Splinters of Silver

Courageous Motivation

2011-10-15T19:25:00.000-06:00

So, I went this weekend to see the movie Courageous with some people from our church. I thought the movie was pretty good, possibly even better than Fireproof. Of course you can’t really compare the two completely, as they focus on different aspects of the home. Fireproof speaks to the husband, as Courageous speaks to the father.

Courageous was filled with an emotional roller coaster, holding different principles that most likely every father in the theater could easily grasp hold of as something presently in their lives. Shifting from laughter to sorrow, self examination and the reality of what others may be going through, it helps expose the many different things we may actually not even take notice of though they are going on in our very own lives around us every day.

As I walked out of the theater I couldn’t help but feel motivated to be a better father. But, then I thought, if that is all there was, then surely it would be short lived. I mean, what am I going to do – wait till the movie hits DVD and watch it again? Then in a couple of months watch it again? And so on…

As much as I enjoyed the movie, I realize that if we really want to become better fathers, we need to do more than merely watch a movie about being better fathers. We’ve got to actually do what ‘Adam’ did in the movie. I’m not talking about signing the ‘Resolution’ from the movie – I’m talking about the actual seeking God and studying the Scriptures he was doing to arrive at the Resolution.

We can’t simply ride the coattails of someone else’s convictions. We have got to purpose in our own hearts and in our own lives to be better (1) Christians and then we can become better (2) husbands and (3) fathers. Sometimes – well, a lot of times – it seems we fall very short in our potential of being better. Not because the Holy Spirit is not moving us to do so, but because we simply have a ‘fleshly’ motivated time period (whether a movie, song, sermon, etc.) and merely fizzle out when it comes time to actually put our ‘motivation’ into action.

So, what am I saying? I’m saying that Courageous and movies like it can be great motivators that hit home in our hearts, maybe even at times we wouldn’t listen to the message they present any other way – BUT – if that motivation stops at the credits, then what good has it done us? If we fail to actually make a change in our lives – and not merely acknowledge or think about changing – we are no better off than before we saw it.

It all goes back to the Bible and fellowship with God through Christ. Like me, if you saw Courageous – or a movie, program, sermon, etc. – and felt the emotion, wisdom, and Spirit of God exposing parts of your lives that need repentance and growth, then pray, read, study, and mediate on Scripture to allow it to change your life (as a husband, a father, a Christian) forever – and not merely 120 minutes.

So, Whose Fault Is It?

2011-09-22T08:39:00.004-06:00

In reading an article today, apparently about six scientists are being put on trial for suggested manslaughter for “failing to predict an earthquake that killed more than 300 people in central Italy in 2009 despite signs of increased seismic activity in the area,” I found something very peculiar. One of the lawyers (Alfredo Biondi) declared, “You cannot put science on trial.”

I find it interesting, because we often hear the claim from unbelievers (yet believers of science):

“If God is real, then why does He not stop bad things from happening?”

Could we not also ask, “If science is real, then why does it not stop bad things from happening?”

Would anyone doubt the existence of science simply because we do not completely understand it, sometimes incorrectly devise ideas about it, become confounded in its complexity, get lost in our formulation of the yet unseen, or its outcome is not what is expected and less than what we hoped for, while other times it is surprising and overwhelming interesting, even though we are limited in our ability to grasp its fullness?

My purpose is not to merely compare God to science or science to God, but rather the mindset of man. We find no error in putting God on trial by declaring He is either non-existent or at fault for not stopping or warning against disasters, yet we have science which has been created to warn us but declare “You cannot put science on trial” when it fails to do that which we believe it should.

But, perhaps they are right. Maybe it is neither God nor science which can be put on trial; for maybe both have indeed given the warning, and it is us (mankind) who have chosen to disregard it. Would not that then make us individually responsible for ourselves and each other? So, then, as a Christian (or a scientist in this case), it would not be God or science at fault but us who know the warning signs and refuse to warn others about it.

Dear Christians, we have the Word of God, we have the gospel of Jesus Christ. Are we sharing the warning of spending eternity in hell if one does not repent and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, or will we be accused as these scientists before God: "No one expected to be told the exact time of the quake. We just wanted to be warned that we were sitting on a bomb." (Vincenzo Vittorini)

Are We Bringing Others To Christ?

2011-03-02T10:13:00.002-06:00

We find in Matthew 9, Mark 2, and Luke 5 a story of a man sick of the palsy, which had persons who were determined to bring him to Jesus for healing.

1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house.

2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them.

3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.

4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.

I would just like to make a few points here I think we could all do to remember sometimes in our busy lives:

1. Christ was preaching the Word.

2. There was a sick man unable on his own to come unto Jesus.

3. There were persons who were interested enough in the wellbeing of the sick man to take time out of their day to help him come to Jesus.

4. There was faith in Jesus that he could heal the man.

5. Luke says “there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by”, but the religious crowd did not stop them from coming to Jesus.

6. The place was apparently so full of people no one else could enter, but the mass of people and crowded building did not stop them from coming to Jesus.

7. By removing the roof to lower the sick man to Jesus, those who bore him went above and beyond normal expectations to ensure he came to Jesus.

8. When Jesus saw their faith the man was healed.

Had there been no faith, no help from others willing to care for another, or fear of the religious and crowd, how would the sick man ever have met Jesus and been made whole?

The Word is being preached. What are we doing to ensure we ourselves come to Christ, and those around us are brought to Him for the cleansing of sin also?

Do Your Social Network Friends Really Matter?

2011-01-07T08:59:00.004-06:00

According to an article on FoxNews.com, a lady died from apparent suicide sometime after posting her actions – Christmas Day – on her Facebook status.

The article declares: Simone Back, 42, had 1,048 Facebook “friends,” none of whom came to her rescue or alerted authorities of her suicidal post that read, "Took all my pills be dead soon bye bye everyone."

It also states: [she] received responses calling her a “liar,” “she OD’s all the time and she lies” and saying the fatal overdose was “her choice,” The Telegraph reports.

And adds: Some out-of-town friends did respond wanting to help, requesting her address and telephone number to no avail. Not one of Back’s friends checked in on her.

This is a very sad story. Any suicide or death of an individual should never be seen as a light thing, because that individual has crossed over into eternity. At this point, their relationship in Jesus Christ matters the most, even though they have surely likewise left weary hearts inside family and friends.

But, this brings up questions regarding Facebook, along with other social networks, and how we allow them to take part in our daily lives. How much is too much? Are we spending more of our lives gossiping over the internet with cyber friends, in place of actually spending time with persons face-to-face?

Take for instance, the “friends” list on Facebook. I personally have 300+ “friends” made up of family, friends I grew up with, church members, coworkers, persons I know and have known, along with others I have merely met online through numerous blogs, forums, etc. Within this list, I most likely only converse with a small number of them regularly in person or on Facebook, and do not even attempt to read the 300+ statuses, updates, etc. which happen daily – or even hourly. I just don’t have that much time, or the desire to do so. Sorry Facebook friends!

With that said, along with the numerous TMI and OMG (ha!) postings on just my Facebook Wall, I can somewhat understand how a status could go unnoticed (even a plea for help) by on-line “friends” (regardless how many) or even Facebook personnel. It is also practical to realize that many times we easily dismiss things, because the person is “known” to “cry wolf” or crave attention. This may not totally remove responsibility from us to seek help for those who may need it, but at the same time it does not place the blame on us and remove all the responsibility from the individual doing so either.

I mean, if we can dismiss the soul hurting we may see each day at work, in our homes, at church, or driving along our way, what makes us think we will pay more attention to our cyber relationships? How easy is it to click “Like” or write a quick comment “Praying for you” – but do we really mean it? Are social networks even used as a means to help one another emotionally and spiritually, to truly build better friendships and communication with those we care about? Or, do they merely make us focus more attention on ourselves, and the curiosity of knowing everybody else’s business – with a stand-off type of responsibility, leaving us with no commitment to intervene with hurting hearts and the needs of others?

Is it better to have 1,048 social network friends, or 1 who really cares? And, if we claim to be someone’s friend, what are we doing to make the relationship so? Are we simple appeasing our conscience, yet searing it at the same time?

Proverbs 17:17a, A friend loveth at all times…

Proverbs 18:24, A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Contest

2011-01-04T21:28:00.004-06:00

So, I haven't forgotten my Resolutions for 2011, but have simply added another short-term goal; at least for the month of January.

Here is an opportunity for anyone to submit an unpublished or self-published novel between 50,000 and 150,000 words (of their own writing) in the 2011 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award, for a chance to win one of two $15,000 publishing contracts with Penguin USA and distribution of their novel on Amazon.com.

How to Enter: The submission period begins January 24, 2011 at 12:01 a.m. (U.S. Eastern Standard Time) and ends February 6, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (U.S. Eastern Standard Time). The young adult fiction category and the general fiction category are each limited to 5,000 Entries, and we will stop accepting Entries for a category after we have received 5,000 Entries in that category.

Sadly, there isn't enough time for me to finish and submit my latest work, entitled Kristietiba, as I am currently only about midway through writing it. But, I have been slowly reediting and putting together the trilogy of Ekleipsis, Daegsteorra, and Andeis into one book entitle Land of Erde. Perhaps I will be able to complete and submit this work. I at least hope to.

Do you have a novel you have been working on? Give it a go! You've got a month to prepare and submit it. What have you lost?

Thou Shalt Come - Introduction

2010-12-26T22:38:00.008-06:00

As I sit here this twenty-sixth day of December in the year of our Lord 2010, I am prepared to embark on a study less than few have intertwined into their lives. Some may find it an unnecessary learning – and perhaps they are correct in the large scope of life, if the mere reading should consume one – yet I cannot but hope that such will rather enlighten me in much greater things of importance along the journey. For what I find at the end may indeed be less significant – in practical purpose – than the gleanings and wisdom which shall become prevalent along the way. Of which, in no small means, would I be equally content with grasping at the understanding of. Though, likewise I am required to retain this expedition must not be satisfied without the acting upon such found knowledge; for what is faith without works[1]?

It is my belief[2] – from experience with myself, along with others I have conversed with throughout my life – when one is presented or seeks out information or questions concerning virtually all things, there appears to be already in place a sense of opinion, thought, or idea – whether partial or in full – concerning it. Even though scripture declares such is folly[3], mankind seems to find it quite easy to do – perhaps even subconsciously acting upon it. Whether due to previous learning we have received through school, media, society, or possibly from family, church, and books, we appear to find it difficult to simply say, “I don’t know” without actually having some preconceived notion of what it might or should be – according to us.

But, is it so wrong to have predetermined ideas of that which we may not know or fully understand? Or, rather – should we ask – how shall truth overcome our presuppositions, if by chance we do not lend our ears and mind to that which is in contradiction? To limit our study to merely one side or the other – of any topic; especially if we are but novice concerning its intellect – does not make that which we believe true, but bounds us to it as though we have become the final authority by rejecting all other knowledge without evenly considering it. Neither do harsh words, name calling, nor misrepresentation of the other make our case stronger and more profitable for those we deem without. We must maintain that truth is truth, without our vain presuppositions; for we do not establish nor define truth, as truth is whole by itself. Just as our assumptions may lead us to the truth, they may likewise disperse us from it.

So, for this study, I shall try to put away my argumentative mind, while attempting to give equal standing with each author and all books, as they present their case for what they believe to be truth. Using the Bible as the final authority, as did those in Thessalonica[4], I hope to take every point of doctrine and exert its truth in my own life daily.

I shall entitle this study Thou Shalt Come, based on John 6:37; whereby, scripture declares, All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

So begins my study of Arminianism, Calvinism, and those who claim the truth – along with themselves – lies somewhere in between...

[1] James 2:20, 26 (It would do one well to read the chapter in its entirety.)

[2] I realize, possibly a mere presupposition itself.

[3] Proverbs 18:13

[4] Acts 17:11

Resolutions for 2011

2010-12-21T21:01:00.006-06:00

As we draw to the end of 2010, upon reflection, it appears I have been neglecting my blog writing, having only 25 posts in 2009 and 17 posts for 2010. So, for 2011, I would like to make myself a few resolutions.

First, I would like to complete my current work, entitled Kristietiba this coming year. It is my latest book writing project, following my trilogy In the Land of Erde. The storyline is mostly coming about, but just haven’t had the time to formal continue writing it to completion; approximately, halfway through at the present.

Second, I was graciously given a book entitled Unabridged Christianity (Biblical Answers to Common Questions About the Roman Catholic Faith) by Fr. Mario P. Romero. There was a time when I did a good bit of reading about Catholicism and even participated on a Catholic forum, but it has been some time since then. So, perhaps I will make time to read, examine, and respond accordingly. Readers may see some of my musing regarding this posted here.

Third, I was also given a book entitled The Muslim Calvinism Connection by Moody Adams. This perhaps had sparked the greatest endeavor for 2011 (well, in the scope of this blog). For 2011, readers may see a good many posts on the context of Armenian and Calvinist theology, in regards to depravity, free will, predestination, foreknowledge, and the like. I have a shelf of books, along with a CD of writings in PDF for my Nook, which will challenge my presupposition, thoughts, and beliefs.

Of course, last but not least, I hope to increase my prayer and scripture reading time, which the above should also encourage. This also does not include my family time and church responsibilities, so we shall see come December 2011 what has become of these few resolutions.

May you all have a Happy Christmas and Merry New Year…

Christ-Mass at 180 Degrees: A Sin to Celebrate, a Sin to Not

2010-12-06T19:01:00.015-06:00

I realize this post may come across as anti-Christmas, as the Grinch, or just plain argumentative, but actually it is more of just a note of thoughts for the individual reader to consider this year.

It is interesting that each year we hear an uproar about people, businesses, or whatever “trying to take Christ out of Christmas”, but I wonder just how many of us know anything about the history of Christmas or actually worship Christ more during the season supposedly celebrating His birth.

First, the word Christmas originates from combining the words Christ (the son of God) and Mass (the Catholic Mass). [1] “The Mass is the complex of prayers and ceremonies that make up the service of the Eucharist in the Latin rites.” [2] Both Baptists (of which I am) and Catholics believe the Lord’s Supper began with Christ [3], but the literal or symbolic nature of the Lord’s Supper is quite different between the two. The Eucharist or ‘Sacrifice of the Mass’ [4] carries with it the idea of Transubstantiation [4]; whereby “Catholic Christian belief [is] in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist” (meaning the bread and wine actually become the literal body and blood of Christ) by their interpretation of such scripture as John 6:53-56 [5]. Whereas Baptist realize the words of Christ were spiritual and not fleshly, for Christ did say in verse 63: “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” One may notice all who are saved are also called “one bread, and one body” in 1 Corinthians 10:17. And if the ‘cup of the Lord’ is the literal blood of Christ, is the ‘cup of devils’ the literal blood of devils? [1 Corinthians 10:21]

Point 1: Baptists do not celebrate or believe in the teaching of the Catholic Mass, and the word Christmas appears to have originated with Catholic teachings.

Second, according to some “Christmas history of America” [6], in 1645 Oliver Cromwell and the Puritans took over England, and cancelled Christmas as part of their vow to ‘rid England of decadence’ [moral degeneration or decay]. “Puritans by definition felt that the English Reformation had not gone far enough, and that the Church of England was tolerant of practices which they associated with the Catholic Church. They formed into and identified with various religious groups advocating greater "purity" of worship and doctrine, as well as personal and group piety.” [7] Oddly, during the 1600s, some pilgrims (English separatists, also Puritan in their beliefs) enjoyed Christmas in America, while for others it was outlawed. Even before the Civil War, the North “saw sin in the celebration of Christmas”, while the South celebrated it without guilty conscience. From there, it seems Christmas was promoted in books and Sunday school to the children, then with magazines and decorations to the women.

Point 2: Whereas the Puritans of England seemed to argue that Christmas was not for the Christian (or non Catholic), there were those in America who fought over the idea of whether Christmas was sin or worthy to be celebrated.

Thirdly, when I hear the yearly outcry from professing Christians that this place or that group is refusing the say or promote Christmas, I have to sit back and wonder what all the hoopla is about. Why? Because while we criticize those who do not display nativity scenes or say “Merry Christmas”, I do not see us as Christians doing any more for Christ during a season whereby we claim people are doing less or nothing at all for “Christ’s birthday”. I mean, really, if we would like to demand the lost world (or those “less” Christian) to say “Merry Christmas” to recognize our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (not to mention the Catholic Mass), then why do we as Christians not spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ rather than sitting lazily inside our homes watching football, overeating, and often spending the day with family and friends we don’t always like, with gifts we usually can’t afford?

Point 3: Before we demand a change in other’s priorities, we need to ensure ours are in the right place.

Why does it seem that we - as Christians (or non Catholic) - have gone 180 degrees in stating that it was once a sin (or Catholic) to celebrate Christmas, but now it is apparently a sin (or non Christian) to not celebrate Christmas?

** note: this is not a post against Catholic's or Catholicism, but a post for my Baptists brothers and sisters...

Misguided Advice + Folly Discernment = Disappointing Outcomes

2010-11-22T15:08:00.005-06:00

The other day at work, I was asked to help a coworker set their new office furnishing closer to the wall. The furniture was empty, so we proceeded into his office to reposition it. As we took our places on either side of the desk, we lifted it slightly to move it back a little less than six inches. Suddenly, I felt a sharp pain in my hand. Without ever having seen it, a painted canvas had fallen from the shelving attached to the desk we were moving. Neither of us had taken notice of the painting before we started the move; even though he had apparently placed it there beforehand at some point, and I did look at the furniture before helping him move it.

For some reason, a single scripture reference came to mind: Proverbs 18:13 says, “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” I realize one may reasonably question how the two – the story and the verse – relate to one another, so let me explain. Within our move, we had the location (the office), the situation (move the furniture), the person familiar or part of the situation (the coworker), and the person invited or entering the situation (me).

Entering the location, even observing the situation and being told of it, I still did not discern the painted canvas which fell on my hand. My coworker apologized for not remembering he had placed the artwork there, and I apologized for not noticing the painting before helping him move the furniture. Thank goodness it was not damaged, but my hand was still hurt, he was still disappointed it happened, and the artwork could have been broken. All because we observed the location and took for granted we knew the situation; instead of taking the time to examine every possible detail before taking action.

This same principle applies in our daily lives, when we interact with family, friends, and those around us. Sometimes we make judgments or give advice, but how often are they possibly made or given without us noticing or discerning all of the key elements of a given situation? Perhaps we think we know all of the information, yet some is merely gossip. What if we have only heard a partial truth, by listening to just one side of the story? How many times have we apologized, only to leave the other person – or perhaps even entire relationships – worse off than they were? All because we answered a matter – by words and/or deeds – without really hearing and/or understanding the entirety of the situation and everything involved?

May we be mindful of our judgments and quick advice to others, as it may prove to encompass a much different – long lasting, opposite – outcome than we might first have imagined.

Ephesisans 2 - How Do You See Yourself?

2010-10-16T20:57:00.015-06:00

Ephesians 2

God’s involvement in sending Christ and working in mankind for our redemption reconciles us in our relationship with Him and each other.

(vs. 1) And you hath he quickened - to make alive

1. So, the first question is: Have you been quickened, made alive?

You say, made alive from what? (vs. 1) Being dead in trespasses and sins
• Just as Christ was dead and resurrected to life – so are we dead spiritually have a need to be made alive.

Before Conversion (spiritually dead)
(vs. 2-3) Scripture makes reference to our natural state before being quickened.

1. Walked according to the course of this world (is the world in unison or contrast to God?)

2. Walked according to the prince of the power of the air
a. (2 Corinthians 4:4) In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

3. Conversation in the lusts of our flesh, and fulfilled the desires of the flesh and mind
a. 1 John 2:16: lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, pride of life
i. Genesis 3: saw tree was good for food, pleasant to the eyes, make one wise
ii. Satan: saw God, desired His position, wished to ascend over God

4. Were by nature the children of wrath

Change of Conversion (spiritually alive)
(vs. 4-7) BUT GOD!
1. God’s mercy
2. God’s love
3. God’s grace

God has given us mercy, love, and grace (through Jesus Christ) – not because He saw something good in us, for we were by nature the children of wrath fulfilling our own desires – BUT in spite of our sin!

Why? That the riches of His grace through Christ may be shown to others.

(vs. 8-9) Salvation is ALL grace through faith in Christ Jesus! WITHOUT works!

Purpose of Conversion (spiritually active)
Though we as Baptist often quote Ephesians 2:8-9 as to our beliefs that one is saved by grace through faith in Christ without works, we seldom quote Ephesians 2:10 to get ourselves out of the pew and into the work.

(vs. 10) We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (ordain = to decree, establish, predestine before hand)

2. So, the second question is: What are you doing for God, as the result of salvation not to gain salvation?

(vs. 11-12) Scripture reminds us Gentiles who we are in the flesh.
1. Gentiles (Uncircumcised)
1. Without Christ
2. Aliens from the commonwealth of Israel
3. Strangers from the covenants of promise
4. Having no hope
5. Without God in the world

Not only were we (1) dead spiritually, we were (2) without hope in the flesh.

To be alien from God and without Christ, is to be without redemption!

(vs. 13-19) BUT NOW
We have been grafted into Christ by the circumcision made without hands (Colossians 2:9-13); the separation of our sinful flesh, and our quickened spirit.
1. Once being dead in sin, we have been quickened by Christ and the Spirit of God.
2. Once being uncircumcised in the flesh, we have been forgiven of sin and reconciled to God.

We have a double reconciliation through Christ:
1. Satisfying the demands of justice, reconciled the Jew and Gentile to God.
2. Abolishing the Mosaic institutions, reconciled the Jew and Gentile into the unity of one body.

Christ
1. Abolished the enmity between us and God
a) Sin always causes enmity (a feeling or condition of hostility; hatred)
 "I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed" (Genesis 3:15).
 The friendship of the world is "enmity with God" (James 4:4; 1 John 2:15, 16).
• 1 Jn. 2:16: lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, pride of life
 The "carnal mind" is "enmity against God" (Romans 8:7).
• 2 Cor. 10:5-6: Cast down imaginations and bring into captivity every thought unto God.

3. So, the third question is: Do you have enmity (hostility or hatred) between the flesh, the world*, and the devil, or do you have enmity between you and God?
* the system of beliefs and lusts against God, not individuals.

The Jews bragged they were the children of Abraham, God’s chosen people, were the carriers of the truth – yet they chose idols, men, and lustful desires over God and His Word. Are you doing the same?

Christ
2. Abolished the enmity between the Jew and Gentile
a) Reconciled both to God
b) Made twain at peace in one body (body of Christ, the Church)
c) Though once ‘a far off’, we have been made ‘nigh’ to God
 To the Jew, God dwelt in the temple where Gentiles could not go.
 To the saint, God dwells in our temple, our body.
• 1 Cor. 6:19: Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you.
• 1 Cor. 3:16: Ye are the temple of God.
d) Access by one Spirit unto the Father
 (Ephesians 4:4-6) There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. *not multiple ways*
e) No more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and household of God
 1 Cor. 10:32 mentions the Jew, the Gentile, then the Church of God.
 Being in the church, we are one body, neither Jew nor Gentile – we are saints!
 I pray you are in the church of God, more so than looking at yourselves as Jew, Gentile, or even Baptists!

4. So, the fourth question is: Are you doing as the Jews in keeping God to yourselves within the local church building, or are you sharing the light of the gospel with the strangers to bring them into the household of God?

Pride and race seemed to affect the relationship between the Jew and the Gentile; does it affect your ability or inability to share the gospel with people?

(vs. 20-22) Christ laid our foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11), and is the cornerstone of all that we are:
1. In our becoming one body
2. In our indwelling of the Spirit
3. In our habitation for God

5. So, the fifth question is: Are you building on the foundation of Christ, merely sitting idle, or tearing down the household of God, the body of Christ? Or trying to build your own building in the flesh?

Read Colossians 3:8-17
• But now… (10-12) And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

Galatians 5:14 says, For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. That love includes sharing the gospel with the diversity of people.

1. Can you see and feel God’s involvement in your life?
2. Is it changing your relationship with God and with man; making it better?

Christ lived and died calling unto men to repent and believe, to have their sins forgiven and to be reconciled unto to God. What are you doing?

Do You Perfer D.E.S.I.R.E. over T.U.L.I.P.s?

2010-09-16T08:10:00.002-06:00

I was recently presented an article, whereby the author suggest the concept of D.E.S.I.R.E over T.U.L.I.P.; stating “There it is—God’s “D.E.S.I.R.E.” for you. It isn’t the T.U.L.I.P., but its not Arminianism either!”

I am not so sure even this article (belief or conviction of D.E.S.I.R.E) gives one “a model of election that would allow me, or any preacher, to expound every verse of Scripture with equal confidence and not have to soft pedal or ignore those passages which are problematic to one view or the other,” as the author hopes himself.

Can Abrahamic Election and Salvation Election (as presented by the author) really be limited to only corporate (Abrahamic) and individual (Salvation)? I mean, we also have those that could be “cut off” individually from their people (the Jews) by breaking the covenant, and a corporate “church” or body of Christ (similar as collective groups seen in “all that the Father giveth me” and sheep “folds”) spoken of in scripture. And wasn’t the picture of individual fleshly circumcision a picture of individual spiritual circumcision? I am not saying Israel and Church are synonymous in Scripture, but I’m not sure I can agree with the author’s limitation of corporate vs. individual regarding Abrahamic and Salvation Election.

Here is a little confusing, or where I am failing to see what the author is saying:
"From God’s perspective there can never have been a single moment when God has not had the totality of His experience (their acceptance and after, or their rejection and after) with each and every human being as part of His “present” (i.e. eternal) experience and knowledge.
God has always experienced those accepting him and praising him in the New Heaven and New Earth as well as those who have rejected him and have been sent to perdition. Thus, the ones He has always experienced accepting and worshipping him are elect and He works in an especially solicitous way to make their call effectual and they will believe as opposed to must believe.”

I can understand the “present tense” of how God sees things (past, present, future as present), but it appears the author suggest that because God sees presently (though future to us) “those…praising him in the New Heaven and New Earth” THEN or BECAUSE OF THIS “He works in an especially solicitous way to make their call effectual and they will believe.”

So, it seems the author is saying that since God experiences the presence of certain individuals in the scope of eternal salvation (future), He works effectually in them (presently) so they “will” believe.

If such is what the author is saying, then by equal contrast, those “He (God) has always experienced the rebellion and the rejection of those who are lost and they will not accept his invitation and call” He will NOT “work in an especially solicitous way to make their call effectual and they will believe.”

I don’t see how the author escapes having foreknowledge contradictions or questioning as he claims TULIP have.

If God works effectual within an individual toward salvation “based” (as the author appears to note) on whether He “experiences” the individual in salvation (New Heaven and New Earth) or perdition (Hell), then how is this different than saying foreknowledge is based on God “looking forward into time” (our time) to see who will accept Christ and who will reject Christ – then only working effectually in those He already knows will accept Him? To me, it seems what the author has done is base God’s “effectual working” choice on man’s “electoral” choice to accept or reject Christ.

And if God presently (though our future) sees an individual in Heaven or Hell, can it not be said one “must believe” or “cannot accept” – for if the future is set (for in God’s eyes it is), then how can the individual do anything but believe or reject – even without the effectual calling of God (per the author)?

We Believe in God, But Pick What We Believe

2010-04-28T11:13:00.001-06:00

This morning, while taking a look at a few articles regarding surveys dealing with religion among different generations, I can’t help but wonder if there is indeed a common strand which connects the results.

In the report Buddhist Tiger Woods may be as Christian as many Americans, the writer recalls the comments of Tiger from 1996, of which he said “I believe in Buddhism. Not every aspect, but most of it. So I take bits and pieces. I don't believe that human beings can achieve ultimate enlightenment, because humans have flaws." – and compares it to the line of modern day thinking from professing Christians, that it appears okay to mismatch ideals from within and without Christianity.

Such thoughts among confessing Believers makes itself apparent in that Some Presbyterians see salvation in non-Christian faiths, finding “that 36% of members disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement: "Only followers of Jesus Christ can be saved." Another 39%, or about two-fifths, agreed or strongly agreed with the statement.” As Perry Chang, administrator of the Presbyterian Panel, admits, "There seems to be some universalist streak in Presbyterianism, where some Presbyterians are open to the idea of other paths that folks in other faiths might be taking." And this is not merely among average pew sitters, for “More pastors disagreed (45%) than agreed (35%) and a majority of specialized clergy (60 percent) disagree.”

In claiming Young adults 'less religious,' not necessarily 'more secular', the survey seems to find “Millennials are significantly more likely than young adults in earlier generations to say they don't identify with any religious group.” The statics shows 53% trust God does exist, with 40% claiming to speak with Him daily in prayer, but a mere 18% actually attend church regularly (i.e. weekly).

Coming to the Survey: 72% of Millennials 'more spiritual than religious', we find 65% do not attend church, 67% don’t read their Bibles, and 38% seldom pray; which leads to the revelation that “Many are unsure Jesus is the only path to heaven: Half say yes, half no.” Of course, it is telling when we read “68% did not mention faith, religion or spirituality when asked what was "really important in life."” – “Even among those in the survey who "believe they will go to heaven because they have accepted Jesus Christ as savior."”

Anyone will attest that surveys may not be inclusive 100% of all persons or statics presented, but they are not without merit. In the above, we see (at least with those polled) that although there is a claim that God does exist, those same persons (% wise) do not find attendance in His house (i.e. Sunday School or Worship Service) to be equally essential, or the necessity to speak with Him in prayer and read His Word. Basically: belief without relationship. It would be like one claiming they know their parent(s) are alive, but they never (or seldom) call or visit them. That would not be considered a healthy family relationship. It would be an estranged one.

So, what is the common strand that seems to connect each of these – at least for me? Belief is not the same as faith and practice. James tells us (2:19) “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble,” and goes on to expose the reality that a claim of belief is not the same as an active faith in Christ which produces a lifestyle of Christianity. What I gather from the above links, along with many conversations I have had with persons I know and don’t know, is that many profess a belief in God, even having possibly “prayed the prayer” (finding eternal security in one act, establishing it as a work for salvation rather than it being of grace), but have no interest in reading and studying the Scriptures, or listening to it being expounded upon by a pastor or teacher.

It should not be surprising to notice an embrace of a pool of thoughts (when it comes to religion/spirituality), mixed from many realms of theology and ideology, when persons refuse (or fail to make time) to pray and seek the wisdom and discernment found in the Bible (by reading, studying, and hearing it preached and taught). Christians and non-Christians alike may fall prey to this, as we fail to give importance to God and His Word in active living. When we fail to ensure a faithful relationship with God through prayer, without a correct understanding and acceptance of His wisdom and authority through Scripture, and ignore an active faith in Christ following his lifestyle (all by the power of the Holy Spirit), we need to examine our estranged relationship, acknowledge we cannot simply create our own witches brew of truths, and repent by spending more time in the things of God (the one whom we claim to believe in, and whom will ultimately grant us eternal life).

If we have no time for God now, why should He grant us an eternal life with him? May we repent of our selfish lies, and embrace the truth at our very finger tips. Believing “I take bits and pieces” here and there is basically creating one’s on religion, inserting themselves in the place of God, and becoming their own final authority, which will not hold up in court at the Great White Throne Judgment.

Born Again, Again? Unto Homosexuality, Really?

2010-04-15T11:02:00.004-06:00

Sadly, we read of yet another ‘Christian musician’ who claims to continue to hold true to Christianity in one hand, while grasping homosexuality in the other. Some time back it was Ray Boltz, and today it is Jennifer Knapp. Is it not puzzling how we can claim to serve God as faithful servants, while embracing that which He condemns in His holy word? Such is not limited to Christian musicians or to homosexuality, but to openly ask or demand the world (or fans) to embrace the blatant hypocrisy as being humble seems quite self-serving.

Jennifer states: "I hope that the defiance does come across as humble," she explained. "If there's any frustration, it's trying to politely break the yoke of being asked to be something that I just can't be, and with all humility go: 'Just please be kind when you discover the truth.' It's kinda all you can do."

Yet boasts: "I'm definitely getting a lot more friendly winks from the girls (at her concerts) than I have in the past!"

And jokes: "Anyone who has a decade of celibacy has 'complete loser' written on their back” – ‘although she still respects those who do abstain.’

At least, she declares (regarding her new CD), "I just wouldn't find it respectful at all to say, 'Hey, this is something that you want in your store next to your Jesus statue,'" she said. "It would just be disingenuous to try and convince someone that they needed to do that."

“Still, Knapp considers herself a "person of faith" and recoils at the suggestion that she is turning her back on the church”… so, I ask, if living a lifestyle contrary to scripture does not constitute a life of immorality and turning ones back on the truth of God… what does?

When we sin, we are choosing to disobey, rebel, dishonor, and reject the truth and wisdom of scripture (God’s holy word). How else can we describe our actions and current state as any other way but turning our back on God, the church, our faith? Though one may sing with the voice of an angel, marvelous songs of praise to God and our Savior Jesus Christ, it is but naught having a life in opposition to it.

How sad, though no longer surprising, to hear professing Christians describe the biblical Christian lifestyle as a “yoke of being asked to be something that [one] just can't be”, yet oddly feel completely free to live a life contrary to it. May we all judge ourselves, aligning ourselves with the testimony of Jesus Christ and the word of God, repenting of the broad way wherewith with have walked, and return yet again unto the straight and narrow path of righteousness.

Another Perverted Soul Embarks On Gravely Misrepresenting Christ

2010-03-26T12:27:00.009-06:00

According to this article at FoxNews.com: ‘Residents of Stephenville, Texas, say they're furious that a local university will allow the performance of a play in which a gay Jesus shares a kiss with Judas and marries two apostles in a same-sex ceremony.’

It always amazes me when persons take not only a flawed premise (which most, if not all of us, are guilty of doing at some point or another), but also an outright denial of truth; to strive not only to misrepresent the teachings and person of Christ, but to go so far as to try and twist that which is good into that which is evil, merely to justify their own depravity. Isaiah says, ‘Woe’ to such persons and such thoughts.

Oddly, as controversial as the topic of homosexuality is today, given the clear instruction against the perversion in scripture – whereby many atheists even acknowledge such teachings – (Genesis 19; Leviticus 20; Romans 1), along with the fight of trying to redefine marriage in America, it is interesting that John Jordan Otte (student-director) would say the reasoning behind his production of the play is: ‘to "bring people together" and help gain acceptance for gay Christians.’

Here are just a few problems with this line of thinking:

1. Who in their right mind would believe that a homosexual depiction of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, of whom thousands upon thousands hold as the Holy Son of God, would have the potential of bringing together the sheep among the goats?

2. There may be professing Christians who practice homosexuality, but it is still a sin of which needs repentance, and clearly is not and will not be justified or accepted by God or His Word, nor should be by His Church. (* note, I said the sin)

3. The misuse of biblical characters into a lifestyle contrary to scripture, history, etc. is the direct result of a depraved mind with the purpose of gaining attention to oneself by corrupting history and defamation of character; just as it would to create a modern movie of depicting Democrats and/or the President (non-homosexuals) as homosexuals. Who would stand for such, claiming it were merely art?

Although John Jordan Otte claims to be a ‘devout Christian’, as he believes, ‘"I am not attacking anyone in choosing this play. I want people to see and understand another side to faith. I want us all to know that unconditional love means just that -- unconditional -- and I believe tolerance is a key message in this play. None of us, not one of us, should ever feel alone or separated from God or whomever we believe in,"’ he clearly misses the message of the scriptures that mankind is lost and dead in trespasses and sin, out of fellowship and separated from God, under the wrath of the Almighty.

While he wishes for us to see ‘another side of faith’, namely unconditional love, he fails to share one must also have repentance. Unconditional love is not God allowing mankind to do whatever we choose, especially in direct contrast to His Word, as if demanding God overlook our rebellion and rejection of Him and His righteousness; yet He embraces us nevertheless. Unconditional love is the Father sending the Son to live a holy life, suffer the death of the cross, with His resurrection from the grave granting forgiveness of sin, the restoration of fellowship, with the promise of eternal life to all who repent and put faith in Christ.

It is one thing to sin in ignorance, and quite another to transgress willfully with knowledge. A ‘devout Christian’ should know the difference, and quickly acknowledge our sin and repent before God. Although ‘freedom of speech’ may give rights to one to pervert the person and teachings of Christ in this life, no such clause shall save the wicked in the next.

OSAS Does Not Justify Abounding In Sin

2010-03-22T06:30:00.002-06:00

I recently picked up the book entitled Green Zone (aka Imperial Life in the Emerald City) by Rajiv Chandrasekaran. In chapter 3, You’re in Charge!, I came across the following, which caused me to ponder the comparative thought many seem to believe when it comes to Once Saved Always Saved (aka OSAS).

“My driver, an English-speaking law student who had not dared to flout a traffic rule before the war, now coolly drove on the wrong side of the street, into opposing traffic at times, to avoid traffic jams. When I asked him what he was doing, he turned to me, smiled, and said, ‘Mr. Rajiv, democracy is wonderful. Now we can do whatever we want.’” (p. 52)

Paul tells us in Romans 5:20b-21 and 6:1-2, ‘But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?’

Although scripture declares we are not to abound any longer in sin, but have been ordained to walk in good works by the workmanship of God (Ephesians 2:8-10), all too often many professing Christians find ourselves (whether consciously or subconsciously) gravitating to wickedness rather than righteousness. And even though we may not declare such outwardly, within our hearts we almost (or sadly even outright) seem to try to justify our lack of obedience.

Many times in our lost state we may have moments of fear, genuine worry, about where we may spend eternity based on our acknowledgment of poor morality or measuring up to God’s standard of holy perfection. Then we profess Christ with our mouth at our doorstep, a local event (concert, tent meeting, stadium, crusade, etc.), or local church; claiming we realize we are a sinner who needs the forgiveness of Christ, to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. So, we ask Christ to come into our hearts, possibly get baptized (but there be some who do not even make it to this step of obedience), and then we are all but done with our Christian walk and fellowship with our Savior.

We have done what we have been told must be done to give us a clear conscious and free eternal access to heaven, NO MATTER WHAT WE DO HEREAFTER. We allow sin to abound in our life, expecting, almost demanding, grace must also abound to cover whatever our flesh desires to do; even if is in total opposition to God and His Word, for we have prayed the prayer. As the taxi driver above, we smile, ‘Once Saved Always Saved (salvation) is wonderful. Now we can do whatever we want.’

With our backs pressed hard against the wall we may not claim this, but our actions declare it loud and clear both to God and man. When asked, we quickly mimic, ‘I am a Christian’, though we have no desire to attend church, pray, read or study scripture, speak or ponder the things of God, nor has there been any change in our thoughts and actions since the day we claim to have put faith in Christ.

No, Christians are not perfect, but there is more to Christianity than simply stating ‘I am a Christian’. James tells us (ch. 2) ‘Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.’

Now, let me make it fully clear, I am an advocate who believes scripture teaches once a person is truly saved, they cannot lose salvation; for we are in Christ (Romans 8). Yet, grace is not a license to sin, nor is profession of faith without works WHICH MUST FOLLOW (because of the spiritual quickening and indwelling of the Holy Spirit within us) a proof one is forgiven and bound for heaven. Anyone who claims salvation, yet has no desire for a personal relationship with Christ, needs desperately to examine themselves and seek repentance; for a truly repentant heart does as Christ: gives themselves over to the will of God rather than their own will.

Full or Half-Hearted Repentance

2010-03-08T14:30:00.011-06:00

I was reading an article today at Challies.com, entitled Real Guilt and Sinfulness, and the following words of the writer just stood out to me:

I have met countless people who consider themselves Christians and who admit to sin in their lives and feel guilt and remorse for individual sins, but who seem unable or unwilling to admit the incontrovertible fact that their hearts are in rebellion against God.

This statement really made me think about my life before Christ, but also my life after Christ.

I have personally known persons who would not outright claim they were perfect, yet at the same time have difficulty confessing they were at fault for a particular act; lest they could somehow limit or nullify their part of the blame, by focusing more attention on the action(s) of another who surely is more than or just as guilty as they. This can be easily seen in children, whether between siblings or friends, but is rather easily found in the lives of adults as well. I suppose this shows our tendency away from true repentance; for although we may inwardly feel guilt or remorse for personal sins (for whatever one may name as sin in their life), we still have a difficult, almost impossible, time testifying of our guilt before God without casting some or all of the guilt upon another.

As I look at the statement above, I can’t help but ponder the idea of whether or not we as Christians have kept some of our pre-Christian ideas or excuses. I would assume most professing Christians would acknowledge in our pre-quickening state, many, if not all, seldom saw themselves in outright rebellion against God, but merely making mistakes, doing bad things, and just messing up – like everybody does. We would do better next time. The reality is, I fear, we as professing Christians do not see our hearts as we really are when we presently act in rebellion against God. We may humbly shake our heads in agreement with the pastor that scripture teaches there are sins of omission and commission, but do we confess any act we do contrary to the truth of God is done in outright rebellion?

We know better, yet do it anyway! Is this not our heart in rebellion against God? How do we repent of such, when we are confronted with such a truth by the Holy Spirit or spiritual brother/sister in Christ? Do we confess the act, but digress from repentance of the fullness of our sin? Our act of sin is not simply a mistake, but a willful disobedience in outright rebellion against the Holy One we claim to have redeemed us from the very bondage of transgression we so eagerly return to embrace (for whatever cause)! We cannot simply wink at sin, as if it is merely a mistake done in ignorance, or slide it under the rug with our light consideration of it; for all too often we know we are in disobedience, and follow through with the act with a heart and mind steadfast against God!

May God help us to see sin as it truly is, and give us a desire for true full repentance from it!

Technology: The Gradual Time Thief

2010-02-18T15:38:00.002-06:00

I happened upon a blog/website today, while doing a quick search to look for a review of a book I was questioned about by a friend of mine but have not read myself. At Challies’ site, I found an interesting article regarding what could be termed Technology: The Gradual Time Thief.

The writer spends a few minutes discussing how he ‘recently came to the realization that email owns me. A good technology that should be at my disposal has instead taken over and put me at its disposal.’ He further shares, ‘When I find myself compulsively glancing at my screen every time I walk by, hoping to see an icon telling me I've got a new message, when I unthinkingly pull out my iPhone to check to see if I've got any new email, I realize I've got a problem. When I sit in meetings with email open, glancing as often to the screen as to the person speaking, I understand that something has gone wrong.’ He goes on to explain, ‘Hear me when I say that email is not a bad thing. It's not a good thing either, really; it's just a thing.’ Then he notes some ideas of how he plans to continue to allow email to be used as a tool, yet not as a controlling factor of his life.

I know personally, this has brought some awareness of my own actions regarding email, blogs, groups, and even Facebook. How much time have I spent checking email, reading blogs, participating in groups, and skimming Facebook feeds, and what percentage of my time has been fruitful in gleaning instructive, important, and productive info worth the hours exhausted in doing so?

As a Christian, I cannot help but ask myself, have I allowed at least equal time for God and my family, in the study of His Word and prayer, along with communication and interaction with my love ones? I scarcely wish to compare.

As the writer notes, I too do not believe interaction with the use of email, blogs, groups, Facebook, etc. to be bad or should be totally denied, for they serve their purpose; but I do believe we need to ensure we are in control of the technology, rather than it being in control of us. We must beware, because it does not necessarily overcome us at the onset, but seemingly gradually over a time of habit till it becomes our norm.

Atheist Presents Gospel, Christian Exposes Unbelief

2010-02-03T10:17:00.004-06:00

Apparently, the known atheists Christopher Hitchens sat down with the former ‘minister’ of the First Unitarian Church of Portland, Marilyn Sewell, for an interview. The discussion was based around Hitchens book, God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything.

Interestingly, Hitchens describes himself through the words of Pascal, ‘in his Pensées, his great apology for Christianity—“so made that they cannot believe”,’ declaring he is one of the ‘10 percent of us (who) just never can bring themselves to take religion seriously.’ Though, he does not deny ‘religion as natural to humans’ or that ‘we do seem in the majority to have a tendency to worship, and to look for patterns that lead to supernatural conclusions,’ it would seem that he apparently believes he was created (or evolved) without equal proneness to such things within his own being. He notes, it’s not because of intellect, so must it be natural selection? I jest.

In question #4, Hitchens not only presents the gospel, but also exposes Sewell’s unbelief all in one sentence:

The religion you cite in your book is generally the fundamentalist faith of various kinds. I’m a liberal Christian, and I don’t take the stories from the scripture literally. I don’t believe in the doctrine of atonement (that Jesus died for our sins, for example). Do you make and distinction between fundamentalist faith and liberal religion?

I would say that if you don’t believe that Jesus of Nazareth was the Christ and Messiah, and that he rose again from the dead and by his sacrifice our sins are forgiven, you’re really not in any meaningful sense a Christian.

From here, the interview seems to turn from Sewell asking Hitchens of his unbelief (atheism), to Hitchens further exposing Sewell’s unbelief of Christian theology and doctrine. Hitchens declares, ‘Paul says, very clearly, that if it is not true that Jesus Christ rose from the dead, then we the Christians are of all people the most unhappy. If none of that’s true, and you seem to say it isn’t, I have no quarrel with you.’ Later, Sewell even shares, ‘I don’t know whether or not God exists in the first place, let me just say that…I choose to believe because—and this is a very practical thing for me—I seem to live with more integrity when I find myself accountable to something larger than myself.’

Hitchens does make a valid point regarding works, in that he says: ‘any good action by a religious person could be duplicated or matched, if not surpassed, by someone who didn’t believe in god,’ which focuses on the ‘works based salvation’ presented by many professing Christians. People, both of the saved and unsaved, do both good and bad works in the flesh, but the differences is that God also judges the motives (the heart) behind the works, and the faith and unbelief associated with them. So, although we can see persons do good deeds, even marvelous selfless acts of kindness, it does not, in and of itself, ensure them the immortality of heaven. Repentance of sin and faith in Christ does; though good deeds should not be absent, but flow forth from such quickening of the spirit (Ephesians 2:8-10).

In the interview, I can’t determine who deserves more remorse. The atheist who declares he was created without the ability to believe, or the professing Christian who claims she agrees not only with ‘almost everything’ the atheist says but while stating she takes the Scriptures seriously (and even reads her grandmother’s Bible), she isn’t sober enough to take it literally nor any of the teachings.

F- Biology Confusion

2010-01-29T20:43:00.004-06:00

The Bing search posted the other day on the front page of MSN read, Another Pregnant Man.

It further states, ‘The man is Scott Moore, who grew up as Jessica. His parents helped him make the transition to being male at a young age.’ According to the New York Daily News, Scott (aka Jessica) apparently told his/her parents that (s)he ‘realized he wanted to be a man’ around 11 years old. But, because (s)he is actually a female, (s)he had to start taking male hormones when (s)he was 16 years old. Although they did remove some female anatomy, the cost of surgery meant (s)he could not have the ‘full sex reassignment surgery’; therefore, (s)he ‘still has female reproductive organs’.

Moore’s partner Thomas, was born as the female named Laura, but ‘underwent sex reassignment surgery last year’. Thomas has two children ‘from a previous relationship with a woman who has since passed away.’

This story is just so bizarre, and apparently is not the only one of its kind. Just looking at the facts presented, how can one claim such is natural, normal, or suggest it should be considered even remotely similar to marriage or the proper natural relationship of a man and a woman according to nature (not to mention the Holy Word of God)?

We have, according to the articles, two people born female who desired to be likened unto males. The one (Thomas, aka Laura) that was able to have the sex reassignment was once already in a relationship with a woman. That by definition is homosexuality. The other (Scott, aka Jessica) was born female, did not have sex reassignment, and is now using her female reproductive organs to carry a child, all the while claiming to desire to be male. This too is homosexuality, with even a more perverted twist. Being both females, they could not biology produce a child, so (s)he ‘got pregnant using the sperm of a friend in June 2009, the Daily Mail reports.’

But, yet there is even more confusion to the story. Not only do we have (1) two females wanting to be males; (2) with one female wanting to be male, yet carry a baby as a female; (3) they are ‘legally married’ because Scott (aka Jessica) still uses her female birth certificate to do so.

It is amazing at what lenghts people will go to try to justify their love of sin, and not only with such cases as these, but with many other sins we have and are guilty of committing ourselves. May we be moved by the Holy Spirit unto conviction to repent of sin, and put our faith in Jesus Christ. Pray for your children and those you know, for such stories may surely become the 'norm' should those who despise the Light have their way...

Parents Know Your Children - Church Know Their Parents

2010-01-20T11:25:00.017-06:00

Granted, I haven’t really stayed up-to-date with all the news surrounding Rifqa Bary, who has seemingly been labeled the Christian Convert in more than a few articles, but in reading a few reports today of her apparent runaway with the help of church leadership, I couldn’t help but consider a few thoughts in regards to the situation.

1. One article states that Rifqa met the persons of Global Revolution Church through Facebook. This brings up the question; do we know what our children are doing on the internet, and who they may be conversing with online? What are they searching for or being presented with, and what types of topics or activities are they taking part in? Are they beneficial or harmful to the mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing of our children? We can’t and won’t know, unless we take an active role in the personal lives of our sons and daughters. This is not limited to just the internet or cell phone contacts, but also such communication with others from family, church, school, and the neighborhood.

2. There is also the mentioning that Rifqa was apparently previously baptized without the knowledge or consent of her parents. As one who is a member and attends a local Baptist church, I believe we need to remember the biblical God-given leadership of the home as being to the father, as the legal given to the parents, and not try to usurp authority over such. I believe it is more important to try and reach the parents, rather than create animosity or separation between the parent and the child (especially under 18). Conversion takes place in the heart/spirit/soul of an individual and the Holy Spirit, through repentance of sin and faith in Christ; whereas baptism is merely the outward act of obedience of a good conscience toward that faith, and could be delayed if necessary.

3. It appears that the church leadership based their judgments of coercing or helping the girl to run away from home on the words of Rifqa herself, but I can’t help but wonder if possibly preconceived ideas from the mass resources on negative Islamic faith and practices from the news media and elsewhere played a part in their reasoning also. Again, are we not to at least attempt to contact the parents of a child of whom we have confiding in us, or try our best to investigate the claims to see if there is any merit to them? There have been plenty of stories children have told to only later find out they were somewhat misunderstanding the complete story and some outright lying, so should we not be hesitant in making judgments regarding children and their parents till we searched out the truth and find support for the claims we are given?

4. Rifqa’s father claims he loves her, and that she is free to practice any religions she wants. He also states that she has been labeling herself as a Christian since 14 years old, so why would Rifqa now believe or declare a fear of physical harm from her father? As a father, it would break my heart to hear my daughter claim she feared for her safety or life because of me. We are supposed to be the protectors of our children, with our homes a safe haven for them to run to when the whole world seems to be falling down around them. If our children feel they have been rejected by all, they should know we as their fathers (and mothers) are here for them. Even in poor judgment and at times they need correction, they should know it is done in love and for their benefit.

My points here have less to do specifically about the situation with Rifqa (for I am far lacking in information to judge all the factors of such a case), and more as a thinking process of what would/should we do if we were presented with a similar situation within our home or at our church. Parents – we should know our children! And church members – we need to know the parents of the children that may come to our church or contact us without their dad or mom. We are to be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves; therefore let us pray and act upon intelligent decisions.

Haiti Earthquake: Judgment or Prophecy

2010-01-14T14:16:00.006-06:00

In the wake of the recent tragedy in Haiti, namely the enormous earthquake which has sent many a souls out into eternity, the notable Rev. Pat Robertson made the following comments according to CBS News.

"Something happened a long time ago in Haiti, and people might not want to talk about it," Robertson said. "They were under the heel of the French ... and they got together and swore a pact to the devil. They said, 'We will serve you if you'll get us free from the French.'"

The article then quotes Rev. Paul Raushenbush's words directed at Rev. Pat Robertson: "Go to Hell, Pat Robertson -- and the sooner the better," he wrote. "Your 'theological' nonsense is revolting. Don't speak for Haiti, and don't speak for God. Haiti is suffering a catastrophe and you offer silliness at best, and racism at the worst."

So, we have a professing Christian declaring the judgment of God upon a nation he believes is reaping what they have sown by making ‘a pact to the devil’, while another Christian declares the judgment of God upon the first to send him to hell for his comments. Do we see that each of these individuals, while claiming Christianity, take the same ideals, with both having a seemingly lack of compassion? So, who is the better role model, declaring the ideals of Christ they both profess to believe and exercise? Is it the one who condemns the Haiti people to hell, or the one who condemns a fellow believer to hell? I scarcely can choose…

The scriptures are pretty clear about reaping and sowing, both in the positive and negative sense, regarding sin and good works. Yet, the scriptures equally reveal in the latter times there will be wars, rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, earthquakes, etc. Scripture also speaks (in John 9) of a man born blind, whereby the disciples questioned Christ as to whether the meaning of the man’s blindness was due to the sin of himself or his parents. In this passage the disciples (i.e. believers) specifically asked Christ was the reason for the man being born blind due to the judgment of sin (whether his own or his parents). Christ’s answer was, ‘Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.’ Christ’s response was not to say that the man nor his parents had never sinned, but that the man’s blindness was based on the sovereignty of God and not sin.

I used to easily cast judgment myself, as similar circumstances such as Hurricane Katrina struck hard the city of New Orleans and elsewhere, but I have come to rather be more cautious in reserving my opinion of what may and may not be the judgment of God upon a person, people, or place. For it is true that individually whosoever ‘soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption’ and that ‘the wages of sin is death’; and though there is forgiveness of sin through Christ, there is still the chastisement of the Lord and consequences of sin which may affect us the rest of our days. And ‘we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together’ because of the sin and death upon the world because of corruption, along with the appointed ‘acts of nature’ the scriptures prophecy shall be and come.

Therefore, I must conclude, that we (as man) cannot so easily judge a person, people, or nation regarding the punishment of God; for it seems to me, there are those things which come upon us because of our sin, and there be those things which come because they must needs be to declare ‘the works of God’. This is not to say that we cannot see sin as sin, whether in ourselves or others, by the principles of the scriptures, but I am doubtful we can judge tragedy and death is always connected to the apparent sin or rejection of God by a certain person, persons, or place.

Case and point is thus: Take the homosexual, along with a faithful pastor. Both find themselves in the hospital, as the doctor declares to them they have inoperable cancer. The church prays fervently for their pastor, while there are no believers who even know the homosexual to pray for. The time comes; whereby the homosexual and the pastor die, and go out into eternity. Judge ye: if thus was judgment upon the one for the sin of homosexuality, what was the reason for the non-healing of the pastor, and how does one determine the difference?

So, in conclusion, if this earthquake is the judgment of God: is that to say that even the non-Haiti and professing Christians who perished, was because they too (or their forefathers) 'swore a pact to the devil'; they were just in the wrong place and the wrong time; they were being punished for helping the Haiti people; or when God judges He doesn't differentiate between the just and the unjust?

Manhattan Declaration: A Call of Christian Conscience

2010-01-14T09:27:00.001-06:00

Because we honor justice and the common good, we will not comply with any edict that purports to compel our institutions to participate in abortions, embryo-destructive research, assisted suicide and euthanasia, or any other anti-life act; nor will we bend to any rule purporting to force us to bless immoral sexual partnerships, treat them as marriages or the equivalent, or refrain from proclaiming the truth, as we know it, about morality and immorality and marriage and the family. We will fully and ungrudgingly render to Caesar what is Caesar’s. But under no circumstances will we render to Caesar what is God’s.

Click below to read the full Manhattan Declaration.

Manhattan Declaration: A Call of Christian Conscience

Health: Renew Marriage Commitment Rather Than Divorce

2010-01-06T13:44:00.002-06:00

Today, I came across an article at MSN.com, apparently provided by Redbook, entitled ‘Can You Spot the Hidden Heart Dangers?’. What caught my eye was not so much this title, but the included subtopic, ‘3. Your marriage’. They propose, ‘It's normal to have your share of tiffs with your spouse, but if your relationship with your partner is marked by constant stress and strain, your risk of heart attack increases up to 34 percent, according to a 12-year study of more than 9,000 men and women published in the Archives of Internal Medicine.’

This really got me thinking. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we are approximately at a divorce rate of 3.5 per 1,000 population in the United States. (see data) The Christian Science Monitor claims, ‘The divorce rate fell 4 percent in 2008 to 16.9 divorces per 1,000 married women, according to Census Bureau data. It had previously been on an upward path, rising from 16.4 divorces per 1,000 married women in 2005 to 17.5 in 2007.’

By some sources, we boast over 50% in our divorce rate here in the United States. I say boast, because I don’t see much (if any) remorse or humility with such a standing in the world from us. Even with the cry over the ‘Sanctity of Marriage’, according to The Christian Post, ‘Among all born again Christians, which includes evangelicals, the divorce figure is 32 percent, which is statistically identical to the 33 percent figure among non-born again adults, the research group noted.’

Today, there are many reasons people give to justify divorce. Even as Christians, we tend to bend, twist, and even ignore the very Word of God we claimed to be our source of Truth, just to allow ourselves, family, or friends to escape the feelings of remorse or guilt for desiring to leave their spouse. I am fully aware of the few (and I stress a couple, realizing opinions vary with this topic) Biblical reasons for divorce, but far too often we as Christians are merely grasping at straws trying to pull God into our corner to justify our sinful lusts and covetousness. God is not fooled, nor does/will He excuse our sin.

What this article caused me to ponder is will this be yet a new reason for Christians (or others) to give to try and validate their wish to divorce their spouse? ‘We need to divorce, because my health is being affected.’

I am grateful the article actually posed a positive solution, by stating, ‘To avoid a heart attack—not to mention improve your marriage—consider going for counseling, says Georgiades.’ Now, I am not suggesting every couple that is having problems needs to run out and see a counselor. What I do agree with, is every marriage should seek reconciliation rather than separation, a reason to work at renewing the marriage commitment rather than seeking divorce.

Resolve To Better Actions And Reactions

2010-01-05T09:21:00.001-06:00

As we wave goodbye to 2009, we are forced to welcome in 2010. I say forced, not that it is a bad thing, but we really do not have a choice whether or not to embrace it. What we do have a choice to embrace is how we will act and react to all the circumstances that may surround us this year.

Quite often each January 1st, we enlist a good number of resolutions which are seldom kept the entire length of our promise. For different reasons, possibly some within our control while others outside of it, we find our commitments lacking as the days stroll by. Even though we frequently choose to spotlight such self improvements as weight loss, eating habits, better job, do more, quitting things, etc., the initial enthusiasm seems to fade with the seasons.

How about this year, we focus to be more resolute in being a better person not only to ourselves, but also to others? Possibly, we could reach out to family and friends we haven’t spoken to in years, whether because of the miles or grievance. Instead of being simply a silent witness or introvert, why not allow ourselves to have fellowship with the church members and co-workers we see on a daily or weekly basis? What if we take the preliminary steps to reestablish torn or struggling relationships, by allowing ourselves to forgive and be kind to others, whether or not they ask or seek our forgiveness or restoration?

May we all be resolved this year to not only desire better actions of ourselves, but also better reactions to the actions of others. It will be difficult, and most assuredly push us uncomfortably from our comfort zone, but through our patience and consideration of what is right (based on Truth and not the actions of others) how can we not arrive at 2011 a better person with more character?

Global Warming or Hot Air

2009-12-15T09:40:00.001-06:00

Apparently, among the emails, phone calls, and conferences regarding Climate Research, there is some indistinguishable Hot Air among the Global Warming speculations.

Al Gore recall
Hacked email

The article (above) notes:
But several scientists whose names appear in the e-mail messages said they merely revealed that scientists were human, and did nothing to undercut the body of research on global warming. “Science doesn’t work because we’re all nice,” said Gavin A. Schmidt, a climatologist at NASA whose e-mail exchanges with colleagues over a variety of climate studies were in the cache. “Newton may have been an ass, but the theory of gravity still works.”

What exactly does it mean, ‘scientists [are] human’? That they are capable of hiding evidence that contradicts their theory, that they are capable of falsifying data to promote their job security? I understand, as Schmidt declares, that some persons (scientists or other) may be more difficult to understand or get along with, but outright lying? How can lying and falsifying data NOT at least somewhat ‘undercut the body of research on global warming’?

Interestingly, such accusation, which many scientists (and others) deny should be now used against them and their data, is the very thing they often wish to use against their counters, the Creationists.

So, do I believe in Global Warming? Somewhat, I suppose, based on the reading of The Day of the Lord in 2 Peter 3:

9The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

10But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

11Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,

12Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?

13Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

Should We Examine Self Rather Than Chase The Tiger

2009-12-10T10:52:00.003-06:00

By now, most everyone has likely heard at least some part of the story(ies) of Tiger Woods, and the numerous allegations of unfaithfulness to his wife Elin Nordegren. I admit, I have not really followed much of this story, but it is quite amazing how quick such articles circulate around the globe in regards to high profile personal lives. There simply seems to be no privacy, no sacred ‘off-limits’ areas, for those who are famed. Even now, it appears that his daily actions, along with those associated with the accusations, are being put under a microscope for all to watch and judge.

I am not saying that break downs in character from one who has become a role model for our children should be simply pushed under the rug, as if to insinuate or ensure an image that they are somehow perfect without fault (sin). Though, if such claims are true, the person would first owe repentance to God, then an apology to his wife and kids, and all without the help or advice of the media and population. And, though as parents, we would like to see an acknowledgment of any wrong doing and the acceptance of responsibility to work at restoration to positively influence our children to do the same, it is neither our right nor our privilege to demand we know everything surrounding the issue within all the personal lives touched by it.

Rather than jump on the bandwagon of chasing down the Tiger, why don’t we take a moment to examine our own hearts and lives? Are we quick to call him a cheat, while we lust and flirt after persons other than our spouse [boyfriend/girlfriend] at work, church, and elsewhere? Do we desire to look upon him as a poor father figure, while we take no time out of our busy lives to spend quality moments with our children? Have we now made him a disgrace of a role model, while we have never done anything to positively influence the next generation? Can we hold ourselves to the same standards we desire to place on others, or do we merely point out their faults to try and justify ourselves?

We should all desire to be a positive role model to those around us. Part of that is striving to live up to the principles we profess to believe, and the other is accepting responsibility and repenting of our actions when we fail to meet those values.

One’s Faults Are Not Another’s Excuse

2009-11-30T09:55:00.003-06:00

As Christians, our beliefs and actions in regards to those beliefs, seem often called into question by those from without as well as those from within the church (and by church: I mean both the local congregation, and universally all who profess Christ). Once again, such relevant questions, which should cause us to examine ourselves, are brought to our attention by vjack at his blog: Atheist Revolution.

Vjack draws from the thought of another atheist blog, The Secular Thinker, who observes ‘as an atheist attending a Catholic college, noting that it was difficult to distinguish Catholic students from non-Catholics,’ and therefore poses the thought, ‘I know so many people who believe that the God of the Bible (which one?) actually exists, yet they break the 10 Commandments all the time. Honestly, if you believe this all knowing, all powerful, ever present being exists, then shouldn't you be doing everything you can to do what he/she/it says?’ From such thoughts, vjack declares, ‘nobody is perfect and that these students cannot be expected to never violate god's laws’ is not a good response to the rendered question, and further proposes that, ‘if one really believed that one's eternal soul was in jeopardy, wouldn't one be able to avoid breaking whatever version of the 10 Commandments one was taught?’

And, whether he realizes it or not, vjack’s conclusion is precisely the point every Christian and non Christian should take note of: ‘Observations like these lead many atheists, and more than a few Christians I suspect, to question the sincerity of the beliefs professed by some Christians.’

First, considering the Christian, the fact is many times we do not live up to the standard we profess to believe, wherein we draw the claim: ‘sola Scriptura – namely, that the Bible, as the inspired Word of God, is our final and solely infallible authority for faith and practice.’ [r] Vjack acknowledges (possibly somewhat sarcastically), there are those who profess Christ, but do not actually know Him nor are known by Him. There is also the realization that genuine Christians are not sinless (nor is any man, even by common consensus), nor will we be till we are glorified, but this does not excuse us from our responsibility to live a life according to the teachings and examples of Christ in Scripture. We must earnestly contend for the faith, by mediating on and obeying the Word of God in everyday life (both openly and in private), while finding ourselves quick to repent when we are found in error (i.e. sin).

Secondly, considering the non Christian, one is not justified by the failure of professing Christians to adhere to the teachings of Scripture through their actions in everyday life. Although, vjack declares the observation of professing Bible Believers often causes atheists ‘to question the sincerity of the beliefs professed by some Christians,’ the non Christian must realize that One’s Faults Are Not Another’s Excuse; meaning, though one may judge one’s fruit (as to claim one is not living as they profess to believe, which can be done both inside and outside Christianity), the authority and authenticity of Scripture is not and cannot be based on an individual’s lifestyle in conflict with it. Truth is not made null by one’s actions, but rather one’s actions are either justified or condemned by truth.

Thirdly, as considering an atheist, one should find it rather odd that any would assert that their belief/or non belief of Scripture is based on whether or not the professing Christian ‘walks the talk;’ for to be an atheist one expresses a denial of the existence of God (or gods), and therefore must also reject any trust in the written Word of God. So, any dismissal of Scripture based on the actions of a professing Christian appears to only be an excuse in search of justification of one’s lack of belief. For the unbelief comes not from the action of others, but from the heart of the one who does not accept God and Scripture as true. If Scripture be true, its truth is not based on man’s interpretation or actions, and therefore a professing Believer’s failure to adhere to Scripture in every detail does not and will not justify the sinner in his unbelief before God.

Observations Regarding Halloween and Fall Fest

2009-11-01T21:38:00.007-06:00

As a status line in Facebook, I posed the following question:

Is having a fall fest in place of Halloween a good substitute, a compromise, or hypocrisy for churches/Christians?

In asking such a question, I expected to receive many different responses, based on numerous lines of reasoning. From those who contributed answers, I believe all are professing Christians, though the ideals regarding the stated question appears to differ some more than others. Following the nature of my initial request, be it for thought and not to determine one to be right or wrong, I would like to post my observations of the input here for persons to ponder to themselves; as it may contribute wisdom as to how we view Christianity and its principles as a whole.

Here are my observations in no particular order:

Observation 1: Some avoided the question, whether willingly or unknowingly, by giving a reply that did not directly answer the question at all.

Observation 2: Some stressed they had previously allowed their children to take part in Halloween, yet not to the extent other parents had allowed their children to take part in.

Observation 3: Some expressed their dislike of Halloween, but that it really wasn’t a matter worth much of their concern.

Observation 4: Some felt Fall Fest was better, for it gave the children a safer environment, allowing them to miss the more sadistic side of Halloween, but did not make them feel as though they were missing out on something others were enjoying.

Observation 5: Some chose their answer based on childhood experiences, based on their participation or lack thereof, as to what they would allow their children to take part in.

Observation 6: Some appeared to justify the celebrating of Halloween (though the question did not approve or condemn the holiday), by declaring that the church celebrating Fall Fest was neither better nor any different in principle.

Observation 7: Some believed that none should judge nor be judged in such a matter, but to allow each one’s own conscience to approve or condemn them.

Observation 8: Some mentioned that persons should study the birth of Halloween, which would lead to a further understanding of its roots, and possibly enlighten others as to why it should not be celebrated.

Observation 9: Some asked persons to seek God, to ask Him as to the holiday of Halloween, regarding whether or not it glorified Him to be celebrated.

Observation 10: Some admitted the celebration of Halloween was merely for their children’s enjoyment.

In conclusion, I would like to ask for us all to consider the following. Regardless of how we may deem such a question, in reality it does fall into relevance regarding Christian living. It cannot be simply passed over as having no merit, for all that we say and do leads us (along with those who observe us) either closer or further away from God; and all that we declare by word and deed ultimately shape and mold our children into what they become.

Note: I am still not declaring for you whether Halloween/Fall Fest is right or wrong, but merely stating the reality that the question itself cannot be avoided as having no merit. Consider the fight for the foundational principles of the gospel and Christianity. How would have the above observations aided or hurt the church in its battle of truth, if you replace Halloween/Fall Fest with the many battles Christianity has had regarding doctrines and beliefs? Where would we be had not men and women stood firm upon their beliefs, grounded in Scripture, willing to give their life for the cause of Christ over compromise, indifference, and being men pleasers in both great and small matters?

Judge thyself each matter, laying it hold upon the purifying fires of Scripture, giving opportunity to the Holy Spirit to cleanse us all of sin that we may walk diligently in His ways, teaching them unto our children, that we may all be conformed into the image of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let us not wavier in our service to God, but be found to be a good and faithful servant.

God Bless!

A Call To Evolve Contrary To Scripture?

2009-10-26T08:05:00.002-06:00

Sometime ago I happened upon an atheist’s blog entitled ‘Atheist Revolution’, and although I no longer visit to comment, I do often read what the author has to say. Even though I seldom, if ever, agree with what is written, I read the articles more to try and understand the mindset of atheists (or at least one) than to simply argue with them at this point.

Today, I happened upon the author’s post, ‘Church of Sweden Votes to Allow Gay Marriage’, and the part that really caught my eye was the comment ‘I admire the progress the gay community has made in forcing some churches to evolve when it comes to human rights’. The writer acknowledges ‘The Christian bible is undoubtedly anti-gay’, and appears to suggest that churches need to evolve away from such.

My dispute is not really with the author of the article, for I would expect a non Christian to vary in their opinion regarding Scripture and homosexuality. It is rather directed more so to those who profess Christ and proclaim to trust in the Word of God; for, as the author declares, it is impossible to claim that the Scriptures are silent or pro homosexual.

The Bible clearly defines marriage was one man and one woman, and although one can find mankind living various lifestyles, the fact remains ‘from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.’ And likewise, Scripture declares, ‘If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination’, along with being against nature, unseemly, in error, reprobate, etc.

For any person or church to profess Christ, claiming to trust in such through the Scriptures whereby the gospel is declared, yet holds not to the foundational teachings of marriage and homosexuality, it is not an evolving to a higher plain in spiritual understanding but is rather as one of the commenters said: the church ‘"softening up" a bit.’ Clearly, the embrace of homosexuality, whether of clergy or by marriage, is a declaration of the person’s or church’s degeneration from the truth, and from God. One cannot claim to uphold the oracles of God found in Scripture, yet deny sin as sin.

If one must repent, by confessing and turning away from sin to Christ, to be forgiven and saved by the work of Christ upon Calvary, according as it is written in Scripture, then to embrace homosexuality and the marriage thereof is in clear violation of Scripture and of God, and will send the sinner ignorantly on their way to hell, having only a corrupt blessing from a church, being in sin themselves, which has no merit with the Almighty. Not only does the homosexual need to repent and trust in Christ, but the church who embraces such sin must also.

When You Think No One Is Looking

2009-10-19T07:43:00.000-06:00

Okay, so it has been a while since I have posted a thought here, but I was recently sent an email entitled ‘When you thought I wasn't looking.....’ It is one of those generic emails which get sent around from person to person, most often mass mailed to everyone in a person’s contact list. Displaying a cute picture of a little child with their arms crossed, it declares, ‘A message every adult should read because children are watching you and doing as you do, not as you say,’ as it shares a list of positive things children may see us do in our daily lives. And, as always, the email ends with ‘send this’ on to others.

Well, call me a pessimist if you must, but I cannot help but consider also the negative aspects we must share with our children, or any person for that matter, when we think they aren’t looking. This goes especially for the Christian, being this is a Christian blog, but also for the non Christian as well; given we are not only often judged by what/how people think we should act, but also by how our actions line up with our ideals we share aloud.

When I was in the US Army, a sergeant, one I invited to church a few times but never did he come, shared a story with me. He said one evening as they set down for supper, he bowed his head to pray over their food. After the prayer, his son asked his him why they were praying over the food since he had just cursed moments before.

Even a child can see hypocrisy, and quite frankly they don’t understand it until we teach them (by our actions) so very well how to do it. So, how much more can those who spend the majority of their time looking around the beam in their own eye spot our inconsistencies of voice and action?

We are teaching our children and most often others, while displaying what we really think about our voiced ideals, many times silently by our actions. Even as we endow positive ideals into the minds and hearts of persons by our good deeds, we also provide them opportunity to evolve into our own hypocrisy and/or find reason to ridicule us and our ideals by our contradictory actions.

However true, our own failures to stand firm in our actions toward our voiced Christian values – or any positive values for that matter – should not invalidate them, the reality is it most often does in the hearts and minds of those wishing to find a way to dismiss them already.

Let us not give one a reason to blaspheme or deny that which is right.

2009 Mission Trip, Hesperus, Colorado

2009-08-04T14:45:00.002-06:00

A Missing Link Without A Chain

2009-05-20T07:02:00.002-06:00

Here we go again with another few scientists wishing to market the idea they have found ‘the first link to all humans ... truly a fossil that links world heritage,’ says Hurum. Dr Jorn Hurum’s claims are that ‘Ida’ is supposedly at 47 million-year-old fossil of a 9 month old female, with ‘a foot bone called the talus bone links Ida directly to humans.’ Not to mention her dental analysis (‘the lack of a "toothcomb" or a "grooming claw"’), and optometrist examination (‘forward-facing eyes’).

So, surely if she had eyes, teeth, and feet similar to modern humans, she must be the ‘missing link’. I mean, she ‘shows characteristics from the very primitive non-human evolutionary line (prosimians, such as lemurs), but is more related to the human evolutionary line (anthropoids, such as monkeys, apes and humans).’ There is even a marvelous redition of a ‘Death scenario’ to accompany the story also. And look at the above portrait, ‘how Ida might have looked.’ I am thinking that looks pretty close to humans for sure.

Of course, Dr Jens Franzen declares, 'She belongs to the group from which higher primates and human beings developed but my impression is she is not on the direct line.' And ‘Dr Henry Gee, a senior editor at the journal Nature, said the use of the term 'missing link' was misleading.’ Along with ‘Dr Chris Beard, of America's Carnegie Museum of Natural History, said: 'I would be absolutely dumbfounded if it turns out to be a potential ancestor to humans.'’

I realize that some people like Dr. Hurum may like to claim they have found their ancestry in the creatures of history, but the fact remains all so-called ‘missing links’ are without a chain to connect them to humans; who were directly created by God Himself, without evolution from the other animals He also created.

Finding Ourselves and Rest in Christ, Not in Self

2009-05-12T06:52:00.002-06:00

I recently visited my grandmother in the nursing home for her birthday. When I made my way into her room, she was reciting multiple letters of the alphabet. I could not comprehend what she was trying to spell, until she said, ‘Can you help me spell Whittington?’ Whittington is her maiden name, but she was unable to spell it. Through our conversation, she declared, ‘I don’t know what to do’, and ‘Can you help me help myself’. I quietly told her, all she needed to do was simply rest, and she replied, ‘I can’t. It’s not in my vocabulary.’

My grandmother has dementia, and possibly Alzheimer I suppose. They have arranged for her to have hospice, so they aid the nursing home in caring for her. She seems almost always in a state of worry and unrest, along with having problems remembering some persons and even the most common elementary things about everyday life. I cried. Why? Because I have felt and sometimes do feel the same way she expressed to me she does.

Have you ever stood in front of the mirror, and just wanted to shout out ‘Who am I? Do I even know who I am or what I am doing?’ Have you ever spent the night kneeling in prayer and weeping, finding no peace or understanding in the situations that surround you, what you should be doing, or how to do that which you know you should?

Consider we have something more comforting and a greater Physician, than that of hospice. I told my grandmother that we all feel lost sometimes with unrest, and are often at a loss for what we should be doing. I asked her if she knew Jesus, and she declared, ‘Yes, I talk to Him everyday.’ Her recollection of our Lord and Savior, through all her forgetfulness, moved my heart. Praise God through all her loss of memory, she can still recall the very One who will save us body, soul, and spirit.

Have we not professed to have put faith in Christ, and claim to trust in the very Word of God? Why then do we allow the flesh, the world, and the devil to toss us to and fro into all kinds of worries and dismay? How can we let the testimony of the Scriptures, and the moment of our very salvation fade somewhere into dark forgotten parts of our mind, while we try to survive in this corrupt world by the means of the flesh? We cannot hold onto faith and Christ in one hand, while refusing to let go of the worries and cares of this world in the other.

Scripture declares ‘the Son of man is come to save that which was lost,’ so by grace through faith we repent and are no longer lost. Christ bids us unto Himself, by His words, ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’ Do we not find the most rest, and see the clearest direction when we converse with God through prayer and mediate on His given Word?

May we all draw from the wisdom of God, as we prepare, work, and live our daily lives as diligent servants subject to Him. May we find who we are in Him, while trusting in His help, finding peace and rest in knowing He loves and cares for us more than we can ourselves.

Entrance of the Donkey

2009-04-29T12:50:00.009-06:00

Okay, this is apparently 'old news' but interesting nonetheless. Apparently on January 19, 2009, a sculpture of Barack Hussein Obama attached to a donkey was paraded down the street, where 'onlookers waived palm branches' as they were followed by 'a motorcade consisting of 4 black SUVs...and secret service agents.'

Have people really gone this insane, to even suggest such a sight of a so called 'mile long triumphal entry' to be in anyway similar to that of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?

Something tells me that even Balaam's donkey would have had something to say about this...

Imitation Is Never the Real Thing

2009-04-28T07:13:00.004-06:00

My department manager came in to work this morning asking if we had seen the new painting of President Barack Hussein Obama, which would soon be unveiled. I had not, so I did a quick Google search. To my interest, I found this news article, and the above picture of the painting.

The article: The 30" x 54" acrylic painting on canvas depicts President Obama appearing much like Jesus Christ on the Cross; atop his head, a crown of thorns. Behind him, the dark veil being lifted (or lowered) on the Presidential Seal. But is he revealing or concealing and is he being crucified or glorified?

The artist: D'Antuono insists that this piece is a mirror; reflecting the personal opinions and emotions of the viewer; that "The Truth" like beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. D'Antuono expects that individual interpretations will vary as widely as they do in the political arena. The work will be seen by one viewer at a time behind a voting booth-inspired public installation.

So, since the artist ‘expects that individual interpretations will vary,’ I would like to share mine.

It appears to me to be a portrait of Barack Hussein Obama, the current President of the United States, slightly bowing his head in counterfeit piousness. While he holds the likeness of the crown of thorns of which the Lord Jesus Christ wore upon his brow at Calvary, the care and love for the souls of mankind the Savior displayed in His ultimate sacrifice appears missing from the continence of smiling Obama. At last, we see Obama’s arms stretched forth to the sky, though not in victory, but in the closing of the show as he draws the curtains on The Great Hypocrisy; whereby all the people are left in darkness.

A Question for Calvinists? Or, Non-Calvinists As Well?

2009-04-13T11:38:00.001-06:00

On a forum I frequently visit, the following question was posed as a ‘Calvinism question’:

1. Did God create some people for hell?

On the surface, such a question may appear to be directed only to Calvinists, with the possible inclination of leading into an attack upon it. The idea of election, foreknowledge, predestination, and possibly limited atonement may come to mind rather quickly, but that is limiting the scope of the question to one set of teachings, namely Calvinism. But, the question actually supersedes Calvinism, and encompasses also non-Calvinist Christian theology regarding the salvation and punishment of sinful man.

Sometimes the non-Calvinist will confront a Calvinist, immediately claiming that the Calvinist theology makes God a tyrant that chooses to create some persons just to go to hell. Just the thought of such would make most people cringe. How could a holy God create a person and predestine them to go to hell? How can holy God do such a thing, and not be guilty of sin Himself?

The answer may come in a variety of ways, ranging from ‘I don’t fully understand it myself’, to the quoting of scripture such as Romans 9:19-24 regarding vessels of wrath and mercy.

With this, the non-Calvinists may find themselves puffing out their chest, considering they have exposed the flaw of Calvinism once and for all. Prideful they smile; sharing with everyone it is they who hold to the true doctrines of the faith regarding salvation and punishment.

Now, pose again the question to a non-Calvinist, and one will most likely answer, ‘No.’ Whereby I must ask, ‘How so?’

Most Christians (at least that I know – whether Calvinist or not) hold to the belief that God is omniscient (all knowing), and therefore His foreknowledge would include having knowledge of who will and will not accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior before they are ever created. If God creates a person knowing they will not accept Christ, has He not basically created one for hell? A non-Calvinist cannot escape such a question, without denying the perfect foreknowledge of God. So, the question becomes more personal, and cannot be simply directed at others.

* The purpose of this post was not to prove, disprove, or explain the question, but to show that this question [Did God create some people for hell?] is more than just a Calvinist one. It is a question that needs much prayer and meditation in the Word of God, and not just something that can be tossed about like a grenade to seemingly crumble another’s theology without also causing one to take a look at their own.

Someone Is Always Watching

2009-04-04T19:27:00.001-06:00

On my way to survey the camp for our mission trip to the Navajo (Dine’) in July, I passed by this scene in New Mexico. It reminded me of the verse, ‘The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.’

Isn’t it interesting how true the scriptures are when it comes to the depravity of man, whereby mankind loves ‘darkness rather than light, because [our] deeds [are] evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.’

How often do we try to veil our sin in the shadows and the darkness, in the secret when we believe there is no one else around that may condemn us? Do we somehow believe this will keep us from judgment, or allow us to save our image by living a double life? Has not the scriptures declared, ‘A double minded man is unstable in all his ways;’ whereby we are called upon to ‘Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.’

Have you not seen family or friends, coworkers or church members do things you felt were unbiblical yet remained silent? Even to this day do they have no knowledge that one they know has witnessed their behavior? Shall you deceive yourself into believing that the same is not true of thy actions also? Hmmm…what of your spouse or children, or the children of others you hold company with?

Someone Is Always Watching. May we always be quick to repent and turn from our wicked ways, and dwell in the fellowship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in obedience.

Discrepancies within Stem Cell Approval

2009-03-10T06:53:00.002-06:00

Apparently Obama has decided to sign ‘an executive order Monday repealing a Bush-era policy that limited federal tax dollars for embryonic stem cell research.’ While I read the article from CNN, I couldn’t help but notice a couple of inconsistencies in the ideals of the quoted supporters of such an action.

Barack Obama: "In this case, I believe the two [sound science and moral values] are not inconsistent. As a person of faith, I believe we are called to care for each other and work to ease human suffering. I believe we have been given the capacity and will to pursue this research -- and the humanity and conscience to do so responsibly."

[Comment] I assume we are just not responsible enough to have the humanity and conscience to exercise our faith in ensuring the unborn child also does not suffer and is cared for.

Nancy Reagan: "Countless people, suffering from many different diseases, stand to benefit from the answers stem cell research can provide. We owe it to ourselves and to our children to do everything in our power to find cures for these diseases."

[Comment] I assume we are to allow the death (or destruction, as some put it) or suffering of some children to benefit the children chosen to live, since apparently a cure for a disease is more important than the life of an unborn child.

Faith and responsibility….indeed…I would say America needs some.

Does Faith Combat Anxiety

2009-03-09T12:40:00.004-06:00

Today, I read the short article entitled Study: Believing in God can reduce anxiety in the Health News section of UPI.com. According to the report, apparently the studied showed that those who believe in God were less stressed about their errors than those who profess to not believe in God.

"We found that religious people or even people who simply believe in the existence of God show significantly less brain activity [in the anterior cingulate cortex of the brain] in relation to their own errors," Inzlicht said. "They're much less anxious and feel less stressed when they have made an error."

I found this report quite interesting, and my initial thoughts surrounded the idea of believers. Why would a believer feel less anxious and less stressed even after having made an error? Would such arise from the scriptural teaching that through Christ all is forgiven, that all men error and should merely strive to do better, or that making an error simply didn’t matter that much to them? But, then I thought, surely the unbeliever would also acknowledge that all men error and should strive to do better, and clearly there are those who obviously don’t care if they error at all. So, as the study shows, we are left with the only real difference is the believing or not believing in God.

Interestingly, a similar article on the same topic from Medical News Today.com goes a little further in declaring, ‘The stronger their religious zeal and the more they believed in God, the less their ACC fired in response to their own errors, and the fewer errors they made.’

So then I wondered, does this reflect the thought that believers acknowledge a forgiveness of error through repentance and faith in Christ, or is there a belief that the weighing of the scales (good deeds vs. bad deeds) in the hands of God will lend them mercy and grace? Basically, is there a faith vs. works doctrinal difference among believers, yet lending both to have less anxiety regarding their error? And not only does the report show believers as ‘less likely to feel anxious about making errors,’ but also about ‘facing the unknown.’

Given just the little we have in these two articles, it should cause us to ponder two quick thoughts: (1) the further away from believing in God one becomes, the more likely they are to be anxious about their mistakes and the more they are likely to make; (2) although a believer in God becomes less anxious about their mistakes as they become less frequent, this does not guarantee true conversion has occurred even if profession has been made.

How so, one may ask. Scripture tells us that believing in God is not enough, for ‘the devils also believe, and tremble.’ Scripture also acknowledges that though there will be many who claim their works should be counted to save them, believers are saved by faith and not of works. So, dear unbeliever, maybe you would consider believing in God to ease a little anxiety. And to both, make sure your belief is grounded in faith.

Chemical Reaction not Evolution, of Fishes and Men

2009-03-05T09:49:00.004-06:00

According to Discovery News, ‘Around the world, increasing numbers of male fish are developing female traits -- growing new sexual organs and sometimes even producing eggs.’

As I began to read the article, I must admit I fully expected to see some type of promotion of a proof for evolution. I mean, clearly a fish mutating from its normality would give some type of credence to an eyewitness account of it, would it not? To my dismay, there was no attempt to tie in the discovery with evolution (whether macro or micro), but ‘the phenomenon has been blamed mostly on chemicals that get into the water and mimic the female hormone estrogen.’

With this, I can’t help but ponder the possible similar affect within humans. For a moment, if we consider the article as written, we see the science/research community noticing a change in the fish genetically producing the mutation of male fish becoming female (whether in part or in addition). They reveal their belief of such actions is due to the fish coming in contact with a chemical which blocks male hormones, in conjunction with a chemical which mimics female hormones. But, with this study, it appears that they also realize the affect such could have on humanity, given the thought, ‘the new research found that there are far more of these chemicals in our lakes and streams than anyone realized.’

It must be noted that these researchers see the chemicals as harmful, to fish, mammals, and humans, along with acknowledging the mutation of male-female hormones within the fish is not normal. So, since this blog is Christian in nature, this brings us once again to the thought of homosexuality, transsexual, and possibly hermaphrodites in light of the Scriptures.

Regarding hermaphrodites, I would admit I don’t recall Scripture mentioning such, but all would have to admit that such mutation during birth is clearly out of the control of the individual. I do not believe there would be any stretch of the imagination to assume they do not choose to be born with both male and female organs, but will have to adjust and determine where they stand as individuals as they mature and live in society. Though their physical body may lend struggles in life, I would venture to say they have both the ability of choosing the heterosexual or homosexual lifestyle.

Now, concerning homosexuality (which would include the hermaphrodite who chooses such) and the transsexual (which I suppose is merely homosexual in nature), we have previously cited Scriptural references regarding God’s displeasure with such. Here, we now see the researchers’ claim that a male fish taking upon itself the character and possibly even the physical appearance of a female fish is not normal, but rather a mutation and corruption of nature by way of chemicals, etc.

With this said, my conclusionary thought is: If researchers see the mutation of male fish taking upon themselves the characteristics and physical properties of female fish as abnormal and something to try and fix, why is it that we are told that homosexuality and transsexuality is normal and something to be embraced? ‘After all, people and fish have similar hormonal systems.’

The Current of Love

2009-02-24T16:52:00.001-06:00

The wind blows from whence it will
Flowing from its source rippling the still
A gentle touching upon the skin
Sharing the soft presence it lends
Tickling the smallest fibers of the face
A deep breath of its freshness embraced
A tear or two from an eye so moved
By the flowing of air lightly cooled
Giving of itself free without cost
Sometimes remains though the feeling is lost

So moves the heart of one to another
Giving love whether received from the other
It does not bestow that it may obtain
But rather desires the others' happiness remain
Offering of itself all that it has to present
Caring for the wellbeing of another it’s content
Always there whether known or secretly held
It remains faithful desiring to be felt
Quietly oft times it tenderly waits
Forever true with or without being embraced

February 23, 2009

Keeping Proposition 8 Alive

2009-02-18T12:55:00.002-06:00

Last week, a video circulated by the pro-gay marriage group Courage Campaign was circulated heavily on the Internet. The group asked same-sex "couples" who had been married in California to send in their video pleas to allow this immoral practice to continue in the state. It is in response to the legal brief former prosecutor Ken Starr filed on behalf of the "Yes on 8" Campaign. If you would like to see the video here, you can visit the Courage Campaign web site but there is really no need as it is the same propaganda we have been seeing on this issue for years and offers no new insight into why this should suddenly be legal and acceptable.

In the video the happy "couples" and their adopted or artificially-conceived children hold up signs that read "Don't Divorce Us," which is interesting if we think about the fact that these people were never married in the eyes of God and the state of California's political grandstanding is not being well received by the majority. After all, Proposition 8 would not have passed if the majority of the state's voters had felt the way these few liberals feel. They are demanding understanding for something that is not natural or reasonable and is not accepted by most of the rest of the country. California was not the only state where we saw a ban on gay marriage proposed and the bans passed elsewhere too.

And, it is offensive to any reasonable person that a federal judge declared (in early February) that it was lawful for those against proposition 8 to divulge the names of donors to the cause. Because this is such a hot-button issue, it could be dangerous for these names to be made public. The backlash has already started as one donor experienced picketing and boycotts of the store he owns.

This is going too far. These people keep pushing even after the voters have spoken and voted the ban into law. I can't help but wonder what would be the response if Barack Obama had won the popular vote and not been allowed to take office. It is a similar situation and those who realize gay marriage is against the laws of God must continue to stay true to their beliefs and hold their ground on the issue. If there is not a unified voice, there is a very real danger of this ban being overturned and the gay population will be free to flaunt their sexuality and make a mockery of a sacred institution.

By-line:
This post was contributed by Holly McCarthy, who writes on the subject of a Bible college. She invites your feedback at hollymccarthy12 at gmail dot com

Abortion: Thoughts From the Next Generation

2009-02-16T20:52:00.000-06:00

Are Quotes as Good When Misquoted

2009-02-06T09:24:00.001-06:00

I was recently sent a motivational email - you know the type - that attributed the following quote to Maya Angelou.

'A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ that a man should have to seek Him first to find her.'

I thought to myself, ‘This is a powerful quote.’ So, I took a moment to look up the lady and read her short biography. Then I did a search to find the association of her and the quote. What I found was that not only is the quote not from Maya Angelou, but the quote has actually change slightly also.

The actual original quote is apparently from Max Lucado:

‘A woman's heart should be so hidden in God that a man has to seek Him just to find her.’

In my search, I also came across a poem entitled ‘Christians’ attributed to Maya Angelou, but was actually the original writings of Carol Wimmer entitled ‘WHEN I SAY, "I AM A CHRISTIAN".’

I’m not placing blame on Maya Angelou, for I don’t believe she has tried to acquire fame through the writings and quotes of others. What I would like to say is, for I have been guilty myself, if we as Christians wish to take the time to pass along motivational emails and such, we should at least take the time to check out the original author, original writings, and ensure such are indeed Biblical. Author Unknown is really just the easy way out, and attributing it to someone other than the author is simply deceitful at worst and sloppy at best.

Back to the quote, both the original and the variant are well spoken in my opinion. But whereas the original with author is worthy of note, the variant and invalid association makes it unworthy of repeating.

Simply put, variant misquoted quotes lose meaning, and just aren’t as good.

Painting a Colored Picture

2009-01-21T19:41:00.004-06:00

According to the WashingtonPost.com, the following apparently comes from Rev. Lowery's Inaugural Benediction for President Barack Hussein Obama.

Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around...
(LAUGHTER)
... when yellow will be mellow...
(LAUGHTER)
LOWERY: ... when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen.

1. black will not be asked to get in back
2. brown can stick around
3. yellow will be mellow
4. red man can get ahead
5. white will embrace what is right

As one who sometimes writes poetry, I realize within written lyrics there can be both a face value and deeper meaning behind the mindset of the author. I also understand that as a reader of such poetry, we can sometimes attribute meaning beyond that which the author originally intended.

With that said, I can’t help but wonder what exactly Rev. Lowery was trying to express with these words, and if they would have been equally accepted had they been spoken by the yellow, red, or white and changed ever so slightly.

I find it interesting that even in times of claims of calling America to unity, there yet remains a clear division of colors. For where we could suggest that America be a nation where no one is asked to get in back, where all can stick around, where each of us will be mellow, where each man can get ahead, and where we will individually embrace what is right…we would rather keep reminding each other to continue dividing ourselves into individual Crayola crayons.

We’re Painting a Colored Picture; we’re just on different sheets of paper.

The Color of Change

2009-01-20T11:10:00.002-06:00

Today, Barack Hussein Obama II becomes the forty-fourth American President. One of the most often heard statements of this election has been and continues to be, ‘Barack Hussein Obama will be the first African American to be elected President of the United States.’ Indeed, today marks a historic point in American history.

My concern is that we as Americans are placing too much emphasis on color concerning the well-being of our country. Comments like, ‘This country has been run by Caucasian men for so long and look where its gotten us, now is the time for an African American President to bring great change to all Americans.’ If you are looking for this exact quote you won’t find it, but the premise behind it has spread all through the media and persons I’ve heard talk here and there.

The truth is, the color of Barack Hussein Obama’s skin (noting he is actually both black and white) does not ensure, in and of itself, that America will somehow miraculously rise to some new heights in morality, economics, etc. simply because he takes office. I pray that he will show integrity of character, make good decisions, and will ‘abhor that which is evil, and cleave to that which is good,’ but pigment (the amount and type of melanin) alone will make President Barack Hussein Obama no better or worse than his predecessors.

As with Christianity, our talk is merely breath upon the breeze if done without action. It is our walk that actually produces a positive change; as it is written, ‘faith without works is dead… I will shew thee my faith by my works.’

The next four years will declare unto the American people the faith and character of President Barack Hussein Obama, just as our daily lives expose as much concerning ourselves to those around us.

Pray for America, pray for her President, and pray for her people.

Purity For Sale

2009-01-13T20:41:00.002-06:00

A friend of mine sent me a link from the LA News, talking about triplets that work at McDonalds in Forth Worth.

To my dismay, on the side panel labeled Most Viewed News, there was an article entitled ‘Dad Sells Girl, Calls Cops to Complain He Wasn't Paid’ and another titled ‘22-Year-Old's Virginity Auction Bids Hit $3.7M’.

As a father, whether Christian or non, is there not something in everyone of us that desires to protect our daughters? Or, has this world become so entangled in self-gratification that we no longer care for anyone but ourselves? Apparently the father of a fourteen year old girl attempted to sell his daughter ‘for $16,000 and 100 cases of beer, along with several cases of meat and other items.’ Is that all his precious daughter’s purity is worth to him? May the God of Heaven never allow my senses to desensitize to such levels concerning my children.

From there we move to the girl who would sell her purity to the highest bidder. Has she no self respect or self merit, as concerning the value of her abstinence of fornication and the keeping of herself a virgin for the future husband worthy of her purity? Does her father find himself in prayer and weeping, as she looks to guidance in that ‘her sister was able to pay for her college education after prostituting herself for three weeks?’ How is one that wishes to fulfill their ‘advanced degree in family and marriage therapy’ able to offer their most blessed possession so frivolously to any man with the most money? May the Spirit move upon her heart, to have her see the folly of such a proposition.

Heavy upon my heart are these stories, having a daughter myself. What then were the things which led these people down these certain paths? Have they ever been told of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the blessed hope of the forgiveness of sins? Do these stories bother you? What are we doing about it, concerning our witness to our own children?

Unfounded Perverted Thoughts of Christ

2009-01-13T09:39:00.008-06:00

It is amazing just how far some minds wish to twist and misconstrue the things of Christ to somehow prove a point that makes no sense whatsoever.

Regarding my last post entitled, Should One Really Visit ‘The Shack’, with my mentioning of my dislike of the author’s use of a woman called Papa for God the Father, one of the commenters has apparently went off on a tangent concerning Christ and homosexuality. Thus, I have moved this out of context discussion to its own post.

The commenter begins his tale with, ‘Remember that Jebus was quite feminine: Long hair, soft features, likes to hang around with 12 (Or 13, if you include Judas) disciples, etc, gets chased around by a naked young man, etc. I am quite positive that Jesus is in fact gay. And it wouldn't be surprising for me if God actually is a woman.’

I cannot help but laugh as they have apparently bought into the Hollywood version of a Christ they have never seen nor placed faith in. Even paintings, such as some would call art, are merely the interpretations of a Christ man would have in their imagination. Isaiah declares, 'he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.' There is no reason for one to believe Christ was a man who held the appearance and characteristics of a woman.

The crutch of the commenter’s argument seems to be Mark 14, whereby he writes, ‘Mark 14:51-52 suggests a lewd appearance of a young man chasing after Jesus, which suggests that Jesus is either gay, or have certain attractive qualities which make him attractive to a gay,’ giving us the following points:

This could suggest a few things:
1. Jesus didn't disapprove of gays.
2. Jesus was gay (highly likely)
3. And if he was attractive to gays, he may be a bit of a girly like, since Jesus has always been portrayed as such since antiquity.

Although there is no mention or even a subtle hint of homosexuality anywhere within these verses, not to mention the entire chapter, the commenter reveals there is really no point to his argument but to somehow give credence to homosexuality by the misuse and misunderstanding of Scripture.

1. We know that Jesus did not approve of homosexuality, for we find that He is both God and the Word incarnate (John 1), and both God and the Word declare homosexuality to be both sin and against nature (Leviticus 18, Leviticus 20, Romans 1).

2. There is no evidence in Scripture or without that suggest Christ portrayed any type of homosexual tendencies or lifestyle. First you state, 'a lewd appearance of a young man chasing after Jesus, which suggests that Jesus is either gay.' Scripture declares 'there followed him a certain young man' not that the man was chasing after Jesus. There are countless assumptions we could make regarding the why the young man was dressed in a linen cloth or why the young man followed after Jesus, but the fact remains the act of the young man in no way declares the character or actions of Christ to be homosexual in any way. Again, feminine or homosexual paintings and imaginations of man of Christ and/or his disciples does in no way make such true concerning Christ or his disciples.

3. Second you state, 'or have certain attractive qualities which make him attractive to a gay,' which is even a more illogical argument. The definition of being homosexual is to have a desire for one of the same sex. Just as the lustful desire of a man toward a woman does not make the woman heterosexual, neither would the lust of a man toward a man make the man being lusted after homosexual. If you recall the story of Sodom and Gomorrah, there were two angels which visited the home of Lot. The men of the city lusted sinfully toward these men, and desired even to take them forcefully to do wickedly. It was not the angels, but the homosexuals of the city which did lust and 'burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly.'

You cannot blame Christ for the perversion of man, no matter how hard you try.

Should One Really Visit ‘The Shack’

2009-01-07T20:43:00.001-06:00

The Shack

Wm. Paul Young

9780964729230

I have heard more than one Christian speak up concerning Wm. Paul Young’s book entitled The Shack. Even the front cover boasts, ‘This book has the potential to do for our generation what John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress did for his. It’s that good!’ [Eugene Peterson] There was even a lady that went so far as to say that every Christian should read this book, and possibly even teach some of its principles in Sunday school. Such being said about a fictional book, certainly it perked my interest a bit. Apparently it was published in 2007, so I am a little behind the times I suppose, but I went ahead and purchased it from Walmart.

From the first page till around chapter five (5), page eighty-two (82), the book appears to resemble a dramatic story with a terrible loss in the life of a man with a family. Trying to refrain from giving too much of the story away, because of circumstances written within those pages, Mack (a man of shaky faith) returns to a location somewhat expecting to meet God there. Oddly, what he finds is ‘a large beaming African-American woman.’ Now, I would ask that the reader pay close attention to what I write here, so there will be no attempt at any accusation regarding racism.

I have no problem with the author having Mack (a Caucasian) meeting a friendly African-American woman at a cabin, but having a female represent the masculine Holy Creator God is a bit disturbing. The author even goes so far as to have this female tell Mack that she likes to call herself Elousia, but that he may call her Papa; the name Nan (Mack’s wife) called God. Then there is the casting of an Asian woman assumingly as the Holy Spirit (named Sarayu), and a Hebrew man whose common name is Jesus (but whose mother had called him Yeshua, while others had also called him Joshua or Jesse). So, in short, the author has the Almighty Father casted as an African woman and the Holy Spirit of Promise as an Asian woman, but at least he gives some similarity to our Lord and Savior with portraying Him as a Hebrew male.

One may like to call me sexist, but there is no doubt that the God of Heaven and Earth is represented as masculine throughout the entirety of Scripture. To have such a Father portrayed as a female – even though a fictional novel – is absurd. Please note, I am not attacking the author’s sincerity of his faith, ideals, or hopes for his book, I am simply pointing out that I disagree totally with the judgment of character types used for the Godhead, along with some of the human characteristics given to such. And though the author uses the following pages to seemingly explain and make light of the appearance he chooses to portray of God – with those who profess Christianity already desiring to removed the masculinity of God from the very Scriptures in new translations, along the struggle against the feminism takeover – I believe a little more discernment may have been considered regarding the Persons of the Trinity even in a fictional writing.

I must admit I cringed quite a bit as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit became more and more human as the story continued from the end of chapter six (6) into chapter (7). Things like them all laughing at Christ for dropping things with his slippery fingers, along with the Father telling Mack that even though Christ proclaimed, ‘My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?’ at the cross, Jesus only felt like He was forsaken but wasn’t. So, Christ was deceived by His emotions? Maybe I’m confused. When Mack explains his conclusion that the recorded miracles performed by Christ in the Scriptures proved that He was God, ‘you know, more than human,’ the Father says, ‘No, it proves that Jesus is truly human.’ As I, Mack questions this response. God answers, ‘Although he is also fully God, he has never drawn upon his nature as God to do anything.’

At this I must further question the author’s premise and to what point he desires to take us. If Christ never drew from His nature as God, then is it within the power of every human being to do that which Christ did? Do we too, as professing Christians indwelt by the Spirit, have the supernatural ability to perform also the miracles of turning water into wine; casting out evil spirits; multiplying the loaves and fish; healing the blind, lame, and dumb; and walking on water? What about the forgiveness of sins? Christ proclaimed, ‘the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins.’ Did the forgiveness of sins come from the human or divine of Christ? Did not even John the Baptist (no greater born among women) say, ‘one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose.’ Was it also human for Christ to declare, ‘I lay down my life, that I might take it again… No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again?’

If the above did not make me hesitate to read further, chapter eight (8) appears to dismiss the Scriptures by dismantling the structure of both the Godhead and the family. Among the Godhead (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), the god of The Shack tells Mack, ‘we have no concept of final authority among us, only unity. We are a circle of relationship, not a chain of command…’ No final authority within God? Such sounds strangely familiar from the Atheists and those who profess Christ yet live as though they do not. In fact, Mack questions the ‘no hierarchy’ bit, mentioning even its use in marriage; whereby, God declares, ‘Such a waste…Hierarchy imposes laws and rules and you end up missing the wonder of relationship that we intended for you.’ Then this god goes on to basically try to explain that there cannot be a relationship if there is final authority or hierarchy, for that would be independence and ‘you become a danger to each other.’

Does the author forget the hierarchy of the Godhead, whereby the Son was obedient to the will of the Father, and the Holy Spirit obeyed the voice of the Son? What then of the hierarchy of the establishment of marriage, whereby the man is head of the wife, even as Christ is of the Church? Such cannot be so easily explained away by the telling of a fictional book, though sold as Christian literature. In chapter ten (10) the author future sews tares among the wheat of Scripture by having his jesus state to Mack, ‘The world, in many ways, would be a much calmer and gentler place if women ruled. There would have been far fewer children sacrificed to the gods of greed and power.’ Does the author honestly dismiss the reality of feminism, abortion, and the fact that attitude and climate of many women prisons surpass the filth of those of men?

The further this chapter (8) goes, the slicker the mudslide seems to become. Even here do we see god telling Mack that He (yes, the Trinity) ‘respects your [man’s] choices.’ I can’t help but ponder the conclusion of the author concerning this statement within the context of this chapter and the book as a whole. For if respect is not enough, the author bows his jesus further unto man by having him tell Mack that the Trinity is submitted to one another equally, and further states ‘In fact, we are submitted to you [man] in the same way.’ Even Mack has to question this, as most honest Bible believing Christians would, ‘How can that be? Why would the God of the universe want to be submitted to me [man]?” The author’s god’s answers, ‘Because we want you to join us in our circle of relationship.’ In Scripture, man is told to submit to the LORD, God, one another, a wife to her husband, those that rule over us, and the younger to the elder, but never once do I find God submitting Himself unto man to have a relationship. Man is always told to come on God’s terms, which is through submission and faith in Jesus Christ.

My current conclusion: This shack should be torn down and burned, not promoted and shared.

Honestly, if you are a professing Christian or not, and have read this book and believe it to have a positive message...please take a moment and share that experience with me.

Atheist Proclaims Africa Needs God

2008-12-30T11:38:00.001-06:00

Matthew Parris, of Times Online, describes his thoughts of returning after 45 years to his boyhood home in Africa. He shares that his current travels in Malawi has ‘renew[ed] [his] flagging faith in development charities,’ but also another belief he acknowledges having tried to remove completely from his life; for it ‘confounds [his] ideological beliefs, stubbornly refuses to fit [his] world view, and has embarrassed [his] growing belief that there is no God.’ He now confirms that he must confess, as ‘a confirmed atheist, I've become convinced of the enormous contribution that Christian evangelism makes in Africa.’

He freely admits, as Christianity has long affirmed, transformation will not come forth from ‘the work of secular NGOs, government projects and international aid efforts’ alone. ‘Education and training alone will not do. In Africa Christianity changes people's hearts. It brings a spiritual transformation. The rebirth is real. The change is good.’ Though he denies the faith of salvation, he realizes ‘only the severest kind of secularist could see a mission hospital or school and say the world would be better without it.’

What a way to end my blogging for 2008, but with a Times Online article entitled, ‘As an atheist, I truly believe Africa needs God.’ This reminds me of Paul’s witness to King Agrippa in Acts chapter 25.

Agrippa said unto Paul, ‘Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.’
And Paul said, ‘I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.’

Take a moment to read his article.

Blessings from Singing Carols of Christ

2008-12-20T22:33:00.002-06:00

This past Friday night, December 19th, around 6:30pm, a group of close to sixty persons met in one of the nearby neighborhoods to go Christmas caroling. One of our men in the church showed up with his mule and trailer, with blankets laid out for everyone to sit on. We had the trailer and a diesel truck loaded down with about twenty-five children, sixteen youth, along with sixteen college/career and adults. It was amazing to see how many persons (fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters – by blood and in Christ) came out.

We had a list of names of persons and families from our church that lived in this particular neighborhood, and our plan was to visit and sing at each home. We also sung the familiar tunes of Joy to the World, O Come All Ye Faithful, Hark the Harold Angels Sing, Silent Night, Away in the Manager, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and a few more that escape my mind at the present while driving down the streets. To see the bright eyes and smiling faces of the singing children was beautiful, having their fathers and mothers along with their older brothers and sisters joining in chorus with them.

It is no stretch of the truth to proclaim that each and every visit was exciting and enjoyable to us all. From the singing to those persons we passed on the streets, to those snuggled in their homes who came out to see who sung, to the doors of our church members we knocked, to all did we gleefully give remembrance to the birth of Christ. For what greater love is there, than the love of God in sending His Son Jesus into this world, and in the Savior giving Himself to redeem fallen man? There is no greater!

One of the persons we visited and had the opportunity of singing was a dear soul who has seen this world through her eyes for a hundred years. We can scarcely imagine the changes she has witnessed during her lifetime. Whether it be of the world, of politics, of people, or the church, surely there is much insight and wisdom she has gleaned through the years. To sing the marvelous song of our Savior Jesus Christ and to have her and her family join in harmony with us was truly a blessing one is not often given in this world of instant everything.

On this night, God allowed us the privilege of presenting the good tidings of the birth of our great Savior Jesus Christ to a family none of us knew. As we drove down the street caroling we saw a home with children, young people, and adults standing outside. They seemed to walk out to listen, so we stopped to share the songs of our heart with them. One of the ladies walked over to us and asked if we could all come inside to sing to her father. He is terminally ill, and lay upon a hospital bed so very weak looking. It can hardly be written concerning the site of the home, the family, the father, and his weeping daughter who had asked us to come in to sing to him.

A couple of the good men we have, who had driven us so far, guided the children and us all into the home. The children could not have stood straighter or sung more beautiful. It would have been impossible for any person to have beheld such a sight without ones heart sending forth springs of compassion through their eyes. We were able to pray with the daughter and her father, for which she was so grateful we had given but a small measure of our time and talents. Truly we were unworthy to have had that very moment to share in song and the moving of the Holy Spirit in the midst of that home and persons.

I pray that the Blessings from Singing Carols of Christ will live forever in the hearts and minds of our dear children, young people, and adults who gave of themselves this night. I know they will stay with me.

I appreciate the young persons (our youth) and the college/career who gave great testimony to our children, that singing and witnessing Christ is not merely for little children but for all who proclaim to know Him as Lord and Savior. And to the parents and adults who not only promote the life of Christianity by mouth, but also by deed in their daily lives.

May God bless His children during this season, and may His Spirit continue to enlighten those who do not yet trust in Him.

Woe Unto Them That Call Evil Good

2008-12-09T08:48:00.002-06:00

Well, those who oppose Biblical Truth to embrace the transgression thereof are at it again. It simply amazes me at the lengths some persons will go to in trying to justify their depravity. It is one thing to do what one will claiming Scripture holds no rule over them, but quite another for one to try to use God and Scripture to support their iniquity.

Lisa Miller of Newsweek has apparently written an article entitled, ‘Our Mutual Joy’, stating, ‘Opponents of gay marriage often cite Scripture. But what the Bible teaches about love argues for the other side.’

R. Albert Mohler Jr. of Baptist Press gives a lengthy, but worthy rebuttal entitled, ‘Newsweek turns Bible on its head.’

Mrs. Miller is not the first to attempt such, for there have been others such as Ray Boltz, Peggy Campolo, President Elect Obama, the writers/authors of For the Bible Tells Me So, and even the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America which have tried to justify the immorality of homosexuality by use of Scripture.

Yet, this misuse of Scripture to try and justify ones sin is not limited to just homosexuality, the same thing has been done regarding abortion also. It can also be found in ones desire to leave their family and turn their backs to their wedding vows even in the marriage of Christians.

Why must we as Christians or non try to corrupt the very Word of God to seemingly justify our degenerate minds and actions? This will in no way make us less guilty before the One True Holy God. Sin is sin, whether we accept it, repent, and receive forgiveness from it, or merely try to rationalize it, embrace it, and die lost in it.

Isaiah declared, ‘Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!’

Happy Thanksgiving, 2008

2008-11-27T00:08:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to say, more than the food and the day off of work, ponder something that you are truly thankful for today. Share it with family and friends, share it with God, and remember it.

New Atheist Voice Against Christianity

2008-11-14T22:50:00.018-06:00

'Yes my four year old daughter told me that the only person who would ever help her to be a good girl was Jesus Christ, because she could not do it on her own. I have never told her this. I would have thought this is too deep for a four year old to understand. That she was a sinner, she could not control her sinful nature. She wanted to be good but she could not, instead she did things that where wrong no matter how she tried to be good. Her theology is far deeper than that of many preachers today. I mean she gets it. It is only by the finished work of Christ on the cross that we can be delivered from sin.'

The above comes from the blog of a Christian mother doing her best to raise her four year old daughter with honest Biblical principles.

Sent to me by a friend, the reason I advertise this blog is for Christians to take a moment and read the responses by Atheists to this mother's post regarding the Christian faith and her child.

She gives a clear testimony of the forgiving, saving knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and many begin to claw and gnaw like rabid wolves against it. Sadly, many of them simply 'receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto [them]: neither can [they] know them, because they are spiritually discerned,' 'In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.'

Pray for them, both the Atheist and the Agnostic, but please realize that the voice of that spirit of antichrist is making its way across American and this whole world.

There is already a boasting of 'Why believe in a god?' campaign coming this year. 'The American Humanist Association unveiled the provocative $40,000 holiday ad campaign Tuesday.'

Interestingly, at the same time unbelievers would have us (or like to) sensor our voice of praise and trust in Christ, so they don't have to hear it (and be convicted of sin?), their claim is '"We are trying to reach our audience, and sometimes in order to reach an audience, everybody has to hear you," said Fred Edwords.'

New Atheism, Antitheism, it is on the rise. Don't just sit there with your head in the sand Christian, 'Put on the whole armour of God' for the spiritual warfare is upon us more everyday.

Racism Comes In All Colors

2008-11-13T13:35:00.004-06:00

Sadly, a recently married couple was ‘found gagged, tied and shot in the head on Oct. 15 in the living room of their home in Winchester.’ With most of the talk about marriage these days seemingly centered around the press of homosexuals desiring to redefine the Biblical definition of such, there is still the difference of opinion regarding interracial relationships. Such a topic arises when speaking of slain, Jan Pawek Pietrzak and Quiana Faye Jenkins-Pietrzak.

I find it most interesting that some of the reports would have us believe ‘the motive was financial in nature,’ but the idea of the couple being interracial, that apparently two of the four men served with Pietrzak as Marines, and both of the couple’s mothers seem to believe there is more to the story than simply robbery…hmm…Even BlackVoices seem to believe the couple being interracial had something to do with the murders. Just how many robberies end with the persons ‘tortured before they were shot execution-style’ and other disturbing reports?

Truth be told, if this had been four white men there is very little doubt in my mind that the racism card would have been played by the media. Such is why I found it odd that a good number of the initial reports seemed to suppress the race of the suspects (not the article I have posted here obviously). Although the majority of race crimes which seem to get headlines are those committed by white persons, to be honest, ‘Racism Comes In All Colors.’

Genesis 9:6Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

Regardless of race and regardless of the reason, this couple was robbed of life and their families of their presence, by the sin of murder (and possibly more also).

Romans 1: The Reprobate Mind

2008-11-10T21:42:00.006-06:00

Please take a gander over at Right Michigan.

Apparently, there was that spirit of antichrist in their last church service:

On Sunday morning, amidst worshiping congregants and following unifying prayers that our President-elect be granted wisdom as he prepares to lead our nation through difficult global, social and economic challenges, the Michigan left declared open war on peaceful church goers.

They did it with banners, chants, blasphemy, by storming the pulpit, by vandalizing the church facility, by potentially defiling the building with lewd, public, sex acts and by intentionally forcing physical confrontations with worshipers.

Extremists Boast: Bash Back Lansing

Meanwhile, with the guards pre-occupied by the distraction, over a dozenqueers had put on their Sunday-best and infiltrated the church’scongregation.

A group stood up, declared themselves fags, and began screaming loudly.Upon hearing the loud interruption, other affinity groups went intoaction. A team that had been hiding under the pews in the closed-offbalcony dropped a banner and pulled back the curtains to reveal “IT’S OKAYTO BE GAY! BASH BACK!”.

In the words of an atheist blogger: 'Know them by their deeds.'

Revisiting the mission field of La Ciudad, Mexico 2008

2008-11-01T22:03:00.007-06:00

The initial trip of our church in 2006 was but a few people. Joining the missionary in Mexico, they prayed that God would lead them to a place we could share the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was then that La Ciudad was laid upon their hearts.

In July 2007 we returned, both with persons of our church and a sister church, with a total of twenty-two desiring to see how God could use us to share the gospel message of Jesus Christ.

My journal of our recent return to La Ciudad, Mexico, during the summer of 2008, is now available as a free PDF download or in book form.

http://www.lulu.com/content/4240024

Who Are You Voting For?

2008-10-31T22:49:00.004-06:00

As we approach the day of election there is no doubt countless things are running through our minds. In fact, many of you may have already cast your vote by the time you get this letter. How can any of us remove ourselves from it when the billboards, television commercials, news channels, newspapers, magazines, basically everywhere we look, we are bombarded with the advertisement?

Both candidates have been around mankind long enough to know what draws a crowd, what will persuade minds, and how people will likely react to certain conditions and stimulants. They know the differences between the mindsets of both males and females, along with ethnic groups, and it appears that both parties are ready and willing to share their ideals with any who will listen.

Both candidates find their way into our homes and minds, as they ask for our time, money, families, and friends. There is no doubt that each of these persons desires us to put our faith in them, while we turn away from the other one. Daily do we yet hear their message at every turn. They need our money that their message may be furthered, our time so that we may speak to family and friends convincing persons to vote for them, and quite often we show our support by the advertisement of our clothing, stickers on our vehicles, signs in our yards, and by our daily conversations.

The truth of the matter is we have a liar, a cheat, a hypocrite, a conniver, and a deceiver, one who speaks enticing words into itching ears that will only lead us down a broad road of destruction on the left. While on the right, we have one who is wise, faithful, honest, and caring, who has suffered great for our freedom and will be there with us down the strait and narrow path that will lead to great blessings.

Now, when such diverse platforms can be run by two totally different persons, yet the minds and hearts of the people are continuously tossed back and forth as to who they should vote for, what is the problem? Is it the message or the hearts of the people?

Scripture declares, ‘Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour,’ while it notes ‘John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’

Seriously, let us take a moment to consider how much time, energy, and money we give to listen to, to read and study to understand, and give to support a likely candidate that will serve four to eight years in this earthly life. Do we spend equal or greater amount of such (time, energy, and money) learning to know our Savior and turning away from the temptations of the flesh, the world, and the devil? Which of these candidates’ platforms did we follow today, and who do we most often vote for?

May it always be Christ.

Genesis 38, Judgment Upon Onan

2008-10-17T11:11:00.003-06:00

Recently a commenter has become most infatuated with Genesis chapter 38 within the Scriptures, though they do not even believe in God and consider the Bible to be archaic. Not only have they created an entire post to it on their blog, they have repeatedly made reference to it on mine. *Christian reader be warned before visiting their blog*

The story concerns Judah and his children Er, Onan, and Shelah. Er, the eldest son, had taken Tamar to wife. Before Tamar could bear him a son, Er was slain by God because of his wickedness. The Scriptures do not tell us what Er did, but that he ‘was wicked in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD slew him.’

Some claim the firstborn, who here was Er, would receive two-thirds of the inheritance (which would have the siblings share the other third), whereas others claim they would be given a double portion over the other siblings. They were usually considered ‘the first of the strength’ of the father. Let it suffice to say that the first male child was held in the highest regard.

‘Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother. And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother. And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also.’

Apparently, here at verse 9 is where the commenter has his problem with God and Scripture. Was Onan really slain because ‘he spilled it on the ground’ or was there something more? Onan directly rebelled against the voice of his father, for Onan knew if Tamar bore a son he would be heir to his brother Er and not himself. This assumingly would move the child into the greater inheritance being counted as the son of Er the firstborn, where Onan would then remain under him.

The judgment upon Onan deals more with his deceit and rebellion than the physical act in the account. He pretended to obey his father by going into his brother’s wife to bare his brother seed, yet did it not. As with all sin, it is a heart matter before it portrays itself in a physical action.

Though many would like to gloat over the mentioning of unsightly things recorded in the Scriptures, the inclusion of such within the Bible is to be an example for all of us as to the depravity of man and the repercussions of sin. ‘For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.’

Note: If any reader wishes to comment, please ensure the proper etiquette if you wish for your remarks to be posted. You do not have to agree, but they must be made in good taste and minus vulgarity.

One More Sunset by Evelyn Huckaby

2008-10-13T13:42:00.003-06:00

A friend of mine has just published her first book!

One More Sunset

"One More Sunset" recounts the poignant and often humorous childhood and life of author Evelyn Huckaby. With true southern flavor, Ms. Huckaby paints a colorful portrait of life in and around New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

Here is a free preview.

ISBN: 978-0-615-25841-6

Fireproof

2008-10-06T15:24:00.002-06:00

This past Friday night, some of us from church decided to go see Fireproof. I would recommend the movie to young people and couples, those whose marriages are fine and those which are not. I believe the principles laid out in the movie are good, even for those who may not believe their marriage needs God.

This is not just some silly ‘chick flick.’ There is both action and comedy, but the storyline is very much serious. But, if you are looking for some high definition special effects, you will easily miss the importance of the message. The purpose of this film is not merely to have one veg-out watching a meaningless movie, but to consider ones own lifestyle and marriage by the time they walk out the theater.

Before making the showing, I had heard some discontent that the movie did not have more of a church scene, meaning the couple attending church or finding help from a particular local church. Although, that may be the case, the plan of salvation and Christian testimonies from co-workers and family members were clearly displayed throughout. And, without giving much away, the end gives reference to attendance at a local church if one would pay close attention.

It was also noted that some had made mention that Kirk Cameron will not kiss anyone besides his wife, so she stood in for the kissing scenes at the end. If such is the case, I would highly commend Kirk Cameron, for why would a husband wish to make a movie about ‘fireproofing your marriage’ while kissing another woman on screen?

Overall I enjoyed the movie, and believe anyone that would take pleasure in watching a good clean movie would also enjoy it. I also believe any young person or couple could benefit from watching such a film.

How One May View Miracles

2008-09-30T09:32:00.005-06:00

It has been a while since I have visited an atheist’s blog I used to stop by more frequently, but today I decided to venture over to see what was new at Atheist Revolution. Today’s post is entitled ‘How Miracles Work’.

The author references the incident in Florida of the tractor-trailer which rear-ended a school bus carrying 21 children, where Frances M. Schee, age 13, was tragically killed.

The author (atheist) states: ‘Evidently, this is how miracles work. An innocent child dies and others survive.’

The Christian (Jim Yancey) states: ‘This was a tragedy, but it's also a miracle…We're lucky one person got out of there alive.’

So, How One May View Miracles seems to be the old half-full/half-empty glass of water thought. It is comparative in our nature to believe it was indeed a miracle of God, because ‘We're lucky one person got out of there alive,’ but seemingly just as easy to discount it as a miracle of God because ‘An innocent child dies and others survive.’

The author does ask a valid question, ‘What do you think the parents of the dead 13-year-old girl thought when they read your quote in the local paper, Superintendent?’ But only the parents themselves can answer that.

Now, according to the article and Atheist Revolution, the superintendent’s quotes were, ‘This was a tragedy, but it's also a miracle’ and ‘We're lucky one person got out of there alive.’

I don’t know the parents of Frances M. Schee personally, but I fail to see how they would have a problem with what Jim Yancey said. It was indeed a tragedy for the loss of Frances M. Schee, yet clearly a miracle that the other children were rescued.

I would also question the use of the quote ‘But not to save the sweet, innocent, 13-year-old little girl who died. God must have put her near the flames for a reason just like he made the truck driver use his cell phone at the perfect moment’ assumingly credited to James Horton by the writer of The Stubborn Curmudgeon. I searched, but could not find such a quote or reference to ‘(CITRA, Fla.) TSC Newswire’ where the quote apparently is sited from. Possibly the writer of the blog is making a point, and it is not actually the words of James Horton.

To discount the rescue to dwell on the loss seems overly trying to make a point that doesn’t hold water. I’ll return to my thought: It is comparative in our nature to believe it was indeed a miracle of God, because ‘We're lucky one person got out of there alive,’ but seemingly just as easy to discount it as a miracle of God because ‘An innocent child dies and others survive.’

It is quite normal for the spiritual to see the miracle and the natural to discount it.

Does Scripture Hinder a Woman from Political Office?

2008-09-24T14:07:00.012-06:00

After reading my posts entitled, Gospel Today Gets Adult Magazine Treatment, covering the topic of women pastors, a friend of mine then asked me the following:

‘I haven't seen any blog posts from you on whether or not it's good to have a woman running for Vice President. Do you have an opinion?’

I am not sure if I have made up my mind on a definite answer as of yet, but let’s consider the following…

Woman: Creation
Eve, the first woman, was created by God from the rib of the first man, Adam. The precedence of marriage was set forth here with God bringing Eve unto Adam. Thus it was written, ‘Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.’

Woman: The Fall
Adam and Eve decided to taste the forbidden fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, of which God had commanded against. Because of their disobedience, each received punishment from God. Eve’s judgment was, ‘I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.’

Woman: Marriage and the Home
By the account of Creation we see the man is to cleave unto his wife, and by the account of The Fall we see the man is to rule over his wife. We also see at creation, woman was created for ‘the man’ and was to be a ‘help meet’ for ‘him’. The younger women are asked to ‘marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully,’ and the ‘aged women’ are to ‘teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.’ We further find the idea of marriage, having the man love the wife and the wife submitting to the man, found in the similitude of Christ and the church.

Woman: Church
Most probably know the verses which say, ‘Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.’ We also find such scriptures as, ‘Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection’ and ‘I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.’ My second post to this blog was concerning women in the church, and there was some good discussion concerning the topic. It would probably be better if one were interested to visit that posting than for me to try and explain the entire discussion here.

Woman: Political Office
There are plenty more scripture we could visit, but this should suffice for the present. We must remember in such a discussion we are not deciding whether a woman is inferior or worth less than a man, for what we find are the roles of men and women here in scripture. Our roles have been set forth by God based on his choice, not on our worth, for He indeed called woman a ‘help meet’ for the man, not a lesser. From what I gather, I am not sure the scriptures directly reject the serving of a woman in a political office over men in the secular world, though I believe it does speak clearly as to whether that should be her goal or desire.

From scripture, it would appear that a woman’s first desire after serving God should be her husband, then her children and her home. It is also clear from scripture that the woman is not to rebel against her husband. Something which is so important that scripture says, ‘ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives.’ We also find that a woman is not to usurp authority over a man, which could be reference to just within the church, but would this even be wise in the secular world?

So, from the above, we can conclude, that a woman is not to be over the man, but in subjection to, when it comes to the home and the church for sure. This would seem to include both material and spiritual matters of both. We don’t need to take this to the legalistic extreme, but we do need to remember our example is Christ and the church. Notice the woman is able to care for the home and the children, for the man does trust her to do what is wise, though it is the man who is required to make the final decision if both are not agreed.

Therefore, I assume we are left with the following questions:

If a woman’s desire is to God, husband, child(ren), and home, would she have time left to care for the worries of political office? I mean, the man is called upon to support the family not the wife, and President or Vice President is not the same as a part-time or 9 to 5 job. I am not here advocating that a woman cannot work outside of the home, and this post has become rather lengthy already to tackle that avenue here.

If a woman is not to rule over man in the home or in the church, is it wise for a woman to seek or man to give woman an office which will put her in authority over men? She would not be usurping authority, but men would then be in subjection to her. Again, we are not discussing whether a woman can do the job, but whether it is wise or right for one to do so, according to scripture.

Possibly it all comes down to a heart issue as do all things. Why does the woman seek the office, and why does man desire to have her lead?

Gospel Today Gets Adult Magazine Treatment

2008-09-22T11:57:00.011-06:00

Apparently making reference to Hillary’s cracks and Palin’s shattering of a glass ceiling, the Gospel Today hits stores with headlines such as ‘Breaking the Glass Ceiling.’ Included in such a headline is the topic ‘Female Pastors’ and such is why the magazine has found its way from the store front to under the counter. Like those ‘adult’ magazines that are usually out-of-sight and should be out-of-mind, this issue of Gospel Today has seemingly been pulled from the shelves and either removed or must be asked for hidden behind the counter.

The problem is not with the individuals themselves (meaning the 5 women), but Scripture and the office they claim to hold in the church. The magazine could have chosen any other women who also consider themselves pastors to place on the cover, and the results of Southern Baptists would have been the same. So, it is not the individual, but the claim.

When considering the idea of whether or not a woman should run for public office, etc. that is somewhat different from that of one claiming to desire the office of pastor of a church. There are some who believe a woman should never hold an office giving them authority over a man, whereas some believe it is in church where the woman cannot hold certain offices but can hold offices outside of the church such as political, etc. Though, I will not be considering these at present, for the article is based on women holding the office of pastor in a church and whether such is biblically or unbiblically founded.

We must also realize that we are not saying that God cannot or does not use women to further the gospel or minister to people, nor are we saying women are lower and less important than men. What we must understand is that when it comes to Scripture and the local churches made of those who profess Christ, the Scripture must be our guide and any variance leads us to sin.

Scripture declares full well the qualifications for both a bishop (pastor) and a deacon. Both in respect are given clear meaning that each is to be a man, for they are to be ‘the husband of one wife’. Regardless of ones conviction to the meaning of ‘the husband of one wife’ there is a surety that no woman can ever be ‘the husband of one wife.’

It is quite spiritually immature on the part of any Christian to claim men that still hold to Scripture on this issue are being sexist or unfair to women. There are no biblical grounds whereby these qualifications maybe dismissed or overruled to allow such corruption to work its way into the local church or Church body as a whole.

Such references to Chloe and Deborah do show God using women, but fails to give any creditability that Scripture allows a woman to hold the office of a pastor or deacon. There is no reason to get into a debate over the word ‘servant’ and such in the Greek, because no matter what conclusion one may choose, we are still left with the Scripture declaring in Acts 6, 1 Timothy 3, and Titus 1 such offices must be filled by men.

I would also like to ponder the thought of Chris Turner’s (a spokesman for Lifeway Resources) comment ‘It is contrary to what we believe.’ If that be the case and reason for pulling the magazine from the shelves of Lifeway book stores, then surely they have created a ‘committee’ (pun intended) to search all the literature and rid the stores of all non Southern Baptist teachings.

Ref:
http://www.gospeltoday.com/
http://www.ajc.com/living/content/living/stories/2008/09/18/gospel_magazine_pulled.html
http://www.benedictionblogson.com/2008/09/20/sbc-lifeway-bookstores-put-gospel-today-under-the-counter/

Appeasing the Monkey

2008-09-15T15:18:00.003-06:00

Is this article for real?

Is the Church of England, according to Rev Dr Malcolm Brown, apologizing to Darwin, 126 years after his death, basically stating that the church was incorrect to trust the Bible over Darwin’s misconceptions of creation?

Oh my, how far man has bowed to appease the monkey.

note: 'monkey' is not a reference to Darwin himself.

Ray Boltz: ‘tired of living a lie’

2008-09-15T12:01:00.005-06:00

I was recently shown an article by the Washington Blade Online, and was somewhat disappointed by the content. I am saddened for a few reasons:

First, there is never any joy (or shouldn’t be) in hearing the stories of Christians who falter from the faith (i.e. Scripture), for whatever reason. All of Christianity is made of men and women, along with boys and girls, who claim to profess Christ as their Lord and Savior, yet are not perfect. By the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and working of God, because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we are to strive to do that which is right according to Scripture even in the face of opposition, emotion, and/or personal preference that may be contrary to such.

Second, when a person sins in private, the repentance usually remains in private. When a person sins in public, it may require public confession and repentance. When the sin of a Christian of prominence comes to the light, it often (if not always) draws even the attention of those that find no fault with such.

Christianity is usually dealt blows from without, though it is not the fault of Christianity, but of the one whom chooses to act outside of the wisdom of Scripture. Christianity holds to a certain set of convictions (though some men have confounded and twisted the Truth), and when one chooses to step out of the narrow way, it is not Christianity which fails, but the one whom chooses to drift from it. One is forgiven when we come back to Christianity (God and His Word), not by dwelling in sin, refusing to depart such, demanding God accept us while we live rejecting all that He says and is.

Third, it simply amazes me at the ease that many Christians are seemingly able to accuse and blame God for their sins, even when their choices go contrary to the very Word of God. Adam did the same thing in the Garden of Eden. When confronted with his sin of eating of the forbidden tree, Adam contended, ‘The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.’ True, God had given Adam the woman. True, Eve had given Adam the fruit. Though both of these were true, Adam’s guilt lay completely within his choice to disobey God and eat that which was forbidden.

Why do we as Christians desire justification of our sin, by trying to find ways around Scripture, by blaming others, or receiving so-called ‘pardon’ by those also opposing such Scripture (whatever the sin), rather than repentance of our sin where the fellowship with God may not be hindered but increased, and our faith in walking with the Lord strengthened? Why are we worried about our acceptance by man more so than by God? Do we not know that our approval by man does not justify us before God, especially if we are found to be embracing sin over His Word?

It is true that one can live a lie; one can be a hypocrite, claiming to profess Christ as Lord and Savior, while neither loving nor serving Him with their heart, soul, mind, and strength. But, one can also live a lie by claiming God will accept them in their sin; for a Holy God will not, but has called us to repentance that we may be forgiven.

Who Art Thou, Oh Son of Perdition

2008-09-11T08:52:00.004-06:00

In 2 Thessalonians 2 we have Paul speaking of the time of the expected return of Jesus Christ. Paul mentions that such will not come ‘except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition.’ Many believe this is the Antichrist to come.

Some have found the use of ‘the son of perdition’ by Paul in his description of such a one somewhat interesting. Paul says here in 2 Thessalonians 2 that this Wicked is ‘the son of perdition’ ‘whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders.’

In Revelation 17, Scripture speaks of a beast, one which ‘was, and is not, and yet is.’ This beast, the Antichrist, ‘shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition.’ Notice it is declared unto John, this beast was in the past, is not in the present, yet will be in the future. So, apparently, this one which is to come has been beforetime, yet is not presently on the earth. But, we know with a surety this is not Christ Jesus, for this one cometh from ‘the bottomless pit’ ‘whose coming is after the working of Satan’ ‘to make war with the saints.’

Interestingly, the description ‘son of perdition’ is only used concerning one other person in Scripture. In John 17:12, Christ Himself declares, ‘While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.’

The one of whom Christ spoke was Judas Iscariot, the very betrayer, of whom Christ also declared was ‘a devil’ [John 6]. Interestingly, when Christ spoke to the Pharisees [John 8], He proclaimed ‘Ye are of your father the devil,’ but for Judas He claimed was a devil himself.

Revelation says this one ‘shall ascend out of the bottomless pit.’ We know from Scripture that this pit, hell, must have compartments. Debatable maybe by some the story of the rich man and Lazarus, along with Christ’s descending to the heart of the earth, but we also have mentioned the fallen angels bound by chains in 2 Peter 2 and Jude, and of Christ preaching to the spirits in prison in 1 Peter 3.

Noteworthy, when it comes to Judas Iscariot, Scripture says he went to ‘his own place.’ In fact, it says, ‘Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.’ [Acts 1]

Satan used Judas once before, is it possible that he may use Judas once again?

I am not claiming I know Judas Iscariot will ascend from his own place, from the bottomless bit, by the power of Satan to take the form of the Antichrist, but I sure do find some of these things quite interesting.

I believe Clarence Larkin makes mention of some of these things in his book on Revelation.

What say ye?

Clarence Larkin's thoughts, here.
AW Pink's thoughts, here.

Big Bucks - Big Guesses - Big Bang Machine

2008-09-09T15:02:00.007-06:00

Apparently, 'At 12:30 a.m. EDT Wednesday, scientists on the Franco-Swiss border will flip the switch on the Large Hadron Collider, a 17-mile underground ring where subatomic particles will be accelerated to astonishing speeds and then smashed into each other.' [article]

I couldn’t help but think of the following clip from Men in Black, when I read this article:

Do they hope to create a little universe within this machine, so they can play as a god? I sure hope it doesn’t 'create a black hole or strange self-replicating particle that will gobble up the Earth.' But, just maybe, 'we should expect visitors from the future to arrive soon after it goes into operation.'

:0)

Enjoy!

Update: 9/22

Ooops, a few problems... http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,425669,00.html

'It then causes the protons to collide, revealing how the tiniest particles were first created after the "big bang," which many theorize was the massive explosion that formed the stars, planets and everything.'

Really? I think they forgot to write 'revealing how [some believe] the tiniest particles were first created...'

Purity: A Virtuous Choice

2008-09-09T08:35:00.002-06:00

Apparently, according to this article, at the MTV Music Video Awards, Russell Brand thought it would be somewhat cute to make fun of those persons that would rather keep their virginity for their future spouse, than to lose their purity by taking part in promiscuous sin.

I believe those who make the choice to flee youthful lusts, whether they wear a purity ring or not, should be commended as showing a desire to keep themselves pure. So, I am glad to see that others, such as Jordin Sparks also at the MTV Music Video Awards, voiced, in her own words, not everyone wishes to dwell in fornication.

I find it interesting that there are some, apparently even in the ‘professional’ field, which not only wish to discredit and shutdown abstinence classes, but also wish to talk down of those that have personally chosen to make virginity pledges. Almost seemingly claiming, ‘Ah, they want last.’

How has the human mind become so perverted that they have come to believe that ‘safe sex’ is better that virginity? Any virgin can lose their purity at anytime, but those in fornication can never regain their virgin purity. Does such make them jealous, and therefore lash out at those who were able to control themselves more so that they?

The fact is, if persons would hold dear their virginity until marriage, there would be no out-of-wedlock pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. The problem is not, ‘does abstinence work,’ for it does. The problem is with boys and girls, men and women not staying true to purity, but giving themselves over to the lustful thoughts of their hearts.

And let it be noted, that those who have aforetime lost their virginity, this does not mean they cannot now live a life of purity till or in marriage. We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God, but there is forgiveness found in Jesus Christ. Don’t look to the darkness of your past, but to the brightness of your future!

Purity is a virtuous choice, one that must be decided before we find ourselves in a situation, and one that must be strengthened by the power of God working in and through us. Don’t let lust take your purity, save it for your future spouse; whereby, you may give unto them a treasure you have kept just for them.

All Tangled Up In Hair

2008-09-04T08:26:00.001-06:00

I couldn’t help but find this hilarious when I read it:

“It’s about 20 years out of date,” said Boston stylist Mario Russo of the Alaska governor’s ’do. “Which goes to show how off she might be on current events.”

This whole article from the Boston Herald regarding Alaska governor Sarah Palin makes no sense whatsoever. So, if one doesn’t submit their hair color, style, type to the stylist Mario Russo they might not be up to date on current events? Maybe they just aren’t tossed to and fro with every new fade that pops up its little head, here today gone tomorrow, in our society.

Interestingly, another says, “It gives me the impression that she just washed her hair, pays attention to the front and throws up the back in a bun,” said Belmont stylist Leon De Magistris. Yeah, but we know if she spent hours fixing her hair, one would be able to find those that claims she would be too vain and spend too much time on herself and not the country.

Good grief people, if one is going to look at what is important in candidates for President and Vice President, I say give yourself a make-over and worry about other issues when it comes to the people on the ballot.

So Long Hurricane Gustav...

2008-09-02T21:40:00.003-06:00

...I just got power back at my house a few minutes ago (9/2, 10pm).

Central is pretty dark with most of the people without power, unless you have a generator. Also, we must have lost some cell towers because it is hit and miss trying to call someone with my cell phone; although I can text and my internet on my iPhone worked when I did get a signal. Some of the land lines are having trouble calling out and reaching them too. I heard BR got it worse, but I haven't been back to work yet. The power is still out so it may be Thursday before I go back. Also, the schools are closed till next Monday.

At first glance, in my neighborhood it didn't look too bad, but after driving around it is a lot worse that we saw with Katrina here, not sure about NO and such. Some of us from church went to help an elderly couple move their furniture to higherground, apparently the Comite is rising and it will flood their neighborhood; and in the past they have gotten up to 32 inches of water inside of their home.

A friend of mine in Alexandria said they were getting it pretty bad and they were helping tranlsate Spanish at the hospital at Tall Timbers, but I haven't been able to text or call them last night or today.

Heard there are a couple of more storms out there, so I guess we better stay prepared.

Have I changed my mine about the 'prophecy' of the last post? No.

Is Such Hurricane Gustav Prophecy Of God?

2008-08-28T14:51:00.012-06:00

As you may know, we currently have Hurricane Gustav moving toward the Texas to Florida coastline. With the memory of Hurricane Katrina, people in New Orleans and elsewhere are watching Gustav closely.

Yesterday, I was given the following (in part):

Concerning the prophecy the Lord God spoke about the 7 spirits, the 7 witches and the 7 hurricanes: The foundation of these hurricanes have been laid. The 7th hurricane began as a tropical storm named Gustav on August 25th 2008 at 2:00 pm EST. Gustav means "staff of God ". August 17th 2008 Kathy and I were on the mountain praying when I had an open vision. I saw the staff of God striking the earth. In this vision I saw the "staff of God", which looked like a pillar of fire, coming out the heavens like one huge mighty staff as it struck America. As this staff struck it exploded into a huge pillar of fire and looked like a nuclear explosion. This staff continued to strike America and the earth several times (it seemed like 7 times). Every time it struck there was a massive explosion. (In 1998 the Lord God gave me the prophecy of Katrina hitting Louisiana and as I spoke it out they mocked God's word which was sent through His prophets. God spoke to me in November 2007 and said He would send judgment which will be 10 times greater than Katrina. Could Gustav be what the Lord God is speaking about? Woe unto you Louisiana and the Gulf Coast!)

After the vision and as I pondered what I had seen I sensed the Lord speak to me and say "Gustav will be a sign to America and to the nations as it is the 7th hurricane and there are many more devastating hurricanes to come behind this one. As Gustav develops it will be a sign of the striking blow to America, for the Lord God is about to strike America with His staff, His power and authority beyond anything America has ever seen". Tell my people to repent and get ready for we have 1/2 hour left. "I will cause America and the church of America to make them see my mighty arm of judgments. Remember, you must be tried through the fire; purified and made white. Just as America will be made to drink the cup of my wrath so shall I make the church drink the cup of my judgment? I will rain my judgments down upon the righteous and the wicked. My prophets will proclaim my judgments and they will strike the earth as often as they want, according to my will and my word.

I will be honest and say that I am not one to eagerly embrace any new modern day prophecy as such, but because of the people who presented it to me I did go and search out the links. First, I found that the quote appears on a questionable site, in my opinion, and can be viewed here. You will have to scroll down to see that it was posted by one going by the name Anonymous Coward. So, why not by Matthew Stephen, the author?

What I also find odd is even if you visit (at least yesterday and today) Matthew Stephen’s website (here) the link to this supposed prophecy is unreachable. Under Urgent: The Eight Letters, items 6 through 8 cannot be found. Why?

A couple of things I would like to note in just the above two paragraphs:

The author apparently claims the name Gustav means ‘staff of God’, but according to Wikipedia.com it means ‘staff of the gods’, and ThinkBabyNames.com seem to agree; whereas BabyNameCollection.com claims Gustava (female, notice extra ‘a’) means ‘staff of the gods’ where Gustav (male) means ‘royal staff’.

Notice the author poses the threat ‘God spoke to me in November 2007 and said He would send judgment which will be 10 times greater than Katrina,’ then turns right around asking us ‘Could Gustav be what the Lord God is speaking about?’ Surely the prophet must know the prophecy he claims to be foretelling from God.

The author mentions that ‘you must be tried through the fire; purified and made white. Just as America will be made to drink the cup of my wrath so shall I make the church drink the cup of my judgment? I will rain my judgments down upon the righteous and the wicked.’ A quick search will return Zechariah 13:9 and 1 Peter 1:7 speaking of God’s people being ‘tried by fire’, though both of these speak of God’s grace of bringing His saints through such things not beating them down with such. We also know by Scripture that we are not purified and made white by our own works, but by the blood of the Lamb (the works of Christ). We also find in Revelation it is those who oppose God that must ‘drink the cup of [his] judgment’ not the saints (i.e. His church), though He does chastise us. Is there not a difference between discipline and wrath?

Now, I will admit, there is some ‘truth’ in what the author has written (in the full article not posted above), but that alone does not make it prophecy of/from God in part or in full. Most will admit that hurricanes can be devastating, destroying many things in their paths. Some will give credit to nature, others to God, but there is no doubt that they can cause many people to perish or to lose homes and possessions. Even causing America to weep and be generous with their help to others, so what in this prophecy could one find that would prove it is prophetic by the very source of God and not merely generic thoughts that could come to pass with any hurricane at any time?

At the end of the author’s words, we find Christ supposedly calling unto his Bride (which Scripture declares is the church). Again, I find odd, where this prophet claims the church is to ‘seek wisdom, discernment and love’ he yet claims they shall be made to ‘drink the cup of [his] judgment’. Who shall they receive love from if not the Bridegroom?

Indeed the storm cometh and we may have to endure the storm’s wrath, but as for this prophecy I am just not convinced Matthew Stephen is a prophet of God. But, you are free to draw your on conclusions. Just remember in who and where your faith needs to be placed, in Christ Jesus alone.

Pray for the Family of David Glynn Case

2008-08-28T08:36:00.004-06:00

A friend of mine from our Sunday school class at church passed away this past Sunday morning. Here is his obituary:

David Glynn Case
Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same, but as God calls us one by one the chain will link again. David entered this world on Aug. 25, 1965, and departed to be with his Savior, Our Lord Jesus Christ, on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2008, at age 42. Visitation at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, on Wednesday, Aug. 27, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visitation resumes in the funeral home chapel on Thursday from 9 a.m. until service at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Gerald Martin. Burial in Evergreen Memorial Park, Denham Springs. David attended Fellowship Baptist Church and was a member of the Harmony Sunday school class. He was the collections manager with E-Federal Credit Union. David was an avid sports fan and loved playing golf. He always rooted for his teams, the Dallas Cowboys and the Oklahoma Sooners. David's loving and giving spirit continues to live on through his desire to help others by being an organ donor. David is survived by his wife, Nancy Matthias Case, who he lovingly called "Sunshine"; his two precious sons, Dillon and Brice; their mother, Shannon Voss; his parents, James and Linda Case; maternal grandfather, M.E. "Bud" Smith; an uncle and aunt, Mike and Judy Case; and two cousins, Chad and Alan Case. David was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Earl Case; paternal grandparents, Morris and Doris Case, who were of Brookhaven, Miss.; and maternal grandmother, Dorothy Smith. Pallbearers will be Chad Case, Alan Case, Randy LeBouef, Thomas Miller, Mike Smith and Jeff Lea. Memorial donations may be made to Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency, 4441 N. I-10 Service Road West, Metairie, LA 70006.

David professed Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, and we know all who put their faith in Christ go to be with Him forevermore when their time on earth is done. But as he embraces eternal life, I can’t help but think of the family who must continue steadfast in their daily walk with God and responsibilities of this life. Their life is not over and I am sure they are and will be faced with many questions and choices, where decisions will still need to be made, maybe even requiring them to do so, while things most likely seem at their worst.

I can’t imagine bearing the loss of my two children, expecting as a parent to pass away long before they should ever enter eternity. How does one grieve the loss of a son or daughter, and stay faithful to God and able to carry on, I scarily wish to consider.

Even now I must admit the loss of my father or mother would be a sadness that would cause my heart to hurt, but how much more so for two young boys who find comfort in the protection their father offered them at such young ages. Sure Nancy will love and comfort them, but children need that special way each parent shares their love differently with each child.

And what of Nancy, the loving wife who just days ago had one who she could confide in, rely on, love, hold and be held, finding security and companionship in David, but may now feel alone though in the very company of family and friends?

By the grace of God may we each be able to endure that which touches our lives, and be ready always to comfort those who carry such weights now. We have a security in Scripture that Christ is willing and able to save all who call upon His name, by putting faith in Him we may hope in the promise of eternal life whereby we may once again see our loved ones who have gone on before us in the name of the Lord.

Book Two: Daegsteorra - Completion

2008-08-27T07:27:00.004-06:00

As some of you may know, last year I finished book one, entitled Ekleipsis, of my In the Land of Erde series. It was my first time to actually complete a fictional book of which I had started, though I have written a few other things.

I would like to say since my introduction of book two, Daegsteorra, I have decided to change the cover art. The book has been returned from my editor, and although it is already available for purchase, I have ordered myself a proof copy so that I may read through it once more in its entirety.

A brief summary of book two:
Behold the Daegsteorra cometh, while the Darkness, even Jagare who now dwelleth in Temeto (once named Kirche), doth yet bathe in their sin and seeming triumphant victory over Erde. Pride has kept them from the truth, as they serve it willingly of heart, fighting yet against King Salvare and the very Creator of Heaven. Do they not yet know that the created cannot overthrow their Creator, nor shall evil overcome good?

You will find an introduction to book two, Daegsteorra, and spoiler of book one, Ekleipsis here.

Enjoy!

Whatever You're Doing - Sanctus Real

2008-08-26T20:50:00.011-06:00

I realize that this is a contemporary style of Christian music, which some may not agree with. Such is why I chose this alternate accoustic version; for, I posted it more for the words than the instruments. Are we surrendering ourselves to God, while He yet works inside of us?

It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time to make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
And all I can do is surrender

(Chorus)
Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
but I'm giving in to something Heavenly

Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Reevaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow Your will
Or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is You want from me
I give everything I surrender...
To...

(Chorus)

Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to release all my held back tears

Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something Heavenly

Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This is something bigger than me
Larger than life something Heavenly
Something Heavenly

It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out

Original Sanctus Real here.

Don't Think Your Bible Is Enough...

2008-08-26T13:34:00.005-06:00

...could be that you get to take a closer look at the Dead Sea Scrolls within the next few years on-line.

“The project began as a conservation necessity,” Ms. Shor explained. “We wanted to monitor the deterioration of the scrolls and realized we needed to take precise photographs to watch the process. That’s when we decided to do a comprehensive set of photos, both in color and infrared, to monitor selectively what is happening. We realized then that we could make the entire set of pictures available online to everyone, meaning that anyone will be able to see the scrolls in the kind of detail that no one has until now.”

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/27/world/middleeast/27scrolls.html

The Struggle of Sorrows

2008-08-22T11:26:00.001-06:00

When my heart so full of sorrows, has no words to say
There I find you by my side, here with me all the way
Though sometimes silent yet I feel, you appear to me
As one who does not really care, my hurt do you not see
I cry out to you for answers, with my tears I call on you
To take the pain and sorrow, to let me start anew
Why can I not revisit the past, to change what I have chose
Redo a choice and make another, go down a different road
Could not I save myself from such, such difficulties now
Escorted by my present wisdom, I surely would know how
I know our lives we live here, are entwined with one another
But why must smiles be granted them, while I myself do suffer
It seems they have their desires met, though mine do fade away
As quickly as the sun appears, the clouds block out its ray
Moments here and moments there, bits of hope seem to appear
Only to be found once more, tossed alone in darkness drear
I grasp at you to pull you close, to drag you in my direction
Why must I bear all my troubles, I beg for your protection
My spirit’s weak, my body’s worn, my mind so full of doubt
I desire to run from all I know, I simply just want out
I turn to you for one last glimpse, with nothing left inside
I feel as though I should fall away, but you pull me to your side
You carry me from whence I am, yet not to where I’ve been
Through my sorrows gently walk, to a place for me to mend
Why did I not look to you, was it for the tears within my eyes
Why could I not hear your voice, was it for my deafening cries
The depths of sorrow, oh my soul, I did let draw me away
My only savior through the vale, he now leads me on my way
I know the path will not be easy, for I have to take it slow
I must trust him in my sorrows, and follow where I should go
Just above the mountains, I can see the bright sun break
Through the darkness of the valley, I shall again one day partake
Then shall what my sorrows be, but a moment of my past
Of lessons learned and wisdom got, from pain that did not last
For through it do I pray to come, by faith and hope and love
Not by my own strength for sure, but by the one sent from above

August 21, 2008

Scriptures in China: The Word Within And Without

2008-08-18T13:00:00.003-06:00

According to a news article, apparently the ministry Vision Beyond Borders had about 300 Bibles confiscated by customs at the airport in Kunming. It appears that the organization was hoping to distribute the Bibles to those of this city in China.

According to the China Daily, here, Amity Printing factory (located in Nanjing, Jiangsu) is ‘China's biggest Bible producer, [and] has made over 5 million Bibles for Chinese churches in the past two years and exported about 5 million copies in roughly 75 languages.’ This agency claimed to have printed 30,000 copies of the New Testament (one picture shows English Standard Version) to distributed free during the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Though, according to this report, China controls the printing of the Bible and only allows them to be used in government authorized churches and the larger hotels which accommodate tourists.

Just at a glance, this does cause one to ponder why such the fuss. If indeed, China has authorized the freely giving out of 30,000 copies of the Word within their country, why would they deny the entry of a mere 300 more copies of the Word for the same purpose? Version perhaps?

According to Vision Beyond Borders’ website, they acknowledge:

In China and other countries closed to the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Bible has been valued over life in some instances. Knowing they need God’s Word in order to be spiritually free, people endure imprisonment, beatings, and loss of life to keep God’s word alive in their country. Hundreds of people may share the same Bible, spending countless hours hand copying it.

It appears that Klein is no stranger to the spiritual warfare surrounding the spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through the written Scripture since he has been involved in missions for over twenty years according to the website testimony, and his Vision Beyond Borders’ ministry began in 1994 (though originally under the name Asian Vision).

I am not here to promoted Patrick Klein, for I do not personally know him or his ministry, but I am happy to hear that such a ministry exist in the reaching the world with the precious gospel of Jesus Christ. I am also happy to hear that even inside China, there is being Bibles produced and distributed. Even if they are not as freely and available as we would like, every copy of the Word opens the door to unfathomable potential that can be used by the Holy Spirit inside of China.

May we be mindful of the spiritual battles that constantly take place in the material realm, putting our faith in Christ, obeying the moving of the Holy Spirit, trusting God will have His will and way in all matters. Though it sometimes seems the evil one may have his way over us, be of good cheer, for we know our great King has overcome him at Calvary. True, our lives and ministries are not empty of set backs, but may we press on finding hope in Christ and not in ourselves, knowing that souls in this world need the message of the Savior.

So, whether it is the printed Word within China, or the Word printed from without China making its way in, may the Spirit of God grant it safe passage to the hearts of those who desperately need Christ.

The Church: May Reach Out To The Homosexual, But Cannot Embrace Homosexuality

2008-08-13T08:24:00.007-06:00

Ref: Peggy Campolo, 'Gay Christians can't wait any longer '

To me, it appears that Peggy Campolo wishes to move the church into acceptance of homosexuality, not simply witnessing to the homosexual. The church cannot and should not embrace homosexuality, especially those that practice such, just like Paul rebuke the Corinthians for the fornication they had in their church. In fact, he tells them ‘to deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh’ which sounds pretty tough judgment to me.

She writes, ‘Dr. Gushee is right on the mark when he states that the problems of gay Christians cannot be properly addressed without the church clearly defining the meaning of sex and marriage, and I think he would agree with me that those who reduce marriage to "plumbing and baby-making" are the ones who demean marriage’ but ‘sex and marriage’ is already clearly defined in Scripture and surely in most churches. It appears she is actually calling for a redefining of such, which would be unbiblical and unchristian.

She further states, ‘The current problems of *straight* people, as well as those facing God's gaychildren, cannot be solved until the church of Jesus Christ clearly defines for its people the meaning of celibacy, sex, marriage and what constitutes a family’ and although sin is sin, homosexuality is a sin that Scripture claims God turns ones over to a reprobate mind, and again ‘the meaning of celibacy, sex, marriage and what constitutes a family’ is pretty clear in Scripture already. We need no redefining. Notice the use of [*straight* people] versus [God’s gay children].

She notes, ‘Those children of God, those who do not happen to be straight, are the reason that I, and so many others who love Jesus and believe in the Bible's message of grace, demand justice for them NOW,’ but does she really want ‘justice’? Do any of us want righteous justice for our sin? And ‘who do not happen to be straight’, how about choose not to be straight. Sure we can argue all day whether some are born with homosexual tendencies, but this writing seems to be speaking of practicing homosexuals, which is a choice just like every other sin.

I hate to hear that there are those which are committing suicide because they feel rejected while living in homosexuality, but we are commanded to repent, believe on Christ, and live.

Yes, I have heard the claims that we hate some sins and ‘accept’ others, but this does not mean we ‘accept’ the other sins also, we merely need to repent of ‘accepting’ the some.

Just my thoughts and I am sure some may disagree.

Note: This is not saying that I believe we should hate homosexuals or not allow them to visit our churches. I am saying that practicing homosexuality is a sin, and should be viewed and treated as sin within the church just as we should other sins. Sin needs to be repented of, and faith needs to be put in the finished work of Christ that He will continue to help us grow away from sin and closer to righteousness.

Prayer For The Learning And Wisdom Of Our Children...

2008-08-12T14:22:00.002-06:00

As we walk through the month of August, our elementary to college family and friends will begin a new year of studies. They will hopefully be given a learning of knowledge and wisdom by their teachers that will be important to both their further education and future opportunities. Though secular understanding is not all they need.

Along with parents, Sunday school teachers, and pastors, seasoned Christians should also have a wealth of wisdom from both experience and meditation in the Scriptures through their life of serving God. We must ensure that we give these students godly examples concerning our Christian walk, to help them prove what is right from the Word of God. For, surely they will see a variety of morality and lifestyles in their fellow students, and possibly their teachers, this year.

May we all join in praying for each and every soul, that God would protect them from the evil of this world. Let us not dismiss the idea that from the youngest child to the mature college student, they do in fact face similar types of intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual warfare as we all do. By this, I mean the intellectual battle of their minds to believe or discount the things of God, the emotional battle of peer pressure and fitting in that may often go unknown to us, the physical battle of temptations along with protection from the desire of others to hurt fellow students, and the spiritual battle of doing that which is right even when it isn’t easy. All of these are extremely real, even though they may not be brought to our attention very often.

Should not our desire be that these may grow in the knowledge and wisdom of the Lord, bypassing many of the sins and pitfalls we have found ourselves in, that they may have a better Christian testimony and joyous life than we? May it be so.

Let us be mindful and prayerful of one another.

Wife, Co-pastor, Christian Draws Diversity of Thought

2008-08-07T12:14:00.002-06:00

Removing myself momentarily from the discrepancies of their doctrines, I would like to make note of an interesting point in this article concerning Victoria Osteen. Victoria is the wife of Joel Osteen, but more importantly here she professes Christianity and is the co-pastor of Lakewood Church.

It is no secret that when those in the spot-light are seen doing something ‘wrong’, whether the whole world is guilty of the same, they are immediately brought before the judgment seat of the media and those who watch such. This is why those of us who claim Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior must be mindful of our actions regardless of the situation and our emotions that tend to lead us astray into sin.

I found it interesting that when polling for jurors, the article mentions a couple of types. We have those that [1] ‘had been to Lakewood Church and acknowledged holding the Osteens in high regard and being star-struck by them’ and then those that claim they [2] ‘didn't like preachers or televangelists and that ministers can lie.’ So, before the court proceedings can even begin, it would appear that there are those which are ‘for’ and those which are ‘against’ the Osteens (professing Christians) from the get-go.

Regardless of whether Victoria is guilty or innocent of the charges, this article simply shows the stigma that some have brought upon ‘religious beliefs, celebrity and the public's perception of preachers and televangelists’ by choices professing Christians in notable arenas have made. This does not free us that are not in the media light from guilt if we should cause others to ‘worship us’ by our pride or turn away from God by our sinful deeds, but merely means we should all be mindful of ourselves, our intentions, and our honest walk with God; for we may all fall at any time we take our eyes off the Son.

I just found the diversity of thought concerning the jurors over this one incident interesting. How does this story affect you? Have you also judged by whether you worship or despise them and their ministry, or has it caused you to take a moment to observe yourself to see if you too have such a sin as has been claimed to have happened here?

John Bunyan’s Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners

2008-08-01T20:14:00.002-06:00

What a marvelous work did I happen upon in picking up John Bunyan’s Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners. From the onset he describes his wretched soul, as we all as sinners have been. He tells of the dreams and warnings of the Lord which came while he was yet a child, which caused his heart to ponder such things of heaven and hell, though they soon faded as he continued in sin. He shares of finding a religious experience, which both intrigued him and shallowly gave him comfort, but in his sin was he yet still. We find that even through the rebuke of the lost to one another can change one in the flesh, yet their spirit may remain dead in trespasses and sin. Yet, through it all, the God of Heaven shares mercy and grace to a sinner who, blinded by the flesh and the devil, falls to the depth of believing there is no hope for them, for they are too much of a sinner to find forgiveness in Christ. Oh, how great a change may be shown by the religious and the hypocrite, yet merely skin deep, the heart and soul never truly knows of the conversion whereby we are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise. Trusting not in Christ for forgiveness, though His very Words were nigh even upon his lips and fingertips, he did strive to obey the law to earn that which may only be given: salvation. Though asking God for forgiveness, it was misplaced by mere thoughts of the flesh saying ‘I can do better’ instead of putting faith in His Son’s sinless life and taking our place upon the cross. Praise be to God that dear John Bunyan indeed found salvation by grace through faith, by the mercy of God he found it, and so may every sinner that turns in faith, at the moving of the Holy Spirit, away from themselves and toward the sinless Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world.

I have just started this work, but would recommend this to any sinner desiring to know more about Christ, the new convert who has come to know Christ, and to the believer that he may remember the day they met Christ.

Twisted Inside, Heart Against Mind

2008-07-29T19:33:00.001-06:00

Twisted inside, heart against mind
Emotional turmoil, where fear does dine
Knowledge and wisdom, right and wrong
The mind rejects, the heart’s love song
Struggling, do they yet fight
As choices and costs, come to the light

Tears in the shadows, cries in the night
Hidden from other, people’s sight
Pain grips the soul, smothering breath
With a worn body, that finds no rest
Fighting the will, a desire to hold on
Afraid to let go, of being alone

The eyes see no other, the senses die
The season changes, now winter resides
Where the warmth, of spring once dwelt
Now covered in snow, with no sun to melt
The heart quivers, alone in the cold
Rebuked by the mind, for being so bold

How may one, just let love go
Stand there still, and let it flow
From the veins, of your very heart
As it pulls and tares, your whole being apart
How do you stop love, and survive the woe
While a part of the heart dies, as you let go

Tomorrow will come, and so will the next
Day after day, though the spirit still vexed
Consumed by sickness, some claim is benign
Learn to go on, a moment at a time
Seal up the heart, for the wounds to heal
Hide away forever, never again to reveal

For the anguish torments, deep down inside
In the void of silence, where joy did reside
Knowledge it’s gone, yet denial remains
The heart holds to hope, while the mind refrains
Logic and reason, strap the heart in submission
As love fades away, vanishing into remission

July 27, 2008

A Call To Serve God More...

2008-07-22T07:31:00.001-06:00

I pray this letter finds you all doing well serving the Lord. I pray that we will all be mindful of the opportunities the Spirit may lead us to, but also of our adversaries, namely the world, the flesh, and the devil, of whom we contend against.

Serving with fellow church members, of who are my brothers and sisters in Christ, in Mexico for a week stirs my senses to be more aware of the spiritual warfare that surrounds each and every one of us on a daily basis. Not only do we contend with a world system made of unsaved souls who desire not to serve the risen Saviour, we must rely on being obedient to the Spirit of God to make us mindful of Satan’s devices, not putting confidence in our sinful flesh which all too often leads us astray from the things of God.

Dear friends, we must be willing to place our faith in Christ and serve Him with our whole hearts. Too often I find myself wasting precious time that could be used getting to know my God and strengthening my faith. We cannot contend for the faith if we are unwilling to talk with our King (prayer), mediate upon his Word (Scripture), and put into action that which His Spirit shows us. We cannot allow temporal things to cloud our judgments, hindering us from receiving the wisdom of God that gives us strength and power in spiritual battles.

Our paying lip service to the things of God serves no purpose with man nor with God, for we are but one that neither believes nor cares for even that which we say. For, if we truly loved God, our family and friends, and desired not that one should taste the torments of eternal condemnation, would not our faith move us to witness that which we claim to believe?

You, my friend, may find yourselves doing just that, serving God to your fullest, and to that I say praise God, may you continue steadfast. But, for us (yes, me included) that are not completely using our time wisely, and all to often appear to get sidetracked by the woes and cares of this world, we need to repent (turn away from) those things which may not be sin, but yet hinder us from heading head strong into service for God, putting His will above our own.

Do you desire to know God? Do you desire to serve God? Do you desire to share His Word with others? These are questions that we all need to ask ourselves, being honest with ourselves and God with our answers. If yes, then we must then ask ourselves as to what are we presently doing for the cause of Christ. If no, we must purge ourselves of sin by repentance, seeking the forgiveness of Christ, then moving forth in obedience to the pressing of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Do we not know ‘every one of us shall give account of himself to God?’ [Romans 14:12] May we all live a testimony well pleasing in His sight!

God Bless,

A Little More Expounding on 1 Corinthians 3:1-15

2008-07-18T14:50:00.003-06:00

1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. 3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?

According to verses 1-4, when we have not progressed in our spiritual walk, but continue with envy, strife, and divisions we are being carnally minded.

Hebrews 5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

1 Peter 2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

Ephesians 5 speaks of the relationship of the husband and the wife, as the relationship of Christ and the church. As the church, we are to submit ourselves to Christ because He loves us and gave Himself for us. His desire is to present us without blemish, cleansing us by ‘the washing of water by the word.’ Just as we are to grow closer to our spouse by taking time to intimately know them, so must we desire to ‘grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ’ to ‘beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.’ [2 Peter 3:17-18] A marital relationship can’t simply stay at the same stage as when two people first met, and neither can our relationship with Jesus Christ remain the same as the day we were saved. We must mature in our love and knowledge of the things of God through the study and meditation of His Word.

4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? 5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?

We have to guard ourselves from becoming –ites. It is okay to say ‘my pastor is Bro. Martin’ and that ‘I attend Fellowship Baptist Church’ but we must remember the gospel message of Jesus Christ is about His death, burial, and resurrection, not about our pastor and our church. When we witness, we are to share with persons the Word of God, not try to convert them to be Southern Baptist on their door step. We should support our pastor and our church, but we must guard against simply becoming a follower of a man (any man). We are to be followers of Christ, but testing all things against the Scriptures. 2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Acts 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.

As Christians we are to be about witnessing and spreading the gospel message to those around us. As the parable of the sewer (or the seed) [Matthew 13, Mark 4, Luke 8] the seed may indeed fall upon various grounds, but how then shall the seed find the good ground unless we are willing to plant and water with the abilities God has given us? We shouldn’t choose by outward appearance to where or whom to plant and water, but obey the moving of the Holy Spirit.

7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.

As Christians we must be conscious that we do not allow pride to have us see ourselves as higher than all other Christians and better than all sinners, for we will become self Pharisaical making ourselves of no profitable use to the cause of Christ. We must remember that by grace through faith we have been converted – by God – ‘Not by 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; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.’ [Titus 3:5-7] For it is Christ who is the ‘author and finisher of our faith’ knowing He which hath begun the a good work in us continues to work in us to do His good pleasure. We have not made ourselves saved, nor can we make someone else saved. We must present the gospel, pray, and trust the Spirit of God will move in the hearts of people.

This also does not mean our service to God means nothing, for Romans 10 shows God uses men to further the gospel in that it ask ‘how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent?’ And here in 1 Corinthians 3 and verse 13 it declares, ‘Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is,’ and so shall there be reward and loss based on our honest deeds toward God and the spreading of His gospel message. Honest deeds means our heart also, not just what we see each other do on the outside, for the Pharisees appear good on the outside but were corrupt within. [Matthew 23:27]

What this does mean is that we are not the focal point, nor is it us or our ideas which save the lost. God and His gospel of Jesus Christ is the focal point, and He is the one who saves sinners. I mean, what is it that we plant and water? We must choose to plant and water that which God has provided, for if not, we will sin in planting and watering with man-made ideas and quick ‘easy believism’ schemes which may show numbers, but not truly converted hearts.

9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.

The only way that we can be ‘labourers together with God’ is to preach and teach the same gospel message He has already declared through Jesus Christ. Paul declares unto us the gospel in 1 Corinthians 15, but also elsewhere throughout Scripture. Verse 11 states, ‘For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.’ Paul says in Galatians 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

Just as 2 Timothy 2:16 following telling us to study the Word in verse 15, says ‘shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.’ How are we to witness to others and avoid deceit unless we grow from being babes in Christ and keep ourselves from being carnally minded?

We must humbly submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to work through us, using that which He has given us through Scripture, so that we will grow as Christians, souls will be saved, lives changed, and God receives all of the glory. We do not glory in ourselves when a soul comes to Christ, but glory in the One who has opened our eyes to see and our ears to hear, the One who has given us the seed and the water and works in us to plant and water wherever His Spirit shall lead us, that others may come to know Him also.

A Couple of Strikes, But Not Out!

2008-07-16T13:17:00.004-06:00

"It's amazing over the past few years what God's done in my life, and how quickly He's done it," Hamilton told ESPN's Erin Andrews after his record-setting performance. "I'd like to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving me this opportunity."

Article

'our closest genetic relatives deserve rights'

2008-07-16T09:51:00.006-06:00

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/WireStory?id=5246484&page=1

Looks like our 'evolutionary comrades' are finally about to get the human rights they 'deserve'. ^o);

How interesting of a boast, 'Spain did not legalize divorce until the 1980s, but Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero's Socialist government has legalized gay marriage, reduced the influence of the Catholic Church in education and set up an Equality Ministry.'

ref. Genesis 1:26, Genesis 9:2

Opinion of Readability

2008-07-16T09:15:00.003-06:00

I came across this site (http://www.criticsrant.com/bb/reading_level.aspx) which is apparently 'The Blog Readability Test'. I actually found its opinion of my blog rather interesting, since one most 'faithful' reader of my posts is bound to disagree.

Plant, Water, God Gives the Increase (as given in La Ciudad, Mexico)

2008-07-14T08:28:00.003-06:00

1 Corinthians 3: 1-15

According to verses 1-4, when we have envy, strife, and divisions we are being carnally minded.

As in verse 4, ‘one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos,’ we must remember we have not come to convert the people of La Ciudad to Baptist or even Southern Baptist, but are here to present to them the ‘good news’, praying the Spirit of God will convict them of sin, grant them repentance, and regenerate them to become followers of Christ. To think otherwise is to be carnally minded.

Verse 6 says, ‘I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.’

As Christians we are to be about witnessing and spreading the gospel message to those around us. As the parable of the sewer (or the seed) the seed may indeed fall upon various grounds, but how then shall the seed find the good ground unless we are willing to plant and water with the abilities God has given us? We shouldn’t choose by outward appearance to where or whom to plant and water, but obey the moving of the Holy Spirit.

Verse 9 says, ‘For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.’

As Christians we must remember that by grace through faith we have been converted – by God – ‘Not by 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; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.’ For it is Christ who is the ‘author and finisher of our faith’ knowing He which hath begun the a good work in us continues to work in us to do His good pleasure.

For this cause, we see in verse 7, ‘So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.’ This does not mean our service to God means nothing, for Romans 10 shows God uses men to further the gospel in that it ask ‘how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent?’ And here in 1 Corinthians 3 and verse 13 it declares, ‘Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is,’ and so shall there be reward and loss based on our honest deeds toward God and the spreading of His gospel message. Honest deeds means our heart also, not just what we see each other do on the outside, for the Pharisees appear good on the outside but were corrupt within.

What this does mean is that we are not the focal point, nor is it us or our ideas which save the lost. God and His gospel of Jesus Christ is the focal point, and He is the one who saves sinners. I mean, what is it that we plant and water? We must choose to plant and water that which God has provided, for if not, we will sin in planting and watering with man-made ideas and quick ‘easy believism’ schemes which may show numbers, but not truly converted hearts. Verse 11 states, ‘For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.’

The only way that we can be ‘labourers together with God’ is to preach and teach the same gospel message He has already declared through Jesus Christ. We must humbly submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to work through us, using that which He has given us through Scripture, so that souls will be saved, lives changed, and He receives all of the glory. We do not glory in ourselves when a soul comes to Christ, but glory in the One who has opened our eyes to see and our ears to hear, the One who has given us the seed and the water and works in us to plant and water wherever His Spirit shall lead us, that others may come to know Him also.

Man Sues Church for Getting What He Asked God For

2008-07-14T08:11:00.002-06:00

A very short article here reads:

‘A man says he was so consumed by the spirit of God that he fell and hit his head while worshipping. Now he wants Lakewind Church to pay $2.5 million for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.’

So, let me get this straight. Mr. Lincoln goes to church, prays that God would allow him to have ‘a real experience’, gets knocked down ‘from the force of the spirit’, which has happened previous times, and now wants to sue the church for injuries he claims to have been given not by the church, but by the very Holy Spirit of God - and at his own request?

Have you ever heard the saying, ‘be careful what you ask for?’ I think one must realize if you tell God to give you an experience, you better be ready to live with the consequences of your own request.

Don’t temp the Lord thy God!

Self Proclaimed Homosexual Confronts Publishers Not God

2008-07-11T15:01:00.004-06:00

'Bradley LaShawn Fowler, 39, of Canton, Mich., is seeking $60 million from Zondervan and another $10 million from Thomas Nelson Publishing in lawsuits filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, the Grand Rapids Press reported.'

Ah yes, blame a publishing company for feeling as though one is an 'outcast from his family and contributed to physical discomfort and periods of "demoralization, chaos and bewilderment."'

Can we actually count all of the books published in any given year, not to mention over a lifetime, that covers topics of homosexuality, yet he chooses merely two Bible publishing companies to sue?

You may check out the article here, but I just don't believe Mr. Fowler has thought this thing through. Sure the versions quoted mention 'homosexuals' but so does most Bible verisons even it if doesn't use the exact word.

Example: Romans 1:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

Also, if he has a problem with the content of a book, shouldn't he contact the author? Take this one up with God Mr. Fowler, it is His truth that states homosexuality is a sin, not the words or printing presses of these publishers.

La Ciudad 2008 - A Poem of Testimony

2008-07-10T21:00:00.003-06:00

Months of preparation, of heart and soul and mind
Meeting after meeting, making plans for our time
Cutting here, gluing there, string up a pole with fish
Punch a hole, bag the crafts, thanks for all the help with this
A piano tuned for music, taught us how to sing
A heart made just for children, imagined gospel schooling
Three young minds of prayer, eager to obey
Joined the great commission, shared Jesus every day
Men of honor joined in, the gospel to present
Leaving jobs and family, a witnessing they went
Natural was the appearance, even some faces refused to shave
Kept in line by two mothers, to ensure we all behaved
The gift of tongues displayed, by one’s native birthright
Translation of English into Spanish, souls embraced the Light
Through Bible stories, songs of praise, memory verses too
Puppets, crafts, tracts and video, the light of Christ shined through
Repentance there was granted, as faith sprang forth from hearts
For eight or nine adults and children, a new beginning starts
But let us not forget that one, at home God chose to keep
Was yet a testimony still at work, and rewards still able to reap
Neither shall we overlook, those who gave that some may go
Financial support got us there, but the prayers kept us afloat
Each one of you may not have gone, yet still had a part
In a mission trip that saw souls saved, as the Spirit worked in hearts
When coming home from such a time, I doubt we stay the same
I pray we take what God has shown us, and press on in Jesus name

We Have Returned from 'The City' La Ciudad, Mexico

2008-07-09T09:43:00.006-06:00

We returned from La Ciudad, Mexico around 9pm on Saturday, July 5. The trip was somewhat different than that of last year, but I supposed one cannot compare all mission trips to one another. We are to give testimonies with a presentation this coming Sunday night, but I am still pondering what thoughts I should express.

There were 10 persons from our church, and one lady from a church in New Orleans that helped us a great deal with translating that went this year. We were met at Laredo Stepping Stone, a location for traveling missionaries and groups to stay while crossing back and forth across the Mexican border, by two other ladies and a guy that would also help us with translating the gospel message of Jesus Christ into Spanish. It was also here in Laredo that we were met by the missionary to lead us into Durango, and further into the city of La Ciudad, Mexico. In Durango we were also joined by the missionary’s wife and another guy to help us translate.

The city was as I remembered it in some aspects, but I can’t get over the inner feeling that there was more spiritual warfare going on this year, and the town also seemed different at the same time (but I can’t yet seem to gather all of what I mean by this yet). I am not sure that I was as spiritually prepared as I thought I was or should have been for this trip, but God has shown me places I need improvement and how I must continually seek for wisdom and discernment.

We did have the pleasure of presenting the gospel message of repentance and the forgiveness of sins by putting ones faith in the work of Jesus Christ. We enjoyed singing songs, sharing Bible stories, making crafts, acting puppets, playing games, and simply interacting with the little boys and girls of La Ciudad. We also spent the evenings sharing a movie in Spanish which covered from creation to the resurrection of Jesus Christ with the adults and families, as we also enjoyed some fellowship as they often cooked for us and offered us something to drink (coke, coffee, hot chocolate) then.

We also had an exciting ‘Watermelon Party’ on the last day (Thursday) for the children in a neighborhood in Durango, Mexico (about 2 hours closer to the US from La Ciudad). We shared with them the gospel message ‘through fruit’ (of which God created), a devotional message, sang songs, played games, and all enjoyed the sweetness of watermelon.

Through it all, we were able to witness to over 200 children, a good many adults, and we were able to see the Spirit of God move in the hearts of at least 9 children and adults to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior through the Bible Club, the Hope video, and even through a tract that was handed out in which a young boy returned to us the following day.

Thank God for His mercy and grace, and may He receive all the glory!

Tim

Returning to ‘The City’ La Ciudad, Mexico

2008-06-23T14:05:00.004-06:00

Some of you may remember, last year around this time my church took a mission trip to La Ciudad, Mexico. My journal of that trip isavailable free to anyone here. This year we will be returning to La Ciudad, June 28 thru July 5.

Our plans with the children include singing, Bible stories, making crafts, treats, and fellowshipping with them in soccer, making animal balloons, and other games. We would also like to share a movie, devotional, and fellowship with the adults in the evenings.

08:00 – 10:00am Breakfast, devotional, prayer walking

10:30 – 2:30pm Children ministry

Greetings
Music
Puppets
Bible Study
Crafts
Refreshments, recreation, fellowship

3:00 – 4:30pm Lunch, rest, personal time

5:00 – 11:00pm Adult ministry

Monday
5:30 – Show movie at House 1
7:30 – Show movie at House 2
9:30 – Show movie at House 3

Tuesday
5:30 – Bible story 1 at House 1
6:30 – Bible story 1 at House 2
7:30 – Bible story 1 at House 3
9:30 – Show movie at House 4

Wednesday
5:30 – Bible story 2 at House 1
6:30 – Bible story 2 at House 2
7:30 – Bible story 2 at House 3
5:30 – Bible story 1 at House 4
9:30 – Show movie at House 5

Thursday
5:30 – Bible story 3 at House 1
6:30 – Bible story 3 at House 2
7:30 – Bible story 3 at House 3
5:30 – Bible story 2 at House 4
9:30 – Bible story 1 at House 5

We had a great time last year, and we pray that this year will be even better. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will direct us and moves the hearts of the people to put faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Once we return this year, I hope to make available again a journal of our visit.