Biddeford Church of Christ

There are certain things that grab our attention as we seek to grow in Christ, and a few days ago it happened to me.  It has been on my mind so much, I felt compelled to share it with all of you.  Of course, a few of you will know where I am going because I spoke about it with you already.  What is it?  It is the subject matter of submission: something many cringe at, even myself at times.  One person writes, “A man is not far from the gates of heaven when he is fully submissive to the Lord’s will.”  As truthful as that may be, it is one of the most challenging aspects of the Christian walk; even so, this idea needs to be in the mind of us all with every step we take.  So, I look to Jesus, who is the only “author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2) to help give us insight into the matter of submission.

We begin with the life of Jesus and like every year, He and his parents journey to Jerusalem during the Feast of the Passover to celebrate (Luke 2:41).  This year, something different would take place: Something out of the ordinary.  Jesus, now twelve, “lingered behind in Jerusalem” as his parents began to journey back home after the feast, unaware that He stayed behind.  After about a day’s travel, Joseph and Mary seek to find Jesus among “their relatives and acquaintances” (v44).  Unable to find Him, they return to Jerusalem and after three days…that’s right, three days…they found Him in the temple among the teachers “both listening to them and asking them questions” (v46).  As a parent, I can only imagine the concern within them both.  Listen to his mother’s words once they found Him, “Son, why have You done this to us?  Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously” (v48).  Their twelve-year-old son, Jesus, the Son of God, responds to them in two ways.  First, he says the following…

Why did you seek Me?  Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?

(Luke 2:49)

What takes place next is what caught my attention, and maybe it will you as well.  We read in v51, after being confronted by His parents, “Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart.”  Jesus, God in the flesh, the Alpha and Omega, King of kings, Lord of lords, our Savior, subjected himself to his parents.  Jesus willingly submitted himself to His parents control (that is what the word means).  As one person said, “He who is perfect willingly submitted Himself to those who were imperfect.”  So many things rush through my mind as I ponder this fact about Jesus.  I am called as a follower of Christ to submit to a variety of people, which is part of the “Father’s business” for me, like it ultimately was for Jesus.  The difference is, as it relates to me, is that I am imperfect also.

So many bible verses rushed through my mind as I sought to process this profound truth.  The one that stood out is this, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:5).  Help us Lord to have Your mind and seek to do the Father’s business, which involves a willingness to submit to others, even when they, like we, are imperfect.  Thank You Jesus for such an amazing example of humility.

Dennis

In large part, my focus over the last few months, as it relates to our spiritual growth, was to look at the letters written to congregations and individuals shortly after the church was started.  Although we can glean so much from those writings, I think it would be important to look in the gospels at the teachings of Jesus during His ministry on earth.  One of the ways Jesus often taught was through parables and one of my favorites is The Parable of the Sower found in the three Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, Luke 8:4-15).  These three letters are called “synoptic gospels” because they include many of the same stories in similar sequence and wording.  For today, our focus will be on Luke’s account of the parable of the sower.

A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell… (Luke 8:5)

Although it is not the intent for me to focus on the sower, I would like to note one thing which I believe is important for us to grasp.  The sower scattered the seed without caution to what type of soil it would land upon.  Seems almost counter intuitive doesn’t it.  The sower’s responsibility is to sow!  I am humbled by what Paul writes in 1^st Corinthians 3:7, “So then neither he who plants (i.e., sower) is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.”  God is in the business of working on the hearts (i.e., minds) of mankind, our task is to scatter that seed, so others can choose whether to “receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls” (James 1:22).  For us today, I want us to see what Jesus says can hinder that very thing from happening.

There were four areas of which the sower scattered the seed.  First, it was the “wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it” (v5).  Jesus describes that in v12 when he says the “devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts.”  Second, is the rocky area where it “withered away because it lacked moisture” (v6).  Jesus describes this in v13 as one “who believed for a while and in time of temptation fall away.”  Then, there is the thorny area, where the seed was “choked” (v7).  What could choke God’s word?  Jesus provides us insight in v14, saying it is the “cares, riches, and pleasures of life” which result in not bringing “fruit to maturity.”  The last one, is where we want our hearts to be in our walks with Christ.  It is the “good soil” (v8), or as Jesus would explain, those “having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience” (v15).

There are so many things we can seek to learn from this parable, all of which can help us as we journey homeward.  The thing that catches my attention is the conditions of the soil.  Each played a role in how the hearer made use of the seed, which is the word of God.  I realized something as I thought about this; that is, the condition of the soil can change.  My prayer is simple: as a sower, may I seek to cast the wonderful seed of God on the soils of men’s hearts without prejudice.  Also, may I be reminded that although we are sowers, we too have soil that needs attention daily, so we can help to further His work.  God, strengthen us this day to be all that You desire us to be.  Amen.

Dennis

Recently, in order to encourage both myself and someone else to be in the Word daily, we have sought to read one chapter from Proverbs that corresponds with the day of the month (that way you don’t forget where you left off).  Of course, I could speak of a multitude of things that I have read thus far, but one theme kind of stood out to me and is noted in these verses, “Don’t be friends with a person who becomes angry easily.  Don’t go near a person who becomes mad fast.  If you do, you may learn to be like him.  Then you will have the same troubles he has” (Proverbs 22:24-25, ETRV).  When it comes to growth, spiritual growth in Christ, this principle is so important!

Don’t be fooled: ‘Bad friends will ruin good habits.’ (1^st Corinthians 15:33, ETRV)

One person rightly says, “We are all products of our environment; every person we meet, every new experience or adventure, every book we read, touches and changes us, making us the unique being we are.”  For the Christian, we would be wise to grasp this truth.  Psalm 1:1 says, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful…”  Why would such a person be blessed?  I believe in part, it is because that person would not be negatively impacted by the influence of such people.  Who and what we choose to be around, matters more than we know, when it comes to growth in Christ.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are…meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8-9)

As much as it depends on us, we need to seek to surround ourselves with people and things that will help us become more like Christ and more effective with His word.  Notice, I did not say perfect people!  If that were the case, we would all be lonely, or as Paul would say, “…you would need to go out of the world” (1^st Corinthians 5:10).  Rather, this awareness should cause us to look at what we watch, what we listen to, who we involve ourselves with, and the list goes on, enabling us to discern things and help promote a more conducive environment for growth.  What does your environment look like?  Could it use some renovation?

Dennis

The readings that have been chosen for today truly reflect the type of mindset we are seeking to harness and cultivate this year in our studies and much of what I have preached on thus far.  The idea is simple; that is, with every action there is a natural outcome in our lives.  Consider this verse from our first reading, “He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, but trouble will come to him who seeks evil” (Proverbs 11:27).  Or how about this verse, “Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool lays open his folly” (Proverbs 13:16).  The choices we make in life will impact all of us, not only as individuals, but also those who are in our circle of life.

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes,

but the Lord weighs the hearts.

                                                                                                                        Proverbs 21:2

Our second reading begins with the above verse and when I read it, it caused me to reflect.  So often in my life, I have made decisions, that at the time seemed right to me.  I would tell myself, “I thought about this and prayed about it and it seems right.”  Well, I cannot count on my hands the number of times that “reasoning” was proven to be wrong.  And as years have passed by, I have come to learn more and more the insight of a book like Proverbs.  It provides hundreds of bits of wisdom, that when learned and applied, can help prepare us to make better, God centered decisions, which can dramatically impact multiple areas of our lives for the better and more importantly, be pleasing to Him (Ephesians 5:10).

…by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises…

                                                                                                             2^nd Peter 1:4

As we seek to grasp the importance of our call to maturity and the reality that how we approach it has implications, I am humbled at the incredible gift of Christ that was given to sinful man (Romans 5:8)…of which I am one.  Because of Christ’s work on the cross, I have been given the chance to be one of the “partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2^nd Peter 1:4).  What follows in this reading; that is, the call to grow, and what happens when we don’t, is meaningless if this truth is not understood.  What we have in Christ is the very reason we seek to become more like Him.  He is the REASON behind a Christian’s desire to grow!  Remember, for every action there is a natural reaction.  The action in this case is that of Christ and the reaction is that of one who has come to understand exactly what Christ has done for him or her.  Remember, for every action there is a reasonable reaction.  How are you reacting?

Dennis

With three sessions behind us, we look toward our next time together in our monthly study of the 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth.  Before I share with you some thoughts about the next two laws to be covered, I thought I would ask a couple questions.  If you have been participating in these classes, what, if any changes do you see taking place in your life?  For me, this idea of being intentional has made the biggest difference in my thinking.  This idea has caused me to not simply look at goals differently, but also to carefully look at each step I take to see if each of those steps help move me closer to that goal.  I believe the next most impactful law has been the law of the mirror; which has caused me to once again, consider how I see me, you know, self-talk.  This verse echoes in my mind, “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well” (Psalm 139:14).  Does your soul know that very well?

Looking ahead, we approach session four, which will cover two new thoughts: The Law of Design and the Law of Pain.  The law of design is simple.  Consider these words from John Maxwell’s study, “To maximize growth, develop strategies.”  He calls it a system which simply means “the process of predictably achieving a goal.”  Whether we realize it or not, we all participate in some sort of system.  The question could be, “Is your system helping you to achieve your goals?”  More about that during the class.  The next law is the law of pain.  We have all heard the saying, “No pain, no gain.”  The reality is that no matter how hard we try, we will encounter pain in this broken world.  How we confront those times plays a pivotal role in our ability to grow in Christ.  This is how John says it, “Treating bad experiences correctly in your life will bring your greatest growth times.”  Listen to what God’s word says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.  Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).  So often we avoid situations, especially those created by our own unhealthy (bad) decisions, and thus learn nothing new, resulting in us repeating those same unhealthy (bad) choices over and over again.  Although difficult at times, when it is possible, we need to confront the pain and what caused it, so we can grow from it.  Even pain, when handle with care and compassion, can help bring about transformation.

May our God help guide and direct our steps as we continue to learn about these practical laws of growth.  And may the choices we make bring Him the glory and honor. Dennis

I want to thank Joe in advance, for filling in for me next Sunday while I am away.  I am sure that he will bring a wonderful lesson that will help us all in our walk with Christ.  As I thought about people doing things for others, I was drawn to a question I have yet to consider when contemplating personal growth.  Much of my attention has been in the area of our decision making; that is, what I need to do to grow.  So, I began to ponder what He will do as I make those decisions, to help me on my journey.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV)

                                                                                                                        Philippians 4:13

Although I mentioned this last week, I believe it is worth repeating, especially after reading this verse.  This is one of the most widely quoted verses that is at times misused.  You see, many quote this verse as they begin a journey of some kind, suggesting that their ability to complete it is a given, as long as they seek the strength of Christ.  But the intent of this verse is not to suggest that God will provide the means to accomplish any goal; but rather, God will provide one strength in whatever circumstance that may occur during our Christian walk.  The promise from God is STRENGTH; that is, to make strong, endue with strength.  Listen to these intriguing words from the apostle Paul, “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake.  For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2^nd Corinthians 12:10).  The measure of one’s strength is not only seen by crossing the line, completing the task or reaching the intended goal: although that is always exciting and worthy of giving Him praise and acknowledging one’s accomplishment.  At times, and maybe more than not, strength is measured in the day to day circumstances which are often out of our control, yet we trust in Him regardless.

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. (NKJV)

                                                                                                                 Ephesians 6:10

I have come to learn (and am still learning) the importance of being intentional in my walk with Christ.  Setting goals, especially spiritual in nature, help us to move forward.  Things like memory work, personal home bible study, attending bible class, worship, and the list can go on, are all opportunities for us to be intentional in our walk with Christ and foster an attitude and atmosphere for spiritual growth.  But we also encounter circumstances, whether expected or not, that we need to journey through, almost on a daily basis.  It is in these circumstances, where the goal is simply to be Christ during it, that we need to also seek His strength and know with certainty, that He will provide it.  I can…we can…do all things through Christ who strengthens us.  Praise God for being such a wonderful provider.

Dennis

I marvel at God’s amazing patience towards mankind, as he desires more than anything for “all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1^st Timothy 2:4).  This same patience is an opportunity for those who have come to the saving knowledge of Christ, to grow in his likeness, being “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).  Of course, you already know that, for we have spent so much time talking about personal growth.  I take comfort in knowing that God is involved in this as well, “according to the power that works in us” (Ephesians 3:20).  It is, if you will, a cooperative effort between God and His faithful follower.

Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,

as new born babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby…

                                                                  1^st Peter 2:1-2

Are you like me?  If I seek to rid myself of something, I need to put something in its place rather quickly, or else I am right back where I started or at times, worse. (Read Matthew 12:43-45).  So, Peter exhorts his readers to do this very thing and it begins with this, desire.  The NIV uses the word “crave” while the ETRV translates it “be hungry for.”  The Greek word means to long for.  Sometimes I crave for two things that are in conflict with each other.  One will win out every time.  Could that be why Peter encourages them to lay aside those things listed?  There is no way that such inner thoughts can assist the Christian in their journey towards Christlikeness.

With enthusiastic zeal, the babe in Christ who through “obeying the truth” was “born again…through the word of God” (1^st Peter 1:22-23), is to now “desire the pure milk of the word.”  Raymond Kelcy writes, “The word pure indicates that the milk is genuine, unadulterated.  God’s word is pure, unmixed with human traditions, with falsehood, or with anything else which would destroy its purity.”  Jesus said while He was confronted with things one could crave, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

The word of God needs to be an essential part of the Christian’s diet, for it is through the ingesting of that word “that you may grow thereby.”  Interesting, isn’t it, that we can know such truths, yet struggle in applying this principle daily in our lives.  I marvel at His patience and ask Him prayerfully, “Lord, create in me a heart only for You, that I may crave Your ways and not my own.”  Amen.

Dennis