We Wish to See Jesus

Author: Ian Rice

  • When You Pray

    In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus provides a model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). This prayer is not intended to be a mere rote or liturgical recitation, but serves as a profound model for how Jesus taught His disciples to pray. The New King James Version quotes Jesus as saying, “In this manner, therefore pray.” It is essential to grasp the significance of Jesus’ instructions to His disciples in prayer, as there are fundamental aspects we sometimes overlook when teaching others. I hope this reading will be helpful for those who take the time to consider how Jesus desires us to pray. 

    One key point to note is that Jesus emphasizes addressing God the Father. In verse 9, Jesus instructs us to pray, “Our Father in heaven.” The Father to whom we pray is truly God, the Creator of all things and the God revealed in the Bible, who sent His Son, Jesus, to die for the sins of humanity. Together with the Son and the Holy Spirit, He is the one true God (Genesis 1:1; Romans 5:8; John 17:3). Therefore, when we approach God, we must express reverence, as Jesus indicates in the same verse: “Hallowed be your name.” While this may seem simple, some approach God frivolously and fail to express genuine reverence. In prayer, we are approaching the throne of the God who created everything, and our approach should be holy (Leviticus 10:3; Hebrews 12:28-29).

    Furthermore, Jesus teaches us to include supplications in our prayers. Supplications are entreaties or requests made known to God. In verse 10, we are encouraged to pray, “Your Kingdom come.” Some may argue that Jesus’ Kingdom has already been established, and therefore we no longer need to pray this way. However, this statement speaks to our desire for God’s purposes to be accomplished in our lives, as the verse continues: “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Might we also pray that God’s rule reign in the hearts of others? 

    Verse 11 addresses our physical needs, instructing us to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” God cares about our physical needs, but even more importantly, He is concerned with our spiritual needs (Matthew 6:33). In verse 12, we read, “Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” This goes beyond material or financial debt; it addresses our utmost of spiritual needs (Cf. Luke 11:3-4). Jesus also says that forgiveness from God for our sins, is closely linked to our willingness to forgive others (Matthew 6:14-15; Ephesians 4:30-32). And a forgiving spirit toward others, becomes easier, when we are mindful of their own spiritual needs! 

    Additionally, Jesus teaches us to seek God’s guidance and help in our struggle against sin, and even Satan himself. In verse 13, He says, “Do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Acknowledging God’s sovereign rule is also part of this teaching, as the verse concludes with praise: “For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and glory forever. Amen.”

    To summarize, when we pray, we should: 

    – Address God the Father 

    – Express reverence toward Him 

    – Include supplications that appeal to God’s purposes in our lives 

    – Make requests for our physical & spiritual needs, as well as for the spiritual needs of others 

    – Seek guidance and help in our struggle(s) against sin 

    – Conclude with praise for God 

    Moreover, Jesus taught that prayer need not be complicated for God to hear and respond (Matt. 6:7–8). He also emphasized the importance of persistence in prayer, reminding us not to become discouraged when an answer does not come immediately (Matthew 7:7-8; 15:21-28; Luke 11:5-10). This kind of steadfastness is an area in which we can all continue to grow.

    As we approach God, it’s important to remember that Jesus gave the prayer in Matthew 6 as a model for our own prayers. While Scripture offers many faithful examples of prayer, this particular teaching provides a clear framework for approaching God with the right priorities. Notably, the focus of this model prayer is not primarily on physical concerns, but on spiritual matters and our relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that our prayers should ultimately reflect a heart that seeks God, His will, and His kingdom above all else.

  • Still Pressing, Already Content

    Have you ever noticed that Paul seems to hold together two ideas that, at first, sound almost contradictory? On one hand, he says, “I press toward the goal,” refusing to look back or settle where he is spiritually. Yet only a few verses later, he states, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” How can someone be both content where he is, while yet constantly pressing forward? 

    Perhaps the answer lies in understanding what Paul was, and was not, content with. Paul’s statements about pressing forward and being content are not contradictory, because he was speaking about two different things. In Philippians 3:13-14, when Paul says he was forgetting those things which were behind and pressing toward the mark, he was talking about his spiritual pursuit of Christ. He refused to believe that he had already arrived spiritually; he wanted to know Christ more intimately, become more like Him, and continue pursuing the call that God had put in his life. Therefore, his focus was neither on resting on his past accomplishments nor on being discouraged by his failures as he pursued Christ (Philippians 3:3-11). 

    However, when Paul speaks of contentment in Philippians 4:11-12, he was discussing his circumstances. He indicates that he had learned to be content, whether he was experiencing abundance or need, whether he was well supplied or suffering lack. His contentment did not mean he had stopped growing or striving spiritually; rather, it meant that his joy and peace were not dependent on his state of affairs. Whether he was hungry or well-fed, whether he was experiencing abundance or need, Christ was sufficient for him. His outward conditions did not determine his level of contentment in Christ. 

    It is important to differentiate between being content with my present circumstances and being satisfied with my spiritual condition. Paul mentioned that he was content with his current circumstances, yet he emphasized that he would not be satisfied with just staying stagnant in his relationship with Christ. Therefore, our contentment should not be confused with spiritual complacency. 

    In fact, Paul’s contentment enabled him to press forward. If his peace depended on achieving a certain spiritual state, he could never truly rest. He would always be thinking, “Once I have become more mature, more faithful, or more successful, then I will be at peace.” However, Christ was sufficient for him in the present, and because he was secure in Christ, he was free to pursue Christ more deeply. He was not striving to earn Christ’s acceptance; rather, he was responding to the grace he had already received. Paul pressed forward because Christ had already laid hold of him (Philippians 3:12; Romans 4:4-5; 2 Timothy 1:8-9)!

    This is also why “forgetting those things which are behind” should not be understood as refusing to remember the past. Paul remembered God’s faithfulness, and certainly understood his history (Galatians 1:13; 1 Corinthians 15:9; Philippians 3:6; 1 Timothy 1:12-15). What he refused to do was live spiritually on the basis of his past accomplishments or failures. He would not say, “I’ve done enough; I’ve arrived,” nor would he say, “I’ve failed too much; what’s the point in moving forward?” His past became neither a trophy that made him complacent nor a prison that kept him from progressing.

    So, Paul’s two ideas can come together when we understand that he was content with his physical circumstances but not complacent about his spiritual growth. He was satisfied with Christ, but continually hungry to know Him more intimately. Biblical contentment means that Christ is enough for me, while pressing forward involves the desire to know Him more. These two attitudes are not contradictory; they work together. 

    Holy God, I know there have been times in my past when I enjoyed measures of earthly comfort, even successes in the eyes of men. But I also realize that I have wasted much time pursuing things that do not glorify You. God, there are still aspects of my past that I am ashamed of, and I now bring them before You, asking for Your guidance to shape and mold me, so that I may move forward toward greater maturity in Christ!

    With thanksgiving, may I give You my very best, just like Your Son. In my current physical circumstances, I acknowledge that I have much to be thankful for (James 1:17-18). Let me not compare myself to others (2 Corinthians 10:12); instead, I pray for a deeper understanding of You and Your will for me, personally. I desire to be more diligent in my studies, and more faithful in serving You, and in serving my fellow man (2 Timothy 2:15; Luke 16:10; Mark 12:29-31). May I grow stronger and more emboldened in my own faith. May Christ live in me, enabling my service. I pray that I will imitate Your Son and grow in that direction. Amen.

  • From Sons of Thunder to the Apostle of Love

    Zeal in doing the will of the Lord is a truly admirable quality. In fact, the apostle Paul encouraged Christians to be “zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14, New King James Version). The apostles themselves were reminded of this quality when they witnessed Jesus cleansing the temple, recalling the words, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up” (John 2:13–17; cf. Psalm 69:9). Seeing the Lord’s wholehearted devotion to His Father’s will ought to inspire each of us to cultivate that same kind of zeal in our own service to God.

    However, I also recognize that zeal can be misguided when it is not grounded in a proper knowledge of God’s will (Romans 10:2). Therefore, I pray not only for greater zeal but also for the wisdom to direct that zeal in the right way. In the original language of the New Testament, the word translated zeal carries the idea of earnest eagerness or fervent devotion. Such eagerness may express itself in different ways, but it must always be governed by God’s truth.

    Looking at the Gospel accounts, I see that James and John were two brothers who exemplified zeal. Jesus even nicknamed them “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3:17). On one occasion, however, their zeal was misguided. When a Samaritan village refused to receive Jesus, they asked, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” (Luke 9:51–56). Even so, they remained in fellowship with Jesus, who loved them deeply. Rather than rejecting or extinguishing their zeal, Jesus patiently corrected them, so that they would reflect God’s will instead, of mere impulse.

    After the Great Commission was given and the apostles began preaching in the name of Jesus, James became the first of the apostles to be martyred (Acts 12:1–2). His zeal for the Lord remained steadfast, even in the face of persecution, exemplifying those who suffer “for righteousness’ sake” (Matthew 5:10). I pray that my own zeal will likewise be marked by such love and devotion to God, remaining faithful even if it should one day cost me my life (Revelation 2:10).

    On the other hand, James’ brother John was the only apostle who was not martyred for his faith. He lived to an old age and, during the reign of Domitian, was exiled to the island of Patmos because of his unwavering testimony of Christ. Before his exile, John wrote the Gospel of John and later authored three epistles that consistently emphasized the importance of commitment to the truth and genuine love for fellow Christians (John 8:31-32; 1 John 3:18-23). While on Patmos, he received the Revelation of Jesus Christ and recorded it (Revelation 1:9). After his exile ended, early Christian tradition suggests that John returned to Ephesus, where he continued to encourage his brethren. He became especially known for his emphasis on the idea that love for one another must always accompany faithfulness to God’s truth.

    Interestingly, while the apostle John was once ready to rain down fire and brimstone on the Samaritans, later in life, he stood firmly for the truth while also promoting brotherly love. There is no compromising of truth within John’s message; however, he grew to embody a great balance between his zeal for the Lord and his love for others! True love certainly entails caring enough for someone’s soul to speak whatever is necessary for their edification, but it also requires the type of tenderness that shines through in his epistles. 

    For these reasons, I pray to God Almighty: help me grow in my zeal! I want to express this zeal with both the proper knowledge and wisdom, as I wish to be the person You want me to be in every one of my interactions with others. Help me to discern when to speak with firmness, and when to approach others more tenderly, O God (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). 

    Father, may I never compromise Your truth, for Your word is truth (John 17:17). May I be zealous for good works… And may I also be a good example for others, glorifying You in this way (Matthew 5:16). May Your people, everywhere, be (properly) zealous for good works (Titus 2:14; Romans 10:2). Amen.

  • If Falling Away Is Impossible, Why So Many Warnings?

    Suppose someone told you it is impossible for a Christian to lose his salvation. If that were true, perhaps this question should naturally follow: Why then does the New Testament contain so many warnings about falling away? Not just one or two difficult passages, but warning after warning addressed to Christians, churches, elders, and even the apostles. If apostasy is impossible, these repeated exhortations become difficult to explain.

    Far from teaching that salvation can never be lost, Jesus repeatedly warned His disciples about the danger of falling away. While describing the persecution His followers would endure, He warned that many would be offended, betray one another, and allow their love to grow cold. His conclusion was straightforward: “But he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13; Mark 13:13b, New King James Version). The promise of salvation is given to those who endure faithfully until the end, not to those who abandon their faith.

    The Parable of the Sower raises an equally important question. Jesus spoke of those who “receive the word with joy,” who “believe for a while,” and then “in time of temptation fall away” (Luke 8:13). These are not described as unbelievers pretending to have faith. Jesus said they believed. If they only appeared to believe, then the warning loses much of its force. Instead, Christ presents a belief that does not endure because the heart was never deeply rooted.

    The same emphasis appears in John 15. Jesus compared Himself to a vine and His disciples to its branches. A branch cannot be cut off from a vine unless it was first attached to it. Yet Jesus warned, “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch… and they gather them and throw them into the fire” (John 15:6). Rather than assuring His disciples that departure was impossible, He urged them to continue abiding in Him.

    The apostles preached the same message. After Judas died, the disciples described him as one who “by transgression fell” from his ministry (Acts 1:25). Paul warned Gentile Christians not to become arrogant because unbelieving Jews had been cut off. “Toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off” (Romans 11:22). The condition is difficult to miss. Continue, or be cut off.

    Perhaps even more striking is Paul’s attitude toward himself. After preaching the gospel to countless people, he wrote, “I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest… I myself should become disqualified” (1 Corinthians 9:27). Paul did not believe his own apostleship placed him beyond spiritual danger. If the apostle saw a real need for vigilance, why should modern Christians believe they are exempt?

    Paul immediately illustrated his point by turning to Israel’s history. The Israelites had experienced God’s deliverance, passed through the sea, and received His blessings, yet many fell because of unbelief. Those events, Paul says, “were written for our admonition.” His conclusion is not, “Do not worry because you cannot fall,” but exactly the opposite: “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). Warnings have meaning only when the danger is real.

    This same pattern continues throughout Paul’s letters. The Corinthians were reminded that the gospel saves them “if you hold fast” to it (1 Corinthians 15:2). The Colossians would be presented holy and blameless before God “if indeed you continue in the faith” (Colossians 1:23). Scripture repeatedly attaches promises to diligence, not because salvation is earned, but because faith is meant to endure.

    No New Testament book contains stronger warnings than Hebrews. The writer tells fellow Christians, “Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God” (Hebrews 3:12). He urges them to be diligent “lest anyone fall” (Hebrews 4:11). In Hebrews 6, he describes people who had been enlightened, tasted the heavenly gift, become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and then “fall away” (Hebrews 6:4-6). Whatever difficulties that passage presents, one fact remains obvious: the writer believed falling away was a danger serious enough to warn Christians about, repeatedly.

    Peter does the same. He urges Christians to “make your call and election sure,” adding, “if you do these things you will never stumble” (2 Peter 1:10). Later he speaks of people who had “forsaken the right way” (2 Peter 2:15). John likewise calls Christians to ongoing repentance (1 John 1:9-10), while Jesus tells the church at Ephesus that they had “fallen” and must repent (Revelation 2:4-5). He promises the overcomer that his name will not be blotted from the Book of Life (Revelation 3:5), a promise that would seem unnecessary if overcoming were guaranteed.

    None of this diminishes God’s grace. Christians are not kept saved by flawless obedience, nor do they earn salvation by their own merit. Every faithful disciple continues to depend completely on the mercy of God and the blood of Christ. At the same time, the New Testament never treats faith as a one-time event, disconnected from the rest of a person’s life. Instead, it consistently instructs us to continue, remain, abide, endure, overcome, and hold fast.

    Scripture leaves no doubt that God is faithful (2 Timothy 2:13). Yet the New Testament also addresses another reality: Christians are warned not to turn away from Christ. If it were impossible for a believer to fall away, we would expect the inspired writers to say so plainly. Instead, they consistently warn Christians about the danger of abandoning the faith—the very possibility that the doctrine of “once saved, always saved” denies.

  • The Strongest Defense Is a Faithful Life

    Few passages in the New Testament have generated as much discussion in apologetic circles as 1 Peter 3:15. Many readers approach this verse as a mandate to create sophisticated arguments, defend the existence of God, or engage skeptics in formal debate. While such discussions of the faith undoubtedly have value, was that Peter’s primary concern?

    To understand the true meaning of any passage, we must consider its historical and literary context. Peter’s call for Christians to give a “defense” was not primarily concerned with constructing sophisticated apologetic arguments or engaging in formal philosophical disputes. Rather, it served as an exhortation for persecuted believers to maintain a resilient, Christ-centered hope amid unjust suffering. Their steadfast faith would naturally prompt others to ask about the source of their confidence, providing opportunities to explain the hope they possessed in Christ.

    As Peter addressed the scattered Christians in Asia Minor, he instructed them in the previous verse on how to respond to hostile neighbors: “Do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled” (v. 14). His primary concern was their response to intimidation and suffering, urging them not to be overcome by fear or anxiety, but to remain steadfast in their trust in God.

    Observers might notice something remarkable about these individuals: despite their unjust suffering, faithful Christians remained resilient and did not succumb to despair. While their hope was rooted in the truth of the gospel, Peter emphasized how that hope was visibly expressed in daily life. Their endurance amid adversity would naturally lead others to wonder why they remained so hopeful despite their circumstances.

    The term “defense,” translated from the Greek word apologia, often refers to a legal defense or reasoned reply. In this context, it emphasizes the believer’s readiness to explain the hope that sustains faithful endurance, even at great personal cost.

    In summary, thoughtful reasoning certainly has its place, but the deeper meaning of 1 Peter 3:15 becomes much clearer when we examine it in context. Furthermore, understanding the context helps us grasp the principles God intended to communicate rather than allowing later concerns to overshadow Peter’s original emphasis. Peter focused on encouraging suffering Christians to remain fearless, keep Christ central in their hearts, and be ready to explain the hope that sustained them through difficult times.

    This principle is still relevant today. We need to understand our faith, but it is equally important to demonstrate a hope that persists even when we face difficult circumstances. Responding with gentleness, faith, and grace in the midst of suffering can serve as a powerful testimony, prompting others to inquire about the source of our confidence in God. In essence, 1 Peter 3:15 teaches us that the strongest defense of our faith lies not just in our arguments, but in how we live when following Christ requires sacrifice.

  • When the Light is Clear

    When approaching an intersection, it’s essential to understand what the traffic lights mean. These rules are straightforward: green means go, yellow means slow down, and red means stop. 

    Traffic signals are there to keep us safe on the road, and ignoring them can lead to serious consequences. You might break the law and face fines, but worse things can happen, as not paying attention can result in someone getting seriously injured, or even killed! 

    Though such rules are easy to understand, the impact of following or disregarding them is profound.

    Now, apply this illustration to some straightforward statements in the Bible. Although everyone needs salvation, and we all need the grace of God through Jesus Christ, people have different interpretations of how to access Jesus’ saving blood. 

    But what does the Bible say about the forgiveness of sins and how we obtain it? Consider some of these most clearest of statements, and reflect on what you think they mean.

    On the day of Pentecost: Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38, New King James Version)

    What were the people told to do to obtain the remission of sins? “Repent, and let every one of you ___ __________ in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…”

    Ananias told Paul: And now, why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord. (Acts 22:16)

    What was Paul told to do for the washing away of his sins? “Arise, and __ __________, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

    The Apostle Peter wrote these words: There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him. (1 Peter 3:21-22)

    What does Peter say that now saves us? “There is also an antitype which now saves us – __________ (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God)”

    The Bible does not stutter. Just as traffic lights provide clear guidance for safe driving, Scripture offers clear instructions regarding baptism and the forgiveness of sins. And just as ignoring traffic signals can lead to serious consequences, neglecting biblical teaching on baptism can affect one’s salvation; whereas adhering to it is crucial for receiving God’s grace and achieving true forgiveness (See John 3:3-5; Luke 6:46).

    Please reflect on the importance of baptism and forgiveness in your life, and if you have not been baptized “for the remission of sins,” consider taking steps to explore this important milestone in your spiritual journey. Read. Study. Obey God’s Word.

  • Respecting the Boundaries of God’s Word

    Have you ever met someone who genuinely seeks to follow God’s word in the Bible? It’s natural to reflect on our own commitment to the Scriptures and how closely we align with their teachings. With that in mind, let’s explore a few examples and consider whether truly adhering to God’s word is extreme or simply a sincere pursuit of faith.

    The Profane Fire of Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-3)

    The first example concerns the priests, Nadab and Abihu. God explicitly commanded that only specific incense and fire from the altar of burnt offering be used in Tabernacle worship. However, these sons of Aaron offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, which He had not commanded. Consequently, fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them immediately, because they presumed to approach God in a manner of their own choosing rather than adhering to His instructions. 

    A Futile Invasion Attempt (Numbers 14:39-45)

    Another example is Israel’s presumptuous battle, described in Numbers 14:39-45. Due to their lack of faith in the report of the ten spies, God decreed that the generation of Israelites would not enter the Promised Land and would instead wander in the wilderness for 40 years. After hearing this, the Israelites felt remorse but chose to disobey God’s punishment by attacking the Canaanites anyway, presuming that God would help them because they had decided to go. Moses warned them not to go up, as the LORD was not among them. They ignored his warning and were severely defeated by the Amalekites, demonstrating that repentance for their consequences is not the same as obedience.

    Uzzah Touching the Ark of the Covenant (2 Samuel 6:6-7)

    Additionally, we should consider the matter of Uzzah touching the Ark of the Covenant, as described in 2 Samuel 6:6-7 and 2 Chronicles 13:9-10. The Ark was to be carried on the shoulders of the Levites using poles and should never have been touched directly by unauthorized people (Numbers 4:15). When the Israelites were moving the Ark on a new cart (imitating the Philistines), the oxen stumbled. Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark to prevent it from falling (acting on his own judgment rather than adhering to the prescribed method). As a result, God’s anger burned against him, and He struck him down for his irreverence. This demonstrates that good intentions do not justify violating clear commands. King David later pointed out that they had not consulted God in this matter, which led to their error in moving the Ark in the first place (1 Chronicles 15:13-15). Thus, there is a lesson in the need to consult the word of God before presuming to act, even with good intentions. 

    The Bible provides numerous examples that underscore the peril of taking God’s grace for granted and expecting favorable outcomes, all while disregarding His clear commands. This behavior is often referred to as presumptuous sin (Psalm 19:13) or testing God (Matthew 4:5-7; See 1 Corinthians 10:9).

    Individuals often seek to align their actions with God’s will and may question the necessity of demanding “book, chapter, and verse” for every practice. However, when in doubt, it is wise to reflect on examples like those mentioned above to foster reverence in our pursuit of not going beyond the boundaries outlined in God’s word. May we always show reverence to Him in our conduct, seeking New Testament authority for everything we say and do.

    “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:17, New King James Version)

  • Would You Move the Stone?

    In John 11, we see that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. But before doing so, He instructed others to remove the stone from the tomb’s entrance. Could Jesus not have removed the stone Himself? Of course, He could have. However, He commanded that the stone be removed. This raises the question: what would have happened if they had not removed the stone? Would Lazarus still have been raised? We do not know, but one thing is clear: Jesus expected them to move the stone!

    Perhaps there is a lesson here about God’s expectation that we do what we can, while He takes care of what we cannot? 

    There is much debate in religious circles about water baptism. Many discussions arise concerning what the Bible teaches on who should be baptized, the method, its theological significance, and whether it is essential for salvation. However, let me pose this question: Did Jesus command baptism? Yes, He did (See Matt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15-16; Jn. 3:3-5). Therefore, if Jesus commanded it, why aren’t we obeying (Lk. 6:46; Acts 22:16)? 

    Going back to the story of Lazarus, could Jesus have removed the stone from the tomb Himself? Absolutely. But again, it is important to note that Jesus expected them to act by moving the stone.

    38 Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 

    39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.”

    40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” 

    41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.

    42 And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me.”  

    43 Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth!”  

    44 And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Loose him, and let him go.”

    ~ John 11:38-44, New King James Version

  • “I Didn’t Get Anything Out of It…??!”

    I have encountered people who have left worship services with a negative attitude, complaining about various aspects that did not suit their preferences. They may have thought the singing was not perfect or that the sermon delivery had shortcomings. Others might have felt that those leading the worship service—whether in prayer, communion, or announcements—were not flawless. For whatever reason, some individuals leave a worship service saying something to the effect of, “Well, I didn’t get anything out of that service.” This is an absolutely poor way of approaching worship. 

    It’s Not About You

    In the scriptures, we learn important truths about our attitude toward worship. Worship is not about us; it is to always be about the Almighty God, first and foremost (Matt. 4:10; John 4:24; Rev. 14:7). As we gather, we should focus on God as the object of our worship. It is Him that we aim to please, always (Rom. 15:1-3; 2 Cor. 5:9-11). When we pray together, we are praying to Him (Acts 2:42). When we sing together, we are offering Him the fruit of our lips in praise (Eph. 5:17-21; Col. 3:15-17; Heb. 13:15). When we observe the Lord’s Supper, we remember His sacrifice for our sins (John 3:16; Matt. 26:26-28; 1 Cor. 10:16-17; 11:23-29). When we give of our means, we are cheerfully offering back what He has already blessed us with (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:7; Phil. 4:17-20). When we engage in the apostles’ doctrine through the study and application of His word, we honor God by striving to divide and apply the scriptures to our lives rightly (John 8:31-32; Acts 2:42; 2 Tim. 3:14-17).

    Worship Is About Giving, Not Getting

    First and foremost, we must therefore understand that a worship service is about honoring God. It is not about what we can gain from it. Some might argue, “Yes, it is about God, but it is also about my edification.” However, we should be cautious here. Hebrews 10:24-25 instructs us to, “consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (New King James Version, emphasis mine).  

    God is to be the object of our worship; we aim to please Him. And even after that, it should not be about my personal gain, but rather, about edifying our brothers and sisters in the assembly. I want to be the person I can be in the worship assembly, encouraging others toward love and good works. I should want my fellow believers to be built up and strengthened! 

    Shift the Focus

    Worship is about giving God glory—and extending encouragement—to others. It was never meant to be self-centered or focused solely on ourselves. My worship of God must be intended to please Him and positively influence my fellow man. By putting my all into such efforts, I will inevitably therefore benefit from worship. So, instead of focusing on how things were presented or how they fell short, we would all do better to glorify and honor God, and to improve the atmosphere to support our fellow worshippers (working from the inside out). 

    In doing so, we shift our focus away from ourselves and our own attitudes and work outwardly to edify others. Worship is not “about me” and “what I get out of it;” rather, it is about God and what we put into it.

  • Rage-Baiting, Gaslighting, and Narcissists

    Warning: The following information may be “triggering” for some. I understand that I am in my late 40s, and the language of the younger generation is constantly evolving. However, specific terms have infiltrated religious circles, and they can dilute the truth while masking larger issues that genuinely exist. I intend to help, not hurt, so please consider my perspective. 

    Understanding Some Terms

    Rage-Baiting: This occurs when someone deliberately says or does offensive or emotionally charged things to provoke an angry or upset reaction from another. Their goal is often to gain attention or manipulate a situation, rather than genuinely resolve conflict(s). It’s akin to picking a fight, turning minor disagreements into much bigger ones, not only to gain a reaction but also to control interactions.

    Gaslighting: In a personal context, gaslighting is a form of manipulation where one person causes another to question their own perceptions, memories, or reality itself. It is a pattern of behavior that leads the victim to doubt their own judgment, ultimately fostering insecurities and reliance on the perpetrator for discernment. 

    Narcissism: In modern vernacular, narcissist can refer to one who is excessively preoccupied with themselves, their image, and their needs, often at the expense of others.  At the core lies a profound lack of empathy, a sense of entitlement, and constant need for admiration. Narcissists are said to exhibit these traits consistently, often creating toxic, one-sided relationships.

    The Problem with the Use of Certain Terms in Religious Contexts

    It seems to be very “in-vogue” for people to label others a narcissist. The problem I have with this is that narcissism is an actual clinical diagnosis — known as narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). It is a complex mental health condition, and Christians should certainly refrain from playing doctor by trying to psychoanalyze and diagnose others. Some are conflating terms, which may be inaccurate at best. Moreover, it can confuse, as many level-headed Christians who hear such terms immediately shut down and stop listening to the conversation because of the use of “in-vogue” terms. This is a significant concern, though I understand both sides of the issue. That is why I’m writing about this now.

    I know individuals who have been sorely mistreated, and I also know of others who wish to combat these sinful behaviors that are ever-present within religious circles. Therefore, by all means, let’s try to educate ourselves and find common ground. 

    Issues Getting Distorted, Neglected, and Unresolved

    There are very real problems that must be addressed, and the challenges facing the world will inevitably affect Christians. The reality is, some people take absolute pleasure in provoking others and making them feel out of control. Moreover, bullies will continue to lie and manipulate those in their circles of influence. Furthermore, some are self-centered and only care about themselves (in the extreme)! They will disregard others’ feelings to get whatever they want, and I have personally suffered at the hands of individuals who engage in such SINFUL behavior (yes, even among Christians). It breaks my heart to hear of others seeking comfort and refuge among the Lord’s body, only to be mistreated by those in whom they place their trust. That is a special kind of heinousness! I’m with you in that.

    While there are, indeed, those in religious circles who abuse their positions of influence, I prefer to call these behaviors by the names God gives them. The New Testament teaches against provoking one another, all forms of dishonesty, and prideful, controlling behavior. There are, too, those within the church who must be confronted and held accountable (2 Cor. 13:1-10; Tit. 3:10; 3 John 9-10). And that’s at the heart of this discussion. I want to stand with those who are struggling and mistreated, but I also want to exhort everyone to return to the Bible so that we can discuss these issues with better clarity.

    Call It for What It Is: SIN

    On social media, some who wield influence continue to use such in-vogue terms not found in the Bible. I recognize that words and their meanings can change over time, and that our culture may use terms unfamiliar to the aging population. However, when buzzwords arise in religious discussions, one may end up unnecessarily blunting the effect of their efforts to confront real issues. So, I implore those of you with sound reasoning skills to start calling these behaviors exactly what they are: sins that disrupt fellowship among believers, hinder their relationship with God, and rob them of much joy in the Lord. 

    Let us not become conceited, provoking one another (Gal. 5:26). 

    Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man (Col. 3:9).

    God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (Jas. 4:6). 

    Nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples (1 Pet. 5:3).

    Let us work together, label things for what they are, and be a source of comfort to those who are hurting.