What Keep Us From Believing God

Posted on January 1, 2015 by eig
Yesterday I was listening to Numbers 13:26-33. This passage struck me as I thought about what keeps us believing God’s promises.

“The men went back to Moses, Aaron, and the entire Israelite community in the Wilderness of Paran at Kadesh. They brought back a report for them and the whole community, and they showed them the fruit of the land. They reported to Moses: “We went into the land where you sent us. Indeed it is flowing with milk and honey, and here is some of its fruit. However, the people living in the land are strong, and the cities are large and fortified. We also saw the descendants of Anak there. The Amalekites are living in the land of the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live by the sea and along the Jordan.”
Then Caleb quieted the people in the presence of Moses and said, “We must go up and take possession of the land because we can certainly conquer it!”
But the men who had gone up with him responded, “We can’t go up against the people because they are stronger than we are!” So they gave a negative report to the Israelites about the land they had scouted: “The land we passed through to explore is one that devours its inhabitants, and all the people we saw in it are men of great size. We even saw the Nephilim, there — the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim! To ourselves we seemed like grasshoppers, and we must have seemed the same to them.” (HCSB)

There were twelve spies sent to scout the land that Israel was to conquer. They went and came back saying the land was flowing milk and honey. It was as God had said it would. But, they said, it had powerful nations even giants and they were no match for them. Their report influenced all the people which started complaining and moaning. A mutiny was started. They thought God had brought them out of Egypt to let them be killed by other nations.

They forgot the most important character in all of this, God. God was with them. The all-powerful, all-mighty God had been with them all along. He had delivered them from Egypt with great power. He had led them throughout their desert journey and provided for them. The Lord would fight for them.
How could they forget this? How could they not believe in Him? Fear paralyzed them. Fear took away their belief in God.

Only Joshua and Caleb believed. These are Joshua’s words:

“If the Lord is pleased with us, He will bring us into this land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and give it to us.
Only don’t rebel against the Lord, and don’t be afraid of the people of the land, for we will devour them. Their protection has been removed from them, and the Lord is with us. Don’t be afraid of them!” ” (Numbers 14:8-9 – HCSB)

He had the right perspective. God was with them, why be afraid?

This happens with us. Fear keeps us from believing the promises of God. I am not talking about this idea of being positive and saying that if we believe anything is possible. No. God had clearly told them what He would do for them. They just had to believe but fear paralyzed them. For this, God punished them. (Read Numbers 14) Disbelieving and disobeying our God is serious. It replaces God and puts ourselves first. It is idolatry. None of the spies who disbelieved God entered the Promise Land, except two, Joshua and Caleb.

As we start this year, let us not allow to fear keep us from believing the promises of God. Let us put all of our trust in Him. The Lord is leading us.  Let us follow his guidance without reservation. Let us trust Him. Let us not allow fear to keep us from acting on the promises of God.

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You Crown the Year with Goodness – 2014

Posted on December 31, 2014 by eig
“You crown the year with Your goodness;
Your ways overflow with plenty.” Psalms 65:11

Looking through my short journal entries for 2014, I see how it has been full of twists, turns and changes. We’ve had job changes, deaths of friends, enjoyable trips and events, a wedding and many challenges. But in all of this, we are certain that God has crowned the year with goodness. Every good gift comes from Him. He has overflowed our lives with “plenty.” We are grateful to Him. Nothing that is now would be without Him. Nothing that we have would be possible without Him. He is sovereign over our lives and nothing that happens in 2015 will change that. Our job is to trust Him in every circumstance whether good or bad.

We are grateful to the Lord:

For giving us His grace in Christ. My wife and my children are in the Lord’s path and we are thankful for this. Many in our immediate family are also walking with Him. Our little ones continue to learn about walking with Christ through the catechism they memorize on a weekly basis. Our little girl has learned how to read at 4 years old. Our 10 year old has become a runner even as he struggles with his ADD/ADHD. Our oldest boy, now a married man, continues to grow in the Lord and our oldest daughter is lukewarm in her faith. We will continue to pray daily for them.

We continue to pray for those in our family that have not come to the saving knowledge of Jesus. We are seeing God’s hand on some and we pray that they would be awaken from their spiritual slumber. We will pray that 2015 be the year of salvation.

My wife and I completed our 23rd year in our marriage. God has continued to work in both us, building our character and teaching us how to love each other. We are thankful for God’s grace in allowing us this time together.

We are thankful for his bountiful material provision. We have been given more than plenty in spite of job changes and additional expenses. We continue seeking to be good stewards of what He has entrusted to us.

We are thankful for our church family where I have served as elder this year. We have enjoyed serving with faithful men of God. I have learned much from all of them. We are honored to have so many godly men and women as our friends. Our pastors are also faithful to the Lord and to His church. I am thankful for those in our Sunday school who have listened and participated as we have been learning from the book of Acts. It has transformed me and I pray it will transform them as well. We hope to finish this book in 2015.

This year also marked my 5th year running six days a week an average of 3-4 miles. My 10 year old boy has also began running with me and doing well.

My 22 year old and I have almost finished reading together our second book and having Skype sessions to discuss it. We read Here I Stand and are two chapters short of finishing The Anabaptist Story.  I cherish this time with him as we learn together through the reading of these books.

We are very thankful for the wedding of our second born. This was perhaps the highlight of the year. What a God honoring ceremony! We are so thankful for the life of our son and his faithfulness to the Lord. His growth in Christ is evident. We are thankful for his beautiful wife who is part of our family. We couldn’t be happier. She is a woman of God as well. God has given us great in-laws as well and we marvel at how He has orchestrated all of us being family.

We are praying that in 2015 some major changes happen in our family in relation to serving the Lord. Once again, we are trusting in the sovereignty of God. Our lives belong to Him.

As we begin the year 2015, let’s give thanks to our God for his goodness shown in 2014. Join me in praying that in 2015 we would be faithful to the Lord, acknowledge Him in all our ways and have Him direct all of our paths.

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Disclaimer:
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Statements made and opinions expressed on personal pages are strictly those of the author and not of any organization, church, or school.

<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> 2014, 2015, God's goodness, New Year, our family, Year in review | Leave a comment

Hispanic Culture: Tiempo

Posted on December 29, 2014 by eig

Hispanics (as other cultures as well) are notoriously known for being late, according to those who go by their watches and not by the Hispanic cultural watch.  If for example, you invite someone to a party they will can show up two or more hours late.  I’m not kidding here. Not too long ago we went to a birthday party that started at 5 pm and we arrived after 5pm and only a few were there. People arrived a few hours later. To Hispanics, this is not late. Their focus is on the event and being part of it and enjoying the moment.

They see time differently, especially as it relates to social events. When Hispanics invite to a social event they tell ballpark beginning time but no end time. Time is at best an estimation (9:00 am means between 9-10 am).  This drives people crazy, especially those who adhere to “American” time.  It is rude to be late. For them, parties start on time and end on time. Not so, with Hispanics. Parties have an estimated beginning and no end.  The party ends when everyone leaves.  

Hispanics are not always late to everything.  Most get to work on time. For the most part, the social events are the ones that have a different “clock”.  Don’t be surprised next time your Hispanic friend is not on time.  Remember he carries a watch, a watch you can’t see. It’s internal. You can’t change that!

When reaching Hispanics with the Gospel it is important to understand that they will be likely late for church. Some do learn to be punctual but many will continue to arrive late no matter what. It is important to not make it a serious issue that ends up discouraging them to attend church. Services in Hispanic culture run longer than your typical American church. Worship is longer and spontaneous, the preaching is longer and things linger for a few hours. Hispanics don’t mind this because once again, time is relative. It is the event that is important.

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<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> Hispanic Church planting, Hispanic Culture, Hispanic family, Hispanics and time | 2 Comments

The Threat of the Way, the Foolishness of Idolatry and God’s Mission – Act 19:21-20:1

Posted on November 30, 2014 by eig
Here is the audio recording for Acts 19:21-20:1 taught during our Sunday School hour at Village Bible Church.

The Gospel transforms the way we live and those things that we thought were worthwhile become meaningless in light of the cross.

When this transformation happens it changes our culture and challenges the culture around us. It often goes head to head with the world’s culture. This is exactly what happens here. The Gospel has brought change to many people in Ephesus. But this is creating social change that is met with opposition.

Artemis temple is gone! Artemis is gone! Nothing remains except ruins! All of the people are gone! But God’s people who follow the Way are still here. Jesus still is Lord! God’s Word will continue to prevail and bear fruit.

As believers, we should understand that the Way is still a cause of threat for non-believers. They will see us as threat when our lives are transformed by the Gospel and we oppose the lies of the culture. The world will fight back because they do not want to exposed as fools. We must not give it nor compromise. We must be bold in proclaiming God’s truth. God’s mission will go on and will be fulfilled. We should be encourage from this.

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<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> Acts, Apostle Paul, Artemis of the Ephesians, Paul in Ephesus, Paul's third missionary journey, the Ephesian Riot | Leave a comment

Hispanic Culture: Comida (barriga llena corazón contento)

Posted on November 21, 2014 by eig
Another cultural characteristic of Hispanic culture is food. There is no question that Hispanics love food.  The saying, “Barriga llena corazón contento” (stomach full, happy heart) has the idea that when you have eaten well, you feel happy and satisfied. It reflects the Hispanic culture’s attitude that food has a special place in daily living (not only this, but many Hispanics have experienced hunger due to poverty and now there is abundance and it should be enjoyed).

Every time there’s a special occasion there is plenty of food.  There’s always lots of left overs even after people have eaten twice.   A typical carne asada (grilled beef) party might include chicken, shrimp, rice, beans, grilled onions, corn and/or potatoes. Then there’s also the salsa and the tortillas. 

Let me just say a few more things about tortillas (a whole post can be written about

them). Being a Hispanic myself, I almost always eat tortillas (There are some South Americans that do not eat tortilla). Not eating with tortillas is like not having utensils to eat.  I’m not exaggerating here.  In fact, many Hispanics use the tortilla as a utensil!  Not eating with tortilla is like eating a hot dog without a bun! Then there are those “calientitas,” hand made tortillas. I love it when my wife makes them.  No wonder Gary Soto wrote “An Ode to Tortillas.“

There’s no stinginess in food among Hispanics. Just look at our waist. In fact, being robust is a sign of being healthy, a result of being well-fed. One favorite saying from my mom to those who are robust is “hermosa” or “(beautiful) hermoso.” It refers to someone who is robust. In Hispanic culture being too skinny is seen as malnourishment. Food is to be enjoyed much like eating chocolate for many people. It is also a way to enjoy the company of others (“vente a comer” – come eat, is often a common invite when coming into a home while eating is taking place). What better way to get to know people than by sharing a meal. 

When sharing the Gospel with Hispanics it is important to make food a part of it. A good way to get to know people and show hospitality is by inviting them to go eat or have a meal at home. When inviting out to a restaurant, pick something that is authentic and be prepared to pay. Hispanics have a saying, “El que invita paga,” which means that if you invite, you are paying. If you do decide to do it at home, try to have some home made food. Do not offer processed American food. There’s nothing worse for a Hispanic than to go to eat with someone and eat sandwiches or hot dogs. Have plenty of food and offer the left overs. In church, “comida compartida” (pot lucks) should be a regular. When invited to go to someone’s house for a special occasion be ready to eat a lot. Hispanics will insist on you eating a lot. In fact, denying their offer sends a message that you did not like their food (and vice versa). It is a way for them to make sure you are enjoying your time.

Food is not trivial when it relates to the Gospel. After, all the Lord’s Supper was part of a Jewish meal. Much of Jesus’s teaching on the Gospel and the Kingdom involved dining with people. (See Mark 2:13-17; Matthew 9:10) In the Kingdom of God, there will be eating even though it wont’ be necessary. See Mark 1:4; 14:25; Matthew 8:11-12; Luke 13:28-29; Luke 15:1; Isaiah 25:6-9; Revelation 22:1-3.
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How God Uses HIs Servants – Acts 19:1-20

Posted on November 17, 2014 by eig
Here is the audio recording for Acts 19:1-20 taught during our Sunday School hour at Village Bible Church.


The Lord used Paul in three ways: 

Ruins of the temple for Artemis in Ephesus

1. To Instruct Others: From Disciples Of John to Disciples of Christ vv. 1-10 


2. To Engage Others Boldly: From Public Proclamation To Personal Discussions With Believers vv. 8-10

3. To Perform Miracles: From Deliverance of the Devil to Servants of the Lord vv. 11-20

 

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<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> Acts 19, Apostle Paul, Ephesians, How God Uses His Servants, Paul in Ephesus, Paul the apostle, Paul's third missionary journey | Leave a comment

Hispanic Culture: Pasión (de corazón).

Posted on November 10, 2014 by eig

Another characteristic of Hispanic culture, one which is often misunderstood is “pasión” or passion. This is not limited to what we associate with romance (After all the Spanish language is part of the Romance languages) but more in general and how they embrace life. This “pasión” or passion can be seen in many ways. For example, in social settings Hispanics tend speak loud, listen to loud music and interact in a very lively manner. It is not rude to talk over each other or to have lively debates or discussions. This is not offensive. It comes out of their passion for life. It can also be seen in sports like futból (soccer). Their passion is evident, some to the extent of giving up anything (like church) for it (in America there is passion for sports as well but in my opinion it’s not an overall personal trait).

Hispanics are people of the heart. From early in life, Hispanics are fostered to
think not only with their minds but with their hearts (“con el corazón). Emotion or passion is part of it as well. “Novelas” (soap operas)  are successful in Latin America, much because of the passion that’s involved. There are strong emotions and drama which attracts Hispanics even if the same plot repeats over and over in each new one.

Hispanic’s passion can be often misunderstood by the American culture. It can be seen as unbalanced when it is especially expressed in discussion or where convictions are involved. They can be seen as pushy or intolerant when they express their views in a very forceful way. This is not the case. This is just a reflection of where their heart is and what they consider important.

When reaching out to Hispanics to share the Gospel it is important to show passion. A Hispanic who sees a person passionate about what they believe sends a strong message. It shows them that this is something valuable. When presenting the invitation to believe in Christ, it should be communicated that this is done “con el corazón” (with the heart). They understand what this means. Our Christian services should have lively worship that engages the heart and shows our love for Christ (Should this not be the case with all those who believe in Christ? After all we have the best news anyone could hope for), preaching that comes from the heart which often involves good stories that they can relate to. However, we don’t want to substitute “pasión” and good story telling for truth either. God’s truth should be presented in a dynamic fashion and never substituted for a feel good presentation. Dynamic interaction in the congregation is also necessary. Being passive is not an alternative to reach out Hispanics.

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Disclaimer:
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<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> being personal, de corazón, Hispanic Church planting, Hispanic churches, Hispanic Culture, Hispanic family, Hispanics, Hispanics and emotions, Hispanics and passion, Multilingual Hispanic churches | Leave a comment

La Gran Fiesta – Mateo 22

Posted on November 9, 2014 by eig
Sermón hoy en Village Bible Ministerio Hispano.

Puede encontrar las notas aquí

Village Bible Ministerio Hispano

Nuestros servicios se llevan a cabo los domingos a las 9:30 AM en el gimnacio. El servicio envuelve tiempo de adoración a Dios a través de cantos y alabanzas, estudio de la Biblia (el mismo tema que el servicio en Inglés) y tiempo de compañerismo. Los niños y jóvenes tienen sus clases en Inglés. A las 11:15 AM tenemos clases dominicales para todas las edades. 
El ministerio Village Bible Ministerio Hispano es parte de Village Bible Church en Garden Grove, CA. 

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Disclaimer:
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<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> El Reino de Dios, La Gran Fiesta, Mateo 22, Matthew 22, Parabolas, sermons, spanish, Spanish language, the Kingdom of God, Village Spanish | Leave a comment

Hispanic Culture: Mi Casa es Su Casa – Personalismo

Posted on November 3, 2014 by eig
One very important aspect of Hispanic culture is “personalismo” or the idea of being personal. This is an attribute that goes against being impersonal or individualistic which is prevalent in our American culture. “Personalismo” is seen in every aspect of Hispanic culture. It is evident in the family which extends itself to more than just the immediate members. It is not uncommon to have long-time friends who have being “adopted” participate in family functions. In our family we have several close friends whom we consider family.

Hispanics enjoy knowing people and spending time with them. This is why there are many well-attended “fiestas” (parties) for every occasion. There is usually a lot of food (which we will discuss in a later post), loud music and much excitement.

Hispanics love visiting others (and being visited) which doesn’t require pre-scheduling. They like being spontaneous. This is all part of “personalismo” (and hospitality) and a hard concept for American culture to understand who often requires scheduling and notification before a visit. On one occasion, I decided to visit an American friend without letting him know. I was told I had to call before showing up.

“Personalismo” is also shown in the way people are greeted and treated without any care for social status. When attending an event or visiting someone, the person is treated warmly and usually with a handshake, hug, and/or kiss (for the most part with the opposite sex, though man to man kiss is not foreign in Latin America). Guests are made to feel at home (“Mi Casa es Su Casa”) and hospitality is expressed in multiple ways (e.g. offering of food, asking if the person is comfortable, letting them watch a favorite TV show or sport, etc…).

When sharing the Gospel it is important to consider several things as they relate to “personalismo.”  First, Hispanics like to be treated like real people, not like a number or a project. They want to know others and be known. It is important to build relationships with them before sharing the Gospel. This may take time but once they become believers they share their faith with their extended social network which includes family and friends. Second, attend social events to which you are invited. This is important for building relationships. When arriving it is important to say hi to everyone with at least a handshake. The same is repeated when leaving the event. No one should be excluded to avoid the risk of being offensive. Third, it is important to practice hospitality with them as well. Nothing will deter them the most from attending church than a place where people are cold and don’t show any hospitality. This can be done by offering a good embrace and even offering a meal after the service. 

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Disclaimer:
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<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> being personal, Hispanic Church planting, Hispanic churches, Hispanic Culture, Hispanic family, Hispanics, Multilingual Hispanic churches, personalismo | Leave a comment

Dos Caminos, Dos Destinos – Mateo 7:13-14

Posted on November 2, 2014 by eig
Sermón hoy en Village Bible Ministerio Hispano.  Dos Caminos, Dos Destinos según nuestro Señor Jesucristo. Puede encontrar las notas en PDF aquí

Village Bible Ministerio Hispano

Nuestros servicios se llevan a cabo los domingos a las 9:30 AM en el gimnacio. El servicio envuelve tiempo de adoración a Dios a través de cantos y alabanzas, estudio de la Biblia (el mismo tema que el servicio en Inglés) y tiempo de compañerismo. Los niños y jóvenes tienen sus clases en Inglés. A las 11:15 AM tenemos clases dominicales para todas las edades. 
El ministerio Village Bible Ministerio Hispano es parte de Village Bible Church en Garden Grove, CA. 

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Disclaimer:
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<span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-cat-links">Posted in</span> dos caminos, dos destinos, evangelio, Mateo 7:13-14, seguir a Cristo, sermón del monte, spanish, Spanish language | Leave a comment