Category: Books of the Bible

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God’s Love Wins (Part 2)

Summary of my sermon, based on 1 John 4:13-21. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on April 16, 2023.

Today, we delve into a pivotal passage that serves as the intellectual climax of the entire letter. As we have seen, John wrote this letter to address heretical beliefs and introduced three tests: obedience, doctrine, and social conduct. In this section, we encounter a fusion of the doctrinal and social tests, highlighting the profound impact of our beliefs on our actions. Specifically, we will examine how the world’s understanding of love contradicts the biblical teachings, emphasizing the need to refocus our love on God.

Before delving into the main points, let us first acknowledge the importance of recognizing truth and embracing authoritative sources. John appeals to two crucial authorities: the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and his own authority as an eyewitness of Jesus Christ and an apostle. The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, guides and empowers us, teaching us all things and reminding us of Jesus’ words (John 14:26). We also embrace the authority of the Bible, the inspired Word of God, which equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). With these unchanging sources, our understanding of love remains steadfast amid cultural shifts.

God’s Love is Love

John’s first point centers on the profound nature of God’s love. To abide in God, we confess Jesus as the Son of God and abide in love, recognizing that love and God are intertwined (1 John 4:15-16). This powerful fusion of the doctrinal and social tests underscores that love is not an abstract concept but a fundamental attribute of God. It is crucial to avoid misinterpretations and misrepresentations of the idea that “God is Love.”

God’s Love is Perfect

John further explores the perfection of God’s love, drawing upon references from Psalm 18:30 and Matthew 5:48. As we recognize that God is perfect, His love reflects this perfection. It stands as the ultimate counter to fear, challenging the world’s understanding of love rooted in punishment. In contemporary culture, we witness the rise of cancel culture, where disagreement is met with hatred and exclusion. However, God’s perfect love offers a different path—one of peace and forgiveness, leaving vengeance to God alone (Romans 12:17-19).

God’s Love is Our Example

Lastly, John reminds us that we love because God first loved us (1 John 4:19-21). Our love for God cannot be divorced from our love for our fellow human beings. In fact, if we claim to love God but harbor hatred towards others, we deceive ourselves. The commandment is clear: to love God is to love our brothers and sisters. Jesus Himself exemplified the highest form of love by laying down His life for His friends (John 15:12-13). Through His sacrifice, God demonstrated His profound love for us, even while we were still sinners (Romans 5:7-8). As recipients of this divine love, we are called to embody compassion, forgiveness, and unity (Colossians 3:12-14).

As we conclude our exploration of this significant passage in 1 John, we recognize that love holds a central place in our lives as believers. Understanding the true essence of love requires us to confront misconceptions prevalent in our society. By redirecting our focus towards God, we realign our beliefs and actions with His transformative love. Let us embrace God’s perfect love, allowing it to shape our interactions with others and create harmonious communities. May the example set by God’s sacrificial love, as seen through the scriptures, inspire us to live lives filled with compassion, forgiveness, and unity.

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He is Greater: Samson and Delilah

Summary of my sermon, based on Judges 16:25-30. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on August 13, 2023.

The story of Samson and Delilah, found in the book of Judges, marks a significant chapter in the history of the Israelites. It is a tale of strength, weakness, and the unyielding grace of God. Although the book of Judges is often considered a chronicle of Israel’s waywardness, it offers profound lessons for us today.

The Downward Spiral

The book of Judges follows the period of Israel’s history after their conquest of the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership. Tragically, this once-faithful nation rapidly descended into sin and idolatry. Judges 2:11 tells us that “there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord or the work that he had done for Israel.” They forsook the God who had delivered them from Egypt and preserved them during their wanderings.

To counter their disobedience and oppression by neighboring nations, God raised up a series of judges who served as leaders, governors, and deliverers of Israel. These judges, like Othniel, Ehud, Deborah, and Gideon, were chosen to rescue the Israelites when they repented and cried out to God for help.

The Rise and Fall of Samson

Samson, the last of these judges, is a unique figure in the Bible. He was set apart as a Nazirite from birth, signifying his consecration to God. His story begins with the announcement of his miraculous birth to a barren couple, a sign of God’s divine intervention (Judges 13:2-7). Samson’s great strength, a gift from God, became his hallmark.

Samson’s flawed character and impulsive nature, however, often led him astray. His first marriage, to a Philistine woman, demonstrated his disregard for God’s commands. This marriage was marked by strife and vengeance (Judges 14:2-4).

Delilah, a Philistine woman, entered Samson’s life as a seductress, lured by the Philistine rulers who sought to uncover the secret of his strength. Through her persistent questioning and deceit, Samson eventually revealed the source of his power: his uncut hair, symbolizing his adherence to the Nazirite vow. Delilah betrayed him by having his hair cut while he slept, leading to his capture, blindness, and imprisonment (Judges 16).

Over time, Samson’s hair began to grow back during his captivity. The Philistines, seeking to mock him, brought him to a temple during a grand celebration. It was here, in his moment of weakness, that Samson cried out to God for strength one last time. He pushed apart the temple’s main support pillars, collapsing the structure and killing more Philistines in his death than during his lifetime (Judges 16:28-30).

Power Perfected in Weakness

Samson’s life teaches us that power is perfected in weakness. In our weakness, we find our greatest strength. Just as Samson’s strength was only effective when he recognized his vulnerability, our true strength comes from relying on God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Saved by Grace

The Israelites’ repeated cycle of disobedience and oppression illustrates humanity’s need for God’s grace. Even when we are dead in our sins, God’s rich mercy and love save us through Christ (Ephesians 2:1-5). God’s kindness is meant to lead us to repentance (Romans 2:4).

The story of Samson and Delilah serves as a reminder that God’s grace and redemption are available to all, even in our weakest moments. Samson, while a hero of faith, also points us to the ultimate Savior, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on this story, let us remember that power is perfected in weakness, and salvation is found in God’s boundless grace. In Christ, we find our redemption and hope, just as Samson’s last act of faith brought victory and deliverance to Israel.

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God’s Love Wins (Part 1)

Summary of my sermon, based on 1 John 4:7-12. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on March 26, 2023.

Love is a concept that is often misunderstood and misapplied in today’s world. We use the same word to express our devotion to our spouse and our fondness for a slice of pizza. This confusion is further exacerbated by the popular phrase “Love is Love,” which tends to elevate love to the status of a deity. In this blog post, we will explore the proper understanding of love in light of the biblical teachings and address the dangers of idolizing love. By refocusing our love on God and embracing His perfect love, we can navigate the complexities of love in a world of distortion.

God is Love

The Apostle John, in his letter, presents one of the most profound affirmations about God’s nature: “God is love” (1 John 4:7-8 ESV). While there are other “God is” statements in the Bible, this one holds special significance. It emphasizes that love is not an abstract idea but an integral part of God’s character. However, we must not reduce God to a single assertion but embrace the complete picture of who He is.

It is essential to understand that God’s love does not negate His righteous judgment. Psalm 11:7 reminds us that God loves righteous deeds and is righteous Himself. Without judgment, God would be indifferent to sin and its consequences. The notion that “Love Wins” and everyone, regardless of their beliefs, will enter heaven contradicts the teachings of Scripture. The judgment is necessary, as seen in John 3:18-20, where those who reject Jesus face condemnation because they love darkness rather than the light.

God’s Love Displayed on the Cross

The manifestation of God’s love is revealed through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ (1 John 4:9-10). The cross becomes the avenue for God’s righteous judgment and His ultimate act of love. 1 Peter 2:24 emphasizes that Jesus bore our sins on the cross, bringing forgiveness and healing. Attempts to rewrite hymns or diminish the wrath of God poured out on Jesus undermine the significance of His sacrifice and the depth of God’s love.

God’s love is perfected when we love one another

As recipients of God’s love, we are called to love one another (1 John 4:11-12). Galatians 5:13-15 urges us to serve one another through love, fulfilling the law’s requirement to love our neighbors. Romans 12:9-13 encourages us to show genuine love, honor one another, and contribute to the needs of fellow believers. Our love for others becomes a tangible expression of God’s love dwelling within us.

Love is a powerful and complex concept that is often misunderstood and misapplied in our world. Elevating love to the ultimate can lead to idolatry and distort the true nature of God. Instead, we must anchor our understanding of love in the biblical teachings and the person of God Himself. By recognizing that God is love, along with His other attributes, we gain a more complete picture of who He is. Let us refocus our love on God, embracing His perfect love, and allowing it to shape our relationships with others. As we live out God’s love, we become vessels through which His love is manifested in the world.

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Do So More And More

Summary of my stand-alone sermon, based on 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto (Family Camp) on August 27, 2023.

In today’s sermon, we dive into a somewhat challenging and often misunderstood passage from 1 Thessalonians 4. This passage is frequently associated with discussions of sexual ethics, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. To fully grasp its meaning, we must consider the broader context of the letter.

The Apostle Paul visited Thessalonica during his second missionary journey, where he faced opposition but successfully shared the Gospel with some. Due to this abrupt departure, Paul couldn’t provide comprehensive teaching to the new believers. Later, Timothy’s report on their faith and love prompted Paul to write 1 Thessalonians. In this letter, Paul commends and encourages them while addressing the essential topic of the Parousia (Christ’s second coming) and guiding them in living out their faith.

Commendation and Encouragement
In 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2, Paul encourages the Thessalonians to continue their walk with Christ, emphasizing growth and excellence in their faith. As a pastor, I resonate with Paul’s desire to commend and encourage the congregation. Despite challenges, including divisions, loss of meeting space, and a pandemic, the church has remained strong.

Today, we celebrate seven individuals’ baptisms—a testament to the community’s effort in nurturing their faith. To the baptism candidates, remember that you’re formally joining our community today, and I encourage you to engage fully, just as those before you have done.

Warning About the World
Paul addresses the issue of sexual immorality in 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6, emphasizing that the Lord avenges these transgressions. Thessalonica’s Roman-influenced culture encouraged sexual behavior contrary to the Gospel. Paul urges believers to abstain and control their bodies.

In today’s world, our culture is similarly saturated with sexualized messages, emphasizing individual autonomy and self-entitlement. The proliferation of gender pronouns exemplifies this trend. Christianity, however, stands in stark contrast, asserting that we belong to the Lord.

Holiness for Gospel Fluency
Holiness doesn’t mean superiority but rather being set apart for God’s purposes. Leviticus 11:44 and Philippians 2:5-8 remind us of the importance of holiness. As Christians, we are called to be distinct from the culture around us, not by our judgment but by our Christ-like character.

As we reflect on 1 Thessalonians 4, we see Paul’s encouragement to excel in our faith and his warning against conforming to the world’s patterns of behavior. In a culture that prioritizes individual autonomy, we must remember that we belong to the Lord and live in holiness, setting ourselves apart for His purposes.

May we continue to grow in Gospel Fluency, understanding our culture while standing firmly in our identity as children of God. Let us excel still more in our faith, just as the Thessalonians did, and may our lives always be pleasing to God.

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Testing the Spirits

Summary of my sermon, based on 1 John 4:1-6. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on March 12, 2023.

Tests and exams have never been my favorite, as I always preferred essays and research papers. However, in today’s world, testing has taken on a new level of importance. With the rise of artificial intelligence chatbots like Chat GPT, the need to discern truth from deception has become crucial. In this blog post, we will explore the biblical call to test the spirits and how it helps us navigate the presence of false teachers. By understanding the importance of testing and immersing ourselves in the truth of God’s Word, we can guard ourselves against deception.

Testing Reveals False Teachers

In 1 John 4:1, the apostle John urges believers not to believe every spirit but to test them to determine their origin. He warns that many false prophets have infiltrated the world, spreading deceitful teachings. While some false teachers may be easy to identify, such as those promoting the prosperity gospel, many others employ clever tactics to distort the truth. Despite their outward signs of wealth and success, their message can still deceive those who do not delve deeply into the Word of God.

False teachers often twist and distort the truth to suit their agendas. They may selectively use verses like Philippians 4:19, which speaks of God’s provision for our needs, to justify their own materialistic desires. However, their misinterpretation serves their personal gain rather than aligning with the true Gospel. Examples of pastors owning private jets highlight the stark contrast between their extravagant lifestyles and the teachings of Jesus. Yet, many people fall for their lies due to a lack of biblical knowledge.

To guard against deception, it is crucial to immerse ourselves in the truth found in the Bible. Colossians 2:4 emphasizes the importance of knowing the truth to avoid being deluded by plausible arguments. The Word of God serves as a powerful antidote to falsehoods. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states, all Scripture is breathed out by God and equips us for every good work. By continuously reading and studying the Bible, we increase our understanding of truth and decrease the likelihood of falling for false teachings.

Testing Confesses the Incarnate Jesus

In 1 John 4:2-3, John provides a specific test to discern the spirit of God. He emphasizes the confession that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. The incarnation of Jesus is foundational to the Christian faith. It is through Jesus’ coming in the flesh that redemption, sanctification, and the establishment of His kingdom are made possible. Denying the incarnation is a clear indicator of false teaching, as it contradicts the core tenets of the Gospel.

Testing Overcomes the World

John encourages believers by assuring them that they have overcome the false spirits because the Spirit of God within them is greater than the spirit of the world (1 John 4:4-5). Although the world may turn against believers, they can find solace in the fact that Jesus has already overcome the world. Trials and tribulations may come, but the victory is already secured in Christ.

Testing Listens to the Spirit of Truth

In 1 John 4:6, John highlights the importance of listening to those who speak the truth of God. The Spirit of truth guides believers and helps them distinguish between truth and error. It is essential to seek out reliable, godly resources that align with the teachings of Scripture. By immersing ourselves in the truth, we can cultivate discernment and guard against the deceptive messages that surround us.

In a world filled with false teachers and distorted truths, the call to test the spirits is more significant than ever. By immersing ourselves in the Word of God, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and discerning truth from deception, we can navigate through the sea of lies and hold fast to the unchanging truth. Let us be diligent students of the Bible, constantly seeking to know and apply the truth in our lives. In doing so, we can walk in the light of Christ and share the true Gospel with a world in need of hope and salvation.