Craig Cooper

There is an intrinsic link between intercession and the Christian faith. After all, Jesus Christ is the ultimate intercessor who bridges humanity’s fallen state with God’s holiness. God invites every believer to lean into this pivotal role of intercessor through prayer. When we do so, we reflect Christ’s love, faith, and obedience and resonate with God’s heart.

We can learn much by gazing through the lens of Moses’ intercession for the Israelites. His example illustrates the potency of heartfelt prayer and its transformative impact. It also emphasizes the necessity for believers to cultivate an intimate relationship with God through prayer and the study of His Word, mirroring Moses’ vibrant communion with God. This personal relationship with God is not just a religious duty but a source of connection and value. Through this relationship, we can truly understand and fulfill our role as intercessors.

In Exodus 32:11-14 we discover the account of the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt. In this passage, Moses intercedes for the Israelites after they have sinned by creating and worshiping a golden calf. The Israelites, led by Aaron, crafted a golden calf to worship, breaking the covenant with God and indulging in idolatry. This act angered God, and He expressed His intention to destroy the people and start afresh with Moses. However, Moses interceded on behalf of the Israelites, appealing to God’s mercy and reminding Him of His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Moses’ plea for God to relent from His anger and spare the people is not just a historical event but a testament to the transformative power of intercession. It’s a powerful example of a leader standing in the gap for his people, seeking reconciliation and forgiveness from God. This story showcases the importance of intercessory prayer and God’s responsiveness to heartfelt pleas for mercy and grace. As believers, we are called and provided the opportunity to compassionately intercede for others before God, desiring our Lord’s best. This should fill us with a sense of empowerment and hope, knowing that our prayers can bring about transformation and blessings.

We see the invitation and power of intercessory prayer expressed in the New Testament through passages such as James 5:16 and 1 Timothy 2:1-2. These verses underscore the power of fervent prayer and the broader scope of intercession beyond personal needs. I have found this true in my own life as I daily seek God’s guidance and protection for my family.

 I have seen answers to prayer; when I have not, I still know He is at work since He is always at work. Prayer always makes a difference, especially in me as I pray.

I encourage us to embrace our role as intercessors, aligning with God’s will and impacting lives with transformative power. As we deepen our relationship with God, we will strengthen our ability to intercede effectively and bring about mercy, reconciliation, and blessings in the lives of others.

I am challenged by the suggestion from Hudson Taylor, English missionary to China and founder of the China Inland Mission, that “The prayer power has never been tried to its full capacity. If we want to see mighty wonders of divine power and grace wrought in the place of weakness, failure and disappointment, let us answer God’s standing challenge, ‘Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not!’” This should cause us to reflect on our relationship with Christ and take the next step in our faith journey. May we respond with a resounding yes to God’s call to intercessory prayer with faith and loving obedience. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

When God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, it marked a pivotal moment in sacred history, establishing a covenant between God and His people. This event unfolded at Mount Sinai (also known as Mount Horeb), where God led the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. Amidst thunder, lightning, and a thick cloud covering the mountain, God manifested His presence, delivering the Ten Commandments directly to Moses. Inscribed on two stone tablets, these commandments symbolize their permanence and importance.

Upon receiving the commandments, Moses descended from the mountain to deliver them to the Israelites, only to find them worshiping a golden calf. This led to a confrontation, the shattering of the tablets, and, later, the presentation of a second set. Moses then taught the commandments to the Israelites, underlining their profound significance in guiding their relationship with God and others. The commandments, which form the bedrock of Israelite law, declare moral conduct for all God’s people and for all time.

Exodus 20:1–17 (ESV) outlines the Ten Commandments, which provide wisdom for godly living: 1. You shall have no other gods before me. 2. You shall not make for yourself a carved image. 3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. 4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. 5. Honor your father and your mother. 6. You shall not murder. 7. You shall not commit adultery. 8. You shall not steal. 9. You shall not bear false witness. 10. You shall not covet. These commandments present wisdom for godly living, allowing us to relate to God and others well while living flourishing lives.

Despite Israel’s struggles in the wilderness, God’s mercy and provision were constant. He provided manna, guided them with pillars of cloud and fire, and demonstrated faithfulness despite their shortcomings. 19^th-century English pastor Charles Spurgeon proclaimed, “God is too good to be unkind, and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” God certainly demonstrated His heart, filled with mercy and grace, when He displayed such faithfulness and care to the often disobedient, defiant, and ungrateful Israelites. He does the same for all believers today. We read in 1 John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  When we fail to keep the Ten Commandments, we have a path to receive God’s mercy and forgiveness.

As believers, we follow in the footsteps of Israel’s journey, but with a significant difference. We have the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, guiding us to live obediently. Jesus succinctly summarizes the commandments, calling us to love God with all our hearts and others with godly love (Matthew 22:37-40). Living by God’s standards is a journey of continual growth, where we rely on His grace for forgiveness and strength. Our lives should be a testament to a deep commitment to loving God and others, shining a light on the gospel’s transformative power in our lives.

Embracing the Ten Commandments isn’t burdensome but leads to flourishing lives, harmonizing with God’s design for an abundant life. Let us renew our commitment to living by His standards, relying on His grace, and shining His truth in a world that needs it. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Once God miraculously brought Israel out of Egypt, they wandered through the wilderness for forty years. Israel’s wilderness experience powerfully illustrates the challenges, tests, and blessings of following the Lord. Such a life necessitates faith, obedience, and trust in God’s faithfulness throughout life’s journey. Believers are called to trust God even in difficult times, obey His commands, and remain faithful to His promises, knowing that He is always with us, providing, guiding, and leading us towards His purposes and blessings.

Much happened over the 40 years from Egypt to the Promised Land. Paul summarizes the lessons we can learn from their journey in 1 Corinthians 10:1-13. Far more than merely presenting historical events, we learn how believers are to navigate our own spiritual journeys. Ultimately, we learn about faith tested and faith strengthened.

We read in 1 Corinthian 10:1-2, “For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea.” Paul reminds us of the Exodus, where God delivered His people from bondage, which mirrors our salvation through Christ, liberating us from sin’s slavery. 19^th-century London pastor Charles Spurgeon explained, “Redemption is the great subject of the gospel. Deliverance from Egypt’s bondage is the type of our salvation by Christ.” The events of the “cloud” and the “sea” marked a turning point for the Israelites – a final break from their previous life in Egypt. They were “baptized into Moses,” committed to his authority and leadership.

Similarly, Christian baptism marks a break from the former life to begin a new life under the leadership of Christ. As Paul uses the symbolism of the Israelites passing through the Red Sea, so in Christian baptism, the symbolism is an outward sign of an inward work, where the believer leaves behind the dominion of sin. Therefore, God’s faithfulness in the crucible of life, met by our trust in Him, brings victory over trials.

Paul continues, “and all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:3-4). God provided sustenance in the wilderness, teaching dependence on Him alone. This parallels our daily need for spiritual nourishment through prayer and Scripture. The manna given in the wilderness is referred to as “spiritual food,” and the miraculously supplied water as “spiritual drink” because they were types of what we receive from Christ. By calling Christ “the rock,” Paul means Christ was present in the wilderness, graciously supplying supernatural food and drink. 18^th-century preacher and church leader John Wesley wrote, “Christ is the Rock of Eternity, from whom His people derive those streams of blessings which follow them through all this wilderness.” Undoubtedly, God’s faithfulness in the crucible of life, met by our trust in Him, brings victory over trials.

As we read on, we find in 1 Corinthians 10:5–6, “Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did.” Despite all that God had done for them, the Israelites disobeyed. As a result, they left God’s parameters for blessing and suffered the consequences of their disobedience. This serves as a warning to all believers to stay focused on Christ. We must remember that God’s faithfulness in the crucible of life, met by our trust in Him, brings victory over trials.

Paul expands further, “Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, ‘The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.’ We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer” (1 Corinthians 10:7-10). Israel’s idolatry and subsequent judgment caution against spiritual complacency and compromise. Temptations can lead to spiritual downfall if not resisted. The Israelites participated in adulterous feasts, which was a problem within the Corinthian church. Idolatry quickly led the Israelites into “sexual immorality” (Numbers 25:1), also a problem at Corinth. Paul writes, “Do not put Christ to the test” by seeing how much you can willfully sin before Christ hands you over to the judgment of your actions. In other words, when we dig our own hole, we shouldn’t blame God when we fall into it. There is a better way: God’s faithfulness in the crucible of life, met by our trust in Him, brings victory over trials.

Finally, Paul writes, “Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:11-13). Paul underscores the relevance of these historical accounts, highlighting God’s faithfulness and our responsibility to persevere. God provides a way of escape in every trial. The high point of all previous history has been achieved with the advent of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:13 is a verse worth memorizing. “Temptation” involves the possibility of sinning and of failure under testing. Sin only occurs in the lives of believers when they give consent to the enticing desire. Note that God is faithful to us during our temptations and provides His help so that we need not fail.

Once again, consider that God’s faithfulness in the crucible of life, met by our trust in Him, brings victory over trials. This is the lesson of faith tested and strengthened by Moses and the Israelites’ 40-year journey through the wilderness. As we reflect on Moses and Israel’s journey, let us heed Paul’s exhortation to learn from their experiences. Our faith is tested in the wilderness of life, yet God’s faithfulness endures. May we walk in obedience, trust, and perseverance, knowing that God is with us every step of the way. We may not always understand why things happen, but we can be confident in the One who is faithful through it all. God’s faithful hand is always at work. The question is whether or not we will trust Him and walk in the victory He provides amid all the trials of life. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

A while back, I was reading through Matthew and came across Jesus’ personal invitation to find rest in Him. Who among us doesn’t need rest? Who hasn’t had days or seasons when their very soul has cried out for rest? The good news is that such rest, a rest that brings relief and peace, is offered to us by the Lord.

We read, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). Jesus gives an invitation to find rest through trusting in Him. Such trust goes beyond mere belief in historical facts about Him – it is a personal trust in Him as Savior and Lord.

Specifically, the invitation is to “all who labor and are heavy laden.” In context, Jesus is addressing the oppressive burden of religious legalism, such as was imposed on people by the Scribes and Pharisees. Still today, people place upon themselves the burden of working for rest rather than receiving it. The wider application is that Jesus provides “rest for our souls,” which is eternal rest for all who enter into a saving relationship with Him. This salvation brings freedom, liberation from crushing legalism and the guilt of trying to earn salvation by works.

The “yoke” is a wooden frame that joins two animals (usually oxen) to pull heavy loads. The metaphor was used to speak of one person being subjected to another. It was a common metaphor in Judaism for the law. The Pharisees’ interpretation of the law, with its extensive list of proscriptions, had become a crushing burden, but falsely, the people believed it came from a divine origin. Of course, it had not. But, following the Pharisees led them into bondage rather than freedom and rest.

Contrasting with the burdensome yoke of religious legalism, Jesus’ “yoke” of discipleship brings freedom and rest through a simple commitment to Him. In these profound words of Jesus from Matthew 11:28-30, we hear a compelling invitation to all who are wrestling, overwhelmed, or searching for peace. Jesus doesn’t just offer temporary relief; He provides a profound soul-rest that comes from surrendering to Him. His ‘yoke’ is not one of bondage but of freedom, guiding us with love and compassion. I urge each of us to respond to His call, finding rest and purpose in Him, knowing that His grace and strength sustain us every step of the way. Genuine rest is found by placing our trust in Jesus. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

By examining Moses ‘ calling, we can learn much about fulfilling our calling as believers to know God and make Him known in every area and role in our lives. Let’s begin by getting to know Moses by understanding the context of his birth. The Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, enduring harsh treatment and oppression under Pharaoh’s rule. In a desperate attempt to control their growing population and strength, Pharaoh ordered the killing of all Hebrew baby boys. It is in this dire situation that Moses enters the scene.

Moses’ early life is marked by a remarkable series of events highlighting God’s providence, protection, and sovereignty. Exodus 2:1–10 narrates how Moses, born to a Levite woman during a time of persecution, is miraculously saved when his mother places him in a basket among the reeds by the riverbank. Pharaoh’s daughter discovers him, and he is raised in the palace as her son, whom she named Moses, meaning “I drew him out of the water.”

The imagery of Moses’ life-saving basket is a powerful metaphor for God’s providential care in our lives. Just as Moses was protected and guided by God’s hand from the dangers of the Nile River, believers are reminded of God’s watchful presence and guidance in their journeys. God’s sovereignty is evident throughout Moses’ early life. Despite his birth’s perilous circumstances, God has a plan and purpose for Moses. This underscores the broader theme of God’s sovereignty over our lives, even in times of uncertainty and danger.

Furthermore, Moses’ story showcases God’s provision and protection. God provided a way for Moses to escape harm and ensured his safety in Pharaoh’s household. Similarly, despite challenges and difficulties, believers are assured of God’s provision and protection. Moses’ mother’s act of faith in placing him in the basket reflects the importance of trust and faithfulness in God. Believers are encouraged to trust God’s faithfulness, knowing He is always working for their good, even in challenging circumstances. The narrative of Moses’ life-saving basket sets the stage for his transformative journey. It foreshadows God’s redemption and purpose in store for Moses and, by extension, for all believers. No matter the circumstances or challenges faced, God can use each of us for His glory, our good, and the blessing of others.

Transitioning to Moses’ life in Egypt, we see a period of privilege, education, and identity struggle. As the adopted son of Pharaoh’s daughter, Moses grows up in luxury and receives the best education available. However, he also grapples with questions of identity and loyalty to his Hebrew heritage. Moses’ pivotal moment comes when he witnesses an Egyptian mistreating a Hebrew and intervenes, leading to his flight from Egypt to Midian as Pharoh is determined to put him to death (Exodus 2:11-15).

In Midian, Moses assumes a new identity as a shepherd and marries into a local family, living a quiet life for forty years. At the age of eighty, Moses encounters God in the burning bush, receiving a life-altering call to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite his initial doubts and insecurities, God assures Moses of His presence, provision, and empowerment for the task ahead (Exodus 3:1-12; 4:1-17).

The story of Moses’ life-saving basket, his upbringing in Egypt, and his call at the burning bush resonates with believers on multiple levels. It speaks of God’s sovereignty, provision, faithfulness, and transformative power in the lives of His people. Just as God called Moses to a remarkable purpose, believers are invited to embrace God’s callings in their own lives, trusting in His guidance and provision every step of the way.

The call we receive from God may not always come in spectacular ways like a burning bush, nor do our lives seem as extraordinary as Moses’. However, through Jesus Christ, who sacrificed Himself for our sins and rose again for our salvation, we are undergoing a transformation for a significant purpose, guided by the love of God, who sent His Son for us. God’s call is not limited by our circumstances or backgrounds; it encompasses every follower of Jesus Christ.

Despite starting from humble beginnings, God’s touch can lead to remarkable callings and personal transformations. His constant work in our lives has no “in-between times”; He is always preparing us for His intentions, even if His call disrupts our plans initially, as it ultimately leads to deep transformation and meaningful purpose. In times of uncertainty, God’s provision and empowerment enable us to face challenges and fulfill our calling to know God and make Him known. Every individual, whether a pastor, teacher, student, clerk, mother, or father, is called by God to fulfill this purpose in their secondary roles. Surrendering to God’s callings on our lives allows us to align with His intentions and experience the profound transformation and purpose He has in store for us. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

On Sunday, we celebrated Mother’s Day, expressing gratitude for the incredible gift of mothers and their profound impact on our lives. As believers, we understand motherhood is a sacred calling infused with love, sacrifice, and God’s grace. I have often referred to spiritual moms as those who are not necessarily biological moms but serve as mother figures to others for the cause of Christ.

Proverbs 31:26-28 beautifully captures the essence of a godly mother: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Now, it is essential to note that the picture presented here is an ideal; it is meant to offer a framework for understanding godly womanhood.

A mother’s role extends beyond physical care; she plays a crucial role in spiritually, emotionally, and mentally nurturing her children. Just as God nurtures and cares for His children, mothers reflect His love and compassion in their everyday actions. In Proverbs 22:6, we’re reminded of the importance of a mother’s guidance: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This observation is worth noting and emulating.

Mothers exemplify the sacrificial love that Jesus taught us. John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” Mothers often sacrifice their own needs and desires for the sake of their children, embodying the selfless love modeled by Christ. My Mom indeed expressed such love for my brother and me.

Furthermore, the Bible teaches us about mothers’ strength and resilience. Proverbs 31:25 states, “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.” In times of adversity, mothers draw strength from their faith and trust in God’s providence, inspiring us all with their unwavering courage. My Mom came to Christ when I was 15. I came to Christ when I was 5. However, she was an example of strength and dignity, while spiritual moms exemplified faith. I am thankful for both. I am grateful my Mom became a lady of faith as well.

As we honor mothers, let’s remember to express our gratitude and appreciation for their unconditional love. Ephesians 6:2-3 reminds us of the commandment with a promise: “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—”so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Paul is teaching here that honoring our moms is a sign that we genuinely know God and results in us being blessed by the Lord.

Ultimately, Mother’s Day is a time to reflect on the profound blessings of motherhood and to thank God for the precious gift of mothers, whether biological, spiritual, or both, in our lives. Let’s celebrate their love, emulate their virtues, and honor them as representatives of God’s grace and wisdom. How could we do any less? Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In September 2023, the Barna Group noted that 36% of what they call spiritually open individuals who are non-Christians believe God is the creator of the universe. They are even more accepting of foundational Christian beliefs about God, Jesus, heaven, and the Bible than those who are not spiritually open. However, they perceive God as a higher power, but not necessarily one who loves or cares for us and is involved intimately with His creation. Nearly 42% of the spiritually closed non-Christians clearly express that they do not believe God exists.

The Pew Research Center a few years back noted that the vast majority of Americans (90%) believe in some kind of higher power, with 56% professing faith in God as described in the Bible and another 33% saying they believe in another type of higher power or spiritual force. Only one in ten say they don’t believe in God or a higher power. What is concerning is that the Pew Research Center found that 25% of U.S. Christians do not believe that God possesses all three of these attributes – God is loving, omniscient (all-knowing), and omnipotent (all-powerful). This means that one in four believers do not have a proper view of God.

It’s a matter of urgency that a significant number of believers, a quarter to be exact, lack a biblical understanding of God. This is not just a statistic but a call to action. We must strive for a deeper understanding of God, not only for our own spiritual growth but also to be effective witnesses of our Lord. The Barna Group’s findings present a picture of great opportunity, especially among spiritually open non-Christians. They are likely open to conversations about God, and we believers can be the ones to guide them.

God presents Himself to us through the Bible as loving, caring, and providing for His children. For instance, He is our Heavenly Father, which reflects believers’ intimate relationship with God and the assurance of His guidance and support. The Bible teaches that God loves us as a father loves his children. 1 John 3:1 says, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” Just as a father cares for His children, God provides for our needs (Matthew 6:26). God, as our Father, guides us in the right path (Proverbs 3:5-6). Hebrews 12:6-7 highlights the loving discipline of God as a father.

Understanding God as loving, caring, and involved with His creation and Him as our Father is not just a theological concept. It matters because it deepens our relationship with Him, gives us security in His love, and shapes our identity as His beloved children. This understanding also provides the right witness to those who might be open to conversation about God and hopefully enter into a saving relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. For these reasons alone, let’s dig into God’s Word and come to know Him for who He is, and make Him known in the way He has called us to for His glory, our blessing, and the blessing of others. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Embracing God’s presence and sharing His love with others not only transforms our hearts but also inspires positive change in the world around us, fostering real change, healing, and hope amid challenges and uncertainties. We read in Matthews 28:19-20, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This passage holds significant importance for believers as it contains what is commonly referred to as the Great Commission.

This command has a universal scope for all believers, calling us as Christ’s followers to share the gospel message with people of every nation, ethnicity, and culture. The focus on making disciples involves not only leading people to faith but also nurturing them in their spiritual growth and helping them become fully devoted followers of Jesus. As believers, we are to prioritize teaching and living out the teachings of Jesus, understanding that true discipleship involves both understanding God’s Word and obeying His commands. Here is an amazing reality, the Great Commission is a task empowered by the Holy Spirit, where believers rely on His guidance, strength, and presence as they engage in evangelism and discipleship. Matthew 28:19-20 is a foundational mandate for our faith, guiding our mission as believers to know God and make Him known.

We discover emphasized in Jeremiah 9:23-24 the importance of knowing God and growing in our relationship with Him. It begins by cautioning against boasting in one’s own wisdom, strength, or riches. Instead, it encourages humility, recognizing that true wisdom and understanding come from knowing and acknowledging God. It highlights that the essence of wisdom lies in knowing God and understanding His character, His ways, and His will. This knowledge goes beyond mere intellectual understanding; it involves a personal and intimate relationship with God. To know God is to know His love and love Him, and to love Him is to genuinely make Him known in word and deed.

Think of the transformational impact of knowing God found in 2 Corinthians 5:17. This verse highlights several key points regarding the transformational impact of knowing God. Believers in Christ are described as a “new creation,” which signifies a radical transformation that occurs at the spiritual level. It’s not just about behavioral change but a fundamental renewal of one’s identity and nature. This verse emphasizes that the old, referring to our sinful nature, past mistakes, and bondage to sin, has passed away, which indicates a break from our former way of life and a liberation from the power of sin.

The newness brought by knowing God is not superficial but profound. It involves a new way of being, feeling, and thinking—a life guided by the principles of God’s kingdom, characterized by love, righteousness, and holiness. The transformative power is attributed to being “in Christ.” This emphasizes the centrality of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Through Him, we experience forgiveness, redemption, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who catalyzes our transformation.

While the initial transformation is instantaneous upon salvation, the Christian life is also a journey of ongoing transformation, which involves growing in faith, renewing our minds through God’s Word, and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us continually. Here is the point. Believers’ revolutionary purpose begins with knowing God. 18th-century pastor, theologian, and church leader John Wesley explained, “When God transforms a heart, He transforms a life, and that life transforms the world.”

We discover this verse in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Like Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8 is a foundational verse that outlines the mission of every believer. The verse begins by highlighting the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers for their mission. We need the Holy Spirit’s guidance, strength, and presence in fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Acts 1:8 is not just a mandate for a select group of missionaries or leaders but applies to every believer and underscores the responsibility and privilege of all Christians to participate in God’s mission of reaching all people with the love and message of Christ everywhere. The late great evangelist Billy Graham rightly proclaimed, “We are not called to keep the light to ourselves but to be torchbearers, illuminating the world with God’s truth and love.”

Further, it is essential for all believers to engage in Romans 10:13-15, as it emphasizes the universal call to proclaim the Gospel and make God known to all people, regardless of background or status. This passage underscores the urgency and importance of sharing the message of salvation, highlighting that salvation is available to everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. As believers, we are called to actively participate in the mission of making God known, bringing the good news of His grace, love, and salvation to the ends of the earth, fulfilling the Great Commission, and reflecting Christ’s love for humanity. Here is the point. Believers’ revolutionary purpose begins with knowing God and is fulfilled by making Him known. The recently passed Tim Keller wonderfully noted, “The most revolutionary act a believer can do is to live out the Gospel in a world that desperately needs the hope it offers.”

Imagine a city skyline illuminated by countless lights, each representing a believer shining the light of Christ. As these lights come together, they create a radiant beacon of hope and transformation, piercing through the darkness and drawing people to the warmth and brightness of God’s love. Just as a single candle can dispel darkness in a room, each of us, united in purpose and fueled by our knowledge of God, has the potential to bring about a revolutionary transformation in the world around us. I pray that empowered by God’s Spirit to live out our revolutionary purpose of knowing God and making Him known, we will bring light and life as everyday missionaries in our homes, workplaces, schools, and places where we play (communities where we live). Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In a world often plagued by conformity and complacency, Christ beckons us to embrace a radical transformation—an awakening of the spirit that challenges societal norms and propels us toward a deeper connection with God. Through scripture, prayer, and fellowship, we are invited to embark on a journey of liberation, justice, and love, echoing the revolutionary essence of Christ’s teachings. I encourage us to open our hearts and minds to the transformative power of living boldly in the footsteps of our Savior.

Consider the story of a small group of fishermen casting their nets into the sea, their livelihood dependent on the unpredictable tides. One day, as they toil under the scorching sun, a stranger appears on the shore, inviting them: “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Intrigued by this enigmatic figure, they abandon their nets and embark on a journey that will forever alter the course of their lives. Together, they witness miracles, confront adversity, and experience the transformative power of Christ’s love. In their travels, they encounter the outcasts, the downtrodden, and the brokenhearted, offering them healing and hope. Through their unwavering commitment to their newfound calling, these fishermen become the catalysts of a revolutionary movement rooted in selfless service, radical love, and boundless grace as they share the love and message of Christ with others.

We, too, have been invited on such a journey. Christ offers us salvation and invites us to live in the fullness of life He has made possible for each of us. Christ calls us to a revolutionary life, a transformational life-journey with Him. The late evangelist Billy Graham declared, “Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion; it is like a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ.”

We discover this verse in Ephesians, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:3). Dietrich Bonhoeffer explains, “God does not give us everything we want, but He does fulfill His promises, leading us along the best and straightest paths to Himself.” In essence, “Every spiritual blessing” signifies the fullness and richness of God’s grace poured out upon believers, empowering us, by the Spirit, to live victoriously in Christ. In other words, the Lord has provided the believer with every spiritual blessing to live a revolutionary life in Him.

Think of the spiritual blessings such as the redemption we have through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:7). We are indwelt by the Holy Spirit (John 14:26; Ephesians 1:13-14). We are enabled by the Spirit to bear His fruit (Galatians 5:22-23). We have access to peace through confident prayer (Philippians 4:6). We have victory over sin and in spiritual warfare (Philippians 4:13; James 4:7). We have been given gifts to use for God’s glory (Romans 12:6-8). Here it is. Just as we have received salvation through faith in Christ, we appropriate God’s spiritual blessings to live the victorious Christian life as we continue to walk in faith (Romans 1:17).

We entered into a saving relationship with God through faith. In fact, right standing with God is by faith from start to finish. Therefore, the life of faith is all-encompassing, meaning that just as we initially received the gift of salvation by faith, we also live each and every day by faith in Christ. The Lord has provided believers with every spiritual blessing to live a revolutionary life in Him, and we appropriate them by faith.

Let me highlight a few obstacles to revolutionary living to overcome. We need to overcome doubt and fear (2 Timothy 1:7). We need to overcome temptation and sin (1 Corinthians 10:13). We need to persevere through trials and challenges (James 1:2-4). Notice that all these obstacles are overcome by believing (having faith) that God has already provided the victory. We trust in Him and walk accordingly. The Lord has provided the believer with every spiritual blessing to live a revolutionary life in Him, and we appropriate them by faith and overcome obstacles to them by faith.

How do we build faith to live a revolutionary life? Here are some practical steps. First, engage in daily devotional practices such as prayer, studying and applying the Bible, and scripture meditation (James 5:16b; Psalm 119:105; Joshua 1:8). Also, participate in community and fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). Further, enter into an accountability and mentoring relationship (Proverbs 27:17). Lastly, step out in faith to impact the world (James 2:17). The Lord has provided the believer with every spiritual blessing to live a revolutionary life in Him, and we appropriate them and overcome obstacles by faith as we grow in faith.

G.K. Chesterton insightfully wrote, “The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult and left untried.” Christ not only calls us to a revolutionary life, a transformational life-journey with Him, but has provided for it. In fact, God has provided for us “every spiritual blessing.”

Imagine standing at the base of a towering mountain, its summit hidden in the clouds, beckoning you to climb higher and explore its mysteries. As you begin your ascent, each step represents a decision to follow Christ in a revolutionary life of radical love, faith, and transformative impact. The journey is arduous, filled with steep inclines, rocky terrain, and unforeseen challenges. Yet, with each obstacle overcome, you discover newfound strength and resilience, knowing that Christ walks beside you, guiding you every step, and has provided all you need to succeed. The climb offers a breathtaking view. It is difficult at times but well worth it.

Embrace the call to climb higher, explore the depths of God’s grace, and live a revolutionary life that impacts eternity—a life lived in intimate fellowship with the One who conquered every mountain, Jesus Christ. Jesus still calls us to follow Him. He has called and provided us all we need to live a revolutionary life in Him. All that remains is for us to decide to do so. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

What Christ has done in the life of a believer is nothing short of revolutionary. When I speak of revolution, I refer to a revolution in a person’s life. I am speaking of a personal revolution brought about by placing genuine faith in Christ, where a profound and transformative change occurs, altering one’s life and eternal destiny. When people place saving faith in Christ, they are gifted with His indwelling Spirit. His Spirit, the Holy Spirit, does the transformative work of making them holy. Through the Spirit, the Christian is made in an ever-increasing measure Christlike.

Paul writes of this remarkable work of the Spirit in Romans 8. The chapter begins with the adverb “Therefore.” Whenever we come across the word “therefore” in the Bible, we need to ask, “What is it there for?” In Romans 8:1, “therefore” indicates that Paul is summing up his teaching on salvation through Christ’s finished work on the cross (He died for our sins and was resurrected for our salvation).

In Romans 8, Paul contrasts the law’s weakness and the Spirit’s power. What is power? Power is the ability to act or produce an effect, the possession of authority over others. Where is the believer’s power found? A believer’s power is not their own, but the Holy Spirit’s power at work in and through them. In fact, in Romans 8, Paul introduces us to the Holy Spirit, specifically as the agent of Christ’s power in our lives. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we can experience true freedom and victory in Christ. God’s Word teaches us that the path to justification (salvation) is faith in Jesus Christ. We also learn that the life leading to Christlikeness through sanctification is by faith in Christ. We are to live “by faith from first to last” (Rom 1:17).

In chapter 8, Paul leads us into the teaching about power-filled or Spirit-filled Christian living. Some have called this the Victorious Christian Life. We discover in Romans 8:1-11 an incredible truth. The believer is freed by the Spirit from the power of sin (Rom 8:1-11). If we have accepted Christ as our Savior, we will never have to face the prospect of eternal condemnation (Romans 8:1-2). There is no condemnation for the believer because they have been justified (saved). Christians have been declared righteous.

Simply put, the Christian is free from guilt and from the enslaving power of sin. We can live the Christian life, but only through the power of Jesus Christ. Francis Schaeffer rightly notes, “If I am going to walk in this present life according to my high calling as a Christian, I need a strength higher than my own strength.” Paul shares two blessings believers have in Christ. There is no condemnation; the believer has been justified (saved). The believer is free. It is because we have been liberated (set free) that no condemnation can overtake us.

Paul writes about the Spirit’s empowerment of believers in Romans 8:3-4. The law is not bad. It’s just ineffective to save or sanctify us. Why? The law was “weakened by the flesh,” which is our fallen nature. So, what did God do for us? God sent His own Son. His Son’s coming involved Him becoming incarnate; He took upon His divinity humanity while remaining sinless. God sent His Son “to be a sin offering.” God “condemned sin in the flesh.” Lastly, God sent His Son and condemned sin in Him so that “the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us.”

Positionally, we are free, living life in the Spirit, but practically, we are to die daily – submit to the Spirit’s leading. The Spirit convicts a believer of sin so that they will confess and allow God to forgive and deliver them from sin. However, this conviction always promises hope. There is a big difference between condemnation and conviction. We must understand that Paul is writing about life in the real world of real people like you and me. The Spirit sets us free from the power of sin so that we can do what God’s law rightly requires. This is summed up by Jesus. “And He said to Him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:37-39).

In Christ, we have been saved so that one day, we will spend eternity with Him in heaven. But God also saved us to bear Him fruit so that the righteous demands of the law might be fulfilled in us. These things are possible, but not through our power, but through Christ and His indwelling Spirit. Making us holy is the work of the Holy Spirit, who indwells us. Paul, in Romans 7 – We cannot keep the law because of our indwelling sinful nature. Paul in Romans 8:4 – We can become like Christ because of the indwelling Spirit.

What a fantastic reality is the Spirit’s indwelling of the believer. This is glorious! However, now the call is to walk according to the Spirit. Paul writes in Romans 8:5-8 about two mindsets. First, the mindset on natural desires leads to death. Second, the mindset set on the Spirit brings life and peace. You see, we are always mindful of something. The minding is produced either by self or by the Holy Spirit. There is no such thing as a neutral stance where our relationship with God is concerned. The determining factor as to which mindset you have is who controls you. The crucial question is: “Are you controlled by self or the Spirit?” Those who live according to the Spirit set their minds to think, will, and do the things of the Spirit. The Spirit gives us the power to live a Christlike life. Remember, the Spirit does the work to make us holy (like Christ). We partner with the Spirit, our senior partner, and grow in Christ and His peace and power. Stott rightly notes, “We would more eagerly pursue holiness if we were convinced that it is the way of life and peace.”

Finally, Paul writes in Romans 8:9-11 about the rich reality that all believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Christians’ bodies are actually the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The question for we believers is: “Whether or not we will submit to the Spirit’s leading in our lives?” Think of it this way. Sometimes, a yard, garden, or fruit tree needs special care due to pests. Insects, animals, and the sort may be eating at and causing destruction. You need some kind of pest control, such as insecticide or a fence, you know what I mean. When the pest situation is taken care of, you may say the pest situation is under control. However, this does not mean the pests have been trained to not harm your yard or garden. No way. What has occurred is that an outside helper has removed the pest problem. Similarly, when the Spirit controls the life of a believer, He grants us godly qualities that do not come by our own effort but through the Helper—the Holy Spirit coming into our lives, removing the power of the pest (the world, the flesh, and the devil), and He fills us with His power, which produces Christlikeness—Christlike fruit.

The good news for the believer is that our resurrected body will be the perfect vehicle of our glorification (the final act of God in our salvation, completely saved). Our current bodies house the very Spirit of God, who leads us in holiness. What a wonderful truth we discover in Romans 8:1-11. The believer is freed by the Spirit from the power of sin. Consider the Holy Spirit’s transformative work in a believer’s life, which releases revolutionary power to live as one saved by Christ—to be Christlike. This is good news indeed. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!