believe – Page 8 – John Markum

Jesus died for Bin Laden

Posted on May 3, 2011 by johnmarkum

I know everyone is excited about the news this week, and certainly that is understandable. The death of a evil man responsible for countless terrorist attacks against our country specifically, is – at the least – cause for major relief. As a pastor, I have already had several people from my church family ask me how we should respond to the news of the death of America’s #1 terrorist.

On one hand, Bin Laden has killed thousands of American lives. Many of whom did not have a relationship with Christ were sent to an untimely appointment before their Creator. The Bible certainly seems to condone the use of deadly force when required, and is the foundation for capital punishment. (Exodus 21:12)

But on the other hand, Jesus tells us to “love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to them that hate you…” He says that “By your love for one another, the world will know that you are my disciples.” And the apostle John writes concerning Jesus that He, “died, not for our sins only, but for the sins of the whole world.”(1 John 2:1-2)

We must understand that the role of government is first and foremost to protect it’s people. Part of that means holding criminals to the standard of justice for their crimes. Romans 13 even tells us that God has placed authority over us to deliver justice against injustices, and that authority does not “bare the sword in vain.”

Yet as individuals, we are commanded to be a people of love. God restores the old and makes it new. He cleanses dirty, broken lives, and turns them into beautiful works of art, perfect to be used of Him. We must remember that “God is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come unto repentance.”

So as a nation, it is appropriate for us to rejoice in the ridding of a very dangerous man to the livelihood of our children and neighbors. But as followers of Jesus, we must also remember that He died for every act of terrorism, white lie, lustful thought, pride, greed, selfishness, rape, dishonor, etc… And as terrible as all of that sounds – that God would be willing to extend mercy to someone that bad – He also died for me… And I know me better than anyone. If God could sacrificially forgive me from my sin, then I must love whomever He loves.

Someone asked, “So are we just suppose to be pacifists in all of this?” the answer: no. Radical love is never passive. Let’s celebrate more about the rising of a Savior than the death of another sinner! We are the church! And we will be known by how we love!

Blessings,

John

“I don’t believe in church”

Posted on March 27, 2011 by johnmarkum

I’ve heard lots of people – some of which claim to be Christ followers – excuse themselves from being connected to a church. Given, many churches are off the mark, and every church is full of people who are full of problems, and you going there only makes one more. But it is not right to claim to follow God, but be divorced from His bride. Saying “I believe in God, I just don’t believe in going to church,” makes about as much sense as saying “I believe in eating, I just don’t believe in food.” Believing in an idea, but not in the tangible expression of it is vain and empty. Besides, for all the faults of so many churches, the church still belongs to Jesus. I don’t know about you, but I cringe when I hear people berate another church.

I’m pretty thick-skinned. You will be hard pressed to get a rise out of me by calling me names, criticizing me, making fun, or otherwise putting me down. But you say one thing about my family, and… let’s just not go there. You got something to say about my wife and I’m likely to end up running a prison ministry… from the inside! If you’re married, I’m sure you can relate. The Bible refers to the church as “the bride of Christ.” Jesus died for the church. Jesus loves the church. Before you make a cut-down against a church, remember whose bride you’re picking on! I wouldn’t want to answer for throwing mud on His bride. Instead, live within that community. Make it better. Add your gifts and talents to the work of God within the church, and allow the gifts and talents of others to make you a better follower of Christ as well.

Blessings,

John

4 Things I want to say to The Awakening…

Posted on March 25, 2011 by johnmarkum

I missed you last Saturday! I heard great things about the service, and I know Pastor Dan Cullett, and the band did a great job in my absence. As nice as it was to be away and spent some much needed time with my awesome wife, there’s no place like Edgewood on Saturday nights! We missed getting to worship with you, but can’t wait for this week.
New series this week! Last week, Pastor Dan finished our series, 3 Ways to Lose your Soul. This week we begin a new series called, Where’s my Bailout? dealing with finances from a Biblical perspective. People always act funny when you talk about money in church! But we’re not doing this series because we want something from you, but because we want something for you. Come. Be obedient to what God wants you to do. Be blessed!
Baptisms this week! We have people going public with their faith in Christ this week by baptism. If you are interested in getting baptized (even this Saturday) call or text me at 309-752-3499
Quad Cities’ Easter Experience! This Easter, we are offering 4 different worship services including Saturday, April 23rd at 5pm. If you are looking for a church to attend for Easter we welcome you to join us on Saturday night. If you normally attend our Saturday night service at Edgewood, we encourage you sign up this week to serve on that Saturday for all of the guests we are expecting to join us. We need ushers, greeters, childcare, tech, stage, and more.