Caution: Studying the Bible may be hazardous to your beliefs.

Rather than being based solely upon biblical evidence, most Christian belief systems in place today are rooted in man’s traditions and ideologies. Of course much of this did not happen overnight, but over a period of generations. We need only look in the book of the Acts to find the Apostles already dealing with issues of the church’s moving away from the doctrine of salvation by grace and into a system of works? Keep in mind that at the time, they did not have the written scriptures to use for persuasion or comparison. The only proof they could offer was the testimony that they had walked with Christ, literally. These same men were the men who actually put pen to parchment and wrote the words given to them of The Holy Spirit; the words we now call the New Testament.

Even in all this, I must say that I do not believe that there was an intentional conspiracy to totally abandon the truth and move away from the foundational teaching of the early church, but mostly came about by ignorance of the scriptures, misinterpretation of the Bible or through some minor nuances in their views of theology. These perspectives, however minute in error, were then passed along to others who naively trusted their doctrine and practice. Left unchecked these views grew into what was eventually considered to be factual truths.

We find that determined, unbiased study of the Bible is the only means by which the myths that have become strong traditional beliefs of today can be dispelled. However, most church goers, when offered the truth of the Bible vs. the traditions of their fathers and mothers, will, in almost every case, turn their backs on biblical certainties and hold tightly to the culture in when they were reared. It is for this reason we must stress the need for intensive study of the Bible. But be forewarned, as the title of this post suggests, this can have a disastrous effect on imbedded beliefs and can turn the reader’s world upside down. 

I mentioned some of the errors of our forefathers of years past and gone, but It is much different today than then. Deviant church behavior is now being accepted by the masses with little, if any resistance.  Even in my brief span upon this earth, I have seen many ideological seeds sown that have become deep rooted traditions within only a few short years. Unlike our forefathers, who may have ignorantly misinterpreted the word, men and women today seem to be purposely disregarding and even changing the scriptures to meet their own agendas. Satan is hard at work and is hurrying the process of deceit along at a much faster pace. He knows his time is drawing close to an end.  

Matt.15: 9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men

Gal.1: 14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers

Matt.15: 2-3 & 6 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.

Mark.7: 9 & 13-14 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

Col.2: 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

Sam Everett

The New “Worship?”

The old time honored, spiritually blessed hymns are seldom heard within the walls of the “worship centers” that are popping up across our country’s landscape. The hymnals in which so many beautiful doxologies reside have now become passé and have long been recycled for other uses. They have become too old fashioned for this modern electronic church of today. These precious psalms of the past are much too depressing. Singing about the blood, death and or the suffering of our savior is no longer suitable for the “lively”, “positive thinking” church of today.

 

 The “praise songs” that have replaced these wells of poetic worship seem to be nothing more than repetitive mantras whose words are viewed on an oversized, overhead projector screen. The “minister of music” has taken the place of the song leader. His only direction is, “just watch and follow me”, and he is easy to follow since he is wired with his own personal microphone with which he all but drowns out any other voices. When the choir is called on to sing, it is only a backdrop for his continued “performance” with the congregation serving as the audience.  When or if the congregation is actually allowed to participate in a song, they have no option but to watch the screen and listen to the minister of music as they are still being led by the same overbearing voice blaring over the sound system. There is no time limit for these incantations. This is his service for which he was hired to do. They will go on until the “minister” of music finally calls it all to a halt in order for the pastor to have time for his “message” This is called the “praise” portion of the service. Except for His name being mentioned only a few times in this musical cabaret, Jesus Christ has been all but been omitted from this type of so-called worship.

 

Oh and by the way, for all that should desire them, donuts and coffee are served in the lobby. Feel free to bring both into the sanctuary. And don’t worry about how you are dressed. Come as you are. There are no dress codes. No one is to be made feel uncomfortable by any unwanted reverent code of conduct that might upset this leisurely setting.

 

After the “praise” portion of the “service”, the pastor finally takes his place on the stage. He is usually wearing a t-shirt, or maybe a collarless pull over sweater, jeans and sandals or athletic shoes. Almost everything he says and does is cute or funny, which is deliberately directed toward a younger generation. He knows the best way to acquire and retain power is to gain the confidence of the youth. He does this by becoming one of them; dressing like them; talking their language; hanging out with them. The older congregation has no recourse but to sit quietly, as the adolescents and the younger adults embrace and endorse all that is taking place.

 

Much like the praise portion of this service, the pastor’s message seldom mentions the shed blood of Jesus Christ or the efficacious work of the cross, but is usually some type of motivational speech geared toward individual self esteem or personal gain. He takes the liberty to speak on any topic…literally. However, biblical instruction is seldom on his agenda. Nothing is off limits for him. Some topics might even include (as sick as it may sound) how to improve the sex life of a husband and his wife. It seems that nowadays, sex is a topic that has made its way into the pulpit. The pastor seems to enjoy speaking on the subject and it is evident that it stays on his mind…a lot. Not only is it the pastor who is reveling in this subject; the congregation is receiving his words with a very warm welcome, and in many cases with excitement.

 

How to achieve happiness through prosperity is another popular topic he may use. It seems, according to the pastor, that there can be no real contentment without some type of worldly influence, whether it is monetary or worldly wisdom. He tells us very plainly that Jesus came to this world and gave His life so we could be happy and comfortable. Simply put, most of his messages are rooted in secular humanism; it is all about us and nothing about Jesus Christ.

 

So…welcome to the neo-modernistic church of today! Welcome to the new age worship center!

 

Welcome to the “Church of the here and now”!

The Architect

Isaiah 46: 9-10

Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me
 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure

In the mind of the architect, everything is already “viewed” before any construction is started. Every detail has been scrutinized. The architect knows and “sees” exactly how the building will stand and how it will look upon completion. His plans are laid before him. He knows every detail, where every brick will be laid and every stud will be placed; all this before the first shovel of dirt is turned.

As laborers, we have no access to these plans and can in no way comprehend what the end product will be. We can only do our part and see only what has been built thus far. We view only that specific portion with which we are personally involved. We may be called upon to assemble things in a way that may seem odd to us. But as the structure continues to “come together”, suddenly the oddity takes shape and melds into the rest of the framework. 

Most who are hired to do the labor may never see the finished product. So it is with the masons, who laid the foundation and have now moved on. They are gone long before the framers begin their construction, and so it goes with each crew until the last detail of the building is completed.

And so it is with the great sovereign architect of the world and his plan for it and us. He sees the ending of the thing from the beginning, while we as servants and laborers only view that part on which we may have labored. And as with the laborers of the natural building, the part that we add may not make any sense to us, but that does not matter for it is the completed structure that the architect is concerned about. Many have come before us and many others may come after us; adding their labor to the “building”. But when His building is eventually completed, all that were chosen to be involved in the great work will be brought together in one to view in awe the majestic wonder, the finished work of His great plan.

Selective Service System (SSS)

“It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no senator's son, son”
”It ain't me, it ain't me; I ain't no fortunate one, no!”

 John Fogarty

 

I became eligible for the draft before the draft lottery was implemented. During this time, those of us who were drafted were picked, or selected, by the SSS or “draft board”, which consisted of volunteers located within the same district in which the draftee resided. This being the case, we find that the members of the local board were often involved in choosing whether friends or the sons of friends would serve in the military, or stay at home and become good private citizens.

 

Being drafted into the military (which was in almost all cases the Army) during this time was almost a guarantee of being sent to Viet Nam. Allow me to use this as an example. There were five of us who were best friends during high school. All five served in the military; four were sent to Viet Nam.

 

Not everyone knows that every male-child born in this country has a six-year military obligation.  It is for this reason that all young men must register with the SSS on or before their eighteenth birthday; that their names will be readily available, in case the need (usually a national emergency or declaration of war) for the draft arises. This was the case during the mid to late sixties to very early seventies. Deferments (or waivers for not serving) were given for obvious reasons, but some were given for not so obvious reasons.

 

During World War II, very few were exempt from the draft. Men from all walks of life were called upon to serve their country. The most common deferments during this time were for mental or physical incapacities or if someone’s career or job dealt in some way with the security or welfare of the nation.

 

During the Viet Nam era however, other reasons were brought into view. One of which was the “education deferment”. During this time, a young man attending college on a full time basis was “excused” from military duty. After finishing his undergraduate studies he was, by law, eligible to be drafted if he did not go on graduate school, yet I cannot think of any of those who ever served in the military, other than someone who may have enlisted.

 

The prime “pick” for the SSS was the nineteen year old, who had no plans for college and was seemingly going nowhere with his life anyway. It was almost as if our draft board did not want to “waste” a young educated young man by sending him off to war. This may seem facetious, yet one need only look back to that time to find that many of these things are not just mere conjectures.

 

Another reason for deferment was due to a disability, whether physical or mental. However, many who were classified as physically unfit when the “conflict” first began were reevaluated and were found, toward the end of the war, to be fit after all. The simple fact of the matter was that our country was running out of boys to serve, therefore the board could not be so choosey. But one thing was for sure. Even though many with disabilities were being reclassified, those who were in college or newly graduated from the same were very seldom, if ever, touched.

 

Another deferment was “married with children”. Marriage alone was not considered to be an exclusion from the military. If this had been the case, many would have married just to receive this deferment. The draft board didn’t have any qualms over separating husbands and wives. After all, these young wives were being paid an allotment during the absence of their husbands. What wasn’t mentioned was that, in order to offset the cost to the government; a portion of the soldiers pay (which at the time was only around ninety dollars a month) was taken and added to this small payment. Both together totaled less that two hundred dollars a month.

 

A man with wife and child did receive exemption from military duty.  Please understand that this had nothing to do with any of our government officials or the draft board feeling any guilt over any child being left without a father. No, this was not the case at all, but rather, a money issue. It simply was not cost effective, since the government was required to bear the financial burden of paying allotments to each child of the soldier.

 

Initially I was one of those who received a deferment by the “board”, as I was registered to attend junior college in the fall after my high school graduation. However I knew this was only putting off the inevitable, for I had only enough money saved for one year of school, and my family was barely scraping by.  My dad was fifty-eight years old and had been “laid off” from his job at a chicken feed mill. He had been a laborer all his life and finding work at his age was close to impossible. I would never ask him for any financial assistance. He was a proud man and having to deny help to his son would have hurt him terribly. He was in no way unwilling, but he simply did not have the monetary means to give aid.

 

After my first year of college, I again worked the summer months trying to save enough for the next school year. However, this summer’s work was not as lucrative as the previous year. For me to leave this job and go to school full time was not feasible. The funds simply were not there. So I opted to keep my job and attend school at night, taking on a full load of classes.  It was about this same time that I met the girl who was to become my wife. I must say that I was smitten. Working in Atlanta, driving to sixty or so miles in order to attend night classes, and all the while worrying that the love of my life could possibly slip away, was too much for me, so I dropped out of school, and started the task of convincing this beautiful young lady to become my wife.

 

Within days (literally) after I was dropped from the school roll, the “board” was hot on my trail.

 

After dating Ann for only two months I asked her to marry me. This was November. We set the wedding date for June of the next year. In December I was again ordered to make another trip to the induction center but was sent home. It was then that we decided to move the wedding date up to February 14, understanding that by waiting until June, I, more than likely, would have already been drafted, and that there was a strong possibility that, by that time, I could already be serving in Viet Nam, which also carried a possibility that I might not return home. We made the decision to take the time that had been afforded us and spend as much of it as we could together as man and wife, before this happened.

 

We were married on the new date that we had set, but surprisingly I wasn’t called again until March of the next year. This time I was not so lucky. I was inducted and sworn into the Army being sent to the US Army training center at Fort Benning, Ga. for basic training.

 

I have tried not to be overly critical, but I lived during that era and was eyewitness to many of what could be considered injustices that loomed within this system of sending young boys off to war. Considering the lyrics of John Fogarty’s song “Fortunate Son”, it seems I was not the only one that noticed the “inconsistencies” within the SSS. 

 

During the mid to late sixties, an eighteen-year old boy, who had graduated high school, had three options; go to college; join the military or be drafted. I cannot recall many, if any, of the “sons” of the doctors, lawyers, dentists, pharmacists, local businessmen, city or county officials, who were drafted into the military. I agree that most of these were attending college, but it I think it could be safely said that many of these were in college for one reason only, and that was to simply stay out of the military, to be more specific, Viet Nam! A few of my high school friends were just not college material, if I may say so, but they went on to college just the same.

           

I saw quite a few of the “boys” who were “called up”, and very few of those were not the sons of common laborers. I watched moms and dads as they would bring their sons to the rear parking area of the SSS, where a bus would take them to the induction center located in Atlanta, Georgia. I watched as they stood in stunned silence, tears streaming down their faces as their son climbed aboard the bus to be sent to away to boot camp. My parents did the same, but I also had a nineteen-year old wife whom I was leaving behind. We held onto each other as long as we could before I had to climb on board the bus that would take me away!

 

             There were a few who had “affluent” parents who chose not to go to college. Many of these were never drafted. Some were somehow able to get into the National Guard or Reserves, which for all practical purposes, were closed to most young men. There were a few who were overlooked completely by the draft board and were never called upon to serve. I must admit that this still puzzles me. However, I can recall a handful of boys who never signed up for the draft, even though being threatened with prison time if caught.  

 

 I doubt that anything “illegal” on the part of the local board ever occurred, but I will say that, in my opinion, there were some unethical practices that went on during these hard times. 

 

I think it would safe to say that Viet Nam could truthfully be called the “poor boy’s war”. I was one of them. Those of us, who could not afford any other way out, simply had to bite the bullet and await the inevitable.

 

I must admit that I would take nothing for the pride and experience of serving my country. I can only hope if the need should ever arise for another military draft that it would be executed in complete fairness to all those who may be considered eligible to serve.

 

Sam Everett

He is Come

Late in time behold Him come

Offspring of a Virgin's womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail the incarnate Deity
                                Charles Wesley                      

 

 

Joseph was feeling more than anxious regarding the trip he and his wife were facing. The news of this taxation could not have come at a worse time. Joseph was facing a dilemma. His young wife, Mary, was almost full term with her first child. She really wasn’t in any position to make this trip but under Roman law there was no leniency. Being with child was no excuse to shirk the law. 

 

.               Since he was of the lineage of David, Joseph had no choice but to load up his wife and everything they would need, and begin the trek to Bethlehem. The journey would take them some seventy miles south as the crow flies. He knew it would be long and arduous, but it must be done, either that or spend time or possibly even die in a Roman jail.

 

His plan would be for Mary to ride the donkey as much as possible and when she felt that she could; she would walk, giving the animal a rest.

 

The journey itself turned out to be uneventful. After spending three nights under the stars, they finally reached Bethlehem late in the evening on the fourth day. Mary had done surprisingly well on the trip. Except for a few minor pains, there was nothing major to really speak of. But then again, she was not one to complain.

 

However, soon after arriving in the city, she began to experience the first real pangs of childbirth. She begged her husband to find a place for her to have her baby. Joseph inquired about available rooms at some of the inns he came upon, but was told that there were no rooms available. As he turned to leave the last inn he entered, the proprietor mentioned that it would be fruitless for him to look elsewhere. All the other taxpayers coming into the city had booked every available space.

 

It wasn’t long until Mary began to enter her last stages of labor. Joseph knew he would need to find shelter very soon. 

 

His mind went to a stable he had seen situated directly behind one of the inns. He didn’t really care for the idea that his wife might give birth there, but his options had run out. As they entered the door, he looked around and found an empty stall where the hay was kept for the livestock. The odor of the animals was pungent, wafting around the tiny shed, but at least there were four walls and a roof, and the hay was clean and dry. He was worried about his young wife. He had no doubts as to the welfare of the child, but the angel had made no mention as to how his wife might fair during this.

 

By the time they had settled into their impromptu quarters, the night was well on its way to becoming the morning hours. Joseph placed a blanket on the clean hay and helped Mary to lie down. Not long after, a child fell into his hands. A few seconds later, Jesus took his first breath as God incarnate. God had split the eternities by entering into a place called time.

 

At this same instant, an angel had apeared to a few sheepherders who were watching their flocks on the outskirts of town. He appeared at first as a bright flash of light, but as he began to speak, he became more like the flickering flame of a candle.

 

The shepherds were terrified. They had never been witness to anything like this. This “messenger” assured them that everything was fine and persuaded them there was nothing to be afraid of; that he was there to bring them the good news of great joy because, at the very moment, there was born unto all people a Savior in the town of Bethlehem, the city of David.

 

Amazingly, this “messenger” wasn’t sent to wake the high priest from his sleep with this wonderful news, nor did his brightness shine through the windows of the Sanhedrin. He didn’t speak a word to any of the great-learned religious men. In fact they all slept through this all but unnoticed event. But here we find the great messenger of God standing in front of this rag tag bunch; those who the religious world considered as uneducated farmers. But since the first chosen King was acknowledged while tending his sheep; what greater tribute to the eternal King that the great messenger Gabriel would be sent to witness before these shepherd boys as they also watched their flocks.

 

Immediately after Gabriel had spoken, millions of what seemed to be sparks, filled the sky. Heaven was emptying itself of its angels. They were sent to earth praise their eternal King who had just taken his first breath of humanity. As they hovered with the great angel, their presence filled the elements. They all together sang a song that had never before been heard in the ears of man, “Glory to God in the highest, who has come to earth to bring peace and good will from God to man!”

 

After their last word was spoken, these innumerable “lights” swirled into what looked like a vortex, then all were “sucked up” into a hole that had been opened in the sky, and just as quick as they had come, they were gone. The sky became dark again. The shepherds looked around at each other with wide eyes and gaping mouths, then almost in unison said, “We must go find Him and worship Him for we know that the Messiah now lives among us.

 

They began to run toward the city. Entering the town, they went from door to door inquiring about a newborn. Finally, they came upon a certain innkeeper who told them about an expectant couple. The wife was heavy with child. The innkeeper said that since he had no place for them to stay, he had to turn them away. He told them he had watched the couple as they walked toward the rear of the building; toward the stable area, and had not seen them come out.

 

When the shepherds entered the small barn, they saw Mary and a relieved Joseph, and… over there… in a feeding trough, was a baby wrapped in its birth clothes. He looked like any other newborn; wrinkles and all, but they all knew in their hearts that he was different from any other child that had ever been born. They all knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that they had just met their Deliverer.

 

As Mary and Joseph began to wonder how these boys were aware of all that had happened, and how they had found them so quickly, they received answers to all their questions, as the shepherds told them of the things they had seen and heard.

 

Mary said nothing but kept all these events to herself, placing them deep within her heart. She pondered the fact that everything that had been told her of the angel had thus far come to pass.

 

After the shepherds departed to return to their sheep, she called to Joseph and asked him to place her child in her arms. As she looked into his tiny face, she remembered one more thing that the angel had said to her,

 

“For He shall save His people from their sins.”

 

 She wondered, as lines of worry began to cross her brow, what would be required on His part for this to be accomplished?

 

Sam Everett

Luke 22: 39-----

He crosses the valley and makes His way to the Mount of Olives. His disciples follow close behind. He stops at a place just short of His original destination; tells His disciples to wait here and pray, then makes the rest of the trek to Gethsemane alone. When he arrives, He postures Himself by bowing to His knees with face to the ground. He calls out to His Father in urgency. He knows there is not much time. There are only a few moments that separate Him from a bloodthirsty crowd. Soon He will be taken by merciless hands to be delivered unto a cruel people who have no value whatsoever for human life.

He can feel the hated that emanates from those who have already assembled for the purpose of his destruction. All he sees at this moment in time is a Roman cross on the morning’s horizon.

Dread fills his entire being. He groans in His Spirit. He swoons and moans in His humanity. Low guttural sounds radiate from deep within His throat. He seeks His Father’s face once more. Can there be some other way?  Then He remembers the covenant that was made before his incarnation; the great Everlasting Covenant that would allow His beloved people, though sinful and undeserving, to inherit the purity of His heaven. The only way this can be accomplished is that He takes their sins upon Him; that He becomes sin for them; that He becomes them and takes their judgment upon himself, and then dies in their stead. Suddenly, with no further thought, the words fill his soul and fall from His lips, “Not my will, my Father, but Thine be done”

 A good friend from his home “country” comes and stands beside Him. One last familiar visitor to comfort and reassure Him before his sentence is carried out; Jesus knows him well. He is a friend whom He created and has known since before He shaped the world from nothingness; He is strengthened and comforted by his words and presence.

He foresees all that lies before Him, yet He does not scream for mercy or call on the heavenly host to deliver Him, as well he could. He agonizes while fully accepting His original purpose for coming into this strange and alien land. The night is cold , yet He sweats profusely, the unmentionable pressure he is experiencing causes his blood vessels under his skin to burst, forcing the life giving crimson fluid to ooze from the pores of His body, then fall to the ground

Suddenly there are sounds wafting on the breeze; noises in the distance; the muttering of far away voices; the rattling of staves; the clanging of swords. He lifts His head to see the flickering of the many torches as they move his way from the valley below. He arises and walks the short distance back to where his friends are now asleep. He speaks telling them to go ahead and sleep,  but they are awakened by the clamor; startled they leap to their feet.

A mob comes near. He does not turn to run, but waits on an event He has rehearsed in eternity. Then it happens. One whom He has befriended steps forward and places a kiss on his cheek, still damp from the tears.  A startled and angry disciple takes a defensive pose, draws a long knife and swings. He misses the neck he has targeted and hits the head instead; cutting off the top half of an ear. Yet, even in the dread of death and despair, compassion takes precedence. The ear is touched by innocent hands. The blood is stayed. No longer can any wound can be found.

He is dragged away by His own people. Beating, scourging, mocking, spitting, slapping, and blasphemy will soon be all that is left for Him in life. Not long after this, the sun,  the great master of light, will scatter any sign of darkness; the morning will break, and then that dreaded cross will come into view; the cross that is the reason for His being born; for his being here in the first place; the cross that has forever stood between the eternities;  the cross that was seen by the Children of Israel in the form of a serpent on a pole, the cross to which His prophets of old had pointed, in what was then their future; the cross that King David described so vividly in his prophetic songs; the cross that would be preached in every generation that would follow for all time.

This rugged cross on which the Son of Man would exhale His last breath of humanity would become the only hope of the wellspring of life for us.

In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.

Do we worship the cross? I will reply with an emphatic NO! That old Cross of wood has long ago become only dust. No we do not worship that cross, we worship Him who died on that Cross. The Cross was the Altar on which He was sacrificed for our sins. The work of Jesus Christ that was accomplished on the cross is what we as Christians accept as the atonement for our sin.  It was His death on that cross that redeemed us from death and eternal punishment. It was His death on that cross that secured our home in heaven.

The cross was necessary for our hope of life, but let it be shouted from the highest hill that we worship only our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Sam Everett

Foot Washing-Literal or Allegorical?

John 13: 1-17

“Many interpreters consider Christ's washing his disciples' feet as a representation of his whole undertaking. He knew that he was equal with God, and all things were his; and yet he rose from his table in glory, laid aside his robes of light, girded himself with our nature, took upon him the form of a servant, came not to be ministered to, but to minister, poured out his blood, poured out his soul unto death, and thereby prepared a laver to wash us from our sins”…Matthew Henry

 

When I first entered the ministry, I was taught that the literal washing of feet was necessary if I was to be in full obedience with the order of the church. After looking into the subject in depth, to my surprise I found that there seemed to be a lack of written information, both biblical and historical, on this topic.

 

Among most Baptists as well as other denominational churches that perform this rite, it seems that John chapter thirteen is used exclusively to build the entire foundation as to the reason it should be carried out in a literal sense. If we are to allow this one and might I say only, scripture to guide us in this direction, must we not consider the multitudes of other scriptures in which Christ teaches us to follow his example? We must ask ourselves; are we to follow each one in a literal fashion?

 

Putting all this aside, we find, if studied closely, that Christ is not actually directing us to perform this as a literal application but rather is teaching by His actions, a wonderful exampled lesson in humility. Usually those who “wash feet” present it indeed to be a literal commandment of Jesus Christ, treating it as if it were a third ordinance given to the church. Then, there are others who perform it simply due to its traditional value.

 

 

 A.H. Newman, writes in “A Manual of Church History”, published in 1933.

 

There is no indication in the New Testament, or in any Christian literature of the first three centuries, that our Lord was understood to have instituted feet washing as an ordinance, by the acts and words under consideration in John 13. Feet washing was a common and needed practice in Palestine at the time, and the teaching that Christ intended to convey was the manifestation of brotherly love and humble service”

 

Both baptism and communion are mentioned multiple times throughout the New Testament scriptures. Both are recorded in all four gospels and in the Acts of the Apostles.  Apostle Paul mentions Baptism in many of his epistles. He also stresses the proper and correct manner in which we are to serve and receive communion. We find this stated in no uncertain terms in his letter to the church at Corinth. By this we understand that these are indeed ordinances that are to be recognized by Christ’s church, and are to be carried out, according to the scriptures. On the other hand, foot washing, while considered by many as a literal commandment, is mentioned only once in the New Testament (John 13).

 

For us to better understand what was done the night that Jesus washed his disciple’s feet, we must first look at the historical era in which it took place. The footwear of this day was almost always sandals, and the mode of transportation was, in most cases, walking. Obviously, after traveling for any length of time, the feet would become very dirty or dusty. When a traveler would enter a house as a guest, as an act of hospitality, the host would offer water and a basin in which his guest may wash his feet. In some cases, if the master of the house was wealthy, he might have his servant, usually gird about with only a towel (to show that he carried no weapons and was harmless), stoop and clean the guest’s feet. Whichever the case, the master of the house would never lower himself to do such a menial task. Keep in mind that this was an act performed on another only by a servant.

 

This was a strong time-honored and might I say necessary tradition that had been kept from Old Testament times, and Jesus would use this tradition as a tool with which to teach, not only His Apostles but all generations to follow, this much-needed lesson in humility.

 

We must also keep in mind the scene that was unfolding during this our Lord’s last meal. We find Jesus relating that one of those in His presence would soon betray Him:

(Lk 22 v.21). But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table They, being troubled by His statement, began to question him, as well as each other, as to which of them it could possibly be.

(Lk 22 v.23). And they began to inquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.

This caused quite a stir to say the least. However, they didn’t dwell on this for long, for we find only a moment later that a pretty heated argument had arisen among them as to who would be accounted as the greatest: How do we know is was heated??? Look at the verse.

            (Lk 22 v.24).  And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest.

This was not the first time this had come up. This same debate had come up before when James and John began to ask permission to sit beside the Lord in His glory:

(Mk 10 v.35-37).  And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire. And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you? They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.

We find this dispute arise at another time among some of the others, after coming down from the mount of transfiguration and after witnessing the miraculous feeding of the five thousand:

(Lk 9:46). Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.

Even James’ and John’s mother had gotten in on this request: (Matt 20:20-21) Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.

It is evident that these roguish young men were more that just a little selfish and self-centered.  They were still rough around the edges, and would require some trimming and a lesson in humility. Can we not find many of these same non-redeeming qualities in ourselves?

 

We can almost see Jesus, as all the bickering was taking place, quietly rise from His seat and without a word, begin to remove His clothes and to gird Himself about with only a towel (Jn 13 v.4), thus taking upon Himself not only the role but also the look, of, a simple servant.  No doubt as these men first saw Him out of the corner of their eyes, their voices, one by one, began to trail off until finally, there was a deafening silence. Then, with all eyes fixed upon their Lord, they watched intently as He began to pour water into a basin, walk toward them, and then kneel in humble submission at the feet of the first disciple to be washed. What a great lesson He was teaching. For while they were jockeying for position as to who would be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, Jesus Christ, the Lord of all creation, was showing them by this act what it would take if any wished to claim this title; that before one could be considered as great, he must first learn the taste of humility through humiliation itself; before one could become a good master, he must first understand the role of his servant. With this one illustration, He established the words, which He had already taught these men, (Mat 23 v.11) “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant”, also in (Mark 10 v.44). “And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all”

 

We find, as our Lord comes to Peter, that Peter asks Him the question, (John 13 v.6) “Lord dost thou wash my feet?” Jesus gives him an answer that may have seemed somewhat strange to Peter “What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter” (v.7).

 

No doubt Peter had witnessed the washing of feet hundreds of times before. So why would Jesus tell him that he would not understand what He was about to do… unless…this indeed was to be viewed not as a literal administration, but rather as an exampled teaching of a needful lesson?

 

Sure enough we find that Peter does not immediately grasp what Jesus is doing, and makes the statement, not in a rebellious manner but rather as a statement of his unworthiness; “Thou shalt never wash my feet”. (v.8) In this, Peter was conveying that he could never allow the perfect hands of his Lord and master to touch his filthy feet, nor could he have his Lord and his God to bow before him in such a demeaning fashion… but then we hear the words of Jesus in the same verse, “If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me”.

 

We must understand that Jesus is not threatening Peter with apostasy if He is not allowed to wash his feet. He is simply relating to his beloved follower, that if he misses the true meaning of this lesson, and fails to understand its true application, then Peter can lay no claim to true discipleship. Peter, no doubt, hesitates for a few seconds as his brain is sorting out what is going around him. Then, suddenly, it all comes together. He finally gets it! 

Jesus is not doing this because our feet are dirty, but HE is showing us, by His example, how we are to live our lives, and that is; in humble service to our Lord, by serving each other. It is here that Peter makes the statement,

 

”Lord not my feet only, but also my hands and my head”! What Peter is saying is, Lord, take all of me; my entire life and do whatsoever you will with me, I am ready for you to use me in whatever capacity you so desire!

 

Even though the literal administration of feet washing is still performed among a few religious factions, the example and lesson that Christ was conveying is not fully comprehended. We find in many cases (even if unintentional) that pride, rather than humility is prevalent in many who “wash feet”. Sadly, many have been known to “boast” in the fact that they indeed practice literal “foot washing”? We also may find in some, disdain for those who do not agree with them in their views. This is in total opposition to the lesson that Jesus was conveying as he washed his disciples feet.

 

In my opinion, this act should not be given any more of a literal significance than many of the other examples which our Lord has given. For instance, as Jesus gave us the model prayer, He told us to pray “thusly”. Are we then to take His direction as a given commandment, using His words that He spoke, verbatim? No, for we find when placed in its proper context, that Jesus was giving us an outline, or structure, as to “how” we are to pray and not “what” we are required to say. Let us also take a look at a familiar passage that can be found in three of the four gospels. “And he said to them all, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Matt 16:24), (Mk 8:34) and (Lk 9:23). Barring only a few minor nuances this scripture speaks the same message in each of these gospels. I doubt any named Christian would take this “commandment” of Jesus to be of a literal sense. No I think that most all understand that He is speaking figuratively. We indeed have a “cross” to bear, but this is not a cross of wood on which we are to be hung on a daily basis. Even so in feet washing, as the Lord said in John 13, “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to (or should) wash one another's feet”, we find that Jesus, again, has given us the structure of how we should look at ourselves and what we are to do for, our fellow man, and not literally what we are to do to him.

 

To fully understand the lesson that our Lord has taught, we must keep in mind that humility is the theme for His actions. After He had bowed before His disciples, taking their feet into His hands, carefully washing each one, then wiping them dry with the towel, He declared His authority and position as being Lord and master (v.13). Then, with the same authority, He spoke to all by using this beautiful example (He even tells them that this is an example that He has given to them) that all should do as (not what) He had done (v.14-15). In this great paradox, His greatness is manifested by this exhibition of His lowliness. So we find in Christ’s beautiful lesson that the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (here on earth) is he that serves, and not he that is served. I have heard John 13:17 quoted many times, “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them”; as if Jesus is speaking of the literal washing of feet. Even though this is usually quoted correctly, we must look at the previous verse to find the correct context in which verse 17 is to be used. (v.16) states “Verily, verily, I say unto you, “The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him”. He is saying that if you understand these things about the servant and his lord or the sender and he that is sent, then happy are you if you put this into action. He expresses very plainly that all who follow this example will find happiness.

 

Again, this act of self denial on the part of our Lord and master, speaks volumes on how we are to treat our brothers and sisters in Christ. For if we claim Him as our Lord then we are without exception, to follow His great example. His teaching shows us how we are to live in this world; that we should walk and live in all humility, preferring others above ourselves, being givers rather than receivers; ministering rather that being ministered unto, for “God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble” (I Pet 5 v.5)

 

In closing, we find there are those who earnestly “feel” the need to kneel once or twice a year before the saints in order to wash their feet in this defined fashion. This may give satisfaction that they have openly proven their humility to everyone, even themselves. I will never condemn anyone for this. For one to place oneself in this position of humility is never to be taken lightly. However, I would only ask that those who do this should continually remain in this position or should I say condition of meekness and lowliness before men; manifesting this humble attitude that should be a part of our new nature given in Christ Jesus; ever taking into consideration that humility is not an act or deed performed, but rather should be considered the established way of life for the professed child of God and disciple of Christ.      

 

In all humility,

 

Sam Everett

Some Things I have Learned

 

I have learned that children are only miniature adults

 

I have learned that most adults are only oversized children.

 

I have learned that having an education is wonderful, but possessing wisdom is far greater.

 

I have learned that life’s road has many more rocks than rose petals.

 

I have learned that no one is exempt from trouble.

 

I have learned that, during a lifetime, one may have many acquaintances, but very few friends.

 

I have learned that we do not have to ask a true friend for help

 

I have learned that faith is the substance of hope

 

I have learned that hope is the sustenance that strengthens the soul.

 

I have learned that, in many cases, those who have little are more content than those who have much.

 

I have learned that money itself has no power over us, but that the love for it is very addictive.

 

I have learned that once we bring a thing into our possession, we can never again live without it.

 

I have learned that marriage is a continuing process and not just a ceremony

 

I have learned that there is a difference between being a father and being a daddy.

 

I have learned that what is said is the important thing, and not just how one says it.

 

I have learned that words actually do hurt more than sticks and stones and broken bones.

 

I have learned that, when one is angry, the mouth speaks much louder than the heart

 

I have learned that the way we live our lives will have a direct affect on others.

 

I have learned that when someone close to us hurts; we also hurt.. real bad!

 

I have learned that time does not heal all wounds, but it does allow us to become more reconciled to the pain

 

I have learned that life is very brief…for everybody!

 

I have learned that the only way that we can truly learn is by experience.

 

I have learned that we don’t trust God as much as we say we do!

 

I have learned that prayer changes things.

 

I have learned that God never changes.

 

I have learned that God hears every prayer, but does not always answer each one.

 

I have learned that God loves us much more than we love him!

 

I have learned that not everybody will love us

 

I have learned that the bible was given to tell God’s children how much he loves them.

 

I have learned that God does not deliver us from all trials, but he will be there with us during each one.

 

I have learned that excessive worry dilutes one’s faith.

 

I have learned that by the time we learn how to live, it’s usually time for us to die.

 

I have learned that bitterness is poison to the soul.

 

I have learned that an angry tone only causes more anger in the listener

 

I have learned that I know very little about love

 

I have learned that we do not have to receive permission from someone who has done us wrong in order to forgive them.

 

I have learned that we do not have to be taught by another in order for us to learn

 

I have learned that we never stop learning.

 

I have learned that some people never learn.

 

Sam Everett