Evaluating 40 Days of Community

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]
This is an excellent chapter with appropriate warnings and wise guidance. I have a few things I want to point out and a few of my own comments to add.

"We're Connected to Grow Together...By Warning Each Other."

"Exhort one another every day, as long as it is called 'today,' that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin" (Heb 3:13, ESV).

Continuing on in the ESV:

"For we share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. As it is said, 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.' For who were those who heard and yet rebelled? Was it not all those who left Egypt led by Moses? And with whom was he provoked for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? And to whom did he swear that they would not enter his rest, but to those who were disobedient? So we see that they were unable to enter because of unbelief." (Heb 3:14-19, ESV).

If even those who experienced the tremendous miracles of the signs from Moses, the 10 plagues on Egypt, the pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire by night, the passing through the Red Sea, manna from heaven, water from the rock, clothing that lasted 40 years, the voice of God and thundering at Mt. Sinai... if these still did not believe, then we ought to realize that even many miracles cannot sway unbelief. How is it that we find true belief? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. We do not truly believe until we are fully submitted to Him, and this is hard (even impossible) if we do not understand ourselves in truth from God's perspective, that we are sinners saved by grace and not of works -- we are totally unable to please Him and are all in the muck together. How amazing it is that He saved me, then adopted me and gave me a son's inheritance! How undeserving I am, and how utterly loving He is. How can I not give everything to Him? Everything I have obtained in this life is absolutely worthless compared to knowing Jesus Christ!

...God wants us to "tell each other the truth, because we all belong to each other in the same body" (Eph 4:25, NCV). Note that the basis for telling the truth and for warning each other is that "we all belong to each other."

In the NASB, we read something slightly different: "Therefore, having put away falsehood..." This says that we have already put away falsehood. If you are a disciple of Christ, you have repented and put away the desires and lusts of the old nature and crucified them. If you haven't, then Jesus said that you will perish. This doesn't mean you won't make mistakes, and we will by no means become perfect in this life, but it does mean that you don't purpose to lie. After all, the Bible says in Rev 21:8 (NASB): "But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death." The basis for telling the truth is because we have repented of our sinful lives and turned to Christ. Therefore, Paul is exhorting us to tell each other the truth because of the this fact which means that we belong to one another. Our belonging is the result of our repentance and belief in Christ.

Anyone who would knowingly let us swerve into the path of danger wouldn't be a true friend; and the warning to us is not to tear down our driving skills, but to keep us on the correct path. As in driving, the warning should be immediate--"as long as it is called today." We should seize the moment because waiting on warning only leads to disaster.

This is very well said, and I agree whole heartedly. In fact, this is the reason I am writing this blog. As you can see, there is some good truths in this book, but there are also many misleading sign posts which could misdirect those who are searching for truth onto the wide path and away from the straight and narrow. From the context of this day's reading, we can see that Rick is speaking about those slipping into moral failures. However, its just as true when it comes to doctrinal purity. "Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers" (1 Tim 4:16, NIV).

John MacArthur has done a teaching video series on the lack of truth being taught in churches today. If you know me, ask me for it and I will lend you a copy. The DVD series is entitled "Does the Truth Matter Anymore?" It is produced by Word Pictures and you can find it listed here or browse their website at http://crosstv.com/. Here is the series abstract:

"Everywhere is apathy. Nobody cares whether that which is preached is true or false. A sermon is a sermon whatever the subject; only, the shorter it is the better."

Those words were written by Charles Spurgeon MORE THAN ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO! Yet, he might have just as easily been describing the state of the church at the beginning of the 21st Century.

Well, in this "tell-it-like-it-is" indictment of the attitudes, methods and approaches of much of the modern church, Pastor John MacArthur picks up where Charles Spurgeon left off.

This video series is 'MUST VIEWING" for the modern Christian.

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Connected to Grow Together...By Teaching Each Other."

We are all teachers of the faith. We may be good teachers or we may be bad teachers, but we are teachers.

To an extent this is true, especially concerning the faith. However, Jesus does not call us teachers but disciples, and we are to make disciples, teaching them to obey everything that Jesus commanded of His first disciples. In Matt 23:8, we read (NET): "But you are not to be called 'Rabbi,' for you have one Teacher and you are all brothers." We are not to call ourselves teachers, but brothers or sisters. As such, we are to be open to instruction from our brothers and sisters in the Lord, but we should not rely on them.

Rick's comment that we are all teachers is not entirely clear. It is true that we can have influence over and can teach one another, but Paul does very clearly state "all are not teachers, are they?" (1 Cor 12:29, NASB). However, teaching is a fruit of a mature Christian as the writer to the Hebrews attests: "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who becaues of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil" (Heb 5:12-14, NASB).

Also, Rick's statement is without the scriptural warnings concerning false teachers and the stricter judgment for those who operate in the capacity of a teacher. For those of us who are of greater influence and desire to teach, we would do well to heed the warning in James 3:1 (NASB): "Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment." The Bible only identifies two types of teachers: true and false teachers. What Rick means by a "bad" teacher is not entirely clear to me; he may be intending someone who teaches error, although it seems he either means a hypocrite or perhaps even someone who doesn't live a moral life.

In writing to an ordinary group of believers, the Apostle Paul states, "I know that you have all the knowledge you need and that you are able to teach each other" (Rom 15:14b, NCV).

The NASB says "And concerning you, my brethren, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one another." Admonish is not the same as teach; rather it is to warn or forewarn, to exhort, even to cousel. Rick seems to want to mix up teaching with counsel, advice or insight. I think its important to make a distinction between these, because the Bible makes the distinction and it warns of "false teachers among you" (2 Peter 2:1).

King Solomon ... said it is vital to learn from our friends (Prov 12:15).

This is true only if our friends give us godly advice. Should Job have listened to the counsel of his wife who told him to curse God and die? Or how about his friends whose advice was ill-informed? King Solomon actually said, "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel" (NASB). This is not the same thing as saying that we must learn from our friends, but we must take godly counsel. King David welcomed the reproof of a righteous man (Psalm 141:5), but friends can give us ill-counsel. "How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night" (Psalm 1:1-2, NASB). Our reliance must be upon our Lord and saviour--we must learn from Him. God said through Jeremiah "But who has stood in the council of the LORD, that he should see and hear His word? Who has given heed to His word and listened?" (Jer 23:18, NASB). Who was Jermiah's counsel? If it is imperitive that we learn from our friends, where were Jeremiah's friends? Yet still, godly people will be used of God to warn those of us who are straying to keep us all on the straight and narrow. It is vital that we be open to correction and reproof as King David was.

Let the words of Christ live in your heart. We must know God's word before we can teach it. ... Use God's word to teach and cousel each other. ... Too often we look to the world's conventional wisdom when we're seeking answers. ...once we learn from the wisdom of God, we must correctly appy it in our lives.

Amen! This is godly wisdom. But how is it that Rick is abiding by his own advice? Does he not look often to the world's conventional wisdom teaching others to do the same, frequently making use God's word as a stamp of approval to prooftext his own ideas? We must allow God's word to renew our minds and change our human way of thinking, correcting what we have been taught, much even from teachers in the church. We must take on the mind of Christ and not follow after the ways of this world (which has infiltrated the church) in an attempt to try to be successful and market Christianity in unbiblical ways and with smooth words, trickery and worldly appearances. I want to reiterate Rick's statement: we must know God's word before we can teach it.

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Connected to Grow Together...By Encouraging Each Other."

We have the power to kill or give life.

Wow! Rick sure places a lot of power in the hands of mere humans. The Bible says in Deut 32:39 (NET): "'See now that I, indeed I, am he!' says the LORD, 'and there is no god besides me. I kill and give life, I smash and I heal, and none can resist my power.'" Jesus emphasized this very clearly when He stated: "But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!" (Luke 12:5, NASB).

Many of the messages we hear from the world are the killing kind. We're told: "You're not smart enough; you're not thin enough; you're not fast enough; you're not GOOD enough." The Bible says, "Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit--you choose" (Prov 18:21, MSG).

It seems to me that Rick is advocating that we ought to be raising people's self-esteem instead of calling them to deny self and find God's strength in their weakness. True, words can be used for harm, and many have committed suicide because of the words of others--James confirms "no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men..." (James 3:8, NASB). He then goes on to show that it should not be so amongst believers. We are not to curse or condemn others, but we are to proclaim the truth in love, and while the truth has the effect of tearing down one's pride, our intent is to do this ultimately to build a person up in Christ (not in self). The flattery that lifts up self and suppress the truth will ultimately not "furnish this people the slightest benefit" (Jer 23:32).

In a world where people are beat up and put down, we can provide a counterbalance to the negativity.

In this statement I see much of the theology of Robert Schuller--the power of positive thinking. Yes we are to encourage the brethren, but for someone who needs to repent, isn't building up their self-esteem counter-productive? Does a doctor try to make the sick patient who doesn't think they are sick feel good as motivation to take the cure? No, rather he convinces the patient of their dire condition so that they will hunger and thirst for the cure and then in desparation grab for it.

We see an example of this in Luke 13, where Jesus heals a woman who's been unable to stand up straight for 18 years. ... Jesus healed her physically, but he also built her up.

I would say here that the general principal in the Scriptures is: law to the proud, grace to the humble. Jesus was being gracious to this humble elderly woman, yet He didn't build up her self-esteem. He simply treated everyone as equals and was not a respector of persons.

The Bible says we should "look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out" (1 Thess 5:15b, MSG).

There is an element of truth in this in that we are to see the best in people and think of others more highly than ourselves. Complementing others is scriptural. However, the scripture that Rick quotes here actually says in the NASB: "...but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people." It may not be the best to tell an unrepentant sinner that he's doing pretty good and God loves him just like he is (ie. don't change). However, returning favor to someone who has just tried to harm us is a way of showing them that we do not care for ourselves and put others first. The scripture says that this will heap coals on his head, but hopefully stirs him enough to desire repentance.

An encourager works hard at bringing out the best in others.

Again, we have to take care that this is not at the expense of core truths. Our job is to encourage people in the faith, not in self.

May your conversation this week be peppered with phrases like: "I believe in you..."

Where does the Bible tell us to believe in one another? Let's be careful to encourage with words that keep people on the narrow path. Encourage--yes, but with a sincere desire for what is best for them knowing the result of a proud heart in the presence of God.

I hope my comments today make sense to you and you don't think that I am saying we should be going around trying to discourage people and nit-pick at their faults. That is not at all what I am saying. Love overlooks faults; but it doesn't steer people away from the truth that they are sinners saved by grace in whom God's strength is best displayed while they are weak. John the Baptist prepared the way by making the path straight, filling in the valleys (building up the broken-hearted) and leveling the hills (breaking up the proud heart). Be encouraged! God loves you so much that He has graciously given us His truth, and if we love and obey His Word, we will be protected from the evil schemes of the enemy who seeks to devour and destroy all that he can.

In light of the Purpose Driven Church movement, I thought you would find the following article interesting as it documents a new kind of Christian: the Secular Christian. Here is a clip from the article which you can find here:

I don't believe in God.

I don't believe Jesus Christ was the son of a God that I don't believe in, nor do I believe Jesus rose from the dead to ascend to a heaven that I don't believe exists.

Given these positions, this year I did the only thing that seemed sensible: I formally joined a Christian church.

Standing before the congregation of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas, I affirmed that I (1) endorsed the core principles in Christ's teaching; (2) intended to work to deepen my understanding and practice of the universal love at the heart of those principles; and (3) pledged to be a responsible member of the church and the larger community.

So, I'm a Christian, sort of. A secular Christian. A Christian atheist, perhaps. But, in a deep sense, I would argue, a real Christian.

...The pastor and most of the congregation at St. Andrew's understand my reasons for joining, realizing that I didn't convert in a theological sense but joined a moral and political community. There's nothing special about me in this regard -- many St. Andrew's members I've talked to are seeking community and a place for spiritual, moral and political engagement. The church is expansive in defining faith; the degree to which members of the congregation believe in God and Christ in traditional terms varies widely. Many do, some don't, and a whole lot of folks seem to be searching. St. Andrew's offers a safe space and an exciting atmosphere for that search, in collaboration with others.

How is it that such a thing as this can blatantly exist in today's church? What could be the reason why a person could continue to be comfortable in a church community and yet not believe in God?

Some food for thought...

I recently came across an article by Bill Berkowitz (thanks to Roger Oakland) in a publication titled "Working for Change," a publication of a secular activist organization named "Working Assets." Bill Berkowitz is a longtime observer of the conservative movement. You can find the article here. The following are some interesting highlights from the article that I want to highlight and comment on:

Here is what a handful of mainstream publications are saying about
[Rick Warren] (these quotes are prominently displayed at his website):

• The Economist - "arguably the most influential pastor
  in America."
• The Times (London) - "Business and political leaders across America are turning to [him] for guidance."
• Forbes - "Were it a business, Saddleback Church would be compared with Dell, Google or Starbucks."
• ABC News - "The Purpose Driven Life is the epicenter of a spiritual shockwave taking root across America in unlikely places like offices and university campuses. It has become a movement."

These accolades from the world are concerning to me because of Jesus' words in John 15:18-21 (NASB): "If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name's sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me."

Why is it that the world seems to love Rick Warren?

Promoting the P.E.A.C.E. agenda

Like many Christian evangelicals/missionaries before him, Rick Warren, the son of a Southern Baptist preacher, has a grand vision. However, unlike most of his predecessors, Warren has a robust array of skills and resources: He is smart, media savvy, has a well-honed business sense, is fully conscious of the power of the Internet, knows how to manage his message, and has an impressive cash flow -- according to Warren, much of the money generated by the sales of his books goes to his Acts of Mercy Foundation. Warren and his wife are also contribute to and are deeply involved in the worldwide fight against HIV/AIDS.

Warren's agenda revolves around "attacking what he calls the five 'Global Goliaths': spiritual emptiness -- "[People] don't know God made them for a purpose"; egocentric leadership -- "The world is full of little Saddams. Most people cannot handle power. It goes to their heads"; extreme poverty -- "Half the world lives on less than $2 per day"; pandemic disease -- "We have billions of people dying from preventable disease. That's unconscionable"; and illiteracy/poor education -- "Half the world is functionally illiterate."

"His goal is a second Reformation by restoring responsibility in people, credibility in churches, and civility in culture."

To attack these evils, he has developed what he has called a PEACE agenda:

• Plant new churches, or partner with existing ones.
• Equip leaders.
• Assist the poor.
• Care for the sick.
• Educate the next generation.

Somehow I thought that perhaps Evangelism or making disciples would be key items in Rick's P.E.A.C.E. plan, but this does not seem to be the case. I know that we are to be peacemakers (Matt 5:9), but it doesn't seem to me that we are to try and reform the world, but rather make peace between people and God by exhorting people to repent and telling them the gospel. I cannot help but be reminded of 1 Thess 5:3 (NASB) which says "While they are saying, 'Peace and safety!' then destruction will come upon them suddently like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape." Jesus never proclaimed peace on this earth. In fact, He tells us plainly: "Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword" (Matt 10:34, NASB). How much clearer could He be? And this is not the sword of Islam for Jesus said "for all who take the sword shall perish with a sword" (Matt 26:52, NASB). Rather, it is the sword of the Word which divides people from one another, the believing from the unbelieving. Rick seems to be doing something altogether different; there seems to me to be a proclamation of peace on the earth and a blending of the world into the church. This next comment from a professor of socilogy of religion seems to confirm my assessment:

Besides being amongst the most influential evangelical leaders, Scott L. Thumma, a professor of the sociology of religion at Hartford Seminary and the author of a forthcoming book on mega-churches, told Nussbaum, "one of the interesting things is that he crosses boundaries...he's not just respected by the evangelical world but by many outside that world."

The following quote is the Author's note of the church movement currently underway resulting in the undoing of the reformation for which many laid down their lives. The odd thing is that the Roman Catholic church has not recanted the anathemas of Vatican I which condemn many things protestants believe, like salvation by faith alone, and it is also still practicing indulgences--the very reason Luther posted his ninety-five theses.

Then the other story that I would encourage you to look at is this evolving alliance between evangelical Protestants and Catholics, particularly in the evangelical wing of Catholicism.

The following quote amazed me--that a secular organization like Starbuck's has replaced Bruce Springsteen with "spiritual" quotes from Rick Warren on their coffee cups!

Last year, the sale of Bruce Springsteen's album "Devils & Dust" -- which describes an explicit encounter with a prostitute in the song 'Reno' -- was banned by Starbucks. This year, according to a Knight Ridder report, "Starbucks will print spiritual quotes from the Rev. Rick Warren, author of the best-selling "The Purpose-Driven Life," on coffee cups."

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Connected to Grow Together...By Being Examples to Each Other."

"Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you" (Phil 3:17, NIV).

We all need models to help us mature.

Many people make the mistake of thinking all they need to grow spiritually is God's Word and prayer. But the truth is, we need people to help us grow. Christlike character is built through relationships, not in isolation. There are many things God wants you to learn about life that you'll never learn on your own. You'll only learn them in community. We always grow faster and stronger with living, breathing examples who can model for us what a purpose driven life looks like. We need more than explanations, we need examples.

Christlike character is built by Christ in us and tested through our relationships with one another to the glory of God and as a witness to the world. I understand that Rick is concerned that some people don't see the need to fellowship with other believers and have even abandoned doing so. Perhaps they feel that watching a sermon on TV or listening by radio is sufficient. It is not, and the scripture clearly says "...not abandoning our own meetings, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and even more so because you see the day drawing near" (Heb 10:25, NET). However, Rick's statement that community is necessary for spiritual growth go beyond scripture. Those who model the pattern given by the apostles will be spirit-led, not purpose driven. The latter is confusing to the world because so many worldly people are purpose driven; we ought not to display our own strength and the power of community, but glory in our weaknesses and display the glory of the power of Jesus Christ.

The scripture that Rick quoted was Paul exhorting the Philippians (and all disciples) to follow his example and to take note of [consider, or regard] those who live according to the pattern given by Paul and the apostles. The pattern given to us and suitable examples are written down for us in the scriptures, though we may (and hopefully do) also have living examples among us. When did God ever say, "Man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God...and the social communities you will form"? Rather, Paul says in 2 Tim 3:16 (NIV): "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the [person] of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

When Paul would travel to a city to start a church, he would begin by simply living among the people. ... Paul lived out the truth of the word in his own flesh as he dwelled among the people.

While this is true, we would do well to note the scripture reference that Rick quoted in Phil 4:9 (NASB): "And what you learned and received and heard and saw in me, do these things." Paul spoke so that they would hear, he taught so that they would learn and he gave that they might receive the truth in addition to living according to it. Paul emphasizes speaking and learning above his actions, though the latter is most necessary. When James said "but become doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves" (James 1:22, NASB), it seems to me that the hearing came first and he is simply saying that it must be accompanied by faith which results in doing since hearing alone cannot save.

As believers, we're often better at "telling" than "showing."

While I am sure there are those who are hypocrites, saying what is right but doing another, I think many are afraid of sharing the gospel with people. Instead of encouraging believers to be boldly proclaiming the truth of the gospel, Rick seems to be saying that we are already doing this and now we need to show it by doing acts of kindness. Is it really true that we are boldly proclaiming the truth of the gospel, tearing down imaginations that keep people from a true knowledge of God? I don't think so. We should be encouraging others to boldly proclaim the message and live in such a way that they do not bring reproach to Christ.

In today's culture, the world desparately needs people who can show us how to love our spouse and make a marriage last; how to relate to our kids; how to do business with integrity; how to handle conflict like Jesus would. These are lessons we learn by watching others.

Really? If our goal is to show the world how to live a moral life, do you think they will then feel it necessary to come to Christ? Rather, what they need is to hear the gospel proclaimed boldly by Christians who are not living like hypocrites, but I don't hear Rick saying this. Rather, he emphasizes preaching by moral living (using actions first and only words if they become necessary, the essence of St. Francis of Assisi's quote), but there are many generally moral people who are not Christians. Why wouldn't someone watching you not be spurred on to becoming a JW or a Buddhist? After all, you haven't told them of their need for Christ, but rather showed them how to live a better life. Let's combine words with action with emphasis on the words without neglecting the action. This is what is right. And I pray that God will give you and I the grace to live according to His perfect will.

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Chosen to Fellowship Together...By Being Honest With Each Other."

...but we know the truth, and the truth has set us free (John 8:32).

Who is Rick speaking of here when he says "we"? The scripture says, "So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, 'If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free'" (John 8:31-32, NASB). Jesus says later in verse 37 of those who were seeking to kill Him: "...because My word has no place in you." We will only know the truth if we continue in His word--this was not a general statement for all professing Jesus as their Lord.

Lies of omission--These are lies where we fail to tell the whole truth, or we wink at the deceptions of others. ... "In the end, people appreciate frankness more than flattery" (Prov 28:23, NLT).

We would do well to remember this when we are sharing the gospel with others. Should we flatter people and uplift their self-esteem? Or should we rather help them see that they are condemned already (John 3:36) and unless they repent, they cannot have eternal life? This can be done in love by leading people to a knowledge of the truth by asking them if they have violated the 10 commandments and showing them that even if they only have done so in thought, God also sees this as the act itself. [A teaching that I have found personally helpful is a program titled "The Way of the Master"--you can find out more information at http://wayofthemaster.com/ or http://www.livingwaters.com/]. Coming to Christ for the wrong reason(s) can be fatal if not corrected since repentance is required. Paul said in Acts 20:26-27 (NET), "Therefore I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of you all. For I did not hold back from announcing to you the whole purpose of God."

Otherwise, dishonesty will pollute our lives together, and it will be difficult to develop a deeper trust for one another (Luke 16:10, NLT).

This is not what Luke 16:10 says. The NET reads "The one who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and the one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much." It is true that dishonesty will break down trust for one another, but more importantly, it is condemned in scripture ("...and all those who lie, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. That is the second death," Rev 21:8, NET) and brings dishonor to God.

Overall, I think this was one of the best chapters I have read yet in Rick Warren's book.

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Chosen to Fellowship Together...By Being Patient With Each Other."

"Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love" (Eph 4:2b, NLT).

"...with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love" (Eph 4:2, KJV). This is a good scripture reference, although the NLT changes "in love" to "because of your love." We are to bear with one another in love because of God's love and forbearance of us, not because of our love. Let us never forget that God died for us while we were yet sinners.

It helps when facing a patience-challenge to remember God will never ask you to give more patience to others than the patience he gives to you.

I think what Rick is trying to say here is that God will supply us with the patience that He requires of us (if we are abiding in Him). Indeed, we are to be patient with others. However, this does not mean that we do not correct one another in love, but that we don't give up on one another, or condemn one another. If our brother or sister in the Lord is living in sin, they may need to be put out of the fellowship for a time. But this is for the purpose of bringing them back into fellowship with the Lord, and we are to always hope and pray for them and welcome them back with complete forgiveness when they repent.

The Apostle Paul wrote, "Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don't see things the way you do. And don't jump all over them every time they do or say something you don't agree with--even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently" (Rom 14:1, MSG).

Eugene Peterson seems to have taken an opportunity to rant here, inserting his views about doctrinal disagreements--and in so doing, he goes beyond what Paul is saying in this passage. Peterson makes it seem that Paul is speaking generally of all things. Yet this is not so since we know that Paul also states in 1 Cor 5:11 (NASB) "But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler--not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church?"

Rather, Rom 14:1 reads in the NASB: "Now accept the one who is weak in faith, but not for the purpose of passing judgment on his opinions." What is being referred to by opinions? Reading the following verses clarify that it is in the area of non-commanded things such as what one eats or drinks (in moderation), or which days one regards as holy. We are commanded not to judge one another on such things, but to keep from causing one who is weaker in faith to stumble because of our freedom. We are told later in this chapter that everything we do must be done in faith, or for us it is sin (Rom 14:22-23).

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

When you find yourself in an argument with other believers ... Look for God's presence (Matt 28:20). Satan wants us to believe we're in the battle alone.

I'm not sure what Rick means by the statement that we are to look for God's presence when we are in an argument. Perhaps he means that we should ensure that we are communicating God's truth and not our wishes.

When you find yourself in an argument with other believers ... Lean on the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:15-16). ... what appears to be right to us may very well be wrong (Prov 14:12). ... Look for the conflict's true source (Eph 6:12).

This is of course good advice. The last part of 1 Cor 2:16 says that "we have the mind of Christ." What a blessing God gives us as believers who abide in Him! However, we should always take the attitude that if we are wrong we want others to show us the error of our ways so that we can repent and live in truth.

When you find yourself in an argument with other believers ... Lay down human weapons (2 Cor 10:4-5).

Again, good advice. Although, we should never be using human weapons at any time, whether we are interacting with believers or non-believers. Furthermore, we should always be wearing the full armor of God and learning how to use it properly.

When you find yourself in an argument with other believers ... Learn to use spiritual weapons (2 Cor 10:4). ... After we put on the whole armor of God, we're to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests" (Eph 6:18, NIV).

Rick's comments here and in his statement concerning forgiving others is great advice from the scriptures.

We don't always have to agree to get along. ... In an orchestra, there's a big difference between unison and harmony.

I agree with Rick here in matters not commanded in the scripture. However, does this mean that if someone is living in sin that we are to continue to "get along" and fellowship with them? Or if someone is preaching a false gospel in our midst, should we just agree to disagree and remain buddies and chalk it up to difference between trumpets and saxophones? What about someone who says that if you eat ham you are sinning (thus, if you continue in sin, you do not know God)? What about someone who says if you teach men (and you are a godly woman knowledgeable of the scriptures and not teaching error), you are in sin? These are serious allegations that must be treated seriously and not permitted to infect the church. After employing the biblical method of confronting this brother or sister in error, if they do not repent they either must be put out of the congregation and we are not even to eat with them (for sins of morality or teaching a false gospel). We are to practice Biblical separation, and a brother that refuses to walk right must be shunned for both their sake and the sake of the purity of the church. But we are not to treat them like enemies: if they repent, then they are to be welcomed back with loving arms.

Rick's comparison of disagreement to something of beauty (like it was intended to be that way) is not what scripture says. For instance, could he be insinuating that Roman Catholics play trumpets while Evangelicals play saxophones and that both are right and make beautiful music together? But they teach a different gospel from each other. What harmony can there be between truth and error? This is not to say that there are not true believers on either side, but we must make error clear to all by separating from it.

1 Cor 1:10 (NASB) says "Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment." Now this doesn't mean that there won't be disagreements or that we have to get them all worked out before we can fellowship with one another. In some cases where scripture is unclear or where the truth has not been made manifest, untruth may even continue for some time. But where it the difference is clear, we need to stand for truth. The scriptures make it clear that we are all to be truth seekers and lovers of the truth. Everyone who is anointed of God (all true believers) can be taught all things by God (1 John 2:27). This doesn't mean that we don't have to study, yet if we ask God for wisdom and eagerly seek the truth, He has promised that He will give liberally to all without finding fault (James 1:5, see also Col 1:9, 28). And we are to bear with one another and use the spiritual gifts that God has given us for building up the body of Christ.

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Chosen to Fellowship Together...By Getting Along With Each Other."

"I beg you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to stop arguing among yourselves. Let there be real harmony so that there won't be splits in the church. I plead with you to be of one mind, united in thought and purpose" (1 Cor 1:10, LB).

Arguing certainly can become counter-productive if not done in the right spirit. It would be best to have discussion (even if it is heated because both sides believe strongly in their views) where both sides listen to each other, but also where truth is being sought and not simply support for each parties' differing world views. We are told by Jude "...I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints" (Jude 3, NASB). However, when it comes to our interactions with others, Paul reminds us through his exhortation to Timothy that:

"The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will" (2 Tim 2:24-26, NASB).

Those that know the truth can actually feel so right that they become proud and therefore not communicate with the love and grace that Jesus had shown them all those years that they themselves were in error and in the clutches of the devil. We need to continue to keep Jesus' words to the church of Ephesus in the forefront of our minds as we earnestly contend for the faith:

"I know your deeds and your toil and perseverance, and that you cannot tolerate evil men, and you put to the test those who call themselves apostles, and they are not, and you found them to be false; and you have perseverance and have endured for My name's sake, and have not grown weary. But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Therefore remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place--unless you repent" (Rev 2:2-5, NASB).

Jesus' command to those of the church of Ephesus is close to my heart, and I pray that it always remains that way. I never want to lose my first love, which is in the person and work of Jesus Christ and His mercy for others. I find that reminding myself that I once believed the same errors for so many years before I came to repentance helps me to interact with people as Jesus would have me to do. I must constantly remember that I am a sinner who has many times violated all of God's commandments and have not followed in His will, yet God had patience with me, knowing that I would come to repentance. I have this same hope for others, the hope described of love in 1 Cor 13:7, yet I am acutely aware of the ramifications of continuing in error and unrepentance and pray that God would accomplish His perfect will through the Word that is spoken. Speaking the truth in love is a balancing act, but it comes out of a heart of love for others. It is not the kind of love that fails to speak where necessary, but it also knows when to allow the person to walk away. We cannot force people to believe the truth, but we can only warn them and try to help them to see. If we are also in error, wouldn't we want others to warn us and help us to see also?

"I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see" (Rev 3:18, NASB).

Concerning the Living Bible paraphrase that Rick Warren has chosen for 1 Cor 1:10, it unfortunately distorts the true meaning of this passage and makes it sound like it is supporting the works-based unity that Rick Warren is promoting and not the unity of the Spirit which is based upon sound doctrine. In the NASB, we see that Paul says "that you all agree" and that we "be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment." Is it possible that we could all agree and not just agree to disagree? I believe that this is what Paul is actually stating here. If we all loved the truth and desired to be freed from the false doctrines we have been taught in the past through the renewing of our minds by the washing of the Word, then we could all come to agreement. However, there are those who of their own choice are blinded and do not seek to know the truth and be made free. This is why Paul says a little later:

"For there must also be factions among you, so that those who are approved may become evident among you" (1 Cor 11:19, NASB).

Yes, Paul says "must." The word translated factions actually means heresies in the Greek. It is false doctrine that divides, and unfortunately the false teachings being spread by Rick Warren are dividing the church and creating a false unity centered around works instead of the truth of God's living and active Word.

Stop trying to win arguments.

How, then, am I to earnestly contend for the faith? We don't contend for the sake of winning an argument, but rather for the sake of sharing the truth since the Bible says that "the truth will set you free" (John 8:32b, NASB). Debate and holding forth the truth is to tear down speculations and imaginations that prevent people from knowing God as He has revealed Himself to be (2 Cor 10:5).

Argument:

1. A discussion in which disagreement is expressed.
2. A course of reasoning aimed at demonstrating truth or falsehood.

Contend:

1. To strive in opposition or against difficulties; struggle.
2. To strive in controversy or debate; dispute.

When you find yourself in an argument with other believers ... Let mercy guide your response (Prov 3:3-6). In a conflict, most of us say we only want what's fair, but God's approach isn't about being fair. It's about grace and mercy (Rom 5:8).

Surely, we must respond with mercy in the same way that God had mercy on us: "Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, in the same way that I had mercy on you?" (Matt 18:33, NASB). When the slave who owed much to his master asked for mercy and his master forgave him completely, should this slave not also have offered the same grace to the one who owed him a much lesser amount when he asked for mercy? Proverbs 3:3 in the NASB says "Do not let kindness and truth leave you." We read in John 1:17b (NASB): "...grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ." While we must be gracious to one another, there must be truth. If there is not truth, can you have just grace?

When you find yourself in an argument with other believers ... Let God determine the truth (2 Cor 13:8). ... Truth is what God says it is; he is the lone authority for interpreting any situation (2 Cor 10:5).

I concur with Rick's statement above, although I'm not sure how he is trying to apply 2 Cor 13:8 here and he is misapplying 2 Cor 10:5 (although this is an excellent scripture). In 2 Cor 13, the apostle Paul is urging the Corinthians to do what is right even though it may appear that Paul and the apostles have failed the test by correcting them (referring to the test of true faith, 2 Cor 13:5: is Jesus Christ in you?). Perhaps the Corinthians thought that Paul should only have mercy on them... Then Paul says in the 10th verse that he writes these things while he is absent so that they might have time to repent so that when he arrives he might not have to deal harshly with them. Remember the merciful master in Matt 18:23-35 who forgave the large debt of the first slave? That same merciful master threw the first slave into prison to be tortured until he repaid back all he owed. The moral of the story is in Matt 18:35 (NET): "So also my heavenly Father will do to you, if each of you does not forgive your brother from your heart."

2 Cor 10:5-6 (NASB) says: "We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete." Wow! Paul makes some strong statements here. Rick applied this as "[God] is the lone authority for interpreting any situation" yet Paul here is so convinced of the truth that he destroys speculations and lofty things, and is ready to punish all disobedience! Part of the job of the Christian is to tear down speculations and imaginations that prevent people from knowing and understanding God as He has revealed Himself to be. We are to renew our minds so that we are depending upon Him and not on the ways of people. Interesting also how Paul says that he is ready to punish all disobedience for those who have profess to repent and believe the gospel. Paul is calling us to a serious faith.

Concerning Jesus who came in mercy and truth, we also see something instructive for us in how Jesus responded to the Pharisees who were offended when Jesus rebuked them. When the disciples asked Jesus if He knew that the Pharisees were offended by His statements, He replied "Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit" (Matt 15:12-14, NASB). Those who listened received mercy; but to those who consistently refused to acknowledge the truth, Jesus rebuked and left alone.

(... continued in the post for Day 19b)

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Chosen to Fellowship Together...By Supporting Each Other."

God enables us to love the fear out of one another. We drive fear from our community by loving one another so supportively that each member feels safe inside the group (1 John 4:18). ... We give to one another the same uncommon safety Christ gives us--to be real, to be sad, to be messed up and confused, yet, to be loved.

The above sounds so wonderful, doesn't it? After all, doesn't everyone want to be in a community where there is no fear? I was in the presence of such a community last year at the gay pride festival in Vancouver, BC in Canada. It was clearly evident that these people had no fear or inhibitions. They let it all go. People who were perhaps reserved at work, always wary of what people think of them or how they are perceived were letting go of all their cares at the festival. I met an elderly woman sitting in a chair on the side of the street taking in the festivities. I was amazed by this, and so I stopped by to talk with her and to ask her why she was there. She said it was because these people have learned to let go of their fears; they were free. Indeed, they were free... They were free to do as they wanted. Were these people not loving the fear out of one another? Is it not true that these people felt safe in this community of people who outwardly displayed their inner lusts that day?

Now, I think there is a very relevant example of the early church community in Acts 5. Let's see if it matches up with the description that Rick Warren provided above. Ananias and his wife Sapphira sold a piece of property and, giving a portion of the proceeds to the apostles, told them that they gave the full proceeds from the sale. The Holy Spirit revealed this sin to Peter who questioned them: "While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not under your control? Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God" (Acts 5:4, NASB). At this, Ananias fell down and died. In like manner, his wife Sapphira also lied and breathed her last. And what do we read? "...and great fear came over all who heard of it." In Acts 5:11 (NASB) we read: "And great fear came over the whole church, and over all who heard of these things." Verse 13 continues: "But none of the rest dared to associate with them; however, the people held them in high esteem." Maybe the disciples should have taken the 40 Days of Community so they could learn from Rick that "God enables us to love the fear out of one another."

Jesus, although He is completely forgiving to those who repent and prostrate themselves at his feet, He also has an "uncommon safety" as Rick puts it (although not in the way that Rick means): "But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!" (Luke 12:5, NASB). In John 10:19, we read that "A division occurred again among the Jews because of these words." In John 6:66, we read "As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew and were not walking with Him anymore." In Matt 10:34, Jesus said "Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword." Jesus often rebuked the disciples for their little faith. Hardly encouraging words. And when the Samaritans did not receive Jesus because He was traveling towards Jerusalem, James and John asked Jesus "Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" But He turned and rebuked them, [and said, "You do not know what kind of spirit you are of; for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them."] (Luke 9:54-56, NASB). Jesus also said discouraging things like, "Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matt 5:48, NASB). When Jesus spoke against the pharisees, the disciples once came to Him and said, "Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard that statement?" to which Jesus responded "Every plant which My heavenly Father did not plant shall be uprooted. Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit." (Matt 15:12-14, NASB). Yes, Jesus had a very uncommon safety. Yet He was overwhelmingly compassionate on those who came to Him in repentance.

Going back to the quote from the beginning of Day 18, notice how "we" and "self"-focussed the quoted statements are. If "we love the fear out of one another," then we don't need God, do we? It is God's love that drives out fear, yet fear is the beginning of wisdom. Why? Well, because fear drives us to God, then God drives it out. Rick quotes 1 John 4:18, which is an excellent verse. But notice that the previous 3 verses explain why there is no fear in love and how we can access this comfort. Is it from others in my community? You be the judge:

"Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this, love is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; because as He is, so also are we in this world." (1 John 4:15-17, NASB).

If you think I'm being overly critical, please slowly read over the first paragraphs of Day 18 again.

God challenges us to create a community ... where we can each "live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28, NIV).

Where does God challenge us to create a community? There are many communities where people can live and move and have their being, where they are accepted and feel like they have things in common. Rather, Acts 17:28 states: "for in Him we live and move and exist..." Note that it does not say "for in community."

We exhibit tender hearts when we say to one another: ... It's OK to admit your mistakes; It's OK to say your marriage is failing; It's OK to confess your addition ...

I think Rick is rightly contending with a general problem that has been in the church for a while now which is a lack of acceptance of people who are honest with where they are at. Let me clarify that it is very important that we don't judge others as being more sinful than us lest we become like the "holier than thou" types who confess to God "thank you God that I'm not like that sinner." This is an ungodly and haughty attitude that we need to do away with... and fast. If you show love differently to someone who is a thief than to someone who is a homosexual, you are not judging rightly. All sin will be judged by God, and James said "for whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at one point, he has become guilty of all" (James 2:10, NASB). All sin is despicable to God, and you hidden lust is as the act of adultery in the eyes of God. Those who judge others who they perceive to have worse sins don't see themself rightly before God as they should.

However, while it is OK to admit our mistakes and failings, we need to call one another to repentance. And those who do not repent and continue in sin are not even to be associated with after going through the proper Biblical process. In our acceptance of people, we have to remember the importance of repentance and not ignore it in order to be liked. After all, it was Jesus who said, "Do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem? I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish" (Luke 13:4-5, NASB).

Humble people aren't focused on how little they think they're worth, and they don't concern themselves with acting humble. Behavior like that is actually self-centered and reflective of false humility.

Rick makes an excellent point here. Often we are blind to our own self-centeredness, hiding behind a veneer of what we think is humility when it is really just the opposite. We should help people so that they don't remain in this state of self-delusion.

True humility also means we understand our own value in Christ, and our own unique purpose.

Rather, true humility comes from understanding that we are condemned sinners just like the rest of the world is. Were it not for the grace of God, we would all perish. And the sooner we let the law do its work in our lives to bring down the mountain of our pride by informing us that we have failed at all points in God's law, the sooner we will learn true humility. We are all in the muck; some may float a little higher in it than others, but nonetheless, we are all completely separated from God. I used to think I was 80% of the way to God and that I simply needed Jesus to fill the gap (because no one can be 100% perfect). Well, I was wrong; I was actually 0% of the way and thought more highly of myself -- I had failed at every point either in thought, deed or lack of deed... again, and again, and again, and again. Once I realized this, I finally humbled myself before Christ and gave up my life (Luke 7:47). I finally began to love God much and my life was transformed because God finally, for the first time, had all of me. I may have called myself a Christian before, but I was not. Jesus said that it is harder for a rich man to enter the kingdom than for a camel to go through the eye of a needle for a very good reason. Anyone who trusts in self-righteousness even one iota, doesn't see themselves rightly before the one and only creator-redeemer, a just and holy God who must punish all sin with eternal separation from His glory. That place of punishment is hell, and hell will one day be thrown into the lake of fire. It is a place of conscious, eternal torment as Jesus described it, and we would do well to heed His words of warning about it.

We exhibit humble minds when we say to one another: It's OK to be happy you got a new car; It's OK to celebrate that you got a HUGE raise; It's OK to say you won the sales competition...

While we certainly can celebrate with the material successes of others, this is not what the Bible is calling us to. If the bible says that it's harder for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven than for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, should we not show concern for those souls that are engrossed in the materialism of this life? We can celebrate briefly, but our celebration should be girded on every side by deep concern for them that they do not become seduced by the boasting of the flesh, by wealth, success and power. It is so easy, and it leads people away from God. That is certainly not something to celebrate about! Yet we need to remember that if we are living indulgent lives ourselves that our example is not demonstrating a separation from the world that it should be. This doesn't mean that we cannot have things, but that we must hold them loosely and not be consumed with thinking and talking about them. Things are really tools, a means to an end. We should be using our wealth to buy friends, not to indulge ourselves more and more. But to those who think that God has gifted them with lots of money because He needs the rich to fund His church, they should remain gravely concerned for themselves that they do not fall into temptation. Is it better to build your house on the edge of a cliff or in the middle of a field? Be thankful for wherever God has placed you, but be always willing to give it up. Keep your bags packed!

Jesus called Peter a "rock" when the fisherman was still acting on impulse (Matt 16:18)...

This is a common misconception, especially in the teaching of the Roman Catholic church. Jesus called Peter's confession (which was revealed to Him by God) the Rock upon which He would build His church. The foundation of the church is that Jesus is our deliverer and the Son of the living God! I love how God knew that people would take this verse out of context. For only a few verses later when Peter rebukes Jesus, Jesus says to Peter: "Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but on man's" (Matt 16:23, NASB). So Rick is wrong in asserting that Jesus was trying to puff Peter up by calling him something that he was not. In the case of Gideon in Judges 6:11-12, God was prophesying what He would do through him. But this is not like calling Peter the foundation of the church (which he was not).

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Chosen to Fellowship Together...By Respecting Each Other."

"Excel in showing respect for each other" (Rom 12:10b, GW).

Respect for one another is a scriptural principle, although reading the above verse in a proper translation, we can see that the Bible goes further by saying "give preference to one another" (Rom 12:10, NASB). Elsewhere we also read "regard others as more important than ourselves" (Phil 2:3, NASB).

Part of listening means we don't rush to fix things or to give an answer; we respect others enough to let them share their full story.

Rick shared some good practical advice prior to the above statement about respecting others by listening to them. Later, he also rightly says that we show respect in how we talk about others when they are not around. We should not gossip which is to treat ourselves as better than others. However, while part of listening involves not inappropriately interrupting someone, and certainly not rushing to always fix things, we must be willing to offer godly wisdom, correct someone who is in error or even rebuke someone living in sin. In fact, the very nature of how Rick is writing is to offer instruction and correct what he considers to be errors, and rebuke sin like gossip.

We excel in showing respect when we work hard at being: Tactful, not just truthful; ... Understanding, not demanding; ... Gentle, not judgmental; ... Polite, not rude.

Rick has some good instruction here, and we would do well to heed this advice.

One final note on respect: God entrusted the pastors and spiritual leaders of your church to "watch over your souls," and they are accountable to God for this task (Heb 13:17, LB). They must correctly teach God's Word; confront false teaching before it spreads; proclaim the Gospel to nonbelievers; pray for all people, including you and your family; train and appoint leaders; and they must do this all while serving as an example of what it means to be a follower of Jesus (1 and 2 Timothy; Titus). (emphasis mine)

Very well said indeed. It seems that Rick should therefore be supportive of this blog in my attempt to "confront false teaching before it spreads." Why are not more elders and pastors doing the same? And why does Rick violate his own good advice to "correctly teach God's Word" by consistently taking scripture out of context? Does using snippets of paraphrases that contain his favorite key words and catch phrases that are often in addition to or in contradiction with the literal reading in context demonstrate by example how to "accurately handle the word of truth"? (2 Tim 2:15).

"Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you" (1 Tim 4:16, NASB).

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Chosen to Fellowship Together...By Committing to Each Other."

"Let us agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other" (Rom 14:19a, MSG).

Commitment to one another is an important scriptural truth. We are first committed to Christ who gave Himself freely for us that we might be made heirs with Him. Secondly, we are to serve one another with brotherly love, and in humility regard others as more important than ourselves. If this is a Biblical principle, why then does Rick Warren right off the bat quote The Message which distorts the truth of the scripture by changing the original meaning and placing an over-emphasis on unity? Romans 14:19 (NASB) says "So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another." This doesn't say to use all our energy to get along, but in context, we are told to set aside arguments over what to eat and drink and pay attention to the truths of the gospel (which makes for peace) and the building up of one another. Romans 12:18 (NET) says, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all people." This includes non-believers. We give no one a reason to be offended at us except for the truth we speak and our persistence in standing for it in love.

It means we commit to being there for each other, "none of this going off and doing your own thing" (Col 3:15b, MSG).

Here again, Rick has found part of a paraphrased sentence in The Message in an attempt to put God's stamp of approval on his own ideas. Col 3:15 (NET): "Let the peace of Christ be in control in your heart (for you were in fact called as one body to this peace), and be thankful." The idea of not "going off and doing your own thing" is not even remotely referred to in this passage. Rather, it is affirming that the peace of Christ, which comes from the knowledge of the forgiveness of sins given by belief in the gospel, should be what controls our hearts. Remember how you have been forgiven and forgive others in the same way. Don't be selfish. Don't take revenge. We are to take up our cross, crucify our selfish nature and fleshly lusts, and give up our own interests, regarding others as more important than ourselves.

It's by God's design that we define our lives by our commitments: marriage, children, work, church.

If we define our lives by our commitments, why doesn't Rick mention Christ first? Perhaps Rick doesn't understand, but loving our spouse, children, doing well at work and then going to church twice a week (or having coffee with a Christian brother) is not how we show our love for Jesus. The demonstration of that love is this: loving God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength; having no other idols in His presence; not taking God's name in vain (don't make Him common, but regard Him as Holy and special); and remember the sabbath (we are to rest from working and dedicate at least one day to God). Our love for God is demonstrated by submitting to the Word daily, taking all things to Him in prayer, and living our lives with His priorities and plans in focus. If we place God first and have our eyes firmly fixed upon Him (when you think of Him, don't immediately think "church"), all other things will fall into place. But remember, that doesn't mean that you will be wealthy, healthy and have it all together in the stuff of this life. In fact, we are given the promise that "all those who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Tim 3:12, NASB).

It means moving beyond superficial friendships and becoming "a friend who sticks closer than a brother" (Prov 18:24, NIV).

No doubt we cannot have close friendships with many people. But is this what this passage is saying? That I "don't need a lot of friends" (as Rick states later), and that I "do need a few good ones"? If that is so, why doesn't the passage say "a few" instead of "a" as in one? Prov 18:24 (NASB): "A man of too many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Who is our friend who sticks closer than a brother? ...even closer than our Christian brothers and sisters? Is it not Jesus Christ Himself? And Rick left out the part that declares that a man of too many friends comes to ruin. Could this be in reference to Luke 6:26 (NASB): "Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for their fathers used to tread the false prophets in the same way"?

Who--or what-- are you committed to? And who knows it? Have you ever gone to anyone, besides your spouse, and said, "I want you to know that I will always be there for you?"

Are we as mere people to make such promises to others? James 5:12 (NASB) says: "But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment." Do you think that you can in good conscience say that you will always be there for someone?

Point to Ponder: Community is built through commitment.

And that would be true of any community group, including those in the world. However, Christian fellowship is a gift of God to those who commit themselves wholly to Christ and out of obedience serve one another in humility.

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Chosen to Fellowship Together...By Admitting Our Need For Each Other."

"Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others" (Rom 12:5, NLT).

There is truth in this chapter in that the body of Christ is in need of all of its parts. This is because all the gifts God has built into the church are necessary for the proper function and health of the church as a whole. However, Rick goes too far in his assertions, and even concludes that without meeting together regularly with other believers, not only can you not grow spiritually (as he mentions in the introduction to his book), but he also says you cannot survive spiritually! This is nothing less than scaring people into coming to church, and it also encourages them to depend on people to meet their spiritual needs instead of God.

The last statement in the NLT (italicized in the blockquote above) is not in the original text. The text simply states that we are members who belong to one another. The only one we need is Christ. If all I had was Christ, I would be no less a Christian and could grow spiritually and fulfill the calling He has placed on me. What of those who are destitute and alone? If they are like a finger without the rest of the body, how could they possibly survive? If you were taken from your small group and placed in solitary confinement until the day you died, would your Christian faith perish because you were cut-off from the presence of other believers? All I need is Christ. However, this is not to say that we are to aspire to be alone and to live apart from others--not so! Since we are all one in Him as fellow believers, then we belong to one another and therefore serve one another with the individual callings and giftings that He has bestowed upon each member of the body. But belonging to one another and needing one another are two different things. Each part of the body is necessary and serves an invaluable purpose. However, using the illustration to say that one cannot grow spiritually without other believers as Rick stated in the introduction to this book is to directly contradict 1 John 2:27 which says "...you have no need for anyone to teach you; but His anointing teaches you about all things..."

Loneliness is the most common disease in the world, yet we continue to build walls instead of bridges between each other.

What Rick states above is nothing different than what a good social group in the world would tell you. Yet, the truth is that Jesus is the healer of all our diseases. He told us to come to Him and we will have rest and be satisfied. It is true that people can become reclusive and self-serving. However, is the root of the problem that they are not socializing and opening up in a group, or could it be that they are not depending, leaning and trusting in Jesus every moment of the day so that they can belong to others in service?

But there is absolutely no shame in needing others. God wired us that way! He wants his children to depend on each other.

We can help and serve one another, but God doesn't want us to depend on each other. What if people fail you? No-one is perfect, and people will fail you. If you depend upon people, you may be disillusioned. In fact, this may be the very reason people can get so hurt that some end up crawling into their shell and become reclusive. God wants us to depend on Him! How can I underscore this. It is so important that we see the difference. Its so important, in fact, that God placed this truth in the middle verse of the Bible, Psalm 118:8 (NET) "It is better to take shelter in the LORD than to trust in people."

In The Purpose Driven Life... If you haven't read that book yet, it's important that you do.

I find it interesting how Rick promotes his own book as being important to read, but I don't remember him even once promoting the Bible in such a fashion. If he does, I ask you to please show me.

Even in the perfect, sinless environment of Eden, God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Gen 2:18, NIV).

True, but God created a helpmate, not a dependent. Adam was still to depend solely upon God.

God hates loneliness.

But are we ever alone if He says that He will be with us until the end of the age (Matt 28:20) and will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb 13:5)? While we help and serve one another and share special relationships with one another, we can still feel alone because people fail us. Hear the truth that should warm your heart to the core--you will never be alone with Jesus Christ when you believe and trust fully in Him.

And, like parts of any living body, it's impossible for believers to thrive without each other. (1 Cor 12:21b, MSG). You must be connected to a church fellowship to survive spiritually. (emphasis mine)

Perhaps the scripture that seems to refute what I am trying to communicate in this post is 1 Cor 12:21 (NASB) "And the eye cannot say to the hand, 'I have no need of you'; or again the head to the feet, 'I have no need of you.'" Yet, the kind of need for one another that Rick Warren is communicating seems to put our relationships with one another at a higher importance than our relationship with God and a proper understanding of our relationship to Him. The end goal of our need for one another according to Rick seems to be to "stop traffic" so to speak, where many numbers of purpose-driven people change society. But how is it that Coke, a secular profit-driven coporation could use the Purpose Driven Life as a success manual? Can you be purpose-driven and not a Christian?

Back to 1 Cor 12:21... The idea in scripture is that in the body of Christ, all of the members are valuable; God doesn't neglect a single one and can use each to build up the body. This is how it is meant to be. It is true that we as a part of the body are not to say that we have no need of another part even though it may be different from us. Each believer contributes necessary functions to the body which is in Christ. Yet, while I can take comfort in being with like-minded believers and working together with them in the work of the gospel, and while God promised a spiritual family to each believer as their inheritance while still on this earth, each must come to the proper understanding that they consist and have their full life completely in Christ and in Him alone. I contend that it is only then that one can serve others properly at all times and as God intended us to.

The first step is to admit that we need each other, living like our spiritual lives depend on each other--because they do!

Rather, the first step is to admit that we need God every moment of every day! As Paul said in Acts 17:28 (NIV), "For in him we live and move and have our being..." Jesus never said that the first step is to admit that we need each other. He said that the first and greatest commandment is "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind." Then He said, "The second is like it: 'Love your neighbour as yourself'" (Matt 22:37-39, NET). We need to keep them in their proper order; it is the only way we will keep from being led astray.

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

"We're Commissioned to Reach Out Together...By Representing Jesus."

We are to be his face and hands and feet...

This is a common expression used in the church today which is likely taken from Rom 12:5 "so we, who are many are one body in Christ" or 1 Cor 12:27 "now you are Christ's body, and individually members of it." However, the first refers to the fact that though we are different peoples, both Jew and Gentile are made one in (or because of) Christ. The latter refers to Christ's "spiritual body," or God's appointed "body parts" described as apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, healings, helps, administrations and languages. We must take care to remember that the Bible says "for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them" (Eph 2:10). So it is the work that He is doing in us, not the work that we are doing to try to take His place in His absence as if He wouldn't be able to accomplish anything if it were not for us in this world. He chooses to use us, but He doesn't need us. Always remember that lest we become too haughty with ourselves.

We function as ambassadors for Christ (2 Cor 5:14-21); we serve at the will of King Jesus.

This is exactly what we are. An ambassador is one who does not represent their own interests but those of the one in whose name he or she was sent. As ambassadors of Christ, we are to declare His will in no uncertain terms.

"Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God" (2 Cor 5:20, NASB).

"Pray for me also, that I may be given the message when I begin to speak — that I may confidently make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may be able to speak boldly as I ought to speak" (Eph 6:19-20, NET).

We reach nonbelievers by living in such a way that they ask us about the King we represent.

While it is true that we must live the truth walking according to the scriptures, but we must be careful to not take the attitude of waiting until they ask us. Imagine trying to rescue someone from the demise of cancer by living like you don't have cancer. Does that make sense? Of course not! What we do only serves to confirm the message we speak. The miracles Jesus' performed and the things that He did confirmed that He was who He said He was. But it was the message that brought people to the truth. We ought to remember that Jesus condemned many of the cities where He did the most miracles because of their lack of repentance (Matt 11:20)! Also, are we so arrogant to assume that we will live such good lives that unbelievers will bow down at our feet and accept Jesus without speaking the gospel to them and convincing them of their sin? How will they know to repent and not just try to please God through works? Jesus said, "the world ... hates Me because I testify of it, that its deeds are evil" (John 7:7, NASB) and "...'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also" (John 15:20, NASB). We are commissioned to speak, but it should go without saying that we must live what we believe. Yet Rick Warren spends most of his time on the latter and very, very little on the former.

His love not only compels us to explain our faith, it will sometimes prompt us to confront evil behavior in others.

I'm glad that Rick mentions this, but he does it so seldom that it becomes buried in all the deeds. Comparatively, it is much easier to give someone a bowl of soup or a basket of groceries or to shovel their driveway or mow their lawn than to show them their sins before a righteous and Holy God, how they will fare on the day of Judgment which could come at any time, and what they must do to be saved. We should not cease in doing good deeds, but look for every opportunity to share the gospel. This of course can be done with grace, and our selfless acts (not just petty little deeds) will demonstrate that we are abandoning our life for eternal life, confirming the message of repentance, not just intellectual assent.

Great sacrifice equals great influence...

Perhaps, but it doesn't mean great acceptance if we stick to the message that God has given us to proclaim as His ambassadors. Again, is the slave greater than his master (John 15:20)?

Why doesn't the church have great influence? In a message entitled "How to Become Fishers of Men," C.H. Spurgeon makes the following statement: "I believe that one reason why the church of God at this present moment has so little influence over the world is because the world has so much influence over the church."

[*NOTE: Quotes from the 40 Days of Community Workbook are blockquoted.]

I want to note here that this chapter has some good admonitions, but they are overemphasizing the physical needs to the point of de-emphasizing spiritual needs. We need to take care to maintain the correct emphasis while demonstrating that physical acts of kindness are how people feel that you mean what you say and believe the truth you speak. I hope and pray that my comments will help shed more light on this as you read. Please post a comment if you have something to add or disagree with something I've said.

"We're Commissioned to Reach Out Together...By Giving Practical Help."

People know we love them when we show we love them.

Indeed, this is true. 1 John 3:16 (NASB), "We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." Note carefully that the love God makes to live in us through belief in the gospel is that which causes us to in the same way lay down our lives for people. If you are not laying down your life for others, you should question whether or not God is living in you (2 Cor 13:5). This doesn't mean asking to be executed; it simply means treating your life as though it is worth less than that of others (giving preference to others over yourself). But take note: it is those in the family of God being spoken of here and not the unbelieving. We give to all (believers and unbelievers alike) as though we are not going to keep anything, and we work hard for the sake of those in the family of God. The effort I am putting into more clearly expounding the truth of the scriptures in this blog is part of my fulfillment of this. But we also work to help those in the family of God who are in physical need.

Jesus approached love from a show, then tell perspective.

If Rick is trying to make the statement that Jesus always did some good deed before giving someone the gospel, I don't think that he can substantiate such a claim from scripture. However, I completely agree that we cannot think to ourselves that we are only going to tell people the good news without it affecting us enough to give of what we have to them that are in need. Words of love not accompanied with an outward demonstration when possible is not love at all. If we have nothing to give to mee their immediate needs, we certainly can pray for them and ask God to meet their needs. But of course, these are real needs. A need to have cash to go on another drinking or drug binge is not a need we should satisfy. The real need is to be freed from that bondage. But the person has to want to be freed from it; you cannot force a condemned person to accept a pardon. We can declare to them they are forgiven and pray for them, but they need to believe in Jesus' provision and possess the will to change. And showing them how much God has done for them and what He has saved them from (and how deserving they were of God's punishment) is God's chosen motivation.

...when he touched people, they realized "...they were in a place of holy mystery, that God was at work among them. they were quietly worshipful--and then noisily grateful, calling out among themselves, 'God is back, looking to the needs of his people!" (Luke 7:16, MSB).

Luke 7:16 (NASB): "Fear gripped them all, and they began glorifying God, saying, "A great prophet has arisen among us!" and, "God has visited His people!" In response to John the Baptists' question concerning if Jesus was the Messiah, Jesus responded "Blessed is he who does not take offence at Me" (Luke 7:23, NASB).

The Bible says, "If you see some brother or sister in need and have the means to do something about it but turn a cold shoulder and do nothing, what happens to God's love? It disappears. And you made it disappear" (1 John 3:17, MSG).

But this is not what the text is saying. In the NASB we read "But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?"

Her act of service was a reflection of her faith in God [referring to Luke 7:50].

Yes, but Jesus tells us more. He gives us the reason why she has faith and Simon does not. He says in Luke 7:47 (NASB) that "...her sins, which are many, have been forgiven for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little." We each need to see that we are forgiven much, and the natural response should be that we love Him much. Even still, of the 10 lepers that were healed of such a terrible disease as that which they had, only one returned to thank Jesus. Only ONE had faith since only ONE realized how much he had been forgiven.

"...Isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?" (James 2:17, MSG).

I like how Eugene stated this. The two go together. You cannot speak unless you are able to breathe, and in the same way you cannot preach the gospel without being concerned for the physical needs of those who hear the message.

Francis of Assisi once wrote, "Preach the gospel, if necessary, use words."

This implies that we can preach the gospel without using words. If this were the case, then why do we have a Bible? Why did Jesus say that man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God? (Mat 4:4, NASB). I think that this quote from Francis is not promoting a biblical view. Yes, preach with words. But don't think that you can do this while ignoring the immediate need if you truly have compassion for people.

Jesus specialized in acts of service most people try to avoid: washing feet, helping children, fixing breakfast, and serving lepers.

Yes, but Jesus was not simply giving us an example that we should literally go around and wash everyone's feet. This was symbolic of the washing of the word. Jesus told Peter that he was already clean because he already had a bath (ie. baptism of repentance by belief in God's word); the word continues to sanctify us, and we are to "wash one another's feet" so to speak in this way. These other things do nothing to save or sanctify; they are simply normal, everyday tasks and needs that should be and need be met by those who desire to lead.

Simply remember this: laying down your life is not the same as mowing someone's lawn once in a while or feeding soup to a needy person once per week. Without the gospel, ALL will perish, and your kindness will go unremembered. Never forget that. I hope this has helped you understand God's will better. God bless!

The content of the gospel is not something we have been given creative license with. We are not to water it down (ie. only mention the good parts and leave out the life that Jesus is calling us to), but neither are we to hide it under an emotional experience (setup the "atmosphere" to seduce decisions), use non-biblical motivations, trickery or peer pressure. To speak to this issue, I want to refer you to 3 blog posts that I made to my God's BMW blog. The first is this post where I quote an excerpt from Dave Hunt's booklet entitled "The Non-Negotiable Gospel."

What's Wrong With Just Preaching About God's Grace?
There's nothing wrong with preaching the grace of God! In fact, it is what we are commanded to do. But what is the grace of God if not a thorough understanding of the moral requirements of mankind--the Law (ie. the 10 Commandments) which magnifies the grace of God to us? For more on this matter, and the testimony of a pastor who had a ministry and life-changing dream from God, please see this blog post.

Billy Graham Reveals Secret Behind Failure of the Church
On September 22, 1958, Dr. Billy Graham preached a message in Charlotte, North Carolina. Using the 10 Commandments, he reveals the secret behind our failure as a church, as elders and deacons, and as Sunday School teachers, collectively and individually. In nearly 50 years, much has stayed the same and even worsened, and we are continuing to bear the fruit of our folly. For more details, please see this blog post.