American Christianity vs. God’s Christianity?

Such is the undercurrent of a very telling article written on the USA Today website in which the specter of the exclusivist “evangelical” Christianity movement is suspiciously evaluated within the context of big time American sports. To be sure, the author is clearly not being objective in his representation. Despite his “credentials” as a presumably objective journalist, the fact of the matter is that Jesus’ claim that "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14: NIV) leaves no room for objectivity. Either you believe what Jesus says or you don’t. Of course you could try to avoid having to choose by “believing” that Jesus never uttered this declaration. However, at least for the USA Today writer, he decides not try to be evasive or "clever" on the issue. He clearly feels that if Jesus made the statement, then He must have been wrong. The author writes:

These sports stars, like all Americans, have a right to express their faith. Evangelical players and ministry representatives in sports aren't out to harm anyone, of course. On the contrary, they see themselves as fulfilling the Bible's Great Commission ("Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," Matthew 28:19). In this sense, their mission is pure altruism: They seek to share the gift of eternal life…But there's a shadow side to this. If their take on God and truth and life is the only right one — which their creed boldly states — everyone else is wrong...It's not just non-Christians who might have a thing or two to say about this exclusive theology. According to a December 2008 survey by the Pew Forum on Religion in Public Life, 65% of American Christians believe that many religions can lead to eternal life. Our pluralism is a defining and positive reality of American life — but not one that is much valued by those who define the faith coursing through the veins of sports culture.

Look, as I stated in my opening paragraph, we all have a choice on Jesus’ declaration in John 14:6; the reasonable options are:

a) Jesus was lying in John 14:6

b) Jesus never said what was claimed that He said in John 14:6

c) Jesus said what He said in John14:6 but He was ultimately wrong

d) Jesus made the statement in John 14:6 and it is the Truth

If you select option (a), you have no other credible person or source in human history who would agree with you that Jesus Christ ever lied. If you select option (b) you have no other credible person or source in human history that claims that Jesus never made the statement. If you select option (c) you’ll likely find no other credible person or source in human history who will agree with you that Jesus ever said or did anything wrong.

Many sports athletes believe option (d); I happen to also believe option (d). However, among the many great things about God is that He gave us all free will. We are free to choose whether we believe John 14: 6 or not. We can even choose to believe that we do not want to “come to the Father” as Jesus puts it. For those who die and end up anywhere else but heaven, Jesus made it certain that they would have chosen to go there. Christians are also choosing to be theoretically wrong on our choice. Exclusive claims go either way. Either you are right or you are wrong. I have yet to hear a non believer of Christ's claim in John 14:6 say they are ready to be wrong on this issue the moment after dying when that choice is irreversible.

To be clear, believing that Jesus is the only way to the Father does not make a person perfect. Christians are certainly far from perfect. It is a stick via which many non-believers beat Christianity over the head by pointing to our sometimes lousy example of Christ. This is a problem not because it legitimizes the argument made by those in opposition to Christ’s message, but because it hinders many others from being open to receiving Jesus’ free gift of salvation (free to us but certainly not to Him). Jesus said to Christians: You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16 NIV) I’ll say this to every reader who may not yet be a follower of Jesus the Christ. Don’t let the poor example of some Christians stop you from choosing Jesus for your life. Choose Jesus because He alone is worthy. He alone is perfection, and it is His perfection that substitutes for your sins and allows you access back to God in Heaven. That is why Jesus said: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14: 6 NIV). You will be granted access back to God through Christ alone. Not through the many theories of fallible, weak human beings.

Cheapened Lives - Convenient Deaths

An interesting area of concern raised by this so-called Healthcare Bill being promoted by President Obama and Liberals throughout the country is that of the elderly and the not so hidden reality that the bill will likely lead to the rationing and ultimately withholding of medical treatment from the elderly because in reality it is not “cost effective” to continue extending their lives.

Picture an 80-something grandmother who requires more chemotherapy or Alzheimer’s treatments or additional MRIs to try and diagnose her persistent fainting spells. To the liberals (translation: ungodly) proponents of the so-called healthcare bill, it is impractical to spend “scarce resources” on this life that is going to end shortly anyway. Sure it sounds insidious, but think about it: it is no different than the already raging reality of ending the life of the child unborn, because it will be impractical to spend “money or emotional energy we don’t have” to raise it to adulthood. Make no mistake about it, the motivation behind euthanasia of the elderly is closely related to the motivation for ending the life of the unborn at the other end of the life arc. Both are privately being done “for the good of society”. After all, we only have so many resources (financial or social) to spend on those who are viable.

As referenced earlier, only those who live ungodly lives could make conscious decisions to support this type of lifestyle or governmental legislation. To such people, there is no higher authority to whom one must give an account. The worship of or subservience to the God of the Bible for such people is an irritating distraction. If not for large enough blocs of people who hold dear to this God and the principles He demands (such as an unwavering respect for the lives that He alone created though His Son Jesus Christ), these liberal unbelievers could get their legislation through with little resistance. If not for this God, aborted babies would go silently into the trash-heap with no one screaming bloody murder. If only this God thing would go away or at the very least be constructed in their liberal vision…such as Oprah Winfrey’s flavor of the month belief system or most things offered on Newsweek’s "On Faith" website. This god would not place any “unreasonable” demands on us about aborting either the elderly or the unborn. If only.

(Hebrews 10:31) It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God (NLT)

He's Faithful...Despite our Faithlessness

I have not written a post in a while; a combination of being busy but also a clear lack of motivation to do so, but this morning I felt compelled to share this video link below. I first heard this song on a CD that a sister in Christ shared with me several years ago. I must admit I am not what you would call an avid listener of Christian music, but there are many songs of worship that truly touch your heart for Christ. For me, this is largely driven by the words of worship in the lyrics, as well as an intangible emotional connection that you (as the listener) share with the singer as they pour out their heart in worship to a God that is so Holy, so incredibly Overpowering yet so loving as to single you out individually (before the beginning of time) for inclusion into His eternal kingdom. For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT)

This is the emotion that is stirred in me whenever I listen to this song. If you are interested it is available on the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir’s “Live Again” CD available at this site.

I pray that it blesses you as much as it blesses me every time to I hear it. God Bless this singer and the Choir for helping this Christian to stop and worship our God in Christ whenever this song is played.

Iran’s Nuke is Impotent to Israel

I have been thinking a lot lately about what will happen to fulfill God’s prophecy in Ezekiel 39. In this Bible Chapter, Israel is attacked by “an enemy from the north”, but is supernaturally delivered by God resulting in harm not to Israel but to that enemy and “her allies by the sea”. This prophecy appears to make it very clear, that no nuclear weapon developed by Iran will destroy Israel. This does not mean that Iran will not try. They could very well be among the coalition of enemies from the north that will fulfill this prophecy.

This prophecy may very well be instructive as we continue to observe the shadow dancing that is currently playing out between Israel, President Obama and the Iranian nuclear issue. Below is an excerpt from a recent news report from the Christian News From Jerusalem website:

More ominously, (Jerusalem Post Editor Caroline Glick reports) - likely from sources high up in the Israeli government - that the Obama administration has all but accepted as an irreversible and unavoidable fact that Iran will soon develop nuclear weapons. She writes, "...we have learned that the [Obama] administration has made its peace with Iran's nuclear aspirations. Senior administration officials acknowledge as much in off-record briefings. It is true, they say, that Iran may exploit its future talks with the US to run down the clock before they test a nuclear weapon. But, they add, if that happens, the US will simply have to live with a nuclear-armed mullocracy."

She goes on to write that the Obama administration is desperate to stop Israel from attacking Iran writing that "as far as the [Obama] administration is concerned, if Israel could just leave Iran's nuclear installations alone, Iran would behave itself." She notes that American officials would regard any harm to American interests that flowed from an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear facilities as Israel's doing, not Iran's.

In classic Stockholm Syndrome fashion, the Obama administration is empathizing more with the Iranian leaders who are holding Israel hostage than with the nation that may be wiped off the map if Iran acquires the bomb. - Christian News From Jerusalem.com

I happen not to be surprised by this account. Obama who is likely tone deaf to the protection of Israel appears to be playing a wait them out game with Israel with promises of action if Iran does not halt its nuclear weapons development program. Besides the fact that this is disingenuous, it is ultimately beside the point (the Biblical point) because it is clear from Ezekiel 39 that nuclear bomb or not, Israel will not be wiped off the map as is desired by the Iranian leadership. That Obama may be indirectly complicit if such an action is attempted by Iran may mean more for the US than it ultimately will for Israel. This is the gist of the article cited above which should be required reading for all observers of the tepid and/or dangerous Obama administration. Who will be cursed if such a scenario comes to pass: Israel or the US? The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. (Genesis 12:1-3 NLT)

Jerusalem Divided for Peace?

There MUST be a “two-state solution” for Israel and the Palestinians. So says the Pope, Barack Obama, virtually every European Leader etc. etc. According to the learned of this world, it’s not even a question anymore. Israel must submit to a “two-state solution”. And just what is the two state solution? Ostensibly, it is one in which Israel shares ownership of the land given to them by God with the Palestinian people. For those advocating such a “solution” their opinion on whether Israel was given her land directly from God must fall into one of two camps: 1) The land was never given to Israel by God and thus this claim is bogus – thus making a liar out of the Bible or 2) The land was given to Israel by God but is subject to man’s decision to overrule that God – in the interest of “peace”. I can guess which of the these options the Palestinians, Europeans and President Obama believes. This Pope is somewhat of a question, however with him earthly pragmatism is probably trumping biblical orthodoxy on this one.

Here’s what the Lord had to say on this issue of Israel and its capital Jerusalem:

• He chose the Promised Land as our inheritance, the proud possession of Jacob’s descendants, whom he loves - Psalm 47:4
  
  
• For the Lord has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel for his own special treasure…He gave their land as an inheritance, a special possession to his people Israel. - Psalm 135:4 & 12
  

• So Paul stood, lifted his hand to quiet them, and started speaking. “Men of Israel,” he said, “and you God-fearing Gentiles, listen to me. “The God of this nation of Israel chose our ancestors and made them multiply and grow strong during their stay in Egypt. Then with a powerful arm he led them out of their slavery. He put up with them through forty years of wandering in the wilderness. Then he destroyed seven nations in Canaan and gave their land to Israel as an inheritance. - Acts 13:16-19

Bob Marley Worships "The Lord"

I was listening to the radio this morning when the song “One Love” from Bob Marley came on. It is a wonderful song with a great message of love. However there is a line in the song that got me to thinking…the line goes something like this: “give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel alright...”

Now it’s rare that you hear a major mainstream artist like Marley incorporating praise to the Lord in their lyrics. In fact, I am certain if any established artist of today were to dare to incorporate praise “to the Lord” in their songs a) it would not be heard liberally in the media and b) that artist would probably be vilified for offending others. But alas, Bob Marley lived in a time where “the Lord” when uttered in the mainstream of public consciousness was not considered akin to a curse word. Good for him; in a way thankfully for Marley, he died before the foolishness of today's media culture truly began.

The song also got me to thinking about the phrase “the Lord”. It is not one that you will likely hear uttered by people who are indifferent to God, and in that way, it draws an important distinction. The word God is freely used by many people whether reverentially, casually or intellectually. That someone uses the term God is not necessarily a distinguishing factor to determine whether that individual is a worshipper or even a believer in the sovereignty of God. When my children were younger, I made this distinction to them repeatedly. Just because someone may talk about “God” or use the name in a song, book or movie, does not automatically suggest that they are Christian or even believes in the true nature of God. The phrase “the Lord” however indicates a far more submissive disposition in relation to the one to whom it is conferred. The person who has no hesitancy in using the term “the Lord” in their conversations or in Bob Marley’s case in a song is clearly suggesting that this “Lord” is master over them. They are overtly declaring their unabashed subservience to Him (the Lord). It is this position of subservience and humility which indicates not only a belief in that Lord but likely worship of Him as well. In our culture, the term God is most often used as a noun (the name of our creator), whereas the term “Lord” is really more of an adjective – that which describes the position of God to the person using the term. As such, “the Lord” is a term that you will likely not hear freely used by many people in our society. By this point if you may be saying “so what”? What’s the difference which term is used? I write this because so many people seem to casually ascribe biblical kinship with others who they think shares their Christian values because they may use the term God in conversation. Teenagers and young people often make this mistake when choosing others to call their close friends. A more accurate indicator of a person’s spiritual allegiance to God is whether that person is comfortable using the term “the Lord”. Is God their Lord or is He just the abstract God. The far off entity who may have made everything but who is not Lord over them personally. In this song “One Love”, Bob Marley seems to be saying that the Creator was his Lord also.

However the Bible also states clearly that implying or even believing that God is your Lord is not enough to be accepted by Him. God clearly stated in scripture that though He indeed is our God, He will only accept us on the basis of our making His Son Jesus Christ our Lord: The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized. He brought them into his house and set a meal before them, and he and his entire household rejoiced because they all believed in God. (Acts 16: 19-34 NLT)

Bob Marley (who died at age 36 in 1981) was not saved unto everlasting life because He believed that only God was His Lord. Ultimately, Bob Marley is saved today because he believed that Jesus Christ is his Lord.

A Little Swine Flu Irony

Today it was announced that Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius has been successfully confirmed by the US Senate to the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services, ostensibly the top governmental official on health matters in the country. Media reports are positioning this appointment as so very important since the country may be in the midst of a flu pandemic (a plague if you will).

The Senate confirmed former Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius as secretary of Health and Human Services Tuesday on a 65-31 vote. Kathleen Sebelius starts her term with Health and Human Services in the middle of a public health outbreak.The timely vote will put Sebelius in office as the Obama administration is up against its first public health outbreak. cnn.com

Like many other orthodox Christians, I find myself studying the Biblical scriptures in Luke Chapter 21 where the Lord Jesus Christ said that plagues will be one of the events that will occur on earth as a prelude to as He puts it “the end of the age”: Some of his disciples began talking about the majestic stonework of the Temple and the memorial decorations on the walls. But Jesus said, “The time is coming when all these things will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another! “Teacher,” they asked, “when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to take place?”… There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things… So when all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near!” (multiple scriptures truncated - Luke 21:5-7, 11, 28 NLT). Please understand, the above scripture is taken from a larger context and the precise timeline of the indicated events (i.e. the referenced plagues etc.) in relation to the Lord’s return (the nearness of our salvation) is not specifically indicated. I encourage you to read the entire Chapter in full context to get a sense of some of the things we may be experiencing in our world today.

With respect to Ms. Kathleen Sebelius, let’s say for the sake of argument that this swine flu is indeed part of the plagues to which Jesus alludes in Luke 21, how ironic would it be that the United States just confirmed a virulent pro abortion politician to head the efforts to combat the biblically prophesied plague? In the toxic and anti-biblical culture in which we now live, this would completely stand to reason.

The Punishment of Jesus to Make us Clean

I was speaking to a friend recently about the sacrifice made by our Lord Jesus Christ to redeem us back to God our Father. It was a heavy conversation where we were both focusing on the depth of our own individual sins in relation to the price that Jesus had to pay to wipe our stains away so that we can live permanently with a Holy and Perfect God.

I believe that the punishment that Jesus had to bear was that which was (or is) coming to each and everyone human being who has ever lived, for the sins that they each individually has or will commit. It’s hard to conceive rationally, or even put into words, but the level of punishment, the pain, the horror, the terror, the anguish etc. that my Lord Jesus Christ took is the exact equivalent of what I would have received if God were to have punished me for my life; then He took the same level of punishment for you; then He took the same level of punishment for your brother; then that for your sister; then that for your mother; then that for your grandmother; and so on and so on. All exponential. None minimized on aggregate or on average. His pain and punishment was multiplied one on top of another for everyone. For every mass murderer, for every rapist, for every child molester. For every Hitler. For every Sadam Hussein. For every Pol Pot. For everyone. Jesus was punished to the level earned by every one of us.

Jesus also did this knowing that a majority of the people for whom He was being punished would not care about His sacrifice. Would not acknowledge it. Would not simply say “thank you”. Would even spit upon Him in hatred. Yet he was willing to do it anyway. Yes He is worthy of my praise. My worship. My obedience (though I fail terribly at this one).

When you think about, remember or see the movie The Passion of The Christ, think about all the sin in our world and realize the depiction shown of Jesus’ punishment in that movie wasn’t horrific enough to truly illustrate His actual sacrifice to make us all clean. Think about it and at least thank Him today.

Isaiah 53 (The Holy Bible - New Living Translation)
1 Who has believed our message?
To whom has the Lord revealed his powerful arm?
2 My servant grew up in the Lord’s presence like a tender green shoot,
like a root in dry ground.
There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance,
nothing to attract us to him.
3 He was despised and rejected—
a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief.
We turned our backs on him and looked the other way.
He was despised, and we did not care.

4 Yet it was our weaknesses he carried;
it was our sorrows[a] that weighed him down.
And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God,
a punishment for his own sins!
5 But he was pierced for our rebellion,
crushed for our sins.
He was beaten so we could be whole.
He was whipped so we could be healed.
6 All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.
We have left God’s paths to follow our own.
Yet the Lord laid on him
the sins of us all.

7 He was oppressed and treated harshly,
yet he never said a word.
He was led like a lamb to the slaughter.
And as a sheep is silent before the shearers,
he did not open his mouth.
8 Unjustly condemned,
he was led away.
No one cared that he died without descendants,
that his life was cut short in midstream.
But he was struck down
for the rebellion of my people.
9 He had done no wrong
and had never deceived anyone.
But he was buried like a criminal;
he was put in a rich man’s grave.

10 But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him
and cause him grief.
Yet when his life is made an offering for sin,
he will have many descendants.
He will enjoy a long life,
and the Lord’s good plan will prosper in his hands.
11 When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish,
he will be satisfied.
And because of his experience,
my righteous servant will make it possible
for many to be counted righteous,
for he will bear all their sins.
12 I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier,
because he exposed himself to death.
He was counted among the rebels.
He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.

The Rise of the Kings of the East?

When I first read the Book of Revelation, among the many amazing future events that the apostle John wrote about was the many dramatic events that would take place towards the last days of the current earth age. To call the book awesome is an incredible understatement. Many people call it scary, and many others claim that it is mostly symbolism and not really an account of actual events that take place. But I for one fall firmly in the camp that believes that the Book is mostly a literal accounting of actual events that will take place. However regardless of one’s opinion, one thing is very clear and very literal: our Lord Jesus Christ accords His divine blessing on the readers of this book in it’s very beginning: This is a revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants the events that must soon take place. He sent an angel to present this revelation to his servant John, who faithfully reported everything he saw. This is his report of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near. (Revelation 1:1-3 NLT)

One thought that persisted with me when I read the accounting of nations that take part in the events of Revelation is the apparent absence of the United States as a world power during this time. It is fair to say that the US has been a world power economically, socially and militarily especially since the early part of the 20th century up until the present time (2009). However the US does not appear to be a player on the world stage during the end time based on the Book of Revelation. Israel certainly appears to be: And I saw another angel coming up from the east, carrying the seal of the living God. And he shouted to those four angels, who had been given power to harm land and sea, “Wait! Don’t harm the land or the sea or the trees until we have placed the seal of God on the foreheads of his servants.” And I heard how many were marked with the seal of God— 144,000 were sealed from all the tribes of Israel… (Revelation 7:2-4 NLT). The Middle East region certainly appears to be a player: Then the sixth angel blew his trumpet, and I heard a voice speaking from the four horns of the gold altar that stands in the presence of God. And the voice said to the sixth angel who held the trumpet, “Release the four angels who are bound at the great Euphrates River.” Then the four angels who had been prepared for this hour and day and month and year were turned loose to kill one-third of all the people on earth. I heard the size of their army, which was 200 million mounted troops. (Revelation 9:13-16 NLT). An eastern power the “Kings from the East” certainly appears to be a participant: Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great Euphrates River, and it dried up so that the kings from the east could march their armies toward the west without hindrance. (Revelation 16:12 NLT)

It is this issue of the “Kings of the East” that I wanted to post about. What country or region could this be? One thing seems certain; it is not a nation or region from the West. That would appear to exclude Europe and the United States. One primary candidate could be the current emerging world power from the east – China. It is the world’s most populous nation, with the biggest army and the country that at present is considered the primary nation that threatens the United States’ position of world dominance. The Washington Post captures an interesting intersection of current US and Chinese relations in the following:

The first G20 (Economic) meeting, last fall, appropriately took place in Washington. But holding this second conclave in Beijing would have signaled a clear recognition that the Washington-Beijing axis is the most important relationship in the world today; it is the X factor in the quest to rescue the global economy. If the two powerhouses work together, the world may yet emerge prosperous and stable. If they work at cross purposes, the world's future will be as grim as the gloomiest doomsayers forecast. - washingtonpost.com

Could it be with the current economic crisis in the US that we are seeing the signs that will ultimately lead to the reduction of American influence and power on the world stage? China’s economy and military has been growing steadily for decades, and now with its ownership of a large portion of US debt, it has the power to further push America into economic disaster. But let’s also look at some additional background. The culture in America has been growing more and more toxic with each ensuing decade and generation of people. The last US generation that had potentially a plurality of honor, class and decorum was likely my grandparent’s generation (people born up to say 1930). Life was much simpler then in the sense that most people did not have the abundance of “things” and “entitlements” that have perverted all American generations since. Beginning with the generations born after the 1930’s we have seen a steady increase of people who have divorced their spouses and broken their families, demanded their own way, and indulged in themselves (money, sex, drugs and virtually everything else). The rise of the mass media (TV and it’s mass market followers) have helped to create what I call the “look at me” generations who to this day have been willing to sacrifice even their children (abortions, broken homes, child abuse, stem cell research and future taxation) for the sake of their own pleasure pursuits or conveniences. As would have been expected of this rise in moral toxicity, God has been dismissed from American schools, from American laws and today from the American public square. Movies like “The 10 Commandments”, “Ben Hur” and “The Robe” were among the most popular movies in the 1950s. Those types of movies are laughed off by today’s generation. Though “The Passion of the Christ” was among the most popular movies in recent years, it came with vicious denouncements from the liberal American media such as the following:

• "If I were a Christian, I'd be appalled to have this primitive and pornographic bloodbath presume to speak for me." – The Chicago Reader
  
  
• "Since Mr. Gibson chose to concentrate on the last twelve hours of His life, Jesus, played admirably by Jim Caviezel, spends the entire film bloodied and beaten, almost beyond recognition. He has no character; he's a symbol - which might be what Mr. Gibson intended. However, unless you're already a devout Christian, you have little invested in the Savior as Whipping Post." – bigpicturebigsound.com
  
  
• "Might be mistaken for an instructional video on meat-tenderizing techniques for cannibal chefs. Mel's a muscular Christian without a philosophical bone in his head." – seattleweekly.com
  

It’s not too difficult to see why a nation who’s journalists can write the blasphemy such as the above about an accurate representation (read Isaiah 52:13-15) of Christ’s death for our sins could be reduced to but a bit player or a non-participant in the events that affect human history at the end of days. Yes, I believe that the US will be reduced from its current position of power and influence in time. Perhaps in relatively short time. I don’t presume to know how this will happen; whether it will be in a devastating cataclysmic event or death by a thousand cuts. As an object lesson, ancient Rome was a world power for hundreds years and because of a very similar pattern of moral decay to what passes as normal life in the US today, the Roman power of old was removed as a world power by a sovereign God who will not be mocked: Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air. And a mighty shout came from the throne in the Temple, saying, “It is finished!” Then the thunder crashed and rolled, and lightning flashed. And a great earthquake struck—the worst since people were placed on the earth. The great city of Babylon split into three sections, and the cities of many nations fell into heaps of rubble. (Revelation 16:17-19). Perhaps the US is in the Book of Revelation after all. It could very well be one of the “many nations” listed in this last scripture.

A Jehovah Witness Visit

The doorbell rang at my home yesterday morning to a not uncommon visit from two members of the Jehovah Witness Church. This is I’m sure a common occurrence for many readers, as I can remember my home receiving similar visits from the time I was a child. Over the past several years, I have made it a point to use these visits as an opportunity for me to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with the Jehovah Witnesses which is usually the opposite intent of their visit to my home.

I don’t pretend to know a whole lot about the beliefs and tenets of this Church, and I certainly don’t consider myself any more of a saved sinner than they may be. As it happened on this occasion, after welcoming the couple (a middle aged man and woman…about 10-20 years my senior), I immediately identified myself as a Christian. My initial point to them was that I was a believer in the entire gospel of Jesus Christ, and though we may have some doctrinal differences, if they too believed and accepted that Jesus Christ died for their sins, then we were brothers and sisters in Christ. I make this point because as believers in the Christ we sometimes make the differences between us to be the basis on which we relate to each other, as opposed to our unity in and total dependence on Christ. What we think we do for Christ is nothing compared to what He has already done for us: When you came to Christ...you were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. (Colossians 2: 11-13 truncated NLT)

On this occasion, this Jehovah Witness couple warmly accepted my position without offering anything to the contrary, and shared their agreement that apart from Christ we are nothing. Yes the gentleman at the end of our exchange offered to leave some of their material with me, to which I politely declined honestly expressing that I would likely not be reading it.

I write this post because in the future you may indeed entertain people of various or no religion at your home or in the streets. Though their belief or doctrine of Christianity may not agree with yours, God asks us to present Him to others gently: Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. (2 Timothy 2:23-25 NIV) I must say I probably fail at this command as much as I succeed. I pray that the Holy Spirit will override my unreliable flesh more and more in the future on this issue. If you see yourself in this post, then I pray the same for you as well.

Obama – For Whom I Struggle to Pray

As a Christian, I must admit that since the inauguration of President Barack Obama I have likely been disobedient to God’s directive to “pray for your leaders”. Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. (Romans 13:1-2 NIV). Despite this very clear directive in scripture, I am so convinced that Mr. Obama’s ideology and worldview is hostile to God’s tenets that I have a difficult time praying for his leadership. I find myself praying generically for God’s will to be done in relation to the present American government. Not too deep down however, I want God’s will to be to bring this government to its knees. As we have seen one unbiblical political decision after another being enacted by this new government, I find myself often saying “well…this is what the people voted for”.

On Abortions
One of the first presidential decisions made by the Obama administration was to remove a ban on funding abortions overseas! It is bad enough that we do this legally in this country, but to actively seek to encourage the same elsewhere shows the active desire to encourage not discourage abortions wherever they can occur.

President Obama signed an executive order today reversing the ban that prohibits funding to international family planning groups that provide abortions, as first reported by ABC News...It essentially barred recipients of U.S. foreign aid from promoting abortion as a method of family planning – [Obama has eagerly dismissed this policy] - abcnews.com – brackets mine

On Stem Cell Research via Human Embryos
Mr. Obama is evidently preparing to lift the ban on government funding for stem cell research on infant embryos (yes I am using unnecessary duplicate language here for effect). This will allow part of my paycheck to pay for research on unborn human body parts in the name of curing living people’s diseases.

Obama would also overturn President Bush's policy against funding any new embryonic stem cell research. Put in place in August 2001, the policy prevents taxpayers from paying for new embryonic research that involves the destruction of human life. Bush directed most of the public funding for the science to adult stem cells, which are more ethical and have proven more effective than their embryonic counterparts. Embryonic stem cells, in addition to including the destruction of days-old unborn children, has yet to work in humans because of significant problems after they are injected into the body -- ranging from the growth of tumors to immune system rejection issues.- lifenews.com

I wonder how many of these embryos will come from the glut of infant fetuses as a result of abortions being performed?

On Funding for Faith Based Groups

Obama has continued to encourage funding of faith-based groups but with the stipulation that religious groups cannot exclude the hiring of someone that they may disagree with biblically (i.e. homosexuals). To be fair, former President Bush’s administration had much the same policy, but “looked the other way” in the enforcement of the policy. Don’t expect the Obama administration to do the same. I for one say that Christian groups should reject any offering of financial assistance from the Obama government if it subjects them to requirements that are unbiblical. The ends do not justify the means.

As presidential candidate, Obama pledged that faith-based groups receiving federal aid would not "discriminate" in hiring. But as president, he has decided to not rush this complex question, and he did not rescind Bush's hiring guidelines. Instead, he set up a process for hiring review. - csmonitor.com

Government Control of Raising Children
Then there is the matter of Democrat Senator Barbara Boxer’s latest passion for America to adopt a UN mandate to allow the government to intrude on the raising of your children.

Sen. Barbara Boxer is urging the U.S. to ratify a United Nations measure meant to expand the rights of children, a move critics are calling a gross assault on parental rights that could rob the U.S. of sovereignty...Critics say the treaty, which creates "the right of the child to freedom of thought, conscience and religion" and outlaws the "arbitrary or unlawful interference with his or her privacy," intrudes on the family and strips parents of the power to raise their children without government interference...Boxer has made clear her intent to revive the ratification process under the Obama administration, which may be amenable to the move. - foxnews.com

This is simply the latest tool to ensure that the government is authorized to tell religious parents that they cannot “force religion down the throats” of their children. Christian homeschooling parents beware. A very wise Pastor of mine several years ago preached that the devil’s primary targets for subversion are those below the age of 20. If he can undermine them during these earliest stages of life, it will suppress a life of Christian living that could be passed on to the next generation. The statistics back this up as well. Studies have shown that less than 5% of Christians become so past the age of 30. With this proposed bill, the Obama administration will be signing on to do the devil’s bidding via legislation.

On Taking More Land from Israel
Mr. Obama’s Mideast “peace-maker” George Mitchell has recently returned to Israel to ensure that Israel gives up more land for peace.

On Thursday US President Barack Obama's Middle East envoy George Mitchell arrived in Israel for his second visit. Whereas Mitchell's last visit - which took place in the last days of the electoral campaign was touted as a "listening tour," Mitchell made clear that during his current stay, he intends to begin calling shots...His first order of business, we are told, is to pressure the outgoing government to destroy the so-called outpost communities in Judea and Samaria and expel the hundreds of Israeli families who live in them...So if [current Israeli Prime Minister] Olmert leaves office without having sent IDF soldiers to throw women and children from their homes, Mitchell, Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will feel free to pressure Netanyahu [incoming Israeli Prime Minister] to take on the task and punish him if he refuses. - jerusalemgiftshop.com

Essentially, Mr. Obama is saying to Israel – give up Judea and Samaria if you want the US’ continued support. But always remember what God says to Israel in the book of Genesis - I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt... (Genesis 12:2-3 NLT)

Ultimately however no leader is raised up except those whom God permits. President Barack Obama is the president because of God’s divine providence. God has His purposes and they will come to fruition. I don’t have to like this presidency and neither does anyone else. However as a Christian I must submit myself to the requirements of the Lord God Almighty. You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? (Matthew 5:43-46 NIV) As such, President Obama I do pray for you. I pray that you will in your heart see and hear the hand of the living God. I pray that you will acknowledge His ways and do His will. I pray success for you in accordance with God’s will. I pray that we as Americans will benefit from your leadership in a way that will glorify the Lord God and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. I pray also for you personally Mr. Obama, for your government and for your family. May the light of the Lord shine on you and give you true wisdom. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.

The Unborn Help Saves The Born?

With the question of governmental funding of stem cell reasearch the specter of support for this program casts a spotlight on an issue that forces people, Republican and Democrat to display their true feelings on the "value of life". The abortion issue is somewhat easier for people to take one side or another, particularly if you have never been touched by it personally. This post however takes issue with those who scream "protect the unborn" on the issue of abortion, but who also says that stem-cell research is OK because of the "hope that it gives to save millions of lives". The sanctity of the unborn’s life seems awfully relative in this position. It seems that for these stem-cell supporters, the unborn who can "help save the born" are discardable. The paradox of former President Bush's position was that he took a supposedly "moral stand" by refusing to use federal money to fund stem-cell research, but appeared publicly ambivalent about private sector research. Now we know that politics was probably at play there, but proclamations about the sanctity of life is much greater than political posturing. Writer Mark Davis of the Dallas Morning News captures the quandary of this position perfectly:

The building blocks of life are simply not to be toyed with, no matter how noble the intent, they say. And while my pro-life views don't reach to that extent, I can respect those who differ. What is harder to respect is how anyone who truly views embryonic stem cell research as homicide can tolerate it, even in the private sector. "Take a Stand on Human Life - And Then Stick With It" - Dallas Morning News

The point is, when it comes to the unborn, the life of those living cannot and should not determine the value of those yet to be born. With abortion, pro-lifers says abortion is always wrong (well almost always), but some of these same people are OK to discard embryonic human matter in the hope of finding cures for diseases. Here again, writer Davis captures the point:

This is a close cousin of another strain of moral cowardice, the "no abortion except for rape and incest" gambit. The halls of power are filled with people who are generally pro-life but would fear political death for taking a stand for even an extremely narrow window of time for allowing a pregnancy to be terminated at the mother's discretion. But that is one of only two principled views one can hold on the subject. The other is the opinion that the newly created human life is worthy of protection irrespective of the circumstance of its creation. Rape and incest are horrific things, but the logic accompanying universal protection of the unborn is simple: Such traumas are not the fault of the growing embryo. A choice is required.

Problem is when it gets right down to it, people don't like making hard and unpopular choices. Even when that choice shows Christ (who they say the worship with "holy" hands) that they value his commands above their own conveniences. They like to be able to shift with the wind depending on the circumstances. He (Christ) who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. (Ephesians 4:10-14 NIV parenthesis mine) A "moral" position based on a belief in Christ and the word of God generally does not afford shifting positions depending on human circumstances. Either life begins at conception, and as such is accorded every human right that is decreed by God, or it does not. If so, abortion is OK so that adult's lives can continue "uninterrupted"; unused stem cells can be used in scientific laboratories in the hope of finding cures for cancer and other diseases. As writer Davis outlines above, you can't have it both ways. A choice is required.

For supposed people of God, the choice must be based on His Word, otherwise, we may very well be the hypocrites that the secularists says we are.

Mideast Peace Process Delusion

Another US president, another try at the so-called Mideast Peace Process. Every US President in the last 40 years have come into office with a targeted aim of solving the usual middle-east ‘problem’ of creating a livable peace between Israel and its hostile Muslim brothers. I ask myself each time, if the US President is a professing Christian…as they usually claim to be, what is it about Biblical scripture do they not see? Now that assumes that a) their claim of Christianity is actually real and b) they actually know what is in the Bible. The answers to these two questions may explain much of why all of these so-called ‘leaders of the free world’ keep failing at this stated goal of achieving a ‘lasting’ peace in the Middle East.

Now about those two thorny questions posed above. If the Bible says that there will be no lasting peace between Israel and her neighbors (until the Lord God himself steps in), what’s the point of all of these efforts? A few passages of scripture to illustrate:

• Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey’s colt. I will remove the battle chariots from Israel and the warhorses from Jerusalem. I will destroy all the weapons used in battle, and your king will bring peace to the nations. His realm will stretch from sea to sea and from the Euphrates River to the ends of the earth. (Zechariah 9:9-10 NIV)
  
• The Lord of Heaven’s Armies will protect his people, and they will defeat their enemies by hurling great stones... On that day the Lord their God will rescue his people, just as a shepherd rescues his sheep. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown. How wonderful and beautiful they will be! (Zechariah 9:15-17 truncated NIV)
  

The last US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice spent a good part of the last 4 years trying to bring about a lasting peace. She professes to be a Christian. Does she not believe the above scripture? The only true peace that Israel (Zion) will receive comes only from her King (the one riding on a donkey – Jesus Christ Himself). The problem in our sick unbiblical world is that if Ms. Rice reads her Bible and believe what it says above, she “could” not in her job as US Secretary of State really say that Israel’s only lasting peace would come from God Himself! She would probably would have been fired from her job by Christian George W. Bush and if not, would certainly have been ridiculed from her job by her Democrat opponents and the rest of the godless political chattering class in the US and the rest of the world. So in lieu of this, she soldiered on in the last farce of a mid-east ‘peace process’.

So now we have self-professing Christian President Barack Obama, and with him come another peace in the Middle East end game. He is so-serious about this goal, that on Day 1 of his presidency, he named former Northern Ireland peace negotiator George Mitchell to lead the Middle-East peace initiative. Wow. I wonder how much credibility Mr. Obama gives the Bible on this issue. Wait…perhaps this video link below may help answer that question.

An Anti-Christ Population?

One of the many ‘creepy’ things about the Obama cult following is how much it would appear to mirror that type of sycophantic response we Christians expect from the world populace when the Anti-Christ appears on the scene. Now before readers start screaming at me, please note that I am NOT calling President Obama the Anti-Christ. I would not do so without what I would consider ironclad biblical evidence. What I am saying though is that the way people have evidently en-masses agreed that this man is worthy of the type of hyperbole that I have not witnessed ever being afforded to another human being is quite astonishing and to me very revealing about the readiness of our world for the character that the Bible predicts will deceive many, so much so that they will swear their eternal allegiance to him. Here are a few items of scripture to illustrate the point:

• Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. (Matthew 2:4-5)
• For false messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God’s chosen ones. (Matthew 24:24)
• He will exalt himself and defy everything that people call god and every object of worship. (2 Thessalonians 2:4)
• ...he can be revealed only when his time comes. (2 Thessalonians 2:6)
• This man will come to do the work of Satan with counterfeit power and signs and miracles. (2 Thessalonians 2:9)
• He will use every kind of evil deception to fool those on their way to destruction, because they refuse to love and accept the truth that would save them. So God will cause them to be greatly deceived, and they will believe these lies. (2 Thessalonians 10-11)
• They (the populace) worshiped the dragon for giving the beast (the anti-Christ) such power, and they also worshiped the beast. “Who is as great as the beast?” they exclaimed. “Who is able to fight against him?” (Revelation 13:4 - parenthesis mine)

(all underlines by me – they are not from scripture)

I have underlined above the type of descriptors in these biblical passages that would cause a sizeable world audience to be galvanized en-masse behind such a leader. Now President Obama or even Senator Obama (before that) has not done anything tangible that would in and of itself elicited such an outpouring of the kind of public adulation that at the extremes borders on worship, but to the extent that people are acting in the way that they are, you can certainly see the capability for an Anti-Christ figure to rise up with the “rubber stamp” of the majority of our populace. It is both scary and amazing.

Disclaimer: I am NOT suggesting that all supporters of Barack Obama would necessarily support the anti-Christ when he comes on the scene.

Plane Crash Christianity

The passengers on the miracle crash landing of US Airways Flight# 1549 that landed in New York’s Hudson River recently evidently experienced a phenomenon that I’m sure many Christian air travelers have thought about once or twice. The high likelihood that when faced with imminent death, many people will involuntarily lose their veneer of independence from God, and call on His name for…salvation, mercy, miracles, repentance or all of the above. To be certain, many of the people who were on this US Airways flight recalled the praying that took place on that brief flight prior to impact with the river. This was captured by a passenger in this CNN.com news story below:

After he (the pilot) told us prepare for impact, it was pretty evident we were not going to make the runway." At first, it felt like the plane was gliding, Berretta said, as if no engines were working."People started praying, and there was a lot of silence, and the realization that we were going in was really hard to take in at that moment," he said. CNN.com

This illustration is simply a vivid example of an ironclad truth: despite the fact that many people live as if there is no God, intuitively, they know that there is. They know deep down (though many are resistant to admit it) that God controls whether a plane stays in the air or not. He is all powerful. He controls whether they will live or die. As a Christian, I cannot explain God’s reason for saving those people that day, while many others have died in hundreds of plane crashes. Our inability to explain that makes Him no less God. Our all-powerful creator is worthy to be worshipped regardless of our own limitations in explaining His actions. The learned academics would do well to humble themselves and remember this. I wonder if there were any on this flight?

God is a very merciful God who is not willing that any should perish, but that all would have everlasting life through Christ Jesus. The great thing about a near death experience is that it likely brings some into a true permanent worship experience with God through His Son Jesus Christ. Why through Jesus Christ and not just with God alone? Because the Bible is very clear that God will not accept worship any other way: This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men—the testimony given in its proper time. (1 Timothy 2:3-6 NIV)

I’m certain that several of those passengers on US Airways Flight# 1549 became permanent worshippers of God since January 15th, 2009. It is likely they would not have done so at any other time in their lives had this incident not occurred. This may be the reason why God wrote this in the Bible: ...the day of death is better than the day of birth. It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart. (Ecclesiastes 7:1-2 NIV) US Airways Flight 1549 tells us a lot about our human nature, but it tells us even more about a merciful God who will use any means to reconcile us back to Him.

A Global Warming Irony

I must state up front that I am not a believer in the Global Warming hysteria. Honestly, I don’t believe in Global Warming primarily because of the make-up of the crowd who do. I am not a scientist, so I have no idea whether or not the earth is truly warming beyond dangerous levels caused by “human activity”. There is however an irony at work in the global warming headlines that I know points to a truth that most of the global warming worshippers WILL miss.

With so called global warming, the effects of the sun is coming closer to us and will eventually cause the demise of many IF we don’t change our behavior; IF we don’t stop polluting our world with our filth. This may or may not be true. However this much I know is certain: the effects of the Son (Jesus the Christ) is coming closer to us and will eventually cause the demise of many IF we don’t change our behavior; IF we don’t repent (individually) for polluting the world with our filthy behavior and acknowledge the Son who’s return is moving closer every day: He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. (Revelation 22:20 NIV)

Take heed of the warming of the approaching Son more so than the sun that He created.

Kurt Warner Thanks Jesus

I just finished watching the Arizona Cardinals win the NFC Football Championship to make it into the Super Bowl. I’m not ordinarily a Cardinals fan, but I found myself rooting greatly for them due to the overt Christianity of their quarterback Kurt Warner.

During the victory presentation, when asked to comment on how he was feeling, Kurt’s first words were to “give thanks to his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ”. My thoughts then and there was that you can’t always tell a true Christian when they give God thanks for their success, but you can always tell a true Christian when they give Jesus thanks for their success. God bless you Kurt. You represent our Lord well. Go Cardinals.

Their Blood---about 200 Miles Long

The Book of Revelation covers some incredible scenes of horror and bloodshed. So much so that it scares many people into not reading it. “It’s too scary…” someone once said to me as to why they had not read it. The fact that it is a prophetic book about future events for this world should be the scary thing for many of us. One particular event that is incredibly horrific is the account of one of Christ’s judgment that is subtitled by many Bibles under the heading “The Earth Is Harvested”.

I looked and saw a bright cloud, and someone who seemed to be the Son of Man was sitting on the cloud. He wore a gold crown on his head and held a sharp sickle in his hand. An angel came out of the temple and shouted, "Start cutting with your sickle! Harvest season is here, and all crops on earth are ripe." The one on the cloud swung his sickle and harvested the crops. Another angel with a sharp sickle then came out of the temple in heaven. After this, an angel with power over fire came from the altar and shouted to the angel who had the sickle. He said, "All grapes on earth are ripe! Harvest them with your sharp sickle." The angel swung his sickle on earth and cut off its grapes. He threw them into a pit where they were trampled on as a sign of God's anger. The pit was outside the city, and when the grapes were mashed, blood flowed out. The blood turned into a river that was about two hundred miles long and almost deep enough to cover a horse. (Revelation 14:14-20 CEV)

It is astonishing to fathom the death toll of human beings that would produce a river of blood about 200 miles long and about 20 feet deep! There are those among us, Christians and especially non-Christians alike who would shout: “What kind of God would kill so many people out of anger?” I will submit this to you in response:

WORLDWIDE

• Number of abortions per year: Approximately 42 Million
  
• Number of abortions per day: Approximately 115,000
  
• Where abortions occur:83% of all abortions are obtained in developing countries and 17% occur in developed countries.
  

UNITED STATES

• Number of abortions per year: 1.37 Million (1996)
  
• Number of abortions per day: Approximately 3,700
  

© Copyright 1996-2008, The Alan Guttmacher Institute. (http://www.agi-usa.org/)

I suspect that with the statistics captured above, the amount of blood that man has ruptured in the past 50 years of abortions would fill a river more than 2,000 miles long and 10 horses deep. Horrific indeed. The Book of Revelation has nothing on the Book of Man. I implore you readers of this post not to do anything to contribute to this river at sometime in your future.

The Day or Hour No One Knows

This post title is a from scripture spoken by Jesus Christ in reference to the knowledge of the date and time of His return to Earth. Needless to say it has developed into a very controversial topic, as many people throughout the years have claimed to know when the Christ will return. All who have set this date in the past have obviously failed at this task, while there are others who claim “legitimacy” on this issue with future dates in mind. My own opinion on it isn’t quite so ambitious. In my humble opinion, “no one knows”. Albeit not a very original thought – but then again I welcome being in the company of my Lord Jesus Christ on this issue.

Anyway I thought about this scripture on New Year’s morning, as I watched the revelers on TV celebrate the arrival of 2009. I wondered if indeed 2009 could be the year of Christ’s return. And if He did, would the New Year’s revelers enjoy that event as much? As a Christian I certainly hope that Jesus returns this year, but I truly have no idea if it will happen. One thing about God however is that throughout scriptural history, He always provides indications of what He is going to do. His messages are usually quite clear…but only to those with a discerning heart. The Bible puts it this way: The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:14-15 NIV)

Many people say that the religious have been expecting Christ to return “any day now” for centuries, and that is true. Quite frankly that is the great hope for all Christians, so it is natural for us to be looking expectantly for that great event at all times. I actually think that is one of the driving forces that keep us from straying back to our natural state of constant sinning.

Christ in scripture did tell us about events that would shortly precede His return. That many of these events are occurring today may not in and of itself be unique. However what is unique about this particular age in which we live, is the opportunity to be knowledgeable and aware of the happening of these events. The disciples in the book of Matthew asked Jesus how we would know about when He would return: As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. "Tell us," they said, "when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?" – Below are some of the events that He said would be indicators of the beginning of that event:

• You will hear of wars and rumors of wars
• Nation will rise against nation
• There will be famines and earthquakes in various places
• Many will turn away from the faith
• Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people
• Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold
• And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations
  

All taken from Matthew 24: 3-14

Are you aware of any of these events happening today? Are you aware of many of these events happening today? Are you aware of all of these events happening today?

Abstinence Doesn’t Work?

I’m not trying to be intentionally belligerent or even snarky, but I keep hearing this phrase from many non-believers, liberals and even some Christians. They keep saying that “abstinence doesn’t work”. Really? How is that exactly? The only woman in history whom I have ever heard about becoming pregnant while abstaining from sex is Mary the mother of Jesus Christ our Lord. I know of no other instance of a woman abstaining from sex and still getting pregnant.

Perhaps I have missed something or some evidence that suggest that abstinence does not prevent pregnancy and if so, I hope someone enlightens me quickly, because I have been telling both of my daughters for years that abstinence does work in preventing unwanted pregnancy. I want to ensure that if I’m wrong, that I stop doing this.

The truth of the matter is what really doesn’t work is disobedience! The bottom line with this “abstinence not working” issue is that the proponents of this policy are either lying or incredibly deceived (most often by the lure of “convenience”). They won’t shout the truth: “Disobedience Doesn’t Work”. That is what our children should be hearing. This is what has led to the explosion of teen sex and teen pregnancy that the “non-abstinence” crowd is supposedly trying to prevent. The problem with this approach is that it requires a judgment on behavior. Especially our children’s behavior. A judgment that tells our kids – no, shouts to our kids – that disobedience is wrong. Rebellious behavior doesn’t work! But we can’t have that. Instead we “dumb down” our kids by suggesting that they are going to have sex anyway, so give them condoms and birth-control.

I liken this issue to the following verse of scripture that speaks to our responsibility as Christians even to our own children: But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea. “What sorrow awaits the world, because it tempts people to sin. Temptations are inevitable, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting. (Matthew 18:6-7 NIV) If you are a parent reading this post, are you doing the tempting with “practical” offers of condoms and birth control?

A Message of Life or Death

I received a very disturbing comment from a reader who is very angry at my recent posts regarding the current situation in the Middle East. My message regarding the sovereignty of God in the midst of the Arab-Israeli war was not well received by this reader:

Curse your God and his "scriptures". People are suffering and all you talk about is "God's will". The world will not stand by and watch as Israel rapes Gaza. Call me Satan if you will, for even though he does not exist as an entity, he exists in the minds of the angry; and we are growing stronger by the hour. Each drop of blood spilled fills our hatred until one day, the state of Israel will burn. - Anonymous

Now I must state unequivocally that no sane person can take any solace in the death and destruction of human life. A Palestinian life lost is no less valuable than an Israeli life lost. However the issue here (as always) is what is this issue within God’s context? God’s context is always life! Not death. This blog is about putting things that transpire in our world within the context of God. The issue however is that these messages will be received in one of two ways. Here’s how the Bible puts it: But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. (2 Corinthians 2:14-16 NLT)

Christ died for all Palestinians, just like He died for all Jews…and for every reader of this message for that matter. When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. (Romans 5:6-8)

Israel Attacks Kills Civilians?

After months of seeing it’s civilians shelled by rocket attacks from the Palestinian terror group Hamas, Israel today decided that enough was enough and launched a massive aerial attack on Hamas controlled Gaza City (in southern Israel). The attack has drawn predictable criticism by the anti-Israel media from around the world, with the emphasis being on the “many civilians” that have been killed. Never mind the fact that Hamas has been firing their rockets randomly at targets in Israel including civilians for months, as well as the fact that Hamas cowardly bases it’s headquarters in the middle of large civilian population centers (next to women and children) to be shielded from possible attacks.

Any civilian casualties in the midst of war is regrettable, however what are we to make of God’s view regarding such casualties? The Bible is replete with examples of God actually ordering the destruction of “civilians” in the midst of military attacks ordered by Him. A few examples below:

Deuteronomy 2:31-34
The LORD said to me, "See, I have begun to deliver Sihon and his country over to you. Now begin to conquer and possess his land." When Sihon and all his army came out to meet us in battle at Jahaz, the LORD our God delivered him over to us and we struck him down, together with his sons and his whole army. At that time we took all his towns and completely destroyed them—men, women and children. We left no survivors.

Deuteronomy 3:1-3
Next we turned and went up along the road toward Bashan, and Og king of Bashan with his whole army marched out to meet us in battle at Edrei. The LORD said to me, "Do not be afraid of him, for I have handed him over to you with his whole army and his land. Do to him what you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon." So the LORD our God also gave into our hands Og king of Bashan and all his army. We struck them down, leaving no survivors.

Deuteronomy 20:13-15
When the LORD your God delivers it into your hand, put to the sword all the men in it. As for the women, the children, the livestock and everything else in the city, you may take these as plunder for yourselves. And you may use the plunder the LORD your God gives you from your enemies. This is how you are to treat all the cities that are at a distance from you and do not belong to the nations nearby.

Judges 21:10
So the assembly sent twelve thousand fighting men with instructions to go to Jabesh Gilead and put to the sword those living there, including the women and children.

1 Samuel 15:1-3
Samuel said to Saul, "I am the one the LORD sent to anoint you king over his people Israel; so listen now to the message from the LORD. This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'I will punish the Amalekites for what they did to Israel when they waylaid them as they came up from Egypt. Now go, attack the Amalekites and totally destroy everything that belongs to them. Do not spare them; put to death men and women, children and infants, cattle and sheep, camels and donkeys.' "

Ezekiel 9:3-5
Now the glory of the God of Israel went up from above the cherubim, where it had been, and moved to the threshold of the temple. Then the LORD called to the man clothed in linen who had the writing kit at his side and said to him, "Go throughout the city of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of those who grieve and lament over all the detestable things that are done in it." As I listened, he said to the others, "Follow him through the city and kill, without showing pity or compassion. Slaughter old men, young men and maidens, women and children, but do not touch anyone who has the mark.

If you listened to the "learned" in our world, all war is to be condemned. That in and of itself may be true. However few wars are started without a reason. The real question is whether the reason for the war is justifiable. Throughout the scriptures above, our Lord God saw it necessary to destroy the people of nations or tribes that were hostile to his Jewish people. His decrees were direct and complete. In many cases “civilian” casualties were not His concern.

There are those reading this post who will wonder how we can worship a “loving” God who permits these events? The simple answer is God is sovereign. He created all things. He decrees the beginning and end of all things. If our world were not hostile to God and His Son Jesus Christ, I can guarantee you that the atrocities of war would be non-existent. I have yet to see an example where God decreed the senseless destruction of His people because they worshiped Him. The story here is if you are hostile to God; hostile to the people of God: beware.

Writers Note: Somewhat unrelated to this post, I'd like to call your attention to the last scripture noted above (Ezekiel 9:3-5). I believe it is a prophetic scripture that points to the continuous distinction (with life altering consequences) that God makes between believers and non-believers.

Should We Say “Merry Christmas”?

Should we say “Merry Christmas” or just “happy holidays”? This issue has grown in intensity in recent years as our culture has simply become more godless… in the name of so-called “inclusion”. The saying goes: there are so many different kinds of people in our culture that it is offensive to wish others a “Merry Christmas”. What if they are not Christian? It has gotten to the point that at my daughter’s school, the kids have become so programmed that it was rare that anyone wished each other a “Merry Christmas” as they left for the “winter break”. What a shame.

I was thinking the other day…are they going to start calling December 25th “Winter Day” or some such nonsense?

All I will point out is that Jesus himself said in the Bible: "I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God. But he who disowns me before men will be disowned before the angels of God. (Luke 12:8 NIV); elsewhere Jesus also said: If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels." (Mark 8:38 NIV)

As you ponder at the next opportunity whether you should bury the urge to say “Merry Christmas” for fear of offending someone, give thought to the implication of offending Jesus in the process. Perhaps you might remember these additional words that He spoke as well: I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. (Luke 12:4-5 NIV)

Israel's Current Valley of Dry Bones

Anyone who has read my posts knows that I focus a lot on the nation of Israel. I do so because in view of biblical focus, Israel is the physical center of God’s world. It is where Christ our savior was sent to be born, live and die for our sins and where He will come to again and reign in his future earthly government: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end… (Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV)

I found the following paragraph captured from the News From Jerusalem website very instructive about the condition of modern day Israel’s standing in our current world. It was written in the aftermath of the recent Mumbai India terrorist attacks that among other atrocities singled out an Israeli center for particular carnage, executing 6 Jewish employees in the process.

Six decades after the Holocaust, with official commemoration of the (Jewish) genocide now instated in many of the world’s Western democracies, much of the world is engaging in a more or less concerted effort to delegitimize, demonize, and destroy the Jewish state with tacit or active Western participation. Diplomats, bureaucrats, journalists, and others who protest that they favor the “two-state solution” while singling out Israel for obsessive condemnation are as much a part of this mechanism as the bloody terrorists who are forthright about their aims.

I believe modern day Israel is a living example of what happens to people when they knowingly reject Jesus Christ as their Lord. The biblical gospel books detail how Jesus came “to his own”, but his own “received him not”. Toward the end of his Human Life, Jesus said this about Israel’s future after their rejection of Him as their Messiah: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. Look, your house is left to you desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.' (Matthew 23:37-39 NIV)

God will not tolerate his creation’s rejection of Him. He is a loving, patient and merciful God who means what He says and says what He means. Despite Christ’s warning and subsequent carrying out of his prophecy above, He always allows for our repentance and reconciliation to Him. In the Biblical Book of Ezekiel, this is how God describes His future plan for Israel despite their current Devil-inspired calamities: God grabbed me. God's Spirit took me up and set me down in the middle of an open plain strewn with bones. He led me around and among them—a lot of bones! There were bones all over the plain—dry bones, bleached by the sun. He said to me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" I said, "Master God, only you know that." He said to me, "Prophesy over these bones: 'Dry bones, listen to the Message of God!'"...Then God said to me, "Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. Listen to what they're saying: 'Our bones are dried up, our hope is gone, there's nothing left of us.' "Therefore, prophesy. Tell them, 'God, the Master, says: I'll dig up your graves and bring you out alive—O my people! Then I'll take you straight to the land of Israel. When I dig up graves and bring you out as my people, you'll realize that I am God. I'll breathe my life into you and you'll live. Then I'll lead you straight back to your land and you'll realize that I am God. I've said it and I'll do it. God's Decree.'" (Ezekiel 37:1-4 & 11-16 The Message Bible)

Israel is an object lesson to people who have been living their lives rejecting Jesus Christ as their savior (their Messiah). You will suffer for that rejection, however Jesus always is available for your redemption. All you have to do is ask. Israel will be redeemed. Sometime in the future they will ask, and their God will redeem them and welcome them back with open arms. Now that you know He will do the same for you? Will you ask?


Note: A simple prayer for salvation is at the top right of this page

UN vs. Israel (Part 1,297)

WE THE PEOPLES OF THE UNITED NATIONS DETERMINED...to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbors…Excerpted from the UN Charter Preamble

Based on the way that the UN has treated the state of Israel over the years, it is clear that the UN Charter applies to all countries except for the state of Israel. Below is the opening paragraph from the News From Jerusalem website today:

Israel filed a formal complaint with the United Nations on Tuesday over statements made by UN General Assembly President, Father Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann of Nicaragua, who called for an international boycott of Israel after accusing it of being an apartheid regime. D'Escoto went on to decry the plight of the Palestinians, describing the failure to create a Palestinian state as "the single greatest failure in the history of the United Nations."

I certainly can understand the UN being upset that the Palestinian people do not have a homeland, but its bias to anything that would be deferential to Israel’s position in the conflict is incredibly one-sided. You certainly get the feeling that the UN wouldn’t care one bit if the situation was reversed and it was the Jews who were the ones still absent a homeland. But then again to the extent that the UN is hostile to Israel seems consistent with an early adversary of Israel captured within the following words of scripture: "…A people has come out of Egypt; they cover the face of the land and have settled next to me. Now come and put a curse on these people, because they are too powerful for me. Perhaps then I will be able to defeat them and drive them out of the country. (Numbers 22:5-6) For thousands of years those hostile to God, has been hostile to Israel, and still trying to drive them out of the country. Why? Perhaps this verse of scripture about how the country of Israel was initially started might provide a reason: ...This left Jacob all alone in the camp, and a man came and wrestled with him until the dawn began to break. When the man saw that he would not win the match, he touched Jacob’s hip and wrenched it out of its socket. Then the man said, “Let me go, for the dawn is breaking!” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” “What is your name?” the man asked. He replied, “Jacob.” “Your name will no longer be Jacob,” the man told him. “From now on you will be called Israel,because you have fought with God and with men and have won.” “Please tell me your name,” Jacob said. “Why do you want to know my name?” the man replied. Then he blessed Jacob there. Jacob named the place Peniel (which means “face of God”), for he said, “I have seen God face to face, yet my life has been spared. (Genesis 22:24-30 NLT)

God has established the nation of Israel. He did so as stated in scripture in the verses you just read. For reasons known only to Him, God decided that the nation of Israel would be His own. Over the ensuing centuries, this has caused Israel to live in unending hostility from the other nations of the world. So what is the end game? Will the UN get what it really wants – the end of Israel – or will Israel manage to continue to hold off the hostility? The answer comes partially in the aspirations of the UN in the stated goals of their annual “International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People”: The pinnacle of the event will come in the form of a marathon of discussions, to culminate with the passing of six resolutions against Israel. These include ones calling for the return of the Golan Heights to Syria and the division of Jerusalem. Jesus’ answer to the last item (the division of Jerusalem) comes in the form of this scripture from the Book of Revelation: All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. And I will write on them the name of my God, and they will be citizens in the city of my God—the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. And I will also write on them my new name. “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. (Revelation 3: 12-13 NLT - italics mine)

Change…we can be sure is happening

I’ve not written a post in quite a while partially due to being busy, not being motivated to write and also taking in much of the “change” that has been happening in this country over the past few months. The country decided to change leadership in the White House going with the candidate who presumably best represents where they want to go as a country. For the record, I did not vote for Mr. Obama. I voted as such based on my Christian beliefs, which is largely incompatible with liberal values. That millions of Americans obviously feel differently than I do and voted for Mr. Obama is the point of this post.

What prompted me to write tonight is an article that someone sent me today written by a columnist Kathleen Parker for the Washington Post. The title of the article is "Giving Up On God". Below is a few “not taken out of context” excerpts followed by some comments from me your humble blogger:

Quote: As Republicans sort out the reasons for their defeat, they likely will overlook or dismiss the gorilla in the pulpit. Three little letters, great big problem: G-O-D. I'm bathing in holy water as I type.
Why is it that people who freely dismiss the notion of God can’t seem to avoid either hostility or sarcasm in the process? If God is so freely dismissed, they seem to have a very difficult time being content is their simple dismissal.

Quote: …in the process, the (GOP) party has alienated its non-base constituents, including other people of faith (those who prefer a more private approach to worship)
So apparently the issue may not be dismissing God after all, but perhaps a disagreement with Christians who follow Christ’s teaching in Matthew 28:19 - Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit – it would be difficult for Christians to “make disciples of all nations” without communicating the love of God verbally and otherwise. As such, I’m quite certain that Satan would agree with Ms. Parker’s point about “a more private approach to worship”. It would certainly be harder to make many disciples that way

Quote: It isn't that culture doesn't matter. It does. But preaching to the choir produces no converts. And shifting demographics suggest that the Republican Party -- and conservatism with it -- eventually will die out unless religion is returned to the privacy of one's heart where it belongs.
I can’t and won’t speak for the Republican Party (a party of which I have minimal if any interest). However I will presume to speak for Christianity and what Ms. Parker refers to as shifting demographics. What she is suggesting, is that as the country becomes more diversified i.e. less whites and more “people of color”, attitudes and preferences will continue to shift towards less “religious” standards. As a person of color I will disagree with Ms. Parker that religion as she puts it “will die out”. Interesting choice of words I might add. The Lord also has something to say on this matter in 2 Corinthians 4: 4 - If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. I will submit to Ms. Parker that it is not shifting demographics that will cause a political party to continue to lose elections. It is shifting moral standards. A decline in moral standards to be more precise. In this world the party that will cater to the desires of lower moral standards will win more and more and win big! Unfortunately for them they will inevitably lose bigger as the Bible puts it: Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

Quote: Meanwhile, it isn't necessary to evict the Creator from the public square, surrender Judeo-Christian values or diminish the value of faith in America. Belief in something greater than oneself has much to recommend it, including most of the world's architectural treasures, our universities and even our founding documents.
To Ms. Parker some of the clear benefits of religion include nice looking buildings, schools and man-made documents. Wow! I love however how Jesus evaluates the marvels of such man made monuments: Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. "Do you see all these things?" he asked. "I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." (Matthew 24:1-2)

If you read Ms. Parker’s full article, you will find it to be a very common retrospective in modern humanism. Man worshiping himself and the other things of man: the buildings, secular knowledge, man-made private religiosity, the so-called eloquence of literary prose etc. etc. God however calls man to worship Him (through his Son Jesus Christ). The global outpouring of “hope” in Mr. Obama is very interesting…bordering sometimes on worship. It would be nice to see and hear Mr. Obama (a self confessed Christian) deflect such adulation and praise by re-directing the worship of the masses to the Christ who he says he believes in. As the next President, I suspect he will have many opportunities to do so. It will be interesting to see if he does. Actions speak so much louder than mere words.

Abortion – One Person’s Brilliant Position

I happen to be reading an interesting article on the politics of the abortion issue by Catholic Priest Jonathan Morris entitled Letter to Democrats on Abortion. The article itself has many merits, but what's very revealing is the hundreds of comments by other readers…the breadth of which as you can imagine ranged from one end of the spectrum to the other. However, I was most struck by a comment written by someone calling themselves “Soul Doc”. His response is one of the most common sense and salient positions on the issue of abortion that I have read, and I felt compelled to post his comments in virtually its entirety on my blog.

Soul Doc - I don’t know who you are and I wish I could give you even more credit for your thoughts posted below, but my hats off to you for your very important words:

I’d like to comment on the (fetus) viability issue. Some have said that a fetus is not a human until it is viable: that is, until it can sustain itself outside of the womb. I understand that this is part of the legal threshhold. However, it is one of the least logical or rational arguments possible.

If any of you have had an infant, do you believe for one moment that a newborn could sustain itself without the mother? If left to sustain itself, it would die in a few days, at most. The infant continues to REQUIRE sustenance for many months. Is it less human because of this? I hope no one would argue this foolishly. The viability argument is without legal or scientific foundation.

The worst argument of all for the pro-choicers is that a woman should a right to do with her body whatever she chooses. Well, no pro-lifers want to infringe on a woman’s right to choose what she does with her body. None. All things being equal,
Republican/Conservative/Christian folks would love to leave women’s bodies and their choices alone.

But the catch is that all things aren’t equal here. The woman’s privacy and right to choose–which otherwise would be the primary concern–is trumped by another moral/ethical reality: the reality of another, distinct, valuable LIFE. If this were a dead or otherwise valueless thing, no one would ever question the woman’s right to abort it. Her decision completely. But because this thing–this fetus, fertilized egg, human life in its earliest stages–is alive, then maintaining life trumps maintaining privacy. The argument is THAT simple.

The question remains whether that thing–the fetus–is a human life. No one in their right mind could suggest that it is NOT human. It is not oak; it is not rhesus monkey. It has all of the characteristics (DNA, etc.) of HUMAN. Therefore, it is human. And it is not dead. It is alive. It requires the mother to remain alive, yes, but this does not change the fact that it is alive. How can anyone possibly argue that the fetus is not a human life? It is not, as some would argue, only the potential for human life. That is manifestly baloney. As others have argued, the infant would only be a potential toddler, the toddler only a potential child, and so on. This is the most ridiculous argument on the market. No, the fetus can be nothing BUT a human life in its earliest stages. If it is anything less, then I would have to concede that it does not require protection. Abort all you like if the fetus is not a human life. In this case, the desire to reduce abortions would be stupid. Why would anyone want to reduce abortions if the fetus isn’t a human life?

As for the acorn-oak tree argument, that was another foolish one, since the metaphor does not extend properly. The question is not whether an acorn is an oak tree; of course it isn’t. Nor is an unfertilized egg an adult human. Acorns are not oak trees. But they are “oak”; they contain the essence of oak-ness. Similarly, unfertilized human eggs are human-ish; they contain PART of the essence of human-ness. When the human ovum is fertilized, it IMMEDIATELY contains all of the human-ness. It is certainly not fully developed. But it is developing into a fully-formed human. It contains all of the DNA and many other structures that will, unless stopped, develop into a fully developed human. So the acorn-oak/fetus-human analogy is a poor one indeed. Another poor argument I hear is the “Well, that’s your religion’s view; you can’t force it on me”. On the surface, that makes some sense. I agree that the principle of forcing one’s religion on another is wrong; it is at least against our Constitution. But let’s take the issue of slavery. The fact that most abolitionists loathing of slavery came from their religious beliefs is well-known. Would anyone say that their wanting to end slavery legally was unconstitutional because it came from their religion? Of course not! One recognizes that owning another human being is wrong, whether that sense of wrong comes from religious beliefs or not.

My religious beliefs inform my view that child abuse is wrong, that murder is wrong, that theft is wrong. Should I not impose my beliefs on others simply because they are informed by my religious principles? No, of course not. Those what argue that one cannot impose a ban on abortion because of religious beliefs is confusing the issue. Banning abortion would not be imposing a religious belief; it would be imposing an act that is deemed immoral that is INFORMED by religious belief. Very different.Yet another fallacious (and ridiculous) argument is “I’ll listen to your view on abortion only if you start loving people who are already alive”. This is basically a Kindergarten whine–not even an argument. That person is essentially saying that a person who imperfectly holds to one moral belief (taking care of adults and children) has NO credibility in asserting another moral belief (taking care of the unborn). That makes no sense at all.

Two Sides of Murder?

The reaction of most people over the Casey Anthony issue that is currently in the news is almost unanimous. This girl killed her 2 year old daughter! This despite the fact that the authorities have yet to find the body of any baby. The mother’s reaction certainly have had much to do with the universal thought that she knows much about the baby’s demise, particularly her statement early in the search process, when she whined about the fact that “all anyone cares about is finding Caylee” (the missing toddler). Rightfully so, most observers see this as nothing but pure selfishness.

I for one agree wholeheartedly that this woman shows a distinct disinterest in finding her little girl. The portrait of her life appears to be one of a self-absorbed young woman for whom it would not be a stretch to think that she would view a baby as a distraction or worst a “punishment” as Barack Obama has said.

The Barack Obama assessment brings me to the point of this post. If Casey Anthony had gotten rid of her little girl in 2005 vs. 2008, many of those jeering her now would have a very different view about her. Whereas here in the summer of 2008 many think that Casey Anthony did kill little Caylee, if she had had the foresight to have done so only three years earlier, many would have said that Casey Anthony made “her rightful choice" to abort little Caycee. In 2005, little Caylee Anthony would have had no one to care that she is no more.

This highlights the breathtaking incoherence of the pro-abortion position. Little Caylee Anthony was the same person in 2005 and 2008. A beautiful little girl growing up. Now possibly due to the willful act of her mother, Caylee Anthony may indeed be no more.

Richard Dawkins’ Wisdom of the Wise

The subject of Atheism has been quite popular in the literary mainstream over the past few years, as “Atheists as Celebrity” Christopher Hitchens, Richard Dawkins and others have enriched themselves with self important intellectual books, talk shows and other benefits of our enlightened society. That there are people who willfully claim a disbelief in God is nothing new. That it has become so militant, with legion of sycophants worshipping at their feet may very well be. Or it could simply be another case of the Internet making something seem far more widespread because we now know more about it. Whatever the case, I always find it interesting to read the comments of people on the subject of whether or not there is a God. This interest brought me to an article on Richard Dawkins on the London Times website over the weekend. The article is ostensibly a primer on Dawkins, and some TV show that he is apparently going to host in England on the subject of Charles Darwin and his theory of evolution.

The article itself was of very little interest to me, except when there was some commentary on the God of Israel whom I worship and am subject to. However what was of interest was the volumes of comments left by other readers of the article all discussing (…arguing may be a more accurate term) the merits of believing or not believing in God. I think such comments gives us an opportunity to get a glimpse into the mindset of the masses which for a Christian is the fertile ground to which we would like to bring the truth of God’s gospel of salvation in Christ alone.

I have captured some of the comments of the “anti-God” crowd (in italics below), with the intention to show how the Bible (the “ancient fairytale” to these enlightened ones) despite being written supposedly a by a bunch of fallible men, somehow managed to have something to say about the mindset and motivations of these brilliant people thousands of years before:

I truly appreciated this interview. Having seen Dawkins all over the place lately it was good to read a more indepth article about him. Having read the God Delusion I am probably one of his successes; a moderate christian who finally started critically analyzing my own beliefs... – Norway
We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. For if the message spoken by angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, how shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation? (Hebrews 2:1-3 NIV)

Welcome to the stupid ages, where people still believe in heaven and hell. Science is something that can be measured and later proven. Which has so far turned theory into computers and such. As time progresses there is more and more evidence to support evolution I don’t see any proof that god did it – UK
But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. (Romans 1:18-20 NLT)

God wants you to believe in evolution, for why else would he have put so much evidence for it in the world? Jesus is quoted as saying "he who has eyes to see, let him see" but religious people would rather read ancient stories in their sacred book than look at the works of God with their own eyes – USA
The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?" He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: " 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them. (Matthew 13:10-15 NIV)

Yes, it is true non-religious people are "brighter" than religious people..... as a matter of fact most atheists I know have advanced degrees. Let the religious have their crutch, some need drugs, some need alcohol and some need gambling, why shouldn't some believe in the tooth fairy, the easter bunny or some god? - Australia
Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight. (Isaiah 5:20-21 NIV)

Dawkins is wholly correct, there is no argument with the creationists, because they have nothing to argue with. It still amazes me today that in a supposed advanced society that we still have numbers amongst us that worship some kind of God...love your family, love your friends, love yourself... - UK
…therefore once more I will astound these people with wonder upon wonder; the wisdom of the wise will perish, the intelligence of the intelligent will vanish." (Isaiah 29:14 NIV)

I sometimes get devout Christians at the door. After a while, I ask them if they think themselves a better person than me. Invariably, the answer is 'yes'. Christians and muslims are the arrogant ones; so convinced of themselves, they even kill non-believers (crusades, inquisition, terrorism, etc) - UK
This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22-23 NIV)

Dawkins is making it a little easier for some of us to come out of the "closet" and for that I applaud him. For now though, for fear of discrimination and loss of family/friends, I suppose I shall stay in the closet, but at least he's championing the cause for others. Salvation lies in reason. - Canada
They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: "By what power or what name did you do this?" Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:7-13 NIV)

I could go on and on, as there were so many comments arguing against not really the existence of God, but really arguing for a “rational” reason to explain their willful disobedience to God. To be sure, the Atheist crowd really don’t disbelieve in God because they truly don’t think He exists. They don’t want to believe. It is simply choice. They probably are unwilling to accede to the implications of belief. To the implications that they are subservient to a being greater than their self important selves. These people unfortunately choose to disbelieve. Though to them the Bible is a silly little book of fairytales, it is instructive to read what God has to say in Psalm 49: They trust in their wealth and boast of great riches. Yet they cannot redeem themselves from death by paying a ransom to God. Redemption does not come so easily, for no one can ever pay enough to live forever and never see the grave. Those who are wise must finally die, just like the foolish and senseless, leaving all their wealth behind. The grave is their eternal home, where they will stay forever. They may name their estates after themselves, but their fame will not last. They will die, just like animals. This is the fate of fools, though they are remembered as being wise.

A Foreshadow of Wormwood?

I just finished watching the movie Deep Impact, a movie I have seen many times before. I am drawn to this movie not necessarily because of the storyline, which is compelling (the earth threatened by the impact of a giant comet), but by the character sketches presented in the movie; about the reaction of a population when faced with imminent death.

Death is not a subject that is discussed openly in our society. For obvious reasons. To most people death is very scary. It is natural that most people don’t want to die. The nature of life is such that we are instinctly created to strive for life. But it is also obvious that death is a part of life. Our physical bodies are born to die according God our creator: By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19 NIV). The movie Deep Impact I think captured fairly accurately the expected reaction of people if faced with an “extinction level event” such as what faced them in the movie. In the movie there was widespread fear and panic. People were also shown doing heroic things both personally and professionally in the face of imminent death. As you would expect from Hollywood, there were minimal scenes of spirituality displayed by the characters, but there were two noticeable exceptions. The US President was shown acknowledging his belief in God and offered a national prayer taken from the Book of Numbers Chapter 6: The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace." (Numbers 6: 24-26 NIV). Also, a “modern day Noah’s Ark” was created in caves to house the selected people and animals that would remain underground protected from the destruction of the comet on the earth' surface. I found it humorous to note the references to Noah’s Ark when many in popular culture (and Hollywood) claim to believe in evolution vs. the creationism that accompanied the Noah’s Ark story in the biblical Book of Genesis. I won’t describe the end of the movie for those who may not have seen it yet, but it is well worth your time.

Another reason why I think I’m drawn to this movie is the fact that the Bible predicts that an event similar to what is described in the movie will actually occur. This is described in the Book of Revelation about the terrible events that will occur at the end of the age during which God will “pour out His wrath and judgment” on an unbelieving and decadent world: When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets; Then the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared to sound them. The first angel sounded his trumpet, and there came hail and fire mixed with blood, and it was hurled down upon the earth. A third of the earth was burned up, a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up. The second angel sounded his trumpet, and something like a huge mountain, all ablaze, was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea turned into blood, a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed. The third angel sounded his trumpet, and a great star, blazing like a torch, fell from the sky on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water— the name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters turned bitter, and many people died from the waters that had become bitter. (Revelation 8:1-2; 6-10 NIV) A scary thought isn’t it. This is what God says will happen to the world at some point in the future (perhaps the not so distant future).

I write this post because I pray that some reader who has not accepted Jesus’ authority over their lives may stop and consider what this will mean for them if they persist. It is never God’s intention for any person to suffer wrath: The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2nd Peter 3:9 NIV). Though death is a scary thing, God wants us to give thought to our death if only to exhort us to acknowledge Him and live for Him: A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth. It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart. (Ecclesiastes 7:1-2 NIV)

Ignore God: Decrease Your Birth Rates

I read a very interesting article yesterday in the New York Times on the topic of the shrinking birth rate in Europe over the past few decades. The article outlines the demographic danger facing Europe with the high likelihood that several countries (Italy, Spain and Germany among others) will see their native populations decrease by up to 40% by 2050. According to the article, the replacement birth rate necessary to maintain an equal population size from generation to generation is 2.1 children born to each woman. In Europe according to the article the rate is well below 2.0, with some countries closer to 1.5 and dropping. It is a lengthy and very interesting read that sheds some light on a phenomenon that in all likelihood will reshape the face of Western Europe within 100 years.

The interesting thing about the article is that it was published after extensive research and interviews with many experts and it offers various possible explanations for why this situation has developed. Conspicuously absent from this very exhaustive overview is the possibility that increased abortion levels and increased homosexuality plays a role in the shrinking number of children. As is usual in the contemporary media, true honesty is absent from virtually every situation. Though no absolute answer could be offered, and many hypotheses presented, why wouldn’t the obvious impacts of abortion and homosexuality not be explored? The likely reason is that the New York Times would not want to explore any possibility that abortion and homosexuality could be having an eroding and destructive effect on many modern societies.

Simply put however, every aborted child is one less living human being that makes up part of the population. Every man and woman who choose a homosexual lifestyle is two less people who will create another human being that would make up part of a country’s population. These facts cannot be disputed, therefore they are ignored. It is a matter of basic mathematics. Ultimately, God (the creator of all living things) did not allow any latitude in the events that MUST take place to maintain the human population: There MUST be procreation by a man and a woman; babies conceived by this procreation MUST be born. So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. (Genesis 1: 27-28 NLT) God offers no other realistic alternatives.

Unfortunately, sinful, prideful man has decided to go his own way (as seen throughout Western Europe and many other parts of the world). The inevitable result is a shrinking population in many “developed” countries, so much so that these countries will inevitably abort themselves in the process.

Small Print…Big Consequences

I was watching a television commercial the other night and the thought occurred to me how similar this world is to a television commercial. I was thinking specifically about the image that the commercial producers want you to see versus the information that they don’t want you to focus on. I have a tendency to focus on the small print that appears on most TV commercials just to be humored by the true costs, disclaimers and other very pertinent negative pieces of information that accompanies the “glitzy” and “eye-catching” product that usually draws many people to the stores. You should try it once. You might find that when you do, the product doesn’t seem as attractive any longer.

The Bible states very clearly that for His purposes, God has given control of this world over to Satan (but only for a time): Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God. (2 Corinthians 4:4) You might think of Satan as the producer of much of what passes for “normalcy” in our world today. What we as people “see” are the things that may seem really appealing, but which have small print screaming about big consequencies. Let's look at a few examples –

· The young children having sex with each other sees the commercial of physical gratification; the small print however says pregnancy, AIDS, emotional baggage etc.

· The husband cheating on his wife sees fun, physical gratififcation; the small print says estrangement from your children, betrayal of your wife, financial ruin etc.

· The executives of the major corporation who bends the rules somewhat sees untold wealth, more power, personal comfort; the small print says prison time, guilt, public embarrassment

· The young couple sees the purchase of that “dream home”; the small print says beware of job loss, a major illness, other household expenses

These are but a few of the many crossroads of life that come with a splashy commercial as well as very pertinent small print. Satan’s plan oftentimes is for us to ignore the small print – just like the advertisers. They are applicable; they are usually there; but they are oftentimes not seen.

To use a juxtaposition: Satan himself is perhaps the biggest small print in human history. He reduces himself to the small print of life, by getting the people of this world to ignore him altogether. Doesn’t church or the other things of God seem really boring? Or perhaps lunacy? Stay clear of these old fashioned and hypocritical notions. Live your life “to the fullest”. Have fun! Why even entertain the notion of Satan? Certain readers of this post will scoff at the notion of his existence and wonder about my sanity for spending time even writing about it. But the one place where Satan gets big print attention is in the Bible. To God, Satan is no small print matter: Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven with the key to the bottomless pit and a heavy chain in his hand. He seized the dragon—that old serpent, who is the devil, Satan—and bound him in chains for a thousand years; When the thousand years come to an end, Satan will be let out of his prison. He will go out to deceive the nations—called Gog and Magog—in every corner of the earth. He will gather them together for battle—a mighty army, as numberless as sand along the seashore. And I saw them as they went up on the broad plain of the earth and surrounded God’s people and the beloved city. But fire from heaven came down on the attacking armies and consumed them. Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. (Revelation 20: 1-2 & 7-10) These passages detail the eventual demise that is planned by God for Satan. As you can see, this is no small print matter. Notice however the word ‘deceive’. Even after being locked up for over 1,000 years, when he is set free, Satan’s work continues to be deception. And unfortunately, how successful he has been at that job.

Have you ever been deceived by someone? A spouse? A family member? A personal friend? Think of how devastating it was when you finally discovered the truth. After it was too late to alter the course of the deception? Satan’s biggest goal is to deceive men and women such that their ultimate destination will be the same as his. Remember the ending of this scripture: Then the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the fiery lake of burning sulfur. The 'them' in this passage refers to these people and all the peoples before them who would have been deceived by Satan’s small print on life. My prayer is that someone reading this post will see the opportunity to learn about Satan's deception of their life, and alter the course of that deception before their ending predicted in the previous sentence.

If you are reading this post, and you have gotten this far without clicking away from the page, you have an opportunity to be aware of the deception; be aware of Satan’s small print with big consequences. I encourage you do click here to read Revelation Chapter 20; then click here to read Revelation Chapter 19.

The Bible is very clear: every living human being will end up in one of these two chapters. Will you end up in Chapter 19 or Chapter 20? To avoid Chapter 20 simply read and ask God for understanding of the following scriptures: Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children… (Acts2: 38-39); For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him. We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus. (Romans 6:7-11); “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. “There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son. (John 3:16-18)

A Church Leader's 'Look At Me' Moment

I just sat through the press-conference of Rev. Jeremiah Wright at the National Press Club in Washington D.C. this morning and there’s so much to say I’m not sure where to start. First and foremost, Mr. Wright had 55 minutes of a speech and Q&A, and words spoken in reverence about the Lord Jesus Christ were few and far between. That above all else is the perversion of this whole circumstance.

Anyone presenting themselves as a Christian Leader has a responsibility to ensure that when they are finished speaking, the name and person and Godhood of Jesus Christ is the most lasting image of what was heard and seen. In Mr. Wright’s presentation, the lasting image is one of arrogance, pride, pre-occupation with the “Black Christian Experience” and a decidedly “look at me” persona. The “look at me” part should be quite common for the American audience, as our culture reeks of the stench of such public displays…in our athletes, our politicians and our so-called celebrities. This is so much about what is different about today’s Christian culture when viewed against the Apostle Paul’s teaching about true Christian living: Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (Ephesians 4:2 NIV) – The Lord expects us as Christians and I would assume Christian leaders in particular, to demonstrate a level of patience and gentleness with those with whom they differ or disagree. And to be careful in how we attempt to correct others lest we ourselves fall into the same trap of sinfulness: In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. (2 Timothy 4:1-3 NIV, italics mine)

I would dare say that the God is disinterested in furthering the self-interests of the “Black Church” just as much as he is disinterested in furthering the self-interests of the “Catholic Church” or any other man-centered church entity. God is interested in furthering true worship of Jesus Christ through repentance, contrition and love for each other. God is not interested in reparations for slavery or about a country's "saying I'm sorry moment". God is interested in contrite hearts and humility in practice. Such behavior on the part of any person regardless of color will show Christ to a dying nation far more than artificial proclamations of "I'm sorry" for something that took place over a hundred years ago. This is not to say that adherents of church institutions such as the ones mentioned previously or any other church denomination should dismiss the importance and sense of belonging that these institutions provide to them. But it cannot be put above the singular worship of Christ.

Mr. Wright in the Q&A session was asked a point blank question about whether Jesus Christ is the only way to God. A question where a simple answer could be heard by millions watching on TV. Instead of a simple and definitive “YES”, Mr. Wright attempted to answer in an intellectual's cleverly linguistic way such that some poor “uneducated” peon in the audience would not have had an opportunity to have the simple question answered in his own mind. Someone, somewhere, had an opportunity to hear then and there that Jesus Christ IS the only way to salvation. Instead he was relegated to simply being an audience member in Mr. Wright’s theater of the self-important. Perhaps our infinitely patient and loving God will give those truly seeking an answer to the question an opportunity at another time to hear simply that YES...Jesus is the only way to salvation. If not, Mr. Wright will have to answer to the God of all about that missed opportunity!

Writers Note: In case anyone is interested, I happen to be Black.

God’s Sea World

I happened to be at Sea World in Orlando today and was able to catch the killer whale show titled "Believe". It was a terrific show with wonderful divers sharing the big pool with the magnificent and talented Orca Whales. As I watched the show, it was an awesome opportunity to marvel at God’s creative magic, as I visually took in the wondrous evidence of His creative powers!

Seated at the very top row of the stadium, I was able to take in not only the whales and performers, but the entire packed crowd in the stadium as well. As I canvassed the scene, my thoughts drifted to the reality that the one true God of the Bible created every living thing that my eyes could survey. The beauty and majesty of these huge and beautiful black and white creatures; the earnestness and enthusiasm of the people watching the show, the talent and passion of the divers and performers who were swimming and co-mingling with the whales. Even the tiny little birds that perched at the edges of the whale tank looking to steal a fish or two for their patience. Our Lord God made them all through the hand of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This is how God's Bible explains it:

And evening passed and morning came, marking the fourth day. Then God said, “Let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind.” So God created great sea creatures and every living thing that scurries and swarms in the water, and every sort of bird—each producing offspring of the same kind. And God saw that it was good. Then God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply. Let the fish fill the seas, and let the birds multiply on the earth.” And evening passed and morning came, marking the fifth day. Then God said, “Let the earth produce every sort of animal, each producing offspring of the same kind—livestock, small animals that scurry along the ground, and wild animals.” And that is what happened. God made all sorts of wild animals, livestock, and small animals, each able to produce offspring of the same kind. And God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.” So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.” (Genesis 1:19-26 NLT)

The whole Sea World spectacle that I experienced today encompassed everything captured in that Bible verse above. The great killer Whales, the fragile little Birds, the enthusiastic and talented human beings, the beautiful sunshine that bathed us all. This was not a creation of some Big Bang theory or some great explosion that somehow “evolved” into what we were witnessing today. This was the Hand of a Creator! This was the Hand of someone greater than ourselves! Someone who at the very least is worthy of a little acknowledgement!

As I watched the show and thought of our Lord, I was saddened by the fact that all of the announcements and video accompaniments of the “Believe” program was extolling the virtues of our earth… “Mother Earth” they called it; but without any acknowledgement of the creator who made this whole exercise possible. Now I am not delusional to have expected any public acknowledgement of God in this program, but it sure would have been nice. Believe indeed! Believe in the One who created all of the performers and all of the audience in this “Believe” program.

Yes…“Cling” to Your Faith

Presidential candidate Barack Obama presents himself as Christian. As a candidate in the 2008 Presidential Election, it has become a pre-requisite for people to know that you are a “person of faith”. In the last election, it was widely reported that Democratic candidate John Kerry lost because the Bible belt voted overwhelmingly for President Bush. So in 2008 we have Mr. Obama clearly stating that he is a “man of faith”. Therefore (presumably), the Bible belt should be comfortable with him. As such, it was with bemused interest recently that I read about Mr. Obama while addressing a decidedly non-Christian audience in San Francisco, was taped saying (and I paraphrase) - that because of hard times, bitter small town voters “cling to religion among other vices..” as a result of government abandoning them and allowing their jobs to be shipped elsewhere.

I find it revealing and very much consistent that a candidate like Mr. Obama would view “religion” (which is the politically sanitized way of saying Christianity) is something to cling to when the government fails you. Implied therefore is the inference that when the big ship of government is working properly, one wouldn’t have to cling to a mere driftwood as Christianity. To be sure, Mr. Obama uttered these words in what was supposed to be a private meeting. These were words that were not meant to get out to the audience of "bitter" religious voters. The audience in this meeting room was likely a room full of people who has nothing but contempt for religious voters and values. Unfortunately for Mr. Obama, God had other ideas about publicly revealing what was meant to be private: For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. (Luke 8:17 NIV).

Here’s the irony: what Mr. Obama meant as a slight or a putdown for religious people is in fact a very necessary aspect of our humanity tied to our worship of God. With all the temptations around us in this dark and dying world, as Christians we MUST cling to our faith, cling to our Christianity. This world is incredibly designed to pull us away from our faith in Christ. Christ warns us about the desires of the world as a barrier to true Christian living: but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. (James 1: 14-15 NIV). Unwittingly, what Mr. Obama suggests is quite true. When we have the resources that jobs provide for us, we tend NOT to cling to our religion. We cling to things; the things that our fat or not so fat paychecks can buy for us. We become easily enticed, and all too often, that enticement drags us away from God as opposed to our clinging to Him. God says in the Book of Romans: …hate what is evil; cling to what is good (Romans 12:9).

Christianity (not religion) is something to cling to. We do well to cling to it; else we risk being dragged away by the enticement of this evil and perverse world. If Mr. Obama has his way, his form of government evidently is aimed at eliminating the need to cling to your Christianity. Christian buyer bewares.

Prayer…as our Last Resort?

I was speaking with a co-worker today (who represents himself publicly as a Christian) and he happens to be telling me a story of an incident that occurred recently on a plane ride. During the flight, a man seated across from him had a heart attack. To make a long story short, the plane was diverted from it’s ultimate destination and the stricken man was removed (alive) from the flight. My co-worker in finishing up the story remarked…”all I could do was pray for him”. When he said that, it brought to my mind similar sentiments that I have heard from other people, usually stated such that there was nothing ‘more’ that they could have done, so prayer was all that was left.

Now I know that my co-worker had nothing but the man’s best intentions, and he offers to pray for people’s circumstances quite often, so this post is certainly not meant as a critique (far from it), but it does raise a point that I think is emblematic of a persistent ‘negative’ on the part of some of us Christians. Why is prayer oftentimes viewed by us as “all I could do..” Biblical scholars down through the centuries of written or spoken about the incredible power of prayer. But why does it seem as if this power is lost on us in this current generation? Perhaps it is an indicator of our level of faith in prayer. Never mind the fact that God re-enforces the singularity of prayer as a powerful means of communicating with Him and making requests of Him throughout the Bible. Perhaps throughout too many churches, prayer is relegated to something that the Pastor or Priest “does for you”, as opposed to something that we should also do for ourselves. Perhaps people truly are not certain that God is listening AND just as importantly will act on our behalf in response to prayer? But God tells us anything but this. I did a word search on the word “prayer” in the Bible, and it is stated roughly 102 times throughout : the first was in Genesis 25:21 - Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. The LORD answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant. The last use of the term prayer occurs in 1 Peter 3:12 - For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer. In between there are numerous instances of the use of prayer as a means for us to bring our petitions to God. Here are just a few examples:

1 Kings 9:1-3: (A prayer for blessing) When Solomon had finished building the temple of the LORD and the royal palace, and had achieved all he had desired to do, the LORD appeared to him a second time, as he had appeared to him at Gibeon. The LORD said to him: "I have heard the prayer and plea you have made before me; I have consecrated this temple, which you have built, by putting my Name there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.

2 Chronicles 30:26-27: (A prayer of Worship) There was great joy in Jerusalem, for since the days of Solomon son of David king of Israel there had been nothing like this in Jerusalem. The priests and the Levites stood to bless the people, and God heard them, for their prayer reached heaven, his holy dwelling place.

Job 42:8-9: (A prayer for forgiveness) So now take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and sacrifice a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly. You have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has." So Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite did what the LORD told them; and the LORD accepted Job's prayer.

Isaiah 38:4-5: (A prayer for healing) Then the word of the LORD came to Isaiah: "Go and tell Hezekiah, `This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will add fifteen years to your life.

Matthew 21:22: (A prayer of faith) If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

Mark 9:28-29: (A prayer to drive out demonic spirits) After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "This kind can come out only by prayer. "

Acts 2:40-42: (An example of Corporate Prayer) With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

Acts 28: 7-8: (Another prayer for healing) There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him.

Romans 12:9-13 (Faithfulness in prayer) Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

James 5: 13-16 (No descriptions necessary) Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

As one can see, God has given us this free access to Him through prayer. We should try not to take it for granted or treat it as an after-thought in difficult circumstances. Seek God through prayer. He will never fail you.

Dr. King: A Brilliant Man of God

Today is the anniversary of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King. It is a day of remberance of one of the most significant men in American history. By the sheer force of his will, intellect, love for his fellow man and (by today’s standards) an uncharacteristic adherence to the Word of God, Dr. King blazed the trail for the social and economic improvements that African Americans now enjoy. He rightfully should be honored by an entire nation whose sense of self was made better due to his efforts.

As I read the transcript of his 1968 speech “I See the Promised Land” it was remarkable to feel his eloquence and humility as he addressed a public audience for the final time the day before his assassination. His was a movement grounded in the ways of God. His call for social justice for African Americans was based on the spiritual law of God that all men are created equal in the eyes of God, and as such should be treated equally without regard to race. But I am sure that the freedom that Dr. King espoused was not a freedom that gave license to live without responsibility. Not the freedom to live to gratify the desires of your flesh, not the freedom to bring fear to others. Dr. King’s brand of freedom always embraced the scriptures. This was its basis. Dr. King would agree to the freedom God talked about in 1 Peter 2:16-17 - Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. Dr. King’s freedom came to serve God, not the other way around. Religion was not a means to a social end. Freedom was a means to serve God’s end. In his last speech, Dr. King used the word “God” 11 times. Civil Rights for African Americans was subordinate to God’s laws.

The modern day people who profess to be leaders of the African American movement (if a single monolith still so exist) could do very well to emulate Dr. King’s subordination to the Word of God. I have seen precious little in the way of real Christian authority as the driving factor that lead these modern day version of so-called leaders. Jesus says: "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV) It is undeniable that Dr. King “bore much fruit”. True Christian leaders tend to do that long after the Lord has called them home.

Dr. King ended his last public speech with these words:

“Well, I don’t know what will happen now. We’ve got some difficult days ahead. But it doesn’t matter with me now. Because I’ve been to the mountaintop. And I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people will get to the promised land. And I’m happy, tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.”

On behalf of those who loved Dr. King – to God Be the Glory.

Jeremiah Wright - A Love U-Turn

Much of the country has been following the Barack Obama pastor story for the past few weeks, with many being shocked at the vulgarity of the pastor (lower case ‘p’ written intentionally) and the views which he obviously holds for this country and a vast majority of its citizens. The political controversy for Mr. Obama appears to be the implication that by remaining in this church and being obviously close to this pastor for 20 years rightfully suggest that at minimum he himself is not appalled by such vulgar mindset and rhetoric. That may or may not be true. But to a Christian, there is another story here worth exploring. To many in the secular community and secular media, Mr. Wright is in some way representing Christians. He is representing a “leader” who leads on the teachings of Christ! Barack Obama often represents himself as a Christian. More importantly to me, what kind of Christian can be tolerant of such hate speech?

Let’s examine further. From this incident, it appears that much of Mr. Wright’s focus is the damnation of and separation from the majority of Americans because apparently in his assessment, the ills of the country’s history ought to be permanently laid at their feet. However, as a Christian leader, I wonder if in his quiet time of prayer, he has earnestly prayed for the people who he so publicly damns? The Bible states in Matthew 19:26 “…with God all things are possible”. Since Mr. Wright appears to believe that the majority of Americans are so bad, does he want them to change? Does he want them to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ? If so, does he ever pray for them? Would or should we know it from what he speaks? If his church believes that such balance is necessary from the story that is emerging, would they have any interest in finding copies of past sermons that demonstrate such thinking consistent with the tenets of Christ? Perhaps these are rhetorical questions on my part. Through I have not heared 99.99% of Mr. Wright’s sermons, I wonder if the true love of Christ (for all people) is present in this so-called Christian leader.

An instructive passage of scripture for both the followers of Mr. Wright and other church leaders like him, as well as the audience who are only now learning some of this type of “preaching” is Mark 12:28-34. Here our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ tells his disciples and all of the rest of mankind about the most important commandment: One of the teachers of religious law was standing there listening to the debate. He realized that Jesus had answered well, so he asked, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” The teacher of religious law replied, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth by saying that there is only one God and no other. And I know it is important to love him with all my heart and all my understanding and all my strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. This is more important than to offer all of the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law.” Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions. (NLT)

I wonder if Mr. Wright considers other Americans of a different skin color than himself his neighbors. Our Lord commands us to love our neighbors. What I saw from this so-called leader was condemnation and damnation for his neighbors, because of historical prejudice (probably both ways). However from our Lord’s teaching above, He did not qualify a benchmark for loving our neighbors. He said ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. How does the Bible teach us to love? The Lord shows us the practical application of love in 1 Corinthians 13: Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

In a world that is rife with such hate, such divisiveness, such rudeness, such everyday examples of a lack of common decency and concern for each other, to be sure it may be difficult to express our love for each other. But God gives us a roadmap. And again with God all things are possible.

So if you are disgusted and appalled by the Jeremiah Wrights of the world, but you love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength, allow His Holy Spirit to influence you to love Jeremiah Wright also. Love him by keeping “no record of wrongs”. Pray for him, even though he may not have prayed for you. I guarantee you that if you do this, Satan’s plan to bring you down as a response to this very unpleasant situation will have been thwarted. To God be all the Glory.

Writers Note: I needed this message as much as the next person

From Law & Order to Heaven

I was watching an episode of Law & Order the other night where a young girl with some type of “cognitive disability” was a main character. She was a witness to an attack on her mother. The girl’s disability rendered her incapable of deception, so the cops used her as their star witness because she would not lie. Watching her in this episode was such a refreshing diversion from the sick, disingenuous and perverted world in which we live, and which so realistically is portrayed on virtually all Law & Order programs. This terrific little girl was so endearing and honest, as she exposed the deception of her father (who was not the attacker), and the people that her adulterous mother allowed into their lives. There was a scene in which she in the most innocent and pure personality imaginable contradicted her father to the police (while he sat present in the room), and then when finished, she ran over to him and gave him a big bear hug smiling in his face, her true love for him completely unaffected by her truthful but damaging testimony against him. One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” (Matthew 19:13-14 NLT);

In the days since watching this program, I have thought of how far from honest our society is. It was a thing of beauty to watch every scene in which this young girl was in, because it contrasts so significantly with our daily lives. We live and work within a daily framework where we are continually on-guard against the true intentions of others. Our behaviors imply the unspoken question: “what is my friend, co-worker, or family member’s true intentions?” We certainly don’t have the opportunity to believe that the next person’s behavior towards us is untainted by some other ulterior motive. I often ask myself if my awareness of the unmitigated evil of this world is driven more by my understanding of God’s Word and that yes the world is getting more and more evil, or was it always this way, but I was unable to see it earlier due to my previous lack of understanding?

I suspect that the wonderful feeling that came over me as I watched this truly “innocent” young girl in this TV program was but a fleeting glimpse into the true world to come when Christ will make “all things new”. He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:2-4 NIV)

If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God. (2 Corinthians 4:3-4 NLT) The good news for those of us longing for a future time when routine deception is not a part of every day living is this: the darkness of a world almost completely turned over to Satan will eventually be finally and permanently destroyed by a pure, Holy and deception-free God. Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea; And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."; Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. (Revelation 21: verses- 1, 3-5, 27 NIV)

Our Private Religion?

I find the political and regulatory demand that churches must refrain from supporting political candidates to be an interesting study in how self avowed Christians worship God. By regulatory law, Churches cannot openly support one candidate in a political race or else risk their tax-exempt status. By cultural “law” Christians are told that their Christianity should be private. It should not be part of their political thinking. Of course that demand is typically made by people who are not informed about the true tenets of Christianity –a Christian is WHO you are, NOT what you do. You should behave as a Christian in your home watching TV, in your car driving around, in the mall shopping and YES in the voting booth voting for a political candidate.

People who are not truly submitted to God’s complete leading can easily, and subconsciously, turn on and turn off their being led by the Word of God. “My Christianity is private” (or the more sanitized) “my religion is private” is what you will hear them say. What you won’t hear them say is “my public behavior or words shouldn’t reflect my religion”. But that is in essence the same thing, is it not? If you say “my religion is private”, are you not also saying “my lack of religion is public”? In essence, “my lack of religion” is more publicly acceptable – just as “my religion is private” is acceptable. But acceptable by whom? You? The public? Both? How about by God? Does He matter in this equation? Well, listen to Jesus' words in Matthew Chapter 10: “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. (Matthew 10:32-33 NLT) How can one acknowledge HIM before men if one’s religion is private? If my religion is private how would men know?

I say all of this because as I was shaving this morning the Holy Spirit brought to my mind my vote in this upcoming Presidential Election. In past elections since I became a born again believer in Jesus Christ, I have always voted based on the biblical principles that God has taught me through the studying of the Bible and the teaching of Godly leaders. As such, I have ended up voting for the Republican candidate, mainly because they either presented themselves as being Christian or because the principles of the Republican Party was more closely aligned with consistent biblical doctrine than that of the Democratic Party. Please note, I said “more closely aligned” and not “entirely aligned”. As a realist I recognize that until the coming government of Christ, no human government is really completely devoted to true biblical leadership. With the ongoing Republican Primary, I found myself focusing more on the need to fight global terrorism as my primary motivation for choosing which candidate for whom to vote. As a result, I have been consistent in my intention to vote for former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. I firmly believe that he would be steadfast in his resistance of and attacks on terrorists. I still feel that way. However from the moment I first heard Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee speak, it was clear that he more closely represented the biblical worldview that I myself hold. I may not agree with his stance on everything (I probably don’t), but on balance I am more closely aligned with his views than that of Giuliani. Despite this however, I have remained steadfast in my support of the New York Mayor...until my shaving moment this morning.

God speaks to people (through His Holy Spirit) in different ways. For me, He tends to insert thoughts and motivations in my mind as I am doing seemingly routine things. That He speaks to me at all is something for which I am truly grateful. There has been many a time when due to my own willful disobedience, I am unable to hear Him. Not because He is not speaking, but because I am not listening. However, this morning while shaving, His Holy Spirit spoke very clearly (and for the unchurched reader I don’t mean verbally). He said to me that I must vote for Mike Huckabee, his Christian representative in this race. My very human and rational mind will war against this directive at times, reasoning that Mr. Huckabee could never win a General Election against the Democrats. However, God’s chosen people had no latitude to invoke human reasoning when for example God told the prophet Joshua to have them march around the city of Jericho seven times and then shout as one in order to cause solid brick walls to come tumbling down. Their job (as children of God) was to simply obey, and let God manage the task of tearing down the Jericho wall. (Joshua Chapter 6)

So in this upcoming State Primary, I will be voting for Mr. Huckabee, against my practical human judgment.

There are those who may read this and wonder why it is that I wholeheartedly write-off the notion of voting for the Democratic candidates. My answer is simply this: As I have studied the Word of God, I see consistency in God’s commands and requirements for living a righteous life. The Bible says not to kill (unless in self defense or authorized by your government). As such, support for abortion (the killing of unborn children) is not biblically allowed; the following biblical scripture I believe bears out this position: "If men who are fighting hit a pregnant woman and she gives birth prematurely but there is no serious injury, the offender must be fined whatever the woman's husband demands and the court allows. But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life (the life of the child)… (Exodus 21:22-23 NIV – italics mine) The Democrats support abortion. The Bible is clear that there is one true God. There are not many Gods, nor are there many paths to that one true God. There is only one path: through the blood of Jesus Christ as the Bible states in John: Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6 NIV). The Democrats are reticent to utter the name of Jesus Christ singularly or consistently. They tend to prefer “their religion private” – see John Kerry in the 2004 Election as a representative symbol. The Bible exhorts man to “pray without ceasing” (in effect praying consistently). The Democrats as a rule tend to support the ban on praying in public. They support the ban on children praying in school. Jesus doesn’t: One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” (Matthew 19:13-14 NLT) For the children, Jesus clearly doesn't support “the my religion is private” approach. Look at the type of Supreme Court judges that Democrats prefer. As a general rule, the Democrats and especially their supporters would strongly prefer an agnostic or polytheistic culture.

As a Christian, I can’t suspend my biblical opposition to these principles when it comes to choosing a candidate or party to support. Churches, because of the tax law implications, should always support biblical principles not necessarily candidates. They should always encourage their congregation to vote on biblical principles. Staying “neutral” or “non-committal” when an election is so public should not be a position that a true biblically-based church should take. If that causes Christians to vote more for one political party versus another so be it. As a Christian, God looks at your motivation for EVERYTHING you do. Voting is no different.

Open Letter to the Boston Globe's Editorial Page (12/25/07)

This post is an open letter to James Carroll (Op-Ed writer for the Boston Globe) on his article which appeared on the Globe's website on December 25th, 2007.

Mr. Carroll...I admire your piece as ostensibly a Christmas Day tribute to Jesus Christ, however as I see it, yours is an example of the misunderstanding (or understatement) of the true message left by Jesus and now carried out today by His Holy Spirit in the lives of common people. To illustrate my point, I have taken the liberty to excerpt a few points taken directly from quotes throughout your piece. My point here is not to deride for the sake of being contrarian or argumentative, but to perhaps provide some sharper points of clarity on the Jesus about which you write. Your quotes are in bold below:

"Those who in the first place had come to love him did not give up their affection for him." It was in that "not giving up affection" for the dead Jesus that the Jesus movement was born.
Jesus' followers do indeed 'admire' him, but more importantly, we worship Him; Affection is by far too weak a word. Throughout your piece, affection appears to be the prevailing feeling of Jesus' followers about Him. ...yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live. (1 Corinthians 8:6)

Dostoevsky sees in him (Jesus) an invitation addressed to every person, to regard himself or herself as capable of overcoming the limits of birth, circumstance, class, culture, and even time.
Jesus' message was not one of 'overcoming' the limits of earthly circumstances. Instead it was one of being regenerated via 'a new birth'. The earthly circumstances were confined to the original man-driven birth. The new birth brings with it an eternal removal of 'the earthly circumstances' enabled by God's Holy Spirit...not via human achievement or ability. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. (John1:12-13) He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him...In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again (John 3:2-3 truncated) For we who worship by the Spirit of God are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort... (Philippians 3:3 NLT)

Indeed, the Jesus who rejects slavish authority for himself and others is the living critique of any institution, the church included, that asks less of humans, instead of more.
On the contrary, Jesus by no means rejects authority for Himself. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus teaches His disciples and future believers of His unique authority as God's only Son. We do well to submit to His authority. In Jesus was the embodiment of authority with complete humility. Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit... (Matthew 28:16-19)

Jesus loved humanity for what it might become.
Jesus loved humanity because it was created by God through Him. Not for what it 'might' become. With God (and Jesus), there is never a might. There just is. The carnal human mind finds this concept to be virtually indiscernible. With the vision provided by God's Holy Spirit, it appears rather simple. Listen to Jesus' words as He prays to God the Father in John Chapter 17: "I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word. Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you. For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me. I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours...My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. (John 17: 6-8; 20-21)


I applaud Mr. Carroll for his own unique tribute to our Lord on the celebratory Day of His Birth. However I also pray for Mr. Carroll: greater understanding of the true message of Jesus and increased boldness to communicate it more vividly despite the probable protestations of his publishers.

(All Bible verses from the NIV Bible unless otherwise noted)

The Giving Season Draws Near

I am writing this post in November as we (in the Western world) prepare to start the season of giving. The season of Christmas. Gifts will be given in accordance with the Christian tradition started when the wise men brought gifts to the baby Jesus on the morning of His birth. The giving season about which I am writing is however something slightly different. It too is drawing near (it my be nearer than the upcoming Christmas season). What I am writing about is the gifts (or rewards) Jesus promises His believers in the Biblical Book of 1 Corinthians Chapter 3: If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames. (1 Corinthians 3:12-15 NIV) Jesus promises His believers rewards on their Day of Judgment. Rewards for how we live our lives as believers or lack of rewards for how we live our lives as believers. This will be the real season of giving.

Many non-believers think that to get to heaven one must simply live a good life. You may have heard the saying. "You can't tell me I'm not going to heaven! I live a good life. I'm a good person!" As Christians we often fall into the trap of telling people they are going to hell if... To be quite frank, we are not in a position to tell anyone anything. When God however is the one doing the telling, well that is entirely a different matter. The Bible tells people that living a good life is not enough to get one into heaven. The Bible tells us: …salvation is found in no one else (but Jesus), for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12 (parenthesis mine).

Once we have genuinely accepted Jesus as the substitute for our sins, our lives are lived continually trying to justify the lofty position of being granted acceptance into His Kingdom through His sacrifice and God's mercy. True appreciation of God's mercy causes us to live more and more for Him. It is our lives after our salvation that is the basis for the rewards spoken about in 1 Corinthians 3. The judgment of the believers is the assessment made by Christ as to how we have lived our lives in His Name after we have become Christians. Non-believers are not judged during this time. Their judgment occurs at the "Great White Throne" judgment at the end of time as detailed in the Book of Revelation Chapter 20: Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what he had done. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20: 11-15 NIV).

The judgment of believers is the basis of our gifts. How have we lived our lives as Christians? Have we been faithful to God’s commands for His people? Have we lived our lives helping to show the gospel of Jesus to others? Have we showed love to others so that Jesus may be shining through our to them? Have we been willing to share a story about our salvation so that someone else might be encouraged to possibly give their lives to Christ? Have we shared of our time, talents or finances with those in need? Have we prayed for a stranger when God has allowed us knowledge of a difficulty in their lives? These are some of the things for which Jesus will reward Christians at the judgment of the believers. These are some of the behaviors that will be tested with fire on the Day of Judgment. But our other behaviors will be tested as well. The lack of love shown to others (especially other brothers and sisters in Christ). Our selfishness with the blessings given to us by God. Our unwillingness to sacrifice for the benefit of others. Our use of filthy language even as God’s Word commands us to refrain from doing so. Our lying on our taxes, our resumes our mortgage or rent applications. Our distaste for other believers who’s style of worship may be different from our own. Oh the list is so very long! As Christians our works will be tested. All of them. The scary thing to me is the part of the scripture that says: If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames. Our worthless living as Christians will be exposed for what it really is. During this life, many of us can hide behind the façade. We can hide behind the outward appearances. Can hide behind the lifting of hands. Can hide behind the churchy clichés. But on the Day of Judgment our true natures will be exposed! Can you imagine just standing there…just you and Him! Jesus will ask for an accounting! The word does indeed say: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2: 10-11 NIV).

As Christians we will bow low before Him and be grateful for His mercy. His mercy will let many enter His Kingdom…even after we have done little with the gift of salvation that He paid for with His own blood at the cross. Please be careful to understand. We do not earn our salvation by any good works! We have been given salvation only by the mercy of God through the sacrifice of Christ. But as Christians, should we not live for Him? That is what the Day of Judgment is about for the believer.

The Prison Ministry Battles

I just finished reading an article on Foxnews.com about the struggle of prison ministries to remain active because of lawsuits being brought by organizations who ultimately want no part of God being presented to people anywhere. These organizations maintain opinions like the following: “…that state funds were used for religious indoctrination. It alleges that cooperative inmates received preferential treatment, while some Roman Catholic inmates — not embracing the evangelical approach — were denigrated”. So far according to the article, a federal judge has already ordered a prison ministry program in Iowa to be shut down:

A federal judge agreed with Americans United. He ordered the program be shut down, and said InnerChange must reimburse its $1.5 million (euro1 million) payment from the state. The case could have ramifications for faith-based programs across the United States. It's now under appeal, and the program has been allowed to continue temporarily using only private funds, as is the policy at Vance and other InnerChange programs. Foxnews.com

Even those who have opposed these programs admit that they appear to bring a sense of peace to the inmates who participate. Anti prison-ministry organizations however appear to look for reasons why these programs are not successful, such as pointing out that a lack of data causes skepticism about what they claim is the program’s ultimate goal: reducing the inmates rate of return back to prison. So their skepticism is based on a lack of data? I guess it's too much to ask to give these programs the benefit of the doubt. What these anti faith-based organizations don’t see is that the highest purpose of these programs is to bring the peace of Jesus Christ to the lives of previously violent and murderous people. They don’t see this as the ultimate goal because the god of this world blinds them. Here’s how the Bible refer to people such as these prison ministry opponents: "...Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?" For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: "He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn… (John 12: 38-40 NIV)

It appears that the courts would rather have prison inmates battling, raping and killing in prisons rather than learning to turn their lives around at the Word of Jesus Christ. Sure they will say that mine is an overly dramatic characterization of their position, and that they are only concerned with non-participants being marginalized! Here is how they position their argument:

Alex Luchenitser, an Americans United attorney, said his group's primary concern is equal treatment of all inmates, regardless of their faith or lack of one. "Legally, it's not relevant whether these programs are effective or not..." Foxnews.com

Their god here is the god of “The Legal System”. To them, the legal god must be served above all other gods. Never mind the fact that inmates who participate in these faith-based programs appear to benefit greatly (even if it is only while they are in prison – a fact that I doubt greatly). Serving the god of “The Legal System” is at the core of many of the cultural battles that are raging across the United States today: the separation of Church and State battles, the abortion battles, the school prayer battles etc. It is the pervasive weapon of choice wielded by opponents of the one true Christian God, as they battle at the silent behest of Satan to marginalize Christian people wherever they dare to exercise the freedom of speech and freedom of religion that their “Legal god” inconveniently gave to everyone.

If you are interested in learning a little about the hard word for Christ that those in prison ministries pursue with great success and perseverance, I urge you to read this article. Also, say a prayer or two for the endurance of God’s prison warriors in their daily battle with the tools of darkness used by the god of this world to silence the move of God’s kingdom: The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. (2 Corinthians 4:4 NIV)

Our Disunity Hurts Christ

I was listening the other day to a Christian commentator whom I have listened to infrequently for the last year or two. This gentleman who shall remain nameless in this post, generally provides sound biblical principles, delivers his remarks with apparent humility and comes across as an earnest representative for the furthering of Jesus Christ. I preface my remarks in this way, because I do think such a description is a necessary part of presenting God’s Word in a matter that is consistent with biblical direction: But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. (1 Peter 3:16-18 NIV)

I must say then that it was with dismay when I heard this same commentator “attack” fellow Christians who happen to differ philosophically on a certain matter of biblical doctrine. Of such differing fellow Christians, a guest on his radio show kept referring to those Christians who differed on this biblical doctrine as “these people”. These people? Fellow Christians are to be referred to as “these people”? I thought “these people” were one in the same with you – a fellow Christian. Unfortunately, the commonality of being one in Jesus Christ is not significant enough to prevent some from sniping, backbiting and expressing harsh feelings among many Christian individuals or groups. This denomination doesn’t get along with that denomination; this doctrine is at odds with that doctrine; this group believes it’s wrong to eat this while some other “competing” group thinks it’s wrong to preach a certain way. Unfortunately, in the midst of all this, millions of unsaved souls look on with bemusement, ridicule or disdain. Unsaved family members are hardened against the good news of the gospel because what they see in us, demonstrate more divineness and division within the body of Christ than the unity that is so much a part of Christ’s message: As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV) Here our Lord through His Apostle Paul urges us (fellow Christians) to live a life WORTHY of the calling of Christ. We can’t be living a worthy life by publicly referring to fellow brothers and sisters in Christ as “these people”! Paul goes on to tell us to “bear with one another”. Not every Christian is going to do things that please other Christians. We are still human beings after all. Human beings saved by the grace of God, but still full of the same weaknesses in the flesh that wars against our souls. We unfortunately are also subject to many different teachings about God. Many that appears to be contradictory. We take these teachings into our biblical worldview and the results at times are competing ideologies. But God has a verse for us about this eventuality: Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. (Romans 14:1 NIV). The Lord had this verse of scripture prepared for us “enlightened” Christians to be careful about questioning the faith of those who are not as “bright” as we are. He states that we should accept others who’s views may differ. They may view me as weak or I may view them as weak, but above all we must accept each other for the glory of Christ!

A thorough study of the Bible reveals only one undisputable matter: Christ died so that all mankind could live for eternity with Him in peace! This gospel is the primary undisputable tenet of Christianity. Beyond that, virtually everything else may be subject to dispute, differing interpretations or strenuous disagreement by Christians of passioned reasoning. To be certain, there are other tenets of biblical doctrine that I personally view as being indisputable. However, others may disagree. And as such, I cannot be true to Christ’s direction if my disagreements degrade into public ridicule or condemnation of adherents who feel differently than I do. To what end? Just to prove that I am biblically sound and the next person may not be? To ensure that more people follow my brand of biblical doctrine as opposed to someone else who may feel differently? In the process, if the cause of Christ is damaged, so what if I win the battle of competing doctrines. As long as Christ’s death, burial and resurrection for the atonement of sins is undisputed, why damage His following over other “disputable” matters?

The absence of unity in the body of Christ has got to be one of the most perplexing issues in Christianity. The Bible states clearly: Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. (Colossians 3:12-15 NIV) As I am writing this post, believe me when I say that the Holy Spirit is talking to me as much as He may be speaking to you. I myself have to continue to fight my flesh’s desire to be anything but loving to fellow Christians who may have at one point or another said or done something to me that I don’t like or agree with. Just as I must fight the temptation for disunity, we all must as fellow brothers and sisters in Christ! Can we do less for the God who hung on a tree so that we may be reconciled back to Him?

The “Does God Exist” Debate

I’m am one of several thousand people who recently saw the ABC News Nightline debate between Christian evangelists Kirk Cameron and Ray Comfort and two avowed Atheists (who shall remain nameless on this blog). Please click here to view the debate.

I really commend both Kirk and Ray based on their revelation that they both came from backgrounds that has a vested interest in the denial of Jesus as God's Messiah. Kirk was himself an Atheist and Ray is Jewish. During the debate, both Kirk and Ray presented their cases with humility, earnestness and respect for everyone present including their Atheist counterparts. As one might expect, you could not say the same for the Atheist presenters. Say what you will about their positions on God, their demeanor and countenance was decidedly arrogant, sarcastic and lacking in a similar respect for their colleagues on the stage. If a person had come into the auditorium or tuned into the broadcast and knew nothing about the subject matter, it is highly likely that you would not wish to spend any quality time in the company of the Atheists given their demeanor and arrogance. This is not too surprising, given that in reality Atheists’ main argument is not really with mortal and fallible human beings (who happen to believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior), but in reality, Atheists are arguing with the true and living God himself. It is obvious that is an argument they cannot win. Hence the anger and sarcasm. In the natural sense it appears aimed at their human adversaries, however deep down they know the truth. They’re angry at the omnipresence of God. They’d love to remove the invisible presence of God in the consciousness of most of society, Christians and non-Christians alike; in nature, in the law and yes even in the sciences.

One of their main arguments is that God could not have created all things, simply because God Himself does not exist. However, day in day out the creativity of God screams loudly in their faces. The sun rises in the east; it sets in the west, the birds fly, the wind blows, the air is breathed easily through their nostrils, as they utilize the organs that God Himself created. It is a pretty daunting task to get millions of reasonable people to discard their “lying eyes”.

To be sure, Atheists have their cadre of followers some probably counting into the millions. However, as a percentage of the total population, it is sure to be relatively small. This is however not to say that the followers of Christ is in the overwhelming majority. That large figure is probably reserved for the uncommitted…people who know intellectually that God exists, and as such the promises of a Heaven and a Hell exists, but who so far do not show a willingness to humble themselves and their sins before Him and ask for true forgiveness.

One of the main refutations that these Atheists and many others have about a disbelief in God is the argument that since Christians claim that everything was created and God is the creator of all things, what or who created God? As a Christian we should stipulate that simply put “we don’t know”. The Lord God has not yet chosen to reveal all things to us (through the His Word the Bible). However God has given us the Lord Jesus Christ and through Him we have salvation and eventually we will have the knowledge of all things: As the Bible puts it… “He (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation (Colossians 1:15-22 NIV - parenthesis mine).

As Christians we live by faith…not by sight (or pure knowledge). We know what God (through His Holy Spirit) has chosen to reveal to us, and we should be content in those things that He has not (yet) chosen to reveal to us. Atheists may call this being intellectual weak. By earthly standards that may be (though I don’t believe it) however as the Apostle Paul stated: For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like men condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to men. We are fools for Christ… (1 Corinthians 4: 9 & 10 NIV)

One final note, the Atheists in this debate has created what they call “The Blasphemy Challenge” where they invite people to blaspheme the Holy Spirit and in doing so to commit the unpardonable sin quoted in the Bible: I tell you the truth, all the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them. But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of an eternal sin." (Mark 3:28-29 NIV). However I find it interesting and ironic that these same Atheists who claim not to believe in God feel that they can actually blaspheme the God that they claim not to believe in. If God doesn't exist how can He be blasphemed or He exists and therefore can be blasphemed...which would seem to refute their entire argument of non-belief.

Why should We Fear the Lord?

The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom; So says the Bible in the first chapter of the Wisdom Book of Proverbs. As with many things in the Bible, it is simplistically stated, in other words, placed on the easily reached ledge of human understanding so that the “common man” may reach it and understand. But there too is the rub: from the beginning of time right through to the current day, the societal elites would rather move the wisdom ledge up a few notches so that they become the gatekeepers of “knowledge and wisdom”. Into this battle steps the endearing simplicity of God’s scripture. God is saying, “Fear Me”. Fear Me as an ant should fear a giant human being as they co-exist in the nature of life. Not because the human being has any natural predisposition to destroy the ant but because he has the capacity to do so.

It is the Fear of the Lord that spurs Christians to live in awe of Him. God is an awesome being. Just stop for a minute and consider the natural world. You know, the one that CANNOT be replicated by man…no matter how hard he may try: How powerful are the winds of a tornado? How hot the lava flow of a volcano? How about the brutal winter of the mountain peaks? The unconscious viciousness of a great white shark? The indiscriminate shaking of a 7.0 earthquake? All these are the creations of the living God. Try as he might, man cannot dismiss these realties. Think of it: if man could, would he not simply do away with such horrors of natural living? But he can’t. Listen to God’s declaration of His authority in Romans Chapter 1: The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. (Romans 1:18-20). God’s invisible qualities! They are made plain to us. Deny it all we want, they are plain! We can lie to ourselves, but all men instinctively know the difference between the invisible quality of the waves of the seashore and the mechanical replication of these waves in an experiment chamber of a natural museum. You know, the ones created by machinery and man’s intellect. On the other hand, God recreates them every second of the day on millions of beaches around the world!

Job is oftentimes quoted as the most patient man who ever lived. You’ve heard the saying… “the patience of Job”. As I’ve read the book of Job, I must say that I did not see any evidence of superhuman patience being displayed by the man, however I did see the awesome power of the Lord displayed in some of the most incredible words ever captured in print: Listen to God speak to Job as He rails against Job’s presumptuous position of self righteousness as Job (understandably) tried to fathom why so many calamities had befallen him despite his righteous living:

Then the Lord answered Job from the whirlwind: “Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? Brace yourself like a man, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them. “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much.

About the Earth
Who determined its dimensions and stretched out the surveying line? What supports its foundations, and who laid its cornerstone...Have you ever commanded the morning to appear and caused the dawn to rise in the east? Have you made daylight spread to the ends of the earth, to bring an end to the night’s wickedness?...“Have you explored the springs from which the seas come? Have you explored their depths? Do you know where the gates of death are located? Have you seen the gates of utter gloom? Do you realize the extent of the earth? Tell me about it if you know! “Where does light come from, and where does darkness go? Can you take each to its home? Do you know how to get there? But of course you know all this! For you were born before it was all created, and you are so very experienced!

About the Weather
...Who created a channel for the torrents of rain? Who laid out the path for the lightning? Who makes the rain fall on barren land, in a desert where no one lives? Who sends rain to satisfy the parched ground and make the tender grass spring up?

About the Animals
...Who provides food for the ravens when their young cry out to God and wander about in hunger?...Do you know when the wild goats give birth? Have you watched as deer are born in the wild? Do you know how many months they carry their young? Are you aware of the time of their delivery? Will the wild ox consent to being tamed? Will it spend the night in your stall? Can you hitch a wild ox to a plow? Will it plow a field for you? Given its strength, can you trust it? Can you leave and trust the ox to do your work? Can you rely on it to bring home your grain and deliver it to your threshing floor? The ostrich flaps her wings grandly, but they are no match for the feathers of the stork. She lays her eggs on top of the earth, letting them be warmed in the dust. She doesn’t worry that a foot might crush them or a wild animal might destroy them. She is harsh toward her young, as if they were not her own. She doesn’t care if they die. For God has deprived her of wisdom. He has given her no understanding. But whenever she jumps up to run, she passes the swiftest horse with its rider. “Have you given the horse its strength or clothed its neck with a flowing mane? Did you give it the ability to leap like a locust? Its majestic snorting is terrifying! It paws the earth and rejoices in its strength when it charges out to battle. It laughs at fear and is unafraid. It does not run from the sword.

About the puny wisdom of man
Who gives intuition to the heart and instinct to the mind?…Is it your wisdom that makes the hawk soar and spread its wings toward the south? Is it at your command that the eagle rises to the heights to make its nest?...Then the Lord said to Job, “Do you still want to argue with the Almighty? You are God’s critic, but do you have the answers?” Will you discredit my justice and condemn me just to prove you are right? Are you as strong as God? Can you thunder with a voice like his?
(All excerpted from the Book of Job Chapters 38-41 NLT)

Oh that we as modern human beings would humble ourselves before our Creator! Who of us can answer God’s questions to Job from above? I speak here to those who claim not to believe in God. Answer those questions. Forget that they come from the Bible! Take them as philosophical questions from another mortal (and temporarily alive human being). Answer them with the wisdom from which they were crafted. Have your answer make sense so that reasonable people can hear and accept.

God is not saying to Fear Him as one would fear a predator on the prowl, as one would fear a thief coming to steal your possessions. Two hundred and fifty two (252) times throughout his Biblical letter to us God uses the word fear out of reverence and honor. Many times Jesus said believe in God as a child. When we were children, we had a sense of fear for our parents (particularly our fathers). For most, that fear was not because we were afraid he would harm us. For most of us, that fear prevented us from doing bad things! Because we knew the punishment that would ensue. But, instinctively we knew that any such punishment was not meant to destroy us. It was meant to correct us. To cause to learn and to grow into decent responsible adults. As children, that fear for our parents co-existed harmoniously with our love for them! Such is the Fear of the Lord! We are nothing more than His creation. It stands to reason, that our natural behavioral reflexes would reflect his nature, even though we are incredibly flawed and have perverted his nature within us.

Lets look at a few scriptures which puts into context this Fear of the Lord:

• But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, (Psalm 33:18)
  
• …But select capable men from all the people--men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain--and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. (Exodus 18:21)
  
• Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the LORD. (Leviticus 19:14)
  
• The LORD heard you when you spoke to me and the LORD said to me, "I have heard what this people said to you. Everything they said was good. Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever! (Deuteronomy 5:28)
  
• Now let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Judge carefully, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery." (2 Chronicles 19:7)
  
• The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. (Psalm 34:7)
  
• Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. (Psalm 34:9)
  The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. (Proverbs 1:7)
  
• The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death. (Proverbs 14:27)
  
• But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering." (Mark 5:32-34)
  
• (Jesus speaking again) “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. (Luke 12:4-5)
  
• Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right. (Acts 10:34)
  
• Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. (Ephesians 6:5)
  
• By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. (Hebrews 11:7)
  
• Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth--to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water." (Revelation 14:6-7)
  
• Then a voice came from the throne, saying: "Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both small and great!" Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. (Revelation 19:5-7)

From the beginning of the Bible to the end of the Bible, God exhorts us to Love Him with fear and trembling! Don’t let a prideful haughty world tell you “not to love a God who you have to fear!” That is only the puffed up lack of humility that never gets anyone anywhere! Man only wants himself to be exalted. Man wants to make himself the king and master of his world. In doing so, he reduces his creator to a powerless crutch for those who have no intellect. However heed the word of the pure and simple logic of the God who knows Who He is: You turn things upside down, as if the potter were thought to be like the clay! Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, "He did not make me"? Can the pot say of the potter, "He knows nothing"? …"Woe to him who quarrels with his Maker, to him who is but a potsherd among the potsherds on the ground. Does the clay say to the potter, `What are you making?' Does your work say, ‘He has no hands'? …Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. (Isaiah 29:16; 45:9; 64:8)

We live in a world that has little fear of the Lord. People kill their children (born and unborn) because they have no fear of God. Men beat their wives because they have no fear of God. Parents teach their children to become suicide bombers because they have no fear of God. Parents fail to discipline their children because they have no fear of God. Husbands cheat on their wives because they have no fear of God. Hollywood mocks Christianity in their “art” because they have no fear of God. People have multiple sex partners because they have no fear of God. The wealthy share little of what they have because they have no fear of God. We live our lives day after day in many ways that show we have no fear of God! But God says: Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3)

(All scripture courtesy of the NIV Bible unless otherwise noted)

The End-Time Temperament Emerges

When I was a new Christian in 1998, the Lord blessed me with the motivation and opportunity to study the Bible beginning first with the New Testament and then unto the Old Testament. As a still new Christian, I was up to the Book of Revelation when I came across a verse of scripture that really stunned me. Here speaking about the two supernaturally sent Witnesses that is to come to earth during the final seven years of the current world history the Bible states:

Now when they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up from the Abyss will attack them, and overpower and kill them. Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city, which is figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified. For three and a half days men from every people, tribe, language and nation will gaze on their bodies and refuse them burial. The inhabitants of the earth will gloat over them and will celebrate by sending each other gifts, because these two prophets had tormented those who live on the earth. (Revelation 11:7-10 NIV)

As I read this for the first time, I was stunned that people could be so perverse as to rejoice over the death of these two men; that they would send gifts (presumably with the gaiety and glee of our current Christmas time tradition) to celebrate the death of these individuals. My immediate thought was what kind of generation would we have to be to be able to respond in this way? Though it wasn’t that long ago, in 1998, the thought of that kind of mindset among our culture seemed like a far away reality.

So as one fast forwards into the present 21st Century, I believe I am beginning to see in the people of today, the temperament and hostility to all things Godly that must be a worldwide mindset for the above scripture to come true.

The United States
Though the United States routinely ascribes itself to be “a Christian nation”, fully one half of our electorate is at best suspicious and at worst openly hostile to any references to God in the public square. We actually live now (and have been so for over 40 years) where our kids cannot pray collectively in our public schools. Most Americans spend their evening hours absorbed in the anti-God fantasies that are manufactured in Hollywood, and if not, we are absorbed in the sordid lifestyles of the celebrities of the world. Generally speaking, as a group, what does the current generation below the age of 30 have to offer to their children in the way of morals or a love for God? Theirs is a perversely narcissistic culture of tattoos, body revealing clothing and instant gratification living. Theirs will definitely be a lifestyle that will come under heavy judgment by any true Witnesses of God.

Europe
In Europe, the picture is far worse. Read the following excerpt from cnsnews.com

Meanwhile, research studies show that church attendance in Britain is dropping precipitously, as well as across the whole of Western Europe. According to Christian Research, a British think tank, only 6.3 percent of the British population in 2005 attended Christian services on a weekly basis. The group also projects that around 4,000 churches will close over the next 15 years, being sold off or rehabilitated for other uses. Reflecting a trend around Europe, British churches in the past decade have been transformed into restaurants, cafes, art galleries, mosques, and in one notable instance, a training school for circus acrobats in Bristol. Cnsnews.com

Europe is fast becoming an aethiest or agnostic continent, and this is possibly only transitory as it ultimately is on the way to becoming a majority Muslim continent. It is common knowledge that Europe’s replacement birthrate is at it’s lowest point in human history, as the natural by-product of an anti-God culture replete with high abortion rates and an increase in the acceptance of homosexuality naturally results in less people being born. This phenomena almost becomes irreversible in the absence of some large-scale social change in the thought patterns of the citizenry. Meanwhile as Muslims emigrate in large numbers to European countries, their birth rate far outpaces the “old” culture, simply because their religion by definition suppresses such “progressive” modern notions such as abortion and homosexuality. So, the existing European culture is probably already prepared with the mindset that would rejoice in the death of any of God’s true Prophets who will no doubt condemn their liberal and anything goes lifestyle.

The Middle East
This region is already predisposed to be haters of anything that promote the worship of Jesus Christ. The Jews of Israel by and large do not accept that Jesus is the Messiah (yet), and the Muslims and Arabs both are wedded to their replacement Jesus in the so-called prophet Mohammed. The Muslims obviously would not be very welcoming of prophets from God who will be preaching the Deity of Jesus Christ.

Asia
This region has replacement gods by the dozens: from India to China.

South America
Though largely Catholic, one wonders how embracing this region would be of prophets who would certainly be condemning of the sensuality and religious ritualism that appears to be very present throughout the countries of this region.

Consider the current world culture’s response to the following reality:

And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth." These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth. If anyone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths and devours their enemies. This is how anyone who wants to harm them must die. These men have power to shut up the sky so that it will not rain during the time they are prophesying; and they have power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want. (Revelation 11:3-6 NIV)

The fact is that this reality is coming. God will be sending these two Witnesses to tell the earth plainly about it’s corruption. The liberal TV networks and the anti-God talking heads will not be able to ignore them or marginalize them. They will have to listen to them and hear their words of judgment toward a sick and perverse generation. While these Prophets are here, there will be no Hollywood blockbusters for people to indulge their escapism. There will be no National Football League diversion to consume our Sundays. The Arab/Israeli conflict will be a sideshow. The Muslim suicide bombers will have a minor diversion. The building of the next Sony Play Station from Japan will be an afterthought. The god-like worship of a human being in the Pope will probably be a fleeting memory. God will use these men to take center stage! And the Bible says that the peoples of this world “will celebrate by sending each other gifts…” when they are finally killed!

But this will not be the end of the story:

But after the three and a half days a breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and terror struck those who saw them. Then they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, "Come up here." And they went up to heaven in a cloud, while their enemies looked on. At that very hour there was a severe earthquake and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the survivors were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven. The second woe has passed; the third woe is coming soon. (Revelation 11:11-14 NIV)

What have we Shown The Atheist?

Today I read a report on one of my favorite Christian websites http://www.barna.org/ on the topic of the percentage of “unchurched” people in America, based on a study done by the Barna Group. The web article documents parallel findings from a newly released book entitled “Jim and Casper Go to Church” by a Pastor (Jim Henderson) and an Atheist (Matt Casper). I have not read the book, but the Barna article indicates insights in the book were drawn from the co-author’s visits to several churches across the country including several of the well known ones that appear frequently on Christian TV networks. What caught my eye in this article however was the following excerpt:

Many of the insights drawn from the experiences of "Jim and Casper" parallel the findings of Barna Group studies among the unchurched. Some of the critical discoveries were the relative indifference of most churched Christians to unchurched people; the overt emphasis upon a personal rather than communal faith journey; the tendency of congregations to perform rituals and exercise talents rather than invite and experience the presence of God; the absence of a compelling call to action given to those who attend; and the failure to listen to dissident voices and spiritual guidance to dig deeper in one’s faith. http://www.barna.org/

This conclusion is a very revealing (and also alarming) insight into the Christian environment in the US. For those who decry the relative weakness of the American church, it adds fuel to their indictment that Christians are asleep while this country sinks deeper into the moral wasteland predicted in 2 Timothy 3:1-4 - But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— (NIV). What this article and evidently this book uncovers however is that Christians are by and large complicit in aiding the moral decline of this country if by no other reason than our indifference and lack of either direct witnessing of Christ when engaging our neighbors and friends, or by not living lives before our neighbors and friends that clearly demonstrate that we are set apart for Christ: But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. (1 Peter 3:15-16 NIV). Oh, we are probably very good at doing the Christ thing in church on Sunday mornings, with the raised hands, the hand-clapping to the “sound good” church songs and in some circles the “Christian lingo” (“I’m blessed and highly favored of the Lord…”). But, what happens when we sit with friends or co-workers at the restaurant. Is God worthy of our verbal thank yous across the table from your boss, or from your friend who hasn’t step foot in a church in 15 years?

When a friend or co-worker shares a sad story with us in their lives, do we offer to pray for them (or heaven forbid) pray with them right there on the spot? Yes I think the article gets it very right, we are indeed very indifferent to those who are “unchurched”. I know that in this article the unchurched is referring to those who have not attended church services. But in my context I am actually referring to those who are not a part of the church of Jesus Christ. Is one of our first thoughts when we hear of someone dying whether or not they were saved? If that is not one of our initial thoughts, perhaps being saved is not one of the more important things to us.

Believe me, I am writing this post as much to myself as to anyone else. The other day I was driving down the street, and two cars were obviously racing each other around me weaving in and out of traffic…generally creating a danger not only to themselves, but to everyone else around them. As they whizzed past my car and around an upcoming bend, my initial thought was I hope they both run into a wall in their hurry. Paul’s words about “being without love, unforgiving etc. etc.” certainly applied to me at that moment. In some ways I represent part of this apathetic Christian nation of Americans. God forgive me.

The article talks about “…the tendency of church congregations to perform rituals and exercise talents rather than invite and experience the presence of God.” Do you see your church in this statement? Thankfully I have not attended many different churches in my 7 years of being saved, and the ones that I have largely attended have for the most part avoided this trap, but I have seen it and it is very prevalent in many churches. It seems many times the presence of God is not allowed to get in the way of the church program. You know the drill: the worship songs then a few speeches, then the offering, another song or two, the “open your Bibles to the message this morning” a prayer then… “have a blessed week”. Don’t get me wrong…in the church with the right heart, the movement of God does and will take place in the midst of our programs. But the article is asking why does it not happen in most churches? How many people have been turned off by the rituals of both Protestant and Catholic churches alike? In both kind of churches the cadenced utterances of the Pastors or the Priests are virtually unintelligible. It sounds more like a performance than a call in the easy to understand language that the unchurched can understand so that he/she may be moved to surrender his life to the Lord. We are indeed a church nation of doers and not worshippers. We have been reared in our culture on the merit system, earning our way to success. With God, we can’t earn our way into His Kingdom. We can worship our way in response to His love however.

As a Christian do we ponder (in all honesty) the measure of our faith? Do we think about it as the daily routines of life continue to provide us with opportunities to display that faith? The article questions whether we listen to those voices that challenge us to dig deeper into our faith. Are we willing to face the Christian in the mirror reflecting what we are as opposed to what God has called us to be? Has complacency or apathy crowded in such that our faith is on auto-pilot? Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (Romans 12:11 NIV)

Lots of questions? Do we want to face the answers? As a Christian nation, two scriptures should haunt us as we ponder ourselves in this reality: "Not everyone who says to me, `Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, `I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' (Matthew 7:21-23); These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth. (Revelation 3:14-16)

More Discovery Channel Wisdom

I will only give the Discovery Channel's latest devil inspired nonesense about the archeological discovery of a tomb of Jesus and his "family" this much attention: For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? (1 Corinthians 1:18-20 NIV)

The Navy's "God Bless America" Moment

A little over one year ago I wrote about the challenges faced by Navy Chaplain Lt. Gordon James Klingenschmitt in his attempt to pray "in Jesus Name" while in his military uniform.

The post which appears below chronicled the pressure that the US Military felt was necessary to keep Jesus from being associated with its institution, while at the same time every President and most politicians end their speeches with "God Bless America". It would be a joke if it wasn't so sad. Well, today the Navy finally got to dismiss Mr. Klingenschmitt from it's service. In heaven, God is smiling (not at the Navy but at the Chaplain): Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved--and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him... ( Phillipians 1:27-29 NIV)

*************************************

***Update***

The Navy finally relented on Saturday 1/7/06 and now allows Lt. Klingenschmitt to officially pray "in Jesus name". Amen!