grace (now this is a bit odd):

“But may the Lord forgive your servant for this one thing: When my master enters the temple of Rimmon to bow down and he is leaning on my arm and I have to bow there also–when I bow down in the temple of Rimmon, may the Lord forgive your servant for this.” 2 Kings 5:18

Elisha’s reply is simply: “Go in peace.” Naaman’s leprosy is cleansed and his heart is changed, but there is a bit of a rub here. He has to return to his pagan land, its rituals and its rulers. He doesn’t resign his position and become a priest, he keeps his position and commits to navigating the difficult path of walking in the presence of the profane while carrying the message of God in his heart. “Go in peace” is a huge burden. I wish I knew more about how Naaman walked along these lines, but perhaps the more important lesson is that God is the God of grace, even to our enemies.

Gehazi Lies

Meanwhile, Elisha’s right-hand man does something foolish. He chases after Naaman and conjures up a story about needing some money after all. Naaman is more than happy to give him even more than he asks for and sends Gehazi on his way. When Gehazi returns, Elisha asks him where he’s been.

“Your servant didn’t go anywhere,” Gehazi answered. 2 Kings 5:25

Elisha gave him a chance to confess his sin, but the tongue deceives Gehazi and he lies. One so close to Elisha, it’s hard to understand what motivated him. Surely he was with Elisha when the boy was revived from the dead. No doubt Gehazi heard prophesies and watch them come true. Yet here he is lying to Elisha. Though it’s a bit of a stretch, it reminds me of Judas living a lie as a disciple, all the while fixated on money. The keeper of the purse was offended by the extravagant give of perfume on the feet of Jesus, perhaps his turning point. Gehazi can’t believe Elisha would turn down so much gold and silver and somehow figures he alone could intervene.

The Gehazi went from Elisha’s presence and his skin was leprous — it had become as white as snow. 2 Kings 5:27

Division

1 Kings 12 and Psalms 54-55

Psalm 55 provides a striking picture of a friend turning his back on another, the worst kind of betrayal and reveals how we can respond to our friend-enemy: we turn to the Lord. Here are some key verses to remember:

If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it;
if a foe were rising against me, I could hide.
But it is you, a man like myself,
my companion, my close friend,
with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God,
as we walked about among the worshipers. Psalm 55:12-14

How do we respond?

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you;
he will never let the righteous be shaken.
But as for me, I trust in you. Psalm 55:22,23b

I thought about those who have had past experiences with a partner in church leadership as I read this morning—in contrast to 1 Kings 12 as the kingdom split begins. My heart breaks for those who have been betrayed by friends, the deepest kind of hurt on earth. It’s no wonder that Peter draws on this psalm in his advice, well, his mandate for elders in 1 Peter 5:1-6.

May the challenges of the past give you strength for the present and for the future.

Chapter 12 begins to describe the breakup of Israel and provides important background for understanding the rest of the Old Testament. Solomon’s son Rehoboam is an idiot, but Jeroboam is even worse! There’s a possibility we could recover from leadership of Rehoboam, but Jeroboam, well, that’s just a bridge too far.

Israel decides to make Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, their king. Jeroboam heard about this and decided the time was right to return from Egypt and unite the kingdom. It seemed like a good idea. Now that Solomon is dead, the forced labor will cease and the burdens of providing for the vast palace and lavish living are over, right? Nope. Rehoboam consults with two groups of advisors and decides to ignore wise counsel:

Rejecting the advice given him by the elders, he followed the advice of the young men and said, “My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.” 1 Kings 12:13-14

Strong words from a king that just took the throne. He really didn’t know what he was saying, but endorsing Jeroboam wasn’t a good idea either. It seems like a lose-lose proposition.

Jeroboam and most of Israel (all but the tribe of Judah, then Benjamin) take off! Rehoboam mounts and army from Judah and Benjamin and prepares to attack Jeroboam, but God spoke to Shemaiah, a man of God.

This is what the Lord says: “Do not go up to fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.” 1 Kings 12:24

Rehoboam, along with Judah and Benjamin return home.

Meanwhile, Jeroboam has a great idea. Since Jerusalem is off limits now, and we can’t go to the temple, let’s build our own! Jeroboam invents his own religion complete with two golden calves conveniently located for the people to worship. He creates new festivals to replace those the Lord put in place and get this: the people went along with his plans.

Wow! Where did all of this come from? The wisest man ever to walk the earth: Solomon. It seemed they were intent on worshipping the Lord, but even in all of this, they lost their way.

Here is the warning for us in our modern day, in our desire to build the church: don’t be an idiot. It’s the bride of Christ and he will build his church the way it needs to be built. Lord, I pray that we critically evaluate the words in this chapter, the beginning of the end, and learn how this applies to us today, to YOUR church. Help us to go out and make disciples of all nations, all people, and to stop building things for ourselves.

January 23, 2017

Absalom’s Rebellion and Defeat

2 Samuel 15-20 and Psalm 48

The narrative for this story has several plot lines. The first involves Absalom’s deception and rise to power.

Absalom begins taking steps to establish himself as judge and then as king by acting as if he truly cared, “he stole the hearts of the people of Israel” (2 Samuel 15:6). Slowly and surely, Absalom turned people toward himself and away from David. Perhaps the people knew that David is getting older and a new king only made sense. David’s response: run!

David is a shrewd leader, far greater than his son Absalom and his charismatic style of leadership. David plants an informant (Hushai) inside Absalom’s advisor team to frustrate Ahithophel’s advice (2 Samuel 15:31-34). Hushai gives advice that seems better then Ahithophel to Absalom. Essentially, the first was a tactical strike that removed David, the second was a massive attack that fed Absalom’s ego and need for visibility.

Side note: Shimei son of Gera sees David and his men running off into hiding and decides it makes sense to protest, to throw dirt and stones at his men. David shrugs it off and lets him continue his tirade. Interesting that it’s mentioned here (2 Samuel 16:5-14). It’s concluded in 2 Samuel 19:16-23).

Absalom marches out on his donkey as a king riding onto certain victory. David deploys his troops strategically and they do what the do best, inflicting some 20,000 casualties immediately! David’s one order was to be kind to Absalom, but Joab is involved in this fight–not going to go well for sure!

Now Absalom happened to meet David’s men. He was riding his mule, and as the mule when under the thick branches of a large oak, Absalom’s hair got caught in the tree. He was left hanging in midair, while the mule he was riding kept on going. 2 Samuel 18:9

Absalom was proud of his personal beauty, his lovely hair. His vanity now gets the best of him. As he is hanging there Joab learns of his location and tosses 3 javelins into his heart. Joab’s men make sure he’s dead. Joab has done what Joab does best. He knows the news will not go well, so he devises a plan to soften the blow. When David finds out Absalom is dead he grieves openly.

O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom, my son, my son! 2 Samuel 18:33

Joab is ticked! He confronts David and rebukes his behavior.

“Today you have humiliated all your men, who have just saved your life and the lives of your sons and daughters and the lives of your wives and concubines. You love those who hate you and hate those who love you. You have made it clear today that the commanders and their men mean nothing to you.” 2 Samuel 19:5-6

David does what Joab says, but puts Amasa in charge of the army in place of Joab (2 Samuel 19:13. Joab is cool and calculating as ever. He waits for the opportunity. Chapter 20 shows this doesn’t take long. A troublemaker, Bikri, decides to stir the pot. He musters the men of Israel (except Judah) to defy David. David tells Amasa to summon the men of Judah, so he goes out to deliver the message, but takes too long (he’s still new!). David then orders Abishai to find Bikri, so Abishai (and his brother Joab), set off to pursue Bikri.

Amasa meets Joab along the way. Not a good plan. Joab takes his dagger and splits open the belly of Amasa so his intestines fall out and leaves him in the middle of the road to wallow in his blood and die. The troops rally around Joab, their seasoned commander. Someone drags Amasa off the road and covers him with a garment to let him die.

Joab corners Bikri and builds a siege ramp in preparation to destroy the entire city.

While they were battering the wall to bring it down, a wise woman called from the city, “Listen! Listen! Tell Joab to come here so I can speak to him.” 2 Samuel 20:18

A wise woman. Odd isn’t it? An army advances on a city, has time enough to build a siege ramp and begins battering down its walls and a woman appears to negotiate with this brutal warrior. Joab agrees to the meeting and somehow agrees to cease operations if she will deliver Bikri’s head.

The the woman went to all the people with her wise advice, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bikri and threw it to Joab. 2 Samuel 20:22

End of Absalom. End of Amasa. End of Bikri. David is fully restored as king with Joab as the commander of the army.

As God promised David, his years would be filled with bloodshed, living by the sword.

[Nathan speaking] Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house, because you despised me and took the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your own. This is what the Lord says: “Our of your own household I am going to bring calamity on you. Before your very eyes i will take your wives and give them to one who is close to you, and he will sleep with your wives in broad daylight. 2 Samuel 12:10-11

All this came to pass in this narrative. Absalom setup a tent and had sex with David’s concubines on the roof of the palace for all to see. Amasa was his own flesh and blood (somewhere in the lineage) and Absalom, of course, was one of his sons.

Through it all, David remains steadfast as a man of God. He openly expresses his anguish and joy throughout the psalms. One lesson I take from this narrative is simply this: I can only be fully responsible for my own actions, not that I should condone anyone else’s behavior, but I can decide to follow Christ, regardless of what goes on around me. There will be Shimei’s of the world to throw dirt and stones at me, even shout obscenities, but I must remain steadfast. Lord, help my actions, my words, my loyalty, my love to be ever yours in this day and age. Teach me to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ, to be one worthy of making disciples who make disciples, even if that number is only one. May you be honored through all of my actions.