So... there are three sins, three temptations. They are the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life (1 Jn 2:16). Three. Eve was tempted in those three ways and fell: When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit (Gen 3:6). 0 for 3. Jesus too was tempted in all three - stones to bread, all the worlds kingdoms under Him, and casting self from the temple for God to spectacularly save (Mt 4). 3 for 3. We in the church preach against the first of these - the failings of the flesh. But the last two...not so much. The first is all about my kingdom, my way. it is serving my flesh my way. All about me. Obviously about me. But in the second Jesus was tempted to accomplish all God desired, all the kingdoms of the world bowed to Him. But the method was pure non-kingdom. It is Gods kingdom, my way. It is using the ways of the world to try to attain kingdom growth. More, better, different is its mantra. More diversity, better worship, different speakers...that should bring in the crowds. The result is growth perhaps, but at what price? It is a trap ending in a big showy edifice to mans ingenuity but little else. Something grows hugely but it is not Gods kingdom. The third also seems good - throw yourself off the temple to demonstrate Gods power. But it is, in the end, all about me. It is My kingdom, Gods way. I use and misuse the grace and power of God to attract attention to my self-named ministry, I am in the spotlight spouting self aggrandizing nonsense. Gods kingdom of humility, love and selfless sacrifice has no place. Pop and sizzle is what attracts the crowds. White teeth, expensive suits, rehearsed services, beautiful worshipers performing...performing..performing. All these things are added to me - in gross proportion. Something grows hugely but it is not Gods kingdom. Nope... Gods kingdom, Gods way is the only way. It makes no sense to the empire builder or the narcissist. It is the long way around. But to God it is stable, pure, and powerful. Seek it first and all these other my things will be added in proper proportion and at the right time to nourish not destroy.
Posted on: Mon, 25 Aug 2014 01:46:43 +0000
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