Looking At Ourselves: Using Scriptures as the Mirror - Part 2

By Tom Rose

The cover story of Time (March 3, 1980) was about the actor Peter Sellers. Appearing on The Muppet Show, he was told by Kermit the Frog that it was all right to “just relax and be yourself.” To which Sellers replied, “I could never be myself. You see, there is no me. I do not exist.” Acknowledging that it was a good joke, Time saw a deeper significance. “The real Peter Sellers, at 54, is virtually a cipher.” The magazine then quoted a longtime friend claiming, “Peter is the accumulation of all the roles he’s played and all the people he’s met. He’s directing traffic inside all that!” Sellers died less than six months later. I don’t know if he ever found himself. Nor do I know if he ever searched for himself, although I suspect he may have.

There is something inside us that yearns for discovery – even when it has been submerged for years. In part, that is probably what the “mid-life crisis” is all about – the need to know ourselves before we go to our graves. One young man exclaimed, “I could know myself better if there weren’t so many of me.” Some of these multiple personalities inside us exist as simultaneous roles. Others have been covered over and forgotten as roles have changed. The recovering of authenticity means resolving the conflicting personalities as well as taking off the layers of “wallpaper.” Removing old wallpaper is, as anyone who has done it knows, a disagreeable task that yields only to persistence.

How do you go about recapturing one’s authentic, genuine self? First, it takes a trust in God’s presence and power. God leaves us free to be whatever we like. He does not clone human beings, but He gives each of us a unique self – and then encourages us to discover it, nurture it and expose it to others. However, we often find a familiar mask to be more secure than an unknown reality, especially if others approve of the mask. Would they like me equally as much, we wonder? Probably. But it takes stepping over the frightening threshold of vulnerability to discover that the other side offers not hidden terrors, but the beginning of security.

Second, no person can come to truly know himself except through the process of disclosing himself to others. But that self-disclosure – removing the mask(s) – can occur only in an atmosphere of love and trust. And while it seems scary at first, it is more frightening to consider the consequences of continued pretense. Thomas Merton, the monk who excelled in the inner search, warned, “If we have chosen the way of falsity, we must not be surprised that truth eludes us when we finally come to need it.”

Third, we need to gain perspective on how this life fits with the next one by becoming “doers of the word, and not hearers only...fully able to look into the perfect law of liberty (the scriptures) and continue in it” (Jas. 1:22, 25). Included in this process would be adopting a pilgrim existence toward our temporary and present life and reflecting on the words of Helen Lemmel’s popular hymn as we ponder the next. She writes, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.”

When genuineness is adopted as a way of life, it means no longer having to pretend, and that means freedom to grow and fully serve. And that also means unspeakable joy and serenity. When you know who you are, you don’t have to impress anyone. As an example, when Jesus was taken captive and placed before the high priest (Mk. 14:53-65) “some rose up and bore false witness against Him.” Then the high priest asks Jesus, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” But, Jesus kept silent. Wrong question. The high priest then asks Jesus, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the God?” Jesus replies, “I am.” Right question. When you have discovered your identity, you need to say little else.

Several years ago, a Christian missionary, who had spent his life working with the poor and teaching others about Jesus, was speaking at Princeton. When he finished his talk, one student said to another, “He didn’t say much, did he?” A woman sitting nearby leaned over and quietly murmured, “When you’re hanging on a cross, you don’t have to say anything.”

Being A Disciple - Part 2

By Mark McCrary

This article continues from last week where the questions addressed were “What is a Disciple?” and “Why is it Important for Disciples to be Like Christ?”

What Is Expected of a Disciple?

The life of a disciple is marked by several key characteristics. First and foremost, a disciple is a learner (Matthew 11:28-30). Jesus calls people to Him to learn and grow. Baptism marks the beginning of this journey, but it’s not the end. Continued learning—through personal Bible study, attending Bible classes, and listening to teaching—is essential for growth. This is why the early church made preaching and teaching such an important part of their gatherings (Acts 20:7).

Second, being a disciple requires following Jesus with total commitment (Lk 9:57-62). In the same way the disciples left their nets to follow Jesus (Lk 5:11), we are called to leave behind anything that would keep us from fully following Christ. Commitment is essential because without it one cannot receive the crown of life (Rev 2:10). This is one of the failings of the teachings of “once saved, always saved” and “preservation of the saints.” These teachings fail to understand why we are saved—to represent God.  If we fail to do so, we fail in our role as disciples and do not have the blessings that come to disciples.

For this reason, obedience is another vital aspect of discipleship. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Our love for Him compels us to obey His teachings, and that obedience transforms us. As Paul writes in Romans 12:1-2, we are to be “transformed by the renewal of our mind.” This transformation is evident in the lives of disciples who speak like Jesus, act like Jesus, and love like Jesus.

A true disciple also makes a public confession of faith (Matthew 10:32-33), openly declaring allegiance to Christ even when it is unpopular or risky (Acts 4:19-20).

Love, service, and sacrifice are further hallmarks of a disciple’s life, as seen in the early church (Acts 2:42-47). The early Christians lived lives of love and humility, drawing many to Christ through their example. Following Jesus may require self-denial and even carrying a cross (Matthew 10:38), but the life of a disciple is one of continued growth (2 Peter 1:5-10; Colossians 2:6-7).

Making More Disciples

Understanding discipleship reshapes the way we approach evangelism. The goal isn’t simply to "save" people from hell but to bring them to God and teach them to follow Him. Importantly, baptism is a crucial step, but it is not the journey's end.  In 1 Corinthians 1:16-17, Paul said he didn’t come to baptize, but to “preach the gospel.” The goal isn’t merely to escape judgment, but to live transformed lives that reflect “the gospel”—the good news of Jesus!

This, then, changes how we evangelize. Instead of focusing solely on warning people about hell, we lift up Jesus for the world to see (John 12:32). The best way to do so is not through fear of hell, but through love—God’s love for us and then our love for others.  This is the impact of Jesus’ teachings on our lives.  As disciples, we become living testimonies of Christ’s teachings (Matthew 5:16; John 13:35). Our transformed lives, marked by peace, joy, and purpose, become the most powerful witness to the gospel (1 Peter 2:12; Romans 12:2). Then, in words, we share the teachings of Jesus with others.

Conclusion

Being a disciple of Jesus is more than knowing facts or performing rituals. It’s about living a life that mirrors Christ, deepening our relationship with God, and showing others what a transformed life looks like. As we follow Him, we become reflections of His character in the world. This is the life Jesus calls us to live. Through our discipleship, we offer the world a better way—a life of purpose, peace, and joy in Christ.

Assemble

By David Norfleet

We’ve all heard it before: “Do we have to go to church?” It’s a question that many parents face, often at the end of a long week or after a gospel meeting. From a child’s perspective, the idea of skipping church for a movie or video game seems reasonable. After all, the logic might be that attending once or twice a month should be sufficient. While this viewpoint is understandable in children, it’s less acceptable when adopted by adults.

The question of why we should gather for worship is essential and deserves a thoughtful answer. Psalm 122:1 gives us a profound insight into this issue. The psalmist expresses joy and anticipation about going to the house of the Lord. The term “glad” here is more than just a feeling of contentment; it signifies a deep, rejoicing happiness.

In the Old Testament, God's people were commanded to assemble for worship on several occasions. For example, Isaiah 2:3, Jeremiah 31:6, and Micah 4:2 highlight the significance of these gatherings. These assemblies were not just ritualistic; they were vital to the spiritual life of the community. Leviticus 23:27, 35, and 37 provide further evidence of God's command for regular worship. The Israelites were called together by the sound of silver trumpets, as described in Numbers 10:2-3.

The New Testament also reinforces the importance of assembling. Early Christians frequently gathered, as seen in Acts 2:46, 5:12, 12:12, and 14:27. The instruction to not forsake assembling is explicit in Hebrews 10:25. So, why is it so critical to come together? Couldn’t we simply worship at home?

The Benefits of Assembling

• Focus and Refocus on God: When we assemble, we have an uninterrupted opportunity to focus solely on God. This time of worship helps us realign our priorities and redirect our attention to what truly matters. During the Lord’s Supper, for instance, self-examination becomes a natural part of our reflection on God (1 Corinthians 11:28).
• Spiritual Growth: Gathering for worship is crucial for our spiritual development. As we listen to God's word and participate in communal worship, we experience spiritual growth and transformation. 1 Corinthians 14:3 illustrates that worship edifies us, encouraging personal and collective growth in faith.
• Encouragement and Inspiration: Assemblies provide essential encouragement and inspiration. When we come together, we support each other through life's trials and triumphs. Ephesians 2:13-22 speaks of our unity in Christ, and the Swedish proverb, “a shared joy is a double joy,” encapsulates the joy we experience in community. God’s intention for us to be together is evident in Genesis 2:18 and Ecclesiastes 4:9-10.
• Proclaim Victory: Frequent gatherings are more than a routine; they are a means of spiritual warfare. Ignatius of Antioch, an early church father, noted that regular assembly helps defeat Satan’s schemes and promotes unity of faith. This concept is supported by James 3:13-18, which describes how wisdom and unity can counteract spiritual opposition.
• Awakening: Worship has a profound impact on our perception of reality. Life’s challenges can cloud our vision and distract us from what truly matters. Psalm 73:1-28 illustrates how worship can clear spiritual confusion and help us understand God’s ultimate purpose. The psalmist, initially troubled by the prosperity of the wicked, finds clarity and renewed focus through worship in the sanctuary.

The question remains: When the call to assemble goes forth, will you be there? Understanding the value of worship and community is crucial. Our regular gatherings are not mere duties but vital aspects of our spiritual health and growth. They offer focus, growth, encouragement, victory, and awakening. As we come together, we not only fulfill a command but also experience the rich blessings of shared faith and unity.

The Hope of Spring

By Mark McCrary

Spring is a time of renewal.  After a dark and cold winter, life begins to emerge once more.  Warmth returns, trees blossom, and flowers bloom.  Along the journey of our lives, there are moments that echo the vibrant glories of spring.  Just as the earth emerges from its winter rest, so we also encounter similar moments of awakening and potential for lasting transformation.

Spring is a time of renewed life.  Similarly, this moment in one’s life holds the potential for newfound hope and possibilities.  It may follow a period of uncertainty, when faith has been tested … but resilience forged.  Like the arrival of spring, there is a stirring within the soul – a gentle whisper of hope speaking of brighter days ahead.

Biblically, hope is not merely wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in the promises of God (Romans 15:13).  As the psalmist declares, “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).  So too we trust that God’s faithfulness will usher in a season of renewal.

As spring unfolds its petals, so too can our faith unfold as well.  Just as seeds planted eventually emerge as vibrant flowers, our faith matures and flourishes through seasons of growth and cultivation.  It is a time to nurture our relationship with God, to deepen our trust in His providence, and to surrender to His will.  As we lean into our faith, we are reminded that God can breathe life into the most barren of landscapes, bringing beauty and abundance beyond our wildest imagination.

Finally, spring is a time when the earth is invigorated with fresh energy and purpose.  Similarly, this moment in life holds the potential for renewed purpose.  New opportunities and dreams beckon before us. God’s servant, Paul, stated confidently, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).  As we align our hearts with God, we align ourselves to His divine plan – a plan that is marked by hope, abundance, and fulfillment.

Look around as your drive about and pay attention to the new life springing out around you.  So too God can draw new life out of you.  You can experience the blessings that spring forth from a life nourished by God’s loving care.

Some Marks of the Maturing Christian

By Tom Rose

We all know maturity when we see it in everyday life. Some examples would be: a painter efficiently trimming a window with no paint on the glass; a veteran teacher keeping track of individual student skills while instructing a room full of kids; and an experienced mother exuding patience and persistence calming a distraught child. Likewise, God expects all His believers to improve their life and walk as a Christian. Indeed, Paul reminds the Ephesian church that regardless of their role, they are "all to come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect* man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ" (Eph. 4:13). *[Perfect in this context means “fully developed.”]

In her column, the late Ann Landers described maturity as “the ability to do a job whether you’re supervised or not; finish a job once it’s started; carry money without spending it; and last, but not least, the ability to bear an injustice without wanting to get even.” The writer of the Hebrew letter expressed a similar thought when looking at the lack of spiritual progress among the brethren. "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil" (Heb. 5:12-14).

First, maturity in Christ is a shift from reading the Word to believing and living it. God is not impressed with what we know. How could our feeble efforts to know impress Him who is Omniscience? Rather, it is the degree of our faith and devotion to Him. It is not what we eat, but what we digest that makes us strong; not what we read, but what we remember that makes us learned; and not what we profess but what we practice that makes us Christians. This is the place God has chosen for us: to be obedient servants, and not all-knowing scholars.

Secondly, maturity in Christ is developing your faith beyond rules to relationships. Many Jews in the first century were a devotedly religious people, and their religious activity was “doctrinally sound.” Yet, because they did not know their God and did not seek to know Him, it was all meaningless. God wanted a people who wanted Him. Today, we need to emphasize Jesus as the center of a joyful, fulfilled life (see Gal.2:20).  We need to spend hours, days, and a lifetime of seeking to reach His head in prayer and devotion. To some, Christianity is an argument. To others, it is a performance. But, to those who truly want to find Him, it is the experience of a wonderful relationship with Jesus Christ.

Finally, maturity in Christ is integrating childlike qualities into our adult behavior. Children exhibit an openness when meeting a new person. In about five minutes, they relate like lifetime friends – honest, open, and real with each other. Because children don’t expect too much, they aren’t often disappointed. Eager, enthusiastic, energetic, and playful, they have the ability to make even the most mundane task incredibly exciting and special. Additionally, since children haven’t really learned the meaning of the word “failure,” they possess the desire to “go for it” most of the time. They take risks in life because they intuitively know that to risk is to learn and to grow. Moreover, children seem to realize that happiness is an attitude they create. Perhaps that’s why children often act silly or cheery and frequently make jokes. They know how to cultivate a sense of humor that keeps them chronically happy. Lastly, children are filled with unconditional love. Have you noticed how quickly they forget their anger and forgive others, letting go of grudges? Children accept you totally for your good points, and your not-so-good points. Most children are prepared to accept people as people, even if offended or hurt, as they will come back to forgive and love over and over again. Our Lord’s words, "Let the little children come to Me, ...for of such is the kingdom of God" (Mk. 10:14), reminds us of the importance of becoming like children.

In closing, consider that a standard piano keyboard has 88 keys. The same keys can be used to play “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” or Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto, No. 2 in C minor. It just depends upon the time and effort one takes to mature their skill at the piano. The same is true for a maturing child of God. Unfortunately, the religious convictions of many people are but thinly veiled rationalizations for their conduct, rather than a transforming influence upon it.” The aged and worn apostle Paul, taking stock of his own maturity, told the Philippians, "Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 3:12-14).