Legalism Versus Grace

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 15:1-29

 

Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

(NKJV)

 

Do I do good works to win God’s approval in my life, or am I saved by the grace of God (Ephesians 2:8-9; James 2:14-17)? This is a debate that has lingered in the Church since its beginning, as illustrated in the text of this posting. The decision of the Jerusalem Council in this text provides a balance in this debate, something discussed in this post.

 

A group of men came to where Paul and Barnabas were, from Judea and began teaching the brethren that they needed to be circumcised to be saved (Acts 15:1). Paul and Barnabas had a large discussion with these men over the matter, and it was determined they needed to take the matter to the apostles and elders (Acts 15:2). On their way to Jerusalem, Paul and Barnabas passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles, causing great joy (Acts 15:3). When Paul and Barnabas came to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and reported all that God had done with them, but a sect of the Pharisees, who believed, argued that these new converts needed to be circumcised (Acts 15:4-5).

 

The apostles and elders then came together to consider the matter (Acts 15:6). After much dispute, Peter rose up and told how a long while ago God called Peter to share the word of the gospel to the Gentiles, acknowledging it by giving them the Holy Spirit as He did to them (Acts 10, 15:7-8). This demonstrated to Peter that God makes no distinction between the Jews and the Gentiles (Acts 15:9). Peter then questions those wanting to impose circumcision on the Gentiles, regarding why they want to place a burden on them that even they could not bear, expressing his belief that it is the grace of God that saves both Jews and Gentiles (Acts 15:10-11).

 

This silenced the multitude gathered with them listening to Paul and Barnabas giving a report of the miracles and wonders God worked through them upon the Gentiles (Acts 15:12). James then spoke up, telling how Peter has declared how God visited the Gentiles to take out a people for His name in fulfillment of Amos 9:11-12 (Acts 15:13-17). James then tells them not to trouble the Gentiles by requiring circumcision but to tell them to abstain from things polluted by idols, sexual immorality, things strangled, and blood (Acts 5:18-20). As for circumcision, it is preached in every city in the synagogues every Sabbath (Acts 15:21). The Jerusalem Decree is then drafted, and Paul, Barnabas, Judas, and Silas are chosen to deliver it to the Gentiles (Acts 15:22-29).

 

A doctrinal dispute has arisen between Jewish believers in Jesus as Messiah and Paul and Barnabas. The dispute concerns whether it is necessary for the new Gentile disciples to be circumcised. Perhaps among these Jewish believers are Pharisees who believe they can persuade one of their own, Paul, to agree with circumcising the new Gentile believers. However, Paul and Barnabas do not immediately jump on the circumcision bandwagon, and recommend having the apostles, the ones who were physically with Jesus, rule on the matter. The ruling of the Jerusalem council calls for the Gentile converts to abstain from idolatry, sexual immorality, blood, and things strangled. The desire is for the Gentile converts to worship God only, live lives of sexual purity so they are not distracted by the lusts of the flesh, and to practice dietary safety by avoiding blood and things strangled that still have the blood in them.

 

This debate continues to this day, with some believing one is saved by grace and not as the result of their works (Ephesians 2:8-9), and others citing James 2:14-17, believing one must have good works to have saving faith. The decision from the Jerusalem Council can provide a balance between these two extremes. If good works could save us, why was it necessary for Jesus to come, since we already had God’s law to follow for good works? Good works are not what saves us but are the result of one becoming a disciple of Christ living a fruitful life (Galatians 5:22-23). We know this because, when taken in context, James 2:14-17 is not speaking to the lost but to believers in Christ whose faith is dead because no fruit accompanies their profession of faith in Jesus as their Savior.

 

The grace of God saves one and, as a result, one should be a fruitful disciple of Christ, wanting to do good works for our Savior who loves us.  If you are reading this and have yet to take the first step to becoming a fully devoted disciple of Jesus Christ by confessing your belief in His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins, I invite you to do so now by praying with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not some magical prayer, but it must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth that teaches from the Bible and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post.

 

God’s Kindness Despite Rebellion (Part 1)

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Psalm 78:1-39

 

Psalm 78:34-35

When He slew them, then they sought Him;
And they returned and sought earnestly for God.
³⁵ Then they remembered that God was their rock,
And the Most High God their Redeemer.

(NKJV)

 

The Book of Judges in the Bible chronicles a cycle of following God, rebelling against Him, suffering for this rebellion, seeking repentance, and returning to God. Sadly, the church, throughout its history, has followed this pattern, with many instances today of lukewarmness and failure to carry out its mission (Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). For revival to come, the church must focus on its mission, as in the Book of Acts.

 

Asaph begins this psalm with a call for God’s people to give ear to God’s law and to listen to the words of the Lord’s mouth, because He is about to give them a parable, uttering dark sayings of old (Psalm 78:1-2). The sayings the Lord is about to give are things they have heard and known because their fathers have told them (Psalm 78:3). They will not hide these things from their children, and tell them to the generation to come, things praising the Lord and extolling His strength and wonderful works (Psalm 78:4). God has established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded to their fathers so they could make it known to their children, and their children's children (Psalm 78:5-6). This is so the next generation can set their hope in God, not forgetting His works, and keeping His commandments, so they are not like their fathers who were stubborn and rebellious (Psalm 78:7-8).  

 

Asaph then reminds them that Ephraim, who was armed, turned back in the day of battle, refusing to keep the covenant of God, to walk in His law, and to forgot about His works and wonders (Psalm 78:9-11). Among these works and wonders are the parting of the Red Sea, leading them by a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night (Psalm 78:12-14). God also provided water from a rock to drink that flowed like a river (Psalm 78:15-16). However, they sinned and rebelled against God in the wilderness, testing Him with their hearts by asking for the food of their fancy, wondering if God could prepare a table in the wilderness (Psalm 78:17-19). They acknowledged that God could strike a rock and provide water, but could he also provide bread and meat (Psalm 78:20)?

 

Upon hearing this, God became furious, kindling a fire against Jacob and anger against Israel, because they did not believe in God and trust in His salvation (Psalm 78:21-22). Despite this rebellion, God was merciful, opening the doors of heaven to provide Manna, the bread of heaven and angels’ food (Psalm 78:23-25). The Lord then caused an east wind to blow in the heavens, bringing a south wind that caused meat to rain on them like dust and feathered fowl like the sand of the sea, falling in the camp around their dwellings (Psalm 78: 26-28). The people ate and were filled, but while the food was still in their mouths, God’s wrath came upon them, slaying the stoutest and choicest men of Israel (Psalm 78:29-31). Despite this, the people still sinned and did not believe in God’s wondrous works, ending their days in futility and their years in fear (Psalm 78:32-33).

 

After God slew them, they sought earnestly for Him, remembering He was their rock and Redeemer (Psalm 78:34-35). However, this confession was flattery of their mouths and lies with their tongues because their hearts were not steadfast with the Lord, with them unfaithful in His covenant (Psalm 78:36-37). However, God, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity and did not destroy them, turning his anger away from them many times and not stirring up His wrath (Psalm 78:38). God knew they were flesh, a breath that passes away and does not come again (Psalm 78:39).

 

The story of the nation of Israel recorded in Scripture is one of rebellion, restoration, and redemption. Beginning with the children of Israel in slavery in Egypt, God performed wondrous signs, climaxing with the parting of the Red Sea and the drowning of the Egyptian army (Exodus 5-14). God provided water from a rock in the dry desert and food from heaven to feed them (Exodus 16-17:7). Despite these miraculous works, they rebelled and complained, abandoning God and worshipping a golden calf (Exodus 32). Yet God did not destroy them, and the nation of Israel exists today despite the rejection of their Messiah, Jesus Christ.

 

The church is comprised of people of flesh who also have a history of rebellion, restoration, and redemption.  The church of the Book of Acts was on fire, with a reputation of turning the world upside down (Acts 17:6). However, the church today more resembles the Laodicean Church, a lukewarm church, basking in their riches and wealth, claiming to need nothing while in a wretched state (Revelation 3:14-17). The Lord Jesus is not present in this Church and stands outside the door, knocking to come in (Revelation 3:20). We live in a dark world full of evil, with people seeking answers. Unfortunately, they seek answers in politics, career, education, and pleasure when the answer is in Jesus.

Every person has a God-shaped void in their hearts that can only be filled by accepting the gift of salvation offered by the grace of God. Jesus said that if He is lifted up, He will draw people to Him (John 12:32). If you are reading this and feel God drawing you to Him, I invite you to pray with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

If you meant what you just prayed, know that God has forgiven all your sins and that you now have a relationship with God and are a child of God (Romans 8:16). Like any relationship, it grows as we get to know each other. While God already knows all about us, we must study the Bible, the word of God, to learn more about Him. If you just prayed, I encourage you to find a Church that teaches the truth of the Bible so you can learn more about the Lord. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

 

The Ministry Continues Along with Persecution

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 14:1-28

 

Acts 14:3-4

Therefore, they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

⁴ But the multitude of the city was divided: part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles.

(NKJV)

 

The Church, like any other human-run organization, can lose sight of its mission and how it became successful. In addition, new technologies can emerge that increase effectiveness and outreach but can become a distraction if depended on instead of depending upon God and the power of the Holy Spirit. The Church in the Book of Acts turned its world upside down (Acts 17:6) without modern technology by depending upon God. Today’s church must do the same for revival to come.

 

This passage begins with Paul and Barnabas arriving at Iconium and going into the synagogue, speaking to a multitude of Jews and Greeks who came to believe (Acts 14:1). However, a group of unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, poisoning their minds against the brethren (Acts 14:2). This does not deter Paul and Barnabas who stay and speak boldly in the Lord who bore witness to the word of grace through signs and wonders done by their hands (Acts 14:3). This led to a multitude of the city becoming divided with some siding with the Jews and some with the apostles, turning to a violent attempt to abuse and stone Paul and Barnabas (Acts 14:4-5). They became aware of this plot and fled to Lystra and Derbe and the surrounding region and preached the gospel there (Acts 14:6-7).

 

In Lystra, they met a man crippled from birth who was intently listening to Paul, with Paul observing he had faith to be healed (Acts 14:8-9). Paul then spoke to the man and, in a loud voice, told him to stand up on his feet, which he did (Acts 14:10). The people, seeing this, raised their voices and said the gods had come down in the likeness of men, calling Barnabas Zeus and Paul Hermes because he was the messenger (Acts 14:11-12). This led to the priests of Zeus, from the temple in front of the city, bringing oxen and garlands, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes (Acts 14:13). Not wanting to be the object of worship, Paul and Barnabas tear their clothes and tell the people stop for they are men just like them, preaching to stop worshipping their gods and to worship God the creator (Acts 14:14-15). Even though God has allowed all nations to walk in their own ways, He still provides good for them through rain, fruitful seasons, and hearts full of food and gladness (Acts 14:16-17). However, this did not restrain the multitude from sacrificing to them (Acts 14:18).

 

Jews from Antioch and Iconium came and persuaded the multitudes to stone Paul and drag him out of the city, supposing him to be dead (Acts 14:19). The disciples then gathered around Paul, and he arose, with him and Barnabas departing for Derbe the next day (Acts 14:20). After preaching the gospel in Derbe, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the disciples in the faith, reminding them they must go through many tribulations to enter the kingdom of God (Acts 14:21-22). They then appointed elders in every church and with praying and fasting, commended them to the Lord (Acts 14:23). After passing through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia and, after preaching the word in Perga, went down to Attalia, where they sailed to Antioch, the place where they were commended by God’s grace for the work they were called to complete (Acts 14:24-26). They then gathered the church together and reported how the Lord had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles, remaining there a long time with the disciples (Acts 14:27-28).

 

Paul and Barnabas, out of obedience to God, have embarked on the work God has commissioned them to do. They experience much success, with many coming to believe, but they also endured much tribulation on the way. While many Jews and Greeks came to believe in Iconium, the enemy brought deception that poisoned their minds, bringing division in the city. In Lystra, the miracles done through the ministry of Paul and Barnabas were seen as their pagan gods coming to them, with the people planning to worship Barnabas as Zeus and Paul as Hermes. Even at the urging of Paul, the people insisted on worshipping them, opening the door for Jews from Antioch to persuade them to stone Paul and leave him for dead. However, God was not done with Paul, and he rose up and departed for Derbe with Barnabas. Despite all this, Paul and Barnabas returned to the church in Antioch with a good report and stayed there to be refreshed.

 

The mission of the Church today remains the same, but unlike Paul and Barnabas, the modern church has tools available like the internet, live streaming of church services, and social media. While these are useful and powerful tools, the mission remains the same. The Book of Acts reminds us of how effective the church can be, even without the modern tools the church now has available, turning their world upside down (Acts 17:6). While these modern tools can increase church outreach, we must not lose sight of the church mission to take the Gospel to the world like the church did in the Book of Acts (Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). I pray we do not rely on the tools provided by modern technology and remember to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4; John 7:37-39).

 

In obedience to the mission of the church, I want to reach out to anyone reading this who has not prayed to accept the gift of salvation offered by God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9). If you truly believe in your heart that Jesus came and died for your sins, was buried for three days in a tomb, and resurrected from the dead three days later, you can be saved. I urge you to pray with me now to confess that belief.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not some magical prayer but must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth that teaches from the Bible and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

Remembering God’s Redemptive Works

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Psalm 77

 

Psalm 77:12

I will also meditate on all Your work,
And talk of Your deeds.

(NKJV)

 

Just because one accepts Jesus as the Lord of their life does not mean problems and troubles disappear from their lives (John 16:33). However, it does mean we have an advocate that is with us through the troubles of life (Psalm 23:4). In this psalm, we see Asaph struggling and wondering if God has forgotten him, but then he remembers the miraculous deliverances of God in the past and concludes with understanding how God has led His people.

 

Psalm 77 begins with Asaph crying out to God, with God hearing His cry (Psalm 77:1). In the day of his trouble, Asaph sought the Lord and stretched out his hand in the night without ceasing (Psalm 77:2). He remembered God and was troubled, with him complaining and his spirit overwhelmed (Psalm 77:3). The Lord held his eyelids open so he could not sleep, with him so troubled he could not speak (Psalm 77:4). Asaph considers the days of old and the ancient times, calling to remembrance his song in the night, meditating in his heart with his spirit making a diligent search (Psalm 77:5-6).

 

Asaph then wonders if the Lord will cast off forever, and no longer be favorable, wondering if His mercy has ceased and His promises failing forevermore (Psalm 77:7-8). He wonders if God has forgotten to be gracious, or if He in anger has shut up His tender mercies (Psalm 77:9). He then confesses to saying this in anguish, vowing to remember the years of the right hand of the Most High, and His works of old, meditating on all His works (Psalm 77:10-12). The way of God is in the sanctuary, or His holiness, with no God as great as our God (Psalm 77:13). God is the one who does wonders, declaring His strength among the peoples, with His arm redeeming His people, the sons of Jacob and Joseph (Psalm 77:14-15).

 

Asaph recalls how the waters saw God and were afraid and trembling (Psalm 77:16). He remembers how the clouds poured out water and the skies let out the sound of thunder, with arrows of lightning flashing about (Psalm 77:17). The voice of God’s thunder was in the whirlwind with His lightnings lighting up the world, with the earth trembling and shaking (Psalm 77:18). God’s way was in the sea, with his paths in the great waters, with His footsteps not known (Psalm 77:19). The psalm concludes with Asaph saying God has led His people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron (Psalm 77:20).

 

Asaph cries out to the Lord during a time of trouble in his life, wondering if the Lord’s mercies have ceased, his promises have failed, or if the Lord has forgotten to be gracious (Psalm 77:7-9). He then admits to wondering about these things in anguish and remembers the Lord's wonders of old. He remembers how the waters saw God and were afraid with the depths trembling, a reference to the parting of the Red Sea, allowing Israel to cross on dry land to escape the approaching Egyptian army (Exodus 14; Psalm 77:16). He remembers how the clouds poured out water, the sky sounded with thunder, and lightning flashed like arrows in the sky (Psalm 77:17), referring to God’s delivering Noah in the great flood (Genesis 7). Asaph concludes this psalm by remembering how the Lord led His people through the wilderness by the hand of Moses and Aaron (Psalm 77:20).

 

Jesus warned us that in this world we would experience trouble, but He also reminded us that He overcame the world (John 16:33). Trouble will come to those who know Jesus as their Savior because we are in a spiritual battle against the forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:10-12). When one chooses to make Jesus their Savior, they change sides from the team of Satan to the team of Christ and should expect opposition. While this may not be comforting to someone contemplating becoming a follower of Jesus Christ, one must realize that Jesus has won victory over Satan through his death, burial, and resurrection (2 Corinthians 1:21-22, 5:17-18; Philippians 3:8-11; Romans 8:11) placing those choosing to make Jesus their Savior on the winning side.

 

In Romans 10:9-10, Scripture tells us that to be saved, one must believe in their heart that Jesus died, was buried, and rose from the dead. They then must confess this belief with their mouths. If you sincerely believe this in your heart, I invite you to pray with me now.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

 If you meant what you just prayed, know God has forgiven all your sins and that you now have a relationship with God and are a child of God (Romans 8:16). Like any relationship, it grows as we get to know each other. While God already knows all about us, we must study the Bible, the word of God, to learn more about Him. If you just prayed, I encourage you to find a Church that teaches the truth of the Bible so you can learn more about the Lord. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

Blessing and Conflict at Antioch

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 13:42-52

 

Acts 13:51-52

But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and came to Iconium. ⁵² And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

(NKJV)

 

As Paul and Barnabas begin their ministry in Antioch, they have spoken to the Jews in the region at the synagogue. The next Sabbath, a great crowd comes wanting to hear more, but this makes the Jews in the region envious, leading to Paul and Barnabas leaving the city. However, this opposition did not take away their joy in the Holy Spirit.

 

After speaking to the Jews in the synagogue, the Gentiles want to hear Paul speak the next Sabbath (Acts 13:42). Many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas and when they spoke with them, they were persuaded to continue in the grace of God (Acts 13:43). When the next Sabbath came, almost the entire city came together to hear the word of God (Acts 13:44).

 

When the Jews saw this great multitude, they became envious, contradicting and blasphemous, contradicting what Paul spoke (Acts 13:45). This caused Paul and Barnabas to become bold, telling those contradicting them that the word of God needed to go to them first, but since they rejected it, they had judged themselves unworthy of everlasting life. For this reason, Paul and Barnabas will now turn to the Gentiles (Acts 13:46). This fulfills Isaiah 49:6, with the Jews becoming a light to the Gentiles through Jesus Christ (Acts 13:47).

 

While this angered the Jews, the Gentiles were glad and glorified the word of the Lord with those appointed to eternal life believing (Acts 13:48). This caused the word of the Lord to spread throughout the region (Acts 13:49). The contentious Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and chief men of the city who raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, expelling them from the region (Acts 13:50). Paul and Barnabas shook the dust of the city off their feet in a testimony against them and went on to Iconium (Acts 13:51). The disciples continued with Joy and the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:52).

 

There is blessing as the gospel is shared with many coming to believe, but this also causes envy, bringing persecution. The church in the book of Acts was laser-focused on taking the gospel to the world in fulfillment of Acts 1:8. They accomplished this without the benefit of social media, advertising, billboards, or email campaigns. All they had was word-of-mouth and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. While the media tools available today are useful and should be used for the glory of God, we must learn from the church of the Book of Acts and make sure we have the power of the Holy Spirit and the word of God behind our ministries. We are in a spiritual battle that requires the power of the Holy Spirit and the foundation of the truth from the word of God to stand against opposition.

 

Since we are in a spiritual battle for the souls of fallen humanity, when the gospel is spread and people come to Christ, we should expect and prepare for opposition. In Ephesians 6:10-18, we are given the weapons needed to engage the enemy in spiritual warfare, which are different than the conventional weapons of war. The enemy we face in spiritual warfare is not an enemy we can see, but an unseen enemy doing battle in the spiritual realm. We wear the belt of truth, the truth of God’s word, and the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14), not our righteousness (Isaiah 64:6) but the righteousness of God through Christ (Romans 3:21-22). With our gospel shoes on, taking the gospel with us wherever we go (Ephesians 6:15). The shield of faith to deflect the opposition and oppression of Satan (Ephesians 6:16). Finally, we have the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17). The helmet protects our mind against doubts of our salvation which is through the grace of God (Ephesians 2:8-9). The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God, which is our offensive weapon against the enemy. We use this armor by praying always in the Spirit (Ephesians 2:18).

 

Satan does not want anyone to be saved but has the objective of killing, stealing from, and destroying people (John 10:10). Jesus does not want anyone to perish (2 Peter 3:9), so the battlefield is for the souls of lost men and women. If you are reading this and have not prayed to accept God’s gift of salvation through His grace, I invite you to do so now by praying with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not some magical prayer but must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth that teaches from the Bible and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

God the Righteous and Majestic Judge

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Psalm 75-76

 

But I will declare forever,
I will sing praises to the God of Jacob.

(NKJV)

 

We live in a New Covenant of grace with God that began after Jesus' death, burial, resurrection, and ascension. However, while God is gracious in saving sinners like us, He remains a righteous judge. One’s relationship with God after they are saved is both gracious and righteous, something praised by Asaph in these two psalms.  

 

In Psalm 75, Asaph begins by giving thanks to God because His wondrous works declare His name is near (Psalm 75:1). When God chooses the proper or appointed time, He will judge uprightly (Psalm 75:2). Even if all the inhabitants of the earth are dissolved, God will correct things, setting up firm pillars (Psalm 75:3). The boastful must not deal boastfully, nor the wicked lift up themselves on high with pride and speak with a stiff neck (Psalm 75:4-5). Exaltation does not come from the east, west, or south, for God is the judge, putting down one and exalting another (Psalm 75:6-7). In His hand the Lord has a cup of red wine that He pours out with the wicked drinking down the dregs (Psalm 75:8). Asaph will forever declare the praises of the God of Jacob, with the horns of the wicked cut off, and the horns of the righteous exalted (Psalm 75: 9-10).

 

In Psalm 76, Asaph declares that God is known in Judah with His name great in Israel (Psalm 76:1). In Salem of Jerusalem is His tabernacle with His dwelling place in Zion, where He broke the arrows of the bow and the shield and sword of battle (Psalm 76:2-3). The Lord is more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey where the stouthearted are plundered and where they have sunk into their sleep, with none of the mighty men finding the use of their hands (Psalm 76:4-5). At the rebuke of the Lord, both the chariot and horse were cast into a dead sleep (Psalm 76:6).

 

The Lord Himself is to be feared with no one able to stand in His presence once He is angry (Psalm 76:7). The Lord caused judgment to be heard from heaven with the earth fearing and remaining still (Psalm 76:8). When God arose in judgment, the oppressed of the earth were all delivered (Psalm 76:9). Surly the wrath of man shall praise the Lord with the Lord girding Himself with the remainder of His wrath (Psalm 76:10). Asaph says to make vows to the Lord our God and to pay them with all who are around the Lord bringing presents to Him who should be feared (Psalm 76:11). The Lord shall cut off the spirit of princes, with Him awesome to the kings of the earth (Psalm 76:12).

 

These two psalms are songs of Asaph written for the chief musician. Psalm 75 is a song of thanksgiving for God’s righteous judgment, with Psalm 76 a song praising the majesty of God in judgment.

 

• God’s righteous judgment – In this psalm, Asaph states that at the proper or appointed time, God will judge uprightly (Psalm 75:2). In Psalm 75:3, Asaph gives us an idea when this judgment will occur, a time when the inhabitants of the earth are dissolved with firm pillars set up. God’s judgment is righteous, rewarding the righteous while condemning the unrighteous. (John 3:16-18).
• God’s majestic judgment – God’s judgment is also majestic, something to be feared, but also praised (Psalm 76:7-10).

 

In this dispensation of grace, the love and mercy of God are extolled, for it is through God’s grace that we are saved (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, we must not forget that God is still a God of judgment, but that His judgment is righteous and majestic. Since one is not saved because of what they have done but in accordance with their belief in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus in their hearts, Judgment from God is based on belief, not works. There are two judgments that will occur, one for those choosing to believe and one for those choosing not to believe.

 

·         Judgment of believers – This judgment is referred to in scripture as the judgment seat of Christ, which will occur for those raptured when the Lord takes his church to heaven (2 Corinthians 5:9-11). Those participating in this judgment will spend eternity with the Lord, with this judgment to determine the rewards they will receive for the work they have done in serving the Lord.

·         Judgment for unbelievers – This judgment is referred to in Scripture as the Great White Throne Judgment, occurring at the end of the Millennial reign of Christ for one thousand years (Revelation 20:11-15). Those participating in this judgment are those choosing not to believe in Jesus as their Savior, accepting his gift of grace (Romans 6:23). This judgment is a sentencing of death for those choosing not to believe, or what is referred to as the second death.

 

Everyone reading this post is encouraged to escape the Great White Throne Judgment by accepting the gift of salvation through the grace of God (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 6:23). If you have never made this decision, I encourage you to do so by praying with me now.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23).  I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9).  I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

 If you meant what you just prayed, know God has forgiven all your sins and that you now have a relationship with God and are a child of God (Romans 8:16). Like any relationship, it grows as we get to know each other. While God already knows all about us, we must study the Bible, the word of God, to learn more about Him. If you just prayed, I encourage you to find a Church that teaches the truth of the Bible so you can learn more about the Lord. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post.  

Paul Preaches Jesus to the Jews First

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 13:13-41

 

Acts 13:23

From this man’s seed, according to the promise, God raised up for Israel a^[d] Savior—Jesus—

(NKJV)

 

Paul and his entourage have arrived in Antioch, with Paul going to the synagogue on the Sabbath and invited to share with those there. He takes this opportunity to share with them by sharing their history and how Jesus is the promised Savior and Messiah. This is a custom Paul would practice wherever he went and would often be rejected by the Jews and share the Gospel with the Gentiles.

 

Paul and those with him set sail from Paphos and arrived in Perga in Pamphylia, with John departing from them and returning to Jerusalem (Acts 13:13). After departing Perga, they arrived in Antioch in Pisidia and sat down in the synagogue on the Sabbath (Acts 13:14). After the reading of the law, the prophets and rulers of the synagogue asked Paul and those with him if they had a word of exhortation for the people (Acts 13:15).

 

Paul then stood up and asked the men of Israel who fear God to listen, beginning by telling them the God of Israel chose their fathers and exalted the people while they were strangers in Egypt, bringing them out with His mighty arm (Acts 13:16-17). God put up with their ways for about forty years in the wilderness and then destroyed seven nations in Canaan, distributing the land to them by allotment (Acts 13:18-19). Judges then ruled Israel for about four hundred and fifty years, after which they asked Samuel for a king, and God gave them Saul for forty years (Acts 13:20-21). After the removal of Saul, David became king, a man after God’s own heart who would do God’s will (Acts 13:22). From David’s descendants, God raised up a Savior, Jesus, coming after John first came preaching the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel (Acts 13:23-24). As John was finishing his ministry, he asked those following him who they thought he was, telling them he was not the one and that the Savior would come after him and that he was unworthy to loosen His sandals (Acts 13:25).

 

Paul then addresses the sons of the family of Abraham, telling them that the word of salvation is sent to them but that they have fulfilled the words of the prophets by condemning Jesus to death (Acts 13:26-27). Even though there was no reason to execute Him, they asked Pilate to crucify Jesus, fulfilling all that was written about Him. Then they took His body down and laid it in a tomb (Acts 13:28-29). However, Jesus did not remain in the tomb, but resurrected from the dead, with many witnesses seeing Him for many days (Acts 13:30-31). Paul then declares the good news to these Jews that the promise of God to their fathers is fulfilled in Jesus in fulfillment of Psalm 2:7 (Acts 13:32-33). In raising Jesus from the dead, Jesus is the holy one of the lineage of David who will not see corruption (Acts 13:34-37; Isaiah 55:3; Psalm 16:10).

 

Paul then concludes by letting these Jews know that through Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is preached, providing justification with God that could not be done by the law of Moses (Acts 13:38-39). Paul then warns these Jews to beware lest what was spoken by the prophets come upon them, that they would not believe even though one would come and tell them (Acts 13:40-41).

 

Paul arrives in Antioch and begins his ministry by starting something that will become his custom when entering a new city; he goes to the Jews first and shares Christ (Acts 14:1, 17:10, 17:17, 18:4, 18:19). In this passage, we see Paul, a Pharisee, telling the Jews in the synagogue that.

 

• They are chosen of God (Acts 13:16) – As children of Abraham, this is promised in Genesis 12:1-7, 15, and 17.
• Delivered from Egyptian bondage (Acts 13:16-17) – Paul then reminds these Jews of how God sent Moses to them as a deliverer to be used by God to free them from the oppression of slavery in Egypt (Exodus 1-14).
• They were established in the land of Canaan (Acts 16:18-22) – The book of Joshua records the crossing over of the Israelites into the Promised Land, recording the conquests of the Canaanites through Joshua. The book of Judges records the tumultuous establishment of the people in the land, with the people asking for a king in 1 Samuel 8.
• They were promised an eternal kingdom through David’s seed (Acts 13:22) – While David was not the one to build the temple, God does promise an eternal kingdom through his descendants (2 Samuel 7:1-17)
• Jesus is their promised Messiah (Acts 13:23-26) – The descendant of David that will rule for eternity is Jesus Christ, the one who died and resurrected from the grave (Matthew 28:1-8). Jesus is the one sitting at the right hand of God making intercession for God’s people (Acts 7:55). Jesus is the one who is coming back to reign for eternity (Revelation 20:4-6).

 

As Paul was sharing with the Jews in Antioch, he did not have access to the gospels or epistles in the New Testament of the Bible, so he shared what he knew as a Pharisee. This is like what Stephen shared in Acts 7, minus the stoning. Like the Jews in the time of Paul, the church often needs a reminder of what Jesus did to save us from our sins, and why we should often observe communion. Communion reminds us that,

 

• Jesus’s body was broken for us – The breaking of Jesus’s body was severe through a beating (Luke 22:63-65), severe head wounds from a crown of thorns (Matthew 27:29), and piercing of nails.
• Jesus’s blood was shed for the remission of our sins – Scourging with a cat of nine-tails, bleeding from a crown of thorns, and the piercing of his hands and feet with nails would have caused severe blood loss.

 

All reading this have sinned and fallen short of God’s standard and face a death penalty for their sins (Romans 3:23, 6:23). However, we can have an acquittal from our penalty by confessing our heartfelt belief in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus for our sins (Romans 10:9-10). Our good works cannot save us (Ephesians 2:8-9), but only the grace of God demonstrated on the cross. If you are reading this and have never made a heartfelt confession in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, I invite you to pray with me now.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not some magical prayer but must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth that teaches from the Bible and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post.