I preached this sermon on September 30, 2012...God's incredible grace has been at work before our birth, while He was drawing us to Himself, when we were saved, as we are growing in grace and knowledge of Him, through difficulties, accomplishments and when we enter eternity....You can enjoy this message at ccnewarkde.org and just click on to sermons and then click the RSS button.. Scroll down to Sept 30, 2012 entitled Grasping God's Great Grace--by Pete Campbell.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Saturday, May 12, 2012
This is a vitally important video message for God's people that I preached in May of 2011 at Germantown Christian Assembly in Philadelphia, PA. It's an hour long message (A lot was pouring out of me that day). You will see a dramatic portrayal of the creation of man and woman and the temptation in the garden with participants from the congregation... Also the importance of worship, being equipped for spiritual battles and representing Christ until He returns is emphasized. Simply go to gcafamilychurch.org then to GCA TV...then click on Sermon Search at top of screen and scroll down to Pastor Pete Campbell's message entitled Adoring, Armored Ambassadors. Be Encouraged and Apply God's truth to your life.
P.A. Campbell
P.A. Campbell
Friday, May 4, 2012
This is a preview of a book I've been planning to publish. Be blessed by the testimonies and Biblical insights, all written for God's glory and your edification. Each month I'll post chapters that will include topics such as Faith, The Fear of The Lord, Consecration, Evangelism & World Missions and The Privilege of Youth Ministry.
FRUIT FROM THE TREES
By P. A. Campbell
INTRODUCTION
When my wife Dee, my son Daniel and I were in Jamaica, West Indies in February of 2004 we stayed with a dear friend named Icydore Murry. We had a sweet and restful time with her. In her back yard she had several fruit trees. We noticed that the mangos were not ripe enough for enjoyment. She informed us that they were not in season but we enjoyed coconut water and freshly squeezed orange juice. We also noticed that some of the orange trees had oranges that were brown because of a lack of rain at the time.
God’s word is like rain (Isaiah 55:10,11) and we are like trees in whom He expects to see fruit. To whom much is given much is required. As you read the following pages my prayer is that your heart will be prepared soil for God’s word and that you will be-...filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God (Philippians 1:11).
Henry T. Blackaby and Claude V. King (Authors of Experiencing God and other books to help believers have intimate encounters with God) recorded a history of God’s people experiencing renewal and great awakenings over the years. In the book entitled “Fresh Encounter” God’s desire is explained in this way—“God is looking for a holy people through whom He can work to reveal Himself to a watching world.” Without a doubt the world is looking for some fruit and they are hungry for real love, joy and peace.
Blackaby and King’s research revealed that during the first Great Awakening from 1740-1743 traveling evangelists George Whitefield and Gilbert Tennent were used of God to ignite a movement of the Holy Spirit among the people of God in New England. In 1792 the second Great Awakening took place in England. Years earlier there was consistent prayer that took place among pastors of the Northampton Association on the first Monday of every month as well as in their private times of intercession. Other prayer meetings started across denominational lines. By the 1790’s it was the local church pastors who were leading out in revivals among believers and great evangelistic endeavors. In many instances there would be a full week of spiritual renewal time (Revival) followed by another full week of evangelistic outreaches with thousands of conversions (Spiritual Awakening).
William Carey began his preaching ministry at this time. He led the Baptist Missionary Society and went to India to minister as their first missionary and many followed as a result. Mission work beginning in local areas and efforts to move out to the uttermost parts of the world is a result of God’s people lining up their will with His will through prayer.
Similar to the time prior to the first Great Awakening there are many who are church members today but have not yet connected with the True Vine--Jesus Christ. He is the only One who can bring forth the fruits of The Spirit in our lives. If a believer in Jesus is not abiding in Him on a daily basis demonstrated by obedience and allowing Christ to guide his or her life then there will be no long lasting evidence of Christ-like character.
If there’s a lack of Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control as well as a lack of sharing the good news about Jesus with the unsaved then we need to come to the True Vine for His help. The questions that a follower of Christ needs to ask are: 1. Is there much evidence in my life that Jesus is in control of me? 2. Have I allowed Him to accomplish His purposes in the world through my gifts and abilities?
The Word of God and the prayers of the saints during the Great Awakenings have been used to confirm in my heart the need for us as God’s people to pray according to His desires for us and for the unsaved in this world. As we depend on God daily, fear Him, evangelize (local and foreign missions involvement according to Acts 1:8), put off sin as well as put on Christ-like character and set an example for youth, we will bear the fruits of the Spirit which will bring glory to Jesus. When He is lifted up, He will draw the unsaved to Himself.
The time is now to begin to pray like never before for God to take residence in us for His glory and send us as His ambassadors where ever He desires. We live in a time when there are more unsaved who need to hear the gospel than ever before and there are more who are responding than times past. As the population continues to increase God continues to ask the passionate question--- “Who will go for us?” As we will discover when we pray for fruit from the trees, God is concerned about our condition as well as the mission.
Let us begin to pray for fruit from the trees beginning with our own lives, so that our Father will be glorified and not grieved. Remember that without Him you can do nothing. Depend on God in prayer like Daniel who gave thanks but also asked God for help (Daniel 6:10,11 NIV). Let’s make it our goal to hear Him say “Well done my good and faithful (fruitful) servant.”
At the end of each section you will find questions to consider and a model for prayer that will provide an opportunity to allow God to work on you internally. I strongly suggest not to read ahead in order to get to the prayer without reading the pages prior. This entire material is designed to guide you through a time of self-examination. This does not mean that you are the one who does the examining. David invited God to examine him when he said “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23,24 NIV). Please take your time and read through these five areas of examination and allow God to show you how to become more conformed to His image and manifest fruit like a tree planted by rivers of water (Psalm 1:3).
FRUIT FROM THE TREES
By P. A. Campbell
TRUST
Chapter 1
I learned a lesson about trusting during my first visit to Jamaica. The first time I visited Jamaica I was with some other students from Philadelphia College of Bible in the early 90’s. While ministering to the people there we discovered that someone from that area was stealing the water from large drum containers. This was causing suspicion and frustration on the camp grounds. Our leader had an idea that might solve the problem; he mentioned "We can send someone early in the morning to keep alert for the thief. But we need some one who could be bold enough to tackle him down and hold him." Although I never played college football, the team agreed that I could do it. After agreeing to put my life on the line for the sake of others I then had a thought---- Suppose there’s more than one thief.
The leader agreed to send a worker named Steve with me. Steve professed to know Christ and we had great conversations about spiritual things for days. I was so glad that Steve was more than willing to tackle the thief with me. There was only one problem. Steve had one arm. His arm was cut off by someone because he was accused of stealing something years prior. I thought to myself how can someone tackle with one arm. Why can’t I have someone with two arms. I was depending on a one armed man to help me catch a thief or possibly more than one thief. We sat in the woods before the break of day with our three arms ready to catch the thirsty crooks and blow a whistle. Thank God that each time we waited-- they weren’t thirsty; or were they?
Not long after this it was discovered that Steve, my one armed buddy was stealing items from the camp grounds and some evidence showed that he may have been involved with the stolen water incidents. The guy who I was trusting in for help was missing more than an arm; He apparently didn’t have much integrity. I’m thankful that the God I trust in for help doesn’t lack power, integrity, or love. King David wrote—“Oh my God, I trust in thee.” (Psalm 25:2)
As children of God, from the time of our conversion we are introduced to the word trust. Words for saving faith may come wrapped in different packages but it carries the same idea. You may have heard the scripture- “Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved”, or another common verse is …whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” There’s also “By grace you have been saved through faith. If I were to say I believe in him, I trust in him, or I have faith in him—the idea is the same, although some may misunderstand what saving faith is about. This will be addressed later. Faith has been defined as "a conviction of the mind based upon evidence." God has provided evidence that He exists through creation, the human conscience, the conversion of His saints and other events throughout history (His-story). There are scientists who are discovering that God’s word is more trustworthy than any theory man comes up with. By His awesome deeds He has shown that He is trustworthy, powerful, loving, and personal.
Trusting continues beyond our initial salvation. “We walk by faith and not by sight.” (Hebrews 11:6) “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart”….(Proverbs 3:5)
Maybe you are not depending on Him alone for your salvation. He doesn’t want you to depend on another way for salvation because Jesus said I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life—(John 14:6 NIV). We can’t trust our own goodness because we fall short of God’s glory--- “For all have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God (Romans 3:23 NIV). Therefore if we trust in ourselves we’re trusting in a bridge that can’t reach across to God. Only Jesus can bridge the gap because of His death for us and His resurrection from the dead. “Not of works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost…(Titus 3:5 NIV).
Allow the Lord to show you areas in your life where you may not be trusting Him. If this doesn’t seem very important remember that …without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6 NIV). After we trust Christ as our Lord and Savior our trusting does not end. We need to continue to live a life of dependence upon Him. We don’t continue trusting Him to remain saved because we could not save ourselves and we can’t preserve our salvation. He’s the One that saves and keeps His children secure. Jesus said—I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand (John 10:28 NIV).
In order to show evidence of Christ-like character we need to depend on Jesus as a branch depends on a vine. HOW CAN WE TELL WHETHER OR NOT WE ARE TRUSTING IN THE LORD? A child of God who is not trusting Jesus daily starts to show a detachment from the vine by:
1. Not praying and not asking others to intercede;
2. Not reading God’s word daily and exercising faith by obedience.
3. Not seeking out spiritual members of God’s family for accountability, encouragement and Biblical instruction.
Regarding prayer; one of the many things I admire about my wife Dee is her commitment to intercede for others. She has a prayer list that she keeps in her Bible. If you’re on her prayer list, know for sure that you’re being prayed for. There are times when our children may cause us to reschedule certain things in the morning without warning. In their own cute way they teach us to trust in God’s sovereignty as well as the importance of getting up early. Regardless of how chaotic our schedule becomes as missionaries, my wife will always make time during the day to depend on God in prayer for others and herself. I’m inspired to stay on my knees as I see her determination to intercede. By the way; I’m so glad that I’m also on her prayer list.
The Lord wants us to pray for ourselves as well. It’s OK to ask God for help as I mentioned earlier (Daniels prayer—Daniel 6:10,11). Some believe that if we ask others to intercede for us this shows weakness. This actually shows wisdom because we discover God’s power as we agree with others in prayer regarding our needs (Matthew 18:19). Paul asked the Ephesian believers to pray for him to be bold with the gospel message and he told the believers in Corinth that their prayers helped him (Ephesians 6:18,19; II Corinthians 1:11).
Notice above in point #2 where I mentioned that faith in God’s word is accompanied by obedience. A person who has faith also has feet that walk in obedience. How do you know Moses had faith that God could deliver His people? His feet went to Pharaoh with a command from God and his feet also walked on dry ground believing that God’s power could hold many thousands of tons of water back from drowning him and the Hebrew people. Noah’s feet went to get some wood to build an ark and as he built he warned the people of coming judgment. He then walked into the ark with his family members, believing God’s word. You can’t say you trust God and not show it. Your faith and your feet are connected. If you believe that God’s way is best your feet will avoid the path of evil and walk in paths of righteousness for His name sake. The chorus to a song I grew up singing in worship service goes like this ---"Trust and obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus…but to trust and obey."
What does James have to say about this? “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, ‘You have faith; I have deeds.’ Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that--and shudder (James 2:17-19 NIV). I have a feeling that if Moses and Noah could have been present when James wrote or preached this they would say “Amen Brother!!!” Of course our works don’t save us. Don’t misunderstand this. Our works are the evidence (fruits) that we have faith. How much confidence would you have in a mango tree that showed no fruit after every rain season? There is an intellectual belief that knows the truth about Jesus but that is as far as the demons go. There’s another type of belief that is demonstrated by a person making a u-turn from depending on any thing else or any one else for salvation and trusts Jesus as Lord and Savior.
As a child of God, just because you come to Jesus when you have problems doesn’t mean you’re depending on Him daily as you ought to. In some cases the problems come because we are not living a life of dependent obedience. An elderly preacher put it this way-- “There’s a difference between a cross and a crop.” A cross could be a challenge that comes as a result of self-denial and be used to glorify Christ or teach a Christian to depend more on God. This is part of the journey of knowing Christ as Paul mentions--…That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death (Philippians 3:10 NASB). A crop is what comes up as a result (consequence) of what a person did or did not plant. It could be a good crop, a bad crop or no crop at all. As we depend on Jesus He will tell us what to plant, how to plant, how to grow and how to be fruitful.
God desires for us to be fruitful internally with Christlike characteristics as well as being fruitful as we lead others to Christ (Proverbs 11:30). If we are depending on our own understanding in our decision making instead of trusting in the Lord with all our hearts (Proverbs 3:5,6) we will be lacking fruit. God has a way of bringing us to challenging situations that require faith. There are giants that we will see from a distance and we can be like young David and run towards the challenge or run from it. In Number chapter 13 there's a story of 12 spies that Moses sent to check out the scene before moving forward. All twelve spies were influential leaders among the people of Israel. When they saw giants in the land 10 of the spies (leaders) decided to lean on their own understanding regarding how to go about conquering. Only two of the spies named Joshua and Caleb focused on how big their God was instead of the size of the giants...They also found a lot of sweet fruit...symbolic of fruitfulness God wanted to see in His people.
A person of faith looks at challenges as an opportunity to see God show His love, power and wisdom. A person full of doubts or self-reliance constantly vacillates when challenges come. Faith leads to courageous victory instead of wimpy vacillation. 40 years in the desert was the consequence of not trusting God. When we are convinced that unbelief is really something evil, we will avoid it. It is a sinful thing to be shunned daily because it leads to turning from the living God to depending on other idols or our own way of thinking (Hebrews 3:12). The devil knows that if God's people will dwell in doubt, they will not move forward in victory and fruitfulness. They will wonder in places that may seem good to them but it's not what is best.
When I was ministering on a radio station in 1996 in Albany NY, there was obviously a season of fruitfulness. I was working at a rescue mission as a youth ministry coordinator that God was blessing...I received a raise and my wife Dee just received a raise from General Electric. The natural man would say it is a good thing to remain. While we were in consistent prayer using I Chronicles 4:10 (The Jabez Prayer) as our prayer model for 40 days we were led to go to Philadelphia to start planning for missionary work oversees. Some become complacent with the fruit they see in their lives but God prunes us and brings challenges to bring forth more fruit and much fruit (John 15:1,2,5).
I had no job and Dee didn't have a job but God kept confirming that we needed to face the giant of finances and trust Him to fight our battles (Deuteronomy 3:22). We remember close relatives were scratching their heads and sharing some concerns about making this faith move..Although they were not telling us not to go, they were obviously concerned. Shortly after more confirmation we heard about job opportunities opening for Dee in Cherry Hill NJ. It was God's way for encouraging us like He encouraged Gideon before he went into battle. A job opened up for me as a youth pastor for 6 months at a local church.
After that interim youth pastor position was over there was another financial giant to face. One morning I heard an angry bird chirping near my front door so loudly that I could not ignore it. I tried to pretend it wasn't there but I couldn't take it any more...I opened the door and the bird was standing at the front door like a Fed-Ex man with a message from heaven. I heard the message clearly.."Pete, the same way I take care of this bird, I'm going to provide another assignment for you that I will use to supply your needs." Shortly after I had an opportunity to work at a vocational high school as an assistant teacher witnessing to youth and adults. During that time we had a desire to visit Kenya to see what God was doing there. The church we joined was Christian Stronghold Church in Philadelphia and that year the place they were planning to go to for a short-term missions trip was Kenya, Africa.
As we moved forward in faith we saw God show himself faithful...as a result we had fruitful ministry...Faith produces obedient actions and fruitful results.
Seeking out spiritual members of God's family is vital ….Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works; Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching---Hebrews 10:24,25. There are so many examples in scripture that show us the importance of connecting with other believers for fellowship and encouragement. Rev. Al Henson has taught me that----"believers in the body of Christ need to enjoy life together in the Lord’s presence." Because we’re God’s children and He’s enjoying who we are in Christ we can enjoy being in His presence. Detachment from this body life is detrimental.
As a teen I remember being persecuted in the locker room by an unbeliever. Moments later I looked up and saw another fellow believer of Christ entering the locker room. Just the sight of him was a breath of fresh air. When we were able to talk in private I told him I thanked God for him and I asked him to pray for the unsaved guy who was giving me a hard time. I also spent time in house fellowships with other youth where we were taught the Word of God and trained to reach others with the Gospel. Being around other youth and adults for encouragement helped keep me on track for Jesus. We experienced body life together. We saw God answer prayer and souls were saved in Queens, Brooklyn and other surrounding areas of New York.
When we say we don’t need to be around other believers and we depend on some other way for strength and encouragement we are not trusting God’s way. This is disobedience to Hebrews 10:25 and evidence that we are not trusting God. Some may say well I can’t trust in man so I prefer trusting only in God. Before accepting this as a spiritual statement let us consider something. Whoever has this attitude is missing out on the benefits of God’s design for their own edification and the edification of others. According to Romans 12 we are His body and the Holy Spirit ministers through his body. In fellowship with His body we can learn how to use our spiritual gifts to minister to others and receive ministry. We also learn what mercy and truth is all about in The Body of Christ as we interact with other imperfect people (Psalm 25:10; 85:10; 44:10). We receive mercy, forgiveness and gracious blessings that we can testify about and we demonstrate this mercy and grace to others who may offend us at times. We learn the truth about who God is and who we are in Christ and we can’t help but worship together. When one part of the body decides to be detached from the other parts, blood cells cannot flow through that part of the body. No wonder God’s word uses this analogy.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
1. Are you sure you have placed your trust in Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior? If not, pray to receive Jesus at this moment. Here’s a prayer that may express what’s in your heart:
Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I’ve sinned and I do trust in You to be the solution to my sin problem. I believe that you died for me and rose from the dead. I’m trusting in you to get to heaven and nothing else. Forgive me and be my Lord from this day forward. Give me the peace, power, joy and wisdom that only You can give. In Jesus name, Amen.
2. If you do have an assurance of your salvation, is there any evidence in your life of trusting (having faith) in God as you ought to? ( praying for help, obeying or fellowshipping with other believers etc…)
3. Is there anything you can ask another believer to pray with you about? Is there wisdom or encouragement that you have been neglecting from the Body of Christ.
Remember when you pray—It’s OK to ask God to help you in your unbelief. (Mark 9:24)
A PRAYER FOR FRUITFULNESS:
Dear Lord, I realize that it is Your will that I bear much fruit. I commit to trusting You daily for every need by asking for Your help and following the commands from Your Word and believing that Your way is best regarding my relationships with others. Amen
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Poetry has been a part of my life ever since I got involved in rap music as a youth. With God's enablement I wrote this poem to express my passionate conviction about the need for us as God's people to understand what the fear of God is all about and how destructive pride can be.
TWO WORDS YOU CAN’T IGNORE
To Fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Proverbs ;
God is my Father, Yes I refer to Him that way because that’s how He taught me to pray
from the time I could open my mouth.
Yes those in the north and south
and the other two sides
need to open their ears wide because the two words being ignored are
Fear & Pride.
No, not only the fear of the waves that reveal little faith but fear of a Heavenly Father who rewards and has the power to take away life from a child, grandparent, husband or wife
without a gun or knife but with just a word.
If we could interview David, Samson, Moses, Ananias and Saphira or Jonah—
I believe they would say Amen—You better open more than one ear and fear---
No, No, No this is not just an Old Testament reference, Paul and Peter also wrote about such trembling reverence,
(Phil.2:12; II Cor.7:1; I Pet.2:17)
Don’t misinterpret perfect love casting out all fear because as true believers we don’t fear judgment in hell but we should fear a Heavenly Father’s disciplining hand, remember Moses missed out on entering the promised land
because he struck the rock and didn’t speak.
Don’t ignore what is being shared because God should be feared.
These examples are from the Bible and not lies, Oh by the way what happened to Samson’s eyes?
The Philistines gouged them out;
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil, but with Delilah he compromised.
Yes, God forgave David for adultery and murder; we know the deal,
But if you interviewed David, he would say that domestic consequences are real.
Jonah was in a whale because he went his own way;
He forgot that God gave him blessings to give them away.
The husband and wife in Acts chapter 5
learned to fear God when they were no longer alive.
What about Pride? God detests this. It reminds Him of Lucifer who was cast out of heaven indeed,
Humility is what we need.
Don’t do a deed in Jesus’ name
and soon after seek fame, fantasizing about what others will say about you at a banquet, or in their homes at night,
You’re just imitating the prideful, false angel of light.
God shares His glory with no one,
And if you’re doing things for men, enjoy the rewards they give you,
Because in heaven there will be none.
Pray for a “pride alarm” to ring in your head, this comes from God’s Spirit,
All the flesh pays attention to is words like—“You will be like God, knowing good and evil,
The devil’s tricks don’t change, just slightly rearrange to fit our situation in this generation.
Don’t seek for others to build up your self-esteem or put others down for your own elevation.
Thank God for the example of the Lamb, the Great I am that I am,
Who didn’t use His power to dominate the weak but to make the weak strong,
And replace tears of despair to a joyful song.
He made the poor rich and placed His Spirit within. We could have been justly punished for sin.
He taught us to be humbly obedient even unto death and still win!!
To the Glory of God the Father, and no others,
Fear God and avoid Pride my Sisters and Brothers.
P.A. Campbell
As a youth in the 1980's, I was trained to share the gospel in some creative ways in Hi-BA Clubs in Queens and Brooklyn NY. After joining staff with Hi-BA clubs I came up with a creative way to share the gospel. For some it's hard to bring it up in conversation. Well this can get you started....Pray ahead of time, Share and see what God does. Just simply guide them through what is written below.
See if you can find the Greatest News in the following words:
SUMWUN
PAYDIT
SOTHACHEW
WOODENT
HAV2
&
3DAZE LAYDER
ATOOM
WUZ-EMPTEEE!!!
(Besides the spelling, everything else is correct!!!)
ROMANS 5:8; 10:9 & 10;John 1:12; 3:16
What would stop you from receiving what God is offering?
Opinion Survey
1. What’s the # 1 problem in our society? (Circle One) a. Drugs b. Violence c. Racism d. Other
2. Do you have a solution? ___________________________
3. How would you define love? (Circle One)
a. Giving somebody what they want
b. A sacrificial commitment to supply the needs of another without conditions
c. A feeling that may or may not fade away
d. A box of chocolate
4. Are you positive that when this life is over you will be going to heaven?
HERE'S MY STORY
In Mark 5 Jesus commanded a converted believer to go and tell his story..Every Christian should do the same.
BEFORE I ACCEPTED JESUS_______________________
HOW I ACCEPTED JESUS___________________________
THE CHANGE JESUS MADE_________________________
Friday, April 27, 2012
Since 1986 I've been involved in youth ministry in the local church as well as para-church organizations...Here are some myths that need to be shot down:
17 MYTHS ABOUT YOUTH MINISTRY
By P.A. Campbell
- Seeing them once a week is enough.
- I'm too old to really make a difference.
- Working with youth is a great way to build an adult's self-esteem.
- Youth are the church of tomorrow, instead of the church of right now.
- Youth need to be entertained more.
- Parents don't have much influence on youth.
- I'm not outgoing and I don't look cool, so I CAN'T make an impact.
- Because I dress like them and talk like them, I CAN make an impact.
- Since I can't relate to their tough experiences, I can't do much for them.
- The Bible is not the best counseling source for teen issues.
- Youth usually don't pay attention to spiritual matters.
- If they are from a Christian family, they don't need my encouragement.
- Teens are not ready to minister to younger children.
- Mobile Apps, Music and Movies don't influence youth much.
- Youth cannot reach their friends with the gospel effectively like adults.
- Youth cannot counsel their friends from the Bible when they're struggling.
- Playing with them without praying earnestly for them doesn't matter.
EQUIPPED TO WIN
Experiencing Victory Over Lust
By P.A. Campbell
This topic has been avoided or not dealt with Biblically by many who teach youth and adults. One thing is for sure; God is not taken by surprise by this issue and is very aware of the confusion, guilt, and bondage that many are experiencing. It is God’s desire that His people enjoy the abundant life, and not get caught in the snares that the Devil sets up.--- In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice. – Proverbs 29:6. A snare is simply a trap. In order to get caught in a trap, bait (something appealing to our sin nature) is needed to get our attention. If you or someone you know is caught in this trap, it is possible to be set free by God’s enabling grace.
“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.” (II Peter 1:3)
Gary R. Collins defines Masturbation as “The stimulation of one’s genitals to the point of orgasm.” Masturbation leads to other selfish acts that ignore the best interest of others and the main focus is satisfying oneself.
A New York Times science writer surveyed over 3,000 Americans between the ages of eighteen and fifty-nine and discovered that 60 percent of men and 40 percent of women said they had masturbated within the past year. In 1967 a study was done that showed that 90 percent of males and 48 percent of females had masturbated during their high school years. Some may read this and think, oh it’s not uncommon after all. Well my response to that is what Jesus taught to the crowds—“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13,14) What many practice could very well lead to destruction.
Two ways that males release sexual tensions is by nocturnal emissions (wet dreams) and by masturbation. Female’s strong desire of genital sensation comes with cuddling and heavy petting and especially with genital penetration. It doesn’t take too much to get a male to a point of sexual climax. Men can use this as an excuse. The enemy may whisper, “God understands that it doesn’t take much to excite you. He understands that if you fall you can just get up---after all He’s a forgiving God and He knows that some times the passion is just too hard to resist.” The female who desires affection and an escape thrill may fantasize about being touched by someone to a point of climax as well. She may give in to masturbation and rationalize in this area of sexual integrity. The Devil has deceived and defeated many. He has been on the job for thousands of years.
Parents should be careful to research this issue from a Biblical filter before discussing this with their youth. Being a good listener and empathizing with the struggle before giving immediate Biblical prescription will assist youth in feeling free to discuss this hush hush topic.
Some say masturbation is normal, it relieves stress, or it helps keep a man or woman from committing fornication or adultery. There are studies that show the opposite. There is guilt, a sense of hopelessness, sexual strongholds, self-involvement, low elf-esteem, intimacy with God decreases (broken fellowship), a lot of confusion, as well a objectification of others; By this I mean viewing others as objects for self-gratification instead of individuals who should be treated with dignity and respect.
As a teenager I was in bondage to masturbation for close to two years. That period of time seemed like ten years. I was afraid of living each day, fearful that I would fall into the lust trap. Everything was private and I asked for forgiveness but I felt so uncomfortable talking to God. I was exposed to some pornography which fueled my youthful lusts. The Greek word for lust is epithumos. The prefix epi means “to add to.” Therefore something is being added to a normal drive. My normal sex drive became lust as I allowed my mind to be polluted in various ways. I was informed about a phone sex number, which became another avenue to get some cheap thrills. Meanwhile as Satan’s grip tightened, my thrills became inward torture because of guilt, confusion and feeling out of control.
Then I received a call from a friend named John that changed my life. He didn’t know that I was in bondage, but God knew that I needed living water to fill my life and give me satisfaction that I could not find through lustful adventures. My friend said “Pete, it’s time for us to start taking Jesus more seriously. I know we grew up in church and we’ve made rededications over and over but I’m serious this time. I made a commitment to allow Jesus to take full control of my life and I think you should as well.” My friend was being positively influenced by another teen in Brooklyn Technical High School
The first good habit that I developed as I allowed Jesus to take control was reading the Bible every morning and memorizing a few verses a week. It excites me as I recall the transformation that took place and is still taking place. The truth set me free, only because I submitted to God’s way instead of my own. I actually was more satisfied and at peace by obeying God. The way of escape (I Corinthians ) took place in the same area that the battle began; In my mind. Two verses that have remained with me for the past 19 years are found in Isaiah 26:3—Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind Is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee and Philippians 4:8—Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things..
These verses protected me during my mental attacks. The Devil had control of my mind but that is in the past. The Devil searches for a mind to inhabit. Now when he comes to my mind he sees a “No Vacancy” sign. Daily I seek to fill my mind with good stuff and I know that makes the Devil mad. By God’s grace I learned how to win. The Lord made it clear to me that I needed to be careful regarding what I watched including movies, television shows, magazine pictures, music, going in areas where girls are not dressed modestly etc… What I listen to, what I read and what I meditate on when I’m going to sleep, all need to be guarded against. I now realize that:
I can choose what my mind chews on.
Have you ever made a New Year’s resolution not to commit a particular sin ever again? The problem with most resolutions is that although there’s a promise to stop a bad habit there’s nothing to replace it with. Repentance involves replacing the bad with good. Paul calls it putting off and putting on in Ephesians 4:22-24(NIV) ---You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Believers need to be alert for Satan’s mental tricks. The Apostle Paul wrote something out of his concern for believers who were not taking spiritual warfare seriously. He wrote—I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may some how be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. Notice what is being led astray—the mind. The world’s most popular magazines and comedy shows bombard the mind with the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life (I John 2:15-17). To be honest, I really don’t care if I’m not aware of the latest episodes. I make an effort not to be. Today there are computer websites that are targeting young and old in order to trap their minds and influence behavior.
Not long ago I suggested to a brother in Christ to turn off the commercials for the Super Bowl games and other things that may be shown during the game. He was watching it with a couple hundred other brothers that he had great influence over. He didn’t think it was necessary to turn off anything. That night Janet Jackson revealed herself indecently before millions. I wonder if my brother in Christ is taking the battle seriously yet.
If we don’t set standards then our minds will be led astray from our sincere and pure devotion to Christ. If people look at me as if I’m more heavenly minded than I should be, I take it as a compliment although they didn’t mean it as one. If I don’t know about the latest song that a popular rap artist came out with, it’s better for my thought life. Our Lord tells us that we ought to shine in the darkness. If we are not peculiar in our entertainment, our minds will be corrupted, and our sexual fantasies and habits will continue to grip our souls. I must add that just because a movie is not rated “R” doesn’t mean Satan can’t use it. “R” rated movies are labeled “PG” in many cases to get a larger audience. I found that as I set standards with what I allow in my mind, and replace those thoughts with Biblical fuel, then I experience consistent victory.
Studies show that child molesters and those who perform other sex crimes have practiced masturbation. Not realizing what it could lead to, this selfish act dominated their lives and lead to other levels of sexual cravings.
I believe that the person who masturbates ends up being a Samson imitator instead of a Joseph imitator. Samson allowed his sensual desires to get the best of him and Joseph didn’t allow sexual passion to suck him in like a vacuum. A study of these men’s strengths and weaknesses will show us how one thing can lead to another in a negative and positive way. Although Joseph had struggles, he didn’t try to escape or get relief from them by taking a lustful detour. For some masturbation is a way of escape; A god that gives pleasure to relieve emotional pain. It should not surprise us that the very chapter in I Corinthians that tells us about a way of escape when it comes to temptation also tells us about sexual immorality and idols. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them ; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand…..
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry. I Corinthians 10:7, 8, 13, 14
Some might say that we can’t compare masturbation to what Samson did. Others may conclude that since it doesn’t involve someone else it is not a sin. The truth is since it doesn’t involve someone else (Your marriage partner) it is sin. Our sexuality is to be enjoyed with a partner. II Corinthians 7:3,4 reads-- Let the husband fulfill his duty to his wife, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does; and likewise also the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Stop depriving one another, except by agreement for a time that you may devote yourselves to prayer, and come together again lest Satan tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
In Matthew 8:27,28 Jesus said—“You have heard that it was said, Do not commit adultery. But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Some may say it’s possible to masturbate without thinking of someone in particular. There is some self-deception with this view because there is some sort of fantasy even if it’s with a fictional image of someone. No matter what the case it is still a conscious attempt to have a solo-orgasm which is self-gratifying and fueling one’s lustful desires.
God’s plan for Adam and Eve and all married couples is to enjoy sexual intercourse. A solo-orgasm is not only unbiblical but it shows selfish ambition (Philippians 2:3). Unfortunately there are couples that get married who are full of selfish ambition sexually. If both have been in bondage to the self-centered practice of masturbation then they will find it difficult to serve one another instead of focusing on being served. Considering others better than our selves goes totally against the grain of the one who has been ensnared by the self-gratifying pleasure of masturbation. It is possible for us to actually be lovers of our own selves (II Timothy 3:2) instead of others. It also shows a lack of self-control which is one of the fruits of the Spirit as mentioned earlier.
As a believer in Christ one cannot say “I can do whatever I want. This is my body.” I Corinthians 6:19,20 says- Haven’t you yet learned that your body is the home of the Holy Spirit God gave you, and that he lives within you? Your own body does not belong to you. For God has bought you with a great price. So use every part of your body to give glory back to God, because he owns it. (TLB)
Romans teaches us to “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.”
An Encouraging Word to Those Who Are Single:
My friend-- You are EQUIPPED TO WIN. If you have placed your trust in Jesus as your Lord and Savior you’re a WINNER, so live like one. Maybe you’re waiting for a mate. You may have heard about the crusade of many youth who have uttered the manifesto that “True Love Waits”. I believe that this applies to masturbation as well as sexual intercourse with one who is not your marriage partner. Wouldn’t it be great to let you’re marriage partner know that you have been preserving your body, mind, and attitude for him or her. You are preparing yourself to serve your mate not to be served. I’m a living witness that God is able to bless and keep you during your time of anticipation. I was 26 years old when I got married and experienced at least 5 years without giving into masturbation before marriage. I’ve been experiencing consistent victory during marriage as well. I never want to practice anything that fuels lustful, self-gratifying desires.
God may have given you a gift to be without a sexual partner. Don’t view yourself as weird. The Apostle Paul had this gift—(I Corinthians 7:7-9). God has a special work for you that you may not be able to focus on if you had these heated desires working in you. This gift doesn’t mean that you have no attraction to the opposite sex necessarily, but you may not burn like the average person. I read recently that the hands and the feet have the most sweat glands in the human body. You could be a part of Christ’s body that doesn’t “sweat this stuff” too much. Thank Him for how He made you and serve Him with your whole heart.
IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER:
- Be honest with God. I would add to this that we need to be honest and turn from sin by not only stopping what we’re doing but replace it with something that pleases God. Proverbs 28:13; Ephesians 4: 19-24.
- Plug into the power—Realize that you can’t win without God’s help. Spend time with God daily, which involves talking to God and allowing God to talk with you. As God talks with you from the Bible, memorize some verses. You can use the Bible verses as ammunition during spiritual battles.
- Renew your mind. Guard against shows, books, magazines and songs that draw your mind away from your devotion to Jesus. If magazines come to the house like
“Victoria Secret” you need to inform the family member who orders it that this doesn’t help your thought life. Also remember that just because a show or a movie is not “R” rated doesn’t mean Satan cannot use it. When thoughts come to your minds door, shut the door and walk away. Make sure your mind is already occupied (Put up the NO VACANCY sign as I mentioned earlier). - Control your body. You can do it with God’s strength and wisdom. Make an effort to think about pure things and get active by exercising, serving others and presenting the parts of your body to God as instruments of righteousness.
- Confide in a friend who can hold you accountable. Get honest with a spiritually strong brother who has experienced consistent victory in this area so that iron can sharpen iron; avoiding those who view this issue as hopeless. Pray for the weak and spur them on to victory but remember that aluminum foil cannot sharpen iron.
- Avoid tempting situations. Avoid second glances at sensually dressed people and avoid being alone with the opposite sex. Be in the open and certainly not in the dark. Remember, just because you are not very attracted to the person doesn’t mean it’s impossible for you to be distracted by them.
- Go for total victory. It is possible to say good-bye to masturbation. Does this mean you won’t be tempted? No but when you are tempted remember—YOU ARE EQUIPPED TO WIN. Just pay attention to your Head Coach, and Owner. His name is Jesus and he knows how to win under any circumstance.
Here’s a suggested prayer that comes from Neil Anderson’s book—The Bondage Breaker:
Lord, I ask You to bring to my mind every sexual use of my body as an instrument of unrighteousness so I can renounce these sins right now. In Jesus’ name.
As the Lord brings to your mind every wrong sexual use of your mind & body…remember to renounce the sin by replacing it with what pleases God. Continue by praying:
Lord, I renounce all use of my body as an instrument of unrighteousness, and I admit to any willful participation. I choose now to present my eyes, mouth, mind, heart, hands, feet, and sexual organs to You as instruments of righteousness. I present my whole body to You as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable. I choose to reserve the sexual use of my body for marriage only. I reject the devil’s lie that my body is not clean or that it’s dirty or in any way unacceptable to You as result of my past sexual experiences. Lord, thank You that You have totally cleansed and forgiven me and that You love and accept me just the way I am. Therefore, I choose now to accept myself and my body as clean in Your eyes. Amen.
( See Hebrews 13:4)
Sources For Further Study:
Handbook on Counseling Youth by Josh McDowell
The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson
Sex: Desiring the Best by Barry St. Clair and Bill Jones
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