Category: Teaching

Learning and growing are in the DNA of a disciple of Jesus

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Blog Celebrations Hospitality Special events Teaching Travel Updates

Upson Downs10.31.21

Well, it’s nearly Halloween and fall is upon us, (whatever that means in Southern California!) We have been making several trips to the Northwest (where they do have actual autumn,) hoping to encourage our brothers and sisters in their struggles. As the McCorkels return from Portland, the Kjos duo heads up to hang out for a bit. We will see what lies ahead for us all in this endeavor. Coming off break finds us full and busy as usual, looking forward to life together in God’s great adventure.
One event we are anticipating is our Halloween party on Saturday. We are aware that many of our brethren don’t celebrate this event for obvious reasons, but we approach it as a chance to redeem one more fallen and worldly occasion. We look for fun and frivolity, no evil or scary costumes, and an excuse to eat yummy homemade goodies. The kids’ candy exchange as a post Halloween tradition is great to behold; it’s an exercise in shrewd bargaining, tact, diplomacy, with a little peer pressure thrown in for good measure.
November will keep us occupied with Gene Sonnenberg’s long awaited teaching on leadership, taking the place of our reluctantly canceled Wineskins. We are also anticipating hospitality with the Bynum clan, looking forward to welcoming this faithful family.
We are planning a working trip to Tijuana later in November, working with our brother Ramon in a house build and participating in other aspects of his border ministries. One highlight will be joining Abif there and working alongside him after far too long being apart!
November brings our celebration of Grace and Thanksgiving, one of our life-giving traditions. We also look forward to welcoming the Williams family coming from Bend, Oregon to celebrate with us.
So we continue apace, entering with joy the holiday season ahead. We will miss our dear Rich, as always, remembering our last Thanksgiving together, ever in our hearts and minds with thankful gratitude.
Grace and peace to you and yours, especially in this joyful holy season ahead.
Yours in Him, Regan

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Blog Celebrations Hospitality Nature and Purpose of the Church Partnership Unity Updates

Upson Downs 7.20.21

sparkler for july

The Garcia Reyes family has arrived from Peru! We are again given the honor of being hospitable. Romans 12:13 succinctly states, “Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality.” And who knows? We may be “entertaining angels unawares.” (Hebrews 13:2) The Old Testament is also replete with admonitions to welcome the stranger. It’s a needed reminder to the Israelites that they were once strangers in a strange land. And so are we all, just beggars showing other beggars where to find bread. We have welcomed Jake and Joanna, Ramon, Molly and Paapa, Cassie, Jeff and Linda, the Dickersons, and the Williams in the time since our last update. It’s possible that I have even missed a few! We’re not finished yet as we anticipate the arrival of Liesl, Linda, and the Miller clan in August. I am confident that the Lord will bring more guests to our door. May we be found worthy.
We give thanks that the world is opening up again, and we look forward to what lies ahead. Some of what we are anticipating: Celebration of the Children, Wineskins, Rich’s Memorial, Nature and Purpose of the Church classes, and Member’s Retreat to name but a few. As always, we need “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.” We are thankful for your prayers and partnership. Our world desperately needs to see unity manifested; thereby Christ is proclaimed. 
Grace and peace from Church of the Servant-King

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Blog Teaching

Fear not: What is a Christian response to fear and uncertainty?

We can be gripped by fear, certainly. It can be our downfall. More than the violence, bereavement, and loss of security, the idea of impending doom can paralyze us to inaction.

I contend for a place to begin: A Christian response is one where “love casts out fear.”

What have we to be afraid of? Neither death nor life, angels or demons, or anything else can harm the child of God. Beyond our wellbeing, loving response to threats and danger, darkness and uncertainty can expand our witness to God’s faithfulness, God’s lovingkindness and mercy.

I don’t have to remind you, I’m sure, that the negative responses to fear are many:

  • Irritability
  • Attacking
  • Defensiveness
  • Suspicion
  • Blame and fault finding
  • Name calling and racism (of all kinds)
  • Weakness and not strength
  • Murder
  • Rage
  • Depression and “giving up”
  • Dissolution of fellowship and koinonia bonds of love
  • Hate = absence of friendship

And what do we say of the martyrs and the persecuted in the past and today?

AND, there is a case to be made (not a difficult one) that many in positions of power in our land want us to be afraid. Fear can get people to comply with strict laws, policies.  Fear can get people to support any political agenda. Want to get a policy in place? Get people afraid of what happens if they don’t.  

I think of one of the examples of fear in the New Testament Acts 5:11. And then after Ananias and Sapphira you get a great fear. “And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.” And it’s true, isn’t it, that we really do know deep in our hearts that the only fear that is truly justified is that of God and judgement. 1 Peter 2:17. Heb 10:31. 

I think that  our response should  be all about living in Jesus’ name. Even a brief reading through 1 John 4:13-21 can reveal what this “abiding” looks like.

And when I think of “abide” I am drawn to a question. What does it mean to abide in him and he in us? Read on. It has to do with our confession. Then what is that? Simply saying his name? Watch out, though. This doesn’t mean being religious. “Being perfected in love” means we grow into greater depth, joy and commitment in the ways of being his people. Eberhard Arnold said, “We not only live with one another but also from one another. And if the body of Christ receives the Spirit in all its members and the whole body is of one soul, then all members and the whole body is of one soul, then all members serve one another.”  In Called to Community (Plough Publishing House, 2016).

Then read some more in this Johannine passage. We come to know and believe (really, into and with our lives) the love of God for us. God who is love and we who “abide” in him are “in this life” together. And we have the escape hatch we need for the darkness, the cloud of fear, that is evident all around. No, don’t worry, don’t be anxious, and don’t fear. 

Here’s the word for us today: perfect love casts out fear. Tune in your life to loving others more. Learn to cherish one another. 

While I was preparing these thoughts to share the Mister Rodgers song  It’s You I Like came to mind. Here it is performed well by Charles Cornell: https://youtu.be/Z40SZ77CHK0?t=939 That’s a worthy inoculation to fear. Begin with loving others and learn to cherish them in your life.

J. Mark Schwanz, Gardena, CA, USA

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Apologetics Blog Teaching

Knockoffs, Frauds, and Judging Jesus

By J.T. Read

It is irrational, although understandable, to judge Jesus based upon negative reflections of him. The only logical method of considering Jesus is to be presented with the genuine article. 

In one of my chapters of my dissertation topic, I wrote about a McDonalds security employee who defrauded the company of millions of dollars in the Monopoly game. I contend that while it is understandable (and probably unavoidable) that the reputation of McDonalds’ brand suffered, it is actually illogical to critique McDonalds based upon the actions of this criminal employee. It can be reasonably assumed that he was acting inconsistently with the values and mission statement of the McDonalds’ corporation; therefore, his abhorrent actions do not reflect the principles of the company founders, or the guidelines of his employee contract. If I were to conclude that McDonalds was not worthy of my lunch money because of his malfeasance, I would be unfairly projecting the misdeeds of the employee and conflating them with the parent company. Similarly, if I bought a pair of knockoff Levi jeans and they disintegrated after one washing, and I then concluded that Levis are of poor quality, I would be committing a similar error, driven by emotion, not logic. The knockoffs don’t reflect the quality of an actual pair of Levis anymore than the McDonalds’ Monopoly scam reflects the vision of McDonalds.

I believe the converse is true. McDonalds and Levi brands should only be logically judged through an examination of employees or products that accurately replicate the intentions of the brands themselves. I may decide that I do not like the feel of the REAL Levi jeans, or the taste of the Big Mac, but unless I decide the case upon the merits of the genuine articles, I have not rejected the actual article of consideration, merely a cheap copy or counterfeit agent.  

I have not really made an evaluation at all, just the illusion of one. The circumstances necessary to make a valid assessment have been concealed from me, and my judgment is erroneous because it is misinformed. 

Is this same scenario not true of those who have rejected Jesus? I don’t know if they have ever even had the chance to consider him, the authentic evidence has been veiled, and therefore the opportunity to reject or accept Jesus has been thwarted altogether.

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Apologetics Updates

On Reading Books

book with Kindle
On Reading Books by Regan Read

For my 70th birthday I got a Kindle, something quite new and different for me. It’s amazing and thoughtful; there are 1000’s of books at one’s fingertips. It’s so lightweight and compact that it’s entirely portable. I shall never again be stuck somewhere without something to read.

Strangely, this wonderful gift caused me to do some serious reflection on something very dear to me-books. I grew up in homes surrounded by books of every kind. Both my parents were serious readers; I looked forward to going to the library to get…more books! The Kindle is ingenious, and I will make great use of it, but there’s nothing to compare with books, at least in my book.

Some think of books as relics of a bygone era, bound for obsolescence, but I object! The feel of a book in your hands, turning the pages, now that’s sublime. A new book has a smell rivaling that “new car” smell. And leather binding really seals the deal for me. Or what about holding the book of a loved one, and seeing all their notes and observations, or just cherishing the thoughts of someone no longer here? That’s a privilege not for everyone but the very blessed.

Not everyone gets the joy of having a book, but today it’s much taken for granted. When people misuse or abuse books, it makes me a little sad. They just don’t understand the treasure they possess. When kids dog ear book pages, it’s a bit outrageous. And when the book is turned upside down to hold a place, well, that’s simply cruel and unusual punishment. Sometimes I will say, “Can’t you hear that? It’s your book crying because you are breaking its spine.” Okay, so that’s a little weird. Tear a book’s pages? Write in it? Leave it on the ground and step on it? Perish the thought!

Many years ago Rich taught a class on how to read a book. You might think that’s rather obvious, but I’m just sorry that most of you missed it. First, look it over. Then, read the table of contents. Anticipate what you are about to discover. Thumb through the pages, carefully, of course. Scan for meaning. But most important of all, “skim the cream.” Anyone can critique a book, pick out its flaws and deficiencies, but it takes discipline to purposefully choose to find what is good. Sometimes there’s more chaff than wheat, but there may always be a nugget you might have otherwise overlooked.This lesson will serve you well in life; seek what is good, right, and true, and you will more likely encounter it.

We all know that books are full of words, and we know that Jesus was the Word from the beginning, so we must never take words, nor books lightly. From them we can discern truth from falsehood. A discerning reader can find truth in myriad places. After all, our Lord was a consummate storyteller, and the ultimate truth teller. In fact, He is the Truth, and the Way, and the Life. And of course, we have The Book, the word which is sharper than any two-edged sword. Many have given their life for it, dedicated their lives to translating it, taken it to the ends of the earth. Do not make theirs a vain sacrifice.

In many a doomsday scenario, there is no electricity, power source, civilization. Only darkness. Once there were Dark Ages, where it seemed light, and truth, and wisdom, and culture, and history, and words, and knowledge were in danger of extinction. Who were the keepers of these treasures? The dedicated God fearers, who preserved for future generations the words of life and light. Who will keep them for those who come behind us? There is yet beauty to behold in the pages of a book, to edify, instruct, delight and bring joy to others. But today we have books. Let’s treasure them.

If I were a poet, I’d write an ode to the glory of books, or if I were a musician, I could write a symphony. But for today, I will let this small tribute to one of my favorite things suffice. And I will try to keep my own counsel, never again to take a good book, or The Good Book for granted. May it be so.

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Gospel

A voice in the wilderness

Thursday Bible Study News

Recent Zoom Bible study
Scott teaching a recent study 8-6-2020

Recently we have updated our format for Thursday Bible Study a little. Since the Spring with COVID-19 we have had a Zoom option for people to come and join while we had social distancing at home.

We have seen that if everyone is logged in to the meeting with one or two people per screen, it is a lot easier to hear and see everyone. This also allows for us to include more people in the teaching on Matthew’s gospel that Scott Kjos is doing. In addition, parents with small children can attend and be a part of the meeting.

Recordings are being made with Zoom and shared on here on this YouTube playlist so that we can review the teaching and share with others. We would be glad to have others join, so for the most current information please check our Connect page.

See you for Thursday Bible Study. This week we will discuss Matthew chapter 4.

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Blog Gospel Our story Teaching Updates

Upson Downs 7-30-20

Summer is racing by with no resolution to many of our modern dilemmas: worldwide pandemic, social unrest, economic challenges, remote work and school. There is no end in sight, and it’s easy to get caught up in the politics of the day, or look for magic solutions. We believe that Jesus really is the answer, but what does that mean in a practical sense? 

We believe that Jesus really is the answer, but what does that mean in a practical sense? 

Regan Read

We at Church of the Servant-King are wrestling with these very questions, challenging ourselves to greater faithfulness in unprecedented times. The politics of Jesus: radical forgiveness, loving your enemies, life laid down for others, uncompromising faithfulness, sacrifice, loving God-these are timeless truths. In light of this, as Francis Schaeffer poignantly asked, “How shall we then live?” 

Rather than be utterly paralyzed by the overwhelming weight of God’s call on our lives, we strive to at least be faithful in small things, which Scripture tells us, will enable us to be faithful in grander achievements. Accordingly, we have expanded our Thursday night Zoom Bible Study, reaching out more purposefully to our community, loving the lonely through calls, notes, and encouragement.

screenshot from a recent online bible study
Experiencing digital connections with Zoom at a recent Bible Study.

We are beginning an online forum with church leaders, seeking an ecumenical dialogue and partnership regarding how to love the world in turbulent times. We are ever more aware of the need to break down barriers and are working with a large sister congregation to embody the truths we say we believe. As we take nightly walks, we have an increased burden to greet our neighbors and make friendly connections. Community building is a call on all our lives. 

Enough for now! We hope you stay well and encouraged, and, as always, we appreciate your prayers and feedback.

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Gospel Teaching

Little children…

Please see our post “Bible Study Summaries” for information on the format of this post.

Matthew 18:1-14

Discussion 4/30/2020

I’ve not been like a child. Anything I’ve learned, I’ve become an “expert,” using anything I’ve learned to separate and not unite. I’ve been the opposite of humility, and called to repent.

I read the story of Moses & Jesus as a child. My mother asked me to choose between them as to who was the greatest and I chose Jesus. In my life I asked who is the greatest as they jockeyed for position. 

Participant

I feel this story in Matthew 18 says, “Look, see this child, be like him: unimportant, etc. Jesus becomes impatient with the disiciples’ questions. How do you view yourself? How do you position yourself?”

“Jesus is teaching what followers should be like. See children in a new light. Be humble. Don’t miss the warning of a millstone being hung around your neck and be thrown into the sea.”

“What does it mean to become like a child?”

Participant question

Correction and direction.

“I resent people that correct me. Take correction and direction like a child. The disciples were all the time.”

On the word “child,” it was (in Greek) the most diminutive meaning little child or newborn. He could be referring to infant.”

“They, the disciples, will have a great responsibility caring for the little ones.”

“Be careful if you look down on “despise” others, how you treat your brothers and sisters.”

There is a warning to the Pharisees setting up others to fail.

Children image courtesy https://images.app.goo.gl/BgFezvNhvD8Ur1Cc7
Woe to those who are teachers…

Teaching

Now this section is from our teacher, Jose. His thoughts and impressions.

Referring to Romans 8:12-17: There is only one king by righteousness. Then come the sons. And they cry “Abba, Father,” in the spirit of sonship. We are all heirs of God, provided we suffer with him. 

In this kingdom there are two tiers. There are kings and heirs. They are those who respond adequately to the call of Christ. 

Trust is the essential quality. 

Jose Mejia

The one “led astray” is the one the shepherd goes after.

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Gospel Updates

Upson Downs 5-1-20

This week we are digging into Matthew 18 for Bible study. As the time nears for Jesus’ suffering and death, things intensify greatly. More seems to be directed specifically to His disciples- who will remain faithful until the end? The same question is always posed to us; picking up one’s cross and following Him are not occasional acts!

Jose teaching recently with social distancing and remote connection support

We have been glad for those who are joining us remotely for Bible studies while we continue to maintain careful procedures at home. Recently we were reminded that in this time of pandemic, we should not be practicing social distancing, rather, we should practice physical distancing and social solidarity. What an important distinction!

…we should practice physical distancing and social solidarity

We give thanks for a new, healthy baby in our midst, and for all our wonderful kids who seem to be faring quite well in this time of uncertainty. We hope we are modeling calm and courage in the midst of the storm, always remembering that Jesus is in the boat with us.

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Gospel

We need to love people.

Please see our post “Bible Study Summaries” for information on the format of this post.

Discussion on Matthew 17

Although Jesus seems to want to be alone at times, he works in congress with others like his disciples. The Lord even discusses things with Moses and Elijah. This seems to be a lesson for us that we cannot be a Lone Ranger, we need to work in partnership. Use your imagination, what would it have been like to be the disciples at this time and to be hearing those words from the Lord?

Why were they not scared at the sight of Moses and Elijah, but only scared at the voice of God. Moses connects to covenant, the Law. And Elijah is emblematic of the prophets.  Elijah and Moses were known figures to the Jews. Connected to circumcision, and the Passover. 

Moses was on the mountain with God, and now with Jesus.  Elijah did not experience death, was taken up. God was making sure they knew Jesus was his son, above the prophets, even as great as Moses and Elijah was.  It was a “wow” moment, Jesus was no prophet, but God incarnate. Scary! 

God is presenting Jesus: don’t worship, adore, prostrate, offering, sacrifice, 

BUT LISTEN TO HIM! ‘Cause you haven’t been doing a good job! 

Jesus doesn’t need admirers, he needs listeners!  Jesus comes off the mountain and is immediately met with human need and suffering.

We cannot make it on our own strength, we need the help that is offered to us. 

We don’t need to “move mountains,” we need to love people. 

Bible Study discussion

Maybe Jesus is so frustrated with them because maybe they knew how to cast out demons, but you didn’t pray and fast and believe in, or believe me. You didn’t really think it could be done, or you thought you could do it alone, arrogance, do it with special power given and not go through the process of prayer and fasting. Want the easy quick way out. 

Shortcut taken? Taking gifts for granted, thinking its magic! 

Even if you had a small faith, you could move a mountain. But you don’t even have enough to heal a boy. The purpose of faith is to love people. That’s what Jesus wants.

They couldn’t heal that guy, lack of faith prevented them from addressing and alleviating human pain and suffering.

Even a tiny dose of faith can move mountains.

But you DON’T even have that much… You can’t heal this guy, even though you have been given power. Lack of faith, trust, understanding, listening, obedience. We can do so more if we can increase our faith level!

Teaching

Now this section is from our teacher, Jose. His thoughts and impressions.

Section 1

The revelation of Jesus is unfolding, and he is teaching and showing more. Maybe earlier the disciples could not have handled it. Increased intimacy = increased information. Divine revelation comes gradually it seems. We are given what we can handle. 

A gradual dispensation of knowledge. We are not ready for solid food yet, like in Corinthians. Mature information for mature followers

Like trying to bench press 225 when you have not trained. 

We cant handle some things yet, but we need to get ready.

To those who have, much more will be given, and to those who have not, even that will be taken away. We need to ASPIRE to something, not just desire! Drastically different outlooks.  Don’t demand without seeking to deserve what is being asked to be given. 

Use the gifts given. Do you like boxing? Iron Mike Tyson- left hand to the body, immediate left to the head. 

What would you do if you hear Gods voice? Fall down, pass out, soil yourself?

To see the 3 guys talking is the body shot, and Gods voice is the hook to the head. We get knocked down. Why do they need a tent? Peter is foolish, maybe he is in shock.

Have we witnessed Jesus power and glory? If so, what statements do we make? Foolishness too often.

The 3 disciples kept their word, and remained silent until after he was raised. Do we follow his instructions? Or do we think we know better?

Obedience is required here. How do we respond to the presence of Jesus in our life?

Section 2

Fumble! Those guys get paid a lot to catch the ball, but miss often.

Developed skill

When something is given for a purpose, what happens when we blow it? Its not about the gift, but the exercise of the gift. What do we do with what has been given?

They failed at a task they had already performed. Why? Maybe they took the gift for granted. The gift was given to heal, but maybe it was rusty. The gift was wasted, not being employed.

The issue was lack of faith, and prayer and fasting They were too self-reliant, didn’t think they needed those things. Arrogance, we know better, we don’t need those things. We can use our own power and strength. 

The impossible can be achieved. We need thanksgiving, faith, prayer, fasting to perform our duties.

Last section: Do you know who I am?

Much corruption in the temple. That much is evident? Do we all participate in the tax? We don’t exempt ourselves? Don’t give yourself a pass, practice what you preach.

Lead the way, let others follow.  You put heavy burdens but don’t help others carry it.

To desire sometime does not mean to aspire it

Thought vs action. I wish I had this, or could do this. I am going to get myself into position to have, or do this. Jesus is narrowing his audience. Many, 12, 3, 1.

Whoever can handle it. Upward, onward, to Heavy lifting.  Who can handle the tasks, the work? Maybe just Peter. He has shown himself to be a willing, but flawed candidate.