Truth is Truth

Exposition Must Have Application

2008-03-26T13:49:00.002-04:00

A. W. Tozer

"The Bible is among other things a book of revealed truth. That is, certain facts are revealed that could not be discovered by the most brilliant mind. These facts are of such a nature as to be past finding out. They were hidden behind a veil, and until certain men who spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost took away that veil, no mortal man could know them. This lifting of the veil of unknowing from undiscoverable things we call divine revelation.

The Bible, however, is more than a volume of hitherto unknown facts about God, man and the universe. It is a book of exhortation based upon those facts. By far the greater portion of the book is devoted to an urgent effort to persuade people to alter their ways and bring their lives into harmony with the will of God as set forth in its pages.

No man is better for knowing that God in the beginning created the heavens and the earth. The devil knows that, and so did Ahab and Judas Iscariot. No man is better for knowing that God so loved the world of men that He gave His only begotten Son to die for their redemption. In hell there are millions that know that. Theological truth is useless until it is obeyed. The purpose behind all doctrine is to secure moral action.

What is generally overlooked is that truth as set forth in the Christian Scriptures is a moral thing; it is not addressed to the intellect only, but to the will also. It addresses itself to the total man, and its obligations cannot be discharged by grasping it mentally. Truth engages the citadel of the human heart and is not satisfied until it has conquered everything there. The will must come forth and surrender its sword. It must stand at attention to receive orders, and those orders it must joyfully obey. Short of this any knowledge of Christian truth is inadequate and unavailing.

Bible exposition without moral application raises no opposition. It is only when the hearer is made to understand that truth is in conflict with his heart that resistance sets in. As long as people can bear orthodox truth divorced from life they will attend and support churches and institutions without objection. The truth is a lovely song, become sweet by long and tender association; and since It asks nothing but a few dollars, and offers good music, pleasant friendships and a comfortable sense of well-being, it meets with no resistance from the faithful. Much that passes for New Testament Christianity is little more than objective truth sweetened with song and made palatable by religious entertainment.

One reason for the divorce between truth and life maybe the lack of the Spirit’s illumination. Another surely is the teacher’s unwillingness to get himself into trouble. Any man with fair pulpit gifts can get on with the average congregation if he just “feeds” them and lets them alone. Give them plenty of objective truth and never hint that they are wrong and should be set right, and they will be content.

On the other hand, the man who preaches truth and applies it to the lives of his hearers will feel the nails and the thorns. He will lead a hard life, but a glorious one. May God raise up many such prophets. The church needs them badly."

From the book "Of God and Man".

The Relevant Church

2008-02-20T06:50:00.003-05:00

The Relevant Church in Tampa, Florida is making national headlines. The Church's pastor, Paul Wirth, has issued a challenge to his church members: 30 days of sex or no sex for 30 days. He wants married people to have sex once a day for thirty days and single people to abstain from sex for the same period (I thought single people were suppossed to abstain until marriage anyway??).

He makes the argument that half of all marriages end in divorce. The 30 days of sex for married couples is designed to strengthen the marriage.

The problem is that many marriages end in divorce because they have no substance. They are built primarily on sex and attraction only. When one begins to wain so does the marriage.

MSNBC carried the story here and the church's website is here.

**I should give a little warning here. The church's website does have a blog regarding this "challenge". There is a video on the blog that one of the church staff has posted. The video does not show any nudity but is highly suggestive. Use Caution.

People that attend these type of churches are having their felt needs met and their spiritual needs ignored. Unfortunatly they are being misguided and need prayer. They have been told a lie and have believed it.

KJV Only Preacher

2008-02-19T05:35:00.003-05:00

Life has been busy recently and I haven't had the time to post as I would like. However, here is a short video that my good friend, Greg Birdwell, told me about.

As far as I know this is a real sermon by a real "preacher". There is a lesson in hermeneutics somewhere in here.

Highly Recommended Reading

2008-01-19T12:23:00.000-05:00

My good friend, Greg Birdwell, is doing an excellent job with the book of Matthew over at his blog "Drink Deep". Check it out here.

You've Got To Be Kidding Me

2008-01-16T09:55:00.000-05:00

Senator Larry Craig was arrested for trying to lure another man into a sex act in the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport on June 11, 2007. Now the ACLU is backing Senator Craig saying that sex in public bathroom stalls is private. You can read it for yourself here.

A Change to the Book of Mormon

2008-01-11T11:30:00.000-05:00

A one-word change in the introduction to a 2006 edition of the Book of Mormon has reignited discussion among some Latter-day Saints about the book's historicity, geography and the descendants of those chronicled within its pages. News outlets such as this one are catching up on this controversy.

Past editions of the page in question says all of the people chronicled in the book "were destroyed, except the Lamanites, and they are the principal ancestors of the American Indians." The new introduction reads much the same but says the Lamanites "are among the ancestors of the American Indians."

The Mormon church says the change was made to make it "reader-friendly".

However, scientific studies in recent years have been causing quite a concern for Mormons. In several studies there is a complete lack of a genetic, or DNA, connection to Hebrew blood in American Indians. Thus drawing into question the authenticity of the Book of Mormon.

If the Book of Mormon is proven to be false then the religion sinks. This "small" change is an attempt by church leaders to adapt writings and history in an effort to retain credibility among their flock.

Joel Olsteen: Mormons are true Christians

2008-01-07T12:32:00.000-05:00

Joel Olsteen at his finest. Refusing to take a stand and refusing the Christ of the bible.

Here is an excerpt from an interview done with Chris Wallace of Fox News. You can read the transcript here.

WALLACE: And what about Mitt Romney? And I've got to ask you the question, because it is a question whether it should be or not in this campaign, is a Mormon a true Christian?

OSTEEN: Well, in my mind they are. Mitt Romney has said that he believes in Christ as his savior, and that's what I believe, so, you know, I'm not the one to judge the little details of it. So I believe they are.

And so, you know, Mitt Romney seems like a man of character and integrity to me, and I don't think he would — anything would stop me from voting for him if that's what I felt like.

WALLACE: So, for instance, when people start talking about Joseph Smith, the founder of the church, and the golden tablets in upstate New York, and God assumes the shape of a man, do you not get hung up in those theological issues?

OSTEEN: I probably don't get hung up in them because I haven't really studied them or thought about them. And you know, I just try to let God be the judge of that. I mean, I don't know.

I certainly can't say that I agree with everything that I've heard about it, but from what I've heard from Mitt, when he says that Christ is his savior, to me that's a common bond.

Where Is God?

2007-12-30T16:59:00.000-05:00

Every Christian holiday the secular media airs programs that highlight the apparent flaws of our faith. These programs attack the accuracy of scripture and historical Christian thinking. "Religious experts" explain away biblical truths with a more "reasonable and enlightened" interpretation of biblical accounts. This Christmas season was no different.

On December 25, 48 Hours on CBS aired "The Mystery of Christmas". Maureen Maher "investigated the mysteries" surrounding the birth of Jesus. The show's biased slant was hard to miss. Multiple liberal theologians were interviewed to discuss the "discrepancies" found in the gospel accounts of Christ's birth (For the the sake of fairness they did interview one scholar who believed the gospels as they were written). Some of the events questioned and called erroneous were the birthplace of Jesus, the killing of the young boys in Bethlehem, conflicting accounts in the gospels, and the virgin birth.

On December 23rd CBS aired "In God's Name", a show that took a look at 12 religious leaders and followed them throughout their typical day. The show was produced by two French filmmakers who after following and listening to these spiritual leaders for one day discovered a common ground between the various religions represented. The impetus for this program was the tragic events of September 11. One of the filmmakers questioned, "Where was God that day?"

Of all the liberal madness this question steamed me the most. What he and others are really asking is, "if your God truly exists why didn't he stop the killing of thousands of innocent people?" What they don't understand is the true nature and character of God. They don't understand how God can be love and how this human tragedy can be allowed to happen. His providence and sovereignty has escaped them.

They don't understand because they have decided to believe in a God that does not exist. One that they have conceived in their own minds.

The answer, however, to their question is this: God was there. God was there when thousands ran out from the towers to safety.

God was there December 6, 2007 when a crazed gunman entered a mall in Omaha Nebraska. He was there as hundreds escaped the bullets.

God was there August 25, 2005 when Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Gulf Coast. He was there when thousands made it to safety and were rescued from their rooftops.

So to the filmmaker I say God was there, you simply did not wish to see Him. The tragedy that this world offers is horrific. God does not take pleasure in it. Our sin has marred us. That is why He sent his son, Jesus. Born of a virgin named Mary in the town of Bethlehem.

God was there nearly 2000 years ago when His Son, Jesus, was crucified on a cross on Calvary. That was a tragedy. Crucified to pay for our sins. God is here even though millions reject Him, profane Him, and question Him.

Fear and Trembling

2007-12-25T21:53:00.000-05:00

"Why is it that even among those who profess to be the Lord's people there is so little real subjection to His Word, and that its precepts are so lightly esteemed and so readily set aside? Ah! what needs to be stressed to-day is that God is a God to be feared. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 1:7). Happy the soul that has been awed by a view of God's majesty, that has had a vision of God's awful greatness, His ineffable holiness, His perfect righteousness, His irresistible power, His sovereign grace. Does someone say, "But it is only the unsaved, those outside of Christ, who need to fear God"? Then the sufficient answer is that the saved, those who are in Christ, are admonished to work out their own salvation with "fear and trembling." Time was, when it was the general custom to speak of a believer as a "God-fearing man"—that such an appellation has become nearly extinct only serves to show whither we have drifted. Nevertheless, it still stands written, "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him" (Psalms 103:13)!
The Sovereignty of God pg. 181
A. W. Pink (1886–1952)

Holiness

2007-12-23T21:24:00.000-05:00

Without holiness “no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).

"As he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15,16).

Authentic Christians find so much carnality and sinfulness in themselves that they find it almost impossible to be assured they are holy. Where is the longing for communion with the Holy Creator? The lives of many professing Christians are void of tangible evidences of a relationship with Him. They live no differently from non-Christians, and many churches are captive to the trends of this present age.

Yet the command to "be holy" is given to us. Scripture teaches that those who are sanctified by God are holy, though the evil nature has not been removed from them. There must be that renewal where our minds and desires are brought into harmony with God. Certainly there is a need for this.

The Holy Spirit must be working in a believer's heart so as to sanctify him. In cannot be done on his own accord. How many are there today who suppose they have trusted in Christ although they are empty of biblical holiness?

Christ is our example. He is our standard. He demands obedience and holiness. "For Christ did not please himself" (Romans 15:3) but he submitted to the will of the Father. Great is our example. Our lives are to be lived to please God, not ourselves.

If we are to be conformed to Jesus in glory how absolutely necessary it is that we be conformed to him in holiness. "Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked." I John 2:6

SB 777

2007-12-19T11:02:00.000-05:00

California recently adopted SB 777. A state law that demands that "No teacher shall give instruction nor shall any school district sponsor any activity that promotes a discriminatory bias because of a characteristic [including perceived gender.]" The law effectively bans curriculum that can be construed as discriminatory against gays, lesbians, and transgenders up to and including references to "mom", "dad", "husband" or "wife".

As a result of this new law, a homosexual advocacy group is sponsoring a list of "resources" that they recommend be used by the schools. Included in the list is a book about "A 10-year-old [who] asks her lesbian grandmother a heartwarming question," "What's a lesbian?". Another resource for "pre-kindergarten" is a coloring book called "Beach Party with Alexis" which is described as "a super story with people of color and gay/lesbian parents."

You can read multiple articles on State Bill 777 at WorldNetDaily.net

world net daily.net

Elders

2007-12-15T15:58:00.000-05:00

Here is a short list of resources about elders. I found them helpful in my study.

MP3
Mark Dever Elders and Deacons
DA Carson The Role of the Elder
John Piper Biblical Eldership

Articles
Several articles from several authors from 9 Marks
John MacArthur Answering the Key Questions About Elders
John Piper What is the Role of an Elder

9 Marks Article

2007-12-12T23:36:00.000-05:00

Michael Mckinley of 9 Marks recently wrote an article, "Contemplating Cool" . In it he quotes David Wells in his book "God in the Wasteland",

By this late date, evangelicals should be hungering for a genuine revival of the church, aching to see it once again become a place of seriousness where a vivid otherworldliness is cultivated because the world is understood in deeper and truer ways, where worship is stripped of everything extraneous, where God's Word is heard afresh, where the desolate and broken can find sanctuary.

It's a short read and reminds us of our first allegiance.

A High Cost

2007-12-05T21:33:00.000-05:00

On Easter Sunday 2007 three Christian missionaries; Tillman Geske, Necati Addin, and Ugur Yuksel, in Turkey were horribly tortured and killed. A group of men met with the missionaries under the guise of wanting to learn more about the bible. Just after a chapter of scripture was read the attack began. The missionaries were bound and gagged for three hours.

One report states that "Tilman was stabbed 156 times, Necati 99 times and Ugur’s stabs were too numerous to count. They were disemboweled, and their intestines sliced up in front of their eyes. They were emasculated and watched as those body parts were destroyed. Fingers were chopped off, their noses and mouths and anuses were sliced open. Possibly the worst part was watching as their brothers were likewise tortured. Finally, their throats were sliced from ear to ear, heads practically decapitated"

On November 23 the trial began for those responsible for the killings. As this article reads this is still a trying time for those involved. Please remember them and all of our brothers and sisters who proclaim the Gospel in difficult places.

A Critique of Rob Bell's Nooma DVD "Dust"

2007-12-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a "Two For Tuesday". Actually this is the first and, I'm sure, the last time I'll post twice in the same day. But it Is related to my last post so I thought it prudent.

NBC News and the Emerging Church

2007-12-04T21:20:00.000-05:00

NBC Nightly News recently produced a segment on the emerging church. The coverage focused on the political aspect of the emerging church and how it differs from megachurches. Al Mohler and a Tadd Grandstaff were interviewed for the report. Mohler the "conservative" and Grandstaff the hip "evangelical".

Here is the piece by Tom Brokaw.

The Scopes Monkey Trial

2007-12-03T17:23:00.000-05:00

In the fall of 1925 the world watched as Dayton Tennessee, population 1,800, was thrust into the spotlight when a trial concerning the teaching of evolution in public schools took place. The trial became a media circus with antics typical of a Hollywood movie. Because of the frenzy that was generated a play was written in 1960 that loosely depicted the events of the trial. The play ended up on Broadway and a movie "Inherit the Wind" (1999) has also been produced about the event.

The trail became a struggle between a literal interpretation of the Bible and secular science. The authority of scripture was attacked and much can be learned about how we as Christians can defend the Bible today.

In March of 1925 the legislature of Tennessee made it a criminal act to teach evolution in public schools. The ACLU made an announcement that it was willing to offer its services to anyone challenging the new Tennessee anti-evolution statute. George Rappalyea, a modernist Methodist with contempt for the new law, along with Earle Robinson, the town pharmacist believed that a trial would be a way of putting Dayton on the map, whose population had plummeted in the last several years. However, the interest and resulting world-wide publicity which quickly developed surprised even the event's planners.

In the spring of 1925, John Thomas Scopes a twenty-four year old science teacher at Rhea County High School was recruited by Rappalyea and Robinson. They conspired with young Scopes to violate the Tennessee statute to provide a court test case.

The prosecution was headed by William Jennings Bryan, the Democratic nominee for president in 1896, 1900, and 1908. He was the most celebrated orator of his day and had serviced as Secretary of State in the first administration of Woodrow Wilson. He was also a leader among christian fundamentalist groups of the time.

Heading the defense was Clarence Darrow, America's most famous criminal lawyer and an agnostic. He had been contacted by the American Civil Liberties Union. Arthur Garfield Hayes and Dudley Field Malone were two other well-known lawyers of the day who aided the defense.

Hundreds of reporters descended on Dayton for the trial. Press coverage of this trial perhaps exceeded coverage of any event up to the time and a new device called radio was used to report the proceedings. Newspapers from all over the world sent not just reporters but editors to witness the courtroom battle. It was estimated that 10,000 visitors from far and near overran the town daily.

Many viewed the trial as a contest between the two greats, Darrow and Bryan. Darrow was even allowed to put Bryan on the stand and question him under oath!! This part of the trial was described by the New York Times as "the most amazing court scene on Anglo-Saxon history." During questioning Bryan was asked about the literal creation account, Jonah being swallowed by a whale, Noah and the flood, and Joshua making the sun stand still. Many writers of the day thought Bryan failed in his defense of the Bible. Although Bryan was well studied historians have remarked that his inability to adequately answer questions regarding difficult scripture stymied fundamentalism.

After several days of testimony the jury convicted Scopes of violating the law and Judge Raulston fined him $100. Later, the Tennessee Supreme Court overturned the conviction on the technicality that the jury, rather than the judge, should have set the fine.

For a more thorough treatment on this fascinating trial you can look here and here.

Bryan College in Tennessee has recently produced a movie "Inherit the Truth" that depicts the events of the trial. The movie was written from the manuscripts of the trial and includes exact dialogues of the participants. You can purchase the movie here.

Our Witness

2007-12-02T10:57:00.000-05:00

Matthew 5:13-16 "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

We are called to make a difference. Not to just exist. I am challenged by Christ's illustration here. We are called to influence our world with our lives. We are called to be different. This will bring persecution, I Timothy 3:12 "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus WILL BE PERSECUTED" (Emphasis mine). Scripture does not say you may be persecuted or you could be persecuted, but you "will be persecuted". Get ready because it will happen.

Our lives are to be lived so that others will be drawn to Christ. We are to be an open and blatant influence in our world. Light cannot be hidden. It will light up whatever is around it. But more often than not our light is the smallest flicker only seen at a church service or small group.

The fear of persecution arrests us. It prevents us from living out our faith in ways that are seen. We go to the same place of work year after year and never share with others the love of Christ. We see those who we live right next to every day of our lives and we talk about the weather and the neighborhood but never Christ. We hope they will see us leaving for church on Sunday mornings and know they can come to us when they have a spiritual question or need. What is our witness? Where is our passion and where is our impact?

I recently had a conversation with a co-worker who told me that he thought that faith should be a personal thing and that a person, regardless of their faith, should not express it publicly. This is the notion of most people. Have your faith. Believe what you must. But do not try and share your faith in the world.

As Christians, I think we know this about non believers. At least on some level. We know that people do not want to hear about Christ and we know that they will take offense and may ridicule us. But we must remember what scripture teaches, Matthew 10:32-33 "So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.

Our silence is often the loudest form of denial that can be expressed. We are called to live it and share it.

Rob Bell

2007-11-26T19:27:00.000-05:00

Rob Bell and his "The Gods Aren't Angry Tour" is well underway. The tour much like his "Everything Is Spiritual Tour" and "Sex God Tour" can be seen for a nominal fee of $10 to $30. A few bloggers have spent their own money and time and have seen Rob in his latest production.

Before I send you off onto their sites I think it may be helpful to give you a little background on Rob Bell if you are not familiar with him.

I learned about Rob Bell about 18 months ago when I began researching the Emerging/Emergent movement. I read his book Velvet Elvis and found many of his beliefs troubling. In the book he makes arguments that we need to "repaint, recreate" christianity.

His views regarding the Atonement and a literal hell are are examples of this repainting. Bell is usually quick to dodge questions about these topics but his writings and interviews shed light on his true beliefs. In Velvet Elvis he writes, "So this reality, this forgiveness, this reconciliation, is true for everybody. Paul insisted that when Jesus died on the cross he was reconciling ‘all things, in heaven and on earth, to God. This reality then isn’t something we make true about ourselves by doing something (like repenting and believing - my comment). It is already true. Our choice is to live in this new reality or cling to a reality of our own making." pg 146.

This is not what scripture says, "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him." John 3:36

In a recent interview Bell answers the question about a literal hell this way, "Well, there are people now who are seriously separated from God. So I would assume that God will leave room for people to say “no I don’t want any part of this”. My question would be, does grace win or is the human heart stronger than God’s love or grace. Who wins, does darkness and sin and hardness of heart win or does God’s love and grace win?"

Again this is not what scripture teaches, "But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him!" Luke 12:5
You can read the entire interview here.

Even though scripture flatly contradicts Bell thousands upon thousands of people continue to clamor to him and his teachings. Most of the venues for his current tour are sold out. He is an eloquent speaker and is fascinating to listen to. But his words do not line up with the Truth.

My original intent in this post is to share some of the comments from bloggers who have actually attended one of Rob's "The Gods Aren't Angry" venues. They share helpful insights into what Rob is really preaching. One will share the asthetics of the event, such as the full service bars that are stocked with every "adult" beverage one could desire.

So without further delay here are the sites:
Pulpit Magazine
Looking At Truth

Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T10:30:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is often celebrated with family, food, and football. It is thought of as a time to reconnect with loved ones and a chance to take a break from our busy schedule. Plenty of parades and shopping opportunities make up a large part of how we celebrate this day.

We are taught in school that Thanksgiving came about after the pilgrims landed in Plymouth Rock. A devastating winter killed many of the pilgrims and they barely survived the harsh cold. A group of Indians helped those early settlers learn the land and taught them how to raise crops and catch wild game. The harvest was plentiful in 1621. The pilgrims celebrated the harvest with the Indians and the day was known as a day of Thanksgiving. This is, in short, what we were taught and what our children are being taught in schools today. While the facts of this occasion are true, the reason for this day of Thanksgiving is misconstrued. There was so much more to that first Thanksgiving.

The problem is that in 2007 we often fall prey to what we have been told in school. This day has lost its reverence with us. Thanksgiving was originally a day to thank God for his provision and providence. It was a time to remember a Holy God and what He had done for His people.

Nearly one third of those one the Mayflower were Puritans, a group of Christians who believed in the simplification of doctrine and worship and a greater strictness of religious discipline. They were persecuted in their homeland of England and eventually moved to Holland. After arriving there, however, they found that the Dutch way of life was too worldly. Looking for a better life where they could worship God freely they made arrangements to sail to America in 1620.

The winter was difficult and many were killed. The Indians did help the settlers. But the celebration was to thank God for providing a new land to worship Him in, for saving the survivors from the harsh winter, for providing a bountiful harvest, and for His plan for their lives.

It wasn't until June 1676 that another day of thanksgiving was proclaimed in Charleston Massachusetts. The day's purpose was to thank God for helping them establish their town. Days of thanksgiving were celebrated sporadically among the different colonies for the next several decades.

In 1789, a one time day of Thanksgiving was decreed by President Washington. In his proclamation he gave the purpose for that day, "Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection...that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions"

It wasn't until 1863 that a National day of Thanksgiving was celebrated annually. President Lincoln decreed that Thanksgiving would take place on the last Thursday of every November. In his proclamation for that day President Lincoln wrote, " No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens."

Although our fellow countrymen neglect the importance of Thanksgiving it is important that we never forget that God is faithful. Our country may not want to acknowledge it but we were founded on Godly principles. Thanksgiving was not originally meant for football or even family. But as a time to remember God and his perfect providence.

I corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Al and R.C.

2007-11-18T20:39:00.000-05:00

This is a great excerpt from the 2007 National Conference of Ligonier Ministries.

Works Salvation and Who's Job Is It

2007-11-09T18:57:00.000-05:00

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Phil 2:12-13

Recently I was asked what my take was on these verses. What exactly does it mean to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling"? Does this mean that works are required for salvation? Should we be fearful that we may not do enough to earn salvation?

As I began to explain these verses I found myself in a conundrum of sorts. One of which is that verses 12, on its face does seem to advocate works salvation, and verses 12 and 13 seem to be contradicting each other.

After some time of study I have been reminded of man's responsiblity and God's promises.

Is verse 12 saying that salvation comes by works? Surely not. The bible cannot contradict itself. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace are you saved through faith, that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God lest any man should boast," Romans 3:21-24 agrees, "But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift..."

Verse 12 is referring to the sanctification of the believer. The ongoing process of spiritual growth. Paul is using Jesus as the ultimate example here of what the Philippians should strive to attain. Look at how verse 12 starts, "So then". These two words take the reader back to the previous verses (5-11). In those verses Jesus is the model of obedience, submission, and humility. So then we are to be like Him. We are to be moving towards those attributes that he exemplified.

Scripture often mandates our responsibilities. "Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh, perfecting holiness in the fear of God," 2Corinthians 7:1. Ephesians chapter 4, "Walk worthy of the calling to which you're called," and he details how to do that. Colossians chapter 3, you have a new life, set aside all these things, wrath and anger and so forth, don't lie to one another, don't slander, all of those injunctions imply that we have a responsibility in our sanctification. They are not suggesting that we must work for our salvation.

Now do we do all the work of sanctification(v.12) or does God(v.13)? My short answer is yes. They are not independent of each other. Take a look at this for a moment. If you believe that all your spiritual progress is based on your ability move yourself in the right direction, then you're going to experience pride when you succeed and despair when you fail. If you swing too far to the other end of the spectrum that God does it all you have another problem. What are you going to do when you sin? You're going to blame it on God because He's in control.

Is it possible there is a balance? I think so. We must do our part. God will do His.

Think about the scene in scripture as the Israelites are standing in front of the Red Sea and Pharaoh's army is behind them. Pharaoh's desire is to destroy the children of Israel and the Red Sea will prove their drowning, if they move into it. But Moses was so confident, even though he was in that trap, that the Lord would give victory to him and to the people of God that in Exodus 14:13 he shouts to the people, "Don't be afraid, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord." The Lord immediately shot back from heaven and said this, "Why are you crying unto Me. Speak to the children of Israel and tell them to go forward." God works when we do our part. He gives us the resources and energy to do what he has us to do. He is faithful but we are required to take action.

John MacArthur uses another example from Ezra 1:5, "'The heads of the fathers households of Judah and Benjamin and the priests and the Levites arose, even everyone whose spirit God had stirred to go up and rebuild the house of the Lord.' God began by stirring up their will, stirring up their desire. That is part of God's energizing work. Another example from Ezra in chapter 7 verse 27, 'Blessed be the Lord, the God of our fathers, who has put such a thing as this in the king's heart.' God works in you on your will, to produce the intent, the inclination, the will to do what He desires. That's where He begins His internal work, working on your desires. Because, what you do and what I do is a product of what we desire."

When we speak of balances there are several in found in scripture. They are are difficult to understand yet they are true. A few; Jesus was fully God and fully man, every word of God in the scriptures are fully inspired by the Holy Spirit but yet the words and emotions of the writers, and if you believe in election, salvation is an act of the human will to repent and place faith in God who chose you before the foundation of the world and effected that salvation through sovereign grace.

We must fully do our part. God already promises He is doing His part.

These verses in Philippians are not talking about the act of working to earn our salvation. Salvation is a gift of grace. We are called to reproduce that which is inside of us. It is not easy. It is a struggle but God gives us the power and resources to do this. It is our part in our sanctification.

Missional?

2007-11-04T20:24:00.000-05:00

Missional. What is up with this word and its derivatives. It's tossed around like lettuce in a salad (sorry for the bad analogy). Everywhere you go today in Christendom you see the word. Missional church, missional community, on mission with God, missional context, and the list goes on and on.

It is as if this is a new idea. We must be "missional" Christians. I'm not quite sure what this means. Frankly, "missional christian" sounds redundant. I mean aren't christians suppossed to be living out their faith. Part of living out that faith is reaching out to the lost world. Isn't it? Kind of like saying, "we should be loving Christians". As oppossed to what? Being hateful Christians.

I've heard that the term missional is used to describe a "go to them" rather than a "come to me" mindset. No problems here. I think Matthew 28 makes that point pretty clear. He sent them. He told them, "Go". I guess I just have a hard time understanding the need to call this missional rather than believers just living the life of a Christian.

As Christians, it is important for us to remember what the purpose of our life is. It is not to be missional. Our purpose is not to just help the poor, oppressed, and impovrished and that is it. This is what "missional" has come to mean. Helping others out without telling them about Christ and the truth of the gospel. It is not enough to just to feed and clothe them. It is a tragedy that many head into hell well fed and warm without the hope of Christ being presented to them.

Our lives are to bring God glory and honor. We are to proclaim His name. Certainly helping others out could bring glory to God if we make known our reasons for our contributions. But serving soup to the homeless is no more evangelistic than knitting a quilt unless this allows us to bring God glory. Our mandate is clear, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." I Cor 10:31

Each of us have families, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. If we live as Christ would have us to live we should be reaching out to people around us. Helping them, comforting them, loving them and telling them the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is not new. This is something we should already be doing. I don't call this missional. I call it living the life of a Christian. Being Christlike. As Jesus said “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose.” Luke 4:43

Movies, Music, and Celebs

2007-10-30T10:39:00.001-04:00

While watching the news recently I became aware of a new wave of insults on Christianity.
The Golden Compass, a movie due to be released on December 7 and starring Nicole Kidman, will assuredly pull in thousands of oblivious movie goer this winter. The problem is that this movie is written by atheist Philip Pullman. He has spoken of his distaste of the Narnia films, "I loathe the 'Narnia' books" and of his hatred of Christianity and religion in general. Both can be found here and here. The movie is based off of a series of books that many say the movie is aimed at promoting. The books ridicule Christianity and espouse atheism.

Also Britney Spears has just released new promotional pictures as this news article writes. The pics are to hype her new album. The pictures are of Britney and a Catholic priest and are quite suggestive. Her career is spiraling downward and this is another attempt to cause public buzz to help rejuvenate it.

In another movie, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, Cate Blanchett plays the role of a very Protestant Queen Elizabeth. However, in several scenes she does pray to God for direction but rather turns to an astrologer. Her guidance seems to come from the stars.

While these are simply the times we live in it is comforting to know that that He who lives in us has overcome him who lives in the world. Movies, music, and celebrities may make light of our faith and ridicule us because of our hope but our God reigns. Attacks on Christianity are not new. We must stand fast and educate our world of its dangers.

Halloween

2007-10-27T14:29:00.000-04:00

Here is an excellent article on Halloween and whether or not believers should participate. The article is from Grace to You and does an excellent job of addressing the issues.

God Loves You

2007-10-06T10:10:00.000-04:00

"Surely there is something in you which God loves, or else he would not be killing that
which he hates. If he hates the sin in you, it is a good sign; for where do we hate sin
most? Why, in those we love most."
Charles Spurgeon

Paul Washer

2007-10-05T00:27:00.000-04:00

This is part of sermon that Paul Washer preached in 2002 at the Youth Evangelism Conference in Montgomery Alabama. His text is Matthew 7:13-27. If this does not cause self-examination I'm not sure what will. If you want to see the sermon in its entirety it can be found on youtube.

Megachurches

2007-10-04T10:36:00.000-04:00

Recently an article written for the Christian Post took a look at the 100 largest and fastest growing churches in America. While the megachurch phenomenon continues it is interesting what the author noted.

"While Christian churches have long been perceived as monolithically right wing, more megachurches today are tackling issues not historically connected with those of the Religious Right. Hispanic churches have risen to the frontlines of the immigration reform battle, black churches are voicing themselves on social action, and others are championing issues such as eradicating global poverty and creation care. "

I took a look at most of the churches listed on the Top 10 lists and the author is right on target. Teaching the bible, proclaiming Christ, and enlightening people about their spiritual depravity was secondary to their main purpose; getting people in the doors.

Convergent Conference

2007-10-03T22:19:00.000-04:00

On Denny Burke's blog each session of the Convergent Conference, hosted by the Southeastern Theological Seminary, is linked. The 3rd session is something you must hear. It is by Mark Driscoll. Make the time and listen to this speech that he gave.

Now, although I like Dirscoll, I'm still a little skeptical. I'm not necessarily endorsing him but if you are interested in knowing where he stands this speech answers many questions.

In his talk he addresses the Emergent movement, his background, and his beliefs on certain doctrines. At the very least he is a straight shooter and calls it like he sees it. That I like.

With some hesitancy, I want to give you just a few of the points that I found amusing/enlightenging/challenging. They are at 35:00, 45:00, 48:50, 57:00. Don't just listen to the tidbits though, listen to it all.

Expository Preaching

2007-09-30T13:39:00.000-04:00

Here are some interesting facts:

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is home to Southwestern's Center for Expository Preaching.
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary offers a Doctrate of Ministry with a concentration in Expository Preaching.
Southwestern is currently offering a workshop in Advanced Expository Preaching.
New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary offers a Master of Divinity with a specialization in Expository Preaching.
New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary says that one of their 7 Basic Competencies guiding their curriculum is Biblical Exposition.
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary offers a Doctrate of Ministry with a concentraion in Expository Preaching.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary says that one of their 5 Core Competencies for their programs is Biblical Exposition.

There seems to be an emphasis on expository preaching from the Southern Baptist Seminaries. But pastor after pastor rely on their topical sermons to entice the crowds.

A couple of resources concerning Expository Preaching. I found MacArthur's articles particularly helpful.

David Allen – Dean of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Allen is the director of Southwestern’s Center for Expository Preaching
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?ID=22792

Wayne McDill – Senior Professor of Preaching Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
http://www.waynemcdill.net/articles_display.php?id=16
http://www.waynemcdill.net/articles_display.php?id=45
http://www.preachingtodaysermons.com/trutabexprea.html

John Piper
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/ConferenceMessages/ByDate/1756_Why_Expositional_Preaching_is_Particularly_Glorifying_to_God/

Robert Thomas
http://www.tms.edu/tmsj/tmsj2i.pdf

Mark Dever (several sources here regarding expository preaching)
http://marks.9marks.org/Mark1

John MacArthur
http://www.sfpulpit.com/2007/05/28/preaching-the-book-god-wrote-part-1/
http://www.sfpulpit.com/2007/05/29/preaching-the-book-god-wrote-part-2/
http://www.sfpulpit.com/2007/05/30/preaching-the-book-god-wrote-part-3/
http://www.sfpulpit.com/2007/05/31/preaching-the-book-god-wrote-part-4/
http://www.sfpulpit.com/2007/06/01/preaching-the-book-god-wrote-part-5/

Bryan Chappell – President of Covenant Theological Seminary
http://www.covenantseminary.edu/BryanChapell/BC_FutureOfExpositoryPreaching.pdf#search=%22%22Bryan%20Chapell%22%20%22The%20future%20of%20expository%20preaching%22%22

Albert Mohler
http://albertmohler.com/blog_read.php?id=773
http://albertmohler.com/commentary_read.php?cdate=2005-08-09
http://albertmohler.com/commentary_read.php?cdate=2005-08-10
http://albertmohler.com/commentary_read.php?cdate=2005-08-11

DA Carson MP3 only
Part1
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/ConferenceMessages/ByDate/2082_The_Primacy_of_Expository_Preaching_Panel_Discussion/
Part2
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/ConferenceMessages/ByConference/23/2086_The_Primacy_of_Expository_Preaching_Part_2/
Part3
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/ConferenceMessages/ByConference/23/2087_The_Primacy_of_Expository_Preaching_Part_3/

All Goes In San Francisco

2007-09-29T08:44:00.000-04:00

The Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco is an event that draws crowds that wear their most outrageous fetish attire. The "fair" caters to the gay and lesbian lifestyle.
This may seem like a new low for San Francisco but this is an annual event. The new low point here, however, is the blasphemous ad that event organizers are using in promoting the fair. The ad shows semi-nude men and women in bondage at a table depicting the Last Supper. It is perverse.

Even a beer company, who uses saucy advertising themselves, understands the error. The Miller Brewing Co., who is sponsoring the event, has asked that their name be pulled from the ad.

The Catholic League has also expressed outrage and has demanded a boycott of The Miller Brewing Co.

It is despicable what this group has done. They are sinners, however, behaving like sinners. Their disrespect and transgression against the One whom they mock will be accounted for.
They need our prayers. They need Christ.

On a side note. While I'm irked at this entire fiasco the thing that has me shaking my head is the Catholic boycott of a beer company. Hard earned catholic money, has in part, made The Miller Brewing Co. what it is today. The Miller Brewing Co. has endorsed not only these fetish festivals but an entire host of sultry events. Without their funds organizers wouldn't have the money to turn this into a large event. I hope they enjoyed their suds.

Matthew 28 -- More Than Evangelism

2007-09-28T08:08:00.000-04:00

I can’t take total credit for what is covered in this post. But I wanted to share parts of the lesson that my teacher taught this past Sunday with some of my thoughts inserted.

Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in [2] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

While this well known passage is referred to as the Great Commission I wonder if believers are aware of the totality of what Christ teaches us here. In verse 19 Jesus says that we are to go and make disciples. Verse 20 tells us how we are to do this. The NIV translates verse 20, "and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

According to verse 20 we are to do more than teach people what to obey but HOW to obey. This is more than a transfer of knowledge or a sharing of information. Certainly, many people know the commands of Christ. But do they know HOW to obey those commands. We are to do more than share facts. We are to teach HOW to obey Christ’s commands. This is discipleship.

In order to teach someone HOW to obey we must first know the commands the Bible teaches.

Secondly, we must be living a life of obedience. Daily we must be applying biblical truth to our lives, transforming knowledge into wisdom. Setting the example for young/new believers.

We also should teach the entire bible including the attributes of God; love, mercy, grace, hatred of sin, holiness, wrath, etc...

Obedience is the outpouring of the heart from knowing complete Truth. Understanding the depth of Christ's death and God's love, grace, and hatred toward sin provokes obedience from the saved. In tempting or difficult times this understanding can prove the believer victorious.

As Christians we should take this call to disciple new believers seriously. People do not always do what they know, they do what they love. Smokers know that smoking is unhealthy yet they continue to burn their cigarettes because they love the effects of smoking.

We cannot get caught up in the thought we are to simply evangelize and teach commands. Christ gives us more responsibility. He allows us to be a part of the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. The "Do this and don't do that" mentality is not beneficial to the cause of Christ.

Although the study of God's Word is a necessity for the believer often biblical or spiritual maturity is thought of as how much knowledge someone has. Certainly the Pharisees knew the law. Yet they were spiritual midgets. Some today attend bible teaching, bible preaching churches. They are well learned. But do they have an outpouring of obedience from the heart. Discipleship is fostering and growing that outpouring.

Matthew 7 demonstrates the difference between those that know the law and those that obey. Let us disciple others so that they obey.

Matthew 7:24-27 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”

Movies

2007-09-22T18:14:00.000-04:00

Occassionally, I will work off-duty details at a local movie theater for extra cash. The past couple of times that I have worked these details I have been asked to monitor the R-rated movies due to patrons being loud and kids trying to sneak in.

Now, I rarely watch movies so maybe the times have passed me by. I've paid for and watched only one movie in the past two years.

But these movies that I recently had to watch were absolute filth. I watched parts of Knocked Up about a month ago, Superbad last weekend, and last night I watched the first 20 minutes of Good Luck Chuck. These movies are rated R in part for crude sexual content and language.

Each of these are marketed as romantic comedies. Movies someone may take their wife or girlfriend to on a date. But these movies were filled with nothing short of pornography. In Good Luck Chuck their are explicit sex scenes were both the man and woman are naked and engaging in sex. I had to walk out and have someone else take my place. These movies were full of vulgar language. Nothing was left unsaid.

As people left the movies I noticed something rather disturbing; parents with their pre-teens and teenagers. They left smiling but not saying a word. It was clear that the movie for most of these families was awkard.

These movies have flopped with critics but the cinemas are hoping that the sex will sell and that movie-goers will continue to pay.

The world continues its decay. People fall prey each day to deceptive movie ads and expose their children to the world's entertainement. We must stand guard and protect our children. We cannot let ourselves become complacent and take in the things of this world.

Romans 8:5
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.

Jesus or Football

2007-09-21T15:56:00.000-04:00

John Piper preaching to young pastors. Questions we all should answer for ourselves.

Hebrews 6:1-2 -- What Is Being Taught Anyway?

2007-09-19T10:57:00.000-04:00

6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, 2 and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

We are to grow as believers. Look at what the writer of Hebrews says is elementary doctrine, a.k.a "milk".
1. Repentance from dead works and of faith towards God (v.1)
2. Instruction about washings or baptisms (v.2)
3. The laying on of hands (v.2)
4. The resurrection of the dead (v.2)
5. Eternal judgement (v.2)
He says these things are elementary doctrines.

What about sermons that are about fear of discouragement, baggage, having a happy marriage, or living a stress-free life. According to the writer of Hebrews these wouldn't even qualify as milk. They are watered down man-centered sermons. Their focus is how to have a better life. It is not about God or the salvation that He offers from sin as discussed in 5:11.

Hebrews 5:14 -- Got Discernment?

2007-09-18T21:24:00.000-04:00

Hebrews 5:14
14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.

"Believers" who receive milked-down messages have no discernment. They are unable to discern right from wrong. They are ignorant of spiritual truths. Yet they will argue their positions with those that have a steady spiritual diet of solid food. Their positions are rooted in human reasoning and not biblical truth.

Hebrews 5:11-13 -- From Milk To More Milk

2007-08-28T19:14:00.000-04:00

In my next couple of posts I want to cover Hebrews 5:11-6:3. I studied this passage recently during my quiet time and will offer a few of my thoughts.

Hebrews 5:11-13
11 About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, 13 for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child.

The bible plainly teaches that believers should be moving from milk to solid food. Many believers however, never move to solid food. They continue to listen to "milky" sermons that they receive week after week. If they read, they read the latest "It's all about you" book.

When believers are constantly fed milk they cannot know the depth of scripture. They are "unskilled in the word of righteousness" (v.13). And although they are unskilled in the Word they will defend their pastor's (lack of) teaching and the direction of the church. They will say they are trying to reach the lost, the unchurched, and the seeker.

I ask, at what cost? In verse 11 the author refers to the salvation that Christ offers. Yet because they are still being fed milk they cannot understand what he wants teach them about this basic doctrine. They have "become dull of hearing". How is it we reach the lost, unchurched, and the seeker when believers don't even understand the doctrine of salvation?

Michael "Con" Vick Finds Jesus

2007-08-28T08:04:00.000-04:00

According to Michael Vick he has found Jesus. Why have preachers? Seems that jails are far more effective in reaching the lost.

Matthew 7:21-23 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

Let's Not Offend The Muslims

2007-08-27T21:14:00.001-04:00

According to Fox News, The Washington Post did not run the cartoon "Opus", a political cartoon, Sunday because it was deemed too controversial. The cartoon pokes fun at radical Islamists.

According to Fox News when they showed the strip to Muslim staffers they responded "emotionally". There was also considerable alarm over the strip at the highest echelons of The Washington Post.

What I find intersting is that just last week the same strip took a hit on the late Jerry Falwell. The strip was not pulled. There was no asking of Christian staffers if they were offended and obviously there was no alarm by the elite of The Washington Post.

Christianity is free game.

I'm offended, but not surprised, by The Washington Post. However, my larger disappointment is with believers who continue to allow this sort of bias in the media to go unchecked. What would have happen if Christians rallied against The Washington Post last week when "Opus" was allowed to run in the paper?

John 15:20
Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.

The Subliminal Media

2007-08-25T10:50:00.000-04:00

The media continues to make covert attempts to slander God.

In a story written August 21, 2007 The New York Times has equated the word "Allah" with "God" concerning the motive of an Islamic terrorist in the United Kingdom.

The Times made reference to a story originally published Monday in the Guardian newspaper, which stated: "Airport bomber's email to relative said he wanted to die for Allah."
The case involves Kafeel Ahmed, who crashed a Jeep Cherokee into the main terminal at Glasgow's international airport in June.

But in the New York Times' version of the story, the word "Allah" appears nowhere, instead being changed to "God."

The precise wording from the Times article read:
The person close to the investigation said that Kafeel Ahmed had sent an email message to his brother two hours before crashing the Jeep, but that it was not opened until 90 minutes after the attack. On Monday, The Guardian newspaper reported that Kafeel Ahmed had sent a text message to "a relative" with "a link to an e-mail and a password to access it," saying he was acting according to God's will. (Emphasis mine)

A note for the media. The god of Islam, Allah, is not the God of Christianity, the Bible, or the One True and Only God.

I Corinthians 8:4-6
Therefore, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that “an idol has no real existence,” and that “there is no God but one.” For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth—as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”— yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.

Oldie But Goodie

2007-08-24T23:21:00.000-04:00

At Calvary
by William R. Newell, 1895

1. Years I spent in vanity and pride,
Caring not my Lord was crucified,
Knowing not it was for me He died On Calvary.

* Refrain:Mercy there was great, and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty At Calvary.

2. By God’s Word at last my sin I learned;
Then I trembled at the law I’d spurned,
Till my guilty soul imploring turned To Calvary.

3. Now I’ve giv’n to Jesus everything,
Now I gladly own Him as my King,
Now my raptured soul can only sing Of Calvary!

4. Oh, the love that drew salvation’s plan!
Oh, the grace that brought it down to man!
Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span At Calvary!

Lutherans OK gay pastors...

2007-08-12T23:18:00.000-04:00

The slide into disregarding the bible as our absolute Truth continues. Just yesterday MSNBC carried a story, regarding the Evangelical Lutheran Church of American allowing openly gay pastors in their congregations. At the ELCA National Convention in Chicago a resolution was passed 538-431 that urges bishops to refrain from disciplining pastors who are in “faithful committed same-gender relationships.”

ELCA has ignored what the bible clearly and plainly teaches and has sought to please the masses of the unchurched. Liberals who despise Christ love to see the church become "open-minded".

In the article people were allowed to blog their thoughts concerning the resolution. Many of the ELCA faithful thought that this statement by the ELCA was appropriate and praised their willingness to reach out and be all-inclusive. What is so scary is that many of these professing believers care very little what God's Truth has to say regarding homosexuality. They simply believe that this is the right thing to do.

The bible is clear, the act of homosexuality is wrong. Look at Genesis 19 when the two angels who came as men entered Lot's house. The men of Sodom surrounded his house and begged to have relations with the two men. What was Lot's response? Verse 6 "Lot went out to the men at the entrance, shut the door after him, 7 and said, “I beg you, my brothers, do not act so wickedly." (Emphasis mine). It was wicked. A perversion.

Leviticus 18:22 You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.
I Timothy 1:9 understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, 10 the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine...

Think of it for a moment. If it's ok to be homosexual because it's just a lifestyle, why not have pastors who have sexual relations with animals...its a lifestyle. How about a pastor who has relations with other men's wives...it's a lifestyle. He was born with it. He can't help himself. The ELCA went down a slope that cannot be defended by any argument and the slope is being drenched in baby oil.

Seekers and Oprah

2007-07-25T00:24:00.000-04:00

As a layman, I find it more and more interesting/saddening that churches continue to withdraw from teaching the bible in an attempt to reach "seekers". The bible draws people. When they hear it taught and explained the Holy Spirit works on their soul and they long for it.
Psalm 119:103 "How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!"

"Seekers" come to church wanting and desiring truth. They are searching for what is missing in their lives. They are looking for relief from their problems.

The church has brought in so much of the culture that these "seekers" leave still searching for the truth. They come looking for answers and they are given the same speeches and talks that they hear from Oprah..."Be nice to each other", "Don't talk bad about each other", "Love your neighbor", and the list goes on.

The church has failed to give "seekers" what they need because they are so concerned in giving them what they think "seekers" want.

Purpose

2007-07-23T21:40:00.000-04:00

II Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work".

It is my purpose to use God's infallible and inerrant Word to help me understand Him, His ways, His purpose, my life, this world, and all that happens in it.