Showing posts with label Christian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian. Show all posts
Monday, May 8, 2023
He That Hath An Ear, Let Him Hear.
As Christians, standing upon the promise that God has already provided the means for salvation, it is imperative to stand firm in our ways going in and going out. The Bible says, "God is not mocked, whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. If we sow to the flesh, we shall of the flesh - reap corruption. If we sow to the Spirit, we shall of the spirit - reap eternal life." So how do we know we are sowing to the flesh? (1 John 2:15-16) provides a clue. It says, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world." Even though the Christian is in the world, he or she is not of the world, but is sowing to the Spirit. You can sow to the Spirit by being filled with the Spirit, speaking to yourself in songs and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.
Let's look at how the deception of Satan caused sin to occur on the earth. In (Genesis 3:1-6), we find Adam and Eve in the Garden and the serpent saying to Eve, "Has God said that you shall not eat of every tree in the garden?" Then Eve replied," We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said to the woman, ye shall not surely die: for the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food (the lust of the flesh), and that it was pleasant to the eyes (the lust of the eyes), and a tree to be desire to make one wise (the pride of life), she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also to her husband with her and he did eat." Thus the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life actually originated with Satan in deceiving Eve.
The above passages paint a picture of how one Scripture (1 John 2:15-16), authenticates the other Scripture (Genesis 3:1-6). This provides another reason not to sow to the flesh because the Bible declares, "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing." Thus, the best way to manage your flesh is to sow to your spirit-man and keep your eyes upon Jesus whereby resides the hope of your redemption. In so doing, we have this hope that one day, when we reach our destination, we may see Jesus who shall say to us, "Well done My good and faithful servant."
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
How To Turn Garbage Into Rubble.
Back in the depression era, my family was barely making ends meet. With three small boys in "1 day bed," housed in the same room with mom and dad, made for some difficult nights. When I was, dunno, three or perhaps four, I experienced night mares quite a bit. My dad worked in a dairy and had to get up very early, and my night mares didn't help his nerves much. However, at that young age I do remember blaming the night mares on the devil. One particular night mare I recall even today, although my memory has faded quite a bit since then was of a nation in rubble. The reason I vividly recall it might be linked to the fact that it occurred more than once. Even at that time, with whatever ability of understanding I had, I felt the nation in question was America.
Today, we see America in a time of mockery and complacency, ignoring the warnings of many years gone by. No one would argue that the depression of the 30's & 40's was merely a foreshadow of what we are seeing now or about to see. Many in those days thought the German dictator was the anti-Christ and Bible scholars were in hot pursuit of connecting the dots. Howbeit, one major piece of the puzzle was missing at that time. The prophecy of the Jew returning to his/her homeland had yet to occur.
At our time in history, it is agreed to by many scholars that most of the pieces are in place and the stage is set. Much like Israel, America also had a role to play in both history and Bible prophecy. As the homeland for the Jews (God's chosen people) by whom God said He would bless the nations; God set it aside and blessed America to become a homeland for Gentiles from every nation (founded on Judeo-Christian principles) for the purpose of blessing other nations.
However, much like Israel, America became so prosperous through God's blessings that it said: "God, we don't need you anymore." "We are rich, in need of nothing." Get out of our courtrooms and sporting events. Get out of our graduating ceremonies and classrooms. Sure we believe in free speech, but don't mention God or Jesus to us or we will single you as a hate monger.
We Americans are a civilized people. We would never do anything barbaric to babies. We would never reward the guilty and tax the innocent. We would never say, "Thou shalt not kill" is offensive to anyone."We would never turn a confessed killer loose to society on a technicality. We would never allow any marriage to occur other than what has been the norm since the beginning of time. We would never give our government's taxpayer money to any group that commits voter fraud. That's just who we are, and because we are a righteous nation in our own eyes, we do not need a God to tell us what to do.
I never have zeroed in on what the rubble in those night mares were. I do know that America has a lot of excess garbage that needs to be cleaned up. But, we can always just pass that along to the next generation and let them deal with it. And if that don't work, perhaps some day the garbage will become so large it will simply turn into rubble. Dunno, just wondering.
Today, we see America in a time of mockery and complacency, ignoring the warnings of many years gone by. No one would argue that the depression of the 30's & 40's was merely a foreshadow of what we are seeing now or about to see. Many in those days thought the German dictator was the anti-Christ and Bible scholars were in hot pursuit of connecting the dots. Howbeit, one major piece of the puzzle was missing at that time. The prophecy of the Jew returning to his/her homeland had yet to occur.
At our time in history, it is agreed to by many scholars that most of the pieces are in place and the stage is set. Much like Israel, America also had a role to play in both history and Bible prophecy. As the homeland for the Jews (God's chosen people) by whom God said He would bless the nations; God set it aside and blessed America to become a homeland for Gentiles from every nation (founded on Judeo-Christian principles) for the purpose of blessing other nations.
However, much like Israel, America became so prosperous through God's blessings that it said: "God, we don't need you anymore." "We are rich, in need of nothing." Get out of our courtrooms and sporting events. Get out of our graduating ceremonies and classrooms. Sure we believe in free speech, but don't mention God or Jesus to us or we will single you as a hate monger.
We Americans are a civilized people. We would never do anything barbaric to babies. We would never reward the guilty and tax the innocent. We would never say, "Thou shalt not kill" is offensive to anyone."We would never turn a confessed killer loose to society on a technicality. We would never allow any marriage to occur other than what has been the norm since the beginning of time. We would never give our government's taxpayer money to any group that commits voter fraud. That's just who we are, and because we are a righteous nation in our own eyes, we do not need a God to tell us what to do.
I never have zeroed in on what the rubble in those night mares were. I do know that America has a lot of excess garbage that needs to be cleaned up. But, we can always just pass that along to the next generation and let them deal with it. And if that don't work, perhaps some day the garbage will become so large it will simply turn into rubble. Dunno, just wondering.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
The Love of Many Shall Wax Cold
Jesus made a profound statement concerning the last days. The statement is from (Matthew 24:12): "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." First, we must take this passage as a sign and warning of what it will be like in the last days. Next, simply add this sign to other passages relating to the last days, and if you do your homework, you will find the list is phenomenal. (I hope to do a blog on the last days subject matter sometime soon).
The first part of Jesus' statement "Iniquity shall abound" is easy to realize as we see the abortion rate not only skyrocketing, but also becoming more favored by society. Why is this important? The Book of Proverbs mentions seven things God hates. Number three is the shedding of innocent blood. What is more innocent than an infant in its mother's womb. The book "The Mystery of the Trinity Revealed" proves that life begins at conception.
You might find it interesting that the number one thing God hates is a proud look. You can readily see how pride is being manifested in almost every area of life today. If you are a fan of any type sport, it is easy to spot, and even some parades boast of this type expression. In some cases, a proud look might be justified as an accomplishment achieved, but not when it involves a "look at me" and "how good I am" type attitude. The Bible says to humble yourself in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
We might also mention that the second thing God hates is a lying tongue--another sign easy to spot and rampant in politics, the news media, agreements between nations and other places.
So where do we see the love of many waxing cold? Well, today, just about everywhere. Road rage, gang violence, terrorism, schools, politics, neighbors, religions, news media, racial issues, late night TV, and the list goes on.
Whereby iniquity causes sickness, diseases, hatred, and a host of other bad things, love covers a multitude of sin and frees us from sickness, diseases, hatred and the like. Consider this: "If you do not love your neighbor whom you can see, how can you love God whom you cannot see?" The devil wants everyone to hate, because he is the father of hate and lies. But you my friend, do not fall into his traps. Study the Word to find yourself approved unto God and spend time in prayer even if for a few minutes. God will bless you and in these last days, you will be prepared and not deceived for whatsoever should occur.
The first part of Jesus' statement "Iniquity shall abound" is easy to realize as we see the abortion rate not only skyrocketing, but also becoming more favored by society. Why is this important? The Book of Proverbs mentions seven things God hates. Number three is the shedding of innocent blood. What is more innocent than an infant in its mother's womb. The book "The Mystery of the Trinity Revealed" proves that life begins at conception.
You might find it interesting that the number one thing God hates is a proud look. You can readily see how pride is being manifested in almost every area of life today. If you are a fan of any type sport, it is easy to spot, and even some parades boast of this type expression. In some cases, a proud look might be justified as an accomplishment achieved, but not when it involves a "look at me" and "how good I am" type attitude. The Bible says to humble yourself in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
We might also mention that the second thing God hates is a lying tongue--another sign easy to spot and rampant in politics, the news media, agreements between nations and other places.
So where do we see the love of many waxing cold? Well, today, just about everywhere. Road rage, gang violence, terrorism, schools, politics, neighbors, religions, news media, racial issues, late night TV, and the list goes on.
Whereby iniquity causes sickness, diseases, hatred, and a host of other bad things, love covers a multitude of sin and frees us from sickness, diseases, hatred and the like. Consider this: "If you do not love your neighbor whom you can see, how can you love God whom you cannot see?" The devil wants everyone to hate, because he is the father of hate and lies. But you my friend, do not fall into his traps. Study the Word to find yourself approved unto God and spend time in prayer even if for a few minutes. God will bless you and in these last days, you will be prepared and not deceived for whatsoever should occur.
"The Mystery of the Trinity Revealed" is a Dove & Word Publication.
Wednesday, March 13, 2019
Do They Really Worship the Same God?
Many have bought into the deception that the three major monotheistic religions (Islam, Judaism and Christianity), all worship the same God. While it is true that each religion worships one God, the real issue is, "Do they worship the same God?" In reality, the beliefs of these three religions are as far apart as east is from the west. Therefore, let's take a reality check assessments regarding these three religions and their origin and credibility.
The first thing we notice is that all three religions claim kinship to a man named Abraham. A look at Islam first will uncover some details that do not add up to their claim. Abraham was originally named Abram. His wife's name was Sarai and without child. God promised Abram they would have a son in their old age, but Sarai gave Abram her handmaid Hagar to obtain a child. Abram's son by Hagar was named Ishmael. Ishmael is the one whom Islam claims God made the Abrahamic covenant with as the father of their religion. Notice Abram, not Abraham, was the father of Ishmael.
After Ishmael was born, God changed Abram's name to Abraham and his wife Sarai's name to Sarah. This was done right before Sarah bore the son God promised, and his name was Isaac. The simple question to ask is, "Why was Abraham named Abram when Ishmael was born? And, why did God change Abram's name to Abraham right before his wife had Isaac?" The simple answer is; so there would be no question about the one with whom God wanted to make a covenant with. That covenant is now known as the Abrahamic covenant.
Now let's look at this from another angle. Around 1900 BC, a man named Abram had a child named (Ishmael) by his wife's handmaid (Hagar). God also made a promise to Hagar that Ishmael will be fruitful and multiply exceedingly, and will beget twelve princes. From God's promise to Ishmael, the Arab nations (twelve princes) developed. Notice, it was not Islamic nations, but Arabic nations that Ishmael became the father of. God did not establish the Abrahamic covenant through Abram, but waited until his name was changed to Abraham, and that brings us to our next major monotheistic religion -- Judaism.
God changed Abram's wife's name from Sarai to Sarah and Abram's name to Abraham right before Sarah bore a son named Isaac. Only after Isaac was born did God established the Abrahamic covenant. God selected Abraham to become the father of the Jewish people around the year 1890 BC. Later, God chose Moses to lead the Jewish people from slavery into the Promised Land (Israel). Abraham was not the founder the religion of Judaism but the recipient of the covenant. Through the covenant made with Abraham, God promised the nation of Israel to be established through Abraham's son Isaac and Isaac's son Jacob, and for the Promised Land (Israel) to be populated by a people called Jews. The holy book of the Jewish people is the Tenach and is also called the Old Testament.
Some 2000 years after Abraham, a Jewish man named Jesus founded Christianity. The followers of Jesus believe He is God in the flesh. He declared He is the Son of God (John 10:36), and that He is the Messiah (John 4:25,26). Through His miraculous birth, Jesus came from heaven to earth to save man from death that sin produced, and provide everlasting life. Christians also believe in three manifestations of God through a concept called the Trinity. The Trinity expresses God as the Father, God's Son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. The Jewish Tenach (Old Testament)and the New Testament comprise Christianity's holy book called the Bible. Christians believe in and worship the same God as Judaism although Judaism does not recognize the three manifestations of God.
Years after Christianity was founded, a man named Mohammad founded the Islamic religion in the year AD 622. Reportedly, Mohammad received a series of messages by the angel Gabriel. His messages stated that Abraham, Moses, Jesus and other prophets and messengers were only forerunners of the prophet Mohammad. Muslim is the name given to a follower of Islam. Muslims believe Mohammad is the final prophet of God. Many Arabs have adopted the Islamic religion mainly through the urging of their culture. However, an Arab can become a Christian, Jew or whatever religion he chooses and not only a Muslim. Islam's holy book is called the Koran, and oddly; even though Islam considers the Bible corrupted, it considers Bible prophets as its own and frequently quote it to justify a point.After Ishmael was born, God changed Abram's name to Abraham and his wife Sarai's name to Sarah. This was done right before Sarah bore the son God promised, and his name was Isaac. The simple question to ask is, "Why was Abraham named Abram when Ishmael was born? And, why did God change Abram's name to Abraham right before his wife had Isaac?" The simple answer is; so there would be no question about the one with whom God wanted to make a covenant with. That covenant is now known as the Abrahamic covenant.
Now let's look at this from another angle. Around 1900 BC, a man named Abram had a child named (Ishmael) by his wife's handmaid (Hagar). God also made a promise to Hagar that Ishmael will be fruitful and multiply exceedingly, and will beget twelve princes. From God's promise to Ishmael, the Arab nations (twelve princes) developed. Notice, it was not Islamic nations, but Arabic nations that Ishmael became the father of. God did not establish the Abrahamic covenant through Abram, but waited until his name was changed to Abraham, and that brings us to our next major monotheistic religion -- Judaism.
God changed Abram's wife's name from Sarai to Sarah and Abram's name to Abraham right before Sarah bore a son named Isaac. Only after Isaac was born did God established the Abrahamic covenant. God selected Abraham to become the father of the Jewish people around the year 1890 BC. Later, God chose Moses to lead the Jewish people from slavery into the Promised Land (Israel). Abraham was not the founder the religion of Judaism but the recipient of the covenant. Through the covenant made with Abraham, God promised the nation of Israel to be established through Abraham's son Isaac and Isaac's son Jacob, and for the Promised Land (Israel) to be populated by a people called Jews. The holy book of the Jewish people is the Tenach and is also called the Old Testament.
Some 2000 years after Abraham, a Jewish man named Jesus founded Christianity. The followers of Jesus believe He is God in the flesh. He declared He is the Son of God (John 10:36), and that He is the Messiah (John 4:25,26). Through His miraculous birth, Jesus came from heaven to earth to save man from death that sin produced, and provide everlasting life. Christians also believe in three manifestations of God through a concept called the Trinity. The Trinity expresses God as the Father, God's Son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. The Jewish Tenach (Old Testament)and the New Testament comprise Christianity's holy book called the Bible. Christians believe in and worship the same God as Judaism although Judaism does not recognize the three manifestations of God.
All three religions claim that their roots go back to Abraham, to Israel and Jerusalem. Howbeit, the God of the Bible is the God worshipped by both Jews and Christians; yet Allah, the god of the Koran is not the same God as the God of the Bible. In addition, the prophets of the Koran cannot be the prophets of the Bible since in Islam's eyes the Bible is corrupted. Although they claim only part of the Bible is corrupt; what and who decides which parts? The only way one can decide if the Bible is right or wrong is that either 100% is right or 100% is wrong. There cannot be an in between, because no one, not even a religious group can dictate which parts are right and which parts are wrong.
So what is the real problem here? What single issue is the root cause of division? What is the greatest hindrance to unity among these three religions? By far, the greatest deterrent to unification centers on disagreements and lack of understanding by both Islam, Judaism pertaining to Jesus, the founder of the Christian religion. As mentioned, Jesus is the central part of the Christian doctrine called Trinity. The Trinity professes that Jesus is actually God in the flesh.
This Trinity is a sticking point for both Islam and Judaism. Each denies the existence of the Trinity and this is true even though Judaism and Christianity share the same God and the same holy book. Most Jews believe Jesus was a good man, but not God in the flesh. Muslims believe according to the Koran that Jesus was a prophet or a messenger of God. If we consider both of these viewpoints, they each contain inconsistencies. First of all Jesus could not be a good man if He is not God in the flesh because He would be the biggest liar who ever lived. Billions of His followers today believe He is God in the flesh and many in previous generations believed the same. Was Jesus a good man if He deceived all of His followers when He said: "I and My Father are one?"
The Islamic view that Jesus was simply a messenger or a prophet of God also contains inconsistencies. The Jesus of the Koran cannot be the same Jesus of the Bible, because if Jesus was a messenger of God, He was reporting what God wanted us to know. Jesus told us "He is the Way, the Truth and the Life, no man comes to the Father, but by Him." If this and the hundreds other related statements by Jesus is what God wants us to know, why would a Christian want to join another religion? However, if as Islam declares, Jesus was merely a prophet and these statements of Jesus were not true, then God would be a liar and Christians should throw their Bibles away. Should Islam rethink this position and face the facts or should Christians throw away their Bibles and begin reading the Koran? In any case, the Jesus of the Koran cannot be the same as Jesus of the Bible.
There are many more differences among the three monotheistic religions. The positions of these religions are inflexible an unyielding within the borders of their hierarchy and subordinate ranks. Each religion holds firm to what they believe as truth. Nevertheless, we shall never find real peace in the world today until these three religions come to a full agreement on one issue--is Jesus God in the flesh or was he a mere man? Is the Trinity true, or is it a false teaching? Since the Trinity has been revealed to us now at the beginning of the 21st Century, both Judaism and Islam leaders need to revisit and reevaluate the Trinity once more.
With prospects of any dialog remaining slim, it yet appears as the only way to resolve this issue. In the past, the Trinity had been a mystery, which other religions preyed upon and slammed as a false teaching. However, now that has all changed, and the Trinity has ceased to be a mystery. The full comprehension is now available with simplicity, divulging how God manifests Himself in three Persons. These biblical facts have been documented into a book form ("The Mystery of the Trinity Revealed") and the overall current evidence is clear, credible and overwhelming enough to warrant the Trinity a fresh new examination.
Continuing to hold our heads in the sand will never accomplish anything. The I'm right, you're wrong attitude must be met with proof. Perhaps the only way to achieve any measure of peace in a world torn by strife is to remove this single obstacle first by setting down together and examine these new facts. However, someone must take the lead and swallow pride by suggesting, "maybe we should take a look at this Trinity issue one more time." As the Scripture in Isaiah suggest; "Come let us reason together saith the Lord..." The updated book "The Mystery of the Trinity Revealed" was release October 2017.
Monday, April 2, 2018
"Phenomenal New Books Interview"
Interview from "The Phenomenal New Books Show"
with host J. Sneebold and author T.R. Bosse.
Click on link below:
https://vimeo.com/250558252
Tuesday, May 9, 2017
The Religion of Love
Some religions attempt to propagate what they ain't. But that is not so with true Christianity. First, let's look at, "What is true Christianity?" Some are led to believe today that Hitler was a Christian. Those who believe that are not really Christians themselves, nor have any idea of what true Christianity comprises. It has been said there are three types of believers -- the Believer, the Non-believer, and the Make-believer. Only the true believer has made Jesus their Lord and Savior.
Jesus said we would know them by their fruits. An apple tree doesn't bare lemons, nor does a lemon tree bare apples. He went on to say, "Love your neighbor as yourself." Then He said something both startling and amazing -- He said, "Love your enemies, do good to those who despitefully use you." Whereby we might say to that, "Wait a minute Lord, I can deal with the love your neighbor stuff, but love my enemy? You don't know what he did to me Lord -- You don't know the names he called me and how he assaulted me when my back was turned. How Lord, can you expect me to love this person?"
Well, loving your enemy is another characteristic of the true believer. In another place; Jesus said, "If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses." The Apostle John reported in 1 John 4:7, "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."
Why all this about love? The very next verse in 1 John 4:8 declares, "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." Jesus displayed the ultimate love for us in that He died in our place so we might spend eternity with Him in heaven. The Church is the reflection of Christ's love to others while we remain here on earth. To become joint heirs in eternity with Christ begins with how we love and treat others, even our enemies. By the way, 1 Corinthians chapter 13 is called the Love Chapter. If you get a chance, it would be worthwhile to check it out. Till next time -- remember, a religion of love does exist, but if you are confused which one it is, just look at its fruit -- may God bless.
George T.
Jesus said we would know them by their fruits. An apple tree doesn't bare lemons, nor does a lemon tree bare apples. He went on to say, "Love your neighbor as yourself." Then He said something both startling and amazing -- He said, "Love your enemies, do good to those who despitefully use you." Whereby we might say to that, "Wait a minute Lord, I can deal with the love your neighbor stuff, but love my enemy? You don't know what he did to me Lord -- You don't know the names he called me and how he assaulted me when my back was turned. How Lord, can you expect me to love this person?"
Well, loving your enemy is another characteristic of the true believer. In another place; Jesus said, "If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses." The Apostle John reported in 1 John 4:7, "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."
Why all this about love? The very next verse in 1 John 4:8 declares, "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." Jesus displayed the ultimate love for us in that He died in our place so we might spend eternity with Him in heaven. The Church is the reflection of Christ's love to others while we remain here on earth. To become joint heirs in eternity with Christ begins with how we love and treat others, even our enemies. By the way, 1 Corinthians chapter 13 is called the Love Chapter. If you get a chance, it would be worthwhile to check it out. Till next time -- remember, a religion of love does exist, but if you are confused which one it is, just look at its fruit -- may God bless.
George T.
Monday, February 6, 2017
"Born-again" Through Wisdom
Proverbs 1:7 declares, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," and thereby from wisdom we also get understanding and knowledge. In a broader sense, Wisdom is the application of how the "Born-again" experience is realized.
1.) When we realize who God is and the power of His might, the fear of the Lord is ignited and initiated within our heart.
2.) By seeking out the attributes of God through His Word or the witness of His people, the beginning of Wisdom (the fear of the Lord) turns into a desire for more Wisdom. In the search for more of who God is provides us with the confrontation that God is not only just, but also a loving God who desires our love and fellowship in return.
3.) When we yield our love and fellowship over to God by making Jesus the Lord of our lives, it opens up a new and greater understanding of who God is. That understanding of God in return, stimulates us to continue to seek for an even greater understanding of who God is and His love for us. As Proverb 9:10 points out, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and the knowledge of the Holy is understanding." Thus, understanding is gained through wisdom.
4.) Understanding of God then provides knowledge. When we have understanding of how something operates, we store that information into our database called the heart, and when a situation comes up concerning a specific situation, we recall our knowledge from the database that applies to that particular circumstance. So it is with understanding of God's Word. The more you study it, the more the Holy Spirit reveals to you and the more He reveals to you, the more you understand and therein knowledge is attained and retained.
Here we see how Wisdom, Knowledge and Understanding from the Book of Proverbs is activated in the "Born-again" experience as mentioned by Jesus in John 3:3, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." Notice, you do not see the Kingdom of God by growing up into a church or by becoming a member of a church or merely stating that you are a Christian--you first must become "Born-again." We have other articles about becoming "Born-again" in this blog site.
In the above illustration, it must be mentioned that the secular mind cannot teach you the things of God, because they are foolishness to him as 1 Corinthians 2:14 clearly points out. When you seek out knowledge from a secular viewpoint, you are seeking knowledge from someone who has never received the wisdom, understanding and knowledge of who God is. In other words, the love of God has never permeated his heart because the world and the flesh remains embedded therein and not the Word and the Spirit. Without the fear of the Lord activating a desire to know who God is and knowledge of His Word, understanding cannot motivate the individual to become a "Born-again" believer in God's Kingdom. John 3:3, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." You cannot see the wind, but you can fell it. Likewise, you cannot see the Spirit, but you can feel Him -- and it all begins by making Jesus Lord and believing in your heart that God raise that same Jesus from the dead. Yes, God has made it that simple for us
1.) When we realize who God is and the power of His might, the fear of the Lord is ignited and initiated within our heart.
2.) By seeking out the attributes of God through His Word or the witness of His people, the beginning of Wisdom (the fear of the Lord) turns into a desire for more Wisdom. In the search for more of who God is provides us with the confrontation that God is not only just, but also a loving God who desires our love and fellowship in return.
3.) When we yield our love and fellowship over to God by making Jesus the Lord of our lives, it opens up a new and greater understanding of who God is. That understanding of God in return, stimulates us to continue to seek for an even greater understanding of who God is and His love for us. As Proverb 9:10 points out, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and the knowledge of the Holy is understanding." Thus, understanding is gained through wisdom.
4.) Understanding of God then provides knowledge. When we have understanding of how something operates, we store that information into our database called the heart, and when a situation comes up concerning a specific situation, we recall our knowledge from the database that applies to that particular circumstance. So it is with understanding of God's Word. The more you study it, the more the Holy Spirit reveals to you and the more He reveals to you, the more you understand and therein knowledge is attained and retained.
Here we see how Wisdom, Knowledge and Understanding from the Book of Proverbs is activated in the "Born-again" experience as mentioned by Jesus in John 3:3, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." Notice, you do not see the Kingdom of God by growing up into a church or by becoming a member of a church or merely stating that you are a Christian--you first must become "Born-again." We have other articles about becoming "Born-again" in this blog site.
In the above illustration, it must be mentioned that the secular mind cannot teach you the things of God, because they are foolishness to him as 1 Corinthians 2:14 clearly points out. When you seek out knowledge from a secular viewpoint, you are seeking knowledge from someone who has never received the wisdom, understanding and knowledge of who God is. In other words, the love of God has never permeated his heart because the world and the flesh remains embedded therein and not the Word and the Spirit. Without the fear of the Lord activating a desire to know who God is and knowledge of His Word, understanding cannot motivate the individual to become a "Born-again" believer in God's Kingdom. John 3:3, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." You cannot see the wind, but you can fell it. Likewise, you cannot see the Spirit, but you can feel Him -- and it all begins by making Jesus Lord and believing in your heart that God raise that same Jesus from the dead. Yes, God has made it that simple for us
Monday, November 14, 2016
A Religious Fanatic
Identity labels help us determine some one's particular interest. Individuals involved in various interests and causes are generally branded with labels such as: devotees, supporters, fans, followers, visionaries, etc. For those dedicated to promoting God and His Word, the term religious fanatic is generally used. Of course, there are many variations of religious fanatics today, but Jesus said we could recognize them by their fruits. A good tree will not produce evil fruit, nor shall a corrupt tree produce good fruit.
A Christian religious fanatic is someone who has come out of the world by recognizing his or her inability to live a righteous life through self determination. Therefore this passionate devotee attempts to warn those still under bondage to the evil forces of the world, about the freedom available for them. Many times these warnings are met with hostility. Those under bondage cannot understand the freedom of the fanatic, and thinks he or she is sending him into a trap. Contrarily, the fanatic is merely attempting to set that individual free from the trap he is already entangled in.
Saint Peter refers to these fanatics in his epistle as peculiar people. That is, they have been set free and no longer look or act like the rest of society. Certainly, not everyone will become a fanatic, but that is not to say they cannot if they so choose. Many times it takes the deathbed to open the blinded eyes, then again sometimes even then is too late. The Bible tells us, "Now is the acceptable day; today is the day of salvation. Today if you hear His voice, harden not your heart."
It all boils down to this: Everyone can become a religious fanatic, but not everyone will. Many look for some type of life from within themselves. However, because of sin, the only life available to them within their own body, comes from the flesh. Because they do not realize there is another life available to them, they rely upon their flesh as the source of happiness, enjoyment and supply. In essence, the flesh becomes their god, which makes themselves their god, instead of the Creator God.
When a religious fanatic is able to infiltrate their flesh and reveal to them another life source available to them, the news is sometimes met with hostility and sometimes joy. The one requirement to attain this new life is that they must give up being the lord over their life and allow Jesus to become their Lord and Savior. The contrasting consequences is this -- unless they undergo a pledge to strike a covenant relationship with God, they shall forever remain under bondage to the evil forces of this world. But, when they make the pledge with a covenant relationship, they will find another life -- a new life brought about by the Spirit of God touching their spirit and radiating life into their soul. Whereas before, the soul sought after temporary life from the flesh, now it seeks after everlasting life from the spirit.
Remember the Proverb, "There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." Also remember the words of Jesus, "Whom the Son sets free, he is free indeed." The fields are ripe for harvest, but we need more laborers in the field --consider becoming a Christian religious fanatic today.
A Christian religious fanatic is someone who has come out of the world by recognizing his or her inability to live a righteous life through self determination. Therefore this passionate devotee attempts to warn those still under bondage to the evil forces of the world, about the freedom available for them. Many times these warnings are met with hostility. Those under bondage cannot understand the freedom of the fanatic, and thinks he or she is sending him into a trap. Contrarily, the fanatic is merely attempting to set that individual free from the trap he is already entangled in.
Saint Peter refers to these fanatics in his epistle as peculiar people. That is, they have been set free and no longer look or act like the rest of society. Certainly, not everyone will become a fanatic, but that is not to say they cannot if they so choose. Many times it takes the deathbed to open the blinded eyes, then again sometimes even then is too late. The Bible tells us, "Now is the acceptable day; today is the day of salvation. Today if you hear His voice, harden not your heart."
It all boils down to this: Everyone can become a religious fanatic, but not everyone will. Many look for some type of life from within themselves. However, because of sin, the only life available to them within their own body, comes from the flesh. Because they do not realize there is another life available to them, they rely upon their flesh as the source of happiness, enjoyment and supply. In essence, the flesh becomes their god, which makes themselves their god, instead of the Creator God.
When a religious fanatic is able to infiltrate their flesh and reveal to them another life source available to them, the news is sometimes met with hostility and sometimes joy. The one requirement to attain this new life is that they must give up being the lord over their life and allow Jesus to become their Lord and Savior. The contrasting consequences is this -- unless they undergo a pledge to strike a covenant relationship with God, they shall forever remain under bondage to the evil forces of this world. But, when they make the pledge with a covenant relationship, they will find another life -- a new life brought about by the Spirit of God touching their spirit and radiating life into their soul. Whereas before, the soul sought after temporary life from the flesh, now it seeks after everlasting life from the spirit.
Remember the Proverb, "There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." Also remember the words of Jesus, "Whom the Son sets free, he is free indeed." The fields are ripe for harvest, but we need more laborers in the field --consider becoming a Christian religious fanatic today.
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Is America Going To Pot?
In the late '50's, '60's & early '70's, a dictator by the name of Nikita Khrushchev ruled over the Soviet Union. Watching television one day, several years before I became a Christian, I remember vividly watching that man make a startling statement and wondering what he meant by it or how such a thing could happen in America. As he pounded his shoe on the podium, he said in so many words, "We will bury you." "We will not fire a shot." "America will die from within."
That was 5 decades ago, and within the past few years we see his prophecy coming to pass. Communists have encroached the executive branch and without doubt, the other two branches of government. Laws are being made today to promote lifestyles and other issues that in the '50's and '60's would be unthinkable and shocking.
It was one of Khrushchev's predecessors, Vladimir Lenin, who realized the possibility of changing the values of a culture and set it on a course to the desired direction, by teaching its values early on to the children. He said, "Give me four years to teach the children and that seed will never be uprooted." The first step in that endeavor for America occurred soon after Khrushchev's remarks, when in 1962 the Supreme Court sided with one atheistic woman against the will of millions of Americans by removing prayer from the schools. To see the results of that ruling, view one of my earlier blogs by clicking here.
That event happened over 50 years ago, much longer than the four years to change the minds of our children. Many children from that era have grandchildren and great-grandchildren in this generation. A great percentage of them reared without any teaching of God as noted by the explosion of atheism in today's society.
Is America really going to pot or have its citizens merely lost direction? It seems Khrushchev and Lenin were both right. Oh by the way, Lenin also made another statement that seems to fall right into line with what America is facing in society and government today. He is quoted as saying, "A lie told often enough becomes the truth."
Not to take sides, the Church must also shoulder as much of the blame. When we, as a called out people, will humble ourselves and pray and seek God's face and turn from our wicked ways, then He will hear from heaven and forgive our sins and heal our land. Although I believe we are beyond the point of no return, this passage from 2 Chronicles 7:14 is still valid, if not more so.
One final Scripture for the Church living in a decaying culture of today, is this one from Titus filled with hope for tomorrow:
That was 5 decades ago, and within the past few years we see his prophecy coming to pass. Communists have encroached the executive branch and without doubt, the other two branches of government. Laws are being made today to promote lifestyles and other issues that in the '50's and '60's would be unthinkable and shocking.
It was one of Khrushchev's predecessors, Vladimir Lenin, who realized the possibility of changing the values of a culture and set it on a course to the desired direction, by teaching its values early on to the children. He said, "Give me four years to teach the children and that seed will never be uprooted." The first step in that endeavor for America occurred soon after Khrushchev's remarks, when in 1962 the Supreme Court sided with one atheistic woman against the will of millions of Americans by removing prayer from the schools. To see the results of that ruling, view one of my earlier blogs by clicking here.
That event happened over 50 years ago, much longer than the four years to change the minds of our children. Many children from that era have grandchildren and great-grandchildren in this generation. A great percentage of them reared without any teaching of God as noted by the explosion of atheism in today's society.
Is America really going to pot or have its citizens merely lost direction? It seems Khrushchev and Lenin were both right. Oh by the way, Lenin also made another statement that seems to fall right into line with what America is facing in society and government today. He is quoted as saying, "A lie told often enough becomes the truth."
Not to take sides, the Church must also shoulder as much of the blame. When we, as a called out people, will humble ourselves and pray and seek God's face and turn from our wicked ways, then He will hear from heaven and forgive our sins and heal our land. Although I believe we are beyond the point of no return, this passage from 2 Chronicles 7:14 is still valid, if not more so.
One final Scripture for the Church living in a decaying culture of today, is this one from Titus filled with hope for tomorrow:
- "Looking for that blessed hope,and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." - (Titus 2:14) To God be the glory.
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Have You Been Born-Again?
Jesus told us in John 3:3 that except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Jesus went on to explain the difference between being born of the flesh, and becoming born of the Spirit. Except a man is born of water, and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Jesus makes the distinction between the fleshly birth of water to the spiritual birth of the Spirit. That concept is supported in John 6:63, whereby Jesus tells us that it is the spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing.
Being a Christian is not simply because your parents were one, or you walk into a church building, or do as other religions (Bud-hind-lums), where if you want to join them they tell you to see their priest or leader and he will write your name on a piece of paper. Christianity is a covenant with God (as Abraham made in the OT), this is a New Covenant with God through Jesus. Thus, when you invite Jesus into your life to be your Lord and Savior, you are in essence, making a covenant with Him.
Many say they have tried Christianity, but found it was not as they supposed. For that reason, they wind up making a covenant to bash Christianity as much as they can. All this came about because they did not keep their end of the covenant and now they place the blame upon God. What was the real reason that Christianity did not turn out as they supposed? It was simply because they made a one-sided covenant. A one-sided covenant never works. Isn't that like what some couples do when they get married - where they secretly say, "if I don't like her (or him) later, I will just divorce."
So how do we know the "Born-again" experience is real? There are no rituals or signing-up involved. Everything is done by faith and a free-will. When an individual makes a covenant relationship with God to make Jesus their Lord and Savior, that individual becomes born-again and the Spirit of God takes up residence in that person's heart. You have heard that the proof is in the puddin; in this case, the proof is in the heart. What better proof could one ask for? Do it now and prove it for yourself and ask Jesus into YOUR heart.
Being a Christian is not simply because your parents were one, or you walk into a church building, or do as other religions (Bud-hind-lums), where if you want to join them they tell you to see their priest or leader and he will write your name on a piece of paper. Christianity is a covenant with God (as Abraham made in the OT), this is a New Covenant with God through Jesus. Thus, when you invite Jesus into your life to be your Lord and Savior, you are in essence, making a covenant with Him.
Many say they have tried Christianity, but found it was not as they supposed. For that reason, they wind up making a covenant to bash Christianity as much as they can. All this came about because they did not keep their end of the covenant and now they place the blame upon God. What was the real reason that Christianity did not turn out as they supposed? It was simply because they made a one-sided covenant. A one-sided covenant never works. Isn't that like what some couples do when they get married - where they secretly say, "if I don't like her (or him) later, I will just divorce."
So how do we know the "Born-again" experience is real? There are no rituals or signing-up involved. Everything is done by faith and a free-will. When an individual makes a covenant relationship with God to make Jesus their Lord and Savior, that individual becomes born-again and the Spirit of God takes up residence in that person's heart. You have heard that the proof is in the puddin; in this case, the proof is in the heart. What better proof could one ask for? Do it now and prove it for yourself and ask Jesus into YOUR heart.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
What Did Jesus Say About Marriage?
Never in the history of mankind has marriage been outside the realm of one man and one woman. The issue of marriage was already settled in the Old Testament account of Creation. This issue never ensued as a topic in the Gospels and therefore Jesus never address the marriage issue as being challenged today. However, Jesus did verified in the New Testament what God stated in the Old Testament. The following passage contains all the information necessary to clarify and verify how God stands on this issue.
Genesis 1:27-28 reveals how God created man in His own image, male and female He created them and told them to be fruitful, multiply and replenish the earth.
Genesis 2:24 expounds how God made the woman from Adam's rib and records how God joined them in the marriage ceremony, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."
Jesus reinforces the Genesis 2:24 account with clarification in Matthew 19:4 and Mark 10:6 by stating that "from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female, and for this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife, and the two shall be one flesh: so then they are no more two, but one flesh." Without this structure for marriage they could not obey God's command to be fruitful, multiply and replenish the earth.
There can be no misinterpretation of the design God proposed for marriage from the beginning seeing that particular stance was never changed in any other place in the Bible. However, as with many laws of God, man chooses to change them to fit his own agenda even if it means denying God Word.
Within all this we can find that the Christian is manifested in contrast to the world. Jesus made the remark that if they hated Me, they will hate you also and He further declared that the elect shall not be deceived by those things of which man attempts by twisting the Word of God around to fit his own purpose and lusts. 1 John 3:9-10 expounds: "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin (transgression of the law - verse 4); and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil; whosoever doth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
One side note to all this is that the Bible (1 Timothy 4:3) also predicts in the latter times they will forbid to marry. As things stand today, we see hints of doing away with marriage altogether. Along with that possiblity also comes the probability of those views spilling over into polygamy, child marriage and other deviant practices. Jesus told us of a time that would exceed the wickedness of Noah's day. Could those days be rapidly approaching?
In conclusion, Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that: "We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Once we realize who is behind the wickedness of this world, we can understand that God knows we are but flesh. We all have sinned and fell short of the glory of God. And while you have heard it said that God hates the sin, but loves the sinner, the Bible verifies that statement with a Scripture in Romans, "that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" and through Him is eternal life obtained. Jesus does not condemn us, but as He said when on the cross, "Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do." God loves us and forgives us, but we must be willing to accept that forgiveness and the salvation provided through His Son Jesus. Invite Him into you life to become your Lord and Savior today. Only when we do our part, will God do His part. He will not override your free-will.
*************************************************************************************
Never in the history of mankind has marriage been outside the realm of one man and one woman. The issue of marriage was already settled in the Old Testament account of Creation. This issue never ensued as a topic in the Gospels and therefore Jesus never address the marriage issue as being challenged today. However, Jesus did verified in the New Testament what God stated in the Old Testament. The following passage contains all the information necessary to clarify and verify how God stands on this issue.
Genesis 1:27-28 reveals how God created man in His own image, male and female He created them and told them to be fruitful, multiply and replenish the earth.
Genesis 2:24 expounds how God made the woman from Adam's rib and records how God joined them in the marriage ceremony, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."
Jesus reinforces the Genesis 2:24 account with clarification in Matthew 19:4 and Mark 10:6 by stating that "from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female, and for this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife, and the two shall be one flesh: so then they are no more two, but one flesh." Without this structure for marriage they could not obey God's command to be fruitful, multiply and replenish the earth.
There can be no misinterpretation of the design God proposed for marriage from the beginning seeing that particular stance was never changed in any other place in the Bible. However, as with many laws of God, man chooses to change them to fit his own agenda even if it means denying God Word.
Within all this we can find that the Christian is manifested in contrast to the world. Jesus made the remark that if they hated Me, they will hate you also and He further declared that the elect shall not be deceived by those things of which man attempts by twisting the Word of God around to fit his own purpose and lusts. 1 John 3:9-10 expounds: "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin (transgression of the law - verse 4); and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil; whosoever doth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
One side note to all this is that the Bible (1 Timothy 4:3) also predicts in the latter times they will forbid to marry. As things stand today, we see hints of doing away with marriage altogether. Along with that possiblity also comes the probability of those views spilling over into polygamy, child marriage and other deviant practices. Jesus told us of a time that would exceed the wickedness of Noah's day. Could those days be rapidly approaching?
In conclusion, Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that: "We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Once we realize who is behind the wickedness of this world, we can understand that God knows we are but flesh. We all have sinned and fell short of the glory of God. And while you have heard it said that God hates the sin, but loves the sinner, the Bible verifies that statement with a Scripture in Romans, "that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" and through Him is eternal life obtained. Jesus does not condemn us, but as He said when on the cross, "Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do." God loves us and forgives us, but we must be willing to accept that forgiveness and the salvation provided through His Son Jesus. Invite Him into you life to become your Lord and Savior today. Only when we do our part, will God do His part. He will not override your free-will.
*************************************************************************************
Saturday, February 23, 2013
What Should it Profit a Man?
A virtue so central to Christianity's core values is enclosed within (1 Corinthians 13).
(Verse 1) signifies that no matter how faithful our witness appears or how gracious our words may sound, if we have self-gratifying purposes without a motive out of pure love - the words we speak are merely as a sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal.
(Verse 2) - If we have the gift of prophecy so we know the beginning to the end and understand every mystery God has kept from us these many years, and understand everything in the Bible from cover to cover, and faith to move every mountain we encounter, everything is meaningless if we do not have love.
(Verse 3) - If we give to charity or to the poor $50, $1000, $10,000, or every ounce of our possessions; it profits us nothing if not given out of love.
The Bible declares that men will become more wicked and vile in these last days, and the love of many will wax cold. However, a Christian is not of the world and Jesus is the lesson we learn in these three verses. He set the example for us to follow. Everything He did was out of love and fully forgiving what we have done in our lives, by dying in our place and paying our penalty. If we are to bear any fruit by carrying out the Great Commission as He commanded, love must be our foremost concern. Without love, even for our enemies, we are become as a sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. As noted in the very last verse in 1 Corinthians 13 - "Now abideth these: faith, hope and love, but the greatest of these is love." 1 Peter 4:8 reports that "Love covers a multitude of sins." Make it first and foremost in your witness endeavors and, may God bless your efforts.
- 1 Cor. 13:1) "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal."
- 1 Cor. 13:2) "And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing."
- 1 Cor. 13:3) "And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing."
(Verse 1) signifies that no matter how faithful our witness appears or how gracious our words may sound, if we have self-gratifying purposes without a motive out of pure love - the words we speak are merely as a sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal.
(Verse 2) - If we have the gift of prophecy so we know the beginning to the end and understand every mystery God has kept from us these many years, and understand everything in the Bible from cover to cover, and faith to move every mountain we encounter, everything is meaningless if we do not have love.
(Verse 3) - If we give to charity or to the poor $50, $1000, $10,000, or every ounce of our possessions; it profits us nothing if not given out of love.
The Bible declares that men will become more wicked and vile in these last days, and the love of many will wax cold. However, a Christian is not of the world and Jesus is the lesson we learn in these three verses. He set the example for us to follow. Everything He did was out of love and fully forgiving what we have done in our lives, by dying in our place and paying our penalty. If we are to bear any fruit by carrying out the Great Commission as He commanded, love must be our foremost concern. Without love, even for our enemies, we are become as a sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. As noted in the very last verse in 1 Corinthians 13 - "Now abideth these: faith, hope and love, but the greatest of these is love." 1 Peter 4:8 reports that "Love covers a multitude of sins." Make it first and foremost in your witness endeavors and, may God bless your efforts.
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