Morning Ponderings: As I am about to depart for a full day of classes at Dallas Theological Seminary, I reflect upon the vast papers, asssignments and exams due this semester, along with speaking obligations.
I, like you with your responsibilities, ponder on how to successfully achieve each of these responsibilities. Time management equates with thought management, this includes directing our thoughts to seeking God's wisdom and gumption (Light of Christ).
Update: Yesterday, I prepared for my first quiz of the semester. Dr. Tousaint, who has taught at DTS since 1960, warned us to prepare for this quiz as if preparing for a final exam. I did. However, quizes and exams have been difficult for me in the past.
I typically receive high marks on papers and and essay questions, while receiving lower scores on regular exams.
Every time I diligently studied for this exam, I prayed for wisdom. Immediately before the quiz, I prayed for wisdom. Consequently, one of the few times in my life I received a 100% on a quiz.
Later in the day, I sat in Old Testament History--a redundant title :)--struggling to follow the professors use of literary terminology. Vocabulary such as Setting, Protagonist, etc rarely enter my thoughts or exit my mouth as sound waves. Even though we discussed them in school years ago, my mind requires extensive processing of these terms before their clear meaning is understood.
Suddenly in the middle of the lecture, I am reminded to expectantly ask for wisdom (James 1:5-8). Upon asking, as if sent as sharp lightning striking my brain, clarity of these terms appeared.
Please know this same James passage also states that we attain wisdom through trials of many forms, testing our faith. When we seek wisdom, prudence suggest we prepare for trials, however we welcome these with pure joy for their increased yields.
Proverbs states the value of wisdom exceeds the value of gold. Pray for, and expect wisdom! For increased time management, open your thoughts to God's Wisdom, glorifying God the Father, Son (the Lord Jesus Christ) and Holy Spirit.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Book Summary: Grace Awakening
20 September 2011
An excellent book to add to your reading list, and library for review in regular intervals.
What are the main theses of this book?
Grace killers abound!
Creativity and spontaneity are destroyed with legalism; or the absence of flexibility and forgiveness. An author's creativity is hindered when required to be more concerned with a paper's format than the paper's life enhancing message. Lying, deceiving and double standards exterminate Grace. Prudence mandates authenticity and grace coexist.Grace is better emphasized in the extreme than under emphasized
As Martin Lloyd-Jones illustrated, proof of God's true grace being preached occurs when some understand grace's border at the dangerous extreme. The book uses an illustration of people assisting an Alaskan whale return to sea, after being trapped by ice in shallow water. Grace is epitomized with people breaking ice in allowing the whales' return to sea. Are we projecting grace in helping others, specifically those who made mistakes, "breaking the ice" for their success?Grace affects our relationships and generosity
Criticism and dictating destroy joy, trust and positive emotional bonds in all levels and types of relationships: marital, social or business. Grace exponentially enhances our emotional and financial generosity. A grace filled friend sent a card, and graciously included a gift in the envelope to assist with seminary (Fall 2011). Grace lifts our spirits, enhancing our appreciation of the incidentals in life such as laughter, this in-turn enhances relationships. We are less judgmental, more mature, and avoid the gossip mind-set.How did I spiritually benefit from this book?
Among many benefits, I am reawakened to God's amazing grace for my abundant doubts, fears and mistakes. Additionally, being reminded to avoid letting other's bad choices deter my loving and caring for them.What issues from this book still remain as challenges in my ongoing spiritual vitality?
Forgiving me for the abundance of mistakes committed. Additionally, forgiving those with whom I adamantly disagree.Bibliography
Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. THE GRACE AWAKENING. Fourth. Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc., 2010.See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer.
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com
Observation (Acts 1:6-11)
Are you Observant in Bible Study?
October 2011
Acts 1:6-11 6 So when they had come together, they were asking him, saying, "Lord, is it at this time you are restoring the kingdom to Israel?" 7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; 8 but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the uttermost part of the earth. 9 And after he said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And as they were gazing intently into the sky He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. 11 They also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven."
v. 6 So when they had come together
Subject of 'when', pronoun and verb
Describing action of Pronoun: They
v.6 they were asking him, saying,
Same group represented by first Pronoun "they"
"they were asking him" = prepositional phrase
v. 6 "Lord, is it at this time you are restoring the
kingdom to Israel?"
indicates what Jesus may be restoring
Whom the Kingdom may be restore
9 And after he said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.
And after he said these things
referring to statement in verses 7 & 8
"He was lifted up while they were looking on,
Same "they" that came together in verse 6
"on" describes where "they were looking"
Precise 'Where' is Open to interpretation
"and a cloud received Him out of their sight."
"a cloud" describes the receptor
"Him" answers who the cloud received
Describes physical properties of the cloud
Visually Impenetrable: "out of their sight"
Vague description of cloud, omitting properties
General Knowledge of Christ's purity suggests White
"their" refers to those who gathered
"sight" describes the type of disconnect between "they" and the Lord caused by the cloud receiving Him
Capital "Him" implies Authority
This is immediately after Christ said they would receive the Holy Spirit and told them to take the message to the area, region and world
7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority;
Jesus Responds directly ("said to them")
Communication method = Speaking
Jesus' response includes all who came together
The answer to their inquiry of God's tactics and strategy
"to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority"
details of the Father's plan are to be unknown by the those who came together
source of power to fix the times and epochs
10 And as they
were gazing intently into the sky He was going, behold, two men in white
clothing stood beside them.
"two men in white clothing stood beside them."
Implies, absent guaranteeing, a white cloud
States the two men were wearing clothing
They were not caring white clothing
"stood" states the action of the two men
"beside" states the location (Where) of the action, stood
"two men" states WHO stood beside them
Same as the "they" spoke of throughout this passage
Refers to the Lord being received into the cloud
Describes Jesus' leaving their sight
Describes Where "they were gazing"
Statement to grab the reader's attention
11 They also
said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky?
"also" additive action along with "stood"
"They" are the "two men in white clothing"
Describes who the "two men" stood beside
Who the "they" are that came together "asking him"
"why do you stand looking into the sky"
Inquisition of "Men of Galilee"
"Looking" describes Men of Galilee's action
"stand" describes position of the men while looking into the sky
Where the Men of Galilee were looking
"into" implies depth of sky vs. an object
"the" states the sky is singular
"you" represents "Men of Galilee"
This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him
go into heaven."
"This Jesus" clarifies / verifies who "Lord" is
"has been taken up from you into heaven,"
"has been" = past tense: Jesus is now gone
Implies an authority equal or greater than Jesus
Illustrates close association of Jesus with Men of Galilee
pronoun "you" = Men of Galilee
"into heaven" a prepositional phrase stating where Jesus was taken
"into heaven" now substitutes "a cloud received Him"
describes future action of Jesus
"as you have watched Him go into heaven."
Past tense action of Men of Galilee
Leadership and Moses: Exodus 3:1-13
Leadership Observations in the Life of Moses
Moses led the flock toward Horeb—Empty Place—the mountain of God (v. 1)
Leaders guide their organization towards God
Leaders serve creation
Leaders serve in business—flock
Leaders do not seek leadership
Ulysses S. Grant stated in his memoirs, that anyone who seeks leadership shouldn't be a leader because self-seeking includes seeking selfish gain. I am paraphrasing as I lost this book in my move to Dallas last year.
Leaders do not always know in advance that they are being called to Leadership
Leaders recognize and respond to God's prompting.
Leaders are called and prompted by God despite our past transgressions: Moses committing murder (1:2).
Leaders respond to God and seek his presence, which may appear as an "Empty Place" by the world's standards.
The Lord, "The angel of the Lord," appeared to Moses (v. 2).
Leaders are approached by the Lord
Leaders are enabled to recognize the Lord
Moses observed the burning bush with inquisitiveness, appreciation, and awe (v. 2-3).
Leaders observe inquisitively
Leaders are descriptive, yet concise, "the burning bush."
Leaders avoid premature assumptions
Leaders respond with appreciating and in awe when applicable
Moses confessed his need to "turn aside now" (v. 3)
Leaders recognize we must turn, change direction.
Leaders respond with a humble mind and spirit
Moses confessed his need to "turn aside now" (v. 3)
Leaders change direction when prudent and/or necessary.
Leaders respond immediately to the Lord, "now."
Moses observed the bush failing to burn-up (v. 3)
Leaders observe details
Leaders inquire of the unknown
Moses responds to God's calling his name (v. 4)
Leaders remain available, responding to those seeking them
Leaders are known of God by their first name
Leaders respond to God
God spoke to Moses when he "turned aside to look" (v. 4)
Moses responds, "Here I am" (v. 4)
Leaders state their position.
Leaders respond affirmatively.
Leaders respond in first person.
Leaders respond respectfully
Moses avoided saying, "Uh, yeah—What do you want?"
Moses possessed Godly fear (v. 5-6)
Leaders fear God.
Leaders possess wisdom, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom."
Leaders are humble, especially before the Lord
Moses listens to God without interrupting (v. 7-10)
Moses recognizes and confesses his inadequacy apart from God (v. 11).
Moses receives notice of God's accompanying him (v. 12)
Moses receives instructions of God's sign that He sent him (v. 12).
Moses is told by God that the sign, "worshiping God at this mountain" will occur after he brings the people out of Egypt (v. 12).
Moses is told by God that the sign, "worshiping God at this mountain" will occur after he brings the people out of Egypt (v. 12).
Moses tells God that he accepts the assignment of "going to the sons of Israel" (v. 13
Moses says that he will state to the Israelites that God sent him to them (v. 13)
Moses considers possible questions from the Israelites (v. 13).
Moses asks God of His name, an unknown answer for Moses to a possible question (v. 13)
Summarization of Leadership Principles
Moses receives a major leadership promotion in this passage. He does not seek the position, rather he responds to God who initially speaks to him through inner promptings that direct him to lead his flock toward Horeb. He was inquisitive, amazed, fearful and in awe of the Angel of the Lord who appeared as a non-consumable fire in the bush. Moses recognized this negated man's understanding of the Laws of Physics. Moses affirmatively responds to God, "Here I am," and listens to God's instructions. Prudent leaders listen before responding. He verbally accepts the position and responsibility; leadership mandates their coexistence. He then considers possible objections and questions, followed by seeking the proper response. Moses seeks wisdom, from the creator and source of wisdom—Leaders seek God's wisdom. Moses, while receiving instruction for one of history's greatest assignments, remains humble.
Admirable skills/principles noted before arriving at Horeb—the mountain of God
- Moses recognizes and responds to God's inner prompting
- Moses guides his flock toward God's presence
- Leaders serve creation
- Leaders serve in business—flock
- Leaders do not seek leadership
Admirable skills/principles noted after God's appearance
1. Moses is inquisitive
2. Moses recognizes God
3. Moses possesses fear of the Lord
4. Moses is humble
Admirable skills/principles noted after God's introduction
- Moses listens without interrupting
- Moses hears and accepts that God will remain with him
- Moses accepts the position
- Moses plans ahead
- Moses asks follow-up, clarifying questions
Personal Application
It seems, based on this passage alone, that the initial prompting to lead one's flock toward Horeb—Empty Place—defies human logic. In reality, Moses encountered God at the world's Empty Place. Often the initial prompting and direction in leading people or an organization towards God defies human logic. Moses fears the Lord, is humble, inquisitive, and amazed regarding the unknown fire that fails to consume the bush. This openness to the known allows him to recognize, interact and receive instruction from God. Moses avoids ignoring God in the initial prompting, and he avoids reducing God's presence in the fire to human knowledge and understanding about fire.
Do I remain God fearing, obedient, and inquisitive of God's presence and action in my life? Do I, like Moses, respond, "Here I am"? Do I, like Moses, listen to all of the instructions without interrupting? Do I, like Moses, remain humble in recognizing and confessing my inadequacies of leadership? Do I, like Moses, prepare for leadership by considering possible objections and questions from those God asks me to lead? Do I, like Moses, prepare for leadership by seeking the Lord's word, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding for the proper answers?
I continually improve in each of these areas, while recognizing further development remains necessary the remainder of my life.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve Leadership with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com
Monday, August 20, 2012
Philemon 1:4-4
13 December 2011
Conclusion of a fourteen page assignment on Philemon 1:4-7 for Hermeneutics taught by Dr. Mark Bailey.
CORRELATION
Philemon 1:4-7
I Thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints; and I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ's sake. For I have come to have much joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.
1. Perpetually Thank God for the Love and Faith of others in Prayer.
2. Instigate Faith by recognizing Christ’s internalized abilities in you, for Him.
3. Be joyful and comforted in other’s love.
4. Righteous living refreshes the hearts of saints.
5. Righteous living results in the joy and comfort in fellow Christians.
APPLICATION:
Live abundantly with prayer, joy, gratitude, knowledge of Christ’s blessings in you, serving and loving Christ in serving and loving others.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve, Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com
Doctrinal Statement of the Holy Trinity
DOCTRINAL STATEMENT ON THE HOLY TRINITY
A Paper Presented to Dr. Nathan Holsteen Dallas Theological Seminary In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Course ST102 Trinitarianism
by P.J. Beets, Nxxx Xxxxx, Buddy Head, Rick Meyer, and Kristen Zion April 12, 2012
We believe in one God, who is eternally existent in three persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each member of the Godhead mutually indwells each other yet is distinct in personhood and role. The Old Testament and New Testament attest to both the oneness and the plurality of personhood within the Godhead.
We believe that while there is unity within the members of the Godhead there is also diversity. These distinctions are illustrated through their roles and relationship with each other. Thus the Father is the architect of the plan of redemption.
The Son executes the plan of redemption, has his being from the Father, and was only submissive to the Holy Spirit during His incarnation. The Holy Spirit has his being from the Father, is sent by both the Father and the Son, was authoritative over the Son during His incarnation, had as his chief role to mediate the presence of Christ to believers, and has been resident with us (the church) since Pentecost.
We believe in God the Father, the first person of the Trinity, who is Almighty and the Maker of heaven and earth. He can be known through Jesus, the Word, the Holy Spirit, and love. He is eternal, forgiving, good, gracious, holy, incomprehensible, infinite, invisible, long-suffering, loving, merciful, and wise. He is mystery, self-existent, simple, free, perfect, and impassable. His character, ways, life, truth, and purposes do not change. He is sovereign, judge, reconciler, and all will return to Him. The Father is the principle of the Trinity but not the cause. The Father begat the Son and sent the Holy Spirit.
We believe in God the Son, the second person of the Trinity. He eternally exists equally with indivisible from, and yet distinct from God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. We believe in the complete deity of Jesus Christ, the Son of God in human flesh and the only begotten from the Father, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. Jesus is fully God and fully man, but without sin, consisting of a divine nature and a human nature, but existing as one person.
Jesus came to earth to take the form of a man in order to suffer and die on a cross and to pay the penalty of sin for all mankind. He physically rose from the dead on the third day, providing the way of salvation for all who believe in him. Jesus is the sacrifice for sin and way of salvation. Because Jesus Christ is God, he is worthy of the praise and worship of all creation. He will come again to judge the world.
We believe in God the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, eternally coexisting as one substance (Gk. homosteses) with the Father and the Son, while differing in personhood and function. He instigates life — Christ —and regenerates our souls. The Spirit of truth convicts the soul of sin and glorifies the Father and Son. He speaks through the prophets , authors all scripture, and writes God’s laws on our hearts and minds. The Holy Spirit provides comfort and counseling to all believers. We receive fruits of the Spirit, whom also seals our inheritance.
End Notes The foundational truth of Judaism (and then Christianity) is discovered in Deuteronomy 6.4 – “Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is one!” Based on this text, both Judaism and Christianity are monotheistic.
Orthodox Christians have always and only affirmed the existence of one God. The first phrase of the Nicene Creed (325 AD) is “We believe in one God.” See Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1169. Gen 21:3; Deut 33:27; Psa 90:2; Psa 145:13; Isa 9:6; Isa 40:8; Jer 10:10; Dan 7:14; 27; Rom 16:26; 1 Tim 1:17; 6:16; Heb 9:14.
The first person to use the term triad to indicate the three persons of God was Theophilus of Antioch. Irenaeus developed this triadic view of God, using Scripture to stress both the unity of God and the equal deity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Tertullian argued against modalism and used the terms trinity (trinitas in Latin) and person (persona in Latin) to describe the fact that God is one in substance yet three in form. For more discussion, see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 90-101.
The doctrine of perichoresis, though not named until much later, was emphasized by Athanasius and the Cappadocians. Perichoresis indicates “the full mutual indwelling of the three persons in the one being of God” (Letham, 178). John of Damascus developed this concept, stressing the inseparability and unbreakability of union within the Trinity. A belief in perichoresis is a defense against the threat of tritheism. For discussion, see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 178-183.
The church developed language in the first four centuries AD which would adequately explain the oneness and threeness of God. Linguistic confusion was common.
The Greek terms homoousias and hypostasis could be used interchangeably and many did not recognize them as distinct terms. Thus, confusion over the exact relationships between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were common, even after Nicea. Basil the Great was the first to clearly distinguish the homoousias (the identical ontology of God) from the hypostases (the three separate persons of God).
Other Cappadocians, including Gregory of Nyssa and Gregory Nazianzen, followed Basil’s focus on the hypostases and also discussed the interrelations between the persons of the Godhead. Says Letham, “A more flexible vocabulary, developing around 362, allowed terms like homoousios, ousia, and hypostasis to be reformulated in a way that opened the door to a new understanding of the Trinity” (Letham, 166). For more discussion, see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 118-121; 146-166.
See the next four paragraphs for discussion of the interrelations and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. OT texts that stress the oneness of God are Deut 6:4, 32:29, Isa 42:8, 43:10, 45:21-22, and Mal 2:10. Yet, plurality in the Godhead can be seen in the OT, veiled though it may be. Plural terms for God include Elohim (all throughout OT), Most High Ones (Dan 7:18, 22), Makers (Eccl 12:1), and Husbands (Isa 54:4). Other texts which reveal the plurality within the Godhead are Psa 45:6-7, 110:1, Isa 44:6, 48:16, Dan 7:13-14, and Zech 12:10. The NT provides the clearest scriptural descriptions of the Trinity. Some key texts include Matt 28:19, Rom 15:30, 1 Cor 12:3-6, 2 Cor 13:14, Gal 4:4-6, Col 1:3-8, 2 Thess 2:13-14, and Titus 3:4-7. Triadic patterns appear most frequently in John (14:16-17; 15:26; 16:7; 20:21-23) and Ephesians (2:18; 4:3-6; 3:14-17; 5:18-20; 6:10-11). Deut 6:4; John 10:30 Bruce Ware, Father, Son, & Holy Spirit (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 69. Ephesians 1:9-12 1 John 4:14 John 5:26 Bruce Ware, Father, Son, & Holy Spirit (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 87-94. John 15:26 John 14:16-17; 15:26 Matthew 4:1 J.I. Packer, Keeping in Step with the Spirit (Old Tappan, NJ: Revell, 1984), 49. Acts 2 For language of Apostles’ Creed and Nicene Creed, see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1169; Gen 1:1; Exod 6:3. John 14:7, 9 J.I. Packer, Knowing God, (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1973), 37. For discussion of the Westminster Confession of Faith, see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1179; Deut 33:27; Neh 9:17; Ps 86:5; Ps 103:8; Isa 6:3; Rom 11:33-34; 1 Tim 1:17; Exod 20:6; Lam 3:22; Deut 4:31; Jer 10:12. Nathan D. Holsteen, “Trinitarianism,” class discussion for ST102 (Dallas Theological Seminary, Spring Semester, 2012); Deut 29:29; Isa 40:12-28; 1 John 1:5. Packer, Knowing God, 77-80. Fountainhead. St Athanasius, On the Incarnation: The Treatise De Incarnatione Verbi Dei, rev. ed. Popular Patristics Series, trans. and ed. a Religious of C. S. M. V. (Crestwood, NY: St Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1996), 28. Isa 2:4 2 Cor 5:18-19 1 Cor 15:24-28 Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R Publishing Company, 2004), 232. For language of Chalcedonian creed, see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1169-70; Ps 2:7; The word “begotten,” monogenēs, means “only” or “unique“ not “born of.” See E. E. Carpenter and P. W. Comfort, Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words: 200 Greek and 200 Hebrew Words Defined and Explained (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 349. John 14:16-17 The Son is equal with the Father and the Spirit in that each is fully God and the Son is of the same essence as the Father and Holy Spirit. This concept was confirmed by the defining of the term homoousios by the Council of Nicea. For further discussion on the Nicene Creed and the language affirmed by the Council see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 115-126. Jesus Christ is portrayed as divine in the Scriptures in relation to his attributes, works, titles, and the worship he receives. Some passages that display his omnipotence include Matthew 8:26-27, 14:9, 28:18, and John 2:1-11. Passages that reveal his omnipresence are Matthew 18:20, and 28:20. Other passages such as Mark 2:8, John 2:25, 6:64, 16:30, and 21:17 attribute omniscience to him. For further study on Christ’s divinity in relation to his attributes, divine titles, and works see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 543-552.
For a list of passages further confirming Christ’s deity also see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 53-54. According to John 1:14, Jesus was begotten by the Father and became flesh. The conception by the Holy Spirit and virgin birth are confirmed in Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1:26-35. This belief stands on the creed spelled out at the Council of Chalcedon in A.D. 451. For an English translation of the creed, see the following Philip Schaff’s translation in Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 557. The scriptural evidence for Christ’s divinity has already been laid out above. According to Hebrews 2:17 the Son had to be made like man in every way in order to make propitiation for the sin of mankind. It is important to note that he was without sin. If Christ had been sinful then he could not have served as a proper sacrifice for sin. This is affirmed by the following passages: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, Philippians 2:5-8, Hebrews 1:2-3, and Colossians 1:13-23. Scripture testifies to Christ’s sacrifice for sin in Romans 10:8-9, Hebrews 9:8-15, and 10:14. In the pages of Scripture Jesus is clearly worshiped. In passages such as Matthew 2:11, 21:14-16, 28:9, Luke 19:38-40, John 20:28, his followers worship him and in Philippians 2:8-11it is predicted that one day all will worship Christ. Some of the passages foretelling his second coming include the following: Matthew 24:44, John 14:3, Acts 1:11, 2 Peter 3:10, 1 John 3:2 and Revelation 22:20. Holsteen “Trinitarianism” class notes: 1. Intelligence (John 14:26, John 15:26, Romans 8:27, 1 Corinthians 2:10-13) 2. Personal Will (Acts 8:29, Acts 13:2, Acts 16:6, 1 Corinthians 12:11) 3. Manifests Emotions (Ephesians 4:30, Hebrews 10:29) 4. Stands Parallel to Son as the other Counselor (John 14:26, Romans 8:26) 5. Blasphemy against the Father or Son can be forgiven, NOT against the Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:31) 6. Comforts (Acts 9:31, Romans 8:26, John 16:13-14), Acts 2:38. Genesis 1:1-2 Genesis 1:26; John 1:18; John 1:20; John 6:63-65 Mt. 1:18 Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 56. The Holy Spirit acts in every stage of redemption, including the conception and ascension of Jesus Christ. The angel, Gabriel, compares the Holy Spirit’s role in the conception of Mary (Luke 1:35) with creation (Genesis 1:2). John 16:12-15 John 16:8 In both Luke 3:22 and John 1:32-33 the Spirit descends on Christ in the form of a dove. 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20-21, 3:2 Hebrews 10:15-16 Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 58. In John 14:16, the “Spirit” (paraclētos or paraclete) is often translated “comforter” or “counselor.” It is believed this connotation favors a “defense attorney” (i.e. Counselor), representing believers to diabolos (devil). Also, see John 14:26 – “…But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and will cause you to remember everything I said to you.” Galatians 5:22 Ephesians 1:13
A Paper Presented to Dr. Nathan Holsteen Dallas Theological Seminary In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Course ST102 Trinitarianism
by P.J. Beets, Nxxx Xxxxx, Buddy Head, Rick Meyer, and Kristen Zion April 12, 2012
We believe in one God, who is eternally existent in three persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each member of the Godhead mutually indwells each other yet is distinct in personhood and role. The Old Testament and New Testament attest to both the oneness and the plurality of personhood within the Godhead.
We believe that while there is unity within the members of the Godhead there is also diversity. These distinctions are illustrated through their roles and relationship with each other. Thus the Father is the architect of the plan of redemption.
The Son executes the plan of redemption, has his being from the Father, and was only submissive to the Holy Spirit during His incarnation. The Holy Spirit has his being from the Father, is sent by both the Father and the Son, was authoritative over the Son during His incarnation, had as his chief role to mediate the presence of Christ to believers, and has been resident with us (the church) since Pentecost.
We believe in God the Father, the first person of the Trinity, who is Almighty and the Maker of heaven and earth. He can be known through Jesus, the Word, the Holy Spirit, and love. He is eternal, forgiving, good, gracious, holy, incomprehensible, infinite, invisible, long-suffering, loving, merciful, and wise. He is mystery, self-existent, simple, free, perfect, and impassable. His character, ways, life, truth, and purposes do not change. He is sovereign, judge, reconciler, and all will return to Him. The Father is the principle of the Trinity but not the cause. The Father begat the Son and sent the Holy Spirit.
We believe in God the Son, the second person of the Trinity. He eternally exists equally with indivisible from, and yet distinct from God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. We believe in the complete deity of Jesus Christ, the Son of God in human flesh and the only begotten from the Father, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. Jesus is fully God and fully man, but without sin, consisting of a divine nature and a human nature, but existing as one person.
Jesus came to earth to take the form of a man in order to suffer and die on a cross and to pay the penalty of sin for all mankind. He physically rose from the dead on the third day, providing the way of salvation for all who believe in him. Jesus is the sacrifice for sin and way of salvation. Because Jesus Christ is God, he is worthy of the praise and worship of all creation. He will come again to judge the world.
We believe in God the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, eternally coexisting as one substance (Gk. homosteses) with the Father and the Son, while differing in personhood and function. He instigates life — Christ —and regenerates our souls. The Spirit of truth convicts the soul of sin and glorifies the Father and Son. He speaks through the prophets , authors all scripture, and writes God’s laws on our hearts and minds. The Holy Spirit provides comfort and counseling to all believers. We receive fruits of the Spirit, whom also seals our inheritance.
End Notes The foundational truth of Judaism (and then Christianity) is discovered in Deuteronomy 6.4 – “Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is one!” Based on this text, both Judaism and Christianity are monotheistic.
Orthodox Christians have always and only affirmed the existence of one God. The first phrase of the Nicene Creed (325 AD) is “We believe in one God.” See Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1169. Gen 21:3; Deut 33:27; Psa 90:2; Psa 145:13; Isa 9:6; Isa 40:8; Jer 10:10; Dan 7:14; 27; Rom 16:26; 1 Tim 1:17; 6:16; Heb 9:14.
The first person to use the term triad to indicate the three persons of God was Theophilus of Antioch. Irenaeus developed this triadic view of God, using Scripture to stress both the unity of God and the equal deity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Tertullian argued against modalism and used the terms trinity (trinitas in Latin) and person (persona in Latin) to describe the fact that God is one in substance yet three in form. For more discussion, see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 90-101.
The doctrine of perichoresis, though not named until much later, was emphasized by Athanasius and the Cappadocians. Perichoresis indicates “the full mutual indwelling of the three persons in the one being of God” (Letham, 178). John of Damascus developed this concept, stressing the inseparability and unbreakability of union within the Trinity. A belief in perichoresis is a defense against the threat of tritheism. For discussion, see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 178-183.
The church developed language in the first four centuries AD which would adequately explain the oneness and threeness of God. Linguistic confusion was common.
The Greek terms homoousias and hypostasis could be used interchangeably and many did not recognize them as distinct terms. Thus, confusion over the exact relationships between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were common, even after Nicea. Basil the Great was the first to clearly distinguish the homoousias (the identical ontology of God) from the hypostases (the three separate persons of God).
Other Cappadocians, including Gregory of Nyssa and Gregory Nazianzen, followed Basil’s focus on the hypostases and also discussed the interrelations between the persons of the Godhead. Says Letham, “A more flexible vocabulary, developing around 362, allowed terms like homoousios, ousia, and hypostasis to be reformulated in a way that opened the door to a new understanding of the Trinity” (Letham, 166). For more discussion, see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 118-121; 146-166.
See the next four paragraphs for discussion of the interrelations and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. OT texts that stress the oneness of God are Deut 6:4, 32:29, Isa 42:8, 43:10, 45:21-22, and Mal 2:10. Yet, plurality in the Godhead can be seen in the OT, veiled though it may be. Plural terms for God include Elohim (all throughout OT), Most High Ones (Dan 7:18, 22), Makers (Eccl 12:1), and Husbands (Isa 54:4). Other texts which reveal the plurality within the Godhead are Psa 45:6-7, 110:1, Isa 44:6, 48:16, Dan 7:13-14, and Zech 12:10. The NT provides the clearest scriptural descriptions of the Trinity. Some key texts include Matt 28:19, Rom 15:30, 1 Cor 12:3-6, 2 Cor 13:14, Gal 4:4-6, Col 1:3-8, 2 Thess 2:13-14, and Titus 3:4-7. Triadic patterns appear most frequently in John (14:16-17; 15:26; 16:7; 20:21-23) and Ephesians (2:18; 4:3-6; 3:14-17; 5:18-20; 6:10-11). Deut 6:4; John 10:30 Bruce Ware, Father, Son, & Holy Spirit (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 69. Ephesians 1:9-12 1 John 4:14 John 5:26 Bruce Ware, Father, Son, & Holy Spirit (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 87-94. John 15:26 John 14:16-17; 15:26 Matthew 4:1 J.I. Packer, Keeping in Step with the Spirit (Old Tappan, NJ: Revell, 1984), 49. Acts 2 For language of Apostles’ Creed and Nicene Creed, see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1169; Gen 1:1; Exod 6:3. John 14:7, 9 J.I. Packer, Knowing God, (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1973), 37. For discussion of the Westminster Confession of Faith, see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1179; Deut 33:27; Neh 9:17; Ps 86:5; Ps 103:8; Isa 6:3; Rom 11:33-34; 1 Tim 1:17; Exod 20:6; Lam 3:22; Deut 4:31; Jer 10:12. Nathan D. Holsteen, “Trinitarianism,” class discussion for ST102 (Dallas Theological Seminary, Spring Semester, 2012); Deut 29:29; Isa 40:12-28; 1 John 1:5. Packer, Knowing God, 77-80. Fountainhead. St Athanasius, On the Incarnation: The Treatise De Incarnatione Verbi Dei, rev. ed. Popular Patristics Series, trans. and ed. a Religious of C. S. M. V. (Crestwood, NY: St Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1996), 28. Isa 2:4 2 Cor 5:18-19 1 Cor 15:24-28 Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R Publishing Company, 2004), 232. For language of Chalcedonian creed, see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 1169-70; Ps 2:7; The word “begotten,” monogenēs, means “only” or “unique“ not “born of.” See E. E. Carpenter and P. W. Comfort, Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words: 200 Greek and 200 Hebrew Words Defined and Explained (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 349. John 14:16-17 The Son is equal with the Father and the Spirit in that each is fully God and the Son is of the same essence as the Father and Holy Spirit. This concept was confirmed by the defining of the term homoousios by the Council of Nicea. For further discussion on the Nicene Creed and the language affirmed by the Council see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship, (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 115-126. Jesus Christ is portrayed as divine in the Scriptures in relation to his attributes, works, titles, and the worship he receives. Some passages that display his omnipotence include Matthew 8:26-27, 14:9, 28:18, and John 2:1-11. Passages that reveal his omnipresence are Matthew 18:20, and 28:20. Other passages such as Mark 2:8, John 2:25, 6:64, 16:30, and 21:17 attribute omniscience to him. For further study on Christ’s divinity in relation to his attributes, divine titles, and works see Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 543-552.
For a list of passages further confirming Christ’s deity also see Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 53-54. According to John 1:14, Jesus was begotten by the Father and became flesh. The conception by the Holy Spirit and virgin birth are confirmed in Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1:26-35. This belief stands on the creed spelled out at the Council of Chalcedon in A.D. 451. For an English translation of the creed, see the following Philip Schaff’s translation in Wayne A. Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), 557. The scriptural evidence for Christ’s divinity has already been laid out above. According to Hebrews 2:17 the Son had to be made like man in every way in order to make propitiation for the sin of mankind. It is important to note that he was without sin. If Christ had been sinful then he could not have served as a proper sacrifice for sin. This is affirmed by the following passages: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, Philippians 2:5-8, Hebrews 1:2-3, and Colossians 1:13-23. Scripture testifies to Christ’s sacrifice for sin in Romans 10:8-9, Hebrews 9:8-15, and 10:14. In the pages of Scripture Jesus is clearly worshiped. In passages such as Matthew 2:11, 21:14-16, 28:9, Luke 19:38-40, John 20:28, his followers worship him and in Philippians 2:8-11it is predicted that one day all will worship Christ. Some of the passages foretelling his second coming include the following: Matthew 24:44, John 14:3, Acts 1:11, 2 Peter 3:10, 1 John 3:2 and Revelation 22:20. Holsteen “Trinitarianism” class notes: 1. Intelligence (John 14:26, John 15:26, Romans 8:27, 1 Corinthians 2:10-13) 2. Personal Will (Acts 8:29, Acts 13:2, Acts 16:6, 1 Corinthians 12:11) 3. Manifests Emotions (Ephesians 4:30, Hebrews 10:29) 4. Stands Parallel to Son as the other Counselor (John 14:26, Romans 8:26) 5. Blasphemy against the Father or Son can be forgiven, NOT against the Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:31) 6. Comforts (Acts 9:31, Romans 8:26, John 16:13-14), Acts 2:38. Genesis 1:1-2 Genesis 1:26; John 1:18; John 1:20; John 6:63-65 Mt. 1:18 Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 56. The Holy Spirit acts in every stage of redemption, including the conception and ascension of Jesus Christ. The angel, Gabriel, compares the Holy Spirit’s role in the conception of Mary (Luke 1:35) with creation (Genesis 1:2). John 16:12-15 John 16:8 In both Luke 3:22 and John 1:32-33 the Spirit descends on Christ in the form of a dove. 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20-21, 3:2 Hebrews 10:15-16 Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship (Phillipsburg, New Jersey: P&R Publishing, 2004), 58. In John 14:16, the “Spirit” (paraclētos or paraclete) is often translated “comforter” or “counselor.” It is believed this connotation favors a “defense attorney” (i.e. Counselor), representing believers to diabolos (devil). Also, see John 14:26 – “…But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and will cause you to remember everything I said to you.” Galatians 5:22 Ephesians 1:13
Doctrinal Statement
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com
ST101N: Introduction to Theology
Doctrinal Statement of Scripture
A. Inspiration
I believe the entire canonized Bible is the pure, inerrant Word of God, written by the Holy Spirit through faithful, obedient servants chosen by God who is the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. The Bible is written through men, absent their independent thoughts, using events and observations of their lives to convey the message of the Holy Spirit to God’s people . The canonized Bible remains at sixty-six books as writings are from prophets, apostles or Christ. Cannon of Scripture indicates the books acknowledge as the inspired word of God by the Church .
B. Inerrancy
The pure, inerrant, word of God is internally absorbed when reading scripture and listening to his voice. Jesus says that his sheep know his voice . Those who do not know the Father, do not know his voice . Metabolism commences with acknowledging the pure authenticity of God's word, this acknowledgement solidifies belief. Belief enhances the transformation of internalized scripture from potential to kinetic. This acknowledgement includes confessing God's wisdom far exceeds our own. Scripture only appears errant, when I lack sufficient wisdom, knowledge and understanding. The Holy Spirit is the only source of revelation , thus is sought for sufficiency.
A pure word is a pure Lord Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh ! Scripture is alive , continually and perpetually transforming those who open their heart to its truth, closer to God’s image. Complete transformation only occurs at the end of earthly life. An impure Word is an impure Christ. An impure Christ negates his death and resurrection for the forgiveness of eternal sin for all who trust in Him, confessing sole dependence upon His purity and resulting death and resurrection for the forgiveness of our personal sin.
I believe the eternal Godhead exists in Trinity of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit . They are three distinct persons of one God, existing in equality of attributes and nature; and in worthiness of praise and adoration. Jesus existing in eternity Genesis “our image.” I believe man is innately sinful from Adam , Jesus Christ is the only way to eternity with God in heaven.
C. Authority
The Bible molds and transforms my spiritual, emotional, financial , recreational and physical life . When God’s Word and my thoughts and actions are incongruent, my thoughts and actions must change – not the Bible. The Bible is used for teaching and rebuking. When man’s thought and desires are incongruent with scripture, it is man whom must change. Wisdom brings joyful rebuke, conviction and change.
Ultimately, my belief of the above testimony authentication radiates from my eyes, voice tonality, words and actions of loving and forgiving others and me .
End Notes:
ST101N Bibliology: Cannon Horrell P. 49
Charles Ryrie “There is nothing in the text that deceives.” ST101N Horrell Class notes P. 39
2 Ti 3:16 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” Scripture originate in God, exhaled by Him through the human authors to all of mankind.
Charles Ryrie “God’s superintendent of the human authors so that, using their own personalities, they composed and recorded with error His revelation to man in his words of the original manuscript.”
ST101N Horrell Class Notes P. 49 BIBLIOLOGY THE CANNON OF SCRIPTURE
Jn. 10:27 My brother in-law owns a large sheep herd, up to 1,000 ewes in addition to their lambs existing as twins and triplets. These sheep respond to his voice, they do not respond to my voice.
We know our earthly parents’ voice, likewise we know our Heavenly Father’s voice. For example, when I was about fifteen months old, my dad said I quickly went from standing right beside him to climbing about twenty feet up the ladder on the nearby windmill tower in our farmyard. I began walking at seven months old, and loved climbing. Dad yelled at me to "Get Down!!" I can only imagine the concern racing through his mind; upon hearing his voice, I nearly jumped, because I know and respect my father's voice. I would have been non-respondent to a stranger’s voice. Dad's voice would have no meaning to a stranger.
For those who have never met their parents, would they recognize their father's voice? How can anyone recognize something they have not heard. Unfortunately, not all recognize God's voice. Unfortunately, not all know Christ. "The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep." John 10:25-26
Is transforming God's Word, written or spoken, through people a miracle? Is maintaining accuracy of the Word while translating between languages a miracle? I believe both are miracles. Jesus is the Word made Flesh as described in the first chapter of John.
Occasionally I hear people say the Bible is NOT God's pure Word, rather simply stories of faithful people during that time. They lack belief of God's ability to speak to the prophets and the interpreters of language over time, because they are unfamiliar with God's voice in their life.
Knowing Jesus enables us to comprehend and believe the miracle of God's pure Word in scripture as written by other sheep belonging to Christ.
Christ's sheep know His voice, enabling them to believe His miracles. Knowing and hearing Christ's voice allows us to comprehend and believe the human transcribers of scripture also knew, listened and obeyed the pure Word of God.
If you have difficulty believing scripture is the pure Word of God, pray for God to open your heart and ears allowing you to know and hear Christ's voice as one of His sheep.
Jn. 5:37 “And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent.”
2 Pe 1:20-21
“Trust the Lord's Calculations” December 22, 2010
Proverbs 3:5 – 7 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.”
The method of deriving the correct answers in chemistry or physics courses frequently seems illogical or confusing; perhaps errant. Simple math fails to solve advanced equations! Often in chemistry and physics equations, we must know and properly use constants, such as the speed of gravitation acceleration of 9.81 meters per second per second. A commonly used constant in chemistry is Avogadro’s number of 6.023 x 1023 particles /g. atom. A vast array of other constants and factors are used for advanced calculations.
Those using advanced calculations regularly every day, view them as “common sense.” A Beta Sig alumnus and world renowned Professor of Chemical Engineering at Kansas State, Dr. Larry Erickson, calculates extremely advanced equations in his mind – strictly cerebral! To assure proper perspective, an assignment in his class includes calculations enduring up to 40 minutes in Microsoft Excel. These equations epitomize complexity!
Most of us, would compare the raw data with the final product, uttering this does not make sense. My mind does not currently possess the wisdom to comprehend and calculate those equations. Are the final products wrong based on my lack of understanding and inability to successfully complete these calculations? Absurd!!!
The calculated products are right once calculated properly whether me or anyone else besides the person making the calculations understands. Yet, how often do we hear people, claim the Bible does not make sense simply because we lack the ability to comprehend? How often do we claim God’s ways, his voice in our life, cannot be true because the product is beyond our understanding and ability to calculate how we are transformed from where we are to where God is placing us?
Does God use constants in his equations of which we are unaware? Does Avogadro’s number change or cease to exist based on someone’s intellectual capacity? Equally, God’s constants remain regardless of our human understanding. Jesus Christ, the word made flesh, who is one and the same as the Father, alpha and omega, states that he is, “The same yesterday, today and tomorrow.”
The triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit may speak to you directly or indirectly; revealing awesome plans for you; lying beyond our comprehension. Believe!!! Christ’s calculations containing the eternal Wisdom, Knowledge and Understanding of Creation; involve constants beyond the cumulative of human understanding.
Leaning on our own understanding or wisdom instead of Christ’s Wisdom, Knowledge and Understanding while fearing him, results in foolishness leading to failure. These amazing constants and complex calculations are why we are to trust and fear him. As we acknowledge his advance calculating ability, he will make our paths straight; even when the math does not add up.
Pr. 30:5-6
Jn. 1:1
Jn. 5:46
Class notes P. 19 BIBLIOGY: AUTHORITY AND INSPIRATION OF SCRIPTURE “The Bible is alive – it has hands and grabs hold of me, it has feet and runs after me.” Rev. Dr. Martin Luther
Jn. 14:26
Mt. 28:18–19,
9Mk 12:29;
9Jn 1:14;
9Acts 5:3–4; 2
9Cor. 13:14;
9Heb. 1:1–3;
9Rev. 1:4–6
Romans 5
Jn. 14:6
Jn. 17:3
Romans 5:1
Pr. 3:5-6
Pr. 16:3
Pr. 17:16
Dan Schneider’s prayer at the starting line of Kansas’ State Cross country meet our senior year, “Lord, Help us run a race to glorify you, whether first place or last.” We sought becoming the first team in twenty years to repeat as the best in Kansas. Our Manhattan High (KS) team prioritized glorify Christ ahead of our glory and desires. We did win the title, and alphabetized by THE HARRIER among the top twenty teams in America.
My thoughts are derived from reading and studying cover to cover dozens of times; as well as decades of continual topic study. Additionally, I average reading two to three a week in the past twenty years, and approximately five per week this past decade. A significant portion of these thought producing books are authored by theologians such as Martin Luther, Charles Swindoll, Charles Stanley, Norman Vincent Peale, Billy Graham, Ron Ball and others. Before moving to Dallas in August 2011, I donated most to charity; thus they are no longer in my possession to reference specifically. Yet the Holy Spirit working through these books, highly influences my thou
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Spiritual Genius
Spiritual Genius
What is your Spiritual IQ? Can we change our current Spiritual IQ?
Let’s first investigate methods of increasing normal IQ. Dr. Win Wenger, Ph.D. shares one method of raising your IQ includes recording, either verbally or in writing, thirty to fifty ideas and observations per day for a week. Research proves this method takes the participant half way to genius in seven days. This task’s primary challenge hinges on the diligence of recording for seven consecutive days. Persistence is fundamental to achievements. The list may include the color of the sky, cloud patterns, flower color patterns in a yard, specific placing of wall ornaments and designs, as well as various intuitive thoughts you receive during the day.
The act of recording ideas and observations increases your ability to recognize and identify objects, events, principles, and relationships in the world and those with whom you associate, as well as yourself. Consequently, you increase your ability to recognize and identify factual patterns and associations in all you encounter. Greater details result in greater gains of intelligence.
A similar exercise boosts your Spiritual IQ. How well do you recognize God’s presence, voice, and blessings in your life?
Record, verbally or in writing, thirty to fifty ideas and observations per day for a week. Most likely, you will continue this exercise long after the seven days passes. The list may resemble the above list, except this list glorifies God. Additionally, you may include gratitude such as another day of health for you and your family, how a doctor treated or prevented a health disaster, a financial blessing.
I will write later about the significance of a financial spiritual journal. I have discussed this topic through e-mail and other documentation, but have not yet placed those thoughts on this site. For example, record God’s involvement in chance encounters for a mutually beneficial personal or professional relationship. Record intuitive thoughts—as discussed in several other of my blog posts—as this enhances thought calibration and records Godly wisdom which may vanish as quickly as it appears if ignored.
The act of diligently, and specifically recording God’s voice and activity in every aspect of your life, including those with whom you encounter and associate, increases your Spiritual IQ. As outlined in scripture, an increased Spiritual IQ increases optimism, mental, and physical health. Proverbs states, A merry heart is good medicine.
I Thessalonians 5:16—21 instructs us to, Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil. Perpetual—ongoing—rejoicing and thankfulness requires recognizing and identifying objects, events, principles, and relationships through which God provides in our life. Our rejoicing in the Lord is proportional to our recognizing his presence and voice in our lives.
Begin recording blessings and intuitive thoughts today, grab a voice recorder, a notebook and pen, or open a Word or Excel document now. Regardless of your current relationship with Christ, this activity will create even better awareness, gratitude, and joy because of God’s work in your life. Become a Spiritual Genius by the power of the Holy Spirit.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickemeyer.com
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Speak Truth--Trust God
Spring 2012 Christian Journalism assignment
Dallas Theological Seminary
Dallas, Texas
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
rick@rickEmeyer.com ~ www.rickEmeyer.com
Speak Truth: Trust God
My laughter switched to disappointment upon realizing he, a veterinarian, lacked any desire for humor in evaluating the Region Toastmasters contest. As a Christian, I seek truth in everything, including humor. I ponder; does wisdom value “championships” more than integrity? How can one serve the God of truth, while honoring the “father of lies” (John 8:44)?
Two months earlier, a co-worker and church councilman declared, “Rick, we throw honesty and integrity out the window this time of year.”
I inquired, “Considering Jesus is the Truth, explain the benefits of throwing Jesus out the window.”
Our eternal life depends on pure truth. Why should we exaggerate for earthly gain? Dad chose truth over financial gain, because he trusted God’s goodness.
Dallas Theological Seminary
Dallas, Texas
Rick E. Meyer
Running On Faith Ministry Inc.
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
rick@rickEmeyer.com ~ www.rickEmeyer.comSpeak Truth: Trust God
Parents and friends influence our views and beliefs. This includes our belief in truth. My dad epitomized truth. Some growing up with him considered truthfulness his biggest weakness. I witnessed an example of Dad’s honesty at our April 1983 farm sale. He unsuccessfully attempted to camouflage the devastation of losing the family farm.
Dad stayed near the auctioneer, answering questions concerning any of the equipment as it sold. At least once his answer probably hindered the selling price. Sadly, my sixteen year-old adolescent mind momentarily questioned his truthfulness. Yet, truth always prevails. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (truth), and all these things shall be added to you (Matthew 6:33, NKJV).
Unfortunately, some seek first the kingdom of self, believing secular success supersedes truth. A Past Toastmasters World champion offered stunning advice, “Exaggerations enhance the probability of winning the ‘World Championship of Public Speaking.’ Tonight’s winner excelled using exaggerations and ‘stretching the truth’ for humor, two necessary components of competing for the World Championship of Public Speaking.”
My laughter switched to disappointment upon realizing he, a veterinarian, lacked any desire for humor in evaluating the Region Toastmasters contest. As a Christian, I seek truth in everything, including humor. I ponder; does wisdom value “championships” more than integrity? How can one serve the God of truth, while honoring the “father of lies” (John 8:44)?
As expected, those seeking first the kingdom of self, change their approval of exaggerations when lies affect their wallet. For example, during speaking engagements I ask, “Who approves of exaggerating?” Upon request, an exaggerating approving volunteer hands his twenty-dollar bill to me in exchange for fifteen. I inquire if my exaggerating the fifteen to twenty dollars maintains equality in our transaction. His disapproving facial expression description exceeds 1,000 words.
How does a speaker’s message and a cash illustration correlate? The truthfulness of a communicator’s message affects and reflects truthfulness in the marketplace. Would you laugh if the aforementioned veterinarian exaggerated serum dosage in treating your family dog? Would you approve of him ‘stretching the truth’ on your invoice? A speaker’s approval affects his or her income. A deceitful communicator deceives for personal gain.
Imagine an organization’s hypocrisy when giving lip service to honesty, yet hiring speakers who exaggerate for their meetings.
Thirteen months and three weeks after the Region Toastmasters contest, I returned to my agronomy sales office on a beautiful August afternoon. My boss, Frank, invited me to step into his office for a visit. We enjoyed a cordial relationship.
This time Frank avoided small talk: “Rick, you are too honest for this position! We are seeking your resignation. If you submit your resignation letter within two hours, Ron will provide two weeks of severance pay.”
As a child, my parents and teachers disciplined me for dishonesty. I cleaned my office and desk while pondering past professional encounters in this position.
This time Frank avoided small talk: “Rick, you are too honest for this position! We are seeking your resignation. If you submit your resignation letter within two hours, Ron will provide two weeks of severance pay.”
As a child, my parents and teachers disciplined me for dishonesty. I cleaned my office and desk while pondering past professional encounters in this position.
Two months earlier, a co-worker and church councilman declared, “Rick, we throw honesty and integrity out the window this time of year.”
I inquired, “Considering Jesus is the Truth, explain the benefits of throwing Jesus out the window.”
Two sales managers, Mark, a church councilman, and Al, separately challenged, “Rick, either ignore biblical principles such as honesty and treating the small clients with the same respect as the big clients, or fail in this position. Success in this position requires mixing truth with exaggerations, or ‘stretching the truth’.”
Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” How do we exaggerate or stretch Jesus? Have we killed Jesus’ presence in the marketplace?
Does our communication synchronize with God’s Spirit of Truth? Does God approve of falsities? The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful (Proverbs 12:22). A Christian receives the Holy Spirit sent by the Lord Jesus Christ, from the Father. God the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit exist in singular persons, yet as one triune God.
Consequently, those who submit their lives to Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit delight in pure truth (John 4:23).
When we delight in exaggerating, ‘stretching the truth’ or any description of lying, we reject God and serve Satan—the father of lies. Speaking truth allows God’s communication through us; He collaborates in our true communication, lest God join our deceit which opposes His character.
The most common justification for lying stems from viewing truth as inadequate. Considering Jesus says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life…,” does professional communication assume an inadequate or lying Jesus? Denying pure truth declares our message contains greater richness with exaggerations, falsities and ‘stretching the truth’, than with Jesus—the Truth.
As an undergraduate in Biology Lab, I dissected frogs. Everything from the frog’s body consisted of frog. Every examined cell, if tested, contained frog DNA. A true frog indicates all frog. A true message indicates “all true.” Satan, the father of lies, thrives on mixing truth and lies encouraging justification based on partial truth.
Dr. Martin Luther illustrates the dangers of questioning the validity of God’s word by equating the dialogue between the serpent and Eve in the Garden of Eden. “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden?” (Genesis 3:1). Martin Luther suggests Eve should have turned and departed from the serpent upon his questioning God’s word. Questioning truth’s necessity, questions God’s word.
Twenty-three years and six months after the farm sale, November 2006, Dad received a lung cancer diagnosis. A day and a half later, Dad sat in the hospital chair waiting for the nurse to bring breakfast. Hydrocephalus complicated communication with him. He requested, “We need to pray for God’s blessing on everyone we know.” Later in the morning he looked into my eyes, “Always trust God. Remember that son. Trust God always.”
“I will Dad, I will.” Dad died three weeks later.
Our eternal life depends on pure truth. Why should we exaggerate for earthly gain? Dad chose truth over financial gain, because he trusted God’s goodness.
Trusting God and loving people enables speaking truth.
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