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Does Your Worldview Fit You Well? The Bible and Psychology Two Basic & Parallel Biblical Principles God the Great Manipulator What is Wrong With Society Today? What's It All About?

 

Does Your Worldview Fit You Well?

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.

Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

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In a national survey (Barna) it was determined that only 9 percent of Evangelical Christians had a Biblically centered worldview. Barna noted that the primary reason Christians do not act like Jesus is because they do not think like Him. Behavior stems from what we think. Proverbs 23:7 states, As a person thinks in his heart, so is he. A Biblically centered worldview will provide a foundation for the Christian to both think and act in accordance with that view of life. This essay has been designed to assist every Christian to formulate his or her own Biblical worldview. These principles are in general, and apply to every Christian. It is the individuals responsibility to apply them specifically to their life, by the help of the Holy Spirit, since we all differ, and God has given to each one differing gifts and abilities. May God grant you grace and wisdom as you read and apply these truths to your life.

In a recent Barna survey it was determined that only nine percent of Christians have a Biblical worldview. It also found that those without a Biblical worldview are more likely to accept the ways of the world, than those who have a committed Biblically centered way of life. What is the importance of one needing to have a Biblical worldview, what is it, and what does it mean?

A worldview in general, is one's philosophical view of life that encompasses a person's ideas about life, purpose, understanding, commitment to it, and goals. It is the track of life upon which one runs, and becomes the determining factor as to how a person operates their life over the course of one's years. A Christian Biblical worldview is one's commitment to accepting and following Biblical principles as the guide to life in all aspects of daily living. If one is committed to that, then God is the guarantor that there will be fullness of life (Joshua 1:8; John 10:10).

For thousands of years mankind has been struggling with three ponderous questions that have confounded society in general: Where did I come from; why am I here; and, where am I going? Regardless of the many answers that have come from the mind of mankind, the Bible provides God's definitive answer to these three questions. Originally, in the creative act of God in Adam and Eve, He intended them to:

1. Enjoy fellowship with Him (Psalms 8:4);

2. To be a reflection of God's moral character (Psalms 8:5);

3. To be king over all the creation (Psalms 8:6).

When Adam/Eve sinned by turning from being God centered to being self centered, they lost all three purposes that God had for them. Since God's purposes are eternal, He decreed that through the coming of Jesus Christ, restoration would be made possible for mankind to eternally fulfill God's original purpose for His creation.

Since all peoples of the earth are the result of Adam's sin (Romans 5:12), it has been natural for mankind to consider these three great questions. The brief Biblical answers to them are: We all came by the creative act of God and by human propagation the descendants of Adam. We are here to originally be a reflection of God's moral character, but sin distorted that reality, though, through Jesus Christ restoration is possible. In the future all people will stand before God in judgment; those who have acknowledged Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior for their sins will inherit eternal life with Him, and those who have rejected God's offer of eternal life, by rejecting Jesus Christ, will suffer eternal separation from God, and be eternally unfulfilled.

In order to adequately answer these questions individually, one must construct a proper worldview. For the Christian, who accepts the Bible as the revealed word of God, the answer to these great questions is formulated through the filter of Biblical principles. It is the safeguard to the Christian that his worldview fit with God's design for his life. When this is in place, then one can be confident in knowing he will enjoy fullness of life, whatever will come. Furthermore, God will guarantee to the individual that when the end of life comes, that person will be able to say, I've had a fulfilled life. What more can one say than this?

The foundation of a Biblical worldview is found in seven specific principles in Scripture that define God's basic revelation to mankind, upon which one must commit himself to accepting:

1. The divinity of Jesus Christ,

2. The sovereignty of God over the universe,

3. Salvation by faith in Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the hope of eternal life,

4. The reality of sin and Satan,

5. A Christian witness to the world,

6. The inerrancy of Scripture, and,

7. The return of the Lord Jesus Christ to rule over the world.

Granted, there are theological differences of understanding these basic principles, but be as that may, these need to be accepted at face value, though our understanding of the fullness of these essentials may differ. As the Apostle Paul noted, Now we see through a mirror darkly, now we know in part; but then shall I know (1 Corinthians 13:12). Though our vision of these elements are often blurred, yet one must trust the Lord for these truths. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to guide us into all the truth (John 16:13), and as we submit to his guidance, God directs the thoughts and intents of our lives to conform us to his perfect will for us.

A Biblical worldview must consider four basic questions of:

1. Origin of life,

2. Meaning in life,

3. Morality in behavior, and

4. One's future destiny?

To answer these questions from a Biblical perspective the New Testament book of Colossians, which is the philosophical book of the Bible, becomes the Christian's guide to understanding. Given the fact that not only does God desire everyone to become His child (2 Peter 3:9), but God furthermore provides the track of life upon which, if one desires to run his life, provides the Biblical worldview to operate life to the full. Therefore, it is important for one to consider what Colossians has to say to us, in answer to these four important questions. By way of introduction, the Apostle prays for the Christian in Colossians 1:9-14, that we Might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding He further prays that we might be fit to be partakers of the kingdom of His son, Jesus Christ. A personal Biblical worldview is the process in the life of the Christian toward becoming fit for the kingdom of God. This is accomplished by one accepting and understanding Biblical principles, and submitting one's life to the guidance and control of the Holy Spirit, who guides us into all truth.

The first Biblical principle relative to the question as to the origin of life is answered in Colossians 1:16-18, along with other passages of Scripture. It tells us that all things in the universe were created by God and for God, and that all matter in life is held together by God's power and word. God is the creator and sustainer of life (Jeremiah 1:5). This is what is termed, Natural Law over against the theory of Evolution, that says that the world and mankind came by chance, which is contradictory to Biblical truth. For one to embrace a Biblical worldview, it is imperative to accept the Genesis account of creation, In the beginning, God created the Heaven and the earth (Genesis 1:1). To adhere to any other worldview as to origin would be to not have a Biblical worldview. It is hard to conceive of any Christian not believing in the creative act of God.

The second question as to the meaning of life from a Biblical perspective is found in Colossians 2:8-10.. The Christian is first warned against the philosophy of the world, which is basically a narcissistic or self centered view of life. The Apostle Paul notes that this view of meaning in life is basically after the traditions of worldly philosophers, after the elements of the world, and not after Christ. He then goes on to state that in Christ Dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, in that the human person, Jesus Christ, was the embodiment of the whole of the triune God (2 Corinthians 4:6). He came into the time-space world in which we humans live, to reveal God to us, so that we could comprehend God in the person of Jesus Christ. Since God does not dwell in a body, is eternal in being, and incomprehensible to mankind, who is limited, the only way by which one could come to an understanding of God would be through Him becoming one of us, in the person of Jesus Christ.

This provides the answer to meaning in life, in that the Apostle stated in verse 10, You are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Meaning in life and fullness of life comes by one's relationship to God through Jesus Christ, who provides us all that is needed for life itself. In 1 Thessalonians 5:23 we read, And, the very God of peace, sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit, and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is God's commitment to the Christian, which gives meaning to life itself.

Fullness of meaning in life is most desirable for every person, The promise Christ has given to the Christian is found in John 10:10, I am come that you might have life ( i.e. spiritual life), and that you might have it more abundantly. A Biblically centered worldview in the life of the Christian will bring what Christ promised to reality. In John 15:11, Jesus said, These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. A Biblical worldview provides the elements that produce fullness of joy in that, Of Him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto you, wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30). These are the spiritual elements that produce meaning in life to the Christian.

The third question of morality in behavior and how to handle it, in a Biblical worldview, is found in Colossians 3:1-3, 5-10. The argument by Paul consists of an assumption that since the Christian has now become related to God through a personal commitment to the risen Christ, that one should Set your mind (i.e. will) on things above, not on the earth (v. 2). Why, since we are earth creatures, and live in a mundane world? The Apostle does not mean that we should not be concerned about the normal affairs of everyday life, for that is necessary, but that we should not allow those things to control us, or take first place in one's life. Rather, allow the things of eternity to control us, so that the normal activities of life take their rightful place, and are under our control, through one's daily commitment to the control of the Holy Spirit. That is why it states in verse 3, You are dead (i.e. to the world's system, to whom you owe nothing), and your life is hid (i.e. controlled, guarded, and guided) with Christ in God.

With this in mind, verses 5-10 give us a list of things, that one with a Biblically centered worldview should do in daily living, through the control and power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. In verse 10 we are told that as Christians we, Have put on the new person (i.e. become a Christian), in which our life is ever being renewed in knowledge after the likeness of Jesus, who was born of God In other words, Once a person becomes a Christian, the primary thrust of one's life is to become spiritually mature (2 Peter 3:18; 1 Peter 2:2). Patterning one's life after Christ in all aspects of living, is what God desires for us. Galatians 5:16-25 provides a contrast between the worldly Christian life and the Holy Spirit filled life. Galatians 5:16 commends to us to, Walk by the power of the Spirit, and you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. Another admonition is found in Ephesians 5:1-9. Commitment to God through the power of the Holy Spirit, helps us not only to grow spiritually, but to also overcome the constant pull of the self life and worldly attractions.

The final question in constructing a Biblical worldview is what is the future destiny of the Christian who is committed to Jesus Christ? The Apostle Paul's succinct answer is found in Colossians 3:4, When Christ, who is our life shall appear, then shall you also appear with Him in glory. How is that amplified in understanding? Consider the following passages of Scripture: In John 14:19, Jesus stated, Because I live, you shall live also, meaning that His resurrection from death would guarantee that every Christian would have eternal life. In 1 Corinthians 15:20-23; 51-58 there is an amplification of Jesus' declaration of eternal life. It tells the Christian that though physical death may overtake him, someday Jesus Christ will return to earth, to not only raise the Christians who have died, but to also transform them into Christ's likeness eternally, with no sickness or death, and to live with Him eternally. This is the future hope and destiny for every Christian.

Furthermore, in 1 John 3:2 we read, Beloved now are we the children of God, and it does not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. Our transitional life which will someday die, will be raised by God's power to eternal life, and transformed into the likeness of the Lord Jesus Christ, Himself. See also: Philippians 3:20,21. Last, but not least in Philippians 1:6, the Apostle Paul made a very definitive statement, I am confident of this very thing, that the Hoy Spirit who has begun a good work in you, through regeneration, will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. What a glorious contemplation and guarantee.

When a Christian desires to formulate one's worldview according to the principles of the Bible, allows the word of God to dwell in him richly, and meditates and prays for daily wisdom and discernment, through writing the Holy Spirit a blank check each day of his life, then God will guarantee that person to be able to say when one comes to the end of life, I have had a fulfilled life. What more is one able to ask for than that?

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The Bible and Psychology

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.

Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

Today, as never before, people are interested in psychology and what it has to say to mankind. The study of psychology deals with the mind, its senses and human behavior. Since our mind controls our behavior and our behavior influences and is influenced in many ways, it becomes a challenging study. Along with this are the ver-increasing problems of the mind, social relations in a complex world today, mental and moral break-downs, the increase of the occult (e.g. astrology, etc.), and the desire to know the future and the things of the non-physical world. Satanic influence is increasing as never before as I Timothy 4:1, and II Timothy 3:2 state: "Now the spirit speaketh plainly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons" and "evil men and deceivers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived."

Since man is constantly trying to explore the mind in human behavior, it seems logical to the Christian that his source of knowledge can best come through an understanding of the One who created the mind of mankind, as well as looking at the textbook He has written on the mind and human behavior. The most authoritative textbook on the subject of human behavior is the Bible. Not only is it authoritative, it is objective, and is the final word on the subject. And whether people accept the principles of God's Word and agree with them or not, all are subject to the principles found in the Bible. Therefore, it behooves us to consider seriously what god has to say on this matter of Biblical psychology. The Bible is not a textbook on psychology, rather it is a text on God and His relationship to mankind, whom He has created. However, in the context there is much stated in the Bible on human behavior, and where the Bible speaks on the subject of psychology it speaks with final authority.

Emotions

Mankind lives in a day and age which is fraught with many fears and problems, and to a certain degree, as Christians, we have become insulated from these fears and problems. Yes, it is true, we watch the news on television, we read the newspapers, we understand in a measure what is going on in the world, we hear much about the problems that the youth of today experience, the drugs, and all that goes with it. But by the large, as Christians, we are isolated from the realities of the world. Yet in a paradoxical way, because we are human beings, we are caught up many times with the very same problems that the world faces. To a degree the world may be different, and the problems to us may not be as great or dramatic, and not have as much of a traumatic effect upon us as they do on various people in the world---but basically, we all have the same common nature, and all have the same common problems.

God, who is our Creator, has an answer for all these problems. There are four sets of emotions common to all---whether we accept by faith the principles in God's Word or reject them---that plague us, and unless we get relief from them they will ultimately destroy us.

The first is the fear-anxiety-apprehension syndrome. The world is caught up in this to a great degree because it says, "There is no help for mankind---this is a meaningless universe." The world cares nothing for the individual who is only a number, and though each individual is a unique person there is really no help for that person. Each individual is just one of billions of other people. We live in an amoral world that is hostile to the individual. Therefore, because of this we have fears, anxieties, and apprehensions, as to what is coming.

The second set of emotions that bothers us is the anger-hostility-hated syndrome, since basically we are afraid. This is a cover up, and thus we exhibit our fears which come out through anger, hostility, and hatred. And hostility is the direct action to powerlessness in one's life because of what he fears. This bothers the Christian as well as the non-Christian.

The third set of emotions that we are plagued with is that of the depression-guilt-psychic pain syndrome. It is interesting to note that the majority of people that occupy hospital beds are there not because of physical illness, but because of emotional, mental and psychological problems. If as human beings we could be rid of these, there would be plenty of beds in all hospitals today. It is an abiding sorrow that bothers every individual. For the non-Christian, it is an unconsciousness sense of guilt, though that person may not acknowledge or recognize it. For the Christian it may be unconfessed sin which therefore leads to depression and guilt feelings.

The fourth set of emotions that bothers us is what may be termed as destructive egotism. This is another form of fear; "I am myself, I have an ego, and I have desire to have it built up to a certain degree. And yet in my desires to have my ego built up, there is also a certain amount of fear, and so I am trying to balance my fears with my ego as an individual," and that gives everyone problems.

Over against these four sets of adverse emotions needs to be fulfilled, else these destructive tendencies will overcome us as human beings. This is where the principles of God's Word are highly focused in the book of Philippians. In brief, they can be pointed out as follows:

The first emotional need that we have to be fulfilled is that of affection---to love and to be loved. Every baby born into the world desires this. Sometime ago, an experiment was made in Colorado, in which a doctor took a group of unwanted babies who had been abandoned. He found that within a year the majority of them died. Yes, they were well cared for and they were fed, and the nurses looked after them; but they died because they lacked affection and love, because every human being needs this. This is why God gave to us mothers, to breast-feed babies, not only for the benefit of the mother's milk that the baby receives, but for that sense of security that the baby gets as it is held in it's mother's arms. That is something that no bottle will ever accomplish, and every human being needs this affection not only as babies, but for the rest of one's life.

The second emotion that needs to be fulfilled is that of acceptance---of who one is, and each individual's unique character. We need to feel accepted by other people. This is part of our community of being together.

The third emotion is that of appreciation---to have a favorable critical estimate made of one's self: A certain kind of approbation, a slap on the back for a good job well done. We give medals, letters of commendation, watches, appreciation banquets---we pass out awards and rewards, and various sorts of things. Why? Because we all need it. We need to be appreciated.

The fourth emotion that all need is that of achievement---not only a sense of satisfaction or accomplishment, but also that which is praiseworthy, so when we achieve a certain goal there comes a certain amount of appreciation for that achievement, and it makes us feel good, so we desire it.

These four emotions are basic to every individual, and in order to overcome the emotions that constantly plague us, as well as to counter balance that, in having the emotions fulfilled that one needs, God has provided the answer in the book of Philippians.

The Christian and Psychology

For the Christian, problems arise in the area of faith and belief. When the supposed, "the fact of science" conflicts with a person's belief, trouble may develop. The conflict in a person stems from how much on believes heredity and environment shape his thinking. If behavior is completely determined by these factors, as some think, then freedom is an illusion. In today's existential and pragmatic world, man is conditioned to become absolutely "free" of all restraints or bonds, that heredity and/or environment may inhibit him. For the Christian who lives in the world today, his problem is heightened by the idea of some, that religious beliefs become unrealistic bondage to his "super-ego" (which is thought of as somewhat similar to one's "moral conscience"). To free himself of this control it is often suggested that he should go about and "live it up." To release himself from this so-called bondage, the idea is to suggest that his will loosen (or maybe harden) his conscience so that he will not be anxious in that which he does. This assumes that the "super-ego" is determined by environment (parents, church, other Christians' super-imposed external standards, etc.) and that he must become "free" to act as he will. The ego then becomes more insensitive and the individual less anxious.

What actually occurs more often than not, is that the individual becomes more guilt ridden and therefore these anxieties are heightened. What is really needed is a treatment of the real problem of freedom in Christ, through an understanding of the Word of God and a pattern of life consistent with the Bible. Much of the problem in today's Christian society is a super-imposition of do's and don't's on Christian individuals that may or may not have a foundation on the Word of God. It is not the "black" are of life that bothers us (i.e. the don't's of the Ten Commandments) or the "white" are of life (i.e. the do's of the Ten Commandments) that impose problems, but the great "gray" area wherein the Bible does not specifically state exactly what we are to do or not do. The reason the Bible is not specific in the "gray" are is twofold: 1) certain actions are not always right or wrong, but must be considered in a contextual light of times, manners, customs, culture, and; 2) God wishes His children to become spiritually mature and able to make mature judgments based on the principles of His Word, as the person allows the Holy Spirit to guide him into all the truth (John 16:13). This gives the Christian confidence, just as a growing child gains confidence in judgment as his parents increase his allowance to make the judgments.

Today, we live in a world dominated by the philosophies of philosophical existentialism (i.e. man exists as an individual in a purposeless world, and that he must oppose the hostile environment by the exercise of his free will) and pragmatism (i.e. the system of philosophy which tests the validity of concepts and actions by their practical results; if it works, it is all right.) The resultant emphasis of these two philosophies shows up in the effects of the depersonalization of society, the break-down of the eternal and traditional elements of faith, and the loss of meaning to present life. Man is essentially free; he is conscious of himself as a being, and he can think and question his own existence. This encourages one to break away from tradition and old patterns in order to find a better and more fulfilling experience in life. Again, for the Christian this poses a real problem in that this philosophy accepts no authority other than experience. God is eliminated as well as are all moral laws. (In one sense, existentialism does have meaning for the Christian when on is faced with the experience of real meaning in life. By the principles of God's Word there is renewed vitality through emphasizing the meaning of a person's relationship with God which deepens that experience. A note of caution should be sounded at this point and that is, that experience and meaning are beneficial when based on Biblical truth and not experience alone. This differs materially from philosophical existentialism which is anti-God and posits a hopeless future.)

One of the problems of human experience is what should be done with the unconscious element. Should it be sublimated or ignored hoping that it will go away and become a problem? "Shock" therapy, many times, drives the problems deeper into the unconscious and keeps them there. Evidence seems to point in the direction that unresolved conflicts of the conscience that are pushed into the unconscious do not remain dormant. They rather create greater tensions harder to cope with, because the origins are hidden and forgotten. The more this happens the greater the potential for increased tension and eventually a blow-up of some sort. For the Christian there should be a day-by-day problem dealing, in confession of sin, eliminating the conflict, and allowing the Holy spirit to resolve the problems by guiding the individual in the truth of God's Word. Hence, the need for day-by-day Bible study and prayer, committal of that day into God's hand, and asking for God's grace for each day, that one may walk in the path of God's righteousness. This comes through submission to the direction of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer.

Traits or characteristic patterns of behavior are basic in the development of every individual's unique personality. As our interrelations between these traits are formed, conflicts are created because of difference in interests and goals. This results because of an attempt to create an order in one's life. A Christian desires to avoid inconsistencies and disorder, to be creative and useful and hopefully reduce tension caused by inner conflicts. Thus, the attempt to organize one's life may take on of two forms: 1) by consciously or unconsciously isolating the traits that are causing his conflicts into logic-tight compartments that do not allow for any problem solving or communication. In this way one may lose control over part of his personality and the solution is worse than the problem itself; or, 2) another way to solve the problem is to make one trait an organizing principle and then subordinating all other traits to it. A good example of this is seen in Philippians 1:21 "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." This shows the simple trust of the Christian in Christ as an organizing principle in life. This answers the problem of identification with the resultant proper organization. This reduces tension, and if the trait chosen is not a selfish one, as seen in the illustration in Philippians, then the solution is a good one.

Sometimes the trait of altruism (the unselfish concern for the welfare of others becomes the center and the results seem better. But the problem here is this tends to be an end in itself, and the individual's ultimate fulfillment is limited by human nature. Sometimes people will spend their lives pursuing a goal and then find in the end that it was not worth-while. This is somewhat like the man who climbed the ladder of success, only to find that when he got to the top that the had the ladder leaning against the wrong wall. When this happens disillusionment may set in at a time when the personality is least able to cope with it.

This problem of organization resolves itself into finding a proper center for the personality into which all human traits may be channeled, and which are at the same time beyond the human element. In this thought, one would have a center for personality and expansion. This then is the message of Philippians, which gives to us what God considers the normal Christian life. This is also what Paul was talking about in Galatians 2:20, the "ego" or "I", ". . . is crucified in Christ, nevertheless I live, but it is not 'I', but Christ who lives in the through me, and the life 'I' now live in the flesh, is by the grace of God who loves me and gave His Son for me."

To develop maturity in the normal Christian life is to form stronger bonds from each trait and relate it all to the center, Christ. The "old nature" interferes with this desire as seen in Ephesians 4:22-24. When this reorganization of the self life is begun, the power that formally had been expended in solving inner conflicts becomes available for constructive purposes. When every aspect of one's personality is truly centered in Christ, these inner conflicts can be eliminated and thus the Christian can become a mentally healthy individual.

The most serious problem that plagues Christians is that of the "old" and "new" natures. The two are diametrically opposed to each other, and every Christian has the two within himself. Paul certainly set forth the conflict quite clearly in Romans 7:11-25 wherein he noted "the good which I would I do not, but the evil which I would not, that I do." It then calls for a constant and consistent application to daily living of the integration of the traits of life to the center, which is Christ. Only when this takes place can the latent power of the personality be combined with the power of God to produce a productive usefulness in the Christian life.

The Bible and Psychology

There are three reasons for which the Bible was written. God gave it first to show the entrance and problem of Sin; second, to show mankind the need for and the provision of Salvation; and third to provide for the Christian the right way to Sanctification of life. The "Sanctify" in Greek is the same as the word translated "holy." And the words "holy" and "sanctify" are synonymous terms in Scripture, which mean "to set apart from evil and to be set apart unto God."

When one looks at the Word of God, these three ideas: sin, salvation, sanctification, qualitatively are provided to the individual in this order; for first of all a person needs to know that one is a sinner and needs a Savior; secondly, that God had provided salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ for that person's sins and that once a person becomes a child of God, it is anticipated that thirdly one leads a sanctified life. These are of ultimate importance and are in this order in God's Word. But, when one looks at these three aspects quantitatively, in the Bible, the first two ways---that is of sin and salvation---take up very little of the Bible. It doesn't take God a great amount of space to show human beings the entrance of sin, and the problems that go along with it, and that all of mankind are sinners, nor does it take Him long to show to us what Christ had done for us. But when it comes to the matter of sanctification that becomes an entire lifetime of living. The biographical sketches that one sees in God's Word in the Old Testament, as well as in the New Testament, are given to show out of the lives of men, women, boys, and girls, who have had similar problems as ours, who have had their heights and depths, their "cloud-nine" and their "Monday mornings," how God's children ought to live today. This is why Christ stated in John 10:10, "I am come that ye might have life and that ye might have it more abundantly."

The abundant life includes mature mental health, but it includes much more. Generally speaking, mental health is related to the norms of society, but the Christian may not always go along with the current norm, and in order to be faithful to Christ may at times go against it. If an individual's faith in Christ does not result in more in a more satisfying personal life, regardless of the problems or obstacles, there is either something wrong in one's life, or with the application of Biblical principles to that person's daily living. The Bible is given to mold or fashion us after Christ's likeness, and this is sanctification or holy living.

God, who is our Creator, has created our psyche or our senses, and by and large we are conditioned by those senses. Whether we like it or whether we don't, we are sensitive people, and there are certain emotions and affections that we have that need to be satisfied in one direction or another. The world is constantly searching for this and constantly failing, and this is why the psychologists get rich, because people go to a psychologist to have a cathartic expression---that is to get off their mind what bothers them, and the psychologist does very little, but after one has "unloaded," he feels better. Then the psychologist tells him, "I'll see you nest week" and the person thinks the psychologist has done a lot for him. We have these burdens that one constantly needs to "unroll" or to "get off his chest." Since God created us with "psyche" or a "sense," He certainly ought to know best how a person should operate in life. Because of this, God has given to mankind these understandings in His Word, and though throughout the Bible there are expressions that minister to one's senses, there is one book, that of Philippians, that has as its objective to combine spiritual health with mental health for the Christian.

In concluding this section, it may be suggested there are five ways by which each Christian may live a more satisfying personal life, as well as be a better steward of the grace of God. A by-product of this is mature mental health coupled with a joyful disposition.

1. Integration---In this, Christ becomes the center for all of one's diverse traits of personality. After the initial step of regeneration, the integrating of one's personality becomes a matter of listening to the Holy Spirit's leading. To develop an experiential knowledge of Christ's teaching from His Word provides the key (see Philippians 3:10).

2. Purpose---An important factor in helping a person live a useful life is the knowledge that there is purpose in life. Life is meaningless unless there is purpose to it. In Philippians 1:21, Paul states, "For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain." Here is the thought of personal identification with Christ. The ultimate for the Christian is one's seeking to achieve the will of God in and through his own life. With this in mind a person seeks to translate God's plan for his life into understandable terms for himself, as well as for others. A sense of values in the Christian experience is imperative, for if there are no standards or values, life loses its relevance. On the other hand, when one is clear as to standards and values, these serve to direct rather than repress a person.

3. Contemplation---A person who is mentally healthy and spiritually acute is one who is contemplative. Periodically he pauses to take stock of his spiritual life, and seeks to relate himself to the important concerns of faith and life. Paul clearly taught this in Philippians 2:5, "Let this mind be in you which is also in Christ Jesus." As the Christian reflects o himself, studies the Word of God, and speaks to Him in prayer, the result brings relaxation, positive Christian conduct, insight into life's problems and in making decisions, and indefinable strength in power resulting from the working of the Holy Spirit in his life. This cares for the problem of personal disposition of life.

4. Perspective---When on personally applies the principles of the Christian faith to everyday life and living and these are integrated, the result is an understanding of the ultimate future of life. Paul says in I Corinthians 6:20 that, "Ye are bought with a price therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit which are God's." This perspective, the realization that things happening today have relevance for the present as well as for eternity, can bring meaning and significance to every incident in life. The expectation of the Christian helps him in this life as I John 3:3 points out, "and every man that hath this hope in Him, purifieth himself even as He is pure." Then as Paul notes in Philippians 3:20, "For our manner of life is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." To the Christian, this gives hope and answers the problem of personal priority in life.

5. Outgoing---In Matthew 16:24-26, Christ said, "He that findeth his life shall lose it and he that loseth his life for My sake will find it." Because the Christian's ideal concern is not immediate and selfish goals, his life can become an outflowing of help for others. There is probably a tendency to a greater or lesser degree in all of us, to be inhibited from being outgoing. To be outgoing is something that each person, more or less, has to work on in his own life. A characteristic of a mentally healthy person is an outgoing personality. When we accept Christ's commission in Matthew 28:19, it helps us to become outgoing. When we rely on Paul's thought in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," it shows the help we can and do have in Christ. This gives to the Christian a sense of personal security to trust the Lord for every aspect in one's life.

The study of psychology as a scientific field poses problems for the Christian, yet when integrated with the psychological principles as demonstrated in God's Word, it offers the opportunity of opining new insights regarding Christian experiences and understanding of the Biblical truths. An illustration may serve to help underscore this principle. The sulfa drug does not kill the germ. It dissolves the hard protective coating around the germ so that the white corpuscles are able to kill the germ. In a similar fashion, psychology can provide the tools used by God to penetrate more efficiently, and dissolve the defensive shell that people use to insulate themselves from Biblical truths, and from their fellowmen. When this hell is broken, the Spirit of God is able to perform His work in their lives. Each problem raised by life and psychology has its answer in the Word of God. These answers should be sought and found, and when they are, along with personal application, the normal spiritual life that God has for each of us will become evident.

Philippians and Psychology

In order to overcome the emotions that plague a person and fulfill the emotions that one needs, God has provided the answer in the book of Philippians. In chapter 1, the Apostle Paul answers the problem of Personal Identification. This has to do with Affection. The key to this problem of identification is in Philippians 1:21, "For to me to live is Christ and to dies is gain." Paul was identified with the Lord Jesus Christ in every aspect of his life. He was affected by what Christ had done for him; it affected his whole life. It changed him from being an employee of the Roman government, on the Damascus Turnpike committing people to prison under the name of Saul, and it transformed him so that now he was the Apostle Paul, preaching the claims of Christ. Just as he was at one time all out as an employee of the Roman government, now he was all out ---his whole life was dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ. What Paul was plainly saying in this verse was that for him to live was Christ, and he was identified in this fashion. This gives to the Christian the Principle for what one might term the normal Christian life. One may ask from a psychological point of view: what is normal? The answer is, no one knows what is normal. Not even the psychologists who are searching for normalcy know, because none of them are normal. Just because the majority of people do a certain in one way or the other does not constitute that which is normal. Only God knows what is normal, and there has been only one normal person that ever appeared on the face of the earth, and that was the Lord Jesus Christ. He was the incarnation of God Himself in human manifestation. This is why Paul said, "For to me to live is Christ."

However, God has revealed that which is normal for His children, and the understanding of that normalcy is found in His Word. God created us and thereby He knows what is normal. This is the principle of life which constitutes that which is normal for the child of God. The Bible is to the Christian what the automobile manufacturer's handbook is to the car. Only as the Christian follows the truth of God in His Word is he able to live a normal Christian life.

Chapter 2 answers the second emotional need to be fulfilled and that is Acceptance. This answers the problem of Personal Disposition---how one's life is accepted. What does Paul say as to this?---the key is found in verse 5, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." In the disposition of life, the Christian is accepted in the beloved---a child and heir. We have been accepted by Almighty God. This answers the problem of the personal disposition of a person's life, which gives to the Christian the Pattern for the normal Christian life. The Apostle Paul never tells us what to do---which is found in chapter1---but he follows it very quickly with how to do it in chapter 2.

When a lady desires to sew a dress, she goes to the store and purchases what is known as a pattern. A pattern is a series of tissue papers that are cut in certain ways to give dimensions. The pattern is placed on the cloth and then the cloth is cut according to the patter, then the cloth is sewn together which becomes the dress. In this analogy, Christ is our pattern, and as Christians we are to cut our life, as it were, after that of the Lord Jesus Christ. Because we have been accepted by God into His family, and our lives are molded by His Word and the Holy Spirit who indwells us, it helps us with the problem of the disposition of life; how one disposes of the time and talent that he has in life.

The third emotion that needs to be fulfilled is that of Appreciation. This is considered in chapter 3 and the key is found in verses 13, 14, and 20 which answers the problem of Personal Priorities in life. In the world in which we live today, every person is caught in a myriad of many things, with many avenues of opportunity to control us and spend our time. Because of the multiplicity of involvements, and the choices that constantly need to be made in relation to one's priorities is that which causes much frustration in the lives of people. For example, if a person chooses a certain place to go and is not appreciated by the group of people with whom he associates, or does not appreciate what he has anticipated he would, so that he does not receive a good feeling out of it, he may then become frustrated. Frustration is the game that is played today, for people seem to be out of sorts or frustrated with many things, places, and people. This causes depression, anxieties, and fears which may result in guilt feelings, and there are many negative reactions and reinforcers that constantly pick up speed, so that the person gets caught up in the frustrations of the world from which there seemingly is no escape. For this the Apostle Paul has a satisfying answer in chapter 3, as to how God appreciates His children, and how this helps answer the problem of personal priorities. In 3:13, he says, "Brethren I don't believe I've arrived---I'm not perfect---but there is this one thing I've learned to do, forgetting those which are behind and reaching for those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Then in verse 20 he notes, "For our manner of life is in heaven from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." This helps the Christian in his priorities, so that he does not become confused and frustrated in life, and is able to formulate proper priorities and thereby feels a sense of appreciation from God. Chapter 3 helps us in the Passions of the Christian life.

Reflect upon what Paul said for a moment. He noted that he had been able to forget those things which were behind, and to keep his eye single before the Lord and to look to those things which were ahead. Think upon this for a moment; at one time the Apostle Paul was an employee of the Roman government hailing Christians to prison on the Damascus Turnpike. God turned him around and Saul became converted, and because of this became the Apostle Paul, now ministering the Word of God in behalf of the Lord Jesus Christ, whom he loved and whom he served. One can easily visualize that as the Apostle Paul went to preach to the Christians at various places, that there were probably people in his congregation to whom he was ministering who may have been, many years before, in prison under his hand, when he was Saul, or had friends, relatives, or neighbors who had been in prison. Now the Apostle Paul was ministering the Word of God to them. It is easy to see how he could have had a great amount of guilt feelings, or a sense of depression or sadness at what he had done. Or, maybe those people had a certain sense of hostility, anger, or fear when it came to receiving the Apostle Paul himself, as well as his ministry. Yet he could say he was able to forget "those things which are behind."

One of the greatest psychological hang-ups that Christians have today is that they allow Satan to conjure up the failures of the past in their lives, and hang those things over them like a "cement cloud." Thus it shifts the Christian into neutral and one is unable to "use today for doing good" (Hebrews 3:13), because of depression and guilt feelings along with all kinds of fears and frustrations due to past failure, and sometimes these go back for many years.

God has a good catharsis for the Christian in this regard. For this, one doesn't need to go to the psychologist---it's found very simply in I John 1:9, "If we confess our sins He's faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." In the world, people many times are able to forgive but so many times they are unable to forget. However, when God forgives He also forgets, and one doesn't have to worry about the failures of yesterday when he ahs confessed them before God. God wants us to keep a clean slate before Him day by day, and this is why He constantly impresses upon us the fact that every day we need to pray, to read His Word, and to fellowship with Him. We should start every day by saying, "Father, give me the grace to live for You today and lead me in the way of righteousness." It is no wonder that God says, "Don’t worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will take care of itself, and don't be concerned about yesterday, you can't recall it, it is past." Live for today; God will take care of your need for tomorrow, and if you have confessed your sins He's faithful and just to forgive you of your sins, and don’t worry about what's past; live for today. We are to use today for doing good as Paul tells it in Hebrews 3:13. This is the way that God wants us to live. Why should we live like the people of the world? God appreciates His children when they respond to Him in this fashion.

In chapter 4 Paul answers the fourth need that every individual has and that is the need of Achievement. It also answers the problem of Personal Security. Achievement gives to a person a certain sense of Security, and this feeling of well being is what every individual needs. How does Paul apply this? In verse 13 he states, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Paul did not mean by this that he could do anything. No, all people have limitations, but all have certain talents, gifts, and abilities. God does not measure these abilities. God does not measure these abilities on a vertical plain as the world does, like a person who achieves a certain plateau or status in life as he climbs the ladder of success. No, God does not evaluate His children in that fashion, for He evaluates us on the horizontal plain. Every individual has certain responsibilities before God, and God has given every individual the talents and abilities to carry out the responsibilities that he has entrusted to him. As far as God is concerned, it makes no difference whether one is the president of the corporation or the janitor in the factory. Wherever God has placed His child that is his responsibility. In Philippians 2:12 and 13, the Apostle Paul admonishes the child of God to work out the salvation that he has with awe and respect for God, and then he notes, "For it is God who worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure." God both shows us His will through His Spirit, and at the same time gives to us the enablement to carry out His will through the talents that He has entrusted to us. In I Corinthians 4:1, 2, the same Apostle Paul tells us that as Christians we are stewards of the grace of God, and then he notes, "That is it required in stewards that one be found faithful." Faithfulness to that responsibility which God has entrusted to us, is that which will count in the day of reckoning.

This is why the Apostle Paul was able to say "I can do all things"---that is, all responsibilities and the area of influences that I have and which God has given to me. I can do all to the glory of God as God gives me the strength to accomplish them. That's achievement. When we know that God looks at it this way, that gives to one a sense of security or assurance of well being, and this is the Power of the normal Christian life.

Four things provide for God's children the standard for the normal Christian life: 1) that we live worthy of the gospel, 2) that we stand fast in the faith, 3) that we not be terrified by what is coming, and 4) that we might be willing to suffer for the Lord Jesus Christ---"For me to live is Christ and to die is gain." Our forebearers of the truth stood fast in the midst of persecution so that we might have the gospel, and the love of the Lord Jesus Christ. Should it be any less that we stand fast in the faith, so that if God tarries, our progeny and the generations that shall come will have the same opportunity for salvation that has been provided for us, by those of our loved ones who have gone before, and who have stood fast in the faith? When we cast all our cares upon Him, He does care for us (I Peter 5:7).

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Two Basic & Parallel Biblical Principles

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.

Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

God's revelation to mankind has two significant and parallel lines of truth in the Bible, that impact the life of every Christian: 1) the Kingdom of God, and 2) Sanctification of life. These two primary principles are like the two sides of a coin, they go together: one side is God's promises to mankind, and the other is mankind's response to God. Taken together they form an indissoluble bond between God and the believing Christian. The Bible is the source book from which this understanding comes, and it is the responsibility of every Christian to know and understand these two basic principles, in order to comprehend God's program for mankind, as well as to know how to live in a sinful world.

As a starter, it is imperative for an individual to become related to God through a personal relationship with Him, by accepting the work that Christ accomplished on the cross, and making a personal commitment to Jesus Christ to care for one's sins against God (John 3:16-18,36; 5:24; Romans 10:9,10). Once the person's sin problem with God is settled, and that person is spiritually regenerated, then one enters a family relationship with God, and enjoys the fullness of God's promises and blessings both now as well as for eternity. Along with these promises go certain responsibilities within the family of God. And, these two elements are the basic parallel lines of truth found in the Bible which is the topic of this paper.

The Kingdom of God

When God created mankind, He did so for three purposes as stated in Psalm 8:4-6. In v.4 God created mankind for fellowship with Him, then in v. 5 it states that mankind was created to reflect the moral qualities of God Himself (the word glory means God's moral attributes), and finally in v.6 we see that mankind was to be king over the rest of God's creation (i.e. the animal and vegetable kingdom). Had Adam and Eve not sinned, and had they filled the earth with their progeny as God commanded, there would have been no death, and all peoples of the earth would continually fill God's eternal principles forever.

However, sin did enter and because of that God had to unveil His "backup plan", in order for sinfully separated mankind to again be reconciled to God, and His eternal purpose for him to become a reality. This is why Christ was ordained to enter the realm of mankind (see I Peter 1:20, I John 3:8) in order to care for the problem of sin, and restore God's creation to perfect wholeness.

Adam was created with a threefold responsibility: he was a Prophet, a Priest, and a King. As Prophet he walked with God and was taught of Him, then in turn he was to teach his family God's revelation. As Priest, he had no sin in himself, so he had a right to stand before God in holiness. As King he was over all the creation, according to the command of God (Genesis 1:28-30). All of this continued until Adam sinned.

When he sinned, he no longer was a Prophet/Priest/King. Now that sin entered, it caused an estrangement to come between a Holy God and sinful man, so that Adam was no longer a Prophet, nor did he know the mind of God by direct revelation. He ceased to be a Priest, for now he was sinful and needed someone else to intercede for him with God. As King he now experienced the problem of subduing the earth, because of thorns, thistles, etc., and the animals became wild, and out of the sweat of his brow would he eke a living (Genesis 3:17-19).

In order for God to provide for the ultimate restoration and reconciliation of sinful mankind to Himself, and fulfillment of His eternal purposes in him, which would materialize through the coming of His son, Jesus Christ, He instituted three classes of peoples to carry out His program until the advent of Christ (Galatians 4:4).

First of all, He chose Abraham to become the father of God's anointed nation of Israel (Genesis 12:1-3). As the twelve tribes of Israel developed, God raised up a group of Prophets who spoke for and in behalf of God to the nation of Israel (Note: the word Prophet primarily means one who tells forth the Word of God. A secondary meaning has to do with that which is future). Next, He appointed the tribe of Levi to be the Priestly tribe, who functioned in the tabernacle with sacrifices and mediated in behalf of the people to God. Finally, God anointed the tribe of Judah to be the Kingly tribe, and beginning with David the line continued through to Jesus Christ (Luke 1:27,31-33). The story of all this is the basic revelation of God in the whole of the Old Testament, showing how these three classes fulfilled their function.

Yet, in all the Old Testament not one Prophet, or Priest, or King was found upon whom the Spirit of God would rest and remain, who could reconcile mankind to God, and provide the ultimate fulfillment eternally, that God desired for all His creation. The reason was that the "seed of the woman" as promised in Genesis 3:15, who would forever crush what Satan had accomplished in alienating mankind from God and reconcile him to God, had not yet appeared (Galatians 4:4). The story of the Old Testament ends with these longings as yet unfulfilled.

In the story of the Old Testament the spirit of the Prophets showed that someday one would come, who as: Prophet, would fulfill in his life and work all the prophecies of the Old Testament; as Priest, would explain in His death and personal sacrifice all the ceremonies of the Levitical law; and as King would satisfy in His resurrection and coming again, all the human longings for an eternal king to lead the people.

When one sees the Bible in its overview, there is the impression of a basic concept of that of kingliness and orderliness. This is basic to God Himself, and is an integral concept in the universe, as well as in the creation itself. It began in the eternity of God, and became apparent at the time God created Adam/Eve, and instituted the kingly order. Even though sin has entered the universe, this "kingdom concept" still permeates all of mankind, and all that he does, whether it is formalized in government, the state, the home, business, or any organization. It even impresses itself in children on the playground, as soon a leader will emerge, and some organization will appear, as they interact with each other. This "kingdom concept" with a hierarchical structure is always present in life itself; it is God ordained, even in a sinful world.

The Bible speaks of two kingdoms: 1) the Kingdom of God, and 2) the Kingdom of Heaven. Through these two elements God rules over all mankind, from all eternity past to all eternity future. By definition, the Kingdom of God is the eternal rule of God in the universe, past, present, and future (Psalm 10:16; 103:19; Isaiah 10:5-18). There never has been a time when God was not ruling in the universe in the spiritual sense of the term. The Kingdom of Heaven, by definition, is the rule of God on earth, through human instruments, who are His representatives, and who speak and act for God, and in the person of Jesus Christ who offered Himself as King, though rejected of men, will someday rule over all the earth.

These two kingdoms are threaded through all of the Bible. The kingdom concept is indelibly ingrained in human nature, so God utilizes this basic element in mankind, to help us understand His overall purpose in creation, and what the future holds. Remember, God's threefold purpose in creation as seen in Psalm 8:4-6 is eternal, and thus will someday become an eternal reality, in which all of God's children will participate as subjects in the kingdom, over which Jesus Christ will eternally rule. In order for us to understand this thread, one must understand the two kingdoms.

The Kingdom of God is simply the fact that God is the king over all the universe now and forever. One may not fully realize nor understand this, but the Bible teaches it, and we must accept it by faith (Daniel 4:17,25,35). The Kingdom of Heaven is the rule of God on earth over mankind, but that rule is through human instrumentality. In the Old Testament God ruled through the kings of Judah. Today, He rules through leaders of nations to accomplish His divine will, though we as Christians may not understand (Romans 11:33; Isaiah 10:5; 40:15,17).

In the Old Testament the kingdom began with Abraham being called of God, and His promise that out of Abraham would come a great nation, and kings from his loins (Genesis 12:1-3; 35:11). This earthly kingdom that God promised Israel reached its zenith in David and Solomon, but declined after them and ultimately went into captivity. That kingdom failed for two reasons; 1) a lack of spiritual preparation by Israel (Judges 2:7-13; 3:5-7), and 2) the imperfection of God's human leaders (See the book of Judges, and II Samuel 12:13; I Kings 11:4-8). Therefore, the Prophets looked forward to a perfect king (Ezekiel 11:20; Isaiah 33:22), and subjects who would follow Him (Ezekiel 11:19).

When one comes to the New Testament, it opens with an announcement of a kingdom (Matthew 3:1,2). The kingdom that the Old Testament prophets spoke of, and John's announcement of the kingdom that Jesus offered, are one and the same (Daniel 7:13,14; Luke 1:31-33; Matthew 4:17,23). In Christ's teaching may be found every aspect of the prophetic kingdom. Christ taught that the Kingdom of Heaven was at hand, was that the King was present (i.e. Himself).

The fact that Christ was the Messianic King, to restore to Israel its kingdom, was announced to the nation alone (Matthew 10:5-7). Its establishment depended upon Israel's acceptance of Jesus Christ as king. But, He was rejected by the nation of Israel because He came to bring them a spiritual restoration with God (i.e. a spiritual kingdom), and they wanted a political restoration. Had He restored the political kingdom of old, it would fail the second time around for the same reason the first one failed, that is the spiritual failure of Israel in the past. Christ came to care for the problem that caused the original kingdom to fail, then He would restore the political kingdom. The very thing He came to save them from, i.e. their sins, was the thing that caused them to reject Him. They "shot themselves in their own feet" (Note: Israel's blindness, II Cor. 3:13-16).

In the course of Christ's earthly ministry, and after perceiving His rejection as king over Israel (Note: the poll the Disciples took as to what the Jews thought of Christ as king---Matthew 16:13-18), He turned from Israel as a nation, to bring in a totally new concept, i.e. the Church (Matthew 16:18). The "Church" was unforeseen by the Prophets (Ephesians 3:3-6; Colossians 1:24-29; Matthew 13:11). It was never mentioned in the Old Testament. The Kingdom of Christ over Israel was not abandoned, only postponed. The reason: Israel, originally was to be God's channel through whom His revelation of Salvation would go to all the world (Note: Solomon the king knew this---see his prayer in I Kings 8:41-43), but instead of disseminating God's revelation they kept it to themselves, because of their selfish pride, and thought of themselves as better than the other nations. Thus, when Christ came as king, their selfish pride rejected Him. They wanted a political return to their kingdom; He came to bring them Salvation from their sins. During Jesus' trial He re-affirmed His kingship (Matthew 26:63,64).

In the book of Acts it is seen that even the Disciples (all of whom were Jews, though they believed Christ as their Messianic King) failed to harmonize Christ's death with their hopes of the Kingdom (Luke 24:21; Acts 1:6-11). Even the Apostle Paul, himself a Jew who ministered primarily to his own people, came to the realization that Israel had rejected Jesus as the Messiah and king, and turned from them to minister to the nations of the world (See: Acts 28:27-31). In the New Testament one sees that though God set Israel aside so that His revelation could go out to all the world through the Church (Matthew 28:19,20), He never set any individual aside as to Salvation (Ephesians 2:11-18), only the corporate nation of Israel. Yet someday He will restore the nation of Israel to His favor (Romans 11:26), and Christ, the greater son of David will rule over them (Luke 1:32,33).

Today, the Kingdom exists in the sense that Christ is preparing the people who will spiritually inherit the Kingdom that will come (Colossians 1:13; Galatians 3:26-29). The aspects of the Kingdom are set forth in parables, which refer to the "mysteries" (Colossians 1:24-28; Ephesians 3:1-7) of the Kingdom (Note: In Scripture a mystery is not something mysterious, but means that which heretofore has not been revealed, but is now divinely revealed).

In the world today there is a parallel growth of both righteousness and wickedness, but someday the separation will come (Matthew 25:31-46). The parable of the "Wheat & the tares" (Matthew 13:24-30) speaks to this point.

The end will come someday, and will be ushered in by the power and judgment of Christ. God's seeming silence (Romans 2:4; II Peter 3:9) in the kingdom of mankind will be concluded by the "Trump of God" (Joel 2:1;3:16; Zephaniah 1:14-16), and the great Tribulation, known as "The day of Jehovah", which is God's judgment on the wickedness of mankind (Zechariah 14:1-9; Revelation 19:11-21).

At that time the Kingdom of God on earth will be ushered in (Revelation 20:1-6), and after the Millenium the earthly Kingdom of Heaven, ruled over by the Lord Jesus Christ as king over His people, Israel, will ultimately merge with the Kingdom of God, forever (I Corinthians 15:24-28). God's conclusion to all this is seen in Revelation 22:1-5. At that time the eternal purpose for which God originally created mankind (Psalm 8:4-6) will become a reality, never to change. Throughout eternity, we who are God's children, will experience and enjoy all the fullness of God and His revelation to us.

This line of evidential truth in Scripture is God's plan for mankind. It started with Israel, who was to be God's channel, and concludes with the Church being God's vehicle, to spread the Gospel. When Christ announced the concept of the Church, He also noted that this time around, "The gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18). The answer to this is that Israel's obedience to God's Holy requirements rested upon their own ability to measure up. This they failed to do. Christians today, who are the Church, would do no better, were it not for the indwelling Holy Spirit, who regenerates us, keeps us in God's power and grace, guides us into all the truth through the Word of God, and protects us from the evil one (John 14:16-26; 16:7-14). It is only by the Holy Spirit that the Church is succeeding, whereas Israel failed.

The revelation of the Kingdom of God is His side of the coin. It shows how He has provided for us, and all this plan was in the mind of God before the foundation of the world (Romans 8: 28-34). How marvelous, how wonderful, is God's love to us. Therefore, we now come to the other side, which is our response to what He has provided for us, the matter of Holy living, or Sanctification.

Holy Living or Sanctification of Life

Once a person has made a personal commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior from his sins, and become a child of God, the primary responsibility that one has to God is to live a holy or sanctified life. This is a progressive transformation of character, by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, to become increasingly more like the Lord Jesus Christ, Himself. It is accomplished through two basic means: by allowing the Holy Spirit to apply the principles of God's Word, the Bible, to one's life in character re-development, so that the life of Christ becomes the life that the Christian lives. This is a lifetime process, and will not conclude until that person is with the Lord in Heaven. This is the Christian's response to all that which God has done for mankind, through sending Christ into the world, to provide Salvation to all from our sins.

The words Sanctify or Holy (Holiness), both mean the same thing, i.e. to be set apart from one's sinful ways and be brought toward a personal sinlessness within the family of God. There are three elements of Sanctification:

1. POSITIONAL SANCTIFICATION---which is the work of Christ in setting the believer apart from the family of Satan and into the family of God. This is accomplished by the work of Christ on the cross in shedding His blood for our sins. One has but to accept what He did for us. It is a completed work (Hebrews 10:10; 13:12). It provides for us a perfect position as a child of God.

2. PROGRESSIVE SANCTIFICATION---which is an ongoing process of the Holy Spirit transforming our character into the character of the Lord Jesus Christ. This constitutes our daily submission to the re-characterization by the Holy Spirit of one's life. (II Timothy 3:16,17; Colossians 1:28; Ephesians 4:12-14; I Peter 2:2; II Peter 3:18).

3. PERFECT SANCTIFICATION---which is the Christian's ultimate separation from sin, in bring one's character into perfect conformity to one's position as a child of God. This is when we shall see the Lord Jesus Christ, and "we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is" (I John 3:2), (see also: I Thessalonians 3:12,13; Philippians 1:6).

For the Christian who is now in the family of God, and is separated unto Him through the work of Christ on the cross (II Corinthians 5:17), the basic aspect of Sanctification is that of daily living a Holy life. This is not easy, since the Christian still has a self centered nature, that is opposed to the new nature received from the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16-24), and these two natures are contrary to each another. Therefore, it is imperative for the Christian to daily commit that day and his life to the Holy Spirit's control, meditate on the Word of God, pray, as well as fellowship with other Christians. These are the means by which one "grows in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ" (II Peter 3:18).

The Bible serves as an instrument of Sanctification in three ways: 1) to reveal our sinful condition (James 1:23-25; John 6:28,29); 2) the Holy Spirit uses the Word to cleanse us from our sinful habits and practices (Ephesians 5:26); and 3) the Holy Spirit uses the Word to transform us into the likeness of Jesus Christ (II Corinthians 3:18). The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from the guilt of sin, the Word of God cleanses us from the habit and daily pollution of sin. All this implies three elements: that we will read and heed the Word of God, that we will submit our lives to its cleansing power, and that we will find Christ in the Word.

God provides certain incentives, to spur us on to holy living. First, is God's own Holy nature, that is who He is as a Holy God, totally set apart from sin, and He desires that we become like Him (I Peter 1:15,16; Philippians 2:12,13). Second, is God's grace to us, that is what He has done for us, in providing Salvation from sin and Hell (John 3:16-18; Romans 12:1,2; II Corinthians 8:12). Third, His promises to us eternally, that is what He has guaranteed to us in the future (II Corinthians 6:17,18,7:1; Hebrews 13:5,6; John 5:24).

There are certain results that accrue to our benefit, when we allow the Holy Spirit to apply God's truth to our lives. One, it will help us control our fleshly lusts and appetites (I Thessalonians 4:2-7). Then, it will fit us for God's service (II Timothy 2:21; 3:16,17). Finally, it provides for us fellowship with Christ (John 15:3,4). Our response to all of this may be summed up in one word, that is, we are to OBEY.

Someday, when we are taken to Heaven, our perfect Sanctification or Holiness will become a reality. As far as God is concerned it is already an accomplished fact. In Romans 8:30, where there is a listing of God's work throughout eternity for the Christian, it states that those, "whom He has justified, them He also glorified". Today, the Christian has been justified (i.e. declared righteous), and in God's eternal plan we have already been glorified (i.e. become perfect as God is perfect in His moral character). For God it is a done deal; for us it awaits Heaven.

The assurance that the Christian has for an eternal future, should make one desirous of living in the here and now a more mature Christ like life. Our responsibility today is found in II Corinthians 6:14-7:1, where it says, "Having all these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from all the filthiness of the flesh and spirit, maturing Holiness in awe and respect to God, for who He is". We cannot do it in our own strength, we must allow the Holy Spirit to do it in and through us by the Word, and submit to His cleansing power.

There are four final admonitions to the Christian in our response to all that God has done for us: 1) Read the Word of God, daily; 2) Obey it; 3) See Christ in the Word; and 4) Look for His coming again. See: I John 2:15-17.

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God the Great Manipulator

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.

Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

When one thinks of the word, manipulation, usually a negative connotation is implied. But, when the word is ascribed to God, it emphasizes the sovereignty of His being, and control over the world, for His honor and glory, and for mankind's good. God originally created everything perfect, including mankind, and He saw that it was good. It was the turning of mankind from being God centered to being self centered, that caused all the problems in the world. Mankind has selfishly tried to manipulate things for his own selfish desires. This is why the word manipulation has taken on a negative meaning.

God's active control in the world, has been for the benefit of mankind, and to stem the tide of wickedness in the world. At the same time, because God gave to every person a will of their own, people having willingly used their desires for selfish purposes, and thus the situations we see today. God, to a certain degree, has allowed mankind to exercise his selfishness, and bring destruction upon himself by his behaviors.

At the same time, God has had a program for all mankind, that will ultimately lead to an eternity with Him, and fulfillment for every person who follows His program. The Bible tells us that mankind has separated himself from God by his self–centeredness, which has produced his sinfulness. God's holiness cannot tolerate man's sin, therefore, Jesus Christ came into the world to provide salvation from mankind's self destruction.

The Bible tells us that God never created anyone to be eternally separated from Him (i.e. Hell), but that all should come to repentance, and acknowledge Jesus Christ as Savior from their sins (II Peter 3:9; II Tim. 2:4). God's current program is that this message of Jesus Christ's work of salvation from sins for all, is carried into all the world (Acts 15:14-18). Since mankind by his selfishness is fully set against God's program for him (Eccl. 8:11), God manipulates events in the world so that individuals have an opportunity to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Along with God's will for individuals, is His working against Satan's deceptive control of people, kingdoms, events, etc. To this extent God is manipulating the affairs of the world, in controlling events that go on in the kingdom of mankind, the utilization of natural forces, and bringing situations to pass, so that His work is carried out.

The real battle in the world today, is not in the time/space world in which we live, but in the supernatural or spiritual world. That battle is between God and righteousness, and Satan and unrighteousness. It is as if mankind was like a football, and each side is vying for control of the ball. Mankind is being pulled in two opposite directions, and each person has to individually make up his mind as to who will control him.

The tremendous declension we see on every hand in the world today, is the work of Satan in trying to control and destroy mankind, whom God loves, for whom Christ died, and who God desires that all should love Him. God is allowing people to "make up their minds", as to whom they will follow. Today, God's grace is manifest in giving people an opportunity to acknowledge Jesus Christ as their Savior from sin. And, that is why God is longsuffering to mankind, in spite of his wickedness (Romans 2:4). Someday, God's grace will conclude and God's judgment will commence (Romans 3:19; II Cor.5:10)

The sovereignty of God, in ruling over the affairs of mankind and the kingdoms of this world, will eventually bring in a kingdom of righteousness and peace to this world (II Thess. 1:7-12). God's manipulation in the affairs of this world, is to ultimately bring salvation to all who will follow Him, to destroy the wickedness in the world, and to set up His kingdom that will rule over all, forever.

Today, we see events rapidly moving toward these conclusions, and God has provided a "roadmap" of understanding as to His soon return as witnessed in the Bible (Matt. 24:3-14; John 14:1-6), but as to the time, He has not told us that (Mark 13:32). The Christian's responsibility is to grow in spiritual maturity, to let our spiritual light shine for Him, and to await His coming again (I Thess. 4:13-18).

In spite of the increasing wickedness that is controlling the world today, remember, God is sovereign, and His will is being carried out. We can trust that He not only is in control, but that He knows what He is doing, and that ultimately all will work out for our good, and the honor and glory of Him.

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What is Wrong With Society Today?

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.

Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

NOW READ THIS!

This is a report entitled, “General Education In A Free Society” published by the Harvard University Press, 1945. One can easily see what has produced the current status of our educational system today, as a result of this report.

“The authors confess that until less than a century ago nearly all American colleges and universities shared the conviction that Christianity gives meaning and ultimate unity to all parts of the curriculum, indeed to the whole life of the college, but this unifying factor is now practically, if not legally, impossible in most others. And, that whatever one’s views, religion is not now for most colleges a practical source of intellectual unity.”

The report urges that a new unifying factor be sought in the “character of American society.”

Quite frequently the question is raised as to what has gone wrong with our society today, what has caused the problems, and what can be done to correct them? When almost daily we hear of school shootings, drug busts, rapes, robberies, and people being threatened, it is no wonder that people are questioning the ills of society.

Unfortunately, we have been treating the symptoms and the effects rather than the causes. We have been putting a band-aid on the problems, with more prisons, more police on the streets, metal detectors in our schools, and a host of other ideas, that do not effectively cure the problems of our society. To get to the bottom one must acknowledge the basic reason for the cause is the self-centeredness of mankind. When, in the garden of Eden, Adam and Eve turned from being God centered to being self centered, it set the pattern for all the sins and problems of the world to this day (Romans 5:12). In Jeremiah 17:9, God said, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can fathom it?” The sins in the heart of every person have produced the problems we face today.

When our country was founded, our founding Fathers were not all Christians, nor has our country ever been a Christian nation; it has been a pluralistic one. However, those men all accepted the basic principles of the Bible, and they accepted absolute truth as found in the Bible. Thus, upon these foundational elements they constituted our nation. This has been the fabric of strength upon which our country has become great. The Constitution is a document based upon the principles of the Bible.

At the outset of our country there was a mutual reinforcement of three elements that provided a foundation of strength for the citizens; The Church, the school, and the family. The Church was the center of spiritual instruction to the village, the school (in many instances taught by the pastor, who was usually the most educated person in the village) re-enforced the spiritual principles in teaching reading/writing/arithmetic (Note: the McGuffy readers which were the basic learning books for many years to instruct in reading, were 97% moral and ethical in teaching and 3% factual knowledge), and the home followed the church 1 and the school in backing up learning and discipline. These three basic elements produced educated children, well taught spiritually, morally, ethically, and in principle, to go out to the world. It is no wonder that in previous generations we had highly principled people, who though they may not have been Christian by commitment, nevertheless followed these basic tenants of the Bible.

Had this unified teaching continued to today, we would not have the type of society that we see going on in our world. But, the crack in the threefold foundation began before the turn of the last century in all three areas. First, it came through a dilution in the church. Seminary professors in our mainline denominations (which a that time were basically following the teachings of the Bible) went to Germany to obtain their Doctorates in Theology. At that time in Germany, a subjective higher critical view of the Bible was in vogue, with a selective discounting of certain aspects of the Bible by German Theologians. The professors of our seminaries imbibed in that teaching, returned to their classes and “parroted” what they had learned in Germany. This “liberal” teaching of the Bible soon permeated down from professor to student, then the student preached what he was taught to the people he pastored, and thus came the modernism that has engulfed all our mainline denominations today. This has caused many splits in all the denominations, with the result that the mainline churches are declining in numbers, and evangelical churches are increasing in numbers, because they teach the truth of Scripture. The mainline denominational churches have by and large taught a “social gospel” rather than, “thus saith the Lord,” and this has caused untold problems in our churches.

The second crack in the foundation came through the school in a twofold attack. First, came Darwinian evolution about 150 years ago, that discounted the Biblical account of creation, and substituted a theory that mankind evolved from something millions of years ago. This placed man as the ultimate in the world, to the exclusion of a creator God, and discounted the teaching of the Bible.

The other attack through the school came at the turn of the century with John Dewey’s 2 humanistic attack on the Bible, through a naturalistic and humanistic philosophy of mankind. Again, this discounted God, and elevated mankind to the ultimate in the universe. Dewey was the head of Columbia University’s Educational department, which at the beginning of this century was the leading producer of public school teachers in our country.

One can easily see that Darwinian evolution, coupled with humanistic philosophy, ingrained in the minds of prospective public school teachers, who in turn “parroted” that teaching to succeeding generations, has caused most of our colleges and public schools to be thoroughly indoctrinated in these two God rejecting philosophies. Our colleges were turning out humanistic teachers, who then taught in our public school systems, to children and young people who were indoctrinated with an anti-God philosophy, and a totally self centered way of life, that has produced the selfishness in society, rather than Biblical principles upon which our nation was constituted. It is no wonder that society today is out of step with our Constitution, which is all that is holding our country together, and some would be willing to jettison it altogether. The only time that some use the Constitution is to hide behind it, to allow them to live according to their selfish desires.

The third crack in the foundation has come through the home, which as God created it was to be the bedrock of developing a child to become an adult and live a principled life in the world. However, with the coming of the Industrial age a little over a hundred years ago, which took the Fathers away from the home a good part of the day, and the two world wars which took the Fathers out of the community and forced Mothers into the workplace, we find a fertile soil for the disruptive family cohesiveness, and a fracturing of the family.

Along with that has come an invasion into the home with the advent of Television, and Hollywood’s set of morals, or lack thereof. The TV has become a “baby sitter” to impressionable children’s minds, along with an escalating problem of divorces, one parent families, day care centers, and everything else, so that one can easily see the impact it has had on children, who are growing up personally insecure, in a very insecure world of today. It is no wonder a child goes to school carrying a gun, for his very insecurity needs a “security blanket” in the form of a gun that will protect him against all others. And, he has no knowledge of why it has all come about.

The results of the threefold crumbling of the foundation of society produced a church that is impotent, because it teaches a “feel good social gospel” that people wish to hear, rather than a “Thus saith the Lord” (See: II Timothy 4:3, 4), and thus there is no spiritual foundation upon which one can construct a proper philosophy of life. Just as water seeks the lowest level, so mankind today, without proper spiritual parameters, constructs a life on the lowest plane, which is basically selfishness.

The school no longer teaches the 3R’s of reading, writing, and arithmetic, as once taught, but a “feel good, what do you think” type of instruction, where there is no absolute truth, but all is relative. How can uneducated, little children understand all this, when they need to be properly instructed by their elders in the basics of life, so in turn they can go out into an adult world with some degree of understanding, and formulate a proper worldview.

Finally, the home has been fractured in so many ways, that it no longer is a foundation upon which a child can find unconditional love and acceptance, and where he or she can feel secure. The home no longer accepts the teaching of Scripture, along with proper discipline to self centered children. The home today is where one eats and sleeps, then each go their own way, rather than a cohesiveness and security, that should provide a “nest” of comfort and acceptance, led by a loving Father and Mother, who provide a model of Christian living and love. Is it any wonder that pre-adolescent children are packing guns to school, and at the least intrusion into their lives, fire off the guns in frustration and insecurity.

There are basically two worldviews that we see in society today. The one is humanistic, self-centered view that depicts mankind as being the ultimate, and having to defend himself from every attack upon his personhood. As long as someone doesn’t invade his space, all is well, but just let someone confront him with an “In-your-face” attitude, then severe problems surface. This seemingly is becoming the all pervasive mode of today’s living.

The other worldview is a spiritual one, based on Biblical principles, and produces a willful God centeredness rather than a self centeredness, which is so devastating. In Romans 8:6 it says, “For to be selfishly minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” There are many people, selfishly minded, that are just existing today, rather than enjoying the fullness of life; and are “walking dead.” Christ said, “I am come that you might have life, and that you might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

Only by society today returning to Biblical principles, and teaching them to our children, will we ever emancipate ourselves from the morass of anarchy that we are surely sliding into, little by little. It will take a concerted effort by the Church, the school, and the home, to be able to rectify the massive problems of our world.

An illustration will help to emphasize these problems we see today. Many years ago two men, Max Jukes and Jonathan Edwards lived in the same state. Of the 1,206 descendants of Jukes it is reported that some 300 spent time in prison, 190 were prostitutes, and 860 were alcoholics. Of 929 descendants of Edwards, 439 became ministers, 86 were university professors, 13 wrote books, 7 became politicians, and one became Vice President of our nation.

What made the difference? For one thing, Jukes knew nothing of the love of God, and refused to take his children to church, even when they asked to go. Edwards not only understood the love of God, but ensured that his family was in church every Sunday, and he served God to the best of his ability, as a model to his family. Such is the life changing power of God’s love expressed through the Biblical Principles.

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sins, and will heal their land.” II Chronicles 7:14. This says it all.

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WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.
Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

 Life today is very complex and perplexing, given what is going on in the world around us. Since every person is desirous of a long and full life, what guarantee is there that it will be fulfilled and productive?  There is this guarantee that at the end of life, one will be able to say, I’ve had a fulfilled life. This is what it’s all about. Therefore, what more can one desire than that? The guarantee is found in the ultimate guideline for life, as outlined in the Bible, and its principles for living.

Let’s begin with life itself. Every person has had no input as to their coming into the world. We all come into personhood with nothing, and totally dependent on others. There are many factors that play into molding one’s character, behaviors, and ultimate choices, all of which work together every day, in a person’s ability to make life a positive or negative set of experiences. 

Whether a full life is achieved depends upon many factors such as: family background of genetic inherited tendencies, learned behaviors, education, culture, choices with consequences, trials and tribulations, outlook on life, friends, jobs, etc. All these factors go into the mix of one’s personhood and character development. For the average person it is quite chancy, because some of these factors don’t allow for choice (e.g. family background). Yet, there is a guarantee that one may be able to confidently say, even at a fairly young age in life, that they will enjoy a fulfilled life at the end. The question then is, how is one able to know that absolutely, since no one knows what lies ahead?

So, let’s begin with the ultimate guide, the Bible. Every person makes basic assumptions in life, and there is one that has been proven to be true down through the centuries, and that is, that the God who created us and given us life (i.e. natural law), has also provided us with a “Manual for living” called the Bible. Though there have been many attacks and attackers against the Bible, it has withstood them all over thousands of years. Archaeology, History, Prophecy, and changed lives of untold millions down through the centuries, have all attested as to the truth and validity of the Bible. Furthermore, the Old Testament testified as to the coming of Jesus Christ over 330 times, and every one of them was absolutely fulfilled when He came 2,000 years ago. Jesus’ credibility with mankind has been established.

When Jesus Christ was here on earth, he stated that someday he would return to those who would commit to and follow him, and give them eternal life beyond the grave

(John 3:16,17;14:1-6). He also stated, “I am come that you may have life, and that you may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Therefore, to every person who commits their life to Jesus Christ, he guarantees a full and abundant life. This does not mean that everything in life will be rosy, for even the adversities of life have the ability to benefit one (1 Thess.5:18). Experiences have a way of molding one’s life, and to look at how one may learn and mature will, in itself, be a positive building element toward a fulfilled life.

Committing one’s life to Jesus Christ, at an early stage in life, fully trusting him, meditating on the truth of the Bible (Joshua 1:8; Psalms 1:2,3; Romans 8:6), and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide one’s life (2 Cor. 3:18), will consistently bring progressive fullness of life. 

The Bible is to the individual somewhat like the automobile manufacturer’s handbook is to the car. When one purchases a car, he also receives a handbook of operations to go with it. There are two options from which to choose: one is to place the book into the glove compartment and not read the manual, and the other is to read it, and follow preventive maintenance. When one chooses to read and follow, then there is a guarantee that the car will serve one well over many years and thousands of miles. The Bible is a similar guidebook to mankind by our Creator, who knows best how we operate than we do ourselves. So, it stands to reason that to follow the manual (i.e. the Bible), that God will stand behind his principles and promises, and thereby guarantee fullness of life. God does that for us (Psalms 91:14-16).

The Bible is an all encompassing handbook for living in the world. It is not an encyclopedia of knowledge for everything (Note: Deut. 29:29), but is highly selective as to purpose in one’s life. There is what is known as “Essential” information, of which there is absolute understanding for living in the world of today. Then, there is “Relative” information, which is revealed only insofar as to help one understand the essential information.   

There is an acronym called, “PIE” which provides the Christian with essential understanding for living a daily life of fulfillment. The first letter “P” stands for “Principles”. The Bible is basically a book of principles for living, given by our Creator, to show us how to live in accordance with his creative design for us. Every person has a “Worldview”, which is the track of life upon which one orders their life. The many factors of life, which go into the makeup of one’s character usually determines one’s worldview, though it may change, depending upon how one works to change it. If a person willingly determines to follow Biblical principles, then God’s Holy Spirit works in that person’s life, to transform them into God’s perfect will for them (Rom. 12:1,2;

2 Cor. 3:18). Biblical principles are not only absolute, they are for the ultimate benefit for anyone willing to incorporate them into their life.

The second letter “I” stands for “Illustrations”. God’s principles are illustrated for us, so that we may have understanding as to how to apply them. They are found in the stories of people in the Bible, and the experiences through which they went, as God directed their lives. Though the context of their simple lifestyle may differ from our sophisticated world of today, human nature is basically the same, and by replacing those illustrations with a modern one, the principles remain constant. This should help us know how to apply the principles for our well being and fulfillment.

The last letter “E” stands for “Exhortation”. Once we read the principle, understand its application through the illustration, then the Biblical exhortation is up to us, as to applying the principle to our daily living, as a child of God. 

Let’s consider each of these words. The Bible is basically a book of many principles, so may we look at one example for understanding. In Joshua 1:8 there is the principle to follow the book of the Law, given in Exodus 20-23, and to meditate upon God’s word constantly, so that it may permeate every aspect of one’s character development. The reason for this is to conform one’s life and development to that which God has for that person. God’s principles are universal; the application of them is uniquely individual by the power of the Holy Spirit (See: Rom. 12:1,2). God’s promise to that person who accepts the principles is, that they will be prosperous (i.e. enjoy fullness of life, not necessarily material prosperity) and enjoy good success, as God determines best for that person. There is additional support for this in Psalms 1:2,3 and Romans 8:6.

Illustrations on the principles are scattered throughout the Bible, and are provided as light of understanding to the principles. Most of the illustrations are found in the lives of people, whom God touched, as well as “Parables” i.e. analogies that Jesus gave, in teaching his Disciples and others, with whom He came into contact. These parables were usually used as teaching tools, in order to get across the principles that He wished them to understand. Consequently, in a similar manner we are able to apply them to our lives today. If one reads James 5:10 and 1 Peter 2:21 the admonition to know and understand God’s principles is given to us. 

A good portion of the Bible is divided into “Principles” and then “Practice”. There is a constant exhortation to put the principles into character transformation, by willingly allowing the Holy Spirit to re-characterize every Christian. The result is that the Christian then is transformed into the likeness of the Lord Jesus Christ, which is God’s desire for His children. The primary thrust is found in Romans 12:1,2, in which the Apostle Paul provides the “what’ in verse one, and the “how” in verse two. Again, in 2 Cor. 3:18 and 7:1, as well as 1 John 3:2,3 we see that our responsibility before our Heavenly Father is to submit our lives to his control, by the Holy Spirit. 

The willing mind of the Christian (Rom. 12:1,2) controlled by the Holy Spirit Colossians 1:9-14), and based on Biblical principles, will provide spiritual discernment (1 Cor. 2:14) to make the right choices in life (James 1:5). This will result in a spiritually maturing life with positive consequences (2 Peter 3:18; 1 Peter 2:2; Eph. 4:13-15). The result will insure a sense of personal security in life, that will ultimately provide for a long life of personal fulfillment and contentment. Thus, that committed Christian will have the assurance that, when the end of life comes, he will be able to confidently say, “I have had a fulfilled life”. What more is one able to ask?

The truth of the Bible is to provide the child of God principles for daily living. Because we live in a convoluted and perplexing world today, the Bible provides us with seven guidelines as to how to handle today’s issues. The Bible is up to date in application, so one is able to apply these to whatever comes. Deuteronomy 11:18,19 and 32:46 exhorts Christians to follow God’s law, as well as to instruct our children in them.

1. Christians are in the world, but not of the world (John 17:14-16). Granted, Christians live in the world, but our allegiance is to Christ and his kingdom, which is a spiritual kingdom over which he reigns in our hearts. This does not mean that one should isolate himself from the affairs of life, but acknowledge the higher calling of God and his principles for governing life (Acts 5:29).

 2. The whole world’s system is in the hands of the wicked one, but has been   condemned by God (1 John 5:19; 2:17; John 12:31).  The 1 John 5:19 passage is quite graphic for it says, “ - - -the whole world lies in the lap of the wicked one”. As one mentally visualizes the picture, it is of a mother holding her child close, and that speaks of control. Satan is today, “the prince of the power of this world”. Someday God will bring him into judgment for deceiving the nations. 

3. The Christian’s mission is not to improve the world, but to save people out of  the world (Acts 15:14,17). Certainly as citizens of our state and country we should be exemplary people, and do good in the community. But, the primary thrust of every Christian should be the spiritual welfare of one’s neighbors and friends, individually as well as collectively in community and Church. 

 4. Though Christians are citizens of our country, we are primary citizens of  Heaven. We are just “passing through” (Philippians 3:20; 1 Peter 2:11). This does not mean we should be ignorant of nor ignore our responsibilities as citizens (we should vote, be involved with the schools our children attend, be informed as to state and national events, etc.), and carry out our citizenship.  We must be mindful that, “we march to the beat of a different drummer”, i.e. the Lordship of Jesus Christ and his Kingdom, and this involves Biblical principles and practices in life, as primary in everything.

5. As spiritual soldiers of the Lord, one should not be entangled with the affairs of this world (2 Timothy 2:4). Again, this does not mean we should isolate one’s self from all citizenry responsibilities, but to realize the primacy of our relationship to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and Biblical principles. We must not allow the things of the world prime place. Balance is the key, with proper order. Note the illustration of the Apostles in Acts 4:19,20 and 5:29. 

6. As Ambassadors for the Lord, we should represent the TRUTH to the world  (John 18:36; 2 Cor. 5:20). One of the basic principles in the Bible is its emphasis on the truth ( See: John 14:6). Of all people, we who are people of the Bible, should proclaim and live the truth, as God has set us the example in Jesus Christ. 

7. Politics tends to become corrupt by its very nature (Jeremiah 17:9). Christians  should be careful of the corrupting influence of worldly politics, should they seek to enter (2 Cor. 6:17,7:1). Certainly our country could use more Christians in politics, the media, education, etc., but one needs to be mindful of the pitfalls as a Christian, and the debilitating elements associated with the world, that is in the grasp of Satan. 

Not only does the Bible provide us with the basic principles for living, as well as guidelines as to how to live in a sinful world, it gives us recommendations and comfort as we approach the end of the age. The soon return of Jesus Christ, to judge the world and set up his Kingdom, which shall never end (Isaiah 9:7; Luke 1:33) should give hope to every child of God. The following passages supply help to Christians: Isaiah 26:20,21; Ezekiel 7:19; Zephaniah 1:14-18; 1 Cor. 15:20-28; Revelation 22:14,20,21. In Ephesians 6:10-18, the Apostle Paul outlines the manner in which we should fight the spiritual warfare against wickedness today, and Solomon stated, “And, there is no discharge in that war” (Ecclesiastes 8:8). Finally, in 1 John 4:4 it tells us that, “Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world”. Though Satan has supernatural powers, the indwelling Holy Spirit is omnipotent.  

Ultimately God wins, and Christians win. That’s what it is all about!

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