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
Showing posts with label Transformation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Transformation. Show all posts
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Have The Sign Gifts Ceased?
Has God's Word Changed? No. So the sign gifts have not ceased.
The following is based on part of a letter I have recently written to a Dispensationalist.
Now there is one thing I must point out regarding the verses you shared about the sign gifts. You argue that the sign gifts (Prophesy, Healing, Miracles, Speaking in Tongues) are no more at all, but as proof you present verses which merely give examples that at some places they will not be. There is a big difference between examples where there were no sign gifts, and saying that there are no sign gifts. Can you see the distinction I’m pointing out?
You said that there is lots of evidence that the sign gifts have been withdrawn. I am pointing out that there is no evidence that they have been withdrawn, only evidence that they are not in existence in every Christian or in every place. There is quite a big difference between the two.
It has been said “If the sign gifts are still in effect why is Luke a Physician?” (implying that doctors would not be needed because God's people would heal everyone) That point is irrelevant because of two things. First, do you remember the condition for the working of the sign gifts? One condition is Faith, or belief. For many the sign gifts are of no use as far as miracles and healings, because they do not believe such a thing is possible. Notice in Matthew 13:58 and Mark 6:5 that Jesus did not do as many miracles and healing because the people did not believe. The modern western man is conditioned to believe that these types of healings and miracles are impossible, and so they greatly are because of his unbelief. Second, not every believer has every gift. Simply because we are a true believer, it is not the will of the Holy Ghost to give each of us every gift (1 Corinthians 12:4-12). Further, when you say that the sign gifts have ceased you are putting together a false (or incomplete) church, because you are cutting off some of its members (1 Corinthians 12:13-31). This is a serious error, and is part of the reason why the church in North America is declining (as it did in Europe), and why it is reportedly growing in Asia, and Africa, and Central America (and maybe South America also?).
I agree completely that there will be (and are) many false prophets (Matthew 24:24, Mark 13:22, 1 John 4:1). I also agree that any prophet who teaches anything contrary to God’s word (the Holy Bible), or who makes predictions that do not come true is a false prophet. But the scriptures are so clear that the gift of prophesy will continue, to believe other wise is in contradiction to the clear word of God. Perhaps it is you who believe false Prophets and their unbiblical teachings? Perhaps the answer to the question “What is a Prophet?” would clarify this issue. A prophet is someone who hears from God and speaks and does what God has told them to say and do. Because the Prophet hears God, they can also have knowledge of things they would normally not have, because God has told them. Thus, this is their means for prophesying the future. By the scriptures we can tell a true prophet from a false prophet. True prophets lead men to repent, to turn from wickedness, and to worship God. True prophets warn of the destruction coming to sinners. There are two ways to know a false prophet as given in Deuteronomy 13:1-5 , Deuteronomy 18:9-22, Matthew 7:15-23, and 1 Corinthians 14:32, 37, 39. First, if they make a prediction which later comes true, but they also lead men away from God and teach them to worship other gods, or if they bare bad fruit, leading men in wicked ways (into sin) they are false prophets. Second, if they make predictions which do not come to pass then they are false prophets. So to be a true prophet they need to do two things 1. They need to speak according to Gods word (not teaching anything unbiblical), and 2. They need to prophesy and there prophesies must never fail to come to pass. (And of course they must have been given the gift to prophecy by the Holy Ghost.)
Some Dispensationalists have professed that "The prophetic time clock has been put on hold, Peter did not know that and was in error when he said that the last days had begun."
To which I respond...
Do you realize that you are calling the Apostle Peter a liar? Peter said that the last days had come (Acts ch. 2) (Also see Hebrews 1:2 and 2 Timothy 3:1). If your theological view leads you to disbelieve the teachings of scripture than your theological view is corrupt and is based upon false teachings. Perhaps you have a different definition of “the last days” than the Bible does, but when discussing Biblical things you should use the same definition the Bible uses.
Also, do you not realize what the Apostle Paul says in the verses below? It sums things up and really cuts right to the point.
If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. - 1 Corinthians 14:37-39
Interestingly, there is a great similarity between the way God spoke to prophets through the Holy Spirit, and the way he now speaks to believers. Many verses and biblical stories attest to this fact, but one verse in particular that comes to mind is Matthew 5:12. Through the Holy Spirit in us today God communicates things which we could not know without Him, he allows us to know so that we may serve Him better and ultimately bring Glory to His name. Taking the sign gifts out of Christianity is taking the supernatural out of Christianity and turning it into nothing but a belief system. It is a belief system, but it is more, it is also a system of Revelation, Miracles, and Regeneration. For example, many answered prayers are miracles. And for myself I am convinced by the many answers to prayer I have received.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Efficient Transportation: Renewing The Mind
We use cars, motorcycles, boats, planes, trains, bicycles and our feet to travel many places. What is the most efficient form of transportation?
Thought.
Now thought may not take us from Timbuktu to Kalamazoo. But it can help take us from worldliness to holiness or from bondage in sin to freedom in Christ Jesus.
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” - Romans 12:2
We can direct our thoughts purposefully; we can pray, we can read God’s Holy Word, good Christian books, transcripts and tracts. We can listen to sermons, or to wholesome Christian music. We have a great deal of choice over what we fill our minds with.
When I was younger there used to be a series of books called “Alice in Bible Land Storybooks” which my parents would read to me. There was a phrase that went something like; “reading is the magic key that takes you where you want to be.” If I remember correctly Alice would start reading her Bible and then she would walk through a window, a mirror, a keyhole, a door perhaps into “Bible Land.”
As followers of Jesus Christ we are to “Renew our minds.” In essence, renewing our mind transports and transforms us to a higher plane. This is a place no earthly, physical mode of transportation can take us.
I think about Romans 12:2 often, especially when I was younger. I made it a practice to “renew” my mind many times. In high school I would often do this after I got out of class and on the bus. To me it was (and is) a mental effort; deprogramming my mind from the indoctrination, lies, and teachings of antichrist which are taught commonly in public (and private) school systems. It also involved an effort to rid my mind of impure or sinful thoughts, and to “think properly.” But to empty one’s mind of foolish things is of no value unless one fills it with good things as well, this I did also. I took time to pray in my mind, thanking Christ for all he has done and is doing, while disregarding (trying to ignore) those around me (all the folly, sin, and worldliness).
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” -Philippians 4:8
"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." -Psalms 51:10
O Let us have right thoughts and thoughts that lead to plenteousness (Proverbs 12:5, Proverbs 21:5).
See the Hymn "HIGHER GROUND"
Thought.
Now thought may not take us from Timbuktu to Kalamazoo. But it can help take us from worldliness to holiness or from bondage in sin to freedom in Christ Jesus.
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” - Romans 12:2
We can direct our thoughts purposefully; we can pray, we can read God’s Holy Word, good Christian books, transcripts and tracts. We can listen to sermons, or to wholesome Christian music. We have a great deal of choice over what we fill our minds with.
When I was younger there used to be a series of books called “Alice in Bible Land Storybooks” which my parents would read to me. There was a phrase that went something like; “reading is the magic key that takes you where you want to be.” If I remember correctly Alice would start reading her Bible and then she would walk through a window, a mirror, a keyhole, a door perhaps into “Bible Land.”
As followers of Jesus Christ we are to “Renew our minds.” In essence, renewing our mind transports and transforms us to a higher plane. This is a place no earthly, physical mode of transportation can take us.
I think about Romans 12:2 often, especially when I was younger. I made it a practice to “renew” my mind many times. In high school I would often do this after I got out of class and on the bus. To me it was (and is) a mental effort; deprogramming my mind from the indoctrination, lies, and teachings of antichrist which are taught commonly in public (and private) school systems. It also involved an effort to rid my mind of impure or sinful thoughts, and to “think properly.” But to empty one’s mind of foolish things is of no value unless one fills it with good things as well, this I did also. I took time to pray in my mind, thanking Christ for all he has done and is doing, while disregarding (trying to ignore) those around me (all the folly, sin, and worldliness).
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” -Philippians 4:8
"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." -Psalms 51:10
O Let us have right thoughts and thoughts that lead to plenteousness (Proverbs 12:5, Proverbs 21:5).
See the Hymn "HIGHER GROUND"
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Prayer For Today
My Prayer For Today
O Lord you are ruler of heaven, earth, and sea
you have been, are and forever will be.
You sent your SON to make intercession for
our transgressions and bear the burden of our iniquities.
Yea O Lord you are exalted above all. You are merciful
and forgive those who repent and turn from their sin.
You show a better way unto us which can be known
through the Gospel Jesus preached and the commandments
he made known unto us. Blessed be your name O God
Ruler and King of all. You are Holy. We rejoice in your
many gifts to us. O Let us be humble and Fear you
O Lord that we may not sin against you. Let us hold
fast to your Word in our hearts. Let your Holy Spirit
Guide and teach us. Let us be a people who flee the
way of the flesh and be lead in Spirit serving you wholly.
Protect us from folly and foolish ways, let not the riches
of the world entice and lead us astray. Discipline us
O Lord that we may live a profitable life for your Glory.
Grant us peace and contentment and good health and
the will to use all of ourselves for your glory only. Taking
up our cross to follow Christ, as we lay our own self down to death,
no longer seeking our will or desires but only thine O
Glorious God. So be it.
I found this in one of my notebooks, I think it was written sometime in 2008.
Some scriptures related to this; Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, Mark 10:21, Luke 9:23, John 1:17, Isaiah 53:1-12, Psalm 22:3, Deuteronomy 8:5, Hebrews 12:6-7, Romans 8:1-39, Ecclesiastes 12:13, 1 Peter 2:17, Revelation 14:7, Job 28:28, Proverbs 16:6, Proverbs 3:7, Proverbs 1:33.
O Lord you are ruler of heaven, earth, and sea
you have been, are and forever will be.
You sent your SON to make intercession for
our transgressions and bear the burden of our iniquities.
Yea O Lord you are exalted above all. You are merciful
and forgive those who repent and turn from their sin.
You show a better way unto us which can be known
through the Gospel Jesus preached and the commandments
he made known unto us. Blessed be your name O God
Ruler and King of all. You are Holy. We rejoice in your
many gifts to us. O Let us be humble and Fear you
O Lord that we may not sin against you. Let us hold
fast to your Word in our hearts. Let your Holy Spirit
Guide and teach us. Let us be a people who flee the
way of the flesh and be lead in Spirit serving you wholly.
Protect us from folly and foolish ways, let not the riches
of the world entice and lead us astray. Discipline us
O Lord that we may live a profitable life for your Glory.
Grant us peace and contentment and good health and
the will to use all of ourselves for your glory only. Taking
up our cross to follow Christ, as we lay our own self down to death,
no longer seeking our will or desires but only thine O
Glorious God. So be it.
I found this in one of my notebooks, I think it was written sometime in 2008.
Some scriptures related to this; Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, Mark 10:21, Luke 9:23, John 1:17, Isaiah 53:1-12, Psalm 22:3, Deuteronomy 8:5, Hebrews 12:6-7, Romans 8:1-39, Ecclesiastes 12:13, 1 Peter 2:17, Revelation 14:7, Job 28:28, Proverbs 16:6, Proverbs 3:7, Proverbs 1:33.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Take Time to be Holy: Hunger and Thirst Before the Door is Closed
Take time to be Holy?
That is a tough charge in the society in which we live. We are constantly driven to do this and that. Productivity is good but for what end (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11)? But our very being we are to offer as a sacrifice to the Living God (Romans 12:1-2). For we are even a Holy Priesthood, chosen by God to offer up spiritual sacrifices, which are acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:4-5).
We are taught to take time to be Holy. God says “Be ye Holy, for I am Holy” (Leviticus 20:7, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Leviticus 11:44-45). If commanded by God, this cannot be an impossible feat. For man himself it is certainly and most indubitably impossible. But with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26, Mark 9:23).
Certainly, we cannot expect to be Holy without allotting time for it. Every pursuit requires effort, yielding to God is our task, which we, by the prompting and continued influence of the Holy Spirit are lead to do.
For man does not only live by food, but he lives by the very word that precedes from the mouth of the LORD (see Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4, Luke 4:4).
That is why we may Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness, and we Shall Be Filled (Matthew 5:6)!
If we hunger and thirst, we shall seek and find (Proverbs 8:17, Jeremiah 29:13, Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:9), then we shall be filled. When we are filled with righteousness are we not Holy?
In Psalm 1:1-6 we see that “the righteous” has “his delight in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”
When we are able we should “seek the Lord while he may be found“, and “call upon him while he is near” (see Isaiah 55:6-7). We do not know when our opportunity to call upon the Lord may be taken from us, if we wait it may be too late. For we know not when our time on earth will end, and we must seek the Lord while we are able lest our heart be hardened. Lest we are hardened by pride, such as happened to king Nebuchadnezzar, until he learned the lesson that “the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will” (Daniel 5:18-22).
In Proverbs 1:24-31 we see the reward (not a reward for good) of those who hate knowledge and did not fear the Lord. They did not listen to reproof, but despised it, they refused to listen and had no regard. When calamity and fear comes upon them they will “eat the fruit of their own way.” It will be too late to repent. “Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me.”
In Matthew 25:1-13 we see how the five wise virgins were prepared and the five foolish virgins were unprepared. And for the foolish it was too late. For the door was shut and the foolish virgins said “Lord, Lord, open to us.” “But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.” So we must always be ready for we know not when Christ shall come again. If we wait until he comes to prepare, it will be too late.
“Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.” - Proverbs 28:14
See the Hymn "Take time To Be Holy"
That is a tough charge in the society in which we live. We are constantly driven to do this and that. Productivity is good but for what end (Ecclesiastes 2:4-11)? But our very being we are to offer as a sacrifice to the Living God (Romans 12:1-2). For we are even a Holy Priesthood, chosen by God to offer up spiritual sacrifices, which are acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:4-5).
We are taught to take time to be Holy. God says “Be ye Holy, for I am Holy” (Leviticus 20:7, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Leviticus 11:44-45). If commanded by God, this cannot be an impossible feat. For man himself it is certainly and most indubitably impossible. But with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26, Mark 9:23).
Certainly, we cannot expect to be Holy without allotting time for it. Every pursuit requires effort, yielding to God is our task, which we, by the prompting and continued influence of the Holy Spirit are lead to do.
For man does not only live by food, but he lives by the very word that precedes from the mouth of the LORD (see Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4, Luke 4:4).
That is why we may Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness, and we Shall Be Filled (Matthew 5:6)!
If we hunger and thirst, we shall seek and find (Proverbs 8:17, Jeremiah 29:13, Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:9), then we shall be filled. When we are filled with righteousness are we not Holy?
In Psalm 1:1-6 we see that “the righteous” has “his delight in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”
When we are able we should “seek the Lord while he may be found“, and “call upon him while he is near” (see Isaiah 55:6-7). We do not know when our opportunity to call upon the Lord may be taken from us, if we wait it may be too late. For we know not when our time on earth will end, and we must seek the Lord while we are able lest our heart be hardened. Lest we are hardened by pride, such as happened to king Nebuchadnezzar, until he learned the lesson that “the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will” (Daniel 5:18-22).
In Proverbs 1:24-31 we see the reward (not a reward for good) of those who hate knowledge and did not fear the Lord. They did not listen to reproof, but despised it, they refused to listen and had no regard. When calamity and fear comes upon them they will “eat the fruit of their own way.” It will be too late to repent. “Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me.”
In Matthew 25:1-13 we see how the five wise virgins were prepared and the five foolish virgins were unprepared. And for the foolish it was too late. For the door was shut and the foolish virgins said “Lord, Lord, open to us.” “But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.” So we must always be ready for we know not when Christ shall come again. If we wait until he comes to prepare, it will be too late.
“Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.” - Proverbs 28:14
See the Hymn "Take time To Be Holy"
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Christmas Conversation
The following is part of an account of a conversation.
But I first presented him with the Christmas article and prefaced it with a statement about how some people look forward to Christmas because without it their winter is too depressing. I noted that this was idolatry because Christ should be more than enough to bring Christians Joy throughout the year.
He read part of the article and said something like,
“I just wanted to worship Christ I did not want to know all this“, So I said
“but now you do know“. But he had know a lot of it before, some I had told him before. So we talked about it and he said something like...
“if we have to have a Christmas tree or Christmas cookies in order for it to be Christmas in our heart than it is idolatry“. So I said
“So you are saying it is idolatry, because if you take away all those things there is no Christmas.” He came to agree that for many people it is idolatry. So I said
“So for many people it is idolatry and you still want to celebrate it and support that?”
I said how that when we are children it is especially an idol because all we look forward to is the presents, we don’t really care at that young age whether Christ was born or not.
He said something to the effect that it is actually even worse when we are older because it becomes ingrained in people as adults. And with that statement he was right, I was just assuming that we learn better when we get older. He also said...
“well what is wrong if a Christmas tree helps me worship Christ?” So I said...
“isn’t Christ great enough? Why do we need something to help us worship him?” And he quickly said
“well it creates a change.”
Then he said something about how that “well don’t you think Christmas was put together by God?” So I said
“well not unless you believe the Pope is infallible!?”
But then he said how he meant the birth of Christ, and the story in the Gospel of Luke. So I said well yes of course the birth of Christ was God’s work, But not Christmas.
Then he said well, don’t you think God can use Christmas to witness to others? So I said "well God can use anything, but he does not want us to use Christmas."
And then he said well even in the old testament they had festivals and celebrations.
So I said well yes, but God specifically gave them those celebrations and told them exactly how to do it, but he did not give us Christmas, he did not tell us when Christ was born, and if he wanted us to know, or wanted us to celebrate it he would have told us so.
Then he said something about how Christmas had been going on for so long, so what are we supposed to do?, so I said something like “just drop it” (drop the celebration of Christmas that is).
Then he kept coming back to the fact that what matters is what is in our heart, “as long as we are worshiping Jesus on Christmas.”
So I said “But are You?”
So we again came back to the fact that for many people Christmas was an idol, but then he said something to the effect that we can’t just tell people that, they have to see if for themselves.
So I said “so they can’t be held accountable for it just because they don’t see it for themselves?”
Then he said something about having to be patient and just show love and not being judgmental.
So I said something about how some people will never know unless we tell them.
He seemed sure that, we can’t just tell people that they are doing something wrong. So I asked him...
“So it’s enough just to accept Christ and stop there? And he said
“well no we have to accept all that goes with it” And he said that how when people are baptized he tells them how it is just the beginning and how they should continue to grow.
So I said that “it does not seem like anyone is growing much“, he agreed with that.
He said he enjoyed the talk though, and I know it was good.
It was a calm conversation we had, but at least once I raised my voice, I think it was when I said
“So for many people it is idolatry and you still want to celebrate it and support that!?”
Do not be deceived: idolaters shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (See 1 Corinthians 6:9)
See "Christmas Compared to the Birth of Christ"
See "Is Christmas Idolatry?"
But I first presented him with the Christmas article and prefaced it with a statement about how some people look forward to Christmas because without it their winter is too depressing. I noted that this was idolatry because Christ should be more than enough to bring Christians Joy throughout the year.
He read part of the article and said something like,
“I just wanted to worship Christ I did not want to know all this“, So I said
“but now you do know“. But he had know a lot of it before, some I had told him before. So we talked about it and he said something like...
“if we have to have a Christmas tree or Christmas cookies in order for it to be Christmas in our heart than it is idolatry“. So I said
“So you are saying it is idolatry, because if you take away all those things there is no Christmas.” He came to agree that for many people it is idolatry. So I said
“So for many people it is idolatry and you still want to celebrate it and support that?”
I said how that when we are children it is especially an idol because all we look forward to is the presents, we don’t really care at that young age whether Christ was born or not.
He said something to the effect that it is actually even worse when we are older because it becomes ingrained in people as adults. And with that statement he was right, I was just assuming that we learn better when we get older. He also said...
“well what is wrong if a Christmas tree helps me worship Christ?” So I said...
“isn’t Christ great enough? Why do we need something to help us worship him?” And he quickly said
“well it creates a change.”
Then he said something about how that “well don’t you think Christmas was put together by God?” So I said
“well not unless you believe the Pope is infallible!?”
But then he said how he meant the birth of Christ, and the story in the Gospel of Luke. So I said well yes of course the birth of Christ was God’s work, But not Christmas.
Then he said well, don’t you think God can use Christmas to witness to others? So I said "well God can use anything, but he does not want us to use Christmas."
And then he said well even in the old testament they had festivals and celebrations.
So I said well yes, but God specifically gave them those celebrations and told them exactly how to do it, but he did not give us Christmas, he did not tell us when Christ was born, and if he wanted us to know, or wanted us to celebrate it he would have told us so.
Then he said something about how Christmas had been going on for so long, so what are we supposed to do?, so I said something like “just drop it” (drop the celebration of Christmas that is).
Then he kept coming back to the fact that what matters is what is in our heart, “as long as we are worshiping Jesus on Christmas.”
So I said “But are You?”
So we again came back to the fact that for many people Christmas was an idol, but then he said something to the effect that we can’t just tell people that, they have to see if for themselves.
So I said “so they can’t be held accountable for it just because they don’t see it for themselves?”
Then he said something about having to be patient and just show love and not being judgmental.
So I said something about how some people will never know unless we tell them.
He seemed sure that, we can’t just tell people that they are doing something wrong. So I asked him...
“So it’s enough just to accept Christ and stop there? And he said
“well no we have to accept all that goes with it” And he said that how when people are baptized he tells them how it is just the beginning and how they should continue to grow.
So I said that “it does not seem like anyone is growing much“, he agreed with that.
He said he enjoyed the talk though, and I know it was good.
It was a calm conversation we had, but at least once I raised my voice, I think it was when I said
“So for many people it is idolatry and you still want to celebrate it and support that!?”
Do not be deceived: idolaters shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (See 1 Corinthians 6:9)
See "Christmas Compared to the Birth of Christ"
See "Is Christmas Idolatry?"
Monday, November 22, 2010
Two Recollections
There are many experiences I have that convince me of the reality of God, and the fact that he is very actively working today. There are many amazing accounts that have been written by many people, but here I will share two experiences which served to strengthen my faith. Now these are only two of the many happenings. I see God at work in many things, and if I wrote them all down I would not have enough paper (or megabytes of storage). Though these stories are simple and only about ordinary happenings they are nonetheless meaningful to me.
………………………………..........................
A year ago I needed to get so many hours of night flying to meet a requirement. So here I was flying at night by myself in a small single engine airplane (a Cessna 172, that plane had nice equipment also). It was May 12, 2009 as I know from my pilot logbook. I enjoy flying at night because it is very peaceful, and quite (when wearing a headset). The flight went well and if I remember correctly the airport was deserted or at least nearly so after I returned. (It’s an uncontrolled airport, no tower.) Something about feeling all alone at night put me in the mood of thankfulness and of wanting to seek more of a closeness to God. I had about an hour drive home from this airport and decided that I wanted to listen to some Christian music, which at that time I rarely did. I only have a radio in my car so I was searching through the stations looking for some Christian music. I was slightly surprised and frustrated that I could not find anything good, and I prayed that I would. I had certain classic rock stations programmed into my radio. I thought to myself that God is so awesome that if he wanted to he could even make a classic rock radio station play Christian music. (and that’s exactly what he did!) I checked my regular classic rock stations and the third station was now playing Christian music! I praised God and from that time forth to today that station, 107.5 now plays Christian music. It used to be “Frank FM” but is now WBYN FM. Some of the “Christian” music on there is made to glorify the musician or the tune rather than God, but they do also play some good Christian music. Moreover I discovered “Truth for Life” and “Walk in the Word” which are generally good Biblical programs from what I have heard of them. I enjoy listening to them when I happen to be in the car when they are on, which does not happen much now.
……………………………….......................
The past couple of months I have been riding bicycle nearly everywhere and I generally only drive my car once a week, just to make sure it still runs well, especially considering the colder weather now. (why I ride bicycle now is a story for another day on another blog) When I ride my bicycle there is a traffic light shortly before I get to work. If anyone has experience riding bicycle or even motorcycle than one knows that traffic lights often are not aware of their existence. This means that I was always hoping for a car to be there so that the light will change in order for me to go. Often there is no car around so I make a right turn on the red light, and then make a U-turn and go my merry way. Well one day as I approached the light and began to make the right turn I thought to myself, if God wanted to he could change the light for me. As soon as I thought this I saw the light turn green and I continued and was able to go left instead of right and then making a U-turn. I Praise God for this! And to this day the traffic light always changes for my bicycle. I even used to ride my scooter (legally a motorcycle) there and the light never changed for it, and it is larger and much heavier than my bicycle.
………………………………..............
There are many times when events and circumstances seem to go my way even when by all reason they should not. I attribute these happenings to the grace of God and his tender mercies. (Psalm 40:11) What I am talking about are reminders and pleasant surprises which barely happen, or things which easily might not have been nor resulted if things had just been a little different. Also, over and over again there are circumstances and events which are pieced together so carefully and out side of my control that I have no other conclusion than that they were put together that way by God for a purpose. Often I am convinced that they are the result of my or others prayers but however it is; it is God working for his purposes and he is working in a way so that all things work together for good to those that love him and are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28) Though we must be careful not to rely only on outward events as evidence of God’s approval. For Satan may be allowed to deceive us thereby. Consider Job. And consider that the physical blessings of riches tend to lead one astray (Revelation 3:17, Matthew 19:23, Proverbs 30:8-9).
………………………………..........................
A year ago I needed to get so many hours of night flying to meet a requirement. So here I was flying at night by myself in a small single engine airplane (a Cessna 172, that plane had nice equipment also). It was May 12, 2009 as I know from my pilot logbook. I enjoy flying at night because it is very peaceful, and quite (when wearing a headset). The flight went well and if I remember correctly the airport was deserted or at least nearly so after I returned. (It’s an uncontrolled airport, no tower.) Something about feeling all alone at night put me in the mood of thankfulness and of wanting to seek more of a closeness to God. I had about an hour drive home from this airport and decided that I wanted to listen to some Christian music, which at that time I rarely did. I only have a radio in my car so I was searching through the stations looking for some Christian music. I was slightly surprised and frustrated that I could not find anything good, and I prayed that I would. I had certain classic rock stations programmed into my radio. I thought to myself that God is so awesome that if he wanted to he could even make a classic rock radio station play Christian music. (and that’s exactly what he did!) I checked my regular classic rock stations and the third station was now playing Christian music! I praised God and from that time forth to today that station, 107.5 now plays Christian music. It used to be “Frank FM” but is now WBYN FM. Some of the “Christian” music on there is made to glorify the musician or the tune rather than God, but they do also play some good Christian music. Moreover I discovered “Truth for Life” and “Walk in the Word” which are generally good Biblical programs from what I have heard of them. I enjoy listening to them when I happen to be in the car when they are on, which does not happen much now.
……………………………….......................
The past couple of months I have been riding bicycle nearly everywhere and I generally only drive my car once a week, just to make sure it still runs well, especially considering the colder weather now. (why I ride bicycle now is a story for another day on another blog) When I ride my bicycle there is a traffic light shortly before I get to work. If anyone has experience riding bicycle or even motorcycle than one knows that traffic lights often are not aware of their existence. This means that I was always hoping for a car to be there so that the light will change in order for me to go. Often there is no car around so I make a right turn on the red light, and then make a U-turn and go my merry way. Well one day as I approached the light and began to make the right turn I thought to myself, if God wanted to he could change the light for me. As soon as I thought this I saw the light turn green and I continued and was able to go left instead of right and then making a U-turn. I Praise God for this! And to this day the traffic light always changes for my bicycle. I even used to ride my scooter (legally a motorcycle) there and the light never changed for it, and it is larger and much heavier than my bicycle.
………………………………..............
There are many times when events and circumstances seem to go my way even when by all reason they should not. I attribute these happenings to the grace of God and his tender mercies. (Psalm 40:11) What I am talking about are reminders and pleasant surprises which barely happen, or things which easily might not have been nor resulted if things had just been a little different. Also, over and over again there are circumstances and events which are pieced together so carefully and out side of my control that I have no other conclusion than that they were put together that way by God for a purpose. Often I am convinced that they are the result of my or others prayers but however it is; it is God working for his purposes and he is working in a way so that all things work together for good to those that love him and are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28) Though we must be careful not to rely only on outward events as evidence of God’s approval. For Satan may be allowed to deceive us thereby. Consider Job. And consider that the physical blessings of riches tend to lead one astray (Revelation 3:17, Matthew 19:23, Proverbs 30:8-9).
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Don’t get pricked by the needle!
At the farm where I sometimes work we have a syringe to which a needle is attached which is used to give oxytocin injections to certain cows. There is one fellow who used to work there who appeared to think outside the box a bit more than others. One day he said “Here” as he threw to me the syringe with the attached needle. I was attempting to catch it, but at the last moment I stepped back and withdrew my hands because I thought that if I caught it I would surely prick my hand. He was pleased that I did not attempt to catch it at all costs. Because of course I did not have to catch it, though at first I assumed I did, but before it was too late I realized I did not. He said that the last person he threw it to caught it and got pricked. (Perhaps he should not be throwing needles at people, but the point was made).
I share this because in many ways we will be in a dangerous situation if we make assumptions or if we believe everything we hear. This story was not really a dangerous situation. But if we consider its parts; the needle, the thrower, the message of “Here” and the assumption that we must catch it, and us, and our reaction, and the results of our action. We could imagine the needle as sin (which leads unto death) and its thrower as Satan and the message and its accompanying assumption as the doctrines of men. Then also there is us; that is, each one of us and our reaction, and the results. So this could be compared to Satan deceiving men so that they work for him by spreading messages which leads others to sin, and we who are deceived by these messages sin (catch the needle) and receive death (Hell) as the consequence of believing (being deceived by) Satan. The reason we “catch the needle” is because we believe the lie that we must catch it. I guess I’d better give an example. One false doctrine taught by men (who believe Satan) is that any true thing cannot offend many “Christians.” Some actually believe (make-believe) that if a particular teaching is judgmental to many who call themselves Christians that that particular teaching is a lie. This of course is a logical fallacy, appealing to the common misconception that “if everyone else is doing it, it must be alright” The danger is that if the Bible teaches a thing which many who call themselves Christians do not believe, than we assume that we do not have to believe it either, so we don’t believe it. In doing this we deny the scripture, and its words condemn us because we don’t yield to it. And this brings us to another common lie; that God would not be so cruel as to deny us life simply because we were believing other Christians (rather than the word of God). We’ll here is a news flash; WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE ? Remember that we deserve nothing but Hell and God Loves us so much. Cannot we lay down our pride and selfishness for just a moment to seek him? Where the scriptures written is vain? Is the word of God for naught? So now you know what I mean when I say Don’t get pricked by the needle!
Part of the solution is that we need to be able to think out side the box. (in the sense that we are unconformed to the world and only conformed to Christ (Romans 8:29, 12:2)) God does not confine himself to working inside a box (neither indeed can he). Likewise, it is impossible for us to put God in a box. (By in a box I mean restricting who God is in opposition to what the scriptures teach, we do this by believing lies, any lie we believe gives us a false picture of reality, and lies are taught everywhere, we can only renew our minds and look to God to teach us) When we do put God in a box then God becomes god. Then he is no longer the God of the Prophets and Apostles, no longer the God of the Holy scriptures, no longer the God of reality. Then he becomes a god of our imagination who cannot save us, nor empower us, nor ultimately do any thing for us except inflate our bent to sin.
“With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful, and with the upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright. With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself unsavoury. And the afflicted people thou wilt save: but thine eyes are upon the haughty, that thou mayest bring them down. For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness. For by thee I have run through a troop: by my God have I leaped over a wall. As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God? God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet: and setteth me upon my high places.” 2 - Samuel 22:26-34
“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” -Proverbs 30:5-6
“The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” - Isaiah 40:8
And Jesus Said;
“And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.” -Luke 8:21
“But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” -Luke 11:28
I share this because in many ways we will be in a dangerous situation if we make assumptions or if we believe everything we hear. This story was not really a dangerous situation. But if we consider its parts; the needle, the thrower, the message of “Here” and the assumption that we must catch it, and us, and our reaction, and the results of our action. We could imagine the needle as sin (which leads unto death) and its thrower as Satan and the message and its accompanying assumption as the doctrines of men. Then also there is us; that is, each one of us and our reaction, and the results. So this could be compared to Satan deceiving men so that they work for him by spreading messages which leads others to sin, and we who are deceived by these messages sin (catch the needle) and receive death (Hell) as the consequence of believing (being deceived by) Satan. The reason we “catch the needle” is because we believe the lie that we must catch it. I guess I’d better give an example. One false doctrine taught by men (who believe Satan) is that any true thing cannot offend many “Christians.” Some actually believe (make-believe) that if a particular teaching is judgmental to many who call themselves Christians that that particular teaching is a lie. This of course is a logical fallacy, appealing to the common misconception that “if everyone else is doing it, it must be alright” The danger is that if the Bible teaches a thing which many who call themselves Christians do not believe, than we assume that we do not have to believe it either, so we don’t believe it. In doing this we deny the scripture, and its words condemn us because we don’t yield to it. And this brings us to another common lie; that God would not be so cruel as to deny us life simply because we were believing other Christians (rather than the word of God). We’ll here is a news flash; WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE ? Remember that we deserve nothing but Hell and God Loves us so much. Cannot we lay down our pride and selfishness for just a moment to seek him? Where the scriptures written is vain? Is the word of God for naught? So now you know what I mean when I say Don’t get pricked by the needle!
Part of the solution is that we need to be able to think out side the box. (in the sense that we are unconformed to the world and only conformed to Christ (Romans 8:29, 12:2)) God does not confine himself to working inside a box (neither indeed can he). Likewise, it is impossible for us to put God in a box. (By in a box I mean restricting who God is in opposition to what the scriptures teach, we do this by believing lies, any lie we believe gives us a false picture of reality, and lies are taught everywhere, we can only renew our minds and look to God to teach us) When we do put God in a box then God becomes god. Then he is no longer the God of the Prophets and Apostles, no longer the God of the Holy scriptures, no longer the God of reality. Then he becomes a god of our imagination who cannot save us, nor empower us, nor ultimately do any thing for us except inflate our bent to sin.
“With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful, and with the upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright. With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself unsavoury. And the afflicted people thou wilt save: but thine eyes are upon the haughty, that thou mayest bring them down. For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness. For by thee I have run through a troop: by my God have I leaped over a wall. As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God? God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet: and setteth me upon my high places.” 2 - Samuel 22:26-34
“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” -Proverbs 30:5-6
“The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” - Isaiah 40:8
And Jesus Said;
“And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.” -Luke 8:21
“But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” -Luke 11:28
Thursday, August 19, 2010
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
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
Thursday, July 15, 2010
The Most Important Thing
For my first post I will be sure to cover the Most Important thing. So that anyone who reads this will be aware of the most important thing. What is the most important thing you ask?
It is the spiritual.
The spiritual dimensions in Life are those which last, for that which is seen is made of that which is unseen (Heb. 11:3). That which the Physical (things that we can see with our eyes and touch with our hands) is made of does not last. So why get all caught up with the physical when it will shortly pass away?
“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” -2 Cor 4:18
Not only is the spiritual important-but it is important in regards to our personal spirituality. We personally have to act. Are You Right With God? Where will you spend eternity? How will you spend eternity?
“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
“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” –Gal. 5:6
“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” – Gal. 5:25
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” – Romans 8:1-14
“Then Peter said unto them, 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.” –Acts 2:38
“That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 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. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” –John 3:15-21
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” – Eph. 2:8
“For until men feel that they owe everything to God, that they are cherished by his paternal care, and that he is the author of all their blessings, so that naught is to be looked for away from him, they will never submit to him in voluntary obedience; no, unless they place their entire happiness in him, they will never yield up their whole selves to him in truth and sincerity.” -John Calvin ( Jean Cauvin)
“Let us pray that the Holy Spirit be ever at our side and that he never abandon us.” - St. Basil the Great
Let us Read and Believe the Holy Bible. Amen.
It is the spiritual.
The spiritual dimensions in Life are those which last, for that which is seen is made of that which is unseen (Heb. 11:3). That which the Physical (things that we can see with our eyes and touch with our hands) is made of does not last. So why get all caught up with the physical when it will shortly pass away?
“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” -2 Cor 4:18
Not only is the spiritual important-but it is important in regards to our personal spirituality. We personally have to act. Are You Right With God? Where will you spend eternity? How will you spend eternity?
“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
“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” –Gal. 5:6
“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” – Gal. 5:25
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” – Romans 8:1-14
“Then Peter said unto them, 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.” –Acts 2:38
“That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 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. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” –John 3:15-21
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” – Eph. 2:8
“For until men feel that they owe everything to God, that they are cherished by his paternal care, and that he is the author of all their blessings, so that naught is to be looked for away from him, they will never submit to him in voluntary obedience; no, unless they place their entire happiness in him, they will never yield up their whole selves to him in truth and sincerity.” -John Calvin ( Jean Cauvin)
“Let us pray that the Holy Spirit be ever at our side and that he never abandon us.” - St. Basil the Great
Let us Read and Believe the Holy Bible. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)