Monday, Nov. 30th, 2009

Bible Thoughts

Negative Preaching —  What exactly is that?  I’ve heard that term my whole life.  Usually, people are referring to a man who teaches primarily the commands of Scripture:  “do this” “don’t do that” “works, action, discipline.”  By the same token, “positive preaching” often refers to lessons on “God’s love, grace, redemption, and forgiveness.”  I’ve often heard folks say that a man does too much negative preaching and needs to build lessons revolving more around God’s grace and mercy.  And, sometimes preachers will get caught up in the terminology as well and respond:  “well, the New Testament is mostly negative preaching (instructive) and a much smaller percentage of the letters focus on mercy.”

Well, I definitely believe that we need just as much teaching on God’s grace as we do on the works of faith He expects to see in us, and too much of one at the expense of the other is an unbalanced view of Scripture… however, I challenge the usage of the term:  “Negative Preaching.”   I was reading through the book of James this morning to find an idea for an article.  We studied the instructions of James 2:10 yesterday morning and I wanted to follow up with some passages from that letter concerning God’s mercy when we falter.   And … there isn’t much there!   Almost all of the letter is about brethren:  ch 1) praying and persevering and obeying  ch 2) obeying all the law, and giving faith life through works  ch3) controlling the tongue  ch 4) rebuking selfish teachers and demanding humility  ch5) being patient in oppression, praying and confessing sin.

Wow, James may be the ultimate “negative preacher!”  You know I don’t mean that.  In fact, I contend that NONE of the instructions and commands and demands of Scripture are negative in any way!  Paul told Timothy:  “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (II Ti. 3:16-17).  So, all of those commands and corrections and challenges are POSITIVE, needed instruction to make me better for God!   John wrote in I Jn. 5:13:  “These things I have written to you so that you may know you have eternal life.”  Do you think he wrote about God’s mercy and love and redemption throughout the whole letter?  No. He wrote about you and me being righteous and faithful and loving to others… more “negative preaching,” right?  Of course not.  I am so thankful for those life-changing commands so that I can know I am going to heaven!  Aren’t you?

The truth is, studies about God’s grace make us feel safe; and the New Testament contains many passages doing just that.  But studies about works and faith and living righteous, while they often times make us feel uncomfortable, permeate every page of Scripture.  And, both are POSITIVE!  Because both teach me about my relationship with God:  what He has done for me and what He expects I will learn to do for Him!  Let us all consider every lesson from Scripture a blessing, and be thankful to God that He loves us enough to work through us!

kris

Monday, Nov. 30th, 2009

News and Notes:   Monday, November 30^th

News Among Members:

Jean Ann Hogue will be going into San. Jac Methodist on Wednesday to have a defibrillator procedure.  She will be kept there overnight.

Martha Aiken’s father, Connor Estes, was admitted to San. Jac. Hospital this weekend.

Katherine Parker received a good report from the doctor concerning her cancer-related tests.

Christine Smith’s cousin died this week.  Our prayers go out to her and her family.

Steve and Angela Copeland and new baby girl, Addison Lauren, are all doing great.  Ann Lorfing has been staying with Angela in Kingwood helping her, but both all hopeful to be back with us in worship soon.

Emily West had two healthy baby boys last Tuesday: Gage Harvey, 5lb 8oz and Gunner Marshall, 6lb.  Babies and mom are doing great and were able to come home Thanksgiving day.

Dwight and Peggy Chaney, as well as Ray and Rita Ball have welcomed new grandbabies recently.

Mary Griffin continues to need prayers as she receives test results Tuesday concerning a spot on her kidney.

Velma Joseph’s aunt, Pat Nelson, is in continual need of our prayers due to the terminal cancer diagnosis she recently received.

Elma Chilson has a new contact number at her rehab facility:  713-944-9689… She is thinking she may be able to come home this week.  I was unable to reach her this morning for an update.

Baptism: Brenda Ganter was baptized into Christ recently.  She expressed a desire to become a member at Eastside and we are encouraged and thankful to have her with us.

New Members: David and Denise Gerza, and daughter Samantha

Special Service NOTE: Wednesday night Invitation assignments:

Dec. 2^nd – Eric Kegley       Dec. 9^th – Kenneth Miller         Dec. 16^th – Mike Ferguson

New Quarter: New class quarters begin next Sunday, December 6^th.

Monday, November 23rd

Bible Thoughts –   Risk/Reward Analysis: Righteousness

This week I’d like to post a follow-up question from our sermon yesterday morning. We looked at the risk/reward analysis done by characters in Scripture, who ultimately made poor decisions: Eve, Esau, Achen and Judas. Using their examples, we discussed the risk/reward analysis we do when deciding whether or not to sin. First, my carnal desires list the rewards of sinful conduct (immediate gratification, etc). Then, I must consider the risks associated with that decision (separation from God, hurting myself and others, guilt). From that information, on a daily basis, I decide to sin or not to sin. Ultimately, as we concluded yesterday, there is NO risk or reward when it comes to sin. First, there is no real reward, because all benefits of sin are deceptively short and ultimately cause more pain that pleasure. Second, there is no risk of loss with sinfulness, but a guarantee of loss! “Risk” suggests a chance at success, but sin carries no such chance.

At the conclusion of our service Sunday morning, Mike Smith offered the closing prayer. He began with this thought: “Lord, help us consider the rewards that come with being righteous.” I really appreciated that sentiment. I’m thinking of doing a follow-up “risk/reward” sermon, only this time, we’ll consider the risk/reward analysis of righteousness.

So, here is where I request your thoughts. Forget sin; let’s talk godliness. What are some rewards (immediate and/or long-term) associated with living for Jesus? And, what are some risks (possible loss) associated with being a faithful Christian? Ultimately, any believing heart should be able to see both sides and decide to give their whole life to God … but I’d like us to discuss what is found on both sides of the scales.

Extra bonus question: What characters from Scripture illustrate the good decision of choosing to be godly and pure, even though risk of loss in the flesh was imminent?

Monday, November 23rd

News and Notes: Monday, November 23^rd

News Among Members:

Velma Joseph’s aunt, Pat Nelson, who has battled cancer recently, now has terminal brain cancer. Our prayers are with Velma and Pat and their family.

Steve and Angela Copeland welcomed new baby girl, Addison Lauren, 5lb 14oz 19in, last Tuesday.

Emily West is scheduled to deliver twins tomorrow! Please pray for her safety.

Dwight and Peggy Chaney, as well as Ray and Rita Ball have welcomed new grandbabies recently.

Mary Griffin was able to worship with us last night; but is dealing with a new spot on her kidney.

Marcus Suttle is recovering well from back surgery and was able to be with us last night.

Elma Chilson has a new contact number at her rehab facility: 713-944-9689… She’s hopeful to come home in a week or so.

Johnny Partin is now staying at Remington Park. He and his wife are in daily need of our prayers.

Jack Newton’s sister passed away in Virginia this past week.

Jean Ann Hogue will be going into San. Jac Methodist on December 2^nd to have a defibrillator procedure.

Baptism: Brenda Ganter was baptized into Christ last Thursday. We are so very thankful to have this new Christian worshipping and growing with us… (Her contact info will be posted soon)

New Members: David and Denise Gerza, and daughter Samantha

Special Service NOTE: Wednesday night Invitation assignments:

Nov. 25^th – Evan Sanchez Dec. 2^nd – Eric Kegley Dec. 9^th – Kenneth Miller

Nov 22, 2009 Jr. High and High School Gathering

The Jr. High and High School young men and women will be getting together Sunday, November 22, 2009, at Steve and Renee’ Martin’s home after evening services.

Monday, Nov. 16th, 2009

Bible Thoughts

“And He sat down opposite the treasury, and began observing how the people were putting money into the treasury; and many rich people were putting in large sums.  A poor widow came and put in two small coins, which amount to a cent.  Calling His disciples to Him, He said to them, ‘Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the contributors to the treasury; for they all put in out of their surplus, but she, out of her poverty, put in all she owned, all she had to live on” (Mark 12:41-44). 

Can I make a confession?  I have spent most of my adult life convincing myself that this is NOT what Christ expects of me.  It was just something a woman did and Jesus is pointing out the value of sacrifice in general… not that He would expect us to do anything near the same.   I’ve treated it like a parable; made up to make a specific point.  It is not a parable, but the real-life actions of a woman who trusted in God’s provision above her own.  A woman who gave with sacrifice for the Lord, knowing He would care for her.  A woman who did not “pay herself first;” but first and faithfully gave to God.

 

And while on the confession train, there is another similar scene in Scripture I have distanced myself from:

 

The story of the rich, young ruler who had kept the law since his youth.  Then Jesus said, “One thing you still lack; sell all that you possess and distribute it to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”  The Bible says, “But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich” (Luke 18:18-23).

Am I now suggesting that we put every cent in the offering plate, or sell everything and give it to the poor?  No.  And I don’t think that is Jesus demand of all disciples either.  We must be responsible, care for our families, pay our debts, and… enjoy the fruit of our labor.   BUT… Jesus saw something in the heart of these two people.  In the widow, He saw a heart of humility, trust and love for God, and her detachment to $ proved it.   He also saw a man who wanted to be a disciple, but his attachment to his money would always be an obstacle. 

 

I challenge you to read these passages and determine who Jesus sees when He looks at your heart… and honestly assess what your attachment/detachment to finances … and willingness to give for others… is expressing about your faith.   I pray Jesus can commend you.   I want that more than any amount of money!

 

Kris

Monday, Nov. 16th, 2009

News and Notes:   Monday, November 16^th

 

News Among Members:

James Dubois step-granddaughter, Stephanie Cooper, passed away this weekend.  She was only 26 and had two little ones.  Our prayers are with James and his whole family.

Hugo Ramirez’ grandmother passed away yesterday.  She lives in Honduras.  Hugo and his family are heading down there this week for her funeral.

Steve and Angela Copeland, daughter of Herb and Ann Lorfing, are scheduled to have their baby tomorrow! 

 

Emily West will find out today what day this week she will be induced to deliver her twin boys! 

Mary Griffin is going in for further testing after a spot has been found on their kidney.

 

Marcus Suttle is now home and was feeling well enough to be at worship us last night.

 

Elma Chilson is recovering from knee surgery, and is in rehab.  Her phone number is:  713-478-6308

 

Johnny Partin is now staying at Remington Park.  He and his wife are in daily need of our prayers.

 

Sharon Peach is still in room 217 at San. Jac Methodist, but will be moved downtown in the next day or two.

Special Service NOTE:  Wednesday night Invitation assignments: 

Nov. 18^th – Randy Hogue       Nov. 25^th – Evan Sanchez       Dec. 2^nd – Eric Kegley

Home Studies for November

Jr H/ H.S.  – Studies will be combined on November 22^nd, after P.M. worship, at the Martin’s home.

 

 

Monday, Nov. 9th 2009

Bible Thoughts

 

Why Can’t It Be?

 

“So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.  They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles.  And all those who had believed were together had all things in common; and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.  Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.  And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Acts 2:41-47).  

 

You didn’t think I’d make it through a whole weekend of preaching without Acts 2 and then ignore it on Monday morning did you?   As you read through the above verses, referencing the beginning of the church on the day of Pentecost, did you notice words like “together,” “common,” “one mind” and “house to house.”  God’s people were ALL about their fellowship in Christ, and it was shown through daily attention to one another, interaction with one another, and worshipping God one with another!

 

Why can’t it be?   Why can’t our fellowship be more and more like this?  Where “church” is not just some weekly pew appointment with people we respect, but a blest tie that connects us all throughout the week, and at all times of need, and is only amplified at every possible worship?

 

Maybe it can’t!  Some will be quick to point out that the Pentecost day was unique:  1) people were travelling from all over the countryside and had no place to rest but in each other’s homes…  2) they were away from home, so there wasn’t much to do during that time but study together and get to know each other.  3)  many were poor, so selling property and giving goods to help was uniquely needed.  4)  they had the apostles working miracles and revealing prophecy and that was a unique experience… and so on.

And perhaps those points are legitimate … or maybe they are a way of absolving ourselves of fuller Christian fellowship.   Because 1) even though we all live close by, we can still have one another in our homes to serve  2)  at home or away, time spent together in study is always going to make us stronger  3) some of us do have less than others, and need the sacrifice of some to help  4) we too have the apostles’ prophecy and miracles revealed in Scripture.

 

Or maybe it can’t be because our schedules and priorities won’t allow it!  Maybe we have too much going on with school, work, and play.  Maybe we need Sunday evenings as time to rest so that we can engage the world again on Monday.  Maybe, just maybe, God’s people aren’t as important to us as they are to God… and therefore; maybe God is not as important to us as He must be to His people….

 

I can admit that at times the world has jaundiced my eye to the pure reason I am a member of a local church.  God has brought us together to be a support for one another, an aid; encouragement.  And to be such, let us draw inspiration and direction and joy from the brethren in Acts 2.  And just as God looks down at our worship and hopes to see what was started in the 1^st century, I pray He can say the same about our fellowship!

 

kris

Monday, Nov. 9th 2009

News and Notes:   Monday, November 9^th

 

News Among Members:

 

Chaz Bullard, grandson-in-law to Bobby and June Paulsel, passed away this week from a tragic accident.  He was 23.  His service was yesterday afternoon at 2pm.  Our prayers are with the family.

 

Marcus Suttle had successful spinal surgery last week and is recovering well in Anahuac at his father’s house.

 

Elma Chilson will be having knee surgery on Nov. 11th.

 

Johnny Partin is now staying at Remington Park.  He and his wife are in daily need of our prayers.

 

Sharon Peach continues to recover at home from the ill effects of her chronic lung disease.

 

Special Service NOTE:  Wednesday night Invitation assignments: 

 

Nov. 11^th – Brad Walker                  Nov. 18^th – Randy Hogue

 

Special Study:  The ladies class scheduled for Saturday mornings (9:30) at Julie Pahos’ house continues through the month of November.  All ladies are invited!  It’s not too late to join this class, just make contact with Julie Pahos or Dena Long  Additionally, ALL ladies are invited.  Study: “power of words”         

 

Home Studies for November

 

Jr. High Study:   Next Sunday, 15^th, after p.m. service (location not yet determined)

 

H.S. Study:  Sunday, Nov. 22^nd, after p.m. service at the Emerson’s Home

 

 

November 2nd, 2009

Bible Thoughts

 

“God, after He long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world.  And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power.  When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much better than the angels, as He has inherited a more excellent name than they.  For to which of the angels did He ever say, ‘You are My Son, today I have begotten You’? and again ‘I will be a Father to Him and He shall be a Son to Me’?”  Heb. 1:1-5.

 

As a Christian and a preacher, I am in constant pursuit of understanding that will help Christ become more important to me on a daily basis.  Thoughts and realizations that will give me the wisdom to think on Him, look to Him, and live for Him with unfading consistency.  And… ways of communicating those thoughts to others in a manner that will help all our members become more God-focused and live more as disciples of Christ.

 

Today, I have found a spark of inspiration in these opening remarks by the Hebrew writer.  He is writing to God’s people, and the entire letter is devoting to how much “better” Jesus is than everyone and everything else.  He is such, without any doubt … but how do I make sure that He “comes to have first place” over everything and everyone … to me?   To help with that, I draw your thoughts to these 5 verses.

 

You see, this intro communicates to us how important, valuable and lovely Christ is to the God!  This is how much the Son means to the Father.   Look at a list of wonderful things God entrusts to and says about Christ:

 

n  Of all the ways God could communicate with man, “in these last day He has spoken to us in His Son.”

n  God gave Him honor as “heir of all things, through whom also He made the world.”

n  Christ is “the radiance of [the Father’s] glory” and “upholds all things by the word of His power.”

n  While angels are beautiful, Christ is “much better than the angels,” with “a more excellent name.”

n  Christ is called God’s Son, and God desires to be a loving Father to Him (v5)

 

We sing a song:  “Jesus is all the world to Me.”  But in these verses, I would say, “Jesus is all the world to the Father.”  Now God cares for angels and loves all men, but Christ is “the radiance of His glory” and it is to the Son He says, “Sit at My right hand, until I make your enemies a footstool for Your feet” (1:13).

 

Question:  If God (whom Christ did not die to save) loves and trusts and magnifies the name of His Son to this great degree … how much more should you and I  (whom He did die to redeem from sin, protect from Satan, and save forever) make Him “much better” and of much greater importance than anything or anyone in life?

 

kris

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