How does the Kingdom of GOD operate differently from the world?
One major way is: GOD never judges His people for their weakness and limitations...the Scriptures are absolutely clear on this. You will not find a single time when GOD has punished or even criticized anyone for not being clever enough, not being skillful enough, not being strong enough, not being eloquent enough, or not being beautiful enough. Likewise, GOD never shows favoritism towards anyone because they possess impressive talents or abilities. In fact, Jesus said, "I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants....Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven." (Mat 11:25, 18:3)
See, man looks at the outside appearance, but GOD looks at the heart. (1 Sam 16:7) No matter how smart we are, we will find we could have been smarter. No matter how strong we are, there are still things we cannot do. It is not physically attainable for any created being to become infinite in ability like GOD, without limitation or weakness. But GOD does want us all to become completely clean. (Eph 5:27) Purity is much more important in the eyes of GOD than size. A single cup of pure water is more valuable than 100 gallons of contaminated water. (Selah) Is it any surprise then that GOD often chooses to use the "foolish" and the "simple" to confound the "wise"? (1 Cor 1:26-29)
Has anyone been cast out because they weren't beautiful enough in the world's eyes? Is anyone afraid that their best will not be good enough? Jesus said: "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Mat 11:28-30)
November 9, 2009
November 7, 2009
The Parable of the Axe Head (Grace in a Nutshell)
Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, "Behold now, the place before you where we are living is too limited for us. Please let us go to the Jordan and each of us take from there a beam, and let us make a place there for ourselves where we may live." So he said, "Go."
Then one said, "Please be willing to go with your servants." And he answered, "I shall go."
So he went with them; and when they came to the Jordan, they cut down trees. But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water; and he cried out and said, "Alas, my master! For it was borrowed."
Then the man of God said, "Where did it fall?" And when he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there, and made the iron float. He said, "Take it up for yourself." So he put out his hand and took it. (2Ki 6:1-7)
This unusual incident actually illustrates an important lesson about sin and grace. Can you see it?
A man was chopping down a tree and the iron axe head "flew off the handle" and landed deep into the Jordan river. Unfortunately, the axe head was borrowed and the man was unable to retrieve the axe head. Also iron was an expensive commodity in those days so an iron axe head was quite expensive.
So what is the point of this unusual story? Notice that the man's physical inability to do the right thing did not excuse him. The man was clearly still responsible for returning the iron axe to his lender even though it was beyond his ability. Judging by the man's reaction (Alas! It was borrowed!) he knew this too.
At some point, every person finds themselves in the same situation as this man. The righteousness we need can not be earned through our best efforts. Most of us can live up to our society's standards through our efforts. Some of us can quit smoking or lose weight through our own willpower. But it is impossible for us to reverse our basic nature and our addiction to ego, sin, and self through our own resources. We have become "addicted" to sin, so to speak. Because our various sins have become such a part of our nature, even our best efforts are often have mixed motives and unclean methods. (Isa 64:6, Rom 3:11-23) "Can the Ethiopian change his skin Or the leopard his spots? Then you also can do good who are accustomed to doing evil." (Jer 13:23)
But righteousness is available to us, if we ask for it! We must ask because what is not possible with man is possible with GOD. (Luk 18:27) Our Loving Father would not withhold any good gift from us, His children. (Mat 7:11) But imagine if the man had reasoned thus: "Oops, the axe head seems to have fallen into the water! Well, it's ok. The guy who lent it to me will just have to understand... accidents do happen. He can certainly afford another one. Boy I'm glad I'm saved by the blood of Jesus and not by legalism!" Is that bringing forth fruits worthy of repentance? (Luk 3:8) What happened to the man at the wedding feast who did not dress himself in the clothes that were freely provided for him? (Mat 22:11-14, Rev 19:8-7)
Next, the man was told to "put out his hand" and "take it for himself." GOD put the axe-head within the man's reach, not in the man's lap. Notice that GOD did not take away the man's responsibility...instead He gave the man the tools he needed to fulfill his responsibility. Sometimes it will be easy. But sometimes the righteousness we ask for will require 100% of our focus, effort and resources to attain. (Mat 13:44, Mar 12:30, Luk 9:23-24, Rev 12:11) And it will be impossible to exert ourselves fully for GOD if our loyalties are divided with the cares of this world. (Luk 14:33, Mat 6:24, Mat 13:22, Jam 1:8) What did Jesus tell the rich young man was the "one thing he lacked?" (Mar 10:21)
What is being shown in this incident is grace. We are saved through both mercy and grace. Mercy forgives our sin and excuses our debt while grace gives us the ability to overcome our sin and pay our debt. They are different but both are needed! Mercy forgives us when we make a mistake, grace allows us to do better next time. The Grace of GOD does not mean we will never fall again. But it does mean we are given a new nature that is taking over our life completely. And when we do fall, the Mercy of GOD will forgive us, and the Grace of GOD will help us to stand again. For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again, But the wicked stumble in time of calamity. (Pro 24:16) Who is left among us who hungers and thirsts for righteousness, with all of their heart, soul, mind and strength?
Then one said, "Please be willing to go with your servants." And he answered, "I shall go."
So he went with them; and when they came to the Jordan, they cut down trees. But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water; and he cried out and said, "Alas, my master! For it was borrowed."
Then the man of God said, "Where did it fall?" And when he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there, and made the iron float. He said, "Take it up for yourself." So he put out his hand and took it. (2Ki 6:1-7)
This unusual incident actually illustrates an important lesson about sin and grace. Can you see it?
A man was chopping down a tree and the iron axe head "flew off the handle" and landed deep into the Jordan river. Unfortunately, the axe head was borrowed and the man was unable to retrieve the axe head. Also iron was an expensive commodity in those days so an iron axe head was quite expensive.
So what is the point of this unusual story? Notice that the man's physical inability to do the right thing did not excuse him. The man was clearly still responsible for returning the iron axe to his lender even though it was beyond his ability. Judging by the man's reaction (Alas! It was borrowed!) he knew this too.
At some point, every person finds themselves in the same situation as this man. The righteousness we need can not be earned through our best efforts. Most of us can live up to our society's standards through our efforts. Some of us can quit smoking or lose weight through our own willpower. But it is impossible for us to reverse our basic nature and our addiction to ego, sin, and self through our own resources. We have become "addicted" to sin, so to speak. Because our various sins have become such a part of our nature, even our best efforts are often have mixed motives and unclean methods. (Isa 64:6, Rom 3:11-23) "Can the Ethiopian change his skin Or the leopard his spots? Then you also can do good who are accustomed to doing evil." (Jer 13:23)
But righteousness is available to us, if we ask for it! We must ask because what is not possible with man is possible with GOD. (Luk 18:27) Our Loving Father would not withhold any good gift from us, His children. (Mat 7:11) But imagine if the man had reasoned thus: "Oops, the axe head seems to have fallen into the water! Well, it's ok. The guy who lent it to me will just have to understand... accidents do happen. He can certainly afford another one. Boy I'm glad I'm saved by the blood of Jesus and not by legalism!" Is that bringing forth fruits worthy of repentance? (Luk 3:8) What happened to the man at the wedding feast who did not dress himself in the clothes that were freely provided for him? (Mat 22:11-14, Rev 19:8-7)
Next, the man was told to "put out his hand" and "take it for himself." GOD put the axe-head within the man's reach, not in the man's lap. Notice that GOD did not take away the man's responsibility...instead He gave the man the tools he needed to fulfill his responsibility. Sometimes it will be easy. But sometimes the righteousness we ask for will require 100% of our focus, effort and resources to attain. (Mat 13:44, Mar 12:30, Luk 9:23-24, Rev 12:11) And it will be impossible to exert ourselves fully for GOD if our loyalties are divided with the cares of this world. (Luk 14:33, Mat 6:24, Mat 13:22, Jam 1:8) What did Jesus tell the rich young man was the "one thing he lacked?" (Mar 10:21)
What is being shown in this incident is grace. We are saved through both mercy and grace. Mercy forgives our sin and excuses our debt while grace gives us the ability to overcome our sin and pay our debt. They are different but both are needed! Mercy forgives us when we make a mistake, grace allows us to do better next time. The Grace of GOD does not mean we will never fall again. But it does mean we are given a new nature that is taking over our life completely. And when we do fall, the Mercy of GOD will forgive us, and the Grace of GOD will help us to stand again. For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again, But the wicked stumble in time of calamity. (Pro 24:16) Who is left among us who hungers and thirsts for righteousness, with all of their heart, soul, mind and strength?
Licensed to Kill?
Does the Old Testament condone genocide? Didn't GOD command the Israelites to kill the Hittites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites? (Deu 20:17) Some say this is no different than terrorists and extremist groups today.
On the surface it may appear so, but there is a subtle and important difference. Jehovah never allowed the Israelites to decide for themselves who to go to war with. Joshua was ordered to fight against the Canaanites, but Ahab was ordered NOT to fight against the Syrians. GOD supported the Israelites against the Philistines, but then ordered the Israelites to surrender to the Babylonians.
Why does this matter? By way of analogy, consider the government. Most governments have been given the right to regularly confiscate a certain amount property from nearly every private citizen. This process is called taxation. If a citizen were to confiscate the property of another citizen, that process would be called stealing. But here's the key point: the government also has the right to hire a regular citizen as an agent to collect taxes on its behalf. What is the difference between a legitimate tax collector, and a thief? A duly appointed tax collector is working on behalf on the government and can only collect taxes from specific people, at the specified time, for the specified amount. This is the same difference between the Israelites and an extremist group.
Imagine if you were the owner of an apartment building. You have many tenants, and some of them aren't even paying rent. You alone have the right to evict any tenant, especially if they mistreat the other tenants. (Mat 21:33-42) However, tenants do not have the right to evict each other. But you may choose hire one of the tenants to be your representative, including serving eviction notices to other tenants.
With GOD, it is the same principle but on a higher scale. GOD is the landlord because He created the apartment building. In fact He created the tenants too. GOD has the sovereign right to give life and to take it away any time He wants, but He can also delegate this responsibility to His workmen. Sadly, many throughout history have falsely claimed to be GOD's workmen. Some of them used the name of GOD to legitimize their bid for power. Others really believed they were doing GOD's will. (Mat 7:21-23) Instead of working for GOD, they have falsely shed the blood of anyone they considered to be an enemy. But either way, these misguided activities do not change the reality of GOD and His actual appointed workmen one bit. And how can there can be peace if the people of GOD can not or will not distinguish between the two?
On the surface it may appear so, but there is a subtle and important difference. Jehovah never allowed the Israelites to decide for themselves who to go to war with. Joshua was ordered to fight against the Canaanites, but Ahab was ordered NOT to fight against the Syrians. GOD supported the Israelites against the Philistines, but then ordered the Israelites to surrender to the Babylonians.
Why does this matter? By way of analogy, consider the government. Most governments have been given the right to regularly confiscate a certain amount property from nearly every private citizen. This process is called taxation. If a citizen were to confiscate the property of another citizen, that process would be called stealing. But here's the key point: the government also has the right to hire a regular citizen as an agent to collect taxes on its behalf. What is the difference between a legitimate tax collector, and a thief? A duly appointed tax collector is working on behalf on the government and can only collect taxes from specific people, at the specified time, for the specified amount. This is the same difference between the Israelites and an extremist group.
Imagine if you were the owner of an apartment building. You have many tenants, and some of them aren't even paying rent. You alone have the right to evict any tenant, especially if they mistreat the other tenants. (Mat 21:33-42) However, tenants do not have the right to evict each other. But you may choose hire one of the tenants to be your representative, including serving eviction notices to other tenants.
With GOD, it is the same principle but on a higher scale. GOD is the landlord because He created the apartment building. In fact He created the tenants too. GOD has the sovereign right to give life and to take it away any time He wants, but He can also delegate this responsibility to His workmen. Sadly, many throughout history have falsely claimed to be GOD's workmen. Some of them used the name of GOD to legitimize their bid for power. Others really believed they were doing GOD's will. (Mat 7:21-23) Instead of working for GOD, they have falsely shed the blood of anyone they considered to be an enemy. But either way, these misguided activities do not change the reality of GOD and His actual appointed workmen one bit. And how can there can be peace if the people of GOD can not or will not distinguish between the two?
October 17, 2009
A Different Nature - Pt 1
"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. "
(Mat 5:13-15)
In this case, Jesus uses the analogy of Salt and Light to describe His people. Salt and Light have properties which are unique unto them, and can not be substituted by another.
A "house" provides residence and shelter, but so can a hut, a barn, even a cave, though maybe not quite as well. But the essential function of shelter can be still be met by other things, it is only a question of degrees.
A "bowl" can contain flour for cooking, but so can a cup or a pot, or even a pitcher.
A "chair" can provide a place for a person to sit, but so can a stump, a bed, a log, or even a rock. It is just a question of degrees.
But there is no substitute for salt or light. They contain a special nature that is unique unto them. So it is with the people of GOD.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. "
(Mat 5:13-15)
In this case, Jesus uses the analogy of Salt and Light to describe His people. Salt and Light have properties which are unique unto them, and can not be substituted by another.
A "house" provides residence and shelter, but so can a hut, a barn, even a cave, though maybe not quite as well. But the essential function of shelter can be still be met by other things, it is only a question of degrees.
A "bowl" can contain flour for cooking, but so can a cup or a pot, or even a pitcher.
A "chair" can provide a place for a person to sit, but so can a stump, a bed, a log, or even a rock. It is just a question of degrees.
But there is no substitute for salt or light. They contain a special nature that is unique unto them. So it is with the people of GOD.
A Different Nature - Pt 2
The question was once asked: What really sets a Christian apart? In other words, what actions truly define a Christian? Well, Christians are supposed to do many good things for the benefit of those around them. For example: Prayer, Go to Church, Giving to the poor, Helping our neighbors, Encouraging others, Working productively, Reading the Bible, and the list goes on....
But don't non-Christians also do those same things? Almost everyone prays at some point in their life. UNICEF also helps the poor children. Some non-Christians are better versed in the Bible than the average Christian.
So what actions are actually unique unto Christians?
So what actions are actually unique unto Christians?
(1) Christians show LOVE to those who HATE them.
For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
(Mat 5:46-48)
It is very rare to see an individual that shows love from their heart to someone who is deliberately trying to hurt them. This is not talking about being a doormat or being unwilling to stand up for what is right. This is talking about letting go of our own self-centered egos and following the heart of GOD as exemplified by JESUS CHRIST. The love of man comes and goes, but GOD LOVES ALL THE TIME, even in His Wrath. Because GOD'S VERY NATURE IS LOVE and He changes not.
2) Christians would rather honor others than to be honored
And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.
(Mar 10:42-44)
Would you rather respect others, or be respected?
Would you rather show appreciation to someone else, or be appreciated?
Would you rather love others, or be loved?
3) Christians seek the Kingdom of GOD above everything else
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
(Mat 6:31-33)
In a recent poll, over one hundred people were asked "What would you pick if you could have just one wish?"
Responses ranged from a million dollars, to never getting sick, to peace on earth, to more wishes. However, not one person wished to better know the GOD who created them, or even to become a better person (although some wished that other people would stop hating).
As good as health, peace on earth, or a million dollars can be, without the knowledge of the infinite GOD these are just short-sighted measures, which cannot bring everlasting life and success. We are just trading in one set of problems for another.
October 12, 2009
Love is a Two-Way Street
Love is a two-way street. GOD created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them. All life owes its existence to GOD and GOD loves all of His creation, especially HIS children. He wants all of His children to love Him with all their heart, soul and mind and to love each other, just as GOD loves them with all of His own Heart, Soul, and Mind.
As we put GOD first in our heart, He puts us first in His--this is the correct way. The sinful way is for us to put first our own needs and wants...while expecting GOD to also put first our needs and wants. He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but yet only that which is clean can be joined to Him.
As we put GOD first in our heart, He puts us first in His--this is the correct way. The sinful way is for us to put first our own needs and wants...while expecting GOD to also put first our needs and wants. He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but yet only that which is clean can be joined to Him.
What is Holiness?
Holiness is a “double-edged sword” with two aspects. The first aspect of Holiness is to be “sanctified” and “set apart” for a purpose and calling of the Lord. The second aspect of Holiness is Wholeness, Completeness, and Unity within that purpose, lacking nothing. The Sabbath was “set apart” because in its rest, the purposes of the previous “week” have been completed.
For example, consider the natural body. Every cell is a separate entity that is “set apart” yet they all work together as one, for the purpose of giving life to an individual. The stomach must be separate from the liver in order for them both to do their jobs, yet they must be unified under the overall purpose of giving life.
Now consider the Body of Christ. Like the natural body, the spiritual Body of Christ has many diverse members and roles. Yet Jesus had prayed that the disciples may all be One, just as Jesus and the Father are One. (John 17:17-22) “For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” (1Co
GOD’s people have been placed on Earth to benefit the nations, but yet must remain spiritually distinct and set-apart from the nations. “You are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR GOD'S OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;” (1Pe 2:9) “Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?” (2Co
Unity of the Body does NOT mean that everyone needs to bare their soul to everyone else all the time, or become clones that are assimilated into a hive-society, or that there is no longer any place for privacy. How to we tell the difference between a proper boundary (e.g. Husband and wife, a support group, 12 apostles, etc) and a divisive faction that separates the body?
To put it simply, divisions and factions within the body arise from distrust, jealousy and sin. Healthy boundaries arise from the life-giving purposes of GOD.
A young woman was engaged to be married. She loved her fiancée very much. Although he had sin and was imperfect, she loved him anyway and was kind to him. Sometimes he would say unkind things that hurt her, but she always forgave him and continued to see the best in him. Therefore her fiancée also loved and admired her very much and was eagerly anticipating their marriage.
One day, her fiancée’s father came to visit. The father said the young woman would not make a good wife for this young woman is not of good character because she does not come from a good family background. He said the reason she is trying to get married so quickly is because her parents were divorced. However, the father did not see that the young woman had just walked into the room behind him and heard everything he said. But the fiancée could see her as she quietly leave the room.
Afterwards, the fiancée went over to the young woman to apologize for his father’s words. “You must understand…my father is very traditional” he explained. Although she was hurt, she never used the angry tongue, the slandering tongue, the gossiping tongue. After they were married, she never spoke badly about her father-in-law, either openly or secretly, but showed only kindness to him. She would sometimes go out of her way to do thoughtful things for him.
Finally, the husband asked her “You know my father does not treat you well. He has said many bad things about you before and even today does not show kindness to you. Why do you treat him so well?”
April 7, 2009
What is Humility?
The fulfillment of the LAW of EQUITY is HUMILITY.
Humility is NOT despising oneself. Humility is NOT lack of boldness of conviction. Humility is NOT weakness or lack of confidence. What is humility then?
Humility is thinking outside of oneself. A soldier fighting with all his heart and soul to defend his brethren without thought of glory or recognition is displaying humility. For example, a humble man is often free to be more courageous than a proud man because a humble man does not have a fragile self-image to protect. A proud man is stifled by his own ego and dignity, and is scared to take any risk that may threaten his self-image. A humble man is a peace-maker who is able to see beyond his own desires. (2 Sam 6:12-22, Prov 22:4)
Humility is the opposite of pride. A humble man does not delight in seeing himself elevated above those around him. A humble man delights to lift up his brothers and sisters, and will lay down his life for their sake. A humble man understands the value of power, of honor, of authority, but does not covet them. Just as one can understand the value and purpose of money without being greedy. Or understand the value of food without being a glutton. (Php 2:5-7)
A humble man understands that GOD LOVES HIS CHILDREN equally. A humble man understands, as almost everyone does, that people should be treated fairly. However, people commonly react much more violently when they themselves are insulted or cheated than when others around them suffer the same insult. It is the opposite with the truly humble man. He is becoming increasingly desensitized to insults against himself, and thus is becoming increasingly sensitive to the hurts of others. He is willing to forgo his rights because his ego is being replaced with empathy. Humility does not strain upwards towards positions of glory, but instead reaches down and strains towards the people around him. Especially to those who have nothing to offer us or anybody else in return.
In following this path, he is drawing nearer to the HEART of GOD HIMSELF. He is able to endure injustice and iniquity because he knows that GOD will not allow a cosmic injustice to continue uncorrected. He knows at the end, GOD has promised to correct and judge every temporary and hurtful wrong committed by man upon the earth, with more truth and accuracy than he ever could. He knows that it is not his responsibility to judge his brothers or sisters, because the responsibility of vengeance belongs GOD alone. (GOD may delegate the responsibility of judgment or vengeance to his servants at His choosing, but it is not fitting for any man this upon himself.) Like David at the hands of Saul, he commits his soul into the hands of GOD who judges righteously. (Lev 19:18, Deu 32:35, Psa 18:48, 1 Sam 24:10-12, Rom 12:19, Heb 11:16, 1 Pet 2:23)
Only when our obedience is complete, can we judge disobedience. For example, how many nations throughout history have represented themselves with the emblem of a roaring LION (versus a loyal dog, a dependable worker bee, or a protecting oak tree)? Did they choose the emblem of the lion or the dragon because dragons are known to be kind, fair, and good? How many have coveted power of the dragon or the lion, while totally missing the spirit that is required to wield it responsibly. GOD will not entrust anyone with the power and authority of the LION until we first have the heart of the LAMB. Is that not common sense? If any man wants to become first, he must first be a servant of all. (2 Cor 10:6, Heb 2:6-8, Php 2:3-11, Rev 5:12)
Is true humility not a rare and beautiful character, incorruptible as pure gold?
You have heard that it was said, 'AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.
- Matthew 5:38-42
The Story of a Highly Dysfunctional Family
A woman has a large family of twelve children. The children are of all different ages, and each child has a different personality and make-up, but their mother loved them all dearly. One day she had to leave for a little while so she told the oldest son to babysit his brothers and sisters. He was to make sure that the ones in school did their homework, they all got lunch, and he was to watch each of them to make sure they stayed safe. If the children started fighting, he was to break it up and all the kids were told to obey their older brother.
However, this was a highly dysfunctional family. The older brother started to enjoy the fact that his brothers and sisters looked up to him and would do whatever he told them. He began to lord his authority over them. He told them that he was put in charge over the rest of them because of his anointing.
Now the mother was gone for many days. When she returned, she was shocked and barely recognized the household she left. He had divided his brothers and sisters into two groups called Babysitters and Sub-Children. And the children were no longer calling their brother by his first name, but instead called him Elder Brother (or Elder One if they prefer). He had turned the living room into his private bedroom and only members of his inner circle (the Babysitters) were allowed access to the refrigerator. He did make sure his brothers and sisters were fed lunch each day, but Elder Brother always took care to eat his meals separately with his Babysitters apart from the Sub-Children. Elder Brother (with the help of his Babysitters) was busy adding new rules every day to better manage the Sub-Children. Of course, the Sub-Children were very grateful to the the Babysitters because, after all, without the them the Sub-Children wouldn't even able to get into the refrigerator.
This is obviously a ridiculous story….except if it were actually happening throughout the world in various forms.
Did you notice the true uncleanness in this story? The true sin in this story is neither the discipline nor the organization. Nor is it hierarchy or authority. In large groups, organization, leadership, authority and discipline become essential for success. However the true uncleanness here is Spiritual…it is called Pride. A good caretaker should protect, nurture, and grow his brothers and sisters. Because he knows that even though they are temporarily placed in his care, they are his brothers and sisters, and are loved equally. But in our story, the excessive bureaucracy was simply a means to protect the privileged status of the older brother and his Babysitters. What is clearly absurd in a small family somehow becomes accepted and normal in a large one.
Does a hospital exist for the sake of sick people, or does a hospital exist for the sake of doctors, nurses, and hospital administrators, to give them a job? Likewise, does a church exist for the sake of the congregation, or to give ministers and clergy a job? A true Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. Jesus said COME TO ME, ALL WHO ARE WEARY AND HEAVY-LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST. TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU AND LEARN FROM ME FOR I AM GENTLE AND HUMBLE IN HEART. Jesus came humbly (as a Lamb) unto His own people, but was not accepted. But in the future, when one comes in his own name, will he be accepted instead? Who can distinguish between the clean and unclean? How many Sub-Children will Elder Brother need to gather beneath him before onlookers stop laughing at him, and start speaking of him in reverent and hushed tones? Selah.
Humility is NOT despising oneself. Humility is NOT lack of boldness of conviction. Humility is NOT weakness or lack of confidence. What is humility then?
Humility is thinking outside of oneself. A soldier fighting with all his heart and soul to defend his brethren without thought of glory or recognition is displaying humility. For example, a humble man is often free to be more courageous than a proud man because a humble man does not have a fragile self-image to protect. A proud man is stifled by his own ego and dignity, and is scared to take any risk that may threaten his self-image. A humble man is a peace-maker who is able to see beyond his own desires. (2 Sam 6:12-22, Prov 22:4)
Humility is the opposite of pride. A humble man does not delight in seeing himself elevated above those around him. A humble man delights to lift up his brothers and sisters, and will lay down his life for their sake. A humble man understands the value of power, of honor, of authority, but does not covet them. Just as one can understand the value and purpose of money without being greedy. Or understand the value of food without being a glutton. (Php 2:5-7)
A humble man understands that GOD LOVES HIS CHILDREN equally. A humble man understands, as almost everyone does, that people should be treated fairly. However, people commonly react much more violently when they themselves are insulted or cheated than when others around them suffer the same insult. It is the opposite with the truly humble man. He is becoming increasingly desensitized to insults against himself, and thus is becoming increasingly sensitive to the hurts of others. He is willing to forgo his rights because his ego is being replaced with empathy. Humility does not strain upwards towards positions of glory, but instead reaches down and strains towards the people around him. Especially to those who have nothing to offer us or anybody else in return.
In following this path, he is drawing nearer to the HEART of GOD HIMSELF. He is able to endure injustice and iniquity because he knows that GOD will not allow a cosmic injustice to continue uncorrected. He knows at the end, GOD has promised to correct and judge every temporary and hurtful wrong committed by man upon the earth, with more truth and accuracy than he ever could. He knows that it is not his responsibility to judge his brothers or sisters, because the responsibility of vengeance belongs GOD alone. (GOD may delegate the responsibility of judgment or vengeance to his servants at His choosing, but it is not fitting for any man this upon himself.) Like David at the hands of Saul, he commits his soul into the hands of GOD who judges righteously. (Lev 19:18, Deu 32:35, Psa 18:48, 1 Sam 24:10-12, Rom 12:19, Heb 11:16, 1 Pet 2:23)
Only when our obedience is complete, can we judge disobedience. For example, how many nations throughout history have represented themselves with the emblem of a roaring LION (versus a loyal dog, a dependable worker bee, or a protecting oak tree)? Did they choose the emblem of the lion or the dragon because dragons are known to be kind, fair, and good? How many have coveted power of the dragon or the lion, while totally missing the spirit that is required to wield it responsibly. GOD will not entrust anyone with the power and authority of the LION until we first have the heart of the LAMB. Is that not common sense? If any man wants to become first, he must first be a servant of all. (2 Cor 10:6, Heb 2:6-8, Php 2:3-11, Rev 5:12)
Is true humility not a rare and beautiful character, incorruptible as pure gold?
You have heard that it was said, 'AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.
- Matthew 5:38-42
The Story of a Highly Dysfunctional Family
A woman has a large family of twelve children. The children are of all different ages, and each child has a different personality and make-up, but their mother loved them all dearly. One day she had to leave for a little while so she told the oldest son to babysit his brothers and sisters. He was to make sure that the ones in school did their homework, they all got lunch, and he was to watch each of them to make sure they stayed safe. If the children started fighting, he was to break it up and all the kids were told to obey their older brother.
However, this was a highly dysfunctional family. The older brother started to enjoy the fact that his brothers and sisters looked up to him and would do whatever he told them. He began to lord his authority over them. He told them that he was put in charge over the rest of them because of his anointing.
Now the mother was gone for many days. When she returned, she was shocked and barely recognized the household she left. He had divided his brothers and sisters into two groups called Babysitters and Sub-Children. And the children were no longer calling their brother by his first name, but instead called him Elder Brother (or Elder One if they prefer). He had turned the living room into his private bedroom and only members of his inner circle (the Babysitters) were allowed access to the refrigerator. He did make sure his brothers and sisters were fed lunch each day, but Elder Brother always took care to eat his meals separately with his Babysitters apart from the Sub-Children. Elder Brother (with the help of his Babysitters) was busy adding new rules every day to better manage the Sub-Children. Of course, the Sub-Children were very grateful to the the Babysitters because, after all, without the them the Sub-Children wouldn't even able to get into the refrigerator.
This is obviously a ridiculous story….except if it were actually happening throughout the world in various forms.
Did you notice the true uncleanness in this story? The true sin in this story is neither the discipline nor the organization. Nor is it hierarchy or authority. In large groups, organization, leadership, authority and discipline become essential for success. However the true uncleanness here is Spiritual…it is called Pride. A good caretaker should protect, nurture, and grow his brothers and sisters. Because he knows that even though they are temporarily placed in his care, they are his brothers and sisters, and are loved equally. But in our story, the excessive bureaucracy was simply a means to protect the privileged status of the older brother and his Babysitters. What is clearly absurd in a small family somehow becomes accepted and normal in a large one.
Does a hospital exist for the sake of sick people, or does a hospital exist for the sake of doctors, nurses, and hospital administrators, to give them a job? Likewise, does a church exist for the sake of the congregation, or to give ministers and clergy a job? A true Shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. Jesus said COME TO ME, ALL WHO ARE WEARY AND HEAVY-LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST. TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU AND LEARN FROM ME FOR I AM GENTLE AND HUMBLE IN HEART. Jesus came humbly (as a Lamb) unto His own people, but was not accepted. But in the future, when one comes in his own name, will he be accepted instead? Who can distinguish between the clean and unclean? How many Sub-Children will Elder Brother need to gather beneath him before onlookers stop laughing at him, and start speaking of him in reverent and hushed tones? Selah.
January 24, 2008
The Ten Commandments
“What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” (Luke 10:26)
Is there any reason God chose the particular Ten Commandments?
For example, why did He say “Thou shalt not bear false witness” instead of simply “Thou shalt not lie”? Why there are ten of them, and not seven or fifteen?
This article explains the spiritual pattern behind the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments are actually part of a larger divine pattern based on four eternal and universal spiritual laws. These laws form a motif that is repeated over and over again in both the Old and New Testaments.
First, we will show what the four laws or principles are.
Next, we will how the Ten Commandments are tied to these four laws.
Next, we will show how this pattern is repeated many times in key parts of Scripture.
Finally, we will discuss how mercy and love relate to the law, in light of this understanding.
The Four Laws
The four laws are spiritual and eternal. They were established by God before the foundation of the world. However, human beings are limited and our language is limited. Even though this web page was designed and written in English, these four eternal laws were not.
Therefore, any description of them offered here is only approximate. The full knowledge and understanding of them rests only in the infinite mind of God. However, we will try to be as precise and accurate as to full meaning as we can.
1. Justice (aka Just Reciprocity)
Just reciprocity or justice is simply defined as “innocent people should not be punished, and people who do good deeds deserve reciprocation (reward).” For example, many passages in the Old Testament prohibit the “shedding of innocent blood” (Deu 19:10) Governments and courts throughout history have relied on this principle for legitimacy. (This does not necessarily mean that they always live up to it however!) For example, even the worst dictators typically feel the need to declare that a prisoner is “guilty” of something before executing them.
The principle that good deeds deserve reciprocation is the moral foundation of virtually all systems of commercial trade throughout history. For example, if I eat dinner at a restaurant, the restaurant will *expect* payment. In fact, the restaurant will feel morally justified in expecting payment and will be outraged if I simply walk out without paying. However, no matter how badly the restaurant needs money, the restaurant will *not* feel justified in simply demanding money from people who are just walking by on the sidewalk.
Note: this does not mean people are required to reciprocate every single act of kindness done for them, but rather appropriate payment should not be denied if asked for. There is certainly nothing prohibiting people from giving freely of what they own and expecting nothing in return.
2. Truth (aka Integrity)
Truth or Integrity means a person's actions should match their words, and their words should match reality. This principle covers lying, stealing, dishonesty, and oath breaking.
This law is the moral authority behind contract law and international treaties. One person does not have the moral right to arbitrarily impose their will on their neighbor. To do so is simply called bullying or oppression. However, if the two parties voluntarily sign a contract, each party is bound by their own word. In this case, the each party is required to honor their own word in order to remain morally consistent.
As an interesting side note, the word “hypocrisy” comes from the Greek word “hypokrisis”, which means “pretending” or “play acting”. Morally speaking, a hypocrite is a person who does not really mean what they say, lacking in sincerity or integrity.
3. Equity (aka Equality)
Equity is the principle that all humanity stands equal before the Lord. In other words, the worth and rights of people are regarded equally under the law. As a corollary, people have more value than things.
Thomas Jefferson described this principle as “self-evident” when he wrote in the Declaration of Independence that “all men are created equal.” This is also the moral force behind the abolition of slavery and the civil rights movement. The principle that people are worth more than things is reason that most hospitals will not refuse life-saving treatment to anyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
4. Faithfulness (aka Loyalty)
Loyalty says a person shall not betray a mutual trust, so as long as the relationship exists.* Out of the four fundamental moral principles of the outer court, this is the most personal. For example, C.S. Lewis observed that although different societies has differing moral standards, no society approves of running away and deserting your comrades in battle.
* This law does not strictly prohibit ending a relationship, only acting in a disloyal manner while at the same time enjoying all of the benefits of the relationship. For example, a person does not commit treason if he or she formally renounces his or her citizenship first. This is why the Law of Moses permitted divorce, although divorce was not part of God's desire for marriage.
These principles were not merely inventions of Western culture or enlightenment thinking. People throughout history commonly appeal to these laws, consciously or subconsciously, when they need to justify their actions. This does not mean that they will always live up to these standards, however. What it does mean is that these laws carry a primal or “self-evident” legitimacy that is recognized by people from diverse backgrounds.
These principles were not merely inventions of Western culture or enlightenment thinking. People throughout history commonly appeal to these laws, consciously or subconsciously, when they need to justify their actions. This does not mean that they will always live up to these standards, however. What it does mean is that these laws carry a primal or “self-evident” legitimacy that is recognized by people from diverse backgrounds.
The Brazen Altar
In the outer court of the tabernacle, there was a bronze laver (water basin) and a bronze altar. Throughout the Bible, Bronze symbolizes judgment. The bronze altar represents the judgment of the Law. The outer court is where animals were sacrificed to symbolically atone for the breaking of the Law. The entire tabernacle itself was an elaborate illustration set up by God to teach us key points through the use of symbols.
The altar was square and had four horns, one on each corner. The horn in the Bible represents power or authority. The four horns on the corners of the altar represents the four eternal spiritual Laws set up by God (described above).
The Tabernacle was referred to as the dwelling place of God in the wilderness. Anyone coming in from the outside must first pass through the outer court. Likewise, for people with no prior knowledge of God, the Ten Commandments was the first level of God's revelation of Himself, the outer ring. Why did God first give humanity a set of Laws? Many have noticed that the abundance of laws do not typically produce good, righteous people. Legalism alone can not produce love or true morality from the heart.
However the this was never the purpose of the Law. The purpose of the Law was to simply to define evil—not to eliminate it. To completely eliminate wrongness and replace it with love and righteousness takes a lot more than the Law is able to provide.
Does this mean that the Law is obsolete or useless? Not at all! Can one truly understand mercy without first understanding justice? Without an objective moral law that is higher than human invention, we can forgive others for hurting us or offending us, but we can not forgive anyone for wronging us. A man who has only a vague notion right and wrong can only say “I'm sorry I offended you” or “I'm sorry I made you angry”, but he can not say “I'm sorry. What I did to you was wrong” with much sincerity or meaningfulness.
Two or Three Witnesses
Anyone who has set aside the Law of Moses dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.
- Hebrews 10:28
- Hebrews 10:28
The LORD is God, and He has given us light; Bind the festival sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar.
- Psalm 118:27
- Psalm 118:27
The Ten Commandments can be separated into two sections: the first four commandments talk about man's relationship with God and the last six talk about man's relationship with other men.
We will start with the last six that talk about man's relationship with man. Each one of these six Commandments are witnessed by at least two of the four spiritual laws. Visually, they can been seen as being tied to two horns of the altar.
The purpose of the Ten Commandments is not to provide an exhaustive list of wrong activities. Even if this were possible, it would not lead to life. Rather, the Ten Commandments are real world representations of the four spiritual laws. If we break any of the Ten Commandments, we can be sure we are breaking at least two or three of God's eternal spiritual laws. In other words, the Ten Commandments are here to help us to detect evil within ourselves, not to cure it.
Commandments 5-10 (Man vs Man)
5. Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long upon the land which Jehovah your God gives you.
This commandment is witnessed by Justice and Faithfulness.
Justice: Because everyone's life came from their parents, and their parents and provided for their needs while they were helpless, honor is a minor way to reciprocate what they have received.
Faithfulness: Loyalty forbids one from betraying a mutual relationship, especially when one is enjoying the benefits of the relationship. This was especially true for the Israelites. Since the land was divided among the twelve tribes, every man lived on land belonging to their parents and ancestors. This is why God said if they did not honor their parents while they were at the same time living on their parents land, God would remove them from the land.
6. You shall not murder.
This commandment is witnessed by Justice and Equity
Justice: Justice prohibits one from shedding innocent blood
Equity: Since worth and rights of all people are equal before the Lord, no one has the natural right to take another's life.
Faithfulness: Murder may not necessarily tied to faithfulness because it is possible to murder somebody with whom one has no prior relationship with (e.g. Total stranger)
7. You shall not commit adultery.
This commandment is witnessed by Faithfulness and Truth
Faithfulness: Faithfulness requires one to be faithful to one's spouse, while the relationship exists. The Law does not prohibit a marriage to be ended at will, but one may not betray the relationship while in it
Truth: Adultery is breaking one's oath to one's spouse
8. You shall not steal.
This commandment is witnessed by Equity and Truth
Equity: Since the worth and rights of all people are equal before the Lord, no one has the natural right to take another's property.
Truth: Stealing is dishonestly claiming possession of property belonging to someone else
Faithfulness: Stealing may not necessarily tied to faithfulness because it is possible to steal from somebody with whom one has no prior relationship with (e.g. Total stranger)
Justice: In the strictest sense, stealing may not necessarily be tied to Justice, because one may simply be stealing from someone who previously stole from them.
9.You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
This commandment is witnessed by Justice and Truth
Justice: Bearing false witness is an attempt to convict an innocent person
Truth: Bearing false witness is lying against the truth
10. You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is your neighbor's.
This commandment is witnessed by Faithfulness and Equity
Faithfulness: Taking possession in one's heart of anything belonging to one's neighbor's is disloyal to one's neighbor
Equity: Since every man's rights and worth are equal before the Lord, nobody has the right to take possession of anything belonging to their neighbor in their heart
Commandments 1-4 (Man vs God)
1. I am Jehovah your God, who has brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me.
This commandment is witnessed by Justice, Faithfulness and Truth
Justice: Because Jehovah gave the Israelites freedom from slavery in Egypt and national independence, Jehovah expects their allegiance as reasonable reciprocation.
Faithfulness: Worshiping other gods is betraying Israel's intimate relationship with Jehovah, which is likened to a marriage
Truth: According to the Torah, the Israelites witnessed many miracles and actually heard Jehovah speak to them in an audible voice from Mt. Sinai. For the Israelites to ascribe Jehovah's nature and position to someone or something else would be simply untruthful.
2. You shall not make to yourselves any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in the heavens above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow yourself down to them, nor serve them. For I Jehovah your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the sons to the third and fourth generation of those that hate me, and showing mercy to thousands of those that love Me and keep My commandments.
This commandment is witnessed by Equity, Faithfulness and Truth
Equity: Worshiping any statue or object is actually elevating the worth of that object above the worth of human beings. This is iniquity because the inherent worth of people is greater than that of inanimate objects. When the fruit of this iniquity is fully realized, the results are horrific. Although the Israelites' worship of idols started as a seemingly harmless religious activity, it degenerated after several generations into the widespread sacrificing of their children to the idol Molech. "They made a calf in Horeb And worshiped a molten image. Thus they exchanged their glory For the image of an ox that eats grass." -Psa 106:19-20
Faithfulness: Worshiping other gods is betraying Israel's intimate relationship with Jehovah, which is likened to a marriage
Truth: According to the Torah, the Israelites witnessed many miracles and actually heard Jehovah speak to them in an audible voice from Mt. Sinai. For the Israelites to ascribe Jehovah's nature and position to an inanimate object would be simply untruthful.
3. You shall not take the name of Jehovah your God in vain. For Jehovah will not hold him guiltless that takes His name in vain.
This commandment is witnessed by Justice, Equity, and Truth
Equity: To belittle Jehovah's name is to belittle Jehovah. When we belittle somebody, we are subtly exalting ourselves above that person.
Demonstrating that we can freely use God's name in vain does deliver an emotional impact, which partially explains why people so commonly do it (often without realizing what they are actually doing).
Justice: Taking the Jehovah's name in vain is to insult an innocent party without a cause. God warns He will not hold him guiltless that takes Him name in vain.
Truth: The Hebrew word for vain (shav) also means to use His name falsely or uselessly. If one changes the meaning of the Lord's name, or empties it of meaning entirely, one is obviously using it falsely.
4. Observe the sabbath day to keep it holy, as the LORD your God commanded you. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath of the LORD your God; in it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter or your male servant or your female servant or your ox or your donkey or any of your cattle or your sojourner who stays with you, so that your male servant and your female servant may rest as well as you. You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God brought you out of there by a mighty hand and by an outstretched arm; therefore the LORD your God commanded you to observe the sabbath day.
This commandment is witnessed by Justice, Equity, and Faithfulness
Equity: Every Israelite, from the highest to the lowest, was to rest equally before the Lord, without distinction.
Justice: Jehovah pointed that he gave the Israelites their freedom from Egypt. In reciprocation, Jehovah expected the Israelites to honor Him by refraining from pursuing their own interests for one day of the week. (Isa 58:13)
Faithfulness: Observing the sabbath was to be an outward sign of the Israelites unique relationship with Jehovah. (Exodus 31:13)
The LORD is God, and He has given us light; Bind the festival sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar. (Psalms 118:27)
The Pattern Repeated
Did Not Come to Abolish the Law but to Fulfill
In the pivotal teaching of Matthew 5:17-46, Jesus clearly teaches that He did not come to abolish the Law (Commandments) but to fulfill it. He touches on each of the four “horns” of the Law, in sequence, and finally summarizes it with a fifth section about the perfection of love.
1st Example: Justice
“You have heard that the ancients were told, 'YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER' and 'Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.' But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, 'You good-for-nothing,' shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell. Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering. Make friends quickly with your opponent at law while you are with him on the way, so that your opponent may not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown into prison. Truly I say to you, you will not come out of there until you have paid up the last cent.” (Matthew 5:21-30)
Jesus is saying that under the New Covenant, the principle of Justice or Just Reciprocation is far from being suspended or voided. Instead of being liable only for external wrongs such as murder, we are even liable for any undeserved anger or insults that we direct at others. Justice is often thought of as “getting even” with others, but Jesus is saying we should make every effort to be reconciled to others we may have offended. If treat Justice lightly, we will not come out of prison “until we have paid up the last cent”.
2nd Example: Faithfulness
“You have heard that it was said, 'YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY'; but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. If your right hand makes you stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to go into hell. It was said, 'WHOEVER SENDS HIS WIFE AWAY, LET HIM GIVE HER A CERTIFICATE OF DIVORCE'; but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the reason of unchastity, makes her commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” (Matthew 5:27-32)
Faithfulness is very important to God and to our own survival as humans. Under no circumstances will God set aside the principle of Faithfulness. In fact, Jesus says we are faithful not only through our actions, but our inner thoughts as well. Using a graphic illustration, Jesus says we are actually better off cutting off a member of our own body than to cut off our spouse by being unfaithful. Also, as we noted earlier, in the outer court, there is no prohibition against divorce. However, in the New Covenant, we are no longer simply obeying the rules of the outer court. We have entered into the Holy Place, where we see not only justice and law, but grace, mercy, and purpose. Here, Jesus is giving us a glimpse of God's vision and purpose for marriage.
3rd Example: Truth
"Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, 'YOU SHALL NOT MAKE FALSE VOWS, BUT SHALL FULFILL YOUR VOWS TO THE LORD.' But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet, or by Jerusalem, for it is THE CITY OF THE GREAT KING. Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. But let your statement be, 'Yes, yes' or 'No, no'; anything beyond these is of evil." (Matthew 5:33-37)
In the New Covenant, we are not given permission to break our oaths. In fact, Jesus is saying that we should have such a high degree of fear for the Truth that we should avoid making oaths altogether. The reason our control over our circumstances and even ourselves is limited so we do not want to risk making an oath that we can not live up to. In fact, this is exactly what got Saul in trouble, as you will read later.
4th Example: Equity
"You have heard that it was said, 'AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.' But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you." (Matthew 5:38-42)
You have probably heard the expression “An eye for an eye just leaves everybody blind.” This statement is often used to point out the fallacy of revenge. This passage is actually stated three times in the Old Testament (Exodus 21:23-27, Leviticus 24:17-22, Deuteronomy 19:21). But in context, it is actually talking about equality, not just revenge.
“If a man injures his neighbor, just as he has done, so it shall be done to him: fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth; just as he has injured a man, so it shall be inflicted on him....There shall be one standard for you; it shall be for the stranger as well as the native, for I am the LORD your God.” (Leviticus 24:19-22)
The principle of “eye for an eye” is the principle of equality. The eye of the foreigner is worth the same as the eye of the native citizen. In the outer court, the value of each person is the same. Since we are each entitled to fair treatment, to put our value and our rights above our fellow man is sinful. This is sometimes called pride, inequality, or oppression. Jesus takes this principle a step further in the New Covenant. In the Inner Court, we not only avoid oppressing others or trampling on their rights, we voluntarily give up our position and willingly place ourselves beneath others. In the Roman Empire, a soldier could lawfully compel a subject to carry his load for one mile and one mile only. Jesus says to voluntarily serve others more than the law of equity requires. This is called humility. Although society and human nature often screams against this, this is the only doorway to the freedom of true selflessness and release from our own stifling ego and pride. By doing this, we are literally following after the true nature and heart of the GOD of the Universe...Jesus Christ.
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves...Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:3-11)
Conclusion: Perfection of Love
"You have heard that it was said, 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Matthew 5:43-48)
For this, 'YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET,' and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:9-10)
The Three Transgressions of King Saul
The “four horns” of Justice, Faithfulness, Truth, and Equity are clearly illustrated in the life of Saul. In the book of Samuel, it is recorded that the Israelites, after being ruled by judges for centuries, had finally asked God for a king. God was disappointed because the reason Israel wanted king was so they could be like the other nations around them. However, God honored their request and gave them a king named Saul, provided that both they and Saul would follow closely after God. (1 Samuel 12:24-25)
Shortly after Saul became king, it was recorded that Saul sinned against God three times (three witnesses). After the third sin, God said He would tear the kingdom from Saul's hand and give it to one more worthy than Saul. (1 Samuel 15:10-35)
1st Transgression: Unfaithfulness (1 Samuel 13:1-14)
The Israelites were facing a battle with the Philistines and the Israelites were greatly outnumbered. Saul was supposed to wait for Samuel to offer a sacrifice to the Lord before going into battle. However, Samuel was apparently late in showing up, the people started to get nervous. Afraid that the people would desert him, Saul went ahead and offered the sacrifice himself. However, this was strictly forbidden by God, as only Levites were allowed to sacrifice to the Lord, and Saul was of the tribe of Benjamin. By fearing the people more than God, Saul acted unfaithfully to the Lord.
2nd Transgression: Making Careless Oaths (1 Samuel 14:1-45)
When Saul's son Jonathan led a successful attack against the Philistines, it was a pivotal event that turned the tide in favor of the Israelites. Soon the entire Philistine army was in confusion and the Israelites had the Philistines on the run. Saul pronounced an oath that any man in his army who would touch food until evening would be cursed, so that Saul could be avenged on his enemies. Jonathan, not hearing about his father's oath, tasted some honey. Later when Saul and the priests asked counsel of God, the Lord did not answer. Sensing that some sin had been committed, they drew lots and the lot fell on Jonathan. Jonathan then told Saul about the honey he ate and Saul said that Jonathan his own son must therefore die because he broke the oath. However, because Jonathan was so instrumental in delivering victory to the Israelites, the people rallied to Jonathan's defense and Jonathan did not die. However, by making a careless oath, Saul transgressed against the law of Truth or Integrity.
3rd Transgression: Showing favoritism (iniquity) (1 Samuel 15:1-28)
The principle of equity comes from the fact that all people are equal before the Lord. The Lord told Saul that the Lord was going to take vengeance on the Amalekites for what they did to His people Israel. Saul was to kill every living thing the Amalekites owned, from the king to the women and children, including every animal. However, Saul and his men killed all of the people, but spared the Amalekite king, Agag, and kept for themselves the best of their sheep, oxen, and cattle. But everything that they despised and considered feeble, they destroyed completely. When God saw this, He was very displeased. Even through what could be considered a merciful act, Saul was showing favoritism to those he considered worthy in his own eyes. What God said to Saul about this incident is very revealing: “Is it not true, though you were little in your own eyes, you were made the head of the tribes of Israel? And the LORD anointed you king over Israel, and the LORD sent you on a mission, and said, 'Go and utterly destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, and fight against them until they are exterminated.' "Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD, but rushed upon the spoil and did what was evil in the sight of the LORD?"
After this third transgression (witness), God officially broke ties with Saul. It is written that Samuel no longer saw Saul until he died, and the Lord immediately had Samuel go out and anoint Saul's successor as king over Israel. Saul's successor, although far from perfect, would be described by God as a man after God's own heart. This, of course, was King David.
Six, Yes Seven Things the Lord Hates
"There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him:
Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, A false witness who utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers." (Proverbs 6:16-19)
This well-known list in Proverbs contains at least two patterns woven into the same passage.
One of the patterns covers parts of the body: Haughty eyes, lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that run rapidly to evil, a false witness who utters lies, and one who spreads strife among brothers.
The second pattern is that each of the four horns are covered in this list:
“Haughty eyes” (opposite of Equality)
“Lying tongue” (opposite of Truth)
“Hands that shed innocent blood” (opposite of Justice)
“One who spreads strife among brothers” (opposite of Loyalty or Faithfulness)
Other Examples
"Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, "Amend your ways and your deeds, and I will let you dwell in this place. Do not trust in deceptive words [Truth], saying, 'This is the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD.' For if you truly amend your ways and your deeds, if you truly practice justice between a man and his neighbor [Justice], if you do not oppress the alien, the orphan, or the widow [Equity], and do not shed innocent blood [Justice] in this place, nor walk after other gods to your own ruin [Faithfulness], then I will let you dwell in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers forever and ever." (Jeremiah 7:3-7)
"Thus has the LORD of hosts said, 'Dispense true justice [Justice] and practice kindness and compassion each to his brother; and do not oppress the widow or the orphan, the stranger or the poor [Equity]; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another [Faithfulness].' (Zecharaiah 7:9-10)
“The strength of the King loves justice; You have established equity; You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.” (Psalms 99:4)
There are many more examples in the Scriptures where these 4 “horns” or hidden laws are mentioned together. In fact, if you do a search in the Bible on a term such as “Justice” or “Equity”, you will most likely find many more examples of this pattern.
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