Types

Types
Jesus said,
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!”Matthew 7:21-23.
In our world today especially here in North America there are two kinds of Christians, “true believers”.
True believers are those who love Gods word. Who do their best every day to follow Christ in word and in deed. Those who’s life is truly centred around living as Christ would have them live.
The other kind of Christians are “social Christians”. Social Christians are men and women who are Christians because it is the thing to do. They may have said the sinners prayer. They may go to church every Sunday and during the week. They may even be pastors, evangelist, and priest. But their life does not reflect that of Christ. They fail to show the love and mercy of God to those around them be they family, friends, or foe.
These are the men and women Christ is talking about in the scripture above. Thus the question becomes what kind of Christian are you?
Please think about i

A True Worshipper

A True Worshipper

Jesus said,
“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks.  
God is spirit, and his worshippers must worship in spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24
Are you a true worshipper of God? Do you worship God in spirit and in truth?
There are many in our society here in North America who claim to be Christians who claim to be worshippers of Christ Jesus who are not true worshippers.
They may have gone to church all their lives and know what to say and when to say it. They may be graduates of Bible schools. They may have read the Bible many times. They may even be standing in the pulpit.
They may have even said the sinners prayer. But as the evangelist Leonard Ravenhill put it,
“The sinners prayer has sent more people to hell than all the bars in America.” Leonard Ravenhill.
The fact of the matter is you can say all the prayers you want but if your faith is not truly rooted in a belief in God and Christ Jesus you are not truly a Christian. You are not a true believer in Christ Jesus.
The writer of Hebrews tells us,

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for

 and certain of what we do not see.”  

                                                    Hebrews 11:1

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, 

because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists 

and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” 

                                                                       Hebrews 11:6.

Ultimately no one can tell someone else if they are truly saved. That is between God and the individual.
So my question to those reading this do you truly have faith in God?
Please think about it.

You Christians

You Christians
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Mahatma Gandhi wrote,

Jesus is ideal and wonderful, 

but you Christians - you are not like him.

                                            Mahatma Gandhi.

Michael Flynn wrote,
“Jesus said the weeds would grow with the wheat until the Judgement," Dietrich answered, "so one finds both good men and bad in the Church. By our fruits we will be known, not by what name we have called ourselves.” Michael Flynn, Eifelheim.
Sadly people look on people who claim to be Christians and assume they are. Nothing could be further from the truth. Just because someone claims to be Christian does not mean they are. Even if they can quote the whole Bible from memory.
Christians sadly, not wanting to judge others do not police themselves very well. Yet the apostle Paul said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Thus many in the world see the negative things that are done in the name of Christ and equate them with being Christians.
Like Jesus said
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
What I would ask anyone outside the church who sees negative things done by anyone claiming to be a Christian is hold your judgement. For there are many, many Christians who are showing the love of Jesus. People who are living their life in a way that glorifies God.
Please think about it.

The Hidden Souls

The Hidden Souls
                                                          The Fourth Man
It’s five thirty-nine, dawn has not yet broken on this cold winter’s morning.  All around the suburban landscape lies covered, within a blanket of new fallen snow.
On the roads, the morning commute is slowly beginning.  As of yet, however, there are few cars.  All around, there is a peace.  Almost, like the calm before the storm.
Two cars, pull off the street and into the empty church parking lot.  Their tires making the snow squeak, as they move over it.  Coming to a halt, the occupants, three middle-aged men climb out, greet each other, and enter the church.
Before the altar, in the silence of the sanctuary, each man kneels.
Within this holy place, the presence of God is so very real.  His Holy power can be felt as it fills the temple.
I who have attended this church for over thirty years have never felt God’s presence so strongly.
From my vantage point in the balcony I watch as all three are raptured leaving me...   Alone.
If you claim to be Christian do you think that something like what is described in the above story can’t happen? Then think again.
Jesus said,
“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.  
As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.  
For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.  
Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.  
Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. 
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” Matthew 24:36-42.
As Christians we must remain true to God. True to Christ.
There are many within our churches that have gone to church all their lives yet lack faith in God. They believe in God intellectually and they will tell you they believe but they have never truly turned their life over to God. To them church is where their family and friends are. It is essentially a social club.
Such people know what the bible says. They know how to act in church they know what to say. They know all the Hymns and songs sung at church. Sadly however they have never made true commitment to God.
These are what I have heard someone say are the hidden lost souls within church congregations.
They are perhaps the hardest people to reach. Yet they like anyone outside the walls of our church congregations need to make a commitment to God, a commitment to Jesus that goes beyond intellectual acknowledgement.
As Christians we need to be praying for such people. We need to be praying that God will show us who these people are and how we can reach them for Christ.
One other thing I would ask anyone who believes themselves to Christian is this, Are you truly committed to Christ? Is your faith rooted in God, or are you simply giving intellectual consent to the fact there is a God. There is a real difference.
Please think about it.

Christian?

Christian?
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Not everyone who says they are Christian is a follower of Christ Jesus. Just because someone goes to church does not make them a true follower of Christ. Just because someone is a minister or speaks from the pulpit be it in a church or in the media does not make them a true follower of Christ.
As I quoted Jesus saying,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Living in North America I see many people in the media and in church, who call themselves Christians but are not. A quick look at what they teach shows they are not true followers. A quick look at their lives shows they are far from Christ.
They may claim they are prophesying, driving out demons and performing miracles but are they really?
It’s hard to tell if such things are truly happening especially through the lense of the media. The media be it the internet, television or radio can hid the truth.
I always say while the media is a good way to proclaim the message of Christ Jesus one should always be careful. There are a lot of false teachers out there.
I believe it is imperative that first of all, all believers in Christ pray and read the Bible for themselves. To ask God for guidance and show them the truth.
I believe also it is equally imperative that all believers in Christ Jesus should be a part of a church congregation near where they live. This way you get to know who the pastor and teachers within the congregation are. You see their lives and see if they are truly following the teachings of Christ Jesus in word as well as in deed.
Please think about it.

Keep True to The Faith

Keep True to The Faith
The apostle Paul writing to Timothy states,
“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.  
Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.  
They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth.  
For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,  because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. 
If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.  
Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.  
For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 
This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance  (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:1-10.
Here the apostle Paul is telling Timothy a young minister to teach the word of God correctly. Not to stray from the truth. He tells Timothy that people will arise claiming to be teaching the Gospel message but are not. They are teaching things Jesus never taught.
Jesus told this parable about the church,
“Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field.  
But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away.  
When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. 
“The owner’s servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’ 
“ ‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. “The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ 
“ ‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them.  
Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.’” Matthew 13:24-30.
Christianity has been around for a long time and like anything that has been around for a long time it has picked up things that are not Christian. Things are done in the name of Christ and the church that are not true.
What the apostle Paul stated,
“...in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” is happening today.
There are those claiming to be Christians both in the media and out, that are not Christians. Such people will be around until the return of Jesus. Ultimately however they will be judged by God for their misdeeds. Ultimately what Jesus said when he said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23. Will happen.
For the moment however false teachers are still around thus we must be cautious.
To those on the outside of the church and to many within the church it can be hard to tell the difference between what is true and what is not. That is why Paul states,
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.”
In order to do this we need to study the Bible. We need to know what it says. What those who actually were there with Jesus said and believed.
Please think about it.

Watch Out

Watch out
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.  
By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles?  
Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.  
A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.  
Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.  
Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. 
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 
Matthew 7: 15-23.
Jesus here warns believers to watch out for “false prophets”, false teachers. He notes that  “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
Christianity today in the twenty-first century like any faith or group of any kind that has been around a long time has people who call themselves Christian but are not.
They say they follow the teachings of Christ but one look at their life and lifestyle tells you they are a long way from Christ.
Now it must be said here the average Christian is far from perfect. However as someone once said

“Christians may not be perfect, but they are progressing

 toward what Jesus want for them in their life.” 

It can be hard for a non-believer or for that matter true Christians to tell who is a true Christian and who is not.
However I believe there are several things that mark a true believer in Christ. In brief they are,
1. They Love.
Jesus said,
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40.
2. They love even their enemy
Jesus said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,...” Matthew 5:43,44.
3. They obey Jesus who said,
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” Matthew 7:12.
4. They truly believe Jesus when He said

,“I am the way and the truth and the life. 

No one comes to the Father except through me.” 

 John 14:6

   5. They believe you get to heaven by the grace of God through faith. The apostle Paul saying,

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith

and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God

 not by works, so that no one can boast.”  

 Ephesians 2:8,9.

6. They believe in living at peace with all men. The apostle Paul saying,

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, 

live at peace with everyone.”

Romans 12:18

7. They will be subject to the rulers and authorities living a good life. Paul writing,

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, 

to be obedient, 

to be ready to do whatever is good,

  to slander no one, 

to be peaceable and considerate, 

and to show true humility toward all men.”

Titus 3:1,2.

A true Christian will also want to tell you about the most important thing in their life Jesus Christ. Obeying the words of Jesus who said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20.
A true Christian will do all of the above not only because it is what God requires of them but to show the non-believer the way to heaven. And that to a Christian is of paramount importance.
Please think about it.

A True Believer

A True Believer
A quote,
“A True believer in Christ acts in Love because Christ acted in Love for all people.”
The apostle Paul writes,
“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.  
Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.  
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8.
Here’s a question, If you claim to be a Christian would you die for a non-believer? Jesus did. He did so out of Love.
The apostle Paul wrote,

“Love is patient, love is kind. 

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, 

it is not easily angered, 

it keeps no record of wrongs. 

Love does not delight in evil 

but rejoices with the truth.  

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, 

always perseveres. 

Love never fails....

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. 

But the greatest of these is love.”  

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13.

As a Christian is this the kind of love you show to those you disagree with, be it their actions, their faith, or their lifestyle?
If this is not the kind of love you show and claim to be a Christian you need to rethink your way of life.
Jesus sat down with anyone who would listen to him. A Samaritan Woman, tax collectors, Romans, even religious leaders of his day.
The apostle Paul was presenting the gospel message in such a positive way in Athens that he was asked to speak at the Areopagus by Epicurean and Stoic philosophers.
This is the example we should be following.
I see many calling themselves Christians in the media and outside who protest against and find fault with those they disagree with. These people will not win anyone to Christ. In fact they quite often turn people away from Christ.
Billy Graham the American evangelist talking about Christ’s apostles said,
“The men who followed Him (Christ), were unique in their generation. They turned the world upside down because their hearts had been turned right side up. The world has never been the same.” Billy Graham.
There hearts were filled with the Love of God for their fellow man no matter who they were.
Matthews gospel records,
“While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and “sinners” came and ate with him and his disciples.  
When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and ‘sinners’?” 
On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.  
But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Matthew 9:10-13.
If you claim to be a Christian ask yourself, “Am I willing to sit down and present my views in a respectful manner to those I disagree with? Would I be asked to express my beliefs by those I disagree with?”
If your answer is no to either question you need to take a look at your commitment to Christ and His teachings.
Jesus Loved Unconditionally! And we need to do likewise.
Please think about it. 

Christians?

Christians?
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
As I look at what passes for Christianity here in North America where I live I sometimes shake my head. I especially cringe when I hear people calling themselves born again Christians or evangelicals who are not.
I see the Bible, God, and Jesus used wrongly. Some evangelist, pastors, and even those who sit in the pews seem to treat Jesus as a cosmic bell boy to do their will.
They only pray when they need help. Some only give money to the work of God because some evangelist or pastor has told them if they give they will get ten, fifty, or a hundred fold back on what they give. As if God is a “cosmic banker” giving outrageous returns on and investment.What a bunch of garbage. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Others claim to have cast out demons or healed people in the name of Jesus. They claim fantastic miracles. Few however are willing to give independent proof of such things happening.
These are the men and women Jesus was talking about when he said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
In North America it is “Christian beware!”
The freedoms our society offers us here in Canada and the United States is a double edged sword. It allows us to practice our faith freely while at the same time under the name of freedom of speech allows charlatans deceive people.
If you are a Christian you need to be looking at anyone you support who claims to be a Christian and that does not just extend to pastors, evangelist, and churches. It should extend to politicians and others who claim to be believers in Christ.
There is a simple standard I think we can hold all who claim to be Christian up to. Simple scriptures that express in a nutshell Christian values.
 Jesus who said when asked,
 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  Matthew 22:36-38
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40.
Jesus who also said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.  
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?  
  And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?  Matthew 5:43-47.
Again Jesus who said,
“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.” Matthew 10:42.
The James the half brother of Jesus writes,
“What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?  
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.  
If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?  
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 
But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.  
You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. 
You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?James 2:14-20.
Jesus tells us,
Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:1,2.
The Apostle Paul tells us,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.  
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:18-21.
The writer of Hebrews echos Pauls words to Christians writing,
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14,
These are all attributes of a true Christian. These are just a few key Scriptural standards we as Christians need to hold all those who claim to be Christians up to, be they evangelist, Pastors, politicians or anyone else.
The apostle Paul gives Christians this word of advice writing,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 1 Corinthians 5:12,13
We as Christians have the right to judge other Christians in order to make sure they are teaching and conducting their lives correctly. If they are not then we have the right to expel them from the Church. To have nothing to do with them.
Christians are to love, God, our neighbour, our enemy. To help those in need. We are not allowed to judge those outside the Church. We are to live at peace with all people and live holy lives.
This is what it is to live a true Christian life.
As the apostle Paul put it.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  
gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22,23.
Please think about it.

Sometimes I shake my head

Sometimes I shake my head.
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
                                                                           1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Sometimes I shake my head when I listen to things that are happening in the United States. Not so long ago I heard of a store that didn’t want to serve gays. They said it was against their belief as Christians.
For me when I heard this I immediately thought of the bad old days of segregation when there were those who refused to serve people because of the colour of their skin.
I wonder would the people who want the right not to serve gays, would they extend that to Muslims, to Atheist?
Would they refuse to serve someone who commits adultery after all adultery is wrong according to Christian belief. Would these people even turn the clock all the way back and not serve people based on skin colour?
Think of the message they are sending. They are claiming to be Christians but are saying to a segment of society that they are not welcome. That is not the way to win souls for Christ.
As Christians we must follow the teachings of Christ. Christ did not discriminate. In Christ’s day tax collectors were considered sinners. Yet Christ had dinner with them. Matthew’s gospel records,
“While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and “sinners” came and ate with him and his disciples.
When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and ‘sinners’?”
On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.
But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
             Matthew 9:10-13.
In  John 4:6-26, John records Jesus as speaking to a Samaritan woman. Jews and Samaritans didn’t speak to each other at that time. Samaritans were discriminated against. Yet Jesus spoke to this woman, who was also an adulteress.
The fact is we are all sinners. The apostle Paul stating,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
                                                                      Romans 3:23,
That all means all, you, me and all who are living or have ever lived. The apostle Paul states,
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8.
Paul also makes it clear that Christians are not to judge those outside the Church he states,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
                                                                1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Jesus speaking of Himself said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
            John 3:16,17
Jesus showed by example how we are to reach the world. Jesus showed that we are to welcome everyone in love. Jesus told us to love God, our neighbour and even our enemy. He told us to go into all the world and make disciple of all nations. We cannot do that if we discriminate against even one person.
The apostle Peter said,
“Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
                                                                          1 Peter 2:11,12.
The Writer of Hebrews said,
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”
Hebrews 12:14.
A true Christian one who is dedicated to Christ and doing His work in this world will welcome with open arms anyone. They will do there best to live at peace with all men and open a dialogue between themselves and others that they may reach that person to Christ.
I believe as a Christian I and all Christians have a duty to love God, our neighbour and even our enemy. We are to offer in love, the same choice Jesus gave to us when speaking of Himself said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son”.
                                                                                 John 3:16-18.
This for me is the most important choice ever offered to mankind.
Unfortunately there are many in the world who think they are Christians but are in name only. Jesus even said,
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
                                                                                           Matthew 7:21-23.
It is these people, people who say they are Christians that are not, that distort the message of Christ in the eyes of non-Christians.
Please think about it.

Of "some Christians" and Storm troopers

Of “Some Christians” and Storm Troopers
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 
                                                      Matthew 28:18-20.
Note in the above quote from Jesus never said go and protest against the government of Rome or overthrow the religious leaders of the day. He said,
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Jesus in a nutshell taught his disciples to Love God, their neighbour and even their enemy. He made it clear that He was the way to heaven.
Over and over again in the teachings of Jesus and the apostle we read,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”  
                                                                                                      Romans 12:18
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,  to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.” 
                         Titus 3:1,2
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  
gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”  
                                                                                  Galatians 5:22,23.
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.” 
                                                                                           1 Peter 2:12.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
                                                                                                    Matthew 5:9.
Sadly I have heard those calling themselves Christians who were protesting outside of an abortion clinic and protesting against same sex marriage, storm troopers.
These people have not learned from history. Hitler tried to change the world by force. To impose his view on people. To no avail. Sadly however to stop his madness cost in excess of fifty-six million lives.
In the 1920's in the United States, “holier than thou” people passed the prohibition laws yet if some reports are to be believed more alcohol was consumed during prohibition than before it and not only that the money went into the hands of criminals.
Prior to legalizing of abortions, abortions were carried out sometimes with tragic consequences not only to the child but to the mother.
When it comes to same sex marriages it’s a moot point whether to call them marriages or civil unions it’s the same thing. Christians don’t own the word marriage.
Not only that those who oppose same sex marriage and abortion are not considering God in all of this. God knows what is right and wrong. It is God and God alone that must judge every individual and that includes those protesting.
Tony Campolo the American evangelist got it right when he said,
“We ought to get out of the judging business. We should leave it up to God to determine who belongs in one arena or another when it comes to eternity. What we are obligated to do is to tell people about Jesus, and that's what I do.”
                               Tony Campolo.
The apostle Paul wrote,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                             1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Sadly those calling themselves Christians and wishing to impose Christian values on people are committing a sin. They are judging others when they themselves certainly have sin in their lives.
You cannot legislate morality it must come from within the person. You cannot impose by force your values on anyone. They will not listen. That’s why the Apostle Paul said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church?”
We can however judge those inside the church the apostle Paul saying,
“Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
In demonstrating against anyone or protesting to restrict the rights of those who are not hurting anyone is simply wrong.
The time, money and effort used to protest could be better spent on evangelism. On providing well publicized alternatives positive alternatives to abortion.
On reaching out and building bridges to the LGBT community.
Christianity is first and foremost a faith of Love. Love for God, one’s neighbour and even one’s enemy. We should be living our lives in such a way that non-Christians want to at the very least emulate us.
The Writer of Hebrews tells us,
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” 
          Hebrews 12:14
Unfortunately many calling themselves Christians fail to read and understand Hebrews 12:14.
If they don’t change I believe many of those who are protesting will be judged by God and hear the words Jesus who said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 
                                                                                           Matthew 7:22,23.
Please think about it.

Of Christians

Of Christians

“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 
                                                                                Matthew 28:18-20.
The above scripture from the gospel of Matthew says it all. The job of the Christian is to go into all the world make disciples and teach the new converts and anyone else who will listen what Jesus taught.
Jesus did not at any time say go and protest outside of abortion clinics. He never told us to protest against laws that granted people of different lifestyles, races and religions the same rights as us.
Jesus and his followers never protested against the secular civil authorities of Rome.
True he did speak against the wrong practices of Jewish religious leaders of his day. But Jesus was a Jew and had the right to do so. Still even with the religious leadership he never led protests, nor did his disciples.
The early Christian church was persecuted by Jews and Gentiles alike yet the early church never protested demanding their rights.
This is the way Christians should be today. We Christians should be reaching out to the world in love.
Only when our right to worship as we see fit, or the rights of others are being restricted should Christians be protesting the government.
The apostle Paul who suffered persecution under the emperor Nero, one of the most vicious persecutors of Christians said,
“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” 
                                                                                                                                  Romans 13:1.
The apostle Paul also said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                                          1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Calling all Christians everywhere to refrain from judging those outside the church and keep our own house in order. Reminding us only God has the right to judge people. For only God knows why a person is the way they are. Only God knows the hearts of the individual.
Tony Campolo the American evangelist said,
“These issues are biblical issues: to care for the sick, to feed the hungry, to stand up for the oppressed. I contend that if the evangelical community became more biblical, everything would change.”
Tony Campolo
I agree with him. Sometimes you have to help those you fundamentally disagree with. But in doing so you also build bridges between you and them.
The words of the Apostle Peter are as true today as they were when he wrote them. Peter said,
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 
                                                                                          1 Peter 2:12.
For me a Christian is not just someone who believes Jesus is the Son of God the Saviour of mankind. One who has accepted Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour. A Christian to me is much more. They are people who are following the teachings of Jesus.
Jesus when asked
 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” 
                                                                                   Matthew 22:36-40
Jesus also calls believers in Him to go one step further saying,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
                                                                                                         Matthew 5: 43,44
The apostle Paul writes,
“On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink....”
      Romans 12:20a.
To be a Christian is to show love and understanding not just to those who agree with you. Those of your faith, but to God, your neighbour whoever he or she may be, as well as to your enemy.
As I a Christian look at those who call themselves Christians here in North America I see many who need to read the bible and the teachings of Jesus again lest they hear the words of Jesus who said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ 
                                                                                                                   Matthew 7:22,23
Please think about it.

A Christian

A Christian
Piliny the Younger Roman governor of Bithynia in Asia minor writing to Emperor Trajan wrote,
"They were in the habit of meeting on a certain fixed day before it was light, when they sang in alternate verses a hymn to Christ, as to a god, and bound themselves by a solemn oath, not to any wicked deeds, but never to commit any fraud, theft or adultery, never to falsify their word, nor deny a trust when they should be called upon to deliver it up; after which it was their custom to separate, and then reassemble to partake of food--but food of an ordinary and innocent kind..." 
Note that Piliny states that the Christians sung hymns to Christ as to a God. Those early Christians recognized Christ was God.
 Piliny also noted Christians bound themselves by an oath to tell the truth and be honest in all their dealings.
Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God, God incarnate. This is the most basic belief of all Christians. You cannot be a Christian without believing Jesus is God.
Jesus said,
“I and the Father are one”
                                    John 10:30.
Christians have settled in their own hearts and minds who Jesus is. Jesus said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son”. 
                                                                                                                                   John 3:16-18.
Christians believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah, the Saviour of mankind.
They believe the words of the apostle John who said,
“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—  children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” 
                   John 1:12,13.
Christians, true Christians follow the teachings of Jesus who when asked,
 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” 
                                                                                   Matthew 22:36-40.
This same Jesus went one step further saying,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,  
that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.  
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?  
     Matthew 5:43-46
Christians are to show love that goes beyond that of those in the world.
A true Christian will put no restrictions on love. The Apostle Paul writing,

“Love is patient, love is kind. 

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking,

 it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 

Love does not delight in evil

 but rejoices with the truth.  

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 

Love never fails....

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”  

                                                                                                                   1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13.
Please think about it.

Are you willing?

Are you willing

“Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” 
“Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments.” 
“Which ones?” the man inquired. Jesus replied, “ ‘Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony,  honor your father and mother,’ and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’’” 
“All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?” 
  Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 
When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. 
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.  
  Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 
When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?” 
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:16-26.
Are you truly committed to Christ? Are you willing to give up everything to spread the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ?
The rich man in the above incident with Jesus followed all the laws of Moses. He was obviously devout. But he had a flaw. He apparently loved his wealth. He relied it seemed on his wealth to keep him secure. This man was not willing to step out in faith and trust God for is daily needs.
It’s not that a rich person cannot be saved. Like Jesus said “...with God all things are possible.”
But it takes faith to be saved. The apostle Paul states,
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—  not by works, so that no one can boast.” 
                                                                    Ephesians 2:8,9.
The rich man’s wealth did not save him nor did his following the laws of Moses. It is true faith in God that saves us. Abraham didn’t have the law of Moses and he was called a friend of God and was saved,
James the brother of Jesus noting,
“Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?  
You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.  
And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend.” 
                                                              James 2:21-23.
God wants us to have faith in Him not in the wealth we have.
The writer of Hebrews states,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” 
                                                                                                                            Hebrews 11:1
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
                                                                                                    Hebrews 11:6.
Please think about it.

Christians

Christians
I intended to write this just to Christians but I thought it relevant to share with none Christians as this is what I feel a true Christian should be doing.
What I am writing I hope will make Christians and non-Christians alike think.
Jesus Said, 
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  John 3:16-17.
We Christians preach a gospel of mercy and reconciliation to God. Yet there are many out there who are calling us bigots and I think from what I see and here coming out of the mouths of some Christian pastors and evangelist both in and out of the media they seem to be right.
I hear from many Christians the hate the sin but love the sinner. It’s been my experience however that non-Christians don’t see it that way.
They look at it that the Christian hates them not just the sin.
I believe it is not up to us as believers to say what is sin and what is not. Jesus said,
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it.” 
                                                                                                                                    Matthew 7:1,2.
The apostle Paul wrote,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                                             1 Corinthians 5:12,13
Only God knows the heart of men. It is up to the Holy Spirit to convict a person of their sin, not us. Our job is made clear,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 
                                                                    Matthew 28:18-20.
Sadly I hear of men and women claiming to be Christians here in North America calling out to restrict the rights of others particularly those in the homosexual community. And more recently such people have begun to attack the Muslim faith and the Qur’an.
I hear of countries in Africa making homosexuality a crime punishable by time in prison.
To make matters worse I have heard of church’s and so called Christian pastors in those countries applauding such laws.
There are even churches and pastors in North America applauding what is happening in Africa. How sad.
In my mind, to restrict the rights of even one person is an abomination against humanity. Something I believe God opposes.
Jesus made it clear when he said,
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” 
                        Matthew 7:12.
Whether we like it or not God has given to mankind a free will. We have the right to choose the way our life is to go. We have the right to choose our lifestyle.
I firmly believe we have no right to interfere in the making of laws as long as those laws do not interfere with our rights and freedoms and the rights and freedoms of others.
Further more we should be upholding freedom of choice especially when it comes to the right to freedom of speech and to choose our lifestyle and religious preferences.
I believe that to restrict one persons freedom even if we disagreed with them is to potentially restrict the freedom of all people even our own.
Tony Campolo the American evangelist wrote,
“We ought to get out of the judging business. We should leave it up to God to determine who belongs in one arena or another when it comes to eternity. What we are obligated to do is to tell people about Jesus, and that's what I do.”
                                Tony Campolo
That is what we all should do.
Martin Niemoller a German cleric who knew about judging and oppression.
Niemoller was initially a national conservative and supporter of Adolf Hitler, became a man who vehemently appose Hitler. Who became along with Dietrich Bonhoffer a founder of the Confessional Churches in Germany.
For his opposition to Hitler and the Nazis oppression of not only Jews but others, Niemomller was imprisoned in Sachsenhausen and Dachau concentration camp and narrowly escaped execution.
Later in his life he expressed the fact he did not do more for the victims of the Nazis. He wrote the following.

“When they came for the Communists, 

I did not stand up, because I was not a Communist. 

When they came for the Jews, 

I did not stand up, because I was not Jewish. 

When they came for the Catholics,

 I did not stand up, because I was not a Catholic. 

When they came for me, 

there was no one left to stand up.”

                                                                      Martin Niemoller
Tony Campolo also made one other statement he said,
“These issues are biblical issues: to care for the sick, to feed the hungry, to stand up for the oppressed. I contend that if the evangelical community became more biblical, everything would change.”
       Tony Campolo.
The Talmud a Jewish book of thought states,
"When a man appears before the Throne of Judgment, the first question he is asked is not, “Have you believed in God?”  Or “Have you prayed and observed the ritual?  “He is asked: “have you dealt honourably and faithfully in all your dealings with your fellow men?”
                                                                                                                     The Talmud.
                Have you?
                 Please think about it.