9/8 Philippians 3:12-17 Discontent with our Growth

(amphitheater in Philippi where plays, games, races held-there could be a hippodrome here for races as there were in nearby cities)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

9/8- Phil. 3:12-17
12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. 15 All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained. 17 Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
Calvin abridged: 12- Not that I have already obtained all this- Paul insists upon this goal, that he may convince the Philippians that he things of nothing but Christ—knows nothing else—desires nothing else—is occupied with no other subject of meditation. He also adds that while he had given up all hindrances, he had not attained the object of his aim, so he was always aiming for something further. But what has Paul not attained? By faith we have been ingrafted into the body of Christ, we have already entered into the kingdom of God (Eph. 2:6), and we already in hope sit in the heavenly places. But our salvation is in hope- it is secure- but not yet in our possession. What Paul has not yet attained is entire fellowship in Christ’s sufferings, a full taste of the power of the resurrection, and knowing him perfectly. “For which Christ Jesus has taken hold of me” – Paul was apprehended by Christ that he might apprehend Christ. He did nothing unless it was under Christ’s influence and guidance. 13- “Yet to have taken hold of it”- Paul was not doubting the certainty of his salvation, but was repeating that he has not attained the end of his calling. Now he compares our lives to a race. As it would profit the runner nothing to have left the starting point unless he went toward the goal, so we must pursue the course or our calling until death, and we must not stop until we have obtained what we seek. As the course is set for the runner, so God sets our course. As the runner needs to be free from entanglement and impediment, so we must not divert attention away from God’s calling.
“Forgetting what is behind”- If anyone thinks they have made great progress compared to their past, they will become indolent and may deliver up the lamp to others; we may look back with a feeling of regret so that we may not apply our mind to the current situation;
Thought: We are too easily and falsely secure in our knowledge and love of God. In American culture, we are too easily content with a little bit of God and not content enough with the things of the world. September is a great time to press on in our knowledge and love for Christ, challenging ourselves in personal devotion (like reading this blog), group devotion (like Sunday School or Bible study), and corporate worship. If you love someone, you are not content with just a bit of time getting to know them. If we say we love God, we should show it not with words, but with time. There are lots of things in our culture that distract us. Athletic events, athletic events for the kids, a beautiful day at the lake, and then we look back on our week, our month, our year, or our lifetime and we regret that we did not make God more of a priority in our lives. We are quick to rest on our spiritual laurels, but Paul did not- and we should not.

Prayer: Help us O God, to grow in our love for you. Keep us from thinking our race is complete just because we are on the track. Ignite in us more of a desire for you.

9/7- Labor Day

(Rockwell- Rosie the Riveter)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

12 "Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the LORD your God has commanded you. 13 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 14 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your ox, your donkey or any of your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns, so that your male and female servants may rest, as you do. 15 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.

Calvin: God, to prick our sloth, has given us the assurance that the trouble we
have borne to the glory of his name will not be in vain. Let us always remember that this promise, like all others, would not bear fruit for us if the free covenant of his mercy had not gone before, upon which the whole assurance of our salvation depended. Now, relying on this, we ought to have firm confidence that, however unworthy our services, a reward will not be lacking from God’s generosity.

Thought: A day off to think about work? You've got to be kidding! That is such an alien concept to us- it seems like we should be working to celebrate work. But this day off thing sounds a bit like the concept of the Sabbath- take time off so that you will not be slaves to your work as you were in Egypt! Calvin very much valued labor and said it was for the glory of God. But he also said we shouldn't be slaves to our work. In our day, there are two extremes- sloth (laziness- not working on purpose) and workaholism (often fueled in part by greed or debt). Our recession is caused in part by an over-extension of our debt and in the end we lost jobs. In balance is found right thinking.

Prayer: Help us, Lord, to find the balance between laziness and being workaholics. Help us to honor you with whatever you call us to do this day- even rest.

9/6- Philippians 3:7-11 Garbage vs resurrection

(Ben in courtyard of Philippi- now in ruins)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.


7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in [a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Calvin abridged: 7- “What things were gain to me”- Ignorance of Christ is the only reason we are puffed up with a vain confidence and get a false estimate of our own excellence. Where we see arrogance and pride, there we can be assured that Christ is not known. On the other hand, as soon as Christ shines forth all those things that formerly dazzled our eyes with a false splendor vanish or at least are de-valued. The things Paul valued before his eyes were opened to Christ had the appearance of gain to him. Now these things are loss to him since he has been enlightened. They were a loss because they were hindrances to his coming to Christ. Paul acknowledges that nothing was so injurious to him as his own self-righteousness because it kept away from Christ by it. Anything that keeps us back from drawing near to Christ is more harmful to us than anything else. 8- “I consider everything a loss”- Paul confirms here his initial decision to renounce his hindrances that he might gain Christ. 8- “surpassing worth of knowing Christ”- Many things have an appearance of excellence, but the knowledge of Christ surpasses all of these. From this we should learn what value we ought to set upon the knowledge of Christ. “for whose sake I have lost all things”- Paul was using an illustration from ship goers who when faced with shipwreck, lighten their load by throwing everything overboard that the ship may be lightened and they may arrive safely in harbor. It is better to be safe and in misery and want than to drown along with our riches. Should we then renounce riches, honors, nobility, or even external righteousness- for all these are gifts of God? The Apostle doesn’t speak of the externals themselves but the value place in them. Paul did not disown the race of Abraham and make himself an alien that he might become a Christian, but he renounced dependence upon his descent. It is not fitting that we go from being chaste to unchaste; from being sober to intemperate; from being respectable to being dissolute but that he should divest himself of a false estimate of his own righteousness, and treat it with contempt. We do not contend with the substance of works, but against the value invested in them. We are not justified by them. It is not necessary that you be poor that you be a Christian. But if it pleases God for you to be poor, you should be able to endure it. “Consider them garbage”- Some part with things for God with regret and a sigh. Paul not only abandoned what he formerly thought was precious, but considered them “dung.” Such illusions should be offensive to us. “That I may gain Christ”- by this he intimates that we cannot gain Christ without losing everything that we have, recognizing that He would have us rich by His grace alone. He alone is our blessedness. 9- “be found in him”[and may find them in him]- Paul renounced everything that he had that he might recover them in Christ. “Not having a righteousness of my own”- Paul makes a comparison between two kinds of righteousness here. One kind is a human righteousness of the law- which must be given up and renounced. The other is the righteousness of God by faith and does not belong to the individual. Believers have no righteousness of their own. 10- “that I may know him”- The knowledge of God is the nature and efficacy of faith. This knowledge leads to the power of the resurrection. Christ is rightly known when we feel how powerful his death and resurrection are, and how efficacious they are in us. “and the participation in [fellowship of] his sufferings”- Our whole lives should be conformed to his death. There is a twofold participation in the death of Christ. The one is inward- the “mortification of the flesh” or the “crucifixion of the old man”(Rom. 6). The other is outward- “mortification of the outward man”- which is the endurance of the Cross (Rom. 8). This is mentioned here along with the resurrection that we may know that we must die before we live. Through afflictions the way is opened up for us to everlasting blessedness (2 Tim. 2:11). Paul says that he is conformed to his death that he may attain the glory of his resurrection.

Thought: These verses illustrate some key concepts in Calvin’s theology. The Christian life is lived by a mortification and a vivification- dying to self and living to Christ. The knowledge of God is emphasized as well, which Calvin says is the chief end of his theology. The reward that comes of divesting ourselves of our own righteousness is found in our participating in Christ’s resurrection. In our day, the whole concept of self-denial is so foreign to us, that some think it is harmful for us to deny ourselves. But rampant self-indulgence can bankrupt our soul just as monetary self-indulgence can bankrupt our pocket book. Self-denial and endurance are the ways God plows our soul to sew seeds of the resurrection. Philippi was a place of great wealth. It had a huge mall/marketplace in its center. Today if you go there, you see only ruins. So many gave themselves for its wealth that today has been reduced to rubble by earthquakes. Paul was right in telling them to count their earthly attainments as "rubble."

Prayer: Lord, in a time when so many value the things of this world, help us to count these things as garbage that we may gain Christ.

9/5- No Confidence in the Flesh, Philippians 3:1-6

(Paul and Silas portrayed by actors in Philippi amphitheater. They rejoiced and sang even in prison)

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth. Here focuse on Calvin's commentaries to the Philippians- abridging his commentary.

9/5 Philippians 3:1-6

1 Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. 2 Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. 3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If others think they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.

1- “Rejoice in the Lord” – Paul was saying before that Satan distressed them unceasingly with daily rumors. Not he encourages them to free themselves from anxiety and gain courage. He encourages them to be faithful and not fall back into their old beliefs. 2- “Dogs” he called these false apostles “dogs” because for the sake of filling their belly, they assailed true doctrine with impure barking. He called them “evildoers” because under the pretext of building up the Church, they did nothing but ruin and destroy everything. Some who are thus busy would do better being idle! Third, he calls them “mutilators of the flesh” [circumcision]- because they tore asunder the unity of the Church. “write the same things to you again” (1)- may mean that he wrote to the Philippians already on some other occasion, or it could mean that he was reminding them of what he had said before when he was with them. He doesn’t mind repeating things because his silence might have meant their danger. A good pastor doesn’t merely lead the flock to pasture, but also rules the sheep by guidance, and keeps the wolves away. If thieves and robbers (Jn. 10:8) are constantly on watch to destroy the Church, what excuse will the pastor have if, after courageously repelling them in several instances, the pastor gives in on the ninth or tenth attack? Some are so difficult to please that they do not want to be reminded even the second time, yet they are tempted many times and their memory of good may lose its retention. 3-“we are the circumcision”- that is the true seed of Abraham, and heirs of the testament confirmed by the sign of circumcision. The true circumcision is of the spirit and not of the letter (Rom. 2:29). “serve God by the Spirit” [spiritual worship]- means that we put our confidence in him, invoke him, and renounce ourselves with a pure conscience. The antithesis of this is a legal worship (cf. Jn. 4:23). It should be noted that baptism replaced circumcision and is part of our pure and genuine worship- and not a shadow of things to come.
3- “we boast in Christ” [glory in Christ]- we have to do with the reality and substance and not with symbols and shadows. “we put no confidence in the flesh”- “flesh” means what is external, what is apart from Christ. The zealots fo the law are not satisfied with Christ and seek to glory in things apart from him. Confidence lifts up a person, to that they venture even to glory- so confidence and glory are connected. 4- “though I myself have reasons”- Paul puts his confidence in Christ, but if he were to glory in the flesh he would have reason to do so- perhaps even more than most. 5- “circumcised on the eighth day”- Paul’s circumcision was done properly and was superior to latter circumcision (that a proselyte might have). He was of the tribe of Benjamin- meaning he was of a superior tribe and of the race of Israel. “Hebrew of Hebrews”- Moses gives this title to Abraham (Gen. 14:13)- and Paul means he could trace his descendants back to Jacob. “in regard to the law a Pharisee”- the Pharisees were known for how they held their sanctity and doctrine, and thought they had the correct interpretation of the ancient Israelites. “as for zeal- persecuting the church”- though this was a heinous thing, Paul mentions that he was keen and zealous for the law, and on this ground persecuted the church. 6- “righteousness based on the law”- he cultivated an integrity of life suitable for someone devoted to the law. There are two ways to look at the law- one from God’s viewpoint (in which we do not keep it), and the other from humanity’s viewpoint (in which we may keep it relative to how others keep it). In the eyes of other humans, Paul was considered holy- and free from blame- a rare commendation, yet he did not hold other’s esteem as high as God’s.

Thoughts: Paul wanted the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord, not in the keeping of the law. Paul was heartily guarding his flock from the wolves, and we should guard our families from the wolves. I saw an interesting e-mail yesterday about a man who let a stranger into his house to live who taught his kids how to break his own household rules and ethics- to curse regularly and have loose sexual mores. But the man kept the stranger in the center of his house- and they gathered around the stranger every night to listen to his stories. The stranger was TV. It could be the internet if we do not monitor it. But specifically Paul was talking about a different kind of wolf- the kind who taught that we can earn our way into God’s pleasure by keeping rules. Islam has its five pillars, Buddhism its eight-fold path, and Judaism its ten commandments. Christians are taught that we are saved not by doing, but by putting our confidence (belief/trust) in God. Only Christ keeps all of the law perfectly- he was the perfect God-man. Being good, and keeping the law often leads to self-righteousness and pride. It is this pride that can kill the spirit inside- thinking we don’t need God’s help to be saved. Humility again (as in chapter 2 of Philippians) is the key.

Prayer: Lord, today may my glory be found in you and not in anything I do. Protect me from spiritual pride and help me to find my pride only in you.

9/4- Philippians 2:25-30

(St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre 8/24/1572- of thousands of Huguenots beginning with politicians and ministers)

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

9/4- Philippians 2:25-30

25But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. 26For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. 28Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor men like him, 30because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for the help you could not give me.

Calvin abridged: He recommends Epaphroditus because he is a brother- a helper in the gospel; a fellow soldier- helping them in the spiritual warfare; All believers are soldiers in the camp of Christ but ministers bear the standard in the army. “Messenger” is not apostle as much as evangelist. 26- “he longs for all of you”- such affection for his flock is a sign of a true pastor, and the Philippians were also concerned for him. 27- “But God had mercy”- Ephaphroditus had been sick and close to death in order that God’s goodness would shine more clearly in his restored health. This shows that this life is an excellent gift from God; those who live for Christ experience the hope of heavenly glory now. “Spare me sorrow upon sorrow”- Paul did not have the apathy of the Stoics who were exempt from human emotions. The cross has pain and bitterness, but the consolation of God overcomes these feelings (Isa. 50:5). For any believer, when someone dies, they are reminded of the anger of God against sin. But Paul was more concerned about the loss sustained by the Church when a good pastor is gone. 27- “I am eager to send him”- Epaphroditus was a comfort to Paul, but he cared more for the welfare of the church in Philippi than his own comfort. 29- “Welcome him in the Lord with great joy”- good and faithful pastors should be held in high regard for they are precious pearls from God’s treasury- and the rarer they are the more they are to be held in high esteem. Sometimes God punishes our ingratitude by depriving us of good pastors, when he sees that the most eminent are plainly despised. Everyone should help uphold the authority of good pastors (for the devil seeks to undermine their authority). 30- “for the work of Christ”- Epaphroditus would rather risk his health than be deficient in duty; Paul speaks of the services given him as “the work of the Lord” for there is nothing better than helping those who labor for the truth of the gospel.

Thoughts: One cannot help in reading this passage, think of all those ministers who were persecuted in Calvin’s day for their faith. We might include Calvin himself who was ridiculed in Geneva, in France (where a price was on his head), and in Italy (where he left in danger). So many Huguenots were killed in France. So many Protestants in England and Scotland by Mary of Scotland, and the Netherland Reformed by the Spanish. Perhaps Calvin sought to encourage those who were in ministry, or who were thinking about ministry by his emphasis in this passage. Calvin also risked his health for the gospel. He slept little, wrote much, preached much, worked for the church much. He was sick most of his time in Geneva, and died fairly young (though for his day it was a bit above average). We should be willing to risk all for the gospel, and to cheer those who are doing so.

Prayer: May we, Lord, be a refreshing glass of water to those who are serving for you.

9/3- Self vs the Interests of Christ, Philipians 2:17-24

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

9/3- Philippians 2:17-24

17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me. 19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.
Calvin very abridged: 21- “For everyone looks out for their own interests not those of Jesus Christ.” He is not speaking here of those who have openly abandoned the faith, but of those very persons that he reckoned brethren, even those very familiar with him. These persons nonetheless were so warm in the pursuit of their own interests, that they were unbecomingly cold in the work of the Lord. It may seem at first view as if it were no great fault to seek one’s own profit; but how insufferable it is for Christ’s servants that they become utterly useless when they give into their own selfishness. For it is impossible that the person devoted to self, should apply himself to the interest of the Church.

Thought: Selfishness and love are like oil and water. We live in a very self-centered, naval gazing age. The fastest growing religion in America is basically worship of self- the New Age which says God is within you and not outside (holy) from you. Much of facebook and twitter stuff contains people talking about self (it doesn’t have to be this way). One thing I appreciate about Calvin is he is always fighting against selfishness, but at the same time recognizing the power of the force he is fighting. He does not overlook the power of selfishness- even in the Church. Here he encourages us to forsake self to serve the interests of Christ.


Prayer: Lord, today, help me decrease that you may increase.

9/1- Philippians 2:5-11 Christ's humanity and divinity, humility and glory

(crucifixion by Dali)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

9/1- Philippians 2:5-11

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same attitude of mind Christ Jesus had: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a human being, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Calvin abridged: Paul now recommends humility by using Christ’s own example. Humility is the rule of life and the way to attain true glory. Christ’s humility consists in abasing himself from the highest pinnacle of glory to the lowest ignominy. Our humility consists in refrains from exalting ourselves by false estimation. He gave up his right. That is all that is required of us. “The form of God’ means his majesty, his figure. The form of a king is his magnificence which shows himself to be a king- his scepter, his crown, his attendants, his throne and other emblems of royalty. His abasement was voluntary not of necessity. We would be utterly blind if we do not perceive that his eternal divinity is clearly set forth in these words. For where can there be “equality with God without robbery” [“used to his own advantage” TNIV] except where there is the essence of God. Isaiah 48:11 says, “I will not give my glory to another.” 7- “Emptied himself” [“humbled himself” TNIV]- Christ could not divest himself of the Godhead; but he kept it concealed for a time, that it might not be seen under the weakness of our humanity. So he laid aside his glory in the view of people, not by lessening it, but by concealing it. I ascribe mortality only to a part of Christ, namely to the body. Christ has one person, consisting of two natures, so properly Paul says that he lay aside his glory when he came in the flesh as a servant (I Tim. 3:16). 7 “In human likeness”- means that he was brought down to the level of human beings, not that he was a phantom (like the Marcionites supposed). 8- “became obedient” – Though he was the Lord of life and death, he nevertheless became obedient to the Father to the point of death. This was extreme abasement especially considering the kind of death he faced on the cross. This pattern of humility should absorb the attention of all the world. 9- “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place”- Paul adds this consolation to our desire to humility- that abasement- to which the human mind is averse, is in the highest degree desirable. Everyone therefore that humbles himself will in like manner be exalted. Who would now be reluctant to be humble since the glory of the heavenly kingdom is attained? For it is the design of the Holy Spirit, that we should, in the death of Christ, see, and taste, and ponder, and feel, and recognize nothing but God’s unmixed goodness, and the love of Christ toward us, which was great and inestimable, that, regardless of himself, he devoted himself and his life for our sakes. In every instance in which the Scriptures speak of the death of Christ, they assign to us its advantage and price; — that by means of it we are redeemed — reconciled to God — restored to righteousness —
cleansed from our pollutions — life is procured for us, and the gate of life opened. 9- “Gave him a name”- Jesus’ did not die and lie with a “nameless, headless carcass” Rather, supreme power was given to Christ, so he was placed in the highest rank of honor. Paul is quoting Isaiah 45:23 where God speaks saying “every knee will bow to me, and every tongue will swear to me.” It is certain that adoration is meant here which belongs to God alone. 10- “Every knee should bow”- God is to be worshipped not just with an inward affection of the heart, but also by an outward profession, if we would render him his due. Paul also quotes this passage in Romans 14:11 in view of Christ’s judgment. All things are now subject to Christ, but full subjection to his will shall not be complete until the final day of reckoning. Christ’s reign is never spoken of in terms of one time, but eternity- which also shows his divinity. 11-“To the glory of God the Father”- means that as the majesty of God has been shown to us through Christ, so it shines forth in Christ, and the Father is glorified in the Son (cf. Jn. 5:17).

Thoughts: This is one of the greatest passages in the Bible about Christ’s humanity, his divinity, and his humility. It comes in the context of our own need to be humble. James and I Peter say, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and He will lift you up.” The ultimate example is Christ who humbled himself by becoming human and dying on the cross, but was exalted.

Prayer: You are Lord, Jesus, and every knee in heaven and earth will acknowledge that with our worship one day. Help me to acknowledge that today, and spread your great news everywhere I go.

8/31- Seeking Humility

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

8/31- Philippians 2:3,4
3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Calvin abridged: There are two very dangerous pests that disturb the peace of the Church: strife is awakened when people stubbornly maintain their own opinion and when it has begun it is impossible to stop. Vain conceit (vain-glory) tickles minds, so that everyone is delighted in their own inventions. So the only way of guarding against dissensions is by deliberately acting peacefully avoiding ambition. Vain-glory means glorying in the flesh; what is the basis of glorying in ourselves that is not vanity? “in humility”- For both diseases he brings forward one remedy—humility; Humility is the mother of moderation whose effect is yielding up our own right and giving preference for others. His definition of humility is when everyone esteems themselves less than others. This is tremendously difficult. Someone said, ‘Everyone has the mind of a king, by claiming everything for themselves.’ From this lack of humility comes contempt of the brethren. It appears everyone wants to be on Paul’s level, and everyone wants to have superiority. How is it possible for someone in a superior position [like a king or an employer] reckon those superior to him whom all know are greatly beneath him? This depends on a right estimate of God’s gifts and our weakness. If someone has great endowments, they should not think these are given so they might be self-complacent, or for self-exaltation or even to build up self-esteem. Instead they should use their energy to correct and detect their faults, and they will have abundant occasion for humility. But in others it is important to bury their faults with love and honor any good qualities.

Thoughts: These are two very important biblical verses. The divisions are often caused by pride (whether in the workplace, school, home or church). Spiritual pride and believing we know more than even the Apostles today has degraded the Church. Our divisions are also caused by our spiritual pride. We need to submit ourselves to scripture first and secondarily to others. Calvin gives very practical advice here on how to be humble- looking on our own faults and weaknesses, and valuing another’s gifts and strengths. I have often thought that having too many mirrors and looking in them too many times promotes narcissism. Today twitter and facebook can do the same thing- telling people every little event of our lives like the world should be interested can develop into self-centered thinking- which leads away from thinking of God and others ahead of ourselves.

Prayer: Today, Lord, may I put others above myself. Help me to not promote my own ideals, but to listen and care for the concern of others.

8/30 Philippians 2:1,2 Pleading for Unity

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

Calvin abridged: 2:1- “if you have any encouragement” (any consolation)- there is extraordinaty tenderness here, to encourage the Philippians to cherish harmony among themselves. Otherwise they may expose themselves to the false apostles. Comfort, fellowship of the Spirit ought to make us all one, From this we may infer how breat a blessing unity in the Church is, and with what eagerness pastors should endeavor to secure it. Paul humbles himself asking for their pity more than commanding them as a father. He knew he would gain their respect this way.
2:2 “FULFILL MY JOY” Paul cares little about himself here. Paul is encouraging them to be of one mind and have the same views, accommodating themselves to each other.

Thoughts: If you have any reason to be a Christian, then you have a reason to pursue church unity. The Church is after all, his body.

Prayer: Lord, though we stumble and fall, uphold us with your hand to bring about unity in your church.

8.29- Philippians 1:27-30

(first century jail in Philippi where Paul and Silas sang)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

8/29- Philippians 1:27-30

27 Whatever happens, as citizens of heaven live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together with one accord for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

27- “In a manner worthy of the gospel”- A pure life is worthy of the gospel, but on the other hand, those who live otherwise do injustice to the gospel. “stand in one spirit” – This is one of the main benefits of the Church, and standing in one spirit is a way to preserve it. Paul requires a two-fold unity- of spirit and soul. “Spirit” (spiritus) denotes the understanding, while soul (anima) denotes the will. He strongest bond of concord is “striving together for the faith.” Paul was saying that the faith of the gospel should unite us since we have common weapons against one and the same enemy. We are armed with the shield of faith against our enemy (Eph. 6:16). 28- “without being frightened”- He secondly commends strength of mind that they may not be thrown into confusion by their adversaries. “This is a sign” – The scripture nowhere teaches that the afflictions which the saints endure are the cause of their salvation. Paul also says that God by his blessing turns into an occasion of good things that otherwise might seem to make us miserable. Sufferings themselves are evidence of the grace of God. 29- Certainly we cannot attain the high knowledge of God by our own acuteness. The gifts of grace are not the rewards of our merit. 30- Paul is saying that they should not be troubled about his bonds, when they understand the issue of the conflict.

Thoughts- “whatever happens” most of us want to live for God when he blesses us, and curse God when he withhold his hand. Paul is not embarrassed by persecution of trial, but learns from it. We should learn as well.

Prayer: Give us grace and your hope to live for you in the good and the bad situations of life.

8/28- Philippians 1:22-26 Meaning to Life and Death

(Egnatian Way-ancient Roman road of Paul's day. This marker in Philippi Paul may have seen- to depart or stay?)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

8/28 Philippians 1:22-6

22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.

22- “Living in the body”- Some in despair and confusion wonder if they ought to prolong their life and their misery, or to terminate their troubles by death. Paul, on the other hand, says that he has a spirit of contentment so that he is well prepared for death or life. Both are blessed when we believe so that we don’t know which is better to choose.
23- “I am torn between the two”- Paul’s object in desiring to live is promoting the glory of Christ, and doing good to the brothers and sisters. Paul’s concern is for the Philippians. This is in reality what it means to live and die to Christ- when we are indifferent to ourselves and allow ourselves to be borne away wherever Christ calls us. “to depart and be with Christ”- Persons in despair have a desire to depart to escape their weary life. But believers, on the other hands, willingly hasten forward to it, because it is deliverance from the bondage of sin, and an introduction to the kingdom of heaven. Those who are Christian in name only are rendered almost lifeless in fear at the mention of death. Unbelievers speak of death as the destruction of human beings. Paul explains death as the separation of the soul from the body. The soul does not sleep when it is separated from the body- but we enjoy Christ’s presence on being set free from the body (cf. II Cor. 5:6). 26- “your boasting of Christ” – It is not “boasting through Christ” but “boasting in Christ.”

Thought: Paul sees value in life and in death, while many see no value in either life or in death. If we know how to die, we will have perspective on how to live. Paul’s purpose is to fulfill his calling by God. His calling is now to remain with them and to help them in their faith. Some are called to go on to the next life. We should always be willing to listen and to respond, “wherever he leads I’ll go.”

Prayer: Thank you Lord, that you give meaning both to life and death. Help us to go where you want us to go and be the person you made us to be.

8/27- Philippians 1:18-21 To Die is Christ Too

(actor portraying Paul in the arena in Philippi where Christians were killed by lions)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God's provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Calvin abridged: 18- “But in every way”- God sometimes accomplishes an admirable work by means of wicked and depraved instruments. He rejoices because the kingdom of Christ is increasing. Yet had Paul controlled who was to be ordained, he would not have ordained those who were worthless as ministers. 19- “for I know that” – Paul’s confidence is derived from the assurance that all things contribute to the advantage of God’s true worshippers (Rom. 8:28) even though the whole world with the devil as its prince, should conspire together for their ruin. Paul’s deliverance is first caused by God’s spirit and secondarily by our prayers. “Spirit of Jesus Christ” means the Spirit is common to all of us who believe. 20- “I eagerly expect”- this expectation comes from hope. We should also seek this hope so that we will not be put to shame. Hope is in subjection to the promise of God. “Christ will be magnified”- by our full assurance. 21- “For to me to live is Christ” It is not that Christ was life to Paul and death was gain; rather Christ is the subject of both clauses- he is declared to be gain in him both in life and in death. Paul is indifferent whether he lives or died. Let Christ be with us and he will bless our life as well as our death, so that both will be happy and desirable for us.

Thoughts: Paul was assured that God will work to his advantage. This assurance was there whether he lived or whether he died. To too many God is only good when we live or when we are blessed in this life. Way too much attention is given to this life, so that we are blinded at finding ultimate peace. “Health care” is a two worded button pusher in our day. Yet we live longer than any other society on the face of this earth. We should always try to improve this life, but this life is not all there is. In 1900 the average American lived to 45. Now we are pushing 80. Do we desperately need more health care on average? At the same time, we go to church less, have less faith, have given up on meaning, and depression is more contagious than the swine flu. For many of us, we can’t say what Paul said. We can say to live is Christ, perhaps, but we cannot say “to die is gain” and mean it. We hold on to this life and avoid our crosses too easily.

Prayer: Lord, help me to believe that whether I live or die, you will work all things for my good- which is also your glory.

8/26- Philippians 1:12-17- Chains Advance the Gospel

(Ben overlooking first century jail in Philippi last November)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Philippians 1:12-17 (TNIV)
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. 15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.
Calvin abridged: 12- “Now I want you to know” We all know from our own experience, how much we do not like the abasement of the cross. We are okay with the preaching of Christ crucified to us; but when the reality of the cross becomes real to us, we either avoid him or are abhorred at him and also those who preach him. It could be that the Philippians were in some degree discouraged by the persecution of their Apostle. But the Apostle answers this charge when he says that the gospel had been promoted by means of his bonds- to the encouragement of the Philippians. 13- He intimates that his bonds had become an illstration to promote the honor of Christ. By the praetorium (palace guard) I understand the halls and palace of Nero. 14- “most of the brothers and sisters”- By this we are taught that the tortures of the saints, endured by them on behalf of the gospel, are a ground of confidence for us. It would be a dreadful spectacle, and would dishearten us, if we didn’t see anything but the cruelty and rage of persecutors. But if we also see the hand of the Lord, which makes his people unconquerable under the infirmity of the cross, we ought to venture farther than we are accustomed, having now a pledge of our victory helping us overcome our fears. 15- even those who wished the Apostle evil were on another account stirred up to publish the gospel. 16- He repeats that there are two classes of people that are stirred up by his bonds to preach Christ—the one influenced by contention, the other by pious zeal. The former do not preach Christ purely, yet Paul (though having no pleasure in seeing the gospel corrupted) rejoices in the preaching even though it was not simple or sincere. Paul is not saying anything that I (Calvin) have not experienced. For there are those today who preach the gospel with no other purpose than that they might gratify the rage of the wicked by persecuting pious pastors. 17- We must give a helping hand, as far as possible, to the servants of Christ who are in difficulty. Christ has conferred upon us the great honor [of defense of the gospel] what excuse shall we have , if we are traitors to his cause or betray it by silence? What can we then expect but that he shall in return to desert our cause- who is our sole Advocate or Patron with the Father? (I John 2:1).
Thoughts: Ironically, sometimes our own demise is a lifting up of the cause of Christ. Once again our crosses bring our resurrection. Paul’s imprisonment furthered the gospel in his situation. Paul was in prison (probably in Rome) when he wrote this. The Philippians really honored Paul who sang in prison with Silas- and the earthquake came that led the jailer to Christ. In Philippi the ancient church built a huge church (now in ruins) on top of the first century jail that had imprisoned Paul. Just as Paul’s imprisonment in Philippi led to the furtherance of the gospel, so his imprisonment in Rome had penetrated to even the emperor’s guard! So those imprisoned by some malady (sickness, debt, joblessness) may still be able to further the gospel.

Prayer: Lord, help us not to love comfort more than furthering your gospel. Today we pray for those who are persecuted and put our hope that even in the worst circumstances there still may be hope.

8/25- Philippians 1:7-11; Prayer for love and knowledge

(picture of Geneva mid 1500s)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

8/25- Philippians 1:7-11

7 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Calvin Abridged: It is envious to not recognize as children of God those in whom the Spirit of adoption works through gifts and token of piety. Paul accordingly says we should hold out hope for the Philippians for the future because he has seen their fellowship with him in grace. It is not the fellowship of bonds that he is talking about here as much as the fellowship of grace. Paul has them in his heart- which means he is sincere, without pretense, and without doubt. It is a ludicrous thing in the world’s eyes to count a prison as a benefit from God, but it is an honor from God when we suffer persecution for the sake of his truth (cf. Mt. 5:11). Let us therefore remember that we must embrace the cross of Christ as a special favor from God with readiness and alacrity. “Defending and confirming” point to the honor of serving God as he places us in opposition to his enemies, in order to bear testimony to his gospel. This was what the martyrs considered when they were prepared to face the rage and torture of the wicked. It was more courageous of them to face their problems as martyrs than to begin a destructive revolt. The confirmation of the gospel does not depend on the steadfastness of human beings, for God remains true even though we are liars (Romans 3:4). Weak consciences are confirmed and sealed with this help that the “blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church” (Tertullian). But that sacred blood, the maintainer of God’s honor will be like seed for producing offspring.”
8- “God can testify”- He now declares more explicitly his affection for them, and to prove it he makes an oath, because the edification of the Church is important to God. Credence is given to doctrine if the people are persuaded they are loved by their teacher. “The affection of Christ”- in opposition to the affection of the flesh, is this holy and pious affection. The one who loves according to the flesh receives selfish benefits, and may change the mind according to circumstances and the situation. Believers should allow Christ to control their emotions so that, renouncing their own will, they allow Christ to sit in the driver’s seat. Unquestionably, true love can flow from no other source than the heart of Christ. By his love, we are encouraged to mutual love.
9- “This is my prayer”- He returns to his prayer here asking that they may learn to pray according to his example, and may aspire to be proficient in their gifts. The goal of Christians are to obtain progress in knowledge, understanding, and then love. “en” in Greek should be rendered “with” – for the greater proficiency we make in knowledge, the more our love ought to increase. “All knowledge” means what is full and complete—not a knowledge of all things.
10- “so that you may be able to discern what is best”- Here we have a definition of Christian wisdom—to know what is advantageous or expedient—not twisting the mind with empty, unprofitable speculations. Scripture is useful (2 Tim. 3:16,17).” may be pure and blameless”- sincerity is the advantage we obtain from knowledge—not that everyone may find their own interests, but that we may live with a pure conscience in the sight of God. “blameless”- means leading an honorable life in the sight of others not hurting their neighbors by evil examples (following Chrysostom). He desires wisdom from us so that we will not slip over the stumbling blocks that Satan throws our way- trying to stop or impede us (every one of knows of such impediments). 11- “filled with the fruit of righteousness” A good conscience produces outward fruits by our works. So he is desiring that they may be fruitful in good works for the glory of God. Such fruits are by Christ because they flow from his grace. We are wild olive trees that are unproductive until we are ingrafted into Christ (Jn. 15:1; Rom. 11:24). The goal is that we may promote the glory fo God. For no life is so excellent that it is not corrupted unless it is directed toward this end. Righteousness depends upon our faith in God and the remission of sins.

Thoughts- The love of Christ compels us to love others- no matter how rich, poor, smart, beautiful or plain, American or not, God’s love calls us to love others. The world would tell us to love only those like us, those who are the best this life offers. Jesus calls us to see the value of people made in his image and for whom he died. Paul was compelled to go not just to the Jews, but to a people thousands of miles away. Europe was reached when Lydia was baptized outside of Philippi. We are also called to be missionaries of Christ’s love to those around us.

Prayer: Help us to grow more and more in love and insight into you, O Lord. Help us to grow in love for others.

8/24- Philippians 1:1-6 Praying and Continuing

(Overview of ruins at Philippi taken last November in a trip with my church)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

8/24- Philippians 1:1-6
1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God's holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Calvin abridged: Paul did not use important titles here because the Philippians knew him as an Apostle of Christ. “bishops” or “overseers” means pastors. He assigns several bishops to one church, so the title is more appropriately “pastor.” Paul gives thanks (vs. 3) to show his love to the Philippians and to exhort them to persevere in times to come.
Whenever he mentions joyful things, he breaks into thanksgiving to God (and we should as well). 4- Paul was saying whenever he prayed he remembered them. Joy refers to the past- their auspicious beginnings, and prayer refers to the future- their desired perfection. We are to rejoice in the blessings we receive, and are inspired to ask those things for which we are in need. 5- The ground of his joy is that they partake in the gospel (which is received by faith). “From the first day” is a reference to how quickly the Philippians responded, and how teachable they were. How rare and wonderful it is to follow God quickly and then to persevere in our faith. Many are slow and rebellious, and still more are fickle and inconsistent. 6- Paul was confident of their continued faith and growth. Some would ask why people dare to assure themselves of tomorrow when there are many obstacles and impediments to our faith. Paul did not derive this confidence from people, but from God. God does not forsake the work his hands have begun (Ps. 138:8; Isa. 64:8). He will complete what he has begun in us. When we are adopted and elected, this calling is effectual for us. Some ask if any one can be certain of the salvation of others as Paul is speaking not of himself but of the Philippians. The Spirit is my witness to my calling. We have no testimony to others except outward signs of God’s grace. The assurance of faith remains inwardly shut up, and does not extend itself to others. However, we ought to entertain good hope for others out of an equitable and kind judgment of charity. “Until the day of Christ Jesus” refers to the termination of our human conflict when we die. Our eyes should always focus on our hope in the blessed resurrection.

Thoughts: My blog will be going through Calvin’s commentary on the Philippians because it is a practical book and one of my favorites of Calvin. I will be editing Calvin’s words so they are more modern than the translation done in the 1800s, and abridging them putting the meat of what Calvin says in the text. Here are some thoughts for today’s verses: Paul prayed for his people- not just when they were sick, but for their spiritual well-being. So many in church in our culture and day pray for the physically sick, and overlook our spiritual sickness. While we cannot be fully assured of another’s salvation, we can be gracious and hopeful. God claimed for himself that he is slow to wrath and quick to give mercy- and we should be slow to condemn and quick to be kind, gracious, and merciful when speaking of another’s salvation. Paul knew that God was working in them, and was assuring them and him that God would continue that work- not forsake it.

Prayer: Lord, we remember those whose lives have intersected ours in our past who are continuing to follow you. Be gracious to them that they may continue in their faith and hope til the end.

8/23- Lord's Day

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

21 "Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest; even during the plowing season and harvest you must rest.

Calvin: Although the Sabbath has been abrogated, there is still occasion for us: to assemble on stated days for the hearing of the Word, the breaking of the mystical bread, and for public prayers 2) to give surcease from labor to servants and workmen

Thoughts: A day to rest, to get our priorities right, to worship- yet some think it is a curse to not shop, buy or work. Calvin said he wishes we were asked to worship every day, but God knew our hearts were hard. So God accomodates himself and paces us. Sunday is refreshing to me.

Prayer: Help us, Lord, to find our rest and peace in you.

8/22- Homosexuality and the church

(Steeple of Central Lutheran- across from Convention Center where ELCA was meeting)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

8/22-
24 Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. 25 They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen. 26 Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. 27 In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error.
The unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

Calvin: The writer brings, as the first example of the judgment of God, the dreadful crime of unnatural lust; and it hence appears that they not only abandoned themselves to beastly lusts, but became degraded beyond the beasts, since they reversed the whole order of nature. He then enumerates a long catalogue of vices which had existed in all ages, and then prevailed everywhere without any restraint. It is not to the purpose to say, that every one was not laden with so great a mass of vices; for in arraigning the common baseness of men, it is proof enough if all to a man are constrained to acknowledge some faults. So then we must consider, that Paul here records those abominations which had been common in all ages, and were at that time especially prevalent everywhere; for it is marvelous how common then was that filthiness which even brute beasts abhor; and some of these vices were even popular. And he recites a catalogue of vices, in some of which the whole race of man were involved; for though all were not murderers, or thieves, or adulterers, yet there were none who were not found polluted by some vice or another. He calls those disgraceful passions, which are shameful even in the estimation of men, and redound to the dishonoring of God.

Thoughts: There is no controversy that John Calvin vehemently disapproved of the act of homosexuality. He was not consumed with its disapproval- and it was not a controversial issue in his culture (as it is ours). Yet he used strong words- seeing the homosexual act as unnatural passion and a forsaking of God's Word and glory.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA- joining the UCC and the Episcopal Church) in which I have many friends, has voted to ordain openly, unrepentant gay and lesbians as clergy. My guess is that this is an effort to be relevant, but such relevance to the world becomes irrelevance to God and makes the Word of God and the church that much less important.
What no one saw in The State paper today is what happened at the assembly. It was day in which they were to bring up the issue, there was no severe weather predicted. But a tornado descended on the church across from the convention center, tore up the tents around the convention center, split the steeple of the Lutheran Church in which worship services were held, and left the cross dangling- then went back up into the sky as quickly as it descended. I guess many just refused to see this as any sign from the Lord of his displeasure. Many feel today God can’t do anything good or evil. The book of Revelation talks over and over again about God sending terrible events and people still refusing to repent. Repentance is really the issue here. Is homosexuality a sin according to the Bible? If it is, then it should not be openly professed before ordination. If someone openly professes a sin- professes no desire to repent or turn away from it- and is not only allowed to remain in the church but is given the highest office in the church, then the church’s idea of right or wrong has just lost all relevance. Honestly, if a church can say homosexuality is right, even though the Bible clearly says in both Old and New Testaments it is wrong (Lev. 18:22; story of Sodom and Gomorrah, passages above and others), who cares what the church says? What moral authority can the church give? See this blog for a fuller story: http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/1965_the_tornado_the_lutherans_and_homosexuality/

Prayer: Lord, give us ears to hear your Word, and your voice speaking in providence. Help us to always submit our lives, our way of thinking to you, and not turning to our own way.

8/21- Justice

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

6 With what shall I come before the LORD
and bow down before the exalted God?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?

7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousand rivers of oil?
Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?

8 He has shown all you people what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.


Calvin: "Whenever you hear God's glory mentioned, think of his justice. For whatever deserves praise must be just." (III.23.8)

Thought: Justice too often centers around our ideals because of our own selfishness. Our cause can be another name for our selfishness if our idealism is not unchecked. Calvin rightly connected God's glory with ultimate justice. For the One who made everything is the final arbiter between good and evil, justice and injustice.

Prayer: Lord help us to work for your justice, but even more improtantly, help us to submit to your justice.

8/20- Joy and Peace

Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. Ihave learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (Philippians 4:11b-12)

Calvin: Even poverty, if it be judged in itself, is misery; likewise exile, contempt, pirson, disgrace; finally, deaht itself is the ultimate of all calamities. But when the favor or our God breathes upon us, every one of these things turns into happiness for us. (3:8.7)

Thoughts: If you go to Philippi, you can still see the first century jail in which Paul was imprisoned- they had built a huge church on top of the sacred sight. For it is the jail where Paul and Silas sang, and that dungeon turned into a temple- where the jailer was baptized. I just got back from Iquitos Peru where a large number of people- at least 80,000 do not have eletricity or clean water. Of course, Calvin didn't either- even the very wealthy didn't in Calvin's day. Is it possible to be happy without all the comforts this world offers? Yes. Joy comes from God. In a recession in which so many have lost the ability to have as much as they did have, it is even more important to recognize our happiness is not in things. If we miss things too much, it takes away from the joy the Lord gives us.

Prayer: Teach us, O Lord, as you taught Paul to be content in any and every situation. Help us to find our joy in you- our strength.

8/19- Finding the True Church

(Calvin visiting a family in their home)
Devotional using scripture, quote from John Calvin and thoughts for the day each day- on the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth.

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple. (Ephesians 2:19-21)

From this the face of the church comes forth and becomes visible to our eyes. Wherever we see the Word of God purely preached and heard, and the sacraments administered according to Christ’s institution, there, it is
not to be doubted, a church of God exists [cf. Ephesians 2:20]. For his promise cannot fail: “Wherever two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them” [Matthew 18:20].

Thought: Calvin identified the marks of the church as the Word and Sacrament. John Knox added right discipline to the marks of the true church. Reflecting back, perhaps Knox was being too strict. The real mark of the church is the presence of the Holy Spirit. But the Holy Spirit has tied himself to His Word, and the sign and seal of the Spirit are the sacraments. Jesus said he was where His people are gathered in His name. Moltmann adds that Christ is also present whenever we “help the least of these” (Mt. 25), or going into all the world spreading the good news (Mt. 28:20- Lo I am with you always). It is always hard to quantify, box up, or even label the Holy Spirit. It is a bit like Jesus said about the Spirit, ‘the wind blows where it will.” The Word rightly preached is a bit subjective to us (though perhaps objective to God). The sacrament rightly administered is also a bit nebulous. It is hard to draw exact boundaries, and I contend that it might be hard to do so. For example, we might think that the Lord’s Supper with coke and candy bars may not be a “rightly administered” sacrament. But what about white grape juice and saltines? The Word rightly preached is vague enough. Sometimes a sermon is badly preached but was good doctrine. Sometimes bad doctrine is greatly preached. Lines are hard to draw. The Spirit blows where it wills, yet though the boundaries are not exact, the boundaries are real. It is more like a porous membrane, but a membrane nonetheless.

Prayer: Thank you Lord, that you define the Church and make it holy. Help us to make your Church holy by how we reflect your glory.