Tag: EXPERIENCING

Embracing Christian Masculinity

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Introduction:
Today, we delve into the profound concept of masculinity from a Christian perspective. In a world often muddled with conflicting messages about what it means to be a man, let us turn to the timeless wisdom of Scripture to illuminate the path towards authentic masculinity.

1. Rooted in Humility

      • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV))
      • Masculinity, from a Christian viewpoint, is not about dominance or asserting one’s superiority over others. Rather, it is grounded in humility, placing the needs and well-being of others above oneself.
      • “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” (James 4:10 (ESV))
      • James encourages believers to humble themselves before God, promising that God will exalt those who demonstrate humility.
      • “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.” (1 Peter 5:5-6 (ESV))
      • Peter underscores the importance of humility in relationships and before God, highlighting that God opposes the proud but extends grace to the humble, ultimately leading to exaltation.

      2. Exemplifying Strength in Love

        • Scripture Reference: “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25 (ESV))
        • True masculinity is demonstrated through sacrificial love, mirroring the love of Christ for His church. It involves strength not in physical prowess alone, but in the depth of one’s capacity to love and serve others.
        • “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14 (ESV))
        • This verse encapsulates the overarching principle of conducting oneself with love in all actions and interactions, reflecting the strength of love in Christian character.
        • “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19 (ESV))
        • This verse reminds us that our capacity to love stems from experiencing the love of God, highlighting the foundational role of God’s love in exemplifying love’s strength in our lives.

        3. Leading with Integrity

          • “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.” (Proverbs 11:3 (ESV))
          • A Christian man leads with integrity, guided by moral principles and honesty in all endeavors. Integrity forms the bedrock of trustworthy leadership, both in the family and in society.
          • “The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!” (Proverbs 20:7 (ESV))
          • This verse emphasizes that leading with integrity not only benefits the individual but also leaves a positive legacy for future generations.
          • “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.” (Psalm 78:72 (ESV))
          • This verse describes the leadership of David, highlighting his integrity and skill in guiding God’s people.
          • “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” (Titus 2:7-8 (ESV))
          • Titus encourages believers to exhibit integrity in their actions and teachings, ensuring that they stand as exemplary models of Christian conduct.

          4. Embracing Responsibility

            • “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (1 Timothy 5:8 (ESV))
            • Masculinity entails taking responsibility for one’s actions, providing for and nurturing the family entrusted to one’s care. This responsibility extends beyond mere provision to emotional support, guidance, and spiritual leadership.
            • “For each will have to bear his own load.” (Galatians 6:5 (ESV))
            • Galatians underscores personal responsibility, reminding individuals that they are accountable for their actions and the burdens they carry in life.
            • “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 (ESV))
            • This verse highlights the responsibility of fathers to raise their children in a manner that nurtures them spiritually and emotionally.

            5. Seeking Wisdom and Discernment

              • “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.” (Proverbs 4:7 (ESV))
              • A Christian man seeks wisdom and discernment, recognizing that true strength lies in the ability to make wise decisions and discern the will of God in all aspects of life. This pursuit of wisdom shapes his character and influences his interactions with others.
              • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5 (ESV))
              • James encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, assuring that God is willing to generously grant it to those who seek it with sincerity.

              In conclusion, Christian masculinity transcends societal stereotypes and cultural expectations. It is a holistic embodiment of humility, sacrificial love, integrity, responsibility, and wisdom, all rooted in the teachings of Scripture. As men called to live out our faith in a broken world, may we strive to embody these virtues, reflecting the image of Christ in all that we do.

              Experiencing Growth

              Rev. Cecil Thorn

              IT’S WHO WE ARE

              Matthew 16:18 (KJV), Matthew 12:46-50 (KJV)

              We are Jesus’ assembly and congregation. (Matthew 16:18 (KJV))

              In this verse, Jesus is referring to the establishment of His church or assembly. The term “church” in this context is derived from the Greek word “ekklēsia,” which means a gathering or assembly of people. Jesus is essentially declaring that He will build His assembly or congregation on the foundation of the faith that Peter expressed in acknowledging Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God (as mentioned in the preceding verses).

              This verse is often interpreted as the moment when Jesus established His church, and it carries the idea that the faith and confession of Peter, along with the foundational teachings of Christ, will be the basis upon which the Christian community, or the assembly of believers, will be built. It signifies the beginning of the Christian church and emphasizes the enduring nature of the church despite opposition or challenges (“the gates of hell shall not prevail against it”).

              We are Jesus’ called out ones. (Matthew 16:18 (KJV))

              The concept of being “called out” is related to the term “church” (Greek: “ekklēsia”), which refers to a gathering or assembly of people who are called out from the world to follow Christ. Believers in Jesus are considered the “called out ones” or the “church,” united in their faith and commitment to Christ.

              While the specific phrase is not used in the verse itself, the idea of being called out and set apart for Christ’s purpose is an important aspect of Christian theology and the understanding of the church’s role in the world. Believers are called to be a distinct community, living according to the teachings and principles of Jesus, and bearing witness to His love and truth.

              We are Jesus’ family. (Matthew 12:46-50 (KJV))

              In this passage, Jesus is emphasizing that spiritual relationships, based on faith and obedience to God, are just as significant as biological family relationships. He is teaching that those who follow God’s will and become His disciples are considered His spiritual family.

              So, when you mention, “We are Jesus’ family,” it aligns with the message in this passage. Jesus is highlighting that His family is not limited to biological ties but extends to all who believe in Him and seek to follow God’s will. This underscores the importance of a spiritual connection and commitment to Jesus as Lord and Savior, which makes believers part of His spiritual family.

              IT’S WHAT WE NEED

              Ephesians 4:11-16 (KJV)

              We need to be equipped for ministry. (Ephesians 4:12 (KJV))

              This verse emphasizes several key points:

              1. Perfecting (equipping) of the saints: Church leaders are tasked with the responsibility of preparing and equipping the members of the congregation, often referred to as “saints,” for their respective roles in ministry. This includes providing education, training, and spiritual guidance to help believers grow in their faith and effectively serve God.
              2. Work of the ministry: Church leaders are to enable and encourage every member of the church to engage in various forms of ministry or service within the body of Christ. Ministry involves serving others, spreading the gospel, and fulfilling the mission of the church.
              3. Edifying (building up) of the body of Christ: One of the goals of equipping and ministry is the building up or edification of the entire church community. This includes fostering spiritual growth, unity, and maturity within the body of Christ, creating a strong and harmonious congregation.

              In summary, Ephesians 4:12 emphasizes the role of church leadership in equipping and preparing the members of the church for effective ministry. It underscores the importance of empowering and building up believers for the work of service in the body of Christ.

              We need to be unified in faith and knowledge. (Ephesians 4:13 (KJV))

              This verse emphasizes several key points:

              1. Unity of the faith: It highlights the goal of fostering unity within the body of Christ, with believers being unified in their faith. This unity is not just about doctrinal agreement but also about a shared commitment to Christ and His teachings.
              2. Knowledge of the Son of God: Believers are encouraged to grow in their knowledge of Jesus Christ, deepening their understanding of His person, teachings, and mission. This knowledge is an essential part of Christian maturity.
              3. Perfect man: The ultimate aim is for believers to mature and become spiritually complete. This doesn’t mean perfection in the sense of sinlessness but rather spiritual maturity and wholeness.
              4. Measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: The goal is for believers to become more like Christ in character and conduct. The “fulness of Christ” suggests a state of spiritual completeness and conformity to His example.

              In summary, Ephesians 4:13 emphasizes the importance of unity in faith and knowledge within the body of Christ, leading to spiritual maturity and conformity to the character of Christ. This unity and growth in knowledge are key components of the church’s mission and the role of equipping believers for ministry.

              We need to grow up in all things in Jesus. (Ephesians 4:15 (KJV))

              This verse conveys several key ideas:

              1. Speaking the truth in love: Believers are encouraged to interact with one another and with the world in truth and love. This emphasizes the importance of honesty, transparency, and love in all interactions, both within the Christian community and beyond.
              2. Grow up into him in all things: The central message is about spiritual growth and maturity. Believers are to continuously mature in their faith, character, and understanding in a way that conforms to the example set by Christ. This growth encompasses every aspect of life.
              3. Which is the head, even Christ: Christ is the ultimate standard and example for Christian maturity. Believers are to grow in a way that aligns with His teachings, character, and purpose. He is described as the head, signifying His leadership and preeminence in the life of a believer and the Church.

              In summary, Ephesians 4:15 emphasizes the importance of growing and maturing in all aspects of life within the context of Christ’s example and teachings. This growth is to be characterized by speaking the truth in love and is crucial for the spiritual development and health of individual believers and the Christian community as a whole.

              We need to grow as a family. (Ephesians 4:16 (KJV))

              This verse highlights several key ideas:

              1. The whole body: Refers to the entire body of believers, the collective community of Christians.
              2. Fitly joined together and compacted: This speaks to the importance of unity and cohesion within the body of Christ. Believers are meant to work together harmoniously.
              3. Every joint supplieth: Each member of the body has a unique role and function in contributing to the overall health and growth of the body. This reflects the idea of every believer playing a part in the spiritual family’s growth.
              4. Effectual working in the measure of every part: This suggests that the body grows and functions effectively when every member plays their role according to their abilities and spiritual gifts.
              5. Edifying of itself in love: The ultimate goal is the building up or edification of the entire body of Christ, and this is to be done in a spirit of love and mutual support.

              While the verse does not explicitly mention “growing as a family,” it does underscore the idea of the body of Christ (the Church) functioning as a unified, interconnected entity in which each member contributes to its growth and edification. This can be understood as a spiritual family in which all believers play a crucial role in supporting one another and promoting growth in the faith.

              CONCLUSION:

              In Matthew 16:18 (KJV), Jesus proclaims His intent to establish His church, highlighting the significance of faith in Him as the foundational rock upon which His assembly or congregation is built. This verse underscores the enduring nature of the Christian community, assuring believers that it will stand strong against adversity.

              Matthew 12:46-50 (KJV) illustrates Jesus’ teaching on spiritual family. He emphasizes that those who do the will of God are considered His spiritual family, highlighting the importance of faith and obedience in building a profound and eternal bond with Him.

              Together, these verses emphasize the establishment of Christ’s church as a spiritual community rooted in faith, obedience, and unity with Christ as its foundation. They stress that one’s relationship with Jesus transcends biological ties, forming a deeper and eternal connection based on faith and obedience to God’s will.

              NOTE: Comments will not show until they have be approved by the Mediator.

              Experiencing Ministry

              Rev. Cecil Thorn

              “I experience ministry as a result of experiencing growth

              as a result of experiencing God….”

              I prayed. (Psalm 40:1(KJV))

              It expresses the psalmist’s patience and faith in waiting for the Lord’s response to their prayer. The psalmist waited patiently for God and, in due time, God inclined to them and heard their cry. It reflects the idea of trusting in God’s timing and having confidence that He will answer the prayers of those who seek Him with patience and faith.

              He inclined to me. (Psalm 40:1(KJV))

              expresses the idea that God, in response to the psalmist’s patience and cry for help, bent down or stooped to listen and respond to their prayer. It conveys the notion of God’s attentiveness and willingness to hear the pleas of the one who is praying. The verse as a whole conveys the message that when the psalmist waited patiently for the Lord and called out to Him, God paid attention and heard their cry, demonstrating His responsiveness and care for those who seek Him.

              He heard my cry. (Psalm 40:1(KJV))

              emphasizes that God not only inclined to the psalmist’s prayer but also listened to it and acknowledged their plea for help. It conveys the idea that when the psalmist cried out to the Lord, God responded by paying heed to their distress and responding to their needs. This verse underscores the concept of God’s compassion and responsiveness to the prayers and cries of those who seek His assistance, showing that God is attentive and caring toward those who call upon Him in their times of trouble.

              He drew me up. (Psalm 40:2(KJV))

              This verse describes a vivid image of God’s intervention in the psalmist’s life. “He drew me up” means that God lifted the psalmist from a situation of deep distress and despair, often symbolized as a “horrible pit” and “miry clay,” which represent a metaphorical state of being stuck in difficulty and sin. God rescued the psalmist from this dire condition, giving them stability and security, symbolized by setting their feet upon a rock. This act of salvation and establishment conveys the idea of God’s deliverance and the restoration of the psalmist’s life, providing a firm foundation on which to stand and move forward. This verse emphasizes God’s ability to rescue and establish those who trust in Him.

              He cleaned me off. (Psalm 40:2(KJV))

              The verse describes God’s intervention in the psalmist’s life by lifting them out of a difficult and troubled situation, symbolized by the “horrible pit” and “miry clay.” While the specific phrase “cleaned me off” isn’t used, the verse does convey the idea of being rescued from a state of spiritual or emotional distress and placed on a firm foundation, symbolized by setting the psalmist’s feet on solid ground (a rock) and establishing their path. The emphasis is on God’s saving and stabilizing work in the psalmist’s life, not specifically on the act of cleaning.

              He set my feet. (Psalm 40:2(KJV))

              In this verse, “He set my feet upon a rock” expresses the idea that God, in rescuing the psalmist from a distressing and difficult situation, provided them with a stable and secure foundation. The image of setting one’s feet on a rock represents finding a solid and unshakable footing. This is a metaphorical way of saying that God brought the psalmist from a state of instability, turmoil, or peril to a place of security and firm footing, both in a physical and spiritual sense. It signifies God’s role as a source of stability and strength in the life of the psalmist and, by extension, in the lives of believers who trust in Him.

              He secured my steps. (Psalm 40:2(KJV))

              While this verse doesn’t use the phrase “secured my steps,” it conveys a similar idea. “And established my goings” means that God not only rescued the psalmist from a dire and troubled situation but also provided guidance, direction, and security for their future steps and journey. It emphasizes God’s role in directing and preserving the psalmist’s path, ensuring that they can move forward in a stable and righteous manner.

              The phrase “He secured my steps” is a valid interpretation of this verse because it captures the essence of God’s guidance and protection in the psalmist’s life, ensuring that their way is established and secure.

              He changed my heart song. (Psalm 40:3(KJV))

              The verse does not explicitly say “He changed my heart song,” but it does convey the idea that God has transformed the psalmist’s experience and response to life. “He hath put a new song in my mouth” signifies a change in the psalmist’s perspective and a deep, joyful response to God’s deliverance and grace.

              This new song represents a transformation from despair to praise and thanksgiving, reflecting a change in the psalmist’s heart and attitude. The verse goes on to say that many will witness this change, be in awe of it (fear), and come to trust in the Lord themselves, as they see the transformation and witness the psalmist’s faith and praise. So, while the specific phrase “He changed my heart song” is not used, the verse conveys the idea of a heart transformed by God’s grace and a new song of praise being placed in the psalmist’s mouth.

              Many see, fear, and trust. (Psalm 40:3(KJV))

              This verse conveys a powerful message about the impact of the psalmist’s transformation and the praise and trust in the Lord that result from it.

              1. “Many shall see it”: This part of the verse suggests that the change and transformation in the psalmist’s life, symbolized by the new song in their mouth, will be visible to others. People will observe the psalmist’s faith, joy, and praise.
              2. “Fear”: In this context, “fear” doesn’t necessarily mean being afraid. Instead, it implies a deep reverence, awe, or respect for the work of God in the psalmist’s life. When others witness the transformation and the praise the psalmist offers to God, it can inspire a sense of reverence and recognition of God’s power and goodness.
              3. “Shall trust in the LORD”: The ultimate result is that those who see the transformation and are touched by the psalmist’s testimony will come to place their trust and faith in the Lord. The psalmist’s experience serves as a testament to the faithfulness and goodness of God, inspiring others to also put their trust in Him.

              In summary, this verse speaks to the idea that a personal transformation, marked by praise and trust in God, can be a powerful witness to others. When people observe the change in someone’s life and recognize the work of God, it can lead them to revere God and place their trust in Him as well.

              Conclusion:

              Psalm 40:1-3 in the King James Version (KJV) conveys a powerful message of faith, deliverance, and transformation:

              1. Waiting on the Lord: In verse 1, the psalmist expresses patience in waiting for the Lord’s response to their prayer, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God’s timing.
              2. God’s Response: Verse 1 continues to describe how God inclined to the psalmist and heard their cry, highlighting God’s attentiveness and willingness to respond to those who seek Him in faith.
              3. Rescue and Stability: Verse 2 speaks of God’s deliverance, using powerful imagery of being lifted from a “horrible pit” and “miry clay” and having one’s feet set upon a rock. This symbolizes rescue from distress and the establishment of a secure foundation.
              4. Guidance and Transformation: Verse 3 reveals the transformation that occurs after this rescue, with God putting a “new song” of praise in the psalmist’s mouth. This transformation is not only personal but is visible to others. As a result, those who see it may revere God and place their trust in Him.

              In conclusion, these verses depict a journey from distress and waiting on God’s help to a powerful transformation and testimony of God’s faithfulness. It underscores the themes of patience, rescue, stability, and the impact of personal transformation on others’ faith. The psalm serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and God’s work in the lives of those who trust in Him.

              NOTE: Comments will not show until approved by the Moderator.

              Experiencing God

              Rev. Cecil Thorn

              To God be the Glory….. (Eph 3:21 (KJV))

              Ephesians 3:14-19 (KJV): “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.”

              When we experience the love of Christ for our family (Eph 3:14-19 (KJV))

              Ephesians 3:14-19 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible expresses a prayer by the apostle Paul for the Ephesian believers. This passage focuses on the idea of comprehending and experiencing the love of Christ, but it does not specifically mention family.

              While the passage doesn’t explicitly mention family, it emphasizes the importance of believers being rooted and grounded in love and having the ability to comprehend the love of Christ. This understanding and experience of Christ’s love can have a profound impact on how individuals relate to and love their family members. When one truly comprehends the depth of Christ’s love, it often inspires a greater capacity for love, compassion, and forgiveness in one’s relationships with family, as well as with others. The love of Christ can serve as a model and a source of strength for loving and caring for one’s family.

              When we experience the power of God over our family.

              the Bible doesn’t specifically address the idea of experiencing the power of God over one’s family. Instead, this passage focuses on comprehending and experiencing the love of Christ and being filled with the fullness of God through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

              While this passage doesn’t directly address the power of God over one’s family, it does highlight the idea of being strengthened by the Holy Spirit and having Christ dwell in one’s heart. The transformative work of God’s power and the love of Christ can certainly impact how a person relates to and cares for their family. The love and strength provided by God’s presence in one’s life can inspire positive changes in family relationships and interactions. It is through understanding and experiencing God’s love and power that one may find guidance and strength in their family life.

              When we experience the unity of our family and Christ.

              Ephesians 3:14-19 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible doesn’t directly address the concept of experiencing unity between one’s family and Christ. Instead, this passage primarily focuses on understanding and experiencing the love of Christ and being filled with the fullness of God.

              While this passage doesn’t explicitly mention unity between family and Christ, it does emphasize the importance of being rooted and grounded in love and comprehending the love of Christ. A deeper understanding and experience of Christ’s love can certainly impact how a family interacts and relates to one another, promoting unity, love, and harmony. When family members individually experience the love of Christ, it can contribute to a sense of unity and shared faith within the family. However, the passage itself does not specifically address this concept of family unity in relation to Christ.

              Conclusion:

              Ephesians 3:14-19 in the King James Version (KJV) is a significant passage in the Bible that emphasizes the importance of comprehending and experiencing the love of Christ and being filled with the fullness of God through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. While it doesn’t explicitly address family unity or the power of God over one’s family, it highlights the following key points:

              1. Prayer and Reverence: The passage begins with the apostle Paul bowing his knees before the Father and acknowledging the name of Christ, demonstrating the importance of prayer and reverence in the Christian life.
              2. Strength through the Spirit: It emphasizes the need for believers to be strengthened with might by the Holy Spirit in the inner man, highlighting the role of the Spirit in providing spiritual strength and empowerment.
              3. Christ’s Indwelling: The passage emphasizes the importance of Christ dwelling in the hearts of believers through faith, indicating the personal relationship and transformative work of Christ within individuals.
              4. Rooted in Love: Believers are encouraged to be rooted and grounded in love, which is central to their faith and relationship with God.
              5. Comprehending Christ’s Love: The passage encourages believers to comprehend the vast dimensions of Christ’s love, which goes beyond human understanding.
              6. Being Filled with God’s Fullness: The ultimate goal is for believers to be filled with the fullness of God, signifying a deep and abiding relationship with God.

              In conclusion, Ephesians 3:14-19 underscores the importance of faith, prayer, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and experiencing the love of Christ. While it doesn’t specifically address family dynamics or unity, the principles outlined in this passage can certainly have a positive impact on how individuals relate to and interact with their families and others in a loving and spiritually grounded manner.

              NOTE: Comments will not show until approved by the Moderator.

              Translate »