HopeInMadison

And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, - Ephesians 2:17-19(ESV) One of the things that I love about traveling is experiencing different cultures. When we are put into a situation where things are unfamiliar we are forced to look at the world in different and new ways. All of us in the last couple weeks have been forced into a new culture...whether we like it or not. Now we are forced to think about things differently. Everything from our interactions to our purchases to our travel has changed. What will continue to be affected is the church. With the current health restrictions in place we can't meet as we once did, but that doesn't make us less the church. This circumstance presents us with an excellent opportunity to think about what the church is and what her mission is. So I'm going to lean into this idea for a few weeks by starting a brief series entitled: 'The Church: More than. . .'

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. Romans 8:15–17 (ESV) Fear is cruel master. It grips and paralyzes us. It causes us to act irrationally. It isolates and imprisons us, but these words from Paul are words of gospel freedom. We know what family we are a part and we are assured of our relationship to God. That reality provides a bedrock for us to move through a fearful world. Especially in light of current uncertainty we need to understand and trust these truths. This week I want to address it directly as we consider this moment. Here's what is going to happen. We are monitoring the situation and have been listening to local authorities. We are planning on meeting at 10:30 am for worship together. We will be suspending our normal greeting time and not take communion on our normal end-of-the-month schedule for now. If you are sick or have a compromised immune system we ask you to stay home. If you are in a vulnerable state due to pre-exisiting conditions or age, we are encouraging you to stay home. We will work hard to make sure all of the service is streamed starting at 10:30 so all can connect. We will work to post the service online as soon as possible afterward. We will be considering other Hope activities on a case-by-case basis such as youth or community groups. We will communicate about those soon. Watch the FB group for the most immediate info. We have limited info on non-Hope activities (outreaches), but anticipate most will be postponed or cancelled. We will let you know when we know.

And Samuel said, "Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has also rejected you from being king." - 1 Samuel 15:22-23 (ESV) 1 Samuel 15 is a difficult passage. It's not difficult because of manuscript/translation issues or even really the interpretation. Those things are fairly clear and straight forward. It's difficult because of what it says. People have looked at this text and walked away from the faith because of it. In the opening of the chapter God commands Saul to do something that many find questionable. Take a look at the opening verses. No doubt these are thorny issues to talk about and they directly connect to who God is and what he does. I actually think there is an issue in the text that is even more difficult to deal with because it's not a theoretical, theological distance but an individual personal struggle that exposes us to the core. Saul is a very religious person. He has no problem with the rites and rituals. The problem for Saul and for us is do those rites and rituals go beyond sights and scents? Do they mean anything to us at a heart level? In other words does our religion change the way to live? When Samuel shows up after the battle with the Ammorites he confronts Saul's religion and ours. How will he respond? How will we respond? Take a few minutes and read through 1 Samuel 13-15 as we explore the fall of the first king of Israel, in our search for a real King.

If you will fear the LORD and serve him and obey his voice and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, and if both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the LORD your God, it will be well. But if you will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then the hand of the LORD will be against you and your king. - 1 Samuel 12:14-15 (ESV) In the closing words of the Dr. Seuss' classic Oh, the Places You'll Go, he points the reader into the future with this very suessical farewell. 'You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.' Turning the pages of life can be exciting and scary. They come with opportunities, challenges, and choices. In the upcoming chapter of 1 Samuel 12 a page is turned. The prophet-judge Samuel has presided over a peaceful transition of power from himself to the newly chosen king of Israel, Saul. As he leaves he points the nation both backward and forward. He wants to remind them of who and whose they are. He gives them a choice and direction. What will they do? What will their newly crowned king do? Take some time to read his farewell speech, or maybe use a Bible app and listen to this appeal to the nation to seek God. Hear the prophet's heart for the people.

Then Samuel brought all the tribes of Israel near, and the tribe of Benjamin was taken by lot. He brought the tribe of Benjamin near by its clans, and the clan of the Matrites was taken by lot; and Saul the son of Kish was taken by lot. But when they sought him, he could not be found. - 1 Samuel 10:20-21 (ESV) 'Be careful what you ask for. You just might get it!' This phrase is a haunting truth that often what we want isn't what we need. Ever been there? Your heart longs for something, but when it arrives it's disappointing. Even worse it not only does not satisfy the desire, but it only multiplies the problems of life. This week, we are introduced to the first king of Israel - Saul. He is the king the people ask for. He is literally 'head and shoulders above' everyone. From the outside he is a king just like the other nations, but he is also deeply flawed. I think in many ways he is more of a judgment on the people and their desires than a solution to their fears. Take a few minutes to read through 1 Samuel 8-11. It's a story with twists and turns. It's filled with the miraculous and ridiculous. We will take some time this Sunday to re-tell it as we try to understand what God's purposes and plans are in the middle of it.

Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah and said to him, “Behold, you are old and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations.” - 1 Samuel 8:4–5 (ESV) Have every really wanted something so bad that you begged God for it? Did God answer your prayer? When you received it did it turn out like you planned? When we ask God for things we want Him to answer our prayers by granting our wishes. When He doesn't we can become disappointed and doubt, but have you ever considered that God giving you something could not be his blessing but actually his judgment? It's a reversal of how we usually think. Getting what we want has to be blessing. Right? In 1 Samuel 8, Samuel is old, and the people are without a king. They are still doubting God and their solution,' give us a king!' If we only had a king then things would be better. We would be safe, protected, and whole. The only problem is their desire and dependance on a king means they have forgotten who is the true King. Take a few minutes to read through 1 Samuel 8 to get the context of the narrative. Come ready to consider what you are asking God for and plan to bring a friend with you to church.

What does it take to see renewal in your life? Life's a mess but God can make something beautiful out of it. This book will keep you from sin or sin will keep you from this book.

And Samuel said to all the house of Israel, “If you are returning to the LORD with all your heart, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtaroth from among you and direct your heart to the LORD and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.” So the people of Israel put away the Baals and the Ashtaroth, and they served the LORD only. - 1 Samuel 7:3–4 (ESV) We live in an era where news, events, tragedy, and triumphs from around the globe are reported to us almost instantly. Often times it is so quick we don't know how or if we should respond. We question a story's legitimacy, and our emotions affect how we react. In our day it seems that slow, thoughtful reasoned analysis of new events is at a deficit. I bet if it was reported on the news or the internet that a revival had broken out in another part of the country it would be met with cautious optimism at best or cynical dismissal at worst. But what if? In our text for this week, 1 Samuel 7:2-22, we see Samuel step into the spotlight and speak to the nation. What is his message? What does he call for? Take a few minutes to read through the text. It's an amazing text of renewal and revival. I'm praying that this affects us both personally and corporately.

So the people sent to Shiloh and brought from there the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, who is enthroned on the cherubim. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God. As soon as the ark of the covenant of the LORD came into the camp, all Israel gave a mighty shout, so that the earth resounded. - 1 Samuel 4:4–5 (ESV) We are a superstitious people. In order to harness the forces beyond our control, we use sacred objects, special words, and potions to obtain the outcome we want. Most of us would scoff at such an idea. Consider what you do or say or wear to ensure your team wins, or what you do to ward off sickness, or what you knock on when you utter something that you fear may happen. All of these are mild forms of superstition. They are funny and odd, but there is something much more dangerous...being superstitious about God. In our text in 1 Samuel this week the nation of Israel decides they will use God for their purpose. They are going to conscript Him to battle on their behalf. That doesn't go so well. The Philistines then decide after Yahweh's grand defeat they will just add Him to their pantheon of gods. That does not go well either. I want to encourage you to read 1 Samuel 4-6. In this text we are going to find the uncontrollable, just, preeminent, almighty God. Take a minute to consider if you use or worship God.

Now the sons of Eli were worthless men. They did not know the LORD. . . And the boy Samuel grew in the presence of the LORD. - 1 Samuel 2:12-21 (ESV) Reporters are always on the look out for scoops and scandals and it seems that there is an endless supply. From politics to baseball, the news is full of them. The church is not without it's fair share. Even in the last few months reports have emerged about that have include churches and clergy involved in varied sins and illegal activities. It's the sad reality of living in a broken world. What are the consequences for such behavior? Does God care? What happens when those that should be God's representatives fail? The story in 1 Samuel 2-3 is the story of two families headed in opposite directions. Eli and his sons were supposed to be the priests of Israel, interceding for the people, but instead they fed their passions. Samuel is a young man growing up alongside of those failures. In these chapters we find God's judgement and grace and look beyond them for a prophet, priest, and king whose interests are not divided. Would you take a few minutes to read through these chapters (1 Samuel 1-2) to get your mind and heart ready to learn and worship together.

She was deeply distressed and prayed to the LORD and wept bitterly. And she vowed a vow and said, “O LORD of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head.” - 1 Samuel 1:10–11 (ESV) Every hero has an origin story. That story shapes who they are, what motivates them, and what they fear, and where they are weak. Whether it's Achillies or Batman these stories help us understand these heroes. In many ways they help us relate to them. In some ways scripture is similar. When it comes to key figures in the Bible we often are presented with their origin stories. Whether its Adam or Abraham or Moses or Jesus each of their origin stories tells us information about them. As we begin our study in 1 & 2 Samuel, we get an origin story. This story tells us about Samuel's background and family, but the focus of the story is not on Samuel, but on his mother Hannah. In her we find a woman in distress. What's important is the source and solution for that distress. I want to encourage you to become familiar with the narratives we will be covering. Take some time between now and Sunday to read through 1 Samuel 1-2. Don't get hung up on the names or places, but look at the people and their struggles in midst of life.

And the people of Israel departed from there at that time, every man to his tribe and family, and they went out from there every man to his inheritance. In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes. - Judges 21:24–25 (ESV) Reading the storyline of the Old Testament is often a mix of the familiar, the weird, and what feels like the Lord of the Rings. We might have the ring of familiarity from snippets of stories we heard in Sunday school, but then we bump into things like polygamy and witches that never seemed to find their way on to a flannel graph. We might have heard of a character or two that has been moralized in a character study. We hear of their triumphs, but their failures are either papered over or derided. What we lose is the real storyline with all of its wonder and warts. This week we begin our next big series - We Need a King (1 & 2 Samuel). This will take us through a tumultuous time in the history of God's people. It will also show us how God works to carry out his purposes in spite of and with flawed, sinful, and even rebellious people. We will build a portrait of what we really need - a true, faithful, forever King. This Sunday we get the backstory examining what comes before and who we need to be looking for in the narrative. Take a few minutes and read the first few chapters of 1 Samuel and why not invite a friend to join us in this new year. See you Sunday at 10:30.

Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. - 1 John 5:1–3 (ESV) What do you want to change in 2020? What resolutions are you making? How will 2020 be different then 2019? These are the types of questions that seem to be inescapable after Christmas. We reflect on what 2019 brought and we think about what is ahead. What I can tell you is that change will come in 2020. Some of that change will happen because of your effort. Some change will happen because of decisions you make - good and bad. Also, some changes will happen from forces outside of your control. How do you think of change in your spiritual life? Is that important? If I just read my Bible, go to church, and pray, will I change? I'm not a fan of resolution-type sermons, but I'm talking about our spiritual progress. It may not involve grand plans or checklists and probably won't emerge from what you think. Take some time to read in 1 John 4-5. In these chapters the old apostle John encourages his readers to evaluate and mature.

The Cast of Christmas - Shepherds and Angels - Luke 2:8-20

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." - Matthew 2:1-2 (ESV) What is Christmas without Santa Claus? For many in the evangelical world this is a question that splits individuals and families. Is he a fun figure to encourage kindness and obedience during the season? Or is it a myth that encourages us to lie to your kids? Don't worry I'm not stepping into the Catastrophic Claus Controversy, but I would encourage you to check out what we do know about the real Pugilist Not So Jolly Non-Elf. However, there are other mysterious figures in the real Christmas story. This week we take a look at some figures that are usually pictured around the nativity but weren't really there. Who they are, where they are from, and why they are there helps point us to the true nature of the one who has come. I encourage you to read through Matthew 2 as we prepare to look at the Magi this week in our series - 'The Cast of Christmas'. Why not invite someone to come with you?

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. - Matthew 1:18-19 (ESV) What's your favorite Christmas movie? There are all kinds of unforgettable characters that surround Christmas - Frosty, Rudolph, Buddy, Kevin, and John McClane to name a few, but one I've been thinking about recently is Ebenezer Scrooge. The original Bah Humbug himself calls us to consider the path that we are on and how it potentially could lead us to happiness or destruction. That's the morality of Christmas. Be kind, nice, and generous especially at Christmas. We might think that the point of Christmas is not to end up on the 'naughty list'. If we aren't careful, we overlay these messages to our celebration of Advent. The Cast of Christmas just becomes another in the long line at Christmas that are telling us be be better and be nicer. While the true story of Christmas will change us, this change doesn't well up from within us. It actually originates from something beyond us, and the cast of Christmas wants to point us toward it. This Sunday we look at an unlikely lowly couple central to the story, Mary and Joseph. What do they have to tell us about Christmas, and how do they point us not to be better but to find the One who is better?

The Prophets - Genesis to Isaiah

On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha and Abagtha, Zethar and Carkas, the seven eunuchs who served in the presence of King Ahasuerus, to bring Queen Vashti before the king with her royal crown, in order to show the peoples and the princes her beauty, for she was lovely to look at. But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king's command delivered by the eunuchs. At this the king became enraged, and his anger burned within him. - Esther 1:10-12 (ESV) Do you ever look around this world and wonder where God is in all of this? Does it feel like he is absent? Or maybe He just doesn't care? It's not an uncommon feeling even among honest Christians. Did you know there is a book of the Bible where God is absent. It's the only one where He is never even mentioned. This Sunday, I'm happy to have Jonathan Haefs with us. He is the pastor of Shades Valley Community Church in Birmingham. It's our sister EFCA church in the state. This Sunday he will be with you to open up the book of Esther. In this book God is unseen and unspoken. But is He uninvolved? What might this narrative tell us about our day? And what might it encourage us to consider when we feel like He isn't here?

Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith—to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen. - Romans 16:25-27 (ESV) It's not how you start, but how you finish. This week, we finish an almost 2 year-long journey though the book of Romans. As we have unfolded this book we have seen the glories of the gospel and its implications. What have you learned along the way? What has impacted you? As Paul closes the book, he wants his readers to return to those themes and the God who revealed them. If you feel tired this week is for you. He wants you to find strength not in a new method or secret strategy but in a familiar truth. Take a few minutes to read the closing chapter of Romans, chapter 16.

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. - Romans 16:17-18 (ESV) Ever play the game 2 Truths & A Lie? In this party game, you go around a circle and one person says 2 things about themselves that are true about themselves and one 'truth'. The goal is to figure out who are the best liars. It's a fun game and a great ice breaker. This same game is not fun when it comes to the gospel, but often times that is how error creeps in. Things sound good. The person is eloquent. So what they say has to be true. Right? As Paul draws the book of Romans to a close he sounds a warning. WATCH OUT! He wants the Romans (and us) to be on alert. He lays out the dangers and motives of false teachers. Take a few minutes to read through Romans 16 as we finish up this book. Also, I'd love to hear about the things in this book that have impacted you!

Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you. - Romans 16:16 (ESV) One of the traditions of Hope during our gathered worship is to have scripture read by an individual from the congregation. (BTW: If you would like to read I'm always looking for folks.) It's great to hear God's Word together. One consistent question I've heard when I ask is, 'Does this passage have any weird names or places in it? And if so, can you help me figure out how to pronounce them?' That's one of the reasons we won't have anyone read the passage we are going to look at this week. It is filled with names. It's a passage we might easily skip or skim when we are reading. This passage has for us some encouragement as we consider it together. Paul is closing his letter and he has a few commendations and encouragements and hellos to pass along. In the midst of this the verses have something to say to us about God's church and our part in it. Take a few minutes to read through Romans 16 as we prepare to dive into this chapter this week. Also, we will have the chance to celebrate the Lord's Table together. This is always an important reminder for us to hope in the gospel and Christ's work in it.

I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. - Romans 15:24-25 (ESV) Have you ever had a trip that didn't go like you expected? You had grand plans. Every detail was mapped out. Reservations were made and confirmed. But in the middle your plan suddenly took a detour. Maybe it was an accident. Maybe someone lost the reservation. Maybe the money wasn't there for the trip. How did you respond? How did it turn out? What did you learn? This week as Paul begins to close out the book of Romans, he tells the recipients of his upcoming travel plans. He hopes to go from Corinth to Jerusalem then out to Rome and on to Spain. This grand plan will have its challenges, especially traveling in the ancient world, but what could go wrong? I'd like to encourage you to read the last half of Romans 15. If you want to get a glimpse into how it worked to take a look at Acts 20-24. Along the way we can learn how God takes our plans and changes us for his Glory and our good.

. . . and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand." - Romans 15:20-21 (ESV) Do you know what the 10-40 window is? Have you ever heard of 'unreached' or 'unengaged' people groups? Did you know that there are whole groups of people in the world that have never heard the gospel or the name of Christ? Did you know that they aren't just in some remote jungle somewhere? This week we begin to wind down our study of Romans as we look at the closing one and a half chapters. In this section Paul outlines his purpose, strategy, and plan to continue to spread the gospel throughout the world, names a few partners, and reminds them of some key issues. I want to encourage you to read Romans 15-16 as we close out our study. It's a good reminder of how and where we might engage in the mission of God and the spread of the gospel too.

For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. - Romans 15:8-9 Reading the Bible, especially the Old Testament, can be odd. The majority of the story is about the Jews and their struggle to follow God. As Gentiles sometimes we don't know how we connect to the story. Is God even interested in us? Or are we just some kind of afterthought? In Romans 15, we have been exploring how we should relate to one another when we have differing points of view on non-essential issues, but some of these issue might be tied to culture. Paul addresses the differences and connection between Jews and Gentiles. He gives us a clear way to understand how we, non-Jews, fit into God's purposes and plans. Take a few minutes to read through Romans 15 and see where we fit into God's plan. See if you can discover what knowing and trusting in this plan produces. Hint: Check out verse 13!

And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. - Acts 2:44–47 (ESV) There are some amazing pictures for what God does when He saves us. He redeems us. He frees us. He rescues us. He pays our debt. He adopts us. The first few lets us see what God has done for us and between Him and us. However, that final one adds another dimension. We are called, not only to Him, but also into a family. We (together) are His kids. We are going to talk about this idea this coming weekend. Mickey Counter will be opening God's Word to challenge us about our need to not only be connected to God through Christ, but be connected to each other because of Christ. One of the ways we do that at Hope is through Community Groups. Community Groups are smaller gatherings of households who meet regularly for study, encouragement, prayer, and outreach. We want to challenge everyone to make this type of connection with other believers at Hope.

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. - Romans 15:5-6 (ESV) We tend to have our list of really bad sins. We are careful to avoid those. Often we don't even want to talk about them, but if we do talk about them, we point them out in others and in our world to gawk at their failure. When God provides us a list of sins, he includes some we don't like to see. In His list of the deeds of the flesh (Gal 5:19-21) there are are normal 'bad' sins, but He also includes things like - strife, jealousy, dissension, and divisions. Almost half of the list is taken up with our relational and interactions with other people. It seems like our unity and living at peace with the people around us is a much bigger deal than we usually acknowledge. This week as we head into Romans 15, we will look at this issue of Unity. We have been thinking about the differences between us when it comes to debatable issues, but what holds us together? And why is that not only important but vital to the work of God both in us and through us?

Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. - Romans 14:13 (ESV) One of the persistent problems in church is self-righteousness. We easily recognize that in the New Testament. The Pharisees are the easily despised villains of the gospels. They go around spending time looking religious and looking down on those that don't, but they are driven by position, power, and pride. We would like to think we have nothing in common with them. In all honesty, the longer we are in church the easier it seems to look down on newbies. We measure holiness not by God's standard but our own achievements. The 'bad' sins are the ones we don't struggle with, at least openly. So when it comes to the grey areas or the places that people differ, this attitude often reveals itself. We are the the enlightened ones. We are the 'good Christians'. Paul calls us to think differently. One thing is to dominate our thinking and actions toward those around us. I want to encourage you to read through Romans 14 and see if you can discover that one thing.

Though he slay me, I will hope in him; yet I will argue my ways to his face. This will be my salvation, that the godless shall not come before him. - Job 13:15-16 (ESV) So today is Friday the 13th. It's the day that no one is supposed to feel lucky. Fortunately, for you our family celebrated it a week early, so none of you have anything to worry about. It's been quite a week around here... Seriously if we believe God, we know that He is the one who rules over everything including both the universal story and our personal one. In the trenches of life, that is often hard to see and harder to understand. Awful things happen to us. Evil things are done. Life falls apart. Permanent damage is done. How do we try to understand this? What do we do when the pieces of life don't fit? This week we have the opportunity to look into the life of a man who seemed to be living Friday the 13th over and over and over. His name was Job. In looking into his story we can not only see his struggle, but also how we can get our bearings as we struggle in our tragedies. I'm looking forward to hear my friend, Jim Dietz open up the Word for us. Jim ministered many years ago alongside my father, and has since held positions as a pastor, seminary professor, and now a chaplain.

The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin. - Romans 14:22-23 (ESV) In the classic Disney movie, on his journey to become a real boy, Pinocchio is given a guide and friend Jiminy Cricket, who is to be his living conscience. This little creature is there throughout the move to advise, direct, and warn. At various times he is heeded and ignored. In the end, we are left with the classic phrase, 'Let your conscience be your guide.' But is that good advice? Should we be listening to our conscience? Will it every steer you wrong? What happens if we consistently ignore it? Or what happens if it constantly makes us feel guilty? This week I want to take a week to look at this concept though a Biblical lens. This is a critical question in exploring the idea of weak and strong faith and in dealing with debatable and non-essential issues as Paul does in Romans 14. Why not take a few minutes to read back through Romans 14 to remind yourself of the passage and think of some times where you struggled with your own conscience.

As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him. - Romans 14:1–3 (ESV) For what was supposed to be a group founded on love and should be characterized by unity, we seem to be highly skilled at dividing. We seem to do it over a lot of things. We group together with other Christians that think like we do, school like we do, vote like we do, do culture like we do, eat and drink like we do. And on and on and on goes the list. Honestly, sometimes I look around at the greater church and think God has to be in this somewhere because only He could possibly hold this thing together, and only He could make it even close to fulfilling its mission. How do we think about and live in these differences? Should we just get into our self-perpetuating groups? Or do we just become people with fluid convictions that don't really stand for anything? Is there a core we can't lose? The next few weeks we are going to look at Romans 14-15. The Roman church was far from monolithic. They were made up of Jews, former idol worshipers, slaves, and more. They thought differently about their faith and what it meant to live it out. Paul wanted them to wrestle with the application and implications of the gospel he had presented. As we do this I want to challenge you to think about your own assumptions of living out the Christian life. I want to you to consider what will bind Hope Church together. Take a few minutes and read through Romans 14-15 to prepare your heart and mind for Sunday.

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. - Romans 12:1–2 (ESV) Last week we spent time on the ground floor of the 'Gospel Museum' checking out the beauty and truths of the beginning of Romans. We looked at 5 important words - Guilty, Representation, Justification, Faith, and Assurance. These words helped us explore the truth that God has 'justly justified the unjust'. What amazing grace! These truths are not just ethereal, theological distant realities, but these are truths with effect on our relationship to God, each other, and the world. As Paul transitions from the bottom floor of the gospel to the top floor we being to see those implications. Join us this Sunday as we review some of those implications. This review will prep us as we head back into Romans 14 soon. Maybe along the way you have lost the big picture, or maybe you weren't here at the start and don't know where we have been. This week is for all of us to review, catch up, and get up to speed before we launch in chapter 14.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” - Romans 1:16–17 (ESV) The old saying asks, "How do you eat a whole elephant?" The answer: "one bite at a time." It's a weird saying. Why not a cake or watermelon. After all who eats elephants? The point is that understanding or taking in large, complex ideas can seem overwhelming, but taking a piece at a time can help you understand and integrate the whole. That's what we have been doing with the book of Romans. We have been taking it apart chapter by chapter for well over a year and a half, but we are nearing the end. We have just three more chapters to go. Maybe along the way you have lost the big picture, or maybe you weren't here at the start and don't know where we have been. This week is for all of us to review, catch up, and get up to speed before we launch in chapter 14. Here is a brief introduction from the ESV study bible that I want to encourage you to check out.

Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice? On the heights beside the way, at the crossroads she takes her stand; beside the gates in front of the town, at the entrance of the portals she cries aloud: - Proverbs 8:1–3 (ESV) Along the way this summer we have heard from various voices. It's been great to hear God use different leaders in our church to open up God's word, but there is one voice, one call that hopefully has dominated. Solomon continues to point his son toward that one voice. In many ways he was begging his son to not only listen, but to marry her instead of indulge his lesser passions. This week we conclude Walk with the Wise series by listening to the voice of lady wisdom one final time. Her call is to us not only because of her ancient origins but her promises. I'd encourage you to read through Proverbs 8 to prepare your heart and mind for this coming Sunday. We will have the opportunity to be drawn to Christ and his work through communion.

My son, keep my words and treasure up my commandments with you; keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye; bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call insight your intimate friend, to keep you from the forbidden woman, from the adulteress with her smooth words. - Proverbs 7:1–5 (ESV) Did your parents ever have 'the talk' with you? You know the one about the 'birds and bees'. (How did that become the phrase for it anyway?) Do you remember it? Was it awkward? Have you had 'the talk' with your kids? How did it go? It's an odd and uncomfortable but necessary moment in parenting. Knowing how and what to to say is important. Leaving it to chance invites others to provide wrong or even dangerous information. In Proverbs 5-7, King Solomon has 'the talk' with his son, but this isn't just a discussion of biology. This is one that involves what it means to live in this area under the Fear of Lord. He is not afraid to talk about it, and he explains both the dangers and joys. Thousands of years later, the importance of talking about it remains relevant. This week we are going to open up this text. As I noted last week, we are going to look at our sexuality. I plan to speak candidly, but not crudely about the subject. I want parents to be aware so they can make the decision for their family about what is heard. I'd encourage you to read through Proverbs 5-7 as we consider this topic.

There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers. - Proverbs 6:16–19 (ESV) When we talk about theology and use big churchy sounding words, it can easily feel like Christianity and life are two separate spheres of existence. God is interested in the spiritual, but the practical real-life stuff is another matter. The text of Proverbs won't let us make these distinctions. Our 'spiritual life' is also our business life. It's also our personal life. It's also our recreational life. We might just say 'it's life'! This week we continue in our journey in Proverbs as we head into the first section of Proverbs 6. Matt Parrow will be opening this section to us. It deals with how we deal with our money, how we work, and how we relate to others. I encourage you take some time to slowly read through this section before Sunday. How have these areas been impacted by the Fear of the Lord in your life? Why not invite someone to join you on Sunday at 10:30AM? Programming Note: Next week (7/28) we will be looking at the rest of Proverbs 6-7. This section deals with our sexuality. I will be teaching through the section. I will be sensitive, but will be speaking candidly (but not crudely) as the text does, about both the joys and dangers of this part of life. I want parents to be aware as we approach this section. Let me know if you have questions.

But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know over what they stumble. - Proverbs 4:18–19 (ESV) So far in our study of Proverbs we have heard the need to listen up and pay attention. Wisdom is available and calling, but we have to lean in and listen. When we do that, there are great benefits to be had that are both temporary and eternal. Then we find that this wisdom also has a role in protecting and healing. If you think you have made mistakes and maybe wisdom is beyond you, this week is for you. Lynn Oakes will be opening up Proverbs 4 for us. I want to encourage you to take a few minutes to read through the passage slowly and thoughtfully. Ask yourself what is your inclination toward wisdom? Where do you turn to be taught or find advice? And then come ready to worship together at 10:30 on Sunday.

Wisdom at the Extremes of Life

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. - Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV) I hate asking for directions. As a guy I feel that I have some innate sense of how to get from here to there. It's almost as if my ancestors passed on to me how to track the sun, look at moss on a tree, and follow the stream to get from my house to anywhere. With those senses and a good cellphone signal I can get anywhere. This is how we often think of our own intelligence. We have both internal direction and external guides that can take us wherever we want to go. Unfortunately these voices don't lead us toward God's path. In the third chapter of Proverbs, Solomon tells his son there is a need for another guiding voice. This voice however is not a fallible human one, but the Divine creator of the universe that know how everything is put together and functions including you and me. For the next two weeks, Derek Fleischmann will be opening up this chapter for us. I look forward to what God is going to show us through this time. Will you take a few minutes and read through Proverbs 3 before Sunday?

How we change

Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: - Proverbs 1:20–21 (ESV) There is no absence of voices in our world. If you want to fix a car or an appliance, you can call a repairman. If you want to tackle the job yourself, check Youtube for a tutorial. If you want to figure out what to invest in, call a financial advisor, or you can read a book, listen to a podcast, and even consult a 'robo-advisor'. Want to improve your people skills? Take an online course or go to meet-ups or try an app. There is no end to the voices for just about anything. The problem is what voices will ultimately not only help you, but tell you the truth? A company's self-interest, a profit motive, or a self-advancing perspective all taint people's advice and perspectives. How will we cut through the noise? In the midst of the crowded, loud marketplace one voice is calling. She is beckoning those that will listen. She is calling to those who want knowledge and understanding. She is Lady Wisdom. This week we continue to look at Proverbs 1, and we will see this feminine sage speak for the first time. The price to hear is admitting your own ignorance. That price is to high for some. How about you?

Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck. - Proverbs 1:8–9 (ESV) The older I get the smarter my parents have become. I'm not sure what class they took or books they had read, but they became geniuses. When I was younger they had no idea what the world was really like. Now, my dad seems to have a realistic and wise outlook of what is going on. The truth of this perspective is not that he has changed, but my ears have become uncorked with age. In Proverbs 1, Wisdom calls to the youth to consider who you will listen to. Who will influence your thinking and direction? Wisdom is calling out, but so are a company of fools. Who will you listen to? This week, I'm looking forward to hearing my friend Jim Maynard open up God's Word. Take some time to prepare your heart and mind before Sunday to read through Proverbs 1.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. - Proverbs 1:7 (ESV) It seems like there are smart people and 'smart people'. We live in a town with a BUNCH of very well-educated people. They know answers to things that I didn't even know were questions. They have some many letters behind their name that it looks like an alphabet soup. There are also 'smart people' that have what we often call 'street smarts'. They understand how the world works. They know people and what motivates and moves them. They know how to make a deal and they know how to just get stuff done. My question is...are either of these kinds of smart people wise? Proverbs describes something called wisdom that involves knowledge. It involves the ability to relate to people. Is this just some mash-up of the intellect and social skills? This week we begin our Walk with the Wise in Proverbs 1-9. We begin by seeing seeing what wisdom is for and where it comes from. I want to encourage you to take some time and read through Proverbs 1 to prepare your heart and mind. Looking forward to worshiping with you.

Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. - Proverbs 13:20 (ESV) I feel smarter when I hang out with smart people. Many times, I may have no idea what they are talking about, but it just feels like my IQ goes up a point or two when they are around. Along the way I do pickup a thing or two which helps me learn and grow. Ever had that experience? This summer we are going to hang out, not with smart people, but with wise people. (There is a difference between intelligence and wisdom.) Scripture tells us that if we listen to the wise voices around us we will grow in our wisdom. This Sunday we start our summer series 'Walk with the Wise' looking at the first nine chapter of Proverbs. This week I'll be introducing to a few of the people we will be walking with this summer. I want to encourage you to take some time to read through Proverbs 9. The invitations in this chapter are the perfect introduction to a few of these folks.

Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. - Romans 13:11–12 (ESV) What are you anticipating? What are you looking forward to? This time of year it might be graduation or vacation. That kind of anticipation can give us energy to continue and push through current difficulties. It can build excitement to what is ahead. This perspective is not unknown to scripture. In our passage Paul tells us some good news, salvation is coming. It will happen. Things will get better, eventually. We are moving from a dark night to day. Are you ready? Take a few minutes to read through the last half of Romans 13 to prep your heart and mind. Also, please take a few minutes to read through the rest of the email for a bunch of updates. There are some specific needs and volunteer opportunities over the summer.

Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. - Romans 13:8 (ESV) According to Experian, the average American has $6,354 in credit card debt. The average interest rate is around 17%. So the average minimum monthly payment is around $127. This means it will take you over 7.5 years to pay off that balance if you incur no other debt, and over that timespan you will pay over $5200 in interest on that balance. That's a little overwhelming! That's how debt can be - overwhelming. It's no wonder that Paul uses it here as an illustration. This week is not primarily about money. It's just a side-note. It is about a debt that we owe one another and how that debt has been paid in the gospel. Now we have the freedom to be generous people not just with our money, but ultimately with love. Take some time to read through Romans 13 starting at vs. 8. We will be considering together the overwhelming debt that was paid by Christ as we look at the scriptures and as we celebrate communion together. Plan to join us!

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. - Romans 13:1–2 (ESV) Paul wrote these words to a group of people who lived under a government that at the time was ambivalent and mostly ignorant to Christianity, but in a few short years things would not be nearly as peaceable. Caesar would not only demand loyalty, but worship. Christianity would be outlawed and severely persecuted. Under these circumstances how do we think about these words? Is there a limit to submission? Is there a time or even a duty at times to disobey the authorities? When is that? Last week, I entitled the message How to Obey the Authorities. This week I want to take a different angle out of the same passage and idea. I want to look at How to Disobey the Authorities. We will look at how and when we are to go expressly against the wish and power of the civil authorities. I want to encourage you to read through Acts 4 to see one instance early in the life of the church that this happened. Come ready to consider your own disobedience.

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. - Romans 13:1 (ESV) The saying goes, 'There is only two certainties in life: death and taxes.' We all think about that this time of year. Hopefully you have already filed and the sting has started to wear off. Have you ever considered not paying? Maybe you even spiritualized it. The government is not going to do the 'right' things with the money after all. It's full of politicians and crooks (which are basically the same thing - right?). God could do some amazing things with that money. As we turn back to Romans, Paul wants us to think about the authorities in our lives, including the government. Why are they there? What role should they play? Do they deserve our loyalty? Don't I have a King, not a president? We are going to look at these questions in the next few weeks. It's bound to get political, but probably not in the way you are thinking. I want to challenge you to read through Romans 13, and consider where your loyalties lie.

But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. - Hebrews 2:9 (ESV) We are all inexperienced when it comes to death, but it will be a reality for everyone. Yet we avoid thinking or talking about it, but it is something everyone must face. On Easter we celebrate One who has tasted death and won. This unique event changes our perspective and our eternity when we consider our own mortality. This Sunday we come together, as we do every Sunday, to look toward this One, namely Jesus. We will see how the resurrection opens a way through grace for us. Take a few minutes to read through Hebrews 2 to prepare your heart and mind.

But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Matthew 20:25–28 (ESV) The murmurs began to rise out of the growing crowd. They daily felt the oppression of the current regime, but it had never extinguished the hope that lingered from long ago. They had heard from the parents and grandparents that one day a king would arise. He would step into his rightful place and all would be set right. As they saw a figure grow over the horizon they wondered if all those hopes would meet reality. They had heard rumors he had been visited in childhood by mysterious men seeking a king. Some had heard him speak of a kingdom. Others had seen him command a crowd with his teaching. There had been others who sought to grab the throne, but none lasted. This felt different. In a moment the whispers broke out from their hushed undertones to outright declarations. 'Hosanna' someone in the back declared, and with that the flood was unleashed. This Sunday we celebrate Palm Sunday. It begins our Passion Week celebration and it reminds us of the rightful place of Jesus as King. This king and his kingdom would not be like anyone expected. Join as we explore the King and His Kingdom.

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. - Romans 12:19–21 (ESV) Let's just be honest. We have all had those thoughts. There is a list in our head of our enemies. Usually they aren't someone far away or in a different country under a different flag, but they are people near us. They have a different outlook. They have harmed us. They have angered or wronged us. We even have a new term for some of these people - 'frenemies'. They might be in your office, in your neighborhood, or even in your own home. Now we don't want to see them harmed physically, but we do want them to get their 'just desserts'. If that happens maybe they would learn. We think that would give us a sense of justice. However, the gospel subverts this idea. This week we continue our journey through Romans 12. The gospel changes the way we love, not just the people that love us, but even our enemies (and frenemies). Take some time to read through Romans 12. I want to challenge you to write down a few names of people that came to your mind in the previous paragraph. Come ready to consider what God wants to do in you in this passage.

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. - Romans 12:9–13 (ESV) Love should be easy. Right? It's a simple feeling and it should come naturally to us. Right? That is what we hear in songs and speeches and movies. 'If we could all just love each other things would work out.' Right? I don't think it's that simple. Love, real love, is not our natural inclination. We love those that love us. When there is conflict, when we don't feel like it, or when we just aren't feeling it, love seems to evaporate. We are left feeling like we didn't get what we deserve, and we are ready to find revenge instead of love. The Gospel reorganizes (actually resurrects) our hearts with real love both for God and for others. In this passage of Romans 12, Paul exposes the practical implications of the gospel by giving us a piece of the Law of Love. Take a few few minutes to read through Romans 12. Also, be praying for who you can invite for our passion week events coming up soon. Our invitations were held up in production so they won't make it here till Monday. They will be available next week to take, and don't forget to check out the rest of the email with upcoming events and info of what is going on around Hope.