Revelation Chapters 12-14: The Holy War

On Sunday May 6th, 2012 our Southbrook Church sermon series turns to Revelation Chapters 12-14. This is a powerful section of Revelations, filled with rich and awe-inspiring imagery.  These chapters are often called 'the heart of Revelations.'

A few hints to help us understand this section of Revelations.

1. Read through Revelations 12-14 as a unit and try to look past the chapter headings and verse divisions.

2. Read various translations of this section.  A good resource is www.Biblegateway.com This site allows you to select multiple versions and you can arrange them next to each other.

3. Chapter 12 shows us a glimpse of the story of our world. We are brought behind-the-scenes to see the spiritual reality of the cosmos. In Chapter 13 John describes how Satan will bring a Holy War on earth through the two beasts. And in Chapter 14 John shows us that the final outcome of this Holy War results in a Triumphant Lamb.

4. We are introduced to three main characters: The Dragon, The Woman and the Child.
The Dragon represents Satan, and his efforts to destroy God and His people.
The Woman represnts God's people, both Israel and the Church.
The Child represents Jesus.

Read through Revelation 12-14 and send in our questions and comments!

The Red Bandanna: The power of self-sacrifice

Welles Crowther, a 34 year old financial analyst, was working in the South Tower on September 11th, 2001.

From childhood on he wore a red bandanna, which symbolized his respect for his father and his commitment to live a full and honorable life. He wore it when riding his bike, while playing lacrosse; a daily reminder of his zeal for life.

After the second plane hit The World Trade Center, Welles led dozens of people down to safety, only to return back up the South Tower to assist more who were in need.

Six months later rescue crews recovered his body, which was found next to fallen firefighters. Those who were saved on 9/11/01 recount a man, appearing out of the smoke and flames, wearing a red bandanna, leading others to safety.

Welles Crowther's story won a Sports Emmy on Monday April 30th, 2012.

Watch the award winning story of the Red Bandanna below...

Fire-Breathing Prophets and a Global Dance Party ... Digging into Revelations 11.3-13

Fire breathing prophets, two Olive Trees, The Beast that arises from the abyss, and a global dance party... wow, what else can we find in Revelation Chapter 11?! No wonder scholars declare this chapter to be one of the most important and complex chapters in Revelations!

So how about we approach this chapter as if we are going to see a play. The drama of Revelations Chapter 11 has only a few main characters who appear on this stage. 

Act 1 provides the two witnesses -who resemble Moses and Elijah. They testify about the power of Christ until God deems that their time is up. Some assume that these two witnesses are meant to describe The Church; while others believe that they are two literal figures who are yet to appear.

Act 2 introduces us to The Beast, who stands in opposition to God. The Beast kills the two witnesses and leaves their bodies out in the open. A global party occurs, with people celebrating the death of the two witnesses. Universally seen as The Antichrist, the Beast appears again in Chapter 13.

Act 3 unexpectedly tells us that the two witnesses are brought back to life and ascend into heaven. This amazing twist of fate is accompanied by a disastrous earthquake which causes people to turn to God.

What does this all mean?  If we believe that the two witnesses describe The Church then we can see that this is a play that shows the unfolding drama of God's Plan for the World.  God's people will testify about Him, they will do so with power and great effort.  However Evil will win; at least evil appears to win.  In the end God will vindicate and rescue His followers.

This drama of obedience, followed by suffering, and concluded by God's vindication... is the Story of Jesus, is the Story of His Church, and is the Story of His Followers!  This complex play informs us that we too must be obedient and will suffer, but that ultimately God will vindicate us.  God did this with Jesus, He's done this to His Church, and He will do this with each one of us!

Holy Tape Measures ... Digging into Revelation Chapter 11.1-2

Many scholars consider Revelation Chapter 11 one of the most challenging sections in the Book of Revelation. It is packed not only with Old Testament images and allusions, but with people and actions that require the reader to make clear interpretative positions.

Keep in mind that Chapters 10 and 11 are considered interludes (between the sixth and seventh trumpets) in the drama of Revelation. In Chapter 10, John is instructed to eat the scroll, which would initially taste like honey, but would be sour in his stomach. Chapter 11 shows us why the scroll was both sweet and sour.

God orders John to measure the temple, specifically those inside the temple; and to exclude the outer courts of the temple. This measuring is reminiscent of God's command to Ezekiel (600BC) to go and measure the temple (Ezekiel 40-42). The measuring action is a dramatic way of showing who belongs to God. Some will be counted as part of God's family, others will be counted as outside of God's family. In Revelations, the word ‘Temple’ always refers to the heavenly Temple vs. an actual Temple.

In Revelation 11.2 we are told that the enemies will ‘trample on the Holy City for 42 months.’ There are different possibilities for this specific time designation:

1. 3 1/2 year length of time is found in Daniel 7 and 9.

2. 3 1/2 year drought in the time of Elijah - I Kings 17.1

3. 42 months is the length of the wilderness wanderings -Numbers 33

4. Reference to Jewish suffering under Syrian King Antiochus Epiphanes in 167-164 BC.

Noted Revelations scholar Robert Mounce, declares that the period of 42 months, ‘...became a standard symbol for a limited period of time during which evil would be allowed free reign.’  NICNT: Revelations, pg. 215.  This means that the 42 months represents a general period of suffering vs. a specific length of time...

John is asked to replicate the prophet Ezekiel’s actions of measuring the Temple. The point of this measuring of God’s People and those who oppose God, is to show that God divides people according to their relationship with Him. This isn’t politically correct and goes against our American zeitgeist, but it is the Truth.

Sunday Left-Overs Revelation 10 April 22, 2012

On Sunday we continued our tour of Revelation by focusing on Chapter 10. Chapter 10 and 11 are interludes -pauses in the final drama of Christ's return. The complexity of Revelations reminds me of the multi-dimensional chess game featured on Star Trek. There are many different levels to the action, and the End Times unfolds on these different levels.

Chapter 10 is filled with Old Testament images and allusions that are re-appropriated to the context of the Roman Empire. To fully understand the command to 'eat the scroll' we need to turn back to the Book of Ezekiel- specifically Chapters 2 and 3. 600 years before Christ -Ezekiel is told to eat a scroll which would taste like honey to his lips. This command is designed to show that Ezekiel must internalize the message. In Revelation Chapter 10, God gives John the same command: 'eat the scroll!'

Revelation Chapter 10 tells us that John will deliver a message that will be both pleasing and disturbing. This is the great truth of God's Word: it is both a message of hope and foolishness. The message of the Cross is sweet. Freedom from past sins, redemption, forgiveness -all provided by Christ. And at the same time the message of the Cross is bitter. I must die to myself, surrender everything and allow Christ first-place in my life.  This is a difficult pill to swallow.

Does Poverty Threaten our Democracy?

Cornel West continues to make prophetic statements about the state of the poor and disadvantaged in our country.  From his Race Matters, to his most recent book: The Rich and The Rest of Us, West is one of the few voices to champion the need for bipartisan action on poverty.  Dr. West appeared with Tavis Smiley on a recent episode of The Colbert Report.

   

5000 Hits and Counting...!

Today the CoffeeShopPastor blog achieved a significant milestone.... We surpassed 5000 hits! Thank you for checking out the site, for leaving your comments, and for engaging in both profound and whimsical discussions about life, faith and following Christ!


Jonathan

The New York Times and God's Truth

In preparing for a future sermon series on relationships, I came across this article in the New York Times. The author presents a range of recent sociological data about the inherent dangers of cohabitation.  Read the article here.

In short, the ease at which couples choose to live together also means that it is equally easy to choose to break up. Cohabitation implies intimacy, the greater potential for offspring, and for making lifelong and life-altering decisions.

Sociologists who study this increasing American cultural phenomena, find that the risks (higher divorce rates and greater potential for spousal abuse) are far greater than the rewards.

Christians affirm that God's Word provides us with Truth.  Truth is never meant to limit our humanity, but is given for humanity to experience life to the fullest.

Read Camus

The Apostle Paul appears before Mars Hill in Acts 17. He speaks to this venerable intellectual institution and presents to them the story of Christ. Paul preached the usual content, but presented it in a unique way! Paul quotes from Greek philosophy and uses the local cultural awareness of spirituality -to point towards Christ.

Paul's message in Acts 17 speaks to our modern culture today.  Instead of running from culture or fully embracing it; Christians are called to engage culture -just as Paul did 2000 years ago.

I came across a posting called 'Why Christians Should Read Camus' and thoroughly enjoyed it. Click on this link to read the article. Camus had a profound affect on my intellectual, philosophical and spiritual life. The author, Wheaton College professor, Leland Ryken, expertly engages the reader and clearly articulates Camus' world and life view. Read it and add your comments below!

The Risen Christ celebrated at the 2012 Masters

For 2012 Augusta National Winner, Bubba Watson, golf is third place in his life.  Bubba and his wife Angie recently adopted a son named Caleb.  But to Bubba Watson, his wife and son only hold second place in his life.   First place since 2004 is Jesus Christ.  That year, both Bubba and his wife committed their lives to Christ.

Bubba is active in leading PGA weekly bible studies, uses his twitter account @bubbawatson to share bible verses, offering words of encouragement and to remind his followers that golf is not his highest priority.

It is fitting that on Easter Sunday the winner of Golf's most storied prize realizes that it is just third place in his life...

To read more on his amazing Masters win, click here...

Is Doubting Thomas a Hero?

I always loved the story of Thomas, probably because I wrestle with doubt.  Thomas was one of Jesus’ original 12 followers. While he makes few appearances, his most notable comes after Jesus rose from the dead. About a week after his resurrection, Jesus’ followers are all huddled together -hiding out in fear.  The political situation, the rumors of Jesus coming back to life, the Priest’s anger -are still conspiring against those closest to Jesus. While most of Jesus’ followers had seen him; Thomas had not yet.

Thomas must have watched lots of ‘CSI: Jerusalem,’ because he wanted to see the evidence before he believed the rumors of Jesus’ resurrection. Dead people just don’t come back to life.

Instantly Jesus appears in the room, right through the locked doors. Jesus knows the disciples are afraid and so he tells them, ‘Peace be with you.’ He turns, faces Thomas and says, ‘Put your finger here, see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’ Thomas responds, ‘My Lord and my God!’

Thomas is a hero because he shows that there is hope for doubters. Jesus can and will meet our questions. He is not an elusive man of history nor is he a mythical legend. Jesus will move heaven and earth to answer our doubts.

Thomas is a hero because he rose to the challenge, and allowed his doubts to succumb to the truth.  Some revel in doubt because dealing with the truth is too demanding. Some enjoy sewing the seeds of doubt because they enjoy seeing others squirm. Thomas’ doubt led him to a moment of personal integrity and belief in Jesus.

Do you have doubts about Jesus?  Great, send them in and let’s continue the conversation.

'Which Jesus Should Die?'

For those who have seen ‘The Passion of the Christ,’ -imagine Jesus standing before Pilate- beaten, bloodied, wearing the crown of thorns.  It's early on Friday morning and Jesus has just endured three different religious trials.  Pilate now sits on the judgment seat, conflicted and disturbed.  He knows that Jesus is innocent and perceptively assess the situation before him as an internal Jewish argument.  He senses he is in an intractable political situation and knows he can’t win.

Pilate devises a plan to appeal to the masses asking them if they would like a prisoner released.  He’s willing to do anything to curry favor and to keep Caesar off his back.  The crowds cry out, ‘Crucify Jesus!’ -but which one?

Matthew’s account of the crucifixion identifies Barabbas’ first name as ‘Jesus.’  While most of the earliest Greek manuscripts omit this name; by the third century it was reintroduced.  The early Church Father Origen explained that the name ‘Jesus’ wasn’t seen fit to be given to such a sinner as Barabbas, and out of respect, it was temporarily stricken from the record.

So imagine Barabbas sitting in jail.  His execution is near.  He hears the shouts, ‘Crucify Jesus.’  He undoubtedly realized his death was imminent.  The guard comes to his cell, turns the key and says to him, ‘You are now free to go. Someone else took your place on the cross. Now get out of here.’

Didn't Jesus do this for each of us?

Washing Judas' Feet

Powerful scenes fill Jesus’ final week: riding into Jerusalem on a colt, cleansing the Temple, cursing the fig tree, the Last Supper, etc...  The event that stands out to me the most is found in John 13; where Jesus washes His disciple’s feet.

Many paintings and images portray this as a sublime and picturesque event.  But look at the text and notice clues to the degradation of this act.  John 13.4 tells us that Jesus took off His outer robe, leaving only His loin cloth.  The image of Jesus in His underwear offends our sensibilities (offending at least our preconceived image of Jesus).

He washes His disciples feet and proceeds to also wash Judas’ feet.  Judas is still present though he will soon leave to betray Jesus.  This is a profound act of love!  Jesus washes the feet of the one who is actively working against Him!  Think about that for a moment.  As humbling as it is to wash another’s feet, I can at least see myself doing it to my family, to those I love.  But when I think about those who I hate, or who hate me and to think about washing their feet, never!  

Jesus does this act of love as both a model of service for us and as a way of showing us what the Cross is all about.  The Cross is God’s humbling and humiliating act of love on behalf of those who could care less.

Who are those in your life who are fighting against you?  Maybe instead of fighting back, we should look for ways to wash their feet....

The Triumphal Entry: The Story Behind The Story

Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem is one of the most memorable accounts of Easter week.  He enters the city riding a colt -to the cheers and delight of the massive crowds.  People are waving palm branches and throwing their coats on the ground.  It is a moment filled with awe and expectation. Curiously, it is only Luke who records that Jesus wept as he entered the city.

We can see the faces, imagine the crowd, and hear the shouts: ‘Hosannah, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’  

But have you ever thought, ‘What is really going on?’  ‘What is the story behind the story?’  It turns out that what Jesus is doing has been done before!

Alexander the Great’s death in 323BC brought chaos to the Greek Empire.  He didn’t leave a successor and the Empire eventually split into four territories.  One faction was the Seleucid Dynasty which ruled most of the Middle East.  The Seleucids propagated the Hellenization of their territories -to the dismay and disgust of the Jewish people.

The Seleucids Dynasty filled Israel with altars to the Greek gods and levied taxes to support their worship.  They banned the Torah and even placed an idol of Zeus in the Jewish Temple.

Finally the Jewish people wouldn’t take it anymore.  A priest by the name of Mattathias led a revolt in 167 BC.  He died while fighting the Seleucids and his son Judah took up the cause.  Judah Maccabee use guerilla warfare tactics to eventually overthrow the Seleucids from Israel.  The festival of Hanukkah -(the Festival of Lights) originates from this time period.  You can read more about this account in the book of 1 Maccabees. 

With victory assured Judah did two things in rapid succession. First he entered the city of Jerusalem -to the cheers and praises of its inhabitants.  Once in the city he went immediately to the Temple and cleared out all the idols.

Flash forward 190 years.  The Greek-leaning Seleucid Dynasty is long gone.  The Maccabean rule lasted until the Roman General Pompey captured Jerusalem in 67BC.  Once again Israel finds itself under occupation.

When a Roman General -fresh from victory in battle- would enter a capital city, he followed a specific plan.  The plan called for the general to wear garments signifying his deity.  He would ride either a chariot or a war-horse and was followed by those captured in battle.  The general would immediately proceed to the temple and offer a sacrifice.  This victory procession -spelled out in Roman Law- is called a ‘Triumph!’

Pause for a moment and think of Jesus entering Jerusalem in preparation for his final Passover Meal.  He knows the history and the culture of his people.  He undoubtedly knows that less than 200 years earlier Judah Maccabees followed this same plan (entry into Jerusalem and clearing out the Temple).  He undoubtedly knows that the Romans had a similar triumphal entry and that -more than likely- Pilate himself had just days before entered Jerusalem in his own modified Triumph!

Now comes Jesus.  He uses the history and culture of his day and replaces it with his own twist.  He doesn’t ride on a war horse like Judah Maccabees or the Roman Generals; he rides a colt.  He doesn’t carry a sword, but rather speaks the Word of God.    He doesn’t wear the garments of a victorious general, but rather of a humble worker.  He doesn’t come to offer political freedom, but rather spiritual freedom.  He doesn’t come to free Israel from the oppression of other nations; rather he comes to liberate all people from the oppression of sin!

The story behind the story shows us that when we dig into God’s Word we are continually rewarded with deep and profound Truths.  Jesus replaces and fulfills the cultural expectations of his time and uses them to show how God is doing something new!  During this Holy Week, why don’t you read through the accounts of Jesus’ triumphal entry and send in your comments...

The Ease of Judging Others and First Impressions

Britain's Got Talent 2012 competition is not something that I usually follow.  This recent clip features two high school-age students who sing to the delight of not only the audience, but also the judges.

Watch the entire 7 minute clip here and be amazed....

What does this clip say about the ease of judging others and our first impressions of people?  Would we view the young man any differently if he didn't have such a great ability?  In light of this clip, how should we view others?

Send in your comments...!

Christians Should Drink Starbucks not Boycott Them...

With a blog called Coffee Shop Pastor, what else did you expect?

Over the past 30 years or so Christians have boycotted DisneyWorld, Pepsi, Proctor and Gamble, Ford and Levi Strauss Co.  When a Pastor or Christian organization calls for a boycott, people rally, emails fly, posters are painted and local pastors are urged to stand with those calling for the boycott.

As a local evangelical pastor, I've long felt that boycotts tend to serve those who are advocating for them, rather than the greater cause that they are ostensibly against!  Boycotts 'rally the troops', boycotts bring in more donations, and in my opinion, boycotts ultimately end up only increasing the profile of the person or group who initiated this action!

But what of the morality of the boycott?  Should Christians use their economic power to affect change?  What are the unintended consequences of these actions?  Russell Moore, Dean of the School of Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary makes a strong case that Christians should not only avoid boycotting, but that the actual use of them undercuts the Christian witness and message.

Maybe instead of refusing to patronize Starbucks, Christians should do more business, have studies, get their small groups to meet at their local coffee shops!  Let Starbucks see Christians and experience the salt and light of the Gospel!

Read Dr. Moore's thoughts here and send in your thoughts and comments...

What is 'the great tribulation' of Revelations Chapter 7?

In Revelation 7.14 John sees a great multitude of people praising God.  They are standing before the Throne and they are wearing white robes.  John doesn’t know their identity so an Elder tells John that they have come ‘out of the great tribulation.’  

Does ‘the great tribulation’ refer to a specific period or event, or is it a general term?  Theologians differ as to the meaning of this phrase.  Some see it as a specific -7 year period of time that precedes the coming of Christ.  Others see it as a general term that refers to the opposition that God’s followers face while on earth.

My opinion is that the great 'tribulation’ in 7.14 is a general term.  This same word is found in 1.9, in 2.9 and 10, and again in 2.22.  Each time the word is used in Revelations it refers generically to the sufferings that God’s people endure.  The word ‘tribulation’ doesn’t appear again in the book of Revelations.

God is pouring his wrath upon the world.  His wrath is seen in the Seals, the Trumpets and the Bowls.  During this time the forces of this world are rising up and opposing God and his people.  I believe that the phrase ‘great tribulation’ of 7.14 is referring to this period of time prior to Christ’s final return.

What about your thoughts on this phrase and its meaning?

Does Religion Need God?

A great question and one in which the answer just may be, ‘it depends..!’  Gary Gutting, professor of Philosophy at The University of Norte Dame takes on this profound question in a March 22nd, 2012 OpEd Piece for the New York Times.   You can read the article here.  

Gutting weaves together such diverse ideas as the ontological existence for God, the problem of evil and our belief in the afterlife.

The question ‘Does Religion Need God’ is an age-old one.  Theologians have long debated the importance of Orthodoxy (right beliefs) and Orthopraxy (right actions).  No less an eminent figure than Immanuel Kant published his Deontological Ethical Principal of duty-based ethics.

Maybe the initial question ‘Does Religion Need God?’ should be rephrased, ‘Can we be good without God?‘   God doesn’t need Religion but a Religion without God only replaces the Divine Will with Human Will -turning our intelligence into a manageable deity. 

What are your thoughts to the NewYork Times article and to the question, 'Does Religion Need God?'

The NFL, Johnny Cash and Jesus

On March 21, 2012 the National Football League distributed some of the harshest penalties in its history.  NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell blasted the New Orleans Saints organization, Head Coach Sean Payton and former Saints Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams for both propagating a system of paying out bounties for knocking out opponents and for also repeated lying to the NFL about this illegal plan.  This ruling darkens the Saints 2009 Super Bowl win and casts a pall upon the entire Saints organization.

In making this ruling Commissioner Goodell affirms the direction that Jesus taught in Matthew 23.25-26.  In this passage Jesus blasts the Pharisees for their lack of personal integrity.  Jesus clearly teaches that the what goes on in the heart is as important as your actions.  The Saints won the Super Bowl, but according to the NFL they did so while violating the rules.  Johnny Cash, a man well acquainted with breaking the law, wrote in his song 'God's Gonna Cut You Down' that 'What is done in the dark will be brought to the light.'  Jesus and Johnny -meet the Saints and the NFL.

Who makes up the 144,000 found in Revelation 7?

Let's be honest -interpreting Revelations is difficult! We routinely meet an array of images and sounds that stretch our minds to their furthest limits. In Revelations Chapter 7 and verse 4 we meet the 144,000. Who are these people and what does it mean to us today?

There are two main views regarding the identity of the 144,000.

The first view is that the 144,000 represent Jewish people who follow Christ.  Within this view there are some take the 144,000 as symbolically representing the entirety of the Nation of Israel. Others claim that this number literally refers to the specific amount of Israelites who will follow Christ: 144,000.

Biblical evidence for this view is that in the Bible the term 'Israel' always refers to the Jewish Nation, and the phrase 'every tribe' is very specific language -pointing towards real Jewish People.

The second view is that the 144,000 represents The Church.  Proponents of this view show how the numbers given in this section (7.4-8) '12x12x1000' are symbolic -representing 'completeness.' They also show how the list of 12 Tribes found in Chapter 7 are unlike any list of the 12 Tribes found in the Bible. Historically they note how 10 Tribes were lost in the Assyrian invasion of 732BC and the remaining Tribes were dispersed with the fall of Jerusalem in 70A.D.

What does it matter to us?
Jehovah's Witnesses view Revelation Chapter 7 as stating that there will only be 144,000 people who are saved for heaven. This provides the impetus for their door to door evangelism. They need to do a lot of good actions to be claimed in the relatively small group of 144,000!

My opinion is that the 144,000 refer to believers of every stripe and not just Jewish believers. The thrust of the New Testament is that God is pulling together a new people not bound by ethnic or geographic identity, but by our common allegiance to Jesus the Christ. In Paul's letter to the Galatians, he states, 'There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male or female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.  If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.' The list of the 12 Tribes found in Revelation 7 is constructed to show their symbolic importance much like the reasoning behind Jesus choosing 12 disciples.  For those who love to dig into the details, Chapter 7's list omits the Tribe of Dan and includes the Tribe of Levi.  Also 10 of the Tribes disappeared with the Assyrian invasion of 732BC while the remaining two tribes were dispersed with the fall of Jerusalem in 70AD.

Certainly this is a contentious passage and one that has been debated for the past 2000 years. What is your opinion on this issue, and why do you hold your view?

Man in Full

I found myself sitting at the Dentist's office this week reading a month-old issue of Sports Illustrated.  Chris Ballard wrote a compelling story about a high school wrestling coach named Mike Powell.  Powell was a successful wrestler in High School and on the Collegiate level.  An injury forced him from competing in the Olympics, so he decided to start coaching.  But Powell wanted to do more than coach, he wanted to have a deep influence on the lives of the broken young men on his team.

Powell not only built a winning team he also inspired his students to be men, by modeling for them love, compassion and competition.  At the height of his young career, Powell became sick and nearly died.  The article highlights Powell's struggle to come to grips with his mortality and with his masculinity.

Tears came to my eyes more than once while reading this article.  The article shows a clear depiction of a 'Man in Full'.  Read the article and notice the parallels to Christian discipleship.

Can the Church Learn from Apple?

Can the Church learn from Apple? Consumers know that Apple makes high quality products, evokes deep customer loyalty and promotes a strong brand image.

Apple continues to see increases in market share for its phones and ipad divisions. In January of 2012, Apple released its official 4Q earnings, stating that the company has $97.6 Billion in cash on hand.

So what can the Church learn from Apple? On Monday, March 12, 2012, London's English Standard Newspaper interviewed Sir Jonathan Ive, Apple's Senior Vice President of Industrial Design. Ive is asked about Apple's philosophy of product development and his views on what makes a successful product. The Evening Standard's Science and Technology Editor asks Ive for his thoughts on Apple's competitors and why they don't measure up to Apple's standards. The answers that Ive provides are thoughtful and wise, calculated and full of insight into Apple's culture.

Reading this interview through the lens of a pastor, I think that Apple has a lot to teach the Church.


Here are a few thoughts.

1. Think systems... It is easy to segment Church life into different categories, all acting independent of each other.  Apple's philosophy is to think systematically from the initial idea, to design and prototype to the finished product.  I wonder how the Church could be more effective, if it thought in terms of systems vs independent silos.

2. Look for creative ideas to address simple issues...  Creativity breeds confidence in your congregation and inspires others to think in non-traditional ways.  Unity arises when an idea germinates into a specific plan.

3. Find people who are willing to be wrong...  Seek out those who don't mind challenging the status quo and those who are willing to go out on a limb.  Making mistakes means that you are trying to solve a problem and the willingness to be wrong indicates a healthy Church.

4. Knowing when to pull the plug and when to see the problem as an opportunity...   This is a difficult one for Churches as programs easily become institutionalized and the, 'that's the way we've always done it' mentality takes root.  Wisdom is needed to discern when a problem exceeds the effort given, and when a problem is an opportunity for growth.

Read the interview and comment on what you think the Church can learn from Apple...  I would love to hear your thoughts....

Sunday Left-Overs Revelation 6 March 11 2012

Today we meet the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.  As Jesus opens the scroll and its first Four Seals, John sees Four Horsemen riding across the pages of History.  The Four Horsemen represent the Lust for more/Conquest, War, Famine/Economic hardship, and finally Death.  They show the effects of our sin; as the cycle of the the Four Horsemen has continued from the first bite of the apple -till today.

It is easy to identify how the Four Horsemen have galloped across empires and civilizations.  It is easy to see their pernicious actions in countries and institutions.  The challenge for us is to look inward and see how the Four Horsemen are at work in our lives, in our actions, in our hearts.  The Book of James, Chapter 1, verse 15 tells us that sin always leads to death.  This is true on a physical level (just look at the news for the latest sports/celebrity hero who died due to drugs or alcohol abuse).  But the reality is that there are many ways to die: physically sure, but there is emotional death, relational death, and even spiritual death.

The good news is found with the Sixth Seal, as God promises to return and to upend the world.  This is the 'Day of the Lord' that is prophesied in the Old Testament and that Jesus himself spoke about.  When Jesus returns he will banish death and there will be no more pain or suffering.... Only praise and worship of the Lamb who is Worthy!

As you study Chapter 6, what question or comments do you have?  Leave them in the comment section and let's continue our Journey together through Revelations!

What is the Gospel? Book Review -The King Jesus Gospel, by Scot McKnight

'What is the Gospel?'  At first this seems like an odd question as the term 'Gospel' is used so frequently among Christians.  To the question, 'What is the Gospel?' some would reply that the Gospel is the 'Good News that Jesus saves us from our sins.'  Others would claim that the Gospel is that we are now 'justified by faith,'  Scot McKnight, author of The King Jesus Gospel, contends that the Gospel fully involves Jesus saving us from our sins and justifying us by faith -and (here's the change) so much more!

McKnight shows the weakness of just seeing the Gospel solely as, 'Jesus saving us from our sins.'  While this is of course true, it leaves out the historical role of Jesus as Israel's Messiah.  This view, taken to an extreme, can relegate Salvation -to just personal sin management.  He also shows how those who see the Gospel as, 'being justified by faith' miss the emphasis of Jesus' teaching about how He is fulfilling the Old Testament prophesies.

McKnight provides his answer to the question, 'What is the Gospel?'  His answer is, 'The Gospel is the Story of Israel completing itself in the Story of Jesus.'  This means that Jesus is the fulfillment of the the Old Testament prophesies concerning the coming Messiah.  Jesus' life, his death, burial and resurrection all show that He is the Promised One.  Jesus truly brings salvation; but He also brings liberation from sin, reconciliation to humanity, and healing for those who are broken.

How about you?  When you think of the term 'Gospel' what comes to your mind, and why?

Revelation 6 The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

Even the casual reader of the Bible knows something about The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. For some unknown reason the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have ridden into our cultural consciousness. From the legendary linemen of Knute Rockne’s 1924 Norte Dame Football Team, to the professional wrestlers of 1980’s; we all seem to know the Four Horsemen.

But who are they and what are their origin?  We first meet the Four Horsemen in the Old Testament book of Zechariah, specifically chapters One and Six.  In Zechariah they are metaphorically sent out to find ‘peace and rest’ around the earth, while in Revelation they are shown to be forces of God operating throughout history.  

The first rider, who sits on a white horse while wearing a crown, is the most troublesome of the bunch.  Because Jesus is described as riding a white horse in Revelation 19, many have assumed that the first Horseman is actually Jesus.  Scholars credit 15th century woodcarver, Albrecht Durer, as being the first to realize that it couldn’t be Jesus.  Not only are there too many dissimilarities to Revelation 19, but Jesus is in heaven opening the scrolls, not riding on a horse throughout the earth!

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse represent Conquest, War, Famine and Death.  These forces have always been at work; in civilizations and nations, and in families and individuals.  They appear on the scene because one of the four living creatures calls them forth.  They are not to be viewed as God unleashing destruction upon the earth.  Rather they are to be seen as the natural results of humanity’s sin nature.

How about you?  When you think about the Four Horsemen, what are your thoughts and comments?

Sunday Left-Overs Revelation 5 March 4, 2012

Albrecht Durer, the famed 16th century German engraver carved this view of Revelation Chapter 5. The images of Revelation captured Durer and drove him to artistic feats of beauty and creativity.  Durer's masterpieces show his reverence for God's Word.

Revelation Chapter 5 continues the Throne Room vision that Jesus offered to John in Chapter 4. In Chapter 4 the focus is on God who sits on the throne. In Chapter 5 the focus is on Jesus, who is described as the 'Lamb that was slain.'  In rather unusual fashion, Jesus is described as a Lion and a Lamb.  He is also described as having seven Horns and seven Eyes.  If we were to try and picture this image, we just may be repulsed!  The key is to understand the symbolism of the horns and eyes.  The term 'horn' in the Bible always refers to 'power' and the multiple eyes refers to 'wisdom.'  So, for the Lamb that is Jesus, the seven Horns means that Jesus is all-powerful and the seven Eyes means that Jesus is all-knowing!

Where is the Holy Spirit in Revelations?  The Spirit is present in Revelations, but we do need to do some work to find Him.  The Spirit appears in the very beginning in Chapter 1, verse 4 and at the end of Revelations in Chapter 22, verse 17.  The Spirit actively communicates with the local churches of Chapters 2 and 3, and does so again in Chapter 14.  And we find all three members of the Trinity in Revelation Chapter 22, specifically verses 16-18.

After reading through Revelation Chapter 4 and 5, what images stand out to you, and why?

Revelations Chapter 5 'The Lion is the Lamb!'

In Revelations Chapters 4 and 5, John is brought up into heaven.  He is taken behind the scenes to see the beauty and glory of God and Jesus.

The vision of these two chapters overwhelms us, as image upon image collide with thunder and lightning.  The sights, the sounds, the heavenly creatures... this is too much for our minds to comprehend!

The main focus of Chapter 5 is upon Jesus, as He alone is worthy to open the scroll that reveals how the world will unfold.  A range of Old Testament images are used to describe Jesus; all of which show how Jesus resolves the Story of Israel.  Jesus is initially described as a Lion, which draws us to Genesis 49.  He is also referred to as the 'Root of Jesse' -which comes from Isaiah 11.  Lastly Jesus is described as a Lamb, which again comes from Isaiah 53.

It strikes me that the first time Jesus came to earth, He acted as the Lamb; and the next time Jesus returns to earth, He will act as the Lion!

This chapter also serves as a great reminder that humanity is incapable of changing its own destiny.  Our fallen state has corrupted us to the point that we are unable to fix ourselves.  Certainly if we had the ability to do so, we would have already!

When you read through Revelations Chapter 5- what images, ideas, or themes stand out to you?  And why?  Leave your comments below...

Sunday Left-Overs Revelations 4 February 26, 2012

In Chapters 4 and 5 of Revelations John records all that he experienced in his vision of Heaven.   Many scholars claim that this vision is one of the greatest found in the Bible.  Truly John's trip to Heaven stretches John to the farthest boundaries of his imagination and vocabulary.

God is the central figure, though John takes careful pains to not describe Him. Next to God, the Throne receives the most attention and serves as a counter-weight to all earthly thrones.  John wants us to see the contrast between God on the True Throne, and those who sit in power and judgment while on earth.

I fear that that we could talk all day and still not catch the total glory and beauty of God as found in Revelations 4!

Drop in your comment and questions about this mind-blowing Chapter, and let's continue our journey through Revelation!

The All-Access VIP Pass

Have you ever had the chance to go behind the scenes or were given an All-Access VIP Pass?  With a VIP Pass -restricted areas are opened and celebrities are now accessible!  You get to see and experience events and people that others can only dream about.

During college I had the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at a funeral home in Charleston, West Virginia.  A friend's father owned the business and they granted me access to everything, including watching the embalming process on a recently deceased man.  During those same college years I volunteered in the Racine, Wisconsin County Jail's Chaplain's Office.   It was fascinating to see how a Jail daily operated.

We view these times as more than just cool experiences; for they give us a deeper appreciation and perspective on life that we would usually miss.  It is in this light that we view Revelation Chapters 4 and 5.  In these two chapters John is given an All-Access VIP Pass into Heaven!  Imagine how he felt and what he saw!  Revelations Chapter 4 and 5 are jammed packed with amazing imagery, head-scratching creatures and the brightest of colors!

Our human post-enlightenment mindset is to ask questions such as, 'Why do the creatures of Revelation Chapter 4 have eyes all over their bodies?'  'What is the meaning of the rainbow surrounding the Throne?'  Why do the creatures have 6 wings each? etc...'

These are all great questions and we have a right to ask.  But the vision John describes for us is not meant to be broken down into its individual parts.  We are best to stand back -and look -and be amazed at the glory and wonder of God on His Throne!

This is a challenging chapter so read it through, pray over what you read, and then drop in your questions and comments!

Are Sports and Faith Compatible?

Can one be a dedicated religious person and be a dedicated professional athlete? David Brooks, columnist for the New York Times, doesn't think you can. In his recent essay Brooks states, 'The moral ethos of sport is in tension with the moral ethos of faith, whether Jewish, Christian or Muslim.'



Jermey Lin is living this 'tension' as a Guard for the NBA's New York Knicks. He graduated from Harvard, is Asian-American, and wasn't drafted by any NBA team. For the past few weeks Lin has been in the national spotlight for his amazing play, his humility and for his ability to beat the odds by playing professional basketball at such a high level. What also makes him unique is that he is a committed follower of Christ.


Read Brooks' essay and drop in your comments...   Are Sports and Spirituality in conflict?

Sunday Left-Overs -Revelation 2.18-3.22 -February 19, 2012

Jesus finishes His letters to the Seven Local Churches by writing a stinging indictment of the Church in the town of Laodicea.  This was the Church of the 1%.  The town of Laodicea and the Christian Church were incredibly wealthy.


Laodicea was a city of professionals: physicians, bankers and business owners.  Their problem wasn't the wealth, but rather the self-reliant attitude that came with their material success.

Laodicea was so wealthy that they turned down Rome's offer of financial support to rebuild after the great earthquake of 60AD.  Laodicea was so wealthy that they didn't need Rome and in the same way the Christian Church in Laodicea had so much materially -that they didn't need Jesus!

Jesus found himself on the outside of His Church, knocking on the doors hoping to be let in.  The image of Jesus being kept outside of His Church is one that we need to remember.

The question that all Christians need to ask is: 'Are we like the Church in Laodicea?'  Do we have so much that we have failed to trust in Christ? Has our material success caused us to only go to Jesus when things fall apart? Is He on the outside of our Church, banging on the door, hoping to be let in?

I'm convinced that the Holy Spirit knows what He is doing.  For the past 2000 years the Holy Spirit has been active in guiding and convicting and challenging us to grow deeper in our relationship with Christ.  May the Holy Spirit continue to guide and direct His Church!


What questions or comments about Laodicea do you have?  Leave them in the comments section and let's continue our journey through Revelations!

Book Review: Simply Jesus, by N.T. Wright

    Tom Wright is the former Bishop of Durham in the Church of England and is viewed by many as one of the greatest New Testament Scholars alive today.  He’s written extensively on Jesus; both academic tomes and books written for people like you and I.

     Simply Jesus, looks at how the historical forces of Jewish Nationalism and Roman Imperialism collided during the life of Jesus.  Wright’s strength is in uniting seemingly divergent themes and pulling them together to show how Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.  

     Simply Jesus is a very accessible book and is an invaluable resource for understanding Jesus’s life and history.  Go out and read it for yourself!

Jesus Hates Zombies

In Revelations Chapters 2 and 3, Jesus writes to seven local Churches.  He not only cares for His Church, but He knows all that is going on within each Church.  

To those Churches who are being persecuted, He encourages them to stay strong.  

To those Churches who are allowing false teachers into their Church, He warns them to hold fast to the Truth.

 But to the Church located in the town of Sardis, Jesus blasts them to through and through.  In Revelation Chapter 3 verse 4 Jesus states, ‘I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.’  Translated: ‘You really don’t have anything positive about you, in fact the best thing that you have going for you is your reputation!  But even that isn’t great; truthfully, you’re dead!’

The Church in Sardis is a Zombie Church.  They appear to be alive, but in reality are walking dead: they are nothing more than Zombies going through the religious motions.  The spiritual antidote to this Zombie Church is five-fold.  Wake Up, Strengthen what is still alive, Remember the Truth, Obey the Truth, and finally Repent.

What Does a Pastor Do?

It depends....

The Book of Books

  Thanks to alert Southbrook member Mary for directing me towards the December 25, 2011 New York Times Book Review.  The cover story, written by Marilynne Robinson, author of the deceptively brilliant Gilead, speaks to the Bible's influence on literature and culture.  Robinson doesn't present an apologetic for the Bible; rather she shows how two great authors -Dostoevsky and Faulkner's works -incarnate the Scriptures.  An excellent read all around!

Sunday Left-Overs -Revelation 2 -February 12, 2012

    On Sunday we entered into the section of Revelation where Jesus addresses seven local Churches.  Jesus packs these letters with wisdom for His Church!  Specifically these letters help us deal with the reality of persecution.  Many Christians experience persecution and therefore these letters resonate with a great degree of urgency.  But what about those of us who aren't persecuted, what can we learn from this section of Revelations?

A few thoughts:
1. Suffering may be certain, but it is always limited.  Jesus told us not to fear those who can kill the body, but to fear the one who can kill the soul.  He always wins out in the end because he is the one who holds the keys of life and death!


2. We may not be persecuted, but others are.  The reality is that there are Christians all over the world who daily face persecution for their faith.  The February 13, 2012 cover article of Newsweek Magazine most recently brought this to light.  www.Persecution.com is the site to an organization that tracks Christians and the nations that persecute them.  They have great resources to help direct our prayers for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.


3. We just may face persecution, so we should prepare now!  This isn't fear mongering or 'painting the devil on the wall;' rather it is a fact that we must deal with.  I have no idea what is in-store for American Christians, but I do know that we are always wise to dig deep in our relationship with Christ.


4.  Have we avoided persecution because we have made compromises for our faith?  This is as tough a question for me to write as it is a difficult one for us to answer.  I am convinced that the Holy Spirit will reveal to us this answer, but let us take the initiative and ask it first!

American Celebrity

‘We do not measure a culture by its output of undisguised trivialities, but by what it claims as significant.’ Neal Postman, Amusing ourselves to Death, 1985.

Note: With the recent news of Whitney Houston's death, I thought it appropriate to update this post which was originally written on July 31st, 2009.

At some point in our recent history, ‘celebrity’ replaced ‘hero’ in the American pop-culture lexicon.  Now in America being famous trumps doing something noble and the cult of personality is the ultimate measure of success. The death of Michael Jackson on June 25th, 2009, brought an unprecedented amount of 24/7 news coverage and an endless parade of talking heads, associates and parasites, each one positioning themselves as a unique conveyor of Jackson tidbits.

In witnessing this depressing spectacle unfold; I’ve realized that 'American Celebrities' follow a unique lifecycle.

1st Stage: Create. We create the myth of celebrity by hoisting undue praise and print: witness the check-out rags breathless photos, or the advent of tabloid ‘news’ shows. Whether or not we physically purchase some item related to the celebrity doesn’t matter, for we are still giving mental space to them.  People with no vested interest still have opinions on Brittany’s shaved head rampage, or Brad Pitt’s latest appearance. Most celebrities’ careers end at this stage: just too many interlopers and only so much cultural bandwidth.

2nd Stage: Feed.  In this stage the celebrity acts in ways that are appropriate to them, but improper to everyone else. Celebrities become caricatures of themselves, trapping themselves within their personas and roles. Sports stars’ sexual assaults, DUI mug shots, Domestic Abuse allegations, leaked video tapes, etc…  All are necessary evils and necessary steps on the road to American Celebrity.

3rd Stage: Kill.  At some point the myth implodes under its own weight.  Jimmy Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, Elvis, Michael Jackson, Marilyn Monroe, Heath Ledger, Anna Nicole Smith, et al…  Pressure, whether internal or external, causes the celebrity to act self-destructively as the weight of excess is too much to bear. Whether their life ended well before it should -like Michael Jackson, or at a more natural point -like Marlon Brando, each left a mess that outlived them.

4th Stage: Mourn. We cry and mourn as if we had a personal connection to the celebrity.  Indeed a bond exists, albeit a vicarious connection bereft of intimacy and closeness. We substitute our information of the celebrity for actual knowledge, and grieve like we’ve lost a friend.  Public displays of sorrow allow us to cement our relationship, thus immortalizing the figure in our cultural mind and validating our feelings towards the recently deceased.

Revelation 2 and 3. The Letters to the Seven Churches

     At first glance, Revelation Chapters 2-3 seems like an odd segment of text.  In Chapter 1 John sees Jesus in all his glory and in Chapter 4 John is transported into heaven!  So what do we make of these seven letters?  Some have taken the view that they represent not literal churches, but seven eras of Church History.  Others see these letters as rhetorical devices used to present the problems that the rest of the Book of Revelation addresses.     In our study of Revelation we will look at these churches as literal letters written by Jesus which show His passion for His Church!  

Chapters 2 and 3 are not a pause in the story of Revelation; rather they show the impending persecution and the real life situations of Christians who are under threat of the Roman Empire.  

I would encourage you to read through Revelation 2 and 3 and send in your questions!

Sunday Left-Overs -Revelation 1 -February 5th, 2012

We started our series on Revelations with a look at Chapter 1.  In this chapter John hears a voice telling him to write to seven local churches.  He turns to hear the voice and sees an amazing site:  It is Jesus standing among seven lamp stands.  In Revelation 1.13-16, eight different images are pulled from the OT and assigned to Jesus:

1. Long Robe with a Golden Sash - This may refer to the robes that the High Priests wore -see Exodus 28.4- or it may refer to the garments worn by noblemen.
2. White Head and Hair -  In Daniel 7.9 we are told that the Ancient of Days will have hair, 'white like wool.'
3. Blazing Eyes - Another image that originates from the book of Daniel, specifically chapter 10, verse 6.
4. Bronze Feet - This image is meant to evoke glory and strength, as Bronze was used for military purposes and in coinage.  See Daniel 10.6 and Ezekiel 1.7 for Old Testament illustrations.
5. Powerful Voice - The Prophet Ezekiel referred to God's power and glory as like a 'roar of rushing waters.'  See Ezekiel 1.24 and 43.2 for further insight.
6. Stars in his Right Hand - The right hand in scripture is frequently used to show power and authority. Revelation 1.20 shows us that the stars symbolize the local churches.
7. Sword from His Mouth - Isaiah 11.4 points to the truth that the Messiah will have the power of Judgment over his people.
8. Radiant Face - This final image is meant to evoke Moses coming down from Mt. Sinai after meeting with God.  The sun is frequently used to describe God in the Old Testament.

We are meant to look at these images and to see the power and glory of Christ.  Jesus is the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophesies and images!

Revelations and childhood nightmares

God bless my parents. They really wanted to instill solid Christian values in me and surrounded me with Christian books and records. But hanging on my wall, over my bed was a painting that truly gave me great fear. It was a painting of Dallas Texas, at the moment of Jesus' return. Of course the idea that Jesus would appear at Dallas is a given! You'd think that a painting of Jesus would bring joy, but not to me. This painting depicts buses crashing off the highway, cars ramming into each other, and, even more terrifying, is a plane crashing into one of Dallas' skyscrapers...! Click on the painting to take a closer look, and then tell me your opinion of it!

Entering The End

Honestly, the book of Revelations has always scared me. Its not the dramatic images or haunting themes, but rather the wide range of opinions and ideas that it elicits. From the very beginning, Christians have differed over how to interpret this powerful book. To complicate matters even more, today there are plenty of people who claim to be experts; many of whom disagree with one another! So it is with great humility and some trepidation that we enter The End.

Before we begin our study of Revelations, what are some big-picture questions that you have about this book?

Rationality of Religious Belief

I've always have found it curious that there's a need to validate and justify religious belief. Some, like Augustine, claim religious belief to be innate. His 'God-shaped hole' analogy depicts a chasm with in each person that can only be filled by God. Writing at the turn of the last century, William James' The Varieties of Religious Experiences, again attempted to justify religious leanings. His efforts in describing the Russian Tolstoy's conversion, stands out as a validation of sorts towards religion. Recently, works by Yale's Nicholas Wolterstorff and Notre Dame's Alvin Plantinga have helped to reinforce the cognitive ascension of religious belief.

This week, Stanley Fish Op-Ed piece in the New York Times, attracted considerable attention. He details a philosophical shift of the German philosopher Jurger Habermas. While this may seem innocuous to most, Habermas throws an insider's attack against the postmodernism's belittling view of religion.

Read the article and add your thoughts.

Dead Sea Scrolls

Had a delightful visit to see the Dead Sea Scroll exhibit at the Milwaukee Public Museum. This was a great way to spend a rainy afternoon over 2010's Easter Break. Impressive displays and clear descriptions helped to make this an insightful visit. Curious as to how our 10 year old son would enjoy this exhibit, so kudos to Jacob for reading everything and for engaging the material. Have you seen this exhibit and what struck you about it?

The Resurrection

The Resurrection of Jesus, 2000 years ago, presents modernity with a massive challenge. If it is true, then Jesus must be true… if it is false, then Christianity as we know it is built on a lie. Author Lisa Miller’s new book, Heaven: Our Enduring Fascination with the Afterlife, which is excerpted in the latest Newsweek, provides the rationale for both rejecting and accepting the resurrection.

It is fashionable to construct religious observances along the lines of sociologically explained phenomenon. The argument states that the desire to believe in something greater is woven into our psyche, as a means of securing a social contract with the greater culture.

Crashing this generic social-religion is the resurrection, which truly stands the world on its ear, causing all to reevaluate not only their life, but all life as we know it.

Sonar

Sonar from Renaud Hallée on Vimeo.

Overheard: Starbucks thinks Truck Drivers are ugly.

On a recent Saturday morning, I found myself at a local Starbucks, when a beautiful woman walks in and orders a coffee… she mentions to the clerk behind the counter that she has a long day of driving her truck ahead of her. The clerk is somewhat astonished that she’s talking to a truck driver and exclaims, ‘You’re much to pretty to be a truck driver.’