Relevant Bible Verses
1) John 15:8 In this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and so you will become My disciples.
2) John 15:16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and I set you that you should go forth and bear fruit and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He may give you.
3) 1 Cor 3:6-7 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.
I was fortunate enough that my previous home in New Zealand there were many fruit trees at the backyard. Year by year I eagerly anticipated the trees would be laden with variety of fruits and year by year without fail the fruits kept coming. There were grapefruit, passion fruit, grapes, gala apple, red plum and fig fruit tree as well. These fruit trees required very little maintenance. Watering the trees was the only thing I did. Sometimes, I could even smell the sweet fragrance of these fruits from the kitchen, more so from the grapefruits. I greatly enjoyed going to see these fruit trees in their glorification and in addition the satisfaction of eating my own grown fruits without paying for it. However, at times there were so much fruits that I had to keep persuading friends to help take them away. The excess of the fruits were then collected in plastic bags and sent it out as rubbish!
The fruit Christ has borne is even more fragrant and beautiful than all the fruits mentioned. Actually, we are His fruit! If Christ had never produced a disciple after His resurrection, He would have remained alone. The word, christian, would not be in existence.
During His time on earth, He had set the example to disciple. He had never failed to pursuade and encourage His followers to continue to follow His foot steps. Simon son of John was asked to feed His "sheep" if he truly loved Jesus (John 21:17). Today, we have about 33% of the world population who are christians (http://www.adherents.com/Religions_By_Adherents.html).
So, what is really fruit-bearing in spiritual sense? I believe it is the overflow of the riches and love of the inner life. It is the natural overflowing of Christ within us. Do not try to bring people to Christ by your own effort. Remember, we did not choose Him, but He chose us. When we continue to trust God in our daily walk with Christ by exhibiting ("watering") His goodness and richness, God will "make it grow". Then we shall have an abundance of inner life. Out of this abundance of inner life there will be a flow that will reach others, penetrating into their lives. This flow will bear much fruit. It is not just preaching or soul-winning; it must be fruit-bearing by the overflow of the riches of the inner life of Christ from within.
Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Saigon
Relevant Bible Verses
1) Gen 26:24 That night the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham."
2) Gen 3:12 And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain."
3) Matt 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Like many cities in Vietnam, Saigon did not escape the wrath of war. Saigon has had quite a traumatic history. In the mid 19th century, the French with the aid of the Spanish invaded this port city and destroyed the fort. This event was the precursor to the long struggle between the people of Vietnam and France leading to the historical defeat of the French in 1954. Until today we can still see very strong French influence in this city.
After the fall of South Vietnam to communism in 1975, the city and many of its inhabitants were in a state of chaos and turmoil. In 1976, the new government, renamed the city Ho Chi Minh City and shut its door to the rest of the world. Although recognized worldwide as Ho Chi Minh City, to the people of Vietnam, the city is still lovingly referred as Saigon.
The Mission Team Minus Fong Ping
Last week, I was given the opportunity to be part of the mission team to Ho Chi Minh city. I have heard of christians being put into jail for unknown period and some were tortured till death. I was troubled with the whole exercise and most of all, I was very worried if I would ever see my family members again. I was assigned the tasks to assist in the medical team, share in a church and teach in two bible schools. I have not done any of these in my life before!
I have successfully avoided accepting mission trip twice over the last two years. The third was a little hard for me to avoid and I reluctantly accepted it. The main reason I accepted it was not because of my heart for mission but to "visit" Vietnam since I have not been there.
Dr Mak in Action
God works in a miraculous way. After the MIME (perfomance art without speech) by our team in a church there, it was my turn to preach (share). I started off with Genesis - the creation and the fall of man. Then I proceeded with the death of Jesus on the cross as redemption of our sins. I continued to trust God and ended the sharing with the challenge for the people to accept Christ. I was totally surprise people actually responded! The whole team joined me to help pray for these people. As a matter of fact, the leader of the local church approached me later and told me that she was very excited that her mother-in-law wanted to accept Christ and asked me to pray for her. I was excited too. She further said that her mother-in-law has been in the church for 25 years and refused to accept Jesus. God was working through us.
Gold fish for breakfast anyone?
The Fantastic Four
I also taught in two separate locations and those attended are leaders of church and pastors. I was given two topics to teach; Effective Leadership and Cell Church. The class started in the morning at 9am and ended at 3.30pm with 1 hour lunch break in between. I could not believe I could speak for 4 hours non stop in each class. It was a good trip and I enjoyed it. Possibly I have found my "calling".
Effective Leadership Class
Kipling Bag
When God commands us to go and reach out, there is always one promise that follow - "I will be with you". God was with us all the way. We even had time to do some shopping and site seeing.
1) Gen 26:24 That night the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham."
2) Gen 3:12 And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain."
3) Matt 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Like many cities in Vietnam, Saigon did not escape the wrath of war. Saigon has had quite a traumatic history. In the mid 19th century, the French with the aid of the Spanish invaded this port city and destroyed the fort. This event was the precursor to the long struggle between the people of Vietnam and France leading to the historical defeat of the French in 1954. Until today we can still see very strong French influence in this city.
After the fall of South Vietnam to communism in 1975, the city and many of its inhabitants were in a state of chaos and turmoil. In 1976, the new government, renamed the city Ho Chi Minh City and shut its door to the rest of the world. Although recognized worldwide as Ho Chi Minh City, to the people of Vietnam, the city is still lovingly referred as Saigon.
The Mission Team Minus Fong Ping
Last week, I was given the opportunity to be part of the mission team to Ho Chi Minh city. I have heard of christians being put into jail for unknown period and some were tortured till death. I was troubled with the whole exercise and most of all, I was very worried if I would ever see my family members again. I was assigned the tasks to assist in the medical team, share in a church and teach in two bible schools. I have not done any of these in my life before!
I have successfully avoided accepting mission trip twice over the last two years. The third was a little hard for me to avoid and I reluctantly accepted it. The main reason I accepted it was not because of my heart for mission but to "visit" Vietnam since I have not been there.
Dr Mak in Action
God works in a miraculous way. After the MIME (perfomance art without speech) by our team in a church there, it was my turn to preach (share). I started off with Genesis - the creation and the fall of man. Then I proceeded with the death of Jesus on the cross as redemption of our sins. I continued to trust God and ended the sharing with the challenge for the people to accept Christ. I was totally surprise people actually responded! The whole team joined me to help pray for these people. As a matter of fact, the leader of the local church approached me later and told me that she was very excited that her mother-in-law wanted to accept Christ and asked me to pray for her. I was excited too. She further said that her mother-in-law has been in the church for 25 years and refused to accept Jesus. God was working through us.
Gold fish for breakfast anyone?
The Fantastic Four
I also taught in two separate locations and those attended are leaders of church and pastors. I was given two topics to teach; Effective Leadership and Cell Church. The class started in the morning at 9am and ended at 3.30pm with 1 hour lunch break in between. I could not believe I could speak for 4 hours non stop in each class. It was a good trip and I enjoyed it. Possibly I have found my "calling".
Effective Leadership Class
Kipling Bag
When God commands us to go and reach out, there is always one promise that follow - "I will be with you". God was with us all the way. We even had time to do some shopping and site seeing.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Nicodemus - E=mc²
Relevant Bible Verses
1) 1 Cor 3:19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God
2) John 3:1 But there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
3) John 3:4 Nicodemus said....."How can a man be born again when he is old"?
4) John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you. Unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God".
E=mc², is an equation derived from the general theory of relativity discovered by the well known genius Jewish scientist of German descent, Albert Einstein. We can see that the equation is very simple and easy to solve. Basically, the theory of relativity equation says for even a very small amount of mass (m) a huge amount of energy (E) can be released if the mass is accelerated close to the speed of light (c).
There were many more genius scientists and mathematicians. Most of their inventions or discoveries have surely eased and up-lifted standard of living way beyond one can imagine. To name a few examples; Thomas Edison (light bulb), Wright Brothers (airplane), Alexander Graham Bell (telephone), Alexander Fleming (penicillin), and Isaac Newton (gravity). I would consider these are people with great wisdom.
However, the bible says that the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. It does not really mean God looks at the world's wisdom as being foolish. But it is saying that God's wisdom is so much greater that the world's wisdom becomes so insignificant. It is describing the enormous contrast between God's great wisdom and the world's wisdom.
Nicodemus was a ruler of the Jews. He was a well respected leader with vast knowledge and wisdom among the Jewish community. Unfortunately, he did not understand the concept of being born again. He considered Christ to be the teacher come from God and he needed some better teachings to further improve himself. Due to his position and pride, he was also afraid of the people to know that he seeked some understandings from Jesus. That was probably why he came to Jesus by night, so that no one would see him.
Nonetheless, Jesus answered him that he needed to be born again to enter into the kingdom of God. To be born again in this context is to be regenerated with the divine life, other than the human life one received from natural birth. Thus, Nicodemus' real need was not to seek some better understanding of teachings to improve himself, but the regenerated divine life. He was so consumed with the desire to seek for earthly knowledge (tree of the knowledge of good and evil) that he completely neglected to take on the divine life of the tree of life.
Let's embark on the divine tree of life, our Lord Jesus!
1) 1 Cor 3:19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God
2) John 3:1 But there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
3) John 3:4 Nicodemus said....."How can a man be born again when he is old"?
4) John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you. Unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God".
E=mc², is an equation derived from the general theory of relativity discovered by the well known genius Jewish scientist of German descent, Albert Einstein. We can see that the equation is very simple and easy to solve. Basically, the theory of relativity equation says for even a very small amount of mass (m) a huge amount of energy (E) can be released if the mass is accelerated close to the speed of light (c).
There were many more genius scientists and mathematicians. Most of their inventions or discoveries have surely eased and up-lifted standard of living way beyond one can imagine. To name a few examples; Thomas Edison (light bulb), Wright Brothers (airplane), Alexander Graham Bell (telephone), Alexander Fleming (penicillin), and Isaac Newton (gravity). I would consider these are people with great wisdom.
However, the bible says that the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. It does not really mean God looks at the world's wisdom as being foolish. But it is saying that God's wisdom is so much greater that the world's wisdom becomes so insignificant. It is describing the enormous contrast between God's great wisdom and the world's wisdom.
Nicodemus was a ruler of the Jews. He was a well respected leader with vast knowledge and wisdom among the Jewish community. Unfortunately, he did not understand the concept of being born again. He considered Christ to be the teacher come from God and he needed some better teachings to further improve himself. Due to his position and pride, he was also afraid of the people to know that he seeked some understandings from Jesus. That was probably why he came to Jesus by night, so that no one would see him.
Nonetheless, Jesus answered him that he needed to be born again to enter into the kingdom of God. To be born again in this context is to be regenerated with the divine life, other than the human life one received from natural birth. Thus, Nicodemus' real need was not to seek some better understanding of teachings to improve himself, but the regenerated divine life. He was so consumed with the desire to seek for earthly knowledge (tree of the knowledge of good and evil) that he completely neglected to take on the divine life of the tree of life.
Let's embark on the divine tree of life, our Lord Jesus!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Redemption vs Atonement
Relevant Bible Verses
1) Hebrews 9:11-14 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
2) Hebrews 10:4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
3) Hebrews 9:15 And because of this He is the Mediator of a new covenant, so that, death having taken place for redemption of the trangressions under the first covenant, those who have been called might receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.
Being involved in the corporate finance, there are so many issues one has to scutinise and analyse before a paper is presented to the company board for decision. Leaving no stone unturned. Basically the main task of these corporate people is to identify the risks and address ways to mitigate them, to reduce the chances of a failed merger or acquistion.
However, despite the stringent rules and principles governing corporate finance, we still see failed mergers and acquisitions, and even the very big and reputable corporations collapsed. People who are very passionate of their jobs and their fervent burning desire to close a deal can choose to deliberately ignore unpleasant things (risks) and forget about them. It is like "sweeping them under the carpet". By doing so, you are just covering the risks temporary. You did not remove the risks totally.
In Leviticus 16:15-18, under the old covenant, the blood of goats and calves only made propitiation (atonement) or covering for people's sins. Thus, to make propitiation means to cover sins. It does not mean to take away sins. It never accomplished redemption for their sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins (Heb 10:4).
Christ as the Lamb of God, took away the sin of the world on the old rugged cross as the sacrifice for sins once and for all. His blood which was sprinkled is the blood of the eternal covenant, which is the new and better than the old covenant.
Christ has achieved the full redemption under the new covenant, even the redemption of the trangressions under the first (old) covenant, which trangressions that were only covered by animal blood.
Surely we have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb!!
1) Hebrews 9:11-14 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
2) Hebrews 10:4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
3) Hebrews 9:15 And because of this He is the Mediator of a new covenant, so that, death having taken place for redemption of the trangressions under the first covenant, those who have been called might receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.
Being involved in the corporate finance, there are so many issues one has to scutinise and analyse before a paper is presented to the company board for decision. Leaving no stone unturned. Basically the main task of these corporate people is to identify the risks and address ways to mitigate them, to reduce the chances of a failed merger or acquistion.
However, despite the stringent rules and principles governing corporate finance, we still see failed mergers and acquisitions, and even the very big and reputable corporations collapsed. People who are very passionate of their jobs and their fervent burning desire to close a deal can choose to deliberately ignore unpleasant things (risks) and forget about them. It is like "sweeping them under the carpet". By doing so, you are just covering the risks temporary. You did not remove the risks totally.
In Leviticus 16:15-18, under the old covenant, the blood of goats and calves only made propitiation (atonement) or covering for people's sins. Thus, to make propitiation means to cover sins. It does not mean to take away sins. It never accomplished redemption for their sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins (Heb 10:4).
Christ as the Lamb of God, took away the sin of the world on the old rugged cross as the sacrifice for sins once and for all. His blood which was sprinkled is the blood of the eternal covenant, which is the new and better than the old covenant.
Christ has achieved the full redemption under the new covenant, even the redemption of the trangressions under the first (old) covenant, which trangressions that were only covered by animal blood.
Surely we have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb!!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Pumping Iron
Relevant Bible Verses
1) 1 Cor 14:26 What then, brothers? Whenever you come together, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.
2) Eph 4:29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but only that which is good for building up......
3) Eph 4:12-13 To prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Pumping Iron is considered to be the all-time classic bodybuilding movie. The film focuses on Arnold Schwarzenegger and his competitors, Lou Ferrigno and Franco Columbu. I always thought that in bodybuilding, the ultimate motive for these people would be to build their body muscles to be as large as possible - the bigger, the better. On the contrary, this movie documented what is commonly referred to as "The Golden Age" of bodybuilding, a time when mass and size mattered less, but symmetry and definition of the body was preferred. I can imagine the extreme intensity of the training, passion, zealousness and the determination these body builders have to endure as part and parcel of bodybuilding discipline. At the end of all these "sufferings", they become the model for the young ones to emulate. As we all know, Arnold becomes the 38th elected Governor of California, Lou is the main actor in the popular "The Hulk" movie, while Franco holds doctorates in chiropractic and nutrition and currently sits on the California Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
Likewise, in the body of Christ, we are charged to build one another up. When we come together, let us bring a plate of "food" that will nourish - a psalm, a song, a teaching, a revelation, etc. We must consider others when we meet. Words that we say should be aimed to encourage. It is not how much we say, but whether or not what we say builds up others. If you think your silence will benefit others, then remain silent. "Let no corrupt word proceed out of our mouth, but only that which is good for building up...." (Eph 4:2)
It should be a spontaneous thing for us to function in mutuality as members of the body of Christ when we meet. Our goal as children of God is to strive to reach in faith and to attain the full knowledge and whole measure of Christ with full maturity!
Build up the Body of Christ!
1) 1 Cor 14:26 What then, brothers? Whenever you come together, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.
2) Eph 4:29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but only that which is good for building up......
3) Eph 4:12-13 To prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Pumping Iron is considered to be the all-time classic bodybuilding movie. The film focuses on Arnold Schwarzenegger and his competitors, Lou Ferrigno and Franco Columbu. I always thought that in bodybuilding, the ultimate motive for these people would be to build their body muscles to be as large as possible - the bigger, the better. On the contrary, this movie documented what is commonly referred to as "The Golden Age" of bodybuilding, a time when mass and size mattered less, but symmetry and definition of the body was preferred. I can imagine the extreme intensity of the training, passion, zealousness and the determination these body builders have to endure as part and parcel of bodybuilding discipline. At the end of all these "sufferings", they become the model for the young ones to emulate. As we all know, Arnold becomes the 38th elected Governor of California, Lou is the main actor in the popular "The Hulk" movie, while Franco holds doctorates in chiropractic and nutrition and currently sits on the California Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
Likewise, in the body of Christ, we are charged to build one another up. When we come together, let us bring a plate of "food" that will nourish - a psalm, a song, a teaching, a revelation, etc. We must consider others when we meet. Words that we say should be aimed to encourage. It is not how much we say, but whether or not what we say builds up others. If you think your silence will benefit others, then remain silent. "Let no corrupt word proceed out of our mouth, but only that which is good for building up...." (Eph 4:2)
It should be a spontaneous thing for us to function in mutuality as members of the body of Christ when we meet. Our goal as children of God is to strive to reach in faith and to attain the full knowledge and whole measure of Christ with full maturity!
Build up the Body of Christ!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Law of Sin
Relevant Bible Verses
1) Romans 7:21-24 I find then the law with me who wills to do the good, that is, the evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God according to the inner man, But I see a different law in my members, warring against the law of my mind and making me a captive to the law of sin which is in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from the body of this death?
2) Romans 8:1-2 There is now then no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has freed me in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and of death.
Sometimes we need a "kick in the butt" or a "knock on the head" to get us going again. Sir Isaac Newton experienced this "knock" or "kick" when an apple fell on his head which triggered the theory of the universal law of gravitation. Probably the more correct version of the story is that Newton, upon observing an apple fall from a tree, began to notice the acceleration of the fall was due to earth force (gravity).
Suppose we hold an apple up in the air with our hand. Based on the theory, you are actually holding the apple against the gravitational force. You may be able to withstand the gravitational pull for an hour. But after two hours you will feel tired, and after the third hour your hand will no longer obey you. Eventually, you will let go of it. Gravity never tires out, but your hand does. The unceasing operation of the natural law of gravity will eventually prevail.
In Romans 7:21-24, Paul's eyes were opened. He saw that the enemy he was dealing with within him, was the law of sin. He was very disappointed when he saw that sin was a law, and that was why he said "Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from the body of this death?" He realized that it was impossible for him to prevail over sin by his will.
The will is man's own choices. It is what man wants, determines, and decides to do. Once we have decided to do something, we begin to carry it out. We can create power if the task is carried out successfully. But we have a problem. When the will comes in conflict with the law of sin, which one prevails? The will usually prevails at the beginning, but ultimately sin prevails.
The same principle (apple vs gravity) applies when you try to overcome sin with your will. The will can stand against sin for a short while. But the power of sin far exceeds the power of the will. Sin is a law, it cannot be destroyed by the resistance of man's will. Our will cannot persist forever, but the law of sin is always active.
But Romans 8:1 shows us the more superior law. It is the law of the Spirit of life in Christ that can free us from the law of sin and of death.
God is great!
1) Romans 7:21-24 I find then the law with me who wills to do the good, that is, the evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God according to the inner man, But I see a different law in my members, warring against the law of my mind and making me a captive to the law of sin which is in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from the body of this death?
2) Romans 8:1-2 There is now then no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has freed me in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and of death.
Sometimes we need a "kick in the butt" or a "knock on the head" to get us going again. Sir Isaac Newton experienced this "knock" or "kick" when an apple fell on his head which triggered the theory of the universal law of gravitation. Probably the more correct version of the story is that Newton, upon observing an apple fall from a tree, began to notice the acceleration of the fall was due to earth force (gravity).
Suppose we hold an apple up in the air with our hand. Based on the theory, you are actually holding the apple against the gravitational force. You may be able to withstand the gravitational pull for an hour. But after two hours you will feel tired, and after the third hour your hand will no longer obey you. Eventually, you will let go of it. Gravity never tires out, but your hand does. The unceasing operation of the natural law of gravity will eventually prevail.
In Romans 7:21-24, Paul's eyes were opened. He saw that the enemy he was dealing with within him, was the law of sin. He was very disappointed when he saw that sin was a law, and that was why he said "Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from the body of this death?" He realized that it was impossible for him to prevail over sin by his will.
The will is man's own choices. It is what man wants, determines, and decides to do. Once we have decided to do something, we begin to carry it out. We can create power if the task is carried out successfully. But we have a problem. When the will comes in conflict with the law of sin, which one prevails? The will usually prevails at the beginning, but ultimately sin prevails.
The same principle (apple vs gravity) applies when you try to overcome sin with your will. The will can stand against sin for a short while. But the power of sin far exceeds the power of the will. Sin is a law, it cannot be destroyed by the resistance of man's will. Our will cannot persist forever, but the law of sin is always active.
But Romans 8:1 shows us the more superior law. It is the law of the Spirit of life in Christ that can free us from the law of sin and of death.
God is great!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Profanity
Relevant Bible Verses
1) 2 Timothy 2:16-17 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker. (KJV)
2) 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
3) Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
According to Collins dictionary, the word "profanity" means showing disrespect for religion or something sacred. Blasphemy is another word of the similar meaning commonly used in the Bible.
Religion can become so sacred in some countries, that they have strict laws specifically enacted to protect it from being profaned. An example whereby a person can be charged and even put behind bars is Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin ("RPK"). RPK is accused of publishing articles in his blog which contained seditious words against the government and religion. Currently being detained under ISA (Internal Security Act).
In the body of Christ, profanity, vain babblings and opinions which encourage self vain glory (lovers of self) can cause the church to degrade, divide and corrupt. We saw that the root of New Testament church's decline was due to the loss of her first love toward the Lord (Rev 2:4). People become critical of little things. Position, power and self-image become more important and have lost track of the first love and the vision of God's economy.
The degradation of the modern churches if not stopped can spread like that of gangrene.
Paul warned us of the danger of these "diseases" in the churches and encouraged the people to instead spread "healthy words" and seek "healthy teaching". As all scripture is God breathed, it is also profitable, it is also for reproof, for correction, and training in righteousness. We need to strike the Spirit of the Scripture with our spirit to catch the divine fire. It is the antidote of the inoculation for the degradation in the modern churches.
His word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105)
1) 2 Timothy 2:16-17 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker. (KJV)
2) 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
3) Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
According to Collins dictionary, the word "profanity" means showing disrespect for religion or something sacred. Blasphemy is another word of the similar meaning commonly used in the Bible.
Religion can become so sacred in some countries, that they have strict laws specifically enacted to protect it from being profaned. An example whereby a person can be charged and even put behind bars is Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin ("RPK"). RPK is accused of publishing articles in his blog which contained seditious words against the government and religion. Currently being detained under ISA (Internal Security Act).
In the body of Christ, profanity, vain babblings and opinions which encourage self vain glory (lovers of self) can cause the church to degrade, divide and corrupt. We saw that the root of New Testament church's decline was due to the loss of her first love toward the Lord (Rev 2:4). People become critical of little things. Position, power and self-image become more important and have lost track of the first love and the vision of God's economy.
The degradation of the modern churches if not stopped can spread like that of gangrene.
Paul warned us of the danger of these "diseases" in the churches and encouraged the people to instead spread "healthy words" and seek "healthy teaching". As all scripture is God breathed, it is also profitable, it is also for reproof, for correction, and training in righteousness. We need to strike the Spirit of the Scripture with our spirit to catch the divine fire. It is the antidote of the inoculation for the degradation in the modern churches.
His word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105)
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Drunken Master
Relevant Bible Verses
1) Romans 13:13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.
2) 1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.
3) 1 Corinthians 10:23 Everything is permissible" — but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible" — but not everything is constructive.
Chinese martial art (kung fu) movies are very entertaining and relaxing to watch. You do not need a lot of thinking, analysis and guessing who the murderer is or what "she did last summer". In most of these kung fu movies, the lead actor will normally start off with either being poor or being ostracised by the society. He will eventually end up being the hero. I can understand, just like other self-defence martial arts (eg. Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Judo, etc.) that the trainings are strenuous and need ones tremendous discipline and determination.
However, one particular Chinese kung fu movie still marvels me till today is Drunken Master. Somehow when the martial artist fights with the methodological movements of "Zui Quan" (drunken fist), the fighting style emulates drunken behavior and he can actually fight better with power under the influence of alcohol. It does not make sense as research has found that the movements of a person are impaired under the influence of alcohol. In any case, it is still fun to watch the drunken master fights, swaying from left to right, trying to balance himself at the sametime.
If we extend this philosopy by imitating the drunken master's secret of success, then literally consuming alcohol may be the way to victory in spiritual warfare. Then, as children of God we should continue to consume alcohol and be drunk with alcohol. The end justifies the means. Let's see what the Bible has got to say about this.
When I studied the Bible about this, I was surprised to find that Jesus and the disciples may have consumed wine. I further noticed that no verse in the Bible that says drinking wine or alcohol is not lawful. But the above verses have very clear stance on drunkenness. So the question is whether or not it is acceptable for modern Christians to drink alcohol in moderation, as long as we don't get drunk.
When I was a younger Christian, alcohol was not really an issue because i did not like alcohol (be it liquor, wine or beer) at all. Over time, I have acquired the liking for wine. A cold beer can also be refreshing on a hot summer day. A few months later, I also acquired the liking for liqour as well. In fact the liquor had better kick than wine or beer due to the higher content of alcohol. It seemed like I was moving from the lower alcohol content drink to a higher alcohol content drink. Invariably, the next logical step after liquor would be the forbidden drunkenness (Eph 5:18). Once you are in the state of drunkenness, your judgement will be impaired and you are very likely to commit some acts of the sinful nature (Gal 5:19-21). You may even end up being a stumbling block to others.
I am not going to say that drinking alcohol is wrong. Although everything is permissible, but not everything is constructive (1 Cor 10:23). But if drinking causes us to be a stumbling block to others, then we better think again if we should continue to drink, even in moderation. "Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak" (1 Cor 8:9). So, let us do whatever that are encouraging, "whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy" (Phil 4:8). As believers, all our actions ought to be done for the building up of the body of Christ (iron sharpens iron) and not tearing down.
"Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way." (Hebrews 13:18)
1) Romans 13:13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.
2) 1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.
3) 1 Corinthians 10:23 Everything is permissible" — but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible" — but not everything is constructive.
Chinese martial art (kung fu) movies are very entertaining and relaxing to watch. You do not need a lot of thinking, analysis and guessing who the murderer is or what "she did last summer". In most of these kung fu movies, the lead actor will normally start off with either being poor or being ostracised by the society. He will eventually end up being the hero. I can understand, just like other self-defence martial arts (eg. Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Judo, etc.) that the trainings are strenuous and need ones tremendous discipline and determination.
However, one particular Chinese kung fu movie still marvels me till today is Drunken Master. Somehow when the martial artist fights with the methodological movements of "Zui Quan" (drunken fist), the fighting style emulates drunken behavior and he can actually fight better with power under the influence of alcohol. It does not make sense as research has found that the movements of a person are impaired under the influence of alcohol. In any case, it is still fun to watch the drunken master fights, swaying from left to right, trying to balance himself at the sametime.
If we extend this philosopy by imitating the drunken master's secret of success, then literally consuming alcohol may be the way to victory in spiritual warfare. Then, as children of God we should continue to consume alcohol and be drunk with alcohol. The end justifies the means. Let's see what the Bible has got to say about this.
When I studied the Bible about this, I was surprised to find that Jesus and the disciples may have consumed wine. I further noticed that no verse in the Bible that says drinking wine or alcohol is not lawful. But the above verses have very clear stance on drunkenness. So the question is whether or not it is acceptable for modern Christians to drink alcohol in moderation, as long as we don't get drunk.
When I was a younger Christian, alcohol was not really an issue because i did not like alcohol (be it liquor, wine or beer) at all. Over time, I have acquired the liking for wine. A cold beer can also be refreshing on a hot summer day. A few months later, I also acquired the liking for liqour as well. In fact the liquor had better kick than wine or beer due to the higher content of alcohol. It seemed like I was moving from the lower alcohol content drink to a higher alcohol content drink. Invariably, the next logical step after liquor would be the forbidden drunkenness (Eph 5:18). Once you are in the state of drunkenness, your judgement will be impaired and you are very likely to commit some acts of the sinful nature (Gal 5:19-21). You may even end up being a stumbling block to others.
I am not going to say that drinking alcohol is wrong. Although everything is permissible, but not everything is constructive (1 Cor 10:23). But if drinking causes us to be a stumbling block to others, then we better think again if we should continue to drink, even in moderation. "Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak" (1 Cor 8:9). So, let us do whatever that are encouraging, "whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy" (Phil 4:8). As believers, all our actions ought to be done for the building up of the body of Christ (iron sharpens iron) and not tearing down.
"Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way." (Hebrews 13:18)
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