Email Circular Past Editions

---- 2003 ----

December 27, 2003	The Life-giving River
December 20, 2003	Christmas Prayer
December 13, 2003	The Children's Holiday
December 6, 2003	"I can do all things through Christ"
November 29, 2003	Christianity, the lazy man's religion.
November 22, 2003	Vietnam
November 15, 2003	Cambodia
November 8, 2003	Seek First
November 1, 2003	Deception
October 25, 2003	Going the Right Way
October 18, 2003	Joyful Ministry Milestone
October 11, 2003	Perseverance and Steadfastness
October 4, 2003	Prosperity Gospel
September 27, 2003	Assist ICP
September 20, 2003	The Fruit of the Spirit is Peace
September 13, 2003	Membership Is Caring
August 30, 2003	We Don't Want Nobody To Do It
August 23, 2003	The Most Beautiful Flower
August 16, 2003	The Story of Saul
August 9, 2003	Cuss Control
August 2, 2003	Herod's Guards
July 26, 2003	"The Lord is my shepherd"
July 19, 2003	Persecution of the Church
July 12, 2003	Love Thy Neighbour
July 5, 2003	Declaration of Dependence
June 28, 2003	Giving and Receiving
June 21, 2003	The Prayer of Passion
June 14, 2003	The Perfect Father?
June 7, 2003	Jesus In Peter's Town
May 31, 2003	Shunning Sin
May 24, 2003	Women and Ministry
May 17, 2003	Divine Providence
May 10, 2003	God Is Always Working
May 3, 2003	We Would See Jesus
April 26, 2003	Necessity of the Resurrection
April 19, 2003	How Do You Explain Yeshua?
April 12, 2003	The Donkey
April 5, 2003	Hope and Strength
March 29, 2003	Spirituality
March 22, 2003	Public Reading
March 15, 2003	Servants
March 8, 2003	Walking on Water
March 1, 2003	Effect of Divine Love
February 22, 2003	The Main Thing
February 15, 2003	They Fed Him Fish
February 8, 2003	Exposing the Accuser of the Brethren
February 1, 2003	God Looks on the Heart
January 25, 2003	ICP Testimonies
January 18, 2003	Thirty Years
January 11, 2003	The Use of Money
January 4, 2003	There Is Victory Over Satan

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - December 27, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ In Ezekiel's vision of water flowing from the temple (Ezekiel 47:1-12), the water reached the Dead Sea, turned it into fresh water and gave life wherever it flowed; fishermen assembled to gather, in their nets, fish of many different kinds. (verses 8-10) Obviously, the Dead Sea is the most unlikely area for an abundance of fish to be found. The largest inland body of water in Israel, this lake is especially distinguished by being located in one of the deepest sections of the Rift Valley along which the Jordan River flows, and the lowest body of water on the surface of the earth. In fact, the surface of the Dead Sea is 1,300 feet below that of the Mediterranean Sea, some 50 miles to the west. The Dead Sea is about 47 miles long, and the northern tip is 15 miles due east of Jerusalem, and for that reason it is sometimes called the "Eastern Sea" - the name "Dead Sea" is fairly recent, acquired because of the obvious absence of life. According to the Bible Dictionary by James Hastings, although there may be a few specimens of small fish in the shallow lagoons fed by springs around the shore, ". . . in the main body of the water itself, life of any kind is impossible." (p.181) Although there is no outlet, the water level remains constant due to evaporation caused by a very hot climate and strong winds which blow between the high cliffs. This evaporation leaves behind rich deposits of sulfur and salt. Whereas most oceans have a 5% salt content, the Dead Sea 's salt content is 25%. Except for a couple of oases such as at En Gedi, there is very little vegetation along the shore. Incidentally, according to NIV Atlas of the Bible, En Gedi is the area to which "disenchanted or fearful would flee", as in the case of David. (I Samuel 24:1) Think about it, the life-giving river that is the Gospel, reaches those who are somehow isolated from the mainstream of the population. Taken from the sermon New Fruit for the New Year +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - December 20, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ When the million lights have vanished, and they take the festoons down; When earth's once golden glitter has turned to gray and brown; When the bells have hushed their music and the carolers depart, Then help me, Lord of giving, keep Christmas in my heart. When the gifts have all been given, and the merry words decrease; When all the feasting is over, and the cheerful greetings cease; When the trees have lost their glory, and we have much less of mirth; Then, God, let me remember why Jesus came to earth. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Christmas Prayer - A Poem by Lon Woodrum (1901-1995) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - December 13, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Christmas is for children. I wonder why that is, and is it justified? Christmas is for children because Jesus loved them. It is noted that children were included in the feeding of the multitudes Matthew 14:21 - "The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children." Jesus healed, and even raised children from the dead. There was the boy brought to Jesus as He returned from the Mount of Transfiguration; the daughter of Jairus, and the son of the widow of Nain, both raised from death. Jesus blessed the children, and spoke a warning to those who might hinder or hurt them . Matthew 19:13,14 - "Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'" Taken from Christmas is the Children's Holiday +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - December 6, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ A healthy, positive mental attitude is beneficial in helping each of us move ahead in our daily activities. However, as popular and influential as these preachers such as Peale and Schuller have been, the message they promote falls short of true Biblical Christianity. Theirs is a "positive thinking, positive self-esteem" teaching which skirts the reality of sin and the need for salvation. For them, the gospel is merely a replacement of a negative self image with a positive one. In fact, according to this kind of teaching, it is wrong to say that people are sinners because that will injure their self-esteem. There is no need to recognize personal sin, no need for repentance, and no need for the crucifixion of self. Actually, the self is to be exalted, not crucified! So, is this the same thing Paul is trying to get across when he writes, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength"? We think not. Paul's affirmation in his letter to the church at Philippi is a Christian message. This is not humanism, it's not just right thinking, it's not just mind over matter like that repeated in the mantra, "I think I can; I think I can." Paul's message is very clear, it's through Christ that what was thought to be impossible now becomes possible. But note this, if it is "in Christ", it will be consistent with the character and purposes of Christ. However, someone might be anxious to point out that the word "Christ" is not in the original Greek text. The most literal translation of this six word verse would be, "All things I can do through the one giving me strength." So who is this "one"? When we get to heaven we can check with the Apostle to find out for sure what he meant. What do you think he'll say? Your uncle? Your boss? Your pastor? No, I'm confident he'll say he was clearly talking about Christ. After all, the little preposition "en" is very reminiscent of his oft repeated expression "en Christo." Christ is the one who lives within us by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and it is He who provides the strength we need. What I think is important to point out is that in this verse there is a balance, there is a partnership. There is the "I can do", and there is the "through Christ." I have a part to play in meeting the challenges, facing the difficulties, overcoming the temptations, and living up to the high standard of holiness imposed by God's Word. Thankfully there is a partner, so that I can say, "I can do all things through Christ." But depending on His strength doesn't allow me to abdicate responsibility and effort. Taken from The Biblical "I Can Do" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - November 29, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ It's clear that "sow to the Spirit" means to "do good." When you "sow to the Spirit, you "will reap eternal life." Now this may be a problem for some in the church who consider themselves to be Protestant and Evangelical. Think about it. What are we "protesting"? Work! One or our favorite sayings is that we are saved "not of works." We all understand that work is something we do when we are aware that there will be some form of payment at the end of the day. Sometimes the actual activity of that work is very undesirable, we hate doing what we do, but we keep at it because of the paycheck coming at the end of the week. Let me ask you, if your boss comes to you and says, "The company is broke, there won't be any more payroll checks written - but we'd like you to keep working anyway," how many would even finish out the day? On the other hand, if the boss came around and announced, "From now on, pay checks will be sent in the mail each Thursday. If you want to keep coming in to work, that's fine, but whether you do or not won't matter, you'll receive your check anyway." How many would be there the next morning? In effect, this is what we have done to Christianity; we've disconnected the work from the paycheck. It doesn't matter what we do. We know that what we do is in no way related to whether or not we get to heaven - only faith is needed. You know what worries me? Christianity has become the lazy man's religion. We've become painfully aware that there is a religion in our world which promises an eternal reward for those who kill infidels. According to some interpretations, Christians are only required to believe, and not do anything, not even good works! Please don't misunderstand, deathbed conversions are valid. When a person calls out to God in his or her dying moments, God, who is full of mercy extends full forgiveness, even as Jesus did with the thief who hung on the cross next to His. But we're not talking today to dying people. Evidently Paul, according to this passage in Galatians 6:7-10, didn't understand that Christianity was a "do nothing religion", or a "do as you please religion," because he gives this exhortation assuming that Christians will work so hard "doing good" that they need to guard against becoming weary. In the Old Testament, Nehemiah evidently believed God would reward his good deeds. That's why he prayed, "Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof." (Nehemiah 13:14) Taken from Motivational Weariness +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - November 22, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The year 1975 was the pivotal year for both Vietnam and Cambodia. In Vietnam, a Declaration of Independence had been declared by Ho Chi Minh on September 2, 1945. However, the French continued to rule until 1954 when they were defeated, ending 70 years of French occupation. As is well known, Communist forces were only able to control the North, while the USA provided military aid to the South until the 1973 cease-fire agreement. By 1975 the Communist regime had completed its overtake of the South. Although the Protestant church has grown to about 400,000, persecution is rampant in Vietnam. As recently as October 2, 2003, "Religion Today" printed a report about soldiers who "confiscated Bibles, raped, arrested and used electric-shock torture on Vietnamese Christians." In an incident reported by "Christian Aid," Vietnamese police interrupted a gathering of worshipers and ordered them to leave. When the Christians refused to do so, the police sprayed them with an unknown gas. More than 100 Christians were overcome by the gas. In many cases, leaders have been arrested, punched, kicked, beaten, and sentenced to jail or forced labor; efforts have been made by officials to force Christians to recant by drinking from a bowl of goat's blood mixed with wine; vehicles and important household equipment such as water pumps have been confiscated with the promise of being returned if the owners recant; in some cases, church buildings have been razed. Christian News Service reported what happened to Pastor A En when he answered a summons to appear before local security police. For three hours he was forced to stand “like Christ was hung on the cross,” on one foot, with arms outstretched. When he moved or put down his other foot, he was taunted, punched and kicked. When finally released, he crumpled to the ground, unable to move. An elder of his church had to carry him out of the police station. The response of the Christians is heard in this recent statement by a member of the church , "The more the Communists persecute us, the more God blesses us and the faster the church grows." Taken from Seven Results of Compassion +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - November 15, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ For Cambodia, Vietnam's much smaller neighbor, 1975 was the turning point. At first there was an atmosphere of relief, for finally the five year bloody civil war was over. However, any jubilation was short lived, as the revolutionary party, the Khmer Rouge, forced the whole population to evacuate the capitol city, Phnom Penh, under the pretext that the USA was planning to bomb the city. Within the year which became known as "Year Zero," the same thing happened in all the cities and towns as the entire country was forcibly returned to a peasant economy in which there would be no class divisions, no money, no books, no schools, no hospitals. During this time, nearly 15% of the population was exterminated - the victims included those who refused to leave the city, the infirm who were too ill to walk, the educated and skilled workers who were considered to be the "lazy elite," along with their entire families including babies who were killed by dashing their skulls against trees. With the implementing of the new constitution, "Reactionary religion" was banned and the Christian church was decimated. By the time the Khmer Rouge was forced back into the jungle in 1979, Cambodia had been reduced to a country where there was no currency, no financial institutions, no postal system, no telephones, virtually no sanitation, clean water or electricity; only 45 doctors remained out of the 450 practicing before 1975; only 7,000 out of 20,000 teachers have survived; there were no schools; and the books had been burned. Because missionaries had been permitted in Cambodia between 1970 and 1975, the church had grown to about 10,000; but by 1979 only 200 Christians remained alive in Cambodia. However, since 1990 the church has begun to recover so that we believe that today there are over two thousand churches, with a total membership of over 130,000. Taken from Seven Results of Compassion +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - November 8, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ There's a very familiar verse in the Bible where Jesus gives us instructions about the setting of priorities. In the current world we live in, some of the key ideas being promoted are such things as these: motivation, drive, ambition, getting ahead, climbing the ladder of success. A number of years ago, Steven Covey made what for me was a rather profound statement. He said something like this, "Many people have climbed hard and fast up the ladder of success, only to discover later that the ladder has been leaning against the wrong wall." Every once in a while we need to stop and ask the questions, "What is it that we really want? What is our desire? What is really important to us?" If we take our discipleship seriously, we will listen to and adopt Jesus' answer to those questions. He said, "Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33 To "seek" something means to place a high value on that something. Remember the stories Jesus told about the woman who had lost a coin? and the shepherd whose lamb was missing? Evidently, the dowry coin for the woman, and the one lost lamb for the shepherd were very important. When Jesus used the term "seek", He was putting the most important activity of our lives in the language of the hunt. In other words, He was bidding us put His agenda in the position of high value for our lives. And to those who follow His call, there is the promise that other necessary, though less valuable things will also be available. Usually we think of setting priorities in terms of either activities or expenditures. Will I spend the evening with my buddies at the bar? or will I stay home and play games with my children? Will I go to church this evening? or will I stay home and watch television? Will I purchase that new shiny car or truck? or will I increase my giving to missions so that more of the lost people of this world will have a chance to hear the Gospel? Let's think about the ladder again. There was a new house being built up the street from mine, and it just so happened that one of our members drove the delivery truck for the lumber company that was supplying materials. On Friday he delivered roof shingles, and just think what it would have been like for him if this scenario had taken place: He parks his truck as near to the house as possible, being careful not to drive over the newly installed septic tank. Then, one by one, he pulls an eighty pound bundle of shingles off the truck, throws it on his shoulder and climbs the ladder to throw it up onto the roof. He repeats this 12 dozen times, and finally the job is done. But just as he is climbing into the cab of the truck, his boss drives up in the company van and calls him over to his window. "Sorry, Chad. The clerk at the store made a mistake. That load was supposed to have been taken to the project at White Birch Estates, not White Birch Drive." For the first time since he got saved, Chad is thinking murderous thoughts! He did a great job, finished it in record time, but he had the ladder up against the wrong wall! Jesus is saying, "I want you to put your ladder against my wall." Taken from Seek First +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - November 1, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ It's amazing how comfortable we have become with deception. A Psychology professor at the University of Virginia, Della DePaulo, initiated an experiment with 77 college students and 70 townspeople. Each of these volunteers were asked to keep a diary for one week, recording the number of times they lied, and noting the circumstance of each incident. Only one student, and one resident reported at the end of the week that they had told no lies. On the other hand, the others, 140, admitted that they told a total of 1,535 lies in that one week! What did these people lie about? All sorts of things, but it was noted that women lied to women, mostly in order to spare their feelings. On the other hand, men lied to other men for self-promoting reasons - otherwise known as bragging. But what is more alarming is that these lies caused their tellers "little preoccupation or regret." It really didn't bother them that they had lied! Last year a survey was taken of 20,000 young people who were in middle or high school. 92% admitted they had lied to their parents the previous year, 73% did so repeatedly. But again, what's alarming is that 91% of all of the students said, "I am satisfied with my own ethics and character." Let me give you an example. Every year Tom, along with his wife and son, go to his mother-in-law's home for Thanksgiving dinner. Although Tom dislikes her "special" pumpkin pie, he always tells her how wonderful it is - he doesn't want to hurt her feelings. But just think what will happen when one day Tom happens to let the truth leak out. What is his mother-in-law going to think? Is she going to say, "Thank you for sparing my feelings all these years. It really means a lot to me that you cared enough about me to pretend that you loved my pumpkin pie"? I don't think so. She's probably going to think, "If he lied to me about that, how many other things has he lied to me about?" And if Tom's own son realizes that his father doesn't really like the pie, although he says he does, what kind of training is that? Sir Walter Scott wrote, "What a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive." Taken from Speaking Thanks to One Another +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - October 25, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Going the Right Way By Lynne Kinghorn In 1939, in a small town in Oklahoma, a young couple had been married a few short and disappointing months. He never dreamed there were so many ways to ruin fried chicken. She couldn't imagine why she ever thought his jokes were funny. Neither one said aloud what they were both thinking -- the marriage was a big mistake. One hot afternoon, they got into a terrible argument about whether they could afford to paint the living room. Tempers flared, voices were raised, and somehow one of the wedding gift plates crashed to the floor. She burst into tears, called him heartless and a cheapskate. He shouted that he'd rather be a cheapskate than a nag, then grabbed the car keys on his way out. His parting words, punctuated by the slam of the screen door, were, "That's it! I'm leaving you!" But before he could coax their rickety car into gear, the passenger door flew open and his bride landed on the seat beside him. She stared straight ahead, her face tear-streaked but determined. "And just where do you think you're going?" he asked in amazement. She hesitated only a moment before replying, just long enough to be sure of the answer that would decide the direction of their lives for the next forty-three years. "If you're leaving me," my mother said, "I'm going with you." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - October 18, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Last week the Joyful Ministry Website passed another significant milestone - one hundred thousand (100,000) hits to the site since its launch five years ago. Of course this is not huge when compared with Internet big hitters, but as a "no budget" site, it's not shabby either! Joyful Ministry now has nearly 800 Stories, Poems, Sermons, Articles for Christians, Marriages, and Leaders, in addition to large collections of Humor and "eBooks." All of this has been provided free of charge, although some visitors have offered a donation in exchange for one of the printed books of Sermons or the Ministry Resource CDRom. These donations are all invested in the ICP Missions project. A little more than a month ago we began asking visitors to identify their home Country and State. In this short time we recorded visits from 38 countries and 38 US and Canadian states. Much to our surprise, it came to our attention recently that the site was featured in the "Internet for Christians Digest," for which we are grateful. Each week the "Joyful Ministry Email Circular" is sent to a subscription list of over 5,000, and the monthly "Website Update" goes to over 8,000. There's also the bi-weekly Prayer Partners letter that brings together nearly 700 to pray for prayer requests that have been submitted on-line. The purpose of "JoyfulMinistry.com" is simply to offer to believers helpful resources for Christian living and leadership. Many have indicated their appreciation in words like these: "Praise God for your hard work to bring His words through the internet. I find the site very beneficial spiritually." James "I just discovered your web page. Your articles on Church Leadership are astounding. I will plan to visit frequently." Ken "The uplifting inspiration I receive right here in my little cottage is worth a 'mansion of gold' to me." Sally "God bless you - your web site was easy to read and understand and I will visit it more often. Your sermons are well put together." Vanessa "Thank you very much for the opportunities you give to others like myself to feed off your knowledge and experiences." Mike "Thanks, like any Pastor of a small congregation I can relate to what I have read. It was inspiring and motivational." Johan Additional comments can be read by clicking here. If you wish to invite a friend to receive the Joyful Ministry Email Circular, you can forward this edition to them so that they can click on this link: http://www.joyfulministry.com/cirlist.htm As this letter is being sent out, two members of the ICP Missions team are completing the first Seminar for Pastors in Nalgonda, India - they will then head for Kinwat to begin the second Seminar on Monday. Please be in prayer as they will be ministering to 600 pastors in four locations. For those who are able to help, there is a great need for funding for the Pastors' Seminars in Vietnam and Cambodia. The costs will be higher, in part due to security issues. To provide for the 350 Pastors, nearly $10,000 must be raised. If you can make a donation to enable these wonderful, but impoverished Pastors to receive the training and inspiration these seminars provide, either reply to this email or go to this page: http://www.joyfulministry.com/ICP/ Thank you. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - October 11, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." (I Peter 5:8-10) Thomas A Kempis in the classic book, "The Imitation of Christ" wrote, "Therefore, in order that you may escape the everlasting punishments to come, try to bear present evils patiently for the sake of God. The pure, simple, and steadfast spirit is not distracted by many labors, for he does them all for the honor of God." A contemporary Pastor (C. Stacey) reminds us, "Perseverance is the badge of true saints. Perseverance is, therefore, the target of all our spiritual enemies. Satan will make many a fierce attack on your perseverance; it will be the mark for all his arrows. He will strive to hinder you in service: he will insinuate that you are doing no good; and that you want rest. He will endeavor to make you weary of suffering, he will whisper, 'Curse God, and die.' Or he will attack your steadfastness: 'What is the good of being so zealous? Be quiet like the rest; sleep as do others, and let your lamp go out as the other virgins do.' Wear your shield, Christian, therefore, close upon your Armour, and cry mightily unto God, that by His Spirit you may endure to the end." Recently I came across a wonderful poem, "Steadfast Heart" by Ron DeMarco: I've dreamed many dreams that never came true, I've seen them vanish at dawn. But I've realized enough of my dreams, thank God, To make me want to dream on. I've prayed many prayers when no answer came; Though I waited patient and long, But answers have come to enough of my prayers To make me keep praying on. I've trusted many a friend that failed, And left me to weep alone, But I've found enough of my friends true blue, To make me keep trusting on. I've sown many seed that fell by the way For the birds to feed upon, But I've held enough golden sheaves in my hands, To make me keep sowing on. I've drained the cup of disappointment and pain And gone many days without song, But I've sipped enough nectar from the roses of life To make me want to live on. Today we send out a call for Perseverance and Steadfastness. Taken from Perseverance and Steadfastness +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - October 4, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ We can confidently say, the Good News is that the essence of the pronounced Blessings is available for all who fulfill the conditions. That opens up the big box called "Prosperity Gospel" - the so called Good News that God wants His children to live like King's Kids, to dress fancy, to drive big cars, to live in palaces. Do you really want that? Do you really want "Paparazzi"? Do you want your every sneeze recorded and every gesture analyzed? Former PTL founder and president, Jim Bakker, preached it for many years, and he showed us what it would look like: glitz, glamour and girls. But he now sadly admits that he spent very little time with his kids, when their birthdays would come, an assistant bought the gift. He lost his marriage, he lost his integrity, and for five years he lost his liberty. Today if you ask Jim Bakker if he believes in the "Prosperity Gospel", and he will flat out say "no way" - today he humbly admits he was wrong all those years. In his recent book, Bakker tells about a man who wanted to know, "Where's my hundred houses? I'm waiting for my hundred houses." Of course he got that idea from Jesus when He said to His disciples, "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." (Matthew 19:29) To this man the question was serious, to us it is too silly to even warrant a response. It seems that only in materialistic America could such a religious doctrine take a foothold. It certainly doesn't take much depth of insight to understand that spirituality and faith should never be measured merely by bucks, bricks or Bucks. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from Blessings and Curses +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - September 27, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Assist ICP For over five years the Joyful Ministry Web site has offered free resources to you and 100,000 other Christians and Church Leaders. Some who have received a printed Sermon Book or Ministry Resource CDRom have responded with a donation to India Christian Partnership, for which we have been very appreciative. Now, for only the third time, a direct appeal is being made to you for assistance, but not to support the website - hundreds of articles, poems, sermons, Hymn Stories and eBooks that have been posted there will always be available free of charge. Nor is this appeal made on behalf of myself or others who pay all of our own travel expenses to provide inspiration and training in Seminars for Church/Planting Pastors in underdeveloped countries. No, this appeal is on behalf of those Pastors, dedicated servants of the Lord, who otherwise would not have an opportunity to gather with their brethren in special conferences where they can be challenged, renewed and receive further Biblical teaching to strengthen their ministries. In the West, donors pay hundreds of dollars to send one U.S. Pastor to a conference such as the Billy Graham School of Evangelism. We're doing the same thing for Pastors in Southern Asia, but it only costs $15.00 for each Pastor. Of course we know that many readers of the Circular are themselves living in impoverished situations, and we are grateful for their intercessory prayer support which is very vital to the success of this mission. On the other hand, many readers like yourself certainly are able to provide at least one, three, five, or more scholarships. Will you offer a donation to bless one or more Pastors in India, Cambodia and Vietnam? To better understand the Biblical principle behind this mission, please read the sermon that can be found by clicking here. Then respond by replying to this email, or submit the form that is attached to this letter or can be found at this URL. When we travel this year to these needy countries, meet with, pray with, and teach the Pastors, we want to be able to truth- fully say, "Your Brothers and Sisters in other parts of the world care for you - they have sent us to you to express their love and support." Thank you - I'll be waiting to hear from you today. Dr. Neil Chadwick If you would like to make an immediate donation, click here now. Pastors and Missions Committee members are asked to include ICP in their missions budget. Please reply to this note by sending your phone number so that I may call you personally. If you are among those who have already provided scholarships for Pastors, thank you for your loving support. ICP is registered as a not-for-profit charitable organization and offers receipts for tax purposes. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - September 20, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The Fruit of the Spirit is Peace Here are the steps to resolving conflicts with a Christian Brother or Sister: 1. Affirm the importance of the person(s) involved, and their relationship with the church. Pray for them, for God to bless them. (Matthew 5:43-48) 2. Make sure the reports you receive are accurate. Forgive them, understanding that you must still speak with them about the matter. 3. As soon as possible, have a face to face conversation. If you are anxious about the outcome of such a meeting, then either a Deacon or a Pastor should be invited to meet with you. (Matthew 18:15-20; Galatians 6:1-5) a. Begin with prayer. b. In a peaceful tone of voice, explain what you think is the issue, problem - why it is that you're upset. Focus on your own feelings about the situation, always be careful not to use accusatory language. "I was very upset when I learned that you have been talking about me to other people." c. Give the other person time to respond, all the while trying to understand what they have to say. "Do I understand that you only told ________ that I was having financial difficulties?" d. Clearly express what it is that you want. Ask yourself the question, "What needs to be done about this?" "I would appreciate it if you would not share with others concerning my personal affairs." e. Close with prayer, with each person participating. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "Fruit of the Spirit" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - September 13, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Membership Is Caring About ten days following the terrorist attack on New York and Washington, a "talking head" on a popular news show was asked if passengers would now begin to be told what to do if confronted with a situation such as took place on the four hijacked flights on September 11. The fact was, at least one pilot had already done that. It happened on United's Flight 564 out of Denver International Airport. When the doors were locked, and the plane was ready to taxi to the end of the runway, the pilot spoke to the passengers on the plane's public address system. Among other things, he told them if someone let it be known that they intended to take over the plane, all the passengers should immediately "stand up and immediately throw things at that person - pillows, books, magazines, eyeglasses, shoes - anything that will throw him off balance and distract his attention." Then they should rush him and engulf him in a blanket and hold him down until the plane could land at the nearest airport where the authorities would take over. For me, that was interesting, but what really caught my attention was what he said next, "Now, since we're a family for the next few hours, I'll ask you to turn to the person next to you, introduce yourself, tell them a little about yourself and ask them to do the same." We have been told that since this tragic event at the World Trade Center, New York City has suddenly ceased to be a "city of strangers". It's somewhat sad to realize that only in crisis do we seem ready to allow the barriers to drop and begin to truly caring for one another. It occurs to me that many churches could profit from being talked to in the same way as the passengers on Flight #564. "Since we're a family for the [next hour and a half], I'll ask you to turn to the person next to you, introduce yourself, tell them a little about yourself and ask them to do the same." Do you agree? When the church gathers, it loves, and provokes love - it cares, it provokes caring. ". . . provoke one another to love and good works. Forsake not the gathering of yourselves together . . . ." (Heb 10:24,25) Notice that in Eph 4:2, four virtues of Love are named: Humility - We have the great example of Jesus noted in Phil 2:2,3; We love to quote, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you", but often fail to notice that this is preceded by the directive "humble yourselves".(I Pet 5:6); when Paul met with the Ephesian elders he reminded them, "I served the Lord with great humility and with tears. . . ." (Acts 20:19) Gentleness - This has to do with courtesy and considerateness as seen in I Corinthians 13:5 ("love is not rude"), and the "Beatitude" of Matthew 5:5, "Blessed are the meek". Some would rather say, "Cursed are the meek, for they shall inherit nothing" - but this certainly is not the way of love. Patience - This is steadfastness - don't give up easily on people you care about, for love perseveres (I Cor 13:4). Forbearance - This requires putting up with one another, discerning and avoiding battles over surface issues while not ignoring what is truly harmful. What can we do to see to it that caring increases? Here are some simple suggestions related to the Four Virtues of Love: Humility - Repent from pride. Gentleness - Practice small acts of kindness - smile, touch, listen. Patience - Don't give up, even if you feel you're the only one. Forbearance - Relax. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from Membership Is Caring +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - August 30, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ We Don't Want Nobody To Do It Several years ago while on my way to Colombia I had to stop in Memphis, where someone happened to notice that we were just 100 miles away from Jonesboro, where just a few days before kids had killed kids. Please tell me, how did we get to this? First adults killed other adults to get what the others had. Then adults began to not only seriously neglect children, but to also brutalize them. Then children, filled with rage toward the adults who hurt them began killing adults, and now the children are killing other children. When are we going to wake up and say, "Enough!" I once read a short paragraph about EVERYBODY, SOMEBODY, ANYBODY, and NOBODY. I lost that paragraph a long time ago, but I'd like to try to reconstruct it for today. My version would go something like this: There once was a job of such great importance that everybody thought somebody should do it. Not being a very difficult job, everybody figured anybody could do it, but everybody assumed that somebody else would do it. After the passage of time, somebody noticed that the job wasn't done by anybody because everybody thought somebody - anybody but themselves should do it. So in the end it was nobody who did it - nobody did what almost anybody could do, and what everybody knew was a job of such great importance that everybody thought somebody should do it. The job I'm talking about is the teaching of the kids. It's a job of such great importance that everybody thinks somebody should do it. Not being a very difficult job, everybody figures anybody can teach the children, but everybody assumes that somebody else is doing it. I trust that you are one of the somebodies who are noticing that the job of teaching the children isn't being done because everybody thinks anybody but themselves should do it. We don't want nobody to do this job; neither do we want just anybody. Rather, we want anybody who is called by God to teach, somebody who is supported by everybody in this Body to make sure that all the children of everybody are taught by somebody, so that nobody will grow up not knowing about Jesus. Is there anybody here who is willing to be that somebody? ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from WE DON'T WANT NOBODY TO DO IT +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - August 23, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The Most Beautiful Flower The park bench was deserted as I sat down to read Beneath the long, straggly branches of an old willow tree. Disillusioned by life with good reason to frown, For the world was intent on dragging me down. And if that weren't enough to ruin my day, A young boy out of breath approached me, all tired from play. He stood right before me with his head tilted down And said with great excitement, "Look what I found!" In his hand was a flower, and what a pitiful sight, With its petals all worn - not enough rain, or too little light. Wanting him to take his dead flower and go off to play, I faked a small smile and then shifted away. But instead of retreating he sat next to my side And placed the flower to his nose And declared with ovacted surprise, "It sure smells pretty and it's beautiful, too. That's why I picked it; here, it's for you." The weed before me was dying or dead. Not vibrant of colors: orange, yellow or red. But I knew I must take it, or he might never leave. So I reached for the flower, and replied, "Just what I need." But instead of him placing the flower in my hand, He held it mid-air without reason or plan. It was then that I noticed for the very first time That weed-toting boy could not see: he was blind. I heard my voice quiver; tears shone in the sun As I thanked him for picking the very best one. You're welcome," he smiled, and then ran off to play, Unaware of the impact he'd had on my day. I sat there and wondered how he managed to see A self-pitying woman beneath an old willow tree. How did he know of my self-indulged plight? Perhaps from his heart, he'd been blessed with true sight. Through the eyes of a blind child, at last I could see The problem was not with the world; the problem was me. And for all of those times I myself had been blind, I vowed to see the beauty in life, And appreciate every second that's mine. And then I held that wilted flower up to my nose And breathed in the fragrance of a beautiful rose And smiled as I watched that young boy, Another weed in his hand, About to change the life of an unsuspecting old man. Contributed by Sheila +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - August 16, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The Story of Saul The story of Saul is a sad story of failure. Saul had a great start. He came from a fine family, was impressive, a "head taller" than everyone. (I Sam. 9:20) Early on Saul was responsive to his father's request (v.3,4), and was concerned about his father's anxiety level (v.5). He had a desire to bring a gift to the man of God (v.7); and was chosen to be anointed king by Samuel. He had a proper attitude of humility, from the smallest tribe, of the least clan (v.21). Saul had a dramatic experience in the Spirit prophesied by Samuel (10:5f), joined with procession of prophets (v.10), surrounded himself with "men whose hearts God had touched" (v.26), kept his head in presence of those who opposed him (v.27); he refused to destroy the opposition when the people called for it (11:13). So, what went wrong? Mistake #1 - He offered sacrifice instead of waiting for the prophet (13:8-14). Mistake #2 - He did not destroy the plunder (15:9ff), then developed a rationale to excuse his behavior (15:22). Apparently Saul repented, but for the sake of his image before the people (v.30). Saul received severe judgment of God because his was blatant disobedience, as opposed to weakness, and because the greater the responsibility in leadership, the greater the consequence in judgment. What does this tell us? We cannot presume upon God's kindness, and efforts should be made to bring back those who have failed (James 5:19-20) through prayer, searching for the lost, restoring them (Gal. 6:1), and receiving them back with love. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - August 9, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Cuss Control Written by Dan Betzer Chicagoan James O'Conner runs a fascinating school. It's called the Cuss Control Academy. He works with his students on a two-class-per-month study to curb their proclivity to swear. He has also written a book, "Cuss Control: The Complete Book on How to Curb Your Cursing." He states his case: "Our society seems to have come to the comfort level where any kind of four-letter word is OK." He's right and let's all hope that movie script writers each get a copy of Mr. O'Conner's book and stop their insane pursuit of winning the garbage-mouth awards. O'Conner recommends a number of things to help people stop swearing: 1) Recognize that swearing causes damage. 2) Eliminate what O'Conner calls casual swearing. He says, "Pretend that your five-year-old daughter is right next to you." 3) Be patient. Don't let those traffic jams cause you to lose your cool. 4) Think of what you should have said. It's a mind exercise, O'Conner claims. And he encourages his students to work hard at breaking their habits. Control the emotions that prompt the cussing. King David once prayed, "O Lord, let the words of my mouth and the thoughts that I think be acceptable in thy sight!" What a great prayer--especially since the things we say generally come from those thoughts we think. The tongue is a deadly organ. It has probably killed more people, hopes and dreams than the fist ever has. It's tough to control it! You know, it would be a lot less stressful world if people controlled their tongues. And their emotions. O'Conner agrees. He says, "When you control your emotions, you're going to be a more content person, and you're also going to be a much more pleasant person to be around." Oh - - and one more thing - - movies and television might have to return to the silent era. And wouldn't that be a relief? +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - August 2, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Herod's Guards In the Acts 12 story of Peter's imprisonment, James, the brother of John had been silenced, and Herod planned to also do away with Peter. Herod wanted to do this in order to please the enemies of the Gospel, but did not want to get the Jewish leaders upset by interfering with the Passover. So he put Peter in prison, and set a guard. There were four groups of four guards taking turns, two were chained to Peter, and two stood by the door of the cell. So there were 16 guards involved in keeping Peter from his preaching. Let's give these guards names according to four groups (quaternions) of enemies which limit us from preaching the Gospel. Quaternion Number 1 - Fleshly Enemies Pride - wanting to cause others to think well of us. Self-centeredness - caring only about one's own affairs and needs. Greed - allowing the American emphasis on consumerism to drive us . Lust - impure thoughts will always hinder the Gospel. Quaternion Number 2 - Mental Enemies Doubt - uncertain about our eternal destiny. Ignorance - not sure how to explain the plan of salvation. Depression - hopelessness. Confusion - being frustrated with our inability to understand. Quaternion Number 3 - Emotional Enemies Sorrow - grief may be appropriate, but self pity is not. Jealousy - being upset when others are blessed or used of God. Anger - unresolved personal offenses. Revenge - a desire for others to suffer for their wrong- doing. Quaternion Number 4 - Spiritual Enemies Guilt - need to fully accept the forgiveness He has granted. Fear - inappropriate fear of God whom we may feel is punishing of our failed attempts. Unworthiness - forgetting that God wants to use us regardless of our past. Rebellion - out right disobedience to God's commands. Usually we think of people who are outside of Christ to be the ones who need deliverance. But Christians need it too, otherwise the Gospel will not be preached. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - July 26, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." Shepherds during David's time were no hirelings - they owned the sheep that they cared for, were acquainted with all of their sheep, and were quick to discover and supply their individual needs. In the morning, it was the duty of the shepherd to lead his sheep out of the fold and find good pasture for them. He needed to be familiar with the territory to know the special places where good pasture could be found; to find quiet waters where they could quench their thirst; and shady places to protect them from the heat of the noonday sun. He had to defend his sheep when attacked by their enemies, protecting them against the ravages of the wolves and bears who were lurking near some of the best feeding places, preying especially upon the weaker sheep. For that reason he would carry the "rod", a club-like stick with which he could ward off predators. It was his duty to seek out straying sheep and to bring them back to the fold. That was the purpose of the "staff", to nudge the lamb on its side when it wandered off the path, or with the crook, pull it back by its legs . Often the shepherd would carry the weak lambs in his arms and tenderly lead those who were lame or footsore. Occasionally he would When the day was done, before darkness set in, the shepherd led the sheep back to the fold. At the door of the sheepfold the shepherd stood, and carefully inspected each sheep as they passed one by one before him into the fold. He had his horn filled with olive-oil and a supply of "Cedar-tar", anointing a knee bruised on the rocks, or a side scratched by thorns. If one of the sheep was simply worn out and exhausted, he bathed its face and head in the refreshing olive-oil, and took the large two-handled cup that hangs by his side, filled it brimming full from the water he has brought for that purpose, and let the weary sheep drink. The day's toil was over and the Shepherd settled down to guard the sheep overnight. From the Scripture, we understand that there are four roles borne by the shepherd. 1. The shepherd is the leader of the flock. 2. The second task of the shepherd is to feed, and we will also include here his healing role. 3. The task of the shepherd is to protect. 4. And finally, the task of the shepherd is to seek. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from The Pastor/Shepherd +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - July 19, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Persecution of the Church "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10 Persecution of Christians is as old as the Church itself. First there was an attempt to intimidate the Apostles into silence (Acts 4:18). They went back to prayer, and received a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit for boldness, and kept on preaching. The persecution advanced to imprisonment (Acts 5:18), but the angel of the Lord delivered them. Next they resorted to flogging (Acts 5:40), although they really wanted to kill them (5:33). The first martyr was Stephen who was stoned to death (Acts 7:57ff), and this was just the beginning. James was killed by Herod (Acts 12:2) who then tried to also get rid of Peter, but the Lord intervened by means of a miraculous escape from prison. Paul, in his training of Timothy reminds him, "Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." II Timothy 3:12 The reality is, persecution is happening now at a more intense level than ever in history. The persecution of Christians, especially in Islamic and communist countries, gained a much higher profile beginning in early 1996. It is estimated more followers of Christ have died for their faith in the 20th century than in all the 19 previous centuries combined. Christians face torture, rape, community disintegration, imprisonment, slavery, beatings, and death. Some 200 million face this as a reality daily, and 400 million face severe to moderate forms of discrimination simply because they believe in Jesus Christ. James Dobson asks the question, "Why has there been so little publicity about this persecution? Because the majority of Christians are too preoccupied with living to notice or complain about much of anything, and because our government favors good relations with many of the offending nations, and because the new media has failed to report the crisis. "The silence from the majority of God's people is deafening! Ecclesiastes 4:1 says, 'Again I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun. I saw the tears of the oppressed, and they have no comforter. Power was on the side of their oppressors.' (NIV). "What has really changed in 2000 years? Again we ask, why have so many good people done nothing to stop the persecution of the weak and vulnerable? I'll give you the best answer of which I am capable. It is because some spiritual leaders have told their flocks not to be concerned about that which is "political'-- as though pouring hot oil on a victim's feet or killing babies are political matters. "Another reason is because we have become engrossed in that which I temporal and material-- and because there is so much stress in our lives that we can't invest our energies in that which doesn't touch us directly. I called this third factor ‘the principle of limited tears.’ We do not have the capacity to ‘cry’ about all the tragedies of the world. To do so would be deeply disturbing to us, and since we can't prevent human misery around the globe, we narrow the concerns about which we will worry. Thus, we will weep about that which touches us personally--hitting near our families, our friends and our work. Everything else will be kept outside our defenses--ignored— denied--rationalized." So then, what should be our response? First, the same as it was in the days of the first persecution - prayer. And secondly, according to Proverbs 31:8, we need to speak up: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, and for the rights of all those who are destitute." Contact one of the many Christian religious freedom organizations and relief groups that support the persecuted church worldwide. These organizations can be found by visiting www.persecutedchurch.org +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - July 12, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Love Thy Neighbour Let me remark, then, that selfishness itself would bid you love your neighbour. Oh, strange that selfishness should preach a suicidal sermon; but yet if self could speak, it might, if it were wise, deliver an oration like this, "Self, love thy neighbour, for then thy neighbour will love thee. Self, help thy neighbour, for then thy neighbour will help thee. Make to thyself, O self, friends of the mammon of unrighteousness that when thou fairest they may receive thee into abiding habitations. Self, thou wantest ease; make thyself easy by treating everybody well. Self, thou wantest pleasure, thou canst get no pleasure if those around thee hate thee. Make them love thee, dear self, and so shalt thou bless thyself." Ay, even if ye are selfish, I would ye were so pre-eminently selfish, and so wisely selfish that ye would love others to make yourselves happy. The short cut to be happy yourself is to try to make others happy. The world is bad enough, but it is not so bad as not to feel the power of kindness. Treat servants well. There are some of them that you can't mend at all, but treat them well, and as a rule they will treat you well. Treat your masters well. Some of them are gruff and bad enough, but as a class they know good servants, and they will treat you well. There, now, if I would wish to be happy, I would not ask to have the wealth of this world, nor the things that men call comforts; the best comforts that I should desire would be loving ones round about me, and a sense that where I went I scattered happiness, and made men glad. That is the way to be happy, and selfishness itself might say, "Love thy neighbour," for in so doing thou dost love thyself; for there is such a connection between him and thee, that in loving him the stream of thy love returns into thine own heart again. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "Love Thy Neighbour" - Sermon #145, Delivered on Sabbath Morning, August 9th, 1857, by the REV. C. H. SPURGEON +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - July 5, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Declaration of Dependence The Declaration of Independence began with introductory remarks, and the now famous statement, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." There is no doubt that this document has been a powerful factor in shaping the consciousness of the American people - we have come to value freedom above all. However, it should not escape our attention that within this, our nation's founding document, four different references are made to God. According to the Declaration of Independence, God is the God of Nature, He is the Creator, He is the Supreme Judge, and He is the Divine Protector. In the Old Testament, Joshua and the people of Israel were also ready to form a new nation. It was at the end of his life, and Joshua wanted to make sure Israel was prepared for this new era. He also made a great speech, recorded in Joshua chapter 24, and ending with the words, "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve . . . as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Instead of a "Declaration of Independence", Joshua's was a "Declaration of Dependence". If we today would follow his example, according to this scripture (verses 13 and 14), among other things, we would put away the gods. Our gods have names which are different from those of the children of Israel. If he were giving his speech today, Joshua might say: 1) Throw away the gods of technology - the confidence in technology's ability to solve all societies' problems. 2) Throw away the gods of sex - the belief that all man's inner needs can be met. There's no such thing as "free sex", if we do not abide by God's restriction of sex within marriage, it becomes idolatry. 3) Throw away the gods of drugs - whether for alleged medical use or street abuse, ours is becoming a "pill popping" culture. 4) Throw away the gods of self-sufficiency - consider these verses: Romans 14:7; I Corinthians 3:5; II Corinthians 12:9. 5) Throw away the gods of government - this becomes a god when man gives to it the obligation to meet man's basic needs of food and shelter and medical attention, needs which God has promised to meet for those who trust in Him. 6) Throw away the gods of money - Jesus said, "You cannot serve God and mammon". The fact is, money is under Satan's control unless dedicated to God. It seems to me that the Christian community should engage in sharing goods and labor, and thus reduce the necessity of money. And we also should endeavor to become free from credit obligations. 7) Throw away the super god, "humanism", which is the idea that man is able to meet all of his own needs and solve all his own problems. Remember that when Jesus came to earth, He came preaching "the kingdom of God is at hand". In so doing, Jesus is calling on us to come under His rule. As did the people in Joshua's audience, let's make our own "Declaration of Dependence" and echo their refrain, "We will serve the Lord". ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from Declaration of Dependence +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - June 28, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Giving and Receiving "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: `It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (Acts 20:35) Is it always better to give? Giving is not better when the gift is out of compulsion. (2 Cor 9:7) Giving is not better when it is wrongly motivated, giving to get - like an investment. (Lu 6:38; 14:12-14) Even when we give materially in order to receive spiritually. (Acts 8:20) Giving is not better when it is done in order to avoid responsibility. (Mk 7:11, 12) Giving is not better when it is done for approval - Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1,2) Giving is not better when it is due to legalism, trying to satisfy the law so as to earn the favor of God. (Matt 23:23) On the other hand, it is good to receive, with gratitude (Lu 17:12-18; Phil 4:17), and Receiving from God is paramount, remembering that salvation is a gift of God. (Eph 2:8; Ro 6:23; Jn 1:11, 12; Jn 4:10; Acts 2:38) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "Giving and Receiving" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - June 21, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ "The Prayer of Passion" I was walking through the garden guided by the moon's soft light, when I stumbled across this man who was praying through the night. This was no ordinary man, this was the Son of Righteousness, who had surrendered to the Will of God, that all of humanity could be blessed. He didn't seem to notice me as he knelt upon his knees, he was too busy making intercession, bearing all the world's iniquities. My heart began to break as I watched him cry, his tears fell upon the ground, for he didn't want to die. I wanted to comfort him, but he would be faithful unto death, for his destiny was the Cross where he would draw his last breath. Knowing that I was intruding, I tried to walk away, but this man had touched my heart so I decided to watch him pray. There was something Holy that transpired in that place, when the Son prayed to his Father, a glorious love shined on his face. In agony he threw himself upon the cold stony ground, his passion became even stronger as he prepared to wear the martyr's crown. It was too much for me, my lips uttered a moan when I saw his tears change into blood as they fell upon the stones. When he discovered my presence, my heart started to pound with fear, but he looked at me with sorrow, his face stained with bloody tears. Suddenly a mob surrounded him, it was the time for him to die, I never had the chance to thank the one who prayed, suffered, and died. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Written by Julie L. McCarty All rights reserved. To receive permission to use this poem for non-commercial purposes, send an email to: drchadwick@webedelic.com +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - June 14, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The other evening, I had a tussle with my seven-year old son. We were not seeing eye-to-eye on a matter. It was time for him to get ready for bed, and I felt as if the evening had been rather botched up. I didn't like the feeling at all. After he climbed into his pajamas and then curled up under the blanket, I sat on the edge of his bed and started to pray, as I usually do. It was hard to find the right words, but I made a stab at it. Should I turn the prayer into a mini lecture, trying to get in one last punch? Don't the pros tell us that during sleep the brain keeps on absorbing the last thoughts that are planted on the mind? Well, this would be my chance! Or should I turn tender and love the little fellow to pieces? Would that be copping out? Or would it be wisdom? His face was turned away from me. He was wondering as well what approach Dad would take! After all, this was not the first time the day's endings had wound down to this. Then I caught his big, brown eyes turn a bit more to size up my expression. With that, I wilted. After all, he knew he had done wrong earlier. But there was the look of hope in his face. Could there be mercy in the court? I closed my eyes to pray, Dear Lord, thank You for my boy. You know how much I love him. He means the world to me. Now we thank You for this night's sleep. Be near us all. And may tomorrow be a good day. In Jesus' name, Amen. He swung his body around toward me and hugged me tightly around the neck. His eyes were closed tight. There was no more reason to glance in wonder. "Daddy, do you love me even when I am bad?" he asked in my ear. "Yes," I answered. "I always love you." So, with that he said one of the most encouraging statements known to mankind. It isn't novel or new. Yet it's powerful, that's for sure. "You're the best daddy in the world." It was then that I promised myself something. Yes, there's still much room for improvement as far as my being a father is concerned. And yes, I've goofed from time to time. Yet that night I told my memory to hold on to one thing as the years kept passing by. It was the innocent testimony of a little boy to a father who was sincerely trying. "You're the best daddy in the world." Don't forget it, I said to myself as I turned out the light. Don't ever forget it. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "The Perfect Father?" Contributed J. Grant Swank, Jr. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - June 7, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ JESUS IN PETER'S TOWN Archeology has discovered the Synagogue in Capernaum as well as Peter's house next door. As early as 1838, Edward Robinson found an ancient synagogue at Capernaum. It is now obvious that this is not the same as the synagogue visited by Jesus. Between 1975 and 1981 further excavations discovered a lower wall underneath this synagogue which was made of the same building materials as was common in the first century; this is almost certain to be the synagogue where Jesus taught. Approximately 60'x80', overlooking the Sea of Galilee, it was built by the centurion of Luke 7:9. Note: the main room was called the "Prayer Room"; there were stone benches for the elders - the other worshippers sat on the floor. Peter's house, next door, was a little larger, but built of the same material as the others - the "Large Room" measured 21' x 20'. By the 4th century it was a "house church", and by the 5th century, it had become an octagon shaped building, with arches to support a domed room, surrounded by another octagon. But we have more than historical interest: Jesus customarily went to the Synagogue on the Sabbath – Christianity, like Judaism, is a group expression in worship, and not merely individualistic. Care must be taken to maintain a faithful attendance pattern, and not allow excuses and distractions. We need to resist the temptation to wander from church to church, searching for the "happening" church, the "hot spot"; "Follow the Fire", or lazily attend a TV church. The media, and increased mobility allow us to "taste and see that the church is good". But a good rule of thumb is this, "people who go from church to church will eventually go less and less." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from Jesus in Peter's Town +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - May 31, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Shunning Sin Whenever we move in one direction, we are necessarily, at the same time, moving away from its opposite. If you're flying East, you're flying away from the West. When you're on the escalator, and heading up to the second floor, you're leaving the first floor. On the sleigh on the way to Grandmother's house, you're leaving your house while going toward hers. When we truly delight in the Lord, what is the opposite? What are we moving away from? Although it is good that we lead off with the positive, we must ask, what is the opposite of "delighting in the Lord"? That's what I want to talk with you about today, and strongly insist, that moving toward the Lord, involves intentionally moving away from something else. So, what is the opposite of "delight"? It is "shun". In turning to God, there is a turning away from evil. It must be stressed, that even though we say that Christianity is not a compilation of moral taboos, it is, nevertheless, a life with moral expectations. "Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil." (I Thess. 5:22) "Abhor that which is evil, cleave to that which is good." (Romans 12:9) What does "shunning" mean? The Greek word for "shun" (periistemi) is to "step out of the way of", or "stand away from." The dictionary meaning is, "To avoid deliberately, especially as a practice - to keep clear of." Too often, when we think of "shunning", we immediately think that we are to stay away from a person who has abandoned the faith, or who in some way has brought injury to the church. We can find some good Bible texts to back up this practice, although we must also note that many Christian groups have seriously misunderstood and abused these Scriptures. Historic groups like the Amish, and modern cults like Jehovah Witnesses have used "shunning" as a way to force members into conformity under the threat of social isolation if they refuse. However, we're not talking about shunning people, but shunning evil. Three times this idea comes through strongly: 1) Shun idolatry - I Corinthians 10: 14 2) Shun (flee) immorality - I Corinthians 6:18 3) Shun godless chatter - II Timothy 2:16ff In other words, stay away, don't walk there, don't participate in these activities. But also note Proverbs 4:15,15 "Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way." What are we to do? 1) First, we must become morally aware. 2) Examine ourselves when we identify the wrong in others. 3) Pray often the prayer of confession. 4) Rcognize that there are some places we cannot go, and some people with whom we cannot associate. 5) When there's talk of doing something which is wrong, take a stand. Psalm 1 "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - May 24, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Women and Ministry In the story of Jesus and the Woman at the Well (John 4:5-30), there are three attempts at avoidance - three issues brought up to distract from the important person - Jesus, and His message. 1. The Ethnic and Gender Issue - "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman." 2. The Tradition Issue - "Are you greater than our father Jacob?" 3. The Worship Issue - "You claim we must worship is in Jerusalem." But Jesus doesn't allow this woman to avoid the more important issues, and forced her to focus on her own situation and her need. Today there are many distracting and disruptive issues in the church. Much to the delight of Satan, there's a lot of infighting, and the unity Jesus prayed for has been compromised. One of those issues has to do with the place of ministry for women in the church. We offer these points: 1. Women participated in ministry in Jesus day (Luke 8:3) 2. Women were used by God to announce the resurrection of Jesus - they were the first to proclaim the most important message of the Christian church. (Matthew 28:7) 3. Paul included and acknowledged women in the ministry. (Phillipians 4:2,3) 4. There were women who served as "ministers". (Romans 16:1,2) 5. In the New Testament, there were women who prophesied. (Acts 21:8,9; I Corinthians 11:5) Let's lay the argument about the women's role aside, and rather than focusing on the messenger, let's focus on the message of Jesus and His love, His sacrifice and promise. Remember He said, "You will know them by their fruit", not their appearance, or their gender. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "Avoiding the Majors by Majoring on the Minors" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - May 17, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Some time ago, while attending a Pastor's meeting, one of the Pastors had prepared a devotional talk. It was taken from Paul's letter to the Philippians where he commended a coworker by the name of Epaphroditus "Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor men like him, because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for the help you could not give me." (Philippians 2:25-29) The point made was, "being in the ministry involves risks." The Pastor giving the devotional made the point that the word "risk" in Philippians is a word that represents the idea of "gambling". Another Pastor then spoke in agreement, saying that, in fact, "life is a gamble". After he was through, I told the other members of this group that I wanted to challenge that statement. I don't think that the Christian faith agrees with the idea that life is a "gamble". Instead, we believe that there is a plan, a purpose. Life is not lived according to chance. Yes, we believe in Divine Providence. There is a man in the Bible, a man who had an ability to foresee events yet future, and whose story is a magnificent display of God's ability - what we call Divine Providence. His name was Joseph. You know the story well, having read it, or having heard it told many times. The brothers of Joseph planned his early demise. What they did was wrong, it was evil, it was harmful to their brother. Look at the years of suffering he endured, the slavery, the jail time, the humiliating false accusations, the forced separation from his family, being forgotten by the butler he had helped. But God intended it for good. Did Joseph deserve the kind of treatment he received? No. Was he being punished by God for some sin? No. But he suffered greatly. I am sure that many were the times when Joseph could have become angry, bitter, discouraged, depressed; he could have indulged in self-pity, lose his trust in God and just give up. But he didn't. Why not? The only answer I can think of is this: somehow Joseph knew all along that what he would say to his brothers really was true - "Bad Things Happen to Good People", but God is bigger, has a bigger plan, and He is able to effect that plan. Joseph believed in "Providence". +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "Divine Providence" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - May 10, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ God Is Always Working by Arch Hamilton When my wife, Linda, was diagnosed with cancer July 19, 1998, it was like being slapped in the face. The pain we felt was the worst I've ever had. But even then we would not let Satan win. Now, looking back I can see where God was working, even though we didn't see it then. On February 2, 1999, after not being able to eat much of anything since Christmas, I took Linda to the doctor. He instantly put her in the hospital. Three days later they put a feeding tube in her intestine. The surgeon put a small tube in so as not to irritate her intestine. But the plan didn't work. The small tube stopped up, time after time after time. The surgeon decided to replace the tube with a larger one, after he got tired of unstopping the small one. This was about three weeks after the first one was installed. The surgeon warned us that when he removed the old tube, if he lost the site, he would not be able to put in a new tube. We started praying about this new problem. Monday night February 22, Linda and I talked about what time I should get to the hospital that next morning for the tube replacement. I said 6:OO AM, she said that I should sleep in and come out later. Her reasoning was that they were going to work her in that morning between other surgeries. She figured she would get in sometime after 1O:OO AM or so. When I pulled in the parking lot at 5:5O AM and was getting out of the car, the most perfect peace fell over me. This was unlike anything I have ever felt in my life. And in my spirit, God was telling me that, "He was in control" and for me not to worry. He didn't say the surgery would turn out OK, simply that He was in control. I went up to Linda's room to find they were transferring her from her bed to a gurney to go to surgery at 6:OO AM. She was frantically trying to find out where I was when I walked in to her room. When I told her what had happened at the car, it seemed to calm her and I believe the same "peace" came to her also. The surgery went without a hitch. And since that morning, I have had a "peace of God which passeth all understanding"! I had several small bouts at being depressed. On March 24, a major one set in. A friend was coming in to sit with Linda so I could go to church that Wednesday night. I got to go to church so rarely any more. When I left the hospital that night, I could barely put one foot in front of the other. I was that beat down. Prayer didn't seem to help. And like I always am, I didn't allow anyone to see me that way. I was truly hurting. After church, I made a small detour on my way back to the hospital. It was after that stop that I was listening to a Christian station, and someone had phoned in a request, "Arise My Love" by Newsong. That was just the medicine my spirit needed. I will never know who called in that requested song at that exact time. I believe God, put that song in someone's heart and the DJ played it at that exact moment. When I got back to the hospital, I flew up the stairs, light as a feather and ready for anything that might come. On the evening of March 28, I hurried home to clean up and feed our three cats and get back to the hospital for another night of staying with my wife. I always did this as fast as I could. Right after I came out of the garage, where we keep our cats, I turned and looked out over the yard and was touched by that glorious "Peace" once again. I came in the house and the phone was ringing. It was Jed. Linda's feeding tube had pulled out! He told me the surgeon had been called. So I hurried up and got back out to the hospital. A few minutes after I got there the surgeon arrived, looked the situation over and decided to reinsert the tube there in the room. At about midnight, I got my Bible out and read to her for about fifteen or twenty minutes. We always read the Bible as a family. Then I got up and kissed her and prayed for her. I talked to God and told Him that I knew He could heal her and she could get up out of that bed and walk out of the hospital. I also knew He could take her home. I asked if He would do one or the other. And about five minutes after that her breathing slowed down and finally stopped. My Linda had gone home. But this does not end just yet. At the funeral, I had decided I was going to say a few words of encouragement I felt God had put on my heart. Sometime during the funeral procession, a friend's wife had thought about all that was said and gave her heart to the Lord! So in death there is life eternal for Linda. And in Linda's death there is new life for a new Christian. This happened the week of Easter. And I can look ahead and tell you the "Tomb" is truly Empty! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - May 3, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ God always takes the initiative, He does something to spark the interest - this is the call of the Spirit. Ultimately, those who are lost are those who, by their resistance and determined unbelief, snuff out the spark. From the beginning it has been so - God taking the initiative: God spoke first at creation, and also when Adam had sinned, it was God who did the searching and the calling. Moses was attracted by the bush - "When the Lord saw that he (Moses) had gone over to look, God called to him . . ." We know that in the desert, bushes sometimes do that, have a spontaneous combustion. The difference is, this fire didn't quit. When Jesus performed miracles, it was another example of God taking the initiative, getting our attention: Matt. 11:5 and Isaiah 35:5,6; 61:1. Jesus promised to His disciples that "signs" would accompany their ministry (Mark 16:17,18). There would be victory over demons, as well as glossolalia, miraculous protection, and healings. Signs have to do with getting the attention of pagans; not to prove the superiority of one denomination over others; or to merely make life easier; and, they are not to be demanded – they are to be expected in the context of evangelizing the unreached. When the Greeks wanted to "see" Jesus (John 12:20-22), the request was made to a disciple. And the fact is, the Greeks still come to disciples: and they come to you and me making the same request. "You are the only Christ some people will ever see." If your name was Philip, what would you say to the request of the Greeks? "You can't do that, Jesus is God, and God can't be seen." "Pray for a vision, like Paul had." But remember, many religions have visions; the Native Americans, followers of Mr. Moon, etc. Or would you give them a Bible? Note that Jesus did not say "go into all the world and give out Bibles"! Or would you, like Paul, say, "Follow me as I follow Christ". Of course we understand that we are making disciples of Jesus, not our own. But when people want to see Jesus, they need to see Him in us. How well I remember the comment of the Philadelphia apartment dweller, "you're the closest I've ever seen to anyone being a Christian". Or reading the comment of Gandhi, "I would become a Christian if I ever meet one." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "We Would See Jesus" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - April 26, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Once while sitting at a table sipping coffee with a group of men, one of them made the observation that the people in the church often take on the characteristics of their Pastor. This was noted because the group had just been engaged in a lot of jesting, and poking fun at one another, and this was clearly patterned after the style of their previous Pastor. Then this brother said, "Now with our new Pastor, before long we'll all be philosophers." Perhaps he was partly right, not that I want church members to become philosophers in the classical sense, or sitting around arguing fine points just to hear themselves talk. However, I do want people to think about what they believe, and not accept what ever comes down just because it feels good, or just because someone else believes it, or even because the Pastor says it is true. I want people to be able to defend what they believe by means of responsible arguments which can stand thoughtful scrutiny. Too many people seem to think that "faith" has nothing to do with well thought out arguments. In fact, they say, because "faith" represents what can't be understood, any use of the intellect in matters related to faith, Christianity, or the Bible, is suspect. To them, "faith" and "reason" are mutually exclusive so that if you use your mind, you are denying the faith. One unfortunate result of this stance is that the Bible becomes useful only as a collection of inspiring and encouraging comments by people who lived long ago, or worse, it is reduced to a magical good-luck charm. However, I do not believe the Bible is to be so used. Nor is it there just to give us a few time-tested "feel good" quotes to stave off discouragement and depression. The Bible is not just a book of inspirational writings - an ancient version of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" - it is truth that is intellectually responsible. The Bible is a Book with the inspired writings of some of the greatest minds of history, and capable of providing us with sensible answers to hard questions. It is a Book to be read and studied, the meanings of its words to be wrestled with by intellectually responsible men and women who are at the same time open to receive divine enlightenment whenever it is needed. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from The Necessity of the Resurrection +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - April 19, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ How Do You Explain Yeshua? Yeshua (Jesus) was a miracle worker, God in the flesh, whose ultimate proof of power was his bodily resurrection from the dead. What is the truth? We have the following alternatives: 1) The disciples made it up. But what was the motive? Most of the disciples were martyred. If they knew it was a lie, why didn't they give it up when they saw it wasn't getting them anywhere? How could a lie be the motive for such lives of love and self-sacrifice? 2 Peter 1:1 2) They were deceived. Who or what deceived them? What master illusionist could have staged three years of miracles, a death, burial and resurrection, angels, subsequent appearances of the risen Christ in various locations, top it off with an ascension and make it all fit into everyday life, all the while fulfilling ancient prophecies right and left. 3) They were mistaken. But what else could they have concluded, given all that they had seen? We are not talking about one or two individuals reporting one unusual experience. They saw a life of extraordinary holiness and compassion lived out in the life of Yeshua of Nazareth. There are too many events to explain over too long a time witnessed by too many people. 4) The gospel accounts are only semi-historical legends fabricated long after the time of Christ. From the very beginning, Christian faith has been centered around a miracle-working, resurrected Christ. The apostle Paul makes very clear that there is no Christian faith apart from the bodily resurrection of Christ. (I Corinthians. 15) Furthermore, the gospel accounts do not bear the marks of myth. 5) Neither Yeshua nor the disciples ever existed. The existence of the church and the New Testament documents are well attested by archaeology and secular references dating back at least to the early second century. To question the essential antiquity of the New Testament is to question the whole of ancient history. 6) Yeshua did exist and did amazing things, but he was not God. What was this alien (or future man, or whatever) trying to pull by coming here and calling himself God? Was he just messing with our minds on some kind of cosmic fraternity prank or something? Why did he display such compassion and endure such suffering if he was only out looking for fun? Or if he was just visiting, why did he interfere? On the other hand, if he meant to do us good, why the deception? 7) Yeshua is who the New Testament says he is. According to the New Testament, Yeshua is God become a man, the only way of salvation for humankind. He has given us ample reason to believe in him, paving the way from the beginning of human history with covenants and miracles and prophecies, working in the lives of the people he chose for that purpose, and in the histories of nations to set the stage for his coming. If Yeshua really is who they say he is, it is of supreme importance to know. What will you decide? For the full article, go to: How Do You Explain Yeshua? +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - April 12, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The Donkey How would it feel to you if you were told that you reminded someone of an animal, particularly a not so desirable animal, say, a donkey? That's actually what happened to a little known man in the Bible. He was a son of Jacob, his name was Issachar. The name actually means, "he will bring a reward", but his father, when blessing his sons, said, "Issachar is a rawboned donkey lying down between two saddlebags. When he sees how good is his resting place and how pleasant is his land, he will bend his shoulder to the burden and submit to forced labor." (NIV) It's always been interesting to me that we often assign various human characteristics to different animals. Some animals come out looking good, others get a bad rap. When we don't like someone we might call them a "rat", and when life gets very hectic, we call it a "rat" race. Most of the time, the "rats" are winning. When someone is busy they're as busy as a "bee." The "fox" is sly, the "snake" is deceptive, and the "owl" is wise. Often we hear about "puppy" love, mother "hens", and "bear" hugs; but we live in a "dog-eat-dog" world. When you "ape" someone, you're copying them in a mocking way, perhaps while "monkeying" around. Everyone knows that the "goose" is silly, and an oversized person is as big as a "whale." To be like a "cat" is to be catty - that's bad; but we like things which are soft as a "kitten." When someone is as hungry as a "bear", they will probably "wolf" down their food, or perhaps even "pig" out. Lawyers after insurance money are called "vultures." If you're quick, you're like a "bunny"; if you're not, you're slow as a "turtle." We all know that "bulls" are clumsy, so we would never take one into the china closet. If you're quiet, you're like a "mouse"; if you're stubborn, you're a "mule"; if you're strong, you're like an "ox". The "eagle" reminds us of majesty, "elephants" never forget. Some people are as happy as a "lark"; if they sing like a "canary", that's good, but to sing like a "crow", that's bad. Most people judge the "donkey" as being dumb, although in the Bible, it seems that the "donkey" was actually a very special animal - evidently Issachar didn't become offended when his father, in his deathbed speech, likened him to one. In fact, according to Isaiah 1:3, the "donkey" was smarter than Israel - "the donkey [knows]his owner's manger" but the people don't know their Lord. One of the great stories in the Bible is when a donkey was used by God to speak to the prophet Balaam. (Num 22:21-34) The lowly donkey had the greatest privilege of all - to bear on his back the Son of God. No, Issachar wasn't embarrassed when his father Jacob likened him and his descendants to "donkeys". They would be distinguished for their ability and readiness to work hard, even under the undesirable conditions of being under oppression - they would be known for their quiet, patient, and industrious habits - fit for, and inclined to labor. Oh yes, if the load became too heavy, with sacks weighing him down on both sides, the donkey would have sense enough to sit down, and refuse to go on. That too is a lesson for us to learn. But most important of all, when we see Jesus coming into the city, and praise Him as the King, let us also think kindly toward the "donkey" he rode upon, and seek to be as ready to serve, and work hard for our Master, even while under the oppression that this world often lays on us. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - April 5, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The story is told of a father who had twin sons. One son was an optimist, the other a pessimist. On the twins' birthday, while the boys were at school, the father loaded the pessimist's room with every imaginable toy and game. The optimist's room he loaded with horse manure. That night the father passed by the pessimist's room and found him sitting amid his new gifts crying bitterly. "Why are you crying?" the father asked. "Because my friends will be jealous, and I'll have to read the instructions, and I'll constantly need batteries, and my toys will get broken," answered the pessimist. Passing the optimist's room, the father found him dancing for joy in the pile of manure. "What are you so happy about?" asked the father. To which the optimist replied, "There's got to be a pony in here somewhere!" Sometimes we may be tempted to think that a person who has hope is merely one who is born with a disposition toward optimism. But here's more to it than that. Hope is available to every single one of us. To have hope simply means that you believe that there is a future, and that future is good. It's the awareness that no matter what happens, we're going to survive. The storm may rage, the problems seem insurmountable, the stress more than we can bear. But to have hope is to say, "It doesn't matter what happens to me, somehow I'm going to make it through." It's similar to what the Psalmist said, "I will not be afraid what man can do unto me." (Psalms 56:11, 118:6) The same idea is picked up by the writer to the Hebrews: "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?'" (Heb 13:6,7) But what stuck me as I looked through the Scripture was the connection between "hope" and "strength". For example: "Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD." (Psalms 31:24) , and, "The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD will be the hope ("refuge" - KJV) of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel." (Joel 3:16)- I love the picture we have in Habakkuk 3:19 "The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights." And the familiar, oft repeated promise in Isaiah 40:31, "They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from Hope and Strength +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - March 29, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ A number of years ago a few followers of Sun Myung Moon were attending the church I was serving at that time. Wanting to understand what it was they believed, I met with the leader in our church library. She related to me a wonderful, touching story of how, as she was searching for the truth, she had a vision of Mr. Moon appearing to her. It was so real, it changed her life and she became a devote follower. But I wanted to know more - I wanted to find out what Mr. Moon taught, so I requested to borrow a copy of his book, the Bible for the Unification Church called "Divine Principle". The leader gladly gave me a copy, and I began to read. A couple of weeks later I was back in the church library talking with this woman, and I admitted to her that I was having trouble understanding this book, especially the point about the "ying" and the "yang". She quickly responded that I didn't need to worry, she didn't understand it either. "His teachings are so deep, very few people can ever understand them," she explained. You see, for her, Mr. Moon was a very spiritual man. For others, "spiritual" is equivalent to "spacey". Even Jesus, in a film aired a few years ago, was pictured as a glassy eyed, "other worldly" type of guru. It almost appeared that He had been on drugs. So then what is "spirituality"? That's precisely what we want to understand. Let me explain it like this. We believe we are, like God, Trinitarian in nature. He is God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Created in His image, we are also Trinitarian, although the configuration is a bit different. We are: man the body, man the soul and man the spirit. While the lines separating the three are not very clear, the body is different from the soul, and also from the spirit. And the spirit is also to be distinguished from the soul. (Note Hebrews 4:12 - "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.") The soul of man combines emotional qualities with intellectual and decision-making abilities, along with such things as self-awareness, conscience and motivation. It is our best understanding that the spirit of man is that immaterial part of man which has the potential of being in direct contact with God's Spirit. Paul says "His Spirit bears witness with our spirit."(Romans 8:16) To the extent that the spirit of a person is in meaningful contact with the Spirit of God, to that extend he or she is "spiritual". +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Taken from "Development of Spirituality According to the Truth of God's Word" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - March 22, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Public Reading A number of years ago while teaching at the Bible College, it hit me. The contents of two senior level courses converged - Ministerial Practices and Pastoral Epistles. The message was clear: too many churches have abandoned the public reading of the Scriptures. Except for a preaching text, very little reading of the Bible was taking place in church services. The result? A wholesale departure from an age-old practice stretching at least from Nehemiah to Paul. ("So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading" [Neh.8:8]; "Give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine." [I Tim. 4:13]) While many have concluded that the advice given to Timothy was for his personal reading, the language and interpretation is obviously otherwise. Public reading goes with public exhortation and doctrine. Besides, it's very clear that the early church inherited its patterns from the Synagogue. In agreement with the interpretation that Paul refers to "public reading" are commentators such as Clarke, Henry, Robertson, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown, Pulpit Commentary, People's NT Commentary, most Greek Lexicons and Kittel's Theological Dictionary. Underscoring the value of public Scripture reading is a story told by the prince of preachers, Charles H. Spurgeon. This was found in a sermon he preached on January 17, 1858; a message he titled "Search the Scriptures." Here's an excerpt: "Yea, the truth is so great, that God has blessed every word of Scripture, that I remember a striking anecdote of the conversion of a man by a passage of Scripture that did not seem adapted for any such purpose. You know that chapter in Genesis, that very dull chapter, where we read, "and Methuselah lived 969 years, and he died," and such a one lived so many years and he died? We have heard of its being read once in public; and a man who stood there, when he heard the words often repeated, "and he died," thought, "Ah! and I shall die!" And it was the first note of warning that had ever struck his seared conscience, and was the means under God of bringing him to Jesus." Back to the Trinity Bible College scene - I decided then and there that not only would I stive to be faithful to this directive of Paul, but I would also encourage others to do the same. One way I choise was to award scholarships to winners of a public Scripture reading contest. During the past seven years over a dozen students have been recipients of this scholarship. Now, for the first time, I'm asking for partners in this effort. First, you can join your voice, in your church, to encourage the reading of Scripture in public worship services. In addition, if you would like to participate by helping me increase the Scripture Reading Scholarship, let me know by return email. You may also make a donation to this scholarship fund using "Paypal" - the email address to use is: drchadwick@webedelic.com Paypal is a free, on-line means of transferring funds. If you don't have an account, check it out here, or clip and paste this address into your browser window: https://www.paypal.com/refer/pal=greatmich%40voyager.net Thank you. Neil Chadwick +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++ - - Dr. Chadwick's Email Circular - - ++++++ Brief comments to encourage faithful Christian living. ++++++++ - - - March 15, 2003 - - - ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ When you want to eat out, how do you decide which restaurant to go to? Well, there are many factors you take into consideration. For example, if it's just to get a quick meal, you will probably choose one of the fast food restaurants on "Hamburg Hill." But the decision will be different if you decide that this should be a relaxing time for you and your family or friends - you'd like to sit and talk as you enjoy more interesting and nutritious food. But whether you're eating on the run, or desire a leisurely 2 hour, full course meal; whether you want to get a 99 cent Whopper Junior, or a full sit down dinner with linen table cloths and silverware, there's one thing that all restaurant owners work real hard to provide for you. Yes, they do their best to provide a clean healthy kitchen so their patrons won't become sick; they do their best, within their budget, to offer food that is tasty; and they try to keep their dining area clean, have appropriate lighting and comfortable seating. But I'm not referring to any of those factors. There's something else that is absolutely necessary to attract and keep your patronage. It's called "service". Whether it's at the drive-up window, or in a dimly lit dining room with soft music playing in the background, what most of us have come to expect, and what all restaurants want to provide is this: competent, friendly, considerate service. No eating establishment will survive long without it. In many ways, churches are like restaurants. There are many different kinds, different atmospheres, even different types of food offered. But the one ingredient, like restaurants, which is absolutely necessary for a church to thrive, is this - service. Of all the institutions which we deal with in our daily lives, the church of Jesus Christ especially will succeed or fail based on how well this is done. We may call it by a different name, "ministry", but it is simply this, service. One of the most important teachings of the Christian faith is this: Jesus, the son of God divested Himself of certain attributes of His divinity to come into this world, to die so that we might inherit eternal have life. The writer to the Hebrews makes it clear that Jesus was far superior to the angels, and yet when He became flesh, and took on Himself the form of a man, Jesus became "a little lower than the angels."