For this post I'll be writing more in a similar style to my original 2010 posts. Id est just sharing experiences and what I learned from them. I'm just basically going to share some of my prayers and how they were answered.
1. While on vacation at the beach for a week last year I prayed that I would not get sunburnt (I usually do at least a little). God answered my prayer by...surprise! Cloudy almost everyday. Even got to experience swimming in the ocean in the rain, something I'd never done before, and it was fun. I wasn't about to let the clouds and rain ruin my vacation.
2. Prayed to loose weight. ....And I did, because I became sick for a whole month...at times I couldn't eat or keep down food. But I lost the weight I wanted to loose and I didn't miss any work so it was all good. Never did find out what was wrong with me, never went to the doctor, but that was about 9 months ago now and I've been healthy since (and still without the extra weight).
3. Prayed for safety while driving. All these years. All these miles. I have no doubt in my mind that the daily prayers for safe travels have kept me safe. At least twice this year and many times more in the last couple I have had many close encounters with ice or deer or falling asleep on the road. Twice recently at night, driving 75 MPH there was a deer directly in front of me on the road..just standing there. I saw it both times and swerved just in time to avoid a collision.
4. The Mimosa tree. At my parents house growing up we always (or at least often) had little mimosa trees that would grow up as "weeds" in the driveway or the garden. I always liked them and their light and touch sensitive leaves and when I moved to my own house I prayed that a mimosa tree would grow up at my house. And...one did...unfortunately at a location considered bad by some. But nevertheless it is there and it is beautiful, right by my porch steps. I've always liked plants.
5. Oh...this one goes back quite awhile. But it is very important. And one of those things I haven't shared for years because I'm not sure how people will take it.
The pastor at the church I usually attended stopped preaching good sermons. Something was wrong. He would rarely preach about anything except the end of the world. Which is fine, because it is certainly getting closer, but all that he would talk about was "the rapture" which was really annoying and unedifying. Annoying because I disagreed with his "theory" of a pretribulation rapture, and unedifying because he never talked about anything else. So I began praying hard for his preaching to improve and for him to really get into the word and preach true and useful lessons like he used to. Then he almost died. He fell down a flight of steps and was discovered sometime later. I believe he had a stroke also. He was in a nursing home for months and had to go through rehabilitation...and we didn't know then if he was going to ever be back. But we prayed much for him. He came back! And since then has preached good messages every Sunday.
So these experiences are being shared primarily for two reasons. First, as a testimony that God answers prayers. Second, as an example of how God does not answer our prayers in the same manner that we necessarily intend, and that in order to answer prayers certain events must take place. God uses people and events to create changes in our life experiences....thus effecting and creating physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual adjustments to each person which bring about the answers to our prayers. For example, when I prayed not to get sunburnt, God didn't just surround me with a magical force field...he sent clouds to block the sun. When God helped me loose weight he sent sickness....so I could not over eat. So when we pray a prayer desiring a change in our life...we must be accepting to the fact that a change requires a change. Fruit does not magically appear on a dead tree. We can't pray to be rich without expecting to work hard. We can't pray to do well on a test without expecting to study. We can't pray for a closer relationship with God without expecting to spend time alone with God in prayer and Bible Study. We can't expect God's power to work in us and through us if we do not have Faith and a willingness to take the time to strengthen our Faith. We can't expect our everyday life to reflect the values taught by God if we do not take the time to study His word and what it is that He teaches and desires us to be. (2 Timothy 2:15) We can't pray for someones life to be changed without expecting some type of major event to happen in their life which brings about that change. We can't pray to avoid a sin without learning to hate that sin. We can't pray for the garden to grow if we refuse to take time to water it. (Matthew 6:6,18, Isaiah 3:10, Luke 8:15)
God let us change the world for your Glory. Amen.
Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts
Monday, June 6, 2016
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Know Thyself: The Biblical Edict Of Introspection And Self-Examination
In the below verses we are given the Biblical command to examine ourselves, and prove whether we are in the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ - or not.
It is important to understand that by judging ourselves we do so, and can only do so, by the Holy Ghost. It is the spiritual man who can judge himself, and even all the world, because of the Holy Ghost given him by God, as well as his renunciation of and turning aside from the flesh - his carnal nature.
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” - 2 Corinthians 13:5 (also consider Galatians 6:4 and 2 Peter 1:10)
“For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” - 1 Corinthians 11:31-32 (also consider 1 Corinthians 11:28-34)
“But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.” - 1 Corinthians 2:15 (also consider 1 Corinthians 6:2-4).
An individual can only judge themselves (accurately) by the Holy Spirit’s presence within them. It is difficult for any man to examine themselves naturally speaking because of the prideful, sinful, nature of man. If we are to possess an accurate picture of ourselves, which is necessary to better serve God and to fulfill the biblical command of self examination; we must be filled with the Spirit, and cast aside our pride. This is why examining ourselves is so difficult, because if we are honest, we are miserable failures, which is not something anyone wants to admit. But this is what the Lord has told us from the beginning to the end of the scriptures. This is why our Lord Jesus came and paid the price; we cannot measure up to God’s high standard apart from Christ our righteousness (2 Peter 1:1, Romans 5:21).
Some Christians have a problem with the idea of Christians being failures. They somehow take this statement to be an attack on the righteousness of God's people and even an affront to the work which Christ does through believers. People who feel this way appear to be self-righteous and unattuned to the extreme perfection which the law demands. Perhaps they misunderstand the message which is meant to be communicated. Never there was a man who measured up by his actions only, only by his faith. Lest this be an argument of semantics, it should be stated clearly; Yes, Christians are more than conquerors through Him, our precious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. But when we, as individual Christians measure ourselves against God and his perfection and supremacy, we cannot but help to see our insignificance and leanings toward a nature of sin. It is also true that we, per se, are not required to be measured against the standard of the law, for Christ cast that down in a sense (Romans 10:4). If we consider all the faithful patriarchs, none of them were perfect, even though they may have been described as righteous or faithful, and as prophets and men after God's own heart. Consider David and Abraham, they were men who were epitomies of faith and righteousness, and yet they failed at times (2 Samuel 11:1-27, Genesis 12:10-20, 20:1-18). And when we see the failures in their lives, and especially in our own (if we can see them, for many I fear cannot), we can point to these and consider ourselves miserable failures; though perhaps we are as perfect as a man can be by faith. When the accuser Satan points to our sins and says "see Lord, they are unworthy of your salvation," it is then that we can say "Lord we would be unworthy, but we have been made worthy by our faith in your Son." Then Christ our advocate will turn to the Father and say, "It is true, these are mine, for they had confessed these sins, my blood has covered them." (Ephesians 1:7, 1 John 2:1, Job 16:19, Revelation 12:10-11)
We cannot, it appears, move on to a more mature Christian walk, unless we are able to examine ourselves, see our sins, and confess them with the promise to be cleansed from them (1 John 1:9). This is also why spiritual men judge all and are judged by none; because it is not they that judge but God in them.
We should pray as Job did in Job 13:23 - “How many are mine iniquities and sins? make me to know my transgression and my sin.” We should pray as did David in Psalm 51:3 - “For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.” We must desire for the Lord to convict us so strongly of our sins, that we develop a hatred toward them and cannot but weep till we have departed from them.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. - 1 Peter 5:6-11
It is important to understand that by judging ourselves we do so, and can only do so, by the Holy Ghost. It is the spiritual man who can judge himself, and even all the world, because of the Holy Ghost given him by God, as well as his renunciation of and turning aside from the flesh - his carnal nature.
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” - 2 Corinthians 13:5 (also consider Galatians 6:4 and 2 Peter 1:10)
“For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” - 1 Corinthians 11:31-32 (also consider 1 Corinthians 11:28-34)
“But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.” - 1 Corinthians 2:15 (also consider 1 Corinthians 6:2-4).
An individual can only judge themselves (accurately) by the Holy Spirit’s presence within them. It is difficult for any man to examine themselves naturally speaking because of the prideful, sinful, nature of man. If we are to possess an accurate picture of ourselves, which is necessary to better serve God and to fulfill the biblical command of self examination; we must be filled with the Spirit, and cast aside our pride. This is why examining ourselves is so difficult, because if we are honest, we are miserable failures, which is not something anyone wants to admit. But this is what the Lord has told us from the beginning to the end of the scriptures. This is why our Lord Jesus came and paid the price; we cannot measure up to God’s high standard apart from Christ our righteousness (2 Peter 1:1, Romans 5:21).
Some Christians have a problem with the idea of Christians being failures. They somehow take this statement to be an attack on the righteousness of God's people and even an affront to the work which Christ does through believers. People who feel this way appear to be self-righteous and unattuned to the extreme perfection which the law demands. Perhaps they misunderstand the message which is meant to be communicated. Never there was a man who measured up by his actions only, only by his faith. Lest this be an argument of semantics, it should be stated clearly; Yes, Christians are more than conquerors through Him, our precious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. But when we, as individual Christians measure ourselves against God and his perfection and supremacy, we cannot but help to see our insignificance and leanings toward a nature of sin. It is also true that we, per se, are not required to be measured against the standard of the law, for Christ cast that down in a sense (Romans 10:4). If we consider all the faithful patriarchs, none of them were perfect, even though they may have been described as righteous or faithful, and as prophets and men after God's own heart. Consider David and Abraham, they were men who were epitomies of faith and righteousness, and yet they failed at times (2 Samuel 11:1-27, Genesis 12:10-20, 20:1-18). And when we see the failures in their lives, and especially in our own (if we can see them, for many I fear cannot), we can point to these and consider ourselves miserable failures; though perhaps we are as perfect as a man can be by faith. When the accuser Satan points to our sins and says "see Lord, they are unworthy of your salvation," it is then that we can say "Lord we would be unworthy, but we have been made worthy by our faith in your Son." Then Christ our advocate will turn to the Father and say, "It is true, these are mine, for they had confessed these sins, my blood has covered them." (Ephesians 1:7, 1 John 2:1, Job 16:19, Revelation 12:10-11)
We cannot, it appears, move on to a more mature Christian walk, unless we are able to examine ourselves, see our sins, and confess them with the promise to be cleansed from them (1 John 1:9). This is also why spiritual men judge all and are judged by none; because it is not they that judge but God in them.
We should pray as Job did in Job 13:23 - “How many are mine iniquities and sins? make me to know my transgression and my sin.” We should pray as did David in Psalm 51:3 - “For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.” We must desire for the Lord to convict us so strongly of our sins, that we develop a hatred toward them and cannot but weep till we have departed from them.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. - 1 Peter 5:6-11
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Josiah And Jehoiakim: A Righteous King And His Wicked Son
In 2 Chronicles we read of Josiah and how the prophet Jeremiah and the singers lamented for him.
“And Jeremiah lamented for Josiah: and all the singing men and the singing women spake of Josiah in their lamentations to this day, and made them an ordinance in Israel: and, behold, they are written in the lamentations.” - 2 Chronicles 35:25
Written in what Lamentations?
Some say this refers to Lamentations 4:20 and some say this refers to a book which is no longer extant. Below is Lamentations 4:20 which is clearly speaking of Josiah, as we will see when we realize who Josiah was, and the peace the Lord granted to the Kingdom of Judah for the sake of Josiah’s righteous acts (which showed Josiah’s Faith).
“The breath of our nostrils, the anointed of the LORD, was taken in their pits, of whom we said, Under his shadow we shall live among the heathen.” - Lamentations 4:20
If this verse refers to King Josiah, which I believe it does, why is he called “anointed” and what does it mean by “of whom we said under his shadow we shall live among the heathen.”
We can find out much about King Josiah in 2 Kings chapter 22 and 23. First, in 2 Kings 22:1-2 we find that Josiah began to reign when he was only 8 years old and he “did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in all the ways of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left.” 1 Timothy 4:12 comes to mind when we consider young Josiah and his example.
King David: A Man After God's Own Heart
To really understand why Josiah is considered “righteous enough” to be called “anointed” let us look to David in whose footsteps Josiah followed.
Of King David we read that he was a man after God’s own heart. Why? Because he did the will of God. See Acts 13:22. In 1 Samuel 13:13-14 we see that Saul disobeyed God and Saul’s disobedience cost him his kingship. The prophet Samuel, under God’s direction went looking to anoint one to be King who would obey God. The Lord said unto Samuel “Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” Finally Samuel found David the youngest son of Jesse of the tribe of Judah “And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he.” See 1 Samuel 16:7-13.
In both Ezekiel 37:24-25 and Jeremiah 30:8-9 we see a future time described when David will again reign and be the King of the people Israel. The people under this future rule of David are described in these verses as being cleansed, saved, freed from bondage, obedient to God’s teachings, and as having one shepherd. Jesus Christ is that one shepherd (John 10:1-16) The Shepherd of Jews and Gentiles (John 10:16, Hebrews 2:9).
Now when these verses were written, the flesh of the literal person of King David was rotted in the grave. But Christ came in the flesh as a descendant of David, and as the Son of God, and the creator and Saviour of the world (Matthew 1:1-25, John 1:1-14). So then, in these verses the prophets are describing the future reign of Christ, which has now come to pass (at least partially) as Christ rules over spiritual Israel (which is comprised of both believing Jews and Gentiles (Romans 2:28-29)).
Now look at this. Of Josiah we read; “And like unto him was there no king before him, that turned to the LORD with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; neither after him arose there any like him.” - 2 Kings 23:25
In essence Josiah kept the first and greatest commandment as we can see by the words of Christ in the gospel of Mark.
“And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.” - Mark 12:29-30
What did King Josiah do to be described in this manner?
First, when he heard the words of the Law he realized the sins of Israel.
What was Josiah’s response to sin?
1. He recognized it for what it was by being much grieved, rending his cloths and saying “great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us.” (2 Kings 22:11-13)
2. He shared the truth with others, by having the Law read aloud in the presence of “all the inhabitants of Jerusalem … the priests… the prophets, and all the people, both small and great: and he read in their ears all the words of the book of the covenant which was found in the house of the LORD.” (2 Kings 23:1-3)
3. He set to work destroying the wickedness that was in the kingdom.
“Moreover the workers with familiar spirits, and the wizards, and the images, and the idols, and all the abominations that were spied in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem, did Josiah put away, that he might perform the words of the law which were written in the book that Hilkiah the priest found in the house of the LORD.” - 2 Kings 23:24
Specifically;
- He destroyed the idols (the vessels made for the worship of Baal and the other false gods (demons)) by burning them into a pile of ashes (2 Kings 23:4,6).
- He “put down” the idolatrous priests who burnt incense to false gods (Baal, demons, the host of heaven) (2 Kings 23:5)).
- He broke down the house of the sodomites (2 Kings 23:7).
- He stopped the offering of children by fire to Molech (2 Kings 23:10).
- He broke down alters, high places, groves, and images which were used and made to worship the false gods of other nations (2 Kings 23:11-15).
- He slew the priests of the false gods (2 Kings 23:20).
We can read below how the Lord promised to let the kingdom of Judah dwell peacefully while King Josiah reigned. And that the land would not be destroyed until after Josiah died, so that Josiah would not see all the evil that God would bring upon Judah for its sins.
“But to the king of Judah which sent you to enquire of the LORD, thus shall ye say to him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, As touching the words which thou hast heard; Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the LORD. Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought the king word again.” - 2 Kings 22:18-20
This also brings to mind the verse in Isaiah in which we read how sometimes the Lord lets the righteous perish so that they may not experience the evils which are to come in this world.
The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. - Isaiah 57:1
After Josiah died his son Jehoahaz was made king in his stead. And Jehoahaz “did which was evil in the sight of the Lord.” See 2 Kings 23:30-32.
But Jehoahaz was taken away by Pharaohnechoh to Egypt where he died, and Pharaohnechoh made “Eliakim the son of Josiah king in the room of Josiah his father, and turned his name to Jehoiakim.” (2 Kings 23:34) But Jehoiakim also did evil in the Lord’s sight.
Jehoiakim's Wickedness
In fact, Jehoiakim was so wicked, that the LORD had something specific to say of him which he spoke through the prophet Jeremiah.
“Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah; They shall not lament for him, saying, Ah my brother! or, Ah sister! they shall not lament for him, saying, Ah lord! or, Ah his glory! He shall be buried with the burial of an ass, drawn and cast forth beyond the gates of Jerusalem. Go up to Lebanon, and cry; and lift up thy voice in Bashan, and cry from the passages: for all thy lovers are destroyed. I spake unto thee in thy prosperity; but thou saidst, I will not hear. This hath been thy manner from thy youth, that thou obeyedst not my voice. The wind shall eat up all thy pastors, and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.” - Jeremiah 22:18-22
Do Not Be Deceived: God Is Not Mocked
In this post on the righteous and the wicked king, we can learn much from their examples. We saw why the righteous king was righteous, and why the wicked was wicked.
1. They were either righteous or wicked based on how God judged them (hence, in the eyes of the Lord) They were not righteous or wicked based on their own reasoning or awareness, but by the Word of God (2 Kings 22:13, John 12:48)
2. In the portions of scripture we looked at we can see that they were judged by their actions, by their obedience, or disobedience to the will of God. They did what they did because of their faith in and fear of God (or lack of faith in and lack of fear of God). And we saw them both get their just reward (Isaiah 3:11)(also see 1 Peter 1:17).
In these days, our reward/punishment may only partially come in this life, as we see exampled by the many wicked men that prosper for a time (Psalm 37:1-2).
But, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” - Galatians 6:7-10
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Review of "Have a little Faith" by Mitch Albom
I have not seen a warning anywhere about this book, so I wrote one.
Have you heard of the book “Have a little Faith” by Mitch Albom? Well it had debuted at #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list for the week ending 10/3/2009 (2). It was also chosen by Oprah.com as the best Nonfiction Book of 2009 (3).
This book is about having faith. Many Christians have embraced this book, and failed to realize that it teaches the doctrine of devils. Think that’s a bold statement? Consider what Mitch Albom says in the quotes below taken from his video at http://mitchalbom.com/node/5515 on 12/21/2010.
“his last request to me was that I help send him off to heaven with a few chosen words” (0:36-0:41)…
“But it got me thinking about faith, in my line of work (Jewish symbol shown of video screen 0:49) as an author and journalist (Christian symbol shown on video screen 0:51) you hear a lot about faith (Islamic symbol shown on screen 0:52) readers from around the world write “God Bless You” but different one’s refer to different gods (0:57) our country is fighting two wars that are essentially rooted in faith, wherever you look in this world you find devote people but sometimes the thing they are most devote about is that they’re right and your wrong (1:09) The eulogy request made me examine all that” (1:12)…
“The more I recognized that faith comes in many sizes, shapes and hearts” (1:48-1:53)…
“And that eulogy request became a journey to find a great belief that’s actually the same in everyone of us, that journey is summed up in the title of this book “Have a little faith.” (1:54-2:05)
“Picture the most pious man you know; your priest, your pastor, your rabbi, your Imam (2:40-2:47)…Picture the man who sends people off to heaven, asking you for his send off to heaven” (2:56-3:00)
In (3:09-3:58) he compares the salvation through Jesus Christ to the Salvation of “your priest, your pastor, your rabbi, your Imam” (3:37-3:41) He clearly implies that Jews and Muslims will be spared from Hell even if they do not accept Jesus Christ.
“This is a story about believing in something” (4:04-4:06)
That is what this book is about, believing in something, whatever it may be and the comfort it brings.
Is that message compatible with Christianity? Obviously Not! False comfort is deceptive!
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” - John 14:6
“For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” - John 3:17-18
Main source (1) http://mitchalbom.com/node/5515
Other sources
(2)http://mitchalbom.com/node/5823/Have_a_Little_Faith_Debuts_at__1_on_the_New_York_Times_Bestseller_List
(3) http://www.oprah.com/entertainment/Best-of-2009_1/7
Have you heard of the book “Have a little Faith” by Mitch Albom? Well it had debuted at #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list for the week ending 10/3/2009 (2). It was also chosen by Oprah.com as the best Nonfiction Book of 2009 (3).
This book is about having faith. Many Christians have embraced this book, and failed to realize that it teaches the doctrine of devils. Think that’s a bold statement? Consider what Mitch Albom says in the quotes below taken from his video at http://mitchalbom.com/node/5515 on 12/21/2010.
“his last request to me was that I help send him off to heaven with a few chosen words” (0:36-0:41)…
“But it got me thinking about faith, in my line of work (Jewish symbol shown of video screen 0:49) as an author and journalist (Christian symbol shown on video screen 0:51) you hear a lot about faith (Islamic symbol shown on screen 0:52) readers from around the world write “God Bless You” but different one’s refer to different gods (0:57) our country is fighting two wars that are essentially rooted in faith, wherever you look in this world you find devote people but sometimes the thing they are most devote about is that they’re right and your wrong (1:09) The eulogy request made me examine all that” (1:12)…
“The more I recognized that faith comes in many sizes, shapes and hearts” (1:48-1:53)…
“And that eulogy request became a journey to find a great belief that’s actually the same in everyone of us, that journey is summed up in the title of this book “Have a little faith.” (1:54-2:05)
“Picture the most pious man you know; your priest, your pastor, your rabbi, your Imam (2:40-2:47)…Picture the man who sends people off to heaven, asking you for his send off to heaven” (2:56-3:00)
In (3:09-3:58) he compares the salvation through Jesus Christ to the Salvation of “your priest, your pastor, your rabbi, your Imam” (3:37-3:41) He clearly implies that Jews and Muslims will be spared from Hell even if they do not accept Jesus Christ.
“This is a story about believing in something” (4:04-4:06)
That is what this book is about, believing in something, whatever it may be and the comfort it brings.
Is that message compatible with Christianity? Obviously Not! False comfort is deceptive!
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” - John 14:6
“For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” - John 3:17-18
Main source (1) http://mitchalbom.com/node/5515
Other sources
(2)http://mitchalbom.com/node/5823/Have_a_Little_Faith_Debuts_at__1_on_the_New_York_Times_Bestseller_List
(3) http://www.oprah.com/entertainment/Best-of-2009_1/7
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
A Sinful View of the Holy Bible
Many Churches today believe and promote false and unbiblical teachings. It appears that this is largely due to their sinful, incorrect, worldly view of the Holy Bible. Viewing the Holy Bible as anything other than completely Holy, Important and as the Authority and the very word of God is Sin.
If you believe the Holy Bible has mistakes you are in error and sin. It is not acceptable to choose the parts of the Holy Bible you like and to disregard the rest.
In Acts 13:46 there are some who do not accept the word of God, and because they do not accept it they are judged to be unworthy of everlasting life.
In John 12:48 Jesus said, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.”
Throughout the new testament Jesus and the apostles always refer to the old testament scriptures as an authoritative source. Mark 12:10, 15:28, Luke 4:21, John 2:22, 7:38, 7:42, Galatians 4:30, and 1 Timothy 5:18 are just a few examples.
In 2 Peter 3:16 reference is made to Paul’s epistles being scripture.
In 2 Timothy 3:13-17 we read; “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
Notice what scripture is given for and that it leads the man of God to be perfect. Therefore we cannot improve upon the scripture by adding or diminishing from it. We cannot add doctrines and commandments of men. Nor can we ignore any part of the scriptures.
In “The Book Nobody Knows” by Bruce Barton (Publishers Grosset & Dunlap, New York, printed in America 1926) a false and sinful view of the Bible is exampled. On page 15 Bruce writes speaking of the Holy Bible that “It is worth knowing. Not all of it, of course.” He goes on to discuss 1 and 2 Chronicles as being unimportant. These evil statements are only the beginning of his wicked views of the Holy Bible.
In the commentary on the Gospel of Matthew (Vol. 2 revised edition 1975 by William Barclay. Published by the Westminster Press, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) by William Barclay a short quote from his comments on Matthew 12:38-42 is below.
“Here we have a problem….It is to be noted that these are not the words of Jesus, but the explanation of Matthew….The fact is that Matthew understood wrongly the point of what Jesus said; and in so doing he made a strange mistake…” Here William is referring to what Jesus said in Matthew 12:40. William did apparently not understand how the statement Jesus made could be true, so he falsely assumed that Matthew made a mistake in writing the Gospel. It is utter foolishness to assume that the word of God is incorrect simply because we cannot understand it. With this attitude we are merely choosing to believe only that which we find acceptable, only that which supports the beliefs we already have. Rather we need to be ready to change our beliefs in light of what the scripture says.
We must learn to view the scripture as did Jesus and the Apostles, and as those of the Protestant Reformation who risked there lives to translate the Bible into their language and as those who risk death just to read the word of God. For it is through the scriptures that Faith in Christ can be found. Through faith in Christ we are set free from sin, and can be in the light, knowing the truth.
If you believe the Holy Bible has mistakes you are in error and sin. It is not acceptable to choose the parts of the Holy Bible you like and to disregard the rest.
In Acts 13:46 there are some who do not accept the word of God, and because they do not accept it they are judged to be unworthy of everlasting life.
In John 12:48 Jesus said, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.”
Throughout the new testament Jesus and the apostles always refer to the old testament scriptures as an authoritative source. Mark 12:10, 15:28, Luke 4:21, John 2:22, 7:38, 7:42, Galatians 4:30, and 1 Timothy 5:18 are just a few examples.
In 2 Peter 3:16 reference is made to Paul’s epistles being scripture.
In 2 Timothy 3:13-17 we read; “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
Notice what scripture is given for and that it leads the man of God to be perfect. Therefore we cannot improve upon the scripture by adding or diminishing from it. We cannot add doctrines and commandments of men. Nor can we ignore any part of the scriptures.
In “The Book Nobody Knows” by Bruce Barton (Publishers Grosset & Dunlap, New York, printed in America 1926) a false and sinful view of the Bible is exampled. On page 15 Bruce writes speaking of the Holy Bible that “It is worth knowing. Not all of it, of course.” He goes on to discuss 1 and 2 Chronicles as being unimportant. These evil statements are only the beginning of his wicked views of the Holy Bible.
In the commentary on the Gospel of Matthew (Vol. 2 revised edition 1975 by William Barclay. Published by the Westminster Press, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) by William Barclay a short quote from his comments on Matthew 12:38-42 is below.
“Here we have a problem….It is to be noted that these are not the words of Jesus, but the explanation of Matthew….The fact is that Matthew understood wrongly the point of what Jesus said; and in so doing he made a strange mistake…” Here William is referring to what Jesus said in Matthew 12:40. William did apparently not understand how the statement Jesus made could be true, so he falsely assumed that Matthew made a mistake in writing the Gospel. It is utter foolishness to assume that the word of God is incorrect simply because we cannot understand it. With this attitude we are merely choosing to believe only that which we find acceptable, only that which supports the beliefs we already have. Rather we need to be ready to change our beliefs in light of what the scripture says.
We must learn to view the scripture as did Jesus and the Apostles, and as those of the Protestant Reformation who risked there lives to translate the Bible into their language and as those who risk death just to read the word of God. For it is through the scriptures that Faith in Christ can be found. Through faith in Christ we are set free from sin, and can be in the light, knowing the truth.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Works? Faith? Repentance? Old testament Salvation?
Part of a letter below;
Now I will respond to some of the answers you gave to my questions. First the wrath from which Jesus has delivered us and the tribulation are not the same thing. In the book of Revelation the tribulation comes first and the wrath comes later (it also appears that the tribulation is caused by the ungodly and is against the believer, and that the wrath is from God and is poured out on the ungodly). Now I will come to a point we both agree on and go from there.
We cannot save ourselves. I believe that both faith and grace are gifts from God alone (neither are anything we do or can boast in). Further, repentance is merely a result of faith in God. It is God who brings us to repentance when we have faith, repentance is not something we do. If only a shallow belief was required than even the devils would be saved for “they believe and tremble” (James 2:19). Anything we do that pleases God is not an act of ours. Inotherwords we can take no credit for any good works for “no flesh can please God”(Romans 8:8) and “whatever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). I believe, as the Bible and the apostle Paul himself clearly teaches that when the Father saves us through faith in Christ by Grace that we have no choice but to do good works (we just end up doing them, as a result of faith, if we do have faith). Good works are a result of being saved and we cannot even take credit for doing good works BECAUSE it is NOT we that do them but CHRIST in us. I believe that the Bible clearly teaches that all men in all time have been, are, and will be required to repent and also that all men have been, are and will do good works if they have been saved. Faith/Belief and repentance have always been the way to come unto God this is shown throughout the scriptures. Now I think that perhaps when you said that repentance was not required that you misunderstood what repentance is. Please be patient by brother and consider the following scriptures. In Romans 2: 4-10 we see that “the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” In Psalm 51 we see faith/belief in God and repentance (vs. 17) we also see that sacrifice (not done in faith) is not what God delights in, nor is it what he desires (vs.16). In 2 Corinthians 7: 9-11 we see that “godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation,” and that this godly sorrow is sorrow which need not be repented of. In Acts 2:38 we read “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” In Romans chapter 3:21-26; in verse 21 when it says being witnesses by the prophets and the law I believe this is speaking of how Christ and the salvation which would come through him was made known in the law and the prophets - so it was no new thing. And in verse 25 I believe that it means that the sacrifice of Christ and faith in his blood was set forth by God to take the wrath of God which would otherwise be on men for their sins, and that this righteousness through faith in his blood is for the sins of the past, even the old testament believer since God had forbearance (was patient) until Christ should be made an atonement for all sin. In Habakkuk 2:4 we see that “the just shall live by faith.” In Isaiah 53 we see Christ and his sacrifice for the sins of the people clearly prophesied. Two (of the many) examples are John 12:38 which quotes Isaiah 53:1 and Acts 8:32-35 which quotes Isaiah 53:7-8. In Hebrews 10:4 we read that it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. In Psalm 106:23-24 we see that the Lord wanted to destroy them because they did not believe. In Psalm 78:22 we see that God was angry with Israel because they believed not in God and trusted not in his salvation. In Psalm 73:24 we read that HE guides me and receives me unto HIS Glory. In Zechariah 9:9 we see a prophecy of Christ and the salvation he will bring. In Job 19:25-26 we see Job declaring that he shall see his redeemer in the latter days upon the earth. In John 8:56 we read that Abraham saw Jesus’ Day. In Genesis 22 we read of Abraham’s faith and his seed (compare Genesis 22:17 to Galatians 3:16) Abraham is the father of those who have faith as Abraham did. In Psalm 14:3 and Psalm 16 we see how no man doeth good and that the Lord will save those who trust in him. We see how faith saved the old testament people in Hebrews ch.11. Again in Psalm 53:2-3 we see that there is none that doeth good (meaning again that no one is saved by works). In Numbers 14:11 we see that the Lord is upset because of their disbelief in him. In 2 Kings 17:14 we read that Israel did not believe in the Lord and that because of their unbelief the Lord testified against them. In Romans 4 we read of Abrahams faith and that it was counted unto him for righteousness (also see Genesis 15:6). The sole requirement for salvation is that man exercise faith by the method which God has taught him to do. Man has been taught to exercise faith somewhat differently in different times. In Galatians 3 especially verses 11, and 19 we see that no man is justified by the law, and that the law was only temporary until “the seed should come to whom the promise was made” That seed being Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:16, Genesis 22:17) (Also see Acts 26:15-20, Romans 4: 13-25)
“Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.” - Galatians 3:19
Now again it is important to realize that faith alone saves us, but that if we are saved by faith we will do good works. In Ephesians 5:5 Paul says that No unclean person can inherit the kingdom Christ and of God. Now if you read this verse in context you will see that Paul is talking to those who have already professed Christ as there Saviour. So merely professing to serve Christ is not enough, not because it is not enough, but because if it brings about no action toward good works then it was not a true profession, it was not sincere. For in verse 9 we read that the fruit of the spirit is all goodness, righteousness and truth. If we have saving faith we will have good fruit. Jesus himself taught this same thing in the gospels.
In Titus 1:16 we also see that; they profess to know him, but in works they deny him and they are abominable, and disobedient because their works deny him. In Hebrews 5:9 we read that Christ became the author of salvation unto who? Unto them that obey him. In Romans 6:16-17 we read that we are the servant of whom we obey (either sin unto death or of obedience unto righteousness). In verse 6:22 we see that we will have fruit unto holiness if we are servants of God. In Acts 10: 34-35 we see that God does not respect persons but that “he that feareth him and worketh righteousness is accepted.” In 1 Peter 1:22 we read that Christ did no sin and that he is our example. In Isaiah 26:3 we read that he who trusts in the Lord will be kept in perfect peace.
I believe the above verses clearly show that repentance and good works are a necessary part of the faith which is of salvation (studying the above verses should allow this to be understood properly). Further these verses show that Salvation has always come through Faith (belief and trust). Salvation is a gift of God only, at the same time we cannot disregard Philippians 2:12 or 1 Timothy 4:16. But knowing it is only Christ in us through whom we are saved and we ourselves can do no good thing. The reason some of this sounds confusing is that on the surface it may appear contradictory. Because it cannot be received by nor stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God (see 1 Corinthians 2:5). But as we study the scriptures it should become clear to us, not by viewing it through some vain philosophy of man, but by the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Now I will respond to some of the answers you gave to my questions. First the wrath from which Jesus has delivered us and the tribulation are not the same thing. In the book of Revelation the tribulation comes first and the wrath comes later (it also appears that the tribulation is caused by the ungodly and is against the believer, and that the wrath is from God and is poured out on the ungodly). Now I will come to a point we both agree on and go from there.
We cannot save ourselves. I believe that both faith and grace are gifts from God alone (neither are anything we do or can boast in). Further, repentance is merely a result of faith in God. It is God who brings us to repentance when we have faith, repentance is not something we do. If only a shallow belief was required than even the devils would be saved for “they believe and tremble” (James 2:19). Anything we do that pleases God is not an act of ours. Inotherwords we can take no credit for any good works for “no flesh can please God”(Romans 8:8) and “whatever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). I believe, as the Bible and the apostle Paul himself clearly teaches that when the Father saves us through faith in Christ by Grace that we have no choice but to do good works (we just end up doing them, as a result of faith, if we do have faith). Good works are a result of being saved and we cannot even take credit for doing good works BECAUSE it is NOT we that do them but CHRIST in us. I believe that the Bible clearly teaches that all men in all time have been, are, and will be required to repent and also that all men have been, are and will do good works if they have been saved. Faith/Belief and repentance have always been the way to come unto God this is shown throughout the scriptures. Now I think that perhaps when you said that repentance was not required that you misunderstood what repentance is. Please be patient by brother and consider the following scriptures. In Romans 2: 4-10 we see that “the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” In Psalm 51 we see faith/belief in God and repentance (vs. 17) we also see that sacrifice (not done in faith) is not what God delights in, nor is it what he desires (vs.16). In 2 Corinthians 7: 9-11 we see that “godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation,” and that this godly sorrow is sorrow which need not be repented of. In Acts 2:38 we read “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” In Romans chapter 3:21-26; in verse 21 when it says being witnesses by the prophets and the law I believe this is speaking of how Christ and the salvation which would come through him was made known in the law and the prophets - so it was no new thing. And in verse 25 I believe that it means that the sacrifice of Christ and faith in his blood was set forth by God to take the wrath of God which would otherwise be on men for their sins, and that this righteousness through faith in his blood is for the sins of the past, even the old testament believer since God had forbearance (was patient) until Christ should be made an atonement for all sin. In Habakkuk 2:4 we see that “the just shall live by faith.” In Isaiah 53 we see Christ and his sacrifice for the sins of the people clearly prophesied. Two (of the many) examples are John 12:38 which quotes Isaiah 53:1 and Acts 8:32-35 which quotes Isaiah 53:7-8. In Hebrews 10:4 we read that it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. In Psalm 106:23-24 we see that the Lord wanted to destroy them because they did not believe. In Psalm 78:22 we see that God was angry with Israel because they believed not in God and trusted not in his salvation. In Psalm 73:24 we read that HE guides me and receives me unto HIS Glory. In Zechariah 9:9 we see a prophecy of Christ and the salvation he will bring. In Job 19:25-26 we see Job declaring that he shall see his redeemer in the latter days upon the earth. In John 8:56 we read that Abraham saw Jesus’ Day. In Genesis 22 we read of Abraham’s faith and his seed (compare Genesis 22:17 to Galatians 3:16) Abraham is the father of those who have faith as Abraham did. In Psalm 14:3 and Psalm 16 we see how no man doeth good and that the Lord will save those who trust in him. We see how faith saved the old testament people in Hebrews ch.11. Again in Psalm 53:2-3 we see that there is none that doeth good (meaning again that no one is saved by works). In Numbers 14:11 we see that the Lord is upset because of their disbelief in him. In 2 Kings 17:14 we read that Israel did not believe in the Lord and that because of their unbelief the Lord testified against them. In Romans 4 we read of Abrahams faith and that it was counted unto him for righteousness (also see Genesis 15:6). The sole requirement for salvation is that man exercise faith by the method which God has taught him to do. Man has been taught to exercise faith somewhat differently in different times. In Galatians 3 especially verses 11, and 19 we see that no man is justified by the law, and that the law was only temporary until “the seed should come to whom the promise was made” That seed being Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:16, Genesis 22:17) (Also see Acts 26:15-20, Romans 4: 13-25)
“Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.” - Galatians 3:19
Now again it is important to realize that faith alone saves us, but that if we are saved by faith we will do good works. In Ephesians 5:5 Paul says that No unclean person can inherit the kingdom Christ and of God. Now if you read this verse in context you will see that Paul is talking to those who have already professed Christ as there Saviour. So merely professing to serve Christ is not enough, not because it is not enough, but because if it brings about no action toward good works then it was not a true profession, it was not sincere. For in verse 9 we read that the fruit of the spirit is all goodness, righteousness and truth. If we have saving faith we will have good fruit. Jesus himself taught this same thing in the gospels.
In Titus 1:16 we also see that; they profess to know him, but in works they deny him and they are abominable, and disobedient because their works deny him. In Hebrews 5:9 we read that Christ became the author of salvation unto who? Unto them that obey him. In Romans 6:16-17 we read that we are the servant of whom we obey (either sin unto death or of obedience unto righteousness). In verse 6:22 we see that we will have fruit unto holiness if we are servants of God. In Acts 10: 34-35 we see that God does not respect persons but that “he that feareth him and worketh righteousness is accepted.” In 1 Peter 1:22 we read that Christ did no sin and that he is our example. In Isaiah 26:3 we read that he who trusts in the Lord will be kept in perfect peace.
I believe the above verses clearly show that repentance and good works are a necessary part of the faith which is of salvation (studying the above verses should allow this to be understood properly). Further these verses show that Salvation has always come through Faith (belief and trust). Salvation is a gift of God only, at the same time we cannot disregard Philippians 2:12 or 1 Timothy 4:16. But knowing it is only Christ in us through whom we are saved and we ourselves can do no good thing. The reason some of this sounds confusing is that on the surface it may appear contradictory. Because it cannot be received by nor stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God (see 1 Corinthians 2:5). But as we study the scriptures it should become clear to us, not by viewing it through some vain philosophy of man, but by the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Salvation by Grace through Faith
This is very basic information, but I still will say it for it seems to be understood by so few (which is quite scary).
For a Christian their salvation, unlike the “salvation” of other religions is not something they can earn, but it is a gift of God only. Salvation is a gift of God by Grace through Faith (a). When one accepts Christ, repents and acknowledges they are forgiven and saved only through Christ and his shed blood, then they will desire to serve God (b). A Christian is not saved by the works he does, nor by the commandments he keeps. For no flesh can please God (c) However, if a man confesses Christ with his mouth, but does not live as Christ commands, doing the Father’s will…then that man’s confession is meaningless. This is what the scriptures teach. (g)
For we must test the spirits (d), working out our salvation with fear and trembling (e), and having knowledge of the scriptures so that we can know who God and Christ are, and what they require from us. This is necessary in order that we are not worshipping a false god who is merely a figment of our imagination, and thereby deceiving ourselves, and possibly perishing for lack of knowledge (f).
a. (Ephesians 2:8) b. (Philippians 2:13) c. (Romans 8:8) d. (1 John 4:1) e. (Philippians 2:12) f. (Hosea 4:6) g. (Matthew 7:17-23, Luke 6:46, 13:25)
For a Christian their salvation, unlike the “salvation” of other religions is not something they can earn, but it is a gift of God only. Salvation is a gift of God by Grace through Faith (a). When one accepts Christ, repents and acknowledges they are forgiven and saved only through Christ and his shed blood, then they will desire to serve God (b). A Christian is not saved by the works he does, nor by the commandments he keeps. For no flesh can please God (c) However, if a man confesses Christ with his mouth, but does not live as Christ commands, doing the Father’s will…then that man’s confession is meaningless. This is what the scriptures teach. (g)
For we must test the spirits (d), working out our salvation with fear and trembling (e), and having knowledge of the scriptures so that we can know who God and Christ are, and what they require from us. This is necessary in order that we are not worshipping a false god who is merely a figment of our imagination, and thereby deceiving ourselves, and possibly perishing for lack of knowledge (f).
a. (Ephesians 2:8) b. (Philippians 2:13) c. (Romans 8:8) d. (1 John 4:1) e. (Philippians 2:12) f. (Hosea 4:6) g. (Matthew 7:17-23, Luke 6:46, 13:25)
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Sage Parable
The other day I went to a greenhouse to buy a sage plant. After searching through the herb section of the green house I was disappointed as I did not find any sage. As I was leaving I passed by a table of plants with a big sign reading “Free.” I thought I might as well take a look at what was there. I shortly realized that most of the plants on the “free” table were in fact sage. Just what I was looking for! I looked over them; they were dry, unhealthy and all but dead. Then my eyes saw one that had moist soil, it was green, alive and healthy, even with some pretty purple flowers. I could not believe the best plant there was free! I looked at that plant on the table and at the “free” sign, and then I happily took that free sage plant home to my garden.
The second day thence it occurred to me: This could be a parable.
The plants represent the things people fill their lives with. The herbs represent the things we are looking for. The sage plants represent religions. My eyes represent the Holy Spirit, as it is only through the Holy Spirit that we can tell true religion from false. The Sage plant that was alive represents true Christianity. Christianity being the only religion that leads to life.
This is just how we are. We look for things to fill our lives to bring us happiness. But we waste time looking because we look for the wrong things. The best thing, and the only thing that can fill us and make us whole (Col 2:10) is FREE (at the same time we must count the cost see Luke 14:25-34). Let us not overlook God’s free gift. That free gift of Grace by Faith - Faith in Jesus Christ. (Eph. 2:8, Gal 2:16)
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