Church of God (Holiness)

“I resolve this new year to make no new year’s resolutions.”

Have you ever heard (or uttered) that cynical response? Every new year, many people consider goals they would like to achieve in the new year. Some want to lose that twenty pounds at long last. Others plan to keep their garage clutter free. Too often, however, these noble aspirations fail to materialize. As a result, a number of people adopt a cynicism toward change.

Similarly, many churches have tried very changes in the past and the results have not been what was expected.  So many of these churches have also developed a negative attitude toward change.  Change agents are simply stirring up trouble that could be avoided.

read more »

Rom 6:11-14 (11)

Joseph M. Stowell relates,” Some time ago, I was chatting with a man who consults with some of the largest U.S. companies about their quality control. Because ministry is a form of human quality control, I thought I’d ask him for some insights.

“He said, “In quality control, we are not concerned about the product.” I was surprised.

“But then he went on to say, “We are concerned about the process. If the process is right, the product is guaranteed.”

“How relevant to our Christianity.

“We tend to be more oriented to the “product” of our faith than the process.

“As American Christians, we tend to desire and demand products of righteousness, but give little attention to the process.” (Bible Illustrator)

The conversion from death (a sinful life) to life (a life committed to following Jesus Christ) is dramatic. This process is at times called “growth in grace” or “sanctification” (not to be confused with entire sanctification). From the time we are saved by the grace of God initial holiness is begun. We turn our backs on sin and begin to do our best to live a life that is always pleasing to God. To do this we follow the instructions of God’s Word carefully and endeavor to become more sensitive to the guiding voice of the Holy Spirit.

1 Cor 11:17-34 (26)

They pushed. They shoved. They talked at the same time. The father looked down at his two little boys. It was clear to see that he was perplexed. How do you treat your son as if he were your only son when he isn’t? When would they learn the joy of having a brother? When would they learn that they did not have to be an only son to be loved by their father?

It is so noxious to see two siblings struggling for the attention and favor of their parent. This happens between older siblings as well as those who are still children. The methods may be more sophisticated but the intent is still the same. The change in the tone of voice, the extra animation in communication, the body language all demonstrate the tug of war that is raging between two who want exclusive rights to the one they pursue.

The Corinthian Christians should have been there when Jesus prayed that special prayer. What was His concern for those who followed Him? That they would be one! He wanted to be sure that they would be unified! He did not want them to be fighting over Him . . . He wanted them to love Him and each other as well. He wanted them to remember that they were family. Maybe we also ought to read His prayer once again.