Preface: if you haven't, I highly advise reading my first article on unconditional love before reading this one.
I write this next entry for the blog after having some good feedback from the first one. Keep in mind, I am still processing the question, "Is unconditional love biblical?" What I am about to write should NOT be read as me arguing for my personal conviction in an attempt to persuade others, but simply my attempt at verbalizing an internal debate I've been having with myself.
I am NOT convinced that what I understand of "conditional love" is biblical, either. I'm simply testing the idea that the two terms "unconditional" and "conditional" are two extremes in a possibly false paradigm of how we define and interpret "love" within the bible.
As a reminder of what I wrote in my last post, unconditional love was a term I used as a synonym for "agape" and as a way to distinguish God's love. For me, it meant that God bestows His love towards us without any preconditions from us. He continues to love us regardless of how we love Him.
In this line of thinking, I reasoned that God's love for mankind is unconditional. Regardless of the condition mankind is in, God still loves him. However, there are conditions people must obey before they can fully receive God's love. God's love is unconditionally extended to us through Jesus Christ, but it is received on the condition of our obedience.
Now, let's look at Romans 5:8."But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (KJV) This continues to be one of my favorite verses. Not too long ago, this was the first verse that came to mind to support unconditional love. This was my ace.
But context is king when studying the scriptures. Romans 5:8 comes at the end of an argument of contrast. The full argument reads, "Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (NIV). This seemed like a very apparent example of unconditional love to me.
I mean, when I add Romans 5:6 as the point Paul was making with the above argument... surely, unconditional love is true. "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly." (KJV) We were powerless. We didn't do anything to bring Jesus into the world. Rare are the people who might give up their lives for a righteous man. Rarer still are those who would die for a good man! Men might die for another on the condition that the other has some measure of goodness, but God sent His Son unconditionally to die for us. Right?
Is unconditional love really an accurate description of what's laid out here? God bestowed His love towards us without any preconditions from us?
If that's true, what am I supposed to do with God's wrath being mentioned in Romans 5:9? "... being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him."
I've caught myself in a dilemma, thinking about this. On one hand, I believe God's wrath is still an expression of His love. On the other hand, I thought God loves us unconditionally. Yet, He does not have unconditional wrath against us.
As I looked at Romans 5:8 closer, Paul's point seems to be that there indeed were conditions on our part for why God sent His Son. We sinned. We were powerless. That's what makes his argument of contrast so powerful! Men may sometimes show the great love of self-sacrifice for another, on the condition that the other has some measure of goodness. But God shows forth His great love of self-sacrifice on the condition that we were sinners. God's love is so great, it's even extended on terms that were in opposition to Him.
What were those terms we laid out for Him that were in opposition to Him? Oh, yeah... sinning against Him to the point of brutally nailing Jesus to a cross and mocking Him as He slowly died of asphyxiation.
Even then, God met our terms with His love. But, by those same terms, we've also earned for ourselves His wrath.
The dilemma I mentioned earlier about God's wrath still being an expression of His love no longer seems as strong now.
If God's love is influenced by conditions, what might those terms be whereby I gain His love? I realized, they were inherent, already at work within me. He loves me because I am a part of His creation. He loves me because I am made in His image. He loves me because I am my own unique soul. He loves me because He has a plan for me. He loves me because He sees my unused and unrealized potential. Really, I could incorporate the endless list of conditions for why God loves me into a simple one. He made me.
God loves me because He made me.
He made me with the freedom to sin.
Therefore, God loves me even when I sin.
God loves me, because even when I was lost to him, enraptured by my own sin and spiritually-oblivious to Him, He sent Jesus to take that state of being away for me.
That's the context of Romans 5:8.
If God lays out the conditions for me to be lovable, then wouldn't that also mean He lays out the conditions for me to be condemned? That seems to fit pretty well with both the contexts of Romans 5:8 and John 3:16.
I appreciate Romans 5:8 on a much deeper level now. There were Judaizers in Paul's day that would say we have to earn Jesus by means of our own merit. Paul doesn't dismiss this claim by introducing a proposition of unconditional love. He actually cuts the legs out from under them with their own reasoning. We already have God's love conditionally, even on the condition of our sinfulness.
If what I'm seeing is indeed Paul's argument, rather than unconditional love, then what he says later in Romans 6:1 makes more sense as well. "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?" He has to clarify for His audience, lest they walk away thinking, "I can sin more, so God will show me more love!" No, no, Paul clarifies. Since you have God's love by means of your sinfulness, then use your sinfulness as a reason to come to God on His terms. Have Him take away your sins through union with Jesus's death, burial, and resurrection. (Rom. 6:2-7). Otherwise, you're going to have God's wrath by means of your sinfulness, and you're still gonna have to answer to Jesus.
Romans 6:1-7 takes on a whole new irony with this perspective. The very same condition we gave God to love us is the same condition He gave us to love Him.
However, let's think about Romans 5:8 as if Paul is saying God's love is unconditional. If God loves me without any regard to my condition, then that actually confuses why He pours so much regard into my sinful condition by sending Jesus. And it also confuses why I want to walk in His love by changing my condition (Romans 6). It also confuses why He's intent on pouring out His wrath through Jesus someday.
The very term "unconditional love" seems self-contradictory. If love is having regard for another, then I cannot really love someone by disregarding the condition they're in. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13, KJV) I can't show greater love to my friend by giving up my life for him, until I first judge that he's in danger.
God doesn't love unconditionally, with no regard to my condition.
God is love. Because he loves me, He has total regard for my condition. This train of thought seems more in alignment with 1 John 4:7-21 and Philippians 2:1-11.
When I first met our dog, Skye, she was the trembling, ugly runt of the litter. There were a dozen other puppies in what some might consider better condition than Skye. These other puppies were cute, playful, and bouncing around joyfully like typical puppies do. But I fell in love with that little, scrawny, trembling, twig in the corner, growling at everything around her. Why? Because I loved what I saw.
And because I loved her, she filled out, gained confidence under my training, and became playful with other dogs. And you know what? I still love Skye, because she's a dog. I fell in love on the condition of what I saw. I still love on the condition of what I see. And, I will continue to love on the condition that I can no longer see her, when she dies. She's my dog.
If that's how my love worked for a dog, how much more so does God love me!
I'm tying a knot on this subject for now. As always, thank you for reading. I appreciate any feedback as I continue to unpack my thoughts.
Pressing forward... Nathaniel
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Monday, February 17, 2020
Is Unconditional Love Biblical?
Recently, while preparing to teach a bible study, I was struck with a simple question - "Is unconditional love really biblical?" I've always presumed God's love is unconditional. So, that question nagged at me. I needed an answer more substantive than a mere presumption.
Out of curiosity to see what others thought, I posted the question and asked everyone to private message me their responses. It was interesting seeing only two answers that came back as absolute assertions, with one being a yes and the other a no.
All the other answers I got were somewhere between yes and no. I appreciated everyone's reasoning they gave. I was pointed to different scriptures, and different illustrations were given to help me better understand where someone was coming from.
But, overall, I found a lack of coherency between everyone's answers. This really peaked my own interest to study the question out for myself. My simple beginning point was to examine my own presumption. Unconditional love was a term I used as a synonym for "agape" and as a way to distinguish God's love. For me, it meant that God bestows His love towards us without any preconditions from us. He continues to love us regardless of how we love Him.
The two main scriptures that immediately came to mind to defend my presumption were John 3:16 and Romans 5:8-9. However, I believe context is king and trumps my finely-tuned ability to pick cherries from the text.
As I opened my bible and examined the context for both of those passages, I found myself thinking, "Huh". Why? Well, I saw in both a "because" statement implied. That means a condition is in play. Rather than seeing God lavishing His love towards us regardless of conditions, I instead saw God lavishing us with love due to conditions.
Consider John 3:16. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (KJV)
There's a "so that" statement in this verse - a purpose behind God sending the Son as proof of His love for us: "...that whosoever believeth in him should not perish..." . This implies a condition, our condemnation. That's clearly identified in the next verse.
The overall context of John 3:16 is a conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus about the world being under condemnation and the means (Jesus being lifted up on a cross) by which the condemned can escape (spiritual) death.
As I kept reading into vs. 18-19, I realized that the world's condition of condemnation is the example Jesus uses to distinguish God's love. So much so, that Jesus even further unpacks the condition of the world for Nicodemus in vs. 19. "And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil."
Here, Jesus now compares the love God has for mankind with the love mankind has for darkness. The Greek form of "agape" used for mankind's love of darkness is the same used for God's love of mankind in vs. 16. I'm no longer convinced that I can on one hand distinguish God's "agape" in vs. 16 as unconditional while clearly man's "agape" is not unconditional in vs. 19.
That may have been confusing. Let me clarify by saying it a different way. Both "loves" talked about are expressed by Jesus through conditions. If mankind's love for darkness can be understood because his deeds are evil and he doesn't want them exposed by light, God's love for mankind can be understood because mankind is in condemnation and He doesn't want us to perish. Thus, that's why He sent His Son.
Why is this important to notice God's love conditionally talked about within this context? Simple. If Jesus is making the argument in John 3:16 that God loves the world unconditionally, He's removed the condition for why He Himself was sent!
Let me illustrate. My brother bought an old, nasty, dilapidated house. He loved what he bought, because of the condition it was in. It was a fixer upper. If he loved it unconditionally, regardless of what it was like, then there would be no reason for him to fix it up before moving in! So why didn't he just move in? After all, when he first bought it, I remember him telling me, "Nathan, I love what I see." What he meant by that is he loves the house because it's a fixer-upper. He had a purpose in mind for it. That nasty house - which I loved helping him gut out - had unrealized and unused potential as a home. Now it's nice, livable, and cozy, even if there's still work to be done.
I use my brother has an example. But isn't that imagery true when God makes His home in us? He purchases a fixer-upper, guts out all the filth inside, and makes us His home, even if there's still work to be done in us.
Thank you for taking time to read my ramblings. Mind you, this blog is an avenue for me to process my thoughts. I'm still working through this topic. I intend to continue this topic on Thursday, by examining Romans 5:8-9.
Out of curiosity to see what others thought, I posted the question and asked everyone to private message me their responses. It was interesting seeing only two answers that came back as absolute assertions, with one being a yes and the other a no.
All the other answers I got were somewhere between yes and no. I appreciated everyone's reasoning they gave. I was pointed to different scriptures, and different illustrations were given to help me better understand where someone was coming from.
But, overall, I found a lack of coherency between everyone's answers. This really peaked my own interest to study the question out for myself. My simple beginning point was to examine my own presumption. Unconditional love was a term I used as a synonym for "agape" and as a way to distinguish God's love. For me, it meant that God bestows His love towards us without any preconditions from us. He continues to love us regardless of how we love Him.
The two main scriptures that immediately came to mind to defend my presumption were John 3:16 and Romans 5:8-9. However, I believe context is king and trumps my finely-tuned ability to pick cherries from the text.
As I opened my bible and examined the context for both of those passages, I found myself thinking, "Huh". Why? Well, I saw in both a "because" statement implied. That means a condition is in play. Rather than seeing God lavishing His love towards us regardless of conditions, I instead saw God lavishing us with love due to conditions.
Consider John 3:16. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (KJV)
There's a "so that" statement in this verse - a purpose behind God sending the Son as proof of His love for us: "...that whosoever believeth in him should not perish..." . This implies a condition, our condemnation. That's clearly identified in the next verse.
The overall context of John 3:16 is a conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus about the world being under condemnation and the means (Jesus being lifted up on a cross) by which the condemned can escape (spiritual) death.
As I kept reading into vs. 18-19, I realized that the world's condition of condemnation is the example Jesus uses to distinguish God's love. So much so, that Jesus even further unpacks the condition of the world for Nicodemus in vs. 19. "And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil."
Here, Jesus now compares the love God has for mankind with the love mankind has for darkness. The Greek form of "agape" used for mankind's love of darkness is the same used for God's love of mankind in vs. 16. I'm no longer convinced that I can on one hand distinguish God's "agape" in vs. 16 as unconditional while clearly man's "agape" is not unconditional in vs. 19.
That may have been confusing. Let me clarify by saying it a different way. Both "loves" talked about are expressed by Jesus through conditions. If mankind's love for darkness can be understood because his deeds are evil and he doesn't want them exposed by light, God's love for mankind can be understood because mankind is in condemnation and He doesn't want us to perish. Thus, that's why He sent His Son.
Why is this important to notice God's love conditionally talked about within this context? Simple. If Jesus is making the argument in John 3:16 that God loves the world unconditionally, He's removed the condition for why He Himself was sent!
Let me illustrate. My brother bought an old, nasty, dilapidated house. He loved what he bought, because of the condition it was in. It was a fixer upper. If he loved it unconditionally, regardless of what it was like, then there would be no reason for him to fix it up before moving in! So why didn't he just move in? After all, when he first bought it, I remember him telling me, "Nathan, I love what I see." What he meant by that is he loves the house because it's a fixer-upper. He had a purpose in mind for it. That nasty house - which I loved helping him gut out - had unrealized and unused potential as a home. Now it's nice, livable, and cozy, even if there's still work to be done.
I use my brother has an example. But isn't that imagery true when God makes His home in us? He purchases a fixer-upper, guts out all the filth inside, and makes us His home, even if there's still work to be done in us.
Thank you for taking time to read my ramblings. Mind you, this blog is an avenue for me to process my thoughts. I'm still working through this topic. I intend to continue this topic on Thursday, by examining Romans 5:8-9.
Tuesday, February 11, 2020
Covey, a Head Cold, and an Apology
One of my resolutions at the start of 2020 was to get back into reading books. I've started by simply rereading books already in my library that I haven't opened for sometime. One of those books is the classic "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey. I'm remembering now why it's a classic.
I first read this book about six years ago, when I was working in sheetmetal fabrication. At the time, I remember being impressed with it. But now that I find myself married and doing state-side mission work in the Pacific Northwest, I find the book's thesis especially pertinent to me.
Covey makes a point to begin his book on the importance of one's character and the bedrock of principles upon which said character is established. This theme continues on through the book and is tied to his discussion on the seven habits. But the subtitle on the cover of the book, I believe, is a better title than the actual one - "Powerful Lessons in Personal Change". Powerful lessons, indeed. I'm grateful for the reminder these lessons serve for me during this time in my life.
It's easy for me to get distracted or discouraged by my life's current circumstances and to become reactive. To blame my circumstances for negative feelings or thoughts rather than taking responsibility. One of the things I've let myself neglect is this blog, and I think I've suffered for it. But that's just one small example.
Life in ministry is still a new concept for me. Life in Seattle, WA is still new, although I do feel myself finally adjusting somewhat to it. I no longer immediately feel irritable when I get up in the morning only to find that it's still raining! So, that's good.
If you haven't read Covey's book, I highly recommend it. It can be a rather convicting read. Covey incorporates biblical examples throughout the book, which I greatly appreciate. For me, reading his book again was a good reminder to reevaluate my priorities, to measure my work based off effectiveness rather than efficiency, and to reexamine the importance of my character.
Covey's book, along with having a head cold and sore throat combo, reminded me to resume this blog. I'm sorry about my inactivity over the past three months.
I first read this book about six years ago, when I was working in sheetmetal fabrication. At the time, I remember being impressed with it. But now that I find myself married and doing state-side mission work in the Pacific Northwest, I find the book's thesis especially pertinent to me.
Covey makes a point to begin his book on the importance of one's character and the bedrock of principles upon which said character is established. This theme continues on through the book and is tied to his discussion on the seven habits. But the subtitle on the cover of the book, I believe, is a better title than the actual one - "Powerful Lessons in Personal Change". Powerful lessons, indeed. I'm grateful for the reminder these lessons serve for me during this time in my life.
It's easy for me to get distracted or discouraged by my life's current circumstances and to become reactive. To blame my circumstances for negative feelings or thoughts rather than taking responsibility. One of the things I've let myself neglect is this blog, and I think I've suffered for it. But that's just one small example.
Life in ministry is still a new concept for me. Life in Seattle, WA is still new, although I do feel myself finally adjusting somewhat to it. I no longer immediately feel irritable when I get up in the morning only to find that it's still raining! So, that's good.
If you haven't read Covey's book, I highly recommend it. It can be a rather convicting read. Covey incorporates biblical examples throughout the book, which I greatly appreciate. For me, reading his book again was a good reminder to reevaluate my priorities, to measure my work based off effectiveness rather than efficiency, and to reexamine the importance of my character.
Covey's book, along with having a head cold and sore throat combo, reminded me to resume this blog. I'm sorry about my inactivity over the past three months.
Friday, October 25, 2019
Jesus Died for Pharisees.
Yes, Jesus ate with prostitutes and publicans, despite what others thought of Him. But. I'm concerned we Christians need to be reminded that Jesus died for Pharisees too.
Despite, I'm sure, being tired after a busy day, Jesus met privately at night with a Pharisee, a ruler of the Jews. (John 3:1ff) It's pretty easy for me to imagine Nicodemus having previously opposed Jesus in public. Yet, Jesus took time aside to come alongside this man and to answer his questions. It's noteworthy that the most quoted verse on God's love for us comes in the midst of Jesus's dialogue with a Pharisee.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
In the next verse that we would do well to remember. Jesus told a Pharisee, "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." (vs. 17). I can almost hear Jesus's calm tone of reassurance to Nicodemus. "I didn't come to condemn you, Pharisee. Despite you resisting me, despite you being so embarrassed to talk with me that you came to me in the secrecy of night, my goal isn't to condemn you. I came that you might be saved. I came because God loves you."
Unfortunately, I fear we don't always echo the same sentiment towards those we deem as Pharisees.
In our passionate preaching to love the sinner and the poor, I hope we don't forget the okay and the rich. In our haste to teach from the gospels such accounts as the Samaritan woman, I hope we don't forget the accounts of Jesus praising those with power and wealth. After all, is our God not Lord over both the rich and poor? The popular and the rejected?
It wasn't a poor man but a slave-owning centurion with command over others that was said to have greater faith than any other in all Israel (Matt. 8:5-13). Jesus desired to stay in the home of a rich man (Luke 19:1-10). After Jesus suffered a humiliating death on the cross, it wasn't a prostitute and a poor man that pulled the nails from His hands, cleaned the dirt and blood from His mangled flesh, clothed His naked body, and gave Him a dignified burial. It was a rich man and a Pharisee (John 19:39-40).
Yes, God loves the addict, the homeless, the prostitute, and the impoverished. But, He also loves the successful, the professional, the prudish, and the privileged. I hope the emphasis in our conversations about the church does not center around our disdain for those we deem as self-righteous. In addition, I hope we've not convinced ourselves that in order to increase the effectiveness of the church we should purge those we deem as Pharisees, lest we become prejudiced towards those we perceive as prejudiced.
To give a biblical example of what I'm talking about... "And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple..." (Acts 9:26). This would never happen in today's church by we who aim to be so inclusive. Right?
To give a biblical example of what I'm talking about... "And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple..." (Acts 9:26). This would never happen in today's church by we who aim to be so inclusive. Right?
We can't let ourselves get distracted by a witch hunt. We need to be like Barnabas (Acts 9:27). God's mission for His church does not consist of purging Pharisees from our assemblies. It actually consists of graciously reserving a seat for them beside the adulterer they tried to stone.
May we not cast the first stone at those we think are casting the first stone.
- Nathaniel
May we not cast the first stone at those we think are casting the first stone.
- Nathaniel
Thursday, October 10, 2019
A New Home!
Once again, prayers have been answered for us! God has provided a new home for us, and it's an excellent compromise between fiscal stinginess and irresponsible spending. Instead of a small apartment or a house, we found a townhome apartment for a reasonable price (at least, in relation to other prices around here).
There are two stories. The main level will provide needed space for hospitality and hosting small group assemblies. The second level has two bedrooms. So, the spare can be used as an office space when it's just Birdie and me at home... or as a guest bedroom for supporters that might want to come visit. All of this for under $2,000 a month!
One of the things about our new home that has me very excited is the built-in community that we'll be joining. The apartment complex has a nice facility with a pool, hot tub, gym, dog park, etc. All of which provide an opportunity right outside our door to connect with people in a casual way. I can already see the possibilities!
Besides finishing up some paperwork and paying the initial costs, all that's left before us now is to wait for the move-in date, November 15th. Thankfully, our gracious teammates, Joshua and McKenzy Clearman, will continue to provide housing for us until then. All in all, God has definitely answered our prayers for housing, both in the month to come and in the present moment. Again, I am left feeling greatly humbled and thankful that God is bigger than my petty frustrations and doubts.
Pressing forward... Nathaniel
There are two stories. The main level will provide needed space for hospitality and hosting small group assemblies. The second level has two bedrooms. So, the spare can be used as an office space when it's just Birdie and me at home... or as a guest bedroom for supporters that might want to come visit. All of this for under $2,000 a month!
One of the things about our new home that has me very excited is the built-in community that we'll be joining. The apartment complex has a nice facility with a pool, hot tub, gym, dog park, etc. All of which provide an opportunity right outside our door to connect with people in a casual way. I can already see the possibilities!
Besides finishing up some paperwork and paying the initial costs, all that's left before us now is to wait for the move-in date, November 15th. Thankfully, our gracious teammates, Joshua and McKenzy Clearman, will continue to provide housing for us until then. All in all, God has definitely answered our prayers for housing, both in the month to come and in the present moment. Again, I am left feeling greatly humbled and thankful that God is bigger than my petty frustrations and doubts.
Pressing forward... Nathaniel
Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Arrival
Just a few days ago, Friday night of last week, Roberta and I arrived in West Seattle, WA. This marks the official start of the next chapter in our lives - sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with others in the Pacific Northwest. Meanwhile, there is still much to be done to get settled here.
The first step is finding housing for ourselves and establishing a permanent address. Our teammates - the Clearmans - have graciously opened up their lovely home to us in the meantime. We have our own room and bathroom, making it feel less like we're sharing a space with others. I suppose I should be used to it by now, living in another person's home. After all, Roberta and I have been living out of our suitcases as for going on three months now, jumping from one person's house to the next. Our living circumstances have been an important reminder for me to "count my blessings" and to name them one by one, lest I give into murmuring and discontentment.
In truth, there is much to be intimidated by when it comes to finding housing. Prices are so ridiculously inflated in West Seattle right now, it's difficult to find a house to rent that's below $2,000 a month. We cannot afford one with our current percentage of support we're asking for. We'll most likely have to look at studio apartments, but I know Roberta dreads the thought inside. Both of us have a desire for hospitality and having people over, and our ability in this area would be severely restricted by the lack of space a studio apartment provides. Plus, our participation in hosting a home assembly for the church would be unlikely, making the job be passed on to our teammates.
Yet, I cannot allow my inner frustrations blind me to how God is working unseen through it all. I have been praying fervently for more financial support for Roberta and myself. But an even more comforting thought than my own prayers is knowing that there are countless others out there as well, praying for us and the Northwest Mission. I owe each and every single one of them my gratitude and, in truth, this new chapter of my life. Without their love, support, and encouragement, I'm not sure I would be sitting here in West Seattle typing this post.
To all of our supporters, family, and friends, Roberta and I thank you immensely! Because of you, we are now in West Seattle! Because of you, a new chapter in our walk is beginning! Thank you - all of you - for everything you have done and continue to do to help us! We have felt the comforting Spirit of God moving through you all. Indeed, I can say with help from you all (and despite myself at times), "Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ..." (Eph. 1:3).
Pressing forward... Nathaniel
The first step is finding housing for ourselves and establishing a permanent address. Our teammates - the Clearmans - have graciously opened up their lovely home to us in the meantime. We have our own room and bathroom, making it feel less like we're sharing a space with others. I suppose I should be used to it by now, living in another person's home. After all, Roberta and I have been living out of our suitcases as for going on three months now, jumping from one person's house to the next. Our living circumstances have been an important reminder for me to "count my blessings" and to name them one by one, lest I give into murmuring and discontentment.
In truth, there is much to be intimidated by when it comes to finding housing. Prices are so ridiculously inflated in West Seattle right now, it's difficult to find a house to rent that's below $2,000 a month. We cannot afford one with our current percentage of support we're asking for. We'll most likely have to look at studio apartments, but I know Roberta dreads the thought inside. Both of us have a desire for hospitality and having people over, and our ability in this area would be severely restricted by the lack of space a studio apartment provides. Plus, our participation in hosting a home assembly for the church would be unlikely, making the job be passed on to our teammates.
Yet, I cannot allow my inner frustrations blind me to how God is working unseen through it all. I have been praying fervently for more financial support for Roberta and myself. But an even more comforting thought than my own prayers is knowing that there are countless others out there as well, praying for us and the Northwest Mission. I owe each and every single one of them my gratitude and, in truth, this new chapter of my life. Without their love, support, and encouragement, I'm not sure I would be sitting here in West Seattle typing this post.
To all of our supporters, family, and friends, Roberta and I thank you immensely! Because of you, we are now in West Seattle! Because of you, a new chapter in our walk is beginning! Thank you - all of you - for everything you have done and continue to do to help us! We have felt the comforting Spirit of God moving through you all. Indeed, I can say with help from you all (and despite myself at times), "Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ..." (Eph. 1:3).
Pressing forward... Nathaniel
Wednesday, September 4, 2019
Enoch Walked with God
"And Enoch walked with God..." (Genesis 5:24). I honestly have no idea what it means that Enoch walked with God. I've read various articles and perspectives on this phrase, but the major idea that all the viewpoints have in common is that Enoch spent time with God.
Hebrews 11:5 adds a little more insight into this when the author wrote, "... for before his translation [Enoch] had this testimony, that he pleased God." Enoch spent time with God. He pleased God. How? I've wondered this time and time again. How did Enoch please God? What did it look like when he walked with God? Admittedly, I have no solid answers.
I'll be transparent here. For a long time, prayer has been a very confusing concept for me. I've repeatedly struggled with better understanding and implementing prayer. In the midst of prayer I've wondered if God even existed. I've bitterly questioned if He cared enough to listen. I've also struggled with asking and begging for things that were NOT in alignment with God's will as revealed by scripture.
On a lighter note, I remember being 10 and having just read the first Harry Potter book. As my eleventh birthday grew nearer, I begged God to make it so that Hogwarts was a real school and that I would get a letter on my birthday accepting me as a student. I distinctly remember thinking, "If God is so powerful, then even if Hogwarts isn't real, He can make it so that it is." Of course, my prayer wasn't answered as I requested, despite my very clear instructions.
Recently, however, I had a simple thought. Why can't I just take Genesis 5:24 as it reads and walk with God too? So, I tried it. The next day, I woke up, put on my shoes, and walked a short distance. Maybe a 1/4 of a mile. But, I took my time. During that walk, I just acknowledged that God was present, that He was walking with me, and I talked to Him about what was on my mind and heart. I did it again the next day, going a little further, and again the day after.
What has surfaced in this simple practice is a very simple concept. That is, intentionally spending time with God. It's not about the walk itself and the health benefits associated with it. It's about who I'm with. Already, I've had a few walks where I just trudged along with God in sober silence. On those days, that was exactly what I needed to do in recognition of who He is and who I am not.
With that simple concept in mind, how I'm praying is also beginning to change. Rather than approaching my prayer as time spent going over a list of adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication, I find myself first examining myself as I spend time with Him and then admitting to Him how I'm spending that time.
I've come before Him giddy and excited for our walk. I've also come before Him lustful for something I don't have and bitter for not having it. Either way, the point remains the same. Rather than just saying things to God, as if I'm attempting to enlighten Him, I've begun musing over the things I wish to say and how He would want me to talk about them to Him.
So far, this practice is still new to me, but it is already helping my walk with God (no pun intended). I hope this has encouraged whoever reading this in some kind of way. Don't hesitate to share your thoughts with me either through commenting below or contacting me directly.
- Nathaniel
Hebrews 11:5 adds a little more insight into this when the author wrote, "... for before his translation [Enoch] had this testimony, that he pleased God." Enoch spent time with God. He pleased God. How? I've wondered this time and time again. How did Enoch please God? What did it look like when he walked with God? Admittedly, I have no solid answers.
I'll be transparent here. For a long time, prayer has been a very confusing concept for me. I've repeatedly struggled with better understanding and implementing prayer. In the midst of prayer I've wondered if God even existed. I've bitterly questioned if He cared enough to listen. I've also struggled with asking and begging for things that were NOT in alignment with God's will as revealed by scripture.
On a lighter note, I remember being 10 and having just read the first Harry Potter book. As my eleventh birthday grew nearer, I begged God to make it so that Hogwarts was a real school and that I would get a letter on my birthday accepting me as a student. I distinctly remember thinking, "If God is so powerful, then even if Hogwarts isn't real, He can make it so that it is." Of course, my prayer wasn't answered as I requested, despite my very clear instructions.
Recently, however, I had a simple thought. Why can't I just take Genesis 5:24 as it reads and walk with God too? So, I tried it. The next day, I woke up, put on my shoes, and walked a short distance. Maybe a 1/4 of a mile. But, I took my time. During that walk, I just acknowledged that God was present, that He was walking with me, and I talked to Him about what was on my mind and heart. I did it again the next day, going a little further, and again the day after.
What has surfaced in this simple practice is a very simple concept. That is, intentionally spending time with God. It's not about the walk itself and the health benefits associated with it. It's about who I'm with. Already, I've had a few walks where I just trudged along with God in sober silence. On those days, that was exactly what I needed to do in recognition of who He is and who I am not.
With that simple concept in mind, how I'm praying is also beginning to change. Rather than approaching my prayer as time spent going over a list of adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication, I find myself first examining myself as I spend time with Him and then admitting to Him how I'm spending that time.
I've come before Him giddy and excited for our walk. I've also come before Him lustful for something I don't have and bitter for not having it. Either way, the point remains the same. Rather than just saying things to God, as if I'm attempting to enlighten Him, I've begun musing over the things I wish to say and how He would want me to talk about them to Him.
So far, this practice is still new to me, but it is already helping my walk with God (no pun intended). I hope this has encouraged whoever reading this in some kind of way. Don't hesitate to share your thoughts with me either through commenting below or contacting me directly.
- Nathaniel
Friday, August 30, 2019
A Cold Pause
Today, I woke up with quite the head cold that dragged me down with clouded mind, fatigue, achy joints, and congestion. After several cups of tea, oregano essential oil, a bowl of homemade turkey bone broth, and two naps, I'm starting to perk up. I also realize that God has put my busyness on pause today, giving me a perfect opportunity to write a long-overdue blog post.
This month has been an absolute blessing to Roberta and I. We got back to Missouri at the very end of July and haven't stopped spending much-needed time with family. From the get-go we've been busy helping both sides of the family. The first week of August we went up to Iowa with Roberta's parents to help in a sensitive situation involving her grandmother's health. She had broken her hip before our arrival and her home needed to become a safer environment. A lot of physical labor was involved, but we were thankful for the opportunity to spend time with her parents as we helped her grandmother.
Soon after that, trouble arose on my side of the family. My grandfather was putting away the lawn mower when he was attacked by a wasp and stumbled backwards as he swatted at it. He fell and fractured his right fibula, only to walk uphill back to the house, stumble through the front door, and mutter aloud, "I just fell, and I think I hurt my ankle." For those of you who do not know, my grandfather has been one of my closest friends. He was the best man in my wedding. It was a sobering reminder to me to cherish my time with him before I join a work that will separate me from him in his latter years of life.
But not everything on my side of the family has been troublesome! I officially now have another little brother named Sailor. His adoption date came just two days after my grandfather fell. It has been a year-long journey for my parents, but I've had the blessing of jumping in at the end of the adoption process. Coming home after two years in Lubbock to a new four-year old brother felt completely natural. Sailor and I have already bonded together through wrestling, hide-and-seek, and doing chores around the house for Mom. I'm also glad that he gleefully giggles at being scared. I believe every little boy needs to experience the suspense of not knowing where their older brother lurks, ready to pounce while acting like a feral lion.
As this month draws to a close, Roberta and I are preparing ourselves for our imminent departure for West Seattle, WA. Last night I had my first dreams riddled by subconscious anxiety of our upcoming mission work. I know the Northwest Mission won't be easy work, but I trust that God will use us for His work in the area. We remain immensely grateful to all of our supporters. For their prayers, their encouragement, and their thoughtfulness towards us. We appreciate you all so much!
- Nathaniel Thompson
This month has been an absolute blessing to Roberta and I. We got back to Missouri at the very end of July and haven't stopped spending much-needed time with family. From the get-go we've been busy helping both sides of the family. The first week of August we went up to Iowa with Roberta's parents to help in a sensitive situation involving her grandmother's health. She had broken her hip before our arrival and her home needed to become a safer environment. A lot of physical labor was involved, but we were thankful for the opportunity to spend time with her parents as we helped her grandmother.
Soon after that, trouble arose on my side of the family. My grandfather was putting away the lawn mower when he was attacked by a wasp and stumbled backwards as he swatted at it. He fell and fractured his right fibula, only to walk uphill back to the house, stumble through the front door, and mutter aloud, "I just fell, and I think I hurt my ankle." For those of you who do not know, my grandfather has been one of my closest friends. He was the best man in my wedding. It was a sobering reminder to me to cherish my time with him before I join a work that will separate me from him in his latter years of life.
But not everything on my side of the family has been troublesome! I officially now have another little brother named Sailor. His adoption date came just two days after my grandfather fell. It has been a year-long journey for my parents, but I've had the blessing of jumping in at the end of the adoption process. Coming home after two years in Lubbock to a new four-year old brother felt completely natural. Sailor and I have already bonded together through wrestling, hide-and-seek, and doing chores around the house for Mom. I'm also glad that he gleefully giggles at being scared. I believe every little boy needs to experience the suspense of not knowing where their older brother lurks, ready to pounce while acting like a feral lion.
As this month draws to a close, Roberta and I are preparing ourselves for our imminent departure for West Seattle, WA. Last night I had my first dreams riddled by subconscious anxiety of our upcoming mission work. I know the Northwest Mission won't be easy work, but I trust that God will use us for His work in the area. We remain immensely grateful to all of our supporters. For their prayers, their encouragement, and their thoughtfulness towards us. We appreciate you all so much!
- Nathaniel Thompson
Monday, August 19, 2019
Not so Black and White
"Truth is that which corresponds with reality." - N. Geisler. This is a principle that has really been on my mind lately. I keep seeing posts online in regards to racism within our country and I find myself noticing two words used, regardless of the opinion expressed, that don't match up with reality. I've been guilty of using these words myself.
After much contemplation, I've decided for myself that I'm going to try and eliminate "white" and "black" from my vocabulary in regards to people. I would include others like "red" and "yellow", but I don't tend to use those terms anyway.
There is no such thing as a black or white man. Such adjectives do not correspond with reality. If I hold up a piece of white paper next to a "white man", it does not match. If I did the same with a piece of black paper to a "black man", it would not match. Even if I did the same with a "red" or "yellow man", it still would not correspond.
In reality, what we find is a spectrum of colors that display the glory of God's creative artistry. No color, standing alone, can actually capture the melanin hues of being made in God's image. And, if that's the case, why limit others to one color? Why limit myself to one color?
Consider my wife as another example. My mother-in-law is called "white", my father-in-law "black", but my wife isn't labelled "gray", even though that's what she would be if white and black mixed.
Even in the most extreme examples of albinism or melanism, the two terms do not match entirely. Shades of pink or purple, blue or brown, still warmly accentuate the same blood that flows through our veins.
At best, "white" and "black" are very poor and confusing attempts at describing people. We undermine our own attempts to navigate disagreements, hate, and pride as we continue to use the two most divided extremes in color as a way to refer to each other.
At worst, we use the two terms to obscure far deeper (and usually interconnected) differences between people groups. By using one of these terms, we lump together both the pure in heart and the hard of heart with a similarity in appearance that they have absolutely no control over.
I don't want to be color-neutral. All colors are not the same. I absolutely admit to noticing the color of someone's skin. As an artist, I often find myself admiring a person's color and imagining how I might portray such beauty through paint or pencil. If you were to ask my wife, she would tell you that my favorite color dances somewhere between tan and sepia, because I so frequently use it when coloring different people. Each color is as unique as every one of the individuals that might share it.
I also don't want to be color-exclusive. Labeling whole groups of people as black or white is not a justifiable reason for pride, supremacy, entitlement, or indifference. It's too broad a stroke that color-washes over individuals, ethnicities, nationalities, cultures, circumstances, and numerous sides of recorded history.
My decision is an attempt to be more color-inclusive, in that I purposefully start viewing everyone as different shades of the same color - mankind. Thus, our virtues and vices, our deeds of wickedness and righteousness, our atrocities and accomplishments of the past, are not exclusive to "black" or "white" but inclusive to all of us. Regardless of color, nationality, or culture.
Isn't this what Paul was arguing in the book of Romans for those Christians that came from a Jewish background? "... for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; as it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one..." (Romans 3:9b-10). He then presses onward in his argument and says the verse so many of us can quote. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God..." (Romans 3:23).
I know for myself, if I were to call myself a "white man", because of my lighter complexion, I would be disingenous to the Choctaw side of my heritage. Yet, if I called myself a "red man", that would be disingenous to the German side of my heritage. I know there are other nationalities mixed in with my heritage, too. The simple conclusion is that I wear the color of mankind in my blood.
"And [God] hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us..." (Acts 17:26-27).
This decision of mine is my own to make. But I suspect it is one many of us should make. We all need to take a long, contemplative look in the mirror and ask ourselves if we really are black or white. Then, we should start looking at others and asking ourselves the same thing.
I quoted from Romans 3 earlier, but I purposefully left out the first half of verse 9. If we continue clinging to one color whether for ourselves or others, we would benefit from asking ourselves the same question Paul asked his Jewish audience.
"What then? Are we better than they?" (Romans 3:9a).
After much contemplation, I've decided for myself that I'm going to try and eliminate "white" and "black" from my vocabulary in regards to people. I would include others like "red" and "yellow", but I don't tend to use those terms anyway.
There is no such thing as a black or white man. Such adjectives do not correspond with reality. If I hold up a piece of white paper next to a "white man", it does not match. If I did the same with a piece of black paper to a "black man", it would not match. Even if I did the same with a "red" or "yellow man", it still would not correspond.
In reality, what we find is a spectrum of colors that display the glory of God's creative artistry. No color, standing alone, can actually capture the melanin hues of being made in God's image. And, if that's the case, why limit others to one color? Why limit myself to one color?
Consider my wife as another example. My mother-in-law is called "white", my father-in-law "black", but my wife isn't labelled "gray", even though that's what she would be if white and black mixed.
Even in the most extreme examples of albinism or melanism, the two terms do not match entirely. Shades of pink or purple, blue or brown, still warmly accentuate the same blood that flows through our veins.
At best, "white" and "black" are very poor and confusing attempts at describing people. We undermine our own attempts to navigate disagreements, hate, and pride as we continue to use the two most divided extremes in color as a way to refer to each other.
At worst, we use the two terms to obscure far deeper (and usually interconnected) differences between people groups. By using one of these terms, we lump together both the pure in heart and the hard of heart with a similarity in appearance that they have absolutely no control over.
I don't want to be color-neutral. All colors are not the same. I absolutely admit to noticing the color of someone's skin. As an artist, I often find myself admiring a person's color and imagining how I might portray such beauty through paint or pencil. If you were to ask my wife, she would tell you that my favorite color dances somewhere between tan and sepia, because I so frequently use it when coloring different people. Each color is as unique as every one of the individuals that might share it.
I also don't want to be color-exclusive. Labeling whole groups of people as black or white is not a justifiable reason for pride, supremacy, entitlement, or indifference. It's too broad a stroke that color-washes over individuals, ethnicities, nationalities, cultures, circumstances, and numerous sides of recorded history.
My decision is an attempt to be more color-inclusive, in that I purposefully start viewing everyone as different shades of the same color - mankind. Thus, our virtues and vices, our deeds of wickedness and righteousness, our atrocities and accomplishments of the past, are not exclusive to "black" or "white" but inclusive to all of us. Regardless of color, nationality, or culture.
Isn't this what Paul was arguing in the book of Romans for those Christians that came from a Jewish background? "... for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; as it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one..." (Romans 3:9b-10). He then presses onward in his argument and says the verse so many of us can quote. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God..." (Romans 3:23).
I know for myself, if I were to call myself a "white man", because of my lighter complexion, I would be disingenous to the Choctaw side of my heritage. Yet, if I called myself a "red man", that would be disingenous to the German side of my heritage. I know there are other nationalities mixed in with my heritage, too. The simple conclusion is that I wear the color of mankind in my blood.
"And [God] hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us..." (Acts 17:26-27).
This decision of mine is my own to make. But I suspect it is one many of us should make. We all need to take a long, contemplative look in the mirror and ask ourselves if we really are black or white. Then, we should start looking at others and asking ourselves the same thing.
I quoted from Romans 3 earlier, but I purposefully left out the first half of verse 9. If we continue clinging to one color whether for ourselves or others, we would benefit from asking ourselves the same question Paul asked his Jewish audience.
"What then? Are we better than they?" (Romans 3:9a).
Thursday, August 1, 2019
We're Now Homeless!
It's funny. I thought becoming homeless and living out of our car would be a depressing endeavor for the next few months. But, when I finished packing, I felt excitement arise within me instead.
We are taking our first major steps to get to West Seattle, WA. While there's still much to do, the momentum has begun and there's no stopping now! We remain hopeful and excited to be used by our Lord in His work. A special thank you to all our dear friends and family that have housed us and will house us in the days ahead!
With God's people, we know we're never truly homeless.
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Paypal Available!
We have great news! Our sending church has established a Paypal account for our supporters! This is a huge blessing to have at our disposal and will make our current support raising efforts way easier!
As many of you know, my wife and I are a part of the Northwest Mission, a team of four couples dedicated to the proclamation of the gospel in our own nation.
Our mission is to join the work of our God in creatively seeking, serving, and discipling the people of the Pacific Northwest, beginning in West Seattle, WA.
Our emphasis in this work is a blend of evangelism and ongoing discipleship. Roberta
has a heart for serving others, showing hospitality, and working alongside me. She also hopes to use her training in American Sign Language to reach the Deaf Community for Christ.
As for me, I love having discussions and bible studies with those who are seeking or simply don't know about Jesus Christ. I also enjoy drawing and writing, and I hope to use these gifts to further connect with the artistic and creative people of the Northwest.
The Northwest Mission is strengthened by the support of others. There are three areas of support. Prayer, networking, and financial. The gifted couples on our team rely on such support for living and ministry expenses (Philippians 4:17). In this way, we are freed to focus our attention and time on reaching others for Christ.
Please prayerfully consider joining the Northwest Mission by supporting both Roberta and I through prayer, networking with others on our behalf, or giving financially.
The Paypal Donate button below will allow you to send one time or reoccurring support. Any donations you make with this button will go through our sending church and are tax deductible. Please reach out to us by commenting on this post if you have any questions or would like to be added to our email list.
As many of you know, my wife and I are a part of the Northwest Mission, a team of four couples dedicated to the proclamation of the gospel in our own nation.
Our mission is to join the work of our God in creatively seeking, serving, and discipling the people of the Pacific Northwest, beginning in West Seattle, WA.
Our emphasis in this work is a blend of evangelism and ongoing discipleship. Roberta
has a heart for serving others, showing hospitality, and working alongside me. She also hopes to use her training in American Sign Language to reach the Deaf Community for Christ.As for me, I love having discussions and bible studies with those who are seeking or simply don't know about Jesus Christ. I also enjoy drawing and writing, and I hope to use these gifts to further connect with the artistic and creative people of the Northwest.
The Northwest Mission is strengthened by the support of others. There are three areas of support. Prayer, networking, and financial. The gifted couples on our team rely on such support for living and ministry expenses (Philippians 4:17). In this way, we are freed to focus our attention and time on reaching others for Christ.
Please prayerfully consider joining the Northwest Mission by supporting both Roberta and I through prayer, networking with others on our behalf, or giving financially.
The Paypal Donate button below will allow you to send one time or reoccurring support. Any donations you make with this button will go through our sending church and are tax deductible. Please reach out to us by commenting on this post if you have any questions or would like to be added to our email list.
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