Persevere

“…for you have a little strength, have kept My Word, and have not denied my Name.” Revelation 3:8 (b)

Dear Congregation,

      Just this morning my attention was brought once again to the seven churches of the Book of the Revelation. These churches often serve as a warning to us as believers and a guide to us as a church. Some background study is required to grasp the entirety of what is being said by the Lord to these churches but it is clear that of the seven only two are commended. Both of those commended churches are small, poor, and oppressed. Smyrna was a heavily persecuted church and it was commended for being rich in its faith and truth. Philadelphia was also persecuted. It faced temptation on every side and yet it is commended for the three things you see above.

            Philadelphia had a little strength. Not much money, not too many people, not many things of which to boast in this world. When one does not have much strength it is natural to covet it and pursue it. No one really wants to be left behind or find themselves an outsider. Yet both the Scripture and history teach that this is exactly where Philadelphia found itself. They had nothing to attract Greco-Roman culture in themselves; yet their little strength is what kept them great in Christ as II Corinthians 12 also reminds us. Though Grace Community Church sometimes seems to have little strength, lets not allow that to dampen us for that is not something God condemns or avoids.

            Philadelphia kept God’s Word. It was preached, it was taught, it was sung, it was memorized, it was discussed, it was loved, and it was obeyed. Say what you will about Philadelphia, it may not have been an Ephesus or a Laodicea in appearance, but it centered completely on the Word of God. That is what the church is there for. For social networking, for fun and games, for charity work, you may want to look elsewhere, but for learning God’s Word, applying it to your life and growing in sanctification and holiness, Philadelphia was your church. Can this be said about Grace Community Church? May it be said all the more!

            Philadelphia did not deny the name of Christ. When the world worships itself and all that is in it, the true church proclaims Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and glorification. There is no other name, there is no other way. This will not be a welcome message nor will it be appreciated, but it is the message. There was no compromise in Philadelphia, no sweetening, no soft peddling. The Gospel was its banner and its purpose. They persevered.  Is salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone the central point of Grace Community Church? May it increase and continue.

            There is great joy and excitement in a Church where God is big and people are small. I see that at Grace and I believe we need to continue to look to God’s Word for direction and encouragement with our ministry. If Philadelphia was commended for these three things lets continue to pursue them ourselves. That we may please God and not people.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Know the Scriptures

Dear Congregation,

      I want to apologize for not writing in this fashion the last couple of months. When I write the devotionals I want to write them with the conviction that they need to be done. I did not feel that conviction for many weeks. I will endeavor to be more faithful in keeping them up, but they may not be every week as they were. Thank you for your patience with me.

~Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” Matthew 22:29

            The context of this verse is the Lord’s Jesus’ answer to the wiles of the Sadducees. You remember that the Sadducees denied the authority of Scripture except for the five books of Moses. Likewise they denied a future resurrection. They were the theological liberals of Jesus’ context, the rationalists if you will. In mockery they ask about a hypothetical scenario that would make the resurrection seem all the more ridiculous. However, Jesus’ first responsive statement above exposes their incorrect presupposition. They do not even know what they are talking about! The Master then goes on to correct their error. How many intellectual challenges to Christianity may be answered with the same statement above? So many make claims or dismiss God out of ignorance of who He truly is and what He has actually done and said. We should remember this when dealing with people on an apologetic level. What does the Bible actually say, and are we dealing with an Almighty God in the argument? I believe half if not more of the lame oppositions to the faith may be settled with the schooling of the statement above.

            In addition, the Church may also benefit from such a statement. The church is always tempted to stray to the right hand or the left. Many times it is because of what she sees around her as apparent success. May worship always be regulated by a call back to the Scriptures and the power of God. May theology, leadership, teaching, evangelism, discipleship, all fall under the authority of both. It is so easy to forget the Scriptures and God’s power. So easy to feel the weight to perform and put our own stamp of effort on ministry. In doing so, we do as the Sadducees did and rationalize God’s instruction to meet our own finite comfort zone. May it never be. May we know our Bibles and God’s power.

            The individual is tempted in the same manner. How many times is faith tested because we do not know the Scriptures or the power of God? Illness may cause us to think that God has abandoned us or is not aware of what we are going through. What does your Bible say about illness? Loneliness may cause us to look for companionship outside the family of God out of desperation? What does your Bible say about that? Is God powerless? Peer pressure may cause us to pursue a lifestyle or a gain that God does not condone. What say the Scriptures? Our own self glorification may cause us to sleep in or do something entertaining rather than Worship the Lord with His people and keep the Sabbath day holy. What does your Bible say? The words of our Lord in rebuke of the Sadducees are a sobering call to us as well. May our study of God’s word never cease and may we rest in the power of God through every temptation and challenge!

In Christ,

Pastor Basile 

Gospel Better Than Life

“Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.” Psalm 63:3

Dear Congregation,

       It is very difficult for anyone to measure the value something compared to life itself. Many who speak on such matters do so without serious thought or without ever having faced the challenge. Realistically, a parent may value their child’s life above their own, a soldier may give his life to save his comrades, yet even there the choice is not without inconceivable weight. Even still it is not a constant value for every parent or soldier. We value self and life so much that for the vast majority of people nothing can take precedence. And yet, the Scripture repeatedly challenges our selfishness and directs us to that which is definitively of more value than our lives; the love of God.

            The Lord Jesus tells us to give up our lives for Him, to die to our self, to give up parents and children for His sake. He does not say this to teach that life is worthless or meaningless, on the contrary, he says it to show the value of the everlasting life that comes through Him. If you are clinging to something that is temporary, even your own existence, then you miss the power and gift of the Gospel. The Psalmist, quoted above, says that God’s lovingkindness is better than life itself. If anything is worth more than life its God’s love. If anything provides purpose, understanding, knowledge, and fulfillment, its God’s love. How can we pursue our own glory when we know that it will never last? How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? The beauty of God’s love is that it is better than life because it is eternal life.

            Where is God’s love ever made more clear than on the cross? The Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ gave up His life and suffered the curse of sin, death, and hell in your place because of His lovingkindness. That lovingkindess on his part was of more value than His own life. When the Christian dies to self, is born again, and gives up all to follow Christ, he or she gains all the riches of heaven and eternity. Certainly of more value than 100 years on earth. The Psalmist declares that he will praise the Lord for this love, for the Gospel. May we be of that mind as well. May we say with Job, that we will trust in Him even if he slays us, because there is no other. Eternal life is more precious than anything. Christ has given us that and all that comes with it because of His lovingkindness. May we always remember that this is better and more precious than earthly life.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

For Such A Time As THis

4/12/17

 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14

Dear Congregation,

            I will admit that when I come to the Book of Esther in my regular Bible reading, I am always tempted to skim through it really fast or perhaps even skip portions of it. Not because it is boring or because it is irrelevant, but because it is a story that I remember well. Being an account in history and not one that ever mentions the name of God, I foolishly deceive myself into disinterest.

            However, this week I took my time with it and absorbed it in a way I have not done for some years. I was struck once again with the truth of God’s sovereignty over all events and actions for His own glory. God is never mentioned as I have already stated, but everything happens at just the right time. Vashti refuses the king at just the right time. Mordecai aids the king at just the right time. Mordecai’s reward is overlooked by the king until just the right time. The king cannot sleep at just the right time. Haman is discovered at just the right time. Esther acts at just the right time. There is no coincidence here. This account does not have to mention God for him to be seen. Secular history does not have to mention God for his hand to be seen and His actions noted. The non believer even recognizes the eerie way that events very often come together for good or evil. In suppression of the truth, a non believer may make up something like karma, or luck, or the stars, or the universe. But Esther shows that all through History God’s covenant is unbreakable and His plan for all history will not be thwarted by mere humanity. If Esther did not fulfill God’s will, deliverance would come from someplace else. God wins.

            As we head into Resurrection Sunday, lets remember all the events that led up to that point. It started in the Garden of Eden and was foretold through millennia until the Lord Jesus was born at just the right time and died and rose again at just the right time. You have been saved at just the right time, live in just the right time in history for God to use you best. May we continue to live with assurance that God will move history to bring all His future promises to fulfillment. Christ in you for such a time as this and your salvation for such a time as this.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

           

What Doest Thou Here, Elijah?

4/6/17

“What doest thou here, Elijah?” I Kings 19:9

Dear Congregation,

            Many are at least generally familiar with the ministry of the prophet Elijah that begins in I Kings chapter 17. Elijah, the mysterious rough hewn man of God who appears out of nowhere to face the evil King Ahab and declare God’s Word. We are aware of his boldness, we are aware of his faith, we are aware of his triumphs. But when we think more deeply we also remember some of his weaknesses. Here in I Kings chapter 19 we see Elijah running away for his life and despairing that he is all alone. Some background for this is needed.

            In I kings chapter 18, Elijah is on Mount Carmel, and by the power of God calls down fire from heaven to defeat and show up the prophets of Baal. The account is a magnificent visible and tangible display of God’s reality and power. It has often been asked how Elijah could run in fear after he had just been a participant in something so magnificent. Some have suggested that Elijah had very high expectations from this display. It has been noted that Elijah may have expected all of the witnesses and people of Israel to turn to God in repentance and faith and give up their wickedness and idolatry. After all, such an outreach must garner results right? Yet, this was not the case. No one cared, no one sought the Lord as a result. It was a huge let down for Elijah and now Jezebel threatens his life. He runs, he despairs, he is exhausted.

            Yet, God has not abandoned His servant and sends an angel to comfort and minister to the broken down Elijah. God gives him food for physical strength, encouraging words for mental strength, and Elijah goes to seek God’s presence for spiritual strength. Many of us often feel alone or let down like Elijah in this passage. Many of us create goals and standards that are not necessarily of God and then are depressed by personal disappointment. We may want to run away and just give up. But be of good cheer, God has the power and strength to overcome your disappointment. Take care for your physical and mental health for a quality life, but be sure to take care of your spiritual life. Elijah goes to Mount Sinai, possibly to the same cleft of the rock where Moses was when he saw God’s backside. This puts life and ministry in perspective. What doest thou here, Elijah? I have reserved 7,000 who have not bowed the knee to Baal. Seek your God, seek His grace, seek His glory, rest in Him and in His provision. Life by His Word not your own manufactured expectations and wants. God will send the encouragement, the right perspective and the reality of His constant presence and provision. You are not alone, there are more with you than be with them. What doest thou here? God has grace and purpose for you even here. Trust and walk with Him!

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Wash And Be Clean

3/30/17

~And his servants came near and spoke to him, and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do something great, would you not have done it? How much more then, when he says to you, ‘Wash, and be clean”?” II Kings 5:13

Dear Congregation,

        I know I have referenced this account often but as I came across it in my reading again recently, I cannot help but be struck by the perpetual relevance of it for the individual and for the church.

Here is Naaman, commander of the army of Syria. Naaman is a pagan and an outsider when it comes to knowing the truth of God. However, Naaman is a leper and has a desperate need. We can imagine that at this point He has probably tried everything that has been available to him to cure his disease. All effort and trial to no avail. He is now desperate enough to seek the spiritual. His own fictional gods cannot help him, but he has heard about the great and mighty power of the God of Israel. Perhaps there is something to the stories and testimonies of divine grace. Eventually word reaches the prophet Elishah that Naaman is seeking to be healed. The cure is to dunk in the dirty muddy unimpressive river Jordan seven times. Naaman scoffs. He is too good for something so simple. There are better rivers at home, why should he subject himself to such folly? Yet the verse written above convicts him, he obeys, and is healed by the grace and power of God.

            Naaman reflects the attitude of all humanity through all ages and contexts. Men and women perform great acts and great feats of strength to try to find God or achieve forgiveness. When confronted with the simple Gospel of repentance and faith through grace, many are turned away by its simplicity and lack of merit. Yet it is that foolishness, that simplicity, that total dependence on God that alone has the power to make one right with Him. As leprosy was symbolic of sin and the dirty water of the Jordan healed it, so the blood of Christ heals our sin. This is something that makes no earthly sense, yet is true by divine power and action. Praise God for the given faith in simple dependence on His power through an offensive act.

            The Church as a whole could learn from this too when it considers ministry and outreach. If the prophet had told Naaman something great would he not have done it? So it is that the church is always looking for some great big show of force or service. Many such things are never prescribed or counseled in the Word of God. We scoff at the appearance of inaction in worship, preaching, prayer, singing, personal witness. Yet these are the means of grace God has given, wash and be clean. Let us find joy in God’s simplicity and in humble and total rest on His power to work and provide for the church and those who are truly seeking him. For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. II Corinthians 1:18

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Encouragement in The Lord

3/23/17

“Now David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” I Samuel 30:6

Dear Congregation,

            The above verse describes the situation after which the Amalekites destroy Ziklag and take all the women captive including David’s wives. We can imagine that the situation is by nature a hard blow to David and that he feels somewhat responsible for not being able to do more to help in the situation. However, the situation is made even more oppressive in that the population also blames David and wants to stone him. Here we see a circumstance that demonstrates why David was a man after God’s own heart. Much is said of David’s weakness and sin but this highlights his God given strength and devotion.

            Many who are faced with difficulty from within and from without, retreat from it. When circumstances are outside our control, the temptation is to block out reality in some way either by distraction, or substance, or escape. Inward blame or outward blame handicap us to real help and growth. Some become severely depressed, some cannot live with the pressures put upon them. The Christian who is rooted in genuine faith and in knowledge of the Word of God knows that there is a power that is above and beyond all difficulty. Though all the world be against him or her, there remains the fact that God will never leave or forsake. David strengthened himself in the Lord His God. That was the cure, that was the safety, and that was the absolute sure way to cope. Our problems are small when compared to the power and greatness of God. David seeks the means of Grace and worships. He prays, he remembers God’s words, and he communes with his heavenly father. How many of our difficulties and stresses would be so much lighter if we let go of our ownership of them and gave them over to God.

            In like manner the people of Ziklag show us another side of grief to avoid. They are looking to blame someone for the catastrophe and their blame falls upon David. The Amalekites have gone and cannot be punished. Someone should pay, why not David? Such is the habit of people who do not bring their grief to the Lord. God gave, God took away, blessed be His name. Who have we to blame? Who else can provide any answer or comfort but the controller of all circumstances? We hate to be reminded that life is not about us and rather than strengthening ourselves in God we turn to bitterness and vengeance where that accomplishes nothing.

            May we always be like David in this circumstance, may we turn to the Lord and strengthen ourselves in him through worship, prayer, and Scripture. David does this when faced with the death of his son as well. Despite his faults, his ultimate priorities were often in the right place. We are not our own and we are here to glorify God and enjoy Him. Rather than retreat, mope, rage, or fear may we turn to our best friend and only advocate and strengthen ourselves in Him. His ways our not our ways, but we know that He will never leave us nor forsake us.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

     

Not One Good Thing Failed

3/16/17

“Behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth. And you know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one thing has failed of all the good things which the Lord your God spoke concerning you. All have come to pass for you, not one word of them has failed.” Joshua 23:14

Dear Congregation,

       As part of Joshua’s final message to Israel before His death, he reminds God’s people of the faithfulness of their covenantal Lord. They can look back upon the years since they came out of Egypt and see numerous instances where they messed up and where their sin caused havoc in the camp. However, they cannot say that God was not faithful or that God was not just, or that he ever went back on His promises. Joshua can say with confidence that not one thing has failed of all the good things God said. And yet the context shows a warning that the people will forget God’s goodness and turn to things that will cause more pain. We marvel at such an obstinate people with such a short term memory and yet this pattern has largely remained true with the Church through the ages.

            God is the source of all good. All blessing flows from God alone. Why do we seek it or settle for it in imitation from other sources? There are so many differing reasons and many are unique to the individual. One reason no doubt is perspective. Everything we are accustomed to naturally is material and physical. While we all know none of this lasts and we all know that our lives are very short in God’s sight, and we all know that what God has for us materially and spiritually is far greater than what earth can provide. We are always faced with the temporary comfort of the now. Israel faced this too. It did not matter that they ate yesterday and were going to eat tomorrow, what about now? A person can remember answered prayer in the past and praise God but if answered prayer is not given now we start to get anxious and leave God’s direction. We look for other sources of good which prove phony and we learn that the hard way as Israel did and would.

            I charge you to remember God’s promise and faithfulness. To remember who He is, what He has given you in Christ, and what you have yet to receive in Christ. Do not be distracted by the temporary allure of the immediate idolatrous now. Remember the Lord whose word has not failed, whose salvation has not failed, whose blessing has not failed and whose goodness can never and will never fail. Remember that all the promises of God in Christ are yes and amen. You may not feel them now but that is not lack of anything on God’s behalf. His blessing is eternal. Praise God from whom all blessing and goodness flows!

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Because The Lord Loved You

3/10/17

“The Lord did not set his love upon you, nor choose you because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: But because the Lord loved you….” Deuteronomy 7:7-8(a)

Dear Congregation,

       This is such a beautiful reminder of the grace of God. There is nothing that we have in ourselves that makes us God’s people. He loved us, we do not know why, and therefore he chose us. When you struggle to feel loved, accepted, or known, remember this verse and remember God’s free grace. Our Lord is one who glorifies Himself in the simple things, the small groups, and the weak and humble people. God loved us and gave himself for us and to us.

Another aspect of this that is brought out to me is how God looks at and views those who are in Him and are saved. He does not see our sin anymore and he does not identify us with our faults and problems. Think of the Biblical examples of how God sees His own weak people in the long run. The Lord did not cast off Peter for his denial but shows him mercy and restoration. James 5:11 tells us to remember the patience of Job. There are plenty of negative things that could be remembered about Job, but God directs us to his given grace. In Hebrews 11 Rahab is remembered for her faith, not her vocation or her lie to the soldiers. In I Peter 3:6, Sarah is remembered for her faithfulness to Abraham, not her scoffing at God. Hebrews 11 as a whole marks and remembers flawed people for Grace and faith given, not their sins. Take comfort in your status before God as justified. Do not cower in fear about the judgment seat of Christ. Your account will be for how you used what God gave you not for your sins. Despite your weakness, sin, insecurity, and mistakes, God has redeemed you and made you his own. Where sin abounded, Grace did much more abound! This is true for me, for you, for Grace Community Church, and for all who are safe in Christ Jesus. Praise His name!

In Christ,

Pastor Basile 

The Shout of a King

3/2/17

“He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath he seen perverseness in Israel: The Lord his God is with him, and the shout of a king is among them.” Numbers 23:21

Dear Congregation,

       If you remember the context of the above verse, the false prophet Balaam cannot curse the people of God, he blesses them despite himself. Let’s remember that God’s wrath can never be poured out on a believer. All of God’s wrath was taken and dealt with by Christ on the cross for all who have their faith in Him. There is no evil, nor sin, nor curse that can have eternal effect on your soul. This comes as great solace when faced with fear or guilt. It is finished, and we cannot fear what man will do to us. Be encouraged by this truth!

            In addition just as the shout of a king was among God’s people in the book of Numbers, that same divine presence is with us today. It is true that we are never alone. It is true that we are the temple of the living God. It is true that even through the valley of the shadow of death, He is with us. We must remember this when we gather together for prayer and certainly when we gather together for worship. The shout of a king is among us! That presence is the power that is effective in sanctifying us and building us up. That presence is the power that is effective in attracting and reaching the lost. Do not be discouraged by the appearance of a smaller church. Do not think that a more entertaining service will be a more missional service. We are called to trust and obey, to love what the Lord has told us and given us. We are to let our light shine among people in simplicity and truth. God tells us to go, teach, and make disciples. Relationships are how the Gospel spreads. God will give the increase. I love Grace Community Church for what it is, as God loves us unconditionally just as we are. There is nothing in ourselves that can make us great. There is nothing we can do that can make us great. We are great because the shout of a king is among us. We are great because we have the Lord Jesus Christ and His Word. Let us love, honor, obey, and glorify Him in humble gratitude for what He has given us and in submission to what He has told us.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Blood

2/23/17

“For the life of the flesh is in the blood,…” Leviticus 17:11

Dear Congregation,

       The above verse is one of if not the most remembered of all that is in the Book of Leviticus. Leviticus is one of if not the most skipped book of all the Bible. Yet even here amongst the appearance of tedious ceremonial and judicial laws, God presents His Gospel and His moral character. It may not be plain and straightforward, but it is there. The discerning and attentive reader will find wonderful truth and application even among the instruction to the Jewish Church.

            The context here is familiar. The Lord God instructs concerning the sacrificial system. The understanding is conveyed that sin must be atoned for with blood. We understand this as a type, shadow, and rehearsal for the ultimate sacrifice of the Lord Jesus who shed His blood once for all and sat down in completion and finality at the right hand of the Father. That is significant and important and is the lens through which this passage must be read and understood.

            Yet there remains another layer that is worth noting here. The life of the flesh is in the blood. My medical knowledge is weak and scanty at best, but a good hematologist will be able to go on and on for hours about the importance, complexity, necessity, and amazing design of blood and its function in the human body. It is absolutely essential to life and the healthier the blood the healthier the person. I have always thought that if medieval, renaissance, and enlightenment doctors understood Leviticus better that the medical practice of blood letting would never have been practiced or praised. Blood is symbolic of and needed for life. This is why the shedding of blood by another is such a terrible crime. To take a life is to destroy something that is precious to the Creator. The Bible makes it plain that with the shedding of blood, established governments are to enact that upon the murderer. It displays the value and preciousness of life and the supreme gift of God that it is. In like manner, our sin against God as humanity deserves death. But by His mercy and grace, God provided substitution.

            Does blood run through your veins? Then consider the precious gift you have of life. Consider that God has put you here to glorify Him and has a special way for you to do that. Consider that your eternal life was so precious to Him that he gave his only begotten son to condescend to become flesh and blood to shed that blood in your behalf. The life of your flesh is in your blood, but the eternal life of spirit and flesh was in His blood. If you have been bought and paid for by that life giving blood then rejoice in your rest and be glad that you live forever in Him. Consider how great God’s creation and redemption is and rejoice that you have life!

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Walk With The King

2/15/17

“For the Lord is our judge; the Lord is our lawgiver; the Lord is our king; he will save us.” Isaiah 33:22

Dear Congregation,

        A few weeks ago, this verse was a brief end cap to my sermon on this chapter. However, it was pointed out to me that this one verse contains so much theological meat and strength, that more time should be devoted to it. You remember the context is the future righteous reign of Christ and His glorious kingdom. While the full earthly extent of this verse will be the reality in that day, it nevertheless is true now. That current relevant truth is something we should meditate on and rejoice over.

            First, the Lord is our judge. We have all heard it said in a flippant casual tone “only God can judge me” as if that exempts a person from any wrong doing or correction whatsoever. The person who truly understands himself and his God knows that if God were indeed to cast judgment it would be no pleasant circumstance. When human beings are judged on their own they are always found guilty. Who among us is so puffed up that he or she can boast of always being right. In that day, true justice will always be served. Corruption and false witness will have no place and only God’s perfect discernment will be brought to bear. Praise God that the Christian will never be judged by his or her own deeds! In Christ we are judged according to His perfect righteousness. Our name is graven on His hands and we are made innocent by the free grace of God!

The Lord is our lawgiver. This is always true. We are called to remember that there is no law without God’s law. God is eternally the only authority who can decree for all mankind regardless of culture, nation, or creed. All just law must be based on God’s law otherwise it comes from the authority of men and is therefore relative and adaptable to the whims of men and women. Though now there are immoral and unjust laws, though now evil is called good and good evil, in that day all will be consistent with the heavenly father’s righteousness and goodness. Praise God for Christ who kept God’s law perfectly so that we, who cannot, never had to! Praise God that the lawgiver sent a perfect spotless lamb as the atoning sacrifice for all who believe. Praise God that the Christian does not have to fear the lawgiver, but in Christ may find the law and its master a true friend and beloved father.

The Lord is our king; He will save us. If you know the Lord Jesus, He must be your king. Christianity is not fire insurance but a new life born from on high. It carries new perspectives, new loves, new ideals, new goals all under obedience to Christ. Praise God that you have a king who knows you intimately and loves you wholly! Praise God that you may count upon him to save you to the uttermost. There is no real threat that can ever defeat your king and likewise there is no real threat that can ever defeat you if you are in Him. To walk with your king is a blessed privilege and comfort. To know your salvation and be assured of it is beyond imagination. Take comfort from this verse and rejoice in your Savior. We, the people of God are precious in His sight. May His preciousness and Glory comfort us and carry us through all our days and trials. Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Thy Gentleness Hath Made Me Great

2/2/17

“Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.” Psalm 18:35

Dear Congregation,

       In this psalm, David praises God for His excellent provision. This verse stands out in highlighting three aspects of God’s provision. Those of us in Christ may also praise the Lord for His giving us these provisions in the same manner as David.

The first provision is the shield of salvation. Do not think of a wooden shield that can splinter, crack, or rot if external elements have their way with it. Think of an impenetrable shield made of an indestructible substance that is not known to mankind. Nothing can destroy the salvation that God has given you. You have it as a shield from sin, from shame, from guilt, from death, and from fear. God’s salvation and protection is total and guaranteed by the effectiveness and victory of the Lord Jesus Christ. Praise God!

            The second praiseworthy provision is that God’s right hand helps and holds you up. Do not underestimate the significance of God’s right hand. Remember that it was the words of God that created all of the universe but his right hand, his fighting hand, is put into action to hold you and help you. There is nothing that you go through as a child of God in which you are totally alone. There is no trial, no challenge, no sorrow, no temptation, neither happy occasions where God’s hand is not upon you to hold you and help you. You may doubt yourself, but do not doubt His right hand. If you feel weak, the power of God is mad more perfect and effective to act in your weakness. The unbeliever only has his or her own two hands and feet in which to act. You have the right hand of Almighty God. Praise his name!

            The last praiseworthy provision of this verse is perhaps most significant as it also fuels the other two. God’s gentleness has made you great. That is, His mercy, and His unearned favor. By Grace you have the shield of His Salvation and by Grace His right hand holds you up. But His grace has also made you great. You have been made a king and a priest unto God. You have been adopted into the family of the heavenly realm and are called a son or a daughter of the most high. This is all because of God’s love towards us, because of His gentleness. Though we were all born children of wrath, in Christ are we made free, clean, alive, and eternal. This is not the action of a fictional, angry, spiting, and hateful God. We who know his love know His gentleness as a vital to His being. All glory laud and honor to the Redeemer for His gentleness! What a wonderful salvation what a wonderful Gospel, what a wonderful Lord! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

A Better Country

1/26/17

“But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: Wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” Hebrews 11:16

Dear Congregation,

      I have seen so much division amongst Christians this past year and a half over mere politics that I have become quite frustrated with the daily chatter of events. It would seem that in the last week the division has intensified even more. When I make an argument for something, or take a stand, I want to make sure I have a firm foundation to stand on. I want to be sure I am right. To preach God’s Word is to have an authority beyond myself to point to. With politics, so much is unknown and untested. So much is distorted, neglected, or glossed over that I never can quite discern where the truth is or where the right is. I like to think that moral issues are clear if they come directly from the Word of God but even here politics has a way of tainting them with worldly distortion.

            In my frustration I turn to the Scriptures for direction and answers with politics. In them I find precious little instruction. I see Apostles concerned with individuals rather than nations and empires. I see people going out to teach, disciple, and baptize one soul at a time. I never see Paul, James, Timothy, John, or Peter lobbying the Roman Senate. I never see the Church of Corinth or Ephesus organizing political marches or passing around petitions for new laws. In fact I see a church so separate from the state that they truly are only rendering unto Ceasar what is his and focusing on God and His power to rule and transform. I see a church that appreciates the power in its own political weakness. It may sound like I am advocating a separatist withdrawal, but I am not. I am merely stating that Christianity was never meant to be a political force. It never has and never will work well as one. It became that when it was adopted by Rome in the 4^th century and we have seen the trouble that caused. We desire a better country, an heavenly. That country does not allow for political division as we understand that politics will not solve problems, Christ will!

            He has prepared for us a city. With knowledge of that, how can we get so bogged down in minute by minute talking heads? How can we become frustrated with our brothers and sisters who disagree over money matters? We are called to better and bigger things. We are called to a heavenly purpose with heavenly work and otherworldly goals. The church does not influence through law making and petition, the church influences one individual or family at a time. We are salt and light by acting differently from the world; loving our neighbor, leading, discipling, and teaching all nations in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. For governments pass away, but Christ is with us even unto the end of the world, Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Demas Hath Forsaken Me

1/19/17

“For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica…” II Timothy 4:10

Dear Congregation,

      This verse has always stabbed at me in a particularly aggressive way. Here is the Apostle Paul, dwelling in a most miserable prison, awaiting his death. When he considers his friends and loved ones, those who have supported him over the years, he must also think of those who have forsaken him. Demas, mentioned elsewhere in good report, has now left. But he did not leave for other business, or other ministry, or even because he no longer liked Paul. He left because he loved this world. Why shouldn’t he? Paul was in prison and about to die, other Christians had gained nothing from their faith. Demas may have found that the Gospel was not making him any friends. Perhaps his children were also mocked and lonely? Ministry with the Apostle just became too sad of an existence and too great of a burden. So he left Paul in prison and went and did his own thing.

            I have often thought about what Demas’s side of the story would have been. I can imagine that he would have still professed faith in Christ. Perhaps he still worshiped with a group of professed believers on Sunday. He may have said that he did not abandon his faith, just the strict and narrow lifestyle of Paul. Perhaps Paul’s philosophy was just too rigid for him and he wanted to please more of the Roman and Greek public. I can imagine that Demas surrounded himself with people who claimed Christianity, but never wanted to offend those who did not. He loved this world and he wanted to have all that this world offered socially. So he left the Apostle and his narrowness.

            I fear we are all this illustration of Demas at heart. We all love this world too much. It is so full of sensory appeal. Its gratification can be so immediate. When in worship on Sunday, I fear we think about this world and what we are going to do next. When in prayer, I fear we think about this world and its requirements. When reading the Scriptures I fear we want it to end so we can get back to “reality”. Worst of all, when faithfulness to the whole Word of God causes us to loose out on a life experience, a relationship, or money, I fear that we like Demas may forsake the truth. Take note of this man Demas. He is recorded in the Scriptures as a warning. His end was perhaps worse than we know. Though he gained temporary comfort, experience, and favor, he lost his soul. What can a person give in exchange for his soul? Therefore beloved, endure harness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ, finish the course, keep the faith, keep the devil angry, hold the fort.

In Christ,

Pastor Basile

Prayers of The Saints

1/12/17

“ And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of the saints.” Revelation 5:8

Dear Congregation,

       So much of the Book of The Revelation is written with descriptive and often figurative imagery. Yet that imagery is not to be dismissed or ignored due to its complexity or abstraction. Some of it even in its figurative nature gives us a clearer glimpse at God and His covenant with His people than straight doctrine. Such is the above verse. Do not miss the vivid image of how the prayers of the saints are described. Golden vials full of odors, or incense. Do you ever stop to think about your prayers? We know from other passages in Scripture that God hears them all and that he delights in them. Here we are told that they even take on a form of sweet smelling incense.

            Protestants generally do not use incense in worship as we are not told to and it has potential to become a ritualistic idol. However, consider incense in the context of the first century. No deodorant, limited soap, all people dependent on a surrounding of farm life and animals of some sort. Incense of any sort could be the best smell one could come into contact with. That description is what the prayers of the saints are like. Personally, I am not one for incense, so if you are like me, think of the smell of your favorite food coking or your favorite desert baking. Your prayers rise to God with that pleasing aroma out of golden bowls.

            So many of us want to serve and please the Lord but are often discouraged at either a lack of opportunity, lack of ability, or sheer intimidation of the undertaking. Never neglect prayer as a ministry or as a means to serve and please God. The world and indeed our own nature is prone to scoff at prayer as a waste. Not your Lord! Prayer is more powerful, more effective, and more pleasing to God than perhaps all the physical labor you could do on a two week mission trip and more. I can say that because of how much commendation the Scriptures give prayer. Grace Community Church often belittles itself because of few physical ministries. I call us to devote ourselves even more strongly to prayer as a ministry. That ministry has the potential to be one of the best and most pleasing to God. God saves souls, God causes conviction of sin, God brings people to church, God opens doors for physical service. Lets pray to Him! As we are not in the business of pleasing people, let us please God and daily send up the best aroma in faith with the most powerful ministry we can have. The prayers of the saints!

In Christ,

Pastor Basile