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Though some say differently, I believe there are references in Scripture that harmonize with what little or much we think we know about what is called Dinosaurs. Viewing depictions of them, like seeing drawings of other magnificent creations not seen by own eye, open our eyes to the magnificence of God’s creation. In Genesis, we read of God’s remarkable work during six days of creation. Though the term “dinosaur” may not be explicitly mentioned there or elsewhere, the Bible provides glimpses of awe-inspiring creatures like Behemoth and Leviathan, which some scholars believe could be references to dinosaurs or other formidable creatures of ancient times.

Did God Create Dinosaurs? Some Christians argue dinosaurs could not have existed because God would not create such creatures that could wreak havoc upon human civilization. He created the elements that generate hurricanes, volcanos and tornados. Plus, God appointed by divine fiat a fish large enough to swallow the prophet Jonah. Although no one would want to be ripped apart by a T-Rex, spending several days digesting in the belly of a sea creature doesn’t sound like a great way to go either (Jonah 1:17). And with the enormous data what has been unearthed, we would have to yield to the possibility, if not the reality, that if God created all things, He created Dinosaurs.

“So, God created the large sea-creatures and every living creature that moves and swarms in the water, according to their kinds. He also created every winged creature according to its kind. And God saw that it was good” (Genesis 1:21).

Are Dinosaurs in the Bible? Some place them before Adam and Eve – but death did not enter into the world until Genesis 3. Some allow them before Noah but say that dinosaurs were too big, or there were too many of them, to go on Noah’s Ark. However, there are few kinds though hundreds of names have been given to small bits of bones. The different sizes, varieties, and sexes of the same kind of dinosaur have ended up with different names just like our dogs, all sorts of them but the same kind! In reality, there may have been fewer than 50 kinds of dinosaurs. God sent two of every (seven of some) land animal into the Ark (Genesis 7:2–3; 7:8–9)—there were no exceptions. Therefore, dinosaurs must have been on the Ark. All others, like the other animals, drowned as raging water covered the land (Genesis 7:11–12, 19). Like Pompeii, the sudden event buried in rock layers (formed from this mud) but in the flood, it was all over the Earth.

But what evidence of them in the Bible? The creatures found in Job are hardly a present creature – except by hideous hyperbole – and best fit the description of a form of dinosaur.

First, there is Behemoth (Job 40:15-24). In Job, this creature is described as having a tail like cedar and an herbivore diet. It also says this colossal beast had large bones like beams of bronze. From the portrayal in those verses, it seems as though the passage indicates a creature similar to a diplodocus. Some commentators try to say God had described a hippopotamus in this passage, but the depiction doesn’t seem to match up. Hippos, for instance, don’t have tails like cedars.

Second, there is Leviathan (Job 41). By the next chapter, another creature is reported which some theologians have labeled a crocodile. However, once one hears the features of the leviathan, it doesn’t appear to add up. The leviathan seems to have armor-plated skin that no hook can pierce. Like the behemoth, the author makes note of the strong limbs this animal possesses. Psalm 104:26 indicates the leviathan lived in water, which could point to why some people say it’s a crocodile. And Isaiah 27:1 describes the leviathan as a twisting serpent: “In that day the Lord with his hard and great and strong sword will punish Leviathan the fleeing serpent, Leviathan the twisting serpent, and he will slay the dragon that is in the sea.” These may align with a crocodile, but Job (Job 41:18-19) seems to indicate this creature literally breathed fire. Crocodiles and other similar reptiles have not been known to breathe fire. This may indicate a dragon-like species existed during Job’s time.

Even though the exact purpose for which God created dinosaurs may elude us, it is difficult to deny the evidence that they once roamed the Earth. Their existence leaves an indelible mark on the geological record, their fossilized remains testifying to a time long past. As Christians, we are reminded of the vastness of God’s creation, stretching far beyond our comprehension. While we may not fully grasp it all, their presence serves as a testament to His infinite creativity and power. We should embrace the wonder of these ancient creatures, acknowledging that they were a part of the intricate tapestry woven by our Creator.

By Don Hooton

by Don Hooton

In our own backyard, an epoch event occurred for most of us this week, the 2024 Eclipse. We could look up into the afternoon sky and see this wondrous, amazing demonstration of natural events over which we have no control; and we could see something spectacular God placed in motion by the ordering of His hand at creation. Of course, for me and Tracey, it rained all afternoon in our neighborhood. So, we saw nothing but we felt the darkness.

On Facebook, I shared my immediate reaction which was the memory that when Jesus was crucified, the synoptic gospels say that darkness came over the whole land from noon until three in the afternoon (Mt 27:45; Mk 15:33, Lk 23:66). The ominous lack of light at a time when there should have been light in my own day connected an experience in a small way what it must have been like in Jesus’ day.

On my post, several commented about the connection. Our three minutes compared to their three hours would certainly be vastly different. Others wondered if theirs was an Eclipse for three hours where the moon stood still (He held the sun for longer in Joshua 10). Others wondered if ours was like the darkness of Egypt’s gloom “that could be felt” even though we are told that “all the Israelites had light in the places where they lived” (Exodus 10:23). Though I believe on Jesus’ day, it was a miracle. Yet, what we experienced was not a miracle. It was what God put into motion long ago when He placed the stars, the moon, and the sun in their place. Yet, what we experienced for minutes gave me a “perspective” to help feel what those hours were for them.

Did God hold the moon? Did He darken the Sun? I don’t really know. I do know, however, that it was to be a sign through which they, and we, hear His message. “This is My Beloved Son, Hear Him” were not words just for a mount of transfiguration in light; these words for human redemption and salvation were unspoken in the darkness. For them, that day was a day of the Lord.

Days of the Lord were often signaled with “darkness and not light” (Amos 5:18) where God would establish his sovereignty, eradicate evil and bring peace (Zeph 1:14–18; 3:8–10; 2Th 1:9–10; 2Pet 3:10). It was not a calendar “day;” it was a “type” of time that Scripture called a day for divine punishment (Is 2:12, 13:9, 29:6; 30:30; Joel 2:30–31, Mal 3:19, 4:1). “Indeed, the day of the Lord is terrible and dreadful—who can endure it?” (Joel 2:11). God stressed, “I will bring distress on mankind… because they have sinned against the LORD” (Zep 1:17). Jeremiah and Ezekiel compared God’s punishment with a great sacrifice (Jer 46:10; Eze 39:17, 20–21). Zechariah linked the imagery to the “when” that Yahweh would, through a representative priestly ruler, “remove the wrong of this land in a single day” (3:9; cf. 6:12–13), also connected to the blood of a new covenant (9:9–11) that would save God’s people (14:7–9). This clearly echoes the words of the Suffering Servant of Isaiah (52:13–53:12). So then, in this “day,” there will be both judgment and salvation, but salvation to those who repent and seek the Lord (Joel 2:14; Amos 5:15; Jon 3:9; Zeph. 2:3; cf. Isa. 33:14–16). Also, Joel said that God will save and pour out his Spirit in that Day (Joel 2:11–13, 28–29; cf. Ezek. 36:27; 37:14; Zeph. 3:9) which is what Peter said was happening on Pentecost (Acts 2:16-17) where it is announced that God has fulfilled his kingdom promises to David (Isa. 11:1–10; Ezek. 37:24–28; Amos 9:11–14).

Yet, the “day” can still be future to us because all of the earth “will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory” (Matt. 24:30; cf. Acts 1:9–11) where He will judge the earth and reward the righteous (Matt. 25:1ff; 1The 4:16; 2Pet. 3:7-10). Paul also said that “concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him” that “the day of the LORD . . . will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction” (2Thes. 2:1–3). Jesus spoke of this future “day of judgment” where God would judge all (Matt. 12:36; cf. Matt. 7:23; 10:15; 11:22–24; John 12:48) and connected this day directly with his second coming (Matt. 24:36, 42, 50; 25:13; cf. Mark 13:32; Luke 17:24) where Christ would gather all nations to himself and separate the wicked from the righteous (Matt 25:31–32; Zeph 1:2; 3:8). He would punish the former with lasting fury (Matt. 7:21–23; 25:41) and welcome and feast with the latter (Matt. 25:34; 26:29; Mark 14:25).

But back to the darkness. Our Eclipse was not a Day of the Lord, of course. But in that day of the Lord when Christ died on the Cross, what did the darkness convey? I believe was to say that God was working His Day of judgment and salvation. They should have felt that truth to the bones. And many did.

And what has occurred to me since then is not that God had to darken the sun or hold the moon to bring that darkness. Yet, to usher in the Kingdom of Light and to show the earth its darkness His Son would overcome, God’s heart eclipsed the sun so everyone could see His Son in all His glory. “Listen to Him!”

So, for me, those three minutes reminded me: This is My Father’s World. Not just Creator, though He is. Not just Savior, though He is. He is the Lord God – King of the Universe. And us? We are helplessly and hopelessly in need of His light every hour.

by Don Hooton

At a crucial point in his ministry, Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15). Indeed, the answer we give will embody faith in its truest sense – and it matters because faith must know WHO Jesus is.

The entrance of Jesus into the world was extraordinary. Angelic beings announced to shepherds and humble parents brought him into the world. Matthew wrote, ‘“Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “See, the virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they will name him Immanuel [Isaiah 7:14] which is translated “God is with us.”’ That is the message of the New Testament.

Others said the same about Jesus’ deity. The Apostle John wrote: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created… [and] The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:1,18). In another place, John wrote: “And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life” (1John 5:20). The Apostle Paul wrote: “I speak the truth in Christ—I am not lying – …who is God over all, praised forever” (Romans 9:1,5). And again he wrote, “while we wait for the blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). The Apostle Peter addressed his letter: “To those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (2Peter 1:1).

Yet, Jesus himself said that he was: At the Feast of Booths in his encounter with the Pharisees (John 8:13), Jesus told them, “if you do not believe that I am he, you will die in your sins.” (8:24). The Jewish people reacted to his statement by asking, “Who are you?” (8:25). Jesus told the Jews exactly who he is: “Truly I tell you, before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58). This “I am” statement was Jesus’ clearest example of His proclamation, “I am Yahweh,” from its background in the book of Isaiah (Isaiah 41:4; 43:10–13, 25; 46:4; 48:12; cf. John 13:19) as well as Exodus 3:14 where God’s self-given name is the clear reference to which Jesus wanted his hearers to connect. And they did. It was sufficiently provocative enough for the Jewish leaders to call for capital punishment on that charge of blasphemy.

Even in his trial before Pilate, Jewish leaders clearly understood that Jesus’ use of this term was not just generic: “We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die because he has made himself the Son of God” (John 19:7; cf. John 10:36). According to the Law, it was blasphemy to use God’s name (Leviticus 24:16). Therefore, by referring to himself as the Son of God, Jesus was claiming to share “the rights and authority of God himself (cf. [John] 1:34; 5:19–30).” People who say that Jesus never claimed to be God must answer why he was crucified on the Jewish leadership’s charge of blasphemy. How did He prove his Deity?

He proved it in what he said: ‘“Jesus told the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” But some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts: “Why does he speak like this? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?”’ (Mark 2:5-7).

He proved what he said by what he did: “If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true. There is another who testifies about me, and I know that the testimony he gives about me is true… But I have a greater testimony than John’s because of the works that the Father has given me to accomplish. These very works I am doing testify about me that the Father has sent me” (John 5:31-36). And again, “The works that I do in my Father’s name testify about me… I and the Father are one.” (John 10:25-30).

He proved what he said by what he did by the resurrection of the dead: Paul wrote of the “the gospel of God— which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures— concerning his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who was a descendant of David according to the flesh and was appointed to be the powerful Son of God according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection of the dead.” (Romans 1:4). 

The significance of this is that failure to believe that Jesus is the Son of God brings deprives us of the good news Jesus brought and the salvation that He purchased as well as positioned us for judgment the judgment for our sins (see John 3:18, Ephesians 2:1). But, believing in Jesus as the Son of God brings eternal life (see John 3:15–17, 6:40, 20:31). And as those who were asked what they should do to have that salvation Jesus came to bring, Peter said, “Repent and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38).

After Thomas had heard what Jesus claimed and said, and saw what he had done and after He was raised, Thomas said to Jesus, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28) for very good reason.

A good friend recently shared a picture with me of the building where the church met in my childhood. I have saved a few of these pictures because it reminds me of the people that shared in the raising I had in the Lord. To me, they are good memories. To others, even others who were raised among those Christians, the sentiment may not be the same. It is that way with people.

In the exchange, I learned that San Antonio had named the building of the Highland Blvd. church of Christ a historic landmark. The criteria that the Commission uses for this citation is for buildings that are “older than 50 years and judged worthy of preservation for their architectural and historical associations.” When it was decided by the commission, they saw the building and its value – but when I see it, I see the people.

Truthfully, God has wanted each of the people who congregate as churches to make a mark in the history of their community. Throughout history, many churches were not in “friendly territory” and for others, that mark would not reflect acclaim and accomplishment. Instead, churches will be historic and a landmark when they publicize the mark God has made in us. To use Paul’s own words, “I bear on my body the marks of Jesus” (Galatians 6:17). What he had in mind was, “as for me, I will never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. The world has been crucified to me through the cross, and I to the world” (15).

What I learned from those “historic landmark” Christians to me, which is what I have learned from Scripture, will indeed make us – a landmark – community – that will bear the marks of Christ.

First, we studied the Bible. If the “church of the living God, [is to be] the pillar and foundation of the truth,” each Christian must be devoted to “the Apostles teaching” (Acts 2:42). Elders must “hold to the faithful message as taught, so that [they] will be able both to encourage with sound teaching and to refute those who contradict it” (Titus 1:9). Deacons must “hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience” (1Timothy 3:9). And evangelists must “preach the word… with great patience and teaching” (2Timothy 4:2) as they “commit to faithful people who will be able to teach others also” (2Timothy 2:2). As I grew up, there were many challenges that led to departures from the Bible way. There is no time when this charge does not apply. But you must study. And you must study one thing – God’s will in Scripture. Today, every generation and every person have the same charge: know the Book of God so you will know who you are in God individually and collectively. It’s no one’s charge if it is not your charge.

Second, we obeyed God. The teaching of obedience cannot be lost in the teaching of grace and mercy. Paul said, “Through him we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the Gentiles” (Romans 1:4). Even Peter charged: “Therefore, with your minds ready for action, be sober-minded and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance” (1Peter 1:13). It’s no one’s charge if it is not your charge.

Third, we loved each other. The 70s were a tough time in America and not everything went right for everyone. It didn’t for me. But I still can reflect on the many expressions of love I had from people of God that bolstered not just my belief in people – but also belief in God. And that is why Jesus said, “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another” (John 13:34-35). No longer is the standard for love merely “to love your neighbor as yourself”, but instead for the Christian, it is to love each other like Christ loved us. It’s no one’s charge if it is not your charge.

Buildings and their architecture will fade or be admitted to the registrar of historic landmarks. I will not lie that it makes my heart happy that this city has beloved the building of my childhood. But what was truly historic in this landmark that really mattered was the people who filled its halls and occupied its pews. Their hearts belonged to the Lord. And that is what will make any church the landmark to which God has called us.

Recently on Facebook, several friends shared an insightful article from Shane L. Bishop. Below are my thoughts that repeat and embellish the things he shared as Thanksgiving is upon us.

First, there is a lot to love about Thanksgiving. We don’t buy each other gifts. There is no name exchange. No credit line increase is needed either. All you need is food to cook, food to share, and food to clean up. Simple. Also, the narrative about Thanksgiving in America is generally standard. Bishop wrote, ‘I am glad we don’t have fictional stories on Thanksgiving.  No one wants to hear about the Thanksgiving Puritan riding in a magical Buggy pulled by anti-biotic and steroid free turkeys who travel all over the world on Thanksgiving Eve delivering unusually appreciative children cans of canned, gelatinous cranberry sauce and tossing in corporately sponsored can openers. Thanksgiving is about turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, your Nana’s special dish and desserts made of pumpkins, cherries and pecans. It is about family, friends and football but most of all it is about taking time to remember. Thanksgiving is where we have conversations with people long since gone who sit in empty chairs in the houses of our childhoods. We smile at them and they smile back. We used to sing a song at church called, “Count Your Blessings” and for me, Thanksgiving is a time to do just that. “Count your blessings, name them one by one.”’

So here are my 10 ways to make the day more memorable – and what I believe will make the day all if can be for me – and for you.

1. Stay at the table.  Set a timer for an hour. No one leaves. Start the meal with everyone at the table and ask everyone (all ages) to share 2-3 things that makes the day so special and things for which they are thankful. My kids know it is coming – so they are usually prepared. But when you start it, it makes the day about the joy that giving thanks will bring – even before you eat your mom’s special cranberry sauce.
2. Keep it human. No phones at the table. Keep them in your back pocket or in the living room. Spend that time with people around the table – not on Facebook. I’ve been the worst offender of this in the past. But this year, no phone for me. Now, sometimes our memories and our joys are in sharing reels or funnies that make us all laugh. Bishop suggested punishment for an unmuted phones and even carrying it over to the following year. I’d say, just make it all about the humans around you.
3. Give thanks. Don’t say the prayer you say in the assembly. Make the prayer full of all the things your humans have just said for which they are all thankful. Don’t time it. Don’t make it short and sweet. Let the potatoes cool a bit. You can always put them in the microwave. Bishop said to do it “Heads bowed, eyes closed, [and] holding hands.” I couldn’t agree more.
4. Remember those who are missing. Every year, there are always those we love that we lose. Speak out their names. In my own grief of losing people I love, I realized that this was the hardest part for me. “Thank you Lord for Jon” were the hardest words I remember saying when he was gone. But when I remember, not only do I place their lives and their love for me (and all of us) on the altar of remembrance and gratitude, I declare again to the God that I adore that I believe their soul is forever in His care – and implicitly affirm that we all will meet again.
5. Share your memories. Tell your favorite Thanksgiving stories. Bishop said to talk about “The year of the huge Thanksgiving blizzard. The year when it was like summer outside and everyone went on a walk. The big family football game of 1972. The sweet potato casserole debacle of 2001. When the dog ate the turkey.” We have done the same – but it always pours over into other family legendary memories that need to be spoken again and again because it shares the soul of family life: togetherness.
6. Talk. Bishop wrote, “Laugh, Count Your Blessings, and tell the people around you just how much you love them.” Silence is golden – except at thanksgiving. Sometimes the rules of politeness and no interruptions can be broken – especially when it is your children lighting up with the joy of thanksgiving. You teach them more by letting them “give thanks in all things” rather than “waiting their turn”. My opinion. But, talk is where thanksgiving is expressed, not in the restriction of rules.
7. Serve. It’s a family thing for us. Even our adult kids have learned that they bring something to the table – and they help clear the table and clean dishes. If everyone helps, everyone gets more time together. Don’t leave mom in the kitchen alone. She doesn’t need to be the only one serving – maybe we need to serve her for her long life of serving us from the cradle? Further, if your table is full this year, be sure to remember those whose table is not – and perhaps find a way to make it more abundant for others just like God has done for your table.
8. One don’t. I like what Bishop said: “Don’t talk politics. If anyone does, construct them a home-made political button denoting the opposite party and touting the name of their least favorite president of all time. Make them wear it all day.” And if they do, “no pie.”
9. Accept everything. Nothing will ever be perfect. Your crust won’t brown just the right way. The turkey may be dry. They may not have your preferred drink to go with the meal. So what? You are with the people that the Lord has shared in your life. Bishop said, “No matter how things go, at least you [will not be] a turkey.” And for that matter, don’t be a ham either.
10. Remember the Source of all Good. Even the wise man said, “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth before the evil days come” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). So, make the day, the weekend, and rest of your life, about enumerating all things we so easily forget – and for which we keep forgetting to give thanks. Tell God “I thank you.” Tell God “I praise you.” Tell God “I love you.” How else can you truly experience thanksgiving until you can? “My soul, bless the Lord, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. My soul, bless the Lord, and do not forget all his benefits” (Psalm 103:1-2). So, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1Thessalonisans 5:18).

Hope this helps. So, let’s all get busy giving some thanks!

by Don Hooton

I was recently asked what the Bible says about tithing. And it seemed a good idea to answer that with the next question of how much then should Christians give? So here’s my answer.

Many are shocked that the New Testament never commands Christians to tithe because of how often  modern churches still teach tithing, command tithing and often recommend to members exactly what their tithe should be. To be clear, however, the New Testament does teach that Christians should give liberally. So, the short answer to the question is simple: Giving, yes! Tithing is a no, because, tithing is not the New Testament standard for giving.

In the Mosaic Law, one of the gifts that Israel gave was the tithe. “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord: it is holy to the Lord” (Leviticus 20:10). A tithe was a tenth of some asset being considered (c.f. Genesis 28:22) that would be given for purposes of God. The first mention of tithing is Genesis 14:18-20 when Abraham gives a tenth of the spoils of war to Melchizedek, the priest of God. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were commanded by God to give a tenth of their produce and livestock to support the Levites, who had no inheritance in the land (Numbers 18:21-24).

Tithing was for patriarchs as means to honor God. However, tithing was a covenant command for Israel – that God commanded of them. The books of Romans, Galatians, and other New Testament passages make it clear that Christians are not under the law of Moses – which of course means that instruction demanding tithing was for the Israelite, not the Christian. That does not mean that Christians are lawless. The Apostle Paul said, we are “under the law of Christ” (1Corinthians 9:20-21; see also James 1:25; 2:8). While the Mosaic Law leads Israel to Christ (Galatians 3:23-24).  Certainly what was written in the past remains valuable in our instruction (c.f. Romans 15:4).  But these aspects of law demands around the tithe was for Israel. Never in the New Testament do inspired Apostles command the church to tithe.

Those who argue for tithing by pointing out that Abraham and Jacob both tithed prior to Moses (Genesis 14:20; 28:22) will say that tithing supersedes the law. However, there are other practices, such as circumcision and sabbath-keeping which pre-date the Law and they too are not binding on us.  If you look at Abraham’s and Jacob’s tithing, you will see that God did not command them to tithe; Further, there is no indication that this was their regular practice. On one occasion after a victory in battle, Abraham tithed the spoils from that battle, but nothing is said regarding his other possessions or his regular income (Genesis 14:20). Jacob’s example was a conditional vow before God where he promised he would give a tenth if God would keep him safe and provide for him (Genesis 28:20-22). That’s hardly a good example to follow in giving!

Tithing was an involuntary tax on Israel. The church is not a theocratic nation. In the Old Testament, the Law commanded both required and voluntary giving. As a required command, the tithe was gathered from every Israelite family to fund national worship and help the poor (c.f. Leviticus 27:30-33, Deuteronomy 12:17-18; 14:28-29). Charles Ryrie’s book, Balancing the Christian Life, suggests that these passages include several different “tithes” so that the total was not a mere 10 percent, but more like 22 percent (page 86). Hence, if those Old Covenant commands command Christians, then is it not possible that the percentage we should command would be over a fifth of our income!

G. F. Hawthorne writes (New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology, 3:854): “Since the tithe played such an important part in the OT and in Judaism contemporary with early Christianity, it is surprising to discover that never once is tithing mentioned in any instructions given to the church. Jesus mentions scribes and Pharisees who tithe …, but he never commanded his disciples to tithe. The writer to the Hebrews refers to Abraham paying tithes to Melchizedek and Levi paying his tithe to Melchizedek through Abraham …, but he never taught his readers to follow their example. Paul writes about sharing material possessions to care for the needs of the poor … and to sustain the Christian ministry …. He urges and commends generosity … but never once does he demand, as a command from God, that any specific amount be given.”

Christians should give generously. However, that generosity is based on the compulsion of your own heart rather than a percentage. In the explicit context of giving for the benevolent needs being collected for Christians (2Corinthians 8-9), Paul writes, “Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver” (9:7).

And generosity grows out of grace. Grace (as a system) is totally opposed both to legalism and licentiousness, which are two sides of the same coin. Legalism and licentiousness both operate on the principle of the flesh. Legalism is an attempt to earn standing with God through human effort which leads to pride and condemnation. Licentiousness repels restraint and lives to satisfy self. Instead, God’s grace is His unmerited favor for people He loves and saves in Christ’s sacrifice. So, if we act with grace in our giving, it will not be random and irresponsible; it will not be “leftovers”.

Giving with grace is following God’s example in Christ (2Corinthians 8:9). Christ gave up all of what He had, His privileges, to become human flesh and live in squalor rather than the splendor He rightfully deserved to make the human race rich in things that matter most (5:21).

Giving with grace reminds us about our stewardship. “You are not your own, for you have been bought with a price …” (1Corinthians 6:19-20). All that we are and have belongs to God, not just a tenth. I am merely the manager of His resources. As a good manager, I use the Owner’s resources to further His work (see Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-37; 11:27-30 for some examples).

Giving with grace comes back to our inner motives to first give ourselves to Christ (2Corinthians 8:1-4). The Macedonian believers had an abundance of joy (8:2); gave of their own accord (8:3); begged to help (8:4); but, because they gave themselves to the Lord first (8:5), they had both the readiness and desire (8:10-12, 9:2) and by their example, Paul  exhorted the Corinthians to maintain this cheerful disposition and give without grudge or guilt (9:7).

Of course, if the gift you received from the person whom you had saved was a penny candy as they drove away in their high-end vehicle and their high-end clothes, you might be riding the struggle bus between axioms of “it’s not the gift – but the thought that counts” or  “it’s not the size of the gift, it’s the size of the heart that gives.” So sometimes, as Christians, we should give pause and consideration to how much we give the Lord because you see, God is generous. He gave to the world a Savior because He “so loved the world” (c.f. John 3:16). And this was Paul’s point regarding giving to the church at Corinth: “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich” (2Corinthians 8:9). As God’s people who are to be like Jesus, we are to be generous givers.  Also, God is ready to share. He has supplied us with all good things and in turn, He wants us “to be generous and ready to share” (1Timothy 6:18).

Further, if we regulate all of our giving to a percentage, it becomes a wrong-headed emphasis. I’ve even heard some say that 10 percent is God’s money and 90% is mine. When in reality, 100% belongs to God. Why could he not want us to channel 90% into His work and live on 10%. Tithing can be a bad rut. And further, it results in inequity. If a man with a family of five makes $20,000 a year and tithes, he has $18,000 (apart from taxes) to support five people. If a childless couple makes $100,000 a year and tithes, they have $90,000 (apart from taxes) to support two people. That would be burdensome to the man with five mouths to feed, but ridiculously easy for the couple. Paul reminds Corinth to give with “as you are prospered” (1Corinthians 16:2) and Luke says that they gave according to their ability (Acts 11:29).

So, the real question about what we are able is whether ten percent is even “generous?”  I suppose if I made a million dollars each year, one hundred thousand given might not seem “generous” to some but if my annual income was twenty thousand dollars, two thousand might seem more generous in relative terms. So what is generous giving? People ask if giving 10 percent of my income to the Lord’s work is generous? If not 10 percent, how much should I give?

Don’t think, “How much do I have to give?” but rather, “How much can I give?” We should not wait for someone to pressure us with a need; we should look for needs that we can meet (2Corinthians 8:4). We need to start giving where we are at, and not put it off until someday when we’re rich. The Macedonians gave in the midst of a great ordeal affliction and out of deep poverty (8:2). Jesus commended the poor widow who gave all she had to live on, but He was not impressed with the large gifts of the rich, because they had much left over (Mark 12:41-44).

So in this church, you are not asked to tithe because the New Testament does not command it. All we ask is that, like the Macedonians, that we give ourselves “first” to the Lord; give with grace freely and give happily. We won’t use pressure or gimmicks to get people to give. If you believe in the work of this church, then give generously as God has prospered you, out of love for Him. However, do not assume that because we don’t use pressure we don’t have needs. I believe it is legitimate to inform the church family about needs so they can give wisely. We have needs: to meet our monthly budget; to get some better office equipment; to pay for ongoing maintenance – and above all – to provide for evangelism here and in other places. As we respond to God’s grace by giving generously, the needs will be met.

The famous John Wesley quote fits well: “Get all you can; Save all you can; Give all you can.” Because as the New Testament says to us, God has; and Jesus has.

by Don Hooton

Someone recently suggested we need to do a better job of reviewing and exhorting Christians regarding the dangers of porn. And it is not just dangerous; it is pervasive. A recent Covenant Eyes statistic indicated that 93% of boys will view online pornography before they reach the age of 18. The same source says that 62% of girls will view online porn before they are 18.  This issue for boys, teens and men is enormous; but based on the wide popularity of 50 Shades of Grey (2015), it is clearly an issue for girls and women too. The problem with porn is marriages and families it has destroyed. It warps sexual realities for single man and woman with a fix their dating does not provide and it breeds in young people a false view of sexuality. While the problem is clearly widespread, it doesn’t need to be this way. What do we need to remember?

Viewing pornography denigrates my spouse. This should be a no-brainer.  When we intentionally view porn and/or even “soft” porn, are we not telling our wives that they’re not good enough for us?  When we lock on muscle clad bodies, are we not telling our husbands what they lack? In whatever way we rationalize it away, our actions speak loudest. Job said long ago, “I have made a covenant with my eyes. How then could I look at a young woman?  For what portion would I have from God above, or what inheritance from the Almighty on high?… Does he not see my ways and number all my step s?” (Job 31:1-4). If we’re finding pleasure in others other than our spouses, how else do we expect them to feel?

Viewing pornography robs my spouse of my complete fidelity. According to covenant eyes contributor, J.T. Waresak, pornography is a sexual experience for most men.  The passion and sexual emotions tied to it connect us to its addictiveness.  Yet, sexual passion and emotional intimacy that accompanies sex is meant only for one other person–your spouse.

Viewing pornography negatively impacts your children. No one is an island and there is no sin committed that doesn’t impact those around us.  Children are far from being as resilient as people often say.  Marriages are foundational anchors for children. It is the air they breathe as they grow. Pornography poisons that air.  When children discover parents who choose self-gratification over loving the other parent or the whole family as they should, it’s a monumental crash to their system.  By choosing to view pornography, we put our children’s futures at risk to a broken home and a potential ruined pattern in their own lives.

Viewing pornography is a form of adultery.  Jesus stated it simply, “that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28). There’s no way to sugarcoat it.  This is not to say that looking is adultery. However, we know this is a forbidden road and we need to stop ourselves.  Our walk with God, our marriage and our family is at stake.  If you are being tempted, pray to God and after you remind yourself that 1) marriage is the covenant He established between you and 2) there is the covenant of your eyes with your spouse you must honor, seek help. In God’s marriage covenant, there is total provision and protection.  As we cling to God and our spouse, God will pull us close and grow our marriages.

Viewing pornography weakens your fellowship with God.  As a Christian, this should be the strongest reason to keep us from pornography (or any other sexual sin). Consider what Joseph said, “So how could I do this immense evil, and how could I sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). As a Christian, our relationship with God needs to define who we are and how we live.  We are called by Christ to offer our body as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) which certainly includes how we uphold the sacred covenant of marriage.

We need to address what has become an epidemic in our modern world by remembering what it does. And just as it is our choice what we put in our bodies, it is our choice what our eyes look long upon. And if you need help, several resources are available:

• https://www.covenanteyes.com
• https://www.thefreedomfight.org
• https://www.provenmen.org

by Don Hooton

Followers of Jesus Christ can have absolute confidence that the resurrection of our Savior is fact. Yet much of the world around us rejects the idea of a resurrection.

The only sign that Christ gave to His generation to authenticate His claim to being Messiah was by His resurrection. He said it: ‘Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from you.” He answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation demands a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah” (c.f. Matthew 16:4, 12:39).

But how did this sign prove it to them?

“Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. When he stooped to look in, he saw only the linen cloths.^[b] So he went away, amazed at what had happened.“ (Luke 24:12).

In the days of the apostle Paul, some people proclaimed that there is no resurrection (1Corinthians 15:12). A powerful, Jewish group of religious leaders in his day, the Sadducees, also denied it. Yet, as Paul points out, if this were true, then not only would we have no Savior, we would still be in our sins, and we would have no hope (15:17-18)! When he wrote the church in Corinth, Paul emphasized that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is an essential element of the gospel (15:1-4). His death and resurrection are vital to the redemption of all mankind—first for those from Abel to Jesus Christ’s first coming (the patriarchs and prophets) and for believers, and then for the rest of humanity in the age to come.  If Christ’s resurrection has been fabricated, preachers of the gospel of Jesus, along with the apostles, are liars (15:15); and there is no real hope for the future. Men and women can continue on with their lives, choosing whatever way seems right.

To counter those who denied the resurrection of Jesus, Paul called upon two forms of witness. First, he presents fulfilled prophecy: the fulfillment of the Holy Scriptures concerning the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (verses 3-4). The details of the prophecies would have been impossible for Jesus’ disciples to fulfill on their own! Second, Paul presents witnesses by names of those people who saw and spent time with the resurrected Jesus (verses 5-8).

There is a long list of people who were his witnesses. These individuals included Peter, who had denied Christ when accused of being one of His followers (Luke 22:61-62); the Twelve, who had all deserted Jesus when He was taken by the guards (Matthew 26:56-57); 500 brethren, many still alive at the time Paul was writing (1 Corinthians 15:6); James the half-brother of Jesus, who had earlier been a skeptic of His messiahship (John 7:3-5); and finally by Paul, whose place in the story as persecutor to proclaimer is significant. He was a zealous Pharisee, well known for his loyalty as a Pharisee and his prosecution of those who would follow Jesus of Nazareth. Prior to his conversion, he was definitely not someone you would expect to support the existence of the resurrected Christ (Acts 8:2-4; 9:1-7)!

Another witness is Luke “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14) who traveled with Paul on several of his journeys. Although he never claims to have seen the risen Lord, he recorded the actions and events in fine detail and in logical order (Luke 1:1-3) from those who had. Sometimes on a journey he was the lone human support for Paul (2 Timothy 4:11). Luke records that Jesus proved He was alive “by many infallible proofs” (Acts 1:3). In his Gospel account and the first chapter of Acts, Luke recorded what Jesus did and taught right up to the time of His ascension to heaven (Acts 1:2).

Yet, even in the preaching of those who were witnesses, they anchored their claims in those prophecies that were fulfilled in what transpired so long ago on that first Sunday after the crucifixion of Jesus. Paul knew that the Holy Scriptures, what we call the Old Testament today, was God’s words to Israel. If Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection had been prophesied and fulfilled what God had foretold of Israel’s Messiah, that would have set the seal of approval on Jesus Christ. It would also prove God’s existence and trustworthiness.

Here are some of the quotations in the New Testament and the scriptures they fulfilled. Consider the indiscernible probability that all of these seventeen prophecies could have been fulfilled by chance, or even by Christ’s followers if they were trying to orchestrate these events themselves.

1. Matthew 21:5 (John 12:15): “Tell the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your King is coming to you, lowly, and sitting on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey’” (Zechariah 9:9).

• Matthew 21:9 (Mark 11:9; Luke 13:35; 19:38; John 12:13): “Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!” Hosanna in the highest!’” (Psalm 118:26).

• Matthew 26:31 (Mark 14:27): “Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered”’” (Zechariah 13:7).

• John 13:18: “I do not speak concerning all of you. I know whom I have chosen; but that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me’” (Psalm 41:9).

• Matthew 27:9-10: “Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, ‘And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of Him who was priced, whom they of the children of Israel priced, and gave them for the potter’s field, as the LORD directed me’” (Jeremiah 32:6-9; Zechariah 11:12-13).

• Matthew 27:26 (John 19:1): “Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified” (Isaiah 53:5).

• Acts 8:32-33: “The place in the Scripture which he read was this: ‘He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so He opened not His mouth. In His humiliation His justice was taken away, and who will declare His generation? For His life is taken from the earth’” (Isaiah 53:7-8).

• Matthew 27:35 (John 19:24): “Then they crucified Him, and divided His garments, casting lots, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet: ‘They divided My garments among them, and for My clothing they cast lots’” (Psalm 22:18).

• Mark 15:28 (Luke 22:37): “So the Scripture was fulfilled which says, ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors’” (Isaiah 53:12).

1. Matthew 27:46 (Mark 15:34): “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?’ that is, ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?’” (Psalm 22:1).

1. Luke 23:46: “And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, ‘Father, “into Your hands I commit My spirit.”’ Having said this, He breathed His last” (Psalm 31:5).

1. John 19:33-37: “But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, ‘Not one of His bones shall be broken.’ And again another Scripture says, ‘They shall look on Him whom they pierced’” (Psalm 34:20; Exodus 12:46; Zechariah 12:10).

1. Matthew 27:57, 59-60: “Now when evening had come, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus. … When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and laid it in his new tomb which he had hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb, and departed” (Isaiah 53:9).

1. Acts 13:35 (Acts 2:25-28): “Therefore He also says in another Psalm: ‘You will not allow Your Holy One to see corruption’” (Psalm 16:8-10).

1. Matthew 12:40: “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth” (Jonah 1:17). (See more about this in the article “Sign of Jonah: Did Jesus Die on Good Friday? Was He Resurrected Easter Sunday?”)

1. Hebrews 10:12-14: “But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God, from that time waiting till His enemies are made His footstool. For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified” (Psalm 110:1; Daniel 9:26-27).

1. Galatians 4:4: “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law” (Daniel 9:26-27).

But there are other prophetic statements that point us to the Messiah – and the fulfillment that can be attested in Jesus.

The famous 70 weeks about which Daniel prophesied (Daniel 9:24-27) also pinpointed when the fullness of time would come and the Messiah would be made known, counting from the order to restore and rebuild Jerusalem. It also tells us He would be “cut off,” His life ended, for the sins of all mankind. Jesus’ death ended the need for His followers to offer animal sacrifices for the forgiveness of sin, as His life paid the penalty for all of us (Hebrews 10:4-14).

Further, Psalm 110:1 states that the resurrected Jesus would sit at the Father’s right hand, awaiting the time to return and finally put all enemies under His feet. Then there will be no hiding from or denial of the resurrected Savior and Messiah. It was the centerpiece Scripture of Peter’s sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2) from which he concluded, “Therefore let all the house of Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah” (2:36).

With all the eyewitnesses of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, His resurrection could not be denied, then or today. The testimony stands. Will you believe?

by Don Hooton

More than one hundred million people watched last Sunday’s Super Bowl in which the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles in an intensely close game. No doubt the Chiefs celebrated their win (Heard Mahones was going to Disney!) – and the Eagles probably flew away in disappointment even though they had worked hard to make it to the game’s greatest event. The game is about winning.

And on Tuesday, our nation celebrates romantic love on Valentine’s Day. Roses, chocolates, gifts and cards (and lots of cards). I mean, who doesn’t remember all the cards we used to share in school? Still, most are shared to shower rightly on the objects of our love the gifts that we believe reflect love. Admittedly, today’s practices are fraught with other things that I don’t applaud – but to banner your love for the love of your life is certainly something we should be doing (Song of Solomon 2:4).

But I digress.

In contrast to the SuperBowl culture of victories and rushed days to shower Valentine love to many, Tracey and I heard last week real SuperStories about real love at Florida College Lectures from https://sacredselections.org. They shared victories and they exchanged notes of love and adorations. But these stories are not about the applause of people perfection or the trophies of candied hearts. Instead, these are stories of the vulnerability and fragility of women who carry a child they know they cannot raise. Sacred Selections is the cause that David and Dana Carrozza started to help place these children in the homes of Christians. It is a beautiful story of redemption, love and unending mercy. Kids loved – not because they are icons of athletic prowess or paper Valentines, They are Super-loved kids.

The apostle John wrote: “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God” (1 John 3:1). Eyes should open to see the depth and magnitude of God’s love for people He now calls, in an extraordinarily redemptive way, His children. We were children deserving wrath (Ephesians 2:1-2). But now, we are children who have His love, grace and mercy (2:3-8). How is that? How did we become children of like that?

We were adopted. Paul said to the Galatians: “When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons” (4:4–5). In ancient Jewish culture, there were no clear processes for adoption. If a man died, his brother automatically became the head of his household, so adoption was never a needed process. What Paul has in mind, likely, is adoption as Rome practiced it. But redefined by God. Roman adoption was rarely to provide a more suitable environment for the adopted; Instead, it was to provide to the adopting family a suitable male heir – particularly among noble orders of senators and equestrians. Most say it is hard to determine how common it was among the lower classes and also, girls and women were seldom adopted, regardless of class. It did not serve the adopted – it served the adoptee.

But when Paul tells us we are adopted – He shows that God gifted us in adoption. He said, “For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Instead, you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father!” The Spirit himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and coheirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him” (Romans 8:15-17). We are chosen to be given glory, to be given grace, to be given love, to be given an inheritance that would never be taken away.

I read of one man who shared about his own adoption to parents: “They knew nothing about me when they chose me. Unlike biological children who inherited their genetics from their parents, my parents did not know my parents or anything about my story. They chose me as I was, where I was.”

And that my friends it what makes us superKids. God has showered us with such unconditional love that we have not earned to receive such accolades or trophies. God has chosen us to know a love without condition, a mercy without judgment, and a joy without end. You don’t have to win any SuperBowl to be a superKid. You don’t have to return the favor of an exchanged valentine card to get one.

As Tracey and I sat in the presentation of the amazing good Sacred Selections does (and I am sure there are others), we had had tears in our eyes. These families who sacrifice all to share love for one – or more – is a life changing truth. They know little about these little ones they adopt – but they do. They know little about the genetics the children will inherit – but they still do. They set aside the fear of such unknowns and embrace the reality of love shared – and they chose to adopt – not knowing.

But God? He knew. He knew me. He knew you. He knew we were neither good or righteous – but God sent His Son and “proves his own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:6). And when He knew us – He still chose us in Christ. That is a super kind of love that knows no holiday and no contest. It is the Way of the One who is our Father and Elder Brother who loves us with SuperKid Love.

by Don Hooton

I just read about five young men who went on mission to preach the good news of Jesus to the unreached Huaorani people in 1956. On Tuesday, January 3, 1956 Jim Elliot and four other missionaries (Ed McCully, Roger Youderian, Pete Fleming, and Nate Saint) landed on a small strip of land in the jungles of Ecuador. On Friday, January 6th, three Aucas—one man and two women—approached them with whom they exchanged greetings. The men showed the natives rubber bands, yo-yos, and balloons, and they even took the man up in the plane. On Sunday, January 8th, however, they were due to radio in at 4:30 p.m. but all there was – was silence. When no message came, a plane was sent and then a rescue party. Four of their bodies were recovered—all lanced to death in what seemed an ambush. The fifth was never found. Their martyrdom shocked the world. And in 1956, TIME ran a ten-page story.

The men’s wives, all in their twenties, followed their husbands’ passion and went to Ecuador. With extraordinary bravery they returned to the very people who had killed their husbands and showed forgiveness and love. The Huaorani were amazed. And in response, one of them said, ‘We acted badly, badly…’ ‘until they brought us God’s carvings. Now we walk His trail.’ (as quoted in “Through the Gates of Splendor,” written by Jim Elliot’s widow, Elizabeth).

Yet, it is Jim Elliot’s words that have long been quoted and echoed in lessons about commitment and sacrifice. At just 22-years-old on October 28, 1949, six years before the fated day in Ecuador, Jim Elliot wrote: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” And in less than just 7 years, he would show himself – no fool.
When Jim Elliot’s diary was found by the rescue party, these were his last written words as he waited for the Aucas Indians to come:

“I walked out to the hill just now. It is exalting, delicious, to stand embraced by the shadows of a friendly tree with the wind tugging at your coattail and the heavens hailing your heart, to gaze and glory and give oneself again to God—what more could a man ask? Oh, the fullness, pleasure, sheer excitement of knowing God on earth! I care not if I never raise my voice again for him, if only I may love him, please him. Perhaps in mercy he shall give me a host of children [i.e., converts] that I may lead them through the vast star fields to explore his delicacies whose finger ends set them to burning. But if not, if only I may see him, touch his garments, and smile into his eyes—ah then, not stars nor children shall matter, only himself” (Elisabeth Elliot, Through Gates of Splendour. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1957, 256).

Such people inspire me.

Are we inspired by American soldiers who sacrificed their lives on foreign soil to defend the defenseless or to uphold a pursuit for freedom? Do the heart strings of our souls vibrate with the rhythm of our allegiance when the national anthem is played – even at gravesides of veterans – or police? Do we stand amazed by the lengths to which people have gone in their lives to reach extreme after extreme of difficulty and still tread onward uphill and through every shadowed valley? Should you not honor those to whom belong honor?

Yet, how does our heart feel when men and women fly to foreign lands to share the gospel of Jesus? Do we shout our “Hallelujah!”s or do we coil into despair?

First-Century Christians were relentlessly gentle in their bravery and fierce in their love. They preached the gospel even when they were flogged and beaten only to “rejoic[e] that they were counted worthy to be treated shamefully on behalf of the Name. Every day in the temple, and in various homes, they continued teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah” (Acts 2:41-42).

They learned love and sacrifice from their Savior and King. He inspired the good in the news they shared: “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters” (1John 3:16).

What can we give in 2023? “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.”