Unexpected Opportunity

11/3/2020

I needed a haircut, but learned that my schedule barber recently graduated from the College of Hair Design in Lincoln, NE. I walked to my chair and sat down. Sam (not his real name) said, “My hero died in a helicopter crash!”

“Did a friend of yours die?” I asked.

“No, it was Kobe Bryant. I’m a Los Angeles Laker fan.” Sam said. We talked sports for a bit and I mentioned that my favorite professional team is the Chicago Bears.

“Sam, there’s something more important than sports. Let me share something that happened to me while in college.

“During a meeting of Christians, I experienced God’s unconditional love through the students I observed. I wanted what they had. The speaker mentioned that we must believe in Christ’s death, burial and resurrection for eternal life. That evening in my dorm room, I placed my faith in Christ’s work for the forgiveness of sin. My life completely changed. For example, I used to get very nervous taking Finals. I claimed God’s promise about casting all my care upon Him.” (1 Peter 5:7).

Sam said, “My girlfriend is trying to get me to trust Christ, but I’m resisting.”

“Why is that?” I asked.

“I had such a terrible family growing up. Besides, churches only care about your money.”

“I’m so sorry to hear about your family. Tell me about it.” Sam related how his siblings pursued evil activities, but his grandmother rescued him to live with her when he was in the 4th grade.

“Sam, God models the perfect family in three persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit who love each other,” I said. “They want you to join them at the table and enter into that love and intimate relationship.

Toward the end of my haircut, Sam asked, “Where should I start reading in the Bible?”

“The gospel of John,” I said. “Read one chapter a day and ask God to reveal Himself to you. It takes three weeks since there are 21 chapters in John. Do you have a Bible?”

“I do!” Sam said. As I was getting out of my barber chair, I said, “Don’t forget to read John!”

I often refer people to the gospel of John because it’s the only book in the Bible with an overt evangelistic purpose: “these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:30-31).

God arranged a divine appointment by lining up a new barber who needed to know Christ. It removed my disappointment of not seeing my original barber who wants to use his job as a way to share the gospel with clients.

Paul said his circumstances turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, even while chained in a Roman prison (Philippians 1:12). He closed his letter saying “the brethren who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household (Philippians 4:21-22).

Pray that you share the gospel boldly when God opens the door in unexpected ways like Paul (Acts 16:19-34; Colossians 4:2-6).

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Seek the Spiritually Lost in Your Neighborhood

7/3/2020

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A friend in his 50s, John, wanted help in reaching people for Christ in his upper middle-class neighborhood. We asked people walking their dog or working outside how we could pray for them. They were hungry for relationship because of Covid-19.

When we saw no one outside, we knocked on doors. At one house, a young man opened the door and came outside to talk. I asked, “How can we pray for you?” He asked us to pray for his children. I briefly shared my testimony how a group of college students showed me unconditional love and how I trusted Christ’s death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sin. I then asked, “Do you believe there’s brokenness in the world? He said, “Of course, there’s brokenness everywhere?” (No one denies there’s brokenness in the world).

“It hasn’t always been that way.” I said. “In God’s perfect design, he created the first man and woman, Adam and Eve, and placed them in garden in relationship with God. He gave them one command and they broke it. Sin entered into the human race.” I drew an arrow between the “God’s Design” and “Brokenness” circles.I continued, “Man tries to deal with their brokenness with good works, religion, working up the corporate ladder, sex, drugs, etc., but many times, it makes brokenness worse.” I drew squiggly lines pointing upward and out of the brokenness circle.

I said. “God saw our problem and sent Jesus down to earth.” I drew a downward arrow in the Jesus circle. “Jesus died for our sins to receive forgiveness and then rose again from the dead.” I drew a cross to the right of the downward arrow and an upward arrow. “Someday, Christ will come back to rule and reign on earth.” I drew a crown above the downward arrow, cross, and upward arrow.

“I turned from my sin and trusted Christ’s work, became a new creation in Christ. God put me on the pathway to recover God’s design as I followed Him even though I mess up many times.” I asked the young man, “Do you have a Jesus story like that?” He answered, “I wish I did but not sure. I’m very confused about what’s right!”

I asked, “Would you like John to meet and dialogue with you about Christ.” He said, “I would love that!” John has called several times without making contact, which is typical. Last Sat. morning, we knocked on his door and he welcomed us with open arms. Because family was visiting, he asked us to come back. Please pray as we go back to his house.

Jesus ran into an upper-middle class person, Zacchaeus, who was a rich chief tax-gatherer. He climbed into a sycamore tree to see Jesus in a crowd. Jesus looked up and told Zacchaeus to come down because He must stay in his house. Zacchaeus said he would give half of his possessions to the poor and give back four times as much to those he defrauded. Jesus said, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:1–10).

Why should we seek the lost?
Jesus told a parable about a nobleman who gave ten minas (each equivalent to about three months’ wages) to his ten servants so they could do business until he returned. After the nobleman returned, he called his servants to learn what business they had done. The first said his ten minas made ten minas more. The nobleman (master) commended the servant for his faithfulness and gave him authority over ten cities. The second servant made five minas and was given authority over five cities. The third hid his mina in a handkerchief and buried it in the ground because he was afraid. The master said to take away the mina and give it to the one with ten minas and collect from a bank (Luke 19:11–27). When we steward God’s resources (money, time, spiritual gifts, and bodies), we receive greater authority and responsibility.

What does this greater authority and responsibility look like?
Jesus told two disciples to bring an unused colt and to simply say, “The Lord needs it,” if asked for an explanation. With Jesus on the colt, a multitude of disciples praised God saying, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” When the Pharisees said He should rebuke His disciples, Jesus responded, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out” (Luke 19:28–40). When we listen to God, Christ will enter your neighborhood.

How do we make sure Christ will enter our neighborhood?
Why did Jesus weep over Jerusalem? Because he loved its people who rejected the peace He offered. Their disbelief hid him from their eyes. Jesus predicted that in the future, enemies would destroy their families because they didn’t recognize His coming (Luke 19:41–44). Jesus entered the temple and cast out the people who were selling, saying His house should be a house of prayer, but they had made it a robbers’ den. Jesus taught daily in the temple, but religious and influential men tried to destroy Him. In contrast, all the people were hanging upon His words. (Luke 19:45–48).

Does peoples’ lostness break your heart like Jesus? Will you pray for people in your neighborhood to understand Jesus’ presence and peace?

Later the Master selected seventy and sent them ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he intended to go. He gave them this charge: “What a huge harvest! And how few the harvest hands. So on your knees; ask the God of the Harvest to send harvest hands (Luke 10:1-2—The Message)

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Prepare for Effective Discipleship Ministry

4/13/2020

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Sam and Joe get together practicing social distancing. “I’m overwhelmed with the worldwide need,” Sam said. “How can I make a dent?”

Joe said, “God’s word says in Colossians 1:28 that we should see everyone complete in Christ. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be concerned about physical and emotional needs.”

“I’ve never done anything like that before,” Sam said. “I’m fearful that I might do the wrong thing. What if people think I’m one of those Jesus freaks? I’m not a Bible scholar.”

“It’s simpler than you think, Sam,” Joe said. “It begins with renewing your mind in God’s word and loving others. God will then open up divine opportunities, beyond anything you’ve ever imagined!”

“That doesn’t sound complicated, Sam said. “I can do that!”

Put Christ first (Colossians 1-2) and prepare spiritually for an effective discipleship ministry (Colossians 3-4). This blog examines spiritual preparation and ministry effectiveness. Put off the old self and put on the new self by renewing your mind richly in God’s word in order to love others. Family and work provide natural opportunities for ministry. Prayer opens the door to share God’s word with wisdom and grace, encourage people to help others grow in Christ, create interactive small groups, and guide people to fulfill God’s ministry.

1. Put off the Old Self and Put on the New Self
Set your minds on things above where Christ was seated at God’s right hand. Embrace your position in Christ: you died and your real life is hidden in Christ where you will appear with Him in glory. Put to death your earthly nature and idolatry including sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed causing God's wrath. Put off the old self of anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language and lying. Put on the new self with mind renewed according to Christ’s image (Colossians 3:1-11). Put off the old self and put on the new self with mind renewed in God's word.

2. Put on Love Allowing God's Word to Dwell Richly
Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Forgive grievances against one another. Put on love being united together. Let Christ’s peace and thankfulness rule in your hearts as members of one body. Allow Christ’s word dwell richly in you while teaching and admonishing others with all wisdom. Sing psalms and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. Do everything in word or deed in Jesus’ name thanking God (Colossians 3:12-17). Put on love by allowing God's word to dwell richly in you through teaching, admonishing and expressing gratitude.

As you renew your mind in God’s word and love others, God will open up amazing opportunities for ministry.

3. Submit to Family and Work Authorities
Wives should submit to their husbands as fitting in the Lord. Husbands should love their wives and not be harsh. Children should obey their parents in everything to please God. Fathers, don’t embitter your children lest they become discouraged. Employees should obey their bosses in everything with sincerity of heart and reverence of the Lord. By working heartily serving Christ and not men, employees will receive an eternal inheritance as a reward. Those doing wrong will suffer consequences. Bosses do what was right and fair because they have a Master in heaven (Colossians 3:18-4:1). Submit to family and work authorities to build ministry relationships and earn heavenly reward.

4. Pray for Open Doors to Share God's Word
Be watchful, thankful and devoted to prayer. Ask God to open doors in proclaiming clearly the mystery of Christ. Make the most of every opportunity speaking with clarity, wisdom, and grace (Colossians 4:2-6). Pray for open doors to share God’s word with clarity, wisdom and grace.

5. Encourage People to Help Others Grow in Christ
Paul sent Tychicus and Onesimus to encourage Philippians about his circumstances. Aristarchus, Mark and Justus sent greetings as the only Jews among his kingdom fellow workers who comforted Paul. Epaphras always wrestled in prayer for them to stand firm, fully assured, and mature in God's will. Luke, the doctor, and Demas sent greetings (Colossians 4:7-14). Encourage people to pray, work together, and help others grow in Christ.

6. Create Interactive Small Groups
Paul sent greetings to the Laodicea’s and Nympha’s house churches. He asked that his letter be read to both places, along with the Laodiceans’ response letter
(Colossians 4:15-16). Create interactive small groups.

7. Guide People to Fulfill God’s Ministry
Paul wanted them to tell Archippus to complete the Lord’s work he received (Colossians 4:17-18).  Guide people to fulfill God’s ministry.

Action Steps:

I will prayerfully consider the following process in preparing for an effective discipleship ministry:
1. I will put off the old self and put on the new self by renewing my mind in God's word
2. I will put on love by letting God's word richly dwell in me as I teach, admonish and express gratitude
3.   I will submit to delegated family and work authorities to build ministry relationships and earn heavenly reward
4. I will be prayerful so God opens doors to speak God's word with clarity, wisdom, and grace
5. I will encourage people to pray, work together, and help others grow in Christ
6. I will participate and help create interactive small groups
7.   I will guide people to fulfill God’s ministry

In order to apply concepts from Colossians 3-4 for your personal ministry:

“Download” “6 Fields Discipleship Strategy Worksheet” after clicking on https://bit.ly/6fields so you can fill out the Word document

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Put Christ First

4/5/2020

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Joe tells his friend Sam, “I’m tired of being cooped up at home. If I go out, how do I know if someone has the coronavirus or not? The experts say six feet might not be enough. What if someone sneezes and they aren’t wearing a mask?” “I agree, Joe.” Sam said, “It stresses me out with worry, fear and anxiety.”

Can you identify? We have two choices. Either draw into ourselves or look toward Christ. With more time at home, let’s take advantage of this season to draw close to Christ.

In Philippians that immediately precedes Colossians, Paul explained how Christ was our heart (life & emotions), mind (head & intellect), soul (goal & spirit) and strength (actions & behavior) that parallels Christ's Great Commandment to love God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength. Colossians explains how to practically love God with our whole being by putting Christ first.

1. Pray to Know God's Will
Paul thanked God when he heard about their faith in Christ, love for believers, and hope of heaven. They heard about the gospel, which is God's grace and the word of truth producing fruit. They continually asked God for the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and understanding to live worthy lives that pleased the Lord. They bore fruit in every good work, grew in God's knowledge, and strengthened in His glorious might with great endurance and patience. They joyfully gave thanks to the Father who qualified them to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. God rescued them from the domain of darkness and brought into the kingdom of the Son with redemption and forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:1-14). Pray to know God's will so you can to bear fruit, grow spiritually, and experience full redemption with sins forgiven.

2. Exalt Christ as Lord Over Every Authority
Jesus is the image of the invisible God by whom all things were created in heaven and earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, powers, rulers or authorities. All things were created by Him and for Him. He was before all things and in Him all things held together. He is head of the body, the church, supreme over everything. God's fullness dwelt in Christ. He reconciled to Himself all things on earth and heaven by making peace through His shed blood on the cross. Paul proclaimed the gospel to every creature and reconciled them through Christ's death to be holy, unblemished, and without accusation (Colossians 1:15-23). Exalt Christ as Lord over every authority and reconcile them to God by proclaiming His death.

3. Admonish and Teach the Gospel
Paul took up Christ's sufferings for the sake of His body, the church. God commissioned Paul to present the word of God in its fullness so Gentiles would understand Christ as the hope of glory within every believer. They proclaimed Him, admonished, and taught everyone with all wisdom for completion in Christ (Colossians 1:24-29). Admonish and teach the gospel with all wisdom to present everyone complete in Christ.

4. Discover Wisdom and True Knowledge
Paul desired everyone know Christ where all treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. He taught them to be rooted and built up in Christ for the strengthening of their faith that overflowed with thanksgiving. They were to reject hollow and deceptive philosophy that depended on human tradition and worldly principles instead of Christ (Colossians 2:1-8). Be rooted and built up in Christ to discover wisdom and true knowledge while rejecting deceptive human philosophy.

5. Disarm Demonic Powers and Authorities
The fullness of Deity lived in bodily form through Christ. God gave them Christ’s fullness as head over every power and authority. After disabling the flesh by Christ's death, they were buried and raised with Him by faith in God's power who raised Jesus from the dead. He forgave sin and cancelled man-made regulations by nailing them to the cross. The cross disarmed powers and authorities (Colossians 2:9-15). Consider your identification with Christ's death, burial and resurrection by trusting in His Spirit to disarm demonic powers and authorities.

6. Reject False Humility
They found reality in Christ, not what they ate, drank or through religious festivals. They rejected false humility and worship of angels to prevent disqualification of the prize. An unspiritual mind puffed up with idle notions makes one lose connection with Christ as Head and opportunity for spiritual growth (Colossians 2:16-19). Find reality in Christ and reject false humility that puffs you up with idle notions.

7. Refuse Legalistic Commands
Believers died to worldly commands like "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!" They had appearance of wisdom with self-imposed worship. Their false humility and harsh treatment of the body lacked value to restrain sensual indulgence (Colossians 2:20-23). Don’t obey legalistic commands for harsh treatment of the body since they can't restrain sensual indulgence.

Action Steps:
I will make it my priority to be rooted and built up in Christ to discover wisdom and knowledge while rejecting deceptive human philosophies:
1. I will pray to know God's will to bear spiritual fruit and experience full redemption while I reject powerless legalistic commands
2. I will live out the true reality of Christ as I proclaim His death to reconcile every authority to Him and reject false humility
3. I will identify with Christ as I admonish and teach the gospel with all wisdom until I can present everyone complete in Christ

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From Coronavirus to Crown of Christ

3/23/2020

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People are experiencing much loss since the coronavirus like jobs, health, finances, travel, school, and normal lifestyle choices. We see much uncertainty, fear, and anxiety since the coronavirus pandemic. Paul wrote in Philippians 3:7 that everything is loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ.

Hebrews 12:26-27 says “His voice that time shook the earth to its foundations . . . The phrase ‘one last shaking’ means a thorough housecleaning, getting rid of all the historical and religious junk so that the unshakable essentials stand clear and uncluttered” (The Message).

How can the coronavirus do a thorough housecleaning so the unshakable essentials remain in our lives? You may feel like you’re in prison being at home during this season. Paul was in a Roman prison when he wrote his letter to the Philippians, which will motivate us to transform our goals, prayer life, perspective, attitudes and calling toward a heavenly crown and reward.
Begin with prayer for discernment to change your perspective.

1. Pray for Disciples' Knowledge and Discernment
Paul and Timothy thanked the believers, elders and deacons in Philippi as they remembered them in prayer because of their partnership in the gospel. God's completed His good work until the day of Christ because of Paul's heart for them. He prayed their heart abound in knowledge and insight to discern what was best leading to purity and fruit of righteousness until the day of Christ for God's glory (Philippians 1:1-11).
Pray for knowledge, discernment, purity and righteousness in your disciples.

Adopt an expectant and humble attitude focusing on advancing the gospel.

2. Rejoice Over Circumstances to Advance the Gospel
Paul's circumstances advanced the gospel throughout the palace guard and encouraged others to speak God's word boldly. He rejoiced that Christ was preached, whether with selfish or loving motives. Their prayers led to deliverance and exalting Christ by life or death through the power of the Holy Spirit. Dying was the best outcome but living helped them progress in joyful faith. Paul exhorted them to stand firm in one spirit for the faith of the gospel. Opposition was a sign of their enemies being destroyed and they being saved by God. Paul's life showed that suffering followed believing (Philippians 1:12-30). Rejoice that your circumstances advance the gospel amid opposition.

3. Practice a Christ-like Servant Attitude
The love and fellowship of Christ should motivate them toward like-mindedness and one purpose by looking out for others interests instead of selfish ambition. A Christ-like attitude of servanthood and humility caused one to take up their cross, even to death. God exalted Christ by giving Him a name above every other name so that every tongue in heaven and earth will confess Jesus as Lord (Philippians 2:1-11). Practice a humble Christ-like servant attitude without any selfish ambition.

Trust in God’s power, serve others, and identify with Christ in His suffering and resurrection, which will supernaturally transform your life.

4. Work Out your Salvation in God's Power
Paul exhorted them to work out their salvation with fear and trembling trusting in God's power to act according to His good purpose. By not complaining or arguing, they became blameless children of God in a crooked and depraved generation shining like stars as they held out the word of life. Paul poured himself out as a drink offering hoping they walked faithfully so he could boast on the day of Christ. He planned to send Timothy, his son in the faith, who took a genuine interest in their welfare. Epaphroditus took care of Paul's needs and almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to provide they couldn’t give Paul (Philippians 2:12-30). Work out your salvation in God's power caring for others' welfare.

5. Know Christ through Sufferings
Paul reminded them to rejoice and glory in Christ by worshiping in the Holy Spirit and watching out for evil men who trust the flesh. Paul’s history from the tribe of Benjamin, law expertise, a Pharisee, zealous persecutor of the church and legalistic righteousness tempted him toward pride. He considered everything rubbish compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ as Lord. His righteousness came from Christ, not the law. He wanted to know Christ and to share in the fellowship of His sufferings and death before he experienced His resurrection (Philippians 3:1-11). Prioritize knowing Christ in His sufferings, death and resurrection.

6. Pursue God's Calling
Paul pressed on to lay hold of everything that Christ accomplished for him. He forgot the past and focused on winning the prize of God's calling in Christ. Paul exhorted them to embrace their citizenship in heaven instead of living with an earthly mindset like enemies of the cross whose destiny was destruction. Paul and his disciples waited for Christ, their heavenly Savior, who brought everything under His control and transformed their bodies into new and glorious ones (Philippians 3:12-21). Pursue God's calling according to His sovereign plan to supernaturally transform your life.

Continue in prayer, thanksgiving, and giving generously to others.

7. Pray Always and Think Truthfully
The Philippians rejoiced and showed gentleness because the Lord was near. Instead of anxiety, they prayed about everything with thanksgiving so God's peace guarded their hearts and mind in Christ. Their thinking was true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy to put into practice what they learned, received, heard and seen in Paul. He rejoiced over their renewed concern and learned the secret of contentment in any circumstance because of Christ's strength. Only the Philippians gave and received when he set out from Macedonia and repeatedly sent aid when Paul was in Thessalonica. He didn’t expect their gift but gloried in their sacrificial gift credited to their heavenly account. Paul prayed that God would supply all their needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:1-23). Pray and thank God always, think truthfully, and give generously for a heavenly crown and reward.

Answer the following questions to gauge your direction in life to earn a heavenly reward:

What am I praying about?
How do I view my circumstances?
What is my attitude toward others?
What am I striving for in life?
What are my priorities?
What is God's calling for my life?
What am I thinking about?

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God Works Through Unlikely People

2/22/2020

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“I’m tired of seeing these Christians praying together during our break time,” a lift truck driver said. “They keep talking to me about this Jesus stuff. It makes no sense.” In a few months, this lift truck driver became an enthusiastic Christian who shared his faith with everyone with whom he came in contact.
Often, God works through unlikely people, like this lift truck driver, who made fun of Christians. Through personal witness of fellow employees, this individual became an enthusiastic disciple of Christ. God loves to surprise us by working through unlikely people as you will see in Luke 23.

1. Believe in Christ’s Lordship
Bringing Jesus before Pilate, a high Roman official, the religious leaders accused Christ of misleading Israel by forbidding them to pay taxes to Caesar and claiming to be Messiah, a King. Pilate asked Him if He was “King of the Jews.” Herod hoped for a sign to be performed by Him. When Jesus was silent during questioning, Herod and his soldiers treated Him with contempt, dressed Him in a gorgeous robe, and sent Jesus back to Pilate (Luke 23:1–12). Believe in Christ’s lordship rather than seeking for signs.

2. Avoid status quo
Pilate told the religious leaders that he found Christ not guilty of anything deserving of death. Nevertheless, they cried out for Pilate to crucify Him and release the terrorist and murderer, Barabbas, even though Pilate said three times he wanted to release Jesus. He delivered Jesus to them because of their insistence (Luke 23:13–25). Avoid status quo and political expediency.

3. Repent of known sin
A man named Simon bore Jesus’ cross with a great multitude following Him with women mourning and lamenting Him. Jesus told them to stop weeping for Him, but weep for themselves and their children. In the future, the barren would ask mountains to fall on them (Luke 23:26–31). Repent of known sin instead of seeking experiences.

4. Rely on Christ’s death
Religious leaders crucified Jesus and two criminals, one on each side of Him. Despite the cruelty, Jesus told His Father to forgive them since they didn’t know what they were doing. He loved even the soldiers who cast lots and divided His garments among themselves and those who mocked Him, saying “save yourself” (Luke 23:32–38). Rely on Christ’s death instead of seeking financial gain or seeking to save yourself.

5. Openly express your faith
One criminal mocked Jesus and the other feared Him, saying Jesus hadn’t done anything wrong. “Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom.” Jesus said that he would be with Him in paradise. After the veil of the temple was torn in two, Jesus cried out, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” Even the centurion praised God and said Jesus was innocent, and the multitudes beat their breasts. His acquaintances and women accompanying Him stood at a distance (Luke 23:39–49). Openly express your faith like outsiders (the criminal and the centurion).

6. Identify openly with Christ
Joseph, a member of the Jewish Council, who was waiting for the kingdom of God, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Joseph wrapped Christ’s body in a linen cloth and laid Him in a tomb. The women followed, but then returned and prepared spices and perfumes (Luke 23:50–56). Identify openly with Christ like insiders (Joseph).

Action Step: God works through unlikely people who repent of their sin and believe in Christ’s death. In your sphere of influence, who is God working in?

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Use Natural Opportunities for Kingdom Mission

2/8/2020

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Sitting in the barber chair, I told my barber that our hairs are numbered. “I will have less hairs to number once my hair is cut,” I joked, and then decided to probe a bit deeper. “I didn’t always believe in God…Do you believe in God?”

“I’m not sure, but would like to know for certain,” my barber said.

“Would you like to dialogue about it? Do you have a Bible?” My barber said he didn’t. So by the time my hair was nicely trimmed, we set an appointment at a coffee shop for Sunday afternoon.

Many people are not open like my barber, but how can we use natural opportunities to do our kingdom ministry? Luke 22 offers ways we can prepare ourselves to show Christ’s love to others.

1. Reject deception
While Passover was approaching, religious leaders, fearing the people, sought to put Jesus to death. Satan entered into Judas who gave in to his deception and described to the leaders how he would betray Jesus (Luke 22:1–6). Reject deception by not allowing Satan to betray and put Jesus to death in your life.

2. Trust in Jesus’ word
Jesus instructed Peter and John to prepare the Passover by following a man carrying a water pitcher into a house with a furnished, upper room (Luke 22:7–13). They may have thought these were odd instructions, but Jesus knew the eternal plan. Trust in Jesus’ word by obeying Him.

3. Participate in the Lord’s Table
As the apostles and Jesus sat together for the Passover meal, He said, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.” Jesus took the cup and bread and gave thanks, symbolizing His body and blood poured out in the new covenant. This sets an example and serves as a reminder for us today (Luke 22:14–23). Participate in the Lord’s Table to enter into Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross.

4. Serve others
The apostles disputed who would be greatest among themselves. Jesus said gentile kings lord it over others, but the greatest of His disciples serve one another. Just as the Father granted Jesus a kingdom, He enabled His apostles to eat and drink at His table where they would sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel (Luke 22:24–30). Serve others to experience greatness.

5. Resist temptation
When Satan demanded permission to sift Peter like wheat, Jesus prayed that Peter’s faith wouldn’t fail. Jesus predicted that Peter’s self-confidence would lead to denying Him three times, and He told him to strengthen his brothers after returning to God (Luke 22:31–34). Resist temptation with prayer so your faith can strengthen others.

6. Trust new provisions
Though Jesus said to carry nothing in their mission to the Jews, He now instructed them to bring a purse and sell their robe to buy a sword. Jesus was numbered with the transgressors and said, “it is enough” after they found two swords” Trust God to meet your needs in the midst of future challenges, hardships and hostilities as you carry out your mission (Luke 22:35–38). Trust new provisions to carry out gospel mission.

7. Wrestle in prayer
Jesus told His disciples to pray so they may not tempted. Jesus prayed that the Father would remove the cup not according to His own will, but God’s will be done. An angel strengthened Christ in His agony of prayer that was so fervent that He sweat like drops of blood. When Jesus found His disciples sleeping from sorrow, He told them to rise and pray to not enter into temptation (Luke 22:39–46). Wrestle in prayer to not enter into temptation.

8. Trust in God’s sovereign plan
When Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, Peter cut off a slave’s right ear, which Christ healed. He said that religious leaders came against Him with weapons when formerly they didn’t lay hands on Him because it wasn’t His time (Luke 22:47–53). Trust in God’s sovereign plan for your life.

9. Remain close to Jesus
Peter followed at a distance after they arrested Jesus. Peter later denied Him three times and when he remembered Jesus’ words, he wept bitterly (Luke 22:54–62). This resulted not only in a physical distance but also a spiritual distance because of Peter’s fear. Remain close to Jesus to prevent denying Him.

10. Reject world’s mocking of Jesus
While holding Jesus in custody, they mocked and beat Him. They said many things against Him, while blaspheming (Luke 22:63–65). Reject the world’s mocking of Jesus.

11. Believe Jesus’ authority
Jesus told the religious leaders they wouldn’t believe or answer His questions. He also said that “the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.” They refused any additional testimony after Jesus said He was the Son of God (Luke 22:66–71). Believe Jesus’ authority seated at the right hand of God.

The evil one seeks to get you to deny God’s sovereign plan for your life by attacking you as you follow Christ at a distance, as you are intimidated by the world’s mocking, as the world speaks against Him to cause you to disbelieve Christ’s authority and power. But by trust, obedience, and prayer you will share in Jesus’ victory.

Final Thought: Use natural opportunities to do your kingdom mission, rejecting deception by the evil one.

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Are You Prepared for Second Coming?

2/1/2020

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“You don’t make any sense! No one believes the Bible these days!” my college’s philosophy said.

“God has the power to create the world in six days according to Genesis 1–2,” I said. It wasn’t formed by the Big Bang and animals didn’t evolve. A being with intelligence had to be behind everything. The universe and cells would collapse unless there was a greater power holding everything together like we read about in Colossians 1:17 where in Christ He holds all creation together. Christ came to earth 2,000 years ago and someday He will come back again.”

Scripture, such as in Luke 21, predicts persecution, natural disasters on earth, and signs in the heavens before Christ's Second Coming. We are living in those times, and it causes anxiety, uncertainty, and grief. How should you live in the last days?

1. Give sacrificially
While the rich put in gifts out of their surplus, a poor widow gave out of her poverty, all she had to live on (Luke 21:1–4). Giving may look differently for each of us, but if we live with Christ’s Second Coming in mind, the material possessions we have will lose importance. Give sacrificially to support others during the last days.

2. Discern false teachers
In the future, every stone will be torn down in the temple. When many come in Christ's name, don't go after them. Don't be terrified of wars and disturbances because the end will come later (Luke 21:5–9). Discern false teachers and remain calm.

3. Share your testimony
Nation will rise against nation along with great earthquakes, plagues, famines, and great signs from heaven. Before these things, persecution will deliver you to synagogues and prisons and bring you before kings as an opportunity for your testimony. Christ will give you the words and wisdom that your opponents can’t refute. Family members will hate and kill some of you but not a hair of your head will perish. By endurance, you ) will gain your lives (Luke 21:10–19). Share your testimony of Christ as a witness during times of persecution (loss of friendship or job, rejection) in the last days.

4. Prepare for the Second Coming
When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize her desolation is at hand. These are days of vengeance, great distress and wrath to fulfill what was written. They will be killed, led captive into all the nations, and trampled underfoot by the Gentiles (Luke 21:20–24). Prepare for the Second Coming when judgment will come by being in tune spiritually, serve, and protect others in practical ways.

5. Wait for total deliverance from sin
Signs in the heavens and on earth will dismay nations. People faint from fear for the powers of the heavens will be shaken until they "see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory." When these things take place, pay attention because your redemption is near (Luke 21:25–28). Wait for total deliverance from sin at Christ's Second Coming.

6. Rely on God’s prophetic word
These signs are like seeing the leaves of fig trees, showing fruit, and knowing God’s kingdom is near. Heaven and earth will pass away but God's Word won’t pass away (Luke 21:29–33). Rely on God’s prophetic word and watch for the signs in the last days.

7. Pray for strength and listen attentively
Be alert, awake, and pray so as to not be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness, and worries of life. Jesus taught every day in the temple and spent nights on the Mount of Olives. Everyone got up early to listen to Him in the temple (Luke 21:34–38). Pray for strength and listen attentively to God’s Word.

Final Thought: Prepare for the Second Coming as you give sacrificially, pray, and listen attentively to God’s Word.

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Value Spiritual Transformation

1/18/2020

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I walked in the television room of the dorm. Bill left his card game and walked toward me. He was the first person to greet me after my move from the fraternity to the dorm. After he helped me set up my stereo, we got into a discussion about Jesus. “Bill, you can’t take the Bible literally. It’s full of fairy tales,” I said, “Stories like Noah’s ark and parting of the Red Sea didn’t really happen. Miracles don’t happen in real life!” This dialogue began my journey to knowing Christ personally and making Him Lord.

Knowing the Bible, believing God exists, going to church, having a social media profile saying "Christian," speaking Christian language, and saying Jesus is Lord doesn’t mean I’m approved not mean you are making Jesus Lord in your life. If we don’t make Christ Lord, we won’t seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10).

1. Embrace Christ’s authority
Religious leaders asked who gave Jesus authority when He taught people in the temple and preached the gospel. Jesus asked if John's baptism was from heaven or from men. Since the religious leaders wouldn't answer his question, Jesus refused answering them too (Luke 20:1-8). Embrace Christ’s authority so your ministry won’t go unnoticed.

2. Accept Christ as church’s foundation
Jesus told a parable about a vineyard owner sending three slaves to vine-growers to get produce. Each time they beat the slave and sent him away empty-handed. When the owner sent his beloved son who was killed by the vine-growers, he planned to destroy them and give the vineyard to others. Jesus said, "The stone which the builders rejected, this became the chief cornerstone. Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; but on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust" (Luke 20:9-18). Accept Christ as church’s foundation for protection.

3. Balance worldly and spiritual responsibilities
The religious leaders feared the people, and tried to kill and catch Jesus in what He said, because they knew He spoke this parable against them. They asked if was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not. Jesus detected their trickery and took a denarius. He said, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's." They marveled at His answer and became silent (Luke 20:19-26). Balance spiritual and worldly responsibilities to please Jesus.

4. Value supernatural transformation
Christ told the Sadducees who believe in no resurrection that people marry on earth, but are like angels and unmarried in heaven. The dead are raised since He is God of the living. The Sadducees lost courage to question Him any longer (Luke 20:27-40). Value spiritual transformation because He’s God.

5. Rejoice in Christ’s victory
Christ asked how they could say that He’s David's son when he called Him 'Lord.' David said for the Lord to sit at His right hand until He made His enemies a footstool for His feet (Luke 20:41-44). Rejoice in Christ’s victory over spiritual enemies.

6. Seek humility
Christ told His disciples to beware of the scribes who love respectful greetings and chief seats in the synagogues but devour widows' houses and offer long prayers for appearance's sake. They will receive greater condemnation (Luke 20:45-47). Seek humility instead of power and position.

Further Thought: Ask God to help you value supernatural transformation as you balance your spiritual and worldly responsibilities while putting Christ’s first.

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A Decision to Enter the Narrow Way Versus Broad Way

1/4/2020

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“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way if easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:13-14).

The ways of the world consist of human effort leading to the broad road of destruction. God's kingdom consists of obedience leading to narrow road of life. The currency of the world is money, but for God's kingdom, it’s obedience to God.

I faced a decision to enter the narrow way versus the broad way. In my early 30s, I taught a noon-time Bible study. My boss said, “One of your friends invited me to your Bible study. I don’t want you teaching it.”

Later, my boss made me responsible for sealed bids on electronic components. “What is the lowest price you have for this contract?” my boss asked, “I want my friend to know so he can beat that price.”

“That’s unethical!” I said. Later, my boss fired me because I wouldn’t compromise my integrity.

1. Seek the lost
Zaccheus, a rich chief tax-gatherer who was small in stature, climbed in a sycamore tree to see Jesus in a crowd. He looked up and told Zaccheus to come down, as He must stay in his house. People grumbled that a sinner entertained Jesus. Zaccheus said he would give half of his possessions to the poor and give back four times as much to those he defrauded. Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:1-10). Seek the lost by being open to opportunities.

I needed to wait on God’s timing for job and career changes. I learned that it’s better to train others than do all the work myself. People need follow-up to fulfill their commitments. Submission to authorities opens ministry opportunities and God’s blessings. Material things don’t matter since everything belongs to God.

2. Steward God’s resources
Jesus told a parable about a nobleman who gave ten minas to his ten slaves so they could do business until he returned. After the nobleman returned, he called his slaves to learn what business they did. The first said his ten minas made ten minas more. The nobleman (master) commended the slave over his faithfulness and gave him authority over ten cities. The second slave made five minas and given authority over five cities. The third hid his mina in a handkerchief and buried it in the ground because he was afraid. The master said to take away the mina and give it to the one with ten minas and collect from a bank (Luke 19:11-27). Steward God’s resources (money, time, spiritual gifts, and bodies) for greater authority and responsibility.

After leaving Cedar Rapids, Iowa, I took a job as an Industrial Engineering consultant in Omaha, Nebraska. When business slowed, I was laid off. An elder at our church told me, “Mark, there’s a guy in Lincoln, Nebraska, that you might want to meet as a potential ministry partner. His name is Dean Hatfield.” Two ladies in the church nursery told Karen, “Dean Hatfield led our husbands to Christ while students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Mark should meet him.” God spoke through circumstances and people to maximize my gifts.

3. Listen to God
Jesus told two disciples to bring an unused colt, simply saying “The Lord has need of it,” if asked for an explanation. With Jesus on the colt, a multitude of disciples praised God saying, "Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" When the Pharisees said He should rebuke His disciples, Jesus responded, "if these become silent, the stones will cry out!" (Luke 19:28-40). Listen to God so Christ can enter your city and your circumstances.

These early years of my career taught me to pray and rely on Christ as Lord of my life. In 1986, we moved to Lincoln with my family to partner with Dean, becoming a college missionary. In 1989, I witnessed first-hand the Biblical illiteracy and confusion that arose after the tele-evangelist scandals. College students were asking me in the dorms, “Why are there so many denominations? Why are people trying to get rich through religion?”

4. Share Jesus’ concerns
Jesus wept over Jerusalem because they rejected the peace He offered. He was hidden from their eyes. In the future, enemies would destroy their families because they didn't recognize His coming. (Luke 19:41-44).
Share Jesus’ concerns for His presence and peace.

In prayer, God said I needed to do something about Biblical illiteracy. A journalism student said, “Mark, take these two journalism courses to help in your ministry.” My wife met the wife of the Dean of the Journalism College in Bible Study Fellowship. The dean, who became a mentor, recommended I pursue a Master’s in Journalism to develop my writing skills for ministry (God may lead you to further training). Over the next 33 years, we experienced God’s provision and faithfulness in answer to prayer.

5. Pursue prayer over riches
Jesus entered the temple and cast out those who were selling, saying His house shall be a house of prayer, but they made it a robbers' den
(Luke 19:45-46). Pursue prayer over riches.

In 1998, a friend invited me to attend a four-day prayer summit in Seattle to build biblical unity within the city. I desired similar interdenominational prayer in Lincoln. God opened the door in 2004 to initiate weekly pastor’s prayer groups in Lincoln along with a yearly prayer summit that still occurs. During these years, I learned that regular prayer and study of God’s Word with others pays dividends and opens doors.

6. Feast daily on God’s word
Jesus taught daily in the temple, but religious and influential men tried to destroy Him. In contrast, all the people were hanging upon His words. As part of the body of Christ we need one another for accountability
(Luke 19:47-48). Feast daily on God’s word with others.

For further thought: Thank God for how He is writing your life story. Thank Him for making you alert to opportunities to show His love and tell His message. Ask Him for a friend or friends to meet regularly for prayer and fellowship.

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