Grateful

2009 is almost over and what a year it has been. We have seen God's grace made manifest in the numerous lives transformed and now serving Him inside the local church. As I look out each Sunday morning, I have been blessed by not only seeing new faces, but also seeing many more becoming regular attendees and participants in the ministry. What a team God has blessed us with as a church!

I am so excited for 2010. Not only are we heading into the year ahead of budget (THANK YOU!), but also with a host of new members and volunteers. We are eager to see the number of families and children continue to increase as Natalie and Co. do a fantastic job teaching and caring for the Lil' Lights. The women's class is scheduled to launch again on Thursday nights beginning January 21st, and our UNashamed: Doctrine's class is offering three different courses in the first quarter alone. There is much to be excited about!

Please join with us in prayers of Thanksgiving as we look back on 2009, and forward to 2010. May we see more people saved, water baptized, and functioning in ministry than ever before. Let's JOYfully look ahead to the power of the Resurrected Messiah!

*Look for more stats and #s in our upcoming Year End Report.

Joy: Giving for the Sake of Others
A Generous Giving Campaign of FHCC
Give: In Person, Online, or via Mail
www.fhcchurch.com

Get to Know FHCC Missions

Brother Josh - Israel

This past Sunday we featured songs from my buddy Josh's debut album, "Bo Yeshua." Josh is a friend of mine from PA, who comes from a Jewish background and has received Jesus as his Lord and Messiah. Josh and I had lost contact over the years, however, during the the process of support raising to move my family to NYC, our paths crossed while he was youth pastor at a church in central Pennsylvania. It was great to not only remember times growing up, and to see exciting to see God using Josh to reach youth, but even more encouraging was to learn of Josh's burden to reach his fellow Jewish people with the Gospel.

Since that reunion almost 5-years ago, Josh and his amazing family have remained faithful to the Lord, and humbly looked forward for the next step of ministry in their life. It's been great for my family and I to see the hand of the Lord guide them, unite them, and ultimately bring clarity as to HOW they were going to be used in reaching the Jewish community for Messiah. Turns out, that God's calling was not going to simply require a move to a different church and people group, but to an entirely different country!

This past summer, Josh and his beautiful family moved to Israel and became official citizens of the country. Their desire is not to simply minister for a season, but rather to commit their lives to serving God in their new country! They have a tremendous amount of skills and abilities, and it is my honor to not only be their friend, but also the pastor of a local church that supports their call to ministry.

Josh and his family need our help. Moving locally is expensive; moving internationally is VERY expensive. It will take Josh and his family a significant amount of time to adjust to their new country and culture and to find employment that will make full-time ministry possible. They need financial help to see them through this phase in their life. (In fact, Josh's incredible worship album was recorded live as a means to honor the Lord and raise funds for his new life of ministry.)

As a church, we would like to commit to financially supporting Josh and his family through our "Missions" account. Every month, 5% of FHCC's income is set aside to further the ministry of Jesus beyond the capacity of our local church. Yet, some of you have gone beyond this generic level of support, and have made personal commitments to give a set amount each month above and beyond your weekly tithes (a.k.a. Missions Faith Promise). These commitments have made it possible to take on the ministries of eight different missionary families! But, we want to do more...

Will you please consider making a Faith Promise (forms available by request or talking with Cathi) and enabling us to support Josh and his family through this exciting ministry to the Jewish people of Israel? Will you commit to pray for this family, for their struggles in a new land and culture, and for many people to come to know Jesus as Messiah? Will allow God to use you globally? I pray you say "yes," because if it were not for others supporting my family and I in prayer and finances, Forest Hills Community Church would not exist, and many in our church would still not know Jesus. We are all blessed when we give to Jesus!

UNplugged Tonight

Once again we are hit with the hard truths of life inside the Abraham narrative. This week, Abraham deals with the death of his wife in unusual fashion. (In fact, it is so unusual that few people even recognize it.) After spending one verse weeping at the side of his dead wife, he rises up and spends 18 verses buying property. Is this the mark of a loving husband, or a guy who just inherited a life insurance policy?

The reality is that Abraham's actions following the death of his wife should serve as very encouraging signs to all of us who love Jesus. The man runs to the side of wife and weeps. His best-friend for the past 75 years is gone, and he misses her. But, he does not die at her side or wait for his own death. Rather, the man rises up and keeps serving Jesus while honoring his wife. Abraham goes off and buys a field not only for a resting place for his wife's body, but as an inheritance for all of his descendants as they wait for the full inheritance of the land. Sarah is honored and God's will is fulfilled, all because Abraham loves his wife and his God.

This week, we look at what it means to mourn as Christians. For Christians, death is not the final stop in life, but rather an entryway into eternal life. We are not to mourn as those without hope (I Thess. 4;13), but rather rejoice that we are finally standing in the presence of our Lord (2 Cor. 5:8). The world around us knows nothing of death, and we all have been deceived by its lies. Join us tonight as we celebrate life inside the covenant of God!

UNplugged: Bible Study
Monday Nights @8pm
INSIDE FHCC Storefront
(6708 Ingram St, FHills)
www.fhcchurch.com

Sunday Preview

This Sunday we jump into a new chapter in the book of Genesis. Moving on from the emotional roller-coaster ride in chapter 22, this week we will study and complete chapter 23 which deals once again with the issue of death. Yes, while Issac's life was on the line in chapter 22, this time, Abraham's wife of many years, Sarah, will pass away at the ripe old age of 127. And for the first time in the book of Genesis, we will read how the living deal with the loss of their loved ones.

In the loss of Abel, it was God dealing with a very unrepentant Cain. In the case of the flood, we never see Noah or any of his family members dealing with the massive loss of life. When Sodom and Gemorrah were destroyed, we saw a glimpse of emotion in the lives of Lot and his wife, but again, these were not righteous people and our text was vague to say the least. In chapter 23, however, Sarah, who is a member of God's covenant community, will die of natural causes and will be mourned by her loving husband, Abraham. For the first time in our Genesis study, we learn how the Godly mourn and deal with the loss of their beloved. And in so doing, we too learn how we can honor God in times of great grief.

Genesis: Book of Beginnings
Sundays @ 10am (please arrive early)
INSIDE the Midway Movie Theater
www.fhcchurch.com

Snow Miracle

This weekend, NYC (and the entire Northeast) got pummeled with multiple inches of snow. Here in Queens, we racked up between 10-12 inches and it literally brought the city to a halt. However, we had to have church this Sunday despite the weather for a number of reasons.

#1 - since we use a movie theater for our church services, if they are "open," then we are required to pay the weekly rental fee no matter our attendance or even the ability of the church staff's (including the pastor's) ability to attend. Our theater is one of the top theaters in Queens, and they NEVER close! For us to bail would be an incredible waste of God's money.

#2 - it's the last Sunday before Christmas! Many people who never attend church throughout the year, make it a point to at least attend this specific Sunday and Easter Sunday. With such an opportunity to reach unsaved people, how could we NOT have church?

#3 - we're in the middle of an intense passage in our current sermon series! Since January 4, 2009, we have been preaching our way through the book of Genesis. We have read and preached every single word in the book, and we have now come to the place in the Abraham narrative where God asks him to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. How could we not preach this salvific and magnificent passage on the Sunday before Christmas?

#4 - it's about the word, not attendance. (This point goes hand-in-hand with the previous point, but in a slightest different direction.) Even if it was just myself in church today, it would be worth it because my being there and preaching would enable us to record and Podcast our message. Hundreds, if not thousands, who may be trapped at home, stuck on a train, or whatever will still be able to learn about God's salvation so long as the church would conduct a service.

#5 - church is all about Jesus! I love going to church, hanging with my fellow believers, meeting new people, worshipping Jesus in music and the word, and praying for people to begin a relationship with Jesus, or strengthen an already established relationship. I love being in the midst of God's presence and seeing Him work. And, YES, He is alive and active outside of Sunday mornings, but you cannot argue the uniqueness of a Sunday morning worship environment. We had to have church this Sunday!

Despite an incredibly difficult journey to get to the theater in the snow (I had to shovel several members out and take advantage of 4-wheel drive), we had a fantastic turnout this Sunday! People came ready to worship, ready to hear from Jesus, ready to get serious about living in obedience, and ready to lay it all down for Him. People were saved today and all were blessed. I am so glad we didn't cancel, and I am so glad for technology that makes it possible for all to hear about Jesus, even when they are trapped indoors because of snow. Thank God, it's all about Jesus!

Christmas Eve Service

For the first time, Forest Hills Community Church is finally able to hold its very own Christmas Eve service. The campus will be lit by candlelight, wonderful live Christmas music will be performed, and we'll give an opportunity to reflect on the wonder of Jesus' birth. It is going to be an awesome experience, and we pray that you and your family will be able to join us for this special 1-hour event at the FHCC Campus location.

Let's face it: no one's life is perfect, and no one's life could possibly live up to the hype that commercialism places on the Christmas experience. We all buy crappy gifts, the gifts we get never last as long as we would like, we always feel sick and fat after dinner, and the day is never long enough, snowy enough, cold enough, "Hallmarky" enough, etc. Thus, it is easy to go into Christmas depressed and/or delusional with unrealistic expectations. For so many, Christmas is just a prozac moment waiting to happen. But, it doesn't have to be!

The biblical story of Christmas is all about simplicity and humility. The God of heaven and all eternity enters into time, arriving in a city of no more than a hundred or so people in a desert wasteland. He comes not as a regal and triumphant being, but rather as a helpless baby. His parents are not kings or leading citizens, but rather poor nobodies who come from a region in their country where a huge social stigma exists. Despite historical revisionism, there is no pageantry at His birth, but only a couple of livestock and some hillbilly shepherds. These are the facts surrounding the first Christmas, and this is exactly how God planned it to be: simply family and simply God.

Please consider joining us this Thursday night for a time of simply family and simply Jesus. Allow God the opportunity to put not just the holiday, but your life, back in perspective. Allow Him the joy of reminding you that it is all about His love for you. Allow us, His church and family, the opportunity to love on you. Let's celebrate the holiday with historical integrity; let's be all about Jesus and family.

FHCC Christmas Eve Service
Thursday, Dec. 24 @ 6:30pm
INSIDE the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
1-hour "kid friendly" service with refreshments following
www.fhcchurch.com

UNplugged Preview

Big night tonight, my hermeneutic peeps! Tonight we tackle the riveting story of Abraham's sacrifice of his only son, Isaac (Genesis 22:1-19). There is simply so much packed into this 19 verse story, that we would spends weeks on the topic and it's many twists, turns, and implications. However, we must limit this talk to one night only; tonight!

Come out and learn the story the way it was meant to be told and understood. Join us as we break down some of the key words in the original language, wrestle with the secular and wrong interpretations of the text, and ultimately, proclaim how loving and good our God is and why he would ask such a daunting and riveting task from his man, Abraham.

Tonight, God is going to rock our world's, and I don't want you to miss it!

UNplugged: Interactive Bible Study
Monday Nights @ 8pm
Inside the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St, FHills)
www.fhcchurch.com

Listen to the Sermon. Download the Study Guide.

Sunday Worship Set

This Sunday at FHCC, we worshipped to the following songs:

1 - "Hark! The Herald Angels Singl" by Chris Tomlin, Album: Glory in the Highest

2 - "Salvation is Your Name" by Josh Manarchuch, Album: Bo Yeshua

3 - "Bo Yeshua" by Josh Manarchuch, Album: Bo Yeshua

4 - "Glory of It All" by David Crowder Band, Album: Passion-God of this City

Sunday's Service is CONFIRMED

We are writing to inform you that there WILL BE service tomorrow, Sunday, December 20th, inside the Midway Movie Theater.

Please use caution when venturing out, and please do not put yourself or others in jeopardy. If you cannot join us, then please make plans to attend our Monday Night service, UNplugged, which begins at 8pm inside the FHCC Campus location.

We hope to see you all tomorrow morning for a wonderful service INSIDE the Midway Movie Theater. Service starts at 10am.

PS> If you are on the hospitality team and cannot make it in, please call Johanna or Chi as soon as possible to inform them of your situation.

Snow Storm Update

As you may be aware, they are calling for substantial snow this weekend, particular Saturday night into Sunday morning. So, what does this mean for church at the Midway?

Well, we are not sure at this point as we are dependent upon the Movie Theater management. If the Midway chooses to close, then we will be closed. If they are open, then we will be open for service at 10am. (It is that simple and that precarious.)

Obviously, if you are one who must drive to church, please feel under no obligation from your pastor and friends to put you of the the lives others in danger by driving. Have church at home via podcast and be sure to join us Monday night for UNplugged. (This week's text is SOOO good, you can't miss it!)

For the rest of us who own snowboots, take the subway or walk to church, please keep checking this blog and our website for updates.

Channukah & Christianity - Part V

Jesus, the Fulfillment

In our last post, we discussed the biblical concept of prophetic fulfillment and examined Daniel chapter 9 in light of the events surrounding the first Chanukah. Clearly, the key elements of Daniel's prophetic vision had been fulfilled with the return of the Jews from Babylonian exile, the occupation of the Greek empire, and the blasphemous act of Antiochus inside the Jewish Temple. Yet, when Jesus is pressed by His disciples to explain the events of the End Times, Jesus again references the prophecy of Daniel chapter 9. All biblical prophecy has multiple fulfillment: the first being the lesser, the later being the greater.

But what about the event of Chanukah, itself? Can it be a source of prophecy?

Jesus Celebrates Channukah

While not a Mosaic holiday, the feast of Chanukah was still recognized as a sacred festival to the Lord, and the Jewish people had been honoring its remembrance every year since its inception. Thus, in John chapter 10, we see Jesus Himself honoring the holiday with a trip to the temple. While He is lingering on the Temple mount, some Pharisees approach Him, and this exchange takes place:

²²Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, ²³and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon's Colonnade. ²⁴The Jews gathered around him, saying, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly."

²⁵Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, ²⁶but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. ²⁷My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. ²⁸I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. ²⁹My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. ³⁰I and the Father are one."

³¹Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, ³²but Jesus said to them, "I have shown you many great miracles from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?"

³³"We are not stoning you for any of these," replied the Jews, "but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God."

Well, that it is interesting. The Pharisees come and initiate an intense conversation with Jesus, He answers them with a lovely statement about His intimate relationship with God, and they respond with preparations to stone him. Isn't that intriguing?

Couple of things to note:

1 - The Time of Year: The events of verses 22-42 occur during the Feast of Dedication, that is Channukah.

2 - The Location: The Scriptures declare that these events are taking place on the Temple mount, inside the area known as "Solomon's Portico." This area was the location of the original temple of Solomon. This area was the amongst the most sacred, an area reserved for Jews only.

It was also in this sacred area where Antiochus' men sacrificed a pig and began the events of Chanukah 250 years earlier.

3 - The Question: The question the Jewish people asked Jesus was, "Are you the Messiah, the Promised Deliver of Israel?"

The reason for this question was very specific. It is the season of Channukah, and the Jewish people are looking back on the events surrounding the Maccabeean revolt. Once again they find themselves in a similar situation. Instead of the Syrian-Greeks, it is now the Romans who are occupying their land and ruling over them. Yes, they have been allowed to worship their God freely in their sacred temple, but Rome has corrupted the priesthood, installing non-Levitical leaders who care more for Rome than God and His law. Tensions are mounting, as more and more Jews are being swept away into Roman life and worship. And just as in the days of the Maccabees, the Jews are looking for a savior.

4 - The Response: Jesus' response to his audience is very clear: "Yes, I am the Messiah; can you not tell by all the miracles you have seen? In fact, I just opened the eyes of a man born blind (John 9) and fulfilled the Messianic prophecy of Isaiah 61:1-2 (Sept), Exodus 4:1, and Psalm 146:8. There should be no question who I am!"

And, apparently, the Jewish people understood His response because they picked up stones to stone Him. But why the quick response to kill Him?

Well for starters, Jesus just called Himself God. He did this not only with His miracles, but also with His statement that He and the Father are one. This is a big "no-no" in Judaism, for the God of Israel is not like the gods of Rome and secular society who are understood as being exalted men. (In fact, according to Roman law, once a man became Caesar, he became a god.)

Second of all, it was this kind of radical behavior that began the events of Channukah. How dare this nobody from the land of Galilee (a place where Greek [Hellenized] Judaism was observed) enter the temple mount and proclaim himself God?! He is acting exactly like Antiochus, isn't he?

It would appear that the events leading up to the first Channukah are repeating themselves all over again. But if this is the case, does that mean that Jesus has become the Abomination that causes Desolation!?! Of course not! However, there is still a sacred and exalted prophecy occurring in this text. One more glorious than Daniel's and with greater consequences and results that the temporary freedom the Maccabees achieved.

Malachi 3:1-2, "Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts. ²But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?"

It is not a false Messiah who stands in the Temple during the events of John 10; it is the Messiah. It is not a mere man who has appointed himself a god; it is the man who is God. And He has not come to overthrow one earthly dictatorship for another or replace one sinful man with another; He has come in eternal perfection to usher in an eternal kingdom whose rule shall have no end. He has not come to release only a specific people group from the bonds of oppression; He has come to make all men free. This man, this God-Man, Jesus the Messiah, is not the Abomination; He is the Proclamation! A mere lampstand does not sanctify the Temple of God; it is this Jesus, the Light of the Word, who consecrates the holy Temple. He alone gives Light to the nations and to all the people of God (John 8:12, John 9:5, John 12:46, & Rev. 22:5)!

Chanukah teaches us many great biblical truths about preserving the Word of the Lord and remaining faithful despite the oppression and folly of culture. Chanukah reminds us of the greatness of God and His steadfast love and provision. But above all, Chanukah should serve as a warning to all that there is only One God, His law alone is to be observed, and He is the true God who has come into His temple in the flesh of man to save and purify all the hearts of men so that He may make His dwelling amongst them! (John 1:14 and Revelation 21:3)

Instead of rejecting Jesus, won't you receive Him? And if you have already received Him, won't you share Him with others? Let the Light of God shine through you, consecrating you, purifying you, and making His dwelling inside of you.

Sunday's Message Preview

This Sunday, December 20th, a message will be preached that you cannot afford to miss! After almost eight months of studying the life of Abraham, it all comes down to this incredible testing of his faith. God, the eternally just and righteous One, will approach Abraham and ask him to make the ultimate sacrifice of his one and only son, Isaac. The request is not only emotionally daunting, but also physically and spiritually incomprehensible. Yet, Abraham obeys God and carries out the Lord's request to the letter.

"How can this be," you ask? Did Abraham know God was only testing him? Was he an emotional robot, ignorant of the emotional duress this would cause his wife and son? Was God really asking for the blood of Isaac? What is the purpose of all of this??

Please make plans now to join us this Sunday inside the Midway movie theater for our current series, "Genesis: Book of Beginnings." We guarantee you will receive a fresh, relevant, and intended meaning from this time old story of Abraham. Bring a friend and your bible, cause you are going to want to take notes on this one!

Forest Hills Community Church
Sundays @ 10am
INSIDE the Midway Movie Theater (rain, snow, or whatever...)
www.fhcchurch.com

Channukah & Christianity - Part IV

Jesus Fulfills Chanukah

With tonight being the final night for Chanukah, I feel it appropriate that we look specifically towards its New Testament fulfillment. (Yes, believe it or not, even Chanukah points to the Messiah and His salvific work.) Yet, before we go even as far as the New Testament (approximately 250 years after the events of the first Chanukah), let's first go back to it's Old Testament prophecy (approximately 400 years before the events of the Maccabees) found in the book of Daniel.

In Daniel chapter 9, we find the servant of God prophesying concerning the coming days of Israel, it's return from exile, followed by a covenant, or rule, of a man of evil that will eventually lead to an act of abomination that brings desecration on the holy temple of God. Now, like all Old Testament prophecy, there is immediate/lesser fulfillment and there is future/greater fulfillment. (For examples of this principal look to most of the prophecies of the Psalms and the book of the prophets.) Any student of Scripture should recognize this prophecy of Daniel as being un-fulfilled, since Jesus, Himself referenced this passage in His prophecy concerning events that would following His earthly ministry (Matt 24). Yet, if you talk to any Jewish persona or biblical scholar, and they would surely take Daniel chapter 9 and see its fulfillment in the events of Chanukah.

Do not forget that the book of Daniel was written while the Jewish people lived in exile in the land of Babylon. Following a hundred years or so of exile, they were eventually permitted to return to their tattered homeland and rebuilt their sacred temple under the guise of the Persian empire and a Jewish prophet named, Nehemiah. (So far, it seems the prophecy of Daniel 9 is right on track, but wait!, we are just getting started.) After the Persians, however, the Greeks come on the scene and form an alliance with the local domestic authorities of all the countries they conquer, which, of course, includes the Jewish homeland of Israel. A pact, or covenant, is made saying that the lands conquered by Greece may remain as they are, but shall fall under Greek rule and influence. This means that the Jews may worship their God, so long as they allow themselves to be ruled by their Greek Emperor and government. Now, enter Antiochus IV, the new ruler of the empire and so proclaimed god. He outlaws all religion except the ones he sees fit, and forces all subjects from all conquered lands to worship his gods in their local temples. Of course, the worship of any God other than YHWH inside the temple was beyond forbidden and the Jewish people refused. Nevertheless, the event did occur and a pig was sacrificed on the Jewish temple mount in honor of a foreign and false god. The temple had been desecrated with an abomination. Daniel 9 had been fulfilled, and the Maccabees stepped up to put and end to the desolator's army, which they did (temporarily, at least, until those pesky Romans show up 100 or so years later...).

Well, it seems that Daniel 9 has found its fulfillment with Chanukah; but if that is the case, then why does Jesus refer to Daniel 9 as still needing fulfillment in His dissertation of the End Times found in chapter 24 of Matthew's Gospel? Lesser and greater fulfillment, of course!

But, what about Chanukah itself. Is it fulfillment, or prophecy, or both? It would seem that it is simply fulfillment, as it was never referenced by any of the writers of the Old Testament, and falls into the category of inter-testamental writings of mere historical nature. But is that really all Chanukah is about: history and nationalism??? Jesus didn't think so....

Channukah & Christianity - Part III

Hellenism & You

Well, six nights have come and gone, and only two more remain to Chanukah 2009. I pray that all have been enjoying the holiday, the posts on the blog and the conversations you have had with your Jewish friends and neighbors. Don't forget: at the heart of Chanukah is evangelism. The Maccabee's revolt was not only to purify their own understanding and worship of God, but also to proclaim the sovereignty of their God over all others. Make sure you fully celebrate the holiday and tell someone about Jesus, the true Light of the world. Faith is not mere belief, but conviction followed by action. Do you remember the history of Chanukah, and the events leading up to the Maccabee's revolt?

Antiochus' goal was to Hellenize (make "Greek" in culture and religion) all the lands of his empire. He didn't necessarily cared what people believed, so long as their actions and language were Greek. He did not enter into debates with the local people over the superiority of Greek philosophy and religion; he simply wanted obedience. Antiochus knew that if he could get people into the actions of Greek life, it's effects would eventually trickle down into their subconscious and become a part of them; and it worked!

The Maccabee family was unique. The majority of the Jewish population of Israel had fully embraced Greek culture, and actually became infuriated with the actions of the Maccabees. Sure, history looks back on them now as heroes, but in their day, they were largely hated by their own. The people liked the Greek culture, because it was so free, sensual, and enlightening. It no longer mattered what the color of a person's skin was, the land from which they came, how many wives/lovers they had, or to which god they had served previously. Under Greek culture, all manners of pleasure and philosophy were accepted and embraced in the name of global empire. Antiochus & Hellenism played to man's greatest weakness: sensuality.

Application
Guess what: Hellenism isn't dead. While there is no longer a quest to make the known world speak Greek, the desire to unify the world under the guise of tolerance and sensuality is in full bloom. And just as was the strategy of Antiochus and his predecessors, it began with the secular and is moving toward the religious.

Have you noticed the trend in global marketing and adverstising? Take a moment the next time you are in Time Square and look up at the billboards. Notice that in this international marketplace there is but one common thread running through it: sensual pleasure. Everything is marketed around making you feel good. There are no philosophical arguments on display, just pithy statements that stroke your senses and make you want to be around other sensual people. Everything is "global," not national or local. Everyone is to be "global," not local. And while these appeals may seem very superficial, their goal is to create a world religion.

The wonderful thing about Greek mythology is its universal appeal. All the gods and goddesses were based on sensuality: anger, sex, wisdom, ego, debauchery, strength, etc. You did not need to actually believe that literal beings lived on a mountain in Greece and threw lightning bolts to adhere to Greek religion; all you needed to do was buy into its principals: the gods behaved like man; thus, man's behavior is like the gods. All behavior was thus rational, explainable, and acceptable. If the gods were guilty of questionable behavior and still heralded, then I can do the same without consequence. Our world is under this same mentality and religion; we've simply removed the mythology from its observance.

Hellenism was all about the spread of global sin, and today's Globalism is its counterpart. May we not, however, make the mistake of the Maccabees and turn our righteous stirrings into nationalism. I love my country, but I love my God and His law eternally more. Be careful then how you live. You may think you are just a modern and hip individual, and not realize that you are actually buying into a sinful identity & religion.

So, what are we to do? Make our own clothes, live in rural farmland, and talk smack about the world around us? Absolutely not. We are to be like Jesus and be in the world, but not of it. (John 17:14-19). Jesus lived as a missionary in a sinful world, building relationships, and eating the local food and drink; yet, never became as they were: sinful. How did He accomplish this task, not only preserving Himself, but cleansing others in the process? Jesus lived for the sole approval of God. He submitted Himself to the Spirit and found wisdom in the word of God alone.

Take a moment now, mediate on the words of Jesus, and go shine the Light of truth.

Channukah & Christianity - Part II

Lights of Worship

While its name means "dedication," the real, more common ,association with Channukah is that of the "Festival of Lights;" and for good reason. The entire holiday revolves around an 9-armed candelabra, or modified "menorah." A traditional menorah only has 7 arms, but since the miracle of Channukah lasted eight days, a special menorah was crafted and used specifically for the holiday. But from where did the idea of the original 7-arm menorah come?

During the Israelite exodus from Egypt to the Promised Land, God presented His covenant people with His Law, or Torah. This divine law incorporated not only civil law, but also religious & ceremonial law. (It is also interesting and important to note that the two were not exclusive. Civil law was understood as carrying the same consequence as religious law; everything was a direct act of worship to God; but, I digress and will save that for another post...) All matters of worship were presented inside of the Law, including the specifications of the place and instruments to be used. One of these sacred instruments was the golden lamp-stand, the Menorah.

Exodus 25:31-40, describes a solid gold lamp which was to be found inside the sacred Tabernacle, or "dwelling place" for God. It was to be cast of out of one piece of gold, and was to resemble an almond branch in its design. Its sole purpose was to give light inside the meeting place so that the priests of God could carry out their duties, specifically, the presentation of the consecrated bread and the offering of incense to the Lord. Every day, the priests would enter the tent and present fresh bread and offer up fragrant spices to the Lord on the altar in symbolic worship. The bread was called, "the bread of the Presence," and was a sign that the Lord was amongst His people. The altar of incense was the "high altar" and would also be used each year on the Day of Atonement to purge, or cover, the sins of the nation before the eyes of God. Both of these acts were of critical importance, and the menorah was the sole means of light making these acts possible inside the Tabernacle.

However, once the Israelites landed inside the Promised Land, and the kingship of David was established inside the city of Jerusalem, this portable tabernacle was replaced by a permanent Temple. While more elaborate in size and outward appearance, all the specifications and instruments of worship from the tabernacle were directly carried over into the Temple. Thus, when the Maccabee revolt of Channukah took place, the primary item needed to rededicate the Temple and restore worship to God was the temple Menorah. Without it, no acts of sacred worship could commence and, spiritually speaking, all would be for nothing. The identity of every Jewish person was directly tied to his/her worship of God, and without the lights of the Menorah burning, it would be as if they were still ostracized from God's blessing. Miraculously, however, God sustained the one day supply of oil for eight days, and the Maccabees were able to not only acquire a supply of oil, but more importantly, rededicate the temple and their lives back to God.

APPLICATION:
So much could be extracted from the meaning and importance of the Menorah's relationship to worship. However, it is its ability to worship that I would like to focus on. Yes, the lighting of the menorah was a form of worship, but its primary cause was to enable worship. Without its presence, no other worship could be celebrated. Without its light, the presence of God found in the sacred bread would be hidden from the people, and the necessary offering to remove sin would be unable to be carried out. The lights enabled worship and revealed the presence and mercy of God.

Pslam 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Our greatest gift is the Word of God that instructs us how to not only live amongst others, but more importantly, how to live righteous before our God. The Bible is no mere religious artifact, nor is it to be a simple family heirloom. The Bible is God's divine gift to us so that we may know Him, see Him, and worship Him. Do not let God's light burnout in your life!

Like the priests of the old, I implore you to not begin your day until you have kindled the lights of God's word into your heart. Read your Bible, and read it to see Jesus and to know of His sacrifice on our behalf. If reading the Bible is hard for you, then get a buddy to help you. Find a good church where the Bible is clearly read, explained and valued. (I know a good one in Forest Hills, NY.)

Hebrews 4:12-13, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Channukah & Christianity - Part I

Religious Revolt & You

As discussed in the opening post for this series, the miracle of Channukah was birth out of the Jewish revolt against the Assyrian-Greek occupation of Israel. Since their return from Babylonian captivity, the Jewish people had always endured overseers and foreign influence in their lands, but they also had been allowed to worship and obey all the laws of their Torah. Sure, the presence of a foreign government wasn't ideal and was contrary to the their biblical calling to be a land free from traif (non-kosher/secular) where the sovereign reign of God was made manifest. But at least the Jewish people were home!

And then came Antiochus...

In the year 175BC a young and ambitious king named Antiochus IV became the ruler of the Seleucid Empire (an empire than occupied the land of Israel). This Hellenized kingdom picked up where Alexander the Great left off and continued a quest of world domination, not through the simple toppling of foreign governments, but through the spread of universal Greek culture and religion. Their goal was to make all of the known world "one." All conquered people were to learn the Greek language, participate in Greek culture, and worship the Greek gods. In most cases, the conquered countries would still be allowed to practice their particular religion, so long as they also adopted the Greek religion. Well, Antiochus IV thought this idea wasn't good enough, and he additionally outlawed all religion except for Greek idolatry.

Thus, in 167 BC Antiochus IV banned all forms of Jewish practice. It became illegal and punishable by death for any Jew to be found reading Torah, observing the Sabbath or other Jewish holidays, or even performing the sacred act of circumcision. The very existence of the Jewish people was now threatened, since their sole identity was to be found in their worship of the one true God through His Torah. If the Torah was outlawed, then how could a Jew be a Jew? And then, of course, came the abomination that causes desolation.

Perhaps the last straw for the Jewish people was the conversion of the Jewish temple into a Greek house of worship. As legend has it, Antiochus IV ordered that a sacrifice to the Greek gods be performed in the courts of the temple in Jerusalem. The animal to be slaughtered, of course, was none other than a pig, and Antiochus' local governors had commissioned a local Jew to carry out the act. Well, this was too much for any lover of God to bear, and a Jewish priest named Matitiyahu Maccabee rushed the scene and killed the Jewish pagan. He and his five sons then fled into the Judean wilderness, amassed a small army and led a guerrilla campaign (insurgency) against the Seleucid occupation. Eventually their rebellion worked, and Jewish worship was re-instituted in the land of Israel.

Application:
Just as in the days of the Seleucid Empire, there is a movement across our world and country to eradicate the Christian faith and usher in a secular and universal religion. (This can be found in American, European and UN legislation that outlaws the use of unique religious symbols and promotes the exaltation of pantheism [a.k.a. Environmentalism].) And like the Jewish people of Old Testament, every servant of Messiah Jesus (Christians), is to have his/her identity rooted in his/her observance and obedience to the laws of the Holy Spirit. If we do not worship, evangelize, or gather in His name; how can we be Christians?

Obviously, the moral of the story is not to round up some buddies, buy camouflage, and live in the woods plotting a coup. Romans 13:1-7 & I Peter 2:13-17 command us to submit ourselves to all local authority, including that which is hostile to our faith in the One True God. Instead of planning their overthrow, we should spend our time praying for our leadership (I Tim. 2:1-4) that they, too, may be brought into salvation. Instead of sitting idly by and complaining, we need to be aggressively evangelizing the Lost. Instead of going along with the flow and even celebrating the eradication of our faith, we need to be rising up and proclaiming the Law of the Lord. Truly, our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against something greater.

All of us are in the midst of a spiritual battle (Eph 6:12), and the Spirit of God is calling us to take a stand for His Law and love for all. Just as God miraculously provided the victory and assurance for the Maccabees at Channukah, so too will He provide the oil of His Spirit to burn bright in our lives and shine in evangelistic fashion so that all may be saved!

Channukah & Christianity

This Saturday night marks the first night of the 8-day holiday of Channukah (there are many different ways to spell it, so relax). This historical holiday celebrates the Israeli patriots revolt and victory over the Greek occupation of Jerusalem in 2nd Century BC. A Jewish patriot named, Matitiyahu Maccabee (and later his son, Judah), led a victorious uprising against the Syrian-Greek army in Jerusalem and celebrated in rededicating the Temple to the God of Israel. This dedication process focused on the relighting of the giant menorah (seven arm candle holder) inside the main hall of the temple. The problem was, however, that there was only enough oil in the lamp to burn for one day. The miracle of Channukah then took place in that the Lord Himself caused the lamp to burn for eight days until a supply of oil could be brought in. God's miraculous provision, coupled with the the Maccabee's zeal, is now celebrated every year in commemoration and celebration in the feast of Channukah (Hebrew word for "dedication").

While Channukah is primarily a Jewish holiday, there is significant application for the life of the Christian. In fact, it is interesting to note that even Jesus celebrated this holiday during His life on this earth (John 10:22 "Feast of Dedication"). Therefore, over the next couple of days, I would like to share some of these applications with you on this blog. My prayer is not only that you grow in your love for Jesus, but also that you will take these Biblical truths and share them with your Jewish friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Jesus is the Jewish Messiah, first and foremost, and nothing would be cooler than to see our Jewish community dedicate their lives in humble submission to Him this holiday season.

Messiah-Mas: 2009 Kid's Holiday Festival
Sunday, Dec. 13th - 2:00 to 4:00pm
INSIDE the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
www.fhcchurch.com

It All Comes Down to This...

After 11-weeks of brewing over theology, Scripture, and thoughts, it all comes down to this: UNashamed: FINAL JUDGMENT. No, we will not be executing our own justice, but rather examining God's sovereign and complete justice that takes place every day, at the conclusion of every life, and ultimately at the End of Time. Yes, a day of final reckoning will take place, and it is this day that Christians hope for, and non-Christians wish were not true. But what will God's courtroom be like? Who will act as judge, and what will we be judged on/for?

Join us Tuesday night for a discussion and study like no other. We will be examining, specifically, the last three chapters of the book of Revelation and discussing its order of events and the roles and attitudes we are to display as we await the Judgment of the Lord. Many false understandings will be cast out, and many Scriptural truths will become evident. Don't miss out!

UNashamed: Doctrines Class
Tuesday Nights @ 8pm
INSIDE the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
www.fhcchurch.com

UNplugged Preview

Everyone Monday night we gather at the FHCC Campus to work through the passage of Scripture preached the Sunday morning before. While the main points of the message remain the same, the application becomes more specific, the understanding becomes deeper, and the truth and glory of God's Word becomes ever clearer. We LOVE UNplugged on Monday Nights!!! (Plus, we all get to hang out as a family.)

This Monday night, we will be examining the Birth of Isaac (Gen. 21:1-7) and the ensuing calamity that is the Expulsion of Ishmael and Hagar (Gen. 21:8-21). Both of these two stories represent extreme highs and lows in emotion, as well as the blessing and curse associated with our reaction to God's glory and gifts. In the case of Genesis 21, the gift is the life of the promised son, Isaac. One group of people respond positively to the birth of the baby, while another group despises his life, attempts to rival him, and looks upon him with disinterest. What results from each of these responses is the justice and righteousness of God, coupled with infinite mercy.

Come out and join us as we examine our hearts, our lives, and our understanding of the mercy and goodness of God. We will ask ourselves the timeless question, "How am I responding to the Promised Son of God in my life?" We guarantee your life and understanding of Jesus will never be the same. (Plus, you may just learn a thing or two about Hebrew!)

UNplugged: Interactive Bible Study
Monday Nights @ 8pm
INSIDE the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
www.fhcchurch.com

Sunday Worship Set

This Sunday at FHCC, we worshipped to the following songs:

1 - "O Come Let Us Adore Him" by Chris Tomlin, Album: Glory in the Highest

2 - "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" by Chris Tomlin, Album: Glory in the Highest

3 - "Blessed be Your Name" by Matt Redman, Album: Passion Worship

4 - "Healer" by Hillsong, Album: This is Our God

UNashamed Wrap Up

Well, if you missed UNashamed this week, you missed a lot! Focusing on the first two key elements of Eschatology, we discussed the events leading up to the "Day of the Lord" (Final Judgment) and the impending return of Messiah that will signal its arrival. And while almost every book of the Bible deals with certain aspects of this subject and its events, none could be more clearer than the words of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew (ch. 24), Mark (ch. 13), and Luke (ch. 21).

From these three accounts, it becomes obvious that the following are the conditions to which must occur before the Return of Messiah and His triumphant and final judgment of all humanity.

1 - Increase of false Messiahs (saviors), Prophets (miracle workers) and Teachers (preachers)

2 - World Wars and Plight (man's condition and security will weaken)

3 - Widespread persecution of, and Evangelization by, the Church (Christians will continue their preaching of the Gospel, and the world will not respond with favor, but with violent hostility)

4 - Increase in both personal and corporate evil, even amongst the alleged "Church" (humanity will become increasing prone to evil, including by some who were once number among the Christians)

5 - Rise of Satan's unholy "trinity:" Satan (wannabe God), Anti-Christ (wannabe Jesus & Savior who will be under the complete influence of satan) and False Prophet (wannabe Holy Spirit type person who will proclaim the alleged greatness of the Anti-Christ)

6 - Cosmic Chaos (the stars in heaven will fall and proclaim the evil of man and the coming judgment of God)

But are all of these impending events still to take place, or have some of them already found fulfillment in the many events that have taken place since Jesus first spoke them 2,000 years ago?

UNashamed - End Times: Part 1

With Creation, Humanity, Sin, Redemption and Sanctification under our belts, it is time to move into a discussion on things yet to come. Over the next two weeks we will be looking at such topics as: The Second Coming of Jesus, the Millennial Reign, Final Judgment of the living and the dead, and eternity with God. All of these matters are not only necessary for a defense against false teachings and expectations, but more importantly, because our understanding of the future dictates how we live our current lives.

Tonight we will begin our Eschatalogical discussion on the Second Coming of Jesus and His Millennial Reign. Many pop-culture books (the "Left Behind" series, for example), movies, TV evangelists, and late night talk show hosts have done much to propagate and fictionalize this event, but the truth is that Jesus really will come again soon! But, will there be a warning before He comes? Can Jesus really come at any moment? Will Christians go "up" to meet Jesus, or will He simply come down to us? And what happens to all the non-Christians at the time of this Second Coming?

Get ready for a night of "no nonsense" Biblical exegesis! Many myths, fantasies, and Christian folklore will fall to the wayside tonight as we take a hard look at these questions (& any other questions you can think of). We'll then wrap up the night with a time of worship and fellowship. Bring a friend and we will see you at UNashamed!

UNashamed: Bible Doctrines Class
Tuesday Nights @ 8pm
FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
www.fhcchurch.com

Family

We just wrapped up the FHCC family Turkey Day meal. It was a blast! As always, we packed out the FHCC Campus with more food and people than it could handle, but it was well worth it. It was amazing tonight to watch so many different people, from so many different walks of life, hang out and genuinely enjoy one another! (I didn't see any fakers in the house.) Tragically, this isn't always the case in most churches. It's not that churches are bad, or worse than any other social environment; they're just made up of "people," and people disappoint. But do they have to?

In case you haven't caught on yet, Christmas season is upon us. This favorite holiday of mine, marks the time in history when God Almighty took the form of human flesh and dwelt among us, as one of us (John 1:14). In theological terms, we call this the "Incarnation." God did not forsake His divinity, He added to it by become completely human. This means that God was hungry, tired, happy, sad, had bad hair days, and was even tempted. He was like us in every way, except for one: He was sinless. Jesus never sinned. Jesus never put Himself first, belittled anyone, or even ignored anyone. Jesus never disappointed. (Heb. 4:15)

Perhaps the best part about Christmas, however, is that it is not the end of the story, but merely the beginning of the Incarnation & its effects. Jesus didn't come to simply show us how to live, He came so that we may live how we ought to! His death on the cross paid the price for sin, freeing us from all condemnation. His sinless life and righteousness have been imputed upon us, giving us divine favor and privilege. His life, death, and resurrection have purchased for us the gift of the indwelling Holy Spirit, who renews all things and enables us to live the life God intended for us to live (Romans 8). We do not have to sin and disappoint anymore!

What made the FHCC family dinner so great was not a bunch of people will good intentions and great personalities. What made the evening so wonderful was that is was made up of people who have been changed by Jesus. They are not "people of the world," but rather "people of the Spirit." Whether they are talking about the challenges of life, or the crappy offense of the NY Jets, they can do so in a manner that glorifies God and allows His glory to shine through them. They have become a blessing!

It is a fantastic thing to not only be the pastor of FHCC but a member. I love my brothers and sisters, and I am so humbled by what God is doing in our neighborhood and city. If you have never taken Jesus or the miracle of Christmas seriously before, I beg of you to make this your year. Jesus changes people; I've seen the proof!

FHCChurch
Sundays @ 10am INSIDE the Midway Movie Theater
Mondays @ 8pm INSIDE the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram)
www.fhcchurch.com

Sunday Preview: Nov. 29

This Sunday we wrap up Genesis chapter 20, and watch God use a pagan king to rebuke His elected patriarchal king. With the lie of Abraham now exposed to both Abimelech and his people, Abimelech calls on Abraham to give an account as to why he would lie and bring such evil upon the nation of Gerar. Yet, rather than take this fantastic opportunity to demonstrate Godly sorrow and repentance before the king, Abraham resorts to reasons of self-justification and blame shifting. Abraham fails miserably at both witnessing and obedient living before the Lord (Gen. 17:1-2).

You see, contrary to popular thought, the Bible is not full of "perfect" or "good" people, but rather sinful, hurting, proud people like you and me. No one is good, but God, and yet He faithfully chooses to pursue a people for His own. God does not reject Abraham as the covenant bearer and keeper, but instead actively preserves him and his family line all the way to the coming of Messiah (Matt 1.)

Join us this Sunday as Scripture reveals another clear example of the loving faithfulness (Hebrew: Chesed) of God towards a very unfaithful & unloving people. There is hope for you and me!

Genesis: Book of Beginnings
Sundays @ 10am INSIDE the Midway Movie Theater
Mondays @ 8pm INSIDE the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
iTunes "Forest Hills Community Church"
www.fhcchurch.com

The Ministry

God is a God of order. This truth can be clearly seen and attested to through the Creation narrative, the marriage covenant, the Law of Moses, and the establishment of God's holy people, Israel. This divine requirement also carries over in to the New Testament church. How a church is governed, its leadership elected and administered, and the responsibilities of all its members is crucial for both an accurate representation of God and His salvific Gospel.

Tonight, we will address the biblical requirements for both church membership and leadership, the role of men and women inside the church, and the governmental structure that weaves all of these branches together. If you ever wondered how FHCC operates, or by what standards we adhere to, tonight is the night to attend.

For your added enjoyment, we will also spend significant time dealing with the nine Spiritual Gifts of I Corinthians chapter 12. These Spirit empowered gifts are the tools by which growth, unity, and maturity are to take place. Many wrong ideas and understandings will be debunked and challenged, while the truth of God's word will also set many more free to be used for His Glory.

See you tonight at UNashamed.

UNashamed: Bible Doctrines Class
Tuesday Nights @ 8pm
FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
www.fhcchurch.com

UNashamed Preview

Last Tuesday night, we defined the identity of the church and its three-fold purpose. The church of God is comprised of the Redeemed who have held fast to the covenant of the Lord and looked to salvation in the promised work of Messiah, Jesus, on the cross. The atoning death and resurrection of Jesus sanctifies the believer, giving them a new identity and purpose, and joining them with their fellow saints as ministers of the covenant. Evangelism, worship, and spiritual maturity now become a way of life for God's chosen people. In short, the church is the fulfillment of Old Testament Israel, and its people are the ministering priests. (I Peter 2:5,9)

This week we will look at the specific role of the minister. With ministry existing in so many different forms and fashions, and each person's personality and gifts varying in so many different ways, how are we to know if the mission of God is being advanced? Are all called to be vocational pastors and ministers? Are all to expect the same empowerment of the Holy Spirit for witnessing, and in what form? What does the bible say about church leadership and governance?

Join us this week as we discuss these and other cruicial issues regarding the ministry of the Church. UNashamed starts at 8pm, Tuesday nights.

UNashamed: Bible Doctrines Class

Tuesday Nights @ 8pm
FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram St)
www.fhcchurch.com

Sunday Worship Set

This Sunday at FHCC, we worshipped to the following songs:

1 - "Here is Love" by Matt Redman, Album: Passion: Ancient and Modern

2 - "Oh you Bring" by Hillsong United, Album: Tear Down the Walls

3 - "Glorify Your Name" by Hillsong, Album: For All You've Done

4 - "Resting" by Rita Springer, Album: Created to Worship

The Kingdom of God and the Church

This week at UNashamed, we discussed the definition, purpose and functions of the church. We stated that the church, which Jesus established through the work of the cross, is made up of both visible and invisible members. The visible church is comprised of those who are active and serving in the world today, both individually and corporately. (Example: As an active believer in the work of the cross, I am the visible church. However, at the same time, I am also a member of the visible church, because the work of the cross unifies us for mission and worship.) Yet, while I am both the visible church and a part of it, I am also a active member of the invisible church.

The invisible church is made up of believers of all time (past, present and future). Someone rightly said, "The visible church is the church we see. The invisible church is the church that God sees." All of the prophets and believers who lived by faith, looking forward to the work of Jesus, the Messiah, during the time of the Old Testament are members of this church. The disciples, apostles and those who have confessed Jesus as Lord since the time of the cross are participants with us in this church. All of those who will come after us, who will cling to the work of Messiah and proclaim Him and His redemption to their lost and dying world, will comprise the Church, in which we too are a part. The church is truly the eternal work of the Lord, transcending time, space, ethnicity, culture, and the like. The church is God's beloved and His chosen means by which His glory, righteousness, and justice reside.

However, does this mean that the church is synonymous with the "Kingdom of God," which we read about so often in Scripture?

UNashamed: The Church & Its Mission

In an age where Christians are calling key practices of the church "optional," and when the secular are proclaiming themselves to be "the church," it is imperative that we examine the biblical position of what Jesus set out to establish through His death and resurrection. The Church is to be God's gift to the world. Jesus is it's founder and "Head," and as such, He has established rules and decrees to govern, sustain, and advance His redeeming work among humanity.

We encourage you to join us for this week's discussion on The Church and Its Mission. Come learn WHO is a part of God's church, HOW it is to operate, and WHY there seems to be so many options on which church to join. Our goal is for all to see that it is a privilege to not only belong to, but minister inside of, this body of God's Redeemed.

UNashamed: Doctrines Class
Tuesdays @ 8pm
FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram)
www.fhcchurch.com

Doctrine of Imputation

Genesis 19 is a very interesting passage to say the least. God prepares to judge the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by sending two angels on ahead to bear witness of their sin. Upon arrival into the city of Sodom, the angels find Lot (Abraham's nephew) residing and officiating oversmatters of the city. While his conscience may show evidence of God's conviction at time, it turns out that Lot is very much a fan of his new life in the city and even participates in their wickedness to various degrees. Yet, perhaps what is even more peculiar is Lot's incredible lack of faith.

No matter how hard the angels of the Lord try to persuade him and his family to leave the sinful city before destruction, he lingers. Even when the angels physically drag them out of the city and warn them not to look back and to take refuge in the hills, Lot doubts. Time and time again, Lot is proven to not only be a man of evil works, but also a man of little to no faith. Truly, there is nothing about this man to be counted unto him as righteousness (good), yet throughout the whole story God is saving him. Why?

Turns out the answer lies in verse 29:
So it was that, when God destroyed the cities of the valley, God remembered Abraham and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow when he overthrew the cities in which Lot had lived.

Lot was not saved, because of anything about himself. Nor was he saved simply because God felt like saving him. Rather, the reason why Lot and his family were saved, was solely because of God's love for, and relationship with, Abraham. Abraham served as a righteous mediator and savior for the wicked.

Romans 5:18-19:
Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. For as by the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.

This occurrence of imputed condemnation and righteousness, is what theologians call the doctrine of imputation, and also serves as the means behind the saving work of Messiah, Jesus. No one goes to heaven because they deserve it; rather, we are permitted into heaven because Jesus' righteousness (perfection) was imputed (credited) upon us.

See you tonight for UNplugged: Interactive Bible Study.

UNplugged: Interactive Bible Study
Mondays @ 8pm
INSIDE FHCC Campus
6708 Ingram St.
www.fhcchurch.com

Sunday Worship Set

This Sunday at FHCC, we worshipped to the following songs:

1 - "Let Everything that has Breath Praise the Lord" by Matt Redman, Album: Heart of Worship

2 - "Here is Love" by Matt Redman, Album: Passion: Ancient and Modern

3 - "Created to Worship" by Rita Springer, Album: Created to Worship

4 - "How Great is Our God" by Chris Tomlin, Album: Passion: How Great is Our God

Sunday Preview

Gen. 19:28-29," And Abraham went early in the morning to the place where he had stood before the LORD. And he looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah and toward all the land of the valley, and he looked and, behold, the smoke of the land went up like the smoke of a furnace."

You do NOT want to miss this Sunday at Forest Hills Community Church! This week we wrap up chapter 19 of Genesis. The fire will fall, destruction will take place, evil will run rampant, and yet in the midst of all of this God's sovereign grace and mercy will be displayed. Come learn how the wickedness of one brings judgment on all, but the righteousness of one makes intercession for the many.

Sundays @ 10am INSIDE the Midway Theater
Mondays @8pm INSIDE FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram)
iTunes "Forest Hills Community Church"
www.fhcchurch.com

The Process of Sanctification

Sitting at the airport getting ready to fly out to Springfield, MO; the Assembly of God capital of the world. Planning on spending a couple days on the various college campuses and speaking with/recruiting students to come and work in NYC. (Also plan on stopping by HQs to see my newest boss over Interculural ministries.) And since they make you arrive an eternity in advance just to sit and wait, I figured I should get some dinner. Of course, the only option at the local airport was McDonald's.

For those of you who may not know, I hate McDonald's. It never tastes as good as it sounds, always cost more than it should, and always make you feel like a lard after eating it (even if it is a mere psuedo-ice-cream cone). Yet, forced to eat at this cesspool, I was forced to make the decision between all the lesser evils. I could get a semi-fattening, limp lettuce salad, or I could get a cheesy, mayo soaked, slab of frozen, dried out meat on a bun, and cover it with my favorite condiment, ketchup. Inside my heart cry out for the salad, but I ignored this voice of wisdom and went with the burger. Now, I feel like a fat, unhealthy slob, covered with guilt and living in fear that I have spent my calorie limit for the day, knowing that I still have 5-hours of travel before me.
Now, some of you may be wondering what my McDonald's experience has to do with Sanctification (the process of becoming like Jesus)?

Sanctification: Choose Life over Burgers
I Cor. 6:11, "But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."

When Jesus sets us free from our past, He washes away our sin (regeneration), gives us a new standing with God (justification), and then sends the Spirit to take up residency inside of us to enable our lives to live for Him (sanctification). While all of this is instant, the work of sanctification is one that continues on until we die and reach perfection in our new bodies in heaven. In the meanwhile, those of us who are Christians are forced to live life led by the Spirit, and choosing to submit to His will and desires.

Romans 8:13, "For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live."

The dilemma I faced at McDonald's is a very week/poor example of this daily battle we face each and every moment of the day. Life and Death are before us constantly, and the Spirit of God is calling us out to us, illuminating our heart and mind to the truth of God, revealing the foreseen consequences of our sin, and is praying that we make the right decision. He desires for us to choose Life so that we might walk in greater fellowship with Him, worship Him more intimately, and enable us to be greater witness for Him in this dark and dying world. In short, He is wanting to make us more like Jesus; but the choice is up to us to obey or reject. And when we reject the Holy Spirit and His wisdom, the result is much worse than an expanding waistline; it's eternal death.

May we all so "no" to the flesh, and "yes" to the Spirit so that we, and the world around us, may live!

Deut. 30:19, "This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live..."

Learn more:
UNashamed: Doctrines Class
Tuesdays @ 8pm
FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram)
www.fhcchurch.com

UNplugged Rewind

Every Monday night we gather to dissect the previous Sunday's text. Going verse by verse, we examine how each verse relates to the other, and how the characters and truths in the story are being relayed to the reader. This open and critical approach to scripture not only allows us helps us to better understand how to read the Bible, but just as importantly, it provides us with a firm understanding of practical life application.

This week we tackled Gen. 19:12-22. And while there were many great lessons to be extracted from this passage, last night revealed the greatest: v.18-20

¹⁸ But Lot said to them, "No, my lords, please! ¹⁹ Your servant has found favor in your eyes, and you have shown great kindness to me in sparing my life. But I can't flee to the mountains; this disaster will overtake me, and I'll die. ²⁰ Look, here is a town near enough to run to, and it is small. Let me flee to it—it is very small, isn't it? Then my life will be spared."

We Are Lot:
Inwardly, Lot loved his life in Sodom. He had fame, security, and friends; but he also had condemnation and guilt. Graciously, the Lord came, trumped Lot's will, and offered him salvation in the nearby hills. Yet, rather than trust the Lord and find a new life in Him, Lot seeks a compromise where he can still be "saved," yet remain with all the familiarities of his sinful life (small city of Zoar).

How many of us have behaved exactly like Lot? Just as in the case with Lot, all of us who are Christians have received what we needed, but not what we wanted. If we were honest, we would admit that sin is fun, and we enjoy the false high it brings. Sure, we hate consequences, but we love the act. Nevertheless, the Lord comes and offers us salvation. He sets us free from sin, and then calls us to a new life found not in this world, but in His holy word. And how do we respond? Compromise.

"10% tithe? How about I give whatever makes me happy?"

"I can't sleep with my girl/boyfriend? How about we just "fool around?"

"I can't gamble? How about I just buy a lottery ticket?"

"I can't gossip? How about I just blog?"

And, on and on we go...forgetting that the Lord allowed Lot to have "his way," and that Lot's decision brought nothing but fear, disgrace, and a life void of God's presence. (Gen. 19:30-38)

UNashamed: Sanctification

This week's Bible doctrine: Sanctification.

When a person becomes a Christian, the righteousness of Jesus (His Perfectness) is immediately imputed (applied) to the believer's life. From the moment of conversion, a believer moves into right standing with God and is Justified. God's work has fulfilled all legal requirements; so now what? How is a believer suppose to live in this new glorious condition?

Sanctification, is the process whereby the believer allows the now indwelling Spirit to bring his/her life into the conformity of Messiah. Believers are not to live like non-believers, but rather like Jesus. But how is this possible when we are still human, and still very much tempted by sin?

Join us Tuesday for all the answers!

UNashamed: Bible Doctrines Class
Tuesday Nights @ 8pm
FHCC Campus
(6708 Ingram St, FHills)
www.fhcchurch.com

Missionary Jed

Last night, my family and several of the FHCC crew had the privilege of having dinner with one of our missionaries, Jed Lindstrom. Jed is from Minneapolis, and has a great story of how God supernaturally delivered him from a life that was going nowhere fast. God not only forgave Jed of all his sins, but placed a sovereign call upon his life to preach. Since then, Jed has been traveling around the US, going into the inner city and hurting places, proclaiming the Gospel to drug addicts, street thugs, Wall Street execs., prostitutes, and just about anyone else riding in a Subway car. And over dinner last night, Jed was full of new stories of what God had done and who He had saved. It was really encouraging.

But, I think the thing I love the most about Jed, is not the results of his ministry or even his bold no-nonsense approach. What I love about Jed, is his incredible love for the Lord. What motivates Jed to go where he is not wanted, with money he does not have, to be threatened, rejected, or worse, is not adrenaline, fear, or even human desire; it's the love of Jesus. Jed knows what God has done in his life, and he is grateful. Jed lives his life in response to God, resulting in God being glorified and people being saved.

Please remember to pray for Jed. He lives his life completely dependent on the Lord (housing, food, income, etc.). He is great brother, and we are honored to support him through our prayers and finances!

Sunday Worship Set

This Sunday at FHCC, we worshipped to the following songs:

1 - "Let Everything that has Breath Praise the Lord" by Matt Redman, Album: Heart of Worship

2 - "Consuming Fire" by Matt Redman, Album: Hillsong United: More than Life

3 - "Here in My Life" by Hillsong Australia, Album: Mighty to Save

4 - "Created to Worship" by Rita Springer, Album: Created to Worship

Sunday Preview

The text for this week comes from Genesis 19: 12-22. Here is a preview of what the Lord wants us to see and learn from.

¹⁵As morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, "Up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be swept away in the punishment of the city." ¹⁶But he lingered.

Now with the identity and purpose of his guests revealed, it is time for Lot to "get out of Dodge." Yet for some reason, that is the last thing that Lot really wants to do.

Join us this weekend as we continue our study of one of the hardest chapters inside the entire Bible. What we will find is that God is greater than we could have ever hoped for, and we are far worse than we could have ever feared. Praise God, He loves us!

Sundays @ 10am INSIDE the Midway Movie Theater
Mondays @ 8pm INSIDE the FHCC Campus (6708 Ingram)
iTunes: "Forest Hills Community Church" Podcast
www.fhcchurch.com