Yom HaShoah: Holocaust Remembrance Day

Today, Thursday, April 19, 2012 is Holocaust remembrance day

http://www.ushmm.org/remembrance/dor/calendar/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yom_HaShoah

Click Here to supply your shipping address and receive the chick tract "Holocaust" while supplies last. (Put your address in the comment box).

Q. Why is this post here? A. For four reasons.

First, the Holocaust should never be forgotten.

http://crashcromwell.hubpages.com/hub/Remember-The-Holocaust

http://en.rian.ru/russia/20100127/157697469.html

Second, Israel as a nation has yet to accept their Messiah. My prayer is that this post may lead some of them to Him before it is too late.

Third, the whore of Rome needs to be exposed for what it is.

Forth, to share the thoughts written below.

Update 5/7/2012: About a week ago I had the opportunity to hear a Holocaust survivor speak for three hours of his experience in Europe during WWII. He was captured by the Nazis in 1941 and was a prisoner at Auschwitz for 8 months, until he escaped. He narrowly escaped death on many occasions, by the grace of God and his ability to speak many different languages. The account he shared was not pleasant to hear, but it was and is a good thing that the truth of what went on is heard and known. It was something I did not want to miss. Soon all of those who experienced that Holocaust will no longer be living. Then we can no longer hear it from someone who actually experienced it. Fortunately, books have been and will be written to preserve this history which the world would be wise to remember, in hopes that we can avoid repeating it. But in reality, this Holocaust was not the first, nor the last, and even at present the evil forces in this world are driving multiple holocausts, not least of which is that of abortion. Ecclesiastes 1:9, 3:15.

Perhaps the point that people most need to understand about the Holocaust is this; that those committing such atrocities thought themselves sane, reasonable, and even righteous. Today we may picture these evil Nazi cultists, but they were no different then many people living today. This is not to say that they were not evil, rather, it is to point out how evil many are today even though they believe themselves good-doers. Another point is this; when everyone around you is doing something evil, it is a test which you can fail by not standing up for what is right despite the perceived consequences.

Many of these 1940's Nazis would brutally murder and humiliate those whom they captured. Then they would go to church on Sunday, being kind to their own children, living the example of Hypocrisy. Today, churches are filled with many doing the same thing. They are murderers, fornicators, and friends of the world, faining a hope of salvation from the same Lord whose blood they continually shed. Matthew 25:40,45, Hebrews 6:5-6, Luke 6:46, Matthew 7:21, Matthew 25:31-46.

The Mistake of King Saul: To Obey Is Better Than Sacrifice

In Jeremiah 10:2 as well as throughout the Holy Bible in many verses we are instructed “Do not learn the way of the heathen.” This is made very clear in the Old Testament scriptures. The reason why Christmas is so wrong is because all Christmas traditions brought into the “Church” are “ways of the heathen.” Changing the name of something, or the explanation for it does not change what it is. Man does not have the authority to add or to take away from the word of God, and when he attempts to do so, he does so to his own peril (Deuteronomy 12:32, 4:2, Revelation 22:18-19). We are not to do what seems right in our own eyes, we are to do what the scripture teaches (Proverbs 12:15, 14:12, 16:2, 21:2, 2 Timothy 3:15-17). God does not desire to be worshiped by the flesh, that is, by mans ideas, but only in the manner which He has ordained. He desires to be worshiped in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:23).

In Leviticus 10:1-2 Nadab and Abihu tried to worship God in a way that he had not commanded. How did God accept their offering? He killed them both. This is a fearful thing.

In 1 Samuel 15:1-28 we learn many principles from King Saul’s mistakes. In verses 1-3 we see that the Lord sent the prophet Samuel to King Saul with the message that King Saul was to “go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not;” we can see in verse 3 that Saul was clearly told to kill all the Amalekites, and all of their animals.

Did King Saul obey the word of the Lord? No he did not. We see in verse 8 and 9 that he took the King of the Amalekites alive and that he spared “the best of the sheep, and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them.”

Below we can read 1 Samuel 15:10-28

"Then came the word of the LORD unto Samuel, saying, It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the LORD all night. And when Samuel rose early to meet Saul in the morning, it was told Samuel, saying, Saul came to Carmel, and, behold, he set him up a place, and is gone about, and passed on, and gone down to Gilgal. And Samuel came to Saul: and Saul said unto him, Blessed be thou of the LORD: I have performed the commandment of the LORD. And Samuel said, What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear? And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed. Then Samuel said unto Saul, Stay, and I will tell thee what the LORD hath said to me this night. And he said unto him, Say on. And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel? And the LORD sent thee on a journey, and said, Go and utterly destroy the sinners the Amalekites, and fight against them until they be consumed. Wherefore then didst thou not obey the voice of the LORD, but didst fly upon the spoil, and didst evil in the sight of the LORD? And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal. And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king. And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD. And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD hath rejected thee from being king over Israel. And as Samuel turned about to go away, he laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle, and it rent. And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou."

Notice that Saul claimed to have obeyed the Lord even though he did not. Notice that Saul disobeyed the Lord so that he could worship the Lord by offering a sacrifice to him. Notice that Samuel says to Saul “to obey is better than sacrifice” Samuel says that “Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” Listen to the excuse Saul gave; “I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.”

This story in 1 Samuel 15 has many similarities to the way many people respond to Christmas. God has clearly commanded us not to learn heathen practices. He has clearly commanded us to be separate from the world (John 15:19, 1 John 2:15, 2 Corinthians 6:15). Therefore, we cannot celebrate Christmas, because if not for heathen practices, there would be no Christmas to have. It must be realized that Christmas and the scriptural account of the birth of Christ are two entirely different things.

But like Saul some have falsely claimed that they have obeyed the Lord. Like Saul some have disobeyed the Lord claiming that they did so in order to worship God. Like Saul some have rebelled, some have been stubborn, some have an Idol. Like Saul some have transgressed the commandment of the Lord because they feared the people (rather than God) and have obeyed the voice of the people.

Christmas is a teaching of the Roman Catholic Church - an antichrist teaching. Christianity based on Scripture Alone was the cry and teaching of the protestant leaders who led God's people out of bondage from the Great Whore (That Great Whore, which today, as in much of history, is, at the very least, most largely embodied by The Roman Catholic Church).

O How that Romish Church has conquered the former Protestants, tricking them into honoring the wishes of the Pope (and of Satan himself)!

If God would have wanted us to celebrate Christmas he certainly would have told us so. In Matthew 28:19-20 we read “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Notice that Christ never taught us any such thing as that which is commonly called "Christmas." Notice also that the Apostles never left us any such example (Nor did the early church).

In the Holy Bible it does not say anything about celebrating the Birthday of Christ. In fact, the only ones who are mentioned as celebrating birthdays in the Bible are pagans who knew not God (Genesis 40:20, Matthew 14:6, Mark 6:21) .

It is in 1 John 2:21 that we find the phrase “No lie is of the truth.” "Christmas" was created by liars (Satan, Pagans, and the Roman Catholic Church (ultimately Satan)), supported by liars, and exists upon lies (John 8:44). "Christmas" continues in "Christian churches" because of those who fear man, and love tradition, more than they fear God, and love the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:10, Zechariah 8:19).

Christmas is an unbiblical invention of the Roman Catholic Pope, which Protestants at large formerly shunned. The fact that it is so widespread today only evidences the great influence of the spirit of Antichrist which abounds in this world at the present time.

Christmas is highly esteemed in the eyes of men, and no wonder; "For that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God."- Luke 16:15

See the links below for more information on the idolatry named "Christmas".

Dec. 25 Worldwide Day Of Idolatry

http://www.radiomissions.org/gleanings/aboutxmas.shtml

http://thethoughtsofhans.blogspot.com/2010/12/great-day-of-idolatry-offering-strange.html

http://www.truthontheweb.org/xmasvol1.htm

The Force (1983) by Jack T. Chick (especially page 26)

http://www.realtruth.org/articles/169-ttooc.html

http://truthseekersministry.com/articles/is-christmas-in-the-bible/

http://bibletruths.org/holiday/xmas_diabolical_paradox.php

http://www.lasttrumpetministries.org/tracts/tract3.html

http://www.lakehamiltonbiblecamp.com/topical/christms.htm

http://www.isawthelightministries.com/christmas.html

http://webbpage.bravehost.com/christmas.html

Paganism in the Church: What about Christmas?

Beware You Rich Man: The Covetousness Of Consumerism

"Neither shalt thou… covet any thing that is thy neighbour's." - Deuteronomy 5:21

Today, especially in the developed countries the rampant consumerism is overwhelming. We buy all types of things, electronics, various motorized vehicles, and all sorts of useless things (example: conversation pieces).

To me the word consumerism means two things. It means the placing of (too much) value on material things, and it stands for the idea that we have to “keep up” with those around us when it comes to buying new gadgets, cloths, cars, larger houses, gaming systems and so on.

Consumerism as I’ve just described it is nothing other than covetousness in action. Is not covetousness also accompanied by either lust or pride, or rebellion and idolatry? Who has not been guilty of this at some point? This sin is vastly overlooked by the “Church.”

"And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness." - Ezekiel 33:31

Christians have no part in this lifestyle of Consumerism which the world embraces. People waste incredible amounts of money buying new cars every few years, just to “keep pace” with the world around them. As Christians we are to have a different value system then the world. We must desire the praises of God rather than the praises of men. If fact, we should be very cautious to appreciate at all the praises of a man.

Consider the chief rulers who did not confess the Christ on whom they believed, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue. But if they had believed and knew that they were doing the right thing why would it matter if they were put out of the synagogue? The reason is because they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God (John 12:42-43, Romans 2:29). This situation also happens today in the case of many who accept false doctrine just so they can be accepted by the “Church” or by their family or friends (peer pressure).

This is also why many today buy cloths, cars and things they do not benefit from spiritually (or even physically). - Because they love the praise of men more than the praise of God. O how they bite the hand that feeds them.

We must beware of the praise of men because they may merely speak to flatter or deceive us. The wicked hypocrites do this to God himself, would they hesitate to do this to us also if it may benefit their body of sin! (Romans 6:6, Psalm 5:9, Psalm 78:36)

If we too much desire the praise of men, it may be because we ourselves are rebelling against the Lord, and we want some one to tell us that we are not rebelling, and that we will see no judgment against us. (Isaiah 30:10, 2 Timothy 4:3)

But we are to Exhort one another often, which is more appropriate than praise (praise signifying worship, which is reserved for God alone). Exhorting is encouraging, and giving strength to another, cheering them up.

In Luke 12:15-21 we see the judgment against a man for storing wealth and using it to party and live at ease - rather than being rich toward God. Note that being rich was not his error, his error was how he used his wealth for his pleasure.

In Deuteronomy 8:10-20 we read the warning against trusting in the flesh and forgetting Jehovah.

"When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee. Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint; Who fed thee in the wilderness with manna, which thy fathers knew not, that he might humble thee, and that he might prove thee, to do thee good at thy latter end; And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. As the nations which the LORD destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish; because ye would not be obedient unto the voice of the LORD your God." - Deuteronomy 8:10-20 (also see Deuteronomy 6:11-13)

Below we read the warning against “heaping treasure together for the last days.”

"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you." - James 5:1-6

"If riches increase, set not your heart upon them". - Psalm 62:10b

See the related post All We Have Belongs To God

The Company of Korah, Sheep Among Wolves

Korah, Dathan, Abiram and all the other men of the company of Korah were destroyed for their wickedness. The earth opened and swallowed them up, because of their sin in rebelling against Moses and Aaron. Moses warned the people to depart from Korah so that they would not be consumed in all their sins (see Numbers 16:1-33 and Numbers 26:9-10)

“And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of theirs, lest ye be consumed in all their sins.” - Numbers 16:26

Are we so naïve as to think that we can keep company with the wicked and not be consumed in their sins?

In Numbers 22:9 God asked Balaam the son of Beor “What men are these with thee?”

What would God say of the company we keep?

But first and foremost what would God say of us?

In Numbers 22:1-41 we can see the story of Balaam, and that God allowed him (I say allowed because God’s original instructions were for Balaam not to go with them) to go with them, but only on the condition that he only do and say what God would tell him to.

This may also be the case for us. God may allow us to keep company with the wicked, but he would only allow us this if we only do and say what he wants us to do and say (that is if we do not take part in their sins).

But we must also beware that we be not as the Pharisees. For they criticized Christ for keeping company with sinners. But we, as followers of Christ are called to lead sinners to salvation. We cannot do that without keeping company with sinners sometimes. But we must never partake of their sins, this limits where we can go.

“And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” - Matthew 9:10-13

And so it is concluded by the words of our Master and Lord (John 13:13) “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” - Matthew 10:16

Involvement in War, Self defense, and Politics ?

This is a long post which shows what I have been led to believe regarding violence and politics in the life of a Christian.

To fight or not to fight? That is the question. Today (10/6/2010) this question was bothering me as I had recently read two conflicting views on the subject. I have always leaned toward nonviolence, but the question is most difficult when it comes to self-defense and especially defending my family. And the answer would have been much more clear if not for the confusing verse of Luke 22:36.

So I got on my knees and earnestly prayed for God to help me understand this. To let me understand how a Christian should believe and act regarding violence and the bearing of arms, of the use of guns and swords. I confessed that I did not know, and that I was foolish (for I am) and could not know unless He led me to understand. I needed to know so I could take action, one way or another. After a short time a number of things occurred to me. Now as I write this I try to recollect what they were. First, Jesus said that he had all power on heaven and on the earth (Matthew 28:18). In John 14:12 (and the following verses which help put things in perspective) we read that if we believe on Jesus Christ we shall do even greater things than he. We are able do these great things because Jesus returned to the Father and sent the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth, the Comforter (John 14:17, 26). But the world cannot receive the Spirit of Truth because it neither seeth nor knoweth him. But Christ did not leave us…HE sent the HOLY GHOST to dwell in us and to be in us. And so we, if we have Christ in us, are led by the spirit and are the sons of God. If God is our Father who have we to fear? (Romans 8:9-16) I am persuaded that if it is the will of God he could easily protect us through miracles of all sorts, with his angels or if he so chooses he will let us suffer the death of a martyr. As long as we are led by the spirit yielding to God we need not fear guns or any threat to our flesh. So the extent to which we need carnal weapons to defend ourselves is the same extent to which we are living a carnal life which cannot please God. Further, if we bear in mind that everything we do should be done for God and his Glory, then we will have reason to feel that God is always with us if we do indeed do everything for his glory. (Colossians 3:17, I Corinthians 10:31).

It is also worth noting that no where in scripture do we read of followers of Christ attempting to fight their attackers, nor do we read verses that command us to defend ourselves physically (we read just the opposite (Matthew 10:16)). The only exception is Peter when we cuts off the high priests ear, But remember how Jesus rebuked Peter, so this is a lesson to us. “Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?”- John 18:11
(Mark 14:47, Luke 22:50, John 18:10-11).

In Isaiah 2:4, Micah 4:3, and Joel 3:10 we read “they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks.” This is exactly what early Christians did, according to many (An account of one of the many can be read of in Eusebius’ Ecclesiastical History, Book 7 chapter 15). See the links at the end of this post. I could get into a lot of history at this point but I will not because the Word of God is more than sufficient to clearly understand this subject.

In Matthew 4:8-9 (along with 2 Corinthians 4:4, John 12:31, 14:30, and 16:11, and 1John 5:19) We see that the kingdoms of the world are Satan’s; that he is the prince of the world and the god of this world. For the whole world is in wickedness; the systems of the world are wicked and Satan is the god of these systems. For the Christian, Christ is the King why have we therefore any thing to do with this world and the prince of its kingdoms?

With all this in mind it appears contrary to the teachings of Christ and the apostles to be involved in any war, violence or even in any politics. One may first have to come to the point to understand a few things before believing the above statement. Rather than pray for a certain leader to be elected, for a certain bill to be passed, or for a certain leader to take and support a certain position, we should pray for the heart of the matter. Consider how the turning away from God and essentially the making and worshipping of idols is evil and leads to yet more evil. Remember the greatest commandment and the second, and pray that others may also (Matthew 22:36-40). What I mean is that we do not often know the consequences of laws and how God works to turn that which is intended for evil to good and vice versa. Politics is beside the point; it is a mere distraction to what really needs to be done, not to mention an unnecessary cause of contention. For a specific example I believe that rather than pray for abortions to be outlawed, or for certain drugs to continue to be illegal we should pray that pregnant women would realize the precious life within them and that drug users would find the highest high (the joy in the Lord) that both may make Christ their Lord and be guided to believing his Word, the Holy Bible. Salvation will not and cannot come through the kingdoms of this world and trying to make kingdoms of Satan better is at least somewhat like trying to save ourselves by our works (at these things we can only have futile attempts). Politics is trivial when the soon coming judgment is considered. Rather than give money to a Political action committee, would it not be better to give money to the furtherance of the preaching of the Gospel? I now see giving to both of these as trying to serve two masters (Matthew 6:24, Luke 16:13). But if you are not fully committed to Christ, and have no intention of ever being so, then what will become of you? Remember that; “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other.”

I believe that rather than being involved in politics (through war, holding office and even voting) it is a Christians duty to spend time in prayer for the leaders, our countrymen and others who live on this earth, that God‘s will may be done. This idea was hard for me to come to as I am very opinionated even about politics, but I’ve let that go. If this appears to you (the reader) as mere laziness on my part I must point out that it is not, but is rather a redirecting of energies away from politics and toward Christ and his Kingdom only. And I ask; Can we be a politician or in any way involve ourselves in politics without being a friend of the world? “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” - James 4:4. I know for myself that I need to constantly examine my own life since the world and the love of it can easily creep in. (also see 1 Corinthians 3:18-19, 2:12, John 15:19 James 1:27, Titus 2:12)

Lastly, there are the numerous times in which shame is brought to the name of Christianity when “Christians” involve themselves in politics and war. There were the Crusades which were bad enough, but also there was Hitler and his “Christian” army. And of course the Catholic Church, that Romish Church, whose atrocities we will not begin to mention. There is the foolish squabbling of Democrat verses Republican, that bashing of others by those filled with self-righteousness calling themselves Christians.

I have really returned to my original belief on this matter. Before voting age I somewhat criticized my parents for voting and maintaining the belief of opposition toward war. When I was old enough to vote I did not have enough reason not to so I felt like I should and then I also took the view that some fighting Christians are called to. After reading the book Should Christians Fight by I. C. Wellcome I was presented with new information which challenged me and led to my return to my original belief - only this time I knew why I believed as I did. Another thing that further convinced me was Wayne Grudem’s poorly written argument against Greg Boyd’s view that the kingdoms of this world are evil (In Dr. Grudem’s new book Politics according to the Bible)(On many things I agree with Dr. Grudem, but not in this case). It is very interesting that the finalization of my view on this whole matter is what came together based on my time in prayer when I sought the Lord to reveal his will to me. It was only later that I read Boyd’s opinion on the matter and discovered that we seemed to agree a lot on this subject. I have read and realize the many objections to this belief (of non-violence) I’ve read the arguments for “just wars” and can only conclude that followers of Christ are called to be separate. The earthly kingdoms are right to use the power of the sword to rule and maintain a semblance of order, but for the Christian Christ is their king and they are not of the kingdom of the world. The two sides of the argument are non-violence and non-political involvement verses the view that we should influence the world politically, through a directly political means and that there are certain times when Christians should use carnal weapons. The reason I have reached the conclusion that the former view is Biblical is really (it seems) based on the understanding that the kingdoms of this world are not of God (spiritually, though God has allowed and even ordained them) and the extreme to which we are called (as Bible believing Christians) that our whole life and everything we do we should do for Christ and by his influence. Some argue that if all Christians were uninvolved in Politics than there would be no “good” people in Politics and that the world would become much more evil. This argument is weak because many “good” people are not “Christians” and many “Christians” are not “good” people. Also, in the Bible an image is portrayed that there are only a relatively small percentage of true Christians, so as far a being directly involved in politics they could only have a small effect (directly from voting). (Luke 13:23-24, Matthew 7:14, Mark 10:25, 2 Thessalonians 2:10, 1 John 2:4 and much of 1 John)) But I do not believe (for reasons stated earlier) that Christians are called to have an effect through the involvement of worldly politics. The effect Christians have on the world through prayer and their witness and sharing of faith should be much greater than any effect possible through politics, because of the great power of God, and his Holy Spirit working in his people. If we believe that God is ultimately in control of all then we will not feel as if we need to control the world in which we live. I say this because in not voting or involving themselves in political campaigns some “Christians” feel that they are not “fighting the Christian fight.” But the kingdoms of this world are not Christ’s Kingdom (see John 18:36-37).

As regarding Luke 22:36 I must conclude along with Matthew Henry’s commentary that when Christ referred to swords that he was only referring to weapons of spiritual warfare. Even better is the explanation in Matthew Poole’s commentary which, paraphrased in my own words is that; those who interpret Christ’s statement to mean that they should use physical force will find it difficult to explain the rest of the scriptures, and that clearly that is not what Christ meant. For if that was what he meant he would not have said “it is enough” because clearly two swords would not have been enough if that was what he meant (considering all the adversaries). Also Whedon’s Commentary interprets this verse as basically meaning that we should sacrifice as necessary so that we may be prepared to be a victor in the coming spiritual battles (sell our cloak to get a sword, make sacrifices in order to be spiritually prepared).

Finally, since I have decided this I have not been involved in politics as before and I find that my thoughts and actions are more directed to the Lord. Politics is such a waste of time. As regarding non-violence, the issue of making sure our children, siblings or younger brother’s and sister’s in Christ develop a strong faith early is highly prioritized. This is the case because we never know when they (or us) will be physically attacked or even killed and since we plan to do nothing fleshly to defend them we must do all things spiritually possible. I am persuaded that if we take wise precautions and are faithful that we can rely on our Holy Father to protect us as he sees fit, realizing that our will may not be his, but nevertheless we as Christ (Matthew 26:39) should pray that the Father’s will be done, knowing that all things work together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).

Also, I don't want to forget to mention 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 and Matthew 26:52.

This is a subject on which the view above will be despised by many "Christians." Just today on the radio while listening to a "Christian" radio station I heard the statement made that "It is a sin not to vote" The folly of such a statement should be obvious considering that many "Christians" vote contrary to each other. But also we must look at Jesus; Did he encourage political involvement? NO. He did just the opposite. The Holy Book, the Word of God, must be that which we look to for the answers to everything which which we have to do.

What about history of Christians from past times who supported this belief? What I wrote above is very similar to that written circa 1575 by Hans Schnell in his treatise titled "The Two Kingdoms." He also has a section which I hinted at but wanted to research before I actually said it.

It appears that fighting and political involvement are two more aspects of Babylonian corruption which entered the "Christian church" through Rome, beginning with Constantine. At least it is a change in the common "Christian" belief, that happened to begin at the same time as the Babylonian religion began to be mixed with Christianity. Since prior to that time (the time Constantine became emperor)"Christians" rightly believed that they were not citizens of this earth (that their kingdom was not of this earth) and therefore did not participate in war or the holding of public office, but after Constantine they did these things more commonly. As we see in Hebrews 11:13-16, and 1 Peter 2:9-11 we who have faith are indeed strangers and pilgrims on this earth.

It should also be said that regardless of how the governments of this earth rule it is a fact that they are appointed by God (Romans 13:1-8, Acts 4:18-20, 5:27-29, 1 Peter 2:13). This being the case they deserve our respect, because of the office they hold (Acts 23:5, Ecclesiastes 10:20). They also deserve our obedience, we must submit to them, unless they tell us to do something against the teachings of the Bible. In that case we must be like the Apostles who found it better to obey God rather than man. So if we cannot obey what the government wants us to do we must submit peacefully to the punishment they give us or flee to another place. These are the only two options the Holy Bible gives us.


See the Many Links below. Also see Psalm 2

http://www.spiritualitytoday.org/spir2day/863821murphy.html

http://www.lifespurpose.net/11aLoyaltytotheKingdom.html

http://mikebrandes.com/2010/09/08/is-christian-involvement-in-politics-biblical-or-unbiblical/

http://www.angelfire.com/journal2/adrianbiblestudents/kingdom.html

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/role-religion-world-affairs.html

http://searchwarp.com/swa492273-Early-Christians-Views-On-War-Power-And-Politics.htm

http://janetnapolitano.com/early-christians-views-on-war-power-and-politics

http://www.lewrockwell.com/vance/vance60.html

http://www.heraldmag.org/olb/contents/doctrine/ecvowams.htm


http://www.abc-coggc.org/jrad/volume1/issue3/The%20Early%20Christian%20View%20of%20War.pdf

http://www.issues-views.com/index.php/sect/23000/article/23085

http://www.gty.org/Resources/Articles/A125_Christians-and-Politics-Part-2

What Does the Scripture Say ?

This is the question we need to ask and apply to every aspect of our lives.


There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. - Pro 16:25

What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. - Deu 12:32

Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: for onecutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. - Jer 10:2-4

Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? - Gal 4:8-16

He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. - Mark 7:6-13

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
- 2 Corinthians 6:14-17

Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, - Col 2:14-20

“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.” - Proverbs 3:1-7

“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.” - 2 Timothy 3:15-17 (We cannot improve upon “perfect” by adding to the scriptures).

What do these verses tell us?

We cannot merely do what seems right. We are to be separate from the world and we are not to follow the traditions of men nor the vain ways of the heathen. Nor are we to pattern Christian worship after the ways that the heathen worship their gods. We are to only do and believe what the Bible instructs us to do and believe. How can this fact be applied today to Christianity? How has the world pervaded the church?

We must believe and obey the scriptures, renewing our minds (Psalm 51:10) and receiving instruction (Proverbs 1:7, 8:33, 9:9, 10:17, 13:18, 15:32) . Or else we may be like that man in James 1:20-27 who is a hearer of the word and not a doer. He sees himself as in a mirror but then goes his way and immediately forgets his appearance. “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” - James 1:22