Color Blind

Color Blind

Having looked into the tearful eyes of parents whose children have abandoned the Faith, I have learned there are a million miles between our children “going through the motions” in reference to their spiritual lives versus our children possessing hearts that dictate their actions. In this column, I plan to share with you what I hope to instill in the hearts of my own children and those whom I love.

Are you a soul or are you a color?

Are you a soul or are you a color?

It is refreshing and a blessing that young children are color blind. Spend a few minutes at a local park and watch small children playing together—they don’t notice skin color. Children are quick to accept and quick to identify their new playmate as a “friend,” but slow to notice color. Sadly, by age 7-10, children begin to notice, as witnessed by changes in behavior. Whether this perception is initiated from parents or other children is not clear, but these “differences” are sometimes translated into how they treat one another.

This difference often becomes more noticeable in adults—sometimes even within the church. Sadly, some congregations remain deliberately segregated. While we preach about diversity and everyone having a special role in the body of Christ, we may not always promote or celebrate diversity—because for many it is not comfortable. It would be a shame if pulpits heralded messages about loving all people, while dark hallways echoed the sounds of racial slurs and jokes. It is possible for Christians to use terms like “brothers and sisters in the faith,” while treating individuals of different color like “step-families.”

Teens will see this dichotomy if they hear people promoting equality while they witness deliberate segregation in the church. They will listen and know that the words of Christians don’t necessarily match their actions. Perhaps through the years many congregations have been mentally labeled “hypocrites” by teens who find this behavior repugnant.

Here’s what I intend on teaching my children about skin color and racism.

There is no question that the Bible teaches there is only one race—the human race. God created mankind in His image and in His likeness (Genesis 1:26-27). Humans were the pinnacle of His creative activities. The Bible clearly states that all of the lineage of humanity came through one woman, Eve. She is defined as the “mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20). Never forget that we are all related—going back first to Noah and his family (Genesis 7:7,13; 1 Peter 3:20), and ultimately to Adam and Eve (Genesis 2).

Whatever the color of someone’s skin, remember that he has a soul that is precious to God. Never forget that God desires all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). During your life you will hear individuals—even Christians—begin conversations by saying, “I’m not racist, but…” But what?! Paul declared, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:28-29).

When David—one of your favorite Biblical heroes—was about to be anointed the next king, we learned in reference to his brother, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees;for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’” (1 Samuel 16:7). I pray that you will do likewise and look inward instead of outward.

There may be times you hear Christians whom you admire of one color or another utter hateful generalizations against people of a different color. I encourage you not to give ear to this kind of talk. One wonders if these individuals secretly believe (or hope) that there will be a Heaven for each individual race? Never forget Christ is the Savior of all people—no matter what their skin looks like. Do what you can to bridge mankind together. Don’t allow the hypocrisy of others to turn you away from your Creator. I pray that you will teach your children that there really is only one race. While you don’t remember it today, there were many nights that you were rocked to sleep with me or your mom singing, “Jesus loves the little children, All the children of the world, Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.” Live it and pass it on.

Love,

Dad

Having looked into the tearful eyes of parents whose children have abandoned the Faith, I have learned there are a million miles between our children “going through the motions” in reference to their spiritual lives versus our children possessing hearts that dictate their actions. In this column, I plan to share with you what I hope to instill in the hearts of my own children and those whom I love.
It is refreshing and a blessing that young children are color blind. Spend a few minutes at a local park and watch small children playing together—they don’t notice skin color. Children are quick to accept and quick to identify their new playmate as a “friend,” but slow to notice color. Sadly, by age 7-10, children begin to notice, as witnessed by changes in behavior. Whether this perception is initiated from parents or other children is not clear, but these “differences” are sometimes translated into how they treat one another.
This difference often becomes more noticeable in adults—sometimes even within the church. Sadly, some congregations remain deliberately segregated. While we preach about diversity and everyone having a special role in the body of Christ, we may not always promote or celebrate diversity—because for many it is not comfortable. It would be a shame if pulpits heralded messages about loving all people, while dark hallways echoed the sounds of racial slurs and jokes. It is possible for Christians to use terms like “brothers and sisters in the faith,” while treating individuals of different color like “step-families.”
Teens will see this dichotomy if they hear people promoting equality while they witness deliberate segregation in the church. They will listen and know that the words of Christians don’t necessarily match their actions. Perhaps through the years many congregations have been mentally labeled “hypocrites” by teens who find this behavior repugnant.
Here’s what I intend on teaching my children about skin color and racism.
There is no question that the Bible teaches there is only one race—the human race. God created mankind in His image and in His likeness (Genesis 1:26-27). Humans were the pinnacle of His creative activities. The Bible clearly states that all of the lineage of humanity came through one woman, Eve. She is defined as the “mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20). Never forget that we are all related—going back first to Noah and his family (Genesis 7:7,13; 1 Peter 3:20), and ultimately to Adam and Eve (Genesis 2).
Whatever the color of someone’s skin, remember that he has a soul that is precious to God. Never forget that God desires all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). During your life you will hear individuals—even Christians—begin conversations by saying, “I’m not racist, but…” But what?! Paul declared, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:28-29).
When David—one of your favorite Biblical heroes—was about to be anointed the next king, we learned in reference to his brother, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees;for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’” (1 Samuel 16:7). I pray that you will do likewise and look inward instead of outward.
There may be times you hear Christians whom you admire of one color or another utter hateful generalizations against people of a different color. I encourage you not to give ear to this kind of talk. One wonders if these individuals secretly believe (or hope) that there will be a Heaven for each individual race? Never forget Christ is the Savior of all people—no matter what their skin looks like. Do what you can to bridge mankind together. Don’t allow the hypocrisy of others to turn you away from your Creator. I pray that you will teach your children that there really is only one race. While you don’t remember it today, there were many nights that you were rocked to sleep with me or your mom singing, “Jesus loves the little children, All the children of the world, Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.” Live it and pass it on.
Love,
Dad
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The Attribute of Meekness

The Attribute of Meekness

Meekness is an important quality in Christianity. Please consider this subject for further study.

Moses demonstrated meekness.

Moses demonstrated meekness.

First, notice meekness defined. Thayer defines this concept as “gentleness, mildness.” Meekness is one of the attributes of “the fruit of the Spirit” (Gal. 5:22 23). It is also one of the attitudes that Jesus mentioned necessary in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5:5). Paul tells the young preacher Timothy to ensue such (1 Tim. 6:11). It is one of the attributes Christians are encouraged to apply as a part of our new life (Col. 3:12). It is a part of the worthy vocation (Eph. 4:2). The psalmist describes it this way: “The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way…But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace…The Lord lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground” (Ps. 25:9; 37:11; 147:6).

Next, notice meekness exemplified. The Bible mentions two specific people who were meek. The first one was Moses. A parenthetical statement in Numbers 12:3 reads: “Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.” The statement is profound considering the context in which the book of Numbers records it. His own family (Aaron and Miriam) were complaining against him. Considering all of the troubles and trials that he faced in leading such a large nation from Egypt to Canaan for several decades, meekness must be an important trait for leaders—the ability to handle rejection and com plaints with gentleness. The other example—one that is perfect—is our Lord Jesus Christ. Isaiah prophesied concerning such in Isaiah 11:14. He Himself invited humanity with such when He said, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:2830). We find His meekness pictured in His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, not riding a great, white stallion, but a lowly donkey: “Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass” (Matt. 21:5). Even the apostle Paul appealed to “the meekness and gentleness of Christ” (2 Cor. 10:1).

Now, notice meekness applied. We are to use meekness in restoring our wayward brethren (Gal. 6:1) and our brethren who leave the truth (2 Tim. 2:2426). Paul asked, “Shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?” (1 Cor. 4:21). It is a characteristic of elders (Titus 3:2). Spouses who are married to non-Christians especially need such in their relationship (cf. 1 Pet. 3:4). All Christians need such as a part of our faith—“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (1 Pet. 3:15).

May all of us realize the importance of this attribute and seek to perfect it in our lives.

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Pierced Ears

God Loves People With Pierced Ears

Sometimes, we sing a song in which we ask God to take us to His door and pierce our ear. We finish by telling Him that we never want to be a free man. What could this possibly mean? It is imperative that we “sing with the spirit and the understanding” (1 Cor. 14:15), but what is your understanding about what you are saying when you ask God to pierce your ear?

Is your ear pierced?

Is your ear pierced?

The background of this song is found in Exodus chapter twenty-one. The Jews were allowed to purchase another Jew as a slave, but after seven years, he had to be released from his servitude. However, during those seven years, the master of that slave could have been so kind and benevolent that the slave would not want to leave his master. His life as a slave was so much better than what it was before he was bought—he simply did not want to leave.

Thus the Lord said, “If the servant plainly says, ‘I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free.’”  The servant was then to be brought before the judges of the city and taken to the door and “his master shall pierce his ear with an awl, and he shall serve him forever.” Slavery can involve tortious service with an evil master, but when one has a kind, compassionate master, his life is totally different. He gladly becomes a slave because he loves his master.

Jesus is our kind, benevolent and compassionate master. That is why Paul often described himself as a bondservant of the Lord. That is why Paul described the choice we must make as either choosing the bondage of sin with all its attendant evil or to willingly give our all to our Master (Rom. 6:16-23). That is also why we sing together asking Him to pierce our ears—we want to serve Him forever.

As a preschool child, I learned a song in Bible class which gave the same kind of message to me. “I washed my hands this morning, so very clean and bright; and lent them up to Jesus to work for Him till night.” Before I was old enough to attend school, I sang this song promising Him that I would work for Him. (Google this song to hear children as young as two singing this life-changing song). Now, as an adult, I sing another song which even more vividly describes the devotion we must all have to our Master. I now ask Him to take me to His door and to “pierce my ear.”

The question each of us should consider is, “Have we stood before His door?” “ Pierced ears ” proclaim total surrender to the Master. Our time, our energy, our money, our lives and all we have belongs to Him. So, why not take time today to read those verses in Exodus 21, then meditate how they apply to your live. Then, stand before the mirror of His word and see if your ears have been pierced.

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Part 6 – Same Sex Hate Speech

Human Judgment or Divine Judgment

To many homosexuals, any opposition to a same-sex lifestyle simply HAS to mean that that person has a biased fear of or hatred for homosexual people.  In fact, should a person make the claim that homosexuality is a sin, that person will generally be accused of using “ hate speech. ”  But is that really true?  Now friends, all because someone may be opposed to the same-sex lifestyle does not necessitate that that person hates someone who may be involved in it.  Those who do not understand this concept confuse speaking out against sin with hating the sinner.

Is it hate speech to criticize homosexuality?

Is it hate speech to criticize homosexuality?

According to the Bible, while it is true that God loves the sinner (Jn. 3:16; Rom. 5:6-8); it is equally true that God hates sin (cf. Zech. 8:17; Prov. 6:16-19). Additionally, while it is true that the Lord will “judge” (eternally condemn or save) in the last day (2 Cor. 5:10; Jn. 5:28-29), it is equally true that God has already passed judgment against sin. Various biblical commandments are a witness to this fact: such as, “You shall not murder,” “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not steal” (Exod. 20:13-15; cf. Matt. 5:21-30), etc.  Commanding us not to murder, commit adultery or steal necessarily implies that to do them is to sin.

Now with that said, the same God who already passed judgment against sin commands the Christian to not only oppose sin, but also to expose it for what it is. “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them” (Eph. 5:11).  Additionally, while we are to love all men – yes, even the sinner (cf. Matt. 5:43-48), God calls upon the Christian to hate sin (just as He hates sin). “Abhor what is evil” (Rom. 12:9); “Abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thess. 5:22).  Now friends, to abhor and abstain from evil involves judging.  But mind you, such judgment must be according to the will of God, not the will of man.  Jesus never said, “Do not judge” (period).  He said, “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment” (Jn. 7:24).  You see, the Christian has to judge life matters.  When Paul said, “Test all things; hold fast to what is good.  Abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thess. 5:21-22), the idea is that we must judge all things by what the Bible says about them. Based on the evidence of Scripture, we are either to hold fast to something (if it is proven acceptable to God), or we must abstain from it (if it is proven to be unacceptable to God).  Plain and simple.

The question is where does homosexuality fit in all this?  As we already discovered (in previous articles), both the Old Testament (Lev. 18:22; 20:13) and the New Testament (Rom. 1:26-27; 1 Cor. 6:9-10) regard homosexuality as a sin.  If, therefore, God regards homosexuality as a sin, then He has already passed judgment against it.  Since God hates all sin, how could homosexuality be approved by God? Ephesians 5:10 tells us to “prove what is acceptable to the Lord.” In light of the fact that nowhere in Scripture is homosexuality spoken of with divine approval, then the only conclusion is that God is not for it, He is against it.

Now I realize that this topic is controversial in our day and time (and so I speak the truth in love, Eph. 4:15), but please understand that the truth never changes. “Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven” (Ps. 119:89).  God’s desire is to save all men (1 Tim.2:1-4), for He loves them so (this is the purpose for which Christ died – Jn. 3:16).  Yet God also reveals that if the sinner refuses to repent they will perish eternally (Lk. 13:3, 5). “Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men” (2 Cor. 5:11). Friends, this is not hate speech, this is love speech! “‘Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die?’ says the Lord GOD, ‘and not that he should turn from his ways and live?’” (Ezek. 18:23). “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent” (Rev. 3:19).

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Part 5 – Same Sex in Sodom

The Example of Sodom and Gomorrah

Perhaps the most well-known Bible story used by some in an attempt to show God’s disapproval of homosexuality is the account of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (in Genesis 19).  But not everyone agrees that that account is condemning homosexuality.  For example, I recently read of one person’s opinion on the matter, and they evidently concluded that “other biblical references to Sodom say violation of Judaism’s strict hospitality codes, among other offenses, caused the city’s destruction by God, not same sex offenses.”  Could such a conclusion be true?

Sodom and Gomorrah are tied to homosexuality.

Sodom and Gomorrah are tied to homosexuality.

The Bible student should immediately be able to see some holes in that argument: (1) those “strict hospitality codes” of Judaism (inferring the Law of Moses) did not come into existence until about 400 years after Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by God; (2) the Law of Moses was only given to the Israelites (the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah, who predated Israel, were not Israelites); and (3) while it is true that Sodom and Gomorrah were known for various kinds of wickedness (Ezek. 16:48-50), Jude reveals that the primary reason for the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah was sexual perversion: “having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh” (Jude 7). The expression “gone after strange flesh” is comparable to what Paul said was “against nature” (Rom. 1:26-27, which he defined as “men with men” and women with women).

Also consider Genesis 19:5, which says, “And they called to Lot and said to him, “Where are the men who came to you tonight?  Bring them out to us that we may know them carnally” (Gen. 19:5).  To “know” in this sense means to have sexual relations with (compare to Gen. 4:1; Matt. 1:25).  Simply put, the men of Sodom desired to have sexual relations with the men staying in Lot’s house.

Considering that in previous articles (in this series) we have already discovered that both the Old Testament (Lev. 18:22; 20:13) and the New Testament (Rom. 1:26-27; 1 Cor. 6:9-10) regard homosexuality as a sin, this article may seem a little redundant.  However, because there is often an interest in the story of Sodom (especially with regard to the topic of homosexuality) I felt it worthwhile to discuss.  I sincerely hope that this effort helps you in your quest to find God’s answer to the question, “Is homosexuality really a sin”?

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