What is relevant worship?

If we look at churches that are experiencing growth – one of the qualities is that people attend because they find the worship relevant (2). If I made an open survey and asked people what relevant worship is, I am sure that I would get a wide range of answers. I suppose that age, cultural background, expectations, relationships, balance between being a receiver and a contributor will be some of the factors that would influence the response.

I believe it is important to plan worship with all these factors in mind. However, we should never forget the words of Jesus:

“God is spirit, and the people who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
John 4:24

I live in a culture that is different from where I grew up. In many ways I am not culturally relevant at all. I cannot pretend to be Moldovan, Georgian or from any other culture that differs from my own. But I can be authentic and true in my worship. I can make efforts to build relationship with people I meet and I can pray that the love of Jesus will flow through me. What I can do, is to encourage people of other cultures to be authentic and true in their worship and find expressions that relates to people of their own age-group and culture.

Some years ago I had contact with people from a church with mainly young people clothed in black leather, multiple piercings and chains. I couldn’t relate to their style, but I was at home in their passion.

For several years I was involved in a huge Christian Sport Network in Norway. What they had in common was that they were young, active in sports and had a Christian faith. For more than a decade they called the same retired ‘old’ pastor (1) as one of the main speakers to a summer-camp that gather many hundred young people. The reason: The pastor was authentic, true and full of passion in his communication. He was a bringer of life.

‘Manna’ for today:

Authenticity, love and life are relevant in all cultures.

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(1) Edin Løvås (1920-2014) always relevant because of authenticity, love and life!

(2) General Brian Peddle's 'Call to Mission' NOW includes: 

A CALL TO WORSHIP: We should celebrate God’s redeeming love through our worship, seeking culturally-relevant ways to join together in praise and thanks, as we reach out to and welcome people.

Did care influence God’s ‘Now’?

When I was a cadet in the “Overcomers Session” 1974-76 in London, the campaign “For God’s sake CARE” had still a strong focus in the profiling of The Salvation Army. 

In 2019, almost 45 years later The Salvation Army in Romania is celebrating 20 years of ministry. They have chosen “Love and Care” to describe what our mission is all about.

I believe love and care will influence God’s ‘Now’, and again I turn to the gospel of John for Biblical support.

Five people who loved Jesus dearly did not abandon him in his darkest hour. Among the five were Mary and John. The little group cared all the way to the foot of the cross. When Jesus saw them standing there, I am sure he cared for all five of them as he cares for all mankind. However, in the last struggle of his life he exemplified what care is all about when he turned to his mother and to John and asked them to care for one another as mother and son.

I am convinced that receiving care and giving care influenced God’s most important ‘Now’ in all eternity = Jesus’ exclamation:

“It is finished.”
John 19:30

In Norwegian we have one word for ‘finished’ that translates “it is brought to full completion” or “it is fulfilled”. Mutual love and care brought the mission to its fulfilment. Life cannot exist without love and care. I can’t care if I am not able to accept care, and I can’t love if I am not able to accept love. When love and care is released, we see God’s ‘Now’ come true and make the fulfilment of the total mission come closer.

‘Manna’ for today:

For God’s Sake, CARE!

Did Mary influence God’s ‘NOW’?

I ask this question in the context of the call to be ‘battle-ready’ NOW (1). There is no doubt that Mary played an important role as the one who gave birth to the Son of God. Her readiness to do so, made her a vital participant in God’s NOW. However, today I will focus on her role in the first miracle of Jesus.

This took place at the wedding in Cana. When Mary heard the embarrassing news that the host was running out of wine before the wedding-reception was over, she brought the matter to her son. And in a somewhat abrupt way Jesus dismissed her by saying:

“Woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.”
John 2:4

When Jesus said: “My hour has not yet come” – it tells me that he was still waiting for his Father’s ‘NOW’. So what made Jesus change his mind?

I believe it was Mary – not by addressing the issue once again to Jesus, but by saying to the servants: “Do whatever he tells you.”

Mary had not seen Jesus do any miracles, but she had kept many words she had heard about him in her heart. She believed in him, and she showed it in action and in words. Such a faith touches a son's heart. As Mary in faith, gave physical birth to Jesus, in the same way her faith and love gave birth to the mission he had come to fulfil.

I believe that faith and love still touches the Son’s heart.

‘Manna’ for today:

Faith and love can turn ‘NOW’ into God’s right moment.

I will follow up with more thoughts on how we can influence God’s ‘NOW’ in the next blogs. (2)
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(1) See: 'Do you know what prayer is?'

(2) See: “Now is the time”
NB - this reflection is linked to General Brian Peddle's "Call to Mission - NOW"

Vitamins for a healthy walk

The phrase “less is more” fits well in several settings. A vicar in the Norwegian church visited Jeløy Folkhighschool (1) when I was a teacher there almost 30 years ago. Addressing a large group of teenage students, he first shared some brief thoughts on how important it is to be gentle and kind to one another. Then he rushed to close with an even briefer prayer:

Dear Lord - If you still perform miracles, please make us kind! Amen

…and then he left the auditorium. I will always remember the effect of this simple, short prayer.

I think all human beings like when people are gentle and kind; so why then is it so difficult? 

Is it because it takes a miracle from God?

The qualities are on Paul’s list of attributes found in Christ which will make our walk on earth worthy the calling we have received:

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Eph 4:2

So simple, yet so difficult that it takes a miracle. I know that it takes a miracle, because I tried for several years to perform as outlined, and it did not work! So I gave up and stopped pretending and discovered that God has already performed the miracle. He has made the impossible possible in Christ. Like Paul, I wish I did not do things I do not want to do (2); however, there is still no condemnation in Christ (3) – because in and from Him there flows a stream of constant new life that comes with his gentleness and overbearing love.

‘Manna’ for today:

Thank you Lord - for the miracle!

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(1) Jeløy Folkhighschool is owned and run by The Salvation Army in Norway
(2) Rom 7:19
(3) Rom 8:1

Go for ‘the gifts’ in an excellent way!

The fourth important factor influencing movement (1), is the spiritual gifts. We can read about how the disciples used such gifts, and Paul teaches about the gifts of the Spirit in several of his letters. When he wrote to the Corinthians, he expressed how he thanked God for them because of the grace he had given them in Jesus, and then he continued:

For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge - God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.
1 Cor 1:5-7

When I read the whole letter, it quickly becomes clear that even if they did not lack any spiritual gift, they were far from perfect. This is sad, and at the same time a comfort. Spiritual gifts are not something you receive because of long and faithful service and holy living. I have met people who have become proud of their spirituality when they become aware their spiritual gift. In fact, they are gifts given by grace for people to honour God with them, and not bring attention to themselves.

From Acts we know that the gifts cannot be bought (2), however, Paul encourages us in this way:

Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.
And yet I will show you the most excellent way.
1 Cor 12:31

When Paul places the gifts subordinate to the most excellent way, he places them where all ministry belongs. The most excellent way is the way described in the 13 chapter – the way of love.

If I operate with spiritual gifts without love, it will be power out of control. God’s love is stronger than any destructive force. Human intentions may be the very best, but if they are not driven by God’s love it will in best case scenario lead to nothing. Abuse of spiritual power, is as evil as any power abuse. That is why God also respect free will of every human being. It is important for me to make these statements, because I will continue to write on this subject for some time.

‘Manna’ for today

Go for ‘the gifts’ in an excellent way!

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(1) These four ‘internal’ factors are:
1) Passion, 2) Personality 3) Talents and 4) Spiritual gifts
(2) The story about Simon the Sorcerer Acts 8:9-24

New dimensions in my identity

Last week I wrote that the believers on the Day of Pentecost received a new identity. I am not walking away from this statement, but more precisely, I believe that they were restored in the original image of God, in which Adam and Eve were created. When they had their firstborn, he was born ‘in the image of Adam’ after the fall (1).

In the story about what happened in the ‘third move’, I read that after a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting:

“They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them”
Acts 2:3

It is very easy to focus on the fire in this story, and I believe that the fire is important. However, in an identity perspective, I believe the tongue, as in language, is equally crucial. I am not referring to the ‘physical act’ of speaking in tongues (2), but in the unique language of love that binds believers together across language-barriers and geographical borders.

When my identity in Christ includes this language, the momentum will never stop, because love moves me on. This ‘drive’ is not a duty but a response. I love because I am loved by an even greater love - God himself (3). Paul phrases it like this:

For Christ’s love compels us.
2 Cor 5:14

‘Manna’ for today:

When love is strong, I move in response!

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(1) When Adam had lived 130 years, he had a son in his own likeness, in his own image; and he named him Seth. Genesis 5:3
(2) To speak in tongues, as in speaking an existing or angelic language, may come as a consequence; however, it is not a goal in itself. Personally I frequently speak in tongues when I pray. It is my spirit speaking with God’s Spirit in love.
(3) God is love. 1 John 4:8b

It's hard to say goodbye

NORSK

A few days ago, we said goodbye to Rodney and Wendy (Walters). We have been working closely with them for the last 30 months and the love that unites, is the same love that now separates us.

This made me think of the farewell meeting Paul had with the local leadership of the church in Ephesus. The report from their gathering at the beach is a moving story, and the time of departure is described as follows:

“After we had torn ourselves away from them…”
Acts 21:1

This brief statement has been important to me for many years. It describes at least two important aspects of being followers of Jesus:

1. The unique love that binds us
2. The importance of spreading this love

I have asked myself if there is a contradiction in Paul’s statement:

Christ's love compels us
2 Cor 5:14

However, since I am living in this love, I can testify that it is true for me too. Therefore, breaking up and saying goodbye to be able to spread love is not an imposed burden laid upon me or any other follower of Christ. It is a ‘compulsion’ that comes from the source of life, analogue to the fact that I ‘have to’ breath to survive. This time, Magna and I remain where we live physically, while Rodney and Wendy move on – this time with base in Singapore. We know that they will spread the love where they come and we know that people will know it and receive it.

Later this afternoon we will take part in in the farewell meeting for Leanne and Drew (Ruthven). Over the last couple of years, we have been able to work and minister with them in Romania and to be together with them has enriched our lives. We are not looking forward to saying goodbye, however, as with Rodney and Wendy, we accept Leanne and Drew’s readiness to be lead by the love that comes from the life-maker, and to spread it wherever they go. That is what keeps the momentum of our mission.

‘Manna’ for today:

Love is a prerequisite for momentum

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What is a disciple's calling? - a time for everything *

NORSK
The conversation Jesus had with Peter at the Sea of Galilee gives a clear answer to what a disciple's calling is.

Jesus' question to Peter sets the foundation for the calling: “Do you love me?” (1). If the answer is “Yes”, John made it clear that the confession has consequences:

Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.
1 John 4:20

To love God and my neighbour is the very root of the calling. If love is not present in my life, whatever I do will be without fruit. If the love is there, the calling is summed up in Jesus' invitation to Peter. An important reminder to give to the one chosen to be the leader of the flock after Jesus had ascended to heaven:

“Follow me!”
John 21:22b

‘Manna’ for today:

In love, I will follow Jesus

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(1) John 21:15
* 'A time for everything' is connected with the Bible's teaching about a 'season for every activity' Eccl 3 This series is about the teaching in the time between Easter and Pentecost

Bring what you have – a time for everything *

NORSK
I have 'drifted' a bit back and forth in the Biblical texts covering the period between Easter and Pentecost. There has been a plan behind it, at least some idea about where I want to go. Today, I revert to the Sea of Galilee.

When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” John 21:9-10

I do not think it is a coincidence that the disciples saw both fish and bread on the burning coals, and I am convinced that they immediately thought of the two previous experiences where some fishes and pieces of bread were used to feed thousands of people. I guess that the amount of food already on the coals was enough for seven disciples and Jesus, and if not, I believe Jesus could have blessed it so that it became sufficient. Yet - he chose different strategy. The disciples had caught fish themselves, they had something they could contribute with to the fellowship meal. Jesus wanted to include them by using their contribution.

"Bring with what you have" is a principle in the Kingdom of God.
It means that I am included, and whatever I contribute with can be a blessing for both myself and others. The Bible is full of stories of people who brought what what they had. Through my life I have met many people who brought just what Jesus needed. It can be anything from a broken life to special talents. Perhaps I will write another book entitled 'They brought what they had' sometimes in the future? Nevertheless, I am grateful for those who brought themselves and contributed with what they had. Jesus will use whatever he receives. The disciples learned this before Jesus ascended to heaven.

‘Manna’ for today:

Thank you for allowing me to bring what I have!

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(1) Gaute loved to bring flowers when he was small - maybe that was because mom loved everything the boy brought her? If we are created in God's image, why should God be different when his children bring him what they have?
* 'A time for everything' is connected with the Bible's teaching about a 'season for every activity' Eccl 3 This series is about the teaching in the time between Easter and Pentecost

The small signs - a time for everything *

NORSK
The picture in yesterday's reflection (see below) was taken while I was speaking in Ialoveni last Sunday. The outstretched arms illustrate Jesus' hands nailed to the cross as a sign that God embraces the whole world in an expression of love.

That is how I also think he came to earth: As a little child with outstretched hands. The Christmas story tells us that Mary "wrapped him" (1) just after he was born. In Eastern Europe, we still see babies being wrapped, and then his hands are not visible. The expression of the embracing God is hidden.

It is strange that one of the worst examples of evil, crucifixion, stretched out the arms of Jesus to a wide embrace, which transforms the cross to a symbol of ultimate love.

After Jesus 'death, I read that Joseph from Arimatea took down the body of Jesus, “wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb” (2). In other words, the symbol of God embracing the world was once again hidden by people who would only do the best.
 
I think that's why it was important that Jesus when he rose from the grave the left linen behind (3). It wasn’t just a sign that Jesus has risen and death was defeated, but also a sign that no power any longer has power to conceal God's extended love for the world. However, often with good intention, people are able to scourge the gospel in a way that people do not see the open embrace of love. Perhaps because we often meet expectations rather than love. Love must always come before expectations of response. If not, it's not love.

‘Manna’ for today:

Thank God, for all the little signs of your love.

-------------------------------------------------- ----
(1) See Luke 2:7
(2) See Luke 23:53
(3) See Luke 24:12 
* 'A time for everything' is connected with the Bible's teaching about a 'season for every activity' Eccl 3 This series is about the teaching in the ime between Easter and Pentecost

Hope for those doubting! - a time for everything *

NORSK
Yesterday I read how Tomas had challenged the absent Jesus in front of his friends. Eight days later, the challenge came back to Tomas in the presence of the same group:

Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
John 20:27

I think I would had felt some embarrassment if it had happened to me. However, at the same time I would have been happy:
“Jesus heard me in spite of my disbelief!”
It is also a confirmation of the fact that Jesus cares about the individual. A personal meeting took place in the middle of the crowd. He saw “me”!
 
Perhaps the experience of being seen by him is more important than seeing “him”?

This 'thought' must not be interpreted as though I am opposed to seeking the presence of the Lord to 'see' him. It is important for me and all who believe to do so. Nonetheless, seeing him must have a consequence. It was the lack of obvious consequences of their faith that made Tomas doubt the disciples’ testimony about the risen Jesus (1).

May be John included the story of Tomas to show that it was not only John himself who felt that he was “the disciple Jesus loved” or the “disciple Jesus saw” – Thomas must have felt that way too. And that is how it should be - particularly for those who struggle to believe. Jesus loves them just as much as they who feel affirmed in their faith.

‘Manna’ for today:

Jesus loves all who are honest - also with regard to doubting and believing.

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(1) See: “Think afresh? A time for everything”
* 'A time for everything' is connected with the Bible's teaching about a 'season for every activity' Eccl 3 This series is about the teaching in the time between Easter and Pentecost.

Knowing what magnanimity is - a step on the journey

NORSK
In Norwegian we have a very nice word describing generosity taken a step further. I have tried to find it in the other Scandinavian languages, but struggle to find an equivalent. To be magnanimous, is as close I get in English. It covers to do generous act which is not expected and which I do not have to do. I choose to do it motivated be a desire to please or help others. Peter learned this lesson on the journey up to Jerusalem. Tax-collectors came from the temple about asked Peter if his ‘Master’ paid tax to the temple. Peter confirmed that Jesus did, and Matthew continues in this way:

When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. “What do you think, Simon?” he asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own children or from others?” “From others,” Peter answered. “Then the children are exempt,” Jesus said to him.
Matt 17:25-26

The conclusion is that both Jesus and the disciples (his children) are exempt from paying. Nevertheless, Jesus wanted to pay the temple tax with the following justification “…so that we may not cause offense.” v 27a (1).

The attitude of magnanimity and generosity to please rather than to offend others, is a virtue that have been held in high esteem among the Christians down through the centuries. And I agree with them who consider it to be part of God's DNA. 
In his letter to the Romans, Paul used two full chapters on this challenge (2).

I'll pick a verse from these writings to describe this magnanimity, and use it as my

‘Manna’ for today:

“Love does no harm to a neighbour. Therefore love is the fulfilment of the law.” (3)

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(1) See yesterday's reflection
(2) Rom 13 About Submission to Governing Authorities and Rom 14 About the weak and the strong
(3) Rom 13:10

Knowing what authority is - a step on the journey

NORSK

The abuse of authority has done much damage in many churches. When the Salvation Army draws attention to accountability on all levels, the abuse of power is one of the areas where a framework is put in place for reducing the possibility of abuse to happen. However, an authority that springs from a love of God and people can fortunately be used for the purpose of something good and constructive:

“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
Matt 16:19

Peter had seen Jesus use authority in the best manner. He bound the evil forces and set free those who were bound by them. Jesus often spoke about power, and the power that was given to him:

For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.
John 17:2

I think it is this authority Jesus conveys to Peter. When I was interviewed for the article "Prayer of salvation" which will be published in Krigsropet # 18, Marit Dehli quotes me in this way:

When he prays the prayer of salvation with a seeker, he confirms for the person what has happened:
- “When you now have prayed, you have become a child of God. You are a disciple of Jesus”, I say. “The most important confirmation is the inner certainty that the Holy Spirit gives. This affirmation can come instantly or as a sunrise”.

Being able to provide such confirmations is an integral part of the authority that Jesus gives to his disciples. I want to use this kind of spiritual authority to build people up.

Today 'manna'

Spiritual authority is given for the purpose of affirmation

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“When my spirit grows faint”

NORSK
Psalm 142 was yesterday’s text on our ‘Bible Reading Plan’. David wrote his psalms and prayers under all kinds of circumstances. This particular prayer was written when he fled Saul’s persecution and hid in a cave. He had all reasons to be depressed and to lose heart, but he wrote:

When my spirit grows faint within me,
it is you who watch over my way.
Psalm 142:3

It is a strong testimony of trust in the midst of hostility.
May be Timothy found himself in a similar situation when Paul wrote:

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
2 Tim 1:7 

David was young when he was in the cave. Timothy was young when he was left with the responsibility for the church at Ephesus. Both of them carried the blessing and the burden of a calling and anointing on their lives, as do all disciples of Jesus Christ at all times.

Therefore, I need to be reminded about the fact that God:

• watches over my way
• gives power, love and self-discipline

With regard to the study of Paul’s mentoring of Timothy, I have already focused on both love (1) and self-discipline (2), but tomorrow I will look closer at power.

‘Manna’ for today:

God watches over my way!

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(1) See e.g. “The goal of the mission defined” and “A smile on the arena of love”
(2) See e.g. “Godless myths” and “It is about lifestyle”

A smile on the arena of love

NORSK
It is one year ago today, since Magna and I were on the arena of terror in Istanbul. My first desire was to communicate a message of love, and God immediately gave me opportunities to do so during the following hours.

My first entry on the blog after the incident expressed the same: ‘I have to speak about love’ – and since then the opportunities to focus on God's love have lined up like a queue.

However, to speak and write about love does neither make me or other people to an example in the way Paul referred to:

“…set an example … in love…”
1 Tim 4:12

I do not think that the order Paul gave the arenas is a coincident

1. speech
2. conduct
3. love.

I not be surprised if the order illustrates a spiritual development. Anyway, I am convinced that if my words and my conduct are to be experienced as a greeting from God by people I meet, it is essential that they are driven by love.

Although Paul in the famous “chapter of love” confessed that his understanding was very limited, at least he understood that love is the most important ingredient in Christian life and living (2).

The role model above all role models, Jesus, said:

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
John 15:13

After this statement there is no need for additional comments.

‘Manna’ for today:

Without love, role models become idols who love to be worshiped

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(1) Occasionally God’s love can be manifested in an unexpected “smile”
(2) 1 Cor 13

When "everything else" all of a sudden becomes important

NORSK
... We are often reminded of the evil in the world, and with the attacks on ‘evacuation-buses’ in Aleppo, the murder of the Russian ambassador in Turkey and the IS-attack on a Christmas market in Berlin, it is confirmed that evil is not defeated.

That makes "everything else" important. Exhortations to pray for all people and those in leadership positions in particular, seems to be the best we can do (1), and several of Paul’s other exhortations may be useful to recall when the world is so dark that it threatens to hide the light.

Here is a small excerpt:

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves… Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse… Do not repay anyone evil for evil… If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12: 9-21

This has its roots in the most important: In God, who is love. This love became man and was tested in "everything else" like us, but love prevailed. I need to be reminded about this fact on the dark days. It gives light, and it gives hope.

And amidst all the evil, I constantly see kindness expressed around me. Some call the goodness “tyranny”. If it is correct, I wish for more tyranny, yes, I will gladly fight for this kind of tyranny until good has overcome evil.

'Manna' for today: 

Love will triumph!

PS tomorrow it is about leadership in the church.
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(1) See: “Instructions on prayer”

The goal of the mission defined

NORSK
It is interesting that Paul so clearly defines the goal of the mission that was entrusted to Timothy:

The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
1 Tim 1:5

Again love is at the centre, and now love is defined as the goal of the mission. When I was reflecting on this definition yesterday, my first reaction was that it makes the mission too narrow, but it did not take long before I was convinced that this is 100% true - and I like it.

Why is love the goal of the Christian mission?

Because God is love. He is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. The mission I have received is all about spreading the gospel of Him who is love, and how it is revealed through him who became part of what he had created, and in fact, still is.

It is also interesting that how the love is lived out by the person who has been entrusted the mission, is part of the goal of the mission. Love has to come from:

• a pure heart

Heart is synonymous with the human spirit. That is where the Holy Spirit dwells when a person receives salvation in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is pure, and when he fills the "dwelling", the dwelling becomes clean as well. This means: To reach the goal, God himself has to be the source of the mission.

• a good conscience

The title “Journey of Renewal” on this series of reflections, is borrowed from the Salvation Army's Accountability movement. On this journey "transparency" is an important goal. A good conscience has nothing to hide. There is no ulterior motive in God's love. Nor should there be any such motives for a person who has God’s love as the goal of his mission.

• a sincere faith

I cannot pretend to believe. In my everyday life, sincere faith is interpreted to mean obedience to what God asks me to do, not because I am forced to, but out of love. Thus the circle is complete: God's kingdom is about faith, and the goal is love.

‘Manna' for today:

The goal of the mission is love

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It is about an important confession

NORSK
If it is correct that the holiness and fruit are captured in one word: Love, why should it be important with confession?

This is an important question for me, primarily because I will much rather have life than doctrine. At the same time the spreading of spiritual life depends on the fact that I know something about how the spiritual matters are connected. I believe that is the background for John’s statement:

“By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God”
1 John 4:2

Why was it important for John to remind his readers about this confession if all is about believing in Jesus and loving one another? And why is it important for me to write about holiness?

The answer is simple:

If it is not possible for me to accept that Jesus fully and truly God and fully and truly man, I clearly limit what is possible for God:
How can I believe that he can work through his body in our present time if he is not able to reveal himself in Jesus Christ?

Already in the first century after Christ, this teaching was challenged. However, even today the connection between the faith in Jesus as man and God is a precondition for believing that the Spirit of God in Jesus’ body will be able to be in the body God has chosen to use today.

Thus, what I confess about Jesus is important for the spreading of his life. What I confess and teach will either limit or nourish life. The same applies to the subject of holiness.

Manna’ for today:

Jesus has come in “flesh”, and Jesus comes in “flesh”

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It is about the goal of all fruit

NORSK
Today I look at the last ingredient in Peter’s fruit-recipe. It is also the goal for all fruit, and the natural end of the spiritual chain-reaction:

“.. add to brotherly kindness … love”
2 Pet 1:7

I have written a lot about love here on the blog (1), but also today’s reminder amplifies the core of the Christian faith.  Paul mentioned love as the first characteristic of the fruit of the Spirit on his list. It was love that made God send his only begotten Son to the world to save us. Jesus said that as he himself was sent, he sends us – meaning that we are sent by and with love.

• Love adds up all fruit.
• Love adds up holiness.
• Love is the beginning and the end 
• Love includes all, not only the family of believers.
• All means that YOU are loved.
• All means that I am loved.

When I am loved, I will endure to be corrected and disciplined because I know and feel that it happens in love.

‘Manna’ for today:

Holiness and fruit are captured in one word: Love

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(1) Look under the label Love

It is about brotherly kindness

NORSK
We are four siblings who because of geographical reasons only on rare occasions are able to be together. However, there is a lot that binds us together, and I love them. 

I have also a lot of other siblings. Peter calls them my family of believers throughout the world (1), and there is a lot that binds us together as well. Some of them I meet often, and some I work with almost daily. In relation to them is Peter’s fruit-recipe important:

“.. add to godliness … brotherly kindness”
2 Pet 1:7

Once again is Paul 100% in line with Peter:

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Gal 6:10

The best example of love in the family of believers, are my two hands. Like the family of believers, my hands belong to the same body. From experience I know that my hands may hurt one another. Down through the years I have enhanced my skills as a carpenter, but even so, I still manage to miss the target when I hold a hammer in one hand and a nail in the other. Instead of starting a fight, I know that my hands will seek to one another to ease the pain. My head is telling them to do that. The head, in the spiritual body, is Christ. He does not want his own body to be disintegrated. 

‘Manna’ for today:

Brotherly kindness is a fruit that will keep the body of Christ integrated

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(1) 1 Pet 5:9