I would like to test a new like system from RefTagger to see how the link works.
Peter tells us in 1 Peter 3:21 that baptism saves us, do you agree or disagree?
Monday, December 29, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Celebrating the Visit of Christ
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Celebrating the Visit of Christ
- LUKE 1:67-69
67 Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
68 “ Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people,
69 And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
Celebrating the Visit of Christ
- LUKE 1:67-69
67 Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
68 “ Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people,
69 And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David,
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Presentation in the Temple
Presentation in the Temple
-Luke 2:21-38
21 And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child,[a] His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
22 Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD”),[b] 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”[c]
25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
29 “ Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word;
30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation
31 Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,
32 A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
33 And Joseph and His mother[d] marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against 35 (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
36 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years,[e] who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord,[f] and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
-Luke 2:21-38
21 And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child,[a] His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
22 Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD”),[b] 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”[c]
25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
29 “ Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word;
30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation
31 Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,
32 A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”
33 And Joseph and His mother[d] marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against 35 (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
36 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years,[e] who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord,[f] and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
The Birth of Jesus
The Birth of Jesus
—Luke 2:1-20
1 And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife,[a] who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold,[b] an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
14 “ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”[c]
15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him, they made widely[d] known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. 18 And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
—Luke 2:1-20
1 And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife,[a] who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold,[b] an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
14 “ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”[c]
15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him, they made widely[d] known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. 18 And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Monday, December 22, 2008
12 Voices
If you have never listened to "The Twelve The Twelve Voices of Christmas" I would recommend you do.
http://www.backtothebible.org/index.php/The-Twelve-Voices-of-Christmas.html
Let me know what you think of them!
I like the Angel sent to protect/announce the birth of the savior. His description of himself is awesome.Elizabeth and Mary
Elizabeth and Mary
—Luke 1:39-56
39 Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, 40 and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
46 And Mary said: My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
48 For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.
49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.
50 And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty.
54 He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy,
55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
56 And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
—Luke 1:39-56
39 Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, 40 and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
46 And Mary said: My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
48 For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.
49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.
50 And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty.
54 He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy,
55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”
56 And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The Visit of the Magi
The Visit of the Magi
-MATTHEW 2:1-12
1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.
5 So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:
6 ‘ But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’”
7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.”
9 When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
12 Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
-MATTHEW 2:1-12
1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.
5 So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet:
6 ‘ But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’”
7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.”
9 When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
12 Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
The Announcement to Mary
The Announcement to Mary
—Luke 1:26-38
26 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”[a]
29 But when she saw him,[b] she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
35 And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
38 Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
—Luke 1:26-38
26 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”[a]
29 But when she saw him,[b] she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
35 And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
38 Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Birth of John Is Foretold
The Birth of John Is Foretold
—Luke 1:1-25
1 Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled[a] among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
8 So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, 9 according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. 15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’[b] and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
18 And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.”
19 And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. 20 But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. 22 But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
23 So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. 24 Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, 25 “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
—Luke 1:1-25
1 Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled[a] among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
8 So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, 9 according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. 15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’[b] and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
18 And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.”
19 And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. 20 But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. 22 But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
23 So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. 24 Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, 25 “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Messenger Is Sent
The Messenger Is Sent
—Malachi 3:1
“Behold, I send My messenger, And he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, Will suddenly come to His temple, Even the Messenger of the covenant, In whom you delight. Behold, He is coming,” Says the LORD of hosts.
—Malachi 3:1
“Behold, I send My messenger, And he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, Will suddenly come to His temple, Even the Messenger of the covenant, In whom you delight. Behold, He is coming,” Says the LORD of hosts.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
A Christmas Story
Stuart Shepard from Focus on the Family does some great video items on stoplight. This one is from 2007 but is worth watching again. Check it out!
A Christmas Story
http://www.citizenlink.org/Stoplight/A000006125.cfm
In his Stoplight video commentary,
Stuart Shepard shares the true story of a Christmas gift that could not be delivered – and asks for your help.
A Christmas Story
http://www.citizenlink.org/Stoplight/A000006125.cfm
In his Stoplight video commentary,
Stuart Shepard shares the true story of a Christmas gift that could not be delivered – and asks for your help.
Your King Is Coming
Your King Is Coming
—Zechariah 9:9-10
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.
I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim And the horse from Jerusalem; The battle bow shall be cut off. He shall speak peace to the nations; His dominion shall be from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth.
Prepare Your Heart!
—Zechariah 9:9-10
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.
I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim And the horse from Jerusalem; The battle bow shall be cut off. He shall speak peace to the nations; His dominion shall be from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth.
Prepare Your Heart!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
The Comming Messiah
Micah 5:2
The Coming Messiah
“ But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.
The Coming Messiah
“ But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Life
Life is not valued by sum. The rights of some are held over the rights of others. This is a great video about Life and the value of life.
Gianna Jessen, abortion survivor, speaks at Queen's Hall, Parliament House, Victoria.
Australia on the eve of the debate to decriminalize abortion in Victoria.
Gianna's visit was sponsored by the Ad Hoc Interfaith Committee.
Gianna Jessen - Abortion Survivor (Part 1 of 2)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=5062223d42b07ab68d62
Gianna Jessen - Abortion Survivor (Part 2 of 2)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=5df82b8fe869c68cf7eb
Gianna Jessen, abortion survivor, speaks at Queen's Hall, Parliament House, Victoria.
Australia on the eve of the debate to decriminalize abortion in Victoria.
Gianna's visit was sponsored by the Ad Hoc Interfaith Committee.
Gianna Jessen - Abortion Survivor (Part 1 of 2)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=5062223d42b07ab68d62
Gianna Jessen - Abortion Survivor (Part 2 of 2)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=5df82b8fe869c68cf7eb
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Giving Thanks
Giving thanks to the Lord for he has given us much!
Psalm 92:1-5 (NKJV)
A Psalm. A Song for the Sabbath day.
1 It is good to give thanks to the LORD,
And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High;
2 To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning,
And Your faithfulness every night,
3 On an instrument of ten strings,
On the lute,
And on the harp,
With harmonious sound.
4 For You, LORD, have made me glad through Your work;
I will triumph in the works of Your hands.
5 O LORD, how great are Your works!
Your thoughts are very deep.
Exodus 15:1-2 (NKJV)
The Song of Moses
1 Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the LORD, and spoke, saying:
“I will sing to the LORD,
For He has triumphed gloriously!
The horse and its rider
He has thrown into the sea!
2 The LORD is my strength and song,
And He has become my salvation;
He is my God, and I will praise Him;
My father’s God, and I will exalt Him.
Psalm 92:1-5 (NKJV)
A Psalm. A Song for the Sabbath day.
1 It is good to give thanks to the LORD,
And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High;
2 To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning,
And Your faithfulness every night,
3 On an instrument of ten strings,
On the lute,
And on the harp,
With harmonious sound.
4 For You, LORD, have made me glad through Your work;
I will triumph in the works of Your hands.
5 O LORD, how great are Your works!
Your thoughts are very deep.
Exodus 15:1-2 (NKJV)
The Song of Moses
1 Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the LORD, and spoke, saying:
“I will sing to the LORD,
For He has triumphed gloriously!
The horse and its rider
He has thrown into the sea!
2 The LORD is my strength and song,
And He has become my salvation;
He is my God, and I will praise Him;
My father’s God, and I will exalt Him.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Creation of the world
Matthew 25:34 (NIV)
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
Those he invites are those he created and inheritance for SINCE THE CREATION OF THE WORLD.
If you do not believe in a creation, why would you believe in an inheritance?
6 days 6,0000 years ago God created the world and much more. 4,000 years ago he destroyed the world with water, 2 Peter 3 explains this is an example of the final destruction when God creates a new heaven and new earth. If you do not believe in the biblical creation and the biblical flood how can you believe in the biblical Christ and the future we will have in him?
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
Those he invites are those he created and inheritance for SINCE THE CREATION OF THE WORLD.
If you do not believe in a creation, why would you believe in an inheritance?
6 days 6,0000 years ago God created the world and much more. 4,000 years ago he destroyed the world with water, 2 Peter 3 explains this is an example of the final destruction when God creates a new heaven and new earth. If you do not believe in the biblical creation and the biblical flood how can you believe in the biblical Christ and the future we will have in him?
Monday, November 24, 2008
THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE
THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE
The
Bible Con-
tains 3,566,480
letters, 773,746
words, 31,102 verses,
1,189 chapters, and 66
books. The longest chapter
is the 119th Psalm; the shortest
and middle chapter the 117th Psalm.
The middle verse is the 8th of the 118th
Psalm. The longest name is in the eight
chapter of Isaiah. The word “and” occurs
46,227 times. The word “Jehovah” 6,855
times. The 37th chapter of Isaiah and the 19th
chapter of the 2nd book of Kings are alike. The
longest verse is the 9th of the eight chapter of Ester;
the shortest verse is the 35th of the 11th chapter of John.
In the 21st verse of the 7th chapter of Ezra is the alphabet.
The finest piece of reading is the 26th chapter of Acts.
The name of God is
not mentioned in
the book of
Ester. The Bible
contains knowledge,
wisdom, holiness and love.
The
Bible Con-
tains 3,566,480
letters, 773,746
words, 31,102 verses,
1,189 chapters, and 66
books. The longest chapter
is the 119th Psalm; the shortest
and middle chapter the 117th Psalm.
The middle verse is the 8th of the 118th
Psalm. The longest name is in the eight
chapter of Isaiah. The word “and” occurs
46,227 times. The word “Jehovah” 6,855
times. The 37th chapter of Isaiah and the 19th
chapter of the 2nd book of Kings are alike. The
longest verse is the 9th of the eight chapter of Ester;
the shortest verse is the 35th of the 11th chapter of John.
In the 21st verse of the 7th chapter of Ezra is the alphabet.
The finest piece of reading is the 26th chapter of Acts.
The name of God is
not mentioned in
the book of
Ester. The Bible
contains knowledge,
wisdom, holiness and love.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Thanksgivings Coming
Thanksgiving is next week, just trying to put together a list of things I am thankful for.
The blessings that God has given me.
Salvation! A personal relationship with Him, the Lord of Lord, King of Kings, Creator of all things.
My Wife, married 27 years,
My daughter, and her husband, and there son (almost 9 months old),
My son, now an Eagle Scout, an A student and a senior in high school.
A decent Job and a wonderful place to live
Who needs more?
The blessings that God has given me.
Salvation! A personal relationship with Him, the Lord of Lord, King of Kings, Creator of all things.
My Wife, married 27 years,
My daughter, and her husband, and there son (almost 9 months old),
My son, now an Eagle Scout, an A student and a senior in high school.
A decent Job and a wonderful place to live
Who needs more?
Friday, November 07, 2008
Independence
From the Declaration of Independence
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
What a gift the founding fathers gave us with this line. Their CREATOR! The belief in a Creator.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Gen 1:1
Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Gen 1:26-27
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
What a gift the founding fathers gave us with this line. Their CREATOR! The belief in a Creator.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Gen 1:1
Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Gen 1:26-27
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Pray for our leaders
Weather you liked the results of the Nov 4, 2008 election or not we as Christians are commanded to prayer for our leaders. Our Lord did not say pray for the believing leaders He said pray for ALL Leaders weather they are Christian or not we are commanded to pray so that it would go well for us.
So if you disagree with the person elected it should motivate you all the more to pray for him. If you think his being elected will cause you harm then it is more the reason to pray, pray hard!
Remember God wants ALL to be saved and that starts with PRAYER!
1 Timothy 2 1:7 (NKJV)
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
2 for kings and all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time,
7 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle — I am speaking the truth in Christand not lying —
a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
So if you disagree with the person elected it should motivate you all the more to pray for him. If you think his being elected will cause you harm then it is more the reason to pray, pray hard!
Remember God wants ALL to be saved and that starts with PRAYER!
1 Timothy 2 1:7 (NKJV)
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
2 for kings and all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time,
7 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle — I am speaking the truth in Christand not lying —
a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Democracy
Too many people expect the a handout from the government, and they vote that way.
What will the final cost be? Read the quote below and see for yourself.
http://www.lorencollins.net/tytler.html
The Truth About Tytler by Loren Collins
A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largesse from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most benefits from the public treasury with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy, always followed by a dictatorship. The average age of the world's greatest civilizations has been 200 years.
Great nations rise and fall. The people go from bondage to spiritual truth, to great courage, from courage to liberty, from liberty to abundance, from abundance to selfishness, from selfishness to complacency, from complacency to apathy, from apathy to dependence, from dependence back again to bondage.
What will the final cost be? Read the quote below and see for yourself.
http://www.lorencollins.net/tytler.html
The Truth About Tytler by Loren Collins
A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largesse from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most benefits from the public treasury with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy, always followed by a dictatorship. The average age of the world's greatest civilizations has been 200 years.
Great nations rise and fall. The people go from bondage to spiritual truth, to great courage, from courage to liberty, from liberty to abundance, from abundance to selfishness, from selfishness to complacency, from complacency to apathy, from apathy to dependence, from dependence back again to bondage.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Halloween
Is Halloween good or bad?
Here are a few links that might help, also notice the references at the bottom of each for additional information.
http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/2008/10/21/what-about-halloween
http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/2008/10/27/night-evil-celebrated
Deuteronomy 18:10 (NIV)
Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in [a] the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft,
Ephesians 5:11 (NIV)
Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Who's Words
42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me,
for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me.
43 Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word.
44 You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do.
He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him.
When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.
45 But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me.
46 Which of you convicts Me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me?
47 He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.”
John 8:42-47 (NKJV)
Who's Words do you hear?
for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me.
43 Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word.
44 You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do.
He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him.
When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.
45 But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me.
46 Which of you convicts Me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me?
47 He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.”
John 8:42-47 (NKJV)
Who's Words do you hear?
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Samson Syndrome
The Samson Syndrome :
What You Can Learn from the Baddest Boy in the Bible
by Mark Atteberry
The story of Samson is the perfect vehicle to reveal the twelve tendencies that can bring down strong men, including disregarding their boundaries, struggling with lust, ignoring good advice, and overestimating their own cleverness. Written in a compassionate, funny, and practical style, The Samson Syndrome offers men powerful ideas for making sure they use their greatest strengths to honor God in every situation. Includes study questions for personal or group use.
This is a great book for men and one I highly recommend!
I read it and re-read it and will try to work it into a men's study in the future. Every man should read this. Every man in a position of power MUST read this. I purchased a copy for our church library to put in the men's section as well.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
quote for today
The righteous man is one who lives for the next generation
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
What are you living for?
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
What are you living for?
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Fireproof
This looks like a great movie: http://www.fireproofthemovie.com
It is not showing in our area YET but we pray it will be soon.
I loved there first movie Fly Wheel.
Facing the Giants was a little to much "you get everything you want if you just trust God" for me. Especially the ending. I wish they would have had another option other than she gets pregnant after being told it cant happen. For this reason I have recommended to a fellow Christian friend who's wife is unable to get pregnant not to see the movie. They are faithful to God and this kind of a movie would crush them.
I have heard good things about Fireproof and hope to be able to see it soon.
God Bless.
It is not showing in our area YET but we pray it will be soon.
I loved there first movie Fly Wheel.
Facing the Giants was a little to much "you get everything you want if you just trust God" for me. Especially the ending. I wish they would have had another option other than she gets pregnant after being told it cant happen. For this reason I have recommended to a fellow Christian friend who's wife is unable to get pregnant not to see the movie. They are faithful to God and this kind of a movie would crush them.
I have heard good things about Fireproof and hope to be able to see it soon.
God Bless.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Memorial
Memorial for mom will be September 21st. I want to be there, and will go, but part of me does not want to deal with the people that will be there.
I know people will say she is in a better place and that is not true. She did not believe that so I see no reason to think she is. She believed when she died that was it, done, end of story, there is no more. So why would she think she was in a better place.
So my view as a Christian is that there is a Heaven and a Hell and the only way to heaven is through Jesus Christ. Mom was not a believer in Jesus Christ so that leaves hell for her. It is not that she wanted to believe and something stood in her way, it was that she out and out rejected Christ and declared herself an Atheist. The word of God is clear, those who do not accept and follow Christ will not be in heaven with him. If they are not in heaven then the bible is clear they will be in hell.
It is not a fun thought and not something I through around but it is a fact of my faith. Mom had the chance and chose not to accept. If I believe I did all I could to explain to her Christ, and I did, then what more can I do. I must accept the fact she chose to reject Christ, I don't have to like it but that is what she chose and ultimately it is a personnel choice.
So those of us alive have a choice, accept or reject this one called Jesus the Christ. What will you do?
I know people will say she is in a better place and that is not true. She did not believe that so I see no reason to think she is. She believed when she died that was it, done, end of story, there is no more. So why would she think she was in a better place.
So my view as a Christian is that there is a Heaven and a Hell and the only way to heaven is through Jesus Christ. Mom was not a believer in Jesus Christ so that leaves hell for her. It is not that she wanted to believe and something stood in her way, it was that she out and out rejected Christ and declared herself an Atheist. The word of God is clear, those who do not accept and follow Christ will not be in heaven with him. If they are not in heaven then the bible is clear they will be in hell.
It is not a fun thought and not something I through around but it is a fact of my faith. Mom had the chance and chose not to accept. If I believe I did all I could to explain to her Christ, and I did, then what more can I do. I must accept the fact she chose to reject Christ, I don't have to like it but that is what she chose and ultimately it is a personnel choice.
So those of us alive have a choice, accept or reject this one called Jesus the Christ. What will you do?
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Mom passed away
Day 160 and cancer won. Mom passed away early this morning.
My sister called me at work a little after 8am to let me know that mom passed away last night, after midnight so early this morning. She was near the end so it was not unexpected but it is still something that is not fun to deal with.
Mom I loved you and will miss you.
My sister called me at work a little after 8am to let me know that mom passed away last night, after midnight so early this morning. She was near the end so it was not unexpected but it is still something that is not fun to deal with.
Mom I loved you and will miss you.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Day 158 - The Call
This is Day 158 of mom with cancer.
She has made it longer than most thought she would. But now every time the phone rings I expect it to be "the call" telling me she has passed away. It is with trepidation that I answer every phone call. I know it is coming but it is still not easy anticipating "the call"
My sister said the other day mom could not feed herself and had other struggles as well. So this brings the idea closer that any time "the call" could come. We recently made it past some important dates for mom, two grand children birthdays and a holiday. So it will not be something they remember with their birthday.
Death is the one real certainty for us all. The question for most of us is what happens after we die.
1 Thessalonians 4:14
For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.
She has made it longer than most thought she would. But now every time the phone rings I expect it to be "the call" telling me she has passed away. It is with trepidation that I answer every phone call. I know it is coming but it is still not easy anticipating "the call"
My sister said the other day mom could not feed herself and had other struggles as well. So this brings the idea closer that any time "the call" could come. We recently made it past some important dates for mom, two grand children birthdays and a holiday. So it will not be something they remember with their birthday.
Death is the one real certainty for us all. The question for most of us is what happens after we die.
1 Thessalonians 4:14
For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.
Friday, September 05, 2008
God Clearly Seen
We should know God and have not, he as given us over to our desires.
Doesn't Romans 1:18-32 sound like our society today?
Romans 1:18-32 (NKJV)
18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,
19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.
20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,
21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
22 Professing to be wise, they became fools,
23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves,
25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.
27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;
29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers,
30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful;
32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
Doesn't Romans 1:18-32 sound like our society today?
Romans 1:18-32 (NKJV)
18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,
19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.
20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,
21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
22 Professing to be wise, they became fools,
23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves,
25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.
27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;
29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers,
30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful;
32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Day 144
Day 144 of mom with cancer.
My sister called yesterday and mom has taken a turn for the worse. She is going down hill and the lower level medical folks are saying 2-3 weeks left.
Asked my sister if she wanted me to come back to help and she said she would think about it.
Time is nearing an end for her on this earth. She does not believe in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, as the God and creator of everything in existence. So the Bible says since she is not a believer, Jesus is the ONLY way, she will not be in heaven for eternity, but will spend eternity in Hell. I have tried to explain that but she will not listen, she just believes when you die that is it. That is what breaks my heart more than she is leaving this earth.
I love you mom, but my heart breaks for your lack of salvation.
My sister called yesterday and mom has taken a turn for the worse. She is going down hill and the lower level medical folks are saying 2-3 weeks left.
Asked my sister if she wanted me to come back to help and she said she would think about it.
Time is nearing an end for her on this earth. She does not believe in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, as the God and creator of everything in existence. So the Bible says since she is not a believer, Jesus is the ONLY way, she will not be in heaven for eternity, but will spend eternity in Hell. I have tried to explain that but she will not listen, she just believes when you die that is it. That is what breaks my heart more than she is leaving this earth.
I love you mom, but my heart breaks for your lack of salvation.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
3 things God Can't Do
There are 3 Things God Can't Do!
God Cant Lie.
It would contradict his nature.
God Cant learn.
He already Knows everything.
God Can't force you to love him.
To receive your love he has to give you the ability to choose him.
God does not get what he wants, why?
Not all will be saved!
2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slack concerning His promise,
as some count slackness,
but is longsuffering toward us,
not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
1 Timothy 2:1-7 (NKJV)
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet
and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men,
the Man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time,
7 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle—I am speaking
the truth in Christ[a]and not lying—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
God Cant Lie.
It would contradict his nature.
God Cant learn.
He already Knows everything.
God Can't force you to love him.
To receive your love he has to give you the ability to choose him.
God does not get what he wants, why?
Not all will be saved!
2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slack concerning His promise,
as some count slackness,
but is longsuffering toward us,
not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
1 Timothy 2:1-7 (NKJV)
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet
and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men,
the Man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time,
7 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle—I am speaking
the truth in Christ[a]and not lying—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Creation, young earth
Millions of years ago this rock formed near Thermopolis Wyoming.
Ok Ok so it was not Millions of years ago. As a matter of fact this feature called "Indian Tepee" was started in 1903 when they put an iron pipe in the ground, allowing mineral rich underground water to escape and flow out of the top of the pipe. As the water escaped and cooled it released calcium carbonate mineral from solution. They hardened around the pipe. 100 years later (June 2008) we have this large rock formation.
Just another prof that things evolutions say take millions of years can form quickly.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Why Pray?
Luke 11:1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."
What an interesting question, "Teach us to pray". We should ask this question of our Lord today as well.
We Pray because God wants us to, it is our way of communicating with our Lord. It is our way of sharing our joys and sorrows with Him, to express our frustration and our understanding, to sit and listen for his reply and to answer softly when he calls us.
Why Pray? Because our Lord and God instilled in us the desire to communicate with him and prayer is the way he gave us to fulfill this desire.
What an interesting question, "Teach us to pray". We should ask this question of our Lord today as well.
We Pray because God wants us to, it is our way of communicating with our Lord. It is our way of sharing our joys and sorrows with Him, to express our frustration and our understanding, to sit and listen for his reply and to answer softly when he calls us.
Why Pray? Because our Lord and God instilled in us the desire to communicate with him and prayer is the way he gave us to fulfill this desire.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Creation, Sin, and Death
Genesis 1 (NKJV)
1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
31 Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
The beginning and end of creation, six days and everything was made that had been made and god saw it and said it was VERY GOOD. No death had entered the world at this point and God had created everything.
Death entered the world after Sin (or with sin) but not before sin.
Romans 5:12 (NKJV)
Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned—
This was a physical death as well as a spiritual death.
1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
31 Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
The beginning and end of creation, six days and everything was made that had been made and god saw it and said it was VERY GOOD. No death had entered the world at this point and God had created everything.
Death entered the world after Sin (or with sin) but not before sin.
Romans 5:12 (NKJV)
Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned—
This was a physical death as well as a spiritual death.
Monday, July 07, 2008
God’s Word
Martin Luther once said:
God’s people need to realize that the Word of God is something very special. It is not just the words of men. As Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 2:13, ‘You received it not as the word of men, but as it is, truly the word of God.’
Proverbs 30:5–6 states that ‘every word of God is pure … . Do not add to His words, lest He reprove you and you be found a liar.’
The Bible cannot be treated as just some great literary work. We need to ‘tremble at his word’ (Isaiah 6:5) and not forget: All Scripture is God-breathed, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfected, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
In the original autographs, every word and letter in the Bible is there because God put it there. Let us listen to God speaking to us through His Word, and not arrogantly think we can tell God what He really means!
- I have often said that whoever would study Holy Scripture should be sure to see to it that he stays with the simple words as long as he can and by no means departs from them unless an article of faith compels him to understand them differently. For of this we must be certain: no clearer speech has been heard on Earth than what God has spoken.
God’s people need to realize that the Word of God is something very special. It is not just the words of men. As Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 2:13, ‘You received it not as the word of men, but as it is, truly the word of God.’
Proverbs 30:5–6 states that ‘every word of God is pure … . Do not add to His words, lest He reprove you and you be found a liar.’
The Bible cannot be treated as just some great literary work. We need to ‘tremble at his word’ (Isaiah 6:5) and not forget: All Scripture is God-breathed, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfected, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
In the original autographs, every word and letter in the Bible is there because God put it there. Let us listen to God speaking to us through His Word, and not arrogantly think we can tell God what He really means!
Thursday, July 03, 2008
7 C's of Histroy
7 C's of History
Creation
Corruption
Catastrophe
Confusion
Christ
Cross
Consummation
Seven C's of History
Creation
1st 'C' of history is found in Genesis 1-2
Corruption
2nd 'C' of history is found in Genesis 3
Catastrophe
3rd 'C' of history is found in Genesis 6-9
Confusion
4th 'C' of history is found in Genesis 10–11
Christ
5th 'C', Matthew 1:21–23 and throughout the New Testament
Cross
6th 'C', Philippians 2:5–8 and throughout the New Testament
Consummation
6th 'C', Revelation 21–22 and throughout the New Testament
Check out this link for more details
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Day 89 Cancer
Day 89 of Cancer for Mom. Coming up on three Months. She got to go to St Croix and watch her Granddaughter Dive and sit in the sun, with tons of sunscreen on, just a few weeks ago. So she is hanging in there, even is she sounds like she is going down hill on the phone.
My sister says she has good days and bad days and the bad days are getting more frequent. She realized a while back that the mom she has known for the past many years is no longer the mom she knows now. It has been hard on her.
Exodus 15:2 (NKJV)
2 The LORD is my strength and song,
And He has become my salvation;
He is my God, and I will praise Him;
My father’s God, and I will exalt Him.
My sister says she has good days and bad days and the bad days are getting more frequent. She realized a while back that the mom she has known for the past many years is no longer the mom she knows now. It has been hard on her.
Exodus 15:2 (NKJV)
2 The LORD is my strength and song,
And He has become my salvation;
He is my God, and I will praise Him;
My father’s God, and I will exalt Him.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Independence Day
Independence Day is this week. From what did we gain independence?
<-- This image is from thebackpew.com
I wrote the following to our paper in response to an atheist who said we were not a Christian nation and did not have any Christian influence in our founding fathers:
I would like to address the letter by Mr X [name removed here] with American Atheist Inc. Mr X would appear to argue that our county was not founded on Christian or Religious values of any kind.
Now a simple look at what could be considered our countries first document will help clear this right up. So with that in mind lets look at the document used to declare our separation from England, the Declaration of Independence and in particular near the beginning of the document:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
To say that the founding fathers did not believe we were created by a Creator would be to ignore the Declaration of Independence.
And did the founding fathers feel that Creator was God, well I will leave you with this quote and you can decide:
“And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God?” From Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the State of Virginia, Query XVIII, 1794.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Death through Sin
Romans 5:12 (NKJV)
12 Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin,
and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned—
Before Sin, there was no death. So when Adam was created he was the first and there was no death in the world until he sinned. And that sin is passed on to the world through the one man and death with sin because of one man.
However the good news is that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. By believing in Him and Following Him we have eternal life with Him in Heaven.
By not believing we have eternal life apart from him, or rather eternal death.
You see we all live eternally it is just a mater of where.
12 Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin,
and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned—
Before Sin, there was no death. So when Adam was created he was the first and there was no death in the world until he sinned. And that sin is passed on to the world through the one man and death with sin because of one man.
However the good news is that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. By believing in Him and Following Him we have eternal life with Him in Heaven.
By not believing we have eternal life apart from him, or rather eternal death.
You see we all live eternally it is just a mater of where.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Adam and Eve First Marriage
This was Jesus answer when asked about divorce:
Mark 10: (NKJV)
6 But from the beginning of the creation, God ‘made them male and female.’
7 ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife,
8 and the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh.
9 Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”
First Marriage is described by Jesus.
1st - God created man in the beginning, on day 6, of the Creation.
2nd - he created them male and female (not male-male or female-female).
3rd - they join together, this is a physical and emotional bonding that takes place between a man and a woman. They bond together leaving behind what they new before to create their new oneness.
4th - The Joining creates one flesh, the uniting of two into one. God created us such that when we bond together (or have sex together if you will) there is something that happens that creates a oneness between the man and women. This special bond is suppose to be reserved for marriage and preserved for the remainder of the life of the two.
5th - this bond that takes place is created by God.
6th - no man or woman should break the bond God has created between the man and woman.
7th - Jesus says there is no reason for divorce because God has created a bond between a man and woman through the marriage process.
Jesus spoke of the importance of marriage between a Man and a Woman, that God Created on day 6, and that this bond should not be broken. Marriage is suppose to be for life.
One Man,
One Woman,
One Marriage!
Mark 10: (NKJV)
6 But from the beginning of the creation, God ‘made them male and female.’
7 ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife,
8 and the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh.
9 Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”
First Marriage is described by Jesus.
1st - God created man in the beginning, on day 6, of the Creation.
2nd - he created them male and female (not male-male or female-female).
3rd - they join together, this is a physical and emotional bonding that takes place between a man and a woman. They bond together leaving behind what they new before to create their new oneness.
4th - The Joining creates one flesh, the uniting of two into one. God created us such that when we bond together (or have sex together if you will) there is something that happens that creates a oneness between the man and women. This special bond is suppose to be reserved for marriage and preserved for the remainder of the life of the two.
5th - this bond that takes place is created by God.
6th - no man or woman should break the bond God has created between the man and woman.
7th - Jesus says there is no reason for divorce because God has created a bond between a man and woman through the marriage process.
Jesus spoke of the importance of marriage between a Man and a Woman, that God Created on day 6, and that this bond should not be broken. Marriage is suppose to be for life.
One Man,
One Woman,
One Marriage!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Day 17808
Some days you want to say something profound but just can think of anything to say at all, on days like that it is probably best not to say (or type) anything. That said the urge to type something is there so here we go.
Did you know that if you do a search for "Baptis" in Biblegateway.com that under NIV it comes up 45 times and under KNJV it comes up 46 times with Baptism or some variation of the word.
And the search for "Baptiz" comes up with 58 under NIV and 64 under NKJV
Ephesians 4:4-6 (New International Version)
4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all
Ephesians 4:4-6 (New King James Version)
4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
So for all those he preach faith only, that we are baptized by the Spirit, and yet still want to baptize people the question is why do you preach two baptisms when Paul was clear there is only one. And since we were commanded to baptize believers then what baptism is Paul talking about?
I believe the one baptism is the baptism by immersion into the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, just as the new testament believers were baptized into Christ by immersion. I believe they considered it the last step of faith to becoming a believer. When Paul writes in the New Testament he assumes all believers are baptized believers.
And lets not forget what Peter said about baptism
1 Peter 3:20-22 (New King James Version)
20 who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited[a] in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. 21 There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.
God Bless and have a Great God Filled Day
Did you know that if you do a search for "Baptis" in Biblegateway.com that under NIV it comes up 45 times and under KNJV it comes up 46 times with Baptism or some variation of the word.
And the search for "Baptiz" comes up with 58 under NIV and 64 under NKJV
Ephesians 4:4-6 (New International Version)
4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all
Ephesians 4:4-6 (New King James Version)
4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
So for all those he preach faith only, that we are baptized by the Spirit, and yet still want to baptize people the question is why do you preach two baptisms when Paul was clear there is only one. And since we were commanded to baptize believers then what baptism is Paul talking about?
I believe the one baptism is the baptism by immersion into the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, just as the new testament believers were baptized into Christ by immersion. I believe they considered it the last step of faith to becoming a believer. When Paul writes in the New Testament he assumes all believers are baptized believers.
And lets not forget what Peter said about baptism
1 Peter 3:20-22 (New King James Version)
20 who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited[a] in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. 21 There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.
God Bless and have a Great God Filled Day
Monday, June 16, 2008
Father's Will
- This is always an interesting peace of scripture because it imply s works.
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- Matthew 7:21 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
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- Those who thought they were believers are shunned because they did not do the will of the Father, or did not do the work of the Father.
-
- MHCC
- Mat 7:21-29
Christ here shows that it will not be enough to own him for our Master, only in word and tongue. It is necessary to our happiness that we believe in Christ, that we repent of sin, that we live a holy life, that we love one another. This is his will, even our sanctification.
Monday, June 02, 2008
Day 59 with Tumor
My sister is the primary care giver of my mom during this time. She sent me this email today:
I am having a sad day. Not sure why. I am realizing Mom, my mom is gone. I don't want that to happen yet as her body is still here. She doesn't do conversation well any more, really. She sleeps or lays in her bed mostly now. Whenever John surprised her on visits, she is in bed, with oxygen, with the sound off the TV. I am spending my days, or time with her trying to keep her happy on her last days.
And I got this today in an email:
“In His Hands”
We know not what tomorrow brings
… Although we plan ahead
For only God alone can know
… the pathway we must tread.
We cannot know the future
… not one minute nor one hour
Each circumstance that we must face
… lay only in His power.
It’s vital that we live by faith
… from minute unto minute
And trusting that each step we take
… He’s walking with us in it.
We cannot see the future
… nor the trials we must face
But in all things, God promised us
… sufficiency of grace.
This alone should give us hope
… whatever be our plans
In knowing that our future lies
… in His sweet, loving hands.
-Betty Purser Patten
Some days are easy, the rest we just have to trust in God to get us through.
I am having a sad day. Not sure why. I am realizing Mom, my mom is gone. I don't want that to happen yet as her body is still here. She doesn't do conversation well any more, really. She sleeps or lays in her bed mostly now. Whenever John surprised her on visits, she is in bed, with oxygen, with the sound off the TV. I am spending my days, or time with her trying to keep her happy on her last days.
And I got this today in an email:
“In His Hands”
We know not what tomorrow brings
… Although we plan ahead
For only God alone can know
… the pathway we must tread.
We cannot know the future
… not one minute nor one hour
Each circumstance that we must face
… lay only in His power.
It’s vital that we live by faith
… from minute unto minute
And trusting that each step we take
… He’s walking with us in it.
We cannot see the future
… nor the trials we must face
But in all things, God promised us
… sufficiency of grace.
This alone should give us hope
… whatever be our plans
In knowing that our future lies
… in His sweet, loving hands.
-Betty Purser Patten
Some days are easy, the rest we just have to trust in God to get us through.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Day 39 of Brain Tumor
Day 17772
Day 26216, Day 39 mom with Brain Tumor (since discovery)
Psalm 119:75-77 (NKJV)
75 I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are right,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.
76 Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,
According to Your word to Your servant.
77 Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live;
For Your law is my delight.
Trusting in the Lord, Praying for mom's soul, that she would come to know Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior.
1 Corinthians 15:21-23 (NKJV)
21 For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead.
22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.
23 But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming.
Day 26216, Day 39 mom with Brain Tumor (since discovery)
Psalm 119:75-77 (NKJV)
75 I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are right,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.
76 Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,
According to Your word to Your servant.
77 Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live;
For Your law is my delight.
Trusting in the Lord, Praying for mom's soul, that she would come to know Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior.
1 Corinthians 15:21-23 (NKJV)
21 For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead.
22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.
23 But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Joy and Sadness
So I have been thinking about the Joy and Sadness of a last goodbye. In retrospect with mom there is little Joy as yesterday was most likely the last day I will ever see her hear on earth or in heaven since she is not a believer in Jesus Christ (says she is an atheist) and is dying from a brain tumor. She has an up beat attitude and that is good but believes when she dies that is it she is dead and nothing else happens.
The Bible is Truth, God's Word. All that come to him shall be saved, those who do not will be lost. Eternity in Heaven or Eternity in Hell! That is the choice for an after life but there is more to it. For mom that is the choice but for most of use that will be around for years it is a choice to follow Christ and have Joy in our lives or not to follow Him and have sadness in our lives (no hope). Following Christ does not mean it will be all love, joy and peace but rather that following Jesus means you have Hope and because you have hope you have peace and joy no matter what is going on around you or to you.
Jesus said "Follow Me!" The choice is really quite simple, believe and follow or don't believe.
The Bible is Truth, God's Word. All that come to him shall be saved, those who do not will be lost. Eternity in Heaven or Eternity in Hell! That is the choice for an after life but there is more to it. For mom that is the choice but for most of use that will be around for years it is a choice to follow Christ and have Joy in our lives or not to follow Him and have sadness in our lives (no hope). Following Christ does not mean it will be all love, joy and peace but rather that following Jesus means you have Hope and because you have hope you have peace and joy no matter what is going on around you or to you.
Jesus said "Follow Me!" The choice is really quite simple, believe and follow or don't believe.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Last Goodby
Day 17764
We put mom on a plane this morning.
It will most likely be the last time I see her as she has a brain tumor and is dieing. They gave her 1-5 months and she made it one month so far.
There is a sadness in my heart as she is a self professed atheist and does not believe in Jesus. With that thought then it is heavy on my heart that she will not be in heaven but hell for eternity. It is hard to think if a loved one that way but God's word is truth and Jesus is the only way to heaven: John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Over the years we have tried to talk to her about Jesus but she would have nothing to do with it. She did come to church Sunday and the message was terrific and to the point, the staff new about her and though I would like to think they did a fantastic job just for her I know they did it for all those who are lost and need Jesus. I am hoping she will have some thoughts to it and that a burden is laid on her heart before it is to late.
We put mom on a plane this morning.
It will most likely be the last time I see her as she has a brain tumor and is dieing. They gave her 1-5 months and she made it one month so far.
There is a sadness in my heart as she is a self professed atheist and does not believe in Jesus. With that thought then it is heavy on my heart that she will not be in heaven but hell for eternity. It is hard to think if a loved one that way but God's word is truth and Jesus is the only way to heaven: John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Over the years we have tried to talk to her about Jesus but she would have nothing to do with it. She did come to church Sunday and the message was terrific and to the point, the staff new about her and though I would like to think they did a fantastic job just for her I know they did it for all those who are lost and need Jesus. I am hoping she will have some thoughts to it and that a burden is laid on her heart before it is to late.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
The earth is the LORD’s
Psalm 24 (NKJV)
A Psalm of David.
1 The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness,
The world and those who dwell therein.
2 For He has founded it upon the seas,
And established it upon the waters.
3 Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD?
Or who may stand in His holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol,
Nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive blessing from the LORD,
And righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 This is Jacob, the generation of those who seek Him,
Who seek Your face. Selah
7 Lift up your heads, O you gates!
And be lifted up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory?
The LORD strong and mighty,
The LORD mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O you gates!
Lift up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The LORD of hosts,
He is the King of glory. Selah
A Psalm of David.
1 The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness,
The world and those who dwell therein.
2 For He has founded it upon the seas,
And established it upon the waters.
3 Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD?
Or who may stand in His holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol,
Nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive blessing from the LORD,
And righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 This is Jacob, the generation of those who seek Him,
Who seek Your face. Selah
7 Lift up your heads, O you gates!
And be lifted up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory?
The LORD strong and mighty,
The LORD mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O you gates!
Lift up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The LORD of hosts,
He is the King of glory. Selah
Monday, April 28, 2008
Are you saved?
American People say they are saved but how do they know?
Matthew 7:13-23
13 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.
14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
15 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
17 Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.
19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
21 "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.
22 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?'
23 Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
Shocking Youth Message Stuns Hearers - So Shocking & Biblical
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=19fd9c84c942a08316e0
This is about a 48 minute message but worth listening to.
Matthew 7:13-23
13 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.
14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
15 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
17 Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.
19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
21 "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.
22 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?'
23 Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
Shocking Youth Message Stuns Hearers - So Shocking & Biblical
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=19fd9c84c942a08316e0
This is about a 48 minute message but worth listening to.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Is it to late to know God
Isaiah 45:22-24 (NIV)
22 "Turn to me and be saved,
all you ends of the earth;
for I am God, and there is no other.
23 By myself I have sworn,
my mouth has uttered in all integrity
a word that will not be revoked:
Before me every knee will bow;
by me every tongue will swear.
24 They will say of me, 'In the LORD alone
are righteousness and strength.' "
All who have raged against him
will come to him and be put to shame.
Romans 14:10-12 (NIV)
10 You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother?
For we will all stand before God's judgment seat.
11 It is written:
" 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord,
'every knee will bow before me;
every tongue will confess to God.'
12 So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.
Joshua 24:14-16 (NIV)
14 "Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness.
Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped
beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.
15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you,
then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,
whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River,
or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living.
But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."
16 Then the people answered,
"Far be it from us to forsake the LORD to serve other gods!
What have you chosen?
I believe we are saved only by the grace of God, but I believe we must accept that grace. Here are some words from GOD that might help.
Jesus said in Mark 16:16 (NIV)
16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Acts 2:37-39 (NIV)
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 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. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)
9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
Acts 22:16 (NIV)
16 And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.'
Romans 6:2-4 (NIV)
2 By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
1 Peter 3:20-22 (NIV)
20 who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.
Acts 2:21 (NIV)
21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Matthew 7:21 (NIV)
21 "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.
Galatians 3:26-27 (NIV)
26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus,
27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
So What Should we do?
Hear
Believe
Repent
Confess
Be Baptized
Walk in the ways of the Lord
To Follow Christ is a choice He gives you, what will you choose today for tomorrow might be to late?
22 "Turn to me and be saved,
all you ends of the earth;
for I am God, and there is no other.
23 By myself I have sworn,
my mouth has uttered in all integrity
a word that will not be revoked:
Before me every knee will bow;
by me every tongue will swear.
24 They will say of me, 'In the LORD alone
are righteousness and strength.' "
All who have raged against him
will come to him and be put to shame.
Romans 14:10-12 (NIV)
10 You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother?
For we will all stand before God's judgment seat.
11 It is written:
" 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord,
'every knee will bow before me;
every tongue will confess to God.'
12 So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.
Joshua 24:14-16 (NIV)
14 "Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness.
Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped
beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.
15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you,
then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,
whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River,
or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living.
But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."
16 Then the people answered,
"Far be it from us to forsake the LORD to serve other gods!
What have you chosen?
I believe we are saved only by the grace of God, but I believe we must accept that grace. Here are some words from GOD that might help.
Jesus said in Mark 16:16 (NIV)
16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Acts 2:37-39 (NIV)
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 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. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)
9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
Acts 22:16 (NIV)
16 And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.'
Romans 6:2-4 (NIV)
2 By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
1 Peter 3:20-22 (NIV)
20 who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.
Acts 2:21 (NIV)
21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Matthew 7:21 (NIV)
21 "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.
Galatians 3:26-27 (NIV)
26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus,
27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
So What Should we do?
Hear
Believe
Repent
Confess
Be Baptized
Walk in the ways of the Lord
To Follow Christ is a choice He gives you, what will you choose today for tomorrow might be to late?
Monday, April 07, 2008
Final Days
Just found out Friday (4/4/2008) that mom is sick. They thought she had a stroke but the found tumors on her brain instead. Did some test over the weekend and a few today and gave her her options.
A: do nothing and you have about a month.
B: Treat the brain tumors and you have about 3-5 months
It is also in the longs so they are biopsying those tomorrow and will outline a course of treatment for those. They wont know how fast those are going until the biopsy so they don't know how to treat them.
At this point she is opting for the brain radiation to treat the brain tumors. They will know more in the next few days.
They cant treat the lung and brain tumors at the same time so it will be a few weeks before they can do the lung treatments at any rate but the biopsy will tell them more.
But at this point they are saying she is stage 4 and somewhere in the 1-5 month range to live.
A: do nothing and you have about a month.
B: Treat the brain tumors and you have about 3-5 months
It is also in the longs so they are biopsying those tomorrow and will outline a course of treatment for those. They wont know how fast those are going until the biopsy so they don't know how to treat them.
At this point she is opting for the brain radiation to treat the brain tumors. They will know more in the next few days.
They cant treat the lung and brain tumors at the same time so it will be a few weeks before they can do the lung treatments at any rate but the biopsy will tell them more.
But at this point they are saying she is stage 4 and somewhere in the 1-5 month range to live.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Are you on the right road?
"We all want progress, but if you're on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive."
- C.S. Lewis
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)
Are you on the right road?
Friday, March 21, 2008
It’s Friday! But Sunday’s a Coming!
As Easter Sunday draws near, it is only right that we consider the Lord Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross and his resurrection from the grave.
Tony Campolo gave a sermon once about a little competition that he had with his senior pastor during services at their church. After Dr. Campolo preached what he thought was a great sermon, he sat down beside his pastor, patted him on the knee and said, “Top that.” The older black pastor looked at him and said, “Boy, now watch the master.” Tony relates how the older preacher got up and gave the following message that brought everybody to their feet in loud praise.
“It’s Friday. Jesus is arrested in the garden where He was praying. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. The disciples are hiding and Peter’s denying that he knows the Lord. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is standing before the high priest of Israel, silent as a lamb before the slaughter. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is beaten, mocked, and spit upon. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Those Roman soldiers are flogging our Lord with a leather scourge that has bits of bones and glass and metal, tearing at his flesh. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. The Son of man stands firm as they press the crown of thorns down into his brow. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. See Him walking to Calvary, the blood dripping from His body. See the cross crashing down on His back as He stumbles beneath the load. It’s Friday; but Sunday’s a coming.
It’s Friday. See those Roman soldiers driving the nails into the feet and hands of my Lord. Hear my Jesus cry, “Father, forgive them.” It’s Friday; but Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, bloody and dying. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. The sky grows dark, the earth begins to tremble, and He who knew no sin became sin for us. Holy God who will not abide with sin pours out His wrath on that perfect sacrificial lamb who cries out, “My God, My God. Why hast thou forsaken me?” What a horrible cry. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. And at the moment of Jesus’ death, the veil of the Temple that separates sinful man from Holy God was torn from the top to the bottom because Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, heaven is weeping and hell is partying. But that’s because it’s Friday, and they don’t know it, but Sunday’s a coming.
And on that horrible day 2000 years ago, Jesus the Christ, the Lord of glory, the only begotten Son of God, the only perfect man died on the cross of Calvary. Satan thought that he had won the victory. Surely he had destroyed the Son of God. Finally he had disproved the prophecy God had uttered in the Garden and the one who was to crush his head had been destroyed. But that was Friday.
Now it’s Sunday. And just about dawn on that first day of the week, there was a great earthquake. But that wasn’t the only thing that was shaking because now it’s Sunday. And the angel of the Lord is coming down out of heaven and rolling the stone away from the door of the tomb. Yes, it’s Sunday, and the angel of the Lord is sitting on that stone and the guards posted at the tomb to keep the body from disappearing were shaking in their boots because it’s Sunday, and the lamb that was silent before the slaughter is now the resurrected lion from the tribe of Judah, for He is not here, the angel says. He is risen indeed.
It’s Sunday, and the crucified/resurrected Christ has defeated death, hell, sin and the grave. It’s Sunday. And now everything has changed. It’s the age of grace, God’s grace poured out on all who would look to that crucified lamb of Calvary. Grace freely given to all who would believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross of Calvary was buried and rose again. All because it’s Sunday.”
Whatever you’re going through today, take hope in the fact that Jesus is ALIVE and coming soon.
It’s Friday! But Sunday’s a Coming!
Tony Campolo gave a sermon once about a little competition that he had with his senior pastor during services at their church. After Dr. Campolo preached what he thought was a great sermon, he sat down beside his pastor, patted him on the knee and said, “Top that.” The older black pastor looked at him and said, “Boy, now watch the master.” Tony relates how the older preacher got up and gave the following message that brought everybody to their feet in loud praise.
“It’s Friday. Jesus is arrested in the garden where He was praying. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. The disciples are hiding and Peter’s denying that he knows the Lord. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is standing before the high priest of Israel, silent as a lamb before the slaughter. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is beaten, mocked, and spit upon. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Those Roman soldiers are flogging our Lord with a leather scourge that has bits of bones and glass and metal, tearing at his flesh. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. The Son of man stands firm as they press the crown of thorns down into his brow. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. See Him walking to Calvary, the blood dripping from His body. See the cross crashing down on His back as He stumbles beneath the load. It’s Friday; but Sunday’s a coming.
It’s Friday. See those Roman soldiers driving the nails into the feet and hands of my Lord. Hear my Jesus cry, “Father, forgive them.” It’s Friday; but Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, bloody and dying. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. The sky grows dark, the earth begins to tremble, and He who knew no sin became sin for us. Holy God who will not abide with sin pours out His wrath on that perfect sacrificial lamb who cries out, “My God, My God. Why hast thou forsaken me?” What a horrible cry. But Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. And at the moment of Jesus’ death, the veil of the Temple that separates sinful man from Holy God was torn from the top to the bottom because Sunday’s coming.
It’s Friday. Jesus is hanging on the cross, heaven is weeping and hell is partying. But that’s because it’s Friday, and they don’t know it, but Sunday’s a coming.
And on that horrible day 2000 years ago, Jesus the Christ, the Lord of glory, the only begotten Son of God, the only perfect man died on the cross of Calvary. Satan thought that he had won the victory. Surely he had destroyed the Son of God. Finally he had disproved the prophecy God had uttered in the Garden and the one who was to crush his head had been destroyed. But that was Friday.
Now it’s Sunday. And just about dawn on that first day of the week, there was a great earthquake. But that wasn’t the only thing that was shaking because now it’s Sunday. And the angel of the Lord is coming down out of heaven and rolling the stone away from the door of the tomb. Yes, it’s Sunday, and the angel of the Lord is sitting on that stone and the guards posted at the tomb to keep the body from disappearing were shaking in their boots because it’s Sunday, and the lamb that was silent before the slaughter is now the resurrected lion from the tribe of Judah, for He is not here, the angel says. He is risen indeed.
It’s Sunday, and the crucified/resurrected Christ has defeated death, hell, sin and the grave. It’s Sunday. And now everything has changed. It’s the age of grace, God’s grace poured out on all who would look to that crucified lamb of Calvary. Grace freely given to all who would believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross of Calvary was buried and rose again. All because it’s Sunday.”
Whatever you’re going through today, take hope in the fact that Jesus is ALIVE and coming soon.
It’s Friday! But Sunday’s a Coming!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Day 17712
I wrote a while back about a friend who went missing. They found him 5 days later, hey died of hypothermia the figure the second day out. Tomorrow will be his funeral. Henry "Shorty" Jackson was loved much by the community. He was active in Boy Scouts in this area and a Charter Member of the District, OA for the State, and Troop 117. He will be missed.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Memory Suppliers follow up
Yesterday at 4pm our time (MDT) I order a network card from Memory Suppliers (memorysuppliers.com), web site at: http://www.memorysuppliers.com
It was quick and easy to order, that had what I needed (an older part) and it arrived at noon today. The fact that I had it today at noon impressed me as I thought with ordering it so late in the day it would take an extra day. Great Job memorysuppliers.com on getting me the product.
The card is just what I ordered and I plan to install it this after noon and if the card was my problem this should fix my connecting issues.
memmorysuppliers.com was a great site to order this through. I do plan on checking back with them in the future as I have need of computer/electronic stuff (stuff is such a technical term you know).
Steve
It was quick and easy to order, that had what I needed (an older part) and it arrived at noon today. The fact that I had it today at noon impressed me as I thought with ordering it so late in the day it would take an extra day. Great Job memorysuppliers.com on getting me the product.
The card is just what I ordered and I plan to install it this after noon and if the card was my problem this should fix my connecting issues.
memmorysuppliers.com was a great site to order this through. I do plan on checking back with them in the future as I have need of computer/electronic stuff (stuff is such a technical term you know).
Steve
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Memory Suppliers
Just order a network card from Momory Suppliers
http://www.memorysuppliers.com
It was quick and easy and I should have the drive through overnight shipping.
They look like they have a great site with lots of stuff, I plan on going back to their site in the future when I need something.
I will follow up with more once I receive the product.
Steve
http://www.memorysuppliers.com
It was quick and easy and I should have the drive through overnight shipping.
They look like they have a great site with lots of stuff, I plan on going back to their site in the future when I need something.
I will follow up with more once I receive the product.
Steve
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Praying
Today I am praying for someone I know who is missing. This person has Alzheimer's and disappeared yesterday. They have search and rescue out looking for this person. This person is in need of prayer. Lord be with this person, protect them from harm and help the authorities find this person, in Jesus Name.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Grandpa
KJ Born Feb 18, 2008 at 13:39 AM. Weighing in at 6 lbs 7 oz and measuring 19 inches long.
This makes me a first time Grandpa at the age of 48.
Something to think about, pray about.
This makes me a first time Grandpa at the age of 48.
Something to think about, pray about.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Blood Has been Shed
Blood Has Been Shed, What Will You Do?
I just listened to the video on the left at this link:
http://www.thecall.com/Group/Group.aspx?ID=1000023095
Powerful!
"Jesus,
I plead your blood over my sins and the sins of my nation.
God,
end abortion and send revival to America."
Bands available at:
http://bound4life.com
Blood Has Been Shed, What Will You Do?
I just listened to the video on the left at this link:
http://www.thecall.com/Group/Group.aspx?ID=1000023095
Powerful!
"Jesus,
I plead your blood over my sins and the sins of my nation.
God,
end abortion and send revival to America."
Bands available at:
http://bound4life.com
Blood Has Been Shed, What Will You Do?
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Valentine
God Showed the greatest love in that he sent His son to die for us, for you and for me. Not that we deserved it but that we did not and could never deserve it.
John 3:16.
For God so loVed the world,
That He gAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whoever
Believes In Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life.
I am not into codes and things like that but the above was cute so I wanted to share it.
Jesus Loves you!
John 3:16.
For God so loVed the world,
That He gAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whoever
Believes In Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life.
I am not into codes and things like that but the above was cute so I wanted to share it.
Jesus Loves you!
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Acts 17:16-34
Acts 17:16-34
I have heard/read two sermons on this passage in the last two days. Interesting section of scripture where Paul is speaking to the Greeks.
We all came from one Blood, one man Adam. NO races, NO minorities, all one Blood. Created from Adam by the Creator of the Universe. God's offspring. To the Greeks he tells them the are Ignorant.
Then he tells them:
30-In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31-For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.
The God who created everything, Jesus, died for your sins, was crucified, and buried and on the third day rose again. Believe and repent or be judged by God.
Jesus is the only way to heaven/salvation.
God Bless
I have heard/read two sermons on this passage in the last two days. Interesting section of scripture where Paul is speaking to the Greeks.
We all came from one Blood, one man Adam. NO races, NO minorities, all one Blood. Created from Adam by the Creator of the Universe. God's offspring. To the Greeks he tells them the are Ignorant.
Then he tells them:
30-In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31-For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.
The God who created everything, Jesus, died for your sins, was crucified, and buried and on the third day rose again. Believe and repent or be judged by God.
Jesus is the only way to heaven/salvation.
God Bless
Friday, February 01, 2008
Day 17671
Greetings,
It is Friday and Sunday is coming, what a blessing to be able to worship in the house of the Lord.
Psalm 27:4
One thing I ask of the LORD,
this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.
It is Friday and Sunday is coming, what a blessing to be able to worship in the house of the Lord.
Psalm 27:4
One thing I ask of the LORD,
this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.
Monday, January 28, 2008
A Call to Repentance
Was reading Sunday in the book of Joel
A Call to Repentance
Joel 2:12-17 (NKJV)
12 “ Now, therefore,” says the LORD,
“ Turn to Me with all your heart,
With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”
13 So rend your heart, and not your garments;
Return to the LORD your God,
For He is gracious and merciful,
Slow to anger, and of great kindness;
And He relents from doing harm.
14 Who knows if He will turn and relent,
And leave a blessing behind Him—
A grain offering and a drink offering
For the LORD your God?
15 Blow the trumpet in Zion,
Consecrate a fast,
Call a sacred assembly;
16 Gather the people,
Sanctify the congregation,
Assemble the elders,
Gather the children and nursing babes;
Let the bridegroom go out from his chamber,
And the bride from her dressing room.
17 Let the priests, who minister to the LORD,
Weep between the porch and the altar;
Let them say, “Spare Your people, O LORD,
And do not give Your heritage to reproach,
That the nations should rule over them.
Why should they say among the peoples,
‘ Where is their God?’”
So I was thinking that God waits patiently for us to turn to him, until then he lets the consequences of our actions play out in force. He does this for the individual and for the nation.
Turn to God, Repent!
A Call to Repentance
Joel 2:12-17 (NKJV)
12 “ Now, therefore,” says the LORD,
“ Turn to Me with all your heart,
With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”
13 So rend your heart, and not your garments;
Return to the LORD your God,
For He is gracious and merciful,
Slow to anger, and of great kindness;
And He relents from doing harm.
14 Who knows if He will turn and relent,
And leave a blessing behind Him—
A grain offering and a drink offering
For the LORD your God?
15 Blow the trumpet in Zion,
Consecrate a fast,
Call a sacred assembly;
16 Gather the people,
Sanctify the congregation,
Assemble the elders,
Gather the children and nursing babes;
Let the bridegroom go out from his chamber,
And the bride from her dressing room.
17 Let the priests, who minister to the LORD,
Weep between the porch and the altar;
Let them say, “Spare Your people, O LORD,
And do not give Your heritage to reproach,
That the nations should rule over them.
Why should they say among the peoples,
‘ Where is their God?’”
So I was thinking that God waits patiently for us to turn to him, until then he lets the consequences of our actions play out in force. He does this for the individual and for the nation.
Turn to God, Repent!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Faith only in Jesus?
I have had an ongoing email (blog) conversation with a friend about Faith Only and NO works. It is interesting because I believe baptism is an important part of FAITH, that is Mark 16:16 says Believe and be Baptized to be saved. I think it takes both parts to be saved. Not that Baptism saves but that Faith that produces action saves us and the first action we are asked/commanded to do is be baptized.
So my Friend was arguing that I should read Galatians and insert Baptism every time it says Circumcision. This is an interesting concept but I don't agree with it. I did however read Galatians again and it is a lot of Paul chastising the Jews for trying to bring the gentiles under the Law and how the law does not save us.
And right there in the middle of what my friend called the best faith only book in the bible I ran across this passage.
Galatians 3:26-27 (NIV)
26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
Wow if right in the middle of faith only Paul ties in baptism, you got to wonder how important it is. My personal belief is that during Paul's day all believers were baptized and any one who was not was not considered a believer. After all right in the middle of faith only Paul says "all you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ". This would seem to imply that if they were not baptized into Christ then they did not cloth themselves with Christ and are not in Christ.
Just some food for thought on Baptism.
So my Friend was arguing that I should read Galatians and insert Baptism every time it says Circumcision. This is an interesting concept but I don't agree with it. I did however read Galatians again and it is a lot of Paul chastising the Jews for trying to bring the gentiles under the Law and how the law does not save us.
And right there in the middle of what my friend called the best faith only book in the bible I ran across this passage.
Galatians 3:26-27 (NIV)
26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
Wow if right in the middle of faith only Paul ties in baptism, you got to wonder how important it is. My personal belief is that during Paul's day all believers were baptized and any one who was not was not considered a believer. After all right in the middle of faith only Paul says "all you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ". This would seem to imply that if they were not baptized into Christ then they did not cloth themselves with Christ and are not in Christ.
Just some food for thought on Baptism.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Faith Only
Faith only?
Many groups believe it is adding stuff to the bible when you say you need more than Faith to be Saved. Is it adding stuff when you look at what the new testament time folks asked believers to do and you ask the same thing of believers today?
As I read the new testament I come a way with an understanding the EVERY new testament believer was a baptized believer (Starting at Pentecost). I also see other things being asked of the believers before they were considered to be “of the way” or Christians, things like HEAR, FAITH (BELIEVE), REPENTANCE, CONFESSION, along with BAPTISM. All these things were asked of people before they were considered followers of Christ.
Yes I believe we are saved only by the grace of God, but I believe we must accept that grace and what that looks like is where we get hung up. Here are some words from GOD that might help.
Jesus said in Mark 16:16 (NIV)
16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Acts 2:37-39 (NIV)
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 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. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)
9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
Acts 22:16 (NIV)
16 And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.'
Romans 6:2-4 (NIV)
2 By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
1 Peter 3:20-22 (NIV)
20 who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.
Acts 2:21 (NIV)
21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Matthew 7:21 (NIV)
21 "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.
So What Should we do?
Matthew 28 19-20 (NIV)
19 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, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Many groups believe it is adding stuff to the bible when you say you need more than Faith to be Saved. Is it adding stuff when you look at what the new testament time folks asked believers to do and you ask the same thing of believers today?
As I read the new testament I come a way with an understanding the EVERY new testament believer was a baptized believer (Starting at Pentecost). I also see other things being asked of the believers before they were considered to be “of the way” or Christians, things like HEAR, FAITH (BELIEVE), REPENTANCE, CONFESSION, along with BAPTISM. All these things were asked of people before they were considered followers of Christ.
Yes I believe we are saved only by the grace of God, but I believe we must accept that grace and what that looks like is where we get hung up. Here are some words from GOD that might help.
Jesus said in Mark 16:16 (NIV)
16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Acts 2:37-39 (NIV)
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"
38 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. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)
9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
Acts 22:16 (NIV)
16 And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.'
Romans 6:2-4 (NIV)
2 By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
1 Peter 3:20-22 (NIV)
20 who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.
Acts 2:21 (NIV)
21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Matthew 7:21 (NIV)
21 "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.
So What Should we do?
Matthew 28 19-20 (NIV)
19 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, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Books
So I recently finished "The Samson Syndrome" by Mark Atteberry. This is a great book for men and I would recommend it to individual men and for group study.
Have a great day
Have a great day
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