Yahweh's Health Promise

‘Getting to know you, getting to know all about you’ is a song from ‘The king and I.’ It expresses some of the reasons why I read the Bible. I want to know the Lord.  He has revealed His character and purposes through Israel and individual’s historical events. In certain cases He added a ‘surname’ to Yahweh. Genesis 22:14 is the first where He is called Yahweh-Jireh.

The second ‘surname’ is recorded in Exodus 15:26. Against the backdrop of Israel’s mumbling and grumbling at the waters of bitterness God graciously gave them a promise. First, He healed the waters. Moses had to throw a piece of a tree into the waters which cured the bitterness. (This is a type of the cross. Israel called the cross a tree in the light of Deuteronomy 21:22-23 and Galatians 3:13.) Following on from that Yahweh made the nation a promise. Conditions were attached but it was to be a sign to them of their faithfulness to Yahweh’s commandments.

God had redeemed them and given them a mission. He had also determined that they would be a unique nation, separate from and distinct to the other nations. When their ways were in keeping with the character of God there would be blessings. These are spelt out in Leviticus 26. Forty years later they are re-issued to the second generation in Deuteronomy 28-30. One feature was that He would not bring upon them any of the diseases brought upon the Egyptians. (Deuteronomy 28:27-28). This was a promise to the Nation. It would have had individual implications but it was a sign to the Nation as to its spiritual condition. It was also tied in with their possession of the land. How they cared for ‘God’s land’ was part of their calling and accountability.

On the basis of His promise, Yahweh ‘surnames’ Himself Yahweh-Rophe, the God who heals. He knew they would fail. He provided a way by which they could maintain their uniqueness. That would be by repentance and the sacrificial system to be given at Mount Sinai. No other Nation had this promise. The other side of the proverbial ‘coin’ was the huge price for treating Yahweh with contempt by trampling His commands. This is clearly spelt out in the Leviticus and Deuteronomy passages. We are witnesses to the Lord’s judgement upon them in their history and their hardness of heart in the land today. However, Deuteronomy 30:1-10 promises a brighter and healthier future for them. We should never forget this. Yahweh is their healer as well as their scourge.

The sadness of this unique nation is in the fact that they didn’t want to be different. In 1^st Samuel is the account of them wanting a king. There wasn’t much wrong with this request. It had already been legislated for in Deuteronomy 17:14-20. Their problem was they wanted to be like the other nations. This is a constant ‘disease’ attacking people who belong to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 12:1-2 lays it on the line for us today. We are not to be conformed to this world, easier said than done. The World is ever trying to break us down and put us into its mould. Our power to resist and escape it is by the transforming power of a renewed mind. How does that come about? By knowing Christ Jesus in a fresh, intelligent and obedient manner through His word. Failure to keep our relationship fresh will have a hardening of our spiritual life, a deafening of our ears to His voice and a blindness to His path.

Next week we will look at such a hardening, deafness and blindness which affected Israel with terrible consequences. Isaiah spells it out in no uncertain terms. He also points us to how Yahweh had to deal with His curses upon the nation because of their unbelief and disobedience. Without this sacrifice and its fulfilment there could be no future for the Nation.

In closing, let’s read part of Psalm 103. This is usually applied to individuals in our day. Is it not David’s confidence in Yahweh-Rophe’s promise to which David looked especially on behalf of the Nation? ‘Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits – who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit…’

©Ray Hawkins August 24^th 2015.

The Despised One - Jesus

It doesn’t look good on His reference folder. In large print it says this Jesus was: Despised, rejected, charged with blasphemy, condemned and crucified. How is it possible for such a character to be worshipped? How could such a condemned man attract legions of men and women to call him Lord and risk everything to serve him? How can it be that his disciples would claim as their ‘banner’ the symbol of shame, torture and death, the cross?

Something must have overturned the negative remarks or at least transformed them. It is this ‘something’ which lifted an obscure Jewish Rabbi from a turbulent period of history into life’s most important and distinctive person!

Entombed, with the Sanhedrin’s seal over the stone door and guarded by a contingent of soldiers, the unimaginable happened. Jesus rose from the dead! The stone rolled; the soldiers fainted, the angels rejoiced and the demons shuddered. The man from Nazareth left His former body, bearer of the sins of the world, in the dust. Now He was exhibiting his new, glorified, imperishable and undefiled body in its radiant power.

Now to hear that is to react with scepticism. What authority exists to offer authenticating support to ‘pour acid’ on doubt and unbelief? I would offer the following: The prophecies of 39 books called the Tenach (also known as the Old Testament); the changed behaviour of the disciples; the failure of the ‘government’ to refute the claims regarding Christ’s resurrection; and the existence of the Church.

From Genesis through to Malachi there is the prophecy that someone was coming. Clues are scattered throughout the books revealing his character, work, suffering, victory, authority and victory. Statements and promises stretched over two thousand years merge into one person. Read psalm 22, Isaiah 53, Psalm 110 for starters. Our celebration of Christmas hangs on the awareness that the Babe of Bethlehem was the promised one. Jesus, in John 5:39 emphasised the importance of the thirty-nine books for they spoke about him.

Those unfamiliar with the Bible tend to imagine it was written by one author. In their minds the book takes on the appearance of a Novel. Even when it is explained to them the 66 books took a period of approximately 2,000 years to compile it fails to compute. Add to such a statement various languages and Middle Eastern countries of origin the uniqueness of the Scriptures can be overwhelming. Can such a majestic book with a central character involved happen by chance? Mathematically it is impossible! Only the oversight of God could guarantee such unity. I also admit I stand in awe of those faithful men and women who are unnamed and unnumbered who copied the manuscripts. This was often done at the risk of their lives.

Another reason for accepting the resurrection of Christ as historical is the change in the disciples. Before the Sunday event they were dispirited, beaten and cowering in an upper–room. Afterwards, they were transformed into heroes of the Faith. These men in particular suffered for their conviction. Everyone (apart from John) were martyred. Their legacy was not in bank balances accumulated or honours bestowed. No their legacy is commitment to the Truth of what was written in the thirty-nine books, verified before their eyes and sealed by Christ’s resurrection. That is why when these men and women preached their opening words seem to have been “It is written!”

The Jewish and Roman Governing authorities had an easy solution to undermining the message of the disciples of Christ. Take the people to the tomb. If, as was declared, some of His followers stole the body, arrest and charge them. To do so would have meant putting the soldiers who were on duty at the time under oath. It would also have revealed the conspiracy of the Sanhedrin to cover up the fact. Can you imagine the political fall–out from such court proceeding. This is why the authorities resorted to threats, banishment, slander and ultimately approval for imprisonment and death.

Why didn’t Jesus simply appear before the National Leaders and prove His resurrection. What seems reasonable at first glance is actually counter–productive. First, they didn’t want to believe. This is shown in their bribing of the soldiers to keep quiet about it. Secondly, for Jesus to have done that would have meant He would need to do it for everyone. The ‘currency’ Jesus requires from a person to become His follower can be ‘paid for’ by those destitute to the unimaginably rich. It’s called ‘Faith’ in the truth of Jesus Christ’s resurrection (Romans 10:8-13).

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Part two follows next week.

Discipleship #3 When the Winnowing Comes.

Verse: My flesh is true food and my blood is true drink … When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?” John 6:55. 60.

Winnowing is meant to sort the wheat from the chaff. This farming principle was used by Rabbi Jesus to explain a reason why some things happen to us. It is meant to reveal those who were genuine and those who are simply along for what they can get. The master Teacher could easily draw a crowd as the supreme story teller. Others crowded Him as the miracle worker and healer. Who wouldn’t want a free fish and bread lunch or see amazing healings. To cap it all off this apparently unlearned man revealed the covetous nature of so many Scribes and Pharisees. Even today Jesus can draw a crowd whether it be through movies, meetings or testimonies, for or against Him.

Jesus confronted the multitudes with some interesting statements that unmasked those who were self seekers, not disciples. By His Holy Spirit and the Scriptures the process continues today. Consider John 6. Jesus talked about being the ‘Bread and Wine of Heaven’ and didn’t try and explain it. Even today His words are misunderstood or inadequately explained. This is a reference to Leviticus 17:11: ‘The life of the flesh is in the blood; and I have given it to you for making atonement for your lives on the altar; for, as life, it is the blood that makes atonement.’ Notice the link to the altar. This was the place for animal sacrifice. Each of those offerings on the altar were pictures of a future event which will fulfil them. That was and remains the cross on which Christ Jesus was crucified at Calvary. Not knowing the Scriptures, as was the case in John 6, still produces all types of weird conjectures.

The result? This statement became a winnowing of the commitment of those who gathered around Jesus. Those who were attached to Jesus because of ‘bread and fishes’ or seeing Him do signs and wonders were ‘blown away’ by Christ’s tough sayings. Those who simply enjoyed being with a celebrity were also sifted because it was no longer kosher to be seen in His presence. That remains true even today. Will we stand with the Lord on what He taught? Will we compromise our faith and be sifted on such matters as: Creation, the uniqueness of Christ Jesus, the cross and resurrection, the ‘Noah’ flood, the promise return of Christ to judge and rule, to highlight just a few. Today’s church going crowds will need to answer these questions. What will be their response? Will it be that of the crowd or ‘the twelve’ when asked by Jesus? “Do you also wish to go away?” What held this group to Jesus? Conviction! Peter’s reply must ultimately be ours: “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.”

Would Jesus make an exception about the principle of ‘winnowing’ for those with good social credentials? Remember the rich young man who asked about earning the gift of eternal life? (Luke 18:18–25) He was also observant of the Law and thereby had good moral integrity. Jesus challenged this young man on the issue of priority and faith. Would he relinquish his love of and security in money? Would Jesus become his Master and provider? The winnowing must have been severe in the heart of this inquirer. The breath of the Lord blew upon Mammon but the man would not let it depart from his heart.

There are forces, spiritual, physical and emotional which we may face. These may appear unannounced. They can pounce on any of us to crush, bruise and take us away from Jesus. Again the fisherman Peter becomes an example for us. In the future he would face the greatest crisis in His life. It would take place when he denied his Lord. This caused not merely emotional pain, guilt and self loathing it opened the door for Satan’s onslaught. What saved him? Jesus prayed for Peter. Then, after the resurrection, Jesus made a point of meeting with Peter and assuring him of forgiveness and re-instatement.
He does this for you too. He knows there will be times when you and I fail to stand the test. Jesus doesn’t abandon His disciples. Correct them yes. Forgive them definitely. Lift them up to get on with the task, assuredly. Jesus continues to be our intercessor (and restorer) according to Hebrews 7:25.

Jesus is up front to men and women who are drawn to Him. What He offers is beyond price and is eternal. However, there is a cost factor. You will be faced with it in many of the devotions. As Jesus went to the cross to secure for you all He promised so you must have a ‘death to self’ encounter to receive the promises. To walk in newness of Life means you could be opposed, ridiculed, ignored or condescendingly endured. Jesus considers this part of the sifting process. You must recognise what awaits you. When the choice is made you either begin the discipleship journey or remain uncommitted. In Athens you get a glimpse of the winnowing of the Holy Spirit through the preaching of the Gospel. ‘When they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some scoffed; but others said, “We will hear you again about this.” – But some of them joined him and became believers’. Acts 17:32–34

Boundary Breakers of the Law

The book of Proverbs has great sayings about life and relationships. The one in chapter 29:16 is so apt for our world today. A look down history’s ‘corridor’ verifies its truth. ‘When the wicked are in authority, transgression increases …’

What do we mean by ‘transgression?’ It means crossing the boundary into unlawful territory. When the sign says ‘keep out’ and you don’t. Why would such conditions prevail under the rule of the wicked? Usually such reigns are cruel and oppressive. The standard set is what the unprincipled, the oppressed and the unrighteous will follow. If all that they can expect is defined by this life then the saying ‘let us eat, drink and be merry for tomorrow we die’ rings true.’ Perhaps we could rearrange the saying a little. ‘Let us cheat, lie and be violent for tomorrow we die.’

When religion overtly or covertly endorses such attitudes what was meant to erect boundaries actually destroys them. The treatment of women of all ages, as ‘things’, is in the news as they are used and abused by violent men! From Papua New Guinea to Pakistan, from the Western to Eastern cultures men crash the barriers of respect and restraint. The tragedy of child abuse and slavery has destroyed so many lives. So true is Proverbs 29:2b ‘When the wicked rule, the people groan.’ In Australia a Royal Commission is being set up to investigate corruption in the Union movement. There are numerous areas around the world which also needs such a Commission.

When the wicked smash the boundaries ‘Hell’s horror’ stalks the land. However who defined the boundaries? 1 John 3:4 ‘Sin is lawlessness.’ The word for sin means a falling short of a standard. Which standard? Mohammed’s! He was a mere man who fell short of the standard. Buddha? Offered fine words for selfish living but also missed the standard. The standard must be set by the Lord God of Hosts, the Creator. He has recorded these in the Bible. No other book can measure up to its standard. No other book can endure the scrutiny it has endured. No other book spells out the benefits for staying within the boundaries. No other book reveals dire consequences for breaking through the moral and spiritual boundaries God has set. No other book reveals the way to restore the broken boundaries and lives. No other book points the person to the One, Jesus Christ, who can give you a clean heart and a new beginning. He also gives the power and wisdom to live within the boundaries.

If you took the time to look at society you will notice some interesting facts. It is the Law of the Lord Jesus which is attacked by the nice and not so nice lawless ones. As one ‘T’ shirt worn by a young women put it ‘No god, No shame.’ Such an attitude leads to ‘No shame, no blame’ and ultimately they hope ‘no consequences and no condemnation.’ In every case the ‘T’ shirts will be wrong. However in the meantime that personal view will spill over and dominate politics, morality and the treatment of the unborn, the aged, infirm and the needy around the world. It is such lawless people, views and behaviour the Lord Jesus declared His people must resist. Indeed Jesus calls upon us to be boundary riders preserving righteousness, truth and caring for the poor and despised. It is by such men and women of faith Proverbs 29:2 speaks about ‘When the righteous are authority the people rejoice.’

Jesus made a promise. To walk with Him will prevent you from walking in the darkness of the lawless. To walk with Jesus is to walk in His light of righteousness, truth and grace. It will be a blessing to some. Others will be offended, guilt-ridden and curse you. However as you live within the boundaries He has set, you will know a hope, peace, health and meaning no lawless participant will ever experience. By the power of our risen Lord Jesus, He will keep us safe. By His grace we will measure up to His standard.

The Christmas Question

A Question from the Magi

There are many mysteries surrounding Christmas. Maybe none more so than the visit by the Magi from the East. The star has intrigued people for centuries with many a speculation. To me the issue most interesting is ‘how did the Magi know about a promised Messiah in Israel?’ Who were they and how did they know about the birth of Jesus, a name they would not have known. They did know the one born would be King of the Jews. It would have come about approximately five hundred previously. That was when the Southern Kingdom called Judah was carried off to Babylon. The Lord’s promise of judgement on disobedient Judah became the means for the Gentiles to know about the Messiah. Men of the calibre of Daniel and Ezekiel and their stories are in the bible. How they influenced such men as the Magi can only be speculated but it would have happened. The Babylonian interest in astronomy would be a real lever for Daniel to tell them about the coming King.

We call the Magi the ‘wise men’ and rightly so. However they needed someone to tell them “where is He who is born King of the Jews”. Notice, they didn’t say the baby was the heir to the throne. No! He was born King. Where was the answer found? In the Bible! For them the answer came from Micah 5:2. Christmas was not unexpected. It had been long planned. In fact from Genesis 3 in the promise to Eve and the warning to the Devil.

People who are wise still ask a similar question “where is He who was born King?” If they linger over the manger and imagine He is still a baby they’ll never meet Him. The quest for Him may begin at the manger but there is a trail leading from there to follow. We track Him down along the road marked out in the Gospels. As you read that map you find special places marked out where this Jesus met and fulfilled certain prophetic criteria. But He didn’t stay there. He had moved on to the tragedy of rejection, false accusations and finally a criminal’s death on a cross. The search of the Magi must seem to end there at Calvary. Over the head of this Jesus was a sign ‘Jesus King of the Jews’.

Now people search for His tomb. They would like to make it a sacred place, a pilgrimage centre. But He isn’t there. He has risen! It’s an empty space. Now this could create a problem for those who ask the Magi’s question, “Now where is He who was born King of the Jews”? Their answer came from scripture. So will the answer come to the wise from the scriptures who still seek to find Him. As you follow the trail set out in the bible you don’t end at a tomb. You climb the Mt. of Olives and read about His ascension to the Father’s realm. From there Jesus has promised to return to earth to complete the promises yet outstanding.

Does that mean you or I cannot find Him and know Him now? Of course not! The biblical information which motivated the Magi has been filled out in greater detail for us. Their knowledge and faith gave them motivation to find this Jesus. The same goes for us. Knowledge from the bible about the promised one and faith to believe what it says prepares a meeting ground. It has now become a heart and mind matter more than a seeing one. Romans 10:9-11 ‘If you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. The scripture says, “No one who believes in him will be put to shame.”’

When that act of faith takes place you discover more to the answer the Magi were after. You find that Jesus is Lord of Lords and King of Kings who one day will rule over the Kingdom of God. Also you will find this Jesus to be your Saviour and companion along life’s way. How to you keep in touch with Him? Through the scriptures, learning to talk with Him and meeting with those of like heart and mind.

The Bullies against Christmas

Christmas Bullies

Bullies come in all shapes and sizes. It use to be mostly boys but now girls have joined the ranks. Such creatures usually cannot hold their own in debate and discussion so seek to win by muscle power or verbal humiliation. Their effect on some has been devastating.

History has thrown up untold numbers of national bullies in the form of dictators. Such men are usually in Government, tribal or religious areas. Dominating women of history are much more subtle and seductive. Both have their power for a while but death always takes them from the scene. Whether they believe in God or not, they will have to stand in judgment before Him.

Onto the 21st century a new and more corrosive form of bullying has developed. It is religious in nature but seductive in its approach. Through the abuse of anti-discrimination laws and political correctness these bullies seek to destroy Christmas. They want the holiday but they want to remove the Christian reason undergirding it. What is it? Christ’s birth at Bethlehem. In its Christless place they want innocuous terms such as vacation or recreation day.

Who are at the head of the ‘Bully Boys Brigade’? Islam and Atheists. Who are their compliant assistants? Government and local councils. Such countries with a previously Christian history and majority, such as Norway, are buckling under the fear of offending non Christians. It doesn’t seem to matter that Christians and their faith and holy days are violated and other faiths are left untouched.

Why is there such hostility to Christmas and Easter and of course, the Bible? Could it be due to what they declare? That is the promised one of the Tanak (Jewish scriptures) is declared to have come in the Gospels. In them we read that the promised one is the Messiah who came as the suffering servant of Isaiah 53. That pointed to the Jewish Passover being fulfilled in the Messiah’s crucifixion. If this promised one we know as Jesus was still dead no one would celebrate Christmas or Easter. The section of the Bible called the New Testament declares Jesus rose from the dead and ascended to His Father’s realm. Jesus in now Lord and Saviour! He waits the right moment when the rest of Scripture is fulfilled to return as ruler and judge.

That is what the bully boys don’t want to happen (not that they can stop it). As they don’t like to be reminded of their fate and as they don’t want to change their mind, they endeavour to remove that which offends their belief system. No tolerance there. No sound argument can destroy the Christmas event, so be a bully and crush your opponent. ‘Hide incompetence and lack of argument behind well meaning laws that can be twisted to one’s own advantage’ is their mantra.

The bullies can not prevail. Caesar tried it with the lions in the arena. He failed. Christmas will be celebrated and its message will shine out more brightly than ever. The meek may pay a price but they are on the winning side, just read what Jesus said in Matthew 5:5.

Whether you like or dislike Christmas, whether you believe December 25 is the right date, ultimately doesn’t matter. What matters is its testimony. That is ‘He who was long promised came in the fullness of time.’ You can follow His story in the Gospels. How do we know Jesus came? Because of the

cross and resurrection! Without that event we wouldn’t be having this celebration. Then we wouldn’t have bullies trying to prove Christmas didn’t happen.
But it did.
Its meaning prevails.
Its promise endures.
So put your trust in Jesus the Messiah and have a happy Christmas.

Questions from God #5...Who Do You Say I Am

Who Do You Say I Am

The twelve disciples had been with Jesus for over two years. Now near Caesarea Philippi Jesus wants their assessment of who He is. That’s fair enough! If you are going to call yourself a follower of someone best to make a true and accurate judgement. The account of their assessment and that of others quoted is found in Matthew 16.

When you seriously consider this question your response becomes the most critical one you will ever make. So much hinges on your understanding and thereby your choices.

Views about Jesus range from him being a myth, a miracle worker, a teacher prophet to Saviour, Lord and Son of God. The overwhelming bulk of information about this Man of Nazareth comes from the Judeo-Christian Bible. Some say this is biased. True! However that doesn’t make it false. These 66 books have been placed under the severest scrutiny. No flaws have been discovered in their testimony even though they have undergone such stringent examinations over time.

Across the centuries individuals and religious movements have endeavoured to tie Jesus to their ideology. Such attempts feign to honour him when in reality they are either exploiting or denigrating Him. One such group today calls Him a prophet. That is true. Then they betray their real view by disclaiming most of what He said, especially about Himself. The biggest issue is His assertion to be the Son of God. (Matthew 26:63-64. John 10:22-39. Romans 1:1-6)

This religious and political movement also rejects what Jesus claimed to be His ultimate mission. He came to fulfil the references to the Messiah in the 66 books of the Old Covenant. That meant He was to be the suffering Servant of Isaiah 53. To be that meant He had to die. For that to happen meant charges worthy of death. The Jewish people’s charge was about blasphemy. The Roman’s charge was about treason and sedition. The manner of capital punishment for non Romans of that time was Crucifixion. History and Scripture record that event.

Why then would any one who says they honour Jesus especially as a prophet call Him a coward and a liar? He is made into a coward by duping some other person to take His place. He is a liar because He claimed this was His mission. Jesus was to die as a substitute for Humanity. Why? To deliver them from eternal judgement and loss but if He chickened out it was a failed mission! Who wants to be named as a follower of such a wimp!

To deny the Eternal nature of Jesus is a subtle way of contradicting the biblical view of God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Granted such a view of the Eternal Living God is hard to understand. However that is how He has revealed Himself. Some would try and say that when Jesus used the filial term of Father He was referring to Allah. This is nonsense and anti biblical. Allah has links with the Moon god not to the one who said ‘I am that I am’. The triune Lord God revealed in Scripture is the God from everlasting to everlasting.

Whenever people want to make Jesus more presentable to the modern age they actually rob Him of His identity. Included in that is the rejection of the cross and resurrection, His role as Judge and returning King to reign over the Kingdom of God.

So much more can be said. In coming question time more might be stressed about the person and work of Jesus. Why is the question Jesus asked about a person’s assessment of who He is so important? Because the answer you give will have eternal consequences that no other religious leader, prophet or guru can match. This is perhaps one reason Jesus isn’t liked by other religions. Jesus said ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but by me.’ On that there is no compromise!

What do you think of Jesus? On whose authority!

The Dark Side of God

The Dark Side of God.

That which is Abominable in His Eyes

Love – the word we like to hear about God’s character, His essential being. It is true and it makes people feel warm and comfortable. This is even when they are living contrary to His standards. To imagine that the God of Love has a ‘Dark side’ is either, ignored, rejected or threatening.

Over the next couple of blogs I’d like to have a look at what the Bible reveals concerning the Eternal Lord’s ‘dark side’.

Certain practices humans perform are described as being abominable to God.  That is, they are detestable in His sight and worthy of His righteous condemnation. I’d like to list them. Most I’m sure you will say ‘Amen’ to. But will you agree with them all?

Proverbs 6:16-19: Six things the Lord hates, seven are an abomination to him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that hurry to run to evil, a lying witness who testifies falsely and one who sows discord in a family.

Proverbs 11:1 A false balance, 12:22 lying lips, 17:15: one who justifies the wicked are all an abomination to the God of the Bible.

We know that all idolatry is detestable to God for it has devastating effects on the health and spiritual life of a person and community. Check out Deuteronomy 18:9-14 and 12:29 onwards. Idolatry is so closely linked to sexual perversion which destroys the very meaning and symbolism of marriage. The Lord has made plain His framework for Marriage in Genesis 2 and Ephesians 5:22-33.

Deviant sexual practises and perverse behaviour are listed in Leviticus 18. With an uncompromising bluntness we read of God’s severity upon such behaviour. Why? Because it destroys the very soul of the people involved. It corrupts what God intended to be holy and unique between a man and a woman. It demeans souls and shatters relationships of trust and protection. It also pollutes the very landscape and community it infests. Leviticus talks about incest, sexual activity with animals and same sex marriages. Leviticus 18:30 sums it up ‘So keep my (Yahweh’s) charge not to commit any of these abominations…and not to defile yourselves by them: I am the Lord your God. (emphasis added).

The Lord’s judgement upon such practices is holy and just. ‘Whoever commits any of these abominations shall be cut off from their people.’ (Leviticus 18:29) It even goes beyond this. In Revelation 21-22 it is evident that such behaviour excludes any entrance into Heaven.

Is there any escape?

Only by the grace of God and the fact that such behaviour in mind and body requiring punishment has been dealt with at the Cross of Christ. He offers cleansing, forgiveness, a new beginning and power to overcome the past.  1 Corinthians 6:9-10: ‘Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers – none of these will inherit the kingdom of God. And this is what some of you used to be. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.’(Emphasis added) 

 Christ Jesus is God's 'lighthouse' to lead us out of the darkness

God has given us an escape from His ‘Dark side’ and into His light and love. This is open by a personal commitment of your life by faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord. His grace then transforms you from being condemned into being accepted.

Ray (now on God’s bright side) Hawkins

ANIMAL DIGNITY AND WELFARE

The Importance of the Bible to me #6

The Dignity of Animals

Stories of animal cruelty occur often. Insensitive slaughter at abattoirs, neglect of farm animals and stupid acts of cruelty fill the various media. People rise up with concern on behalf of the voiceless animal world. Don’t you find that rather strange? Why? Well if humans are an evolutionary mistake and are expendable why not dumb (presumably) animals. Once again the bible rises up to defend the weak, vulnerable and the voiceless.

It is the Judeo–Christian Bible and Faith which upholds an animal’s dignity and right. In Genesis 1 they are included in the creative act of the Lord God. They are there at the pleasure of the Lord. Humankind was given responsibility for the animal world’s well being. Sadly greed, fear and superstition have brought many species near to or into extinction.

Consider the following statements of Scripture and ask yourself is there any other religion or Faith with such safeguards? Deuteronomy 22:4: ‘You shall not see your neighbour’s donkey or ox fallen on the road and ignore it; you shall help to lift it up.’

Deuteronomy 22:10: ‘You shall not plough with an ox and a donkey together.’ Why? They are incompatible. One carries more of the load as it is unevenly shared. It is also undignified for two distinct creatures. The Lord Jesus also used it to teach us a spiritual lesson. Be not unequally yoked as a Christian and a non Christian.

Deuteronomy 19:19: ‘You shall keep my statutes. You shall not let your animals breed with a different kind.’ Breeding within the species is permitted, not outside it. I imagine this is to preserve the uniqueness of the species and prohibit grotesque caricatures of God’s creatures.

Within the framework of the Ten Commandments and its law of the Sabbath is an interesting comment, at least from an animal’s view. ‘The seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work – you, your son or your daughter, or your male or female slave, or your ox or your donkey, or any other of your livestock …(so that they) may rest as well as you.’ Deuteronomy 5:14.

What is the basis for our view of an animal’s dignity? God the Creator’s creative act and His Law for their welfare. Perhaps the most significant act to confront a godless world’s view of animals centres on a donkey. It is how Jesus used it to take Him into Jerusalem as the Prince of Peace. Other passages also reveal the donkey in favourable lights. Surely there is a message about animals and their welfare inherent in this. Maybe this is a significant reason behind many animal liberationists attempt to protect these creatures. Would I be correct in saying that all of these, consciously or unconsciously, have picked up the biblical ethos?

Those who say the Bible is out of date, irrelevant, know not what they say. It is important for a wholesome, vibrant and God pleasing outlook on life and the treatment of others. In Psalm 148 in a poem of praise to God guess who are also given their voice to do this? Of course! ‘Wild animals and all cattle, creeping things and flying birds.’ Will your voice be heard with theirs?

Ray (an animal lover) Hawkins

Next week. The bible is important to me as it points to a choice of destinies. See you then.

HUMAN DIGNITY BEGINS HERE

The Importance of the Bible to me #5

Human Dignity Begins Here

Even to a casual observer there are some–things so different in Christian influenced countries than non–Christian countries. We who are privileged to live in Christian countries take so much for granted and fail to appreciate our heritage.  Yes we are far from perfect. Yes Church attendances are falling. However the Christian influence is strong and lingers.

 

Mary,Ray and Zambian family



Look at Islamic, Buddhist and Hindu countries and their treatment of women, the outcaste, and the inequality before the Law of non country citizens. That is naming but a few instances. What has made the difference between West and East? The teaching, preaching, living and motivation aroused by the Judeo–Christian Scriptures.

Let’s look at a couple of directions for a safe, sound and satisfying society. In Leviticus 19 are some very fundamental yet imperative words from Yahweh. ‘You shall not revile the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind.’ (verse 14) Why make this a big deal? The deaf cannot hear you and the blind cannot see your actions.  What is at stake? Human dignity and personal integrity! Why bother? If you believe in evolution all are merely matter in motion. No dignity there. If you accept Islam, Buddhism or Hinduism with their Karma then such afflicted people deserved their condition.

The Judeo–Christian view is human life is due in the beginning to a creative act of God.

Genesis also stresses this uniqueness stems from Adam being made in the likeness of God. Again the example of Jesus in His treatment of the blind, the deaf, the outcaste motivates a caring concern. In Australia there is being introduced a Disability Insurance scheme.  True Australia is fast drifting out of being a vibrant Christian country. However its values are heavily influenced by its Biblical Heritage.  People from other religious persuasions want to enjoy our heritage and yet pervert it with their own religious law. Are they unable or unwilling to see the contrast between Christian and non–Christian belief systems and behaviour?

However not speaking ill of the deaf or putting stumbling blocks before the blind is more than a nice religious ideal. It is the command of the Lord God of Creation and Glory. Therefore you can see it does matter what you believe even in such a seemingly small social issue as treating the deaf and the blind. An unbiased look back over history will reveal men and women leaving home and security to serve the welfare of others in distant countries. Why? Because they had a sense of God’s call on their lives, the example of Jesus, the need of suffering humanity and the motivating authority of the Bible.

That is just another reason why the Bible is so important ― to me. What about you?

Next week’ The Bible and Animal Welfare.’

The Importance of the Bible - to me

Why I tremble

                          When I read the Bible there are times it causes me to tremble.

Why should this be so?

I tremble because I meet the Lord God Almighty in its pages. They tell me He is Holy and Just. Written within its pages are His expectations and straight out commands. I have trembled as His ten Commandments strike home to my heart. I realise I’ve fallen short of God’s standard. I’ve not measured up to Heaven’s quality assurance for entry.

I tremble when I read of the Eternal God’s love for you and me. His holiness condemns but His mercy seeks our forgiveness and cleansing. How could this be resolved? Only by someone without blemish standing in my place, your place, and taking the righteous judgement!

I fall down in gratitude to read of the One and the only One who could do it. His name is Jesus! I read of all the preparation He undertook to ensure when it happened we would recognise it. Jesus Christ overwhelms me with His grace not simply for me but for the whole world.  The cross was no accident. It was the historical, tangible, physical experience of Jesus who applied it to the spiritual realm to deal with my sin, unbelief and rebellion. He took my judgement, your judgement. His life flowed out when His blood was shed and it became our cleansing and covering. (Read Romans 5-6)

I now tremble with delight in accepting Christ Jesus as my Saviour and Lord.  There are times when I realise I’ve not been as faithful as I should have been to His calling on my life. But as I read God’s word I don’t find banishment but the opportunity for repentance and restoration.

What is the power within the pages of God’s word, the bible that causes a reader to tremble? It is the Holy Spirit making the print speak to the heart. He works a work of grace so as to bring us to and keep us true to Jesus Christ the Lord and Saviour.  In Isaiah 66:2b is this promise, God speaking, “this is the one to whom I will look, to the humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at my word.”

Ray (the trembling) Hawkins

When I Hear Your Word

When I hear your word

I tremble

O Father, how I tremble!

When I read your word

And know your plans

My heart trembles

Trembles!

When I enjoy your word

I rejoice

O Jesus, how I rejoice!

When I study your word

And know your mind

My heart trembles

Trembles!

When I obey your word

I’m humbled

O Spirit, how I’m humbled!

When I love your word

And know your will

My heart trembles

Trembles!

©Ray Hawkins 21/4/2013.

The Importance of the Bible

The Bible – God’s Sword.

The Judeo–Christian Bible is loved or hated, feared or revered, assailed or defended because of its content and claims. As I share this series I want to let you into the reasons why I love it, enjoy it, am convinced of its inspiration and integrity. For me the Bible has more going for it than any other religious/spiritual book.

We will consider some of the claims it makes and whether they match up to reality in a person’s life. For instance why does it claim to be the sword of the Lord? ‘The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two–edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.’ (Hebrews 4:12) 

Notice it isn’t a literal sword. It is much more enduring and powerful. A metal sword can only kill not bring back to life. The word of God does both. When we hear it or read it there is a power and vibrancy penetrating our mind and heart. It’s searching out anything contrary to the eternal and holy God. This is why so many resist reading it.  Over the years I have felt the smiting of God’s sword. It cuts deep and deals with thoughts, motives, dark passions and self–righteous virtues no one but God and I know about. It reveals so as to deal with issues effecting a personal faith and obedient relationship with our Lord and Saviour.

What happens next? I must offer up those unwholesome things of my inner and active life to the sword. The Lord doesn’t snatch them from me. I must yield them to the sword. In so doing the word of God puts them to death, provides forgiveness and offers new resources to live a life pleasing to God It becomes one which will bless others and also prevent any blackmailing from Satan. God made me (and also you in similar circumstances) alive together with Him when He forgave and put to death all my trespasses. (Colossians 2:13)

If I don’t read or listen to God’s word then I may imagine I’m safe from His sword. Foolish thinking! The ultimate day will arrive when we stand before the One who wields the sword of His mouth. Before the Lord gives permission to enter His glory how much smiting sword play will He require to be performed on me, on you? We cannot enter with moral, spiritual or emotional darkness and disease in our inner being. Best to deal with it in our life time than to be embarrassed before His judgement seat. Sure salvation is not at risk, but knowing the pleasure of the Lord concerning our faithfulness is.

So I’m thankful for those across the years who taught me God’s word, which I didn’t put into practice unfortunately until late teens. The pain and shame of feeling God’s sword wasn’t pleasant but Oh how thankful I am that He used it. I’m also glad that the Lord continues to make His word alive and active today. Why? Because it safeguards my Christian life and testimony as well as knowing his pleasure!

Next week…The Bible as life guiding light..

I hope you will come along with me each week to have a look at some of the wonder, the beauty and the promises alive and vibrant in His word. Until next week – enjoy reading and hearing the most thrilling book in all of time.

God's Messages in Stone #4.

The Foundation Stone for…

My grandson was building a tower of interlocking blocks. It was broad based and patiently erected. Trouble came when its height was excessive and also when floor vibrations increased. It shook. It rattled. It collapsed. Then the tears flowed and tantrums erupted.

Foundations are essential for any edifice to endure the pressures placed upon it. This is also true for an individual life, a family  or nation. One of the sad aspects of living a reasonably long life is to see the truth of this in the lives of those you know. They built their life on money, pleasure, fame, success and even religious observances but their lives crashed because of either no foundation or inadequate ones.

We have been considering Jesus Christ in various roles as ‘The Stone.’ He is the rejected Stone, the Crushing Stone now consider Him as the foundation Stone. ‘No one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ’ (1 Corinthians 3:11).

Jesus is our foundation for our Faith.

He is the fulfilment of Isaiah 28:16: ‘Therefore thus says the Lord God, I am laying in Zion a foundation stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation.’ The Bible reveals the Name, the character, the work and words of this person.  He cannot be undermined by evolutionary theory, higher criticisms or religious counterfeits. His claim is contained in many passages. A very graphic expression is found in Matthew 7:24-29 in the parable of the wise and foolish builders.

Jesus is our foundation for Redemption and forgiveness.

In the Old Testament He is the promised one. Check Genesis 3:15. The substitutionary one Isaiah 53 and the coming one Daniel 7.  (Many other passages can be written). The crucifixion, entombment and resurrection of Jesus, known historically, made Him our foundation for Salvation.

Jesus is the foundation on which to build our lives.

In the midst of our earthly living many foundations are offered.  When tested by the various storms of life they will topple. Jesus supplies us with a foundation on which to build; a morality which is pleasing to God and health giving to self and family; hope that takes us through savage times and ultimately into the presence of the Father.  

There are many other facets about a life built upon Jesus we could consider. Get a Judeo-Christian bible and discover them for yourself.  Jesus didn’t say building your life upon His character, cross, and word would be easy. What He does promise is that you will stand in life’s storms. More than that, you will stand in the Father’s presence and know acceptance.

(Ray (locked into the Foundation Stone) Hawkins.

Next week What Jesus makes us – Living Stones.