Luke 12:35-48 "Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. I tell you the truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."
Peter asked, "Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?"
The Lord answered, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns. I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But suppose the servant says to himself, 'My master is taking a long time in coming,' and he then begins to beat the menservants and maidservants and to eat and drink and get drunk. The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers.
"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
I’ve already written, in a previous article, on (or rather implied) that the mega churches are perhaps more of a breeding ground for disobedience to scripture, particularly by the leaders of these churches. Perhaps a more accurate statement is that the temptation is greater. All you have to do is read about the king’s of ancient Israel & Judah or references in Isaiah, Jeremiah or Ezekiel in the Bible to see plenty of examples of wicked kings and watchmen over God’s sheep and the punishment outlined for them. As well, the NT is full of stories concerning the wickedness of the Pharisees and teachers of the law described in the gospels. The point is these types of men have always been around and there’s no reason, for a Christian, who stays in the Word, to be so naive to think that these types of men don’t exist now in the church. That's why it is so important to stay in the Word and prayer.
Matthew 7:12-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Think about this for a moment. Don’t just pass it by. What are the implications of this verse? Was Jesus off His rocker when He said this? Were these verses only applicable to the folks of Christ’s generation or, as with everything He said, is this eternal truth? Again what are the implications of these verses? This is important to the whole of Christianity, of a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. Why does it seem as though these verses are either essentially, misread, ignored or illicit conceit (the few the proud, the Christian) from so many Christians? The implications are huge here!
We’ve all heard that tired saying which goes something like “If you saw someone in the middle of a fire and had the ability to save this person, would you?” Of course this is referring to our responsibility, as Christians, to spread the good news and thereby obey the great commission (Matthew 28:19 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).
Basically, for the intentions of this particular article, I’m trying to underscore the importance of church discipleship, both for leaders as well as laymen. Why? One implication of Matt 7, to me, is that people we see every week in our church buildings aren’t truly part of Christ’s church. Many modern churches are set up, for the most part, and particularly true of the mega churches, to get folks in the door. They want the money these folks bring, as well as the higher status they get from a worldly perception of success in numbers. Sounds like a corporation, doesn’t it? This way the church leaders feel their job is done, especially if these folks continue to attend every week. Perhaps they feel the messages the pastor’s offer up are so in tune with the seeker that they will become Christian purely through osmosis? “Congratulations, you belong; you’re a real Christian now!” How watered down can something be and still remain as it was? I say watered down because seekers certainly couldn’t understand real truth, as written in the Bible. The Holy Spirit is obviously insufficient for this particular task. I’m using sarcasm.
Here’s an interesting quote from an interesting man, George Washington Carver (http://inventors.about.com/library/weekly/aa041897.htm): “It is not the style of clothes one wears, neither the kind of automobile one drives, nor the amount of money one has in the bank, that counts. These mean nothing. It is simply service that measures success.”
Do you see the humility and simplicity of this quote? Service! Well how do we serve the Lord where we are right now? Don’t be afraid to share with someone your testimony of how Jesus has changed your life. So many common practices in the church are inconsequential in comparison to Jesus Christ and Him crucified. No matter where you perceive a fellow church attender to be, whether mature in Christ or unsaved, a little bit of yourself (in the form of friendship & encouragement) goes a long way. Of course you’re exposing yourself to possible hurt, but then isn’t that part of vulnerability? Sounds like sacrifice to me. “Take up your cross daily”.
Ephesians 5:8-20 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving
I sent this out to everyone in my young adults group for last Thanksgiving.
Every day we draw breath is by the good pleasure of our God and Lord Jesus Christ. Let us all now as the bride of Jesus Christ rejoice in our bridegroom and raise up our praises to such a glorious, great and wondrous provider and savior.
Thank you Lord for giving me breath to draw, eyes to read, ears to hear and a mouth to proclaim your word and praise your holy name. Thank you God for the salvation you have given me through your son Jesus Christ. Forgive me for my transgressions and may your love so overwhelm and convict me that I will love others more unconditionally. For the glory of Jesus Christ until His blessed return. Amen.
Below I’ve included an address George Washington gave on Thanksgiving. Please read it and if you wish to see for yourself the web address is at the very bottom of this email.
George Washington's1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation
Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted' for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have show kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d dy of October, A.D. 1789.
(signed) G. Washington
From Spark's Washington, Vol. XII, p. 119
The following background information was submitted by Wayne Winters of Pocatello, Idaho.Shortly after the Thanksgiving Proclamation was written it was lost for over a hundred years. It was apparently misplaced or attached to some private papers in the process of moving official records from one city to another when the capital was changed. However, it happened the original manuscript was not in the official archives until 1921 when Dr. J. C. Fitzpatrick, then assistant chief of the manuscripts division of the Library of Congress "found" the proclamation. It was at an auction sale being held at an art gallery in New York. It was written in long hand by Wm. Jackson, secretary to President Washington and was signed by George Washington. Dr Fitzpatrick purchased the document for $300.00 for the Library of Congress, where it now resides.
Every day we draw breath is by the good pleasure of our God and Lord Jesus Christ. Let us all now as the bride of Jesus Christ rejoice in our bridegroom and raise up our praises to such a glorious, great and wondrous provider and savior.
Thank you Lord for giving me breath to draw, eyes to read, ears to hear and a mouth to proclaim your word and praise your holy name. Thank you God for the salvation you have given me through your son Jesus Christ. Forgive me for my transgressions and may your love so overwhelm and convict me that I will love others more unconditionally. For the glory of Jesus Christ until His blessed return. Amen.
Below I’ve included an address George Washington gave on Thanksgiving. Please read it and if you wish to see for yourself the web address is at the very bottom of this email.
George Washington's1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation
Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted' for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have show kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d dy of October, A.D. 1789.
(signed) G. Washington
From Spark's Washington, Vol. XII, p. 119
The following background information was submitted by Wayne Winters of Pocatello, Idaho.Shortly after the Thanksgiving Proclamation was written it was lost for over a hundred years. It was apparently misplaced or attached to some private papers in the process of moving official records from one city to another when the capital was changed. However, it happened the original manuscript was not in the official archives until 1921 when Dr. J. C. Fitzpatrick, then assistant chief of the manuscripts division of the Library of Congress "found" the proclamation. It was at an auction sale being held at an art gallery in New York. It was written in long hand by Wm. Jackson, secretary to President Washington and was signed by George Washington. Dr Fitzpatrick purchased the document for $300.00 for the Library of Congress, where it now resides.
Forgiveness
Thought I'd just share this link to a rather long comment I posted on my friend Greg's blog, concerning forgiveness. I was going to post this comment as an article on my site, as Greg brought up a very good question on forgiveness. However, Greg posed the question. So if you'd like to see what me and Greg have to say about forgiveness just click on the title of this posting.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Understanding God? & Prayer: Faith and God’s Sovereignty
It seems as though there is something inside all of us humans. There is this desire to figure out everything that touches our lives, whether corporeal or spiritual. However, as a Christian I believe every desire we humans have is or, maybe better, can be tainted by sin. As we perceive, we can explain and as we explain we can then rest easy that the world was truly created in our image. As if God created us to be gods as if we could somehow compete with and overthrow Him.
Why are so many scientist consumed with proving out and figuring out the beginnings of the universe? Why are scientists so consumed with proving how this planet came to be populated by us? Why are these same scientists so adamantly against Christianity? They are so quick to dismiss Christianity as a myth. Why?
(Genesis 2:8-9,15-17) Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. And the LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
(Genesis 3:4-6) "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
Humans have been evil and wretched from the beginning, even though we were actually able to walk with God, physically, we wanted more then He could give us. We wanted to know it all. We wanted to be like God. Dare I say we wanted (or perhaps even want) to be God. Sound familiar? We chose the tree of death, instead of the tree of life. It is interesting to notice that the tree of immortality, of life, was not restricted from man, only the tree of death, of the knowledge of good and evil. It was such an easy command, for our benefit and His glory, with free access to immortality with God. So the first sin was also the most heinous. God was with them (Immanuel). This was before the great divorce or fall. Man had direct physical access to God. He was there to be praised, to be worshipped and to directly inquire and converse with, like another person. Why didn’t Adam or Eve simply just ask God? Why did they trust a serpent they knew wasn’t sent to them from God? Even though they hadn’t eaten from the tree they already knew what they were doing was wrong. They knew the serpent was lying. They knew why they couldn’t eat this fruit and what the result of eating the fruit was. They already knew good from evil.
Fast forward thousands of years and man is still repeating the same old mistakes, except 100 fold. To me it seems utterly foolish to believe the world created itself somehow. Our planet orbits at the exact proper distance from the sun to sustain life! Closer (Venus) is too hot, further away (Mars) too cold. We are the only known sentient life forms, in corporeal form, in existence. Why? Why aren’t monkeys or fish or birds or dogs or cats or any other life forms capable of this? If evolution were true then surely other sentient life forms would exist. Wouldn’t “nature” be able to find a way for life to exist on the moon or Mars or Venus or one of the other planets or moons? Surely if it were powerful enough to enable man to come from a single celled organism it would be powerful enough to create a life form which could exist in a Mar’s like environment. Right? I mean Mars has an atmosphere, it’s not a complete vacuum. Surely nature could come up with something that could survive on Mars, no matter how strange or alien? Oh, wait a minute, our great scientists have already set boundaries for how life could form because they know it all. They already know how life could form. There has to be a set environment, with specific gases and specific amino acids and on and on. So we’ve already established boundary conditions for life. So suddenly “nature” is limited. It’s not all powerful. The universe has to somehow randomly supply all of the necessary components for life to then randomly form. Then somehow the universe created itself from nothing. Does this make any sense? However, it almost seems to when “they” explain it.
The below link was one part of the impetus for my discourse. I guess it kind of chaps my butt when self purported “intelligent” people, who have obviously never had an independent thought apart from the work and established opinions or scientific work of other people, state their opinions as fact. I try to encourage everyone to use the brain God has given us to investigate and figure things out for ourselves. For me the Bible is the only rock solid truth in writing. Everything else is subject to this truth and as I continue on in this life I find more and more how true the following verse is: (1 Corinthians 1:24 ) For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20051122/ap_on_re_us/intelligent_design_course_1
Sub-article: Prayer: Faith and God’s Sovereignty
The other catalyst for this article is a discussion I had with a friend of mine concerning faith and prayer. I described a health problem my mother is dealing with in which I’m applying prayer, and the belief I hold that my lack of faith is a factor with this situation remaining a closed door. My friend disagreed with me and holds to the belief (basically) that our prayers are under God’s sovereignty alone. I don’t disagree with him on this point and that’s why I pray “your will be done Lord”. I believe I’m too sinful to understand God’s ways, however, I believe scripture teaches that faith and God’s sovereign will are one. Just as the glory of Jesus and the absolute good (or best situation) in my life, as well as the entire world are all one. Sin (and we are all sinful) is counter to God’s will, counter to faith, counter to God’s glory and so counter to life (life as God’s good will). In part I use these scriptures to obtain this view:
(Mark 9:17-29) A man in the crowd answered, "Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not." "O unbelieving generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me." So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.
Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?", "From childhood," he answered. "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." " 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit. "You deaf and mute spirit," he said, "I command you, come out of him and never enter him again." The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, "He's dead." But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up. After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "This kind can come out only by prayer."
(John 14:12-15) I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. "If you love me, you will obey what I command.
(1 Corinthians 13:11-13) When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 1Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
(John 16:22-24) So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
(Mark 11:22-24) "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
However, here’s a clear example of pure faith in prayer and a closed door to a request. This would be an example of the Father’s sovereign will superseding a pure desire. However, notice the disclaimer “yet not my will, but yours be done.”
This is Jesus’ prayer just prior to be taken by the temple guards:
(Luke 22:41-43) He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.
Conclusion
The truth, in God’s word, is absolutely not subjective, however, human interpretations can be. When a man interprets the word, look for fruits of the Spirit. If there are no fruits then his/her truth become very subjective. This is what I try to do: Take any one piece of human truth (human interpretation of the word) and measure it against the whole (i.e. the entire Bible). I also ask myself: Which interpretation brings the most glory to God versus interpretations which give the most glory to man? Last, but not least, pray and trust that the Holy Spirit will reveal the truth to you.
(John 14:16-18) And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.
Why are so many scientist consumed with proving out and figuring out the beginnings of the universe? Why are scientists so consumed with proving how this planet came to be populated by us? Why are these same scientists so adamantly against Christianity? They are so quick to dismiss Christianity as a myth. Why?
(Genesis 2:8-9,15-17) Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. And the LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
(Genesis 3:4-6) "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. "For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
Humans have been evil and wretched from the beginning, even though we were actually able to walk with God, physically, we wanted more then He could give us. We wanted to know it all. We wanted to be like God. Dare I say we wanted (or perhaps even want) to be God. Sound familiar? We chose the tree of death, instead of the tree of life. It is interesting to notice that the tree of immortality, of life, was not restricted from man, only the tree of death, of the knowledge of good and evil. It was such an easy command, for our benefit and His glory, with free access to immortality with God. So the first sin was also the most heinous. God was with them (Immanuel). This was before the great divorce or fall. Man had direct physical access to God. He was there to be praised, to be worshipped and to directly inquire and converse with, like another person. Why didn’t Adam or Eve simply just ask God? Why did they trust a serpent they knew wasn’t sent to them from God? Even though they hadn’t eaten from the tree they already knew what they were doing was wrong. They knew the serpent was lying. They knew why they couldn’t eat this fruit and what the result of eating the fruit was. They already knew good from evil.
Fast forward thousands of years and man is still repeating the same old mistakes, except 100 fold. To me it seems utterly foolish to believe the world created itself somehow. Our planet orbits at the exact proper distance from the sun to sustain life! Closer (Venus) is too hot, further away (Mars) too cold. We are the only known sentient life forms, in corporeal form, in existence. Why? Why aren’t monkeys or fish or birds or dogs or cats or any other life forms capable of this? If evolution were true then surely other sentient life forms would exist. Wouldn’t “nature” be able to find a way for life to exist on the moon or Mars or Venus or one of the other planets or moons? Surely if it were powerful enough to enable man to come from a single celled organism it would be powerful enough to create a life form which could exist in a Mar’s like environment. Right? I mean Mars has an atmosphere, it’s not a complete vacuum. Surely nature could come up with something that could survive on Mars, no matter how strange or alien? Oh, wait a minute, our great scientists have already set boundaries for how life could form because they know it all. They already know how life could form. There has to be a set environment, with specific gases and specific amino acids and on and on. So we’ve already established boundary conditions for life. So suddenly “nature” is limited. It’s not all powerful. The universe has to somehow randomly supply all of the necessary components for life to then randomly form. Then somehow the universe created itself from nothing. Does this make any sense? However, it almost seems to when “they” explain it.
The below link was one part of the impetus for my discourse. I guess it kind of chaps my butt when self purported “intelligent” people, who have obviously never had an independent thought apart from the work and established opinions or scientific work of other people, state their opinions as fact. I try to encourage everyone to use the brain God has given us to investigate and figure things out for ourselves. For me the Bible is the only rock solid truth in writing. Everything else is subject to this truth and as I continue on in this life I find more and more how true the following verse is: (1 Corinthians 1:24 ) For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20051122/ap_on_re_us/intelligent_design_course_1
Sub-article: Prayer: Faith and God’s Sovereignty
The other catalyst for this article is a discussion I had with a friend of mine concerning faith and prayer. I described a health problem my mother is dealing with in which I’m applying prayer, and the belief I hold that my lack of faith is a factor with this situation remaining a closed door. My friend disagreed with me and holds to the belief (basically) that our prayers are under God’s sovereignty alone. I don’t disagree with him on this point and that’s why I pray “your will be done Lord”. I believe I’m too sinful to understand God’s ways, however, I believe scripture teaches that faith and God’s sovereign will are one. Just as the glory of Jesus and the absolute good (or best situation) in my life, as well as the entire world are all one. Sin (and we are all sinful) is counter to God’s will, counter to faith, counter to God’s glory and so counter to life (life as God’s good will). In part I use these scriptures to obtain this view:
(Mark 9:17-29) A man in the crowd answered, "Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not." "O unbelieving generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me." So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.
Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?", "From childhood," he answered. "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." " 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit. "You deaf and mute spirit," he said, "I command you, come out of him and never enter him again." The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, "He's dead." But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up. After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" He replied, "This kind can come out only by prayer."
(John 14:12-15) I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. "If you love me, you will obey what I command.
(1 Corinthians 13:11-13) When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 1Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
(John 16:22-24) So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
(Mark 11:22-24) "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
However, here’s a clear example of pure faith in prayer and a closed door to a request. This would be an example of the Father’s sovereign will superseding a pure desire. However, notice the disclaimer “yet not my will, but yours be done.”
This is Jesus’ prayer just prior to be taken by the temple guards:
(Luke 22:41-43) He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.
Conclusion
The truth, in God’s word, is absolutely not subjective, however, human interpretations can be. When a man interprets the word, look for fruits of the Spirit. If there are no fruits then his/her truth become very subjective. This is what I try to do: Take any one piece of human truth (human interpretation of the word) and measure it against the whole (i.e. the entire Bible). I also ask myself: Which interpretation brings the most glory to God versus interpretations which give the most glory to man? Last, but not least, pray and trust that the Holy Spirit will reveal the truth to you.
(John 14:16-18) And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Multi-Mega churches versus local churches part 2: The love of money…
I’m going to try to keep my thoughts relatively short on this issue and let the scriptures speak on this topic, as God does a much better job then I, in relaying His perspective. As always I would encourage any reader to really delve into the scriptures.
Disclaimer: I want to be clear, to those readers who attend the same church as I do, that my opinions are based on conversations with other brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as my own personal experiences in several different churches. I am not specifically addressing concerns I have with my current church. I’m addressing concerns I have with the current American church, in general, and the mega churches more specifically.
I’ve heard so many sermons about money and many times it seems as though Jesus gets lost in the fray. I am told to be a good steward of my money, but not really taught how to use this to glorify Jesus. I am told to tithe as much as I can, and sometimes beyond, but not told why. I am told all this by pastors who lead churches which are cranking in the money without seemingly any accountability. Where is this money being spent? Expansion projects? A big new church building with the churches web site plastered all over it? Better bulletins, or should I say programs (Nice programs so we can all feel like we just attended a very entertaining sporting event, but that’s another article)? Hipper/louder concert/worship music? How much money do these pastors make, in total (book sales, speaking engagements, church salary)? What is the biblical model for how we should spend our money?
I checked two mega church’s websites to see if I could readily find some information on how much money the staff, primarily the senior pastor, receives. Nothing! I believe every church (especially the mega churches) should clearly publish where the tithes and donations are going and how much is going to the staff wages, especially the senior pastor. I also believe the senior pastor should willingly publish his total yearly income. This is to everyone’s benefit. If the pastor is leading a righteous life, with regards to the stewardship of his money, then it is an encouragement to the congregation to do the same. For example, if a senior pastor has a total yearly income of say $100,000 and gives away ½, or more, of it (tithing and charities), this will be an encouragement for the congregation to do the same, especially when he gives the ‘tithing’ sermon. A legitimate case could be made against this particular opinion of mine, however, at the very least, any believer should agree the senior pastor NEEDS to be held accountable by several folks (preferably the unpaid elders of the church) and these folks need to know his total yearly income and how he’s spending it (1Tim 3:2). Also the following scripture comes to mind:
1 Peter 5: 1-3
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
The verses at the end of this article clearly point out how evil the love of money is. If you notice the prophet Balaam is mentioned in 3 separate books of the NT (listed below) and none of these references are good. Balaam is used as a model for the false prophet who seeks wealth and not God. Balaam was wicked because he believed in God, but directly disobeyed Him and didn’t hold to His teachings or His will. This brought destruction, not only to himself, but to those who sought his counsel and/or services.
Concerning false prophets and their love of money, God has given us all a brain, but more than that He’s provided His word which is full of all things good (joy, encouragement, instruction, love and wisdom). I encourage all believers to read His word. Read about our glorious Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Read His teachings. In light of these teachings and in light of the love of the Father expressed through His son Jesus Christ, humbly pray for discernment enough to tell the man of God from the Balaam’s of this world. However, pray for Jesus’ bride (the church) and pray for humbleness and love in your heart so that you can pray for these men once you’ve recognized them. That God may yet reveal to them that He is the Lord. That He may yet have mercy on them, as He did with Nineveh (Book of Jonah) and Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:33-37).
An interesting email I received:
Subject: Consider before you donate
As you open your pockets for yet another natural disaster, keep these facts in mind:
Marsha J. Evans, President and CEO of the American Red Cross salary for year ending 06/30/03 was $651,957 plus expenses.
Brian Gallagher, President of the United Way receives a $375,000 base salary, plus numerous expense benefits.
The Salvation Army's Commissioner Todd Bassett receives a salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 billion dollar organization.
No further comment necessary
Pertinent scripture:
Ecclesiastes 5:10 (New International Version)
Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless.
Mark 10:23-25
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!"
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Luke 8:14
The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear (the word), but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.
Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
1 Timothy 6:3-12
If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
Hebrews 13:5-6
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
Concerning Balaam
For reference see Numbers 22-24
2 Peter 2 (concerning false prophets/teachers in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Jude 1 (concerning godless men, also in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Revelation 2:12-17
"To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.
Encouragement:
Isaiah 55:1-2
"Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.
Matthew 6:20
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Disclaimer: I want to be clear, to those readers who attend the same church as I do, that my opinions are based on conversations with other brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as my own personal experiences in several different churches. I am not specifically addressing concerns I have with my current church. I’m addressing concerns I have with the current American church, in general, and the mega churches more specifically.
I’ve heard so many sermons about money and many times it seems as though Jesus gets lost in the fray. I am told to be a good steward of my money, but not really taught how to use this to glorify Jesus. I am told to tithe as much as I can, and sometimes beyond, but not told why. I am told all this by pastors who lead churches which are cranking in the money without seemingly any accountability. Where is this money being spent? Expansion projects? A big new church building with the churches web site plastered all over it? Better bulletins, or should I say programs (Nice programs so we can all feel like we just attended a very entertaining sporting event, but that’s another article)? Hipper/louder concert/worship music? How much money do these pastors make, in total (book sales, speaking engagements, church salary)? What is the biblical model for how we should spend our money?
I checked two mega church’s websites to see if I could readily find some information on how much money the staff, primarily the senior pastor, receives. Nothing! I believe every church (especially the mega churches) should clearly publish where the tithes and donations are going and how much is going to the staff wages, especially the senior pastor. I also believe the senior pastor should willingly publish his total yearly income. This is to everyone’s benefit. If the pastor is leading a righteous life, with regards to the stewardship of his money, then it is an encouragement to the congregation to do the same. For example, if a senior pastor has a total yearly income of say $100,000 and gives away ½, or more, of it (tithing and charities), this will be an encouragement for the congregation to do the same, especially when he gives the ‘tithing’ sermon. A legitimate case could be made against this particular opinion of mine, however, at the very least, any believer should agree the senior pastor NEEDS to be held accountable by several folks (preferably the unpaid elders of the church) and these folks need to know his total yearly income and how he’s spending it (1Tim 3:2). Also the following scripture comes to mind:
1 Peter 5: 1-3
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
The verses at the end of this article clearly point out how evil the love of money is. If you notice the prophet Balaam is mentioned in 3 separate books of the NT (listed below) and none of these references are good. Balaam is used as a model for the false prophet who seeks wealth and not God. Balaam was wicked because he believed in God, but directly disobeyed Him and didn’t hold to His teachings or His will. This brought destruction, not only to himself, but to those who sought his counsel and/or services.
Concerning false prophets and their love of money, God has given us all a brain, but more than that He’s provided His word which is full of all things good (joy, encouragement, instruction, love and wisdom). I encourage all believers to read His word. Read about our glorious Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Read His teachings. In light of these teachings and in light of the love of the Father expressed through His son Jesus Christ, humbly pray for discernment enough to tell the man of God from the Balaam’s of this world. However, pray for Jesus’ bride (the church) and pray for humbleness and love in your heart so that you can pray for these men once you’ve recognized them. That God may yet reveal to them that He is the Lord. That He may yet have mercy on them, as He did with Nineveh (Book of Jonah) and Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:33-37).
An interesting email I received:
Subject: Consider before you donate
As you open your pockets for yet another natural disaster, keep these facts in mind:
Marsha J. Evans, President and CEO of the American Red Cross salary for year ending 06/30/03 was $651,957 plus expenses.
Brian Gallagher, President of the United Way receives a $375,000 base salary, plus numerous expense benefits.
The Salvation Army's Commissioner Todd Bassett receives a salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 billion dollar organization.
No further comment necessary
Pertinent scripture:
Ecclesiastes 5:10 (New International Version)
Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless.
Mark 10:23-25
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!"
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Luke 8:14
The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear (the word), but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.
Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
1 Timothy 6:3-12
If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
Hebrews 13:5-6
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
Concerning Balaam
For reference see Numbers 22-24
2 Peter 2 (concerning false prophets/teachers in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Jude 1 (concerning godless men, also in the likeness of Balaam who sought material wealth for his prophecies)
Revelation 2:12-17
"To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.
Encouragement:
Isaiah 55:1-2
"Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.
Matthew 6:20
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
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