Morning Moments

2.  SAINTS "In Christ Jesus"

We are not saints because of what we are but because of whose we are. We are "in Christ Jesus" and that position alone "sets us apart" from the world in so many ways. Our citizenship has changed. Our character has changed. Our conduct has changed. Our conscience has changed. Our companions have changed because now we seek the fellowship of other saints of God who are heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. Because God now lives in us we "seek out" those of like faith and fellowship. We are not looking for perfection, but purity; not hypocrisy, but holiness; not entertainment, but enrichment and edification. THAT is what God's Holy Spirit seeks to draws us to as true believers. We are saints through our commitment, but that commitment begins the process of permanent change into the likeness of God's Son.

3.  SHEPHERDS "Bishops"

To help us along the way God places "overseers" over us to guide us and guard us as shepherds a flock of sheep. These shepherds are called pastors or elders in Scripture because they should be older men who feed us with the Word of God. They are to be spiritually mature, stable, and strong in the faith. These are not men who merely preach well, but who also "naturally care for the sheep". These are they who give their lives for the sheep and who do not run when the wolves come, but who protect the sheep and defend them against doctrinal and moral error. They lead by example and not by mere exposition. They may be smart, but the MUST be spiritual. Their oversight is not by force but by a willingness to lead by example.

4.  SHEEP DOGS "Deacons"

What closer relationship is there than between the shepherd and the sheepdog? They both have the same purpose - to keep the sheep safe and secure. They work together for the good of the flock. They do not compete! The sheepdog learns and loves the voice of the shepherd and understands that he is needed and loved by the shepherd. He obeys willingly and submits respectfully because the sheepdog is not the one responsible to the owner for the sheep, the shepherd is, just as the pastor is to the Lord. Far too many deacons (servants) have the idea that God made them to be a grievance committee or a committee to run the church. That is far from the truth of Scripture. They are the pastor's helpers, nothing more.

BLESSINGS!