Everything Glorious
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14
This is such an amazing verse of scripture. In this passage we are reminded again that the Word (God) became flesh (Jesus). While Christ as God was uncreated and everlasting, this verse emphasizes that He took on humanity. “This reality is surely the most profound ever because it indicates that the Infinite became finite; the Eternal was conformed to time; the Invisible became visible; the supernatural One reduced Himself to the natural.” (MacArthur Study Bible, Study Notes, p. 1574) Christ chose to “dwell” among us. This dwelling was much different than in the Old Testament where God’s presence was embodied in the temple. In the New Testament, God’s presence is embodied in Jesus Christ. In Jesus, we see the exact representation of the Trinity. Even though He took on human flesh and become 100% man, He was at the same time 100% God. Wrap you mind around that!
We beheld God’s glory in Jesus. What exactly does that mean? In Webster’s New World Dictionary, glory is defined as great honor and admiration; anything bringing this; worshipful adoration; splendor; or magnificence. Jesus demonstrated God’s attributes of grace, goodness, mercy, wisdom, truth, love and so much more in order for us to see His glory. As we look at Jesus we can proclaim loudly that there is no one like our God. Jesus is Everything Glorious!
“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in the past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4
No One is like our God,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
DESIRED OF ALL NATIONS
Desired of All Nations
This is what the Lord Almighty says:
In a little while I will once more shake the
heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land,
I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations
will come, and I will fill this house with glory,
says the Lord Almighty.
Haggai 2:6-7
One of my favorite high impact songs from Everything Glorious is “Desired of All Nations”. I think it is good if we take a look at the basis for this song because I am really big on understanding what we are singing. For when we understand, we have a clearer message and more passion for what we are singing. If you look at the song and the context in which it is used in the musical, you may think that it is speaking of the first coming of Christ. This passage can be used for this purpose, but there is so much more. In fact, Dr. Anderson used Haggai 2:9 in his sermon two weeks ago when speaking of Israel in the last days.
The passage is speaking of the coming day of God’s judgment on all nations. In Hebrews 12:26-27, this passage is quoted referring to the judgment of the nations at the second coming of Christ. When the Lord refers to once more shaking the nations (v. 6), He is referring to the judgment on Egypt at the Red Sea. But there will be another shaking when Jesus comes again. “Desired of all nations”, can refer to individuals, but it also has a Messianic reference. The people were looking for a Messiah to come the first time and turn the world right side up. We are looking for the Messiah to come again to set things right. For when He comes, the earth will be filled with His glory. In verse 9, the Lord even says that “the glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house.” When that time comes there will be peace. Can we, in our finite minds, even grasp the concept of peace on Earth? I look back on just the 38 years that I have been alive, and I can’t remember a time when there has ever been peace. Praise be to God that there is a day coming when Jesus will reign on Earth again and peace will abound.
As we begin this Christmas season, let us keep our minds and hearts on the reason we are here - to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. In doing so, we are to tell others about our Peace Bringer. The world around us is seeking and longing for this peace that comes only from Christ. We often keep this truth of a coming Messiah to ourselves. We are too afraid of what people may think of us. We have a precious gift that is worth sharing. May we, this Christmas, proclaim loud and clear that Jesus is here and is coming again!
Amen! Come Lord Jesus.
Aaron Hodges
This is what the Lord Almighty says:
In a little while I will once more shake the
heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land,
I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations
will come, and I will fill this house with glory,
says the Lord Almighty.
Haggai 2:6-7
One of my favorite high impact songs from Everything Glorious is “Desired of All Nations”. I think it is good if we take a look at the basis for this song because I am really big on understanding what we are singing. For when we understand, we have a clearer message and more passion for what we are singing. If you look at the song and the context in which it is used in the musical, you may think that it is speaking of the first coming of Christ. This passage can be used for this purpose, but there is so much more. In fact, Dr. Anderson used Haggai 2:9 in his sermon two weeks ago when speaking of Israel in the last days.
The passage is speaking of the coming day of God’s judgment on all nations. In Hebrews 12:26-27, this passage is quoted referring to the judgment of the nations at the second coming of Christ. When the Lord refers to once more shaking the nations (v. 6), He is referring to the judgment on Egypt at the Red Sea. But there will be another shaking when Jesus comes again. “Desired of all nations”, can refer to individuals, but it also has a Messianic reference. The people were looking for a Messiah to come the first time and turn the world right side up. We are looking for the Messiah to come again to set things right. For when He comes, the earth will be filled with His glory. In verse 9, the Lord even says that “the glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house.” When that time comes there will be peace. Can we, in our finite minds, even grasp the concept of peace on Earth? I look back on just the 38 years that I have been alive, and I can’t remember a time when there has ever been peace. Praise be to God that there is a day coming when Jesus will reign on Earth again and peace will abound.
As we begin this Christmas season, let us keep our minds and hearts on the reason we are here - to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. In doing so, we are to tell others about our Peace Bringer. The world around us is seeking and longing for this peace that comes only from Christ. We often keep this truth of a coming Messiah to ourselves. We are too afraid of what people may think of us. We have a precious gift that is worth sharing. May we, this Christmas, proclaim loud and clear that Jesus is here and is coming again!
Amen! Come Lord Jesus.
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
A THANKFUL HEART
A Thankful Heart
During this time of the year, we focus on being thankful. We come together as family and friends to eat and fellowship. It is a wonderful time of the year. Thankfulness is not merely something we should have this time of the year; instead, it should be a way of life. You have probably heard the old, kind of cheesy, statement that says, “Thanksgiving is thanks-living.” It may be a little cheesy but it is so true. Throughout the scriptures, we find example after example of God’s people being thankful.
I will give thanks to the Lord… Ps. 7:17
I will give thanks to Him in song… Ps. 28:7
My God, I will give You thanks forever… Ps. 30:12
Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory… 1 Cor. 15:57
Thanks be to God who always leads us…. 2 Cor. 2:14
Give thanks in all circumstances… 1 Thess. 5:18
Do we spend time other than at dinner expressing our thankfulness to God? We so often get in the mindset of petitioning God that we tend to forget thanking God. In Philippians 4:6, Paul says that our petitions to God must come with thanksgiving. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” In the next verse we are given a promise that if we do verse 6, then we will experience the peace of God. I don’t know about you, but I enjoy the peace of God. In the rat race that most of us call life, it is important to know that at the end of it all, we can have peace.
Today, what are you thankful for? Let me list just a few things that I am thankful for: my wife, my kids, my church, my choir, my orchestra, my band, all the children’s choir workers, the staff at FBC, my ministry assistant Edie, a roof over my head, Godly parents, food on the table, clothes on my back, employment, ministry, music, a God who wants me, a Savior who loves me, a Holy Spirit who guides me, salvation, and an eternal home.
We ought always to thank God for you, brothers,
and rightly so, because your faith is growing
more and more, and the love every one of you
has for each other is increasing.”
2 Thessalonians 1:3
With a thankful heart,
Aaron Hodges
During this time of the year, we focus on being thankful. We come together as family and friends to eat and fellowship. It is a wonderful time of the year. Thankfulness is not merely something we should have this time of the year; instead, it should be a way of life. You have probably heard the old, kind of cheesy, statement that says, “Thanksgiving is thanks-living.” It may be a little cheesy but it is so true. Throughout the scriptures, we find example after example of God’s people being thankful.
I will give thanks to the Lord… Ps. 7:17
I will give thanks to Him in song… Ps. 28:7
My God, I will give You thanks forever… Ps. 30:12
Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory… 1 Cor. 15:57
Thanks be to God who always leads us…. 2 Cor. 2:14
Give thanks in all circumstances… 1 Thess. 5:18
Do we spend time other than at dinner expressing our thankfulness to God? We so often get in the mindset of petitioning God that we tend to forget thanking God. In Philippians 4:6, Paul says that our petitions to God must come with thanksgiving. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” In the next verse we are given a promise that if we do verse 6, then we will experience the peace of God. I don’t know about you, but I enjoy the peace of God. In the rat race that most of us call life, it is important to know that at the end of it all, we can have peace.
Today, what are you thankful for? Let me list just a few things that I am thankful for: my wife, my kids, my church, my choir, my orchestra, my band, all the children’s choir workers, the staff at FBC, my ministry assistant Edie, a roof over my head, Godly parents, food on the table, clothes on my back, employment, ministry, music, a God who wants me, a Savior who loves me, a Holy Spirit who guides me, salvation, and an eternal home.
We ought always to thank God for you, brothers,
and rightly so, because your faith is growing
more and more, and the love every one of you
has for each other is increasing.”
2 Thessalonians 1:3
With a thankful heart,
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
PRECURSOR TO MINISTRY
Precursor to Ministry
Last week we looked at missions being our response to worship. This week we are going to examine what should always come before ministry. So often we get caught up in doing ministry that we forget to do the preparation. I am guilty of this many times. I get so engrossed in the “work” of ministry that I forget to do the preparation of prayer. The scripture is very clear that the precursor to ministry should be prayer. We read this in 2 Chronicles 7:14 when God says “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” For God to do everything with us and for us, we must first humble ourselves and in confession, come to Him in prayer. We don’t often realize how relevant the Old Testament is to the New Testament church. When God gave this promise to Solomon, it was right after Solomon had completed the temple. The Lord was speaking to His church. We are that Church! Do you want to see God do marvelous things here at First Baptist Church, Canton? Do you want to see lives changed? Do you want to see a move of God like we have never seen before? Do you want to see God bring revival? These questions must be answered affirmatively before we can think about committing ourselves to praying for these things. If we do not have a desire to see God work, then we need not pray for it. If we want these things to happen, we must take the time to earnestly pray for them.
We have looked at what the Old Testament says about this subject. Now we will look at the example of Jesus. There is no better example. In Mark 1:35, we are introduced to how Jesus prepared for ministry. Jesus was getting ready to go throughout Galilee preaching in the synagogues and driving out demons. In order to prepare for this work, he pulled off to a solitary place and prayed. Jesus knew the energy that he was going to need. Jesus knew the amazing things He was going to do. He knew the confrontation He was going to experience. Therefore, He knew that He needed His one-on-one time with His Father. If Jesus, the Son of God, needed it, then why do we think that we can do it on our own without the Father’s help?
Are we satisfied with what we see happening here at FBC? Are we satisfied with the worship ministry here at FBC? I hope we never say that we are satisfied with what we see at FBC. May God put in us such a strong holy discontent that He brings us to our knees to seek His face!
Desiring a stronger prayer life and desiring to see God work,
Aaron Hodges
Last week we looked at missions being our response to worship. This week we are going to examine what should always come before ministry. So often we get caught up in doing ministry that we forget to do the preparation. I am guilty of this many times. I get so engrossed in the “work” of ministry that I forget to do the preparation of prayer. The scripture is very clear that the precursor to ministry should be prayer. We read this in 2 Chronicles 7:14 when God says “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” For God to do everything with us and for us, we must first humble ourselves and in confession, come to Him in prayer. We don’t often realize how relevant the Old Testament is to the New Testament church. When God gave this promise to Solomon, it was right after Solomon had completed the temple. The Lord was speaking to His church. We are that Church! Do you want to see God do marvelous things here at First Baptist Church, Canton? Do you want to see lives changed? Do you want to see a move of God like we have never seen before? Do you want to see God bring revival? These questions must be answered affirmatively before we can think about committing ourselves to praying for these things. If we do not have a desire to see God work, then we need not pray for it. If we want these things to happen, we must take the time to earnestly pray for them.
We have looked at what the Old Testament says about this subject. Now we will look at the example of Jesus. There is no better example. In Mark 1:35, we are introduced to how Jesus prepared for ministry. Jesus was getting ready to go throughout Galilee preaching in the synagogues and driving out demons. In order to prepare for this work, he pulled off to a solitary place and prayed. Jesus knew the energy that he was going to need. Jesus knew the amazing things He was going to do. He knew the confrontation He was going to experience. Therefore, He knew that He needed His one-on-one time with His Father. If Jesus, the Son of God, needed it, then why do we think that we can do it on our own without the Father’s help?
Are we satisfied with what we see happening here at FBC? Are we satisfied with the worship ministry here at FBC? I hope we never say that we are satisfied with what we see at FBC. May God put in us such a strong holy discontent that He brings us to our knees to seek His face!
Desiring a stronger prayer life and desiring to see God work,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
A RESPONSE TO WORSHIP
A Response to Worship!
Matthew 28:16
My title here at First Baptist Church is “Worship Pastor”. What exactly does that mean? I feel that my “job” is to lead FBC in worship, teach FBC about worship, and be an example of how to worship in “spirit and in truth.” For so many years I went by the title of “Minister of Music”. I do not prefer this title because it only covers a portion of what I am called to do. Music is only a tool of worship. Albeit a great tool; nevertheless, a tool. Together we form the worship ministry of FBC. We are all called to learn more about worship and what ministries go right along with worship. Every few months, the staff gets to lead the Connection Class. This class is set up to teach new church members who we are and what we are about here at FBC Canton. Mary Lee Griffith put all the material together for the class. In that material, she defines worship as “attributing worth to God, recognizing who He is and what He has done and responding accordingly.” Jesus said it like this in Mark 12:30: “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.”
Let’s take a deeper look at the last part of the definition for worship provided by Mary Lee. The last two words are “responding accordingly.” What kind of response should worship produce? We could probably think of many responses that come from worship, but as I was reading in Matthew 28 I came across a great response. In this scripture, we find the resurrection of our Lord and Savior. As soon as the word got out about the resurrection of Jesus, the disciples went to Galilee. They had been told by Mary Magdalene and the other Mary about the resurrection and the instructions from Jesus that He would physically come to them in Galilee. The eleven went to Galilee (Judas had already committed suicide). It was there on the mountain that Jesus appeared to them. When they recognized who He was and what He had done, they worshiped Him. The story could have ended with them worshiping Jesus, but a response was needed. Out of worship, our response should be missions. As we come to a realization of who Jesus is and what He has done for us, we should have a burning desire to tell others about Him. So often we get apathetic about our salvation and we do not respond appropriately. I have always wondered why, so many times in my years of worship ministry, I have a love for missions. It is only because that should be the natural response to worship.
“All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me.
Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them
in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18
See you Sunday as we blanket the city of Canton with the love of Christ.
Aaron Hodges
Matthew 28:16
My title here at First Baptist Church is “Worship Pastor”. What exactly does that mean? I feel that my “job” is to lead FBC in worship, teach FBC about worship, and be an example of how to worship in “spirit and in truth.” For so many years I went by the title of “Minister of Music”. I do not prefer this title because it only covers a portion of what I am called to do. Music is only a tool of worship. Albeit a great tool; nevertheless, a tool. Together we form the worship ministry of FBC. We are all called to learn more about worship and what ministries go right along with worship. Every few months, the staff gets to lead the Connection Class. This class is set up to teach new church members who we are and what we are about here at FBC Canton. Mary Lee Griffith put all the material together for the class. In that material, she defines worship as “attributing worth to God, recognizing who He is and what He has done and responding accordingly.” Jesus said it like this in Mark 12:30: “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.”
Let’s take a deeper look at the last part of the definition for worship provided by Mary Lee. The last two words are “responding accordingly.” What kind of response should worship produce? We could probably think of many responses that come from worship, but as I was reading in Matthew 28 I came across a great response. In this scripture, we find the resurrection of our Lord and Savior. As soon as the word got out about the resurrection of Jesus, the disciples went to Galilee. They had been told by Mary Magdalene and the other Mary about the resurrection and the instructions from Jesus that He would physically come to them in Galilee. The eleven went to Galilee (Judas had already committed suicide). It was there on the mountain that Jesus appeared to them. When they recognized who He was and what He had done, they worshiped Him. The story could have ended with them worshiping Jesus, but a response was needed. Out of worship, our response should be missions. As we come to a realization of who Jesus is and what He has done for us, we should have a burning desire to tell others about Him. So often we get apathetic about our salvation and we do not respond appropriately. I have always wondered why, so many times in my years of worship ministry, I have a love for missions. It is only because that should be the natural response to worship.
“All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me.
Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them
in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18
See you Sunday as we blanket the city of Canton with the love of Christ.
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
BAH, BAH, GOD'S SHEEP
BAH, BAH, GOD’S SHEEP
The part of God that we too often don’t want to acknowledge is His judgment. Who likes to be judged? Judging was a regular part of my life when I was a student at Oklahoma Baptist University. In the music department, I worked all semester in preparation for what was called a “jury”. It was at that time that I was held accountable for everything I learned vocally during the semester. Most of the time I was prepared; therefore, the judging by my professors went smoothly. There were other times in which the judging was harsh. Never did I enjoy the judging. There is a judgment acknowledged by Jesus in Matthew 25:31-46. It is here that we find a vivid picture of the Great White Throne Judgment. At this judgment the “shepherd separates the sheep from the goats” (v. 32). He will separate those whose names are in the book of life and those whose names are not. For those who are His, He will say “Come, you who are blessed by my Father: take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world” (v. 34). For those who are not His, He will say “Depart from me, you are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels” (v. 41).
As you read this, you may be saying to yourself, “Aaron sure is in a gloomy mood today.” On the contrary, it is quite the opposite. I am writing this with a sense of joy, hope and urgency. The joy is in knowing that I have Jesus in my heart. He has given me a joy that the world cannot take away. The hope is in knowing that I need not fear the Great White Throne Judgment. Because I have Jesus in my heart, I am 100% sure that I am in the group that Jesus calls the sheep. At the Great White Throne Judgment, I do not have to fear the wrath of God. Instead, I get to enjoy eternal life with my heavenly Father. The urgency is in knowing that there are many today who would be considered goats. There are so many in our communities that do not have a personal relationship with God. If God’s eternal judgment were to come today, most of this world would be sent to eternal punishment. Knowing this fact should bother us. I feel that we don’t like to think about this fact, so we just ignore it and go on with our lives. Instead, this should spur us on to sharing our faith with everyone we come in contact with. How many people do you know that would be considered “goats’? “Many!” you say. Then what are you doing to share your faith with them? We at First Baptist Church have many opportunities in which to share Christ with a lost and dying world. Let me highlight two. First, on November 8th, we have an opportunity as a church to impact our city with the truth of God’s love. Plan to be a part of this incredible outreach opportunity. Second, there is a new ministry at First Baptist Church called Light Ministry that could use your help. This ministry reaches out to people in physical need while at the same time, trying to meet spiritual needs. Light Ministry is in desperate need of our help. In order to reach as many people as they can with the Gospel of Christ, it takes workers. This ministry goes right along with what Jesus said in Matt. 25 when He stated, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink…I needed clothes and you clothed me…”(vs. 35-36). Contact Ashley McCord to help with this new ministry opportunity.
What will you do to spread God’s light and give hope to the hopeless?
Aaron Hodges
The part of God that we too often don’t want to acknowledge is His judgment. Who likes to be judged? Judging was a regular part of my life when I was a student at Oklahoma Baptist University. In the music department, I worked all semester in preparation for what was called a “jury”. It was at that time that I was held accountable for everything I learned vocally during the semester. Most of the time I was prepared; therefore, the judging by my professors went smoothly. There were other times in which the judging was harsh. Never did I enjoy the judging. There is a judgment acknowledged by Jesus in Matthew 25:31-46. It is here that we find a vivid picture of the Great White Throne Judgment. At this judgment the “shepherd separates the sheep from the goats” (v. 32). He will separate those whose names are in the book of life and those whose names are not. For those who are His, He will say “Come, you who are blessed by my Father: take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world” (v. 34). For those who are not His, He will say “Depart from me, you are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels” (v. 41).
As you read this, you may be saying to yourself, “Aaron sure is in a gloomy mood today.” On the contrary, it is quite the opposite. I am writing this with a sense of joy, hope and urgency. The joy is in knowing that I have Jesus in my heart. He has given me a joy that the world cannot take away. The hope is in knowing that I need not fear the Great White Throne Judgment. Because I have Jesus in my heart, I am 100% sure that I am in the group that Jesus calls the sheep. At the Great White Throne Judgment, I do not have to fear the wrath of God. Instead, I get to enjoy eternal life with my heavenly Father. The urgency is in knowing that there are many today who would be considered goats. There are so many in our communities that do not have a personal relationship with God. If God’s eternal judgment were to come today, most of this world would be sent to eternal punishment. Knowing this fact should bother us. I feel that we don’t like to think about this fact, so we just ignore it and go on with our lives. Instead, this should spur us on to sharing our faith with everyone we come in contact with. How many people do you know that would be considered “goats’? “Many!” you say. Then what are you doing to share your faith with them? We at First Baptist Church have many opportunities in which to share Christ with a lost and dying world. Let me highlight two. First, on November 8th, we have an opportunity as a church to impact our city with the truth of God’s love. Plan to be a part of this incredible outreach opportunity. Second, there is a new ministry at First Baptist Church called Light Ministry that could use your help. This ministry reaches out to people in physical need while at the same time, trying to meet spiritual needs. Light Ministry is in desperate need of our help. In order to reach as many people as they can with the Gospel of Christ, it takes workers. This ministry goes right along with what Jesus said in Matt. 25 when He stated, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink…I needed clothes and you clothed me…”(vs. 35-36). Contact Ashley McCord to help with this new ministry opportunity.
What will you do to spread God’s light and give hope to the hopeless?
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Do You Need A Reason To Praise?
Do You Need A Reason To Praise?
“Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits---who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses, His deeds to the people of Israel: the Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will He harbor His anger forever; He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, for the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him; for He knows how we are formed, He remembers that we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear Him, and His righteousness with their children’s children—with those who keep His covenant and remember to obey His precepts. The Lord has established His throne is heaven, and His kingdom rules over all. Praise the Lord, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding, who obey His word. Praise the Lord, all you heavenly hosts, you His servants who do His will. Praise the Lord, all His works everywhere in His dominion. Praise the Lord, O my Soul.” Psalm 103
Have you been or are you now in a position or place in your life in which it is hard to think of a reason to praise the Lord? All you have to do is turn on the news and watch it for 5 minutes to let Satan convince you not to praise the Lord. The passage in Psalm is a great passage to meditate on when you get down. The psalmist went through a list of the many reasons he had to praise the Lord. These promises are still relevant today. Try sitting down sometime and making a list of personal reasons you have to praise the Lord. Then when you get down, pull it out and read it out loud to Jesus and watch the glory of Christ rise.
Praise the Lord!
Aaron Hodges
“Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits---who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses, His deeds to the people of Israel: the Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will He harbor His anger forever; He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, for the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him; for He knows how we are formed, He remembers that we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear Him, and His righteousness with their children’s children—with those who keep His covenant and remember to obey His precepts. The Lord has established His throne is heaven, and His kingdom rules over all. Praise the Lord, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding, who obey His word. Praise the Lord, all you heavenly hosts, you His servants who do His will. Praise the Lord, all His works everywhere in His dominion. Praise the Lord, O my Soul.” Psalm 103
Have you been or are you now in a position or place in your life in which it is hard to think of a reason to praise the Lord? All you have to do is turn on the news and watch it for 5 minutes to let Satan convince you not to praise the Lord. The passage in Psalm is a great passage to meditate on when you get down. The psalmist went through a list of the many reasons he had to praise the Lord. These promises are still relevant today. Try sitting down sometime and making a list of personal reasons you have to praise the Lord. Then when you get down, pull it out and read it out loud to Jesus and watch the glory of Christ rise.
Praise the Lord!
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
By What Authority...?
By What Authority…?
On Tuesday mornings, the staff here at FBC meets to do our regularly scheduled meetings. If you have been around me very much, you know that I am not a big fan of meetings. We have all been in meetings for meeting sake. But every once in a while you have a meeting that really covers a lot and is productive. Yesterday in our staff meeting, we were talking about the upcoming Global Impact Celebration which is going to be held on February 24-28, 2010. The Pastor was talking about our responsibility of telling the world about Christ. In that discussion, the topic of authority came up. We are given the responsibility and the authority to share the gospel. Jesus’ authority was questioned in Matthew 21: 23 when the chief priests and elders of the people came to Him and asked, “By what authority are you doing these things?” This question came because of the incident that happened in the temple which we looked at last week. The cleansing of the temple not only defied the authority of the Jewish leaders, but also cut into their pocket books. Jesus hit them where it hurt the most. They were also trying to discredit Jesus in order to raise suspicion of Him as a threat to the Roman authority.
I love this passage because it shows the Jewish, human side of Jesus. It was very common for the Jews to answer a question with another question. Jesus did not come right out and answer their question; instead, He asked them a very difficult question. “John’s baptism…from heaven, or from men (Matthew 21:25)?” By answering with a question, Jesus put the burden back on His opponents. The work of John the Baptist was either divinely-inspired or humanly-devised. This put His opponents in a very awkward position in which they could not answer safely. Jesus answers this question in Matthew 28:18 when He tells the disciples that “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Jesus’ authority is not a humanly devised authority; instead, it is an authority given by God, and it encompasses the entire universe. So what does that have to do with us? Let me ask a question to answer that. Is responsibility anything without authority? Jesus has given us the responsibility to “go and make disciples of all nations (vs. 19).” With that responsibility, Jesus has given us all authority in which to get it done. We also need to be reminded that as we go and tell the world about Christ, we are never alone. “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (vs. 20).”
With Christ’s Authority,
Aaron
On Tuesday mornings, the staff here at FBC meets to do our regularly scheduled meetings. If you have been around me very much, you know that I am not a big fan of meetings. We have all been in meetings for meeting sake. But every once in a while you have a meeting that really covers a lot and is productive. Yesterday in our staff meeting, we were talking about the upcoming Global Impact Celebration which is going to be held on February 24-28, 2010. The Pastor was talking about our responsibility of telling the world about Christ. In that discussion, the topic of authority came up. We are given the responsibility and the authority to share the gospel. Jesus’ authority was questioned in Matthew 21: 23 when the chief priests and elders of the people came to Him and asked, “By what authority are you doing these things?” This question came because of the incident that happened in the temple which we looked at last week. The cleansing of the temple not only defied the authority of the Jewish leaders, but also cut into their pocket books. Jesus hit them where it hurt the most. They were also trying to discredit Jesus in order to raise suspicion of Him as a threat to the Roman authority.
I love this passage because it shows the Jewish, human side of Jesus. It was very common for the Jews to answer a question with another question. Jesus did not come right out and answer their question; instead, He asked them a very difficult question. “John’s baptism…from heaven, or from men (Matthew 21:25)?” By answering with a question, Jesus put the burden back on His opponents. The work of John the Baptist was either divinely-inspired or humanly-devised. This put His opponents in a very awkward position in which they could not answer safely. Jesus answers this question in Matthew 28:18 when He tells the disciples that “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Jesus’ authority is not a humanly devised authority; instead, it is an authority given by God, and it encompasses the entire universe. So what does that have to do with us? Let me ask a question to answer that. Is responsibility anything without authority? Jesus has given us the responsibility to “go and make disciples of all nations (vs. 19).” With that responsibility, Jesus has given us all authority in which to get it done. We also need to be reminded that as we go and tell the world about Christ, we are never alone. “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (vs. 20).”
With Christ’s Authority,
Aaron
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
LITTLE FAITH
Little Faith
We so often think of Jesus as always being patient with us and never being frustrated. That is not always true. There were indeed times when Jesus got frustrated, one of those instances being the passage in Matthew 21:12-13, where Jesus “overturned the tables of the moneychangers and the benches of those selling doves (vs.12b).” Here he was frustrated with what was going on in the temple. The temple was not to be a market place, but instead it was to be a “house of prayer (vs.13).” Even in His frustration, He did not sin. In Matthew 17:14-21, Jesus gets frustrated yet again. This time it was because of something that His disciples and the people lacked. This passage tells the story of when Jesus healed a boy with a demon. The boy’s father had already been to the disciples to see if they could heal his son without any success. He then went to the ultimate Healer with his request. Jesus expressed His frustration more with His disciples than the boy’s father when He said “O unbelieving and perverse generation, how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you (vs.17)?” After healing the boy, Jesus explained to the disciples what His true frustration was. It was their lack of faith. The timing of this miracle and Jesus’ response is very interesting to me. In the beginning of Matthew 17, we find the transfiguration of Jesus. The disciples had just seen Jesus transfigured. They saw Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah. They heard God’s voice proclaim “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased (vs. 5).” You would think after having experienced all of this that the disciples would have had more faith. Why am I amazed at their lack of faith? Aren’t we often in the same place in our walk with Christ?
As I sit here this morning, I am thinking about how much I want to see First Baptist Church grow. I want to see God do an incredible work here. I want the worship ministry of FBC Canton to be the best it can be so that God will be glorified. I want my children to grow up to be Godly men and women. I want my relationship with my wife to be one focused on the Lord Jesus Christ. But so many times when I think about these things, I wonder how in the world these things will be possible. I get in the same frame of mind as the disciples who asked, “Why couldn’t we… (Matt. 17:19)?” I start thinking about what I am able to do and not how much Christ is able to do. When we take our mind off what we are able to do and put our faith in what Christ can do through us, we start to believe what we cannot physically see. It is not as much the quantity of our faith but instead it is the quality of our faith. A person who prayerfully puts their faith in Jesus can say to the mountain of great difficulties facing them “Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you (Matt. 17:21).” The strength of our faith lies in the strength of Jesus. Knowing this truth, let us lay aside our lack of faith, take up our shield of faith and follow Jesus.
Seeking to put my Faith daily in Christ,
Aaron Hodges
We so often think of Jesus as always being patient with us and never being frustrated. That is not always true. There were indeed times when Jesus got frustrated, one of those instances being the passage in Matthew 21:12-13, where Jesus “overturned the tables of the moneychangers and the benches of those selling doves (vs.12b).” Here he was frustrated with what was going on in the temple. The temple was not to be a market place, but instead it was to be a “house of prayer (vs.13).” Even in His frustration, He did not sin. In Matthew 17:14-21, Jesus gets frustrated yet again. This time it was because of something that His disciples and the people lacked. This passage tells the story of when Jesus healed a boy with a demon. The boy’s father had already been to the disciples to see if they could heal his son without any success. He then went to the ultimate Healer with his request. Jesus expressed His frustration more with His disciples than the boy’s father when He said “O unbelieving and perverse generation, how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you (vs.17)?” After healing the boy, Jesus explained to the disciples what His true frustration was. It was their lack of faith. The timing of this miracle and Jesus’ response is very interesting to me. In the beginning of Matthew 17, we find the transfiguration of Jesus. The disciples had just seen Jesus transfigured. They saw Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah. They heard God’s voice proclaim “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased (vs. 5).” You would think after having experienced all of this that the disciples would have had more faith. Why am I amazed at their lack of faith? Aren’t we often in the same place in our walk with Christ?
As I sit here this morning, I am thinking about how much I want to see First Baptist Church grow. I want to see God do an incredible work here. I want the worship ministry of FBC Canton to be the best it can be so that God will be glorified. I want my children to grow up to be Godly men and women. I want my relationship with my wife to be one focused on the Lord Jesus Christ. But so many times when I think about these things, I wonder how in the world these things will be possible. I get in the same frame of mind as the disciples who asked, “Why couldn’t we… (Matt. 17:19)?” I start thinking about what I am able to do and not how much Christ is able to do. When we take our mind off what we are able to do and put our faith in what Christ can do through us, we start to believe what we cannot physically see. It is not as much the quantity of our faith but instead it is the quality of our faith. A person who prayerfully puts their faith in Jesus can say to the mountain of great difficulties facing them “Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you (Matt. 17:21).” The strength of our faith lies in the strength of Jesus. Knowing this truth, let us lay aside our lack of faith, take up our shield of faith and follow Jesus.
Seeking to put my Faith daily in Christ,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Who Am I and Who Is HE?
Who Am I and Who Is HE?
This past Sunday I was reminded, by one of our guests who recently came to know Christ, how important our identity with Christ is in our walk with Him. About two months ago, this gentleman requested a song to be sung in worship. The song he requested was “Friend of God.” To him, God’s friendship is the most important aspect of who God is. When I think about this, I am always in awe that God would choose to call me His friend.
In Matthew 16:13-20, we find Peter’s confession of Christ. The background of the passage is interesting when you think about the question Jesus asked. Jesus and the disciples were in Caesarea Philippi. Caesarea Philippi was built by Herod’s son Philip. Originally Caesarea Philippi was called Paneas in honor of the Greek god Pan. This region was especially pagan, full of many gods. With the surroundings in mind, let’s now look at the question Jesus asked His disciples. “Who do people say the Son of Man is? (Matt. 16:13b)” Surrounded by the many dead gods of the people of Caesarea Philippi, Christ asked his followers to ponder what these people were saying about Him. They gave many answers to that question. Obviously by their answers they were reflecting the overall pagan outlook of the people of Caesarea Philippi. Jesus then turns the question to His disciples. “But what about you? he asked, “Who do you say I am? (Matt. 16:15)” Peter cried out first as usual, but this time he got the answer right. “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” I find it very interesting that Peter emphasized that Jesus is the Son of the “Living God.” Here in a city filled with dead pagan gods was the One and only living God.
One of the greatest things about our God is that He never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He will not and can not die. God is always an ever present help in time of need. Jesus is always your friend when there is no one else around. Jesus is our eternal hope. Jesus is Savior. Make Jesus your Lord!
Jesus, Jesus, Lord to me.
Master, Savior, Prince of Peace!
Ruler of my heart today,
Jesus, Lord to me.
A Child of the King!
Aaron Hodges
This past Sunday I was reminded, by one of our guests who recently came to know Christ, how important our identity with Christ is in our walk with Him. About two months ago, this gentleman requested a song to be sung in worship. The song he requested was “Friend of God.” To him, God’s friendship is the most important aspect of who God is. When I think about this, I am always in awe that God would choose to call me His friend.
In Matthew 16:13-20, we find Peter’s confession of Christ. The background of the passage is interesting when you think about the question Jesus asked. Jesus and the disciples were in Caesarea Philippi. Caesarea Philippi was built by Herod’s son Philip. Originally Caesarea Philippi was called Paneas in honor of the Greek god Pan. This region was especially pagan, full of many gods. With the surroundings in mind, let’s now look at the question Jesus asked His disciples. “Who do people say the Son of Man is? (Matt. 16:13b)” Surrounded by the many dead gods of the people of Caesarea Philippi, Christ asked his followers to ponder what these people were saying about Him. They gave many answers to that question. Obviously by their answers they were reflecting the overall pagan outlook of the people of Caesarea Philippi. Jesus then turns the question to His disciples. “But what about you? he asked, “Who do you say I am? (Matt. 16:15)” Peter cried out first as usual, but this time he got the answer right. “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” I find it very interesting that Peter emphasized that Jesus is the Son of the “Living God.” Here in a city filled with dead pagan gods was the One and only living God.
One of the greatest things about our God is that He never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He will not and can not die. God is always an ever present help in time of need. Jesus is always your friend when there is no one else around. Jesus is our eternal hope. Jesus is Savior. Make Jesus your Lord!
Jesus, Jesus, Lord to me.
Master, Savior, Prince of Peace!
Ruler of my heart today,
Jesus, Lord to me.
A Child of the King!
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Oh! The Power of Jesus
Oh! The Power of Jesus
Recently, my family has been in a storm. We have been fighting the winds of sickness for quite a while now. The tendency during these times is to cry out to Jesus and say “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown.” Troubles come our way, and our focus is somehow diverted from the truth. The father of lies tries to tell us that we are all alone in our troubles. Satan is WRONG! We looked at this a little last week as Jesus spoke on this very issue in the Sermon on the Mount. Following His sermon, Jesus heals a man with leprosy, the centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law, and many who were demon possessed. In order to get away from the huge crowds, Jesus decided to take a boat to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. I can only imagine how Jesus felt at this time. I am sure that He was completely exhausted. Have you ever been there? You get so caught up in doing great things for others, that your body tells you it is time to get away. I think that is what happened to me last Wednesday night. I had been so busy with work and family sickness that my body finally said “enough is enough” and shut down on me. I think that is where we find Jesus in Matthew chapter 8. He got into the boat with his disciples and immediately went to sleep. While on the boat, a “furious storm” came up. These storms were common on the Sea of Galilee. The sea is surrounded by mountains and as the cool air from the Mediterranean clashes with the hot, humid air off the lake, huge storms come up quickly. That is exactly what happened here in Matthew.
The disciple’s reaction was very similar to our reaction when we are in a storm. We so often rush to the assumption that Jesus is not concerned with our troubles. We think that because Jesus does not stop the storm from happening, then He must not be concerned about our situation. All we have to do is read just a few chapters in Matthew to see that this is not true. The disciples frantically woke Jesus up and begged Him to save them. Jesus did not wake up in a panic nor was He ignorant of the fact that they were in a storm. He simply, in one command, calmed the storm. The power of Jesus is so great that if it is in His will to calm your storm, HE WILL. Many times though, that is not the case. Jesus allows us to go through storms sometimes to help us grow in our faith. These times are not easy, but we must rest in the fact that Jesus is with us every step of the way. Even when we do not see His active hand, we must trust His heart.
God is too wise to be mistaken
God is too good to be unkind
So when you don't understand
When you don't see His plan
When you can't trace His hand
Trust His heart
In His Hands,
Aaron Hodges
Recently, my family has been in a storm. We have been fighting the winds of sickness for quite a while now. The tendency during these times is to cry out to Jesus and say “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown.” Troubles come our way, and our focus is somehow diverted from the truth. The father of lies tries to tell us that we are all alone in our troubles. Satan is WRONG! We looked at this a little last week as Jesus spoke on this very issue in the Sermon on the Mount. Following His sermon, Jesus heals a man with leprosy, the centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law, and many who were demon possessed. In order to get away from the huge crowds, Jesus decided to take a boat to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. I can only imagine how Jesus felt at this time. I am sure that He was completely exhausted. Have you ever been there? You get so caught up in doing great things for others, that your body tells you it is time to get away. I think that is what happened to me last Wednesday night. I had been so busy with work and family sickness that my body finally said “enough is enough” and shut down on me. I think that is where we find Jesus in Matthew chapter 8. He got into the boat with his disciples and immediately went to sleep. While on the boat, a “furious storm” came up. These storms were common on the Sea of Galilee. The sea is surrounded by mountains and as the cool air from the Mediterranean clashes with the hot, humid air off the lake, huge storms come up quickly. That is exactly what happened here in Matthew.
The disciple’s reaction was very similar to our reaction when we are in a storm. We so often rush to the assumption that Jesus is not concerned with our troubles. We think that because Jesus does not stop the storm from happening, then He must not be concerned about our situation. All we have to do is read just a few chapters in Matthew to see that this is not true. The disciples frantically woke Jesus up and begged Him to save them. Jesus did not wake up in a panic nor was He ignorant of the fact that they were in a storm. He simply, in one command, calmed the storm. The power of Jesus is so great that if it is in His will to calm your storm, HE WILL. Many times though, that is not the case. Jesus allows us to go through storms sometimes to help us grow in our faith. These times are not easy, but we must rest in the fact that Jesus is with us every step of the way. Even when we do not see His active hand, we must trust His heart.
God is too wise to be mistaken
God is too good to be unkind
So when you don't understand
When you don't see His plan
When you can't trace His hand
Trust His heart
In His Hands,
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
HIS Eye Is On The Sparrow
His Eye is on the Sparrow
On Labor Day, Malia, the kids and I took a short road trip out to Herbie and Nancy Burnette’s home in Ball Ground. We have been trying to get up there for the past few months and finally had time on Monday. Herbie wanted me to come up and see his garden because I would like to plant a small one in my backyard next spring. After getting okra, cucumbers and tomatoes all summer, I wanted to see where they came from. What a great time we had there just relaxing outside, the kids running around, and the great fellowship. As we were talking, Herbie and I discussed the many bird feeders he has on his property. From simple feeders to the more elaborate feeders, Herbie is doing his part in helping to feed all the birds that come his way. The feeders that I have always loved watching are the hummingbird feeders. I’m not sure, but there are probably 4-5 hummingbird feeders on the Burnette’s front porch. After we loaded the kids in the car and turned on a movie for them, the four adults talked a little longer outside. While we were talking, I got to do what I enjoy very much. I was able to watch a number of hummingbirds come and feed. What a beautiful bird! God did an amazing thing with that creature.
The thought of those birds reminds me of Matthew 6:25-34. This passage is in the greatest sermon ever preached, the Sermon on the Mount. Opinions differ on whether this sermon is a summary of what Jesus taught on one occasion or a compilation of teaching presented on numerous occasions. Whatever the case, the Sermon on the Mount is in effect King Jesus’ inaugural address, explaining what he expects of members of His Kingdom. The standards proposed in this sermon are in no way possible on our own, but only possible through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. The passage that sticks out to me this week concerns the provisions God makes for our daily living. Jesus tells us to “look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. (Matthew 6:26)” As the hummingbirds were feeding, were they concerned about where their next meal was coming from or where they were going to sleep that night? Absolutely not! They know very well that the creator of the universe is concerned enough about them that they do not need to worry about anything. God will provide for their needs. “Are you not much more valuable than they? (Matt. 6:26b)” Jesus is pointing out that if God is concerned about the tiny sparrow, then He is even more concerned about you. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. (Matt. 6:24)”
Why should I feel discouraged?
Why should the shadows come?
Why should my heart feel lonely
And long for heaven and home?
When Jesus is my portion
A constant friend is He
His eye is on the sparrow
And I know He watches over me.
From a peaceful, worry resistant heart,
Aaron Hodges
On Labor Day, Malia, the kids and I took a short road trip out to Herbie and Nancy Burnette’s home in Ball Ground. We have been trying to get up there for the past few months and finally had time on Monday. Herbie wanted me to come up and see his garden because I would like to plant a small one in my backyard next spring. After getting okra, cucumbers and tomatoes all summer, I wanted to see where they came from. What a great time we had there just relaxing outside, the kids running around, and the great fellowship. As we were talking, Herbie and I discussed the many bird feeders he has on his property. From simple feeders to the more elaborate feeders, Herbie is doing his part in helping to feed all the birds that come his way. The feeders that I have always loved watching are the hummingbird feeders. I’m not sure, but there are probably 4-5 hummingbird feeders on the Burnette’s front porch. After we loaded the kids in the car and turned on a movie for them, the four adults talked a little longer outside. While we were talking, I got to do what I enjoy very much. I was able to watch a number of hummingbirds come and feed. What a beautiful bird! God did an amazing thing with that creature.
The thought of those birds reminds me of Matthew 6:25-34. This passage is in the greatest sermon ever preached, the Sermon on the Mount. Opinions differ on whether this sermon is a summary of what Jesus taught on one occasion or a compilation of teaching presented on numerous occasions. Whatever the case, the Sermon on the Mount is in effect King Jesus’ inaugural address, explaining what he expects of members of His Kingdom. The standards proposed in this sermon are in no way possible on our own, but only possible through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. The passage that sticks out to me this week concerns the provisions God makes for our daily living. Jesus tells us to “look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. (Matthew 6:26)” As the hummingbirds were feeding, were they concerned about where their next meal was coming from or where they were going to sleep that night? Absolutely not! They know very well that the creator of the universe is concerned enough about them that they do not need to worry about anything. God will provide for their needs. “Are you not much more valuable than they? (Matt. 6:26b)” Jesus is pointing out that if God is concerned about the tiny sparrow, then He is even more concerned about you. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. (Matt. 6:24)”
Why should I feel discouraged?
Why should the shadows come?
Why should my heart feel lonely
And long for heaven and home?
When Jesus is my portion
A constant friend is He
His eye is on the sparrow
And I know He watches over me.
From a peaceful, worry resistant heart,
Aaron Hodges
Monday, August 31, 2009
What Can I Give Him?
What Can I Give Him?
What can I give Him, Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would give Him a lamb;
If I were a wise man, I would do my part:
Yet what can I give Him?
Give Him my heart!
Word: Christina G. Rossetti
This Christmas chorus reminds us what giving is all about. Giving starts with our willingness to give God our heart. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-14, Paul explores and instructs us in the area of giving. When I think of “giving”, at first glance I think of my financial responsibility to God. Without argument, I do believe that this is primarily what Paul was referring to, but I think there is more to it that can be applied to us today. Paul begins by reminding us of the basic agrarian principle that the harvest is directly proportionate to the amount of seed sown. Say I went out last spring and planted one tomato plant, one watermelon seed, and one morning glory seed. I should not expect to have enough tomatoes to supply the whole church, or enough watermelons for a church social, or enough morning glories to beautify my entire back yard. I don’t think I would have enough to feed my family. In order for me to produce a healthy crop, I must sow many seeds. This principle can be applied to our giving. The Lord will bless us in accordance to our giving. I will be the first to say that this is not a promise for prosperity. There are many preachers out there right now that would have you believe that if you give to their ministry, then you will be blessed beyond measure. I do not agree with their mantra. What I do believe is that as we are obedient, the Lord will supply all our needs.
Paul goes on to explain the attitude we should have when we give. When we give, our attitude should be one of willingness not of obligation. Giving should be a joy for, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). As I said at the beginning of this article, I believe that this passage can be applied to many areas in our life. When we look at our service in the church, we should give with the same attitude. Whether you are working in the nursery, singing in the choir, teaching a Sunday school class, or cleaning a bathroom, you should do it with a heart that is full of love and joy; a heart that loves to give no matter what you get in return. The reward will come. You may not see all the reward on this side of heaven, but believe me when I tell you that you will see all your reward in heaven.
I want everyone in the worship ministry of First Baptist Church Canton to have an attitude that loves to serve and give to the church body. Whenever we begin to feel like what we are doing is a chore and not a blessing, we might need to step back and recheck our priorities. Let us always seek to be cheerful givers in the worship ministry.
Giving Him my heart,
Aaron Hodges
What can I give Him, Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would give Him a lamb;
If I were a wise man, I would do my part:
Yet what can I give Him?
Give Him my heart!
Word: Christina G. Rossetti
This Christmas chorus reminds us what giving is all about. Giving starts with our willingness to give God our heart. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-14, Paul explores and instructs us in the area of giving. When I think of “giving”, at first glance I think of my financial responsibility to God. Without argument, I do believe that this is primarily what Paul was referring to, but I think there is more to it that can be applied to us today. Paul begins by reminding us of the basic agrarian principle that the harvest is directly proportionate to the amount of seed sown. Say I went out last spring and planted one tomato plant, one watermelon seed, and one morning glory seed. I should not expect to have enough tomatoes to supply the whole church, or enough watermelons for a church social, or enough morning glories to beautify my entire back yard. I don’t think I would have enough to feed my family. In order for me to produce a healthy crop, I must sow many seeds. This principle can be applied to our giving. The Lord will bless us in accordance to our giving. I will be the first to say that this is not a promise for prosperity. There are many preachers out there right now that would have you believe that if you give to their ministry, then you will be blessed beyond measure. I do not agree with their mantra. What I do believe is that as we are obedient, the Lord will supply all our needs.
Paul goes on to explain the attitude we should have when we give. When we give, our attitude should be one of willingness not of obligation. Giving should be a joy for, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). As I said at the beginning of this article, I believe that this passage can be applied to many areas in our life. When we look at our service in the church, we should give with the same attitude. Whether you are working in the nursery, singing in the choir, teaching a Sunday school class, or cleaning a bathroom, you should do it with a heart that is full of love and joy; a heart that loves to give no matter what you get in return. The reward will come. You may not see all the reward on this side of heaven, but believe me when I tell you that you will see all your reward in heaven.
I want everyone in the worship ministry of First Baptist Church Canton to have an attitude that loves to serve and give to the church body. Whenever we begin to feel like what we are doing is a chore and not a blessing, we might need to step back and recheck our priorities. Let us always seek to be cheerful givers in the worship ministry.
Giving Him my heart,
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Be Separate
Be Separate
Last Friday, my son Wade came home from Middle School and gave me a teachable moment. Teachable moments are times out of everyday life from which we can teach and learn more about God and what He requires of us. Wade told me about a young lady who is very cute and is showing some interest in him. After I got over my 7th grader having a girl who likes him, I asked Wade a little bit about this girl. Once I found out some basic information about her, I dropped a big question on him. “Is she a believer?” He looked at me kind of funny and then said, “I don’t know Dad.” We then got to learn about what I read in 2 Corinthians 6:14 where Paul reminds us that we should “not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” Paul continues in this passage to tell us that we should come out from among a non-believing world and be separate unto God.
What does being separate mean according to God’s word? This is summed up in one word: Holy. In Stephen Olford’s book, The Ways of Holiness, Olford defines holiness as the following: “Given spiritual life, holiness means the maintaining in health of that life before God and the setting apart of that life for His service alone” (p. 49.). “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). Holiness is not merely a suggestion, but it is a mandate from heaven. I don’t know about you, but when I think about that passage, I am a little overwhelmed. How am I, a lowly, ugly vessel like we looked at last week, able to be holy? When I start to think about this I can’t help but exclaim “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of host; the whole earth is full of His glory!” (Isa. 6:3). I also can’t help but proclaim “Woe is me, for I am undone!” (Isa. 6:5). Mandates from heaven are never designed to overwhelm us. Whenever God demand something from us, He provides the means for us to accomplish it. In 1Cor. 1:30, Paul reminds us that “Christ…became for us...holiness.” This simply means that God makes holiness available to us through the indwelling life of Jesus Christ in us through the power of the Holy Spirit. On our own, we are unable to be holy, but “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength” (Phil. 4:13).
“Therefore, having all these promises, beloved,
let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the fear of God”
2 Corinthians 7:1
With the Power of the Spirit,
Aaron Hodges
Last Friday, my son Wade came home from Middle School and gave me a teachable moment. Teachable moments are times out of everyday life from which we can teach and learn more about God and what He requires of us. Wade told me about a young lady who is very cute and is showing some interest in him. After I got over my 7th grader having a girl who likes him, I asked Wade a little bit about this girl. Once I found out some basic information about her, I dropped a big question on him. “Is she a believer?” He looked at me kind of funny and then said, “I don’t know Dad.” We then got to learn about what I read in 2 Corinthians 6:14 where Paul reminds us that we should “not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” Paul continues in this passage to tell us that we should come out from among a non-believing world and be separate unto God.
What does being separate mean according to God’s word? This is summed up in one word: Holy. In Stephen Olford’s book, The Ways of Holiness, Olford defines holiness as the following: “Given spiritual life, holiness means the maintaining in health of that life before God and the setting apart of that life for His service alone” (p. 49.). “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). Holiness is not merely a suggestion, but it is a mandate from heaven. I don’t know about you, but when I think about that passage, I am a little overwhelmed. How am I, a lowly, ugly vessel like we looked at last week, able to be holy? When I start to think about this I can’t help but exclaim “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of host; the whole earth is full of His glory!” (Isa. 6:3). I also can’t help but proclaim “Woe is me, for I am undone!” (Isa. 6:5). Mandates from heaven are never designed to overwhelm us. Whenever God demand something from us, He provides the means for us to accomplish it. In 1Cor. 1:30, Paul reminds us that “Christ…became for us...holiness.” This simply means that God makes holiness available to us through the indwelling life of Jesus Christ in us through the power of the Holy Spirit. On our own, we are unable to be holy, but “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength” (Phil. 4:13).
“Therefore, having all these promises, beloved,
let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the fear of God”
2 Corinthians 7:1
With the Power of the Spirit,
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Our Weakness - His Power
Our Weakness – His Power
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that
this all-surpassing power is from God.
2 Corinthians 4:7
We are called to be ministers of the New Covenant. This means that when we become Christians, we are commissioned by God to be ministers. Some people don’t understand this because they see that in churches we have “ministers” and “lay” people. I believe that the Word of God in 2 Corinthians is trying to tell us that we are all ministers. There was an old quote that said “every member a minister.” This is so true. We are all called to be “the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing (2 Cor. 2:15).” This does not say that only the paid staff is to be the aroma; but instead, all believers are included in this command and are called to be ministers. This ministry is not an easy ministry. To some we are not a pleasant smell but instead we are a reminder of what they do not have. To others we are going to be a sweet smell reminding them of the promise they have in Christ. The gospel will be difficult for many, while to others it will be an incredible hope.
As we share this gospel outside the walls of our church building, we begin to see very quickly that we are incapable of completing the task that God has given to us on our own. This is where God shines even brighter. In chapter 4, Paul states it like this: “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us (2 Cor. 4:7).” In Paul’s day, treasures were concealed in clay jars, which had little value or beauty and did not attract attention to themselves or their contents. The jars of clay in this passage represent our human unworthiness. Our total unworthiness reveals the total sufficiency of God. “We are hard pressed on every side but not crushed; perplexed, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed (2 Cor. 4:8-9).” When we go through trials in our lives, we can go through them and still come out victorious in the end. The testimony that this gives to a lost world speaks even greater sometimes than the words that come out of our mouths. As a minister, we need to be aware that God is always on display through us even in the times when we are faced with difficulty.
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that outweighs them all.”
2 Cor. 2:16-17
Seek to be a vessel that makes God look great!
Aaron Hodges
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that
this all-surpassing power is from God.
2 Corinthians 4:7
We are called to be ministers of the New Covenant. This means that when we become Christians, we are commissioned by God to be ministers. Some people don’t understand this because they see that in churches we have “ministers” and “lay” people. I believe that the Word of God in 2 Corinthians is trying to tell us that we are all ministers. There was an old quote that said “every member a minister.” This is so true. We are all called to be “the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing (2 Cor. 2:15).” This does not say that only the paid staff is to be the aroma; but instead, all believers are included in this command and are called to be ministers. This ministry is not an easy ministry. To some we are not a pleasant smell but instead we are a reminder of what they do not have. To others we are going to be a sweet smell reminding them of the promise they have in Christ. The gospel will be difficult for many, while to others it will be an incredible hope.
As we share this gospel outside the walls of our church building, we begin to see very quickly that we are incapable of completing the task that God has given to us on our own. This is where God shines even brighter. In chapter 4, Paul states it like this: “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us (2 Cor. 4:7).” In Paul’s day, treasures were concealed in clay jars, which had little value or beauty and did not attract attention to themselves or their contents. The jars of clay in this passage represent our human unworthiness. Our total unworthiness reveals the total sufficiency of God. “We are hard pressed on every side but not crushed; perplexed, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed (2 Cor. 4:8-9).” When we go through trials in our lives, we can go through them and still come out victorious in the end. The testimony that this gives to a lost world speaks even greater sometimes than the words that come out of our mouths. As a minister, we need to be aware that God is always on display through us even in the times when we are faced with difficulty.
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that outweighs them all.”
2 Cor. 2:16-17
Seek to be a vessel that makes God look great!
Aaron Hodges
Monday, August 10, 2009
THE MOST EXCELLENT WAY
The Most Excellent Way
“And now I will show you the most excellent way.”
1 Corinthians 12:31b
What is it that Paul says is “the most excellent way?” As we talked last week, we all have spiritual gifts that are used to edify and build up the Body of Christ. We are given these gifts by God, but what good are they if not used in the right way? The right way, or most excellent way, as Paul puts it, is outlined in Chapter 13 of 1 Corinthians. So often when we think of 1 Corinthians 13, we focus on verses 4-8. We almost always hear these verses at weddings and in messages around February 14th. This passage is very applicable to these occasions, but it is really not directed toward the love between a husband and wife. Instead, “love” in this passage, is described in order to help the listener understand the action and attitude we are to take as we exercise our spiritual gifts. Verses 13:1-3 are really convicting. Many times in ministry, I have become aware of people who were using their spiritual gifts, but at the same time, were not showing love to one another in a true Christ- like manner. Is this how God intends us to use the spiritual gifts He gives? The answer should be obvious. “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal (1 Cor. 13:1).” We should be continually aware of how we treat others when using our gifts so that those gifts glorify God, the One who gave them, and demonstrate Christ in us.
Later on in chapter 13 Paul points out that exercising our spiritual gifts without love is childish. My 3 year old daughter, Emmy Lou, is very precious, but she is also very selfish. Selfishness comes naturally to her. Selfishness is action without concern or love for anyone but yourself. Since she is a child, I fully expect her to act this way. As Emmy grows and becomes and adult, I will expect her to put childish ways behind her. Paul puts it this way, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me (1 Cor. 13:11).” As we in the worship ministry serve the Lord through the expressing of our gifts, we should always be mindful of love. I truly feel that we need to, above all, have love for each other as we serve the Lord. If we serve with the kind of love described in 1 Corinthians 13, the Lord will bless us beyond measure.
Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking,
it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13: 4-8a
Seeking to demonstrate my gifts through the filter of love,
Aaron Hodges
“And now I will show you the most excellent way.”
1 Corinthians 12:31b
What is it that Paul says is “the most excellent way?” As we talked last week, we all have spiritual gifts that are used to edify and build up the Body of Christ. We are given these gifts by God, but what good are they if not used in the right way? The right way, or most excellent way, as Paul puts it, is outlined in Chapter 13 of 1 Corinthians. So often when we think of 1 Corinthians 13, we focus on verses 4-8. We almost always hear these verses at weddings and in messages around February 14th. This passage is very applicable to these occasions, but it is really not directed toward the love between a husband and wife. Instead, “love” in this passage, is described in order to help the listener understand the action and attitude we are to take as we exercise our spiritual gifts. Verses 13:1-3 are really convicting. Many times in ministry, I have become aware of people who were using their spiritual gifts, but at the same time, were not showing love to one another in a true Christ- like manner. Is this how God intends us to use the spiritual gifts He gives? The answer should be obvious. “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal (1 Cor. 13:1).” We should be continually aware of how we treat others when using our gifts so that those gifts glorify God, the One who gave them, and demonstrate Christ in us.
Later on in chapter 13 Paul points out that exercising our spiritual gifts without love is childish. My 3 year old daughter, Emmy Lou, is very precious, but she is also very selfish. Selfishness comes naturally to her. Selfishness is action without concern or love for anyone but yourself. Since she is a child, I fully expect her to act this way. As Emmy grows and becomes and adult, I will expect her to put childish ways behind her. Paul puts it this way, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me (1 Cor. 13:11).” As we in the worship ministry serve the Lord through the expressing of our gifts, we should always be mindful of love. I truly feel that we need to, above all, have love for each other as we serve the Lord. If we serve with the kind of love described in 1 Corinthians 13, the Lord will bless us beyond measure.
Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking,
it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13: 4-8a
Seeking to demonstrate my gifts through the filter of love,
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
ONE BODY - MANY PARTS
One Body, Many Parts
All of you, who have been around me at all over the past 5 ½ weeks, know that on the last day of Vacation Bible School, I broke my pinky toe on my left foot. Over these weeks I have realized that 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 is so very true. It is in this passage that Paul compares the Body of Christ to our earthly bodies. Because of my broken toe, other parts of my body have been challenged. When I first broke it, I had no idea what kind of problems that little piece of my body was going to cause. “Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. If the foot (or little toe in my case) should say, ‘Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,’ it would not for that reason cease to be a part of the body. (1 Cor. 12:14-15).” When I broke my toe, I could not simply say to myself that I did not need my toe. On the contrary, my toe reminded me every time I used it that it was still there whether I wanted to believe it or not. Other muscles in my foot started to hurt. My other leg began to hurt. Overall, my toe made my entire body suffer.
You may be asking, “So what does your toe have to do with me?” Later on in 1 Corinthians 12, Paul points out the reasoning and I think it applies to the church today just as much as it did to the church at Corinth. Many times as we work in the church and serve the Lord, we begin saying to ourselves, “maybe we are not as necessary as someone else or some other position.” Paul points that there is no part of the Body of Christ that is any less important as another. Paul would say that changing diapers in the nursery is just as important as teaching a Sunday school class. Without our nursery workers ministering to our children, the ministry that happens in Sunday school would become even more difficult and maybe even impossible.
We can even break down this analogy all the way to where we serve. Here in worship ministry, we all serve on an equal playing field. We all are vital and each of us depends on the other to do their part. I often hear it said, “Oh, it’s ok that I am not in choir today; they don’t necessarily need me.” That is nowhere near the truth! When you are gone it makes more of a difference than you can even imagine. There are others in your section that are depending on your talent and encouragement to go forward with the task God has given them. For example, this Sunday, when you choose to sit in the worship center rather than be in the choir loft or the orchestra, you are not fulfilling your role in this ministry that God has called you to, and you are handicapping the others serving. Make it a goal for this fall to join the worship ministry body and do your part. The body of First Baptist Canton will be ministered to by your offering.
Looking for you this week,
Aaron Hodges
All of you, who have been around me at all over the past 5 ½ weeks, know that on the last day of Vacation Bible School, I broke my pinky toe on my left foot. Over these weeks I have realized that 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 is so very true. It is in this passage that Paul compares the Body of Christ to our earthly bodies. Because of my broken toe, other parts of my body have been challenged. When I first broke it, I had no idea what kind of problems that little piece of my body was going to cause. “Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. If the foot (or little toe in my case) should say, ‘Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,’ it would not for that reason cease to be a part of the body. (1 Cor. 12:14-15).” When I broke my toe, I could not simply say to myself that I did not need my toe. On the contrary, my toe reminded me every time I used it that it was still there whether I wanted to believe it or not. Other muscles in my foot started to hurt. My other leg began to hurt. Overall, my toe made my entire body suffer.
You may be asking, “So what does your toe have to do with me?” Later on in 1 Corinthians 12, Paul points out the reasoning and I think it applies to the church today just as much as it did to the church at Corinth. Many times as we work in the church and serve the Lord, we begin saying to ourselves, “maybe we are not as necessary as someone else or some other position.” Paul points that there is no part of the Body of Christ that is any less important as another. Paul would say that changing diapers in the nursery is just as important as teaching a Sunday school class. Without our nursery workers ministering to our children, the ministry that happens in Sunday school would become even more difficult and maybe even impossible.
We can even break down this analogy all the way to where we serve. Here in worship ministry, we all serve on an equal playing field. We all are vital and each of us depends on the other to do their part. I often hear it said, “Oh, it’s ok that I am not in choir today; they don’t necessarily need me.” That is nowhere near the truth! When you are gone it makes more of a difference than you can even imagine. There are others in your section that are depending on your talent and encouragement to go forward with the task God has given them. For example, this Sunday, when you choose to sit in the worship center rather than be in the choir loft or the orchestra, you are not fulfilling your role in this ministry that God has called you to, and you are handicapping the others serving. Make it a goal for this fall to join the worship ministry body and do your part. The body of First Baptist Canton will be ministered to by your offering.
Looking for you this week,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Your Spiritual Act of Worship
Your Spiritual Act of Worship
We so often hear people talk about worship. Some people consider worship as a time of the week. Some people consider it only as something they do on Sunday. Others view it as a lifestyle. So what does it mean in Romans chapter 12 when Paul speaks about your “spiritual act of worship”? To completely understand this concept, we must first look at what Paul discusses just prior to chapter 12, which is the subject of God’s mercy. In chapter 11, Paul discusses the history of the people of Israel. In this chapter he talks about how Israel’s stumbling made way for the salvation of the Gentiles. But in this rebellion, he still found a remnant in Israel and spared the nation from total destruction. God was able to use even the wrongdoings of His chosen people to draw the Gentiles to himself. At the end of chapter 11, Paul has one of my favorite doxologies of praise to the Lord:
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths
beyond tracing out!
Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been His counselor?
Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?
For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.
To Him be the glory forever! Amen!
Romans 11:33-36
Paul then proceeds to the subject of being a living sacrifice. He starts chapter 12 with the idea that in order to fully understand our obedience to our Holy God, we must view ourselves in light of God’s mercy. We should be living sacrifices because of the fact that we deserve eternal separation from God. Even though this it what we deserve, the Lord has had compassion and mercy on us and allowed us to serve Him. We should seek holiness and the smile of God. “This is your spiritual act of worship (Romans 12:1).” The “spiritual act” is not merely a ritual activity, but instead it involves the heart, mind and will. It is an act of obedient service. This passage always reminds me of the famous hymn we all love “When I survey the Wondrous Cross.”
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small:
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my ALL.
With His Song, Aaron
We so often hear people talk about worship. Some people consider worship as a time of the week. Some people consider it only as something they do on Sunday. Others view it as a lifestyle. So what does it mean in Romans chapter 12 when Paul speaks about your “spiritual act of worship”? To completely understand this concept, we must first look at what Paul discusses just prior to chapter 12, which is the subject of God’s mercy. In chapter 11, Paul discusses the history of the people of Israel. In this chapter he talks about how Israel’s stumbling made way for the salvation of the Gentiles. But in this rebellion, he still found a remnant in Israel and spared the nation from total destruction. God was able to use even the wrongdoings of His chosen people to draw the Gentiles to himself. At the end of chapter 11, Paul has one of my favorite doxologies of praise to the Lord:
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths
beyond tracing out!
Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been His counselor?
Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?
For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.
To Him be the glory forever! Amen!
Romans 11:33-36
Paul then proceeds to the subject of being a living sacrifice. He starts chapter 12 with the idea that in order to fully understand our obedience to our Holy God, we must view ourselves in light of God’s mercy. We should be living sacrifices because of the fact that we deserve eternal separation from God. Even though this it what we deserve, the Lord has had compassion and mercy on us and allowed us to serve Him. We should seek holiness and the smile of God. “This is your spiritual act of worship (Romans 12:1).” The “spiritual act” is not merely a ritual activity, but instead it involves the heart, mind and will. It is an act of obedient service. This passage always reminds me of the famous hymn we all love “When I survey the Wondrous Cross.”
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small:
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my ALL.
With His Song, Aaron
Everything is Meaningless
Everything is Meaningless
As you know, last week I was in Baltimore, Maryland with our wonderful youth. I was reminded of so many things about God and about our daily struggle against the forces of darkness. There were countless stories of men and women who were seeking the things of this world and eventually ended up being disappointed by what they were seeking. They would agree with the author of Ecclesiastes when he wrote “Meaningless! Meaningless! Utterly Meaningless! Everything is meaningless (Ecc. 1:2)”. They know what it is like to work and work and then at the end of the day, gain nothing. There was one story that I will remember for a long time. The man’s name is Kenny. Kenny was a successful mechanical engineer. He, in the world’s eye, had everything going for him, but he was still missing something. He found himself at a point in day to day life where the disappointments and toils left him seeking other things to satisfy the emptiness in his heart. These things were leaving him even emptier. He ended up losing it all and coming to the Helping Up Mission in Baltimore, Maryland. It was there that he found what was missing in his life. He realized at that point that everything in his life was meaningless and void without a relationship with Jesus Christ. He eventually turned his life over to Christ and is now in a leadership role at the Mission.
Maybe you or someone you know is in that same boat. You may not literally be at the lowest place in your life where you need the help of a shelter, but you may be looking at life and thinking it is meaningless. I think even Christians can get to this place. You may be working and striving in your job and see no point. You may be at home with your children and wonder what good you are doing. You may, as Peter did, not have your eyes on Jesus. It is time, Christian, to refocus on the One who gives our life meaning. Return your focus back to Christ. It is in a growing relationship with God that you will find purpose and meaning. Kenny, a successful engineer, found meaning in Jesus and now volunteers at a homeless shelter. What will it take for you to refocus?
Aaron Hodges
As you know, last week I was in Baltimore, Maryland with our wonderful youth. I was reminded of so many things about God and about our daily struggle against the forces of darkness. There were countless stories of men and women who were seeking the things of this world and eventually ended up being disappointed by what they were seeking. They would agree with the author of Ecclesiastes when he wrote “Meaningless! Meaningless! Utterly Meaningless! Everything is meaningless (Ecc. 1:2)”. They know what it is like to work and work and then at the end of the day, gain nothing. There was one story that I will remember for a long time. The man’s name is Kenny. Kenny was a successful mechanical engineer. He, in the world’s eye, had everything going for him, but he was still missing something. He found himself at a point in day to day life where the disappointments and toils left him seeking other things to satisfy the emptiness in his heart. These things were leaving him even emptier. He ended up losing it all and coming to the Helping Up Mission in Baltimore, Maryland. It was there that he found what was missing in his life. He realized at that point that everything in his life was meaningless and void without a relationship with Jesus Christ. He eventually turned his life over to Christ and is now in a leadership role at the Mission.
Maybe you or someone you know is in that same boat. You may not literally be at the lowest place in your life where you need the help of a shelter, but you may be looking at life and thinking it is meaningless. I think even Christians can get to this place. You may be working and striving in your job and see no point. You may be at home with your children and wonder what good you are doing. You may, as Peter did, not have your eyes on Jesus. It is time, Christian, to refocus on the One who gives our life meaning. Return your focus back to Christ. It is in a growing relationship with God that you will find purpose and meaning. Kenny, a successful engineer, found meaning in Jesus and now volunteers at a homeless shelter. What will it take for you to refocus?
Aaron Hodges
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Restoration Ahead
Restoration Ahead
Last week we began talking about Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem that is to come following the millennial reign of the Messiah. Last Sunday night, the Pastor starting me thinking even more about Jerusalem. In the evening service, George brought up the fact that if we say we believe something we need to back it up with Scripture. I have always believed that but not always put that into practice. When it comes to Jerusalem, God’s chosen people; I have always believed that it was important how they are treated even in today’s political climate. I have heard that said from many pulpits and in many Sunday school classes, but very rarely I have heard the biblical backing for this thought. Therefore, I decided that I would look into this subject a little deeper. Not being a Biblical scholar, I was unsure where to find more information concerning Jerusalem, so I decided to go to the Old Testament books of prophecy and see if I could locate anything. I started reading Zechariah. Zechariah is not a book that I read a lot because it is full of symbolism. For a concrete thinker like me, books like Zechariah can be daunting at the least. Reading it this time, I was specifically looking for facts about the future of Jerusalem. I not only found that information but came across even more jewels in the book. In Zechariah 1:14, we are introduced to God being a jealous God. “I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion (1:14).” I can somewhat understand God being a jealous God. I chose my wife 16 years ago and am very jealous for her. I would do anything to protect her. This is a very small scale jealousy compared to God’s jealousy toward Jerusalem. Zechariah chapter 1 refers to God’s judgment on those countries that seek to hurt Jerusalem. There were countries in the past that God used to bring judgment on Jerusalem, but now he is ready to bring restoration to His chosen people and destruction to those countries against His chosen people. In Deuteronomy 32:10, Jerusalem is even described as “the apple of God’s eye.” Harming God’s chosen people is like striking the pupil of God’s eye. Chapter 2 describes the restoration of Jerusalem in great detail. Also in this chapter, we find that there will be others who are joined with God’s chosen people in the future. There will be a place for even you and me. Praise be to God!
And now let the earth resound with praise,
For our Savior God He Reigns!
He is high and lifted up!
Arise! For the King of glory waits!
HE IS COMING BACK AGAIN!
Please pray for our Nation during this time to be wise in our relationship to Israel!
Aaron Hodges
Last week we began talking about Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem that is to come following the millennial reign of the Messiah. Last Sunday night, the Pastor starting me thinking even more about Jerusalem. In the evening service, George brought up the fact that if we say we believe something we need to back it up with Scripture. I have always believed that but not always put that into practice. When it comes to Jerusalem, God’s chosen people; I have always believed that it was important how they are treated even in today’s political climate. I have heard that said from many pulpits and in many Sunday school classes, but very rarely I have heard the biblical backing for this thought. Therefore, I decided that I would look into this subject a little deeper. Not being a Biblical scholar, I was unsure where to find more information concerning Jerusalem, so I decided to go to the Old Testament books of prophecy and see if I could locate anything. I started reading Zechariah. Zechariah is not a book that I read a lot because it is full of symbolism. For a concrete thinker like me, books like Zechariah can be daunting at the least. Reading it this time, I was specifically looking for facts about the future of Jerusalem. I not only found that information but came across even more jewels in the book. In Zechariah 1:14, we are introduced to God being a jealous God. “I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion (1:14).” I can somewhat understand God being a jealous God. I chose my wife 16 years ago and am very jealous for her. I would do anything to protect her. This is a very small scale jealousy compared to God’s jealousy toward Jerusalem. Zechariah chapter 1 refers to God’s judgment on those countries that seek to hurt Jerusalem. There were countries in the past that God used to bring judgment on Jerusalem, but now he is ready to bring restoration to His chosen people and destruction to those countries against His chosen people. In Deuteronomy 32:10, Jerusalem is even described as “the apple of God’s eye.” Harming God’s chosen people is like striking the pupil of God’s eye. Chapter 2 describes the restoration of Jerusalem in great detail. Also in this chapter, we find that there will be others who are joined with God’s chosen people in the future. There will be a place for even you and me. Praise be to God!
And now let the earth resound with praise,
For our Savior God He Reigns!
He is high and lifted up!
Arise! For the King of glory waits!
HE IS COMING BACK AGAIN!
Please pray for our Nation during this time to be wise in our relationship to Israel!
Aaron Hodges
Peace and Joy
Peace and Joy
IT HAPPENED AGAIN! You may be asking yourself “What in the world is Aaron talking about?” Coming back from vacation, I was so ready to get back in the corporate worship saddle again. Many times right after a two week rehearsal break, the worship horse is very difficult to ride again. The choir and orchestra usually need a little warming up. I typically have so much bottled up inside that it is hard for me to restrain myself. But Sunday was much different. There was a sense of expectation from everyone that God was going to do something. That is exactly what happened. God showed up! The power of God was exhibited in a mighty way, and He used all of us to get it done. I have preached for the last year and a half that the choir and orchestra are so important when it comes to leading worship. When we worship, the congregation is more encouraged to worship. I was told by many individuals on Sunday that they really saw you all worshiping. That is what I desire every week. What made the difference? Was it the song selection? Was it our hearts? Was it a deep desire within us to see God work? Yes, I believe it was all of these and probably more.
What is it that should bring us the joy that we had on Sunday? Are we looking to music to bring us that joy? Are we looking to our friends and family to bring it to us? I hope that this is not where we are seeking our joy. Our peace and joy should come in the fact that “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 4: 8b).” We sing because we have been justified by Jesus Christ. We should not seek our joy through singing or playing. We should already have that joy before we even start a single note. Our corporate worship should be an overflow of the joy that we have in Christ.
Then how and when will our corporate worship experience see another high like we saw Sunday? It will only manifest when we realize where we came from and how much the Lord Jesus Christ has changed us. It will happen again when we enter in expecting God to work. It could come today! Let the following verse bring you such joy and peace today:
“You see, at just the right time, when you were still powerless,
Christ died for the ungodly.
Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, Though for a good man someone might dare to die.
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners,
Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8
Aaron Hodges
IT HAPPENED AGAIN! You may be asking yourself “What in the world is Aaron talking about?” Coming back from vacation, I was so ready to get back in the corporate worship saddle again. Many times right after a two week rehearsal break, the worship horse is very difficult to ride again. The choir and orchestra usually need a little warming up. I typically have so much bottled up inside that it is hard for me to restrain myself. But Sunday was much different. There was a sense of expectation from everyone that God was going to do something. That is exactly what happened. God showed up! The power of God was exhibited in a mighty way, and He used all of us to get it done. I have preached for the last year and a half that the choir and orchestra are so important when it comes to leading worship. When we worship, the congregation is more encouraged to worship. I was told by many individuals on Sunday that they really saw you all worshiping. That is what I desire every week. What made the difference? Was it the song selection? Was it our hearts? Was it a deep desire within us to see God work? Yes, I believe it was all of these and probably more.
What is it that should bring us the joy that we had on Sunday? Are we looking to music to bring us that joy? Are we looking to our friends and family to bring it to us? I hope that this is not where we are seeking our joy. Our peace and joy should come in the fact that “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 4: 8b).” We sing because we have been justified by Jesus Christ. We should not seek our joy through singing or playing. We should already have that joy before we even start a single note. Our corporate worship should be an overflow of the joy that we have in Christ.
Then how and when will our corporate worship experience see another high like we saw Sunday? It will only manifest when we realize where we came from and how much the Lord Jesus Christ has changed us. It will happen again when we enter in expecting God to work. It could come today! Let the following verse bring you such joy and peace today:
“You see, at just the right time, when you were still powerless,
Christ died for the ungodly.
Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, Though for a good man someone might dare to die.
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners,
Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8
Aaron Hodges
Saturday, June 6, 2009
The New Jerusalem
The New Jerusalem
It has been interesting to me to turn on the radio and television and hear that Israel and Jerusalem are still in the spotlight even today. As I read the Word of God, I read that Israel still has a special spot in the heart of God. It is so important to our well being as a nation to protect Israel and show our support of these people. I believe that our future as a nation will be directly related to our relationship to God’s Holy people. We need to be very careful and attentive to how our government and we as a nation are relating to Israel and Israel’s future. “Why do I bring this up?” you may be asking. Sounds very much like a political statement today. Maybe so, but I feel that we may be going down the wrong track right now, and it is time we wake up to what is going on. We need to pray for Israel and its future. Yes, it is so important that we think about and concern ourselves with the current Jerusalem, and we also need to consider the New Jerusalem. The New Jerusalem will be very different than the Jerusalem of 2009. In Chapter 21 of Revelation, we read of this place that John saw. Oh, how I look forward to the NEW Jerusalem! “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and God himself will be their God. HE WILL WIPE EVERY TEAR FROM THEIR EYES. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away (Revelation 21:3-4).” John saw this vision of the New Jerusalem right after he saw the great white throne judgment, which is believed to be at the end of the millennium (Revelation 20:11-15). This is the judgment of unbelievers in which they are judged according to their works and sentenced to everlasting punishment in the lake of fire, a time of much sorrow and eternal death. I am so glad that John’s vision did not end there. After all judgment, both the judgment seat of Christ (for believers) and the great white throne judgment (for non-believers) is complete, the Lord will usher in a time where there will be no more judgment. A time where there will only be praises to the great I AM. At the end of Revelation, Jesus gives us a promise “Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End (Revelation 22:12-13).” Is it important how we work out our faith? According to Jesus’ own words, it is! “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ (Revelation 22:17).”
Come Quickly Lord Jesus!
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Your First Love
Your First Love
As I write this article today, I do so with much hesitance and awe. “Hesitant” because I do not fully understand the book of Revelation. “Awe” because I see the magnitude of my God. Revelation is an incredible book to have at the end of the Bible because it completes all the scripture and points us to what “must soon take place (1:1).” When I read in chapter 4 about the throne of Heaven, I get so excited about our future. I can hardly wait to sit around the throne and join with the angels in saying “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come (4:8).” Before we get to this incredible description of the throne of God, John takes us through the letters to the seven Asian churches. We get to see their good attributes along with their not so good attributes. The first letter was written to the church in Ephesus. They were commended for their hard work and perseverance. They were able to identify false apostles and endure hardships. That sounds great but what did they do wrong? “You have forsaken your first love (2:4).” This “first” love can mean either their love for each other and/or their love for Christ. This is even relevant for the church in America. I think the same thing can be said about us. I was talking to someone on Tuesday about the church in general and about where that person sees the church of today. One thing he said to me was that he feels the church is so busy loving its programs and tag lines that it has lost its love for Jesus. We get so focused on making our programs attractive that we forget that Jesus is attractive enough. “Remember the height from which you had fallen (2:5).” We have been saved from a life without joy, without hope, without a future. We have been given joy, hope and a future because of Jesus Christ, not any church program. If we have been given such a future, then we should focus all of our love and on one who secured that future for us, Jesus Christ.
Once I was lost in sin’s degradation,
Jesus came down to bring me salvation,
Lifted me up from sorrow and shame,
Now I belong to Him;
Now I belong to Jesus, Jesus belongs to me,
Not for the years of time alone,
But for eternity.
Loving Christ,
Aaron Hodges
As I write this article today, I do so with much hesitance and awe. “Hesitant” because I do not fully understand the book of Revelation. “Awe” because I see the magnitude of my God. Revelation is an incredible book to have at the end of the Bible because it completes all the scripture and points us to what “must soon take place (1:1).” When I read in chapter 4 about the throne of Heaven, I get so excited about our future. I can hardly wait to sit around the throne and join with the angels in saying “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come (4:8).” Before we get to this incredible description of the throne of God, John takes us through the letters to the seven Asian churches. We get to see their good attributes along with their not so good attributes. The first letter was written to the church in Ephesus. They were commended for their hard work and perseverance. They were able to identify false apostles and endure hardships. That sounds great but what did they do wrong? “You have forsaken your first love (2:4).” This “first” love can mean either their love for each other and/or their love for Christ. This is even relevant for the church in America. I think the same thing can be said about us. I was talking to someone on Tuesday about the church in general and about where that person sees the church of today. One thing he said to me was that he feels the church is so busy loving its programs and tag lines that it has lost its love for Jesus. We get so focused on making our programs attractive that we forget that Jesus is attractive enough. “Remember the height from which you had fallen (2:5).” We have been saved from a life without joy, without hope, without a future. We have been given joy, hope and a future because of Jesus Christ, not any church program. If we have been given such a future, then we should focus all of our love and on one who secured that future for us, Jesus Christ.
Once I was lost in sin’s degradation,
Jesus came down to bring me salvation,
Lifted me up from sorrow and shame,
Now I belong to Him;
Now I belong to Jesus, Jesus belongs to me,
Not for the years of time alone,
But for eternity.
Loving Christ,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
VICTORIOUS LIVING
Victorious Living
“Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” 1 John 5:5
There have been many times over the past week that I have often thought to myself, as Paul did in Romans 7:19 when he wrote “For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.” I know that I am probably the only one in this boat (tongue in cheek), but I often struggle with doing what I know is right and not doing what is wrong. In most instances, it is just the omitting act of not doing what I know I should do, but there are those times when I find myself fighting with my sinful nature. I can think of numerous times when I have struggled with doing wrong, but somehow I had victory in the fight and was kept from doing wrong. What is it that allows me to fight off the sinful desires of my flesh? What is it that allows me to lose the battle of my flesh? What is it that helps me do what is good? What is it that keeps me from doing what I know I should do?
I was reading in I John 5 this week and found the answer to all these questions. John closes chapter 5 by talking about the victory there is for those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ. “Everyone born of God overcomes the world (v. 4a).” Because of the new birth, salvation, we are enabled by the Holy Spirit to overcome our sinful nature. So what happens when we fall? Very simply put, we are not allowing the Holy Spirit to have complete control of our life. We are not making Jesus, Lord. The Bible clearly teaches that when we ask Jesus to be the Lord and Savior of our life, we get 100% of the Holy Spirit. We don’t get just part of the Holy Spirit; we get all of Him. So if we have all of the Holy Spirit, we have all it takes to live a victorious life. When we fail to live this victorious life, it is simply because we have made a conscious decision to not allow the Holy Spirit to have complete control of our life. We have all it takes to live a life that is controlled by the Holy Spirit. We simply have to take advantage of the power within us. The next time you are faced with a decision to do what is good or to do what is evil, claim the victory that has already been won at the cross of Christ.
“This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” 1 John 5:4b
Living Victoriously,
Aaron Hodges
“Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” 1 John 5:5
There have been many times over the past week that I have often thought to myself, as Paul did in Romans 7:19 when he wrote “For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.” I know that I am probably the only one in this boat (tongue in cheek), but I often struggle with doing what I know is right and not doing what is wrong. In most instances, it is just the omitting act of not doing what I know I should do, but there are those times when I find myself fighting with my sinful nature. I can think of numerous times when I have struggled with doing wrong, but somehow I had victory in the fight and was kept from doing wrong. What is it that allows me to fight off the sinful desires of my flesh? What is it that allows me to lose the battle of my flesh? What is it that helps me do what is good? What is it that keeps me from doing what I know I should do?
I was reading in I John 5 this week and found the answer to all these questions. John closes chapter 5 by talking about the victory there is for those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ. “Everyone born of God overcomes the world (v. 4a).” Because of the new birth, salvation, we are enabled by the Holy Spirit to overcome our sinful nature. So what happens when we fall? Very simply put, we are not allowing the Holy Spirit to have complete control of our life. We are not making Jesus, Lord. The Bible clearly teaches that when we ask Jesus to be the Lord and Savior of our life, we get 100% of the Holy Spirit. We don’t get just part of the Holy Spirit; we get all of Him. So if we have all of the Holy Spirit, we have all it takes to live a victorious life. When we fail to live this victorious life, it is simply because we have made a conscious decision to not allow the Holy Spirit to have complete control of our life. We have all it takes to live a life that is controlled by the Holy Spirit. We simply have to take advantage of the power within us. The next time you are faced with a decision to do what is good or to do what is evil, claim the victory that has already been won at the cross of Christ.
“This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” 1 John 5:4b
Living Victoriously,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Walk In The Light
Walk in the LIGHT!
As I read through 1 John this week, I was blown away again by the overwhelming responsibility we have to live holy lives. John can speak first hand about this subject because he was called and served directly with Jesus Christ. He was known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 13:23).” 1 John is very similar to the Gospel of John in that both use contrasting figures, such as light and dark, life and death, truth and lies, love and hate. When I review the Gospel of John, it becomes very clear that John was always very close to Jesus and it is also obvious that because of this closeness, John was an expert on Jesus. When John writes in I John 1:5 that “God is light; and there is no darkness in him,” we can be assured that this is not just an opinion but also the hard truth about God. John tells us this so that we will understand what our example is. We do not serve an imperfect God, but a God who is perfect in every way. Light represents holiness and truth, whereas darkness represents wickedness and error. Truth, as mentioned in 1 John 1:6, represents Jesus, the embodiment of perfection. There is a warning in that verse that says if we claim to have fellowship with God (relationship with Jesus Christ) yet walk in darkness then we are liars and do not live in the truth. If we have a relationship with Jesus Christ then we should live a life of holiness and truth and not a life filled with the darkness of this world. John goes on in the following verses to remind us that we, unlike our example, are not perfect and do sin. Also in contrast to the hopelessness of the world, we, who have placed our lives in Jesus, even though we sin, have “one who speaks to the Father in our defense- Jesus Christ, the Righteous One (1 John 2:1).” This however does not give us the right to live our lives however we want. Instead, this truth should encourage us to live even more righteously knowing that Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Living in the “Light” should play out in every aspect of our lives. Holy living is not just for the times that we are around other believers but it should permeate our lives even when it is not convenient. For example, take a candle into a completely dark room. Then light that candle and see how the light permeates every part of darkness. Our lives should be as that candle. The Light of Jesus should destroy the dark places in our lives so that we become more like Jesus.
Go and LIGHT up the darkness!
Aaron
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Living for God
Living for God
When I look at what is happening in the world today, I cannot keep from seeing all the things that point me to the return of Christ. I believe that there are many things we are responsible to do to hasten the coming of the Lord, but I also believe that the Lord is putting all the pieces into place to usher in His return. With Christ’s return coming soon, the scripture tells us to live for God even more. As we live for Christ, others will be drawn to Him and live for Him also. Peter introduces this concept in 1 Peter 1 when he tells us to praise God for a living hope. “In His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade (v. 3b-4a).” This hope in not wishful thinking; but instead, it is a firm conviction directed to a secure future. Because of what Christ did for us and because we have turned our lives over to Christ, we have, to quote the old song, “a home in heaven for sure.” The knowledge and hope that we have should cause us to live holy lives. “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”(1 Peter 1:15) Holy living will not come without sacrifice and even suffering. Never in the Word of God does it say that living the life that God intends for us would be the easy road. On the contrary, over and over the Word of God teaches us to endure suffering even while doing good. I know, from experience, that you will suffer even while doing good but what defines you is how you respond to the suffering. I think it is very interesting that Peter speaks about this in 1 Peter 3. “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have (3:13-15).” If you do not respond to your sufferings in a way that glorifies God, no one will ever see a need to ask you about your hope because they will not see the change in your life. This is why it is so important to live a life worthy of your calling. We have the ability to either turn someone to God or turn someone away from God. What is your choice? Are you going to live for God sharing your living hope or are you going to live for yourself? Choose you this day who you will serve.
Aaron Hodges
When I look at what is happening in the world today, I cannot keep from seeing all the things that point me to the return of Christ. I believe that there are many things we are responsible to do to hasten the coming of the Lord, but I also believe that the Lord is putting all the pieces into place to usher in His return. With Christ’s return coming soon, the scripture tells us to live for God even more. As we live for Christ, others will be drawn to Him and live for Him also. Peter introduces this concept in 1 Peter 1 when he tells us to praise God for a living hope. “In His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade (v. 3b-4a).” This hope in not wishful thinking; but instead, it is a firm conviction directed to a secure future. Because of what Christ did for us and because we have turned our lives over to Christ, we have, to quote the old song, “a home in heaven for sure.” The knowledge and hope that we have should cause us to live holy lives. “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”(1 Peter 1:15) Holy living will not come without sacrifice and even suffering. Never in the Word of God does it say that living the life that God intends for us would be the easy road. On the contrary, over and over the Word of God teaches us to endure suffering even while doing good. I know, from experience, that you will suffer even while doing good but what defines you is how you respond to the suffering. I think it is very interesting that Peter speaks about this in 1 Peter 3. “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have (3:13-15).” If you do not respond to your sufferings in a way that glorifies God, no one will ever see a need to ask you about your hope because they will not see the change in your life. This is why it is so important to live a life worthy of your calling. We have the ability to either turn someone to God or turn someone away from God. What is your choice? Are you going to live for God sharing your living hope or are you going to live for yourself? Choose you this day who you will serve.
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Faith Without Works Does Not Exist
Faith without Works… Does it exist?
Let me answer that question emphatically: NO! Faith without works, as James says in James 2:26, is dead. This passage of scripture has been misinterpreted so many times. To fully understand this passage, we must first understand the background of the letter. The author was most likely James, the bother of Jesus and the leader of the Jerusalem Council. James was probably the oldest of Jesus’ bothers. At first he did not believe in Jesus (John 7:2-5), but later he became a believer and a leader in the early church (Acts 15:13). James was writing to a predominately Jewish Christian audience (James 1:1). James was writing to these early Christians to instruct them in the basics of Christianity. He emphasizes the living out of the Christian faith. That is why in chapter 2:14, James asked the question: “What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?” James is not referring to a genuine, saving faith but rather to an intellectual acceptance of certain truths. The Jewish people were a very intellectual people who were basically working for their salvation. James is not saying that a person is saved by works and not by genuine faith. Martin Luther explained it this way: “People are justified (declared righteous before God) by faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone.” Our faith must be accompanied by goods deeds, but only faith in Christ saves. James uses a great example to demonstrate this fact. He points out that when Abraham offered his son Isaac on the altar, it was his faith in conjunction with his action that was “credited to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6).” If Abraham had just had the intellectual faith that God was going to save his son, then where would the proof have been? It was because Abraham put his son on the altar and raised the knife to sacrifice him that proved to God his faith. Like Abraham, in order to prove our genuine faith, we too must have works as an outward expression of the faith in us. Where are our deeds? Is there any proof of a transformed life? Can the world look at you and see your faith?
“As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead (James 2:26).”
Living out my Faith,
Aaron Hodges
Let me answer that question emphatically: NO! Faith without works, as James says in James 2:26, is dead. This passage of scripture has been misinterpreted so many times. To fully understand this passage, we must first understand the background of the letter. The author was most likely James, the bother of Jesus and the leader of the Jerusalem Council. James was probably the oldest of Jesus’ bothers. At first he did not believe in Jesus (John 7:2-5), but later he became a believer and a leader in the early church (Acts 15:13). James was writing to a predominately Jewish Christian audience (James 1:1). James was writing to these early Christians to instruct them in the basics of Christianity. He emphasizes the living out of the Christian faith. That is why in chapter 2:14, James asked the question: “What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?” James is not referring to a genuine, saving faith but rather to an intellectual acceptance of certain truths. The Jewish people were a very intellectual people who were basically working for their salvation. James is not saying that a person is saved by works and not by genuine faith. Martin Luther explained it this way: “People are justified (declared righteous before God) by faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone.” Our faith must be accompanied by goods deeds, but only faith in Christ saves. James uses a great example to demonstrate this fact. He points out that when Abraham offered his son Isaac on the altar, it was his faith in conjunction with his action that was “credited to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6).” If Abraham had just had the intellectual faith that God was going to save his son, then where would the proof have been? It was because Abraham put his son on the altar and raised the knife to sacrifice him that proved to God his faith. Like Abraham, in order to prove our genuine faith, we too must have works as an outward expression of the faith in us. Where are our deeds? Is there any proof of a transformed life? Can the world look at you and see your faith?
“As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead (James 2:26).”
Living out my Faith,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
BY FAITH - A TRIBUTE TO MY FRIEND AND COLLEAGUE LOUIS BOYD
By Faith – A Tribute to my friend and colleague Louis Boyd
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
I continued reading in Hebrews this week and came across the famous chapter 11. This is an amazing record of Godly men and women who trusted God in every way even when it was not the popular thing to do. The author begins this list by starting with himself and all other true believers as he points out that by faith “we” understand that God spoke the universe into being. God spoke and it was created. He did not create out of what was visible but instead out of nothing which takes FAITH to understand and believe. The author then goes through his list of people of faith. I don’t think the author was attempting to list every single person in the past that lived by faith, but he was pointing out some of the outstanding men and women who should be commended for their faith. Let me point out some of my favorites. “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family (v. 7).” “By faith Abraham, even though he was past age . . . was enabled to become a father (v. 11).” “By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice (v. 17).” “By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned (v. 29).”
As I was reading about all these great men and women of faith, I had a hard time not thinking of people (past and present) that I have had the pleasure of knowing who were also men and women of faith. By faith, Scena Hendrick trusted the Lord in giving up her desires in order to serve her family and the people of God. By faith, Charles Collins gave me a chance to be used by God in music ministry. By faith, Dr. Jim Woodward spoke into the lives of many students at Oklahoma Baptist University not knowing how much the Lord was going to use his words and example. By faith, Dr. George Anderson led First Baptist Church Canton to relocate to One Mission Point, not knowing all that God was going to do here.
By faith, Louis Boyd served the Lord and sought to bring Him glory in all that he did. Louis was a true minister in every aspect of his life. Louis used every opportunity he had to share the love of Jesus with everyone he came in contact with. By faith, Louis developed me in to a better minister by giving me a quality example. By faith, Louis ministered to my boys in their time of need. By faith, Louis shared his faith to the very end of his life knowing that he would not see the total impact he was making on lives for eternity. Thank you Louis for showing me what being a man of FAITH is all about.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us (12:1).”
Living by faith,
Aaron Hodges
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
I continued reading in Hebrews this week and came across the famous chapter 11. This is an amazing record of Godly men and women who trusted God in every way even when it was not the popular thing to do. The author begins this list by starting with himself and all other true believers as he points out that by faith “we” understand that God spoke the universe into being. God spoke and it was created. He did not create out of what was visible but instead out of nothing which takes FAITH to understand and believe. The author then goes through his list of people of faith. I don’t think the author was attempting to list every single person in the past that lived by faith, but he was pointing out some of the outstanding men and women who should be commended for their faith. Let me point out some of my favorites. “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family (v. 7).” “By faith Abraham, even though he was past age . . . was enabled to become a father (v. 11).” “By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice (v. 17).” “By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned (v. 29).”
As I was reading about all these great men and women of faith, I had a hard time not thinking of people (past and present) that I have had the pleasure of knowing who were also men and women of faith. By faith, Scena Hendrick trusted the Lord in giving up her desires in order to serve her family and the people of God. By faith, Charles Collins gave me a chance to be used by God in music ministry. By faith, Dr. Jim Woodward spoke into the lives of many students at Oklahoma Baptist University not knowing how much the Lord was going to use his words and example. By faith, Dr. George Anderson led First Baptist Church Canton to relocate to One Mission Point, not knowing all that God was going to do here.
By faith, Louis Boyd served the Lord and sought to bring Him glory in all that he did. Louis was a true minister in every aspect of his life. Louis used every opportunity he had to share the love of Jesus with everyone he came in contact with. By faith, Louis developed me in to a better minister by giving me a quality example. By faith, Louis ministered to my boys in their time of need. By faith, Louis shared his faith to the very end of his life knowing that he would not see the total impact he was making on lives for eternity. Thank you Louis for showing me what being a man of FAITH is all about.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us (12:1).”
Living by faith,
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
And I will give you REST...
And I will give you REST…
This past week, I have for some reason been very tired. I think it may have to do with all the sickness in our house, the busyness at work, recovering from entertaining family the week before, and American Idol. Whatever the reason, I have been exhausted to the point of almost falling asleep every time I sit down and am still. What a perfect time then to read Hebrews 4. In this chapter of Hebrews, the author, some believe to be Paul, points out to the Jewish converts the promise of entering God’s rest. The author takes the reader all the way back to creation when he reminds us that “on the seventh day God rested from all His work (v. 4).” The author then transitions to the true meaning of rest. He lets the reader know some will enter the “Sabbath-rest” and some will not. What is required to enter the Sabbath-rest of which Paul is speaking? What does this give us rest from? What does that mean for us?
“There remains a Sabbath-rest for the people of God (v. 8).” The author is pointing out a new meaning for “rest”. The Jewish converts would have been very knowledgeable of the Hebrew shabbat (e.g. Gen. 2:2; Ex.20:11; Ex.23:12) which was the Sabbath “rest” and the Hebrew nuah/menu hah (e.g. Ex. 31:14; Deut. 3:20) which referred to the “rest” that Israel, if faithful, was to experience every day in the promised land. Here in Hebrews 4, the author is pointing out the rest that comes when one turns his/her life over to Christ and accepts Him as their Savior. After conversion, believers cease from their efforts to gain salvation by their own works. Because of what Christ did on the cross, our need to work for salvation was nullified. It gives me great joy to know that the work that Christ did for me gives me eternal rest in Him. “Let us therefore, make every effort to enter the rest, so that no one will fall by following the example (Israel’s sad example in the desert) of disobedience (v. 11).”
“Come to me, all you who are weary and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
This past week, I have for some reason been very tired. I think it may have to do with all the sickness in our house, the busyness at work, recovering from entertaining family the week before, and American Idol. Whatever the reason, I have been exhausted to the point of almost falling asleep every time I sit down and am still. What a perfect time then to read Hebrews 4. In this chapter of Hebrews, the author, some believe to be Paul, points out to the Jewish converts the promise of entering God’s rest. The author takes the reader all the way back to creation when he reminds us that “on the seventh day God rested from all His work (v. 4).” The author then transitions to the true meaning of rest. He lets the reader know some will enter the “Sabbath-rest” and some will not. What is required to enter the Sabbath-rest of which Paul is speaking? What does this give us rest from? What does that mean for us?
“There remains a Sabbath-rest for the people of God (v. 8).” The author is pointing out a new meaning for “rest”. The Jewish converts would have been very knowledgeable of the Hebrew shabbat (e.g. Gen. 2:2; Ex.20:11; Ex.23:12) which was the Sabbath “rest” and the Hebrew nuah/menu hah (e.g. Ex. 31:14; Deut. 3:20) which referred to the “rest” that Israel, if faithful, was to experience every day in the promised land. Here in Hebrews 4, the author is pointing out the rest that comes when one turns his/her life over to Christ and accepts Him as their Savior. After conversion, believers cease from their efforts to gain salvation by their own works. Because of what Christ did on the cross, our need to work for salvation was nullified. It gives me great joy to know that the work that Christ did for me gives me eternal rest in Him. “Let us therefore, make every effort to enter the rest, so that no one will fall by following the example (Israel’s sad example in the desert) of disobedience (v. 11).”
“Come to me, all you who are weary and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
ARE YOU NEGLECTING YOUR GIFTS?
ARE YOU NEGLECTING YOUR GIFT?
Last weekend we saw God work through us as we proclaimed the truth of Jesus Christ. It was incredible to see around 90 people on Sunday morning using their talents and gifts to help lead worship. From the choir, praise team, band, orchestra, drama team and the technical team, everyone did a marvelous job! My prayer through all the preparation and Sunday was that Jesus Christ be exalted and that the Holy Spirit would have room to move in lives and transform them. That is exactly what we were allowed to participate in this past Sunday. To use that old Hebrew expression again: WOW!
Now that Easter is over, it is not time to sit back on our laurels and relax, satisfied with our past. No it is time to drive ahead and continue to mature and grow in the Lord and in our worship leadership. In 1 Timothy 4:12-16, Paul is instructing Timothy on the importance of being a good example and on the dangers of neglecting the gifts that God had given him. Paul also warns against neglecting the doctrine of Timothy’s faith. If that were to happen, Timothy would neither be protecting himself nor his congregation. What does this mean for us? First we are to be examples to the church and to the world “in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in truth, and in purity (v. 12).” You may not be aware that you are being watched by church members and the lost world. As a leader in worship every week, you are placed in front of people that need to see growth in your faith and your love of God. Whether you like it or not, who you are and how you act really does matter. Secondly, Paul tells us to not neglect our gifts. The Holy Spirit gives us gifts when we accept Christ as our Savior. These gifts are given in order for us to edify and build up the body of Christ. I believe that God gives us specific gifts but he also can give us gifts that help us fulfill the area of ministry where He puts us. Here at FBC Canton, we are in the worship ministry. I think this passage is reminding us not to neglect our role in this ministry. People need to see the worship ministry of FBC constantly growing in maturity, in faithfulness, and in worship leadership. WILL YOU DO YOUR PART?
Last weekend we saw God work through us as we proclaimed the truth of Jesus Christ. It was incredible to see around 90 people on Sunday morning using their talents and gifts to help lead worship. From the choir, praise team, band, orchestra, drama team and the technical team, everyone did a marvelous job! My prayer through all the preparation and Sunday was that Jesus Christ be exalted and that the Holy Spirit would have room to move in lives and transform them. That is exactly what we were allowed to participate in this past Sunday. To use that old Hebrew expression again: WOW!
Now that Easter is over, it is not time to sit back on our laurels and relax, satisfied with our past. No it is time to drive ahead and continue to mature and grow in the Lord and in our worship leadership. In 1 Timothy 4:12-16, Paul is instructing Timothy on the importance of being a good example and on the dangers of neglecting the gifts that God had given him. Paul also warns against neglecting the doctrine of Timothy’s faith. If that were to happen, Timothy would neither be protecting himself nor his congregation. What does this mean for us? First we are to be examples to the church and to the world “in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in truth, and in purity (v. 12).” You may not be aware that you are being watched by church members and the lost world. As a leader in worship every week, you are placed in front of people that need to see growth in your faith and your love of God. Whether you like it or not, who you are and how you act really does matter. Secondly, Paul tells us to not neglect our gifts. The Holy Spirit gives us gifts when we accept Christ as our Savior. These gifts are given in order for us to edify and build up the body of Christ. I believe that God gives us specific gifts but he also can give us gifts that help us fulfill the area of ministry where He puts us. Here at FBC Canton, we are in the worship ministry. I think this passage is reminding us not to neglect our role in this ministry. People need to see the worship ministry of FBC constantly growing in maturity, in faithfulness, and in worship leadership. WILL YOU DO YOUR PART?
Monday, April 6, 2009
THE COMING OF THE LORD
The Coming of the Lord
“We do not want you to be ignorant about those who have fallen asleep,
or to grieve like the rest of men who have no hope.”
1 Thessalonians 6:13
At this time in the year, our attentions are drawn to the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although this emphasis gives us a hope for today, I believe the theme in 1 Thessalonians 4-5 gives us a hope for tomorrow and eternity. Paul emphasizes in these chapters the coming of the Lord. “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air (4:16-17).” Paul’s reasoning for sharing this information with the Thessalonians was for encouragement. This is the same reason why I am sharing this with you this week. With all the things going on in our country and with our church members, we need all the encouragement we can get. We have a HOPE that the world does not know.
In Chapter 5, Paul explores the difference between the world and the Christian. He contrasts us by using the illustration of darkness and light. “You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness (5:5).” The Day of the Lord, will surprise those in darkness like a “thief in the night (5:2).” But for those in the Light (Jesus) we should be alert, self-controlled and ready. We should be ready for the return of Jesus. Paul wants to remind the believer that our hope is in Jesus Christ who has prepared a place for us so that we will live together with Him for eternity. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing (5:11).”
Aaron Hodges
“We do not want you to be ignorant about those who have fallen asleep,
or to grieve like the rest of men who have no hope.”
1 Thessalonians 6:13
At this time in the year, our attentions are drawn to the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although this emphasis gives us a hope for today, I believe the theme in 1 Thessalonians 4-5 gives us a hope for tomorrow and eternity. Paul emphasizes in these chapters the coming of the Lord. “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air (4:16-17).” Paul’s reasoning for sharing this information with the Thessalonians was for encouragement. This is the same reason why I am sharing this with you this week. With all the things going on in our country and with our church members, we need all the encouragement we can get. We have a HOPE that the world does not know.
In Chapter 5, Paul explores the difference between the world and the Christian. He contrasts us by using the illustration of darkness and light. “You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness (5:5).” The Day of the Lord, will surprise those in darkness like a “thief in the night (5:2).” But for those in the Light (Jesus) we should be alert, self-controlled and ready. We should be ready for the return of Jesus. Paul wants to remind the believer that our hope is in Jesus Christ who has prepared a place for us so that we will live together with Him for eternity. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing (5:11).”
Aaron Hodges
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
PSALMS, HYMNS AND SPIRITUAL SONGS
PSALMS, HYMNS AND SPIRITUAL SONGS
In my quiet times this week I have been studying Colossians. Throughout Colossians, Paul focuses the readers to the supremacy of Christ contrasted with the emptiness of human philosophy. In the very beginning of the letter Paul reminds us that “by Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers of authority; all things were created by Him and for Him” (1:16). He continues in that chapter and the next to reiterate to us the freedom we have in Christ. Because of what Christ did for us on the cross, we are no longer held captive to the sinful desires of this world. Paul then transitions to a set of rules for Godly living. Since we are free in Christ, this does not give us free reign to live however we want. Instead, we are to live our lives under the power of the Holy Spirit in us which should produce, “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (3:12).
Paul continues with this thought in what is one of my most favorite passages of scripture in Colossians 3:15-17. Verse 16 has become one of my life verses. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God” (3:16). When Paul wrote concerning the word of Christ, he was specifically referring to the actual teaching of Christ, but by implication, he was including all of the Old Testament as well as the New Testament that they had at the time. When it comes to us, Paul is speaking of the entire word of God. Are you spending enough time in the word of God so that you are letting it “dwell in you richly”? We are also told to teach and admonish one another with the singing. It is interesting to me that Paul uses the terms that he does in verse 16. Some of the most important doctrines that we have as believers are held in our music. Just look at what we are singing this week in corporate worship and you will find such truths as God’s supremacy, God’s holiness, and our response through obedience. When Paul talks about “Psalms,” he is referring to the Old Testament Psalms, some of which may have been set to music by the church. “Psalms” could also describe a song newly composed for Christian Worship. A “hymn” was a song of praise used in celebration much like the Old Testament Psalms that praise God for all that He is. “Spiritual songs” describes a song that recounts the acts of God like the Psalms that praised God for what he had done. I challenge you now to look at everything we sing and put it through the Colossians 3 filter to see if it is worthy to be sung. I believe once you do, you will come to a realization or be reminded that what we do here at FBC Canton is exactly what God requires and makes God smile.
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. Since as one body you were called to peace.” (Colossians 3:15)
Aaron Hodges
In my quiet times this week I have been studying Colossians. Throughout Colossians, Paul focuses the readers to the supremacy of Christ contrasted with the emptiness of human philosophy. In the very beginning of the letter Paul reminds us that “by Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers of authority; all things were created by Him and for Him” (1:16). He continues in that chapter and the next to reiterate to us the freedom we have in Christ. Because of what Christ did for us on the cross, we are no longer held captive to the sinful desires of this world. Paul then transitions to a set of rules for Godly living. Since we are free in Christ, this does not give us free reign to live however we want. Instead, we are to live our lives under the power of the Holy Spirit in us which should produce, “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (3:12).
Paul continues with this thought in what is one of my most favorite passages of scripture in Colossians 3:15-17. Verse 16 has become one of my life verses. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God” (3:16). When Paul wrote concerning the word of Christ, he was specifically referring to the actual teaching of Christ, but by implication, he was including all of the Old Testament as well as the New Testament that they had at the time. When it comes to us, Paul is speaking of the entire word of God. Are you spending enough time in the word of God so that you are letting it “dwell in you richly”? We are also told to teach and admonish one another with the singing. It is interesting to me that Paul uses the terms that he does in verse 16. Some of the most important doctrines that we have as believers are held in our music. Just look at what we are singing this week in corporate worship and you will find such truths as God’s supremacy, God’s holiness, and our response through obedience. When Paul talks about “Psalms,” he is referring to the Old Testament Psalms, some of which may have been set to music by the church. “Psalms” could also describe a song newly composed for Christian Worship. A “hymn” was a song of praise used in celebration much like the Old Testament Psalms that praise God for all that He is. “Spiritual songs” describes a song that recounts the acts of God like the Psalms that praised God for what he had done. I challenge you now to look at everything we sing and put it through the Colossians 3 filter to see if it is worthy to be sung. I believe once you do, you will come to a realization or be reminded that what we do here at FBC Canton is exactly what God requires and makes God smile.
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. Since as one body you were called to peace.” (Colossians 3:15)
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
IMITATING CHRIST'S HUMILITY
Imitating Christ’s Humility
Last weekend our youth had DNOW and the theme of the weekend was Imitate U. The theme passage that was used for the weekend was 1 Corinthians 11:1 where Paul tells the Corinthians to “imitate me as I imitate Christ.” Wow what a statement! This proclamation came from Paul once known as Saul the Persecutor. Paul describes himself in Philippians 3:5-6 as “circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews: in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church, as for legalistic righteousness, faultless.” Even with such an incredible pedigree, Paul was not talking about imitating his zealous, legalistic righteousness. Instead, Paul was focusing his readers in on being imitators of Christ. Instead of being arrogant and proud, Jesus Christ was the supreme example of humility. Is it just me or is that sometimes a very hard thing to imitate? We are too often like Paul in his before Christ days: arrogant, proud, boastful and full of ourselves. Too many times we as human beings are singing the song “It’s All About Me”. If we are truly to be imitators of Christ we must “take the very nature of a servant” (Phil. 2:7). We should always think of the needs of others before we consider of own needs. Jesus was the supreme example of this as he “humbled himself and became obedient to death – even death on the cross” (Phil. 2:8)
Last week we looked at how the believer must love in order to have the power to understand the depth of Christ’s love. I think Paul is continuing that theme here in Philippians 2 by going even deeper into what loving really means. That self-sacrificing love tells us to put aside our desires and to take on the burden of servant hood as Christ did by “making himself nothing.” (Phil. 2:7) As you do this you will “shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.” (Phil. 2:15b-16a) This means that as you make yourself nothing, Christ will make you shine for His glory and He will get all the credit. So as we serve here at First Baptist Canton, let us serve the church and as we serve them, God will be glorified.
Soli Deo Gloria! To God be Glory!
Aaron Hodges
Last weekend our youth had DNOW and the theme of the weekend was Imitate U. The theme passage that was used for the weekend was 1 Corinthians 11:1 where Paul tells the Corinthians to “imitate me as I imitate Christ.” Wow what a statement! This proclamation came from Paul once known as Saul the Persecutor. Paul describes himself in Philippians 3:5-6 as “circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews: in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church, as for legalistic righteousness, faultless.” Even with such an incredible pedigree, Paul was not talking about imitating his zealous, legalistic righteousness. Instead, Paul was focusing his readers in on being imitators of Christ. Instead of being arrogant and proud, Jesus Christ was the supreme example of humility. Is it just me or is that sometimes a very hard thing to imitate? We are too often like Paul in his before Christ days: arrogant, proud, boastful and full of ourselves. Too many times we as human beings are singing the song “It’s All About Me”. If we are truly to be imitators of Christ we must “take the very nature of a servant” (Phil. 2:7). We should always think of the needs of others before we consider of own needs. Jesus was the supreme example of this as he “humbled himself and became obedient to death – even death on the cross” (Phil. 2:8)
Last week we looked at how the believer must love in order to have the power to understand the depth of Christ’s love. I think Paul is continuing that theme here in Philippians 2 by going even deeper into what loving really means. That self-sacrificing love tells us to put aside our desires and to take on the burden of servant hood as Christ did by “making himself nothing.” (Phil. 2:7) As you do this you will “shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.” (Phil. 2:15b-16a) This means that as you make yourself nothing, Christ will make you shine for His glory and He will get all the credit. So as we serve here at First Baptist Canton, let us serve the church and as we serve them, God will be glorified.
Soli Deo Gloria! To God be Glory!
Aaron Hodges
Monday, March 9, 2009
A Prayer for the Ephesians and a Prayer for you!
A Prayer for the Ephesians and a Prayer for You
I am now reading Ephesians for my quiet time. I was reading chapter 3 on Saturday morning and came across the most wonderful prayer that Paul prayed for the Ephesians. Paul is probably under house arrest when he is writing. He begins the chapter by saying “for this reason.” The reasons are explained in the previous verses. Basically in the previous verses Paul is explaining how the Gentiles who were once far away from God, but because of the blood of Christ, now have the right to be “fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s family.” This is still true today! Because of what Christ has done for us through the cross we have the privilege of being included in the family of God. Praise be to God for the victory through Jesus Christ!
Paul then strays away from his original thought and discusses the “mystery”. Here the word “mystery” refers to the private plan of God, which in Ephesians related primarily to the unification of the Jews and Gentiles in the new body, the church. In verse 14, Paul gets back on track when he prays for the Ephesians. This is an incredibly jam packed prayer. Oh to have someone pray this over me daily! I pray this over you as I type this; that Christ will “dwell in your hearts through faith.”
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work in us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Praying for you,
Aaron Hodges
I am now reading Ephesians for my quiet time. I was reading chapter 3 on Saturday morning and came across the most wonderful prayer that Paul prayed for the Ephesians. Paul is probably under house arrest when he is writing. He begins the chapter by saying “for this reason.” The reasons are explained in the previous verses. Basically in the previous verses Paul is explaining how the Gentiles who were once far away from God, but because of the blood of Christ, now have the right to be “fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s family.” This is still true today! Because of what Christ has done for us through the cross we have the privilege of being included in the family of God. Praise be to God for the victory through Jesus Christ!
Paul then strays away from his original thought and discusses the “mystery”. Here the word “mystery” refers to the private plan of God, which in Ephesians related primarily to the unification of the Jews and Gentiles in the new body, the church. In verse 14, Paul gets back on track when he prays for the Ephesians. This is an incredibly jam packed prayer. Oh to have someone pray this over me daily! I pray this over you as I type this; that Christ will “dwell in your hearts through faith.”
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work in us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Praying for you,
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
ONLY ONE GOSPEL
Only One Gospel
Currently in my Sunday School class, we are learning about leaving a legacy. Part of the discussion on Sunday focused on the fact that the world has an agenda to leave a legacy to our families. This legacy is not the legacy that we want for our families. So why aren’t we more concerned about the legacy we are leaving? In my quiet times this week, I read in Galatians chapter 1 about Paul chastising the Galatians about their turning away from the gospel of Christ. “I marvel (am astonished) that you are turning away (deserting) so soon (easily) from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is really no gospel at all…” The “different gospel” refers to the Judaizers perversion of the true gospel. They were adding Old Testament standards as prerequisites for salvation. This was an act that said it was Christ plus something else. The scripture is very clear on this issue. The Gospel of Christ is Christ plus NOTHING. The world is producing a gospel of its own that is definitely not of Christ. The world will have you believe that their way is better than Christ. How often do we find ourselves drawn into the gospel of selfishness? How often do we find ourselves following a gospel of self-gratification? How often recently have we found ourselves following the gospel of doom and hopelessness that the world is promoting?
What is the gospel of Christ that Paul is speaking of here? Simply stated, it is Christ crucified, buried, risen, and coming again. Why then do we sing songs like “At the Cross” and “Happy Day”? Because these songs preach nothing other than Christ and He crucified. Check out the first verse of “Happy Day”: “The greatest day in history, death is beaten, You have rescued me. Sing it out, Jesus is alive! Empty cross and empty grave; life eternal, You have won the day! Sing it out, Jesus Is Alive!” We must proclaim this message to FBC. We have the responsibility to proclaim this message because we do not know how many in our very own fellowship are still unaware of the Gospel of Christ. What a wonderful privilege to be used by God to proclaim the true gospel of Christ!
SHOUT IT OUT! JESUS IS ALIVE!
Aaron Hodges
Currently in my Sunday School class, we are learning about leaving a legacy. Part of the discussion on Sunday focused on the fact that the world has an agenda to leave a legacy to our families. This legacy is not the legacy that we want for our families. So why aren’t we more concerned about the legacy we are leaving? In my quiet times this week, I read in Galatians chapter 1 about Paul chastising the Galatians about their turning away from the gospel of Christ. “I marvel (am astonished) that you are turning away (deserting) so soon (easily) from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is really no gospel at all…” The “different gospel” refers to the Judaizers perversion of the true gospel. They were adding Old Testament standards as prerequisites for salvation. This was an act that said it was Christ plus something else. The scripture is very clear on this issue. The Gospel of Christ is Christ plus NOTHING. The world is producing a gospel of its own that is definitely not of Christ. The world will have you believe that their way is better than Christ. How often do we find ourselves drawn into the gospel of selfishness? How often do we find ourselves following a gospel of self-gratification? How often recently have we found ourselves following the gospel of doom and hopelessness that the world is promoting?
What is the gospel of Christ that Paul is speaking of here? Simply stated, it is Christ crucified, buried, risen, and coming again. Why then do we sing songs like “At the Cross” and “Happy Day”? Because these songs preach nothing other than Christ and He crucified. Check out the first verse of “Happy Day”: “The greatest day in history, death is beaten, You have rescued me. Sing it out, Jesus is alive! Empty cross and empty grave; life eternal, You have won the day! Sing it out, Jesus Is Alive!” We must proclaim this message to FBC. We have the responsibility to proclaim this message because we do not know how many in our very own fellowship are still unaware of the Gospel of Christ. What a wonderful privilege to be used by God to proclaim the true gospel of Christ!
SHOUT IT OUT! JESUS IS ALIVE!
Aaron Hodges
Monday, February 23, 2009
CAN YOU HEAR THE SOUND OF HEAVEN?
CAN YOU HEAR THE SOUND OF HEAVEN?
Over the last week or so, I have been contemplating eternity again. Don’t get nervous, I don’t want to go anytime soon but when my time comes- I want to be ready! It was four years ago this Wednesday that my daughter, Meeghan Lyn, went to be with Jesus. For now, I can only read about and imagine what she is experiencing. But one day I will see Jesus face to face and “O, what a glorious day that will be!” One of the most magnificent descriptions of the throne room of heaven is found in Revelation 4. John’s description takes us right into the very presence of God. I see the Lord seated on a throne of jasper, rubies and emeralds. Every color of the rainbow is shining forth and the beauty is more than I have ever seen before. Around the throne are the twenty-four elders all in white robes with beautiful gold crowns. The elders represent the church, you and me, and we are singing the song of redemption (5:8-10). I hear the beautiful sounds of thunder and voices. I see the brilliant lights like lightning!
In front of the throne is a crystal sea that serves as the pavement for the floor of heaven. There are four living creatures around the throne constantly proclaiming “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.” Finally, I get to hear from them what I have been singing here on earth my entire life. The best part of John’s description is when he tells us what we will be doing for all of eternity. We will bow down and worship Jesus and cast our crowns before Him and say “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for you created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”
I so look forward to one day when I will see my little girl again, but I also look forward to joining with the heavenly host as we worship the Lord for eternity.
How will you get prepared for that day? Are you ready? To be ready you must first know the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. If you have never accepted Him, then today is your day of salvation. Secondly, you must take every opportunity to practice worship. Being in the choir and orchestra is a great way to get ready. I believe that in heaven there will be great rejoicing and celebration. The Lord will wipe away every tear! Therefore, let’s use our time here together to celebrate and practice our reunion with loved ones and our Savior!
“The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. BLESSED be the name of the Lord.”
Aaron Hodges
Over the last week or so, I have been contemplating eternity again. Don’t get nervous, I don’t want to go anytime soon but when my time comes- I want to be ready! It was four years ago this Wednesday that my daughter, Meeghan Lyn, went to be with Jesus. For now, I can only read about and imagine what she is experiencing. But one day I will see Jesus face to face and “O, what a glorious day that will be!” One of the most magnificent descriptions of the throne room of heaven is found in Revelation 4. John’s description takes us right into the very presence of God. I see the Lord seated on a throne of jasper, rubies and emeralds. Every color of the rainbow is shining forth and the beauty is more than I have ever seen before. Around the throne are the twenty-four elders all in white robes with beautiful gold crowns. The elders represent the church, you and me, and we are singing the song of redemption (5:8-10). I hear the beautiful sounds of thunder and voices. I see the brilliant lights like lightning!
In front of the throne is a crystal sea that serves as the pavement for the floor of heaven. There are four living creatures around the throne constantly proclaiming “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.” Finally, I get to hear from them what I have been singing here on earth my entire life. The best part of John’s description is when he tells us what we will be doing for all of eternity. We will bow down and worship Jesus and cast our crowns before Him and say “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for you created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”
I so look forward to one day when I will see my little girl again, but I also look forward to joining with the heavenly host as we worship the Lord for eternity.
How will you get prepared for that day? Are you ready? To be ready you must first know the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. If you have never accepted Him, then today is your day of salvation. Secondly, you must take every opportunity to practice worship. Being in the choir and orchestra is a great way to get ready. I believe that in heaven there will be great rejoicing and celebration. The Lord will wipe away every tear! Therefore, let’s use our time here together to celebrate and practice our reunion with loved ones and our Savior!
“The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. BLESSED be the name of the Lord.”
Aaron Hodges
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
GET YOUR RUNNING SHOES READY!
Get Your Running Shoes Ready!
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:24
Get your running shoes ready for the race of a lifetime! God has given us a task to serve the people of First Baptist Canton and we need to be ready for the task. The scripture says that “everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.”(1 Corinthians 9:25a) The game for us in the worship ministry is not merely a game but an awesome responsibility. The game He has given us is to serve by leading in worship every week. Is this a task that can be done on our own power? Is it a race that can be won by giving only part of our time and energy to the task? I think not! It is going to take a lot of commitment and work to be successful. For we do not “do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” (1 Corinthians 9:25b) In 1 Peter 5:4, Peter reminds us that “when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will not fade away.” Our work is not the kind of work that will be burned up in the judgment (1 Corinthians 3:12-15) but is the kind of work which will pay dividends for eternity. Just think of all the lives that you will touch for God’s kingdom. We play a major role in helping people connect with a Holy God. As we do that, the only response the worshiper can have is a changed heart. I look forward to seeing the crown of glory and the lives that were changed by our work. Another aspect of our race is attitude. To quote Allan Taylor from last Sunday night: “We are one attitude away from greatness and one attitude away from disaster.” I do not want to do anything to disqualify me from the prize. A wrong attitude or wrong agenda will possibly do just that. I do not think that my attitude can disqualify my salvation but I do believe that it can disqualify me from all the reward the Lord has to offer me. Therefore, “Choose you this day who you will serve.”
Run in such a way as to get the prize!
Aaron Hodges
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:24
Get your running shoes ready for the race of a lifetime! God has given us a task to serve the people of First Baptist Canton and we need to be ready for the task. The scripture says that “everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.”(1 Corinthians 9:25a) The game for us in the worship ministry is not merely a game but an awesome responsibility. The game He has given us is to serve by leading in worship every week. Is this a task that can be done on our own power? Is it a race that can be won by giving only part of our time and energy to the task? I think not! It is going to take a lot of commitment and work to be successful. For we do not “do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” (1 Corinthians 9:25b) In 1 Peter 5:4, Peter reminds us that “when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will not fade away.” Our work is not the kind of work that will be burned up in the judgment (1 Corinthians 3:12-15) but is the kind of work which will pay dividends for eternity. Just think of all the lives that you will touch for God’s kingdom. We play a major role in helping people connect with a Holy God. As we do that, the only response the worshiper can have is a changed heart. I look forward to seeing the crown of glory and the lives that were changed by our work. Another aspect of our race is attitude. To quote Allan Taylor from last Sunday night: “We are one attitude away from greatness and one attitude away from disaster.” I do not want to do anything to disqualify me from the prize. A wrong attitude or wrong agenda will possibly do just that. I do not think that my attitude can disqualify my salvation but I do believe that it can disqualify me from all the reward the Lord has to offer me. Therefore, “Choose you this day who you will serve.”
Run in such a way as to get the prize!
Aaron Hodges
Monday, February 9, 2009
What an incredible Lord's Day
Thoughts from yesterday:
Started off early, ended late
Heard great sermon from Brian Ergle
Awesome corporate worship
Incredible band and orchestra all day
What a priviledge to work with such incredible talent
Malia was awesome! I'll keep her!
The worship team did a great jobe interacting with the congregation, keep up the great work
We had a solid number in choir both services
The choir is catching on to their responsibility as worship leaders
The song "Mighty to Save" was super!
Lunch was great with new church members
Connection class went very well. We had 14 in attendance.
One hour nap in my office was much needed.
XDM was fun. Everything going great this semester. So Proud!
The youth are really working hard.
The banquet was really well attended and the food was great!
The day was long but it was a wondersful day.
Started off early, ended late
Heard great sermon from Brian Ergle
Awesome corporate worship
Incredible band and orchestra all day
What a priviledge to work with such incredible talent
Malia was awesome! I'll keep her!
The worship team did a great jobe interacting with the congregation, keep up the great work
We had a solid number in choir both services
The choir is catching on to their responsibility as worship leaders
The song "Mighty to Save" was super!
Lunch was great with new church members
Connection class went very well. We had 14 in attendance.
One hour nap in my office was much needed.
XDM was fun. Everything going great this semester. So Proud!
The youth are really working hard.
The banquet was really well attended and the food was great!
The day was long but it was a wondersful day.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
The Great Commission/Command
The GREAT COMISSION/COMMAND
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
In this passage Jesus begins by asserting His authority. Because He has been given the authority, He has every right to command action of us. The first command is to “go.” This is not simply a suggestion but an emphatic command. There are so many people in Canton, in Georgia, in The United States and in the world that have never heard the good news of Jesus Christ. How will they hear unless we go? The second command is to “make disciples.” How do you make disciples? First, you must proclaim the good news of Jesus, and then you must trust the Holy Spirit to do His work. The Lord commands us to tell and then it up to the Holy Spirit to convict sin and change hearts. The third command is to “baptize.” The first act of obedience of a new believer is to proclaim their new life by publicly demonstrating the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus through baptism. The last command is to “teach.” I feel that many times churches make a huge mistake and forget the final command to teach. We get so caught up in the transformation that we forget to teach them and grow them in their faith. The greatest verse in this passage is the promise that we do not have to do this on our own. Instead we have the reassurance of Him who cam to earth to be “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
We looked at this verse again because we have been given an in incredible opportunity to put this passage into action as a choir and orchestra in November of this year. A few months ago, Pam Mitchell introduced me to the vision of taking the handbell choir to Amberg, Germany in the fall. This vision has been expanded to include the FBC choir and orchestra. We will be given many opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ to a lost world while we are there. We are looking into concerts, street evangelism, helping with a live nativity, and much more as the Lord provides opportunity. Begin praying about how God will use you on this incredible trip to bring glory to Him.
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
In this passage Jesus begins by asserting His authority. Because He has been given the authority, He has every right to command action of us. The first command is to “go.” This is not simply a suggestion but an emphatic command. There are so many people in Canton, in Georgia, in The United States and in the world that have never heard the good news of Jesus Christ. How will they hear unless we go? The second command is to “make disciples.” How do you make disciples? First, you must proclaim the good news of Jesus, and then you must trust the Holy Spirit to do His work. The Lord commands us to tell and then it up to the Holy Spirit to convict sin and change hearts. The third command is to “baptize.” The first act of obedience of a new believer is to proclaim their new life by publicly demonstrating the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus through baptism. The last command is to “teach.” I feel that many times churches make a huge mistake and forget the final command to teach. We get so caught up in the transformation that we forget to teach them and grow them in their faith. The greatest verse in this passage is the promise that we do not have to do this on our own. Instead we have the reassurance of Him who cam to earth to be “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
We looked at this verse again because we have been given an in incredible opportunity to put this passage into action as a choir and orchestra in November of this year. A few months ago, Pam Mitchell introduced me to the vision of taking the handbell choir to Amberg, Germany in the fall. This vision has been expanded to include the FBC choir and orchestra. We will be given many opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ to a lost world while we are there. We are looking into concerts, street evangelism, helping with a live nativity, and much more as the Lord provides opportunity. Begin praying about how God will use you on this incredible trip to bring glory to Him.
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