Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Jesus the Lamb of God
John 1:29-34
29The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30This is the one I meant when I said, 'A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.' 31I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel." 32Then John gave this testimony: "I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him.33I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, 'The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.' 34I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God."
Imagine being on the banks of the river, seeing John baptizing people and speaking the word of God. Then Jesus comes walking towards him and John proclaims Him to be the Son of God. Imagine being able to witness Jesus' baptism, seeing the sky open up and a dove descend upon Him. How would you have reacted? Would you have picked up everything and followed Him? Do you follow Him now?
Monday, September 27, 2010
Our hope
1 Thes 4:13-14
Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
Whenever a loved one passes, it brings about an opportunity to witness to those friends and family who do not know the Lord. These words written by the Apostle Paul give us hope that we will be with Jesus when we die and will return with Jesus when He returns to earth.This is great news and we should be ready to let anyone know whenever we have the opportunity. Remember what Peter tells us in 1 Peter 3:15 : "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."
Whenever a loved one passes, it brings about an opportunity to witness to those friends and family who do not know the Lord. These words written by the Apostle Paul give us hope that we will be with Jesus when we die and will return with Jesus when He returns to earth.This is great news and we should be ready to let anyone know whenever we have the opportunity. Remember what Peter tells us in 1 Peter 3:15 : "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Would you open the door?
Revelation 3:20:
'Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.
Hearing Jesus' voice and opening the door is not always easy. We know that if we open that door, there may be things we do not to be seen. So instead, we keep the door closed and ignore the voice.
What is it we are afraid of hearing? Is there a pet sin in out life that we're afraid we'll have to give up? Are we afraid of what people will think if we invite Jesus in? Is there something in our past we don't want exposed?
'Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.
Hearing Jesus' voice and opening the door is not always easy. We know that if we open that door, there may be things we do not to be seen. So instead, we keep the door closed and ignore the voice.
What is it we are afraid of hearing? Is there a pet sin in out life that we're afraid we'll have to give up? Are we afraid of what people will think if we invite Jesus in? Is there something in our past we don't want exposed?
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Sovereignty and Stewardship
We had a great discussion the other night at small group about the power of prayer and God's sovereignty. The discussion went along the lines of "If God is sovereign, sees all, and knows the outcome of all things, will praying change the outcome?"
Phillipians 4:6 - 7 tells us:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
1 Thes 5:16-18 further expounds:
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
As Christians, our connection to God is through prayer. We are told to pray continually with thanksgiving and to present our requests to God. But if the outcome is already known, why bring our requests to God? After all, if He already knows the outcome why bother? The short answer is because we are told to do so. If God commands His followers to do something, we are to obediently comply.
Phillipians 4:6 - 7 tells us:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
1 Thes 5:16-18 further expounds:
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
As Christians, our connection to God is through prayer. We are told to pray continually with thanksgiving and to present our requests to God. But if the outcome is already known, why bring our requests to God? After all, if He already knows the outcome why bother? The short answer is because we are told to do so. If God commands His followers to do something, we are to obediently comply.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Amazing video from a woman of faith
This is amazing. This woman's husband was murdered by four people who answered an ad posted on Criagslist. The people showed up under the pretense of buying a ring. They tied up the family and ended up killing her husband.
Watch the video, what happens next is absolutely incredible.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Taming your tongue
James 3:1-12
1 Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.
2 For we all stumble in many ways If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well.
3 Now if we put the bits into the horses' mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well.
4 Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires.
5 So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!
6 And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.
7 For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race.
8 But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison.
9 With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God;
10 from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way.
11 Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?
12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.
So quickly we will say a harsh word or participate in gossip without ever thinking about the consequences. It never ceases to amaze me how someone who will gossip about everyone will suddenly become indignant when they find out they are the subject of the latest gossip.
In this book, James, the half brother of Jesus, goes to great lengths to warn us of the damage that can be caused by the tongue. Although being small it can cause great damage like a small fire can burn down an entire forest, or can be used to define who we are like a small rudder can direct an entire ship.
As you go about your day, before engaging in conversation, ask yourself if this is a conversation you should be in. Is what I'm saying going to build up or tear down? Am I going to use my words as a blessing or a curse?
1 Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.
2 For we all stumble in many ways If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well.
3 Now if we put the bits into the horses' mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well.
4 Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires.
5 So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!
6 And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.
7 For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race.
8 But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison.
9 With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God;
10 from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way.
11 Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?
12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.
So quickly we will say a harsh word or participate in gossip without ever thinking about the consequences. It never ceases to amaze me how someone who will gossip about everyone will suddenly become indignant when they find out they are the subject of the latest gossip.
In this book, James, the half brother of Jesus, goes to great lengths to warn us of the damage that can be caused by the tongue. Although being small it can cause great damage like a small fire can burn down an entire forest, or can be used to define who we are like a small rudder can direct an entire ship.
As you go about your day, before engaging in conversation, ask yourself if this is a conversation you should be in. Is what I'm saying going to build up or tear down? Am I going to use my words as a blessing or a curse?
Friday, April 30, 2010
Trust in the Lord
Proverbs 3:5-6
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.
Too often we fail to trust the Lord when we are having difficulties. However, this is when the Lord does His best work. When we need help the most, God hears us. When we humble ourselves and ask God to lead our life, He is sure to listen. When we listen to Him, He leads us in the right direction.
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.
Too often we fail to trust the Lord when we are having difficulties. However, this is when the Lord does His best work. When we need help the most, God hears us. When we humble ourselves and ask God to lead our life, He is sure to listen. When we listen to Him, He leads us in the right direction.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
How Good is Good Enough?
Recently at one of my Bible studies, one of the people brought up the question of someone living a good life without putting faith in Jesus entering Heaven. Unfortunately in this day of Oprahanity, it is not an uncommon question. After all, shouldn't all "good" people go to Heaven no matter what they believe?
This is typical of man's pride and self image. Whenever someone is asked if they consider themselves to be a good person, the answer is almost always "yes". This is because we will compare ourselves to someone we consider to be an evil person in order to see ourselves in the best light possible. After all, who doesn't look good next to the murderer or thief you just read about in this morning's paper?
This is typical of man's pride and self image. Whenever someone is asked if they consider themselves to be a good person, the answer is almost always "yes". This is because we will compare ourselves to someone we consider to be an evil person in order to see ourselves in the best light possible. After all, who doesn't look good next to the murderer or thief you just read about in this morning's paper?
Friday, March 5, 2010
Perseverence
Galatians 6:7-10 (NIV)
Have you ever been mocked or belittled for your beliefs? Often times people feel free to mock our faith or point out things we have done in the past as proof that we are not in the family of God. This may come from people we have known our whole life or even from family. Remember the ones who will do the most mocking are the ones who are having the light shone on them the brightest.
Keep up the witness, saints. Keep sowing to please the Holy Spirit. Persevere and we will reap a harvest beyond our wildest dreams. Imagine the feeling you will have when one day you meet the person you reached out to with kind words, or the person you left a Bible tract with in Heaven.
"7Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
Have you ever been mocked or belittled for your beliefs? Often times people feel free to mock our faith or point out things we have done in the past as proof that we are not in the family of God. This may come from people we have known our whole life or even from family. Remember the ones who will do the most mocking are the ones who are having the light shone on them the brightest.
Keep up the witness, saints. Keep sowing to please the Holy Spirit. Persevere and we will reap a harvest beyond our wildest dreams. Imagine the feeling you will have when one day you meet the person you reached out to with kind words, or the person you left a Bible tract with in Heaven.
Monday, February 22, 2010
NH fails to protect unborn
Last week, the NH legislature failed to pass a fetal protection bill. The bill was introduced as the result of a motor vehicle accident where a drunk driver ran a red light at 100 mph, slammed into a taxi killing the passenger. The driver of the taxi was 7 months pregnant and the baby was delivered by emergency c-section. The lived for two weeks before eventually succumbing to his injuries. The driver of the car was convicted on two counts of vehicular homicide. The second count was overturned by the NH Supreme Court because there was no applicable law that would allow for the conviction. The court opened the door for the legislature to define what the law should look like and the legislature drew up a bill and brought it to a vote. It went down 219-122.
We have reached a point in our state where we can't even protect a child where they should be the safest. It is no wonder God is lifting His hand of protection from our country.
We have reached a point in our state where we can't even protect a child where they should be the safest. It is no wonder God is lifting His hand of protection from our country.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Proclaiming truth in a postmodern world
Truth is not subjective. The great thing about truth is that is either true or it isn't. If my version of the truth and yours differ, than there are three options; my version is correct, your version is correct, or both versions are wrong. The one impossibility is that both versions are true. Unfortunately, we have been treated to a steady diet of teachers telling us that your truth may work for you, however that truth may not work for someone else and both are valid.
This type of thinking is prevalent especially when talking about spirituality and belief systems. There are several versions of the "all roads lead to Heaven" type of teaching being circulated and there is a large mass of people looking to have their ears filled with what they want to hear. Spirituality has been relegated to the realm of objectiveness where truth doesn't matter as long as you have sincere faith in your beliefs. Therein lies the problem.
This type of thinking is prevalent especially when talking about spirituality and belief systems. There are several versions of the "all roads lead to Heaven" type of teaching being circulated and there is a large mass of people looking to have their ears filled with what they want to hear. Spirituality has been relegated to the realm of objectiveness where truth doesn't matter as long as you have sincere faith in your beliefs. Therein lies the problem.
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Dumbing Down of America's Churches
I ran across this newsweek article and after some head shaking, I broken heartedly have to agree with the author. Although I am not a Catholic (I am a non denominational Christian), I have seen this trend throughout evangelical churches as well. We have opted for the feel-good social justice approach while ignoring the root principles of Christianity. Namely that our job here on earth is to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel, call people to repentance, and put their trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Obama's pragmatic approach to divisive policy (his notion that we should acknowledge the good faith underlying opposing viewpoints) and his social-justice agenda reflect the views of American Catholic laity much more closely than those vocal bishops and pro-life activists. When Obama meets the pope tomorrow, they'll politely disagree about reproductive freedoms and homosexuality, but Catholics back home won't care, because they know Obama's on their side. In fact, Obama's agenda is closer to their views than even the pope's.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Extra Grace People
We all have those people in our lives who require extra grace in our every day dealings. Maybe it's someone who seems to ask the same questions all the time. It may be someone that you just can't seem to get to no matter how hard you try. Maybe it's the argumentative person who always tries to trip you. Whoever it is, there are those people who will test the limits of our patience. What's important is how we respond to these people.
When I think about all I have done in my life, I'm happy that God didn't run out of patience with me. Surely my stubbornness, pride, and disobedience over years of my life would have caused anyone to classify me as an extra grace person. However, God didn't give up. Instead of giving up on me, He sent His son to take the punishment I deserve for all of my disobedience. Seeing this sacrifice, puts the difficult I have to deal with into a new light. God loves them just as much as He loves me.
The next time you have to deal with a person that tests your limits, remember that God didn't give up on you. As a Christian, we need to take the time to make sure that people can see the Holy Spirit working through us. Especially when it comes to the people who require us to dig deep for that last bit of strength. We all know who those people are.
If you don't, you're it.
When I think about all I have done in my life, I'm happy that God didn't run out of patience with me. Surely my stubbornness, pride, and disobedience over years of my life would have caused anyone to classify me as an extra grace person. However, God didn't give up. Instead of giving up on me, He sent His son to take the punishment I deserve for all of my disobedience. Seeing this sacrifice, puts the difficult I have to deal with into a new light. God loves them just as much as He loves me.
The next time you have to deal with a person that tests your limits, remember that God didn't give up on you. As a Christian, we need to take the time to make sure that people can see the Holy Spirit working through us. Especially when it comes to the people who require us to dig deep for that last bit of strength. We all know who those people are.
If you don't, you're it.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Enduring with Christ
2 Timothy 2:11-14
11Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
12if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
13if we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.
God is faithful in His children. Although we will go through trials, God has promised us that if we remain faithful in Him, we will live eternally with Him. He knows that we may endure so much that we seem faithless but if we are living in Him, He will remain faithful to us.
11Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
12if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
13if we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.
God is faithful in His children. Although we will go through trials, God has promised us that if we remain faithful in Him, we will live eternally with Him. He knows that we may endure so much that we seem faithless but if we are living in Him, He will remain faithful to us.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Greatest Commandment
Mark 12:28 - 31
28One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
28One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
29"The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'There is no commandment greater than these."
What have you done to show your love for God today? Have you taken time to thank Him for all you have been given? We eat His food, drink His water, breathe His air, yet we have a tendency to take it all for granted.
Have you taken time to show love for your fellow man today? How about the person in line at the store in front of you, the person making your coffee, the person asking for change on the sidewalk? What if that person asking for change was an angel? Did you pass that test this morning?
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Our eternal hope
Revelation 21:3-4
3And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
Read that passage, drink it in. This is what we as Christians have to look forward to. Living and dwelling with God. No more tears, no more pain, no more disease, no more remnants of the fallen world in which we live.
3And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
Read that passage, drink it in. This is what we as Christians have to look forward to. Living and dwelling with God. No more tears, no more pain, no more disease, no more remnants of the fallen world in which we live.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Repentence and faith
Acts2:38:
Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Most of the people here in the northeast were baptized as infants. While a noble act on the part of the parents, it is clear that baptism is performed as a result of 1) Hearing the word. 2) Repenting of sin. 3) Being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Most of the people here in the northeast were baptized as infants. While a noble act on the part of the parents, it is clear that baptism is performed as a result of 1) Hearing the word. 2) Repenting of sin. 3) Being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Pray for our nation
God has put governments in place to direct us. Looking at the current administration, we need to look at what God is trying to tell us. Is God angry at us for becoming complacent? We have a president who claims to know the Lord yet his actions seem to speak otherwise. While we do not know of a person's salvation, we can judge a man's fruit.
Please keep our leaders in prayer. Pray they will come to know the Lord and align their goals with His. Pray for our nation to elect Godly leaders, leaders who will seek His wisdom and guidance. Pray that our nation will again be a nation "under God."
Please keep our leaders in prayer. Pray they will come to know the Lord and align their goals with His. Pray for our nation to elect Godly leaders, leaders who will seek His wisdom and guidance. Pray that our nation will again be a nation "under God."
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Pray for Haiti
A devastating earthquake hit the island nation of Haiti yesterday. Please pray for comfort and healing for the residents. By all accounts, there is widespread devastation across a very poor country just miles off our southern coast.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Second chances
Looking back at your life, do you see things that you think God may have a hard time forgiving? Our God is a God of second chances. When Jesus was hung on the cross, it was for all of our sins. Past, present, and future. There is nothing you have done that a God rich in mercy cannot forgive. The offer of salvation, forgiveness, and everlasting life is a gift that is offered to you. Like any gift, you need to reach out and take it.
Repent of your sins. Admit to God that He is right and you are a sinner. Thank Him for sending His son to take the punishment you deserve. Ask God to change your heart, to make His desires your desires. Do it today. You are not guaranteed another day.
Repent of your sins. Admit to God that He is right and you are a sinner. Thank Him for sending His son to take the punishment you deserve. Ask God to change your heart, to make His desires your desires. Do it today. You are not guaranteed another day.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Belief is irrelevant
Belief is irrelevant in light of the truth.
With the rise of "Ophranity" and all of the other false religions, there is a movement afoot that tells us that all belief systems are equal and as long as one believes in their own beliefs they will find God. This is not new. It has happened from the beginning of time when Satan asked Eve, "Did God really say..."Since that point, humankind has been in search of a god to shape in his own image. A god that will allow them to live as they see fit, certainly not a god that will judge them for their sin. And of course the god who will simply love, love, love them as they are and allow them to continue in their sin.
Just believing that something is true does not make it so. Truth is not subjective. If my truth and your truth disagree, one of them is wrong. If you believe that God will overlook your sin because you are a generally good person, or because you go to church on Sunday, or because you do good deeds in the community, you have created an idol and inserted it in place of God. The God who has revealed Himself to us in the Bible tells us that we cannot do anything to earn our way to Him. The only way is through Jesus Christ.
We need to turn from our sin and trust that Jesus has taken our punishment for us, not try to earn our way. When Jesus was whipped, beaten, spat upon, had his beard pulled out, and finally nailed to the cross, he bore the punishment for all of us. Through His sacrifice we can approach God and be seen as sinless. We are to repent, that is turn from our sin, and ask for forgiveness. When we do that, God will give us a new heart. His desires will be ours. The old creature will die, and a new one will take its place. We will be born again.
This is the truth. This is what has been revealed to us in the Bible. Any other belief will end in destruction. No matter how fervently someone believes it.
With the rise of "Ophranity" and all of the other false religions, there is a movement afoot that tells us that all belief systems are equal and as long as one believes in their own beliefs they will find God. This is not new. It has happened from the beginning of time when Satan asked Eve, "Did God really say..."Since that point, humankind has been in search of a god to shape in his own image. A god that will allow them to live as they see fit, certainly not a god that will judge them for their sin. And of course the god who will simply love, love, love them as they are and allow them to continue in their sin.
Just believing that something is true does not make it so. Truth is not subjective. If my truth and your truth disagree, one of them is wrong. If you believe that God will overlook your sin because you are a generally good person, or because you go to church on Sunday, or because you do good deeds in the community, you have created an idol and inserted it in place of God. The God who has revealed Himself to us in the Bible tells us that we cannot do anything to earn our way to Him. The only way is through Jesus Christ.
We need to turn from our sin and trust that Jesus has taken our punishment for us, not try to earn our way. When Jesus was whipped, beaten, spat upon, had his beard pulled out, and finally nailed to the cross, he bore the punishment for all of us. Through His sacrifice we can approach God and be seen as sinless. We are to repent, that is turn from our sin, and ask for forgiveness. When we do that, God will give us a new heart. His desires will be ours. The old creature will die, and a new one will take its place. We will be born again.
This is the truth. This is what has been revealed to us in the Bible. Any other belief will end in destruction. No matter how fervently someone believes it.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Brit Hume was right
In case you missed it, Fox News man Brit Hume made some comments about Tiger Woods and his current mess. He said that Tiger needs to turn to Jesus for forgiveness and redemption. Woods is a Buddhist. Brit is absolutely correct. However, he was a little narrow in his scope. Everyone needs to turn to Jesus for forgiveness of sin. We are told in Acts 4:12: "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
While the PC crowd will get all upset at Brit for saying this, we as Christians know the truth. There is no forgiveness of sin without Jesus. If you die without your sins being forgiven, you are destined for eternal punishment in hell. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Jesus took the sins of all who would repent and put their trust in Him.
While there are lots of belief systems in the world, you only need to ask yourself one question. Is what you believe the truth? If it's not, it makes no difference how strongly you believe it.
While the PC crowd will get all upset at Brit for saying this, we as Christians know the truth. There is no forgiveness of sin without Jesus. If you die without your sins being forgiven, you are destined for eternal punishment in hell. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Jesus took the sins of all who would repent and put their trust in Him.
While there are lots of belief systems in the world, you only need to ask yourself one question. Is what you believe the truth? If it's not, it makes no difference how strongly you believe it.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
God can forgive all sin
1 Timothy 1:15-17
15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
A lot of people are afraid to come to God because of something they have done in their life. There may be some overriding guilt that because of past actions God will be so angry that He could not possibly forgive them. Well, there is really good news. There is nothing you have done that Jesus did not take the punishment for on the cross. Every sin you have committed was paid for in the life blood of Jesus. Look at the passage above written by the Apostle Paul. Paul, or Saul of Tarsus as he was previously known, was a persecutor of Christians in the early church. He oversaw the stoning of Stephen and was responsible for having Christians rounded up, jailed, and executed for their faith. Now, look back on your life. What do you think you have done that God could not forgive you? The answer is nothing.
Repent and ask God for forgiveness. He is rich in mercy. Put your trust in Jesus as the one who bore the punishment you deserve and God will reach into your life and give you a new heart. You will feel a great relief of the burden you have carried and will be born again. Do it today. You are not guaranteed another breath on earth.
15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
A lot of people are afraid to come to God because of something they have done in their life. There may be some overriding guilt that because of past actions God will be so angry that He could not possibly forgive them. Well, there is really good news. There is nothing you have done that Jesus did not take the punishment for on the cross. Every sin you have committed was paid for in the life blood of Jesus. Look at the passage above written by the Apostle Paul. Paul, or Saul of Tarsus as he was previously known, was a persecutor of Christians in the early church. He oversaw the stoning of Stephen and was responsible for having Christians rounded up, jailed, and executed for their faith. Now, look back on your life. What do you think you have done that God could not forgive you? The answer is nothing.
Repent and ask God for forgiveness. He is rich in mercy. Put your trust in Jesus as the one who bore the punishment you deserve and God will reach into your life and give you a new heart. You will feel a great relief of the burden you have carried and will be born again. Do it today. You are not guaranteed another breath on earth.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Evangelism in a Fallen World
2 Timothy 4:1 - 5 (NIV)
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
How do you prefer to evangelize? Are you a street preacher, someone who hands out tracts, one who talks to strangers, or how about one of the new trends lifestyle or friendship evangelism? It is difficult to reach out and talk to people in the current climate. In the age of "tolerance", the intolerance toward Christians is astounding. We are constantly being told that we should not be forcing our views on others. But the question needs to be asked; "Is preaching the word the same as forcing our views?"
We need look no farther than the Middle East and the Islamic world to see a true example of forcing a belief on someone. It is illegal to convert to another religion in most Islamic countries and the penalty is death. In India, radical Hindus in Orissa state are rounding up Christian missionaries, beating, raping, and killing them for the crime of evangelism. How does this compare to handing out a tract or street preaching?
It is our duty to preach the word. If there was a blind man heading toward a cliff, would you tell him? Even if the man didn't think there was a cliff on the horizon, you know there is one and he is heading for certain destruction. Do you not tell him because you are afraid of what he might say to you? Remember what Paul said above "correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." Be gentle but do not waver.
From Romans 10:14 "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
How do you prefer to evangelize? Are you a street preacher, someone who hands out tracts, one who talks to strangers, or how about one of the new trends lifestyle or friendship evangelism? It is difficult to reach out and talk to people in the current climate. In the age of "tolerance", the intolerance toward Christians is astounding. We are constantly being told that we should not be forcing our views on others. But the question needs to be asked; "Is preaching the word the same as forcing our views?"
We need look no farther than the Middle East and the Islamic world to see a true example of forcing a belief on someone. It is illegal to convert to another religion in most Islamic countries and the penalty is death. In India, radical Hindus in Orissa state are rounding up Christian missionaries, beating, raping, and killing them for the crime of evangelism. How does this compare to handing out a tract or street preaching?
It is our duty to preach the word. If there was a blind man heading toward a cliff, would you tell him? Even if the man didn't think there was a cliff on the horizon, you know there is one and he is heading for certain destruction. Do you not tell him because you are afraid of what he might say to you? Remember what Paul said above "correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." Be gentle but do not waver.
From Romans 10:14 "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
More corruption of the church
The Rev. Carlton Veazey, the president of Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, gave the closing speech at a Capitol Hill rally. In the speech, he said that not only is abortion a constitutional right, it is a "God given right."
While it would be nice to think of his group as a simple fringe group, a perusal of the member organizations page shows ever more evidence of the corruption coming from within the church. All the usual suspects are there. Episcopal, Presbyterian, and all the Uni-churches are represented.
While it's sad, it's not surprising. The Apostle Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 4:3-4, "For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."
People will seek out people like Carlton Veazey because he will tell them what they want to hear. In the true style of "cafeteria Christian", those parts of the Bible that can be mangled and word twisted to get at his point will be consumed by those who are looking to have their ears tickled. However, Rev. Veazey will have a much higher standard to answer to. James 3:1 says. "Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." This is a strict warning to those who would lead us down the wrong path.
I would be trembling in fear knowing what is in store for me if I was Rev. Veazey. I will continue to pray for him that he will come to know the true God who made himself known to us through His word.
While it would be nice to think of his group as a simple fringe group, a perusal of the member organizations page shows ever more evidence of the corruption coming from within the church. All the usual suspects are there. Episcopal, Presbyterian, and all the Uni-churches are represented.
While it's sad, it's not surprising. The Apostle Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 4:3-4, "For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."
People will seek out people like Carlton Veazey because he will tell them what they want to hear. In the true style of "cafeteria Christian", those parts of the Bible that can be mangled and word twisted to get at his point will be consumed by those who are looking to have their ears tickled. However, Rev. Veazey will have a much higher standard to answer to. James 3:1 says. "Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." This is a strict warning to those who would lead us down the wrong path.
I would be trembling in fear knowing what is in store for me if I was Rev. Veazey. I will continue to pray for him that he will come to know the true God who made himself known to us through His word.
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