The Good News Is Always Present
Children's sermon
Illustration
Preaching
Sermon
Worship
Object:
Bad news seems to be inevitable these days, and in a world of media saturation, it is difficult, if not impossible, to get away from it. Yet, we are called to believe the "good news" of Jesus Christ. How can we hold onto the good news in a world where there seems to be no good news left? Richard Gribble, CSC, will write the main article, with Scott Suskovic providing the response. Illustrations, liturgical aids, and a children's sermon are also provided.
The Good News is Always Present
Richard Gribble, CSC
Romans 8:28-30
THE WORLD
The Greek word euangelion, meaning "the good news," is the root for our English word gospel. However, when we look at world events these days, we might justly ask, "Where is the 'good news'?" Just this past week, both international and domestic events have forced us to pause and look about to find good news. On the international front, nine US soldiers died in Afghanistan, an indication that the violence there is escalating, even beyond Iraq, forcing American defense and military officials to scurry to find possible additional forces to "keep the lid" on the situation. The international war tribunal in The Hague indicted the president of Sudan for "crimes against humanity." Here at home, we continue to receive disheartening news about the economy. As the price of gasoline and many other products and services continues to rise, our fears are heightened with the failure of the Indymac Bank in California. On the federal level, we are told that the giant mortgage firms Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will need a congressional bailout plan to assure their continued solvency. The average person today can rightly ask, "Where is the good news?"
Fortunately, we who bear the name Christian will never lose heart, for there is always good news in the message of Jesus Christ. The scripture lessons this week are filled with stories, metaphors, and theology that tell us that God can truly make all things work for those who love him and have been called to be his sons and daughters. Certainly, such a lesson requires great faith and perseverance, but then we who seek to follow the Lord should not desire a path any less rocky or rough than the one Jesus trod. Yes, the good news is present; we have the guarantee of scripture.
THE WORD
The word of God we read in the scriptures is always good news, but we need to find the link that tells us of this reality. Fortunately, Paul's letter to the Romans (8:28) provides clear evidence to this reality. Since Paul wrote Romans to introduce himself to a community he had never met, but hoped to visit, he was free, unlike his other letters, to present significant theology without the need to address specific questions or problems in the local Christian community. Thus, Paul writes in today's second lesson, "We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his decree." The apostle to the Gentiles gives us in these few words a significant theological reality: God can and does transform all things so that, in the end, all actions and events will bring good to those with faith. Clearly, this is not an easy reality to see, especially with the present events happening in our world, but there is more than adequate evidence to Paul's statement from the other lessons in our liturgical celebration.
The story in Genesis (29:15-28) of the initiation of the Hebrew nation presents clear evidence that God does transform what seems negative and defeat in that which is positive and triumphant. We hear of Laban's trickery against Jacob. The two men had agreed that Jacob would work for Laban for seven years to win the hand of Rachel, the latter's younger daughter. But after completing his obligation of work, Laban brings Leah to Jacob "at nightfall" to consummate his marriage. When Jacob realizes Laban's disception, he is outraged and must now work another seven years to gain the woman he loves. The whole story seems so negative, but through the power and plan of God, the marriage of Jacob to Leah and Rachel leads eventually to the establishment of the twelve tribes of Israel, which stands at the root of salvation history. Yes, Paul was right: God makes all things work out for the best!
The gospel is also a clear example, through three famous metaphors, of how good can be gleaned from that which seems so negative. The reign of God, this elusive idea that Jesus continually raises in the gospels, is analogized to a buried treasure, a precious pearl, and a dragnet cast into a lake. It seems somewhat foolish to sell all one has in hopes that a special treasure will solve all our problems and concerns. It is equally problematic, at least from a worldly perspective, to get rid of all our possessions in order to hold on to one great pearl. Why would we cast our net into the sea in a general way; would it not be more productive and less work to cast in an area where we believe the fish are located? In all three cases what seems to be rather obvious, because it is easy, standard operating procedure or the "wisdom of the world" suggests that we do the direct opposite of what Jesus suggests in these parables. It is only with the eyes of faith that we can know for certain that the gift we seek, God's kingdom, is precisely what Paul argues we will find when he says that God brings all things to good.
What we need to follow Paul's edict, besides the clear examples in Genesis and Matthew, is the faith expressed by the psalmist. We read, "O Lord, ... the law of your mouth is to me more precious than thousands of gold and silver pieces." He continues, "I love your command, more than gold, however fine. For in all your precepts I go forward; every false way I hate." The psalmist concludes, "Wonderful are your decrees; therefore I observe them. The revelation of your words sheds light, giving understanding to the simple." The psalmist expresses the need for faith, to believe that God truly can be trusted. Paul certainly believed that to be true. As followers of the same master, we have the same challenge and joy.
CRAFTING THE SERMON
The Romans text provides the theological lesson that needs to be driven home; the other lessons provide clear and unambiguous evidence to the reality of Paul's words. Developing a sermon on this fundamental theological teaching can proceed in a systematic way. First, there should be a description of world events, as described above, introducing our congregations to ideas and situations they know. Then an explanation of the scripture lessons and how they illustrate Paul's important point should be made. Lastly, and most importantly, illustrations for all groups in our congregations -- youth, working men and women, and the retired -- must assist them to see the reality of Paul's words in their own lives.
The fine people to whom we minister in our parishes need good news in their lives. They are beset, as are all in our society, with many concerns that challenge their ability to find what good can come from what seems so negative and defeatist. Economic problems, personally, in families, and even nationally, must become opportunities to understand how the vast majority of the world's population lives each and every day of their lives. Health issues, which again seem so negative, force us to consider those who are chronically ill, incapacitated, or handicapped and still amazingly accomplish seemingly impossible tasks. The issues of peace and violence, in our families, our cities, and our world challenge us to see that peace is an active virtue that requires our action. As Pope Paul VI once stated, "If you want peace, work for justice."
Yes, Saint Paul was correct: "God makes all things work together for the good of those who love him." Let us bring this message to our congregations with force and compassion. Let us never give up in our own lives and through our words and actions help others, especially those whom we are privileged to serve, to follow our lead.
ANOTHER VIEW
Scott Suskovic
And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.
-- Romans 8:30
Predestination. It's a word that has stirred many controversies within the church. Often, it is a word that people casually use, thinking they know its meaning, but in reality it is grossly misunderstood.
We read the paper today about Tiger's knee taking him out of the British Open or of McCain's rise in the Republican Party or of the soldier who murdered the innocent and we ask, "Did God predestine these people to act this way or was it out of free will?" It's confusing to think that God would do such a thing.
A while back, an elderly man in my congregation named Harold said to me, "Scott, there is something I want you to preach on before too long. When I was 11 years old, my mother died. The good people at the church kept on telling me it was God's will for her to die. Do you think that it was God's will to take the life of a young boy's mom? Now that I'm getting older, Scott, I plan on seeing her again, soon. Before I do, I'd like to hear what you think about God's will."
That raises all sorts of questions, doesn't it? I bet before his mother died, the doctors worked hard on her for some time, using their very best medical knowledge. Were they working against God's will? I don't know the circumstances surrounding her death, but if it were a car accident -- was God at the wheel? If it were cancer -- did God send those renegade cells? If it were self-inflicted -- did God lead her down that darkened pit of depression and hopelessness?
Do you see the dilemma? On the one side I can only assume those church folks were offering words of comfort -- it's God's will. God is in control. This world is not governed by dumb luck, the stars, or chaos but by a sovereign Lord who is overseeing every detail of our lives. Not a sparrow falls to the ground without his knowledge. Every hair on your head is counted. Psalms says that you were knit together in your mother's womb. Before a word is on your lips, God knows it. Every day of your life is recorded in his book, laid out before a single day ever passed. It's all God's will.
For the most part, those words of comfort work -- until when? Until the mother of an 11-year-old boy dies. Until that child runs out into the street. Until airplanes are flown into twin towers. And then... and then we are left with even more questions. Questions about the goodness of God, questions about the power of God, questions about the existence of God. Is it God's will?
Let's begin with a definition. Predestination. You hear two parts. "Pre" which means beforehand as in pregame warm up happening before the game. Prehistoric occurred before there was any formal, written history.
"Destination" is where you are headed. When I go to the airport, they ask me, "What is your final destination?" I always say, "Heaven." When they don't think that's very clever, I softly say, "Minneapolis." But that's the meaning of the word, right? Destination: Where you are ultimately headed.
Now, put them together. Predestination means knowing beforehand where you are going to end up -- before you even get there. It's not a word or idea I made up -- nor did Luther or Calvin. It comes right out of the writings of Paul.
For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the first-born among many brethren. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.
-- Romans 8:29-30
Predestination. Knowing beforehand where you are going to end up -- before you even get there. But does this mean that God foresees the future or does it mean that he causes the future? See the difference? Foreseeing is God simply knowing the future, while others see God as dictating the details of life in order to cause the future. This is what Luther called the core teaching and it comes down to one question: "Do we have free will?"
This one issue has split the church. The Roman Catholic church said, "a little," teaching that if we participate through good works then God will respond with grace. John Calvin emphasized the lack of free will and taught of a sovereign God who not only knows the future but also causes it. Jacob Arminius, a Dutch pastor, preached Calvinism to his congregation. It resulted in fatalism. The cards are already dealt. The end is already decided. Uneasy with this conclusion, he emphasized total free will. Then there are Lutherans who speak of God foreknowing without causing daily events. However, when it came to our salvation, Luther believed deeply in predestination but downplayed its emphasis precisely because people too often misunderstood it.
See the confusion? If our greatest thinkers and reformers can read the same texts and come to different conclusions, what hope is there for us to resolve this dilemma?
To understand predestination, you have to first understand the fallen nature of humanity. Deep within this heart lives a rebel who is spitting apple into the face of God. Deep within this heart lives a rebel who wants to be free from the confines of God. Deep within this heart lives a rebel who, when asked to make a choice or a decision about Jesus, has made it loud and clear -- kill him, crucify him. Sin is not simply lying, cheating, and stealing that if we just tried harder we could overcome. Sin is a condition, a state of "fallenness." I am in bondage to sin and cannot free myself. The good I want to do, I don't do. The bad things I don't want to do, that's what I end up doing. This will is rebellious by nature; it is bound in sin. I cannot by my own understanding or effort believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord or come to him.
The only answer is Jesus who rescues us from death, Jesus who pays the price for the sin, Jesus who comes to choose us, not by directing every detail of our lives but in terms of our ultimate destination. Where you are headed? Where will you spend eternity? And how will you get there -- from your own rebellious hands spitting apple into the face of God, chanting with the crowds, "Crucify him," or from a grace-filled God who, as Paul said, "chose us from the beginning, before the world began, and called us as his own"? You grasp this and suddenly justification through faith by God's grace makes sense. You grasp this and you understand why the Reformers called justification by faith the doctrine upon which this church stands or falls.
I think the best way to approach predestination is the way scripture does. Too often with predestination, people ask dead-end questions, fall into fatalism, and say dumb things to 11-year-olds at their mother's funeral. Biblically speaking, predestination was always meant to be a source of comfort. God knit you together in your mother's womb. He knows your lying down and your getting up. He goes to prepare a place for you and when that time is right, he will come back personally and take you to himself. You see? Sovereign grace.
Not every detail of our daily lives is dictated by God or a part of his divine plan. We live in a fallen world in which planes are flown into towers, wars rage on for years, children are struck by cars, and, yes, Harold, sometimes 11-year-old boys have to grow up without a mom. I hate that. I can only imagine that God does, too. He promises us his presence, his strength, and his comfort to make it through. But he also promises more. He promises that there will come a day, and you have his word on this, there will come a day when he will make all things new. He will wipe away every tear from your eye, erase every doubt from your mind, turn darkness into light, and he will, once and for all, destroy death, that final enemy. "And those whom he predestined he also calls; and those whom he called he also justifies; and those whom he justifies he also glorifies." Do not be afraid; ours is a sure and certain hope. Only believe. We know how the story ends. The kingdom is ours forever.
ILLUSTRATIONS
I once heard a person flip the parable of the treasure hidden in the field upside down and it gave me an entirely new perspective. Normally, being self-centered people, we assume that we are the main character in the parable and that the treasure is something we should seek at all costs. What if we look at it from God's perspective? That is, imagine that it is God who is seeking the treasure and sees it in humanity as we exist in the field (earth). It is the very nature of God that God will risk everything, even his own beloved Son, in order to secure (save) us.
* * *
With the altered perspective mentioned above in mind, I am drawn to a comment made by William Sloane Coffin:
I believe the power of God is lodged in the very marrow of our substance and is pressing, constantly pressing, for release in order to permeate every fiber of our being. And the demand is not for self-denial, as is so often preached, but rather for self-discovery and self-realization, which includes the commitment to God that is the final fulfillment of human life. This I think is what St. Paul means when he says, "God searches our inmost being" and "The kingdom of God consists not in words but in power." To think we can escape wrestling with this power is to dream.
-- William Sloane Coffin, Credo (Louisville, Kentucky: Westminster John Knox Press, 2005), p. 122
* * *
With respect to predestination, I generally agree with Scott that its real truth lies in the assurance of our final destiny. However, allow me to share the following true story.
Early in my ministry a man of Japanese ancestry joined my church. He had come to this country as a young boy before World War II broke out and he and his parents were part of that shameful chapter in US history when Japanese were put in concentration camps. Later he rose to second in command at the National Institute of Mental Health. During our new-member class, the question of predestination came up. He thought about it and he said: "You know, when I look ahead, I am a firm believer in free will. I make my own decisions and I experience the consequences good or bad." Then he paused and looked at the people around him and said, "But when I look back, I begin to wonder." His words have remained with me. When I look back on the journey of life that I have taken, it is as if there has been an invisible hand guiding me and bringing me to where and who I am.
* * *
"Who" Questions
Almost everyone in the American political scene these days seems to be glued to the news reports in search of the answer to one important question: Who will the presidential candidates choose to be their running mates? For Senator Obama, the conversation has swirled around who would be the best person to bring people together so he could get the votes to win. Senator McCain's camp has the same interest. Who will be chosen to help him get the votes? One concern has been raised by both camps. Neither candidate wants to choose someone that will marginalize individuals or groups. Both candidates want someone who will bring people together.
Paul raised a question in Romans 8:31-35 that strikes at the heart of our relationship with Christ. Because of what Christ has done for us, who would dare to be against us? Who would be capable of separating us from his love? No candidate comes to mind. No one. None.
* * *
Bait And Switch
The story of Jacob marrying Leah and Rachel reminds me of an old gimmick used on unsuspecting people. For example, at a resort town filled with hotels, a particular lodge may advertise on the flashing billboard that the room rate is $29.95 and up per night. A weary traveler ready to find a place to stay and get on with some vacationing will be drawn to such a wonderful deal on a room. Once inside that the desk, however, he or she may be told by the clerk that all of the $29.95 rooms have been "taken" and only more expensive rooms are available.
* * *
Telling What We Know
A minister grieved over the death of one of the teenagers in his congregation. The young girl had such a promising future. Her lovely smile and charming manner won her the confidence of everyone in the church, so the news of her death in a car accident stunned all of them, including the minister who had the responsibility for leading the funeral service.
Not knowing what to say at such an awful time, he sought the advice of one of his mentors, a sweet and wise older lady who had been his sounding board for years. After he described the circumstances related to the funeral service he was preparing, he asked her what he should say. After all, he told her, everyone was wondering why God would take her from us at such an early age.
She thought for a minute and offered her suggestion. "Don't stand up there at the pulpit in the funeral and talk about what you don't know. Stand up there and talk about what you know -- that God loves us and that nothing can separate us from His love!"
WORSHIP RESOURCE
Call To Worship
Leader: We come, to proclaim God's majesty,
giving thanks to the One who has called us
to speak to the world.
People: We will sing praises to God,
telling of all the wonders of our lives.
Leader: We come, thankful that we are God's children,
rejoicing as we worship our God.
People: We know that God is always with us;
that the word gives us life and hope.
Leader: We come, because God keeps promises;
God's faithfulness is everlasting.
People: Praise God! Praise God!
Prayer Of The Day
Searcher of Hearts,
you have brought us to this place,
not to scold us or condemn us,
but to embrace us with your forgiveness;
to comfort us with your hope.
Heart of God,
you cast out your net
so that all might be brought
into your kingdom;
your grace is hidden deep within us,
that it might be revealed in our lives.
Companion Spirit,
when we cannot pray,
you whisper from our hearts,
lifting us to the One from whom nothing can separate us.
God in Community, Holy in One,
hear us as we pray as we have been taught, saying,
Our Father....
Call To Reconciliation
It is not our past that keeps us from God, for that is behind us. It is not our present, for God is with us in these days. And our future moments are held in God's hands. What the apostle Paul says is true: nothing can separate us from God. And whatever sins we have committed, God's forgiveness and love take them away forever. Join me, as we pray together, saying,
Unison Prayer Of Confession
What then are we to say about our sins, Loving God? We know that we worship power, rather than serving in humility. We worry about things over which we have no control, instead of trusting in you. We fear death, when you have promised we will live with you forever.
Forgive us, Grace of the World, for thinking that our sins are more powerful than your mercy. Because of the love of Christ Jesus, our Lord, proven on the cross and fulfilled in the resurrection, we are new people, forgiven and made whole.
Silence is kept
Assurance Of Pardon
Leader: Who has earned the right to judge us? Only Christ. Christ died for us, Christ has risen for us, Christ reigns in power over us; Christ even prays for us!
People: This is the love that binds us to God forever. There is nothing in this world, or the next, that will keep us from being God's children. Thanks be to God. Amen.
CHILDREN'S SERMON
Close to Jesus
Object: a box, some tickets
Romans 8:26-39
Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (Romans 8:35)
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you feel close to Jesus? (let them answer) When you are in church, can you feel Jesus all around you? (let them answer) Do you feel close to Jesus when you go home from church? (let them answer) When you go to school, or take a ride in your car, or shop in a store, do you feel close to Jesus? (let them answer)
Let me see if this works. I need a volunteer to put his or her head inside of the box. (put the box over the volunteer's head) Now I want you to think about this for a moment before I ask you the question, "Do you still feel God close to you even when your head is in a box?" Are you ready? Do you still feel close to God when you have your head in a box? (let them answer) It is good that Jesus even goes with you inside of a box.
I want to ask you just a few more questions. If I gave you some airplane tickets (show them some kind of tickets) for a trip to the mountains in China, do you think that Jesus would be close to you? (let them answer) That's really good. Jesus would be with you in China.
This is my last question. Suppose that you had to live the rest of your life inside the box and we could never be together again. Do you think that Jesus would be with you inside the box? (let them answer) Do you think Jesus would be with me outside the box? (let them answer)
In other words, you and I believe that we will never be separated from Jesus for the rest of our lives no matter what we are doing or where we will be. Jesus will always be with us. He will be with us in good times and bad times. Jesus will be with us and love us forever. Is that what you think and believe? That's what I think also. Amen.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Immediate Word, July 27, 2008, issue.
Copyright 2008 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
All rights reserved. Subscribers to The Immediate Word service may print and use this material as it was intended in sermons and in worship and classroom settings only. No additional permission is required from the publisher for such use by subscribers only. Inquiries should be addressed to permissions@csspub.com or to Permissions, CSS Publishing Company, Inc., 517 South Main Street, Lima, Ohio 45804.
The Good News is Always Present
Richard Gribble, CSC
Romans 8:28-30
THE WORLD
The Greek word euangelion, meaning "the good news," is the root for our English word gospel. However, when we look at world events these days, we might justly ask, "Where is the 'good news'?" Just this past week, both international and domestic events have forced us to pause and look about to find good news. On the international front, nine US soldiers died in Afghanistan, an indication that the violence there is escalating, even beyond Iraq, forcing American defense and military officials to scurry to find possible additional forces to "keep the lid" on the situation. The international war tribunal in The Hague indicted the president of Sudan for "crimes against humanity." Here at home, we continue to receive disheartening news about the economy. As the price of gasoline and many other products and services continues to rise, our fears are heightened with the failure of the Indymac Bank in California. On the federal level, we are told that the giant mortgage firms Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will need a congressional bailout plan to assure their continued solvency. The average person today can rightly ask, "Where is the good news?"
Fortunately, we who bear the name Christian will never lose heart, for there is always good news in the message of Jesus Christ. The scripture lessons this week are filled with stories, metaphors, and theology that tell us that God can truly make all things work for those who love him and have been called to be his sons and daughters. Certainly, such a lesson requires great faith and perseverance, but then we who seek to follow the Lord should not desire a path any less rocky or rough than the one Jesus trod. Yes, the good news is present; we have the guarantee of scripture.
THE WORD
The word of God we read in the scriptures is always good news, but we need to find the link that tells us of this reality. Fortunately, Paul's letter to the Romans (8:28) provides clear evidence to this reality. Since Paul wrote Romans to introduce himself to a community he had never met, but hoped to visit, he was free, unlike his other letters, to present significant theology without the need to address specific questions or problems in the local Christian community. Thus, Paul writes in today's second lesson, "We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his decree." The apostle to the Gentiles gives us in these few words a significant theological reality: God can and does transform all things so that, in the end, all actions and events will bring good to those with faith. Clearly, this is not an easy reality to see, especially with the present events happening in our world, but there is more than adequate evidence to Paul's statement from the other lessons in our liturgical celebration.
The story in Genesis (29:15-28) of the initiation of the Hebrew nation presents clear evidence that God does transform what seems negative and defeat in that which is positive and triumphant. We hear of Laban's trickery against Jacob. The two men had agreed that Jacob would work for Laban for seven years to win the hand of Rachel, the latter's younger daughter. But after completing his obligation of work, Laban brings Leah to Jacob "at nightfall" to consummate his marriage. When Jacob realizes Laban's disception, he is outraged and must now work another seven years to gain the woman he loves. The whole story seems so negative, but through the power and plan of God, the marriage of Jacob to Leah and Rachel leads eventually to the establishment of the twelve tribes of Israel, which stands at the root of salvation history. Yes, Paul was right: God makes all things work out for the best!
The gospel is also a clear example, through three famous metaphors, of how good can be gleaned from that which seems so negative. The reign of God, this elusive idea that Jesus continually raises in the gospels, is analogized to a buried treasure, a precious pearl, and a dragnet cast into a lake. It seems somewhat foolish to sell all one has in hopes that a special treasure will solve all our problems and concerns. It is equally problematic, at least from a worldly perspective, to get rid of all our possessions in order to hold on to one great pearl. Why would we cast our net into the sea in a general way; would it not be more productive and less work to cast in an area where we believe the fish are located? In all three cases what seems to be rather obvious, because it is easy, standard operating procedure or the "wisdom of the world" suggests that we do the direct opposite of what Jesus suggests in these parables. It is only with the eyes of faith that we can know for certain that the gift we seek, God's kingdom, is precisely what Paul argues we will find when he says that God brings all things to good.
What we need to follow Paul's edict, besides the clear examples in Genesis and Matthew, is the faith expressed by the psalmist. We read, "O Lord, ... the law of your mouth is to me more precious than thousands of gold and silver pieces." He continues, "I love your command, more than gold, however fine. For in all your precepts I go forward; every false way I hate." The psalmist concludes, "Wonderful are your decrees; therefore I observe them. The revelation of your words sheds light, giving understanding to the simple." The psalmist expresses the need for faith, to believe that God truly can be trusted. Paul certainly believed that to be true. As followers of the same master, we have the same challenge and joy.
CRAFTING THE SERMON
The Romans text provides the theological lesson that needs to be driven home; the other lessons provide clear and unambiguous evidence to the reality of Paul's words. Developing a sermon on this fundamental theological teaching can proceed in a systematic way. First, there should be a description of world events, as described above, introducing our congregations to ideas and situations they know. Then an explanation of the scripture lessons and how they illustrate Paul's important point should be made. Lastly, and most importantly, illustrations for all groups in our congregations -- youth, working men and women, and the retired -- must assist them to see the reality of Paul's words in their own lives.
The fine people to whom we minister in our parishes need good news in their lives. They are beset, as are all in our society, with many concerns that challenge their ability to find what good can come from what seems so negative and defeatist. Economic problems, personally, in families, and even nationally, must become opportunities to understand how the vast majority of the world's population lives each and every day of their lives. Health issues, which again seem so negative, force us to consider those who are chronically ill, incapacitated, or handicapped and still amazingly accomplish seemingly impossible tasks. The issues of peace and violence, in our families, our cities, and our world challenge us to see that peace is an active virtue that requires our action. As Pope Paul VI once stated, "If you want peace, work for justice."
Yes, Saint Paul was correct: "God makes all things work together for the good of those who love him." Let us bring this message to our congregations with force and compassion. Let us never give up in our own lives and through our words and actions help others, especially those whom we are privileged to serve, to follow our lead.
ANOTHER VIEW
Scott Suskovic
And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.
-- Romans 8:30
Predestination. It's a word that has stirred many controversies within the church. Often, it is a word that people casually use, thinking they know its meaning, but in reality it is grossly misunderstood.
We read the paper today about Tiger's knee taking him out of the British Open or of McCain's rise in the Republican Party or of the soldier who murdered the innocent and we ask, "Did God predestine these people to act this way or was it out of free will?" It's confusing to think that God would do such a thing.
A while back, an elderly man in my congregation named Harold said to me, "Scott, there is something I want you to preach on before too long. When I was 11 years old, my mother died. The good people at the church kept on telling me it was God's will for her to die. Do you think that it was God's will to take the life of a young boy's mom? Now that I'm getting older, Scott, I plan on seeing her again, soon. Before I do, I'd like to hear what you think about God's will."
That raises all sorts of questions, doesn't it? I bet before his mother died, the doctors worked hard on her for some time, using their very best medical knowledge. Were they working against God's will? I don't know the circumstances surrounding her death, but if it were a car accident -- was God at the wheel? If it were cancer -- did God send those renegade cells? If it were self-inflicted -- did God lead her down that darkened pit of depression and hopelessness?
Do you see the dilemma? On the one side I can only assume those church folks were offering words of comfort -- it's God's will. God is in control. This world is not governed by dumb luck, the stars, or chaos but by a sovereign Lord who is overseeing every detail of our lives. Not a sparrow falls to the ground without his knowledge. Every hair on your head is counted. Psalms says that you were knit together in your mother's womb. Before a word is on your lips, God knows it. Every day of your life is recorded in his book, laid out before a single day ever passed. It's all God's will.
For the most part, those words of comfort work -- until when? Until the mother of an 11-year-old boy dies. Until that child runs out into the street. Until airplanes are flown into twin towers. And then... and then we are left with even more questions. Questions about the goodness of God, questions about the power of God, questions about the existence of God. Is it God's will?
Let's begin with a definition. Predestination. You hear two parts. "Pre" which means beforehand as in pregame warm up happening before the game. Prehistoric occurred before there was any formal, written history.
"Destination" is where you are headed. When I go to the airport, they ask me, "What is your final destination?" I always say, "Heaven." When they don't think that's very clever, I softly say, "Minneapolis." But that's the meaning of the word, right? Destination: Where you are ultimately headed.
Now, put them together. Predestination means knowing beforehand where you are going to end up -- before you even get there. It's not a word or idea I made up -- nor did Luther or Calvin. It comes right out of the writings of Paul.
For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the first-born among many brethren. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.
-- Romans 8:29-30
Predestination. Knowing beforehand where you are going to end up -- before you even get there. But does this mean that God foresees the future or does it mean that he causes the future? See the difference? Foreseeing is God simply knowing the future, while others see God as dictating the details of life in order to cause the future. This is what Luther called the core teaching and it comes down to one question: "Do we have free will?"
This one issue has split the church. The Roman Catholic church said, "a little," teaching that if we participate through good works then God will respond with grace. John Calvin emphasized the lack of free will and taught of a sovereign God who not only knows the future but also causes it. Jacob Arminius, a Dutch pastor, preached Calvinism to his congregation. It resulted in fatalism. The cards are already dealt. The end is already decided. Uneasy with this conclusion, he emphasized total free will. Then there are Lutherans who speak of God foreknowing without causing daily events. However, when it came to our salvation, Luther believed deeply in predestination but downplayed its emphasis precisely because people too often misunderstood it.
See the confusion? If our greatest thinkers and reformers can read the same texts and come to different conclusions, what hope is there for us to resolve this dilemma?
To understand predestination, you have to first understand the fallen nature of humanity. Deep within this heart lives a rebel who is spitting apple into the face of God. Deep within this heart lives a rebel who wants to be free from the confines of God. Deep within this heart lives a rebel who, when asked to make a choice or a decision about Jesus, has made it loud and clear -- kill him, crucify him. Sin is not simply lying, cheating, and stealing that if we just tried harder we could overcome. Sin is a condition, a state of "fallenness." I am in bondage to sin and cannot free myself. The good I want to do, I don't do. The bad things I don't want to do, that's what I end up doing. This will is rebellious by nature; it is bound in sin. I cannot by my own understanding or effort believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord or come to him.
The only answer is Jesus who rescues us from death, Jesus who pays the price for the sin, Jesus who comes to choose us, not by directing every detail of our lives but in terms of our ultimate destination. Where you are headed? Where will you spend eternity? And how will you get there -- from your own rebellious hands spitting apple into the face of God, chanting with the crowds, "Crucify him," or from a grace-filled God who, as Paul said, "chose us from the beginning, before the world began, and called us as his own"? You grasp this and suddenly justification through faith by God's grace makes sense. You grasp this and you understand why the Reformers called justification by faith the doctrine upon which this church stands or falls.
I think the best way to approach predestination is the way scripture does. Too often with predestination, people ask dead-end questions, fall into fatalism, and say dumb things to 11-year-olds at their mother's funeral. Biblically speaking, predestination was always meant to be a source of comfort. God knit you together in your mother's womb. He knows your lying down and your getting up. He goes to prepare a place for you and when that time is right, he will come back personally and take you to himself. You see? Sovereign grace.
Not every detail of our daily lives is dictated by God or a part of his divine plan. We live in a fallen world in which planes are flown into towers, wars rage on for years, children are struck by cars, and, yes, Harold, sometimes 11-year-old boys have to grow up without a mom. I hate that. I can only imagine that God does, too. He promises us his presence, his strength, and his comfort to make it through. But he also promises more. He promises that there will come a day, and you have his word on this, there will come a day when he will make all things new. He will wipe away every tear from your eye, erase every doubt from your mind, turn darkness into light, and he will, once and for all, destroy death, that final enemy. "And those whom he predestined he also calls; and those whom he called he also justifies; and those whom he justifies he also glorifies." Do not be afraid; ours is a sure and certain hope. Only believe. We know how the story ends. The kingdom is ours forever.
ILLUSTRATIONS
I once heard a person flip the parable of the treasure hidden in the field upside down and it gave me an entirely new perspective. Normally, being self-centered people, we assume that we are the main character in the parable and that the treasure is something we should seek at all costs. What if we look at it from God's perspective? That is, imagine that it is God who is seeking the treasure and sees it in humanity as we exist in the field (earth). It is the very nature of God that God will risk everything, even his own beloved Son, in order to secure (save) us.
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With the altered perspective mentioned above in mind, I am drawn to a comment made by William Sloane Coffin:
I believe the power of God is lodged in the very marrow of our substance and is pressing, constantly pressing, for release in order to permeate every fiber of our being. And the demand is not for self-denial, as is so often preached, but rather for self-discovery and self-realization, which includes the commitment to God that is the final fulfillment of human life. This I think is what St. Paul means when he says, "God searches our inmost being" and "The kingdom of God consists not in words but in power." To think we can escape wrestling with this power is to dream.
-- William Sloane Coffin, Credo (Louisville, Kentucky: Westminster John Knox Press, 2005), p. 122
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With respect to predestination, I generally agree with Scott that its real truth lies in the assurance of our final destiny. However, allow me to share the following true story.
Early in my ministry a man of Japanese ancestry joined my church. He had come to this country as a young boy before World War II broke out and he and his parents were part of that shameful chapter in US history when Japanese were put in concentration camps. Later he rose to second in command at the National Institute of Mental Health. During our new-member class, the question of predestination came up. He thought about it and he said: "You know, when I look ahead, I am a firm believer in free will. I make my own decisions and I experience the consequences good or bad." Then he paused and looked at the people around him and said, "But when I look back, I begin to wonder." His words have remained with me. When I look back on the journey of life that I have taken, it is as if there has been an invisible hand guiding me and bringing me to where and who I am.
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"Who" Questions
Almost everyone in the American political scene these days seems to be glued to the news reports in search of the answer to one important question: Who will the presidential candidates choose to be their running mates? For Senator Obama, the conversation has swirled around who would be the best person to bring people together so he could get the votes to win. Senator McCain's camp has the same interest. Who will be chosen to help him get the votes? One concern has been raised by both camps. Neither candidate wants to choose someone that will marginalize individuals or groups. Both candidates want someone who will bring people together.
Paul raised a question in Romans 8:31-35 that strikes at the heart of our relationship with Christ. Because of what Christ has done for us, who would dare to be against us? Who would be capable of separating us from his love? No candidate comes to mind. No one. None.
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Bait And Switch
The story of Jacob marrying Leah and Rachel reminds me of an old gimmick used on unsuspecting people. For example, at a resort town filled with hotels, a particular lodge may advertise on the flashing billboard that the room rate is $29.95 and up per night. A weary traveler ready to find a place to stay and get on with some vacationing will be drawn to such a wonderful deal on a room. Once inside that the desk, however, he or she may be told by the clerk that all of the $29.95 rooms have been "taken" and only more expensive rooms are available.
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Telling What We Know
A minister grieved over the death of one of the teenagers in his congregation. The young girl had such a promising future. Her lovely smile and charming manner won her the confidence of everyone in the church, so the news of her death in a car accident stunned all of them, including the minister who had the responsibility for leading the funeral service.
Not knowing what to say at such an awful time, he sought the advice of one of his mentors, a sweet and wise older lady who had been his sounding board for years. After he described the circumstances related to the funeral service he was preparing, he asked her what he should say. After all, he told her, everyone was wondering why God would take her from us at such an early age.
She thought for a minute and offered her suggestion. "Don't stand up there at the pulpit in the funeral and talk about what you don't know. Stand up there and talk about what you know -- that God loves us and that nothing can separate us from His love!"
WORSHIP RESOURCE
Call To Worship
Leader: We come, to proclaim God's majesty,
giving thanks to the One who has called us
to speak to the world.
People: We will sing praises to God,
telling of all the wonders of our lives.
Leader: We come, thankful that we are God's children,
rejoicing as we worship our God.
People: We know that God is always with us;
that the word gives us life and hope.
Leader: We come, because God keeps promises;
God's faithfulness is everlasting.
People: Praise God! Praise God!
Prayer Of The Day
Searcher of Hearts,
you have brought us to this place,
not to scold us or condemn us,
but to embrace us with your forgiveness;
to comfort us with your hope.
Heart of God,
you cast out your net
so that all might be brought
into your kingdom;
your grace is hidden deep within us,
that it might be revealed in our lives.
Companion Spirit,
when we cannot pray,
you whisper from our hearts,
lifting us to the One from whom nothing can separate us.
God in Community, Holy in One,
hear us as we pray as we have been taught, saying,
Our Father....
Call To Reconciliation
It is not our past that keeps us from God, for that is behind us. It is not our present, for God is with us in these days. And our future moments are held in God's hands. What the apostle Paul says is true: nothing can separate us from God. And whatever sins we have committed, God's forgiveness and love take them away forever. Join me, as we pray together, saying,
Unison Prayer Of Confession
What then are we to say about our sins, Loving God? We know that we worship power, rather than serving in humility. We worry about things over which we have no control, instead of trusting in you. We fear death, when you have promised we will live with you forever.
Forgive us, Grace of the World, for thinking that our sins are more powerful than your mercy. Because of the love of Christ Jesus, our Lord, proven on the cross and fulfilled in the resurrection, we are new people, forgiven and made whole.
Silence is kept
Assurance Of Pardon
Leader: Who has earned the right to judge us? Only Christ. Christ died for us, Christ has risen for us, Christ reigns in power over us; Christ even prays for us!
People: This is the love that binds us to God forever. There is nothing in this world, or the next, that will keep us from being God's children. Thanks be to God. Amen.
CHILDREN'S SERMON
Close to Jesus
Object: a box, some tickets
Romans 8:26-39
Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (Romans 8:35)
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you feel close to Jesus? (let them answer) When you are in church, can you feel Jesus all around you? (let them answer) Do you feel close to Jesus when you go home from church? (let them answer) When you go to school, or take a ride in your car, or shop in a store, do you feel close to Jesus? (let them answer)
Let me see if this works. I need a volunteer to put his or her head inside of the box. (put the box over the volunteer's head) Now I want you to think about this for a moment before I ask you the question, "Do you still feel God close to you even when your head is in a box?" Are you ready? Do you still feel close to God when you have your head in a box? (let them answer) It is good that Jesus even goes with you inside of a box.
I want to ask you just a few more questions. If I gave you some airplane tickets (show them some kind of tickets) for a trip to the mountains in China, do you think that Jesus would be close to you? (let them answer) That's really good. Jesus would be with you in China.
This is my last question. Suppose that you had to live the rest of your life inside the box and we could never be together again. Do you think that Jesus would be with you inside the box? (let them answer) Do you think Jesus would be with me outside the box? (let them answer)
In other words, you and I believe that we will never be separated from Jesus for the rest of our lives no matter what we are doing or where we will be. Jesus will always be with us. He will be with us in good times and bad times. Jesus will be with us and love us forever. Is that what you think and believe? That's what I think also. Amen.
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The Immediate Word, July 27, 2008, issue.
Copyright 2008 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
All rights reserved. Subscribers to The Immediate Word service may print and use this material as it was intended in sermons and in worship and classroom settings only. No additional permission is required from the publisher for such use by subscribers only. Inquiries should be addressed to permissions@csspub.com or to Permissions, CSS Publishing Company, Inc., 517 South Main Street, Lima, Ohio 45804.
