Something I want you to know
As a Christian there are several things I want the world to know. The following are those things.
Abba Hillel Silver
“Faith in God is the strongest bulwark of a free society. Human freedom began when men became conscious that over and above society and nature there is a God who created them...who fashioned them in His likeness, and that they are, therefore, possessed of intrinsic and independent significance and are endowed, as individuals, with original and irrevocable rights and authority.”
Abba Hillel Silver.
God is a God of love that is true. What is also true is that someone who truly loves you will be there for you and will tell you the consequences of your actions.
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
The God gave you a free will to do as you wish. That includes not to believe in Him or obey what He says.
A wise man however said,
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”
Ecclesiastes12:13,14.
God offers salvation and eternal life with Him freely 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
“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
Faith being defined as,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1.
Please think about it.
Saturday 1 August 2015
Friday 31 July 2015
Faith, the Atheist, the Believer and God
Faith, the Atheist the Believer and God.
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
The above statement is as true for the atheist as for the believer. An atheist looks around and because he can’t see feel or touch God, his faith tells him there is no God.
The believer on the other hand looks around him sees the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest sub atomic particles in perfect order and says there has to be a God who created all of this.
Whether you are a Christian or an Atheist you must act on faith. When an atheist says there is no God he assumes that simply because he can’t see God he doesn’t exist. Such assumptions can lead down the wrong path.
It is possible for something to exist without being able to feel see or touch it. Scientist for centuries have postulated something exists before they actually find it. That’s true of many things from the smallest sub atomic particle to black holes. Just because we can’t see them doesn’t mean they don’t exist.
So it is with God. We many not be able to see Him but if we look carefully at the world around us we can see his handiwork.
The Psalmist wrote,
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.”
Psalm 19:1-3
Ben Zion Bosker wrote,
“I have not seen the robin but I know he is there because I heard him singing through my window from the tree-top outside.
I have not seen God. But I have looked at my child’s eyes, and have been overwhelmed by the miracle of unfolding life.
I have watched the trees bedeck themselves with new garbs of green in the spring, and have been stirred by the miracle of continual rebirth.
I have looked at the stars, and have been overcome by the miracle of the grandeur and majesty of the universe.
I know that God exists, because I have heard the song of His presence from all the tree-tops of creation.”
Ben Zion Bokser
Ultimately neither I or any believer will ever be able to sway the most ardent atheist. No matter what we say or what we present will change them. They have their beliefs and I have mine.
I would however leave this suggestion for any Atheist or for that matter anyone be they Christian or of another faith. I would ask them to pick up a copy of the book Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis. It’s in paper back and inexpensive. All major book stores, even if it’s not on their selves can get it for you.
I would ask that you read it and consider what Lewis says.
Please think about it.
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
The above statement is as true for the atheist as for the believer. An atheist looks around and because he can’t see feel or touch God, his faith tells him there is no God.
The believer on the other hand looks around him sees the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest sub atomic particles in perfect order and says there has to be a God who created all of this.
Whether you are a Christian or an Atheist you must act on faith. When an atheist says there is no God he assumes that simply because he can’t see God he doesn’t exist. Such assumptions can lead down the wrong path.
It is possible for something to exist without being able to feel see or touch it. Scientist for centuries have postulated something exists before they actually find it. That’s true of many things from the smallest sub atomic particle to black holes. Just because we can’t see them doesn’t mean they don’t exist.
So it is with God. We many not be able to see Him but if we look carefully at the world around us we can see his handiwork.
The Psalmist wrote,
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.”
Psalm 19:1-3
Ben Zion Bosker wrote,
“I have not seen the robin but I know he is there because I heard him singing through my window from the tree-top outside.
I have not seen God. But I have looked at my child’s eyes, and have been overwhelmed by the miracle of unfolding life.
I have watched the trees bedeck themselves with new garbs of green in the spring, and have been stirred by the miracle of continual rebirth.
I have looked at the stars, and have been overcome by the miracle of the grandeur and majesty of the universe.
I know that God exists, because I have heard the song of His presence from all the tree-tops of creation.”
Ben Zion Bokser
Ultimately neither I or any believer will ever be able to sway the most ardent atheist. No matter what we say or what we present will change them. They have their beliefs and I have mine.
I would however leave this suggestion for any Atheist or for that matter anyone be they Christian or of another faith. I would ask them to pick up a copy of the book Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis. It’s in paper back and inexpensive. All major book stores, even if it’s not on their selves can get it for you.
I would ask that you read it and consider what Lewis says.
Please think about it.
Thursday 30 July 2015
Of Great Price
Of Great Price
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
Matthew 13:44-46.
The above quotation is what knowing Christ is like for me. I have found in the life and teachings of Christ and the Bible truth and rest for my soul.
Jesus said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
I found the words of Jesus to be true. That no matter the circumstances I have found myself in God has been their for me.
The nice thing about coming to know Jesus is that his saving grace is entirely free. The apostle Paul stating,
“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.
We do not have to work our way to haven. We simply have to by faith accept Christ into our heart and life.
Please think about it.
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
Matthew 13:44-46.
The above quotation is what knowing Christ is like for me. I have found in the life and teachings of Christ and the Bible truth and rest for my soul.
Jesus said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
I found the words of Jesus to be true. That no matter the circumstances I have found myself in God has been their for me.
The nice thing about coming to know Jesus is that his saving grace is entirely free. The apostle Paul stating,
“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.
We do not have to work our way to haven. We simply have to by faith accept Christ into our heart and life.
Please think about it.
Wednesday 29 July 2015
So you are a Christian?
So you’re a Christians
Jesus said,
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John10:10.
Dear Christian do you believe these words of Jesus? Do you believe the words 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 22:37-40
Do you believe Jesus when he 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?”
Matthew 5:43-46
Do you believe the words of the apostle Paul who 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
Do you believe Jesus when he 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
Do you believe Jesus who said,
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Matthew 10:16.
Do you believe the words of Paul?
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18
Do you believe the words of Jesus who said,
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
As Christians we have a great responsibility to the world. As Christians we believe Jesus is the only way to heaven. As a result we cannot do anything that would turn people away from the gospel message.
We have if you will, a divine obligation to God, not to judge people outside the church. We have a duty to keep our own house clean by expelling those who would do evil from among us. Those who are not properly using the Word of God.
It is only by doing this that we can fully minister the Salvation message to the world.
The writer of Hebrews states,
“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
Please think about it.
Jesus said,
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John10:10.
Dear Christian do you believe these words of Jesus? Do you believe the words 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 22:37-40
Do you believe Jesus when he 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?”
Matthew 5:43-46
Do you believe the words of the apostle Paul who 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
Do you believe Jesus when he 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
Do you believe Jesus who said,
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Matthew 10:16.
Do you believe the words of Paul?
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18
Do you believe the words of Jesus who said,
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
As Christians we have a great responsibility to the world. As Christians we believe Jesus is the only way to heaven. As a result we cannot do anything that would turn people away from the gospel message.
We have if you will, a divine obligation to God, not to judge people outside the church. We have a duty to keep our own house clean by expelling those who would do evil from among us. Those who are not properly using the Word of God.
It is only by doing this that we can fully minister the Salvation message to the world.
The writer of Hebrews states,
“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
Please think about it.
Tuesday 28 July 2015
What makes a Christian
What makes a Christian
I look quite often with indignation at men and women in the media calling themselves Christians, who in my opinion are Christians in name only. Their actions and the theology they preach in the media tells me they are not interpreting the Bible correctly. As a result I am offended and I firmly believe the will one day hear the words of Christ who will say,
“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
Christianity is not alone when it comes to people misrepresenting organizations, institutions or other groups. When it comes to other groups I can change nothing. However as a Christian I have the right to address things within my own faith. Thus my reason for writing this.
I attend a very small church. As a result we are a tight group. And to be honest I can safely say we are all somewhat off beat.
The one thing however we from our pastor to the board members to the congregation is to present the gospel of Jesus Christ in as pure a form as possible. We want to hear those words “well done thou good and faithful servant.” at the end of our lives.
As a result we read and listen to a wide range of evangelist and preachers. BUT we do not hold them in higher authority than the Bible.
In the adult Bible study I teach we use a wide range of commentaries in an effort to find the truth in the scriptures.
The result quite is we can at times have lively discussions as to what a particular scripture means. The reason for the lively discussion is because we take scripture seriously. We want to know the truth.
When I asked the group the simple question Who is a Christian? We made this list of criteria.
Strictly speaking a Christian is someone who believes Jesus is the one and Only Son of God. That He is God Incarnate. That he died for the sins of each and every man and woman. That we are saved by God’s Grace through our faith, and not by our works. By accepting Jesus into our heart and life.
What is referred to as “The apostles Creed” (not written by the apostles incidently) defines the basic beliefs of Christians when it states,
1. I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth:
2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord:
3. Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary:
4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead and buried: He descended into hell:
5. The third day he rose again from the dead:
6. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty:
7. From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead:
8. I believe in the Holy Ghost:
9. I believe in the holy catholic church: (meaning the church universal made up of all believers from all walks of life and denominations.) the communion of saints: (saints being all who believe in Christ.)
10. The forgiveness of sins:
11. The resurrection of the body:
12. And the life everlasting. Amen.”
Jesus made things perfectly clear 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.
Jesus also 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
Believers believe this statement. They do not believe you have to work your way to heaven the apostle Paul made that clear when he wrote,
“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 Writer of Hebrews states,
“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
The Writer of Hebrews defining faith as,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
Christians do not believe you will become rich materially or you will double your money or triple it by giving to your church or to an evangelist. As some false teachers would say. Giving money to the church or an evangelist will not get you to heaven. Faith in Christ is the only thing that will get you to heaven.
Christians give money to the cause of Christ because they know it is the right thing to do. They do not however give to the point that they become a burden on anyone.
Christianity is a walk of faith in Christ.
A true Christian asks nothing of the unbeliever except that they least listen to the salvation message. They believe God wants them to present to the world.
This is what I believe a true Christian is.
Please think about it.
I look quite often with indignation at men and women in the media calling themselves Christians, who in my opinion are Christians in name only. Their actions and the theology they preach in the media tells me they are not interpreting the Bible correctly. As a result I am offended and I firmly believe the will one day hear the words of Christ who will say,
“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
Christianity is not alone when it comes to people misrepresenting organizations, institutions or other groups. When it comes to other groups I can change nothing. However as a Christian I have the right to address things within my own faith. Thus my reason for writing this.
I attend a very small church. As a result we are a tight group. And to be honest I can safely say we are all somewhat off beat.
The one thing however we from our pastor to the board members to the congregation is to present the gospel of Jesus Christ in as pure a form as possible. We want to hear those words “well done thou good and faithful servant.” at the end of our lives.
As a result we read and listen to a wide range of evangelist and preachers. BUT we do not hold them in higher authority than the Bible.
In the adult Bible study I teach we use a wide range of commentaries in an effort to find the truth in the scriptures.
The result quite is we can at times have lively discussions as to what a particular scripture means. The reason for the lively discussion is because we take scripture seriously. We want to know the truth.
When I asked the group the simple question Who is a Christian? We made this list of criteria.
Strictly speaking a Christian is someone who believes Jesus is the one and Only Son of God. That He is God Incarnate. That he died for the sins of each and every man and woman. That we are saved by God’s Grace through our faith, and not by our works. By accepting Jesus into our heart and life.
What is referred to as “The apostles Creed” (not written by the apostles incidently) defines the basic beliefs of Christians when it states,
1. I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth:
2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord:
3. Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary:
4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead and buried: He descended into hell:
5. The third day he rose again from the dead:
6. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty:
7. From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead:
8. I believe in the Holy Ghost:
9. I believe in the holy catholic church: (meaning the church universal made up of all believers from all walks of life and denominations.) the communion of saints: (saints being all who believe in Christ.)
10. The forgiveness of sins:
11. The resurrection of the body:
12. And the life everlasting. Amen.”
Jesus made things perfectly clear 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.
Jesus also 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
Believers believe this statement. They do not believe you have to work your way to heaven the apostle Paul made that clear when he wrote,
“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 Writer of Hebrews states,
“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
The Writer of Hebrews defining faith as,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
Christians do not believe you will become rich materially or you will double your money or triple it by giving to your church or to an evangelist. As some false teachers would say. Giving money to the church or an evangelist will not get you to heaven. Faith in Christ is the only thing that will get you to heaven.
Christians give money to the cause of Christ because they know it is the right thing to do. They do not however give to the point that they become a burden on anyone.
Christianity is a walk of faith in Christ.
A true Christian asks nothing of the unbeliever except that they least listen to the salvation message. They believe God wants them to present to the world.
This is what I believe a true Christian is.
Please think about it.
Monday 27 July 2015
Christian are you?
Christian are you?
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Matthew 10:16
This message is aimed directly at Christians, especially those in Canada and the United States.
I’ve found over the years there are many Christians here in North America that are more like wolves than sheep. They attack everything.
I know none-Christians that are turned off by Christians constantly attacking their rights. This is particularly so in the gay community.
I believe there are a lot of Christians out there who are deluded into thinking we in Canada and the United States are living in a Christian country. When really we’re living in something akin to the Roman Empire.
Our governments while having some laws that are based on biblical principles, are still secular. Therefore they make decisions based on secular values. Values that may offend Christians just as the values of the Roman empire more than likely offended the apostle Paul and the other Christian fathers.
Christians have been given a job to do. That job is to present the Saving Grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ to the world. We cannot effectively do that job if we are perceived as wolves.
In protesting to prevent any group from having the freedoms we all enjoy we run the potential of turning them away from Christ.
In a democracy such as we live in we Christians should have dialogue with other groups even if we disagree with them. We should be standing up for equal rights for all.
Germany in the nineteen thirties is a good example of what can happen when we don’t stand up for not only our rights but others. The result was the rise of the Nazis.
Martin Niemoller a German cleric and anti-Nazi during world war two wrote,
“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.”
Martine Niemoller.
If we as Christians want the freedom to spread the Gospel we need to support the freedom of others. In doing so we will open dialogue between ourselves and others. And open and honest dialogue between ourselves and others. In a free democracy is the best way to spread the word of God.
Please think about it.
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Matthew 10:16
This message is aimed directly at Christians, especially those in Canada and the United States.
I’ve found over the years there are many Christians here in North America that are more like wolves than sheep. They attack everything.
I know none-Christians that are turned off by Christians constantly attacking their rights. This is particularly so in the gay community.
I believe there are a lot of Christians out there who are deluded into thinking we in Canada and the United States are living in a Christian country. When really we’re living in something akin to the Roman Empire.
Our governments while having some laws that are based on biblical principles, are still secular. Therefore they make decisions based on secular values. Values that may offend Christians just as the values of the Roman empire more than likely offended the apostle Paul and the other Christian fathers.
Christians have been given a job to do. That job is to present the Saving Grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ to the world. We cannot effectively do that job if we are perceived as wolves.
In protesting to prevent any group from having the freedoms we all enjoy we run the potential of turning them away from Christ.
In a democracy such as we live in we Christians should have dialogue with other groups even if we disagree with them. We should be standing up for equal rights for all.
Germany in the nineteen thirties is a good example of what can happen when we don’t stand up for not only our rights but others. The result was the rise of the Nazis.
Martin Niemoller a German cleric and anti-Nazi during world war two wrote,
“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.”
Martine Niemoller.
If we as Christians want the freedom to spread the Gospel we need to support the freedom of others. In doing so we will open dialogue between ourselves and others. And open and honest dialogue between ourselves and others. In a free democracy is the best way to spread the word of God.
Please think about it.
Sunday 26 July 2015
Which Virgin?
Which virgin are you?
“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise.
The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.
The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.
“At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’
“Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps.
The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’
“ ‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’
“But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.
“Later the others also came. ‘Sir! Sir!’ they said. ‘Open the door for us!’
“But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I don’t know you.’
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”
Matthew 25:1-13
Which Virgin are you?
I teach the adult midweek Bible Study group at our church. One of the things people keep asking me and our pastor is. “Why don’t we study prophesy more?”
We make it clear that we believe we are following the direction God wants us to go with respect to teaching. We will over time study the whole Bible that includes the prophetic books.
You see we know the people who are asking the question. What they are asking us without saying it is, “we want to try to figure out the time Christ will return.”
After all who wouldn’t want to know the date of Christ’s return. I believe Christians since the time of Christ’s ascension into heaven into heaven have wanted to know that.
When the topic does comes up I think almost everyone is quoting some evangelist, televangelist, or website and stating what this or that person is saying.
The bottom line however is its only speculation. Since the day the church began well meaning men and women have been speculating on when Christ will return. No one’s been right yet.
I believe the job of the church is to make disciples of all nations. To evangelize so that all people will be given a chance to enter the kingdom of heaven. AND, we need to teach both the new converts, and everyone else in the church the word of God.
In order to do this we need to study and preach the word of God in as pure a form as is humanly possible. That is the purpose of our Bible study.
The scripture I quoted above tells us be ready for the return of Christ. We do this by studying the scriptures. By evangelizing and by worshipping and praising God both on Sunday and during the week.
Accepting Christ and worshipping Him is the oil in the lamp. It is the basics necessary to being invited to the Marriage supper of the lamb if you will.
Studying understanding the scriptures and doing all God commanded us to do is the extra oil for the lamp if you will.
As we study the word of God and approach the thrown of grace in prayer I believe the Holy Spirit will show us signs that are coming true.
The foolish virgins to me are those who do not study the word of God. Who do not pray or evangelise. Who attend church services because it’s “ the thing to do on Sunday”.
Men and women who know what to say and when to say it in church but are not committed to serving the Lord to the fullest.
One day the Bride Groom will return will you be ready for Him.
Please think about it.
“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise.
The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.
The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.
“At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’
“Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps.
The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’
“ ‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’
“But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.
“Later the others also came. ‘Sir! Sir!’ they said. ‘Open the door for us!’
“But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I don’t know you.’
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”
Matthew 25:1-13
Which Virgin are you?
I teach the adult midweek Bible Study group at our church. One of the things people keep asking me and our pastor is. “Why don’t we study prophesy more?”
We make it clear that we believe we are following the direction God wants us to go with respect to teaching. We will over time study the whole Bible that includes the prophetic books.
You see we know the people who are asking the question. What they are asking us without saying it is, “we want to try to figure out the time Christ will return.”
After all who wouldn’t want to know the date of Christ’s return. I believe Christians since the time of Christ’s ascension into heaven into heaven have wanted to know that.
When the topic does comes up I think almost everyone is quoting some evangelist, televangelist, or website and stating what this or that person is saying.
The bottom line however is its only speculation. Since the day the church began well meaning men and women have been speculating on when Christ will return. No one’s been right yet.
I believe the job of the church is to make disciples of all nations. To evangelize so that all people will be given a chance to enter the kingdom of heaven. AND, we need to teach both the new converts, and everyone else in the church the word of God.
In order to do this we need to study and preach the word of God in as pure a form as is humanly possible. That is the purpose of our Bible study.
The scripture I quoted above tells us be ready for the return of Christ. We do this by studying the scriptures. By evangelizing and by worshipping and praising God both on Sunday and during the week.
Accepting Christ and worshipping Him is the oil in the lamp. It is the basics necessary to being invited to the Marriage supper of the lamb if you will.
Studying understanding the scriptures and doing all God commanded us to do is the extra oil for the lamp if you will.
As we study the word of God and approach the thrown of grace in prayer I believe the Holy Spirit will show us signs that are coming true.
The foolish virgins to me are those who do not study the word of God. Who do not pray or evangelise. Who attend church services because it’s “ the thing to do on Sunday”.
Men and women who know what to say and when to say it in church but are not committed to serving the Lord to the fullest.
One day the Bride Groom will return will you be ready for Him.
Please think about it.
Saturday 25 July 2015
Odd but True
Odd but True
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men....
He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.
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.
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
John 1:1-4, 11-14.
Here is a claim Christians make if not true makes no difference at all. The “Word”, Jesus became flesh, God in the form of Jesus came into this world. If true however it gives a lot of people something to think about.
I as a Christian believe that He came to experience what it is like to be human. So that no man or woman could stand before Him on judgement day and say “you do not understand what it is like to be human.”
In coming to the world Jesus knows everything it is to be human.
He grew up in an average family. Most likely religious, because his mothers cousin was the wife of a priest and gave birth to John the Baptist. It is also recorded when he was in his early teens he went up to the Jerusalem with his parents and was found sitting with the learned men of his day discussing scripture.
He would have experienced the day to day things of life at that time. Everything from the sun and rain on his face. He most likely helped his earthly father work at his carpenters shop.
We know he attended a wedding. We know as an enfant his parents had to take him to Egypt so that he wouldn’t be killed. That strictly speaking makes him a political refugee.
Then on top of all of this when he spoke the truth from the scriptures religious leaders of his day disagreed with him. They seen him as a threat to their authority had him arrested placed before what amounted to a kangaroo court. An illegally convened court. Turned over to the occupying power Rome, where he was flogged. With the Roman governor ordering his execution for political expediency.
I believe in a just God and you can’t get any more just than the God who created heaven and earth entering his creation to experience what it is like to be human.
This God I worship is a God of Love who tells me why he came to earth. Why people should believe in Him and the consequences of unbelief when 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
Please think about it.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men....
He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.
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.
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
John 1:1-4, 11-14.
Here is a claim Christians make if not true makes no difference at all. The “Word”, Jesus became flesh, God in the form of Jesus came into this world. If true however it gives a lot of people something to think about.
I as a Christian believe that He came to experience what it is like to be human. So that no man or woman could stand before Him on judgement day and say “you do not understand what it is like to be human.”
In coming to the world Jesus knows everything it is to be human.
He grew up in an average family. Most likely religious, because his mothers cousin was the wife of a priest and gave birth to John the Baptist. It is also recorded when he was in his early teens he went up to the Jerusalem with his parents and was found sitting with the learned men of his day discussing scripture.
He would have experienced the day to day things of life at that time. Everything from the sun and rain on his face. He most likely helped his earthly father work at his carpenters shop.
We know he attended a wedding. We know as an enfant his parents had to take him to Egypt so that he wouldn’t be killed. That strictly speaking makes him a political refugee.
Then on top of all of this when he spoke the truth from the scriptures religious leaders of his day disagreed with him. They seen him as a threat to their authority had him arrested placed before what amounted to a kangaroo court. An illegally convened court. Turned over to the occupying power Rome, where he was flogged. With the Roman governor ordering his execution for political expediency.
I believe in a just God and you can’t get any more just than the God who created heaven and earth entering his creation to experience what it is like to be human.
This God I worship is a God of Love who tells me why he came to earth. Why people should believe in Him and the consequences of unbelief when 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
Please think about it.
Friday 24 July 2015
Why
Why
Why be born.
If all we’re to do is die.
Why live
If all there is, is nothingness after?
The writer writes,
“I have seen all the things
that are done under the sun;
all of them are meaningless,
a chasing after the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 1:14
Why?
if all things are meaningless live?
Why?
Why live?
Why.
Because,
the writer writes.
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”
Ecclesiastes12:13,14
Jesus said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,
and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you
and learn from me,
for I am gentle and humble in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:28,29
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
This is why we live,
We live because there is a God,
A God who loves us,
Please think about it.
Thursday 23 July 2015
A pressing responsibility
A pressing responsibility.
“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.
We Christians have a pressing responsibility to those around us. Jesus has called us to make disciples of all nations. He never limited it to any group he said make disciples of ALL nations.
To me that means open dialogue between ourselves and those around us. No matter who they are if they will listen to us we should be talking to them. Giving them the opportunity to accept Christ.
In order to be doing that correctly we need to be studying the Bible. We need to know more than just a few chosen verses.
We also need I think to have a realistic idea of what the society around us is like.
All too often Christians here in North America live in a bubble. They listen to Christian radio and television, visit Christian web sites but never watch popular television programs or care to learn about the latest movies showing in the cinema.
They dismiss teachings on evolution as wrong without even knowing what the evolutionist is saying.
They judge homosexuals without even listening to them.
Most Christians I’ve met over my forty plus years as a Christian have no idea what a Muslim believes yet condemn them on the says so of some preacher or evangelist. The apostle Paul wrote,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18.
In order to get our message out to the world we need to be able to live in peace with all people. We need to respect what they believe and their lifestyle. We may not agree with those around us but we must respect them while still staying true to what we believe.
When the apostle Paul presented his message to the Athenians, he did not believe what the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers who invited him to speak believed. But he respectfully presented his beliefs to them and some who heard him that day did believe. While others wanted to know more about what he said. This is the example we Christians in the twenty-first century should be following.
Please think about it.
“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.
We Christians have a pressing responsibility to those around us. Jesus has called us to make disciples of all nations. He never limited it to any group he said make disciples of ALL nations.
To me that means open dialogue between ourselves and those around us. No matter who they are if they will listen to us we should be talking to them. Giving them the opportunity to accept Christ.
In order to be doing that correctly we need to be studying the Bible. We need to know more than just a few chosen verses.
We also need I think to have a realistic idea of what the society around us is like.
All too often Christians here in North America live in a bubble. They listen to Christian radio and television, visit Christian web sites but never watch popular television programs or care to learn about the latest movies showing in the cinema.
They dismiss teachings on evolution as wrong without even knowing what the evolutionist is saying.
They judge homosexuals without even listening to them.
Most Christians I’ve met over my forty plus years as a Christian have no idea what a Muslim believes yet condemn them on the says so of some preacher or evangelist. The apostle Paul wrote,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18.
In order to get our message out to the world we need to be able to live in peace with all people. We need to respect what they believe and their lifestyle. We may not agree with those around us but we must respect them while still staying true to what we believe.
When the apostle Paul presented his message to the Athenians, he did not believe what the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers who invited him to speak believed. But he respectfully presented his beliefs to them and some who heard him that day did believe. While others wanted to know more about what he said. This is the example we Christians in the twenty-first century should be following.
Please think about it.
Wednesday 22 July 2015
The eleven O clock prayer
The eleven O Clock Prayer
“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....”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
I live in North America and at times I wonder where the love went. We hear all the time of the hate that comes from terrorist groups and racist groups. But do we show love. Dose our love show to all men or do we put conditions on our love?
The writer wrote,
“It’s eleven o clock. Inside the court house a judge is about to make his ruling. A community, a nation, awaits.
Will the new law be legal?
Outside the court house men and women with placards chant.
On one side of the street stand a group of gay men and women. All in favour of the new law. Holding placards that denounce the other side as intolerant.
On the other side of the street separated by a line of police stand radical evangelicals, denouncing the new law.
One man among them screams angrily . “HOMOSEXUALS ARE GOING TO BURN IN HELL!!!”
Approached by the media he says it again, “homosexuals are sinners.”
Hasn’t he read the words of Paul that ALL are sinners no matter who you are? That we are saved through faith in Christ. By the grace of God not by our works.
From my office window I watch asking myself the question, ‘is this man a Christian?”
Wasn’t it Christ who told us not only to love our neighbour but our enemy also?
Wasn’t it Christ who told us not to judge, lest we be judged likewise?
Hasn’t this man read the words of the apostle Paul who 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
Has he not read,
“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....”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
Is this man showing love?
Is this man judging another?
Can this man be effective in reaching the whole world of which a percentage are homosexual?
Is this man even a Christian?
A question keeps rolling through my mind for which I know the answer, “Can we truly know what is in someone else’s head?
Do we really know why a person is like they are?”
For a moment I stare down at the crowd.... All the time asking myself who is on the way to Hell this day?
Will someone be turned from God and Christ because of the actions of these few calling themselves believers?
Turning away from my window I kneel down and pray, “Lord guide me this day. Let me make the right decision on this law.”
Francis of Assisi wrote,
Please think about it.
“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....”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
I live in North America and at times I wonder where the love went. We hear all the time of the hate that comes from terrorist groups and racist groups. But do we show love. Dose our love show to all men or do we put conditions on our love?
The writer wrote,
“It’s eleven o clock. Inside the court house a judge is about to make his ruling. A community, a nation, awaits.
Will the new law be legal?
Outside the court house men and women with placards chant.
On one side of the street stand a group of gay men and women. All in favour of the new law. Holding placards that denounce the other side as intolerant.
On the other side of the street separated by a line of police stand radical evangelicals, denouncing the new law.
One man among them screams angrily . “HOMOSEXUALS ARE GOING TO BURN IN HELL!!!”
Approached by the media he says it again, “homosexuals are sinners.”
Hasn’t he read the words of Paul that ALL are sinners no matter who you are? That we are saved through faith in Christ. By the grace of God not by our works.
From my office window I watch asking myself the question, ‘is this man a Christian?”
Wasn’t it Christ who told us not only to love our neighbour but our enemy also?
Wasn’t it Christ who told us not to judge, lest we be judged likewise?
Hasn’t this man read the words of the apostle Paul who 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
Has he not read,
“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....”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8a
Is this man showing love?
Is this man judging another?
Can this man be effective in reaching the whole world of which a percentage are homosexual?
Is this man even a Christian?
A question keeps rolling through my mind for which I know the answer, “Can we truly know what is in someone else’s head?
Do we really know why a person is like they are?”
For a moment I stare down at the crowd.... All the time asking myself who is on the way to Hell this day?
Will someone be turned from God and Christ because of the actions of these few calling themselves believers?
Turning away from my window I kneel down and pray, “Lord guide me this day. Let me make the right decision on this law.”
Francis of Assisi wrote,
“Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.
Where these is hatred, let me sow love.”
Francis of AssisiPlease think about it.
Tuesday 21 July 2015
A God of Love
A God of Love
“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.
Here’s a simple truth. If God truly is a God of Love, He will warn us what our actions will result in.
Just like a father who tells his child not to touch a hot burner on the stove, God will warn us of the consequences of our actions. That is what Jesus is doing here in John 3:16-18.
He makes it clear that God loved the world so much He sent his son into the world to save the world through Him. That whoever believes in Him will not be condemned but whoever does not believe is condemned already because of unbelief in the one and only Son of God.
In doing so he gives mankind a choice a choice that will determine our eternal resting place be it in heaven or hell.
The choice dear reader is yours.
Please think about it.
“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.
Here’s a simple truth. If God truly is a God of Love, He will warn us what our actions will result in.
Just like a father who tells his child not to touch a hot burner on the stove, God will warn us of the consequences of our actions. That is what Jesus is doing here in John 3:16-18.
He makes it clear that God loved the world so much He sent his son into the world to save the world through Him. That whoever believes in Him will not be condemned but whoever does not believe is condemned already because of unbelief in the one and only Son of God.
In doing so he gives mankind a choice a choice that will determine our eternal resting place be it in heaven or hell.
The choice dear reader is yours.
Please think about it.
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