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DIENAARS EN VRIENDE VAN GOD

DIENAARS EN VRIENDE VAN GOD

Het jy al ooit die wonderlike boek Servants or Friends? gelees deur A. Graham Maxwell? As jy dit nie het nie, beveel ek dit sterk aan.

Ek onthou dat ek dit ‘n paar dekades gelede gelees het, en dit het ‘n diepgaande impak op my begrip van God gemaak en my gedagtes oopgemaak vir nuwe idees en konsepte wat my gehelp het om Hom meer volledig te leer ken en te groei in begrip van sy ontwerpe en metodes.

Diegene wat ons bediening volg, weet dat ek deurgaans die verskil kontrasteer tussen menslike opgelegde wette, opgemaakte reëls wat opgelegde strawwe vereis – die wetlike manier om dinge te sien – met God se ontwerpwette, die protokolle waarop die Skepper die werklikheid gebou het om op te werk, soos die wette van gesondheid, fisika en die morele wette.

Wat my onlangs opgeval het, is dat hoewel Graham nooit die spesifieke taal van opgelegde wet teenoor ontwerpreg gebruik het nie, hy dieselfde twee wette in sy boek en leerstellings kontrasteer toe hy oor die verskil tussen bediendes en vriende gepraat het. In ‘n aanbieding getiteld Regsprobleme Tussen Vriende het Graham gesê: “Bediendes word beheer deur die wet op die muur. Vriende word deur die wet wat in hulle harte en in hulle verstand is regeer” (minuut 28:52).

Graham beskryf die dienskneg as die een wat nog nie die meester se besigheid verstaan nie, wat doen wat die meester sê – en hy gehoorsaam bloot om nie in die moeilikheid te kom nie. Hy is die een wat nie net die meester verstaan nie, hy gee nie eers om nie. Hy wil net gehoorsaam wees, die moets en moenies volg en vermy om in regsmoeilikheid te beland. Dit is die ingestelde wet. “Wat is die reëls? Wat moet ek doen? Wat eis die meester?”

Terwyl die vriend die een is wat met begripvolle samewerking met die meester omgaan. Die vriend gehoorsaam ook, maar hy doen dit uit ‘n gevoel van ooreenstemming, lojaliteit, toewyding, liefde en vertroue vir en in die meester. Dit is ontwerpreg – om te verstaan hoe en waarom dinge werk soos hulle werk en intelligent saam te werk omdat ons saamstem en die metodes en maniere van die meester verkies.

Ek kan aan niemand anders dink as Graham wat die rol van ‘n dienaar beter met dié van ‘n vriend gekontrasteer het nie. Dit is ‘n uitstekende kontras tussen die menslik opgelegde wet-manier om dinge te sien en God se ontwerpwet-manier om dinge te sien.

Maar wat my onlangs opgeval het, is dat die dienaar se begrip die weg van die wêreld is, hoe die gevalle mensdom dink, die weg van opgelegde wet, heerskappy oor ander met magsmetodes van die koninkryke van hierdie wêreld – en dit verteenwoordig nie God se ware dienaars nie. ‘n Mens kan nie ‘n ware en getroue dienaar van God wees, die sending vir ons hemelse meester voltooi of sy roeping vervul, tensy hulle werklik sy vriend is nie! Met ander woorde, al God se betroubare dienaars is slegs betroubaar omdat hulle werklik sy vriende geword het. Hierdie mense ken God eintlik (Johannes 17:3) en ken daarom sy karakter, ontwerpwetlike metodes en beginsels en is gewen tot lojale vriendskap met Hom en kan dus van Hom sê wat reg is (Job 42:7). Dit is slegs moontlik wanneer hulle die opgelegde wet leuens verwerp het en die waarheid van God se ontwerpwette so aanvaar het dat hulle opgehou het om ‘n skepsel te aanbid en teruggekeer het na die aanbidding van die Skepper.

In die Skrif word God se ware dienaars ook sy profete genoem:

Die Soewereine HERE doen sekerlik niks sonder om sy plan aan sy dienaars die profete te openbaar nie (Amos 3:7 NIV 84, beklemtoning myne; sien ook 1 Konings 14:18; 2 Konings 9:7, 17:23, 21:10; Esra 9:11; Jeremia 7:25, 25:4, 26:5, 29:19, 35:15; Esegiël 38:17; Daniël 9:10; Sagaria 1:6).

God se betroubare profete is nie beperk tot diegene wat die toekoms voorspel, soos Daniël en Johannes gedoen het nie. Hulle is eerder God se woordvoerders, diegene wat God se vriende is, diegene wat God persoonlik ken en van Hom kan sê wat reg is; hulle is diegene wat na die mense gaan met ‘n boodskap van God, ‘n boodskap wat net ‘n vriend tereg kan oordra.

Miskien is die bekendste en kragtigste voorbeeld van so ‘n dienaar, profeet en woordvoerder vir God, een wat eintlik God se vriend was, naamlik Moses:

Die HERE sal van aangesig tot aangesig met Moses praat, soos ‘n man met sy vriend praat (Eksodus 33:11 NIV 84).

En Moses is herhaaldelik God se dienaar genoem:

Wanneer ‘n profeet van die HERE onder julle is, openbaar Ek my aan hom in visioene, ek praat met hom in drome. Maar dit is nie waar van my kneg Moses nie; in my hele huis is hy getrou. Met hom spreek ek van aangesig tot aangesig, duidelik en nie in raaisels nie; hy sien die verskyning van die HERE. Waarom was julle dan nie bang om teen my kneg Moses te spreek nie? (Numeri 12:6-8 NIV 84, beklemtoning myne).

Moses was ‘n vriend van God, maar is sy dienaar genoem omdat slegs ‘n ware vriend die diens kan lewer wat God wil hê – en dit is die diens om die waarheid oor Hom te vertel! Ware diens is om die boodskap van God se karakter van liefde na die mense te bring. Dit is die werk wat God van sy dienaars roep om vir Hom te vervul vlak voor sy wederkoms: ‘n spesiale eindtydse groep. (Sien my blog Wie Is Die 144 000?)

Sommige mag dalk oor hierdie vers struikel omdat God ‘n “profeet” kontrasteer met sy dienaar Moses, maar hierdie vers kontrasteer die verskil tussen diegene wat werklik God se vriende is en diegene wat nie is nie. Daar is profete wat God se ware dienaars is, wat die waarheid oor Hom vertel en dit slegs kan doen omdat hulle ook sy vriende is – profete soos Moses, die apostels, Jesaja en ander. Maar daar is ook profete wat nie sy ware dienaars is nie, nie sy vriende nie, wat Hom nie werklik ken nie, en tog het God steeds deur hulle gespreek, soos mense soos Bileam en Koning Saul (Numeri 22; 1 Samuel 10:9-12). Slegs die betroubare vriende van God, wat sy seël op hulle voorkop ontvang, kan Hom die diens lewer wat Hy werklik begeer – om Hom in sy ware heerlikheid, lig en karakter te openbaar; dus word slegs sy ware vriende sy dienaars genoem.

Dit is waarom Jesus aan die einde van die tyd vir sy getroue vriende sal sê, “Welgedaan, jou goeie en getroue dienaar!” (Matteus 25:21).

Want soos Job sal hulle van God gesê het wat reg is!

 

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Testimony 62

I would like to express my thanks to the C&R team for creating a platform from which people can learn to trust in God and grow. My life is a witness to the effectiveness of this ministry. Without believing the truth about God as you have shown, I don’t know what my life would be like. I had given up on God helping me with certain sins – it was all useless. Given that the scripture is clear and God is so good, how could I have betrayed him so many times? I was a yo-yo christian; spinning up and down. My faith and enthusiasm was driven by discoveries/threats that prophecy is about to be fulfilled. But when I watched your “Healing the Mind” seminar, it was like a light finally went on. I could see God had no plan to hurt me, the danger came from sin, and that He is working to protect me and strengthen me. Thank you for allowing God to use you. The message God gave C&R saved my life!

Antony N. – Hobart, Australia

 

Testimony 65

I have been tuning into your weekly study classes for a while now and wanted express my appreciation for the teachings that ha been a huge blessing in opening up the true message of the word. Viewing scripture under an imposed law theory always, without fail, raised more questions, concerns, and conflicting scripture interpretations that were discouraging at the very least. Looking at scripture through the design law lens has brought more truth to light for me personally and an understanding of our Heavenly Father that places Him “above all others,” where I am now more than thrilled to witness and serve Him.  I “stumbled” across this ministry a year or so ago and would only watch a few minutes at a time. But the more I listened and the longer I paid attention, the more my spiritual eyes were opened to the ever present truths of scripture. The comprehension of the great controversy and it’s origin by the lies perpetrated and perpetuated throughout the Bible on the attack of God’s character and government is truly priceless. Keep up the Good Work! Your servanthood is desperately needed in such a time as this!

Jeff D., Reading, MA, USA

 

Testimony 49

I came into the church at 21, but that is as far as it went. I was so confused about what love is. I couldn’t find it in the bible, because I am not a person that can read between the lines. I have no logic. I have read many, many books; trying to figure out the crux of the matter. They were helpful, but something was still missing. I have become very frustrated to the point of crying out to God, “Where can I go?”  I needed some basics.

I found two books, written by Timothy Jennings, MD, to be very helpful. God showed me that I had lived my whole life in fear. I didn’t even see it. Now, I do. God is so good.  I discovered the “The Remedy”  Dr. Jennings new book, “The God-Shaped Heart!” Oh, I was so excited, I purchased them right away.

I can get rid of most of my books, because “The Remedy” brings the Love of God out so clearly, even I can’t miss it. Now, I want to sit and read my Bible. Wow, what a revelation! It is just simply Awesome! I am so grateful to Jehovah Almighty for hearing my prayer for more understanding! I am so encouraged!

Jackie S.

 

Testimony 39

[This ministry is the] biggest blessing I have ever received! Your DVDs and lessons could not have come at a better time in my life. I have experienced in the past year many difficulties that, if it wasn’t for this wonderful view of God that I have discovered through this ministry, I would not have been able to respond in love and forgiveness. My heart is being transformed everyday by the Calvary-looking God you teach. Hallelujah!! I have tears in my eyes as I write, because my life has taken a complete turn from where I was heading.

I am from Central America. Most of my family is scattered in different parts of the world and all have the same view of God that I had growing up; a distant, exacting, and ready-to-punish-us-with-tragedy type of God. So, I have been translating lessons for my family and, to my surprise, they have also been sharing them with others! I can already see the difference. My brother has often said, “Thank you for sharing, I have never heard it this way!” My other family members are taking an amazing turn from a message of “repent or burn” towards a loving God, pleading to us that we won’t reject him because he loves us eternally.

Bless you for all you do.

Sofia S., Ashfield, MA, USA

 

Testimony 60

Just watched watched lesson 10 in the 1st quarter 2021 bible study classs on Isaiah. I want to thank you for your intellectual spirituality; it’s not an oxymoron! From the point of view of a teacher I also enjoy seeing how much personal pleasure you clearly take in not just tasting, but feasting on God’s word – it reminds me of Jeremiah not being able to hold it in! It makes me smile that your cup is so full and overflowing that you make it to Tuesday’s lesson (on a good day). It just goes to show the richness of God’s Word.

God bless the Come and Reason Team from our church here in Great Britain.

Andrew H., Great Britain

 

Testimony 2

I continue to enjoy your lessons every week. The more that I research your conclusions, the more I am convinced that the Holy Spirit has lead you to distill out the essence of human redemption. Thank you for your courageous stand for the truth.

S. G., TX, USA

 

Testimony 21

I am absolutly on fire with the message at Come and Reason! I can’t get enough! I’ve read your book, blog, and articles. I’ve listened to your Bible study podcasts, your radio show, and your series – all excellent! It wasn’t until the past couple of years that I have I like I’m becoming “healthy,” with more to share with others than just beasts and commandments! I used to be a Bible worker and preached when the pastors were gone until I had had enough. I didnt realize at the time what the problem was, but i know now… the message wasn’t properly focused. Now my flame is rekindled. All of your little examples are so perfect in explaining something “complicated” and making it easily understood! Now I’m trying to shape it into a life changing evangelistic series! Thank you!

M.T., USA

 

Testimony 18

The Healing the Mind DVD set tarted me on a journey that has changed my relationship with our loving God more significantly than any other study, and brought me to your book and Bible study podcasts, which I now listen to daily, thanks to the availability of archived content on your site and on iTunes.

Anonymous

 

Testimony 67

I was introduced to Come And Reason by a friend of my mother-in-law, who gave me several CD’s of Dr. Jennings. The clarity of the message and recognition that God’s is a God of love was so clear, advancing beyond Dr. Maxwell’s message. However, grappled with Maxwell saying God used emergency measures for the fallen world. Now after several years of being a regular listener of the Come And Reasoning bible study class and attending Jennings’ meetings in Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, things are becoming clearer for me. Design law versus imposed law has added so much to my personal understanding of theology. This message has really impacted my work in counseling so many people miserable because they are searching for and trusting human governments to create order and peace or believing in a God who says love Me or I will kill you. I am grateful that I have an alternative view to offer my clients that makes sense. I teach a bible study class on a semi-regular basis and I value the materials that Come And Reason so freely offers to aid me in presenting this vital message. Thank you for continuing to provide advancement in our very limited understanding of a Infinite God that is rational and believable.

Dr. Roger D, Arlington, TX, USA

 

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 25

I just want to say thank you so much for your conversations via YouTube. I regularly tune in to your lectures, “Let’s Talk” sessions, and many others. Through these I’ve found greater depth and meaning to God’s word. Thanks for all that you do and please continue. I’m currently working in the middle of Silicon Valley at Stanford University. I feel like God really has me in the right place right now and I’m sensing that your teachings might be part of it.

B. F., Silicon Valley, CA, USA

 

Testimony 23

I would just like to add my voice to the many people who, I believe, must have contacted you to express their appreciation for the “Healing the Mind” DVDs. I’ve been listening to your Bible study class discussions for many years and I’ve been personally blessed by your research and teaching about the character of God.

L. G., Oakland, MI, USA

 

Testimony 64

I’ve been reading the bible and walking with Jesus since I was around 16. I’m 42 now. I’ve mostly been alone in my walk although I went to several churches in different denominations. For the past 3 years God has been showing me His character of agape. It’s been a blessing and changed how I view God and my walk with Jesus. About a year ago I came across the power of love and the principles of design law. These teachings changed how I read scripture and have been such a beautiful blessing. I’m very excited and grateful for these truths. We share these truths of agape, design law and the reality of the principles of the two trees in the garden of Eden with people on Facebook and YouTube. People all over are learning to trust God and His agape design law which makes life possible. Thank you for everything you shared with me. May God continue to bless your ministry and lives.

Bradley M., Hinsdale, NY, USA

 

Testimony 50

After coming into contact with Come And Reason Ministries, I can finally say that many of my unanswered questions have fallen into place. I discovered that my view of God’s Law was “imposed laws and rules” with “imposed punishments” and that this was the major culprit of my many unanswered questions. Thanks be to God for using you and those around you to help us who have struggled with this “infection” of thought. I have now rejected the “imposed law” concept to fully embrace “Design Law”… to look thru “Design Law,” instead of “imposed law,” is a relief.

Viliami L., Australia

 

Testimony 3

My husband is a pastor and I listen to your lesson almost every week. Thank you for helping me in my study life and to help me love the “real” God more.

C. F., NC, USA