I. Introduction
Satan is up to some very nasty things in last days. Let me start by saying that the occult is an abomination to God. The God of the Bible hates the occult and years ago when He ruled Israel, such practices earned the death penalty.:
Exodus 22
18 Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.
Lev 20
27 A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood shall be upon them.
Lev 20
6 And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people.
7 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.
As you can see above in historical days in Israel's past, it was a criminal offense to be involved in any way with the occult. These verses are commands given from God to His people. God's attitude toward the occult can be clearly seen. Quite simply, He does not like the occult. In fact God likens it to spiritual harlotry. Men have a choice. They can either believe and trust in God or they can reject God and in effect, accept the devil and his ways. Harry Potter is for those who have rejected God and have accepted the devil and his ways. The occult with all the spells, wizards, and psychic powers is part of the devil and his ways.
Occult books like Harry Potter are nothing but a gross sin and an abomination against God. People who reject God get very close to the devil. Harry Potter is great for those who reject God. People who want nothing to do with Jesus, salvation, eternal life, and heaven, have a great interest in Satan's wizards and spell casting. Hence, Harry Potter has a place in those peoples lives.
If you, approve of Harry Potter and even let your children read that Satanic filth, then you are on the devils side. You either choose God or you choose the devil. Those who accept Harry Potter with all the spells and wizardry are choosing the devil. It is as simple as that!
II. THE OCCULT IS AN ABOMINATION TO GOD!
There is also very little said from within the Christian church about Harry Potter. True there are some who are trying to get the books banned from schools. But there certainly is not a great outcry against this latest fad in occultism. Why is this so? Never before has the occult been made so attractive and packaged so nicely. Children are being led, by a Satanic pied piper, into the occult. The Bible clearly states that occultism is forbidden and it is an abomination to Him.
Deuteronomy 18
9. When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations.
10 There shall not be found among you [any one] that
- maketh his son or his daughter to pass thrrough the fire, [or]
- that useth divination,
- [or] an observer of times,
- or an enchanter,
- or a witch,
- 11 Or a charmer,
- or a consulter with familiar spirits,
- or a wizard,
- or a necromancer.
12 For all that do these things [are] an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.
III. WOE TO THOSE PROMOTING EVIL
God is very aware that evil will come in this world. He has allowed men free choice to receive or reject Him. Those who reject God always accept the devil. The occult is also very popular with those who reject God. Again, God knows such evils will come into the world. However, He gives a 'woe' of judgment to those by whom these evils come.
Matt 18
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
7 Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!
Luke 17
1 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!
2 It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.
Are you encouraging and promoting evil? Does the above 'woe' apply to you as it certainly does with the author of the Harry Potter books? Get ready, in God's time judgment will certainly come!
This is a very sad thought... how many Christian families let their children get involved with Pokemon or Harry Potter? How many church pastors allow Harry Potter into their assembly? One liberal-apostate 'Christian' magazine (Christianity Today) has articles on the web praising the Harry Potter books while dismissing the blatant occultism!
IV. WHERE DO YOU STAND?
Psalm 1
1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Those who belong to and love God will remove occultism from their lives. They will not accept any occult book, game, or video into their homes. Those backslidden who repent will destroy all forms of the occult from their homes. What will you do reader? Whose side are you on? God's or the devil's?
Thursday, October 30, 2008
WOMEN'S ROLE IN TEACHING & CHURCH LEADERSHIP
WOMEN'S ROLE IN TEACHING & CHURCH LEADERSHIP
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I. THE VALUE OF WOMEN AND THEIR WORK
=====================================
A. Women's Work Is Equally as Important as Man's.
=================================================
Women are just as important or valued as men. They are honored and rewarded for
their work as highly as men are for their work.
Gal. 3:28; I Pet. 3:7; Prov. 31:10-31
B. God Values People for Their Service, not Their Authority.
====================================================
Matt. 20:25-28
Note that this does not deny the existence of valid authority. Jesus used
Himself as the example, and He possessed authority (Matt. 28:18; 7:29). The
point is that possession of authority does not inherently make one great. People
without authority can be just as great as those who have it. Cf. citizens to
rulers, men to elders, etc.
However, the fact men and women are equally valued does not mean God expects
them to do the same work.
C. In Particular, the Woman's Role as Homemaker Is of Great Value
====================================================
God honors woman in this role, and she ought to be honored by men.
1 Timothy 5:14; Titus 2:5; Psalm 113:9; Proverbs 31:10-31; 7:11,12
C. Women Have a Definite Responsibility in teaching.
====================================================
They may teach women or children.
*********************************
Titus 2:3,4; Proverbs 31:1; 1:8; 2 Timothy 1:5
They may even impart truth to men in a limited capacity.
*****************************************************
Acts 18:26; 2:17; 21:9; John 4:28-30,39,42
However, note that none of these passages place women as preaching God's word in
the public worship assemblies of the whole church or in any capacity which puts
them in authority over men.
II. RESTRICTIONS ON WOMEN IN AUTHORITY AND TEACHING
===================================================
A. Women Are Subject to Men
===========================
Many passages teach the subjection of women to men in general.
Genesis 2:18; 3:16; Ephesians 5:22-33; Colossians 3:18; I Corinthians 11:3;
14:34; I Timothy 2:12-14; 3:4,12; Titus 2:4,5; I Peter 3:1-7
B. Positions of Authority & Leadership in the Church Are Reserved for Men.
====================================================
Apostles were all men -- Acts 1:13.
Elders, who oversee the local church (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-3), must be men --
1 Timothy 3:1,2; Titus 1:5,6.
C. Women Are Subject to Men in Spiritual Teaching.
====================================================
Women are expressly forbidden to take a leading role over men in the church or
in any circumstance of teaching God's word.
1 Timothy 2:11-14 -- Women are subject to men in spiritual teaching situations.
*****************************************************
V13,14 give two reasons for women's subjection to man.
V13 -- First, man was formed before woman. This refers to the creation account
of Gen. 2:18ff. See also 1 Cor. 11:3,8,9.
Woman was created from the beginning to be a helper or companion to man, not a
leader or authority figure over him. Man was created with the position of leader
and his nature suits that position.
V14 -- Man has the leadership role because, though both Adam and Eve sinned, the
woman was deceived where man was not. Both man and woman were punished, but God
made the punishment fit the sin.
Eve tried to take the leadership role and made a decision to disobey God without
consulting her husband. She allowed herself to be deceived and made a colossal
blunder, so God required that she would always be subject to her husband (Gen.
3:16). Her punishment reminds her that she left her role of subjection. Man was
punished just as severely, but in a different way.
1 Corinthians 14:34,35 -- Women are to be silent in the assemblies of the
church.
*****************************************************
V34 says women must keep silence "in the churches." V35 says it is shameful for
them to speak "in the church." The context defines "silence" to mean not
speaking, not even to ask a question.
The context shows that "in the church" refers to the public worship assembly in
which the church is called together to sing and pray (v15) and be edified (v26).
The church is gathered together in congregation as a body. See v23,26 (cf.
v4,5,12,19,28,33,34,35). Compare the similar usage in 1 Cor. 11:17-34 regarding
the assemblies in which the Lord's supper was offered (cf. v17,18,20,33).
III. ANSWERS TO OBJECTIONS
==========================
A. Was Phoebe a Preacher?
=========================
Romans 16:2 says Phoebe was a "minister" or "servant." How she served is not
defined. There are many different ways people may serve or minister to others.
Cf. John 2:5.
No passage anywhere indicates that any women were appointed to any specific
office of work in the church like elders and deacons. Appointment to office
requires specific qualifications (Titus 1; 1 Tim. 3). None are ever given for
women.
If Phoebe had preached in public church meetings, she would have violated
express New Testament commands.
B. Was This Just Paul's Opinion or a Requirement of God?
====================================================
Some people claim this was just Paul's personal opinion, not Divine regulation
1) It is based on the principle of subjection of women to men. This was a
principle established by God and revealed through various inspired teachers, not
just Paul. Gen. 2:18; 3:16; Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:18; I Cor. 11:3; Tit. 2:4,5; I
Pet. 3:1-7; I Cor. 14:34.
2) 1 Cor. 14:34,35 says the same was also taught in the law (Gen. 2:18; 3:16).
Hence, it was not just Paul's opinion nor a temporary or local custom but had
been the rule even under the Old Testament.
3) 1 Cor. 14:37 expressly states that these teachings were "the commandment of
the Lord." Paul was an inspired apostle (2 Cor. 11:5: 12:11,12; 1 Cor. 9:1-5;
15:4-8; Acts 9:15; 26:16). To reject this teaching is to reject the commands of
God. See also 1 Thess. 2:13; 4:8; Eph. 3:3-5; Gal. 1:6-12; 1 Cor. 2:1-5,10-16; 2
Peter 3:15,16; Luke 10:16; John 16:13,14; Matt. 18:18;
4) Paul was not prejudiced against women. Much of the teaching about the value
of women was done by Paul. See also Eph. 5:25-29,33; Galatians 3:28; Col. 3:19;
Acts 16:14,15,40; Rom. 16:1-4,6.
C. Was This a Binding, Permanent Command or Just a Custom of That Day?
====================================================
Some claim that the teaching about women's subjection was not intended to be
permanent but was a local, temporary custom of that day.
1) It is based on the principle of subjection of women to men. This is a
universal principle binding on all Christians in the gospel age, taught in other
passages including Gen. 2:18; 3:16; Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:18; I Cor. 11:3; Tit.
2:4,5; I Pet. 3:1-7; I Cor. 14:34. Note that some of these are taught by
inspired men other than Paul.
2) 1 Cor. 14:34,35 says the same was also taught in the law (Gen. 2:18; 3:16).
Hence, it was not just a temporary or local custom but had been the rule even
under the Old Testament.
3) V33 says that the things Paul was teaching apply "in all the churches of the
saints."
4) Again, 1 Cor. 14:37 expressly states that these teachings were "the
commandment of the Lord." Hence, they were not just local, temporary customs.
Paul was an inspired apostle. To reject this teaching is to reject the commands
of God, not just temporary customs. See passages above.
We must not lightly set aside the teachings of God's word as non-binding
customs. Unless there is clear evidence to the contrary, we must accept that
which God's word teaches to be Divine command.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I. THE VALUE OF WOMEN AND THEIR WORK
=====================================
A. Women's Work Is Equally as Important as Man's.
=================================================
Women are just as important or valued as men. They are honored and rewarded for
their work as highly as men are for their work.
Gal. 3:28; I Pet. 3:7; Prov. 31:10-31
B. God Values People for Their Service, not Their Authority.
====================================================
Matt. 20:25-28
Note that this does not deny the existence of valid authority. Jesus used
Himself as the example, and He possessed authority (Matt. 28:18; 7:29). The
point is that possession of authority does not inherently make one great. People
without authority can be just as great as those who have it. Cf. citizens to
rulers, men to elders, etc.
However, the fact men and women are equally valued does not mean God expects
them to do the same work.
C. In Particular, the Woman's Role as Homemaker Is of Great Value
====================================================
God honors woman in this role, and she ought to be honored by men.
1 Timothy 5:14; Titus 2:5; Psalm 113:9; Proverbs 31:10-31; 7:11,12
C. Women Have a Definite Responsibility in teaching.
====================================================
They may teach women or children.
*********************************
Titus 2:3,4; Proverbs 31:1; 1:8; 2 Timothy 1:5
They may even impart truth to men in a limited capacity.
*****************************************************
Acts 18:26; 2:17; 21:9; John 4:28-30,39,42
However, note that none of these passages place women as preaching God's word in
the public worship assemblies of the whole church or in any capacity which puts
them in authority over men.
II. RESTRICTIONS ON WOMEN IN AUTHORITY AND TEACHING
===================================================
A. Women Are Subject to Men
===========================
Many passages teach the subjection of women to men in general.
Genesis 2:18; 3:16; Ephesians 5:22-33; Colossians 3:18; I Corinthians 11:3;
14:34; I Timothy 2:12-14; 3:4,12; Titus 2:4,5; I Peter 3:1-7
B. Positions of Authority & Leadership in the Church Are Reserved for Men.
====================================================
Apostles were all men -- Acts 1:13.
Elders, who oversee the local church (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-3), must be men --
1 Timothy 3:1,2; Titus 1:5,6.
C. Women Are Subject to Men in Spiritual Teaching.
====================================================
Women are expressly forbidden to take a leading role over men in the church or
in any circumstance of teaching God's word.
1 Timothy 2:11-14 -- Women are subject to men in spiritual teaching situations.
*****************************************************
V13,14 give two reasons for women's subjection to man.
V13 -- First, man was formed before woman. This refers to the creation account
of Gen. 2:18ff. See also 1 Cor. 11:3,8,9.
Woman was created from the beginning to be a helper or companion to man, not a
leader or authority figure over him. Man was created with the position of leader
and his nature suits that position.
V14 -- Man has the leadership role because, though both Adam and Eve sinned, the
woman was deceived where man was not. Both man and woman were punished, but God
made the punishment fit the sin.
Eve tried to take the leadership role and made a decision to disobey God without
consulting her husband. She allowed herself to be deceived and made a colossal
blunder, so God required that she would always be subject to her husband (Gen.
3:16). Her punishment reminds her that she left her role of subjection. Man was
punished just as severely, but in a different way.
1 Corinthians 14:34,35 -- Women are to be silent in the assemblies of the
church.
*****************************************************
V34 says women must keep silence "in the churches." V35 says it is shameful for
them to speak "in the church." The context defines "silence" to mean not
speaking, not even to ask a question.
The context shows that "in the church" refers to the public worship assembly in
which the church is called together to sing and pray (v15) and be edified (v26).
The church is gathered together in congregation as a body. See v23,26 (cf.
v4,5,12,19,28,33,34,35). Compare the similar usage in 1 Cor. 11:17-34 regarding
the assemblies in which the Lord's supper was offered (cf. v17,18,20,33).
III. ANSWERS TO OBJECTIONS
==========================
A. Was Phoebe a Preacher?
=========================
Romans 16:2 says Phoebe was a "minister" or "servant." How she served is not
defined. There are many different ways people may serve or minister to others.
Cf. John 2:5.
No passage anywhere indicates that any women were appointed to any specific
office of work in the church like elders and deacons. Appointment to office
requires specific qualifications (Titus 1; 1 Tim. 3). None are ever given for
women.
If Phoebe had preached in public church meetings, she would have violated
express New Testament commands.
B. Was This Just Paul's Opinion or a Requirement of God?
====================================================
Some people claim this was just Paul's personal opinion, not Divine regulation
1) It is based on the principle of subjection of women to men. This was a
principle established by God and revealed through various inspired teachers, not
just Paul. Gen. 2:18; 3:16; Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:18; I Cor. 11:3; Tit. 2:4,5; I
Pet. 3:1-7; I Cor. 14:34.
2) 1 Cor. 14:34,35 says the same was also taught in the law (Gen. 2:18; 3:16).
Hence, it was not just Paul's opinion nor a temporary or local custom but had
been the rule even under the Old Testament.
3) 1 Cor. 14:37 expressly states that these teachings were "the commandment of
the Lord." Paul was an inspired apostle (2 Cor. 11:5: 12:11,12; 1 Cor. 9:1-5;
15:4-8; Acts 9:15; 26:16). To reject this teaching is to reject the commands of
God. See also 1 Thess. 2:13; 4:8; Eph. 3:3-5; Gal. 1:6-12; 1 Cor. 2:1-5,10-16; 2
Peter 3:15,16; Luke 10:16; John 16:13,14; Matt. 18:18;
4) Paul was not prejudiced against women. Much of the teaching about the value
of women was done by Paul. See also Eph. 5:25-29,33; Galatians 3:28; Col. 3:19;
Acts 16:14,15,40; Rom. 16:1-4,6.
C. Was This a Binding, Permanent Command or Just a Custom of That Day?
====================================================
Some claim that the teaching about women's subjection was not intended to be
permanent but was a local, temporary custom of that day.
1) It is based on the principle of subjection of women to men. This is a
universal principle binding on all Christians in the gospel age, taught in other
passages including Gen. 2:18; 3:16; Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:18; I Cor. 11:3; Tit.
2:4,5; I Pet. 3:1-7; I Cor. 14:34. Note that some of these are taught by
inspired men other than Paul.
2) 1 Cor. 14:34,35 says the same was also taught in the law (Gen. 2:18; 3:16).
Hence, it was not just a temporary or local custom but had been the rule even
under the Old Testament.
3) V33 says that the things Paul was teaching apply "in all the churches of the
saints."
4) Again, 1 Cor. 14:37 expressly states that these teachings were "the
commandment of the Lord." Hence, they were not just local, temporary customs.
Paul was an inspired apostle. To reject this teaching is to reject the commands
of God, not just temporary customs. See passages above.
We must not lightly set aside the teachings of God's word as non-binding
customs. Unless there is clear evidence to the contrary, we must accept that
which God's word teaches to be Divine command.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Challenge to the Laborers
Matt 9:36-37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
Luke 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
The words of our Lord seem never truer than they are at this present time. On planet Earth we now have 6.6 billion people, more than has ever lived at one time in human history. That means there are 6.6 billion people who need to hear the gospel and to be saved. America has an estimated 305 million people, which means there are 305 million people who need the gospel of Jesus Christ to be saved. Polling data from the 2001 ARIS study tells us that 76.5% (159 million) of Americans identify themselves as Christians and in that 52% of Americans identified themselves as Protestant and 24.5% are Roman Catholic. That poll was taken 7 years ago and I believe that the number of professing Christians would probably be less, with the rise of humanistic atheism, Islam, and the occultic religions as Wicca. The majority of professing Christians are just that, professing. They know nothing of a relationship with Christ and would claim to be saved by a work of some sort (baptism, church membership, etc). Ask some of you're "Christian" friends. You'll see what I'm saying. My point? America’s in desperate need for the gospel. Many people believe missions work is something that happens overseas, but it actually starts in your own neighborhood.
Jesus tells the apostles in Acts 1:7-8 ... “ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
This command is also relevant for us as believers today. Jerusalem was the headquarters of Judaism, the capital of their country and the first place evangelized in the Book of Acts. After Jerusalem was reached Judea, then Samaria followed, then to the uttermost part of the earth. This order was followed exactly.
Ok, so why have I said all of this? I think as believers we have neglected our Jerusalem, our home towns and the wider scope of our country. I have nothing against foreign missions, but should our burden for missions be entirely for the foreign fields? Jerusalem was the apostles’ top priority before the uttermost part, and if we have neglected our Jerusalem, what right do we have to move on to the next ring of the circle?
There is a definite need. Our Lord said in the verses mentioned above that the harvest is plenteous, so the reason the gospel is not going out isn’t for the lack of people who need to hear it. It is because of the lack of laborers in the harvest!
So you may be thinking, “Well I’d love to help, but I’m not a pastor or a missionary or any sort of “professional Christian.” That’s the great part, the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:14-16; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21-23; Acts 1:8) is for every disciple of Christ.. every believer!
But can’t someone else do it?
That’s exactly what Satan is telling people. “I’ll let someone else do it” more often than not, this apathetic approach means it never gets done, which means more people perish. There may also be people in your life that with whom you may be the only one who can share the gospel. So if you won't do it, no one will. Every one of us needs to be involved with the evangelization of our Jerusalem, no matter what our occupation, age, gender, etc. There will be something to be done, whether it be inviting unsaved neighbors to ones home for a meal, or going canvassing door to door.
Not convinced yet?
Go visit a shopping mall or grocery store. There will be hundreds of people in one of these locations that may never hear the gospel. Why? Because no one took the time to tell them! They will die, and spend eternity in hell because the Christian church neglected its command to be witnesses in our Jerusalem! Your neighbors, friends, family may be in that group of the unevangelized!
Think you’re too busy?
The average US household has a television on for 7 hours, 12 minutes each day.
Approximately 10 people per minute die in the USA. From my math, that’s over 4300 people during the time the average American is watchiing television. How many of those people do you think knew Christ as savior?
Imagine how much you could do if you spent just an hour a day or an afternoon once a week walking around your area knocking on doors witnessing!
When was the last time you prayed for the harvest in your town or area? Have you prayed for the Lord to send laborers into that harvest? When was the last time you approached someone with the gospel? Have you ever approached someone with the gospel? When was the last time you led someone to the Lord? Have you ever led someone to the Lord? Do you constantly say “I’ll get involved later?” The clock is ticking. I hope this will motivate you to get involved.
If you aren’t sure how, email me back, and I can give you some suggestions. Thanks for reading this.
Raymond Wilfong
www.raymondwilfong.blogspot.com
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
--Matthew 6:33
Luke 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
The words of our Lord seem never truer than they are at this present time. On planet Earth we now have 6.6 billion people, more than has ever lived at one time in human history. That means there are 6.6 billion people who need to hear the gospel and to be saved. America has an estimated 305 million people, which means there are 305 million people who need the gospel of Jesus Christ to be saved. Polling data from the 2001 ARIS study tells us that 76.5% (159 million) of Americans identify themselves as Christians and in that 52% of Americans identified themselves as Protestant and 24.5% are Roman Catholic. That poll was taken 7 years ago and I believe that the number of professing Christians would probably be less, with the rise of humanistic atheism, Islam, and the occultic religions as Wicca. The majority of professing Christians are just that, professing. They know nothing of a relationship with Christ and would claim to be saved by a work of some sort (baptism, church membership, etc). Ask some of you're "Christian" friends. You'll see what I'm saying. My point? America’s in desperate need for the gospel. Many people believe missions work is something that happens overseas, but it actually starts in your own neighborhood.
Jesus tells the apostles in Acts 1:7-8 ... “ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
This command is also relevant for us as believers today. Jerusalem was the headquarters of Judaism, the capital of their country and the first place evangelized in the Book of Acts. After Jerusalem was reached Judea, then Samaria followed, then to the uttermost part of the earth. This order was followed exactly.
Ok, so why have I said all of this? I think as believers we have neglected our Jerusalem, our home towns and the wider scope of our country. I have nothing against foreign missions, but should our burden for missions be entirely for the foreign fields? Jerusalem was the apostles’ top priority before the uttermost part, and if we have neglected our Jerusalem, what right do we have to move on to the next ring of the circle?
There is a definite need. Our Lord said in the verses mentioned above that the harvest is plenteous, so the reason the gospel is not going out isn’t for the lack of people who need to hear it. It is because of the lack of laborers in the harvest!
So you may be thinking, “Well I’d love to help, but I’m not a pastor or a missionary or any sort of “professional Christian.” That’s the great part, the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:14-16; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21-23; Acts 1:8) is for every disciple of Christ.. every believer!
But can’t someone else do it?
That’s exactly what Satan is telling people. “I’ll let someone else do it” more often than not, this apathetic approach means it never gets done, which means more people perish. There may also be people in your life that with whom you may be the only one who can share the gospel. So if you won't do it, no one will. Every one of us needs to be involved with the evangelization of our Jerusalem, no matter what our occupation, age, gender, etc. There will be something to be done, whether it be inviting unsaved neighbors to ones home for a meal, or going canvassing door to door.
Not convinced yet?
Go visit a shopping mall or grocery store. There will be hundreds of people in one of these locations that may never hear the gospel. Why? Because no one took the time to tell them! They will die, and spend eternity in hell because the Christian church neglected its command to be witnesses in our Jerusalem! Your neighbors, friends, family may be in that group of the unevangelized!
Think you’re too busy?
The average US household has a television on for 7 hours, 12 minutes each day.
Approximately 10 people per minute die in the USA. From my math, that’s over 4300 people during the time the average American is watchiing television. How many of those people do you think knew Christ as savior?
Imagine how much you could do if you spent just an hour a day or an afternoon once a week walking around your area knocking on doors witnessing!
When was the last time you prayed for the harvest in your town or area? Have you prayed for the Lord to send laborers into that harvest? When was the last time you approached someone with the gospel? Have you ever approached someone with the gospel? When was the last time you led someone to the Lord? Have you ever led someone to the Lord? Do you constantly say “I’ll get involved later?” The clock is ticking. I hope this will motivate you to get involved.
If you aren’t sure how, email me back, and I can give you some suggestions. Thanks for reading this.
Raymond Wilfong
www.raymondwilfong.blogspot.com
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
--Matthew 6:33
Monday, October 6, 2008
Johnny and the Cat
Johnny's mother looked out the door and saw Johnny reading
the Bible to his cat. She thought to herself, "Isn't that
sweet? I will not disturb him and will let him continue to
play with the cat."
Sometime later, Mom heard an awful noise and looked out the
door to see Johnny trying to force the cat into a bucket of
water. She loudly said to Johnny, "Johnny, what are you
trying to do with the cat?"
Johnny replied, "I am trying to baptize him!"
His mom said, "Cats don't like to be in water."
Johnny replied, "Well, then he shouldn't have joined my
church."
the Bible to his cat. She thought to herself, "Isn't that
sweet? I will not disturb him and will let him continue to
play with the cat."
Sometime later, Mom heard an awful noise and looked out the
door to see Johnny trying to force the cat into a bucket of
water. She loudly said to Johnny, "Johnny, what are you
trying to do with the cat?"
Johnny replied, "I am trying to baptize him!"
His mom said, "Cats don't like to be in water."
Johnny replied, "Well, then he shouldn't have joined my
church."
Friday, October 3, 2008
Biblical Headlines
Biblical Headlines
If Biblical Headlines were written by today's liberal
media...
On Red Sea crossing:
WETLANDS TRAMPLED IN LABOR STRIKE
Pursuing Environmentalists Killed
On David vs. Goliath:
HATE CRIME KILLS BELOVED CHAMPION
Psychologist Questions Influence of Rock
On Elijah on Mt. Carmel:
FIRE SENDS RELIGIOUS RIGHT EXTREMIST INTO FRENZY
400 Killed
On the birth of Christ:
HOTELS FULL, ANIMALS LEFT HOMELESS
Animal Rights Activists Enraged by Insensitive Couple
On feeding the 5,000:
PREACHER STEALS CHILD'S LUNCH
Disciples Mystified Over Behavior
On healing the 10 lepers:
LOCAL DOCTOR'S PRACTICE RUINED
"Faith Healer" Causes Bankruptcy
On healing of the Gadarene demoniac:
MADMAN'S FRIEND CAUSES STAMPEDE
Local Farmer's Investment Lost
On raising Lazarus from the dead:
FUNDAMENTALIST PREACHER RAISES A STINK
Will Reading to be Delayed
If Biblical Headlines were written by today's liberal
media...
On Red Sea crossing:
WETLANDS TRAMPLED IN LABOR STRIKE
Pursuing Environmentalists Killed
On David vs. Goliath:
HATE CRIME KILLS BELOVED CHAMPION
Psychologist Questions Influence of Rock
On Elijah on Mt. Carmel:
FIRE SENDS RELIGIOUS RIGHT EXTREMIST INTO FRENZY
400 Killed
On the birth of Christ:
HOTELS FULL, ANIMALS LEFT HOMELESS
Animal Rights Activists Enraged by Insensitive Couple
On feeding the 5,000:
PREACHER STEALS CHILD'S LUNCH
Disciples Mystified Over Behavior
On healing the 10 lepers:
LOCAL DOCTOR'S PRACTICE RUINED
"Faith Healer" Causes Bankruptcy
On healing of the Gadarene demoniac:
MADMAN'S FRIEND CAUSES STAMPEDE
Local Farmer's Investment Lost
On raising Lazarus from the dead:
FUNDAMENTALIST PREACHER RAISES A STINK
Will Reading to be Delayed
Thursday, October 2, 2008
What Cancer Cannot Do--lwf.org Devotion from 10/2/08
October 2
BIBLE MEDITATION:
“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:
What if you had an appointment with the doctor and found out that you had cancer? Maybe you have heard this news or heard it on behalf of a loved one. I want to tell you some things cancer cannot do. Cancer cannot shatter hope. Cancer cannot corrode faith. Cancer cannot eat away peace. Cancer cannot place a limit on eternal life. Cancer cannot quench the Spirit of God and cancer cannot lessen the power of the resurrection. That’s how limited cancer is!
ACTION POINT:
Is there someone in your life who is suffering from cancer? Give them the Good News that you’ve read today. And pray that they will know the Savior.
BIBLE MEDITATION:
“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:
What if you had an appointment with the doctor and found out that you had cancer? Maybe you have heard this news or heard it on behalf of a loved one. I want to tell you some things cancer cannot do. Cancer cannot shatter hope. Cancer cannot corrode faith. Cancer cannot eat away peace. Cancer cannot place a limit on eternal life. Cancer cannot quench the Spirit of God and cancer cannot lessen the power of the resurrection. That’s how limited cancer is!
ACTION POINT:
Is there someone in your life who is suffering from cancer? Give them the Good News that you’ve read today. And pray that they will know the Savior.
Monday, September 22, 2008
25 Things Worth Thinking About
25 Things Worth Thinking About
1) Give God what's RIGHT -- not what's LEFT.
2) Man's way leads to hopeless end; God's way leads to
endless hope.
3) A lot of kneeling will keep you in good standing.
4) He who kneels before God can stand before anyone.
5) In the sentence of life, the devil may be a comma, but
never let him be the period.
6) Don't put a question mark where God puts a period.
7) Are you wrinkled with burden? Come to the church for a
faith-lift.
8) When praying, don't give God instructions -- just report
for duty.
9) Don't wait for six strong men to take you to the church.
10) We don't change God's message; His message changes us.
11) All churches should be prayer-conditioned.
12) When God ordains, He sustains.
13) WARNING: Exposure to the Son may prevent burning.
14) Plan ahead -- it wasn't raining when Noah built the ark.
15) Most people want to serve God, but only in an advisory
position.
16) Suffering from truth decay? Brush up with your Bible on
a daily basis.
17) Exercise daily! Walk with the Lord.
18) Never give the devil a ride -- he will always want to
drive.
19) Nothing else ruins the truth like stretching it.
20) Compassion is difficult to give away because it keeps
coming back.
21) He who angers you controls you.
22) Worry is the darkroom in which negatives can develop.
23) Give Satan an inch, and he'll be a ruler.
24) Be ye fishers of men -- you catch them, and God will
clean them.
25) God does not call the qualified; he qualifies the
called.
1) Give God what's RIGHT -- not what's LEFT.
2) Man's way leads to hopeless end; God's way leads to
endless hope.
3) A lot of kneeling will keep you in good standing.
4) He who kneels before God can stand before anyone.
5) In the sentence of life, the devil may be a comma, but
never let him be the period.
6) Don't put a question mark where God puts a period.
7) Are you wrinkled with burden? Come to the church for a
faith-lift.
8) When praying, don't give God instructions -- just report
for duty.
9) Don't wait for six strong men to take you to the church.
10) We don't change God's message; His message changes us.
11) All churches should be prayer-conditioned.
12) When God ordains, He sustains.
13) WARNING: Exposure to the Son may prevent burning.
14) Plan ahead -- it wasn't raining when Noah built the ark.
15) Most people want to serve God, but only in an advisory
position.
16) Suffering from truth decay? Brush up with your Bible on
a daily basis.
17) Exercise daily! Walk with the Lord.
18) Never give the devil a ride -- he will always want to
drive.
19) Nothing else ruins the truth like stretching it.
20) Compassion is difficult to give away because it keeps
coming back.
21) He who angers you controls you.
22) Worry is the darkroom in which negatives can develop.
23) Give Satan an inch, and he'll be a ruler.
24) Be ye fishers of men -- you catch them, and God will
clean them.
25) God does not call the qualified; he qualifies the
called.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Drought Affects Churches
Drought Affects Churches
Severe drought affects churches in northern Alabama,
Tennessee, and northwest Georgia.
Did you know that because of the drought in these areas,
church budgets are greatly affected?
Baptist churches are having to sprinkle for baptisms, the
Methodists are using wet wipes for their baptisms, and the
Catholics are praying that God will turn the wine back into
water.
Severe drought affects churches in northern Alabama,
Tennessee, and northwest Georgia.
Did you know that because of the drought in these areas,
church budgets are greatly affected?
Baptist churches are having to sprinkle for baptisms, the
Methodists are using wet wipes for their baptisms, and the
Catholics are praying that God will turn the wine back into
water.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Why Wait?
Why Wait? What You Need to Know About the Teen Sexuality Crisis
By Josh McDowell and Dick Day
This book is filled with personal testimonies, which I will put in quotations, and also tells of many consequences of premarital sex. Please pass this around to all your friends, both single and married, so they have this to give to their kids to read, too. I highly recommend this book to all.
“Premarital sex gave me fear as a gift… and shame to wear as a garment. It stole my peace of mind and robbed me of hope in a bright future. Sex smashed my concentration in class to smithereens. My desire for church activities was ground to a pulp. It made crumbs of the trust I had known in Christ… and in men and women. Sex gave me a jagged tea in my heart that even now, seven years later, is still healing.”
“Having premarital sex was the most horrifying experience of my life. It wasn’t at all the emotionally satisfying or the casually-taken experience the world perceives it to be. I felt as if my insides were being exposed and my heart left unattended.”
“It took losing my virginity at a very young age, losing my self-respect and possibly my fertility, helping to ruin another person’s marriage and family life, acquiring a non-curable virus, not getting the fulfillment that sex should provide in marriage, and living with the guilt that Satan always tries to make me feel…for me to realize how detrimental sex before marriage can really be.”
“Dear Mr. McDowell, Can you help me? I’m thirteen and I’ve just ruined my life. I thought Mike really loved me, but last night we had sex for the first time and this morning he told my girl friend that he didn’t want to see me any more. I thought giving Mike what he wanted would make him happy and he’d love me more. What if I’m pregnant? What am I going to do? I feel so alone and confused…I can’t talk to my parents, so could you please write me back and help me. I don’t know how I can go on.”
“The reason I’m writing this is I’m alone and confused. My boyfriend kept pursuing me for sex…I had sex with him thinking that I owed him…Later when I learned I was pregnant he blew up, said to get an abortion, and that it was all my fault. So, to save my parents heartache and to keep Matt, I had an abortion. Now Matt has left me…How can God love me after all I have done? Could you please write me back? I’m just so confused. Can God really love and forgive me?”
A 15 year-old, “When I met my boyfriend at the beginning of my sophomore year, we began having sex as soon as we started kissing. I didn’t really want to at all—I don’t even think he did—but we couldn’t think of any reason why we shouldn’t do it.”
“I had already achieved the impossible. I was almost eighteen and I was still a virgin. I had just never wanted to “do it”…I was very much in love, or thought I was, with a dashing college man, and from time to time he would mention that he had never dated a girl who said no as many times as I had. After a while, my resolve weakened, and since I had no reason to say no, I decided that I would do it to show how much I loved him. I didn’t really want to, but in my own mind I couldn’t rationalize not having sex. I gave in to pressure because saying yes was easier than saying no and trying to explain why not.”
A National Sunday School Association’s Youth Survey asked 3,000 teens what kind of help they would like to receive from their churches. Counseling for sexual problems ranked first among twenty-one items.
“She was extremely young, but she didn’t feel young. It seemed like such a mature jump… from the immature age of twelve to the much more exciting, official-teenager age of thirteen. She really loved being and “acting” older. She thought everything was great! She was an honor student and was also very involved in extracurricular activities. She loved to do things and share deep dark secrets with her best friend. She had a good family and her parents taught her well the difference between right and wrong. She was sensible and had a good head on her shoulders… so it seemed. He was older than she and extremely popular. He was very talented and was always the center of attention. She was overwhelmed with joy when he started to pay special attention to her. She was so pleased when he picked her as a girlfriend, rather than any of the other girls who would have died for the chance. One day he told her, “I love you.” But she had nothing to say in return. She did not love him, yet adored the popularity he gained for her. She was blinded by the new attention she received from that newly discovered “popularity.” Everyone said, “Hi” to her. Everyone wanted to know her. He asked her if he could express his love to her. She said she wasn’t ready. He said, “I love you.” She did not reply. Later he told her something had happened. He said he showed his “love” to someone else. She said it was all right. He said, “I love you.” She was naïve. She looked down and said nothing. She had never had so many friends before. So many people wanted to talk with her. In fact, she noticed that boys were paying a lot more attention to her. But, she stayed with him…because he loved her. Then he told her it had happened again. He showed “love” to someone else, yet he did not really love that someone else. He even told her who the girl was. She looked away. She felt threatened. But he told her, “I love you.” She looked down and quietly replied the same. He told her to show her love for him. She didn’t want to, but she didn’t want to lose him to someone else. So she “showed him love.” She was violated. She was innocent no longer. She broke up with him. He asked her to take him back. He told her, “I love you.” But she rejected him. A few days later, he was “in love” with someone else. She was impure and unwholesome. She was used. She was drowned with shame. She was swallowed up by guilt. She was very alone. She is afraid to love ever again. She knows she can never change the past. She has stained her life…a stain that will never come out. She was extremely young. She finally realized how young.”
Facts about Teenage Sex
By age twenty, 81% of today’s unmarried males and 67% of today’s unmarried females have had sexual intercourse.
The number of never-married teenage girls having intercourse increased by two-thirds in the decade 70’s.
For some teens, oral sex comes before intercourse; 41% of 17 year old girls say they have performed fellatio.
A research study of 5,000 students at 32 educational institutions showed that 25.5% of coeds have been raped or sexually attacked since the age of 14.
A Kent State University study showed that 57% of the coeds that had been raped there were raped by their dates.
Of the teenage girls who give birth out of wedlock, 96% of these girls will keep their babies.
70% of unwed teenage mothers will go on welfare.
If the present trend continues, 40% of today’s 14 year old girls will be pregnant before the age of 20.
Since the popular push for contraceptives for teens, teenage sexual activity and teenage pregnancy have increased almost 400%.
A teenage-relationship survey reveals that “religious conscious girls are 86% more likely to say it’s important to be a virgin at marriage than nonreligious conscious girls. However, religion-conscious girls are only 14% more likely to be virgins than non-religious girls.”
A 16 year old explained why he turned to drugs. “Well, if I can’t feel significant, at least I can feel good.” That is how many teenagers attempt to deal with their problems. They turn to drugs, alcohol, and sex as ways to “feel good.” But those are only temporary avenues of escape, not long-term solutions.
Two deep fears that everyone faces: “Almost every one of you has two fears. First, the fear you’ll never be loved, and second, the fear you’ll never be able to love.” Everyone became very quiet. No one was looking around. I wasn’t surprised.
“My mother kept asking, ‘Why…Why?’ ‘Cause I wanted to be loved, that’s why. Is that so terrible? I wanted someone to tell me that I’m pretty… that they cared about me.”
We learn to love by seeing love modeled. Love is not primarily a feeling. Love is first and foremost action. Saying “I love you” has no meaning if it is not supported by action.
A reader’s survey of Children and Teens Today asked, “What do you see as the major stresses/problems facing today’s teenagers?” The response of 72.4% was: “Problems arising from parental divorce/remarriage.”
Everyday, at least 33,000 Americans become infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
NO ONE ON TELEVISION PAYS THE PRICE OF ILLICIT SEX. YOU ONLY DO THAT IN REAL LIFE.
“What the movies and the soap operas don’t tell us about is the devastation and the broken hearts that occur due to affairs and premarital sex. I do not make light of the consequences of wrong… sexual involvement. Without a doubt, the hardest and most painful thing I’ve gone through… more than major surgery, tests for cancer, a broken family, and numerous job rejections…is getting over a sexual relationship with a married man.”
Sad to say, most young people, even from church families, have not learned about their sexuality in church. Even a greater tragedy, most did not learn about their sexuality at home. They have learned it from television, movies and music. Those are the three great influences on teens.
This year there will be 1.2 million pregnant teenagers. Do you know that it costs federal and state governments an average of 100,000 in medical and welfare costs for every single teen who has a child?
Washington [AP] – Teenage child-bearing cost the nation 16.6 billion last year and the 385,000 babies who were the firstborn to adolescents in 1985 will receive 5 billion in welfare benefits over the next 20 years, according to a study just released.
There are over 30 sexually transmitted diseases every nine months a new one is discovered. Every day, 33,000 Americans will contract an STD.
By 1991 it will cost us an estimated 19 billion a year, just for AIDS. If we combine that with the costs of other STDs we can expect soon to be paying at least 30billion a year for “free sex.”
What about the teenage mother? Her prospects are often dismal. Her chances of finishing school, obtaining a good job, or being happily married are minimal.
What about physical and psychological costs of being born to a teenager? Infant mortality, low birth weight, mental retardation and physical disabilities. The chances of such children being physically abused, or becoming drug-addicted, are much greater than if they were born to older women.
Your mind and emotions are affected whenever you engage in sexual activity. The mind has the capacity to play “reruns” of past sexual experiences, often forcing you to compare a current sexual partner with a previous one. That can occur even when you finally have married and begun a genuine committed relationship. These “ghosts of the past” can be devastating to future intimacy in marriage.
Sex is not a private act! Not when persons practice casual sex behind closed doors and then come out from behind those doors and demand that the government spend billions of dollars on AIDS research. Not when teenagers become pregnant behind closed doors and then pass the costs on to those children and taxpayers.
Dr. Edward Wiesmeier, director of the UCLA Student Health Center, warns students that “once change encounter can infect a person with as many as five different diseases.”
A study of 39 teenage girls who were suffering from anorexia nervosa showed that 36 of them lacked close relationships with their fathers.
Johns Hopkins University found that “young, white, teenage girls living in fatherless families… were 60% more likely to have had intercourse than those living in 2 parent families.
Most parents spend more time watching TV everyday by far than talking and training their kids. One-fourth of all 9th graders said they spend less than 5 minutes a day to talk, play, or just be together with their dad.
Many young people are uncertain of their parents’ love. Fifty percent of high school students wanted to know if their parents loved them.
Of teens from divorced homes, 74% said their parents didn’t try hard enough. Is it surprising that 75% of teenagers said that it was too easy to get a divorce.
Many pregnant teens say wanting ‘a man to hold me’ was their motivation rather than having sexual relations with someone.
What people want is intimacy. A fifteen-year-old girl once described intimacy as “a place where it’s safe to be real.”
We have allowed our culture to dictate to us that the only way you can find intimacy is through the physical. I am personally convinced that most young people use sex as a means of achieving intimacy. They don’t want sex as much as they want closeness with another human being. The tragedy is that people are jumping from one bed to another in their search for intimacy.
Why do people fear intimacy? Because intimacy inevitably brings vulnerability. Many young people repeatedly share their bodies because they are afraid to share themselves. They participate in countless “one-night stands” because they are afraid to be vulnerable.
“There is a way that seems right to a man but in the end it leads to death” (Proverbs 14:12). What is intriguing is not that the way leads to death, but rather that it “seems so right.”
“We were in love. The commitment made. Ring bought. Date set. Gown ordered. Attendants fitted. Reception planned. Invitations addressed. Showers given. Apartment rented. That was the first mistake, renting the apartment before the wedding. It was no long my parents’ basement or his car. The apartment was ours. We combined hand-me-downs from each side of the family with special pieces of our own. It was now our future home together and mine to care for in the meantime. The privacy was more than we could handle. Hand-holding turned into embraces. Kisses found their way down the neck. No longer could we just sit in the same room; we had to be next to each other, embraced in each others arms. Hands began to wander up and down the back. Hugs involved the entire body. His excitement was obvious and my pleasure verbal. I don’t know what I felt or what I was thinking. I guess our being married shortly was the easiest rationalization. After all, marriage is a commitment, not a ceremony. Or maybe because, clinically, virginity has to do with the actual culminated sex act. Since that never happened, all the other acts of foreplay seemed harmless. But whatever the reason, night after night we engaged in physical foreplay, but not the emotional “lovemaking” needed for a strong marriage. Then something happened. I don’t know quite when, just that it did. The arguments started. We’d yell for a while and then kiss and “make out,” but that solved nothing. We saw each other in a different light. When he saw my fears and insecurities, he tried to cover them with authority and knowledge. Soon, in tears, the ring came off. The wedding plans waned. Then, finally the announcement, first to my parents, then to close friends. The news spread by itself. Gifts were returned. Invitation destroyed. Plans and reservations cancelled. The gown prepared for storage. The rings returned. The commitment shattered. Have I hurt any future relationship by experiencing with one man what will never be the same with any other? Maybe if we would have loved each other more than we loved ourselves, maybe if we could have said no to our desires, maybe if the apartment hadn’t been rented…”
1 Thessalonians 4:3-6 says, “It is God’ will that you should be holy; that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him.”
The younger one starts dating, the more likely he/she is going to have premarital sex prior to graduation from high school.
“To most kids sex is really nothing, so they go ahead and have it just because they like it.”
“Where I live, many of my girl friends and guy friends are involved in sex because they just want to do it. When I ask them why, they usually say it makes them feel good, although some say they do it because their friends are doing it.”
“Sex is a cheap thrill. Having sex is one date that costs very little money and can be done almost anywhere. Life is empty anyway, so ‘go for it!’” The problem with a thrill is that you have to come down. Boredom doesn’t stay away after sex. It keeps coming back.
Mature persons don’t just seek out what will make them feel good for an instant, but rather ask, “Is there a value to this?” before undertaking something.
Teenagers have sex to release stress. Some girls have sex to have a child to have someone to love her. She expects a child to solve her self-image problem, which puts unrealistic expectations on the baby even before it is born.
Teens misunderstand what real love is. Today’s teenagers think love is an act instead of a commitment. Ninety percent of all guy and eight percent of all girls will lose their virginity by age twenty. They have no example of real love in their lives, and many have been taught sex education without morals from grade school on.”
Peer Pressure: “Everyone is Doing It”
“Why wait? It’s the number-one teen question. My parents are always telling me what to do and what not to do. I hate their nagging. Besides, everyone has done it. Nobody’s a virgin.”
Some responses you can give to those who want to pressure you by that reasoning.
1. “Well, I’m not everybody, I’m me. Besides, I don’t really believe everybody is doing it. I think it’s a lot of talk.”
2. “If everyone is doing it, then you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding someone else.”
3. “Yes, I can see that the pregnancy rate of teenagers is fierce.”
4. “Everyone is doing it is a mighty poor excuse for doing something. That pressure doesn’t affect me for the simple reason that I don’t want what ‘everyone’ else has. I don’t want a sexually transmitted disease, a divorce, a broken home, or children bouncing from one parent to another.”
5. “The frequency with which something happens does not accurately indicate its value. For example, let’s say the majority of people develop cancer—does that mean I should be anxious to have cancer? That’s as stupid a response as wanting to have sex because everyone else is.”
One of the most effective deterrents to peer pressure is a good self-image. The secure teen is usually the only one who can withstand peer pressure.
Remember: If our kids can’t talk to us, they will talk to their peers. If we don’t spend time with them, they will spend more time with their peers. If they don’t have intimacy at home, they will seek it among their peers. If they don’t get hugs from dad, they will get hugs from their peers. If we don’t listen to them, their peers will. Teens respond to relationships. That is why they are so responsive to their peers.
Another reason teenagers engage in premarital sex is the music they listen to. The lyrics in rock and country music are suggestive; they talk freely about sex. Countless song lyrics allude to one-night love affairs, part-time lovers, “this night will be a night of magic” and so on.
Sex without marriage so often leads to self-doubts, diseases, unwanted pregnancies, shattered emotions, manipulation and exploitation. Such results are rarely portrayed on TV or in the movies because people don’t want to hear about those things. They want to be told that their promiscuity will lead to happiness, even though it hasn’t up to this point.
David said, “I will set no wicked thing before my eyes” (Psalm 101:3).
Some experts estimate that as much as 70% of all pornography ends up in the possession of children and teenagers.
“Another reason premarital sex is popular is there isn’t too much to be afraid of. If you don’t want consequences, use birth control. If the girl becomes pregnant, hey, just get an abortion. If one of them contracts a venereal disease, no problem, just get a shot.”
“Low self-esteem may drive teenagers to gain approval through sex rather than through acceptance of the truth they are persons of worth because God says so.”
“Being a jock, I had many sexual relationships, but the one thing that really stung me was the hatred that came out of these relationships later. Deep down inside I was really insecure about whether or not I was accepted by girls and whether or not I was a man…The pressures were very strong, so strong that I felt very lonely many times if I “failed” to attract a girl when all of my friends did.”
Often people get involved in sexual relationships because they are feeling lonely, depressed and nobody really cares whether they live or die. They want, at least for a few moments, to be held and feel cared for or important to someone, even if it means having sex to get it.
Less than 10% of the individuals with successful marriages thought good sexual relationships were important in keeping their marriage together. The two top reasons for a lasting marriage were: My spouse is my best friend and I like my spouse as a person.
“The reason I see as the most common for sex before marriage is the overwhelming need to be close to another human being, to make emotional contact, to gain a sense of self-worth, to keep from being lonely and to feel cared for.”
An adolescent who has been involved sexually with various men wrote: “It is far easier to ‘bare your bottom’ than to ‘bare your soul.’” Emotional contact is the goal; sex is the means.
Intimacy is built as a result of trust. Premarital sex easily breaks down that trust factor. Trust is established, and trust leads to vulnerability, and that leads to transparency, and that results in intimacy—a closeness to another person.
Escape is another reason: “Many people try to escape their problems—problems they may be having with friends, or more likely, with their families—by having sex.”
God gives Christians three resources for bringing about change in our lives: the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit and the body of Christ. We need to utilize those resources as much as we can.
Another reason: being cool: “There were no feelings at all, not for each other and not for ourselves. We were basically doing it because it was cool…”
Another was accused of not being a MAN because he was a virgin. What in the world does sex have to do with being a man? A twelve-year-old can have sex. Does that make him a man? I can see it. My German shepherd impregnates another dog, and a fraternity brother exclaims, “Wow, what a man!”
Findings show that those who lived together before marriage were more likely to disagree on such things as recreation, household duties and finances; they were more likely to seek marriage counseling; and they had broken up more often than those who had not lived together before marriage. The leading cause for breakup of cohabitating couples is sexual problems or dissatisfaction.
Sociologists compiled statistics several years ago indicating that 75% of those who live together break up. If you think stability and security are important, you have to look at that figure and say, “That’s not very good.”
The secret of a lasting marriage is for each person to focus on improving himself or herself and the quality of his or her character. In that way, one can become the right person for someone else to find. There’s no shopping involved.
Studies show that 50% of people who get married have been engaged at least once before. So being engaged really means nothing as far as having the security of knowing that you will be married to that person soon.
“Parents need to wake up to the fact that if they don’t show love to their kids, their kids will find love somewhere else—which might lead into premarital sex.”
“I think it’s time kids get the love they need at home, instead of in the back seat of an old Chevy.”
“It is obvious that the emotion teenagers fear most is loneliness. The thought of being without love leads most teenagers to believe that sex leads to love.
“I won’t try to pretend passionate physical exchange isn’t enjoyable. But I do want to say that outside of marriage, the enjoyment is short-lived. And when it is over you are left disappointed, looking for another fix to appease your lust, much like a drug addict craves another hit.”
“When I left my baby at the hospital the day after he was born, I left part of me with him. The problems and hurt caused by premarital sex far outweighed the benefits. I learned this the hard way. The one good thing that happened because of my pregnancy is that I received Jesus as my Savior.”
“The tragic reality among pregnant girls at my school is that many believed they would not conceive because they had sex only once, or they felt that only bad girls get pregnant.”
“The first reason is to increase our joy in the marriage relationship. God wants two virgins, free from guilt or shame, to enter into marriage undefiled. God does not want people burdened down with emotional scars entering into marriage. God desires two people who are so committed to His rules that they will abstain from premarital sex, entering into marriage with the certainty of each other’s purity. That is definite joy!”
“People should wait until marriage to engage in sex, because waiting gives your mind and body time they need to mature.” One of the marks of maturity is the ability to delay immediate gratification. Nonetheless, we live in a microwave society, a culture that insists on instant pleasure and a fast fix. In other words, our society is immature as a whole, and it encourages teenagers to live in the same way.
Involuntary Comparison of Sex Partners
“If I had sex with another girl, there are two things I know would happen. I would never be able to forget her, and because of that, I would compare her with my wife in the future. This would make it harder not only in my sexual relationship with my wife, but I also wouldn’t be able to accept her for her for who she really is. But if there are not past memories on which to base a comparison, then acceptance of my wife is so much easier.”
“My two friends must also deal with the problem of comparing their husbands to the men of their past relationships. Although guilt makes them feel hesitant of inhibited, they also fight the attitude of scorn or rejection for their husbands, who always seem to fall short, not measuring up to idealized memories or previous sexual encounters.”
“One young husband admitted that his relationship with his new wife wasn’t what he had hoped it would be. ‘It’s really my fault,’ he admitted. ‘Before we were married, I had several physical relationships with girlfriends. Now, whenever I kiss my wife or engage in love play, my memory reminds me that this girl could kiss better than my wife, that girl was better at something else and so forth. I can’t concentrate on loving my wife with all that I am—there have been too many women in my life to be wholly committed to one.”
Another man said, “I need your help. I am married to one of the most wonderful women I’ve ever met. I love her. I would do anything for her. But before I became a Christian, I was very active sexually, to the point where my sexual adventures became distorted and rather depraved.” At that point he began crying. “I would do anything, ANYTHING, to forget the sexual experiences I had before I met my wife. When we start having intercourse, the pictures of the past and the other women go though my head, and it’s killing any intimacy. I’m to the point where I don’t want to have sex because I can’t stand those memories. The truth is, I have been married to this wonderful woman for eight years and I have never been ‘alone’ in the bedroom with her.”
Another young man approached Josh McDowell and said, “I used to be sexually involved and look at a lot of pornographic magazines, and it has messed up my marriage. I got so hooked on being turned on by those pictures that I still have to have them. When I go to bed with my wife and have sex with her, I can’t even have an orgasm without a foldout next to her head on the pillow.” The woman’s self-image was destroyed. Her husband was having sex with her, but making love with the person in the picture.
“I remember two long-term relationships I had. I knew they would never amount to anything, but the excitement of sex made me a slave to pleasure. Like a drug, sex demanded heavier dosages to satisfy my desires. I began to use and exploit my girlfriends rather than love them.”
Many young people try to prove their love by sexual surrender. But when a relationship has no more unexplored dimensions, boredom usually sets in along with loss of respect. Sexual compromise is actually the surest way to end a good relationship. Ironically, it is also an effective way to prolong a bad relationship—many people end up marrying the wrong person because of the sexual involvement (a disastrous consequence that affects the rest of their lives).
Some studies show that twice as many engagements are broken among couples who have had intercourse… Furthermore…[these couples] are more likely to be divorced or separated or to indulge in adultery. One way or another, premarital intimacy is more closely connected to broken relationships than to solid ties.
“If I could give any reason as my most persuasive, it would be this: Many have given in to passion, as I did, in the heat of the moment. I have heard many say they regretted this. Other people have waited until they were married. I have yet to hear one of them say they were sorry.”
“Fact: Many men do not want to marry a woman who has had intercourse with someone else.”
“I want to save myself and my virginity for my wedding night. I believe it is a wedding present and a sign of love for my spouse.”
“Being patient about sex gives you the added security that your partner loves you and has based his decision to marry you on your character and qualities, not on heated passion.”
By Josh McDowell and Dick Day
This book is filled with personal testimonies, which I will put in quotations, and also tells of many consequences of premarital sex. Please pass this around to all your friends, both single and married, so they have this to give to their kids to read, too. I highly recommend this book to all.
“Premarital sex gave me fear as a gift… and shame to wear as a garment. It stole my peace of mind and robbed me of hope in a bright future. Sex smashed my concentration in class to smithereens. My desire for church activities was ground to a pulp. It made crumbs of the trust I had known in Christ… and in men and women. Sex gave me a jagged tea in my heart that even now, seven years later, is still healing.”
“Having premarital sex was the most horrifying experience of my life. It wasn’t at all the emotionally satisfying or the casually-taken experience the world perceives it to be. I felt as if my insides were being exposed and my heart left unattended.”
“It took losing my virginity at a very young age, losing my self-respect and possibly my fertility, helping to ruin another person’s marriage and family life, acquiring a non-curable virus, not getting the fulfillment that sex should provide in marriage, and living with the guilt that Satan always tries to make me feel…for me to realize how detrimental sex before marriage can really be.”
“Dear Mr. McDowell, Can you help me? I’m thirteen and I’ve just ruined my life. I thought Mike really loved me, but last night we had sex for the first time and this morning he told my girl friend that he didn’t want to see me any more. I thought giving Mike what he wanted would make him happy and he’d love me more. What if I’m pregnant? What am I going to do? I feel so alone and confused…I can’t talk to my parents, so could you please write me back and help me. I don’t know how I can go on.”
“The reason I’m writing this is I’m alone and confused. My boyfriend kept pursuing me for sex…I had sex with him thinking that I owed him…Later when I learned I was pregnant he blew up, said to get an abortion, and that it was all my fault. So, to save my parents heartache and to keep Matt, I had an abortion. Now Matt has left me…How can God love me after all I have done? Could you please write me back? I’m just so confused. Can God really love and forgive me?”
A 15 year-old, “When I met my boyfriend at the beginning of my sophomore year, we began having sex as soon as we started kissing. I didn’t really want to at all—I don’t even think he did—but we couldn’t think of any reason why we shouldn’t do it.”
“I had already achieved the impossible. I was almost eighteen and I was still a virgin. I had just never wanted to “do it”…I was very much in love, or thought I was, with a dashing college man, and from time to time he would mention that he had never dated a girl who said no as many times as I had. After a while, my resolve weakened, and since I had no reason to say no, I decided that I would do it to show how much I loved him. I didn’t really want to, but in my own mind I couldn’t rationalize not having sex. I gave in to pressure because saying yes was easier than saying no and trying to explain why not.”
A National Sunday School Association’s Youth Survey asked 3,000 teens what kind of help they would like to receive from their churches. Counseling for sexual problems ranked first among twenty-one items.
“She was extremely young, but she didn’t feel young. It seemed like such a mature jump… from the immature age of twelve to the much more exciting, official-teenager age of thirteen. She really loved being and “acting” older. She thought everything was great! She was an honor student and was also very involved in extracurricular activities. She loved to do things and share deep dark secrets with her best friend. She had a good family and her parents taught her well the difference between right and wrong. She was sensible and had a good head on her shoulders… so it seemed. He was older than she and extremely popular. He was very talented and was always the center of attention. She was overwhelmed with joy when he started to pay special attention to her. She was so pleased when he picked her as a girlfriend, rather than any of the other girls who would have died for the chance. One day he told her, “I love you.” But she had nothing to say in return. She did not love him, yet adored the popularity he gained for her. She was blinded by the new attention she received from that newly discovered “popularity.” Everyone said, “Hi” to her. Everyone wanted to know her. He asked her if he could express his love to her. She said she wasn’t ready. He said, “I love you.” She did not reply. Later he told her something had happened. He said he showed his “love” to someone else. She said it was all right. He said, “I love you.” She was naïve. She looked down and said nothing. She had never had so many friends before. So many people wanted to talk with her. In fact, she noticed that boys were paying a lot more attention to her. But, she stayed with him…because he loved her. Then he told her it had happened again. He showed “love” to someone else, yet he did not really love that someone else. He even told her who the girl was. She looked away. She felt threatened. But he told her, “I love you.” She looked down and quietly replied the same. He told her to show her love for him. She didn’t want to, but she didn’t want to lose him to someone else. So she “showed him love.” She was violated. She was innocent no longer. She broke up with him. He asked her to take him back. He told her, “I love you.” But she rejected him. A few days later, he was “in love” with someone else. She was impure and unwholesome. She was used. She was drowned with shame. She was swallowed up by guilt. She was very alone. She is afraid to love ever again. She knows she can never change the past. She has stained her life…a stain that will never come out. She was extremely young. She finally realized how young.”
Facts about Teenage Sex
By age twenty, 81% of today’s unmarried males and 67% of today’s unmarried females have had sexual intercourse.
The number of never-married teenage girls having intercourse increased by two-thirds in the decade 70’s.
For some teens, oral sex comes before intercourse; 41% of 17 year old girls say they have performed fellatio.
A research study of 5,000 students at 32 educational institutions showed that 25.5% of coeds have been raped or sexually attacked since the age of 14.
A Kent State University study showed that 57% of the coeds that had been raped there were raped by their dates.
Of the teenage girls who give birth out of wedlock, 96% of these girls will keep their babies.
70% of unwed teenage mothers will go on welfare.
If the present trend continues, 40% of today’s 14 year old girls will be pregnant before the age of 20.
Since the popular push for contraceptives for teens, teenage sexual activity and teenage pregnancy have increased almost 400%.
A teenage-relationship survey reveals that “religious conscious girls are 86% more likely to say it’s important to be a virgin at marriage than nonreligious conscious girls. However, religion-conscious girls are only 14% more likely to be virgins than non-religious girls.”
A 16 year old explained why he turned to drugs. “Well, if I can’t feel significant, at least I can feel good.” That is how many teenagers attempt to deal with their problems. They turn to drugs, alcohol, and sex as ways to “feel good.” But those are only temporary avenues of escape, not long-term solutions.
Two deep fears that everyone faces: “Almost every one of you has two fears. First, the fear you’ll never be loved, and second, the fear you’ll never be able to love.” Everyone became very quiet. No one was looking around. I wasn’t surprised.
“My mother kept asking, ‘Why…Why?’ ‘Cause I wanted to be loved, that’s why. Is that so terrible? I wanted someone to tell me that I’m pretty… that they cared about me.”
We learn to love by seeing love modeled. Love is not primarily a feeling. Love is first and foremost action. Saying “I love you” has no meaning if it is not supported by action.
A reader’s survey of Children and Teens Today asked, “What do you see as the major stresses/problems facing today’s teenagers?” The response of 72.4% was: “Problems arising from parental divorce/remarriage.”
Everyday, at least 33,000 Americans become infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
NO ONE ON TELEVISION PAYS THE PRICE OF ILLICIT SEX. YOU ONLY DO THAT IN REAL LIFE.
“What the movies and the soap operas don’t tell us about is the devastation and the broken hearts that occur due to affairs and premarital sex. I do not make light of the consequences of wrong… sexual involvement. Without a doubt, the hardest and most painful thing I’ve gone through… more than major surgery, tests for cancer, a broken family, and numerous job rejections…is getting over a sexual relationship with a married man.”
Sad to say, most young people, even from church families, have not learned about their sexuality in church. Even a greater tragedy, most did not learn about their sexuality at home. They have learned it from television, movies and music. Those are the three great influences on teens.
This year there will be 1.2 million pregnant teenagers. Do you know that it costs federal and state governments an average of 100,000 in medical and welfare costs for every single teen who has a child?
Washington [AP] – Teenage child-bearing cost the nation 16.6 billion last year and the 385,000 babies who were the firstborn to adolescents in 1985 will receive 5 billion in welfare benefits over the next 20 years, according to a study just released.
There are over 30 sexually transmitted diseases every nine months a new one is discovered. Every day, 33,000 Americans will contract an STD.
By 1991 it will cost us an estimated 19 billion a year, just for AIDS. If we combine that with the costs of other STDs we can expect soon to be paying at least 30billion a year for “free sex.”
What about the teenage mother? Her prospects are often dismal. Her chances of finishing school, obtaining a good job, or being happily married are minimal.
What about physical and psychological costs of being born to a teenager? Infant mortality, low birth weight, mental retardation and physical disabilities. The chances of such children being physically abused, or becoming drug-addicted, are much greater than if they were born to older women.
Your mind and emotions are affected whenever you engage in sexual activity. The mind has the capacity to play “reruns” of past sexual experiences, often forcing you to compare a current sexual partner with a previous one. That can occur even when you finally have married and begun a genuine committed relationship. These “ghosts of the past” can be devastating to future intimacy in marriage.
Sex is not a private act! Not when persons practice casual sex behind closed doors and then come out from behind those doors and demand that the government spend billions of dollars on AIDS research. Not when teenagers become pregnant behind closed doors and then pass the costs on to those children and taxpayers.
Dr. Edward Wiesmeier, director of the UCLA Student Health Center, warns students that “once change encounter can infect a person with as many as five different diseases.”
A study of 39 teenage girls who were suffering from anorexia nervosa showed that 36 of them lacked close relationships with their fathers.
Johns Hopkins University found that “young, white, teenage girls living in fatherless families… were 60% more likely to have had intercourse than those living in 2 parent families.
Most parents spend more time watching TV everyday by far than talking and training their kids. One-fourth of all 9th graders said they spend less than 5 minutes a day to talk, play, or just be together with their dad.
Many young people are uncertain of their parents’ love. Fifty percent of high school students wanted to know if their parents loved them.
Of teens from divorced homes, 74% said their parents didn’t try hard enough. Is it surprising that 75% of teenagers said that it was too easy to get a divorce.
Many pregnant teens say wanting ‘a man to hold me’ was their motivation rather than having sexual relations with someone.
What people want is intimacy. A fifteen-year-old girl once described intimacy as “a place where it’s safe to be real.”
We have allowed our culture to dictate to us that the only way you can find intimacy is through the physical. I am personally convinced that most young people use sex as a means of achieving intimacy. They don’t want sex as much as they want closeness with another human being. The tragedy is that people are jumping from one bed to another in their search for intimacy.
Why do people fear intimacy? Because intimacy inevitably brings vulnerability. Many young people repeatedly share their bodies because they are afraid to share themselves. They participate in countless “one-night stands” because they are afraid to be vulnerable.
“There is a way that seems right to a man but in the end it leads to death” (Proverbs 14:12). What is intriguing is not that the way leads to death, but rather that it “seems so right.”
“We were in love. The commitment made. Ring bought. Date set. Gown ordered. Attendants fitted. Reception planned. Invitations addressed. Showers given. Apartment rented. That was the first mistake, renting the apartment before the wedding. It was no long my parents’ basement or his car. The apartment was ours. We combined hand-me-downs from each side of the family with special pieces of our own. It was now our future home together and mine to care for in the meantime. The privacy was more than we could handle. Hand-holding turned into embraces. Kisses found their way down the neck. No longer could we just sit in the same room; we had to be next to each other, embraced in each others arms. Hands began to wander up and down the back. Hugs involved the entire body. His excitement was obvious and my pleasure verbal. I don’t know what I felt or what I was thinking. I guess our being married shortly was the easiest rationalization. After all, marriage is a commitment, not a ceremony. Or maybe because, clinically, virginity has to do with the actual culminated sex act. Since that never happened, all the other acts of foreplay seemed harmless. But whatever the reason, night after night we engaged in physical foreplay, but not the emotional “lovemaking” needed for a strong marriage. Then something happened. I don’t know quite when, just that it did. The arguments started. We’d yell for a while and then kiss and “make out,” but that solved nothing. We saw each other in a different light. When he saw my fears and insecurities, he tried to cover them with authority and knowledge. Soon, in tears, the ring came off. The wedding plans waned. Then, finally the announcement, first to my parents, then to close friends. The news spread by itself. Gifts were returned. Invitation destroyed. Plans and reservations cancelled. The gown prepared for storage. The rings returned. The commitment shattered. Have I hurt any future relationship by experiencing with one man what will never be the same with any other? Maybe if we would have loved each other more than we loved ourselves, maybe if we could have said no to our desires, maybe if the apartment hadn’t been rented…”
1 Thessalonians 4:3-6 says, “It is God’ will that you should be holy; that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him.”
The younger one starts dating, the more likely he/she is going to have premarital sex prior to graduation from high school.
“To most kids sex is really nothing, so they go ahead and have it just because they like it.”
“Where I live, many of my girl friends and guy friends are involved in sex because they just want to do it. When I ask them why, they usually say it makes them feel good, although some say they do it because their friends are doing it.”
“Sex is a cheap thrill. Having sex is one date that costs very little money and can be done almost anywhere. Life is empty anyway, so ‘go for it!’” The problem with a thrill is that you have to come down. Boredom doesn’t stay away after sex. It keeps coming back.
Mature persons don’t just seek out what will make them feel good for an instant, but rather ask, “Is there a value to this?” before undertaking something.
Teenagers have sex to release stress. Some girls have sex to have a child to have someone to love her. She expects a child to solve her self-image problem, which puts unrealistic expectations on the baby even before it is born.
Teens misunderstand what real love is. Today’s teenagers think love is an act instead of a commitment. Ninety percent of all guy and eight percent of all girls will lose their virginity by age twenty. They have no example of real love in their lives, and many have been taught sex education without morals from grade school on.”
Peer Pressure: “Everyone is Doing It”
“Why wait? It’s the number-one teen question. My parents are always telling me what to do and what not to do. I hate their nagging. Besides, everyone has done it. Nobody’s a virgin.”
Some responses you can give to those who want to pressure you by that reasoning.
1. “Well, I’m not everybody, I’m me. Besides, I don’t really believe everybody is doing it. I think it’s a lot of talk.”
2. “If everyone is doing it, then you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding someone else.”
3. “Yes, I can see that the pregnancy rate of teenagers is fierce.”
4. “Everyone is doing it is a mighty poor excuse for doing something. That pressure doesn’t affect me for the simple reason that I don’t want what ‘everyone’ else has. I don’t want a sexually transmitted disease, a divorce, a broken home, or children bouncing from one parent to another.”
5. “The frequency with which something happens does not accurately indicate its value. For example, let’s say the majority of people develop cancer—does that mean I should be anxious to have cancer? That’s as stupid a response as wanting to have sex because everyone else is.”
One of the most effective deterrents to peer pressure is a good self-image. The secure teen is usually the only one who can withstand peer pressure.
Remember: If our kids can’t talk to us, they will talk to their peers. If we don’t spend time with them, they will spend more time with their peers. If they don’t have intimacy at home, they will seek it among their peers. If they don’t get hugs from dad, they will get hugs from their peers. If we don’t listen to them, their peers will. Teens respond to relationships. That is why they are so responsive to their peers.
Another reason teenagers engage in premarital sex is the music they listen to. The lyrics in rock and country music are suggestive; they talk freely about sex. Countless song lyrics allude to one-night love affairs, part-time lovers, “this night will be a night of magic” and so on.
Sex without marriage so often leads to self-doubts, diseases, unwanted pregnancies, shattered emotions, manipulation and exploitation. Such results are rarely portrayed on TV or in the movies because people don’t want to hear about those things. They want to be told that their promiscuity will lead to happiness, even though it hasn’t up to this point.
David said, “I will set no wicked thing before my eyes” (Psalm 101:3).
Some experts estimate that as much as 70% of all pornography ends up in the possession of children and teenagers.
“Another reason premarital sex is popular is there isn’t too much to be afraid of. If you don’t want consequences, use birth control. If the girl becomes pregnant, hey, just get an abortion. If one of them contracts a venereal disease, no problem, just get a shot.”
“Low self-esteem may drive teenagers to gain approval through sex rather than through acceptance of the truth they are persons of worth because God says so.”
“Being a jock, I had many sexual relationships, but the one thing that really stung me was the hatred that came out of these relationships later. Deep down inside I was really insecure about whether or not I was accepted by girls and whether or not I was a man…The pressures were very strong, so strong that I felt very lonely many times if I “failed” to attract a girl when all of my friends did.”
Often people get involved in sexual relationships because they are feeling lonely, depressed and nobody really cares whether they live or die. They want, at least for a few moments, to be held and feel cared for or important to someone, even if it means having sex to get it.
Less than 10% of the individuals with successful marriages thought good sexual relationships were important in keeping their marriage together. The two top reasons for a lasting marriage were: My spouse is my best friend and I like my spouse as a person.
“The reason I see as the most common for sex before marriage is the overwhelming need to be close to another human being, to make emotional contact, to gain a sense of self-worth, to keep from being lonely and to feel cared for.”
An adolescent who has been involved sexually with various men wrote: “It is far easier to ‘bare your bottom’ than to ‘bare your soul.’” Emotional contact is the goal; sex is the means.
Intimacy is built as a result of trust. Premarital sex easily breaks down that trust factor. Trust is established, and trust leads to vulnerability, and that leads to transparency, and that results in intimacy—a closeness to another person.
Escape is another reason: “Many people try to escape their problems—problems they may be having with friends, or more likely, with their families—by having sex.”
God gives Christians three resources for bringing about change in our lives: the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit and the body of Christ. We need to utilize those resources as much as we can.
Another reason: being cool: “There were no feelings at all, not for each other and not for ourselves. We were basically doing it because it was cool…”
Another was accused of not being a MAN because he was a virgin. What in the world does sex have to do with being a man? A twelve-year-old can have sex. Does that make him a man? I can see it. My German shepherd impregnates another dog, and a fraternity brother exclaims, “Wow, what a man!”
Findings show that those who lived together before marriage were more likely to disagree on such things as recreation, household duties and finances; they were more likely to seek marriage counseling; and they had broken up more often than those who had not lived together before marriage. The leading cause for breakup of cohabitating couples is sexual problems or dissatisfaction.
Sociologists compiled statistics several years ago indicating that 75% of those who live together break up. If you think stability and security are important, you have to look at that figure and say, “That’s not very good.”
The secret of a lasting marriage is for each person to focus on improving himself or herself and the quality of his or her character. In that way, one can become the right person for someone else to find. There’s no shopping involved.
Studies show that 50% of people who get married have been engaged at least once before. So being engaged really means nothing as far as having the security of knowing that you will be married to that person soon.
“Parents need to wake up to the fact that if they don’t show love to their kids, their kids will find love somewhere else—which might lead into premarital sex.”
“I think it’s time kids get the love they need at home, instead of in the back seat of an old Chevy.”
“It is obvious that the emotion teenagers fear most is loneliness. The thought of being without love leads most teenagers to believe that sex leads to love.
“I won’t try to pretend passionate physical exchange isn’t enjoyable. But I do want to say that outside of marriage, the enjoyment is short-lived. And when it is over you are left disappointed, looking for another fix to appease your lust, much like a drug addict craves another hit.”
“When I left my baby at the hospital the day after he was born, I left part of me with him. The problems and hurt caused by premarital sex far outweighed the benefits. I learned this the hard way. The one good thing that happened because of my pregnancy is that I received Jesus as my Savior.”
“The tragic reality among pregnant girls at my school is that many believed they would not conceive because they had sex only once, or they felt that only bad girls get pregnant.”
“The first reason is to increase our joy in the marriage relationship. God wants two virgins, free from guilt or shame, to enter into marriage undefiled. God does not want people burdened down with emotional scars entering into marriage. God desires two people who are so committed to His rules that they will abstain from premarital sex, entering into marriage with the certainty of each other’s purity. That is definite joy!”
“People should wait until marriage to engage in sex, because waiting gives your mind and body time they need to mature.” One of the marks of maturity is the ability to delay immediate gratification. Nonetheless, we live in a microwave society, a culture that insists on instant pleasure and a fast fix. In other words, our society is immature as a whole, and it encourages teenagers to live in the same way.
Involuntary Comparison of Sex Partners
“If I had sex with another girl, there are two things I know would happen. I would never be able to forget her, and because of that, I would compare her with my wife in the future. This would make it harder not only in my sexual relationship with my wife, but I also wouldn’t be able to accept her for her for who she really is. But if there are not past memories on which to base a comparison, then acceptance of my wife is so much easier.”
“My two friends must also deal with the problem of comparing their husbands to the men of their past relationships. Although guilt makes them feel hesitant of inhibited, they also fight the attitude of scorn or rejection for their husbands, who always seem to fall short, not measuring up to idealized memories or previous sexual encounters.”
“One young husband admitted that his relationship with his new wife wasn’t what he had hoped it would be. ‘It’s really my fault,’ he admitted. ‘Before we were married, I had several physical relationships with girlfriends. Now, whenever I kiss my wife or engage in love play, my memory reminds me that this girl could kiss better than my wife, that girl was better at something else and so forth. I can’t concentrate on loving my wife with all that I am—there have been too many women in my life to be wholly committed to one.”
Another man said, “I need your help. I am married to one of the most wonderful women I’ve ever met. I love her. I would do anything for her. But before I became a Christian, I was very active sexually, to the point where my sexual adventures became distorted and rather depraved.” At that point he began crying. “I would do anything, ANYTHING, to forget the sexual experiences I had before I met my wife. When we start having intercourse, the pictures of the past and the other women go though my head, and it’s killing any intimacy. I’m to the point where I don’t want to have sex because I can’t stand those memories. The truth is, I have been married to this wonderful woman for eight years and I have never been ‘alone’ in the bedroom with her.”
Another young man approached Josh McDowell and said, “I used to be sexually involved and look at a lot of pornographic magazines, and it has messed up my marriage. I got so hooked on being turned on by those pictures that I still have to have them. When I go to bed with my wife and have sex with her, I can’t even have an orgasm without a foldout next to her head on the pillow.” The woman’s self-image was destroyed. Her husband was having sex with her, but making love with the person in the picture.
“I remember two long-term relationships I had. I knew they would never amount to anything, but the excitement of sex made me a slave to pleasure. Like a drug, sex demanded heavier dosages to satisfy my desires. I began to use and exploit my girlfriends rather than love them.”
Many young people try to prove their love by sexual surrender. But when a relationship has no more unexplored dimensions, boredom usually sets in along with loss of respect. Sexual compromise is actually the surest way to end a good relationship. Ironically, it is also an effective way to prolong a bad relationship—many people end up marrying the wrong person because of the sexual involvement (a disastrous consequence that affects the rest of their lives).
Some studies show that twice as many engagements are broken among couples who have had intercourse… Furthermore…[these couples] are more likely to be divorced or separated or to indulge in adultery. One way or another, premarital intimacy is more closely connected to broken relationships than to solid ties.
“If I could give any reason as my most persuasive, it would be this: Many have given in to passion, as I did, in the heat of the moment. I have heard many say they regretted this. Other people have waited until they were married. I have yet to hear one of them say they were sorry.”
“Fact: Many men do not want to marry a woman who has had intercourse with someone else.”
“I want to save myself and my virginity for my wedding night. I believe it is a wedding present and a sign of love for my spouse.”
“Being patient about sex gives you the added security that your partner loves you and has based his decision to marry you on your character and qualities, not on heated passion.”
Thursday, July 3, 2008
My Salvation Testimony
In the spring of 2004, I was a happy 18 year old, enjoying life, I had more friends than I could count and more fun than I could ever imagine. I went to bed on a Saturday night with hunger pangs, but decided I didn't want to eat anything, so I went to sleep. The next morning, I woke up with stomach cramps, and felt miserable. Monday I made a doctors appointment, and had some tests ran, and I was diagnosed as having a case of food poisoning, given a prescription and sent on my way. I felt better for a day or so then regresses. After suffering for a few days, I made another appointment, and I was hospitalized due to severe dehydration. After more tests, I was told I had an ulcer, released then given a prescription. As the time went on, I began to lose a lot of weight, over 25 lbs. in less than 2 weeks and I was starting to see my problem was serious. I had some scopes done on my insides, and the doctor found my large intestine was full of ulcers and tissue inflammation, a disease known as Crohn’s disease. My organs were shutting down, I couldn’t eat without throwing it back up, and I thought I was going to die. I was at my worst, within hours of death on a Thursday, I begged my parents to take me to the doctor and they finally gave in. The doctor saw me, and decided I would be best served going to a larger hospital and arranged to have me hospitalized at Atchison, then transported to KU Med in Kansas City. I was transported to KU Med, where I was immediately put in intense treatment, to try to heal my insides, and clean myself out for more scopes. After 3 or 4 days without eating, I was discouraged and hopeless, but I know I needed to be cleaned out for the scopes. I remember praying the night before the scopes, and the next day, I came back completely clean. The ulcers had healed and I was sent home a couple days later. Being a rebellious teenager who didn't learn my lesson, I spent a lot of days with a friend and his girlfriend in Lawrence, Kansas, drinking and wrecking my body. After a few weeks I got homesick, and started coming back around my house, and I was on the internet late one night in a Yahoo chatroom, when a girl sent me an IM. Her name was Jessica, and she was a Christian from California, and after a few conversations I started developing a curiosity about Christianity. About that time, the Passion of the Christ came out on video, so my family rented it, and I watched it, and God began to wreck me. Watching the films portrayal of the suffering of Jesus convicted me, and opened my mind to a lot of questions. I called Jessica's mom and began asking a ton of questions, and she gave me reading assignments from the Bible, and I tried to understand, but things went over my head That Christmas, her family bought me my first Bible and I began to read a few parts of it, but wasn’t really interested. I decided I needed to go to church, called a Pastor, asked a few questions, then decided to go the following Sunday, January 16th. I wasn’t sure what to expect that Sunday, so I had my sister go with me. There was a Missionary speaker there that Sunday, who preached the gospel and the message began tearing at my soul. I had no clue I needed forgiveness of sins, I knew I was a sinner, but I didn't know I needed a savior. During the invitation I decided I wanted assurance that I would be going to heaven if I died, so I accepted Jesus as my personal savior. I began reading the Bible I was given and began attending that church regularly, being baptized on March 27, 2005 on Easter Sunday and became a member at the same time. I was given the chance to work there in April of that year, and I have been there ever since, the Lord has been good to me through my time as his child. I pray that he would keep me well, and would bless my work for him.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
from TBC 6/27/08
Many have called or written to inquire what our position is regarding Todd Bentley, Fresh Fire Ministries, and the Lakeland "Revival."
While Dave and T.A. have not written specifically to critique Mr. Bentley's ministry or address the current phenomenon in Lakeland, Florida, they have written extensively on the matters that directly relate to the foundation of Todd's techniques and source of inspiration.
Topics they have addressed repeatedly since the 1980s include: charismatic and evangelical mysticism, the incursion of New Age metaphysics and mind-science occultism into the church, New Spirituality, spiritism, divination, visualization, inner healing techniques, false signs and wonders, false christs, false prophets, false teachers, humanistic psychology, contemplative spirituality, the fallacies of so-called "strategic level spiritual warfare," Kingdom-Now and Kingdom-Dominion theology, false revivals, and other related concerns.
These terms and topics may be researched on our website, and are also found in many books by Dave Hunt and/or T.A. McMahon, including The Seduction of Christianity, which explores and explains the roots of mind-science occultism (illumination and mysticism) prevalent in both charismatic and postmodern teachings; and Occult Invasion, which includes chapters on "Charismatic/Evangelical Occultism," and "Spiritual Warfare and Revival." The former has been in print by Harvest House publishers since 1985; the latter is scheduled for re-release this fall from TBC.
Our general assessment of the events and reported phenomena now occuring in Lakeland--and wherever Todd Bentley and a host of associated neo-prophetic and neo-apostolic "revivalists" gather--is that while the human containers have changed, the ancient doctrines dispensed from these containers have not. What we are witnessing is nothing "new" but simply a perpetuation and expansion of the "Toronto Blessing" and the "Pensacola Outpouring" that is partly fueled by viral marketing (aided greatly by the internet) and self-fulfilling predictions that encourage "hungry" sign-seeking believers to mass-migrate to Benny Hinn-style events.
While Dave and T.A. have not written specifically to critique Mr. Bentley's ministry or address the current phenomenon in Lakeland, Florida, they have written extensively on the matters that directly relate to the foundation of Todd's techniques and source of inspiration.
Topics they have addressed repeatedly since the 1980s include: charismatic and evangelical mysticism, the incursion of New Age metaphysics and mind-science occultism into the church, New Spirituality, spiritism, divination, visualization, inner healing techniques, false signs and wonders, false christs, false prophets, false teachers, humanistic psychology, contemplative spirituality, the fallacies of so-called "strategic level spiritual warfare," Kingdom-Now and Kingdom-Dominion theology, false revivals, and other related concerns.
These terms and topics may be researched on our website, and are also found in many books by Dave Hunt and/or T.A. McMahon, including The Seduction of Christianity, which explores and explains the roots of mind-science occultism (illumination and mysticism) prevalent in both charismatic and postmodern teachings; and Occult Invasion, which includes chapters on "Charismatic/Evangelical Occultism," and "Spiritual Warfare and Revival." The former has been in print by Harvest House publishers since 1985; the latter is scheduled for re-release this fall from TBC.
Our general assessment of the events and reported phenomena now occuring in Lakeland--and wherever Todd Bentley and a host of associated neo-prophetic and neo-apostolic "revivalists" gather--is that while the human containers have changed, the ancient doctrines dispensed from these containers have not. What we are witnessing is nothing "new" but simply a perpetuation and expansion of the "Toronto Blessing" and the "Pensacola Outpouring" that is partly fueled by viral marketing (aided greatly by the internet) and self-fulfilling predictions that encourage "hungry" sign-seeking believers to mass-migrate to Benny Hinn-style events.
What Is In The Closet Reveals What Is In The Heart
What Is In The Closet Reveals What Is In The Heart
Jim Van Gelderen
If you want to live dangerously, open a teenager's closet in their absence. It may be the last thing you do on earth! You might find yourself buried alive. On a more serious note, if want to live dangerously, figuratively open a teenager's closet. Take next Sunday morning to teach a lesson or preach a message on dress and get specific in your application from the Bible. The truth is not only teens, but adults as well, need this kind of message, but can at times react to it. Why? Because someone's clothes is a part of who they are. Proverbs 4:23 warns, "Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." One of those "issues of life" is the clothes one buys and wears. One's wardrobe really does reflect who they are. Let's note a couple of things one's clothes can reveal about what is in their heart.
UNFAITHFULNESS
My father was born in 1924 in Miami, FL. I remember his describing the typical swim attire of his day. The swimming suit would blouse over the shoulder and go down to the elbow. The suit would also go over the torso and down to the knees. Obviously this swimming suit was very modest compared to today. A couple of years ago, I was perusing through a "reminisce type" magazine when I noticed a black and white photo of a crowded beach. I am assuming it came from the early part of the 1900s. I was amazed at how I could look at the photo and there not be temptation by provocative or immodest dress. My point is this, we've changed and the change reveals a change in the hearts Americans.
Every person is either nurturing faithfulness to a present or future spouse or they are nurturing unfaithfulness to a present or future spouse. This can often be discerned by a young ladies deportment and dress. I Timothy 2:8,9 says, "I will therefore . . . that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness . . ." According to Ralph Earle on the word "apparel", "Arndt and Gingrich furnish this definition: ' Deportment, outward, as it expresses itself in clothing . . . as well as inward . . . and probably both at the same time.' " This means that God is not only concerned about the clothes a young lady puts on, but how she carries herself. I have traveled for eighteen years with young men on the Minutemen Evangelistic Team. Why is it that we could go into a Christian school and one of the team members would remark about how he was going to stay away from a young lady because she was "loose"? Christian schools have dress codes. Obviously this kind of girl dresses on the edge, but the issue is also her deportment. Christian young ladies should carry themselves in a manner that is discreet, modest, appropriate and not at all forward or seductive. I wonder where flirting fits in? Maybe this verse of Scripture teaches us it doesn't!
This Scripture also teaches us that women are to dress "in modest apparel, with shamefacedness." John MacArthur* in his commentary on I Timothy gave this definition for "shamefacedness". "At its core is the idea of shame. A godly woman would be ashamed and feel guilt if she . . . contributed to someone's lustful thought." For the female readers this question is in order. How do you react if a man whistled at you in a way that was inappropriate and sensual? Does that cause you to blush or do you like that kind of attention? I remember one day my mother received an obscene phone call while I was listening. As soon as she knew what was going on, she roasted the guy and closed with, "Don't you ever call here again!" With that she slammed down the phone and then stewed in disgust about it for awhile. My mother was shamefaced.
Spiros Zodiahtes defined "shamefacedness as "an innate moral repugnance to a dishonorable act or fashion." What do you do when you see immodest models or advertisements? Do you wish you could dress that way or do you have a repugnance for the provocative dress? What do you do when you come across a picture of Brittany Spears? Do you blush and turn away or do you think that would be great to dress that way? Do you shop at stores that cater to sensual clothing (like Abercombie and Fitch)? Shamefaced Christians have a innate moral repugnance to a dishonorable fashion.
A woman who is nurturing faithfulness will not want to dress or carry herself in a way that causes men to be drawn to her in an inappropriate manner. She is keeping herself for one. She is shamefaced. Her clothes reveal it. Tragically this inner quality is becoming increasing rare even in our Bible believing churches. Men, if we let our daughters and wives watch these night time "slops" (They are not "soaps". There is nothing clean about them.), they are going to get an appetite to dress like the Hollywood harlots do. It is a man's responsibility to protect the women (wife and daughters) God has given him. Modesty is a great protection from wicked men. Immodestly leaves women vulnerable to wicked men and teaches them to nurture unfaithfulness.
For the men the issue is not as much dress which reveals a faithful or unfaithful heart (though it can be), but what kind of dress are you attracted to. James 4:8 is in a passage that is exhorting the one who has fallen into spiritual adultery because of "friendship with the world" to get right with God. This spiritual "two timer" is challenged with these words, "Cleanse your hands ye sinners and purify your hearts ye doubleminded." If you are doubleminded and you purify your heart, you would no longer be doubleminded but singleminded. This teaches us that the essence of purity is singlemindedness. A man is to keep his mind for his wife entirely. A man who let his mind wander to sensual or immodest images is not nurturing singlemindedness, but multimindedness. That is why defeat in what you watch on the TV, or what Internet sites you visit, or what movies you watch, or what magazines you look at, reveals that you are nurturing unfaithfulness in your heart and are destroying the foundation for a solid marriage (whether or not you are married). It is a big deal!
Are you nurturing faithfulness or unfaithfulness for your future or present spouse? Check your closet, ma'am. Check what fashions your looking at, sir. Why? Because what is in your closet reveals what is in your heart.
WORLDLINESS
A few years ago Abercombie and Fitch changed their marketing plan and began to market on teenage sensuality. Unfortunately it was a huge success (which is an indictment on our culture). It seems though that many Christian kids don't get it, because in the average youth group, Abercombie and Fitch is commonly seen. What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? I have noticed certain styles that are associated with worldly subcultures become prevalent on youth group members. What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? About the mid 90's grunge and alternative rock brought a new wave a hair styles that have not left us. Recently I have seen many youth group kids who look like they are trying to win a Backstreet Boys look a like contest? What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? I have noticed far too many of our Christian college students who look more interested in looking like NSync than looking like "strangers and pilgrims." What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? Some of the new breed of youth pastor has fallen into this as well. If a young man is more interested in looking like the latest pop rock group, he is living in direct opposition to The Word of God.
Romans 12:2 says, "Be not conformed to this world." Kenneth Wuest defines the word, "conformed" as "the act of assuming an outward appearance patterned after some certain thing, an appearance or expression which does not conform and is not representative of one's inmost and true nature. It refers here to the act of a child of God assuming as an outward expression the habits, mannerisms, dress, speech expressions, and behavior of the world out from which God saved him, thus not giving a true expression of what he is …" Conformity is looking on the outside what you are not on the inside. In other words, God is saying if you are saved child of God on the inside, it should be reflected on the outside. The world should not be, as I heard one preacher say, "pressing you into its mold". This is not only dealing with dress but, as Wuest says, also "habits, mannerisms" and "speech expressions." Why is it some Christian always have the latest worldly lingo? Could it be they are more interested in what Hollywood has to say than the Holy Word?
Do you have a love for the world and its look? Check your closet. Because what is in the closet reveals what is in your heart.
CONCLUSION
Although this article may seem to be more geared for teenagers, I would like to challenge the preachers reading this article with this thought. How are the teenagers in church doing? Does the outside reflect the "saved" inside? Perhaps God would use a bold, Scriptural, Spirit-filled message or two to help. A few years ago I heard a well respected Fundamentalist evangelist talk about sitting on the platform of church in the 60s or 70s where he periodically held meetings. He looked out and noticed long hair on some of the men and boys and short skirts on some of the teen girls and adult women. He leaned over to the pastor who was his good friend and pointed out his observation. The pastor had evidently become desensitized to it, but nobly said to the evangelist, "Go after it." At the end of the meeting, men had been to barber shop and the women had been to sewing machine. Spirit led, Scriptural, empowered preaching changes lives!
Obviously we are after a change of heart, but a change of heart will reveal itself in a change of life. Inward transformation is seen in external change. That is why a visit to our closet may reveal what is in our heart.
________________________
*I am not giving a blanket endorsement on John McArthur. I am
quoting him as a Greek scholar.
from ptwm.org
Jim Van Gelderen
If you want to live dangerously, open a teenager's closet in their absence. It may be the last thing you do on earth! You might find yourself buried alive. On a more serious note, if want to live dangerously, figuratively open a teenager's closet. Take next Sunday morning to teach a lesson or preach a message on dress and get specific in your application from the Bible. The truth is not only teens, but adults as well, need this kind of message, but can at times react to it. Why? Because someone's clothes is a part of who they are. Proverbs 4:23 warns, "Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." One of those "issues of life" is the clothes one buys and wears. One's wardrobe really does reflect who they are. Let's note a couple of things one's clothes can reveal about what is in their heart.
UNFAITHFULNESS
My father was born in 1924 in Miami, FL. I remember his describing the typical swim attire of his day. The swimming suit would blouse over the shoulder and go down to the elbow. The suit would also go over the torso and down to the knees. Obviously this swimming suit was very modest compared to today. A couple of years ago, I was perusing through a "reminisce type" magazine when I noticed a black and white photo of a crowded beach. I am assuming it came from the early part of the 1900s. I was amazed at how I could look at the photo and there not be temptation by provocative or immodest dress. My point is this, we've changed and the change reveals a change in the hearts Americans.
Every person is either nurturing faithfulness to a present or future spouse or they are nurturing unfaithfulness to a present or future spouse. This can often be discerned by a young ladies deportment and dress. I Timothy 2:8,9 says, "I will therefore . . . that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness . . ." According to Ralph Earle on the word "apparel", "Arndt and Gingrich furnish this definition: ' Deportment, outward, as it expresses itself in clothing . . . as well as inward . . . and probably both at the same time.' " This means that God is not only concerned about the clothes a young lady puts on, but how she carries herself. I have traveled for eighteen years with young men on the Minutemen Evangelistic Team. Why is it that we could go into a Christian school and one of the team members would remark about how he was going to stay away from a young lady because she was "loose"? Christian schools have dress codes. Obviously this kind of girl dresses on the edge, but the issue is also her deportment. Christian young ladies should carry themselves in a manner that is discreet, modest, appropriate and not at all forward or seductive. I wonder where flirting fits in? Maybe this verse of Scripture teaches us it doesn't!
This Scripture also teaches us that women are to dress "in modest apparel, with shamefacedness." John MacArthur* in his commentary on I Timothy gave this definition for "shamefacedness". "At its core is the idea of shame. A godly woman would be ashamed and feel guilt if she . . . contributed to someone's lustful thought." For the female readers this question is in order. How do you react if a man whistled at you in a way that was inappropriate and sensual? Does that cause you to blush or do you like that kind of attention? I remember one day my mother received an obscene phone call while I was listening. As soon as she knew what was going on, she roasted the guy and closed with, "Don't you ever call here again!" With that she slammed down the phone and then stewed in disgust about it for awhile. My mother was shamefaced.
Spiros Zodiahtes defined "shamefacedness as "an innate moral repugnance to a dishonorable act or fashion." What do you do when you see immodest models or advertisements? Do you wish you could dress that way or do you have a repugnance for the provocative dress? What do you do when you come across a picture of Brittany Spears? Do you blush and turn away or do you think that would be great to dress that way? Do you shop at stores that cater to sensual clothing (like Abercombie and Fitch)? Shamefaced Christians have a innate moral repugnance to a dishonorable fashion.
A woman who is nurturing faithfulness will not want to dress or carry herself in a way that causes men to be drawn to her in an inappropriate manner. She is keeping herself for one. She is shamefaced. Her clothes reveal it. Tragically this inner quality is becoming increasing rare even in our Bible believing churches. Men, if we let our daughters and wives watch these night time "slops" (They are not "soaps". There is nothing clean about them.), they are going to get an appetite to dress like the Hollywood harlots do. It is a man's responsibility to protect the women (wife and daughters) God has given him. Modesty is a great protection from wicked men. Immodestly leaves women vulnerable to wicked men and teaches them to nurture unfaithfulness.
For the men the issue is not as much dress which reveals a faithful or unfaithful heart (though it can be), but what kind of dress are you attracted to. James 4:8 is in a passage that is exhorting the one who has fallen into spiritual adultery because of "friendship with the world" to get right with God. This spiritual "two timer" is challenged with these words, "Cleanse your hands ye sinners and purify your hearts ye doubleminded." If you are doubleminded and you purify your heart, you would no longer be doubleminded but singleminded. This teaches us that the essence of purity is singlemindedness. A man is to keep his mind for his wife entirely. A man who let his mind wander to sensual or immodest images is not nurturing singlemindedness, but multimindedness. That is why defeat in what you watch on the TV, or what Internet sites you visit, or what movies you watch, or what magazines you look at, reveals that you are nurturing unfaithfulness in your heart and are destroying the foundation for a solid marriage (whether or not you are married). It is a big deal!
Are you nurturing faithfulness or unfaithfulness for your future or present spouse? Check your closet, ma'am. Check what fashions your looking at, sir. Why? Because what is in your closet reveals what is in your heart.
WORLDLINESS
A few years ago Abercombie and Fitch changed their marketing plan and began to market on teenage sensuality. Unfortunately it was a huge success (which is an indictment on our culture). It seems though that many Christian kids don't get it, because in the average youth group, Abercombie and Fitch is commonly seen. What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? I have noticed certain styles that are associated with worldly subcultures become prevalent on youth group members. What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? About the mid 90's grunge and alternative rock brought a new wave a hair styles that have not left us. Recently I have seen many youth group kids who look like they are trying to win a Backstreet Boys look a like contest? What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? I have noticed far too many of our Christian college students who look more interested in looking like NSync than looking like "strangers and pilgrims." What ever happened to Romans 12:1 and 2? Some of the new breed of youth pastor has fallen into this as well. If a young man is more interested in looking like the latest pop rock group, he is living in direct opposition to The Word of God.
Romans 12:2 says, "Be not conformed to this world." Kenneth Wuest defines the word, "conformed" as "the act of assuming an outward appearance patterned after some certain thing, an appearance or expression which does not conform and is not representative of one's inmost and true nature. It refers here to the act of a child of God assuming as an outward expression the habits, mannerisms, dress, speech expressions, and behavior of the world out from which God saved him, thus not giving a true expression of what he is …" Conformity is looking on the outside what you are not on the inside. In other words, God is saying if you are saved child of God on the inside, it should be reflected on the outside. The world should not be, as I heard one preacher say, "pressing you into its mold". This is not only dealing with dress but, as Wuest says, also "habits, mannerisms" and "speech expressions." Why is it some Christian always have the latest worldly lingo? Could it be they are more interested in what Hollywood has to say than the Holy Word?
Do you have a love for the world and its look? Check your closet. Because what is in the closet reveals what is in your heart.
CONCLUSION
Although this article may seem to be more geared for teenagers, I would like to challenge the preachers reading this article with this thought. How are the teenagers in church doing? Does the outside reflect the "saved" inside? Perhaps God would use a bold, Scriptural, Spirit-filled message or two to help. A few years ago I heard a well respected Fundamentalist evangelist talk about sitting on the platform of church in the 60s or 70s where he periodically held meetings. He looked out and noticed long hair on some of the men and boys and short skirts on some of the teen girls and adult women. He leaned over to the pastor who was his good friend and pointed out his observation. The pastor had evidently become desensitized to it, but nobly said to the evangelist, "Go after it." At the end of the meeting, men had been to barber shop and the women had been to sewing machine. Spirit led, Scriptural, empowered preaching changes lives!
Obviously we are after a change of heart, but a change of heart will reveal itself in a change of life. Inward transformation is seen in external change. That is why a visit to our closet may reveal what is in our heart.
________________________
*I am not giving a blanket endorsement on John McArthur. I am
quoting him as a Greek scholar.
from ptwm.org
You Can’t Judge Someone’s Spirituality
You Can’t Judge Someone’s Spirituality
Jim Van Gelderen
Recently, I was at a meeting where some preachers were discussing a coming ministry project. When the conversation turned to music, the comment was made, “You can’t judge someone’s spirituality by their music.” Although the statement didn’t seem quite right, it wasn’t until a bit later that I was struck with how wanting the statement was when matched up against the Scripture.
All of us are familiar with the command God has given each one of us to “be filled with the Spirit.” What we may not readily remember is that this mandate is followed by five participles. Each of these participles hinges off the verb “be filled.” There is a language like here. I believe they are participles of result. Perhaps a Greek scholar would argue for another usage, but that is not the point. The action of “speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs” is related to being “filled with the Spirit.” In other words, Spirit-filled believers are involved with “spiritual songs.”
One of the earmarks of a Spirit-filled believer is that his music is spiritual and not carnal. Often in the New Testament the word “spiritual” is contrasted with the word “carnal.” Obviously when God by inspiration put the adjective “spiritual” on the noun “songs,” it was for a reason. Spirit-filled people are not involved with carnal, fleshly or sensual songs especially in a worship context. They are involved in singing “spiritual songs.” Someone might well ask, “What is spiritual music and what is fleshly music?” Simply put, spiritual music appeals to the spirit and fleshly music appeals to the flesh. Why does a barroom use the music it does? It is because that music is consistent with its appeal to the flesh. Why does a nightclub use the music it does? It is for the same reason. Think how humorous it is to imagine John Phillips Souza playing in a barroom. The music is obviously inconsistent with the atmosphere. In 1975 Time magazine did a poll of 1,000 unmarried girls in North Florida. The poll “revealed 984 of the 1,000 unmarried girls sampled had become pregnant listening to pop songs -during fornication, of course.” That is astounding! The tragedy is the pop style of the 70’s is what is being played in our churches. And as a result the flesh is being fed right in our churches. Of course this is not new. In Exodus 32 you find the golden calf incident. The New Testament calls it idolatry. Why was it called idolatry? I Corinthians 10:7 answers that question. “Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Note what God called idolatry. It was not the making of the golden calf. It was their sensuality in the context of worship. “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Remember, this was “a feast to the Lord.” Folks, when we bring the flesh and sensuality into so-called worship, it is idolatry!
That means if one is involved in listening to or performing or singing sensual, carnal music, he is not Spirit filled. That is God’s Word. People “filled with the Spirit” use “spiritual songs.” One might say, “Well, I went to this Christian concert and 100 teens were saved. How can that be wrong?” Or, “I feel so close to God after listening to this music. How can it be wrong?” And the answer is obvious. It does not matter how we feel or what are the visible results. Objective truth of God’s Word supersedes the vacillating subjective experiences of man.
One may be sincere. He may be genuine. But if he is involved with carnal songs, he is not filled with the Spirit, and therefore he is not spiritual. You see, you can judge a person’s spirituality by their music. Ephesians 5:18-19 tells us so.
from www.ptwm.org
Jim Van Gelderen
Recently, I was at a meeting where some preachers were discussing a coming ministry project. When the conversation turned to music, the comment was made, “You can’t judge someone’s spirituality by their music.” Although the statement didn’t seem quite right, it wasn’t until a bit later that I was struck with how wanting the statement was when matched up against the Scripture.
All of us are familiar with the command God has given each one of us to “be filled with the Spirit.” What we may not readily remember is that this mandate is followed by five participles. Each of these participles hinges off the verb “be filled.” There is a language like here. I believe they are participles of result. Perhaps a Greek scholar would argue for another usage, but that is not the point. The action of “speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs” is related to being “filled with the Spirit.” In other words, Spirit-filled believers are involved with “spiritual songs.”
One of the earmarks of a Spirit-filled believer is that his music is spiritual and not carnal. Often in the New Testament the word “spiritual” is contrasted with the word “carnal.” Obviously when God by inspiration put the adjective “spiritual” on the noun “songs,” it was for a reason. Spirit-filled people are not involved with carnal, fleshly or sensual songs especially in a worship context. They are involved in singing “spiritual songs.” Someone might well ask, “What is spiritual music and what is fleshly music?” Simply put, spiritual music appeals to the spirit and fleshly music appeals to the flesh. Why does a barroom use the music it does? It is because that music is consistent with its appeal to the flesh. Why does a nightclub use the music it does? It is for the same reason. Think how humorous it is to imagine John Phillips Souza playing in a barroom. The music is obviously inconsistent with the atmosphere. In 1975 Time magazine did a poll of 1,000 unmarried girls in North Florida. The poll “revealed 984 of the 1,000 unmarried girls sampled had become pregnant listening to pop songs -during fornication, of course.” That is astounding! The tragedy is the pop style of the 70’s is what is being played in our churches. And as a result the flesh is being fed right in our churches. Of course this is not new. In Exodus 32 you find the golden calf incident. The New Testament calls it idolatry. Why was it called idolatry? I Corinthians 10:7 answers that question. “Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Note what God called idolatry. It was not the making of the golden calf. It was their sensuality in the context of worship. “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Remember, this was “a feast to the Lord.” Folks, when we bring the flesh and sensuality into so-called worship, it is idolatry!
That means if one is involved in listening to or performing or singing sensual, carnal music, he is not Spirit filled. That is God’s Word. People “filled with the Spirit” use “spiritual songs.” One might say, “Well, I went to this Christian concert and 100 teens were saved. How can that be wrong?” Or, “I feel so close to God after listening to this music. How can it be wrong?” And the answer is obvious. It does not matter how we feel or what are the visible results. Objective truth of God’s Word supersedes the vacillating subjective experiences of man.
One may be sincere. He may be genuine. But if he is involved with carnal songs, he is not filled with the Spirit, and therefore he is not spiritual. You see, you can judge a person’s spirituality by their music. Ephesians 5:18-19 tells us so.
from www.ptwm.org
Is CCM Idolatry?
Is CCM Idolatry?
Jim Van Gelderen
The scene must have been awesome –Moses coming down from the mount with the dew of heaven on his brow. The awe of the presence of the Almighty surely filled his heart. If he was ever walking with God, would it have not been then? The prophet comes upon a scene of utter debauchery. Not only does he see a graven image, he sees dancing, sensual dancing at that. Righteous indignation wells within his breast. His nostrils flare as he takes the tablets and casts them down. Why such a response? Moses had just witness idolatry.
What was it about the golden calf incident that made it idolatry? Was it because the children of Israel were worshipping a heathen deity? At first glance one may think so, but a closer investigation reveals that in their thinking they were worshipping Jehovah God. Aaron said in Exodus 32:5, “Tomorrow is a feast to the Lord.” Some may ask, “What about the comment, ‘These be thy gods, O Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.’ Doesn’t this comment prove they were worshipping a heathen deity?” The answer is an emphatic “no!” The word for “gods” is Elohim. This is the same word translated “God.” In fact Nehemiah 9:18 recounting this incident says, “Yea, when they had made them a molten calf, and said, This is thy God that brought thee up out of Egypt…” Notice the singular demonstrative pronoun. This passage reveals that the people were calling the golden calf, “God.”
So what made the golden calf incident idolatry? The best commentary on this is found in I Cor. 10:7 “Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Note what Scripture Paul cites to prove they were idolaters. It was not a quotation that talks of the golden calf or a graven image. It is a text that talks about their sensuality in the context of “worship” of Jehovah God. “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” The commentator Bush calls this conduct “wanton.” Davis comments, “The nakedness of the people (v. 25) further substantiates the fact that the activity associated with the worship of the golden calf included sensuous fertility practices common to the people about Israel.” As Davis mentions, the word “naked” does make the sensuality aspect clear. A quick word study validates this claim even more. Also, remember that “Moses’ anger waxed hot” when “he saw the calf, and the dancing.” Given the context this “worship” dancing had to have been sensual. And it caused God’s man to burn with righteous indignation.
When you include sensuality in your “worship” you have stepped into idolatry. You have changed your concept of God to condone something the God of the Bible condemns. The golden calf incident included music. Not only was there “dancing,” but also there was music. Did not Moses say, “It is…the noise of them that sing do I hear”? Thus it follows, when you allow sensual music into your “worship” you have stepped into idolatry. You have changed your concept of God. You may call your god “Jehovah,” but if he winks at what God hates, he is false.
Years ago I was talking to some unsaved young men I was trying to reach with the gospel. Their music was blaring so I asked them, “Why do you like this stuff?” One young man quickly responded, “It’s great for picking up the girls.” He was honest about the sensual aspects of his music. When you use this kind of music to “worship,” you have stepped into idolatry.
Some will say, “Well I don’t think sensual thoughts when I listen to CCM. It doesn’t bother me that way.” The question I would then ask is this: “What would you tell a Ted Bundy, who said that he could look at soft-core pornography, and it would not even bother him?” If you’re thinking, your response would be something like this: “Well, he obviously has been desensitized to the pornography.” Exactly, and that is the problem with the response, “It doesn’t bother me that way.” That kind of person has so listened to that style of music that it doesn’t bother him anymore. I personally find it grossly offensive to hear sensual music in church. Some will say, “Well, that’s your problem.” If we could take a fourteen-year-old boy from Puritan New England, and put him on the average American beach during the summer, would he have a problem. Yes, he would. Is that his problem? Obviously not. He has never been exposed to that kind of sensual dress before. He has not become desensitized. He should be protected not mocked. I plead for the same kind of sane thinking for those who are bothered by the sensual beat of CCM. There have been times where I have been very uncomfortable with the sensuality of so-called Christian music in church services. The problem is not mine, but those who have brought the sensuality into the church. My contention is this. CCM has changed their “God” so he not only winks at sensual music, he desires it in “worship.” CCM’s “God” is not the Holy One of the sacred page. Some will say that such a thing has not happened to CCM. Over a decade ago I picked up a CCM newspaper produced by WORD. One of the articles was by John Fischer. The newspaper described Fischer this way: “John Fischer is probably the most well-known pioneer of what is now called ‘contemporary Christian music’ –pop music of various genres with pro-Christian and pro-moral lyrics.” Fischer gives a testimony of how contemporary Christian music began. His concept of God should leave you aching.
“For me, and in some ways for you too, contemporary Christian
music began in that car. It was a warm night, and I had been to
church enjoying by friends. I remember feeling particularly close
to God when I got in the car and started up the engine to drive
home. As I turned the key, the radio blared right where I had left
it, and the energy of Beatlemania filled the car.
“My first impression was embarrassment for God; He was certainly
not interested in listening to this. But as I reached to turn off the
radio, He had a surprise for me. The closest I can come to expressing
what happened in the next instant would be for you to imagine God
appearing next to me in the car as George Burns in the movie ‘Oh God!’
“‘Wait a minute, kid,’ He said dryly. ‘Leave it on. You know, I kind of
like this stuff.’ I watched in shock as He smiled at me through a
casual puff of cigar smoke and swayed His head ever so slightly with
the music…‘She loves you, yeah, yeah, yeah.’
“He leaned toward me so He could speak more carefully and still be
heard over the music. ‘Do you really think all I want to hear are the
funeral dirges they play for Me in church every Sunday? Really. Who
made the music in the first place? Who gave these guys the ability
to do what they do? Look kid, if four mop heads from Liverpool can
capture the world for their own glory and a good time, imagine what
you can do for My sake. Think about it.’ I drive home half crying, half
laughing, knowing my life and future would be greatly affected by that
moment in my Dad’s ’57 Ford.”
Folks, that is idolatry. It is blasphemy to use George Burns as a caricature of the Almighty. This picture of “God” is not the God of the Bible. If this is the beginning of CCM, maybe it should tell us something about its “God.”
Is CCM idolatry? If it changes its concept of God to include the sensual in “worship,” the answer is yes. If it changes the concept of God to that of a carnal lover the answer is yes. If it changes the concept of God to that of George Burns, the answer is yes. If it changes the concept of God to anything that is not biblical, the answer is yes.
Jim Van Gelderen
The scene must have been awesome –Moses coming down from the mount with the dew of heaven on his brow. The awe of the presence of the Almighty surely filled his heart. If he was ever walking with God, would it have not been then? The prophet comes upon a scene of utter debauchery. Not only does he see a graven image, he sees dancing, sensual dancing at that. Righteous indignation wells within his breast. His nostrils flare as he takes the tablets and casts them down. Why such a response? Moses had just witness idolatry.
What was it about the golden calf incident that made it idolatry? Was it because the children of Israel were worshipping a heathen deity? At first glance one may think so, but a closer investigation reveals that in their thinking they were worshipping Jehovah God. Aaron said in Exodus 32:5, “Tomorrow is a feast to the Lord.” Some may ask, “What about the comment, ‘These be thy gods, O Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.’ Doesn’t this comment prove they were worshipping a heathen deity?” The answer is an emphatic “no!” The word for “gods” is Elohim. This is the same word translated “God.” In fact Nehemiah 9:18 recounting this incident says, “Yea, when they had made them a molten calf, and said, This is thy God that brought thee up out of Egypt…” Notice the singular demonstrative pronoun. This passage reveals that the people were calling the golden calf, “God.”
So what made the golden calf incident idolatry? The best commentary on this is found in I Cor. 10:7 “Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Note what Scripture Paul cites to prove they were idolaters. It was not a quotation that talks of the golden calf or a graven image. It is a text that talks about their sensuality in the context of “worship” of Jehovah God. “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” The commentator Bush calls this conduct “wanton.” Davis comments, “The nakedness of the people (v. 25) further substantiates the fact that the activity associated with the worship of the golden calf included sensuous fertility practices common to the people about Israel.” As Davis mentions, the word “naked” does make the sensuality aspect clear. A quick word study validates this claim even more. Also, remember that “Moses’ anger waxed hot” when “he saw the calf, and the dancing.” Given the context this “worship” dancing had to have been sensual. And it caused God’s man to burn with righteous indignation.
When you include sensuality in your “worship” you have stepped into idolatry. You have changed your concept of God to condone something the God of the Bible condemns. The golden calf incident included music. Not only was there “dancing,” but also there was music. Did not Moses say, “It is…the noise of them that sing do I hear”? Thus it follows, when you allow sensual music into your “worship” you have stepped into idolatry. You have changed your concept of God. You may call your god “Jehovah,” but if he winks at what God hates, he is false.
Years ago I was talking to some unsaved young men I was trying to reach with the gospel. Their music was blaring so I asked them, “Why do you like this stuff?” One young man quickly responded, “It’s great for picking up the girls.” He was honest about the sensual aspects of his music. When you use this kind of music to “worship,” you have stepped into idolatry.
Some will say, “Well I don’t think sensual thoughts when I listen to CCM. It doesn’t bother me that way.” The question I would then ask is this: “What would you tell a Ted Bundy, who said that he could look at soft-core pornography, and it would not even bother him?” If you’re thinking, your response would be something like this: “Well, he obviously has been desensitized to the pornography.” Exactly, and that is the problem with the response, “It doesn’t bother me that way.” That kind of person has so listened to that style of music that it doesn’t bother him anymore. I personally find it grossly offensive to hear sensual music in church. Some will say, “Well, that’s your problem.” If we could take a fourteen-year-old boy from Puritan New England, and put him on the average American beach during the summer, would he have a problem. Yes, he would. Is that his problem? Obviously not. He has never been exposed to that kind of sensual dress before. He has not become desensitized. He should be protected not mocked. I plead for the same kind of sane thinking for those who are bothered by the sensual beat of CCM. There have been times where I have been very uncomfortable with the sensuality of so-called Christian music in church services. The problem is not mine, but those who have brought the sensuality into the church. My contention is this. CCM has changed their “God” so he not only winks at sensual music, he desires it in “worship.” CCM’s “God” is not the Holy One of the sacred page. Some will say that such a thing has not happened to CCM. Over a decade ago I picked up a CCM newspaper produced by WORD. One of the articles was by John Fischer. The newspaper described Fischer this way: “John Fischer is probably the most well-known pioneer of what is now called ‘contemporary Christian music’ –pop music of various genres with pro-Christian and pro-moral lyrics.” Fischer gives a testimony of how contemporary Christian music began. His concept of God should leave you aching.
“For me, and in some ways for you too, contemporary Christian
music began in that car. It was a warm night, and I had been to
church enjoying by friends. I remember feeling particularly close
to God when I got in the car and started up the engine to drive
home. As I turned the key, the radio blared right where I had left
it, and the energy of Beatlemania filled the car.
“My first impression was embarrassment for God; He was certainly
not interested in listening to this. But as I reached to turn off the
radio, He had a surprise for me. The closest I can come to expressing
what happened in the next instant would be for you to imagine God
appearing next to me in the car as George Burns in the movie ‘Oh God!’
“‘Wait a minute, kid,’ He said dryly. ‘Leave it on. You know, I kind of
like this stuff.’ I watched in shock as He smiled at me through a
casual puff of cigar smoke and swayed His head ever so slightly with
the music…‘She loves you, yeah, yeah, yeah.’
“He leaned toward me so He could speak more carefully and still be
heard over the music. ‘Do you really think all I want to hear are the
funeral dirges they play for Me in church every Sunday? Really. Who
made the music in the first place? Who gave these guys the ability
to do what they do? Look kid, if four mop heads from Liverpool can
capture the world for their own glory and a good time, imagine what
you can do for My sake. Think about it.’ I drive home half crying, half
laughing, knowing my life and future would be greatly affected by that
moment in my Dad’s ’57 Ford.”
Folks, that is idolatry. It is blasphemy to use George Burns as a caricature of the Almighty. This picture of “God” is not the God of the Bible. If this is the beginning of CCM, maybe it should tell us something about its “God.”
Is CCM idolatry? If it changes its concept of God to include the sensual in “worship,” the answer is yes. If it changes the concept of God to that of a carnal lover the answer is yes. If it changes the concept of God to that of George Burns, the answer is yes. If it changes the concept of God to anything that is not biblical, the answer is yes.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Rules for Daily Life
Begin the day with God;
Kneel down to Him in prayer;
Lift up thy heart to His abode.
And seek his love to share.
Open the Book of God,
And read a portion there;
That it may hallow all thy thoughts,
And sweeten all they care.
Ho through the day with God,
Whate'er thy work may be;
Where'er thou art--at home, abroad,
He still is near to thee.
Converse in mind with God,
Thy spirit heavenward raise:
Acknowledge every good bestowed,
And offer grateful praise.
Conclude the day with God,
Thy sins to him confess;
Trust in the Lord's atoning blood,
And plead His righteousness.
Lie down at night with God
Who gives His servants sleep;
And when thou tread'st the vale of death,
He will thee gaurd and keep.
Kneel down to Him in prayer;
Lift up thy heart to His abode.
And seek his love to share.
Open the Book of God,
And read a portion there;
That it may hallow all thy thoughts,
And sweeten all they care.
Ho through the day with God,
Whate'er thy work may be;
Where'er thou art--at home, abroad,
He still is near to thee.
Converse in mind with God,
Thy spirit heavenward raise:
Acknowledge every good bestowed,
And offer grateful praise.
Conclude the day with God,
Thy sins to him confess;
Trust in the Lord's atoning blood,
And plead His righteousness.
Lie down at night with God
Who gives His servants sleep;
And when thou tread'st the vale of death,
He will thee gaurd and keep.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
KJVO Questions
I'm not talkin about folks who prefer KJV, I'm talkin about the folks who say it's the ONLY right English version.
1. If the KJV is perfect, why did they have to revise it four times?
2.Why do KJV only folks reject the apocrypha seeing it was in the original 1611 version?
3.If the KJV was perfect, why did the original translators put in alternate readings in the margins? If you said the printers did it, how in the world would printers get the learnin to know of such differences in the greek?
4. When there is a difference between the KJV English and the TR Greek, why do you believe that the Greek was wrong and the KJV English is correct?
5.In defending the KJV's use of archaic language, do you really think it is a good thing that a person must use an Early Modern English dictionary just to understand the Bible in casual reading? If you're answer is that people just need to ask God for revelation, then why not just hand someone a greek and hebrew copy of the bible and expect God to reveal that too?
6.Is it not ridiculous to suggest that when the TR disagrees with the KJV that Greek TR has errors, but the KJV doesn't? Is this not the ultimate example of "translation worship"? (Reject the original in favour of the translation)
7.If the Textus Receptus is the error free text, then why are the last 6 verses of Revelation absence from the TR, yet present in the KJV? Did you know that for these verses, the Latin Vulgate was translated into Greek which was then translated into English - a translation of a translation of a translation?
8.Why do KJV only advocates believe that the English of the KJV is clearer and more precise than the original Greek language manuscripts? Why should Bible students throw out their Greek dictionaries and buy an "archaic English" dictionary? Are there not word pictures in the original Greek words that the English cannot easily convey? (Jas 2:19 "tremble"; Greek: PHRISSO, indicates to be rough, to bristle. is a powerful word picture of how the demons are in such terror that their skin is rough with goose pimples. Also differences between "agape" and "phileo" love words.)
9.Why would the translators use book headings like "The Gospel According to Saint Luke" since the Greek merely says "The Gospel According to Luke". Does not this show that the translators were influenced by their contemporary theology and the Catholic false doctrine of "sainthood"?
10.If the KJV is error free in the English, then why did they fail to correctly distinguish between "Devil and Demons" (Mt 4:1-DIABOLOS and Jn 13:2-DAIMONIZOMAI) ; "hades and hell" (see Lk 16:23-HADES and Mt 5:22-GEENNA; Note: Hades is distinct from hell because hades is thrown into hell after judgement: Rev 20:14)
11.How can you accept that the Textus Receptus is perfect and error free when Acts 9:6 is found only in the Latin Vulgate but absolutely no Greek manuscript known to man? Further, how come in Rev 22:19 the phrase "book of life" is used in the KJV when absolutely ALL known Greek manuscripts read "tree of life"?
12.Must we possess a perfectly flawless bible translation in order to call it "the word of God"? If so, how do we know "it" is perfect? If not, why do some "limit" "the word of God" to only ONE "17th Century English" translation? Where was "the word of God" prior to 1611? Did our Pilgrim Fathers have "the word of God" when they brought the GENEVA BIBLE translation with them to North America?
13.WHEN was the KJV "given by inspiration of God" — 1611, or any of the KJV major/minor revisions in 1613, 1629, 1638, 1644, 1664, 1701, 1744, 1762, 1769, and the last one in 1850?
14.Did the KJV translators mislead their readers by saying that their New Testament was "translated out of the original Greek"? [title page of KJV N.T.] Were they "liars" for claiming to have "the original Greek" to translate from?
15.Since the revisions of the KJV from 1613-1850 made (in addition to changes in punctuation, capitalization, and spelling) many hundreds of changes in words, word order, possessives, singulars for plurals, articles, pronouns, conjunctions, prepositions, entire phrases, and the addition and deletion of words — would you say the KJV was "verbally inerrant" in 1611, 1629, 1638, 1644, 1664, 1701, 1744, 1762, 1769, or 1850?
1. If the KJV is perfect, why did they have to revise it four times?
2.Why do KJV only folks reject the apocrypha seeing it was in the original 1611 version?
3.If the KJV was perfect, why did the original translators put in alternate readings in the margins? If you said the printers did it, how in the world would printers get the learnin to know of such differences in the greek?
4. When there is a difference between the KJV English and the TR Greek, why do you believe that the Greek was wrong and the KJV English is correct?
5.In defending the KJV's use of archaic language, do you really think it is a good thing that a person must use an Early Modern English dictionary just to understand the Bible in casual reading? If you're answer is that people just need to ask God for revelation, then why not just hand someone a greek and hebrew copy of the bible and expect God to reveal that too?
6.Is it not ridiculous to suggest that when the TR disagrees with the KJV that Greek TR has errors, but the KJV doesn't? Is this not the ultimate example of "translation worship"? (Reject the original in favour of the translation)
7.If the Textus Receptus is the error free text, then why are the last 6 verses of Revelation absence from the TR, yet present in the KJV? Did you know that for these verses, the Latin Vulgate was translated into Greek which was then translated into English - a translation of a translation of a translation?
8.Why do KJV only advocates believe that the English of the KJV is clearer and more precise than the original Greek language manuscripts? Why should Bible students throw out their Greek dictionaries and buy an "archaic English" dictionary? Are there not word pictures in the original Greek words that the English cannot easily convey? (Jas 2:19 "tremble"; Greek: PHRISSO, indicates to be rough, to bristle. is a powerful word picture of how the demons are in such terror that their skin is rough with goose pimples. Also differences between "agape" and "phileo" love words.)
9.Why would the translators use book headings like "The Gospel According to Saint Luke" since the Greek merely says "The Gospel According to Luke". Does not this show that the translators were influenced by their contemporary theology and the Catholic false doctrine of "sainthood"?
10.If the KJV is error free in the English, then why did they fail to correctly distinguish between "Devil and Demons" (Mt 4:1-DIABOLOS and Jn 13:2-DAIMONIZOMAI) ; "hades and hell" (see Lk 16:23-HADES and Mt 5:22-GEENNA; Note: Hades is distinct from hell because hades is thrown into hell after judgement: Rev 20:14)
11.How can you accept that the Textus Receptus is perfect and error free when Acts 9:6 is found only in the Latin Vulgate but absolutely no Greek manuscript known to man? Further, how come in Rev 22:19 the phrase "book of life" is used in the KJV when absolutely ALL known Greek manuscripts read "tree of life"?
12.Must we possess a perfectly flawless bible translation in order to call it "the word of God"? If so, how do we know "it" is perfect? If not, why do some "limit" "the word of God" to only ONE "17th Century English" translation? Where was "the word of God" prior to 1611? Did our Pilgrim Fathers have "the word of God" when they brought the GENEVA BIBLE translation with them to North America?
13.WHEN was the KJV "given by inspiration of God" — 1611, or any of the KJV major/minor revisions in 1613, 1629, 1638, 1644, 1664, 1701, 1744, 1762, 1769, and the last one in 1850?
14.Did the KJV translators mislead their readers by saying that their New Testament was "translated out of the original Greek"? [title page of KJV N.T.] Were they "liars" for claiming to have "the original Greek" to translate from?
15.Since the revisions of the KJV from 1613-1850 made (in addition to changes in punctuation, capitalization, and spelling) many hundreds of changes in words, word order, possessives, singulars for plurals, articles, pronouns, conjunctions, prepositions, entire phrases, and the addition and deletion of words — would you say the KJV was "verbally inerrant" in 1611, 1629, 1638, 1644, 1664, 1701, 1744, 1762, 1769, or 1850?
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Three Questions About Speaking In Tongues
Three Questions About Speaking In Tongues
Many people say they are able to speak in tongues today as some in New Testament times did. They claim this power is given by the Holy Spirit. By looking at three questions about tongue speaking we can know whether or not this miraculous gift is still available today.
Question #1. What was tongue speaking as we read of it in the New Testament? This is an important question. As we answer it from the Bible we will see that tongue speaking in New Testament times was something totally different from the so-called tongue speaking today. Look at the second chapter of Acts to see the difference. First of all notice verses 1-4: "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
These verses refer to the apostles who had been promised the power of the Holy Spirit by Jesus (Acts 1:8). They had been waiting for that power which enabled them to speak in other tongues. Now, what is meant by "tongues?" The answer is seen by looking at other verses.
In verse 6 of Acts 2, we read, "Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language." Notice the words "in his own language." What was called "tongues" in verse 4 is referred to as "language" in verse 6. But it was a language known to some of those who were in the audience. Then in verses 7 and 8 we read "And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, where in we were born?" Notice the expression "in our own tongue." Can we not see that the words "tongue" and "language" mean the same thing? These people heard the apostles preaching to them in their native tongues or languages. The miracle was upon the apostles. The Holy Spirit gave them the power to speak languages they had never studied!
Today, those who claim to be "Pentecostal" in their practice of tongue speaking are not doing what was done on Pentecost at all. On the day of Pentecost, the Spirit gave the apostles the power to communicate the gospel to people in the native languages of those people. Such is not being done today.
Question #2. "Who was able to speak in tongues during New Testament times?" There were three groups in the New Testament who could speak in tongues, or languages they had never studied. The first group was the apostles, as we have already noted. They received the baptism of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost which gave them this power. The second group included those people to whom the apostles gave this power by laying their hands on them. This is the way this miraculous gift was given. One example of this is seen in Acts 19. There certain disciples were given this power by the laying on of the Apostle Paul's hands. Notice verses 5 and:. "When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied."
Is there an apostle still living today? No. So there is no one who can give this power to anyone else. And no one is still alive today who was given this power by an apostle. Therefore, the gift of tongue speaking is not available today.
"But what about Cornelius and his household?" someone asks. They spoke in tongues without an apostle laying his hands on them. This is true, but this third group which spoke in tongues in the New Testament was a special group. Cornelius spoke in tongues as a sign that the Gentiles were to receive the gospel along with the Jews. You see, until the events recorded in Acts 10 and 11 occurred, only the Jews had received the gospel. But here God was making it clear that the Gentiles were also to hear the gospel. To make this clear to the Christians (former Jews) who were present at the house of Cornelius, God gave the Holy Spirit directly to these Gentiles. By doing so, no one who saw it could deny that this was the work of God. It was a special event for a special purpose. It happened only one time. The gospel is still being preached to the Gentiles, but no person is receiving the Holy Spirit as Cornelius did. Therefore, no person is speaking in tongues as he did.
So we see the three groups in the New Testament who spoke in tongues. Each did so for a specific and special purpose. Those purposes do not exist today, and no one is speaking in tongues today.
Question #3. Was the gift of tongue speaking to cease, and if so, when? The answer is "Yes." This gift of the Holy Spirit was to end when the New Testament was completed. This was clearly stated by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:8-13. The verses tell us: "Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."
Paul refers to "that which is perfect." The word "perfect" means complete or whole. At the time Paul wrote, the revelation from God was not in its final written form. Now it is complete. "That which is perfect" (the New Testament) has come and that which was "in part" (miraculous gifts) has been done away. So we can see that Paul's inspired prediction has come true.
Tongue speaking in the New Testament referred to speaking in foreign languages not known to the speaker. There were three groups in the New Testament able to speak in tongues miraculously. None of these groups is present today. The miraculous gift of tongue speaking was limited in time to the period before the New Testament was completed. That time has come and gone, and so has the ability to speak in tongues, along with all other miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit. We have the Word of God. Let us follow it in all things and teach only the truth.
Many people say they are able to speak in tongues today as some in New Testament times did. They claim this power is given by the Holy Spirit. By looking at three questions about tongue speaking we can know whether or not this miraculous gift is still available today.
Question #1. What was tongue speaking as we read of it in the New Testament? This is an important question. As we answer it from the Bible we will see that tongue speaking in New Testament times was something totally different from the so-called tongue speaking today. Look at the second chapter of Acts to see the difference. First of all notice verses 1-4: "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
These verses refer to the apostles who had been promised the power of the Holy Spirit by Jesus (Acts 1:8). They had been waiting for that power which enabled them to speak in other tongues. Now, what is meant by "tongues?" The answer is seen by looking at other verses.
In verse 6 of Acts 2, we read, "Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language." Notice the words "in his own language." What was called "tongues" in verse 4 is referred to as "language" in verse 6. But it was a language known to some of those who were in the audience. Then in verses 7 and 8 we read "And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, where in we were born?" Notice the expression "in our own tongue." Can we not see that the words "tongue" and "language" mean the same thing? These people heard the apostles preaching to them in their native tongues or languages. The miracle was upon the apostles. The Holy Spirit gave them the power to speak languages they had never studied!
Today, those who claim to be "Pentecostal" in their practice of tongue speaking are not doing what was done on Pentecost at all. On the day of Pentecost, the Spirit gave the apostles the power to communicate the gospel to people in the native languages of those people. Such is not being done today.
Question #2. "Who was able to speak in tongues during New Testament times?" There were three groups in the New Testament who could speak in tongues, or languages they had never studied. The first group was the apostles, as we have already noted. They received the baptism of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost which gave them this power. The second group included those people to whom the apostles gave this power by laying their hands on them. This is the way this miraculous gift was given. One example of this is seen in Acts 19. There certain disciples were given this power by the laying on of the Apostle Paul's hands. Notice verses 5 and:. "When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied."
Is there an apostle still living today? No. So there is no one who can give this power to anyone else. And no one is still alive today who was given this power by an apostle. Therefore, the gift of tongue speaking is not available today.
"But what about Cornelius and his household?" someone asks. They spoke in tongues without an apostle laying his hands on them. This is true, but this third group which spoke in tongues in the New Testament was a special group. Cornelius spoke in tongues as a sign that the Gentiles were to receive the gospel along with the Jews. You see, until the events recorded in Acts 10 and 11 occurred, only the Jews had received the gospel. But here God was making it clear that the Gentiles were also to hear the gospel. To make this clear to the Christians (former Jews) who were present at the house of Cornelius, God gave the Holy Spirit directly to these Gentiles. By doing so, no one who saw it could deny that this was the work of God. It was a special event for a special purpose. It happened only one time. The gospel is still being preached to the Gentiles, but no person is receiving the Holy Spirit as Cornelius did. Therefore, no person is speaking in tongues as he did.
So we see the three groups in the New Testament who spoke in tongues. Each did so for a specific and special purpose. Those purposes do not exist today, and no one is speaking in tongues today.
Question #3. Was the gift of tongue speaking to cease, and if so, when? The answer is "Yes." This gift of the Holy Spirit was to end when the New Testament was completed. This was clearly stated by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:8-13. The verses tell us: "Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."
Paul refers to "that which is perfect." The word "perfect" means complete or whole. At the time Paul wrote, the revelation from God was not in its final written form. Now it is complete. "That which is perfect" (the New Testament) has come and that which was "in part" (miraculous gifts) has been done away. So we can see that Paul's inspired prediction has come true.
Tongue speaking in the New Testament referred to speaking in foreign languages not known to the speaker. There were three groups in the New Testament able to speak in tongues miraculously. None of these groups is present today. The miraculous gift of tongue speaking was limited in time to the period before the New Testament was completed. That time has come and gone, and so has the ability to speak in tongues, along with all other miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit. We have the Word of God. Let us follow it in all things and teach only the truth.
Monday, January 7, 2008
8 Dating Tips for Christians
1. Establish for yourself standards. Don't ever compromise them. You may choose to modify them, as a reslut of time in prayer and Bible study, but never in response to pressure from a significant other. This includes time with God, and with godly people, asking for a clear knowledge of what you can and cannot deal with in a romantic partner. An example would be something as mundane as teasing: will your boyfriend's/girlfirend's sense of humor be a sore-spot? If you can't get over it, find someone else.
2. Look for someone whose faith is visible in the Fruit of the Spirit. No one will be perfect, but when the guy/gal occasionally hurts your feelings, as they inevitably will, is he man enough/is she woman enough to grovel in humble apology? Does he/she get around to asking forgiveness in a reasonable amount of time? Further, does he/she do those small kindnesses, give you those compliments, out of the blue? Finally, is he/she like that with most people in the first place? There are other virtues as well. If you don't see at least the beginning of such things, you can be sure that you will be taken for granted.
3. The one most worth having is the one who doesn't need you. Desperate longing is a short step from obsession. If they need something we have (aside from Christ), then they will feel compelled to do things to control that supply. If they see that need as being supplied by God through you, they have no need to control you. This applies to ourselves as well. Romance as God's gift to us is an extension of Christian fellowship. They shouldn't need you, but should want you anyway. They should find your company pleasant, not just enjoy holding you. Have you ever just sat and talked about things?
4. Focus on being, not on finding. Seek the Lord first, and He will take care of the details. Be the godly woman/man He called you to be, and His choice will find you. Turn off the radar. Don't get so wrapped up in romance that it monopolizes your waking hours. Further, any romance that is God's choice for today is subject to recall when it has served His purpose. Keep your eyes on the Giver, not the gift. I'm still friends with some former girlfriends because of this. I've never suffered an emotional break-up since putting this in practice.
5. You can always walk away. Don't become addicted. When it's no longer right, He will give you the strength to follow His will. That says nothing of the possible pain, only that you can deal with it. This is connected to the image of God's promise to generously supply all we could ever have use for. He said that it was already there, waiting for our use. The problem is that we all too often look for it in the wrong place. If you refuse to stand under the umbrella of God's protection, don't complain if you get wet.
6.Date your friends; never date a stranger. You should choose to date someone because you believe it is plausible to marry them. This requires, of course, that you hang out with fellow-believers. Remember the Principle of Propinquity. Your best chance of finding someone worthy is to be often in the company of God's people. Go out with someone you can trust to at least want to follow His will.
7. Missionary dating doesn't work. You can't change someone while you are dating them. Any changes they seem to make at your request are likely to be superficial. Further, you cannot join Jesus with Satan. Anyone not devoted to Jesus is, by default, serving Satan.
8. Cultivate a confessor. This is a basic principle of Christian living. It's a matter of having someone to whom you are accountable, someone who has proven capable of accepting you uncritically. If there is no one with whom you can share your deepest, darkest secrets and fears, you already have tremendous spiritual problems. This confessor can help you keep a clear head in the turmoil of dating.
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