OUR GUARANTEE IS A DEPOSIT, NOT A TICKET

A DEPOSIT, NOT A TICKET

"When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory" (Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV).

When we read passages like this, our perception of them is often filtered through the popular notion that salvation on this side of eternity has been expressed as merely a ticket to heaven; we accept the invitation and wait for the day that we can board the transport. While that is undeniably a portion of our inheritance, we as believers have been given far more than this by means of a deposit of the Holy Spirit.

A LIVING GUARANTEE

This living guarantee, as translated from the Greek word arrabón, is not just an I.O.U., or a promissory note to file away or pin to the wall for later redemption. This guarantee is actually a partial, yet substantial portion of the same full inheritance that we can expect to receive when all things are wrapped up at the end of time.

That means that if our inheritance were a store of gold, our guarantee would also be portioned to us in the form of a real, spendable deposit of gold. Of course, we're speaking here of more than just earthly wealth. The heavenly deposit within us, according to scripture is actually the very Holy Spirit Jesus promised would live within us.

ON THE INSIDE

"The Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you" (John 14:17 NIV).

Again, this seal of the Spirit is not simply a branding, identifying us for heaven, but his life within us is actually a real and present access to the heavenly account bought for us. This access is not merely a perk of our salvation, but salvation itself. Therefore, to the extent that we do not accept the Spirit's place in our lives, it begins to reveal the extent to which the world around the Church has influenced our perspective concerning the promise. 

Instead of ignoring this access, however, Paul encourages that we investigate the expression of the Spirit's deposit within us.

THOSE THINGS

"Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed" (1 Corinthians 12:1 NIV)

"Now eagerly desire the greater gifts" (1 Corinthians 12:31 NIV)

"Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit... (1 Corinthians 14:1).

Here, gifts might be far better understood and as they are rendered in some translations,  as "manifestations" or "things" of the Spirit. These things are simply those things God wants to do through us as sourced by the deposit of the Spirit within us. We should, therefore, eagerly desire to do so. 

THY KINGDOM COME

That is exactly the same goal Jesus had in mind when he taught his disciples to pray, "Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven..." The goal is that the deposit of heaven within us, being the same nature of our inheritance in heaven, would effect the world around us.

It is no coincidence then that Jesus would declare that the Kingdom is within us in just the same way he would announce that the Spirit would reside within us. These are in no way divergent or competing concepts. When we compartmentalize our Christianity in that way, we separate these truths as if Jesus had multiple religious missions, instead of one ultimate goal.

"From that time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near'" (Matthew 4:17 NIV).

The phrase translated here as "at hand," or "has come near" means more than simply having been provided a glimpse of heavenly things.

HELPS Word-studies

1448 eggízō (from 1451 /eggýs, "near") – properly, has drawn close (come near). 1448 (eggízō) occurs 14 times in the Greek perfect tense (indicative mood) in the NT which expresses "extreme closeness, immediate imminence – even a presence ('It is here') because the moment of this coming happened (i.e. at the beginning of Jesus' ministry)" (J. Schlosser). Copyright © 2021 by Discovery Bible.

How much closer to us can the Kingdom get on this side of creation than having the deposit of the Holy Spirit vitally dwell within us? That is the promise! Yet, for some reason, we keep folding over our ticket and ignoring the fine print which guarantees access to our inheritance now. We have, after all, been born into a Kingdom that Jesus promised was at hand, not out of reach. 

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS

Our guarantee grants us none other than exclusive access, or in modern terms, a backstage pass to heaven to the extent that it can appear on earth's stage today. All this is so that we might fulfill Jesus' prayer that his Kingdom would come on earth as it is in heaven. Otherwise, he would not have provided those great and precious promises found throughout scripture including the promise that we have been given now, all those the things needed for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). 

Citizens of the Kingdom live as if the Kingdom has been planted in their hearts because... it has! So while the guarantee is partial in terms of the full heavenly inheritance that awaits us, it is none-the-less an access far more extensive on this side of eternity than we might be able to imagine. 

It's time believers pull out that ticket and reread the fine print. The Kingdom of God consists of righteousness, peace, and joy. Why would we believe that Jesus intends to withhold these until a spiritual bus trip to heaven when God has so plainly revealed that he set eternity within our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11)?

SEALED FOR, NOT FROM OUR INHERITANCE

Paul was the greatest proponent of the work of the Holy Spirit within the heart of believers and on this subject, was nearly a broken record:

"And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption" (Ephesians 4:30 NIV)

"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come" (2 Corinthians 1:20-22 NIV)

In this passage, Paul again uses the word arrabón, denoting that this guarantee is of the same nature as the inheritance itself. 

"For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come" (2 Corinthians 5:4-5 NIV).

The "Now but not yet" nature of this chapter, while definitively illustrating the difference between the life we live now and the one to come, it still remains clear that this guaranteed access is for now because we've been given our heavenly nature now, just as the word arrabón presents.

THE SAME FAMILY

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)

"The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit" (John 3:8 NIV).

Being born of the Spirit means that the nature of the Spirit is already within our DNA. The deposit of the Spirit within us then is not some esoteric, theological concept; it is actually part of our new nature we've been given through spiritual adoption. Can we afford to look forward to heaven as only a future hope while ignoring the nature of heaven within us now? Why can't we do both? 

OVERCOMING OUR IDENTITY CRISIS

We might just be able to draw a line from the identity crisis in the world today right back to the Church. If we ignore who we are, we leave the world powerless to see who God created the us to be. Finding a balance between our great and future hope, and the hope of glory already within the Church is perhaps our greatest challenge today, not who will be our next president. We are those who have received a heavenly calling which consists, in part, of the heavenly deposit within us as believers. Ignore that, and we separate the bond between his will on heaven and his will on earth. 

It is time we return to heaven. That is, the heaven shed abroad within our hearts.

MOREOVER... POWER — Is Being Right Powerful Enough?

UNDERSTANDING

In a world where being right and having the correct knowledge is king, Jesus always takes things to the next level. It is not that Jesus or Christianity is anti-intellectual, but that there is a wisdom and power that supersedes human wisdom and understanding.

When the Sadducees tried to trip up Jesus concerning the resurrection of the dead, a doctrinal point with which they did not agree, he wasted no time in pointing out their deficiency. 

THE SOURCE OF ERROR

"Jesus replied, 'You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.” (Mathew 22:29 NIV)

The particulars of their argument are perhaps less important than the reason for their lack of understanding of the resurrection. It is true that unlike their counterparts, the Pharisees, the Sadducees were more of a social power-base within the Church than they were theologians. And so, Jesus was correct when he said that they did not know the scriptures. But the word translated in this passage as "or" is perhaps better translated as "moreover,"or "not even," placing the power of God above both common and even doctrinal knowledge. Paul says the very same thing in his letter to the Galatians.

"My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power." (1 Corinthians 2:4-5 NIV).

THERE IS WISDOM

But again, Paul is not dismissing knowledge and human wisdom altogether, but simply subjugating it and placing it in proper perspective as he continues...

"We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (2 Corinthians 2:6-8 NIV).

THE 3rd RAIL OF CHRISTIANITY

Both inside and outside of the family of faith, the power of God tends to make people uncomfortable. The power of the third member of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, can certainly be likened to the 3rd rail of a subway line, the one that holds the power. 

And yet it was the lack of experiential knowledge of this power that Jesus used to refute the ones who felt very comfortable in their own thinking; comfortable that is, until they ran into Jesus. The hum of the power coming from him, drove them to both fear and mock him. This power had the same effect on the Pharisees.

"The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath."(Luke 6:7 NIV)

Those schooled well in the scriptures were also threatened by Jesus' power to affect the natural world around them. While these folks actually did believe in the resurrection as based in Old Testament writings, it was when the power of that resurrection that in theory they believed in was demonstrated by Jesus, that they too were threatened by the 3rd Rail of the Trinity. 

THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION

Is the power of the resurrection really a thing? Did Jesus use the word "power" in response to the Sadducees so he could sound more cool and "powerful," or is there really a connection between the two? Let's see...

"I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death..." (Philippians 3:10 NIV)

"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know... his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead..." (Ephesians 1:18-20 NIV)

"'Lord,' Martha said to Jesus, 'if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.' Jesus said to her, 'Your brother will rise again.' Martha answered, 'I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.' Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life.'" (John 11:21-25 NIV)

"... His Son... who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead..." Romans 1:2-4 NIV)

"...Know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed." (Acts 4:10 NIV)

"With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all..." (Acts 4:33 NIV)

KNOWING THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION

The Sadducees did not know the scriptures, nor did they know the power inherent within them to affect a broken world. That is why the message of the Gospel relies on the foolishness of the cross and the resurrection, something incomprehensible to common wisdom.

"For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. ... We preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength." (1 Corinthians 1:17-25 NIV)

Letting the power of the resurrection supersede our own sense of wisdom means that we gauge our own reason as limited. We think and we reason everyday, just as we were designed to do. However, everyday wisdom does not have the power to comprehend eternal things and eternal things are far weightier than what we can think or imagine.

WE ALL THINK WE KNOW

We live in a world where everyone is right yet no-one agrees. This should give us a clue that we need power that exceeds our ability to be, or at least feel that we're "more right" than the next guy. Let's allow curiosity to rise within us concerning the power of the resurrection. Sometimes our news feeds, instant access to whatever food we want, and 300 channels and multiple streaming services help us to put eternal things on the back burner. But we should all be able to remember how during Covid, those things were barely able to bring relief to us as many anxieties and cares came crashing down upon our world. 

Right now, then, is a good time to ponder eternal things and begin to ask questions about this resurrection thing and the power it is supposed to hold. Mysterious? Yes! Powerful? Find out!

THE ONGOING QUESTION: IS IT GOD'S WILL?

The Question: Is It God's Will?

If you've ever prayed a prayer that includes the words, "God if it is your will...," The following might interest you.

Many of us have found prayers which included those words to be rather ineffective, haven't we? Maybe it's because we just aren't familiar enough with God's will, plan, and purpose. But, it doesn't have to be that way.

GOD'S WILL IS KNOWABLE

The good news is that God's will and testament is still in print. It is there that we find that Jesus' actions during his earthly ministry provide abundant evidence that it was always Jesus' will to heal. Each of the following passages are examples of Jesus healing ALL those who came to him (Matthew 4:23; 8:16; 12:15; Luke 6:19, 9:11, etc.). In fact, there are no examples in scripture where anyone who came to him did not leave without their request being granted. From these, his will in the matter appears clear.

So where is the disconnect?

APPREHENDING AND ADMINISTERING GOD'S WILL

As perfect and as powerful as God's will is and as wonderful as Jesus was in carrying it out, for us apprehending and administering his will is often the weak link in the chain. The disciples, for example, after being empowered by Jesus and sent out to heal in his name, experienced great success (Mark 6:13). On the other hand, we also know of at least one instance where they hit a brick wall. 

"'I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him....' Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment" (Matthew 17:16 NIV)

Even in this example where healing didn't come through the prayers of Jesus' disciples, God's will to heal was never in question, just the ability to carry it out. The good news is that we can come to better understand God's will and therefore, successfully administrate and receive its benefits as revealed in scripture. If the apostles could grow in this area, so can we.

WHAT THE APOSTLES EVENTUALLY UNDERSTOOD ABOUT GOD'S WILL

After Jesus resurrection, Peter and John healed a man at the temple gate and immediately received pushback from religious leaders. After their release, they prayed about and assessed the situation (Acts 3-4). In doing so, they said something very interesting about God's will, plan, and purpose.

"... Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, assembled together against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, to do whatever Your hand and Your plan had predestined to take place." (Acts 4:27-28 CSB)

Notice how they connected God's hand, his ability to act, along with his will to act. Some translations render these words "hand and plan" as, "power and will," or "hand and purpose." God's will and willingness to perform it decided to work together in total agreement with each other. That means, God is set upon seeing his will come to pass. Understanding this union was foundational to the apostles' lives, enabling them to take the next step and act upon it as demonstrated in their next breath.

"Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” (Acts 4:29-30 NIV)

They called upon the very hand that moves nations to intervene in their own situation. We can do the same.

GOD'S HAND ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN

It wasn't enough for the apostles to realize that God acts according to his own will and that his hand, his ability to act, is already in cahoots with his will. They had to come to the realization that their role was to call upon God's already established will, inviting him to stretch out his hand close enough to touch them where they were at, so that God could work through them.

God's will was not in question, nor did they need plead that God would agree with their will in the matter. Instead, they invited God's well-established will as represented in the gospel, along with his power to bring his will to pass. Does this sound familiar? It should, many of us recite a prayer ever week that affirms the exact same sentiment when we pray that God's Kingdom would come and that his will would be done on earth as it is in heaven. 

SHOULD WE EXPECT RESULTS FROM OUR PRAYERS?

The apostles expected results from their prayers and look at what happened.

"After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.... With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them... The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people." (Acts 4:31, 33; 5:12 NIV)

The question is not whether it is God's will to do good, the question is the extent to which we expect God to perform his will among us. 

PRAYING FROM GOD'S WILL INSTEAD OF GUESSING WHAT IT IS

Should we expect that our prayers inviting God into our situation to carry the same power it did for the early believers? Let's consider a few things. Firstly, the apostles were charged by Jesus to teach all who came after them, everything that Jesus commanded them to do (Matthew 28:20). Secondly, that charge to them is included in the same great commission that announces that that certain signs would follow those who believe (Mark 16:17-18).

Later, both Paul and the writer of the letter to the Hebrews came on the scene to confirm this call to believe, act, and perpetuate the gospel in this way when they said:

"Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1 ESV).

"Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7 NIV).

Have you looked at what Paul did in his ministry when he called upon God's will to intervene? God's will might be mysterious in many respects, but that does not mean that it is unknowable either. It simply takes the desire and action to immerse ourselves in it, together so that we might be better equipped to receive and administer his will.

WHY DON'T OUR PRAYERS GET ANSWERED AND WHY DON'T SOME PEOPLE GET HEALED?

Instead of looking to the heavens and placing blame on God, ourselves, or someone who has prayed for us when our prayers go seemingly unanswered, remember this. We live in a fallen world. It was created in perfection, but rebellion knocked creation off of its axis. Jesus, on the other hand, has come with the good news of redemption where he began to set things on earth, as they are in heaven. And, he assigned us to work alongside of him in his mission. The problem is that we're still learning how to do that.

Faith, as outlined in Hebrews 11, is about believing and acting upon things we cannot see, things like God's will. Even if we see and understand a great deal of it, no one person has it all like Jesus did. Even together it will appear that stumbling forward is the best that we can do. That's why some prayers go seemingly unanswered. We don't yet know what we don't know.

MOVING FORWARD

Stumbling and moving forward, however, must include going beyond scratching our heads concerning God's will. If Jesus is correct that we should seek first his Kingdom on  earth as it is in heaven, and that those who seek will find, we must do that. If it were easy and inviting to move and grow in faith, everyone would be doing it... right? Believing that there is more to God's will than we have experienced thus far is where we begin. Revisiting the gospels is a great place to start. The classic, Christ the Healer by F.F. Bosworth is a wonderful resource for better understanding God's will that we be healed.

Gathering around those who have more experience moving in this direction is another way to feed yourself with the workings of God's will. Some thing, after all, are better caught than taught. 

MOVING FROM DISCOURAGEMENT TO FAITH

Faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish great things, but faith must rest upon understanding God's nature, character, and therefore, his will. When we're ignorant of those things in one degree or another, it can only produce disappointment, frustration, and discouragement in those areas. When we're tired of wondering why God doesn't sweep in and rescue us, it is time to discover that he sent Jesus for that very purpose. Our problem has always been in knowing how to attain and administer what Jesus already accomplished. There is no other way to begin to leave discouragement behind. 

A slight shift from wondering what God's will is, to asking God how he wants to apply his will is the launching pad to seeing our prayer become more successful. His sheep know his voice and when it comes to this kind of prayer, we can learn how to better incline our ears to what he has to say. Yes, it takes practice but one that is totally worth the effort. If we want God to stretch his hand in our direction, we will likely need to be stretched a little ourselves.

What the Heck is Religious Fervor? — Comprehending A Great Awakening

What the Heck is Religious Fervor?

Comprehending A Great Awakening

If one were to Google the 1st and 2nd Great Awakenings of the 1700s, and 1800s, it would be discovered that nearly every listing describes these eras as times of "Religious Fervor." While our cursory impressions of this phrase, along with the definitions below might shed some light on what they imply and what we might infer, I believe that this highly-overused, shorthand descriptor fails drastically to capture the electricity experienced during those eras. But before we get ahead of ourselves, let's review what the dictionaries have to say.

Religious (Religion)

• Cambridge Dictionary: the belief in and worship of a god or gods, or any such system of belief and worship
• Merriam- Websters Dictionary: the service and worship of God or the supernatural, commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance
• Collins Dictionary - synonyms: belief, faith, doctrine, theology

Fervor

• Cambridge Dictionary: Strong and sincere beliefs
• Merriam- Websters Dictionary: intensity of feeling or expression
• Collins Dictionary, synonyms: ardour, passion, enthusiasm, excitement

Defining the Undefinable

"Religious Fervor" implies committed and passionate devotion to God and, in this case, Christian practice and service. These are not incorrect assessments, however, they are incomplete and in some ways, potentially misleading. The word "Religion," for example, is not always seen in a positive light, neither do passion and enthusiasm always indicate positivity. Therefore, the idea of being fervently religious carries quite a bit of baggage along with it. Conveying the experiences of those impacted by these Awakenings is like describing what it means to be in love. As Paul McCartney said about love in his famous 1970s tune, Silly Love Songs, "I only know it when I'm in it..." Some experiences defy identification and description, especially one like "Religious Fervor" which in the minds of some is synonymous with zealotry and fanaticism over and above dramatic transformation and positive spiritual influence. In addition and as an aside, historic visuals like the one placed under the title of this article, sometimes add to this confusion. 

Love and Electricity

If we go back to the concepts of comparing "Religious Fervor," in its best sense and definition, to electricity and to love, we will begin to get a better sense of what these historic awakenings encapsulated. With electricity, it is easy to surmise that it is working based upon its effect. We turn on a switch and electrical power makes the light come on. Yet at the same time, it might be difficult to describe what is happening internally, beyond merely a scientific explanation. Stick your finger into a light socket and then compare your experience to the definition of electricity. They may not negate each other, but will likely be divergent in their emphasis. See what I mean? Defining love is no different. Take the time to call to mind both the sacrifices that love inspires, and the indescribable rewards it can produce. Then compare that to Merriam- Websters Dictionary definition of "strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties." 

Excerpts from History

What then is the term "Religious Fervor" trying to describe, or perhaps in some cases, failing to describe? We might get a better idea of how these well-documented and historic outpourings affected those it touched by hearing from some who experienced them. The following are just a few of those experiences. They are taken from the Journal of Christian Newcomer, an itinerant minister during the 2nd Great Awakening:

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October 20, 1802

Brother Geeting spoke with tender compassion. The people began to cry aloud.... Oh, what a sight! The scene could not be beheld without emotion. The congregation began to cry and moan and the excitement became general. Presently, one fell here, and another there. A woman hung on the breast of her beloved companion, and a daughter in the arms of her distressed mother — all crying for mercy. Never before have I witnessed the power of God in so great a degree among so many people. We commenced singing and praying and glory be to God, many distressed souls found peace and pardon of their sins in the blood of the Lamb. The meeting was protracted until late at night....

October 21, 1802

The congregation was more numerous than the day before. Brother Geeting spoke first with great power from 1 Corinthians 1:23-24. I followed him. The power of God was again signally displayed. The love of Jesus shed abroad and united all hearts in the bonds of brotherly love. At the administration of the Sacrament, it was clear that all distinction between sects had been lost in Christian love and fellowship. Lutherans, Presbyterians, Mennonite’s, Baptists, and Methodists — all drew near the Lord’s table and united in commemoration of the dying love of the Redeemer. Many were not able to avoid shouting and praising God for his unbounded mercy and goodness. With difficulty, we parted from the people, but we were compelled to leave them in order to fill our appointment...

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Back to the Beginning

These folks were not merely signing cards of commitment, or engaging in group think. They were touching the 3rd rail of Christianity, the one with the electric power potent enough to transform them as individuals and as groups of believers. These particular experiences are highly reminiscent of the first "Religiously Fervent," those in the Book of Acts. 

"God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do?'” (Acts 2:36-37)

More than merely emotionalism, or determination towards devotion, these seasons were termed "Great Awakenings" for a reason. Follow along with another example from Newcomer's Journal culled from many others:

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November 13, 1803

Sunday — Today we had indeed a little Pentecost. From 300 to 400 persons had collected — more than the barn in which we had assembled for worship could contain. I preached to them from Titus 3 with great liberty and effect for the salvation of souls. The congregation was remarkably attentive to the word. Though it rained, those that had no shelter in the barn kept their stand in the rain without the least disturbance. It is indeed surprising and at least to me, somewhat mysterious to behold, the manner in which the power of God works here among the people.... Sometimes the excitement would be so great that I had to stop speaking for several minutes until the noise abated. Some few were praising God and shouting for joy. Brother Christian Berger addressed the congregation. When I had concluded my discourse in the German, I then preached in the English language from 1 Peter 1:3 and the effect was again the same. At night I preached at Mr. Swartz’s. Here also several persons of both sexes fell to the floor and others were crying for mercy. This lasted until after midnight. 

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Far More Than An Historical Footnote

Perhaps the generic and incomprehensible term, "Religious Fervor," has been so widely adopted in connection to these outpourings because these reports are so difficult for most, especially secular historians, to comprehend. These reports certainly do not reflect what society understands concerning, and what most Christians experience on, Sunday mornings. That's because the views and experiences which prompt the use of phrases like "Religious Fervor" our based upon our experiences outside of these kinds of awakenings. Yet despite our ignorance of them, accounts like those given here are far more extensive than these examples might imply. In addition, they don't reflect one individual event or geographic location, but were pervasive and experienced across the country and over multiple decades. Yet for brevity's sake, and for academic and historical compartmentalization, these experiences have been dumped into the category of "Religious Fervor," a term whose usage continues to grow likely because of lack of understanding and curiosity, or perhaps just laziness.

In Newcomer's case, he experienced and held within him enough "fervor" that it prompted him to ride more than 150,000 miles on horseback for over 40 years in an effort to share and perpetuate the change undertaken in his heart. And, he was not alone. It is sure that the great wars and conflicts over the last couple of hundred years have affected our country both culturally and spiritually, however, people like Newcomer and his contemporaries, Francis Asbury, Freeborn Garrettson, and many, many others were more than merely forgotten footnotes among the "Religiously Fervent." Through their tangible and unapologetic relationship with God, these and many more like them, helped shape their culture and bring relief and personal freedom to multiple generations.

That's what I call Religious Fervor!

 “You Can’t Have Everything. Where Would You Put It?” 

~ Stephen Wright

All Things

The good news is that God does have everything, and he knows just where to put it. But what about us? Through the plan of redemption, he transferred all things to Jesus until the time comes for all things to be delivered back to himself (1 Co 15:24). Until that time, all these things, those that have to do with life and godliness, have been entrusted to you and to me through Jesus (2 Pe 1:3). So despite Stephen Wright's very funny observation, it looks like we really can have everything. 

"He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" (Romans 8:32 NIV)

But what does that mean?  

The Center of All Things

While every good and perfect gift does come down from God himself (Ja 1:17), I've experienced some less than perfect things drop into my lap as well. These are the trials, stumbling blocks, and tribulations which according to scripture, line the path to the Kingdom of God on earth, that even Jesus said were destined to come (Acts 14:22; Luke 17:1). While these things would not be considered good, God still has us covered.

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28 ESV).

He makes all things work for my good. Therefore, it is more productive for me that I set my focus upon the One who holds all things together than it is to focus upon the things themselves, whether they be good or bad (Col 1:17; Ro 8:28). My focus must always be upon...

“... Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.” (1 Corinthians 8:6 NIV) 

Jesus Christ is the center of all things and as we live our lives in him, we benefit from all that he is, all that he accomplished on the cross, and all that he has provided to us as believers. See: Eph 3:9; Jer 10:16; Jn 1:3; Acts 14:15; etc.

All Things I Commanded You

As we skim through individual passages without connecting them to the whole of scripture, it is easy to overlook that God is the "God of all things." Consider, for example, how we have reduced the Great Commission down to a singular task of evangelism while in fact, Jesus' commands are far more encompassing. The Great Commission is not about just one thing, it is about ALL things.

“All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you...” (Matthew 28:18-20 NKJV)

All authority... all nations... all of Jesus' commands...! Jesus is the all in all and has called us to all the things that he is about! But where do we begin? 

We begin by looking at all things Jesus commanded his first disciples to do. These are the works Jesus said that we would do in his name (Jn 14:12). The fight over whether these works are for today might be settled more easily when we understand why it is so important to Jesus that they be performed. It starts with what he gained on the cross and gave to the Church.

All Things Given to the Church

All things work for our benefit because they've been given to us that we might co-labor in administering "all things" in every way. Remember, we've been given all things that pertain to life and godliness. The works Jesus said we will perform in his name are merely facets of his full life which has been provided to us through his death and resurrection. When Paul talks about these things, he is not shy about emphasizing the massive scope of the Great Commission.

“... He raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” (Ephesians 1:19-23 NIV)

Our calling and purpose is directly connected to his fullness and therefore, our individual assignments within our corporate calling should reflect everything that Jesus is. "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." (1 Co 12:27 NIV). 

When fitly joined together carrying out his mission, we begin to look like him in this world (1 Jn 4:17). That is the key to achieving the end game.

"And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.... speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love" (Ephesians 4:11-12, 15-16 ESV).

The End Goal of Everything is All in All

God seems to have gone "all in" on this concept of "all" and "every." Many of us have come to believe that his plan was simply to fill heaven, while all along, his plan has been to fill "everything in every way" (Eph 1:23). But what are we to fill everything with? 

What would Jesus have us to be praying for and carrying out in his name? Fortunately, the disciples asked Jesus the very same question and his response indicates that it has to do with making a stand for his Kingdom on earth, in all its many facets, as it already is in heaven (Mt 6:10). The Lord's Prayer, sometimes called the Disciples' Prayer, has been used to entreat the God of heaven for over 2,000 years so that his Kingdom would come and his will would be done on earth as it is in heaven... that he would be able to redeem all of his creation back to his original intent.

"Then comes the end, when he delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. For “God has put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when it says, “all things are put in subjection,” it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him. When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him, that God may be all in all" (1 Corinthians 15:24-28 ESV).

Like me, you probably admired the poetry of this passage without realizing the depth it contains. And like me, you may have also missed in one respect or another that the good news is more than just the gospel of salvation, but that it encompasses the whole of his Kingdom purpose. We proclaim and demonstrate the gospel as Jesus modeled so that "all things," not just all people, would come into subjection to God.

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth” (Ephesians 1:7-10 NIV).

For all things in heaven and earth to unite in him, his influence must chip away at the effects of the fall so that all things begin to look more and more like his dwelling place than it does now. Surely, he can't bring all things together by making heaven look more like this fallen world. Something has to give. And surely, God does not intend to change the nature of heaven that it be like the nature of earth. 

All is Not New

Perhaps it is because his thoughts are so high above our thoughts that it has been difficult for us to dream beyond the idea of sneaking people past the gates of hell into heaven while Satan wasn't looking. Even our grandiose notions of end time events pale in comparison to what he has repeatedly announced throughout scripture. Prophets under an inferior covenant had a grander and clearer vision of what God has in mind than we do today.

"For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea" (Habakkuk 2:14 NIV).

Even though God cast this vision throughout the Old Testament, we have somehow fixed our gaze upon heaven, despite the angels' warning given after Jesus' ascension to not stand staring up into the sky (Acts 1:11). See: Numbers 14:21; Psalm 22:27; Isaiah 11:9; Isaiah 40:5; Jeremiah 31:34. 

Let's not forget that when the God of glory created the earth, he looked at his creation and proclaimed that all things were very good. While all things went downhill after the fall, they are not beyond redemption and from the foundation of the world, he had a plan to remedy the fall and fill his creation with his glory again.

A Return to All Things

Once this topic rises to the surface, it is inevitable that fears of inclusivism, universalism, and even pantheism will rise up with it. Despite these aberrations, God is very interested in moving ahead with his plan to manifest the hope of the glory that he has planted within us (Col 1:27). We have been adopted as his sons and daughters and have been translated into the Kingdom of his dear son (Col 1:13). If we don't feel up to the challenge, James suggests that we look to Elijah as our example (Ja 5:17).

This prophet not only brought rain to the earth after three years of drought, but did so amidst a challenge to the prophets of Baal — kingdom against kingdom where Elijah quite convincingly demonstrated the superiority of the Kingdom of God. We are called to the same task. And so, the Great Commission is not only about personal salvation, it's also about our cooperation in the mission...

"...That he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago." (Acts 3:20-21 NIV).

This passage parallels the theme of Jesus' discourse on the night he was betrayed. There he announced his mission being carried out by the Holy Spirit after his soon departure so that believers might receive all that Jesus was appointed to do.

"... He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine... In that day... whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.... Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.... I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father" (John 16:14-15, 23, 28 ESV).

Jesus also spoke about going away and sending the Holy Spirit who was being sent to, "... glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine."

All the Body

I believe it is all too easy for us to be comfortable in our isolation and disconnectedness. We often do not gravitate towards the joints and sinews designed to pull us together and make us all that we can be. Christ in us as the hope of glory may sound good theologically, but living it out is another matter. It will take all us working in tandem so that we might see God's plan come together.

"... Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work" (Ephesians 4:15-16 NIV)

"He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross" (Colossians 1:17-20 NIV).

We don't want to be the ones to tell God he can't have everything simply because we cannot conceive of him having a place to put it.  

You Can't Have Everything, Unless You Ask!

Now that I've teased the concept of "all things," you might find that this theme is far more prevalent in scripture than you formerly realized. The Great Commission is not only about personal salvation, it's also about our service in the redemption of all things. 

"...That he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago." (Acts 3:20-21 NIV).

We can have it all. This is simply because God's word in scripture tells us that we've already been given it all.  

"He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" (Romans 8:32 NIV)

He who gives good gifts is also the one who desires that receive and take full advantage of what we have been given. Consider for example that Paul exhorts us to not only follow after love, but that we earnestly desire the gifts that build the Body of Christ to maturity (1 Co 14:1-5; Eph 4:16, etc.). This phrase, "earnestly desire," literally means to burn and bubble over for in order to attain. So when Jesus says that he will give us whatever we ask for in prayer, perhaps, this is what he was talking about (Jn 14:13, 15:7, 15:16, 16:24-27).

A theology of all things, therefore, is not one that believes that all things make up God, but that God is the God of all things and he wants all his things returned back to him. Admittedly, my vision for this has been far too narrow. Our hesitation in rising together in the full stature of Christ to any measurable level might stem from our lack of belief. We might not believe that the God who created all things wants us to partner with him that he be known as the God over all things. He wants his nature and culture as it is in heaven to begin to permeate the Church that they might spread out and fill all of his creation.

 The Train is Leaving the Station

All Aboard!

I’ve noticed something about train travel from watching movies; as long as one makes an effort and the train hasn’t picked up speed yet, it is never too late to board. But when getting on board, it is important that we’re on the right train. Metaphorically speaking, I believe that many feel like life in God has passed them by. If this is you, listen to this “All aboard” announcement. God is inviting all who will heed the call to join him for a tremendous excursion. The guy in the scene above from A Passage to India gets it.

Get Your Tickets!

We’re all aware of the mass exodus from the church over the last decade or so. Whatever reason for this, the tickets to board the train of service remains open to all who will hear it. Sure, some luggage too cumbersome for a hasty departure might need to be left on the platform, but the train is already well-equipped and well-stocked. In addition, there are those already aboard willing to see that you are equipped.

It's Not Too Late!

Full potential resides in those who have stood on the side of the tracks up until now, as long as they're willing to make a run for it. Remember the parable of the vineyard workers hired in the final hours? Their last-minute employment resulted in no deficit in reward. This train is full of redemption and its potential for service harkens back to the 1st and 2nd Great Awakenings, The Welsh Revival, Azusa Street, and Pentecost itself. This trip is not a trend focused upon a particular destination, but is a vehicle for service which concentrates on the journey. And, as long as you have a ticket to ride, there is plenty of room on board.

New Travel Plans

The definition of the Greek word, metanoia, is that we change our minds and direct our thoughts towards God’s perspective and away from our own, especially in relation to conclusions about him and ourselves which we’ve formed based upon the challenges we’ve faced. Metanoia is translated into English as the word repentance. It is our agreement to reach back into our pockets and pull out the tickets we’ve been given. Our call, after all, is to “Go,” and on our way, he’s arranged to have works follow us that will transform people’s lives. Leaving our old ways of thinking behind begin with simply a determination to do so. Boarding the train is simply a part of that ongoing process. 

There's Something About a Train

The national train service, Amtrak, used to have a jingle to entice passengers, reminding them that “There’s something about a train.” And there is! The difference between life on a train and taking up space in the station is as different as night and day. But, we are not called only as highly valued passengers, we are also called to be the train’s supernatural crew. Our exploits will cause towns, cities, and villages to sing, “I hear that train a coming...” But remember, this train is on a time table and therefore, it’s heading out soon. So, you might be asking what does it take to get on board?

Discover Your Passion!

If you at one time left the station in disgust, consider whether you actually went anywhere or if your thoughts are still stuck in your memories of station-life gone wrong. If so, this is your invitation! Discover what it takes to head towards the platform. There is something about a train and if you see this train moving, run alongside if you have to. Do whatever it takes to get on board this train of service. It is leaving the station and will soon begin to pick up speed.