Under the Law of Moses / Under the law of Christ

Christians are not under the Old Covenant system (Romans 6:14; 7:4–6; Galatians 3:23–25; 5:18; Hebrews 8:6–13). That means we do not follow the Mosaic law or the Levitical Sacrificial System (Hebrews 7:11–12, 18–19; 8:13; 9:9–10; 10:1–10). That also means we are not bound by the 10 Commandments (Exodus 34:27–28; Deuteronomy 4:13; Romans 7:4–7; 2 Corinthians 3:6–11; Galatians 3:24–25).

That statement right there might cause some to stop reading, mouth wide-open in shock and horror. But the reality is that the Old Covenant, along with all its laws and sacrifices, has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:17; Luke 24:44; Romans 10:4; Colossians 2:14–17; Hebrews 8:6–13; 10:1–14).

That most certainly does not mean that we are lawless or have some kind of license to sin (Romans 6:1–2, 15–18; Galatians 5:13–14; 1 Peter 2:16; Jude 4). Instead, under the headship of Christ (Ephesians 1:20–23; Colossians 1:18), we look to the New Covenant to find the commands we are to live by (1 Corinthians 9:21; Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 8:10–12; James 1:25; 2:12).

Interestingly, when we examine the New Covenant, we find 9 out of the 10 Commandments from the Old Covenant restated under the New Covenant (Romans 13:8–10; Ephesians 4:25–28; 5:3–5; James 2:8–12). Even the Sabbath is included, though its fuller and ultimate meaning has been revealed, that is the Sabbath's theological significance finds its fulfillment in Christ. (Colossians 2:16–17; Hebrews 4:1–11).

Old Covenant / New Covenant

OT: No other gods. (Deuteronomy 5:7; Exodus 20:3)

NT: Worship & serve God alone. (Matthew 4:10; 1 Corinthians 8:4–6; 10:14)

OT: No idols worshipped. (Deuteronomy 5:8–10; Exodus 20:4–6)

NT: Flee idolatry. (1 Corinthians 10:14; 1 John 5:21; John 4:23–24)

OT: Do not take name of the LORD in vain. (Deuteronomy 5:11; Exodus 20:7)

NT: God's name is holy (Matthew 6:9; 1 Timothy 6:1)

OT: Observe the Sabbath day. (Deuteronomy 5:12–15; Exodus 20:8–11)

NT: Eternal rest; spiritual rest (Hebrews 4; Colossians 2:16–17; Romans 14:5–6)

OT: Honor your father & your mother. (Deuteronomy 5:16; Exodus 20:12)

NT: Obey & honor parents. (Ephesians 6:1–3; Colossians 3:20)

OT: Do not murder. (Deuteronomy 5:17; Exodus 20:13)

NT: Do not murder or hate. (Matthew 5:21–22; 1 John 3:15; Romans 13:9)

OT: Do not commit adultery. (Deuteronomy 5:18; Exodus 20:14)

NT: Sexual purity. (Matthew 5:27–28; 1 Corinthians 6:18; Hebrews 13:4)

OT: Do not steal. (Deuteronomy 5:19; Exodus 20:15)

NT: Do not steal. (Ephesians 4:28; Romans 13:9)

OT: Do not bear false witness. (Deuteronomy 5:20; Exodus 20:16)

NT: Put away falsehood. (Ephesians 4:25; Colossians 3:9)

OT: Do not covet your wife, or things. (Deuteronomy 5:21; Exodus 20:17)

NT: Do not covet. (Luke 12:15; Colossians 3:5; Hebrews 13:5)

While we can see a restatement of these commandments in the New Covenant (Romans 13:8–10; Ephesians 4:25–28; 5:3–5; James 2:8–12), it would be an error to state that Christians are still under the law given by Moses (Romans 6:14; 7:4–6; Galatians 3:23–25; 5:18; Hebrews 8:6–13). Simply because certain moral standards, commands, or laws are found in both the Old and New Covenants does not mean we look to Exodus or Deuteronomy to govern our lives (Romans 7:4–6; 2 Corinthians 3:6–11; Galatians 3:24–25; Colossians 2:14–17). Instead, we look to the law of Christ and the commands given under His Covenant (1 Corinthians 9:20–21; Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 1:1–2; 8:6–13; James 1:25; 2:12).

For example, before Texas became an independent republic, it was governed by Mexican law, which outlawed murder. In 1836, Texas declared its independence and established its own government and criminal-law system. Today, when someone is put on trial for murder in Texas, prosecutors do not appeal to the former Mexican legal system. They appeal to the current Texas Penal Code, particularly Chapter 19, which defines criminal homicide and murder.

The fact that a commandment appears in both covenants does not place Christians under the former covenant any more than the continued ban on murder places Texas under the former Mexican legal system (Romans 13:8–10; 1 Corinthians 9:20–21; Galatians 5:13–14; 6:2; Hebrews 8:6–13).

One note: This in no way means that the Old Testament Scriptures are not inspired or God-breathed, they are (2 Timothy 3:16–17; 2 Peter 1:20–21). Nor does it mean that Christians should not read and study the Old Testament, we should (Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:1–11). What it means is that Christians look to New Covenant commands to govern our lives rather than Old Covenant ones, even though many of those moral principles have been brought forward into the covenant established in Christ's blood (Hebrews 8:6–13; 9:15–17; 12:24).

We are New Testament Christians.

Little children, keep yourselves from idols

 Humans have been created by God to worship. That is simply part of what it means to be human. Regardless of what the atheist says, we will worship something or someone. C. S. Lewis captured this powerfully in his book The Great Divorce. In that story, a mother has turned her maternal love for her son into idolatry. She was willing to drag her son to hell in order to have him all to herself. Lewis has the mother say this:

 “I don’t believe in a God who keeps mother and son apart. I believe in a God of love. No one had a right to come between me and my son. Not even God. Tell Him that to His face. I want my boy, and I mean to have him. He is mine, do you understand? Mine, mine, mine, for ever and ever (C. S. Lewis, The Great Divorce: A Dream (New York: HarperOne, 2001), 102–3..’”

This is a stark reminder of how easy it is for us as human beings to turn even something good into an idol.

1 John 5:21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols.

Countercultural

There have been times when Christians have argued that the church needs to embrace and possibly conform to the culture around us. Certainly, there are things from the broader culture that Christians can adopt without sinning. Certain fashion styles, the use of computers, and other technologies, for example, may be perfectly acceptable. However, the reality is that the church and individual Christians are called to be countercultural. We are not to conform to the ways of this world.

The Scriptures are clear: Israel was to be different from the nations surrounding them (Deuteronomy 4:15–31), and the same principle applies to the church.

Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect (ESV).

 

1 John 2:15–17 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever (ESV).

While we are called to be different, holy, and set apart, this does not mean that we are to isolate ourselves from the world. Although there are certain culturally acceptable practices in which Christians cannot participate because they conflict with God's commands, this does not mean that we should withdraw from the public square or refuse to interact with non-Christians.

The opposite is true. We are called to live and move among the people of this world. As we do, we are to call people out of darkness and into the light of Christ (Matthew 4:16; John 8:12). As we go, we are to make disciples of all nations by baptizing them in the name of the one true and triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and teaching them to obey all that Christ commanded (Matthew 28:18–20).

One way we evangelize is by refusing to participate in worldly practices that violate God's commands. When people ask us why we choose not to participate, we have an opportunity to tell them about a better way, a healthier way, and the way that leads to eternal life. We tell them about Jesus!

Death is NOT the End

This has been a week of sorrow. A longtime member of the church has passed on to glory. She was a pillar in her family and in the church for decades, and now there is a space in our lives that feels empty. Death is not a pleasant thing. If we are honest, we recognize that there’s something wrong with death. But it’s a reality in the world we live in, and no amount of positive thinking can rid this current world of it. However, we must also remember that death, for the Christian, is not the end. While our loved one is gone from this earth and we are unable to call them on the phone or visit with them, they are, in fact, still alive. When a Christian passes on, they are brought into the presence of the Lord of all creation and are now experiencing life more fully than they ever did here on this earth. Yes, we grieve our loss and tears pour down our faces, but those tears are for our loss, not theirs. We rejoice that our loved one is with the Lord. The Apostle Paul wrote:

1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words.

Paul is talking specifically about the resurrection to come, but notice what he says about mourning or grieving. Paul says that we are not to mourn for those who are in Christ like the rest of the world mourns. Those in the world have no hope, but Christians have the hope of eternal life.

01 How We Got The Bible

The Bible is a unique and complex collection of texts that has shaped cultures, societies, and individual lives for centuries. Understanding how we got the Bible involves exploring its origins, authors, languages, and the divine inspiration behind its creation. In this article, we will delve into the multifaceted journey of how the Bible came to be, examining its historical context and significance.

The Etymology of the Word "Bible"

The term "Bible" has its roots in both Latin and Greek. The English word derives from the Latin word "Biblia," which in turn comes from the Greek word "Biblos." Interestingly, both terms originally meant "book."

In modern usage, the Bible is often referred to as the "Holy Bible," emphasizing its religious significance. However, the original meaning of the word remains with us. We see this basic meaning with other terms in the English language, such as "bibliography," which refers to a list of sources or books.

The Unique Nature of the Bible

The Bible stands out as a unique text for several reasons. It was composed over a span of approximately 1,500 to 2,000 years, a timeframe that reflects the extensive history of its writing. The Bible was authored by more than 40 different human writers, each contributing from their own perspective and experiences.

These authors came from various backgrounds, including:

• Kings
• Shepherds
• Musicians
• Philosophers
• Prophets
• Blue-collar workers

This diversity is not just in authorship but also in the contexts from which the texts were written. The Bible was crafted in different locations and under varying circumstances, including:

• Wilderness
• Dungeons
• During travels
• In times of war
• In periods of peace
• During prosperity
• In times of poverty

Moreover, the emotional tone of the writings varies widely. Some scriptures were penned during times of joy and celebration, while others reflect deep sorrow and despair. This breadth of experience contributes to the Bible's richness and depth.

Geographical and Linguistic Diversity

The Bible was written on three different continents: Asia, Africa, and Europe. This geographical span reflects the diverse cultures and traditions that influenced its writing. Additionally, the Bible was composed in three languages:

• Hebrew
• Aramaic
• Greek

Literary Styles within the Bible

The Bible is not a monolithic text but rather a library of various literary genres. It includes:

• Historical narratives
• Poetry and songs
• Personal correspondence
• Law codes
• Parables
• Apocalyptic literature

This diversity of literary styles allows the Bible to communicate its message in rich and varied ways, appealing to a broad audience across different eras and cultures.

The Unfolding Story of Redemption

Despite its diversity, the Bible presents a cohesive narrative centered around one primary theme: God's redemption of humanity. This overarching story weaves through the different texts, connecting the various authors and contexts into a unified message.

Critics have often pointed to perceived discrepancies and contradictions within the Bible. However, careful examination of the context reveals that these apparent contradictions often dissolve upon closer inspection. The Bible is infallible and without error, a testament to its divine inspiration.

God's Communication with Humanity

Understanding how the Bible came to be also involves exploring how God communicated with humanity. Throughout history, God has used various means to convey His message, including:

• Direct discourse
• Dreams
• Visions
• Angelic messages
• The life and teachings of Jesus

God's direct communication with figures such as Moses exemplifies how He has engaged with humanity. In other instances, God has spoken through dreams, as seen in the lives of Jacob and Joseph. Angels also played a crucial role in delivering divine messages, with notable examples including the Announcement to Mary.

The Role of Visions

Visions are another significant means through which God has communicated. Unlike dreams, which occur during sleep, visions happen while individuals are awake. Prominent prophets like Isaiah and Ezekiel experienced profound visions that revealed God's glory and plans.

The Ultimate Revelation: Jesus Christ

The culmination of God's communication to humanity is found in Jesus Christ. As the final and complete revelation of God, Jesus embodies the message of redemption. His life, teachings, and sacrificial death provide the ultimate understanding of God's character and purpose.

The Inspiration of Scripture

Central to the formation of the Bible is the concept of divine inspiration. The Apostle Peter emphasizes that no prophecy of Scripture originated from human will; rather, it was produced by individuals who were carried along by the Holy Spirit. This divine influence ensured that the writings reflected God's truth while still incorporating the personalities and styles of the human authors.

For instance, the Gospels showcase different writing styles and perspectives, with John employing simple Greek and Luke utilizing a more sophisticated style. This variety highlights how God can communicate His message through diverse voices while maintaining the integrity of the truth conveyed.

The Importance of the Bible

The significance of the Bible extends beyond its historical and literary aspects. It serves as God's word to humanity, offering guidance, hope, and insight into eternal life. The Scriptures are described as:

• The words of eternal life
• All-sufficient for doctrine and godly living
• Inspired and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training

Through the Bible, individuals can discover how to live a life that honors God and how to find salvation. The teachings within its pages are not only relevant for personal faith but also for understanding the world and our place within it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey of how we got the Bible is a fascinating exploration of history, culture, and divine inspiration. Its unique composition, diverse authorship, and cohesive message of redemption underscore its significance. As we continue to study and engage with the Scriptures, we uncover the depth of God's communication with humanity and the transformative power of His word.

The Long Road Home: Published At Last

Excerpt Of Book Taken From The Preface:

I never thought I would ever write a book especially a work of fiction. In fact, I never thought I would write anything other than my name and maybe my date of birth. Growing up I didn’t like school and would attempt to skip whenever possible. As I got older, I also got into my fair share of trouble. Eventually I dropped out of high school, did many unwise, ungodly, and unsavory things. I did have moments of clarity. As an example, I went back to school and received my GED. I did try to live a moral life on occasion, but would end up slipping back into sinful and destructive behaviors. It wasn’t until I became a Christian that things in my life really began to change. Being forgiven and set free from sin radically changes one’s life.

            It wasn’t long after I gave my life to Christ that I had this hunger for the Word of God and desired to tell as many people as possible about Jesus. Within a year – and with the encouragement of Ian McGuiggan, the evangelist who studied with me and eventually baptized my wife and me into Christ – I began taking courses through Sunset International Bible Institute while also beginning to preach on occasion. It was a slow process for me, but eventually I earned an Associate in Biblical Studies and went on to complete the Bachelor of Biblical Studies. I felt compelled to further my training and decided to pursue an MA in biblical or theological studies. The guy who hated school was now enrolling in seminary for a Master of Arts. Who would have believed this?

            I originally intended to work on a Master of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies but was intrigued by the Master of Arts in Christian and Classical Studies that was being offered. I eventually enrolled in the MACCS program from Knox Theological Seminary.

            The education I received at Knox was eye-opening to say the least. I never read any of the Great Books of the Western World, works such as Plato’s Republic, the City of God by Augustine, Machiavelli’s The Prince, or Dostoyevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov. Knox had such an important impact on my growth and thinking, much more than I could have imagined. It was during my time at Knox that I met Steve Jeck who I eventually nicknamed “Barnabas” (the son of encouragement). What an amazing man! He guided me through my time at Knox like Virgil guiding Dante in The Divine Comedy. He was far more to me than a teacher. He was my mentor.

            After I graduated from Knox, I applied to Liberty University to work on my doctorate in Christian Leadership/Ministry Leadership. Did I mention that I hated school growing up and that I dropped out of high school? The things that God does in a person’s life are amazing.

            After I completed my doctorate, I began thinking about writing. The reality is that I had begun writing The Long Road Home while I was still at Knox. The poetic imagination had gotten ahold of me, but for various reasons the story went dormant for a while. Every so often I would pull it out and type a few words. Then back into the vault it went.

            I finally decided to post a rough draft of the story, a few paragraphs at a time on my Facebook page and to my surprise, there were a few people who enjoyed reading it. That was the final push I needed to rework it and edit it for publication.

I hope that you, the reader, find in this book a story that is at the same time old and familiar as well as new. If you know the Bible, you will likely pick up on some biblical themes and the story of The Prodigal Son that was taken from the Gospel of Luke. And if you have read some of the great works of the Western canon, you will likely find shadows and echoes from some of those works as well.

            My ultimate goal in all of this is to glorify Jesus who is the world’s only Savior. This story is one of redemption that I pray points you to the ultimate redeemer, Jesus Christ. We have all fallen short of the glory of God and need to be rescued. We could never save ourselves, but the good news is that Jesus died for you and me, and in Him, we have redemption and a new life.

You can purchase the softcover or Kindle versions HERE

Dissertation on Transformational Leadership and Spiritual Growth

 

Here is my dissertation on transformational leadership and the spiritual growth of church members from multicultural churches of Christ in the United States. Wow! That's a mouth full. 

My Dissertation

The full title is: 

A CORRELATIONAL STUDY OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP BEHAVIOR AND THE SPIRITUAL GROWTH OF CONGREGANTS’ FROM MULTICULTURAL CHURCHES OF CHRIST IN THE UNITED STATES

Enjoy!