12/31/18 LIFT HIS NAME, AVOID THE SHAME
GOD gave us light to lighten our path and to enlighten those groping in darkness.
1 Corinthians 15:33-34
33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.
34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.
Monday, December 31, 2018
12/31/18 LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE
12/31/18 LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE
Be determined to shine your light until you are caught up into the Light.
Matthew 5:14-16
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
Be determined to shine your light until you are caught up into the Light.
Matthew 5:14-16
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
12/31/18 WE ARE SAVED BY FAITH
12/31/18 WE ARE SAVED BY FAITH
Your faithfulness may not win the world, but it will keep you from losing your own soul.
Matthew 10:32-33
32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
2 Timothy 2:10-13
10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
11 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:
12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
Your faithfulness may not win the world, but it will keep you from losing your own soul.
Matthew 10:32-33
32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
2 Timothy 2:10-13
10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
11 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:
12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
12/31/18 TAUNTING IS HARDLY TRIBULATION
12/31/18 TAUNTING IS HARDLY TRIBULATION
If you can't stand against scorn and ridicule, then forget real trouble and trial.
You have already failed the lost and the LORD.
If you can't stand against scorn and ridicule, then forget real trouble and trial.
You have already failed the lost and the LORD.
12/31/18 BACK TO SUCCESS
12/31/18 BACK TO SUCCESS
Go ahead, lead the way back to decency. Back to decency and the Bible is the only way to successful family and society.
Go ahead, lead the way back to decency. Back to decency and the Bible is the only way to successful family and society.
12/31/18 NOW THE CAMEL IS IN
12/31/18 NOW THE CAMEL IS IN
I remember when, "Cancer," "Divorce," "Pregnant" were not said in social settings.
Now women and children use the filthiest words.
I remember when, "Cancer," "Divorce," "Pregnant" were not said in social settings.
Now women and children use the filthiest words.
12/31/18 RIPTIDE OF "PROGRESS"
12/31/18 RIPTIDE OF "PROGRESS"
TIME not only MARCHES ON, it sometimes tramples us UNDER.
Don't get caught in the RIPTIDE of "PROGRESS."
TIME not only MARCHES ON, it sometimes tramples us UNDER.
Don't get caught in the RIPTIDE of "PROGRESS."
12/31/18 THIS CAME FROM THE END OF 2012
12/31/18 THIS CAME FROM THE END OF 2012
I hope you enjoy and that you can use this with others.
NOT EVERYONE SEES IT RIGHT AWAY
Do you see the supposed "image of Christ" in this picture?
This picture started circulating in the 1950's. I first saw it in the 1960's. I won't tell the story behind the picture, but the image of Jesus can be perceived in the shadowy image.
Obviously it is just a perceived image of Christ, at least as He is usually depicted in Christian art. Don't worry about the accuracy. That is not the point of this post.
I have asked individuals and groups if they could see the image. Some people see it immediately, while some see it eventually, and some never see it. I use this as an object lesson. Even though the same information is made available to a group of people, different people respond to the picture in various ways, just as different people respond to the true revelation of the true Christ.
I have posted it on a chalk board at the front of the sanctuary, then asked if anyone could see the image. Since some folks do not see the image immediately, I proceed to bring a gospel message and point out that some people take more time to come to spiritual insight, just as it takes more time for some people to come to visual comprehension of this picture. I tell the people in the congregation to raise their hands or speak out when they finally see the image, even if I am preaching.
As I have preached, people throughout the congregation begin to see the image and they excitedly respond, some to the point of jumping up and shouting it out. Those who do not see it become frustrated and some even deny that there is an image to be seen. They accuse those who claim to see it, of pranking them. Some people actually become agitated.
This is just a picture, which I use as a tool. Obviously spiritual understanding is not attained or obtained in the same way as "seeing" this picture. But people respond to the idea of faith in a similar way. If they cannot see it, they deny it, for themselves and everyone else.
Once I saw the image, I could always see the image from that point on. There are several good lessons in this presentation.
I hope you enjoy and that you can use this with others.
NOT EVERYONE SEES IT RIGHT AWAY
Do you see the supposed "image of Christ" in this picture?
This picture started circulating in the 1950's. I first saw it in the 1960's. I won't tell the story behind the picture, but the image of Jesus can be perceived in the shadowy image.
Obviously it is just a perceived image of Christ, at least as He is usually depicted in Christian art. Don't worry about the accuracy. That is not the point of this post.
I have asked individuals and groups if they could see the image. Some people see it immediately, while some see it eventually, and some never see it. I use this as an object lesson. Even though the same information is made available to a group of people, different people respond to the picture in various ways, just as different people respond to the true revelation of the true Christ.
I have posted it on a chalk board at the front of the sanctuary, then asked if anyone could see the image. Since some folks do not see the image immediately, I proceed to bring a gospel message and point out that some people take more time to come to spiritual insight, just as it takes more time for some people to come to visual comprehension of this picture. I tell the people in the congregation to raise their hands or speak out when they finally see the image, even if I am preaching.
As I have preached, people throughout the congregation begin to see the image and they excitedly respond, some to the point of jumping up and shouting it out. Those who do not see it become frustrated and some even deny that there is an image to be seen. They accuse those who claim to see it, of pranking them. Some people actually become agitated.
This is just a picture, which I use as a tool. Obviously spiritual understanding is not attained or obtained in the same way as "seeing" this picture. But people respond to the idea of faith in a similar way. If they cannot see it, they deny it, for themselves and everyone else.
Once I saw the image, I could always see the image from that point on. There are several good lessons in this presentation.
12/31/18 IT COULD HAVE BEEN TODAY
12/31/18 IT COULD HAVE BEEN TODAY
In keeping with other post I made today and taken from my post, New Years Eve, 2014, it is still true tonight.
"It will be a good year to be a New Creature, walking in Newness of Life, serving God in Newness of Spirit, having put on the New Man, walking in a New and Living Way, aligned with the New Covenant (Testament), fulfilling the New Commandment, having a New Name and singing a New Song, looking for the New Heaven, New Earth and New Jerusalem, where God makes All Things New."
In keeping with other post I made today and taken from my post, New Years Eve, 2014, it is still true tonight.
"It will be a good year to be a New Creature, walking in Newness of Life, serving God in Newness of Spirit, having put on the New Man, walking in a New and Living Way, aligned with the New Covenant (Testament), fulfilling the New Commandment, having a New Name and singing a New Song, looking for the New Heaven, New Earth and New Jerusalem, where God makes All Things New."
12/31/18 NOT AUTOMATONS
12/31/18 NOT AUTOMATONS
We are not robots or high end, computerized machines with limitless artificial intelligence.
We are free moral agents, by design.
We are not robots or high end, computerized machines with limitless artificial intelligence.
We are free moral agents, by design.
12/31/18 A NEW HEART
12/31/18 A NEW HEART
A NEW HEART. God promised a NEW HEART to His people (Jews and Gentiles).
These two passages are Old Testament prophecies given to Israel. Israel had failed God and brought reproach to His Name, yet God was not finished with Israel. He would continue to bless and use them for His Own purposes, but this would require a new relationship, made possible by God giving them a NEW HEART.
As we read about God's plan to restore fallen men to Himself, we see that the restoration and renewal of Israel was the beginning of His salvation, but it would also include the nations, the Gentiles. The promises made to Israel in these two passages also have broader application in the New Testament, when God created His Church, and made believers His chosen vessels.
As with other prophecy, there is immediate and ultimate fulfillment. The immediate is applicable to Israel and the ultimate includes Israel and The Church.
TWO PASSAGES with a CLOSER LOOK
FIRST PASSAGE
Ezekiel 18:31-32
31 Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.
(New Spirit is in this passage, but I will address NEW SPIRIT later).
NEW HEART INSTEAD OF TRANSGRESSIONS
God promises a NEW HEART (a new or renewed inner man), to anyone who recognizes and turns from their transgressions (rebellion, disobedience) against God. We cannot hold to our transgressions and receive a NEW HEART at the same time.
MAKE OURSELVES A NEW HEART
While the miracle of a NEW HEART resides in God alone, He requires our willing response and cooperation. Even in the Old Testament God required the Israelites to Cast Away (renounce, repudiate, repent of) their sins. God also tells them to "make you a new heart..." Though it takes Divine action and power to make a NEW HEART, human response and cooperation are essential to the plan of God
NEW HEART OR DIE (be cast off from God)
God appealed to human reason by asking, "Why will you die?" Either cast away transgressions or be cast away because of your transgressions. Remember, God said, in another place, "Come now, let us reason together," and God described total commitment as "Reasonable (spiritual) service."
TURN OR BURN
We will either be separated from our sin or our sin will separate us from God (death is separation from God). The rational decision is to cast away our transgressions, rather than be cast away from God.
GOD'S WILL IS A NEW HEART
God has no pleasure in people being cast away, being separated, being dead in their sins and trespasses. God takes no pleasure in the lost being lost forever. It is not the will of God that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
GOD SAVES THOSE WHO TURN
God invites and requires the sinner to find, receive and live in His salvation. READ CAREFULLY
Isaiah 55:1-9
1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
3 Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
4 Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.
5 Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.
6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
SECOND PASSAGE
Ezekiel 36:23-28
23 And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.
24 For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land.
25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.
26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
28 And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.
GOD DEMANDS DIGNITY
God declared Himself to be a jealous God, and God has commanded that His Name should not be profaned or shamed. Israel claimed all of the benefits and honors of God, but they had not lived in a way that was worthy of His Name. Still, God had a plan for them.
GOD'S PROVISION
God called them back to a living and loving relationship. God promised His presence and power to them. God was going to glorify Himself through His people.
God promised to establish His people in their own land and lift them up before the heathen. God promised to wash His people with clean water, cleansing them from all their filthiness, from all their idols. God promised to take away their cold, hard, dead heart of stone and promised to give them a heart of flesh, a tender heart, a living heart.
God promised that His Spirit would enter their heart, and cause them to walk in God statutes, following His leading and doing His will.
God promised to make them His people and to be their God.
Though I could give corresponding verses in the New Testament, I will just give one passage. God gives to New Testament believers a NEW HEART and establishes us in this NEW RELATIONSHIP.
2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 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.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
A NEW HEART. God promised a NEW HEART to His people (Jews and Gentiles).
These two passages are Old Testament prophecies given to Israel. Israel had failed God and brought reproach to His Name, yet God was not finished with Israel. He would continue to bless and use them for His Own purposes, but this would require a new relationship, made possible by God giving them a NEW HEART.
As we read about God's plan to restore fallen men to Himself, we see that the restoration and renewal of Israel was the beginning of His salvation, but it would also include the nations, the Gentiles. The promises made to Israel in these two passages also have broader application in the New Testament, when God created His Church, and made believers His chosen vessels.
As with other prophecy, there is immediate and ultimate fulfillment. The immediate is applicable to Israel and the ultimate includes Israel and The Church.
TWO PASSAGES with a CLOSER LOOK
FIRST PASSAGE
Ezekiel 18:31-32
31 Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.
(New Spirit is in this passage, but I will address NEW SPIRIT later).
NEW HEART INSTEAD OF TRANSGRESSIONS
God promises a NEW HEART (a new or renewed inner man), to anyone who recognizes and turns from their transgressions (rebellion, disobedience) against God. We cannot hold to our transgressions and receive a NEW HEART at the same time.
MAKE OURSELVES A NEW HEART
While the miracle of a NEW HEART resides in God alone, He requires our willing response and cooperation. Even in the Old Testament God required the Israelites to Cast Away (renounce, repudiate, repent of) their sins. God also tells them to "make you a new heart..." Though it takes Divine action and power to make a NEW HEART, human response and cooperation are essential to the plan of God
NEW HEART OR DIE (be cast off from God)
God appealed to human reason by asking, "Why will you die?" Either cast away transgressions or be cast away because of your transgressions. Remember, God said, in another place, "Come now, let us reason together," and God described total commitment as "Reasonable (spiritual) service."
TURN OR BURN
We will either be separated from our sin or our sin will separate us from God (death is separation from God). The rational decision is to cast away our transgressions, rather than be cast away from God.
GOD'S WILL IS A NEW HEART
God has no pleasure in people being cast away, being separated, being dead in their sins and trespasses. God takes no pleasure in the lost being lost forever. It is not the will of God that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
GOD SAVES THOSE WHO TURN
God invites and requires the sinner to find, receive and live in His salvation. READ CAREFULLY
Isaiah 55:1-9
1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
3 Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
4 Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.
5 Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.
6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
SECOND PASSAGE
Ezekiel 36:23-28
23 And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.
24 For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land.
25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.
26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
28 And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.
GOD DEMANDS DIGNITY
God declared Himself to be a jealous God, and God has commanded that His Name should not be profaned or shamed. Israel claimed all of the benefits and honors of God, but they had not lived in a way that was worthy of His Name. Still, God had a plan for them.
GOD'S PROVISION
God called them back to a living and loving relationship. God promised His presence and power to them. God was going to glorify Himself through His people.
God promised to establish His people in their own land and lift them up before the heathen. God promised to wash His people with clean water, cleansing them from all their filthiness, from all their idols. God promised to take away their cold, hard, dead heart of stone and promised to give them a heart of flesh, a tender heart, a living heart.
God promised that His Spirit would enter their heart, and cause them to walk in God statutes, following His leading and doing His will.
God promised to make them His people and to be their God.
Though I could give corresponding verses in the New Testament, I will just give one passage. God gives to New Testament believers a NEW HEART and establishes us in this NEW RELATIONSHIP.
2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 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.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
12/31/18 DAILY FAITH
12/31/18 DAILY FAITH
DON'T PRESUME. Be thankful for every blessing. Trouble and suffering will come. Be established in Him.
STAND FIRM
Martha cuts my hair, and we have been threatening to take care of it for the past several days. When she got ready to leave this morning, Martha told me to be ready to get my haircut when she gets home today.
I thought about something when she said it, but did not make reply. I thought, how confident we are that she will make it home today, that I will be home, that no tragedy will intervene. Of course we should not worry or fret or be negative about life, but the fact is that life is fragile and tenuous at best.
HOPE IN FACE OF TROUBLES
Though we should not be pessimistic or fatalistic, neither should we be presumptive and unrealistic. I am hoping that all goes well today and that I see Martha this afternoon, that I am well and able to be home this afternoon, that my family and church folks will be able to get together for fellowship tonight. I want the good things of life to continue.
But reality says that difficult times and hardship and heartache will enter into every life at some point. Life is life, with all of the good, and not so good. But God is God, regardless of how faithful we are.
GOD HELP ME
God help me to live my life in thanksgiving and praise. Help me to recognize and utilize my blessings for Your honor and glory. Help me be a blessing to others, as long as you give me the opportunity. Fill my heart and life with Your presence, so that when darkness and storms come my way, I am still faithful and thankful.
DON'T PRESUME. Be thankful for every blessing. Trouble and suffering will come. Be established in Him.
STAND FIRM
Martha cuts my hair, and we have been threatening to take care of it for the past several days. When she got ready to leave this morning, Martha told me to be ready to get my haircut when she gets home today.
I thought about something when she said it, but did not make reply. I thought, how confident we are that she will make it home today, that I will be home, that no tragedy will intervene. Of course we should not worry or fret or be negative about life, but the fact is that life is fragile and tenuous at best.
HOPE IN FACE OF TROUBLES
Though we should not be pessimistic or fatalistic, neither should we be presumptive and unrealistic. I am hoping that all goes well today and that I see Martha this afternoon, that I am well and able to be home this afternoon, that my family and church folks will be able to get together for fellowship tonight. I want the good things of life to continue.
But reality says that difficult times and hardship and heartache will enter into every life at some point. Life is life, with all of the good, and not so good. But God is God, regardless of how faithful we are.
GOD HELP ME
God help me to live my life in thanksgiving and praise. Help me to recognize and utilize my blessings for Your honor and glory. Help me be a blessing to others, as long as you give me the opportunity. Fill my heart and life with Your presence, so that when darkness and storms come my way, I am still faithful and thankful.
12/31/18 "NEW" LIST
12/31/18 "NEW" LIST
"NEW": Heart; Song; Things; Wine; Cloth; Life; Man; Name; Way; Spirit; Testament; Creature; Commandment; Heaven, Earth Jerusalem.
"NEW": Heart; Song; Things; Wine; Cloth; Life; Man; Name; Way; Spirit; Testament; Creature; Commandment; Heaven, Earth Jerusalem.
12/31/18 MUCH MORE IS NEW THAN THE YEAR
12/31/18 MUCH MORE IS NEW THAN THE YEAR
God gives us MUCH MORE than just a New Year. I will address several of these "NEW" benefits in upcoming posts.
NEW
Over a period of time I should post several articles about these fourteen (+) areas of NEWness in salvation: Heart; Song; Things; Wine; Cloth; Life; Man; Name; Way; Spirit; Testament; Creature; Commandment; Heaven, Earth Jerusalem.
God gives us MUCH MORE than just a New Year. I will address several of these "NEW" benefits in upcoming posts.
NEW
Over a period of time I should post several articles about these fourteen (+) areas of NEWness in salvation: Heart; Song; Things; Wine; Cloth; Life; Man; Name; Way; Spirit; Testament; Creature; Commandment; Heaven, Earth Jerusalem.
Sunday, December 30, 2018
12/30/18 WAITING LONGER MAKES SIN STRONGER
12/30/18 WAITING LONGER MAKES SIN STRONGER
The longer we wait, the more it will cost and the less likely we are to make the choice.
TURN to Christ now.
The longer we wait, the more it will cost and the less likely we are to make the choice.
TURN to Christ now.
12/30/18 NEW LIFE REVOLUTION
12/30/18 NEW LIFE REVOLUTION
It takes more than a New Year Resolution, it takes a New Life Revolution.
Declare war on sin.
It takes more than a New Year Resolution, it takes a New Life Revolution.
Declare war on sin.
12/30/18 DON'T TRADE TREASURE FOR TRASH
12/30/18 DON'T TRADE TREASURE FOR TRASH
My observation is, people turn loose of the treasure to hold on to the trash, only to find out too late.
Don't find out too late.
My observation is, people turn loose of the treasure to hold on to the trash, only to find out too late.
Don't find out too late.
12/30/18 FORGETTING, REACHING, PRESSING
12/30/18 FORGETTING, REACHING, PRESSING
FORGETTING what's behind.
REACHING for what's ahead.
PRESSING toward...high calling.
Goodbye old. Hello new
FORGETTING what's behind.
REACHING for what's ahead.
PRESSING toward...high calling.
Goodbye old. Hello new
12/30/18 MOVING TOWARD PERFECTION
12/30/18 MOVING TOWARD PERFECTION
(resurrection and glorification)
We're not "perfected" (resurrected and glorified) yet.
So keep on keeping on.
Leave the past, Reach forward.
GOD'S WORD THROUGH PAUL
Philippians 3:8-21
8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)
20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
(resurrection and glorification)
We're not "perfected" (resurrected and glorified) yet.
So keep on keeping on.
Leave the past, Reach forward.
GOD'S WORD THROUGH PAUL
Philippians 3:8-21
8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)
20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
12/30/18 EVANGELIZE AND HOLD THE FORT
12/30/18 EVANGELIZE AND HOLD THE FORT
(reach out and hold fast)
I mentioned two different, but related truths recently: Evangelize (tell the Good News.
Hold The Fort (continue faithful).
PLEASE READ
I hope you take the time to read and meditate on these truths.
EVANGELIZING:
Telling the Good News to others,
So that they might have faith in Christ,
So that they might be saved from sin and eternal separation from God.
Remember, faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.
God sends us to others so that they might hear and believe (have faith in Christ) and be saved.
Romans 10:9-17
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?
17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
ALL HAVE SINNED and EVERYONE NEEDS TO BELIEVE ON CHRIST.
Romans 3:23
23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Romans 6:23
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
John 14:6
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Ezekiel 18:20-32 (this Old Testament passage clearly states what God also revealed in the New Testament).
20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.
23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?
24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.
25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal?
26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.
27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.
28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
29 Yet saith the house of Israel, The way of the Lord is not equal. O house of Israel, are not my ways equal? are not your ways unequal?
30 Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.
31 Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.
GOD DOES NOT HOLD US ACCOUNTABLE FOR ANOTHER person's response to our telling them the Gospel, but He does hold us accountable for telling them, warning them, alerting them.
Ezekiel 3:18-21
18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.
20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
21 Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.
Ezekiel 33:2-6
2 Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman:
3 If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people;
4 Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.
5 He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul.
6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand.
HOLD THE FORT:
Continuing in the faith.
Continuing faithful to the truth.
Holding fast, abiding, remaining, cleaving to the truth of God.
New Testament Passages
John 8:31-32
31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
John 12:46
46 I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
John 15:4-17
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.
Acts 11:23
23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
Acts 13:43
43 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.
Acts 14:21-23
21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,
22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.
Romans 6:1-2
1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Romans 12:9
9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
Colossians 1:21-23
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
1 Timothy 2:11-15
11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
1 Timothy 4:15-16
15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
1 John 2:24-29
24 Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.
25 And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
26 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.
27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.
28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.
(reach out and hold fast)
I mentioned two different, but related truths recently: Evangelize (tell the Good News.
Hold The Fort (continue faithful).
PLEASE READ
I hope you take the time to read and meditate on these truths.
EVANGELIZING:
Telling the Good News to others,
So that they might have faith in Christ,
So that they might be saved from sin and eternal separation from God.
Remember, faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.
God sends us to others so that they might hear and believe (have faith in Christ) and be saved.
Romans 10:9-17
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?
17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
ALL HAVE SINNED and EVERYONE NEEDS TO BELIEVE ON CHRIST.
Romans 3:23
23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Romans 6:23
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
John 14:6
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Ezekiel 18:20-32 (this Old Testament passage clearly states what God also revealed in the New Testament).
20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.
23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?
24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.
25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal?
26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.
27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.
28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
29 Yet saith the house of Israel, The way of the Lord is not equal. O house of Israel, are not my ways equal? are not your ways unequal?
30 Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.
31 Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.
GOD DOES NOT HOLD US ACCOUNTABLE FOR ANOTHER person's response to our telling them the Gospel, but He does hold us accountable for telling them, warning them, alerting them.
Ezekiel 3:18-21
18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.
20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
21 Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.
Ezekiel 33:2-6
2 Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman:
3 If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people;
4 Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.
5 He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul.
6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand.
HOLD THE FORT:
Continuing in the faith.
Continuing faithful to the truth.
Holding fast, abiding, remaining, cleaving to the truth of God.
New Testament Passages
John 8:31-32
31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
John 12:46
46 I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
John 15:4-17
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.
Acts 11:23
23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
Acts 13:43
43 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.
Acts 14:21-23
21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,
22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.
Romans 6:1-2
1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Romans 12:9
9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
Colossians 1:21-23
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
1 Timothy 2:11-15
11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
1 Timothy 4:15-16
15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
1 John 2:24-29
24 Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.
25 And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
26 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.
27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.
28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.
Saturday, December 29, 2018
12/29/18 DESIGNED FOR FULFILLMENT
12/29/18 DESIGNED FOR FULFILLMENT
We were designed to be body (other aware), soul (self aware), and spirit (God aware). Chaos awaits the incomplete person.
DESIGNED AWARENESS
We communicate with other people and realities outside of ourselves through our five senses," 1 Seeing, 2 Hearing, 3 Smelling, 4 Touching, 5 Tasting.
We communicate with our inner self through five traits of self awareness, 1 Reason, 2 Desire, 3 Emotion, 4 Conscience, 5 Will.
We communicate with God through our spirit.
When any of these communication channels are inoperable then we are out of touch with that field of reality.
These channels are inoperable because of sin, rebellion against God.
We were designed to be body (other aware), soul (self aware), and spirit (God aware). Chaos awaits the incomplete person.
DESIGNED AWARENESS
We communicate with other people and realities outside of ourselves through our five senses," 1 Seeing, 2 Hearing, 3 Smelling, 4 Touching, 5 Tasting.
We communicate with our inner self through five traits of self awareness, 1 Reason, 2 Desire, 3 Emotion, 4 Conscience, 5 Will.
We communicate with God through our spirit.
When any of these communication channels are inoperable then we are out of touch with that field of reality.
These channels are inoperable because of sin, rebellion against God.
12/29/18 THE NEED FOR GOD
12/29/18 THE NEED FOR GOD
No one wants to go through life deprived of any of their five senses.
But people think they can be fulfilled without God.
No one wants to go through life deprived of any of their five senses.
But people think they can be fulfilled without God.
12/29/18 GOD'S PLAN STILL AVAILABLE
12/29/18 GOD'S PLAN STILL AVAILABLE
God designed life to be beautiful and fulfilling with Him.
Serving self brought all of the chaos and failure.
Now God calls us back.
God designed life to be beautiful and fulfilling with Him.
Serving self brought all of the chaos and failure.
Now God calls us back.
12/29/18 BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
12/29/18 BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
STATS TO CONSIDER
(not necessarily factual)
This is mostly to stir our thinking and move our hearts.
There are around 325,000,000 people in the USA
It is said that as many as 70% claim Christian connections or about 230,000,000. (NOT LIKELY)
It is said that 25% are Evangelical Protestant, or about 81,000,000 (DOES NOT MEAN SAVED)
It is obvious that the percentage of those who call themselves Christian, even among fundamentalists and evangelicals, is far higher than the numbers of actual, active Bible believing, Christ following Christians.
Think about it. Out of 100 random friends you have, how many do you believe are actually walking with Christ in a victorious state (which is what being a Christian means)?
I have not met any Christians who believe that even 10% of their friends, family, associates are born again and walking in the light of the word of God.
Of course, the more Christian your culture is, the higher your percentage will be. But even then, a quick look at society indicates that 10% is still a high number. Another group that indicates a percentage is the high school or college that a person attended. I went to a Bible College, therefore the numbers were skewed toward believers. My high school was a different story altogether.
I have read some studies that say the percentage of the general population in the US, which are actually saved, is closer to 4% or 5%.
I have guesstimated (based on personal observations, encounters, and studies by other people) the actual percentage of society that is saved to be around 4%. Of course, more traditional, conservative communities with stronger Bible history are more likely to have a higher percentage.
I meet a lot of people who do not believe in church or the Bible or salvation from sin. Seldom do I meet people who are openly transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Now, with this in mind, we should be able to apply numbers to specific communities.
Beaufort population is at 4,200, which would put the Christian population at only 420 people. That seems low, but when I stop to think about how many people I meet, which present themselves, either in word or deed or demeanor, as being saved, I don't get the impression that 1 out of 10 people are saved. But even if I allow that possibility, and extend it to a higher percentage, then I have a real problem. Even if we say a mere 25% of the population is saved, that would mean 1 out of every 4 people I meet must be a Christians (1050), and I know that does not seem to fit with my experience. If I stayed with my general view that it is only 5% at the most, then that number really seems low (210 people). It is not so much the numbers that give me hesitation, but rather the percentages, compared to the ratio of individuals I meet.
In any case, it is clear that there are great needs, even in my small community, for evangelizing.
I wish the numbers and percentages were higher. I want everyone to love and follow Jesus.
Another important factor in a larger Christian population is the idea that a community can stand against the influence and power of darkness. With a large Christian community, the Liberal agenda will not be allowed. But as we have seen, even if the percentage is 25%, that leaves 75% that are opposed to the will, work and way of God.
But if the numbers and percentages are low, then we can see that our community is not likely to be a stronghold against Liberal, Humanistic, anti-Bible influence. This should make us realize how important it is to stand for the truth, otherwise our children and grandchildren are going to fall under the influence of those who deny the faith.
It would be good if all churches in a community would stand for the word of God. But that ain't happening. Therefore we should stand together with those who will stand, especially in our own churches. The light of God shines brighter when it is the combined light of a group of believers.
STATS TO CONSIDER
(not necessarily factual)
This is mostly to stir our thinking and move our hearts.
There are around 325,000,000 people in the USA
It is said that as many as 70% claim Christian connections or about 230,000,000. (NOT LIKELY)
It is said that 25% are Evangelical Protestant, or about 81,000,000 (DOES NOT MEAN SAVED)
It is obvious that the percentage of those who call themselves Christian, even among fundamentalists and evangelicals, is far higher than the numbers of actual, active Bible believing, Christ following Christians.
Think about it. Out of 100 random friends you have, how many do you believe are actually walking with Christ in a victorious state (which is what being a Christian means)?
I have not met any Christians who believe that even 10% of their friends, family, associates are born again and walking in the light of the word of God.
Of course, the more Christian your culture is, the higher your percentage will be. But even then, a quick look at society indicates that 10% is still a high number. Another group that indicates a percentage is the high school or college that a person attended. I went to a Bible College, therefore the numbers were skewed toward believers. My high school was a different story altogether.
I have read some studies that say the percentage of the general population in the US, which are actually saved, is closer to 4% or 5%.
I have guesstimated (based on personal observations, encounters, and studies by other people) the actual percentage of society that is saved to be around 4%. Of course, more traditional, conservative communities with stronger Bible history are more likely to have a higher percentage.
I meet a lot of people who do not believe in church or the Bible or salvation from sin. Seldom do I meet people who are openly transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Now, with this in mind, we should be able to apply numbers to specific communities.
Beaufort population is at 4,200, which would put the Christian population at only 420 people. That seems low, but when I stop to think about how many people I meet, which present themselves, either in word or deed or demeanor, as being saved, I don't get the impression that 1 out of 10 people are saved. But even if I allow that possibility, and extend it to a higher percentage, then I have a real problem. Even if we say a mere 25% of the population is saved, that would mean 1 out of every 4 people I meet must be a Christians (1050), and I know that does not seem to fit with my experience. If I stayed with my general view that it is only 5% at the most, then that number really seems low (210 people). It is not so much the numbers that give me hesitation, but rather the percentages, compared to the ratio of individuals I meet.
In any case, it is clear that there are great needs, even in my small community, for evangelizing.
I wish the numbers and percentages were higher. I want everyone to love and follow Jesus.
Another important factor in a larger Christian population is the idea that a community can stand against the influence and power of darkness. With a large Christian community, the Liberal agenda will not be allowed. But as we have seen, even if the percentage is 25%, that leaves 75% that are opposed to the will, work and way of God.
But if the numbers and percentages are low, then we can see that our community is not likely to be a stronghold against Liberal, Humanistic, anti-Bible influence. This should make us realize how important it is to stand for the truth, otherwise our children and grandchildren are going to fall under the influence of those who deny the faith.
It would be good if all churches in a community would stand for the word of God. But that ain't happening. Therefore we should stand together with those who will stand, especially in our own churches. The light of God shines brighter when it is the combined light of a group of believers.
12/29/18 BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
12/29/18 BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
AN EXERCISE IN EVANGELISTIC STRATEGY
THIS EXERCISE IS FAULTY, and it is not hard to find points, with which you may disagree, which I understand. Nevertheless, for those who are willing to squeeze past my blunders, the intent is worthwhile.
The data in this particular post relates specifically to my home area (Carteret County, N.C.) but the principles are applicable to other areas and communities. You should find the info data concerning your own area, community, population, demographics, church presence, etc.
If you live in a high population area (very large city) then you may want to narrow the parameters to communities within your Metro area.
I obviously, but unintentionally will leave some important info out and I may add info that is not as important. However, I am more interested in getting this project launched than I am in perfecting this project.
REMEMBER, I am not posting this for the purpose of argument or debate. If you don't like it, ignore it, or leave it. If you feel like you must vent your feelings, contact me personally. I am not trying to win an argument here, I am trying to help others win souls to Jesus.
HERE IS THE CHALLENGE. Try to understand the ratio of believers to non believers in your own community and then count the cost of reaching your community, based on the resources that God has posited in your community.
Not only will this give you a view of your evangelistic field, it could help believers stand together as the powers of darkness encroach on your community, churches, families, children, faith. CHRISTIANS SHOULD STAND TOGETHER AGAINST DARKNESS.
YOUR COMMUNITY POPULATION AND THE PRESENCE OF LIGHT?
Morehead City (Attractions)
9,303 area residents.
Largest town and population size in the county but is not the county seat.
Newport
4,694 area residents.
Beaufort (Information)
4,195 area residents.
Is the county seat.
3rd oldest town in NC.
Emerald Isle
3,655 area residents.
Broad Creek
2,365 area residents.
Cape Carteret
2,058 area residents.
Atlantic Beach (Information)
Census 2017: 1,506 area residents.
Pine Knoll Shores
1,339 area residents.
Cedar Point
1,329 area residents.
Harkers Island
1,207 area residents.
Peletier
740 area residents.
Bogue
737 area residents.
Atlantic
543 area residents.
Marshallberg
438 area residents.
Davis
422 area residents.
Salter Path
365 area residents.
Cedar Island
334 area residents.
Indian Beach
116 area residents.
Otway, Smyrna, Williston, Stacy, Sea Level, Straits, North River, Merrimon, Harlowe, Mill Creek, and Bettie
No census information.
https://ccountync.com/cities-carteret-county-nc-town-infor…/
NOW, What percentage of your community population do you believe are...
Authentic & Active, Bible Believing, Christ Followers?
(This is subjective and not definitive, but it might be helpful and enlightening).
This question is not intended to raise judgement but rather AWARENESS concerning the number AND PERCENTAGE of people who might have an EVANGELISTIC influence on a community (remember Abraham, Lot and the judgment on Sodom).
We may not actually know how many Christians are in a community, but Bible believers should have a working idea of that number.
How many actual, active, Bible believing, Christ following, Christlike people do you know personally? You can eliminate those who are openly and knowingly living in disobedience to God. You can eliminate those who do not believe the Bible, (for instance) those who do not believe that the Bible is the infallible word of God; that all men (people) have sinned and need salvation; that Christ is God in the flesh, that Christ died a sacrificial death, that Christ rose from the dead physically and that Christ is the only way of salvation. Now, with these criteria as a backdrop, what percentage of your acquaintances would this group be?
Those who are part of a strong (or at least fundamentalist or evangelical) church will have a higher percentage of fellow believers than those who do not claim to be saved, do not go to salvation churches, do not go to Bible believing churches.
Consider how many churches in you community, which claim to be Bible believing and are part of the historical Christian tradition. Though you may differ with the doctrinal position, there are other churches that teach basic doctrine and make it possible for a person to come to a saving faith and faithful walk with Jesus Christ.
Consider the testimony and character of the people you work with, the people in your neighborhood, the people you meet in the stores or at social, community events.
Consider the nature of the social life of your community.
Consider the witness and lives of the leaders of your community, the administration and staff of local schools, the number and size of cults and anti-Bible churches in the community.
Remember, a person is not necessarily a Christian because he/she attends a Bible church or professes to be saved.
And also Remember, a person may be a Christian even if he/she does not follow all of the precepts that you follow.
STILL, we should be able to come up with some kind of percentage of our community, which might be Christian. Keep in mind, not everyone attends worship, and not everyone who does attend worship is part of a Bible believing church.
In trying to guess the percentage of believers in a community, we should not assume that the only Christians are the people we tag as Christian. The purpose of the "percentage" thing helps us understand the need and the opportunity of bringing the Gospel to our community.
THE NEXT STEP is to look at the ratio of Christian to non-Christian. What would it take to reach your community for Jesus?
The discussion should continue...
AN EXERCISE IN EVANGELISTIC STRATEGY
THIS EXERCISE IS FAULTY, and it is not hard to find points, with which you may disagree, which I understand. Nevertheless, for those who are willing to squeeze past my blunders, the intent is worthwhile.
The data in this particular post relates specifically to my home area (Carteret County, N.C.) but the principles are applicable to other areas and communities. You should find the info data concerning your own area, community, population, demographics, church presence, etc.
If you live in a high population area (very large city) then you may want to narrow the parameters to communities within your Metro area.
I obviously, but unintentionally will leave some important info out and I may add info that is not as important. However, I am more interested in getting this project launched than I am in perfecting this project.
REMEMBER, I am not posting this for the purpose of argument or debate. If you don't like it, ignore it, or leave it. If you feel like you must vent your feelings, contact me personally. I am not trying to win an argument here, I am trying to help others win souls to Jesus.
HERE IS THE CHALLENGE. Try to understand the ratio of believers to non believers in your own community and then count the cost of reaching your community, based on the resources that God has posited in your community.
Not only will this give you a view of your evangelistic field, it could help believers stand together as the powers of darkness encroach on your community, churches, families, children, faith. CHRISTIANS SHOULD STAND TOGETHER AGAINST DARKNESS.
YOUR COMMUNITY POPULATION AND THE PRESENCE OF LIGHT?
Morehead City (Attractions)
9,303 area residents.
Largest town and population size in the county but is not the county seat.
Newport
4,694 area residents.
Beaufort (Information)
4,195 area residents.
Is the county seat.
3rd oldest town in NC.
Emerald Isle
3,655 area residents.
Broad Creek
2,365 area residents.
Cape Carteret
2,058 area residents.
Atlantic Beach (Information)
Census 2017: 1,506 area residents.
Pine Knoll Shores
1,339 area residents.
Cedar Point
1,329 area residents.
Harkers Island
1,207 area residents.
Peletier
740 area residents.
Bogue
737 area residents.
Atlantic
543 area residents.
Marshallberg
438 area residents.
Davis
422 area residents.
Salter Path
365 area residents.
Cedar Island
334 area residents.
Indian Beach
116 area residents.
Otway, Smyrna, Williston, Stacy, Sea Level, Straits, North River, Merrimon, Harlowe, Mill Creek, and Bettie
No census information.
https://ccountync.com/cities-carteret-county-nc-town-infor…/
NOW, What percentage of your community population do you believe are...
Authentic & Active, Bible Believing, Christ Followers?
(This is subjective and not definitive, but it might be helpful and enlightening).
This question is not intended to raise judgement but rather AWARENESS concerning the number AND PERCENTAGE of people who might have an EVANGELISTIC influence on a community (remember Abraham, Lot and the judgment on Sodom).
We may not actually know how many Christians are in a community, but Bible believers should have a working idea of that number.
How many actual, active, Bible believing, Christ following, Christlike people do you know personally? You can eliminate those who are openly and knowingly living in disobedience to God. You can eliminate those who do not believe the Bible, (for instance) those who do not believe that the Bible is the infallible word of God; that all men (people) have sinned and need salvation; that Christ is God in the flesh, that Christ died a sacrificial death, that Christ rose from the dead physically and that Christ is the only way of salvation. Now, with these criteria as a backdrop, what percentage of your acquaintances would this group be?
Those who are part of a strong (or at least fundamentalist or evangelical) church will have a higher percentage of fellow believers than those who do not claim to be saved, do not go to salvation churches, do not go to Bible believing churches.
Consider how many churches in you community, which claim to be Bible believing and are part of the historical Christian tradition. Though you may differ with the doctrinal position, there are other churches that teach basic doctrine and make it possible for a person to come to a saving faith and faithful walk with Jesus Christ.
Consider the testimony and character of the people you work with, the people in your neighborhood, the people you meet in the stores or at social, community events.
Consider the nature of the social life of your community.
Consider the witness and lives of the leaders of your community, the administration and staff of local schools, the number and size of cults and anti-Bible churches in the community.
Remember, a person is not necessarily a Christian because he/she attends a Bible church or professes to be saved.
And also Remember, a person may be a Christian even if he/she does not follow all of the precepts that you follow.
STILL, we should be able to come up with some kind of percentage of our community, which might be Christian. Keep in mind, not everyone attends worship, and not everyone who does attend worship is part of a Bible believing church.
In trying to guess the percentage of believers in a community, we should not assume that the only Christians are the people we tag as Christian. The purpose of the "percentage" thing helps us understand the need and the opportunity of bringing the Gospel to our community.
THE NEXT STEP is to look at the ratio of Christian to non-Christian. What would it take to reach your community for Jesus?
The discussion should continue...
12/29/18 BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
12/29/18 BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
DESCRIPTION
We are called to be Salt and Light to a corrupt world, lost in the darkness. I formed this group to address issues that might help us be the Salt and Light that God uses to change people in our society.
DESCRIPTION
We are called to be Salt and Light to a corrupt world, lost in the darkness. I formed this group to address issues that might help us be the Salt and Light that God uses to change people in our society.
12/29/18 BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
12/29/18 ANNOUNCEMENT ON TIMELINE
BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
I HAVE FORMED A NEW GROUP, CONCERNING EVANGELISM AND HOLDING THE FORT.
If you are interested (no participation is expected or required), let me know so that I might include you.
HERE IS THE CHALLENGE
Try to understand the ratio of believers to non believers in your own community and then count the cost of reaching your community, based on the resources that God has posited in your community.
Not only will this give you a view of your evangelistic field, it could help believers stand together as the powers of darkness encroach on your community, churches, families, children, faith.
CHRISTIANS SHOULD STAND TOGETHER AGAINST DARKNESS.
BEING SALT AND LIGHT GROUP
I HAVE FORMED A NEW GROUP, CONCERNING EVANGELISM AND HOLDING THE FORT.
If you are interested (no participation is expected or required), let me know so that I might include you.
HERE IS THE CHALLENGE
Try to understand the ratio of believers to non believers in your own community and then count the cost of reaching your community, based on the resources that God has posited in your community.
Not only will this give you a view of your evangelistic field, it could help believers stand together as the powers of darkness encroach on your community, churches, families, children, faith.
CHRISTIANS SHOULD STAND TOGETHER AGAINST DARKNESS.
12/29/18 SHINE BRIGHTLY FOR THE CHILDREN
12/29/18 SHINE BRIGHTLY FOR THE CHILDREN
Don't abandon the children to the night terrors of sin's darkness.
LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE... BRIGHTLY
Don't abandon the children to the night terrors of sin's darkness.
LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE... BRIGHTLY
12/29/18 LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE
12/29/18 LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE
We shine in the darkness because we don't want others to be lost. Be God's light in a dark world.
We shine in the darkness because we don't want others to be lost. Be God's light in a dark world.
12/29/18 FOCUS ON THE TASK
12/29/18 FOCUS ON THE TASK
We must ignore distractions, such as backseat drivers and instructions from the peanut gallery.
We must focus on our task and keep our course.
We must ignore distractions, such as backseat drivers and instructions from the peanut gallery.
We must focus on our task and keep our course.
12/29/18 I HAD A DREAM
12/29/18 I HAD A DREAM
I HAD A DREAM (literally), not to be confused with Martin Luther King's "I Have A Dream." Not inspiring as was King's "Dream Speech", but I do attach a meaning to it. However, it might not be worth your time to read it. Just so ya know.
The dream (or nightmare) involved me driving a car that belonged to a family member. As happens sometimes, a mouse had gotten into the dash compartment. The mouse was LARGE (about the size of a small RAT) and it was a pretty green color (like a "Parakeet Green"). When I sat in the drivers seat, the mouse was trying to exit the dash through an air vent (on the left side of the steering column). I was able to stop him, but he still struggled to squeeze through. Since he seemed to be held in place, I started to drive.
I would look at the vent from time to time, to check on the status of the mouse (with the big rat teeth), and everything seemed to be status quo. He still wiggled from time to time, but very little movement. However, at my last checkup I saw that he was near the point of escape. OH NO. NOT WHILE I AM DRIVING.
Since I could not end his attempt to escape and I did not want him running freely in the car I was able to block him, but he was now motivated to escape. I had to maintain constant restraint on it while I was driving the car.
I would like to tell you that the dream ended by the mouse becoming unable to escape or that it morphed into a beautiful bird and flew out the window. BUT actually, the dream ended with me trying to restrain the mouse, while driving the car.
Since I don't like to waste anything, including crazy dreams, here is my explanation.
We often find ourselves in conflict with our adversary, and of course, as Christians, we can defeat (stop) Satan. Defeating him does not eliminate him or annihilate him. He will be back. We win battles one by one, and we win the war by being faithful to the King (Jesus) until the end.
Even when we stop the enemy, allowing us to move on in life, we will come face to face with Him again. Any and all of our personal victories in this life does not end the lifelong conflict with Satan. But his return to torment does not insure his victory.
I am sorry to tell you, but we must keep on keeping on; we must continue in the faith, continue to fight the good fight of faith, continue to contend for the faith.
I am GLAD to tell you...
We can win and win and win again and again in this life.
We are more than conquerors.
We can always triumph in Christ.
We can walk in the light.
We are over-comers in this life.
We can keep His commandments and do that which is pleasing in His sight.
We can walk in a manner worthy of His Name.
Ok, the mouse dream is lame, but it was my dream. I couldn't help it.
AND, maybe the explanation is lame. After all, it is mine.
HOWEVER the truth concerning victory over our enemies (small or great, beautiful or ugly) is not lame. Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised.
I HAD A DREAM (literally), not to be confused with Martin Luther King's "I Have A Dream." Not inspiring as was King's "Dream Speech", but I do attach a meaning to it. However, it might not be worth your time to read it. Just so ya know.
The dream (or nightmare) involved me driving a car that belonged to a family member. As happens sometimes, a mouse had gotten into the dash compartment. The mouse was LARGE (about the size of a small RAT) and it was a pretty green color (like a "Parakeet Green"). When I sat in the drivers seat, the mouse was trying to exit the dash through an air vent (on the left side of the steering column). I was able to stop him, but he still struggled to squeeze through. Since he seemed to be held in place, I started to drive.
I would look at the vent from time to time, to check on the status of the mouse (with the big rat teeth), and everything seemed to be status quo. He still wiggled from time to time, but very little movement. However, at my last checkup I saw that he was near the point of escape. OH NO. NOT WHILE I AM DRIVING.
Since I could not end his attempt to escape and I did not want him running freely in the car I was able to block him, but he was now motivated to escape. I had to maintain constant restraint on it while I was driving the car.
I would like to tell you that the dream ended by the mouse becoming unable to escape or that it morphed into a beautiful bird and flew out the window. BUT actually, the dream ended with me trying to restrain the mouse, while driving the car.
Since I don't like to waste anything, including crazy dreams, here is my explanation.
We often find ourselves in conflict with our adversary, and of course, as Christians, we can defeat (stop) Satan. Defeating him does not eliminate him or annihilate him. He will be back. We win battles one by one, and we win the war by being faithful to the King (Jesus) until the end.
Even when we stop the enemy, allowing us to move on in life, we will come face to face with Him again. Any and all of our personal victories in this life does not end the lifelong conflict with Satan. But his return to torment does not insure his victory.
I am sorry to tell you, but we must keep on keeping on; we must continue in the faith, continue to fight the good fight of faith, continue to contend for the faith.
I am GLAD to tell you...
We can win and win and win again and again in this life.
We are more than conquerors.
We can always triumph in Christ.
We can walk in the light.
We are over-comers in this life.
We can keep His commandments and do that which is pleasing in His sight.
We can walk in a manner worthy of His Name.
Ok, the mouse dream is lame, but it was my dream. I couldn't help it.
AND, maybe the explanation is lame. After all, it is mine.
HOWEVER the truth concerning victory over our enemies (small or great, beautiful or ugly) is not lame. Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised.
12/28/18 RESIST THE CLAMBER
12/28/18 RESIST THE CLAMBER
Today's Social Justice Warriors, Politically Correct Leaders, Sheeple Society clamber for an evil, Christ-less world.
RESIST.
Today's Social Justice Warriors, Politically Correct Leaders, Sheeple Society clamber for an evil, Christ-less world.
RESIST.
12/28/18 COMMUNITIES FIGHTING SINSANITY
12/28/18 COMMUNITIES FIGHTING SINSANITY
Whole communities (especially small ones) need to stand against the SINSANITY of a world gone wack (Govt., Edu., Bus., Media).
Whole communities (especially small ones) need to stand against the SINSANITY of a world gone wack (Govt., Edu., Bus., Media).
12/28/18 LIBERAL, GENDER CONFUSION, SINSANITY
12/28/18 LIBERAL, GENDER CONFUSION, SINSANITY
Don't allow people (Liberals) to force their insanity of gender identity/confusion on you.
Don't let their Sinsanity warp you.
Don't allow people (Liberals) to force their insanity of gender identity/confusion on you.
Don't let their Sinsanity warp you.
Friday, December 28, 2018
12/28/18 THE SINSANITY TSUNAMI
12/28/18 THE SINSANITY TSUNAMI
I have dubbed the wickedness of the END TIMES as, THE SINSANITY TSUNAMI.
A FLOOD OF SIN,
DRIVEN BY A DEMON WIND.
I have dubbed the wickedness of the END TIMES as, THE SINSANITY TSUNAMI.
A FLOOD OF SIN,
DRIVEN BY A DEMON WIND.
12/28/18 DAVID'S EARLY WARNING ANNOUNCEMENT
12/28/18 DAVID'S EARLY WARNING ANNOUNCEMENT
If you don't know the storm is coming, you wont flee or prepare; YOU WILL BE DESTROYED.
Read the signs of the times. Mt. 16:2-3
If you don't know the storm is coming, you wont flee or prepare; YOU WILL BE DESTROYED.
Read the signs of the times. Mt. 16:2-3
12/28/18 SINSANITY TSUNAMI
12/28/18 SINSANITY TSUNAMI
If you did not see the Moral Storm of 2018, you are either blind or deceived.
The End Times SINSANITY TSUNAMI is about to break on us.
If you did not see the Moral Storm of 2018, you are either blind or deceived.
The End Times SINSANITY TSUNAMI is about to break on us.
12/28/18 FAITH FACES FACTS
12/28/18 FAITH FACES FACTS
Faith does not sugar coat lies, ignore tragedy, rename sin, deceive itself, excuse wickedness.
FAITH CONFRONTS EVIL, HEAD ON.
Faith does not sugar coat lies, ignore tragedy, rename sin, deceive itself, excuse wickedness.
FAITH CONFRONTS EVIL, HEAD ON.
12/28/18 2019 PORTENDS DISASTER
12/28/18 2019 PORTENDS DISASTER
If your faith made it through 2018; batten down your hatches and put out your big anchor.
The 2019 storm surge portends disaster.
If your faith made it through 2018; batten down your hatches and put out your big anchor.
The 2019 storm surge portends disaster.
12/28/18 INEQUITABLE CRITICISM
12/28/18 INEQUITABLE CRITICISM
All of those who criticize the Bible have been caught in major mistakes or deceptions.
The Bible is guilty of neither.
All of those who criticize the Bible have been caught in major mistakes or deceptions.
The Bible is guilty of neither.
Thursday, December 27, 2018
12/27/18 THE WISDOM OF MEN AGAINST GOD
12/27/18 THE WISDOM OF MEN AGAINST GOD
Areas of "expertise" rejecting the Bible truth: Science, Medicine, Psychology, Academia, Government, Religion, Economics, Ethics.
Areas of "expertise" rejecting the Bible truth: Science, Medicine, Psychology, Academia, Government, Religion, Economics, Ethics.
12/27/18 WAR ON GOD'S DELIVERANCE AND RESTORATION
12/27/18 WAR ON GOD'S DELIVERANCE AND RESTORATION
Anti-Bible people reject all of God's deliverance and restoration, starting with salvation.
DON'T BE FOOLED.
Anti-Bible people reject all of God's deliverance and restoration, starting with salvation.
DON'T BE FOOLED.
12/27/18 MULTILAYERED ATTACK
12/27/18 MULTILAYERED ATTACK
To discredit the REDEMPTION message, Satan attacks all of Scripture, wanting to reroute our thinking & skew our understanding.
To discredit the REDEMPTION message, Satan attacks all of Scripture, wanting to reroute our thinking & skew our understanding.
12/27/18 DON'T GET CONFUSED
12/27/18 DON'T GET CONFUSED
There is mental illness (caused by physical problems affecting thinking) and there is so-called mental illness (a Humanist ruse).
There is mental illness (caused by physical problems affecting thinking) and there is so-called mental illness (a Humanist ruse).
12/27/18 SOUL AWAY FROM GOD IS IN ALTERNATIVE unREALITY
12/27/18 SOUL AWAY FROM GOD IS IN ALTERNATIVE unREALITY
Sin deadens (separates) the whole man (body, soul aka mind, spirit) from God.
The Mind without God is in an alternative unreality.
Sin deadens (separates) the whole man (body, soul aka mind, spirit) from God.
The Mind without God is in an alternative unreality.
12/27/18 WHAT I MEAN BY "INSANITY"
12/27/18 WHAT I MEAN BY "INSANITY"
I use the word INSANITY in the sense of being OUT OF ONE'S MIND, being in a state of "ALTERNATIVE (un)REALITY."
I use the word INSANITY in the sense of being OUT OF ONE'S MIND, being in a state of "ALTERNATIVE (un)REALITY."
12/27/18 MOVING FROM BIBLE IS MOVING TO INSANITY
12/27/18 MOVING FROM BIBLE IS MOVING TO INSANITY
So, you think that moving away from Biblical world view has nothing to do with worldwide insanity increase?
So, you think that moving away from Biblical world view has nothing to do with worldwide insanity increase?
12/27/18 BE SURE TO WEAR YOU HAT (NOT)
12/27/18 BE SURE TO WEAR YOU HAT (NOT)
Will wearing an aluminum foil helmet protect me from "aliens" and insure my mental stability?
NO, it leads to instability.
YET, supposed "intellectuals" believe that the tin hats of the ISMS and ACADEMIA, such as Humanism, Secularism, Materialism, Naturalism, Scientism, Liberalism, Socialism, Pragmatism, Psychology, Phiolosophy, Psychiatry, protect them from ignorance and superstition, when in reality, these are the very superstitions that lead to further delusion and insanity in society.
Will wearing an aluminum foil helmet protect me from "aliens" and insure my mental stability?
NO, it leads to instability.
YET, supposed "intellectuals" believe that the tin hats of the ISMS and ACADEMIA, such as Humanism, Secularism, Materialism, Naturalism, Scientism, Liberalism, Socialism, Pragmatism, Psychology, Phiolosophy, Psychiatry, protect them from ignorance and superstition, when in reality, these are the very superstitions that lead to further delusion and insanity in society.
12/27/18 DISCARD AT YOUR OWN PERIL
12/27/18 DISCARD AT YOUR OWN PERIL
The HOLY BIBLE is the standard of truth, is the foundation of facts, is the revelation of God, concerning all of life.
The HOLY BIBLE is the standard of truth, is the foundation of facts, is the revelation of God, concerning all of life.
12/27/18 HOW SMART CAN THEY BE?
12/27/18 HOW SMART CAN THEY BE?
The greatest, most accurate book on The Human Mind is THE HOLY BIBLE.
Yet "intellectuals" are anti-Bible.
Let that sink in.
The greatest, most accurate book on The Human Mind is THE HOLY BIBLE.
Yet "intellectuals" are anti-Bible.
Let that sink in.
12/27/18 BEING FOR SOMETHING REQUIRES BEING AGAINST SOMETHING
12/27/18 BEING FOR SOMETHING REQUIRES BEING AGAINST SOMETHING
Standing for God and His word requires STANDING AGAINST SATAN'S LIES (aka Humanism, Liberalism, Scientism, Socialism).
Standing for God and His word requires STANDING AGAINST SATAN'S LIES (aka Humanism, Liberalism, Scientism, Socialism).
12/27/18 EASIER TO DEFEND
12/27/18 EASIER TO DEFEND
A small community can stand against a philosophical, moral, spiritual attack better, longer than a large community.
A small community can stand against a philosophical, moral, spiritual attack better, longer than a large community.
12/27/18 INTELLECTUALLY DISHONEST CHAMPIONS
12/27/18 INTELLECTUALLY DISHONEST CHAMPIONS
HOPELESSLY MESSED UP. Bible haters champion "science" and "social justice," until it conflicts with their warped agenda.
HOPELESSLY MESSED UP. Bible haters champion "science" and "social justice," until it conflicts with their warped agenda.
12/27/18 STANDING FIRM ON PHILOSOPHICAL FAULT LINE
12/27/18 STANDING FIRM ON PHILOSOPHICAL FAULT LINE
STILL MESSED UP. Espousing Evolution WHILE promoting Homosexuality, which defies, "SURVIVAL OF FITTEST" idea.
STILL MESSED UP. Espousing Evolution WHILE promoting Homosexuality, which defies, "SURVIVAL OF FITTEST" idea.
12/27/18 SCIENTIFIC DENIAL OF BIOLOGY?
12/27/18 SCIENTIFIC DENIAL OF BIOLOGY?
HOW MESSED UP. Claiming to be "scientific" but denying obvious biological facts of life.
HOW MESSED UP. Claiming to be "scientific" but denying obvious biological facts of life.
12/27/18 TODAY'S INSANITY
12/27/18 TODAY'S INSANITY
Most of today's "insanity" is due to Humanistic Secularism, denial of reality (Biblical revelation) and Christian values.
Most of today's "insanity" is due to Humanistic Secularism, denial of reality (Biblical revelation) and Christian values.
12/27/18 LEADERSHIP REQUIRES SUBMISSION
12/27/18 LEADERSHIP REQUIRES SUBMISSION
Pastors have same moral standards as other believers, but leadership position requires adherence to qualifications.
Pastors have same moral standards as other believers, but leadership position requires adherence to qualifications.
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
12/26/18 MINISTRY IS A LIFETIME CALL
12/26/18 MINISTRY IS A LIFETIME CALL
The God approved Minister must pursue a life dedicated to change, growth, sacrifice, faithfulness.
The God approved Minister must pursue a life dedicated to change, growth, sacrifice, faithfulness.
12/26/18 IT IS A DIVINE PACKAGE
12/26/18 IT IS A DIVINE PACKAGE
God's Call, God's Gifts, God's Equipping for the ministry are 3 separate but essentials to be Divinely qualified.
God's Call, God's Gifts, God's Equipping for the ministry are 3 separate but essentials to be Divinely qualified.
12/26/18 PEOPLE SETTLE
12/26/18 PEOPLE SETTLE
There is a Divine plan to guide, encourage, confront, perfect believers and churches.
Instead, people reject leadership.
There is a Divine plan to guide, encourage, confront, perfect believers and churches.
Instead, people reject leadership.
12/26/18 GOD QUALIFIED PASTORS
12/26/18 GOD QUALIFIED PASTORS
A Biblical Pastor is gifted, empowered, led, transformed, enlightened, studious, sensitive, submissive, strong.
A Biblical Pastor is gifted, empowered, led, transformed, enlightened, studious, sensitive, submissive, strong.
12/26/18 PASTORAL MINISTRY IS PREMIER
12/26/18 PASTORAL MINISTRY IS PREMIER
Based on Bible record, observation, experience, study, the ministry of PASTOR is of premier importance to church and believer.
Based on Bible record, observation, experience, study, the ministry of PASTOR is of premier importance to church and believer.
12/26/18 NOT REFORMATION OR RELIGION
12/26/18 NOT REFORMATION OR RELIGION
Redemption includes:
Divine regeneration, reconciliation, restoration.
Don't get shortchanged by mere reformation or "religion."
Redemption includes:
Divine regeneration, reconciliation, restoration.
Don't get shortchanged by mere reformation or "religion."
12/26/18 "COMING TO OURSELVES," IS ESSENTIAL
12/26/18 "COMING TO OURSELVES," IS ESSENTIAL
HONESTLY and humbly accepting our separation from God is essential to our restoration.
Luke 15:17-21
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
HONESTLY and humbly accepting our separation from God is essential to our restoration.
Luke 15:17-21
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
12/26/18 THOSE IN DANGER ARE NOT THE RESCUERS
12/26/18 THOSE IN DANGER ARE NOT THE RESCUERS
Alignment with losers is a losing alignment.
The drowning cannot rescue the drowning.
Luke 15:15-16
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
Alignment with losers is a losing alignment.
The drowning cannot rescue the drowning.
Luke 15:15-16
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
12/26/18 A TENDER LOVER BECOMES A TIGHTENING TYRANT
12/26/18 A TENDER LOVER BECOMES A TIGHTENING TYRANT
BEWARE:
Sin's soft embrace will tighten like a noose and squeeze you to death.
Luke 15:13-17
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
BEWARE:
Sin's soft embrace will tighten like a noose and squeeze you to death.
Luke 15:13-17
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
12/26/18 R U CHOOSING THE RIGHT?
12/26/18 R U CHOOSING THE RIGHT?
CHOOSING riotousness instead of righteousness led Prodigal to the pigsty.
CHOOSING to repent and return led to restoration.
Luke 15:13-24
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
CHOOSING riotousness instead of righteousness led Prodigal to the pigsty.
CHOOSING to repent and return led to restoration.
Luke 15:13-24
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
12/26/18 THERE IS SELF DETERMINATION AND SELFISH DETERMINATION
12/26/18 THERE IS SELF DETERMINATION AND SELFISH DETERMINATION
SELF DETERMINATION is not sin.
SELFISH DETERMINATION is sin.
Not Prodigal's "will" but his misuse of "will" was sin.
Luke 15:12
12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
SELF DETERMINATION is not sin.
SELFISH DETERMINATION is sin.
Not Prodigal's "will" but his misuse of "will" was sin.
Luke 15:12
12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
12/26/18 SELF CONDEMNATION
12/26/18 SELF CONDEMNATION
Father did not condemn Prodigal.
Prodigal's sin condemned Prodigal.
Sin separates. God restores.
Wake up. Return home.
Father did not condemn Prodigal.
Prodigal's sin condemned Prodigal.
Sin separates. God restores.
Wake up. Return home.
12/26/18 NOT GOD'S WILL
12/26/18 NOT GOD'S WILL
Sit at Feast,
Or wallow in Swill,
To abandon the Father,
Is not God's will.
Luke 15:12-19
12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
Sit at Feast,
Or wallow in Swill,
To abandon the Father,
Is not God's will.
Luke 15:12-19
12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
12/26/18 PRODIGAL'S SIN
12/26/18 PRODIGAL'S SIN
Prodigal's sin (choice) was to
Swill with the swine,
rather than,
Feast with the family.
Prodigal's sin (choice) was to
Swill with the swine,
rather than,
Feast with the family.
12/26/18 SIMPLIFIED
12/26/18 SIMPLIFIED
SIMPLIFIED:
Selfishness is Christlessness.
Sin is Christlessness.
Separation from God is Christlessness.
SIMPLIFIED:
Selfishness is Christlessness.
Sin is Christlessness.
Separation from God is Christlessness.
12/26/18 SELFISHNESS OR SELFLESNSESS
12/26/18 SELFISHNESS OR SELFLESNSESS
A great deal of our suffering is because other people choose SELFISHness rather than SELFLESSness.
A great deal of our suffering is because other people choose SELFISHness rather than SELFLESSness.
12/26/18 PLENTY TO GO AROUND
12/26/18 PLENTY TO GO AROUND
I often read posts that acknowledge broken and violated relationships.
Sin leaves a wide path of destruction and suffering.
I often read posts that acknowledge broken and violated relationships.
Sin leaves a wide path of destruction and suffering.
12/26/18 A FRIEND'S POST
12/26/18 A FRIEND'S POST
A friend (Willis) posted,
People don't abandon people they love.
They abandon people they were using.
TRUE
A friend (Willis) posted,
People don't abandon people they love.
They abandon people they were using.
TRUE
12/26/18 NOT WHAT MOST FOLKS THINK
12/26/18 NOT WHAT MOST FOLKS THINK
Prodigal's father didn't make him leave or wallow with the pigs.
Prodigal selfishly and foolishly chose the profligate life.
PASSAGE
Luke 15:20-24
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
Prodigal's father didn't make him leave or wallow with the pigs.
Prodigal selfishly and foolishly chose the profligate life.
PASSAGE
Luke 15:20-24
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
12/26/18 WE HAVE ALL BEEN PRODIGAL
12/26/18 WE HAVE ALL BEEN PRODIGAL
We have all been PRODIGAL (wasteful). We have wasted, lavished our lives on the useless, the temporal, the vain and empty.
We have all been PRODIGAL (wasteful). We have wasted, lavished our lives on the useless, the temporal, the vain and empty.
12/26/18 INCARNATION AND RESTORATION
12/26/18 INCARNATION AND RESTORATION
God came to man in the Incarnation (Jesus' birth).
Man comes to God in Restoration (Prodigal son).
CONSIDER THIS
THE PRINCIPLE OF RESTORATION (APPREHENDED AND APPREHENDING)
God sought, pursued and seized (apprehended) the man, and the man responded to being seized by laying hold, grasping, seizing, the One Who seized him. Seizing is not a, "One and done" momentary even. Seizing, apprehending, laying hold of God is a lifelong pursuit, endeavor, commitment to Christ and to the exclusion of sin.
Philippians 3:8-19
8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)
GOD CAME TO US (HIS INCARNATION)
Matthew 1:18-25
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.
WE COME TO GOD AND GOD RECEIVES US (OUR REPENTANCE AND HIS ACCEPTANCE)
Luke 15:11-24
11 And he said, A certain man had two sons:
12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
God came to man in the Incarnation (Jesus' birth).
Man comes to God in Restoration (Prodigal son).
CONSIDER THIS
THE PRINCIPLE OF RESTORATION (APPREHENDED AND APPREHENDING)
God sought, pursued and seized (apprehended) the man, and the man responded to being seized by laying hold, grasping, seizing, the One Who seized him. Seizing is not a, "One and done" momentary even. Seizing, apprehending, laying hold of God is a lifelong pursuit, endeavor, commitment to Christ and to the exclusion of sin.
Philippians 3:8-19
8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)
GOD CAME TO US (HIS INCARNATION)
Matthew 1:18-25
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.
WE COME TO GOD AND GOD RECEIVES US (OUR REPENTANCE AND HIS ACCEPTANCE)
Luke 15:11-24
11 And he said, A certain man had two sons:
12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
12/26/18 STILL TRUE, SAD TO SAY
12/26/18 STILL TRUE, SAD TO SAY
"No room...in the inn."
"He came to His own and His own received Him not."
Today, He is despised and rejected by the whole world.
O.T. PROPHECY
CONCERNING JESUS
Isaiah 53:1-12
1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.
10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.
11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
"No room...in the inn."
"He came to His own and His own received Him not."
Today, He is despised and rejected by the whole world.
O.T. PROPHECY
CONCERNING JESUS
Isaiah 53:1-12
1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.
10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.
11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
12/25/18 DIVINELY ENDOWED
12/25/18 DIVINELY ENDOWED
Sad to see a well endowed life wasted by falling short.
Even more so if it is a Divinely endowed life.
Sad to see a well endowed life wasted by falling short.
Even more so if it is a Divinely endowed life.
12/25/18 A GREAT LIFE
12/25/18 A GREAT LIFE
Great hope comes with birth.
Great promise comes with salvation.
Great victory adorns total surrender.
Great hope comes with birth.
Great promise comes with salvation.
Great victory adorns total surrender.
12/25/18 TO DETER OR TO DETERMINE
12/25/18 TO DETER OR TO DETERMINE
If the Devil cannot deter our first steps with God, he will be satisfied to determine our last steps.
If the Devil cannot deter our first steps with God, he will be satisfied to determine our last steps.
12/25/18 MORE THAN A JUMP START
12/25/18 MORE THAN A JUMP START
We don't just need a jump start from God.
We need a constant infusion of Divine life and power.
We don't just need a jump start from God.
We need a constant infusion of Divine life and power.
12/25/18 REDEEMABLE BY DIVINE ACTION
12/25/18 REDEEMABLE BY DIVINE ACTION
Human Nature (not Sinful Nature) is redeemable, but it requires Divine action.
Human Nature (not Sinful Nature) is redeemable, but it requires Divine action.
12/25/18 IT MUST DIE
12/25/18 IT MUST DIE
Sinful Nature in believers (Old Man, Double Mind, Carnal Mind) refuses to surrender, yield, submit to God.
It must DIE.
Sinful Nature in believers (Old Man, Double Mind, Carnal Mind) refuses to surrender, yield, submit to God.
It must DIE.
12/25/18 FROM GOOD TO AWESOME
12/25/18 FROM GOOD TO AWESOME
If following Christ into change is good, think how awesome total surrender would be.
If following Christ into change is good, think how awesome total surrender would be.
12/25/18 THE BIRTH OF JESUS WAS
12/25/18 THE BIRTH OF JESUS WAS
JESUS BIRTH was God breaking the silence, confronting the darkness, answering the sin problem.
MERRY CHRISTMAS.
JESUS BIRTH was God breaking the silence, confronting the darkness, answering the sin problem.
MERRY CHRISTMAS.
Tuesday, December 25, 2018
12/24/18 DON'T BE SCAMMED
12/24/18 DON'T BE SCAMMED
Scammers ever try to get you?
Stick with who you know, what you know.
Know your network.
Don't panic.
True spiritually too.
Scammers ever try to get you?
Stick with who you know, what you know.
Know your network.
Don't panic.
True spiritually too.
12/24/18 NO ACCIDENT
12/24/18 NO ACCIDENT
A world in order is no accident.
Neither is a world in chaos.
Order comes from God.
Chaos comes from rebellion.
GENESIS 1:1
God created the universe as an orderly unit, including the creation of angels.
However, God gave angels the power of self determination (moral determination, free will, choice), allowing them to choose to obey God or rebel against God.
REMEMBER, GOD DID NOT CREATE SIN, REBELLION, CHAOS, DESTRUCTION.
After Genesis 1:1 but before Genesis 1:2
REMEMBER, THE ANGELS WERE CREATED AS RIGHTEOUS SERVANTS OF GOD.
At some point, a number of the angels, led by the fallen head angel, Lucifer (meaning Light Bearer or Bringer, Morning Star), rebelled against God, and the rebellion resulted in a state of war, which ended when God cast the rebels out of His presence and assigned them to a world left in chaos and darkness and upheaval. Lucifer, since known as Satan (the Adversary) with the other fallen angels, now known as Demons, was cast to the earth, which was in chaos, as a result of the conflict.
That chaotic world, the ruined remains of a primitive and pristine earth became the domain of Satan.
Satan is known as, "The god of this world," "The prince of the power of the air."
But God had other plans for the world, and was not going to be thwarted by Satan's rebellion.
GENESIS 1:2
Though there was no human or sentient life on the earth during this time of total chaos, God actively changed the condition of the earth and began to renovate a world in chaos into a paradise of God. It appears that plant life lay dormant in the darkness and death of the earth. Verse two records God's self originated initiative to restore a corrupted world and create an orderly world. The restoration and creation was the specific work of the Holy Spirit.
In a similar fashion, the Spirit of God moves over the dark recesses of our fallen condition and He imparts life and meaning to us while we are yet the slaves of sin.
GENESIS 1:3 (and following) IS THE RECORD OF GOD RESTORING THE EARTH, POPULATING THE WORLD, CREATING THE HUMAN RACE, RESTORING FALLEN MANKIND,
Genesis 1:1-5
1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
JUST SO YOU KNOW...
REMEMBER, THE BIBLE IS NOT THE RECORD OF THE UNIVERSE OR THE RECORD OF PRE GENESIS 1:2 EVENTS. THE BIBLE IS THE RECORD OF GOD'S REDEMPTIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH THE HUMAN RACE.
Yes, there is a gap between 1:1 and 1:2.
There is an Old Universe (age of universe unimportant because it does not have anything to do with the creation account in Genesis 1 and 2). The universe before 1:2 is a universe without a human race.
There is a Young Earth (ranging from 6,000 years to 30,000 years), from the time of the creation of our present Earth and the human race.
There are various models of the "Gap Theory," which ignore a strong Biblical foundation. In fact, I don't see how anyone can discount and attack the Biblical record by ignoring the obvious "gap." The gap does not leave out anything or lose anything that believers should know or need to know concerning the work of redemption. The "gap" does not dispute the authority, inerrancy, genuineness, infallibility of the Scriptures. (yes, I know this brings up a whole other world of discussion).
YES, I believe in a literal SIX days of Creation, and NO, I do not believe in Evolution or Theistic Evolution. I believe the Bible. Now, notice, THIS IS NOT TO SAY that those who disagree with my view on the "Gap Theory" are infidels. I think anyone can believe the Bible, even if they misunderstand what the Bible says. Sadly, there are those who claim that anyone who disagree with them on anything in the Bible say, indicates that the other person is not a true believer in the Word of God.
A world in order is no accident.
Neither is a world in chaos.
Order comes from God.
Chaos comes from rebellion.
GENESIS 1:1
God created the universe as an orderly unit, including the creation of angels.
However, God gave angels the power of self determination (moral determination, free will, choice), allowing them to choose to obey God or rebel against God.
REMEMBER, GOD DID NOT CREATE SIN, REBELLION, CHAOS, DESTRUCTION.
After Genesis 1:1 but before Genesis 1:2
REMEMBER, THE ANGELS WERE CREATED AS RIGHTEOUS SERVANTS OF GOD.
At some point, a number of the angels, led by the fallen head angel, Lucifer (meaning Light Bearer or Bringer, Morning Star), rebelled against God, and the rebellion resulted in a state of war, which ended when God cast the rebels out of His presence and assigned them to a world left in chaos and darkness and upheaval. Lucifer, since known as Satan (the Adversary) with the other fallen angels, now known as Demons, was cast to the earth, which was in chaos, as a result of the conflict.
That chaotic world, the ruined remains of a primitive and pristine earth became the domain of Satan.
Satan is known as, "The god of this world," "The prince of the power of the air."
But God had other plans for the world, and was not going to be thwarted by Satan's rebellion.
GENESIS 1:2
Though there was no human or sentient life on the earth during this time of total chaos, God actively changed the condition of the earth and began to renovate a world in chaos into a paradise of God. It appears that plant life lay dormant in the darkness and death of the earth. Verse two records God's self originated initiative to restore a corrupted world and create an orderly world. The restoration and creation was the specific work of the Holy Spirit.
In a similar fashion, the Spirit of God moves over the dark recesses of our fallen condition and He imparts life and meaning to us while we are yet the slaves of sin.
GENESIS 1:3 (and following) IS THE RECORD OF GOD RESTORING THE EARTH, POPULATING THE WORLD, CREATING THE HUMAN RACE, RESTORING FALLEN MANKIND,
Genesis 1:1-5
1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
JUST SO YOU KNOW...
REMEMBER, THE BIBLE IS NOT THE RECORD OF THE UNIVERSE OR THE RECORD OF PRE GENESIS 1:2 EVENTS. THE BIBLE IS THE RECORD OF GOD'S REDEMPTIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH THE HUMAN RACE.
Yes, there is a gap between 1:1 and 1:2.
There is an Old Universe (age of universe unimportant because it does not have anything to do with the creation account in Genesis 1 and 2). The universe before 1:2 is a universe without a human race.
There is a Young Earth (ranging from 6,000 years to 30,000 years), from the time of the creation of our present Earth and the human race.
There are various models of the "Gap Theory," which ignore a strong Biblical foundation. In fact, I don't see how anyone can discount and attack the Biblical record by ignoring the obvious "gap." The gap does not leave out anything or lose anything that believers should know or need to know concerning the work of redemption. The "gap" does not dispute the authority, inerrancy, genuineness, infallibility of the Scriptures. (yes, I know this brings up a whole other world of discussion).
YES, I believe in a literal SIX days of Creation, and NO, I do not believe in Evolution or Theistic Evolution. I believe the Bible. Now, notice, THIS IS NOT TO SAY that those who disagree with my view on the "Gap Theory" are infidels. I think anyone can believe the Bible, even if they misunderstand what the Bible says. Sadly, there are those who claim that anyone who disagree with them on anything in the Bible say, indicates that the other person is not a true believer in the Word of God.
12/24/18 CHOOSE TO BE UNBLOCKED FROM GOD
12/24/18 CHOOSE TO BE UNBLOCKED FROM GOD
Pride, rebellion, deception, block people from finding, receiving the revelation of God.
God rewards honest, diligent seekers.
Pride, rebellion, deception, block people from finding, receiving the revelation of God.
God rewards honest, diligent seekers.
12/24/18 IF THERE IS, THEN THERE IS
12/24/18 IF THERE IS, THEN THERE IS
If there is no God, then there is no revelation of God.
If there is God, then there is a revelation of God.
If there is no God, then there is no revelation of God.
If there is God, then there is a revelation of God.
12/24/18 NOT AN ARROGANT FOOL
12/24/18 NOT AN ARROGANT FOOL
It is essential to recognize the revelation of God, if we do not want to be arrogant fools.
It is essential to recognize the revelation of God, if we do not want to be arrogant fools.
12/24/18 ONLY ARROGANT FOOLS
12/24/18 ONLY ARROGANT FOOLS
We can reject the teaching of men without being arrogant fools, but only arrogant fools reject the revelation of God.
We can reject the teaching of men without being arrogant fools, but only arrogant fools reject the revelation of God.
Monday, December 24, 2018
12/24/18 CREATOR AND INCARNATOR
Sound Bible teaching is based on solid Biblical facts, including
1. God the Creator
2. God the Incarnator.
GOD THE CREATOR AND THE INCARNATOR
In John 1:1-14 we see these basic truths.
the word was God, (vs 1)
the Word (God) created the world (vs 3)
the Word (God) became flesh (vs 14)
the Word was Jesus (14)
John 1:1-14
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.
8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Sound Bible teaching is based on solid Biblical facts, including
1. God the Creator
2. God the Incarnator.
GOD THE CREATOR AND THE INCARNATOR
In John 1:1-14 we see these basic truths.
the word was God, (vs 1)
the Word (God) created the world (vs 3)
the Word (God) became flesh (vs 14)
the Word was Jesus (14)
John 1:1-14
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.
8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
12/24/18 DARKNESS LEADS TO DARKNESS
12/24/18 DARKNESS LEADS TO DARKNESS
The more society rejects Biblical truth, the more confused it is about basic life.
The more society rejects Biblical truth, the more confused it is about basic life.
12/24/18 FALSE FOUNDATIONS
12/24/18 FALSE FOUNDATIONS
Many of the most astute minds misunderstand obvious realities because they do not understand Biblical principles.
Many of the most astute minds misunderstand obvious realities because they do not understand Biblical principles.
12/23/18 WHAT ARE YOU GIVING TO YOUR CHILDREN?
12/23/18 WHAT ARE YOU GIVING TO YOUR CHILDREN?
So, with God's help, what are you giving your children for Christmas?
So, with God's help, what are you giving your children for Christmas?
12/23/18 HELP WITH GIFTING OTHERS
12/23/18 HELP WITH GIFTING OTHERS
Parents often help children get gifts for family and friends (picking, purchasing, packaging).
So does God.
Parents often help children get gifts for family and friends (picking, purchasing, packaging).
So does God.
12/23/18 BREAKING THE SILENCE
12/23/18 BREAKING THE SILENCE
Christ's birth was God breaking 400 years of silence through HIS WORD.
He came once to be CRUCIFIED; next time it is to CONQUER.
Christ's birth was God breaking 400 years of silence through HIS WORD.
He came once to be CRUCIFIED; next time it is to CONQUER.
12/23/18 SIGNED DEATH CERTIFICATE
12/23/18 SIGNED DEATH CERTIFICATE
When folks allowed sinners to silence the Church in America they signed the death certificate for future generations.
When folks allowed sinners to silence the Church in America they signed the death certificate for future generations.
Sunday, December 23, 2018
12/23/18 THE BIG GIFT AND THE OTHERS
12/23/18 THE BIG GIFT AND THE OTHERS
Sometimes the big gift sets the tone for other gifts.
Our gifts to others should compliment His Supreme Gift.
Sometimes the big gift sets the tone for other gifts.
Our gifts to others should compliment His Supreme Gift.
12/23/18 ARE YOU STIRRED YET?
12/23/18 ARE YOU STIRRED YET?
The rejection of truth from a God hating world should stir us to an ALL OUT ASSAULT OF LOVE AGAINST DARKNESS.
(starting with self)
The rejection of truth from a God hating world should stir us to an ALL OUT ASSAULT OF LOVE AGAINST DARKNESS.
(starting with self)
12/23/18 A VERY HIDDEN CHRISTMAS TIME
12/23/18 A VERY HIDDEN CHRISTMAS TIME
I don't know about others, but my POST BACKGROUNDS are not promoting the INCARNATION OF ALMIGHTY GOD THROUGH CHRIST. (shock, not).
I don't know about others, but my POST BACKGROUNDS are not promoting the INCARNATION OF ALMIGHTY GOD THROUGH CHRIST. (shock, not).
12/23/18 INBORN AND AIRBORNE SIN CHANGES LIFE
12/23/18 INBORN AND AIRBORNE SIN CHANGES LIFE
Because of Atonement, infants and young children abound with love, joy, trust, hope.
Inborn and Airborne Sin changes this.
POLLUTE NOT!
DEFINED TERMS
ATONEMENT: The Propitiatory, Sacrificial Death and the Physical Resurrection of Jesus for the sin (nature) and sins (personal behavior) of the world; and the personal, miraculous transformation provided to those who trust in the Death and Resurrection of Jesus only, for their salvation. Preborns and infants are covered by the Atonement of Christ.
Jesus death and resurrection covers (does not eradicate) the inherited sin nature in all conceived children. Though it does not remove the sinful nature (Carnal Mind, Old Man, Double Mind, "The Flesh,") in the new born, it does give the newborn the opportunity to experience life with a "God presence" and influence.
Each child will come to a time of accountability before God. At that time they will need to renounce the hidden sinful desires and they will need to repent of their wilful rebellion. This is conversion, which includes forgiveness, regeneration, cleansing, repentance, faith, obedience, confession.
INBORN: The inherited nature of Adam, which is rebellious to God. Children are conceived and born with 1. a human nature (the nature to be human, which is body, soul, spirit), and with 2. a sinful nature (the nature to be sinful). Our entire self is crippled, corrupted by the INBORN sinful tendency. We not only respond with natural desire (eat when hungry, drink when thirsty), we respond with twisted and exaggerated desires (covet, lust, hate, deceive).
AIRBORNE: The temptations that come to us from outside of own hearts, they come to us "through the air." This also points out that our enemy, Satan, is the, "god of this world," he is, "the prince of the power of the AIR." Our temptations, trials come to us from beyond ourselves. It is Satan who tempts us with things seen, heard, smelled, felt, tasted.
Without the Atonement, children would be born with no joy, peace, love, hope, trust. As always, Satan attempts to thwart God's provision of salvation from sin. Since God has "headed Satan off at the pass," (by dealing with the sinful nature) Satan works in a man's own household (including the home of believers). Satan wants to turn the eyes of the children from trusting and following Jesus. He does this by corrupting and using the professing parents of the child.
The ARTICULATIONS, ACTIONS, and ATTITUDES of parents (and other professing adults) can influence a child to turn from being a loving, kind, tenderhearted, trusting, joyful, confident, enthusiastic, spiritually sensitive, obedient person to a rebel.
I realize that all negativity can break out, regardless of godly upbringing, but it is also true that parents set the tone and can undermine the work of God, in their lives.
Because of Atonement, infants and young children abound with love, joy, trust, hope.
Inborn and Airborne Sin changes this.
POLLUTE NOT!
DEFINED TERMS
ATONEMENT: The Propitiatory, Sacrificial Death and the Physical Resurrection of Jesus for the sin (nature) and sins (personal behavior) of the world; and the personal, miraculous transformation provided to those who trust in the Death and Resurrection of Jesus only, for their salvation. Preborns and infants are covered by the Atonement of Christ.
Jesus death and resurrection covers (does not eradicate) the inherited sin nature in all conceived children. Though it does not remove the sinful nature (Carnal Mind, Old Man, Double Mind, "The Flesh,") in the new born, it does give the newborn the opportunity to experience life with a "God presence" and influence.
Each child will come to a time of accountability before God. At that time they will need to renounce the hidden sinful desires and they will need to repent of their wilful rebellion. This is conversion, which includes forgiveness, regeneration, cleansing, repentance, faith, obedience, confession.
INBORN: The inherited nature of Adam, which is rebellious to God. Children are conceived and born with 1. a human nature (the nature to be human, which is body, soul, spirit), and with 2. a sinful nature (the nature to be sinful). Our entire self is crippled, corrupted by the INBORN sinful tendency. We not only respond with natural desire (eat when hungry, drink when thirsty), we respond with twisted and exaggerated desires (covet, lust, hate, deceive).
AIRBORNE: The temptations that come to us from outside of own hearts, they come to us "through the air." This also points out that our enemy, Satan, is the, "god of this world," he is, "the prince of the power of the AIR." Our temptations, trials come to us from beyond ourselves. It is Satan who tempts us with things seen, heard, smelled, felt, tasted.
Without the Atonement, children would be born with no joy, peace, love, hope, trust. As always, Satan attempts to thwart God's provision of salvation from sin. Since God has "headed Satan off at the pass," (by dealing with the sinful nature) Satan works in a man's own household (including the home of believers). Satan wants to turn the eyes of the children from trusting and following Jesus. He does this by corrupting and using the professing parents of the child.
The ARTICULATIONS, ACTIONS, and ATTITUDES of parents (and other professing adults) can influence a child to turn from being a loving, kind, tenderhearted, trusting, joyful, confident, enthusiastic, spiritually sensitive, obedient person to a rebel.
I realize that all negativity can break out, regardless of godly upbringing, but it is also true that parents set the tone and can undermine the work of God, in their lives.
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