Where Do I Find Peace & Comfort? -Essential Beliefs of Christ Followers, #51

Waking up in the dark of night, or struggling to find comfort after a failure, thoughts of justification have often brought solace to me. Justification? Yes, meditation on the gift of perfect forgiveness Christ purchased for me upon his cross. It is a gift that has nothing to do with any work that I can or will do. It is a gift of grace. It not dependent upon how much I have prayed. It’s not how much I have read the Bible. It’s not how many of God’s commandments I have obeyed. All those things are good, and elements of what we will later consider as part of Christian living. The comfort justification brings provides the energy and motivation to do good works. Our comfort and strength is rooted in what Jesus has done. But we are not comforted by our works. Never!

“But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known…this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe…for all have sinned…and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus…a sacrifice of atonement…Where then is boasting? It is excluded” (Romans 3:21-27). We receive a righteousness that we don’t have and can never earn. Instead, we are given a costly righteousness earned by Christ on the cross, a gift of grace, called, justification. Robed in the perfect righteousness of Christ, we find comfort and courage.

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand” (Romans 5:8,9). We have peace with God because we stand in grace. By faith we pass from the blighted wasteland of condemnation into the blessed land of Grace. “It is the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered” (Romans 4:6,7). Listen. Harken. Through Christ our sins are covered; never to be uncovered!

“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). It is being in Christ that brings peace. This sense of grace becomes the foundation of Christian living, the source of our comfort and the haven to which we can flee when accused by the devil.

In describing how he came to faith, though tormented by sin and Satan, John Bunyan was meditating on the fearful verses about committing the unpardonable sin for which there was no forgiveness. He wrote:

“One day, as I was walking in the field, my conscience still somewhat wounded and still fearing that all was not well, these words suddenly entered my soul: ‘your righteousness is in heaven.’ And I thought, moreover, that I saw, with the eyes of my soul, Jesus Christ at God’s right hand. I say, my righteousness was there [in heaven]; so that wherever I was, or whatever I was doing, God could not say of me, ‘He is in need of my righteousness,’ as my righteousness was right in front of him. I also saw, moreover, that it was not my good state of heart that made my righteousness better, nor even my bad state that made my righteousness worse, since my righteousness was Jesus Christ himself, the same yesterday, today, and for ever’ (Heb. 13:8).” [John Bunyan, Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners, Evangelical Press, modernized version, 1988, p.113]

In spite of this promise, Casper Olevianus, one of the authors of the Heidelberg Catechism, wrote “there is nothing more difficult than to believe the forgiveness of sins.” But if we do not believe we are truly forgiven, we will not believe that we have peace with God. Dr. R.C. Sproul put it well: “It is often a difficult thing to accept the grace of God. Our human arrogance makes us want to atone for our own sins or make it up to God with works of super-righteousness. But the fact of the matter is that we can’t make it up to God. We are debtors who cannot pay. That’s what justification by faith is all about.”

So let us stop trying to pay for our sins and accept the forgiveness Jesus offers. Having accepted his forgiveness let us walk by grace and live for grace that he might get the glory and we would not be perpetually basing our joy on what we have done. By justifying us he has given us his royal robe to cover our nakedness.

Let me change the metaphor. Remember how wonderful it is to snuggle in a warm comforter on a cold night? Remember how cozy and comforting it felt? Let’s snuggle, as it were, into the robe of righteousness Jesus has given us that we might feel the comfort and peace and security that is our heritage in Christ. It is that sense of security that provides the propulsion for the other aspects of Christian living.

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)

What has gone wrong with mankind? -Essential Beliefs of Jesus-followers, the Fall

What has gone wrong with mankind? Why is there murder and mayhem, wars and killing throughout this wonderful, astonishing, beautiful earth?

Trudy has all she needs, but why is she obsessive about having a house better than her sister? Tom has a near-perfect family and a loving wife, but why does he imagine sleeping with his young female colleague? When asked about his golf game, why does Ethan routinely reduce his tally by 5 or 6? Why is Margerie always complaining? And why does Rod love to spread gossip? To understand, we have to go back to the beginning.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” And “the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden, and there he put the man he had formed. And the LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.…And the LORD God commanded the man. ‘You are free to eat from any tree in the garden, but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil for when you eat of it you will surely die.’” (Genesis 1:1,8,9,16,17)

Our ancient parents, Adam and Eve, were created upright and perfect. Life was bliss. They enjoyed the garden and walked with God in the cool of the day. They had the ability to continue to enjoy lives of plenty and sweet communion with God. Or they could freely choose to disobey God’s one, simple law and reap the consequences. “Don’t eat or you will die.”

This simple command and warning formed the initial covenant defining mankind’s relationship with God. It was a covenant which implied a promise from God to commune with them, to provide abundantly for their health and enjoyment, to grant them the blessing of marriage plus the fulfilling task of caring for creation, and all this into posterity. It also contained a warning of consequences upon disobedience. This command, promise, and warning defined the original covenant between God and man.

Seduced by the devil, Eve ate of the forbidden fruit and gave some to her husband. Although free to reject Eve’s offer, Adam ate and thus also willfully broke God’s simple law.

As a result of this act, the consequences warned by God began to appear. They began to die. Their former state of holiness and happy communion with God was shattered. Guilt pervaded their souls and they hid from God. They became sinfully polluted in all parts of their being. And they were cast out of Eden. Their bodies, once immortal, took on mortality; their cells began to deteriorate and die.

Since all mankind are the offspring of Adam and Eve, all inherit their sinful propensity to disobey God’s commandments. “Just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way, death came to all men because all sinned” (Rom. 5:12). “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure” (Jer. 17:9).

Paul describes mankind’s present, natural condition. “You were dead in your transgressions and sins…you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air [Satan], the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest we were by nature objects of wrath” (Eph. 2:1-3).

Unless God would initiate a rescue and rehabilitation action, Adam and Eve and all their posterity would live without hope. They would eternally die. Fortunately, God took the initiative to establish a pathway to redemption. In our day we know that pathway is through faith in the covering forgiveness and righteousness of Christ. Without redemption in Christ, we are objects of wrath. Make no mistake, we have all broken God’s righteous standards. In ourselves, we are without hope. We will stand before the Judge of all the Earth to face the consequences of our law-breaking. We live East of Eden, but with a longing to return to paradise.

Let us then speedily respond to the gospel of Christ. He died to pay the punishment we deserve for our sins. He rose again from the grave to assert his power over death and his ability to save us from the penalty and destructive nature of our sins. Oh, believe in him! Confess and repent of your sins. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved.”

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)

Are We Pilgrims On Heaven’s Path? – Pilgrim’s Progress #2

Back in the mid 1650’s, John Bunyan along with 50 or 60 other evangelicals who dissented from the official religion were thrown into an ancient jail constructed on one of the pillars of a bridge. He spent 12 1/2 years there during which time he wrote the classic Pilgrim’s Progress, an allegory about an ordinary Christian pilgrim travelling from the city of destruction to the gates of heaven. Imagine the agony with which Pilgrim parted from his wife and four children. The illustrations in this series are from engravings on wood by the brother Dalziel included in a 1861 edition.

In the allegory, Pilgrim reads the book, feels the burden of his own selfishness and sin even more weighty so he retires to his room to pray for deliverance.

Pilgrim tries to explain to his family why he is so burdened. They think his mind has been seized by some kind of mental anguish that sleep will relieve. But sleep doesn’t ease his concern for his spiritual state. They become hardened against his entreaties for them to read the book; they chide and deride him. (Families don’t often understand or welcome the conversion of a member. When I was converted at 19, my father and brothers thought I was taking the Christian faith too seriously; I was a bit crazy.)

Pilgrim realizes that he must leave the city of destruction in search of peace from his burden.

Burdened Pilgrim meets Evangelist who points him across a broad field to the wicket gate, the narrow gate that leads to everlasting life. When Pilgrim can’t see it due to distance, Evangelist instructs him to keep his eyes fixed on the light and when he gets to the gate to knock and it shall be told him what to do.

Spying the light in the distance leading to the wicket gate, Pilgrim sets off running toward it. His wife and children cry after him to return. He plugs his ears. Neighbours mock and threaten him. Two determine to fetch him back by force.

Pliable and Obstinate, run after Pilgrim to urge him to return to the city of destruction. Pliable is quickly convinced by Pilgrim of the way to eternal life, but Obstinate derides Pilgrim about all he leaves behind and the foolishness of the book containing the words of Life.

Pliable joins Pilgrim in his journey to the narrow gate of eternal life. Being careless, they both suddenly fall into a bog, the Slough of Despond, full of miry fears, doubts and discouragements due to awareness of one’s lost condition. Pliable becomes angry and offended that this path has not brought instant happiness. He turns around and struggles out, returning to his city. Christian struggles ahead toward the distant light.

Freed by Help from the Slough of Despond, Christian sets out again for the gate opening to eternal life. Mr. Worldly Wiseman who dwells in the town of Carnal Policy warns him about the Way which he terms dangerous and troublesome and instead directs him toward the village of Morality where he is to meet a very good man called, Legality. The way to that village is by yonder hill. Will Christian turn aside?

Christian does turn aside and begin to climb up Mt. Sinai. Evangelist finds Christian trembling beneath the shadow of Mt. Sinai, fearing lest the law crush him. “What are you doing here. Did I not direct you to the narrow gate leading to life?” “Yes,” replies Christian, “but Mr. World Wiseman said this was a better way.” Evangelist cries, “you cannot be justified by the works of the law…Mr. Worldly Wiseman abhors the cross of Christ which saves.”

Christian laments his misdirection…but fortunately is moved to go back to the straight way leading to the wicket gate. Finally after many delays, Christian arrives at the wicket gate over which is written, “Knock and it shall be opened onto you.” Christian does so. From inside, Good-will, asks who is there. Christian replies, “A poor burdened sinner fleeing the city of destruction.” The door is opened and Christian is pulled in quickly before Beelzebub, who resides in a nearby castle, can send arrows to wound him.

Have we knocked and found entrance? Have we heard Jesus’ cry, “Come onto me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28).

Good-Will, having helped Christian through the wicket gate directed him to keep on the straight and narrow way until he comes to the Interpreter’s house. Once there, the Interpreter welcomes Christian into his house, where he is to learn important lessons. The first thing Christian saw was the picture of a man with his eyes lifted to heaven, the best of books in his hand, and the law of truth on his lips. “What does this mean?” Christian asked. Interpreter explained that he should be guided only by those in the Master’s service who love the Master and explain the truth of the Word of God. Beware of those who distort the truth. (To be continued)

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)

Who Is God’s Son? – Essential Doctrines of Jesus’ Followers, #50

As infinite, eternal and unchangeable, God he is beyond our comprehension. But he has revealed Himself in three relatable subsistences, as the Father who cares for his creatures, as the Son who comes among us to save, and as the Spirit who comforts and teaches.

The Son of God is the second person of the Trinity. We know him as God entering our earthly space, God incarnate. John chapter one makes it clear that he is eternally the Son, God before time. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning…The Word became flesh…We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father” (1:1,2,14).

The Scriptures speak of him as “the one and only” Son, or only begotten Son, thus indicating his unique relationship to the Father. (See John 3:16,18; 1 John 4:9.) Let us not think of his generation, becoming the Son of God as occurring at a specific time. God is beyond time. The Father has eternally begotten the Son; that is, the Son has ever been, ever is, and ever will be the Son of the Father. Here as elsewhere human language fails to explain the indivisible but triune God. God is one but three.

Berkhof defines the generation of the Son as; “It is the eternal and necessary act of the first person in the Trinity, whereby He, within the divine Being, is the ground of a second personal subsistence like His own, and puts this second person in possession of the whole divine essence, without any division, alienation, or change.” (p. 94)

Since asserting the divine character of the Son of God seems beyond human experience, some heretical teachers have denied his deity and pre-existence to assert that He was merely a great human teacher. By contrast the Scripture asserts his deity by affirming that he possesses divine names, attributes, glory, and does divine works. Consider the following.

On seeing the risen Christ, Thomas cried, “my Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Paul declares that “Christ is God over all” (Rom. 9:5). In Philippians Paul wrote that Christ Jesus is in very nature God (Phil. 2:5,6) and in Titus that he is our great God and Saviour (2:13). John declares that God’s Son, Jesus Christ “is the true God” (1John 5:20).

Divine names are given Him. “For to us a child is born…and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace…He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom…from that time on and forever” (Isaiah 9:6, 7). “A voice of one calling: ‘In the desert prepare the way for the LORD’…a highway for our God” (Isaiah 40:3). Jeremiah prophecies that he is the righteous branch, a King who will reign wisely…the LORD, our Righteousness”( Jer. 23:5,6). He is called Lord in Joel 2:32, Acts 2:21 and 1 Tim 3:16.

The Son of God possesses divine attributes. He is eternal and almighty (Is 9:6, John 1:1,2). He is the “Alpha and the Omega…, who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty” (Rev. 1:8)

He did what only God can do. He created and sustains all things. (John 1:1,2; Col. 1:16,17, Heb 1:10). He forgives sin. (Matt. 9:2-7) He raised the dead. He will judge the world. “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him” (Matt. 25:31,32). “He is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead” (Acts. 10:42) (See also Phil 3:21; 2 Tim 4:1, Heb 1:10-12; Phil 32:21; Rev. 21:5).

Given that He is called LORD and God, possesses attributes only found in God, and does divine works it is natural to find the Scriptures offering him divine honour. “The Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him” (John 5:22-23). “When God brings his firstborn into the world; he says, ‘Let all God’s angels worship him’” (Heb. 1:6). “Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me’” (Matt. 28:19).

He is our Lord Jesus Christ. No wonder ever facet of our salvation revolves around his person. “It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, it is written: ‘Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord’” (1 Cor. 1:30,31). Let us begin every day with him and carry thoughts of him in our hearts throughout the day. If we awaken in the night, let us meditate on him.

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Pilgrim’s Progress – #1

Modern prophets with PhD’s and white coats urge us to take more pills than at any time in history to find peace and happiness. They urge therapy from psychiatrists, especially during the recent pandemic. Pundits fill our bookstores with “How to Books” on finding fulfillment and happiness. But it is Jeremiah  who 2500 years ago had an accurate diagnosis. He said that they cry, “peace, peace, . . . when there is no peace.” (Jer 6:14)

Want peace, fulfillment, joy? What should we do? “This is what the Lord says: ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jer 6:16) And so in this news series of blogs I’m going to go back to the story of Pilgrim’s Progress from John Bunyan, b 1628.

John Bunyan along with 50 or 60 other evangelicals who dissented from the official religion were thrown into an ancient jail constructed on one of the pillars of a bridge. He spent 12 1/2 years there during which time he wrote the classic Pilgrim’s Progress, an allegory about an ordinary Christian pilgrim travelling from the city of destruction to the gates of heaven. Imagine the agony with which he parted from his wife and four children. The illustrations in this series are from engravings on wood included in an 1861 edition.

The lose of evangelical freedom in those days is a warning to believers in the Gospel during our days as we slowly, ever so slowly see our freedom erode. Fortunately, we still have enormous freedom to speak forth the good news.

Pilgrim’s Progress is an allegory. Although allegory as a form of writing is unfamiliar with many of us in our day; an allegory is a narrative in which a character, place, or event is used to deliver a broader message about real-world issues and occurrences. Authors have used allegory throughout history in all forms of art to illustrate or convey complex ideas and concepts in ways that are comprehensible or striking to its viewers, readers, or listeners. It makes the complex simple, relatable, and easy to understand.

Writers and speakers typically use allegories to convey (semi-)hidden or complex meanings through symbolic figures, actions, imagery, or events, which together create the moral, spiritual, or political meaning the author wishes to convey. Many allegories use personification of abstract concepts.

While in jail for his faith, John Bunyan wrote an allegory about having a dream of a man in rags with burden on his back. The man read from a book which led him to weep and tremble and cry out, “What shall I do?” Although written in 1600’s, Pilgrim represents millions of burdened people today.

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)

Jesus’s Sixth and Seventh Words from Cross

We all looked forward to the end of the pandemic and freedom from lockdowns, but the use of masks seems to continue in some venues. Will that ever end completely?  Perhaps not. After hours of agony on the cross, Jesus cried with a loud voice, “It is finished” (Matt. 27:5; John 19:30). HIS SIXTH WORD.

Three of his words from the cross expressed his love for others. Two expressed his own agony as he endured suffering for our sins. The last two echoed his triumph.

This sixth word, uttered with a loud cry, expressed the CONCLUSION of his sufferings, the end of the old dispensation and the declaration of our emancipation from the slavery of sin.

It is a cry of COMPLETION. All the prophecies of his first coming are fulfilled. The work of his incarnation is complete. Describing his coming he said, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to accomplish His work” (John 4:34).  “I glorified Thee on earth, I have accomplished the work which you gave me to do” (John 17:4).

It is a cry of PERFECTION. The law of God is perfect, yet none of us have kept it. “But when the fulness of time came God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, in order that He might redeem those who were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons” (Gal. 4:4,5). As Jesus said, “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets, I did not come to abolish but to fulfill” (Matt. 5:17). He fulfilled the law perfectly by his obedience It symbolizes a perfect salvation! Heb. 10:14 “For by one offering He has perfected forever those that are sanctified (Set apart by salvation)” (Heb. 10:14). Through his suffering he has secured for those who repent; forgiveness, justification, redemption, adoption, reconciliation, sanctification and glorification. A perfect salvation!

It is a cry of TRIUMPH. Note that he gave up his spirit. It was not taken from him. He died on his own terms, not a cowering victim but a triumphant Saviour. Because of him we can cry, Hallelujah! Imagine a symbol of humiliation is now a symbol of triumph!

One of the most challenging things about the pandemic was being told we must wear a mask, where we can go and not go, who we can meet with, and the distance we must stay from others. We don’t like to be compelled to do anything. We believe in freedom. This whole matter of freedom brings up the question; was Jesus compelled by the Father to die for our sins?

With our punishment paid, THE SEVENTH WORD FROM THE CROSS was uttered in a loud cry of victorious triumph. “Jesus called out in a loud voice,” (John 19:30): “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit. When he had said this he breathed his last. He bowed his head and gave up his spirit” (Luke 23:46).

His first and last words from the cross were addressed to the Father. In this final word we see that the separation between the Son and the Father has ended as has his suffering. His sufferings did not destroy his relationship in the Godhead to the Father.

By saying, “into your hands I commit my spirit,” he indicates that his death was VOLUNTARY. He chose this path for you and me! Matthew 27:5 indicates that “he yielded up his spirit,” while John 19:30 describes it as “he bowed his head and gave up his Spirit.” Earlier he had predicted this. “The reason the Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord” (John 10:”17,18).

It is important to note here that the sinless man, Christ Jesus died. Neither the Father nor the Spirit died. It is incorrect to say that God died on the cross.

Note also the REDEMPTIVE EFFECT of his death. The hardened Roman centurion who had seen countless deaths and been unaffected by the whimpers, gasps, cries and curses uttered by others dying was astounded at this death. He had never seen a man die with a loud voice of triumph while uttering a prayer. Seeing Jesus die after hours of darkness in the midst of a terrible earthquake, he “praised God and said, ‘surely this was a righteous man’”

Matthew 27:54 records; “When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified and exclaimed, ‘Surely he was the Son of God!’” I have no doubt that at least the centurion became a believer in Christ that day.

Meanwhile the crowds who had gathered to leer and jeer at the crucified suddenly sobered. “When the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away.” (Luke 23:48).

You can’t imagine a more victimized person than Jesus. Yet when he died, he didn’t say, “I am finished” but “It is finished.” He did not play the victim, and thus he emerged the victor. (Joni Eareckson Tada)

Praise God for the victory He purchased for us. Have a blessed Easter weekend knowing that the cross leads to the empty tomb.

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)

Of Good Friday and Daffodils and Easter and Spring

It is just over a month until Good Friday and the Easter weekend. Easter is a harbinger of spring. We begin to think of gardening and the return of our favourite birds. Our pulse quickens at the thought of nearing the end of winter’s snow and sleet, of yoyo temperatures, of parkas and gloves. And that is as it should be. But, we would do well to join the great cloud of witnesses who throughout church history took this period as a time of deep reflection.

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Two millennia ago, Jesus had you and I on his mind. To that end, he lived his short life beneath the shadow of his coming death and resurrection. Jesus came to die—and he knew it. At first his purpose is dimly shown in the gospels. There are hints only. ”Destroy this Temple, and in three days I will raise it up” (John 2:19). “The Son of Man must be lifted up” (John 3:14). “The Bridegroom will be snatched away” (Mark 2:30)

When he informed his disciples that his flesh would be given for the life of the world in John 6:51, many left him. The statement of Christ that true disciples would eat his flesh and drink his blood, pointing to identification with communion, created a crisis.

Peter’s confession that; “Thou are the Christ, the Son of the Living God” marked a turning point. “From that time forth began Jesus to show unto His disciples, how that He must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribe, and be killed, and be raised again the third day” (Matt. 16:212). This categorical statement is repeated twice more. (Matt. 17:22, 22:18)

From this point on the teaching becomes more definite. He came to die—for you and me. “The Good Shepherd gives his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). “The Son of man came…to give his life a ransom for many” (Matt. 20:28). We read that the corn of wheat must die if it is to bear fruit (John 12:24) and that the greatest proof of love is laying down of life (John 15:13).

The record moves on to Gethsemane and Calvary. Climactic, history shattering events. In the Gospels ten pages out of 30 are given to the last week of his life. Mark gives seven out of nineteen pages. Luke gives one quarter of his whole gospel. John allots ten pages to the same period. The conspicuous place given to this period in Jesus’s life points to the significance it held in the disciple’s minds—although not until they had time to reflect on it later. Peter had rebuked Jesus for predicting his death. Until they later understood, thought of his death was unwelcome and repellant. But after his crucifixion and resurrection, the convicting power of the Holy Spirit led them to realize that “he bore our sins in his own body on the tree,” as prophesied.

Perhaps it is coincidental—is anything coincidental—that in these northern climes spring and Easter come together. Wherever we live, may God help us to ponder and pray long and hard about the most climactic events in history, and in our Christian lives. Jesus willingly came to die. He gave his life for us. He bore our sins on the cross. He rose to give us new life. Because he died and rose, we can be forgiven, justified, adopted, redeemed, sanctified, glorified. (If these are strange words open your Bible to Romans and read the life-giving words.)

Another thought. Why don’t we view every crocus, every daffodil, every tulip as a symbol of what Jesus has done for us? After all, he created them all! When we see them let’s not just give thanks for spring but for the eternal Spring he gave himself to prepare for us. Isn’t that what heaven is all about?

(Thanks for most of these thoughts to W.H. Griffith Thomas in his book, Christianity Is Christ)

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)

What is Heaven Like?

I remember hitch-hiking in my late teens and early twenties. I’d stick out my thumb and hope for a car to pick me up. When a car stopped the driver would ask, “Where yuh headed?” And I’d give them a destination. They’d usually reply, “Hop in. I’m going that way.”

Life is a journey. We’re all headed somewhere. To those who believed in him, Jesus said they were going to his Father’s house where he will “prepare a place” for them. (See John 14:1-4.) At death believers go to heaven which is described in many ways, but in this passage as the Father’s house. It is a place of welcome, a place of happy hospitality, a place fitted especially for each believer’s enjoyment. Death is not the believer’s destination, but rather a doorway into the glories of heaven.

The spiritual journey leading to heaven is a transforming process with various stages as described in Romans eight. There we read that “those God foreknew (loved before they were born), he also predestined…and those he predestined, he also called (through the gospel), those he called he also justified (declared forgiven and righteous); those he justified, he also glorified” (Romans 8:28,29).

To be glorified implies a radical transformation. Second Corinthians 4:16-18 explains that this world is a place of pain and sorrow and troubles. In this life, believers struggle with their old nature to overcome its bent towards sin. They face physical and emotional challenges. But as they daily trust in Christ to renew and strengthen their resolve to become godly, obedient disciples, their walk of faith achieves for them “an eternal weight of glory.” This “hope of glory” basically involves transition through death into a state free from pain, sorrow, and sin. But it involves much more.

Three of his disciples saw Jesus shining with glory on the mount of transfiguration. This was a tiny foretaste of heaven. In John 17, Jesus prayed, “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me” (John 17:24). For the believer, entering heaven will be as if the light suddenly goes on in a dark room. Or as if the sun bursts forth through dark, threatening clouds. Suddenly everything becomes bright and glorious. Believers are transformed, glorified, through seeing Christ in all his blazing glory. Believers will reflect the glory of Christ. They will see him as he is.

No wonder Chas Gabriel wrote,

When all my labors and trials are o’er,
And I am safe on that beautiful shore,
Just to be near the dear Lord I adore
Will through the ages be glory for me.

Refrain:
O that will be glory for me,
Glory for me, glory for me;
When by His grace I shall look at His face,
That will be glory, be glory for me.

Describing heaven using human language is challenging. Students of the Scripture describe believers entrance into heaven as glorification. Glory in the original languages denotes weight or worth. Coal is common and dirty but under great pressure it can produce diamonds. God takes us, if we are believers in Christ, and translates us at death from a state of negative worth into persons of glory, of light, of value. We become precious and beautiful through having become Christ-like. We shine forth—like the moon—not reflecting the sun but the glory of Christ. “It is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” This process begins in this life. We “are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the “Spirit” (2 Cor. 3:18).

In this life we see God as through a broken tarnished mirror. But when we are glorified, we will have an explosion of insight and appreciation as the mysteries of God’s glory are unveiled before our astonished eyes. Worship and praise will keep bubbling up from deep within us.

Glorification implies enlightenment as our ignorance dissolves in a wave of understanding. We ask, “Why suffering? Why did this child or that young person die so early? Why does it take so long for an aged saint to pass? Why war? Why such cruelty?” Why, why, why? “Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known” (1 Cor 13:12). Waves of understanding will wash away our perplexity.

Glorification also introduces us to a state of excited anticipation where we will ask ourselves, “what wonder will God unveil next?” Oh, during our Christian walk God has given us hints about the glories of heaven but; “no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit” (1 Cor. 2:9,10). The reality behind the images, the types, the hints will be unveiled before our wondering eyes. Heaven is not going to be boring!

However, going to heaven does not complete the process of our transformation. As the Gospel Coalition explains, “Entering into God’s glory is a two-stage process. We must first overcome the damage caused by sin and then be transformed from the material to the resurrection world…The intermediate state; heaven; the eternal state; the new heavens and earth.”

Glorification will only be complete when Christ returns to earth in power and glory. At that time we will receive our resurrection bodies. “We will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable and the mortal with immortality” (See 1 Cor. 15:50-54).

Until that time, we—like the martyrs under the throne—will ask the Lord, “How long?” We will have an awareness of the unfolding of God’s eternal purpose and a longing to see that purpose fulfilled in the new heavens and the new earth.

What a wonderful future awaits every child of God. Like a child anticipates a birthday party, like a bride anticipates her marriage, we look forward to heaven, the first stage in our glorification.

Are you bound for heaven? If you truly believe the Gospel; that Jesus died for your sins, was buried and rose from the dead, then you are heaven-bound. If not, hell is your destination. Please embrace the Gospel and be saved!

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)

Meditations on How Thanksgiving leads to Joy, Part 4

This past weekend, families in Canada gathered for thanksgiving. Our family tradition has been to go around our thanksgiving table from person to person and each share something for which they are thankful before we eat.

Someone has written “He who forgets the language of thanksgiving will never be on speaking terms with happiness.” John Henry Jowet comments, “Gratitude is a vaccine, an antitoxin, and an antiseptic.” Did he mean a vaccine against despair, an antitoxin to counter discouragement, an antiseptic to banish gloom? If so, thanksgiving paves the way for happiness. In a Christian, who acknowledges that every good gift comes from above, thanksgiving is the first cousin to joy.

So many of the Christian virtues are connected. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 we read; “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Rejoicing is connected to praying and giving thanks. Anxiety dissipates as we give thanks and joy takes over. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:4-7). Joy can’t exist in hearts filled with turmoil.

Joy bubbles up from deep within one’s “inmost being,” where thanksgiving rules. As we rehearse all God’s benefits, joyful praise ascends. “Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s” (Ps. 103:1-5).

Paul reminds us to be “overflowing with thanksgiving” (Col. 2:7). Isaiah urges us to joyfully “draw water from the wells of salvation…give thanks to the LORD…shout aloud and sing for joy” (Isaiah 12:3-5).

My wife, Phyliss, likes to close each day by asking “what are three things you are thankful for today?” Sometimes that stumps my melancholy personality. Some days seem gloomy, difficult, a burden but switching gears to focus on the good things God did, lifts the gloom and the Son appears from behind the clouds. 

No wonder Henry Van Dyke wrote:

Joyful, joyful, we adore You,
God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flow’rs before You,
Op’ning to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness;
Drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us with the light of day!

MEDITATIONS ON CHRISTIAN JOY – Part Three

Living a joyful life is our heritage as Christians. We read, “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). “Joyfully draw water from the well of salvation” (Isaiah 12:3). Jesus explained to his disciples that his teaching should lead to joy. “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11; see also John 17:13).

But what is this joy? Roget’s Thesaurus lists as synonyms for joy: happiness, delight, euphoria, high spirits, gladness, bliss, glee, elation, cheer, jubilance, rapture, transport with antonyms as; misery, depression, desolation, and despair.

High spirits? Glee? Euphoria? In some Christian circles, we are expected to demonstrate a joyful countenance to show that we are rejoicing in the Lord. I think joy is far deeper. It is rooted in an awareness of the panoply of redemptive graces that God pours into our lives through Christ. It can, and probably should, lead to a feeling of bliss, of gladness, of elation, of rapture, or of euphoria.

However, since we are to grow in grace, the full expression of our joy may develop over time. And with our different personalities and upbringings, we may express ourselves differently. Surely, we should aim to daily draw up copious amounts of joy from the inexhaustible well of salvation. That is our heritage. But we should not force a certain kind of joyful expression on others. We cannot whip it up. Manipulation is a very hurtful tactic. Let’s draw attention to the well and pray for one another that we may know more and more “the joy of the Lord” without signally that membership in our group requires a certain outward expression.

In this series, as the Lord leads, I want to consider joy as it relates to a full-orbed understanding of salvation and being assured we are saved, joy as it relates to being part of a Christian community, joy and suffering, joy and faith in God’s sovereignty, joy and faith in God’s character, joy and contentment, joy and meaningful service, and joy and love among other subjects.

But before I leave this post, there is one aspect that we tend to neglect because we are warned that “the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteous, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). Christian joy is far more enthralling than the tastiest steak or the most exquisite wine.

But a misreading of the balance of Scripture has led many in church history to over-emphasize asceticism and self-denial of anything that might be enjoyable. As if refusing to enjoy the gifts of the Creator somehow makes one more holy or more devoted. Yes, there is a time for prayer and fasting. But there is also a time for feasting as we see in the instituted feasts of Israel.

Our pastor, in his series on Ecclesiastes pointed out in chapter nine a recurring theme. Since life is unpredictable and will end in death, we should enjoy what God provides in the days we are given. “Go eat your food with gladness, and drink you wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do. …anoint your head with oil. Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun…whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…” (Ecclesiastes 9:7-10). [For an understanding of “meaningless” in the book, I’d suggest you go to a good commentary.] God did not create a world of luscious fruits, meaningful work, and marriage for these gifts to be spurned! He expects his children to enjoy his gifts, while knowing that salvation is the greatest gift of all. Yes, there is a measure of joy in these other gifts also.

(Let me know your thoughts on this subject. If you appreciate this blog, please pass it on. If I can help you spiritually, let me know. Further articles, books, and stories at:  Facebook: Eric E Wright Twitter: @EricEWright1 LinkedIn: Eric Wright ; Eric’s books are available at: https://www.amazon.com/Eric-E.-Wright/e/B00355HPKK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share)