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The Testimony of God

Summary of my sermon, based on 1 John 5:6-12. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on April 30, 2023.

When I was younger, legal thrillers like “Law and Order” and “Boston Legal” were my favourite. These shows showcased the intricacies of the justice system, from crime-solving to courtroom drama. However, courts serve a broader purpose beyond criminal cases. Disputes, including tort cases involving injury or death, also find their way into the legal system. In these cases, expert witnesses play a crucial role in presenting testimonies to support or challenge claims. Similarly, the Apostle John calls us to examine and defend the testimonies that testify to the hope and assurance found in Jesus Christ.

Believe the Testimony

John’s letter in 1 John 5:6 introduces three witnesses that testify about Jesus Christ. The first two witnesses are the water and the blood, symbolizing Jesus’ baptism and sacrificial death. These events signify His earthly ministry and affirm His identity as the incarnate Son of God. John, an eyewitness to Jesus’ ministry, confirms the truth of Jesus’ incarnation. In addition, the Holy Spirit testifies about Jesus. At Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit descended like a dove, affirming His divine mission (Matthew 3:16-17). Furthermore, the Holy Spirit inspired the authors of Scripture, providing us access to the truth of God (2 Timothy 3:16). The testimony of the Spirit reinforces the truth of Jesus’ identity and mission.

Defend the Testimony

John emphasizes the importance of defending the testimonies presented in 1 John 5:7-9. He references the standard set in Deuteronomy 19:15, where two or three witnesses are required to establish a charge. By presenting three witnesses, John adheres to this standard. He contrasts the testimony of men with the testimony of God, highlighting the superiority of God’s testimony. As believers, we must be prepared to defend our faith when questioned. This defense extends to external challenges and internal doubts. Equipping ourselves to defend our faith enables us to stand firm in the face of opposition and maintain our trust in God (1 Peter 3:15).

Critics often challenge the reliability of Scripture by pointing out numerous mistakes or textual variants. They claim that the Bible contains hundreds of thousands of discrepancies. However, this claim misrepresents the reality of textual variants. While there are over 300,000 textual variants in the manuscripts of the New Testament, it is important to understand their significance. These variants emerged due to the manual process of copying the Bible by hand, which naturally led to human errors. Nonetheless, the abundance of textual variants is also a testament to the wealth of manuscript copies available. We possess approximately 5,800 complete or partial manuscripts of the Greek New Testament, far exceeding other ancient texts.

Furthermore, the time gap between the original writings and the earliest manuscripts is relatively short compared to other ancient texts. Some New Testament copies were made within a century of the original writing. Although we do not have the original manuscripts, the abundance of copies and the early dates of these copies increase our confidence in the accuracy of the New Testament text (Romans 15:4).

Verdict from the Testimony

In 1 John 5:10-12, John highlights the significance of believing in the Son of God. Those who believe have the testimony of God within them, affirming their status as children of God (Romans 8:16-17). The testimony is that God has granted eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16-18). Conversely, those who do not believe make God a liar by rejecting His testimony. Believing in Jesus leads to eternal life, while disbelief results in condemnation.

As believers, we are called to believe and defend the testimonies that testify to the truth of Jesus Christ. We can trust in the testimony of the water, blood, and the Holy Spirit, which affirm Jesus’ identity as the Son of God. Furthermore, we must be prepared to defend our faith when questioned or challenged. Addressing doubts and external attacks with knowledge and wisdom strengthens our faith and allows us to stand firm in the truth (Ephesians 6:11-13). Let us hold fast to the testimonies of faith, embracing the hope and assurance found in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

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He is Greater: Naaman and the Servant Girl

Summary of my sermon, based on 2 Kings 5:1-5. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on September 17, 2023.

Last week, Pastor Robert preached from Philippians 1:27-30, emphasizing the importance of living in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Today, we continue to explore pertinent issues that challenge our Christian values in contemporary Western culture—Gender Ideology, Abortion, and Medical Aid in Dying. These issues are not just personal opinions but Gospel issues that test our faith in a world increasingly hostile to Christianity.

In today’s society, Gender Ideology, Abortion, and Medical Aid in Dying have become dominant cultural issues that stand in contrast to our Christian values. These challenges reflect a rejection of Yahweh, the God who created us male and female, knit us together in our mother’s wombs, and remains sovereign over all, including life and death. As Christians, we find ourselves in the midst of a cultural conflict where our beliefs are increasingly marginalized.

In a world filled with hostility towards our faith, the question arises: How do we remain faithful? This question seamlessly leads us to our scripture passage for today, 2 Kings 5, where we encounter the story of Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, and a nameless Israelite servant girl. Their lives exemplify important lessons for us in times of adversity.

Commander of the Army of the King of Syria

Naaman, despite his prestigious position as the commander of the Syrian army, suffered from leprosy, a debilitating and highly contagious disease. This affliction was a humbling reminder that earthly status cannot shield us from suffering. In Naaman, we see that even the mighty can experience vulnerability and seek redemption.

The Israelite Servant Girl

The nameless Israelite servant girl, captured during a Syrian raid, displayed extraordinary faith and compassion. Instead of harboring resentment towards Naaman, she directed him to the Prophet in Samaria, knowing that he could heal Naaman’s leprosy. Her response serves as a remarkable example of forgiveness and love in the face of adversity.

As Christians facing hostility in the world, we are called to emulate the faith and forgiveness demonstrated by the Israelite servant girl. While it may be tempting to respond with anger and resentment, the Bible instructs us differently. In Jeremiah 29:7, we are encouraged to seek the welfare of the city where we reside and pray for its well-being. Jesus Himself teaches us to love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who mistreat us (Luke 6:27–28).

Point to Christ

Our ultimate example of faith and forgiveness is found in Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us that God is patient, desiring that all should reach repentance, and 1 Timothy 4:10 highlights that God is the Savior of all people, especially those who believe. As followers of Christ, our mission is to spread His message of love, redemption, and forgiveness, even in the face of hostility.

Jim Elliot, a passionate Christian missionary, exemplified the principles of faith and forgiveness. Alongside his companions, he sought to bring the message of Jesus to the Huaorani tribe in the Amazon rainforest of Ecuador. Tragically, they were martyred by the tribe, but their widows, including Elisabeth Elliot, chose a path of forgiveness.

Elisabeth Elliot and Rachel Saint, instead of seeking revenge, chose to live among the Huaorani people. They learned their language and culture, ultimately introducing them to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The transformation that followed was profound, as former violent tribe members embraced forgiveness, love, and redemption through Christ.

In a world marked by hostility towards our faith, the stories of Naaman and Jim Elliot provide valuable lessons. We are called to respond to adversity with faith, forgiveness, and love. Just as the Israelite servant girl directed Naaman to healing, we are tasked with pointing others to the ultimate source of redemption—Jesus Christ. As we navigate the clash of values in our culture, may we remain faithful witnesses, living out our faith with grace and compassion, even when faced with hostility.

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Victory in Faith

Summary of my sermon, based on 1 John 5:1-5. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on April 23, 2023.

We have a new member in my family, my nephew Nathaniel James. As we played the “Who does the baby look like” game, it reminded me of how children inherit physical characteristics from their parents and families. Similarly, as children of God, we inherit certain characteristics that indicate our belonging to the family of God. In this passage, John explores these interconnected characteristics: faith, love, and obedience.

Faith, Love, & Obedience

John highlights the interconnection between faith, love, and obedience, as they are all linked to one another. He teaches us that those who believe that Jesus is the Christ have been born of God (1 John 5:1). This faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. Furthermore, our love for the Father leads us to love those who are born of Him (1 John 5:1). Our love for fellow believers is an outpouring of our love for God. Moreover, our love for God and obedience to His commandments demonstrate our love for the children of God (1 John 5:2). These characteristics are interconnected, and we cannot have one without the others.

Born-Again Christian

The phrase “born-again Christian” comes from Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in John 3. Jesus explains that unless one is born again, they cannot see or enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3). This new birth is not a physical one but a spiritual rebirth. Through faith in Jesus, we become children of God, not by blood or human will, but by God’s divine work (John 1:12-13). Just as a baby inherits physical characteristics from their parents, Christians take on the characteristics of the family of God.

As children of God, we naturally exhibit faith, love, and obedience. Obedience is not a means to earn salvation but a response to the saving grace we have received. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God and not the result of our works. Therefore, obedience is an outpouring of our identity as children of God, rather than a prerequisite for it. As believers, we are called to obey God’s commandments out of love for Him (1 John 5:3). Our obedience is an expression of our faith and love for God.

Similarly, faith is not something we manufacture but is assigned by God (Romans 12:3). It is a gift given to us according to God’s measure (Romans 12:3). While the theological debates around predestination and human will persist, John teaches us that faith, love, and obedience are interconnected characteristics of God’s children.

The outcome of possessing these characteristics is our ability to overcome the world. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego provide a remarkable illustration of this in the Old Testament. Despite facing pressure to renounce their faith and worship foreign gods, they firmly stood their ground. Their response to King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 3 demonstrates their unwavering trust in God’s deliverance (Daniel 3:16-17).

Similarly, in Romans 8:37-39, Paul affirms that we are more than conquerors through Christ’s love, and nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God. Our faith, love, and obedience empower us to overcome the challenges and temptations of the world. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can stand strong in our faith, love unconditionally, and obey God’s commandments.

As children of God, we are called to exhibit the interconnected characteristics of faith, love, and obedience. These traits are not isolated from one another but work together to reflect our identity as God’s family. Our faith is a consequence of our belief in Jesus, assigned to us by God’s grace. Our love for God and obedience to His commandments naturally flow from our relationship with Him. As we embrace these interconnected characteristics, we discover the power to overcome the challenges of the world and experience the unbreakable love of God.

Let us remember that we are called to be faithful, loving, and obedient children of God, reflecting His character and bringing glory to His name. May we walk in the footsteps of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and experience the abundant life that comes from living out these interconnected characteristics.

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He is Greater: David & Goliath

Summary of my sermon, based on 1 Samuel 17:48-51. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on September 3, 2023.

In a world filled with underdog stories, the tale of David and Goliath is an undeniable classic. The scrawny shepherd boy, David, triumphing over the colossal giant, Goliath, has become a symbol of overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges; however, beneath the surface of this well-known narrative lies a profound theological message that points us to the greater champion, Jesus Christ. In this blog post, we will explore the theological richness of the David and Goliath story through the lens of Biblical Theology.

What is Biblical Theology?

Before delving into the story of David and Goliath, it’s essential to grasp the concept of Biblical Theology. The Bible, comprised of 66 separate books written by around 40 authors over approximately 1500 years in three different languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek), is both diverse and unified. Its unity lies in its overarching narrative of Salvation, often referred to as “Redemptive History.”

While some parts of the Bible, like the Gospels, directly contribute to this redemptive history, others may not seem as connected at first glance. This is where Biblical Theology comes into play, utilizing typology and tension to uncover hidden connections that point to Christ.

Typology involves recognizing symbols in the Old Testament that function as Christ figures, foreshadowing Jesus. For example, the bronze serpent in Numbers 21, raised by Moses to heal those bitten by snakes, symbolizes looking to Jesus on the cross for salvation (Hebrews 12:2).

Tension, on the other hand, creates a longing that only Christ can fulfill. It may not overtly point to Jesus but generates a deep desire for Him. An example of this tension is evident in the story of Adam and Eve, where God’s judgment brings discontent into various aspects of life that can only be relieved through Jesus Christ.

Goliath’s Challenge

The story of David and Goliath, one of the most well-known narratives in the Old Testament, epitomizes the underdog theme. Goliath, a giant of immense proportions, serves as the seemingly insurmountable challenge. However, there’s a spiritual aspect to this confrontation as well.

God vs. god(s)

In the context of this story, each side selects a champion to fight on their behalf, representing not just individuals but the gods they worship. This reflects the notion of “God vs. god(s),” where the outcome of the battle hinges on divine intervention. Israel’s failure lies in their return to the sinful patterns of fearing their enemies, similar to their wilderness experiences.

King Saul, chosen to lead Israel, should have exemplified faith in the LORD as their salvation. However, when faced with Goliath, he, too, succumbs to fear, abdicating his role as the leader and champion of Israel. Despite his physical stature and qualities that should have made him a natural champion, Saul falls short.

Enter David, the scrawny shepherd boy. Unlike Saul and the fearful Israelites, David displays unwavering faith in the LORD. He confidently declares that the same God who delivered him from a lion and a bear will deliver him from Goliath’s hand (1 Samuel 17:37). David’s faith reveals the true underdog – Goliath – who stands no chance against the God David serves.

Who Is Your King?

The story of David and Goliath challenges us to reflect on our own faith and trust. Are we like Saul and the Israelites, intimidated by life’s challenges? Or are we like David, placing our faith and trust in the ultimate Champion, King Jesus?

Living in a broken world, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by seemingly insurmountable struggles. However, as Romans 8:31 reminds us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” The challenge lies in living out this belief in our daily lives.

The Greater David

David, despite his greatness, had his failings. His affair with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of Uriah the Hittite reveal his shortcomings. The story of David underscores the need for a greater Champion, the one Paul calls the “King of kings and Lord of lords” – Jesus Christ.

The story of David and Goliath is not merely a tale of an underdog’s triumph; it’s a profound theological narrative that points us to Jesus as the ultimate Champion. As we face the giants in our lives, may we remember that our faith in Christ, who laid down His life for us, grants us true and final victory. Just as David defeated Goliath, we can overcome the challenges of the world through our faith in Jesus Christ, the Greater David.

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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.