New Name, But Same Message -- 11/28/2010

Sunday, November 28, 1010

NEW NAME, BUT SAME MESSAGE

This morning I am going to do something very different. I’m not one to beat around the bush, so let me come straight to the point. I want to talk to you about some changes that we are making. Change is something that we do not like. You may say, “I don’t mind change.” I suggest that while you may like some change, a thorough investigation of your life would reveal a resistance to many types of change. There is something safe and secure about keeping things pretty much the way they are. That is why habits and traditions can become such powerful things. Tradition is basically no more than habit on a group level.

You have probably heard the story of the woman who always cut off the ends of the ham before she cooked it, but let me remind you. One day her daughter asked her why she did it. This lady couldn’t give an answer. She honestly didn’t know the reason, except that her own mother had always cut off the ends of the ham before cooking it. Her daughter’s question made an impression on her, so when she got a chance, she asked her mother, “Mom, when we were growing up, you always cut off the ends of the ham before you cooked it, but I never knew why. Why did you do that?” Her mom was a bit puzzled, just assuming that her daughter would have known why she did it. Then she answered very simply, “Because it was too big for the pan.” It had simply become an unquestioned habit. The necessity was no longer there, but her daughter had continued to do so because she was so comfortable with doing things the way they had always been done.

Let me remind you of how difficult change is when it comes to spiritual things. We see it in the way people responded to Jesus Himself. Who was Jesus? He was God in the flesh. He was the Word who revealed the Father more clearly than any written word could ever do (see Heb. 1:1-3). He was the Messiah, the God-anointed one for whom the Jews had been waiting for hundreds of years. That being true, how was it that those who best knew the Word of God opposed Him so strongly? How could it be that the most highly-respected Jewish leaders of that day engineered His death, rather than falling at His feet? Much of it had to do with their resistance to change.

Jesus came as their Messiah, but He wasn’t what they were expecting. They were expecting a Messiah who would come and use His power to make all things right. They saw the coming Messiah as one who would certainly overthrow Roman rule and re-establish the kingdom of Israel. Surely God was not glorified by His chosen people being under the control of pagans. They longed for their Messiah to come and turn things upside down

This was their expectation, and there was good reason for their line of thinking. Consider a passage we know very well, Isaiah 9:6-7…

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

Wow! The child to be born would be the Mighty God, who would sit upon the throne of David. Or consider Psalm 2…

Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? 2. The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, 3. Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. 4. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. 5. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. 6. Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. 7. I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. 8. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. 9. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. 10. Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. 11. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 12. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

The LORD, Jehovah Himself, God the Father, refers to His Son as the King, who will rule the nations with a rod of iron. Is it any wonder these Jewish leaders who were skilled in knowledge of the scripture were expecting their Messiah to come with a great display of power and royalty? With those kind of expectations, what were they supposed to think of one of whom it was said, “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger (feed trough), because there was no room for him in the inn” (Luke 2:7)? When they began to hear rumors of Jesus being the Messiah, what were they supposed to do with the other rumors about His scandalous birth? Beyond the birth, how could God’s Messiah be the son of a nobody named Joseph and have grown up in a hick town called Nazareth?

Are you getting the point? For them to see Jesus for who He really was, a tremendous change in their thinking would be required. It wasn’t that they were reading the wrong book. All the prophecies they had read about the Messiah were true; the problem was that they were not interpreting them properly. And their confusion was certainly understandable. We would have been confused too. The great question was this: Would they be sufficiently open to change that Jesus would be able to correct them? For the most part, they were not. With a few exceptions, the Jewish leaders concluded that Jesus performed His miracles by Beelzebub, the prince of the demons (Matt. 12:24). Jesus taught the truth of God; He lived the life of God, but those Jewish leaders refused to abandon their way of thinking. Their minds were set, and they refused to change.

We see the same thing in the way the Jewish people responded to a fellow-Jew named Paul. He was formerly Saul of Tarsus, a leading Pharisee among the Jews. Like the rest of the Pharisees, he was resistant to change, but out of His tender mercy, God dealt with Saul with a strong hand, striking him down with a blinding light. After Saul was converted, he became the man we know as the apostle Paul. As zealous as he was in opposing Jesus, with the same kind of zeal he now proclaimed Jesus as the true Messiah. Whenever he entered a city, the first thing he did was to go to the synagogue and reason with the Jews from the scriptures, demonstrating that Jesus was indeed the Messiah God had promised. Now you would think that Paul’s testimony of conversion and his Spirit-taught command of the scriptures would be absolutely convincing. For some it was, but many others rejected his words. The views they held concerning the Messiah were so entrenched that they refused to change. They were so sure of themselves that they opposed Paul in every way possible. The Jews from Antioch and Iconium actually followed Paul to Lystra and so poisoned the minds of the people there against Paul that they stoned him and left him for dead (Acts 14:19). I would have to say that they were resistant to change, even in the face of God-given truth.

But what about Paul himself? Wasn’t he well entrenched in his convictions and resistant to change? After the Lord saved Paul, He enabled the apostle to be a man who was willing to change. Paul was jealous for the Lord’s glory and zealous to see others come to know Him. Now let’s read about his flexibility in I Cor. 9:19-23…

For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 20. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 21. To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. 22. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 23. And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.

Paul was always willing to change, when it meant influencing people for Christ and bringing Him glory.

Jesus spoke of this principle when He gave us the little parable about the new garment and the new bottles, or new wineskins. Luke 5:36-38…

And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. 37. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38. But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.

Just consider what Jesus said about the necessity of putting new wine into new bottles (wineskins). What is He trying to say? Jesus told this parable in response to their questions about fasting. He wasn’t saying that His followers shouldn’t fast, but He was saying that fasting under the new covenant was not the same as fasting under the old covenant. There was a fundamental change. There were other things that changed when Jesus fulfilled the law and the prophets. A few weeks ago some of us heard David Platt talk about one of those fundamental changes. While material wealth was a sign of God’s blessing under the old covenant, that is not necessarily so under the new covenant. As seen in the instance of the rich young ruler, riches can be a barrier rather than a blessing. But that is a change that was and is hard for many to accept.

Now let’s come back to the changes that we are making. You may already be thinking, no changes we are making are along the same lines as the changes between the old covenant and the new. You are absolutely right. We certainly do not have the authority to make the kind of changes that Jesus did. On the other hand, because any changes we will make are not nearly so significant, they should be easier to receive. Ultimately, all changes must be tested by the Word of God.

With that in mind, we (the pastor/elders of this church) believe that the changes we are making are in line with scriptural principles and will ultimately prove to be to the glory of God. We certainly do not find that they violate God’s Word in any way. Remember what Paul said in 2 Tim. 3:16-17, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17. That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." We are trusting that the Holy Spirit is guiding us through the Word that has been given us.

We have come to the decision that it is wise for us to withdraw from the Southern Baptist Convention. As most of you know, this is not a new issue. It has come up again and again over the last 25 years. We believe that this is really only a formality, as we have been Southern Baptist in name only for many years.

The biggest change came 25 years ago, when we made the decision to pursue being the unique church God wanted us to be (though not stated in those terms at the time). There were issues at that time…

1. Elders. In looking into the Word of God, we had some serious questions about the wisdom of the one-pastor system. We were coming to believe that the scriptures teach us that the church is to be led by a plurality (more than one) of elders/pastors/overseers. I was told by the leaders of our Southern Baptist association that “Baptists don’t do that.” I asked those leaders very specifically to simply show us in the scriptures where we should not have a plurality of elders. The answer I received was, “Baptists don’t do that.” Their statement was not true. While no Baptists around us were doing that, there were some in the nation who were and there were many in the past who had done so. They never offered any biblical support for their position.

2. Other issues. Example: Someone said something like this to me, “I read in the Bible about lifting of the hands to the Lord. Can we do that?” I responded with the answer from scripture, but that was not popular. There were those in the church who wanted me to say, “It may be biblical, but if you want to do that, you have to go to another church. Baptists don’t do that.”

It was at that time that we made the decision to let the Word of God be our guide, rather than those who held to Baptist traditions above that Word. As a result, most of those who were strong on being Southern Baptist filtered out to other churches. Though we have remained a part of the Southern Baptist Convention and the Mountain Valley Baptist Association for these 25 years, we have increasingly moved in a different direction. It isn’t just that we oppose some practices that are common among Southern Baptists (though we do), but even moreso we simply do not see this as a Southern Baptist church. We don’t attend Southern Baptist meetings; we don’t use Southern Baptist literature; we as leaders do not use the term “Baptist” to describe ourselves.

Through the earlier part of these 25 years, I (and sometimes others) would attend denominational meetings, but such attendance has decreased until now we do not. It isn’t because the meetings are necessarily bad, but simply because we don’t sense the Lord would have us spend our time and energy in that direction.

Concerning Southern Baptist practices which we oppose, one specific example is the use of the Camel method by the SB International Mission Board. This method is used to evangelize Muslims. The missionary becomes familiar with the Koran and uses it as a starting point, emphasizing the parts that talk about Jesus. Even if we could become comfortable with that, we cannot tolerate the message that follows. There is no clear distinction between Allah and the true and living God, leaving serious questions about whether Muslims and Christians worship the same God. In addition, there are instances where Muslims are told they can follow Christ and continue to go to the mosque. Some of us looked into the Camel method pretty thoroughly and then wrote a letter to the International Mission Board. They responded with a form letter that has been sent to many who have voiced concerns about this mission strategy. Basically, the IMB does not endorse the method outright, but neither do they discontinue its use. We believe it is a missionary strategy that will deceive Muslims into thinking they are right with God when they are not.

It was because of this concern that we discontinued our $200 monthly support of the Southern Baptist Cooperative Program two years ago. Technically, a church which does not give anything to the Cooperative Program over a 12-month period cannot be a part of the New Mexico Baptist Convention, and thus not a part of the SBC.

Perhaps our other great concern is the way the gospel is proclaimed by Southern Baptists in our day. We are well aware that the good news can be shared in a wide variety of ways. However, we have grave concerns about a message that doesn’t always emphasize repentance from sin. We believe that the idea that you can receive Jesus as Savior and not as Lord is both false and dangerous. Does every Southern Baptist church proclaim such a message? No, but many do. We don’t want to be associated with such a message.

Bottom line, people who come here because they want to be a part of a Southern Baptist church will be disappointed, because we don’t fit the bill. Our sign says we are Southern Baptist, but in reality we are not. Therefore, we have made the decision that we are going to withdraw from our Southern Baptist associations. We will not be a part of Southern Baptists on a national, state, or associational level. That will mean a discontinuing of the $200 we send the Mountain Valley Baptist Association each month. We believe that money can be better spent in other mission endeavors.

Now let me be very clear at this point. We are not saying that there are no good, solid, Christ-honoring Southern Baptist churches. There are, and we know of some who are faithfully serving the Lord. Nor does this decision mean that we don’t want to have fellowship with Southern Baptist churches and individuals who are a part of Southern Baptist churches. In short, we want to have fellowship with the people of God. Lord willing, we will continue to have fellowship with Gethsemane and New Life, which are Southern Baptist churches. We will also continue fellowshipping with Cornerstone and Grace, which are not Southern Baptist churches. As in the past, such fellowship will not be along denominational lines, but will be centered in sharing the life of Christ.

This decision leads us to another issue. Because we were incorporated as a non-profit, tax-exempt organization under the umbrella of New Mexico Baptists, we must now incorporate on our own. Here is the question: “Do we do so as ‘First Baptist Church’ (currently our official name)? Or do we do so under another name? Bottom line, do we retain ‘Baptist’ in our name? We will no longer be Southern Baptist, but do we want to remain a Baptist church? In other words, do we want to be an independent Baptist church or a non-denominational church?

We discussed this issue at a Member’s Meeting two and a half weeks ago. A couple of concerns have been voiced. First of all, there is the concern that if we drop the name “Baptist,” outsiders will not know what we are about. When they see that we are a Baptist church, they will have some idea about what we believe and what we practice. They won’t mistake us for some cult. I must say that this is a valid concern. About twenty years ago our family was on vacation in Colorado. Sunday morning we attended services at a small Southern Baptist Church, and Rhonda ended up playing the piano. That evening we decided to find a church in the phone book and attend its service. We went to some church that had the name “Lighthouse” in it. Yes, surely the Lord wants a church to be a lighthouse to the world. To make a long story short, I either had to stand up and say something or we had to leave. My precious wife thought wisdom would dictate that we should quietly make our exit, and we did. I would have to say that it was a type of cult, built around worship of the pastor. The name didn’t tell us that.

However, I want to suggest to you that the name “Baptist” may not communicate what we expect. Most people (especially non-Christians) do not know what Baptists believe. It is far more likely that they will associate particular practices and traditions with the name “Baptist.”

The other concern comes along this line: “Through the years, Baptists have been true to the Word of God. Despite errors and abuses, over all Baptists have tenaciously claimed, ‘We are a people of the book.’ Do we not want to continue in that mold? Is there not a rich heritage among Baptists? Can’t we point to some Baptist heroes in the past? Will not the name ‘Baptist’ identify us with the Word of God?” Again, I would have to say that this is a very valid point. My question is this: “Can we not be just as true to the Word of God without the name ‘Baptist’?” Over these past 25 years, it is not our Baptist name and heritage that has molded our convictions, but the Word of God itself. But doesn’t a sense of history aid us in our interpretation of the Word of God? Absolutely. However, I must point out that while we can appreciate Baptists who have stuck with the Word of God, there are many non-Baptists who have just as tenaciously taken their stand on that book. In February Norman and I went to a conference at Grace Community Church in California. Did it bother us or anyone in this church that we attended a conference at a church that was not Baptist? Not at all. Why not? Because that church and its pastor have a history of lifting up Jesus and ordering life according to the scriptures.

As the pastor/elders of this church, our basic questions are these…

1. Does “Baptist” accurately reflect who we are? We don’t talk about being Baptist. We don’t follow Baptist programs or trends. In the final analysis, we are Baptist only in name.

2. We don’t want to spend our time and energy teaching new converts what it means to be Baptist. It will take all of our Spirit-directed efforts to teach them about the Lord and how to live by His Word. It is rather awkward having people become a part of a Baptist church and have them know little or nothing about why we are Baptist.

3. We are absolutely convinced that over the long haul we will be able to more effectively reach the lost without “Baptist” being attached to our name. While we welcome Christians who come here in search of a church home, we sense an even greater responsibility to proclaim the good news to the lost people around us. We don’t see any advantage in adding anything to Christ.

4. We have some questions about denominationalism as a whole. We read these words in I Cor. 3:1-7..

And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. 3. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4. For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? 5. Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? 6. I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 7. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

While these divisions are not perfectly parallel to Christians dividing into denominations, theremay be some application. There are those who strongly teach that this passage declares denominations to be a direct violation of God’s Word, based on this passage. While we can’t say with absolute conviction that contention is true, neither can we say that it is not. We realize thatwe cannot fix all the problems of division, but we don’t want to contribute to the problem unnecessarily.

As I have shared with some of the rest of you, when Norman, Alex, or I invite someone to come to our services, we don’t invite him or her to First Baptist Church or La Luz Baptist Church. Rather, we just refer to us as “the church in La Luz.” A number of you do the same thing. It seems pretty strange to go by a name that many in the church, including the pastor/elders, are reluctant to use.

On the one hand, we don’t see this as a huge issue for us. We believe that these decisions were made years ago. Now we are simply recognizing those decisions and acting accordingly. We believe that withdrawing from the Southern Baptist Convention and dropping the name “Baptist” will more accurately define who we are and where God has led us through the years. For those reasons, we will no longer be a Baptist church.

One brother who has been a part of Baptist churches all of his life is willing to follow the direction of the Lord for the church but maintains, “I am still a Baptist.” We have no problem with that. We deeply appreciate his willingness and your willingness to be open to change, change which we believe will ultimately bring glory to our Lord.

Obviously, we will need a name. Some have been suggested, but we are open to any and all suggestions. Among those suggestions, here are four that have been made…

1. La Luz Bible Church

2. La Luz Community Church

3. La Luz Christian Fellowship Church

4. La Luz Church

Please give us feedback on these names and/or make other suggestions. Let’s pray that the Lord will lead us to the name that is appropriate for us and will bring glory to Him. Lord willing, we will have a Member’s Meeting this Wednesday evening. At that meeting, the elders will have chosen two names and the members will choose one of those names. Two weeks later we will amend our constitution and by-laws to reflect that change.

Now let me be very clear. We will have a new name, but we will proclaim the same message. We will continue to preach the same gospel. Almighty God, who is perfectly righteous and holy, created us and deserves everything we are and everything we have. But we have not given Him ourselves. “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way” (Is. 53:6). Being sinners from the time we were born, we have rebelled against our faithful Creator. Furthermore, there is not a thing we can do to fix ourselves. No amount of good deeds or Bible reading or church going or prayer can make us right with God. As the Lord says in Isaiah 59:2, “Your iniquities have separated between you and your God.” As a day of work earns a wage, so our sins have earned us the wage of death -- not just physical death, but eternal separation from God.

Can anything be done about our hopeless situation? Is there any hope that our sins which have separated us from God can be overlooked? No, not a single sin will ever be overlooked by a holy God. Sin must be punished; the debt must be paid. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). 1 John 4:9-10, "In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 10. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins." That simply means that Jesus became our substitute. When He died on the cross, He took on Himself the wrath of God, all the punishment that should have fallen upon us. God doesn’t overlook sin; He punished our sins in Christ. “God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them” (II Cor. 5:19).

So what does a person do with that good news. Fall at the Lord’s feet. Repent and believe. Give up on yourself completely and throw yourself on the Jesus who died in your place.

That’s the gospel. May God give us grace to live and proclaim that gospel every day. A change in name will not make us do that more effectively. But praise God that He is working a change in us, gradually but increasingly making us like His Son, that He might be the firstfruits among many brethren. Read it with me in Rom. 8:28-29, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren." God is working in His children to make us like Jesus. But why? So that Jesus might be the firstborn among many brothers (and sisters). Jesus rose from the dead to go and sit at the right hand of the Father for all eternity, but that isn’t the end of the story. Remember His words spoken on that last night on earth, “Because I live, you shall live also” (John 14:19). He is making us like Jesus so that those around us may see our good works and glorify our Father which is in heaven, so that others will come to share in His life.

May nothing sidetrack us from our work of making disciples for the glory of God. We are weak, but He is strong. In these earthen vessels, these clay pots, we have the treasure, which is none other than the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. Why? That the excellency, the surpassing greatness, may be of God and not of us (see II Cor. 4:6-7).

Martyrs for Christ -- 11/14/10

Sunday, November 14, 201o (International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church)

MARTYRS FOR CHRIST

One of the ministries we support is Voice of the Martyrs. Those who are martyrs don’t have much opportunity to speak. Often little is known about their stories. Voice of the Martyrs gives them a voice. VOM does this not to glorify those men and women, but to let us and others know what is going on with many of our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world.

So what is a martyr? We might say, one who gives up his life for his and her faith. That would be a correct English definition of the word. But that same English dictionary will also give the etymology of the word, and you will find that it finally goes back to the Greek word martuV. This very word is used 35 times in the New Testament and it has some kinfolk words that are used even more frequently.

This Greek word martuV doesn’t always mean one who dies for his faith. As a matter of fact, that is not the primary meaning of the word. Did you know that this word is used of God Himself? I’m not talking about Jesus, though it is indeed used of Jesus (Rev. 1:5; 3:14). It is also used of God the Father. 2 Cor. 1:23, "Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth." Phil. 1:8, "For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ." We can be certain that God is not dead. Of course, Jesus died, but He rose again. The basic meaning of the word martuV is “witness,” “one who testifies.” The word is often used of the apostles, who were ordained to be witnesses to the resurrection.

So is there a great difference between these two meanings -- “witness” and “martyr”? At first, we say, “Yes, definitely. One is alive and the other is dead. Surely that is a great difference.” But let’s look a bit more carefully. Please turn to Acts 7. This chapter is all about Stephen. Stephen was one of those seven (deacons) chosen to handle the ministry to the widows so the apostles could give themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word. But Stephen also proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was opposed for doing so. Chapter seven is basically his defense, but he wasn’t satisfied to simply give a defense. He spoke the truth about Jesus and about the people to whom he was speaking. Let’s pick it up toward the end of the chapter and read Acts 7:47-60…

But Solomon built him an house. 48. Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, 49. Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest? 50. Hath not my hand made all these things? 51. Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. 52. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which showed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: 53. Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. 54. When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. 55. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 56. And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. 57. Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, 58. And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. 59. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. 60. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Was Stephen a witness or a martyr? How is he referred to in this passage? The only place the word martuV is used in this passage is in verse 58. It is not Stephen who is a witness, but rather those who witnessed against Stephen. They were the first to take up the stones, as was specified in the law. But we are to confined to this passage. Let’s turn over to chapter 22, where Paul is recounting the story of his own conversion. Let’s read Acts 22:17-20…

And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; 18. And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. 19. And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee: 20. And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.

So was Stephen a witness or a martyr? The King James Version reads “martyr” (as do NKJV and NIV), but others translate it “witness” (ESV, NASV). Still others translated it “witness” with a footnote explaining that it could be translated “martyr.” It is this Greek word martuV. What do you think? Was he a witness or a martyr? Was he one who bore testimony? Or was he one who sacrificed his life for his faith? I suppose we could say he was both. Which was he first? First he was a witness, testifying of the Jesus he knew.

Let me ask you a question. What would Stephen have been if they hadn’t killed him that day? Suppose they had stoned him, but he survived, as was later the case with Paul (Acts 14:19). Would he have been a martyr? Not in the sense of the modern English word, but he would have been a martuV. Think about it with me. I think some of you are getting my point. Stephen’s actions were the same in either case. Whether or not he died was up to those to whom he witnessed. If they hadn’t killed him, would his witness have been any different? Not one bit. The killing was their part; the testimony was His part.

This is why David Witt has shared with us on more than one occasion that all Christians are to be martyrs. That is, we have been appointed by God to give witness to His Son. The apostles were appointed especially to give witness of the resurrection of Jesus. They had been with Him throughout His ministry, and they had seen Him after He rose from the grave. They were witnesses in a unique sense. Nevertheless, we are also witnesses of the resurrection. While we did not walk with Jesus on the earth as the apostles did, we have their witness in the Word of God. And though we don’t see the risen Christ with these physical eyes, He is just as real, for He lives within us! Oh yes, we are witnesses. Are we martyrs? In the sense of the Greek word martuV, we are indeed martyrs.

Will anyone kill us for bearing witness to Jesus? You may say, “No,” but we simply do not know. The answer to that question isn’t up to us. Jim Elliot and his missionary partners did not know they were going to be killed because of their testimony for Jesus. If they had not been killed, they would have been no less courageous in their testifying for Christ.

Now let’s think of it from another angle. Let’s read that very familiar passage in John 12:23-28a…

And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. 24. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. 25. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. 26. If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. 27. Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour. 28. Father, glorify thy name.

When Jesus spoke of a kernel of wheat falling into the ground and dying, He was first of all referring to Himself. The time for His death had come. If He did not die, then all His teaching and miracles would mean little. Though people might be impressed, His mighty works would not bring life to anyone. But Jesus says, “If I die, much fruit will result.” In other words, through His death (and resurrection) Jesus would bring life to many. We who have His life are a testimony to that truth.

But Jesus wasn’t just talking about His own death. How do we know? Because of what we read in the next verse. Verse 25, “He who loves his life shall lose it; and he who hates his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.” This hating of one’s own life in this world is a dying to self. Compare what Jesus says in Matt. 16:25, "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."

Is this losing of life a literal physical death? Or is it a spiritual dying to self? That question is parallel to the other question we have been asking. Was Stephen a martyr or a witness? Stephen died to self before he died physically. He was a witness before he was a martyr (in the English sense of the word).

Please hear me. The word martuV is used in the sense of dying for one’s faith in Jesus. We find it used twice that way in Revelation and we also found that sense of the word in Acts 22:20, "And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him." When Paul speaks of Stephen’s blood, he is without question referring to his physical death, but again, before he died physically, he died to self. Stephen was not stupid. He was aware of the danger. He could have softened his message to protect himself, but he didn’t. Why not? Because he was dead to protecting his life and alive to being a witness for Jesus. In the English sense of the word, Jesus made Stephen a witness; his enemies made him a martyr. But in the New Testament sense of the word, he was a martyr long before they took his life.

Are you beginning to see? This death to self, this throwing away of self-protection and clinging to one’s own life is the greatest death. This is more important than physical death. Why do I say that? Because this is a death that Christ works in us. For the Christian, physical death is somewhat incidental. We know it’s coming, we just don’t know how or when. But it doesn’t matter because we know it’s purpose and we know what lies beyond. As Paul said, “For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21).

Someone might ask, “Are you willing to be a martyr?” That’s not the right question. A far better question is this, “Are you a witness for Christ?” Not, “Are you willing to be a witness,” but “Are you a witness.” Physical martyrdom will take care of itself. Would the Lord have been any less pleased with Stephen, if they had not killed him? Of course, not. It is the dying to self that sets us free to be a witness for Christ. Think about it. Once I have died to self-preservation, there is nothing anyone can do to me? After all, what can you do to a dead man? You can kill him, but he has no fear, because he has already died.

Do you see it? Every believer are called to be a martuV. Some will be killed for their witness and others will not. When we realize this truth and live it, we will find great unity with the persecuted church around the world. Right now they are living in great physical danger and we are not. But our situations are only separated by the outward circumstances. We are witnesses to the same death and resurrection of Christ. In that sense, we are all martyrs.

The difficulty is this -- many of our brothers and sisters in China and India and Afghanistan and other places are forced to find out if they have truly died to self-preservation. Persecution does that. We, on the other hand, are more vulnerable to deception. We can kid ourselves into thinking we are witnesses for Christ, even though we haven’t died to this self-preservation.

Let me make one thing crystal clear -- God has called every believer to be a witness for him. Of course, there is the old question, “Do I witness by the way I live or by the words I speak?” Yes, that’s right. Do you love your children with the way you live or the words you speak? Do you express your delight in your grandchildren by the way you live or by the words you speak? This idea that we witness by our lives and not our words is a lie from the devil. You talk about what you love, what is dear to your heart.

Someone will say, “Pastor, you are trying to put us on a guilt trip.” Please allow me to be blunt, “If you feel guilty because you don’t tell people about Christ, it is because you are guilty and what you are feeling is the conviction of the Spirit.” So am I trying to discourage you this morning? Not at all. What we need is repentance and encouragement. Don’t think those are opposites. They go hand in hand. When there is sin in our lives, there can be no true encouragement until we repent. We repent and run to Jesus, and there we find encouragement. If you are not a witness for Christ, repent. Then rejoice that He is able to change you. Cry out to Him and ask Him to do it for His glory.

Please allow me to read 1 Pet 5:6-11…

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 8. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9. Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 11. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

One of the ways the devil can devour you is by silencing your testimony. Resist the devil. Take heart, because you know that there are other brothers and sisters who are facing the same opposition, even great opposition. We are not alone in the fight to bear effective testimony for our Lord. We have brothers and sisters who are faithfully witnessing for him and tell us that Jesus is worth it, regardless of the cost. What encouragement. This is why Voice of the Martyrs is such a wonderful blessing for us. While we may be able to give some support to our persecuted brothers and sisters, their ministry to us is even greater because of the encouragement we find in them.

The Conversion of One Soul -- 11/7/10

Sunday, November 7, 2010

THE CONVERSION OF ONE INDIVIDUAL

“Is It Really Any Big Deal?”

Last Sunday we shared in Cliff’s baptism. It was a great day, wasn’t it? From time to time, the Lord gives us the privilege of baptizing a new convert. Praise His name for that. But we long to see many more people come to Christ, don’t we? After all, Cliff is just one individual among many. My question for us this morning is this: “How important is the conversion of one individual? Is it really any big deal?”

Now let’s back up and get the big picture. “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Gen. 1:1). From there, we read about the specifics of His creation. Don’t you love Gen 1:16, "And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also"? “He made the stars also.” It’s almost like an afterthought. “Oh yes, don’t forget -- God also made the stars.” The more man learns, the more we realize that making the stars was no small achievement. It taxes our imagination to think that anyone would be powerful enough to create the sun, and yet the sun is just one star.

So how many stars are there? If you were to go out on a moonless night where there are no artificial lights, you could count over three thousand. With a telescope, you could find a hundred thousand or so. But that doesn’t even scratch the surface. Now we are told that there are 100 billion stars in our galaxy, but scientists say they know there are 100 billion galaxies. That means that the number of stars in the universe is equal to 10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000. That number is a bit difficult to comprehend. Think of it this way: For every human being on the earth, there are over one trillion stars. Think of that. There are almost seven billion on earth. We can’t conceive of such a number. But now we have to multiply it by a trillion. However, there may be many more stars beyond what has been discovered. “He made the stars also.”

David had no telescope. He could only see a few thousand stars. Perhaps he was out herding the sheep one night when he penned the words of Ps. 8:3-4, "When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; 4. What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?" Of course, many of those who look through their powerful telescopes and behold the billions and billions of stars do not marvel at their Creator, because they don’t believe they have a Creator. But this morning I am talking to people who can still sing…

O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder,

Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made;

I see the stars; I hear the rolling thunder,

Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee,

How great Thou art, how great Thou art.

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee,

How great Thou art, how great Thou art.

In light of the majesty and the extent of God’s creation, who cares about Cliff Simpson? Compared to the rest of creation, he is no more than a speck of dust. Think about it. Of all the galaxies in the universe, Cliff lives in the Milky Way, just one of a hundred billion galaxies. And of the hundred billion stars in the Milky Way, Cliff lives on the one called earth. And he is just one person among the almost seven billion plus who inhabitant this planet. When you think of it like that, you might wonder if God even knows we are here this morning.

Again, “When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars which thou hast ordained, what is man that thou art mindful of him, or the son of man that thou visitest him?” (Ps. 8:3-4). But now come to that Psalm that moves in the opposite direction. I am speaking about Psalm 139. Let’s read Ps. 139:1-12…

O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. 2. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. 3. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. 4. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. 5. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. 6. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. 7. Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? 8. If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10. Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. 11. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.

The same man who marveled that God the great Creator would pay attention to people like us now marvels just as much at how the same God knows him perfectly as an individual. Just think of it. The God who sustains those billions upon billions of stars knows what words you will speak next. Yes, He knows exactly what you are thinking this very instant. And if you think you will trip Him up by suddenly thinking something different, He knew it before you did. Yes, David wrote this Psalm, but these truths are just as applicable to you and me as they were to David. As Jesus later said to His disciples, “But even the very hairs of your hair are all numbered” (Luke 12:7). The Almighty Creator, whose greatness is beyond comprehension, knows every personal detail of every individual who has ever lived.

In light of that truth, let’s explore this idea: So a man is being baptized this morning… so what? What’s the big deal about one individual who gets religion? Since we live in such a big world, get over making such a big deal over the internal change within one person. Who is Cliff Simpson? Which Cliff Simpson are we talking about? I did a quick check on the White Pages of one internet search engine and found 95 Cliff Simpsons, and they didn’t even have the correct current address of our Cliff Simpson. Can’t we understand that Cliff, and you, and I are just specks in the universe?

Please hear me. It is no small thing when one human being is raised from death to life through the power of the cross of Jesus Christ. I repeat, it is no small thing when one human being is raised from death to life through the power of the cross of Jesus Christ. I want to take a few minutes to remind us of why it is such a big deal when a single individual becomes a child of God.

I. A Big Deal, As Demonstrated By the Movement of Heaven (Lk. 15)

So is it really any big deal when one man or woman is saved? We are going to talk more about the meaning of being saved a little later. For now, use any terms you like -- saved, Christian, child of God, born again. Is it really any big deal when a single individual becomes a child of God?

The answer to that question is an absolute and unqualified “Yes.” There is nothing more significant that happens within the human race. How do we know? Because all heaven comes to attention when someone is saved. Let’s read it in Luke 15:1-10…

Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. 2. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. 3. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, 4. What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? 5. And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. 7. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. 8. Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? 9. And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. 10. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

So what is the key word in this text, the word that is repeated four times for emphasis? It is the word “one.” The shepherd goes after the one lost sheep. The woman searches for the one lost coin. Now notice in both verse 7 and again in verse 10, we are told that the angels of God are rejoicing over one sinner who repents. Isn’t that amazing! The woman rejoices over finding one coin, though she still had nine. The shepherd rejoices over finding one sheep, though he still had 99. But there is rejoicing in heaven when one of the billions of God-created beings repents.

By the way, it is clear from the context that this repentance constitutes conversion. We find the key in verses 1-2, "Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. 2. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them." The publicans and sinners were those who desperately needed the Lord Jesus Christ. They are represented in the parable by the one sinner who repents. But what about the Pharisees and the scribes? Didn’t they also desperately need Christ? Of course, they did, but they were not willing to admit it. They are represented by the 99 sheep and the nine coins. On the surface, we might conclude that the 99 and the nine are meant to designate saved people, but that is not the case. Read again verse 7, “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” When Jesus refers to “just persons who need no repentance,” he is speaking tongue in cheek. He is not saying that they don’t need to repent, only that they don’t see their need to repent. It is perfectly parallel to the earlier statement of Jesus, also spoken to the scribes and Pharisees: “They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:31-32). He was not saying that the scribes and Pharisees did not need to repent. Rather, Jesus was pointing out that these religious leaders claimed to be healthy and didn’t need the doctor. So why should they complain about Jesus eating with those whom they considered to be sick and needy? The scribes and Pharisees were not righteous, only self-righteous. They needed to be converted as much as the tax collectors and sinners, but they were blind to their need.

After telling those two little parables about the lost sheep and the lost coin, He then told the longer parable about the lost son. In this parable, He doesn’t mention the angels rejoicing. Rather, He paints a graphic picture of the rejoicing that took place when the lost son was found. When that rebellious son came home, his father put the best robe on him, put a ring on his finger, shoes on his feet, killed the fatted calf, and said, “Let us eat, and be merry:

For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found” (Luke15:24). Just as the lost son in that parable represents the lost man who humbles himself and repents, the father represents God Himself. Yes, when one individual is converted, God showers him with love, blessing, and joy.

All heaven is moved by the conversion of one sinner. The angels who give themselves to praising God specifically rejoice over one sinner who is saved. Isn’t that amazing! God Himself expresses His deep pleasure over one sinner who repents. When Cliff came to Christ, heaven was moved with joy. When you came to Christ, the angels rejoiced. Friends who are seeking, when God saves you and gives you new life, know that the angels will lead the celebration. Brothers and sisters, individual conversion is no small thing.

II. Exemplified by the Life Lived on Earth (of the saved)

For just a moment, let’s stay in Luke. Turn to chapter 19. Many of you know the story well, but let’s read it again. Luke 19:1-10…

And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. 3. And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. 4. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. 5. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. 6. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully. 7. And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. 8. And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. 9. And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. 10. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

Here we are again, face to face with a sinful tax collector. By the way, don’t forget why the term “tax collector” was synonymous with “sinner.” There are two reasons. First of all, these were Jewish people who were working for the Romans. For that reason, most of the Jews saw them as traitors. On top of that, they cheated their own people by collecting more than was necessary. The Romans who hired them didn’t care how much they collected, as long as they received the amount designated. If the Romans said, “We need $10,000 from this district,” the individual tax collector would decide how much more to collect in order to make a living. Suppose he needed $5,000 to live on. That would mean a collection of $15,000. However, there was nothing to stop him from collecting $25,000, which would leave him three times as much as he needed. You can see why the tax collectors were despised by their fellow-Jews. Notice that Zacchaeus was the chief among the tax collectors. That likely means that he had other tax collectors under him. And he was rich. Though he was despised by others, he had plenty of money.

For some reason he wanted to see Jesus, who was passing through his home town of Jericho. Why did he want to see Jesus? Was it just curiosity? Or was he sick and tired of the empty life he was living. We don’t know, but the important thing is that Jesus wanted to see him. It was Jesus who took the initiative and told Zachaaeus He was coming to his house for a visit. As usual, Jesus was criticized because He spent time with this sinful man.

So what happened there in the home of Zacchaeus? We are not told directly. There is no record of the conversation between Jesus and Zachhaeus. All we have is the result of their interaction. After Jesus got through with Zacchaeus, this despised little tax collector declared that he would give away half his possessions and restore fourfold to anyone whom he had cheated.

Stop right there. How many people do you know who have given away half of their possessions and made a point of repaying those whom they have cheated? It just doesn’t happen. But it did happen that day. This man’s life was so radically changed that the impact reached deep into his wallet. The conversion of this one individual was no small thing. His life would never be the same. Though we are not told, I can imagine that what happened to Zacchaeus made quite an impact in Jericho and the surrounding area. “Did you hear about that little weasel Zacchaeus? The rumor is that he is giving money away. I don’t know what he’s up to this time, but surely something is going on.” The fact that the conversion of the individual is a big deal is seen by the change in Zacchaeus.

This is not an isolated case. This change in the lives of converted people is the norm in the New Testament. Saul the persecutor was converted and became Paul the church planter. The Christian-chaser Saul became the apostle Paul. We all know that Peter denied Jesus three times. But after the Spirit of God came to dwell in him, he stood before a crowd at Jerusalem and said, "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ" (Acts 2:36). He was a changed man. Matthew, who was another of the tax collectors, became one of Jesus’ apostles.

No passage brings out this concept better than Ephesians 2. Let’s read about our past corruption in Eph. 2:1-3…

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins: 2. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

Yes, we were dead in our trespasses and sins, and dead men can’t do anything for themselves. Praise God that isn’t the end of the story. Verse 4 begins with the words, “But God…” We could do nothing for ourselves, but God… We were absolutely helpless, but God… There wasn’t a breath of life in us, but God… Let’s read it in verses 4-10…

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6. And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7. That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9. Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

For those of us who have been saved by God’s grace through faith, what are we now? We are a new creation in Christ Jesus. We were dead, but now we are alive. As surely as God created this universe, He has made me a new creation in Christ. 2 Cor. 5:17, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." And what is the purpose of making the converted person a brand new creation? We read of that purpose in verse 10. That he might do good works, the works which God has prepared for him to do. Before we met Christ, even our best deeds were filthy rags (Is. 64:6), but now we live a lifestyle of good works for the glory of God.

Does God still change people today? Indeed, He does! I recently read these words from one of my sisters, “I am sure the Holy Spirit is in me. I am able to see the world in a different light.” She recognizes the fact that God has changed her entire outlook. She is a new creation.

The conversion of a single individual is significant because that individual will never be the same; there is a change. We read these words in Gen. 1:2-3, "And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. 3. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light." Brothers and sisters, before God saved us we were in darkness. But then the Spirit of God moved and the darkness became light. Let’s read it in II Cor. 4:3-6…

But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4. In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. 5. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 6. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

III. Realized throughout the Glory of Eternity (Perhaps Luke 16)

There will still be those who scoff at all that has been said this morning. Highly educated people in this world will say that conversion is just a psychological phenomenon that has no miraculous basis. Many would deny God, concluding that what we call conversion is all in our head. We can take them through the Bible and show them the glories of God revealed in Christ, but they put no stock in our Bible. They are convinced that we are poor deceived souls. With tolerance and a certain pity, they say, “But if you need religion, that’s just fine. If it works for you, then follow it with all your heart.”

Do we have no proof? Do we have no guarantee of the eternal life we possess? No, we do not have proof from a worldly point of view. Now we walk by faith, and not by sight (II Cor. 5:7). We are not able to point to a physical, tangible Jesus that our friends can see. Nevertheless, as the hymn writer proclaims…

And Lord haste the day when the faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;

The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend…

Even so, it is well with my soul.

Yes, the day is coming when the faith of every true believer will be vindicated, as we forever rejoice at the throne of God our Father and the precious Lamb of God. Then the significance of the individual conversion will be realized throughout all of eternity.

Let’s come to Luke one more time, chapter 16. Here we find the story of the rich man and Lazarus. Let’s read it in Luke 16:19-31…

There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: 20. And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, 21. And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23. And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. 25. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 26. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. 27. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: 28. For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. 29. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. 30. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. 31. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

How did Lazarus get to heaven (Abraham’s bosom)? Did he achieve heaven automatically because he had so little on this earth? Absolutely not. He was in heaven because he was saved be grace through faith, because He was converted by the power of God, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. There is no other way. “Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). But can’t you just imagine a conversation between the rich man and some of his friends. “Charles, you have really done well for yourself.” “Well, I have to admit that I’m pretty well set. There isn’t a thing I want or need.” “Wait a minute, Charles. Don’t you think you need God? That’s what that beggar Lazarus would say.” “I have God. I’m a Jew and have always believed in God.” “Yes, but poor Lazarus would say that you need to be converted, that you need to follow that miracle-worker Jesus.” “Well, you can see where Jesus has gotten the beggar. I think my current status speaks for itself.”

Brothers and sisters, friends, seekers, doubters, proud scoffers… whoever you are, understand this -- the day is coming when this upside down world will be turned right side up from God’s perspective. The friends of this world will be cut off from God for all eternity and those who trust Jesus will be rewarded with His everlasting presence. Then everyone in the universe will fully understand the significance of the conversion of one individual person. Not a single person who was raised to life with Jesus will be left behind. All His own will come together at the throne to praise His holy name.

The Lord will make no mistakes on Judgment Day. Oh yes, many will say to Jesus in that day, "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” Jesus will not be impressed, but will reply, “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity" (Matt. 7:22-23). The God who created every individual is able to properly judge every one of His creatures. On the day of judgment, the Lord will separate the goats from the sheep, the one shall go into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into everlasting life (Matt. 25:46).

Conclusion

So I ask you again, is there really any earth-shattering significance to what we did last Sunday? Absolutely. The Spirit of God Himself was in attendance with us. When God saved Cliff, the population of God’s kingdom was enlarged. Cliff will never be the same, nor will the kingdom of God.

Let’s close by looking at the other side of the coin. The conversion of one individual is highly significant because hell is robbed of one of its potential inhabitants. Please allow me to share some quotes from Charles Spurgeon, who preached more than a century ago…

“If there existed only one man or woman who did not love the Saviour, and if that person lived among the wilds of Siberia, and if it were necessary that all the millions of believers on the face of the earth should journey there, and every one of them plead with him to come to Jesus before he could be converted, it would be well worth all the zeal, labour, and expense. If we had to preach to thousands year after year, and never rescued but one soul, that one soul would be full reward for all our labour, for a soul is of countless price.”

"Lost! Lost! Lost! Better a whole world on fire than a soul lost! Better every star quenched and the skies a wreck than a single soul to be lost!”

"If sinners will be damned, at least let them leap to Hell over our bodies. And if they will perish, let them perish with our arms about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be filled, at least let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go there unwarned and unprayed for."

(Above quoted from Paul Washer’s HeartCry Update; Nov. 2010)

Praise God that our Lord Jesus searches for the one. Is He seeking you this morning? Do you sense His Spirit wooing you to Himself? Can you resist the One who died for you on the cross, taking all of your punishment on Himself? Won’t you repent and believe? Throw yourself on Jesus, for He is your only hope.

Believer, will you go with Jesus to seek the lost? Will you allow God to spend you in order to bring salvation to that one who needs Him?