July 29, 2015
There is something compelling about rags to riches stories; especially those in which a wealthy benefactor plays a key role. Such is our story."But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2:4-7)This side of the kingdom, we’ll never fully grasp what our great benefactor, God our Father, has done for us through His Son. When we least deserved it, and needed it most, He lifted us up from our desperate situation. Dead in our sinful ways, He resurrected us, figuratively, in and through His Son, and figuratively seated us in the elevated position of His Son. And this so that He might display His unfathomable grace and mercy to us in the Age To Come.Being reminded of this phenomenal rags to riches story about us is vital in providing proper motivation. A common accusation leveled at the church and Christianity is that it is about guilt motivation to force compliance to a list of do’s and don’ts. Ultimately, these tactics are ineffective as well as unbiblical. A far more compelling motivation is a deep appreciation of what has been, is, and will be done for us. How can we not be all in for the One who is all in for us?The more we treasure His incomparable grace in Christ, the more we desire to abound in faithful lifestyle and generous service. The gift of grace, not guilt, is the great motivating factor. I find it much too easy to become a spoiled brat rather than an appreciative heir. If there is a problem with God’s grace, it is that I don’t value it enough. And I suspect you are not immune to the same problem. So, let’s take some time today to just savor His rich grace. And, from heartfelt gratitude, may we live and serve more abundantly and generously than ever before.Blessing on your day, highly privileged one.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2015Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
July 28, 2015
More of Him and less of me. “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3.30). This statement by John the baptist serves as an important priority for every follower of Christ. If He is to truly be Lord of our lives, then He must be preeminent. It’s been said that what most professing Christians really want is the good life with a little Jesus overlay. We want the best the world offers and Jesus as well. But, the problem this presents is that the world demands allegiance counter to Jesus’ demands. The things of this world that we buy exact a price in return. Sitting on the fence, so to speak then, becomes an impossibility. “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.” (Matthew 6.24)It would all be so much simpler if a clear line was drawn, and we knew when we had crossed it. But, that’s the problem with the world’s demands; they are more eroding than outright hijacking. The parable of the seed and soil is especially descriptive: “the one on whom seed was sown among the thorns, this is the man who hears the word, and the worry of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.” (Matthew 13.22) The shift is so subtle that we likely won’t even be aware of it.Now, I’m as prone to this danger as anyone. One doesn’t have to be rich to be subverted by wealth and the world. Even the poorest can be materialistic to their spiritual detriment. And, I am often concerned that my worldly gain is doing just that. So, what’s to be done? “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3.30). The trite saying, “What would Jesus do?”, is partially correct. Better yet, “What does Jesus want to do in and through me?” If He increases in my life, and I decrease, what will my life look like? What activities will I be involved with? What will I be doing with the world’s wealth that I have stewardship over? What will be my priorities?“Jesus, I’m daring to risk making this assertion today: You must increase, and I must decrease. What you will do, and where You will take me, may well be beyond my comfort zone. But, as the saying goes, for You to be Lord at all, You must be Lord of all. And that’s my desire. Help me to decrease so that You can increase, and thus truly be Lord. And all this to the Father’s glory. Amen.”Steve©Steve Taylor, 2015Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
July 22, 2015
Lavishly loved. No other phrase sums it up better. Reading like a love letter, these statements convey the depth of this lavish love: “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world … He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself … In Him we have redemption through His blood … the riches of His grace which He lavished on us … He made known to us the mystery of His will … In Him also we have obtained an inheritance … you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance …” (Ephesians 1.3-14)In short, God is “all in” for us through Jesus Christ, His Son. And, this lavish love compels us to reciprocate. How can we be so lavishly loved and not love in return? Such is the premise for this appeal: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12.1 NKJV) “All in” love and commitment is reasonable.A defining moment for me, years ago, was a second-hand comment from a church member. This person, anticipating the coming Sunday, wondered what would again be preached about what we weren’t doing right. Instead of conveying a need for each of us to aspire to higher standards in Christian living, the message being received was about our deficiencies. Paul, in his letter to the church at Ephesus, as well as in all his letters, certainly appealed to living the higher standard. But, the basis for that appeal is never better stated than these opening verses in the first chapter of Ephesians. In view of what our Father has done, and is doing for us, in Christ, is it not reasonable to aspire to be “all in” for Him? Lavish love, not guilt, is the basis of appeal.It’s easy enough for me to urge you (and myself), through these words today, to “do better.” But, taking a cue from Paul, my appeal is to urge you to bask in His lavish love, and then let a deep appreciation of it inspire you to all that He desires. Nothing compels and appeals like His great love. May it wash over you freely today, and inspire your best for the One who has given His best.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2015Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
July 21, 2015
First things are important. The first speech and public appearance by a candidate for elected office focuses on their campaign theme and priorities. Similarly, there is great significance in how Jesus began His public service and work.His first recorded miracle is found in John 2.1-12. You’re probably familiar with this unique story of Him turning water into wine at a wedding celebration. “Now there were six stone waterpots set there for the Jewish custom of purification, containing twenty or thirty gallons each.” (John 2.6) That’s anywhere from one hundred twenty to one hundred eighty gallons of water about to be turned into wine; a massive amount of alcohol for the party.The miracle itself hardly seems dramatic; Jesus simply instructs that the waterpots be filled with water, and some drawn out to take to the wedding headwaiter (John 2.7-8). The headwaiter testifies that the wine is superior; usually that which is served at the beginning of the celebration (John 2.10).While some may find this miracle troubling, it’s important that we see its significance. Waterpots for the purpose of purification were used by God’s Son. His service would ultimately lead to His sacrifice on the cross to purify those who come in faith to Him. The lavish amount of superior wine represents many things; especially the great celebration of the kingdom of God (Isaiah 25.6). It also represents abundant grace, and the unconventional life and work of God’s Son (Matthew 9.17). It ultimately represents joy.This first miracle of Jesus at the greatest of human celebrations is rich with meaning and significance for us today. It reminds us of the joy of the coming age, and the new wine we sample now through the dynamic presence of Holy Spirit. It reminds us of the abundant supply of this joy and grace for all who would freely come to the great wedding celebration. May we be intoxicated today with the joyful presence of Christ and the coming age in our lives, and may we freely share this rich, fine wine with those around us.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2015Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
July 15, 2015
The life of a radical follower of Christ is rarely dull. It’s a life of adventure and even danger, as exemplified in the life of the apostle Paul. We find a detailed account of his harrowing journey to stand trial in Rome in Acts 27 and 28. Perhaps the best summary of this hazardous voyage is found in this verse: “Since neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small storm was assailing us, from then on all hope of our being saved was gradually abandoned.” (Acts 27.20) But, they were destined to survive this tense fourteen-day peril at sea: "I urge you to keep up your courage, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For this very night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood before me, saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar; and behold, God has granted you all those who are sailing with you.' Therefore, keep up your courage, men, for I believe God that it will turn out exactly as I have been told.” (Acts 27.22-25)Paul’s stand and work for the gospel is what placed him in these perilous circumstances. We cannot read these two chapters without seeing that he impacted the lives of many people with the gospel even as he journeyed to his eventual martyrdom. Regardless of danger or discomfort, gospel work was his priority.Our journey may be less fraught with danger than Paul’s, but the important thing is that our lives be gospel-centered, as best summarized in the last verse of Acts: “preaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered.” (Acts 28.31) There is no greater or more noble cause to be committed to than this.Would you dare pray this prayer along with me: “Father, use me today to advance the biblical gospel to at least one person, regardless of the cost”? It’s a risky prayer, but well worth whatever it might cost us, as the gospel is advanced through us.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2015Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
July 7, 2015
It can be called a cloning mandate. Cloning, a medical science term, is the process of producing something genetically identical. And, in many ways, that’s the essence of this authoritative mandate:“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ ” (Matthew 28:18-20)Create spiritual clones. Replicate one another spiritually. Do so with the authority of Christ. Do so with a world-wide focus. Baptize the responsive. Thoroughly instruct and train these converts. Be encouraged in the abiding presence of Christ as you focus on this cloning essential. Be faithful to this mandate; commonly called The Great Commission.Much misunderstanding exists concerning this great priority of Christ. He didn’t say, “Make converts”; He said, “make disciples.” Often the priority is to lead people to a faith profession, get them baptized, and let them go. As God’s new child, they will figure it out. But, that thinking makes about as much sense as a new couple, having birthed a baby, considering that the job is done. Never mind diaper changing, or formula feeding; things will take care of themselves. No, discipling must be deliberate even as parenting must be.There is absolute genius to Jesus’ Great Commission plan. Anyone can do it, and it’s not as complicated as we might think. It’s well summarized in these words: “The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” (2 Timothy 2.2) It’s a spiritual relay race; receive and then pass the baton on to someone else. Learn the authentic biblical message and gospel, and incorporate it into your life with the power of Holy Spirit. What you have learned and practice, carefully and intensively instill in someone else, who will also pass the process along. There is the power of multiplication in this process, so people in other nations will eventually be reached this way. And, the mandate of Jesus will have been faithfully fulfilled.Who has been placed in your path and life to be discipled? That’s where the Great Commission begins. Carefully train them, and benefit by further training yourself as you do so. But, realistically face the fact that this process takes time and energy; it doesn’t happen overnight. But, it will also be the wisest investment you will ever make. And, it will be in perfect harmony with Christ’s plan for each of us.May a mighty army of faithful men and women be unleashed in the world through faithful spiritual cloning according to the mandate of Christ.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2015Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
July 1, 2015
It’s a searching question often seen on bumper stickers in times past: “If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?” There was a reality check in this question for the apostle Paul. He really WAS arrested and on trial for being a Christian. Specifically, he summarized the essence of the trial before the high court of the land with these words: “I am standing trial for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers” (Acts 26.6). He further stated, "I stand to this day testifying both to small and great, stating nothing but what the Prophets and Moses said was going to take place; that the Christ was to suffer, and that by reason of His resurrection from the dead He would be the first to proclaim light both to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles." (Acts 26:22-23)Paul dared resolutely believe in Christ’s resurrection, and believer’s resurrection through Him. These were non-negotiables with him; worth living and dying for. This hope was basis for his prime mission: “to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith" (Acts 26:18). It appears that we are entering a new era in this culture. For some time now we have heard that we live in a post-modern, post-Christian world. This seems abundantly evident. It cannot be assumed that society, in general, embraces or even tolerates beliefs we hold dear. More than ever, we must clearly see and focus on biblical truth and priorities. We must truly know what we believe, be ready to give a defense of these, and compassionately and diplomatically appeal to our society. Being arrested and tested for our faith has always been a real possibility, but perhaps even more so these days. This ought not to invoke a sense of dread, but rather call us to more carefully consider belief and lifestyle and our role as salt and light in an ever darkening world. Resurrection matters. The kingdom of God matters. The Great Commission matters. Cultural climate adds emphasis to what truly matters, and what the people of God must be about. May we be especially wise these days about non-negotiable truth, its impact on our lifestyle, and our priorities as this present age draws to a close.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2015Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
