"For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content." Philippians 4 - Paul
"Thou shalt not covet" - God, in the 10 commandments.
"Godliness with contentment is great gain." 1 Timothy - Paul
"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6 - Jesus
"A man's life does not exist in the abundance of his possessions." - Luke 12 - Jesus
"Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come follow me." - Mark 10 - Jesus
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Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
The Turkey Trot
Happy Thanksgiving!
I just finished running the Turkey Trot - the annual 5k (3.1 miles) Thanksgiving race held here in Springfield Mo. There were 5,100 runners/walkers in this race making it the largest 5k in the state.
One of the things I thought of as I ran this race was, "Ouch!". There were a lot of times I thought I wanted to quit, or at least sit down and wait 10 minutes before I ran again.
The author of Hebrews tells us in chapter 12, "let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith."
Let us run with endurance! He doesn't kid around and say that running is always fun. One t-shirt had a saying, "My sport is my son's punishment!"
Don't give up! You may get tired in your Christian race at times. You may get a blister or two. But don't give up - because there is a great reward waiting for those who finish the race.
Pastor John
(by the way - my time was 31 minutes - not great by any means - but I burned up enough calories for another piece of pie!)
I just finished running the Turkey Trot - the annual 5k (3.1 miles) Thanksgiving race held here in Springfield Mo. There were 5,100 runners/walkers in this race making it the largest 5k in the state.
One of the things I thought of as I ran this race was, "Ouch!". There were a lot of times I thought I wanted to quit, or at least sit down and wait 10 minutes before I ran again.
The author of Hebrews tells us in chapter 12, "let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith."
Let us run with endurance! He doesn't kid around and say that running is always fun. One t-shirt had a saying, "My sport is my son's punishment!"
Don't give up! You may get tired in your Christian race at times. You may get a blister or two. But don't give up - because there is a great reward waiting for those who finish the race.
Pastor John
(by the way - my time was 31 minutes - not great by any means - but I burned up enough calories for another piece of pie!)
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
I beg your pardon – I never promised you a rose garden
November 23, 2008
Many people believe that becoming a Christian is a ticket to a stress-free, easy life. If you only become a Christian – everything will be alright. You will have peace, joy, happiness. Your bank account will go up. You will be healed of all sickness. Bad breath will go away. Annoying neighbors will become nice.
Is this what the Bible teaches? Is this the reason you’re in church?
I’m afraid that many times the church has advertised itself in this way. You’ve got problems – we got the solutions. It is true, it’s just not true the way most of the world thinks of being true.
You do have problems – but there not the problems you think they are. They are not the problems of health, happiness, money and weight loss. They are the problems of sin, and judgment, heaven and hell.
Many people come to the church hoping to meet their perceived needs. And when troubles, trials, and temptations come ( and they surely will ) they had back out the door.
Jesus said in Luke 9:62, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
In Mark 8:34-37 he said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? 37Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? 38If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."
I was reading that in a province in India, groups are paying $250 to kill a Christian minister. Thousands are having to flee their homes. Churches are being destroyed. People are being tortured and executed for holding fast to the Christian faith.
If you are thinking about becoming a Christian, you should count the cost. It is not a call to simply attend church and eat fellowship dinners. It is a call to take up the cross. If you are not willing to do that, than you aren’t ready to become a Christian.
Remember one thing though. Each of us will have to stand before the judgment seat of God and give an account. And only those who have put on Christ will be acquitted.
God Bless You – Pastor John
Many people believe that becoming a Christian is a ticket to a stress-free, easy life. If you only become a Christian – everything will be alright. You will have peace, joy, happiness. Your bank account will go up. You will be healed of all sickness. Bad breath will go away. Annoying neighbors will become nice.
Is this what the Bible teaches? Is this the reason you’re in church?
I’m afraid that many times the church has advertised itself in this way. You’ve got problems – we got the solutions. It is true, it’s just not true the way most of the world thinks of being true.
You do have problems – but there not the problems you think they are. They are not the problems of health, happiness, money and weight loss. They are the problems of sin, and judgment, heaven and hell.
Many people come to the church hoping to meet their perceived needs. And when troubles, trials, and temptations come ( and they surely will ) they had back out the door.
Jesus said in Luke 9:62, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
In Mark 8:34-37 he said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? 37Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? 38If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."
I was reading that in a province in India, groups are paying $250 to kill a Christian minister. Thousands are having to flee their homes. Churches are being destroyed. People are being tortured and executed for holding fast to the Christian faith.
If you are thinking about becoming a Christian, you should count the cost. It is not a call to simply attend church and eat fellowship dinners. It is a call to take up the cross. If you are not willing to do that, than you aren’t ready to become a Christian.
Remember one thing though. Each of us will have to stand before the judgment seat of God and give an account. And only those who have put on Christ will be acquitted.
God Bless You – Pastor John
Millions of Christians support surpressing Christian Speech!
November 16, 2008
At Yuba Community College in Marysville, California, a Christian decided that he should let others know about his faith. Kind of like what Jesus talked about in Matthew 28.
Unfortunately for him – he did not know that the college had set up “speech” rules. It seems that he could only talk to people about issues of life and death on Tuesday or Thursday from Noon to 1 pm – and only if he got a permit two weeks in advance.
Not knowing this – he was warned by both the police and the college – if he persisted in this terrible behavior, he would face discipline, up to and including being expelled from the school.
Christians all over the United States appauded the wise decision of the school. Here are some quotes:
“Telling people about Jesus upsets others. Our God never wants anybody to be upset.”
“Only trained professionals, like the clergy, should be involved in talking about religion.”
“People who talk about Jesus Christ give all us Christians a bad name. If this young man continues this behavior, he should be locked up!”
One clergyman even indicated that “we should apply laws like this right here in Springfield Missouri.”
By now you should either be upset or understand that these quotes aren’t really true. However, by our words and our actions, millions of Christians express their support for this kind of law.
Many folks, even those in the church, seem to think that “nice” people never discuss politics or religion with others – well, sometimes politics are OK.
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.”
“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man shall be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
When we keep silent about the most important thing in our lives – what are we saying about Jesus?
God Bless You – Pastor John
At Yuba Community College in Marysville, California, a Christian decided that he should let others know about his faith. Kind of like what Jesus talked about in Matthew 28.
Unfortunately for him – he did not know that the college had set up “speech” rules. It seems that he could only talk to people about issues of life and death on Tuesday or Thursday from Noon to 1 pm – and only if he got a permit two weeks in advance.
Not knowing this – he was warned by both the police and the college – if he persisted in this terrible behavior, he would face discipline, up to and including being expelled from the school.
Christians all over the United States appauded the wise decision of the school. Here are some quotes:
“Telling people about Jesus upsets others. Our God never wants anybody to be upset.”
“Only trained professionals, like the clergy, should be involved in talking about religion.”
“People who talk about Jesus Christ give all us Christians a bad name. If this young man continues this behavior, he should be locked up!”
One clergyman even indicated that “we should apply laws like this right here in Springfield Missouri.”
By now you should either be upset or understand that these quotes aren’t really true. However, by our words and our actions, millions of Christians express their support for this kind of law.
Many folks, even those in the church, seem to think that “nice” people never discuss politics or religion with others – well, sometimes politics are OK.
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.”
“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man shall be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
When we keep silent about the most important thing in our lives – what are we saying about Jesus?
God Bless You – Pastor John
Understanding the Presbyterians – November 9, 2008
The Cumberland Presbyterian Church is governed using the presbyterian form of government. The term comes from the Greek work “presbuteros”, meaning elders and it used to describe church government by elders. The congregation only votes on two issues: (one) the elders who will serve on the church board – called the session, and (two) the length of time and elder is elected to serve on the session.
The session consists of these elected elders (who are called “rulling” elders) and an ordained minister (called a “teaching elder”) serving as moderator.
Elders also come together by delegation, in larger groups called “presbytery”, “synod” and “general assembly.” Since all authority really belongs to Christ, the only king and head of the Church, no church assembly can have any ultimate authority. Ultimate authority belongs to the Lord alone and this in turn means that the Bible alone is the supreme standard for the church.
Some churches are congregational in government. Churches with this form of government do not recognize any governing authority except what exists in the local church. The great weakness in this form of government is that there is no right of appeal against decisions made in a local church if they are unbiblical. We believe this conflicts with the clear teaching of Acts chapter 15. This portion of the Bible proves that there was the right of appeal in the apostolic church. The general assembly had the authority to settle matters which could not settled in the local church.
There are also hierarchical churches. In this form of church government many congregations are bound together under the authority of an ascending series of officers, such as priests, bishops, archbishops, etc. It will be evident that the authority of the local church, in this form of government, is drastically reduced. Since all decisions come from the top down—in this type of government—there is no right of appeal. For example, to whom would a Roman Catholic appeal against a decision of the Pope?
The Presbyterian form of church government is the only system that safeguards these two important principles: (1) each part of the church is in due subjection, in the Lord, to the whole church; yet (2) no part of the church is given supremacy over any other.
God Bless You – Pastor John
The session consists of these elected elders (who are called “rulling” elders) and an ordained minister (called a “teaching elder”) serving as moderator.
Elders also come together by delegation, in larger groups called “presbytery”, “synod” and “general assembly.” Since all authority really belongs to Christ, the only king and head of the Church, no church assembly can have any ultimate authority. Ultimate authority belongs to the Lord alone and this in turn means that the Bible alone is the supreme standard for the church.
Some churches are congregational in government. Churches with this form of government do not recognize any governing authority except what exists in the local church. The great weakness in this form of government is that there is no right of appeal against decisions made in a local church if they are unbiblical. We believe this conflicts with the clear teaching of Acts chapter 15. This portion of the Bible proves that there was the right of appeal in the apostolic church. The general assembly had the authority to settle matters which could not settled in the local church.
There are also hierarchical churches. In this form of church government many congregations are bound together under the authority of an ascending series of officers, such as priests, bishops, archbishops, etc. It will be evident that the authority of the local church, in this form of government, is drastically reduced. Since all decisions come from the top down—in this type of government—there is no right of appeal. For example, to whom would a Roman Catholic appeal against a decision of the Pope?
The Presbyterian form of church government is the only system that safeguards these two important principles: (1) each part of the church is in due subjection, in the Lord, to the whole church; yet (2) no part of the church is given supremacy over any other.
God Bless You – Pastor John
Standing in the gap – November 2, 2008
I was reading recently from Exekiel and I came across an interesting passage. In chapter 22 starting in verse 30 it reads
30 "I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none. 31 So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger, bringing down on their own heads all they have done, declares the Sovereign LORD."
Wow! According to this verse, God as actively searching for someone to stand before him and pray so he wouldn’t have to destroy the people. If only he could find someone, the circumstances would have changed.
I was reading comments recently on the question – does prayer make any difference?
Does it? – You bet it does. Over and over in the Bible, we are urged, we are pleaded with, we are encouraged to take our plea before God. We are encouraged to do this for our daily needs. But even more importantly as a Christian, we are to plead and interceed for others – for our nation, for our leaders, for the lost, for those hurting, for righteousness – and the list goes on and on.
When God was preparing to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah for their great wickedness (you can read about it in Genesis 18-19) Abraham bargained with God, trying to talk him into not destroying the city. “You won’t destroy them if there’s 50 righteous?” “How about 45? – 40 – 30 – 20. What if there’s only 10?” Abraham pleads with God until God promises that he won’t destroy the cities if there are 10 righteous. Unfortunately for those two cities – there weren’t even 10 righteous.
Standing in the gap, pleading with God, bargaining with the Almighty. These are the things that we should be doing in our prayer life –
And maybe then, we can save cities!
God Bless You – Pastor John
30 "I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none. 31 So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger, bringing down on their own heads all they have done, declares the Sovereign LORD."
Wow! According to this verse, God as actively searching for someone to stand before him and pray so he wouldn’t have to destroy the people. If only he could find someone, the circumstances would have changed.
I was reading comments recently on the question – does prayer make any difference?
Does it? – You bet it does. Over and over in the Bible, we are urged, we are pleaded with, we are encouraged to take our plea before God. We are encouraged to do this for our daily needs. But even more importantly as a Christian, we are to plead and interceed for others – for our nation, for our leaders, for the lost, for those hurting, for righteousness – and the list goes on and on.
When God was preparing to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah for their great wickedness (you can read about it in Genesis 18-19) Abraham bargained with God, trying to talk him into not destroying the city. “You won’t destroy them if there’s 50 righteous?” “How about 45? – 40 – 30 – 20. What if there’s only 10?” Abraham pleads with God until God promises that he won’t destroy the cities if there are 10 righteous. Unfortunately for those two cities – there weren’t even 10 righteous.
Standing in the gap, pleading with God, bargaining with the Almighty. These are the things that we should be doing in our prayer life –
And maybe then, we can save cities!
God Bless You – Pastor John
Friday, October 17, 2008
Gas Prices – from the obscene to the painful – Oct. 12, 2008
Isn’t it amazing how great it is to buy gas at $2.69 a gallon? A couple of weeks ago, I was happy to fill my tank at $3.09 a gallon. Now, I’m sitting here wishing I could have waited a couple of weeks. But – when you only have 1/3 of a gallon left – you can’t wait too long.
What’s the price of gas have to do with the Gospel and the Bible? Simply this: how we view a situation depends on what we have just experienced and what we focus on. Two years ago, gas at the current price would have been outrageous. Now, we’re thrilled that it’s dropped over a dollar. One article I read used the phrase I borrowed for this title – but it is still a pretty negative view.
How do you view your circumstances? Are you groaning about how bad you have it or are you looking at the blessings you do have? I was reading recently about a missionary at a leper colony. They were songs to the Lord and letting the people pick the songs. One lady raised her hand, with 4 fingers gone from her disease and wanted to sing, “Count Your Blessings!”
Paul wrote one of his most joyful letters sitting in the cold damp of a jail cell – in chains. In this letter told us to “Rejoice in the Lord always!” He said to think on what ever things are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable and praiseworthy. In his letter to the Corinthians, he told us that we are comforted in our affliction so that we can comfort others who are going through the same thing.
Are you using the experiences that you are going through to help anyone? There are people that ONLY YOU are qualified to minister to because you’ve been there, done that and got the T-shirt.
Are you looking at tough times and painful circumstances as a chance to grow or a chance to groan? Think on the right things and Paul promises that the peace of God will overflow in your hearts. That’s neither obscene or painful – it’s just grace.
God Bless You – Pastor John
What’s the price of gas have to do with the Gospel and the Bible? Simply this: how we view a situation depends on what we have just experienced and what we focus on. Two years ago, gas at the current price would have been outrageous. Now, we’re thrilled that it’s dropped over a dollar. One article I read used the phrase I borrowed for this title – but it is still a pretty negative view.
How do you view your circumstances? Are you groaning about how bad you have it or are you looking at the blessings you do have? I was reading recently about a missionary at a leper colony. They were songs to the Lord and letting the people pick the songs. One lady raised her hand, with 4 fingers gone from her disease and wanted to sing, “Count Your Blessings!”
Paul wrote one of his most joyful letters sitting in the cold damp of a jail cell – in chains. In this letter told us to “Rejoice in the Lord always!” He said to think on what ever things are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable and praiseworthy. In his letter to the Corinthians, he told us that we are comforted in our affliction so that we can comfort others who are going through the same thing.
Are you using the experiences that you are going through to help anyone? There are people that ONLY YOU are qualified to minister to because you’ve been there, done that and got the T-shirt.
Are you looking at tough times and painful circumstances as a chance to grow or a chance to groan? Think on the right things and Paul promises that the peace of God will overflow in your hearts. That’s neither obscene or painful – it’s just grace.
God Bless You – Pastor John
Sunday, October 05, 2008
A Christian Response to a financial meltdown
The past few weeks, we’ve seen the world in turmoil. Old established financial firms have bitten the dust or been absorbed by other companies. While we haven’t YET seen people jumping off of buildings to end it all, the retoric has come dangerously close.
How does the Christian look at all of this? What does Jesus say? It’s especially important now to remember the words of Scripture. Jesus told us that if we have our treasure on earth, we will find that those treasure can be taken away by waste and crime. In the Psalms it says that some folks trust in horses or chariots – the military – but that he trusts in God.
What can we do as we watch the markets melt? How can we be any different than the world? How can we find any peace in times of trial?
First, remember that you security does not depend on Wall Street. Jesus told us to lay up “Treasures” in heaven where they are not taken away by waste, fraud, or deceit. In a few years, you will leave all that you’ve accumulated behind, your relatives will probably argue over it, a large chunk of it will be taken by the government, and the rest will be sold in a garage sale or taken to the city dump.
Second, realize that you may have been trapped into the devil’s value system. One bumper sticker says, “He who dies with the most toys, wins.” But the answer to that is: “He who dies with the most toys – still dies.” Paul wrote, I have learned to be satisfied with what I have – food and a place to sleep. Paul also wrote, Do not let the world squeeze you into it’s mold but instead be changed and transformed by having your mind worked on by the Holy Spirit.
Third, realize that God is still in control – no matter what the presidential candidates say or what our elected leaders say or what the markets tell us. God is in control! And if you love God and are saved by Jesus Christ and are seeking to live by His purpose, than you can KNOW that everything works for your good.
God Bless You – Pastor John
How does the Christian look at all of this? What does Jesus say? It’s especially important now to remember the words of Scripture. Jesus told us that if we have our treasure on earth, we will find that those treasure can be taken away by waste and crime. In the Psalms it says that some folks trust in horses or chariots – the military – but that he trusts in God.
What can we do as we watch the markets melt? How can we be any different than the world? How can we find any peace in times of trial?
First, remember that you security does not depend on Wall Street. Jesus told us to lay up “Treasures” in heaven where they are not taken away by waste, fraud, or deceit. In a few years, you will leave all that you’ve accumulated behind, your relatives will probably argue over it, a large chunk of it will be taken by the government, and the rest will be sold in a garage sale or taken to the city dump.
Second, realize that you may have been trapped into the devil’s value system. One bumper sticker says, “He who dies with the most toys, wins.” But the answer to that is: “He who dies with the most toys – still dies.” Paul wrote, I have learned to be satisfied with what I have – food and a place to sleep. Paul also wrote, Do not let the world squeeze you into it’s mold but instead be changed and transformed by having your mind worked on by the Holy Spirit.
Third, realize that God is still in control – no matter what the presidential candidates say or what our elected leaders say or what the markets tell us. God is in control! And if you love God and are saved by Jesus Christ and are seeking to live by His purpose, than you can KNOW that everything works for your good.
God Bless You – Pastor John
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
99% Honest
Recently we saw another politician fall into the moral pit of disgrace. We see this far too often by politicians and candidates of all parties. This one, in his mea culpa statement said something I want to focus on.
"being 99% honest is no longer enough."
Hearing about this I wanted to shout and sing. Someone is finally saying the truth. Being 99% honest is not enough. Being 99% faithful is not enough. Being 99% loving is not enough. Being 99% truthful is not enough. I could go on and on.
There are many situations where 99% is great. Whenever I received a 99% on papers I turned in while I was in school, I was happy and proud. Having a 99% effecient car would be great to have. Being right 99% of the time would put almost anyone at the very top of their chosen field.
But, when it comes to our morals, our faith, our eternal destiny - 99% is not enough.
Some time ago, I heard how one person thought they would be saved. God would weigh the good and the bad that you had done in your life and if there was an acceptable amount of good - you'd go to heaven.
That wouldn't be soooo bad if we knew that God graded on a curve. I think I might be ok if He only checked how other people did. God may grade on a curve - but it's a curve that goes like this: 100% to 100% - passing. Anything less - do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars (from the monopoly game).
Being 99% honest is just not enough!
Only being 100% perfect - from birth no less - will qualify. Praise God that we have a redeemer - one who takes the test for us - Jesus Christ.
Through faith and trust in his saving work - we can enter heaven!
But let's think just a bit more on this 99%. How committed are you to our Savior? And how does that committment show up in your day-by-day life? In your church attendance? In your relationships? In your giving?
I hope and pray that the time never comes when you are faced with bright lights shining in your face as your sins are revealed. But I hope and pray even more that some day you will hear, "Well done good and faithful servant - enter into the joy of the Lord."
Pastor John
"being 99% honest is no longer enough."
Hearing about this I wanted to shout and sing. Someone is finally saying the truth. Being 99% honest is not enough. Being 99% faithful is not enough. Being 99% loving is not enough. Being 99% truthful is not enough. I could go on and on.
There are many situations where 99% is great. Whenever I received a 99% on papers I turned in while I was in school, I was happy and proud. Having a 99% effecient car would be great to have. Being right 99% of the time would put almost anyone at the very top of their chosen field.
But, when it comes to our morals, our faith, our eternal destiny - 99% is not enough.
Some time ago, I heard how one person thought they would be saved. God would weigh the good and the bad that you had done in your life and if there was an acceptable amount of good - you'd go to heaven.
That wouldn't be soooo bad if we knew that God graded on a curve. I think I might be ok if He only checked how other people did. God may grade on a curve - but it's a curve that goes like this: 100% to 100% - passing. Anything less - do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars (from the monopoly game).
Being 99% honest is just not enough!
Only being 100% perfect - from birth no less - will qualify. Praise God that we have a redeemer - one who takes the test for us - Jesus Christ.
Through faith and trust in his saving work - we can enter heaven!
But let's think just a bit more on this 99%. How committed are you to our Savior? And how does that committment show up in your day-by-day life? In your church attendance? In your relationships? In your giving?
I hope and pray that the time never comes when you are faced with bright lights shining in your face as your sins are revealed. But I hope and pray even more that some day you will hear, "Well done good and faithful servant - enter into the joy of the Lord."
Pastor John
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Prayer changes people
How important is prayer? It's interesting that the disciples only asked Jesus to teach them one thing - "teach us to pray!"
One of the most important things we can do is to pray - and pray especially for the lost. Often we don't do this because we have lost focus on just how important salvation is.
First of all, there is the matter of eternity. The Bible clearly states that only those who have saving faith in Jesus Christ will spend eternity in heaven. If you have friends and family who aren't saved - this should drive you to your knees.
Second, there is power to live a victorious life right here and now. The Bible teaches, "Greater is he who is in you, than he who is in the world." The apostle Paul wrote, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Who could not use more power in their day-to-day lives?
Third, there is the present knowledge of forgiveness. We've all done sinful things in our lives. But salvation means forgiveness - wiping the slate clean - not living with guilt!
The list could go on and on. But how can we pray for those who are lost? I came across an article which can help us in our prayers for the lost. This is easy to remember and can be incorporated into your daily prayer for your loved ones.
To remember how to pray for someone who is not a believer, you can use the acrostic HEARTS.
Pray for:
-- Hearts to be receptive. The Bible says God shines on people's hearts to give light to the knowledge of God's glory (2 Corinthians 4:6).
-- Ears to be open. Paul told his Jewish brothers that the saving work of God was sent to the Gentiles -- they also will listen (Acts 28:28). We need to pray that our friends and family will listen to the Gospel.
-- Attitudes to be changed. The mind set on the Spirit is life and peace (Romans 8:6). Your unbelieving friend or family member's attitude toward sin and the Savior must change to receive God's salvation. Pray for it.
-- Repentance to occur. God calls people to repentance so that times of refreshing may come from the Lord (Acts 3:19). Jesus told people to repent and believe in the Good News (Mark 1:15). This step is the surrendering of one's life to Jesus as Savior and Lord.
-- Transformation to begin. Transformation comes by the renewing of the mind so that someone can discern the will of God (Romans 12:2). Your prayer should be for your friend to experience God's transforming power so that he or she can become a committed follower of Christ.
-- Servants to be obedient. God's plan is for His followers to be witnesses all over the world (Acts 1:8). When praying for your friend or family member, pray for Christians to be obedient to Jesus' call. Pray that Christians will share the Gospel and live an authentic Christian life before an unbelieving world.
Lord, teach us to pray!
Pastor John
One of the most important things we can do is to pray - and pray especially for the lost. Often we don't do this because we have lost focus on just how important salvation is.
First of all, there is the matter of eternity. The Bible clearly states that only those who have saving faith in Jesus Christ will spend eternity in heaven. If you have friends and family who aren't saved - this should drive you to your knees.
Second, there is power to live a victorious life right here and now. The Bible teaches, "Greater is he who is in you, than he who is in the world." The apostle Paul wrote, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Who could not use more power in their day-to-day lives?
Third, there is the present knowledge of forgiveness. We've all done sinful things in our lives. But salvation means forgiveness - wiping the slate clean - not living with guilt!
The list could go on and on. But how can we pray for those who are lost? I came across an article which can help us in our prayers for the lost. This is easy to remember and can be incorporated into your daily prayer for your loved ones.
To remember how to pray for someone who is not a believer, you can use the acrostic HEARTS.
Pray for:
-- Hearts to be receptive. The Bible says God shines on people's hearts to give light to the knowledge of God's glory (2 Corinthians 4:6).
-- Ears to be open. Paul told his Jewish brothers that the saving work of God was sent to the Gentiles -- they also will listen (Acts 28:28). We need to pray that our friends and family will listen to the Gospel.
-- Attitudes to be changed. The mind set on the Spirit is life and peace (Romans 8:6). Your unbelieving friend or family member's attitude toward sin and the Savior must change to receive God's salvation. Pray for it.
-- Repentance to occur. God calls people to repentance so that times of refreshing may come from the Lord (Acts 3:19). Jesus told people to repent and believe in the Good News (Mark 1:15). This step is the surrendering of one's life to Jesus as Savior and Lord.
-- Transformation to begin. Transformation comes by the renewing of the mind so that someone can discern the will of God (Romans 12:2). Your prayer should be for your friend to experience God's transforming power so that he or she can become a committed follower of Christ.
-- Servants to be obedient. God's plan is for His followers to be witnesses all over the world (Acts 1:8). When praying for your friend or family member, pray for Christians to be obedient to Jesus' call. Pray that Christians will share the Gospel and live an authentic Christian life before an unbelieving world.
Lord, teach us to pray!
Pastor John
Friday, February 01, 2008
He was a good man?
Hundreds of Mormon faithful flocked to view church President Gordon B. Hinckley's body to begin three days of public mourning for their leader, capped by a funeral Saturday.
"He's recognized everywhere for being such a kind person and a good example of optimism."
A good person? Well, he may have been kind, he may have been nice, he may have had good morals. BUT!
Mark 10:17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
18"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. 19You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'"
20"Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy."
21Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
No one is good - except God along. That's what Jesus said. And if you want to have eternal life - the key is following Jesus.
Some may well think I shouldn't speak ill of the dead - but Gordon B. Hinckley did not follow Jesus. He lead an organization which teaches salvation by works, that if you are good enough, you will become God, that the god who rules this planet was appointed god here by a council of gods, and that your skin color is based upon the deeds you committed in heaven before you were born!
Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life - no one comes to the Father but by me.
All roads may lead to God - but only one leads to the Father and that path is through faith in Jesus Christ, the second person of the trinity.
Pastor John
"He's recognized everywhere for being such a kind person and a good example of optimism."
A good person? Well, he may have been kind, he may have been nice, he may have had good morals. BUT!
Mark 10:17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
18"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. 19You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'"
20"Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy."
21Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
No one is good - except God along. That's what Jesus said. And if you want to have eternal life - the key is following Jesus.
Some may well think I shouldn't speak ill of the dead - but Gordon B. Hinckley did not follow Jesus. He lead an organization which teaches salvation by works, that if you are good enough, you will become God, that the god who rules this planet was appointed god here by a council of gods, and that your skin color is based upon the deeds you committed in heaven before you were born!
Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life - no one comes to the Father but by me.
All roads may lead to God - but only one leads to the Father and that path is through faith in Jesus Christ, the second person of the trinity.
Pastor John
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Exorcism gone bad
In Romania, a "priest" tried to perform an exorcism. The result - his patient died. The person was bound to a cross and denied food and water for many days. Many people will look at this type of news and come to the conclusion that there is no such thing as demon possession. I beg to differ.
It's clear in the scriptures that our world is involved in a great struggle involving unseen forces. While God is ruler over all, their are spiritual forces opposed to his kingdom. In the New Testament, Jesus cast out many demons. He had personal encounters with the devil. He clearly taught that a being, going by various names (Satan, the devil, etc) stands opposed to the rule and reign of God.
Aren't all the accounts of demon possession in the Bible because those people didn't understand about mental illness? The Bible clearly knows the difference between demon possession and mental illness. In Mark 4:24 we read,
"24News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them."
Not all evil is a result of demon possession or demon activity. We can't get away with just saying, "The devil made me do it." We have our own sin nature to deal with and our own sinful desires. But - we should not discount the supernatural forces at work as well.
Interestingly, most accounts of demon possession occur before the death and resurrection of Jesus and the epistles make no mention of it nor give instructions for exorcism.
Although it doesn't seem to be as common today, Demonic possession still occurs. There are many credible missionary accounts of confrontations with demon possession in pagan cultures. These involve such manifestations as unnatural strength and knowledge of foreign languages not known by the possessed, along with other supernatural knowledge.
With the rise of Paganism and occult idolatry in our culture, demon possession is likely to become more common.
So how should a Christian respond to this knowledge?
First, realize that "greater is he that is in you - than he that is in the world." We need not fear Satan's power for we have a greater power within us - the Holy Spirit.
Second, do not discount the demonic. In our culture today, Satan works best by deception. To be forewarned is to be forearmed.
Third, understand that the occult is not a plaything. Any involvement in occult activities - even the "innocent" ouija board and your daily horoscope are activities that God calls an abomination.
I just finished reading a website that was promoting the ouija board. Even though they that this was a fine activity, there was a constant warning that you might be contacting evil spirits. According to the Bible, any spirits you contact this way are evil!
Finally, if you have been involved in the occult, repent. This is not an unforgiveable sin - but it is a sin and one which will harm your Christian walk.
Pastor John
It's clear in the scriptures that our world is involved in a great struggle involving unseen forces. While God is ruler over all, their are spiritual forces opposed to his kingdom. In the New Testament, Jesus cast out many demons. He had personal encounters with the devil. He clearly taught that a being, going by various names (Satan, the devil, etc) stands opposed to the rule and reign of God.
Aren't all the accounts of demon possession in the Bible because those people didn't understand about mental illness? The Bible clearly knows the difference between demon possession and mental illness. In Mark 4:24 we read,
"24News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them."
Not all evil is a result of demon possession or demon activity. We can't get away with just saying, "The devil made me do it." We have our own sin nature to deal with and our own sinful desires. But - we should not discount the supernatural forces at work as well.
Interestingly, most accounts of demon possession occur before the death and resurrection of Jesus and the epistles make no mention of it nor give instructions for exorcism.
Although it doesn't seem to be as common today, Demonic possession still occurs. There are many credible missionary accounts of confrontations with demon possession in pagan cultures. These involve such manifestations as unnatural strength and knowledge of foreign languages not known by the possessed, along with other supernatural knowledge.
With the rise of Paganism and occult idolatry in our culture, demon possession is likely to become more common.
So how should a Christian respond to this knowledge?
First, realize that "greater is he that is in you - than he that is in the world." We need not fear Satan's power for we have a greater power within us - the Holy Spirit.
Second, do not discount the demonic. In our culture today, Satan works best by deception. To be forewarned is to be forearmed.
Third, understand that the occult is not a plaything. Any involvement in occult activities - even the "innocent" ouija board and your daily horoscope are activities that God calls an abomination.
I just finished reading a website that was promoting the ouija board. Even though they that this was a fine activity, there was a constant warning that you might be contacting evil spirits. According to the Bible, any spirits you contact this way are evil!
Finally, if you have been involved in the occult, repent. This is not an unforgiveable sin - but it is a sin and one which will harm your Christian walk.
Pastor John
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Choose Life
Deuteronomy 30:19 This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live 20 and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Choose life - it seems like such a simple choice. And yet - it's such a controversial issue. Since the Supreme court issued it's ruling in 1973, it is estimated that 46 million babies have been aborted in the United States.
On January 24, 2008 a federal court ruled in Missouri that the state could not ban "Choose Life" as a slogan for speciality license plates. The 9th circuit court just ruled the same way in a case involving Arizona.
Why is there such controvery? Why is there an almost pathalogical fear against a license plate slogan?
While many reasons could be cited, I believe the heart of the issue goes back to the Garden of Eden. It was here that the temptation was presented to Adam and Eve. Obey God - OR - follow your own path, making your own rules, living by your own standards. If God happened to be on your side - that was ok. BUT - humans would get to decide the rules.
The ugly issue of abortion is but one of the outgrowths from the fall. It is primarily a rebellion against God - a decision that babies are not really made in the image of God, until a mother wants them, that God is not soverign over creation, that God makes mistakes, that my happiness is the ultimate standard of right and wrong.
Over all of this, God says - I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now - choose life!
Lord, I pray that the day may come when this terrible rebellion against you ceases and life is once more honored.
Pastor John
Choose life - it seems like such a simple choice. And yet - it's such a controversial issue. Since the Supreme court issued it's ruling in 1973, it is estimated that 46 million babies have been aborted in the United States.
On January 24, 2008 a federal court ruled in Missouri that the state could not ban "Choose Life" as a slogan for speciality license plates. The 9th circuit court just ruled the same way in a case involving Arizona.
Why is there such controvery? Why is there an almost pathalogical fear against a license plate slogan?
While many reasons could be cited, I believe the heart of the issue goes back to the Garden of Eden. It was here that the temptation was presented to Adam and Eve. Obey God - OR - follow your own path, making your own rules, living by your own standards. If God happened to be on your side - that was ok. BUT - humans would get to decide the rules.
The ugly issue of abortion is but one of the outgrowths from the fall. It is primarily a rebellion against God - a decision that babies are not really made in the image of God, until a mother wants them, that God is not soverign over creation, that God makes mistakes, that my happiness is the ultimate standard of right and wrong.
Over all of this, God says - I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now - choose life!
Lord, I pray that the day may come when this terrible rebellion against you ceases and life is once more honored.
Pastor John
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