Young Christian Leaders' Alliance

R. Josiah Magnuson

Christ’s peace is different from the world’s peace. The peace Christ offers requires intense decision-making, obedience, and often, suffering. Christ’s peace is only made by the power of the cross.

This afternoon brought a brief yet heavy Carolina rain shower to the landscape around my office. A large pool of water filled up in a low place in the parking lot, creating a shallow yet sparkling pond. Several fronds of tall summer grass, evidently having escaped through cracks in the asphalt, stood majestically erect above the water, as if imagining themselves to be great lake reeds. The only movement on the surface of this tranquil ocean was the reflection of the happily singing birds fluttering in the light of the slowly setting sun. As a breath of evening breeze touched my face, I thanked the Lord for this beauty. The thought crossed my mind that this was a glimpse of what true peace looks like.

True peace does not require a perfect environment. It does not rely on the standards of the world, or the approval of a consensus. Rather, it is found by satisfaction and contentment – a tranquility of heart – in accepting the person and work of Jesus Christ. True peace also requires obedience to His commands. In making peace within ourselves and with others, we must believe Christ enough that we put into practice His method for doing so.

The world has its own ideas about peace. The world projects a false song that tells us we can achieve peace, joy and love through our own goodness. A simple Internet search reveals such diverse projects as “Coffee for Peace,” “Writing for Peace,” “Boycott for Peace,” and even “Knitting for Peace.” While each of these efforts is probably well intentioned, and it is possible some have even contributed to the end of various conflicts, no human effort can ultimately create the peace we all long for.

Human nature remains unchanged since Woodrow Wilson declared World War I “the war to end all wars.” Worldwide conflict has only escalated even through every effort to quell it. We can probably all agree that today, the cause of peace as promoted by the world is not moving along very smoothly.

Christ told us, “Peace I leave with you – My peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you.” (John 14:27) He has already made true peace for us. The Apostle Paul states Christ’s work was such that, “…In all things He should have the preeminence… having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself; by Him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.” (Col. 1:18b, 20) When we have peace with Christ, and our identity is in Him, we can have peace with everything else, because He is at peace with all things!

The reason Christ’s peace is different is that it is made by means of the cross. Christ’s way is one of suffering. Sacrifice is the essence of true love. In order to build peace, we must be willing to sacrifice and suffer for others. In fact, we must actively take initiative to “take up the cross daily”! (Luke 9:23) We must follow Christ no matter what.

One area in which Christ has given us a path to follow is that of personal offenses. If someone wrongs us, we are not to spread gossip or evil remarks, nor are we to disassociate immediately from the person. Rather, we can find reconciliation using the method of Matthew 18:15-17.

First, Christ says to go and talk to the individual who has offended you. Chances are the person did not even intend to hurt you, so give them the benefit of the doubt. If in any way possible, this conversation should take place face-to-face. Don’t settle for Facebook or phone calls if you can physically sit down and talk to the person. And, if someone wants to tell you a bad report, don’t listen. Ask them if they have talked to the person first.

Second, Christ tells us to take another person or two along, to talk with the offender again. If they do not understand or listen to one individual, perhaps someone else can communicate the problem better. However, if the offender still refuses to hear, these extra persons will act as witnesses to verify the situation.

Third, Christ commands that we bring the issue before the church. The offending person will then be addressed by the church body and appropriate leaders.

Finally, if the offender still will not listen, he is to be treated as an unbeliever, and not remain in church fellowship. This extreme option is only to be used after each of the previous points is exhausted.

Another command that encourages peace is that of the Sabbath. God has given us this day to rest from our earthly labors, just as He did from His. (Exod. 20:8-11) It provides a time of release in which we can put our focus back on our Creator. God promises great reward to those who honor the Lord’s Day. (Isa. 58:13-14, Mark 2:27-28 )  

God ordains that His children have rest and peace. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matt. 5:9) While the world expects peace to involve compromise on all sides, Christ teaches that peace is principled and one-sided. The making of peace is our obligation. (Rom. 12:18-21) We are to follow Christ’s example and trust Him, even though it may bring us suffering. Then, others will be brought to true peace through the forgiving, reconciling work of the cross.

Like the pool of rainwater in the parking lot, we are called to provide tranquility even though our environment is rough and unfriendly. But, our Savior understands everything He calls us to do (Heb. 4:15). He has made the way for us to have peace in His identity. “Let us therefore come boldly before the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (v. 16)

It is on the power of God that true peace rests. As David stated, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.” (Psalm 20:7)

Here is a sweet video from our friends over at Ultimate Quest.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC1z7kd5Ar0&feature=player_embedded

By Justin Summerlin

“And be not conformed to this world” - Romans 12:2a

The will of God is a topic that comes up frequently for teenagers, but also is often questioned by all ages on into adulthood. When many people think of the will of God, they think, “What job occupation will I choose?” or “Will I go to college?” or “Will I marry and who will I marry?” While God does not reveal answers to these specific questions, His good, acceptable, and perfect will should guide us in all our decision-making.

One important point about God’s will is that it involves something to keep from doing. The apostle Paul tells us to “be NOT conformed.” Let’s look at the word “conformed.” What does it mean? Another way of putting it is, “to fashion like.” I’m sure most of you can remember when you were little putting on your mom or dad’s clothes because you wanted to be just like them. You might have dressed up like your favorite superhero. You were fashioning yourself like those you admired. You wanted to be like them and sometimes you wanted to be them. By doing so, you were associating yourself with them.

So how can we be actively participating in His good, acceptable, and perfect will in regards to life’s decisions? Do not be fashioned like the world, and do not desire to be like them.

Did you know that being conformed or not conformed is an external action? It is something that can be actively observed by others. Do unbelievers see you conforming to the world?

By R. Josiah Magnuson

A common problem for youth involves responding to authorities. This problem is at the root of many issues with relationships in general. In fact, wrong response to authority causes a cycle of personal issues and conflict. But this cycle can be broken at any of its points.

Let's start with the point of Rebellion. Rebellion is created by pride – it is a state in which one thinks he “knows better,” and so he is not willing to submit to the will of those over him. God hates a rebellious attitude. In I Samuel 22-23, God compares rebellion to “witchcraft” and stubbornness to “iniquity and idolatry.” Rebellion can be broken through humility. We need to realize that God has a purpose in His commands for us, including those He gives us through our authorities.

The next problem point is Reaction. Rebellion invites an authority to react. For example, if a child’s parents tell him to do something, and he tells them he won’t, they may become upset, and the child will probably be punished. Rebellion is not always so overt – nor is the reaction to it. But a reaction is sure to come. The cycle can be broken at this point by meekness (Psalm 37:11). We should accept the consequences of our actions and seek to learn from our mistakes. The cycle unwinds here from a change in our behavior.

If we do not accept the consequences, we enter the next point, Perception. This stage results from an improper view of the authorities’ reaction. The problem occurs where one thinks he has done no wrong but was punished anyway – or perhaps he realizes he was wrong but views the reaction as overbearing and unnecessary. Today, improper perception of issues is heightened by gossip and communication failure. People often believe they have received a complete thought or context when in fact only one piece of the puzzle has been added. The solution here is twofold. First, we must be sure to be truthful in our view of others, especially of authorities (Eph. 4:22-25). We as people naturally tend to exaggerate our own problems, both in conversations with others and in our own minds. We must remember not to accept falsehood – we need to judge rightly. Second, we should humbly appeal to our authorities regarding concerns.

The final point in the cycle is Bitterness. Bitterness exists in one’s mind and heart like a deeply imbedded barb or fishhook that instead of being pushed out, only imbeds itself deeper with passing time. It does not cure itself. Rather, if we allow ourselves to begrudge others, a bitter spirit will spread to our friends, family, church, and more. Bitterness results when we continue to perceive faults incorrectly, viewing them as assaults rather than lessons from the Lord. In many ways, bitterness is the heart of the cycle. It provides the cycle’s sustaining force. Bitterness breeds further pride, rebellion, self-pity, and falsehood. A solution is found only in God’s mercy and forgiveness. We can forgive and release others from the past, because Christ has forgiven us! (Eph. 4:32)

To summarize, we need to be alert to God’s work. We need to submit to our authorities, and not be bitter. By exemplifying humility, meekness, and truthfulness, we can break the cycle of conflict. Most importantly, we need to have a merciful and forgiving heart to address issues. We live in a fallen world and must always keep in mind that our current existence is not how it was “meant to be.” Rather, God loved the world (even those who cause us problems) so much that He gave His Son so that anyone who believes in Him can have eternal life. That is the greatest mercy anywhere.

Gratefulness is a much-needed quality in our self-absorbed culture. The Thanksgiving season reminds us that we as individuals are not the sole source of any abilities or achievements we may have. A much greater life is to be found, not within ourselves, but in our reliance upon God’s blessing and the gifts of others. We must be thankful for the majestic and overwhelming provision we continue to hold. We must look past ourselves.

The Bible tells us, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (I Thess. 5:18 ) It is God’s will that we have an attitude of grace, no matter what. If we truly trust God, we will believe His promise that His work in our lives will come out for our good if we continue to love Him! (Rom. 8:2 )

This does not mean we have to enjoy what is happening, if it is evil or sorrowful. Even Jesus wept (John 11:35). In fact, Scripture commands that we “weep with them that weep” (Rom. 12:15) and promises: “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” (Psalm 126:6) In the Bible, mourning often comes before joy.

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 deal with this concept clearly. In this passage, Jesus used a series of paradoxes to inspire in us a sense of the intricate yet simple order of His pathway.

The first Beatitude states simply, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt. 5:3) This concept involves realizing our own bankruptcy in order to gain the riches of Christ.

Jesus compared our death to self with a "corn of wheat" being buried in the ground. (John 12:24)

The poverty presented here paints a picture of a beggar who has no self-respect. He is destitute. He holds out his hand for alms even as he hides his face. The word (G. 4434 in Strong’s) literally means to cringe or crouch.

Christ presented us with a similar example when He came to Earth. Philippians 2:7 tells us Christ “made himself of no reputation.” In this case, the word literally means He “emptied Himself.” (G. 2758 ) Even though Jesus was God, and had made everything, He left His dominion behind and became a small, dependent baby. Jesus thus came to have nothing as He began His time on Earth. The Bible tells us to have this same frame of mind. (Phil. 2:5) It is a mind of becoming empty of ourselves.

However, the story of emptiness does not end with sorrow. Like Christ, we are to look past ourselves and face death. We must mortify our flesh and choose to trust God’s power alone. But when we do so, we allow ourselves to be raised again with Him, in His glory and joy! Romans 6:4 states, “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”

The key to being rid of selfishness is not concentrating on not being selfish. Rather, the key is to forget about ourselves altogether. Instead of focusing on “unselfishness,” let us allow the focus to remain on Christ. In an attitude of love, let us tune our minds to the cross. Then, God will work His power in our lives and we can have true joy in His victory.

In conclusion, the path of Christ is one that does not allow selfishness. In fact, God’s specific will for us is to be grateful and content with what we have, seeking to serve others. However, we do not overcome a desire to please ourselves through any concentration or effort on it as such. Rather, we are to die to ourselves. We must look to Christ as an example and fulfill our life in His. In complete poverty and emptiness, we can then be filled with riches possessed by the Almighty Creator of the universe.

The Bible gives ample information and examples of God's greatness and power to sustain us. We are told not to worry. His provision in the past gives us a reason to trust Him in the present.

It doesn't mean that we lean back and let God do all the work. Instead we are to live for God, and do our part. God will take care of the things that are out of our control. Many examples of His love and provision are evident in the stories throughout the Bible. Such as His care for the Israelites and King David. In Psalms 3:5, "I laid me down and slept; I awakened; for the Lord sustained me."

Sometimes, God’s provision is not always noticed. Many people go through a trial and will ask God why. Why didn’t He provide for them? Truth is, God has provided for them. They just don’t know yet. One prime example is this: Jesus’ death on the cross. He had to endure the torture and pain, but He died to become our Savior. God had a plan for Him and has a plan for us.

Here are some good verses in Matthew:

6:25-34 “Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?  Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

"Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

"Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek.)  For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.  But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”

Did you know that John Hancock, President of the Second Continental Congress, wrote that the Declaration of Independence did not make America free from Britain?  Find out why in the August edition of the YCLA newsletter!

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The Bible states in I Samuel 15:23,“Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.” God is clear throughout His Word that rebellion against constituted authority, which He has set up, is a great evil.

Some today believe the American Founders rebelled against Great Britain when they fought the War of Independence. Modern readers of the 1776 Declaration have been taught to see the document as lawless and revolutionary (in today’s sense of the word).  The American Revolution has been compared to the French Revolution several years later, or to other rebellions, which actually would be better contrasted against the experience of the American colonists. If it is true that the American Founders were godly and wise men who upheld the Truth of Scripture, why would they carry out a rebellion against their king merely because of high taxes?  In fact, they did nothing of the sort. 

The War of Independence was fought to defend a country which had been free for over 150 years prior. The citizens of the American continent had been respected as Englishmen, but under their own legislatures rather than Parliament. With the accession of King George III there was a shift in the attitude toward the colonists. They began to be viewed as subjects of an empire, rather than people with equal rights as their colonial charters (or constitutions) demanded. 

The colonists began to protest. They even held events such as the Boston Tea Party in 1773, to keep unlawful acts from being enforced. Yet, very few people wereever harmed, and there were never any mobs in the streets or storming of castles, as in the French Revolution. The colonists sought every possible way to attain reconciliation with the king. However, on April 19, 1775, British soldiers invaded the inland of Massachusetts in the battles of Lexington and Concord. The British government had declared war on its own citizens. Still, the Continental Congress implored the king to cease this tyrannical treatment, sending him the conciliatory Olive Branch Petition. Instead of responding, the king declared the colonies to be in a state of rebellion. 

Finally, in December of 1775, the British government approved the Prohibitory Act, banning all trade with America and declaring the colonies out of the king’s protection. 

***  To be continued…

I asked Oliver Morales, the 26-year-old leader of the King’s Castle team we worked with in Nicaragua, what he believed was the essence of leadership. He responded with four main points, which I will share here. –

RJM

1. Do it first. If you tell someone to do something, you must be willing to do it yourself (be an

example).

2. Keep your word. For example, if you say you will be on time and you are late you lose

credibility.

3. Be consistent. Showing forgiveness as a leader can be good, but not if you’ve already given a

warning. The rules must apply equally for everyone.

4. Have respect. The more respect you have for your team the more respect they will have for

you.

God’s will for leadership is not painted best in the stereotype of a handsome politician speaking across a vast expanse to thousands of cheering supporters. Nor is it best wrapped up in the media personalities who so smoothly express the news to us, or in the artists and architects who design elaborate symbols for our culture.  God indeed calls individuals to such places. But foremost, God’s will for leadership is one of largely unrecognized service, encouragement, communication, obedience, and character. We are called to “be an example;” to show others the Way of Christ with our lives.

The Way of Christ is not one in which we can shy away from responsibility. Contrariwise, we should do our very best in any position of leadership God gives us. But we must realize that purity of heart is a prerequisite for godly influence. God will not give us leadership if we love it more than Him.  Much as an arrow must be shot above the mark in order to hit a target, we must seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33) if we wish to bring about earthly change. It is in seeking not to be great, but to be good, that a Young Christian Leader is Rewarded.

-From the YCLA May newsletter