Monday, August 26, 2019
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Spurgeon Quote
“She is a traitor to the Master who sent her if she is so beguiled by the beauties of taste and art as to forget that to ‘preach Christ… and Him crucified’ is the only object for which she exists among the sons of men. The business of the Church is salvation of souls.” – CHARLES SPURGEON
Sunday, May 19, 2019
Faith is For Weak People
1. RELIGION CAUSES MOST WARS.
Comedian George Carlin once said, "More people have been killed in the name of God than for any other reason." But according to Encyclopedia of Wars, in the 1,763 wars up until 2004, only 7 percent were religious. In other words, 93 percent of all wars were not caused by religion. They were secular in nature-like the First and Second World Wars, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
2. SUFFERING PROVES THERE'S NO GOD.
Imagine you're flying on a state-of-the-art plane and you're thinking that its manufacturer did a wonderful job. Suddenly it drops a thousand feet, injuring or killing several of the passengers. As you look at the wounded, see the blood, and hear the groans, do you conclude that no one made the plane? Of course not. The logical conclusion is that something went terribly wrong on the plane. To those who believe the Bible, every incident of human suffering and death is the tragic result of living in the fallen creation detailed in the first book of the Bible. Suffering instead stands as testimony that God's Word is true.
3. THERE'S NO EVIDENCE FOR GOD.
Every building is evidence of a builder. Even if he has been dead for 100 years and there is no documentation, you know there was a builder because it's impossible for a building to have built itself. Creation (nature) is evidence of the Creator. It is impossible for nature to have made itself or be eternal. Those who don't believe in God default to believing that nothing created everything, which is scientifically ludicrous.
4. THE CHURCH IS FILLED WITH HYPOCRITES.
That's true; they are pretenders, not genuine Christians. The Bible speaks often of false converts sitting alongside those who are genuine in their faith (goats among the sheep, tares among the wheat, bad fish among the good fish, etc.), and assures us that God will sort them out on Judgment Day. Why let the pretenders keep you out of Heaven?
5. FAITH IS FOR WEAK PEOPLE.
We have faith when we trust pilots to fly us, doctors to treat us, and surgeons to operate on us. We trust elevators when we step into them, as well as history books, scientists, bankers, and traffic lights. When the Bible speaks of "faith" in God, it's not speaking of a blind belief that He exists-we know that as a fact because of creation. It's speaking rather of trusting His integrity, and especially His promise of everlasting life.
6. GOD WOULDN'T CREATE HELL.
Should He punish a mass murderer like Adolf Hitler? Of course He should. If He's good He must see that justice is done. Hell is God's prison, where those who have done evil will get exactly what they deserve.
7. GOD WON'T SEND ME TO HELL FOR FAILING TO BELIEVE SOMETHING.
Beliefs are important, as they govern our actions in life. If you believe there's a landmine in front of you, you will go around it. If you don't believe, you will step on it. If we believe the warning of the Bible-that we have sinned against a holy God-then we will see our need to trust in the Savior. If we don't believe the testimony of Scripture, we will ignore His offer of mercy and have to face His wrath, whether we believe in it or not. And the Bible warns, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God."
8. THERE'S NO PROOF THAT JESUS EVEN EXISTED.
Detailed historical evidence of Jesus' earthly life (from birth to death) is given in biographical accounts by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, as well as the apostles Peter and Paul. These accounts, by those who knew Him, were written within a few years of His death. Aside from the Bible, there is documentation by secular historians Josephus (AD 37-100) and Tacitus (AD c. 56-120), the Babylonian Talmud, and other sources. With over two dozen Christian and secular sources to rely on, no reputable historian claims Jesus of Nazareth was not a real historical person.
9. THERE ARE ATROCITIES IN THE BIBLE.
The Bible does read like a violent adult movie-with incidents of genocide, rape, fornication, adultery, incest, murder, kidnapping, beheadings, hatred, lying, blasphemy, pride, greed, and many other atrocities and vices. The Scriptures don't hide the wickedness of humanity. They expose it and warn that the Day is coming when God will judge the world in righteousness.
10. I'M HAPPY AS I AM AND HAVE NO NEED OF GOD.
This is perhaps the real reason you're not wanting to trust in Jesus. The issue has little to do with the above questions, and everything to do with the fact that you are happy going your own way-which means you can enjoy pornography, fornication, and other pleasurable sins. It would be easier to get a hungry dog to let go of a tender steak than for you to let go of your beloved sins...unless you could be convinced you are in terrible danger. Let me try to convince you of that danger. Did you know that the Bible calls death "wages "? It says, "The wages of sin is death." A good judge will sentence a heinous murderer to death if he thinks that's what he earned. Death is the wage the criminal deserved. Let's see if you've earned your wages. How many lies have you told in your life? Have you ever stolen anything or used God's name in vain? Jesus said, "Whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." If you've done these things, God sees you as a lying, thieving, blasphemous adulterer at heart, and the Bible warns that Hell awaits. But God is not willing that any should perish. Sinners broke God's Law and Jesus paid their fine by dying on the cross: "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Then Jesus rose from the dead and was seen by hundreds; it's no fairy tale. Jesus fulfilled all the Bible's numerous prophecies of a coming Savior, written centuries before His birth. Today, repent and trust Jesus, and God will freely forgive you. Then show your gratitude: read the Bible daily, join a Christian church, and be baptized. Questions? NeedGod.com.
taken from http://store.livingwaters.com/faith-is-for-weak-people-tract.html
Comedian George Carlin once said, "More people have been killed in the name of God than for any other reason." But according to Encyclopedia of Wars, in the 1,763 wars up until 2004, only 7 percent were religious. In other words, 93 percent of all wars were not caused by religion. They were secular in nature-like the First and Second World Wars, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
2. SUFFERING PROVES THERE'S NO GOD.
Imagine you're flying on a state-of-the-art plane and you're thinking that its manufacturer did a wonderful job. Suddenly it drops a thousand feet, injuring or killing several of the passengers. As you look at the wounded, see the blood, and hear the groans, do you conclude that no one made the plane? Of course not. The logical conclusion is that something went terribly wrong on the plane. To those who believe the Bible, every incident of human suffering and death is the tragic result of living in the fallen creation detailed in the first book of the Bible. Suffering instead stands as testimony that God's Word is true.
3. THERE'S NO EVIDENCE FOR GOD.
Every building is evidence of a builder. Even if he has been dead for 100 years and there is no documentation, you know there was a builder because it's impossible for a building to have built itself. Creation (nature) is evidence of the Creator. It is impossible for nature to have made itself or be eternal. Those who don't believe in God default to believing that nothing created everything, which is scientifically ludicrous.
4. THE CHURCH IS FILLED WITH HYPOCRITES.
That's true; they are pretenders, not genuine Christians. The Bible speaks often of false converts sitting alongside those who are genuine in their faith (goats among the sheep, tares among the wheat, bad fish among the good fish, etc.), and assures us that God will sort them out on Judgment Day. Why let the pretenders keep you out of Heaven?
5. FAITH IS FOR WEAK PEOPLE.
We have faith when we trust pilots to fly us, doctors to treat us, and surgeons to operate on us. We trust elevators when we step into them, as well as history books, scientists, bankers, and traffic lights. When the Bible speaks of "faith" in God, it's not speaking of a blind belief that He exists-we know that as a fact because of creation. It's speaking rather of trusting His integrity, and especially His promise of everlasting life.
6. GOD WOULDN'T CREATE HELL.
Should He punish a mass murderer like Adolf Hitler? Of course He should. If He's good He must see that justice is done. Hell is God's prison, where those who have done evil will get exactly what they deserve.
7. GOD WON'T SEND ME TO HELL FOR FAILING TO BELIEVE SOMETHING.
Beliefs are important, as they govern our actions in life. If you believe there's a landmine in front of you, you will go around it. If you don't believe, you will step on it. If we believe the warning of the Bible-that we have sinned against a holy God-then we will see our need to trust in the Savior. If we don't believe the testimony of Scripture, we will ignore His offer of mercy and have to face His wrath, whether we believe in it or not. And the Bible warns, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God."
8. THERE'S NO PROOF THAT JESUS EVEN EXISTED.
Detailed historical evidence of Jesus' earthly life (from birth to death) is given in biographical accounts by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, as well as the apostles Peter and Paul. These accounts, by those who knew Him, were written within a few years of His death. Aside from the Bible, there is documentation by secular historians Josephus (AD 37-100) and Tacitus (AD c. 56-120), the Babylonian Talmud, and other sources. With over two dozen Christian and secular sources to rely on, no reputable historian claims Jesus of Nazareth was not a real historical person.
9. THERE ARE ATROCITIES IN THE BIBLE.
The Bible does read like a violent adult movie-with incidents of genocide, rape, fornication, adultery, incest, murder, kidnapping, beheadings, hatred, lying, blasphemy, pride, greed, and many other atrocities and vices. The Scriptures don't hide the wickedness of humanity. They expose it and warn that the Day is coming when God will judge the world in righteousness.
10. I'M HAPPY AS I AM AND HAVE NO NEED OF GOD.
This is perhaps the real reason you're not wanting to trust in Jesus. The issue has little to do with the above questions, and everything to do with the fact that you are happy going your own way-which means you can enjoy pornography, fornication, and other pleasurable sins. It would be easier to get a hungry dog to let go of a tender steak than for you to let go of your beloved sins...unless you could be convinced you are in terrible danger. Let me try to convince you of that danger. Did you know that the Bible calls death "wages "? It says, "The wages of sin is death." A good judge will sentence a heinous murderer to death if he thinks that's what he earned. Death is the wage the criminal deserved. Let's see if you've earned your wages. How many lies have you told in your life? Have you ever stolen anything or used God's name in vain? Jesus said, "Whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." If you've done these things, God sees you as a lying, thieving, blasphemous adulterer at heart, and the Bible warns that Hell awaits. But God is not willing that any should perish. Sinners broke God's Law and Jesus paid their fine by dying on the cross: "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Then Jesus rose from the dead and was seen by hundreds; it's no fairy tale. Jesus fulfilled all the Bible's numerous prophecies of a coming Savior, written centuries before His birth. Today, repent and trust Jesus, and God will freely forgive you. Then show your gratitude: read the Bible daily, join a Christian church, and be baptized. Questions? NeedGod.com.
taken from http://store.livingwaters.com/faith-is-for-weak-people-tract.html
Monday, March 11, 2019
What is Dispensationalism?
When you hear the word
“dispensation” in the evangelical world it can provoke much debate and
questions.
How we all organize,
systematize, and interpret God’s progressive revelation through the biblical
history of mankind shapes more than many realize. Some have no idea how the
subject of Dispensationalism relates to the Bible. Others are sent to a
dictionary in order to define the meaning of the word, but find it provides
little clarity as to the theological meaning. Still others know the meaning of
dispensational teaching, but remain non-dispensational.
DEFINING
DISPENSATION
The New Testament Greek word for “dispensation” (Gr. oikonomia) comes from two words, “house” (oikos) “law” (nomos), and refers to the oversight, management, economy, administration over a house or others’ property. The word oikonomia is translated “dispensation” or “stewardship” in a number of verses in the New Testament (Luke 16:2–4; 1 Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 3:2; Colossians 1:25). It’s easy to want to simplify the meaning to simply a period in time but instead we should look at it as a mode of administration.
The New Testament Greek word for “dispensation” (Gr. oikonomia) comes from two words, “house” (oikos) “law” (nomos), and refers to the oversight, management, economy, administration over a house or others’ property. The word oikonomia is translated “dispensation” or “stewardship” in a number of verses in the New Testament (Luke 16:2–4; 1 Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 3:2; Colossians 1:25). It’s easy to want to simplify the meaning to simply a period in time but instead we should look at it as a mode of administration.
Dr. Renald Showers
provides an insightful definition of Dispensational Theology when he writes,
“Dispensational Theology can be defined very simply as a system of theology which
attempts to develop the Bible’s philosophy of history on the basis of the
sovereign rule of God. It represents the whole of Scripture and history as
being covered by several dispensations of God’s rule . . . the term dispensation as
it relates to Dispensational Theology could be defined as “a particular
way of God’s administering His rule over the world as He progressively works
out His purpose for world history.”
DISTINCTIVE
First, each dispensation mention in Scripture possesses certain features or characteristics that follow a pattern:
First, each dispensation mention in Scripture possesses certain features or characteristics that follow a pattern:
The dispensation is
given as a direct revelation from God in each period, and the combined
dispensations span the entire history of man. The Revelation in Scripture
provides man with knowledge on the specific way in which God is administering
world affairs for that period in history.
Each specific dispensation
reveals God’s will, whereupon man is given certain requirements and
responsibilities, and expected to order his conduct in obedience to God’s will.
Requirements and responsibilities given in one dispensation may or may not
continue in the next dispensation. For example, the death penalty established
in the Noahic Covenant by God (Genesis 9:5–6) under the dispensation of Human
Government continued under the dispensation of the Law.
Each dispensation has
ended in man’s failure to obey the proscribed rules set forth as the will of
God for that particular dispensation.
Man’s failure to be
obedient to rules set forth in specific dispensations resulted in God’s
judgment(s) upon people living in that generation.
The dispensations
revealed in Scripture are never to be thought as
different means of salvation. God only has one way of providing salvation.
Salvation is and always has been by grace through faith in the sacrificial
death of Jesus Christ for sin (Eph. 2:8-9).
Second, Dispensational
Theology applies the traditional interpretative rules of hermeneutics (science
and art of Bible interpretation) with a literal interpretation of the biblical
text. By literal is meant, “to study the text in its grammatical,
historical, and cultural setting within the context of the passage in order to
understand what the writer is teaching.” The non-dispensationalist
often spiritualizes or allegorizes the Scripture text (especially prophetic
passages), not providing the reader with the original meaning intended by the
writer. This is especially true when it comes to prophecy dealing with the
nation of Israel or prophecies referred to in eschatology (the study of
end-times).
Third, the
dispensationalist recognizes Israel and the church are to be identified as
distinct or separate entities in the plan and program of God. Israel’s identity
is definitely seen in the New Testament as an ethnic people that has remained
intact over the centuries. Israel will see unfulfilled promises made to them in
the Abrahamic, Land, Davidic, and New Covenants fulfilled at Christ’s return
when He sets up His Kingdom rule on Earth and will take His seat on the throne
of His father David, and reign over the house of Jacob forever (Luke 1:32–33).
Fourth, the church is
not to be interpreted as replacing Israel as the people of God. Scripture
clearly teaches that Jesus is coming to rule over nations of the world, and the
nation of Israel will have a definite role in Christ’s reign (Isa. 2:2-4). The
New Testament often refers to the literal, physical Israel after the church was
established in Acts 2. Paul often mentioned the fulfillment of God’s program
for the literal nation of Israel yet to come to fruition in Romans 9—11.
Dispensational
Theology does not support the idea that Israel is only a shadow and type that
become reinterpreted as to their literal fulfillment once Jesus provided new
revelation that is recorded in the New Testament. New Testament
revelation does not reinterpret, override, nor cancel the original meaning of
Old Testament revelation. To the contrary, the New Testament continues the
revelation on Israel and refines, reiterates, and affirms the literal
fulfillment of the Old Testament promises to Israel in both advents of Jesus
Christ.
In other words, the
promises made to Israel are not fulfilled spiritually in the church nor does
the church replace a literal, physical Israel as the people of God now or in
Christ’s Kingdom rule. It should be noted that the church was never presented
in the Old Testament, because its beginning was on the Day of Pentecost after
Christ’s 40-day post resurrection ministry (Acts 2). The word church is
never used interchangeably in the New Testament for Israel. The phrase, “Israel
of God” (Galatians 6:16) in its context is not stating that the church in the
New Testament is to be interpreted as the Israel of God.
Fifth, throughout the
dispensations that are progressively revealed in Scripture, God’s ultimate
purpose and goal is to glorify Himself, and to receive universal acknowledge
and praise as supreme Sovereign Ruler.
DISTINGUISHABLE
DISPENSATIONS
Although dispensational teaching did not appear as a well thought-out doctrine in the early church, the basic beliefs in Biblical dispensations was taught by the Church Fathers. Such men as: Justin Martyr (110-165); Irenaeus (130-200); Clement of Alexandria (150-220); Pelagius (360-420); and Augustine (354-430) spoke of dispensations within the Bible. That said it should not be interpreted that the Church Fathers believed in dispensations in the same way the term is used today. The point made is that these men and others saw dispensational divisions within Scripture. Century’s later men such as Pierre Poiret (1646-1719), Jonathan Edwards (1637-1716), Issac Watts (1674-1748), John Nelson Darby (1800-1882), and C. I. Scofield (1843-1921), among many others, promoted the dispensational teaching of the Bible.
Although dispensational teaching did not appear as a well thought-out doctrine in the early church, the basic beliefs in Biblical dispensations was taught by the Church Fathers. Such men as: Justin Martyr (110-165); Irenaeus (130-200); Clement of Alexandria (150-220); Pelagius (360-420); and Augustine (354-430) spoke of dispensations within the Bible. That said it should not be interpreted that the Church Fathers believed in dispensations in the same way the term is used today. The point made is that these men and others saw dispensational divisions within Scripture. Century’s later men such as Pierre Poiret (1646-1719), Jonathan Edwards (1637-1716), Issac Watts (1674-1748), John Nelson Darby (1800-1882), and C. I. Scofield (1843-1921), among many others, promoted the dispensational teaching of the Bible.
Traditionally
most dispensationalist has taught that there are seven distinguishable
dispensations revealed in the Bible from the inception of creation until Christ
Second Coming to set up His kingdom rule on earth. The traditionally held
dispensations are:
·
Dispensation
of Innocence. Man was created innocent in a perfect
environment, provided a test given by God, but was disobedient resulting in
judgment, curse and expulsion from the garden (Gen. 1:26-3:6).
·
Dispensation
of Conscience. Man disobeyed God’s command not to eat
from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Gen. 2:17; 3:8). His
disobedience resulted in sin and man’s eventual death. Man’s wickedness became
so great, making it necessary for God to destroy all of humanity on earth,
except for Noah and his family (Gen. 3:7-8:19).
·
Dispensation
of Human Government. God established the Noahic Covenant,
wherein He inaugurated the judicial rule within the society of mankind in order
to control the wickedness of man (Gen. 8:20-11:32).
·
Dispensation
of Promise. Begins with the Abrahamic Covenant made
exclusively with the family of Abraham and nation of Israel (Gen. 12:1-Ex.
18:27).
·
Dispensation
of Law. Instituted at Mount Sinai setting forth
the Moral, Religious, and Civil laws to govern Israel under the Mosaic
Covenant, and the Law of Moses as a way of life but was abrogated at Christ’s
death and Resurrection (Ex. 19:1-Acts 1:26).
·
Dispensation
of Grace or Church Age. Begins after the
Ascension of Christ on the Day of Pentecost with salvation of Jewish people and
quickly spread throughout the Gentile world, and will be culminated with the
Rapture of the church (Acts 2:1).
·
Dispensation
of the Kingdom Age. Jesus Christ returns to earth at His
Second Coming to setup the Millennial Kingdom on earth. It will include the
conversion and restoration of Israel along with the ultimate fulfillment of the
unconditional covenants made with the nation (Rev. 20:4).
It is my conviction
that the dispensational approach to the study of God’s Word is the only
position one can hold in order to grasp the overall correct teaching of
Scripture and the prophecy presented therein. Hopefully, this will give you new
insights in comprehending the proper approach in studying God’s Word.
https://www.foi.org/2018/02/16/what-is-dispensationalism/
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Are You a Good Person?
Do you consider yourself to be a good person? Most people do. However, most of us differ as to the definition of "good." The Bible says that God is good, and the Ten Commandments are His standard of goodness. So, we will look at God's Law . . . With a tender conscience, ask yourself if you have obeyed the following:
The Bible says that God will punish all murderers, rapists, thieves, liars, adulterers, etc. He will even judge our words and thoughts. On Judgment Day, will you be found to be guilty or innocent of breaking His commandments?
Perhaps you think that God is good, and will therefore overlook your sins. But it is His goodness that will make sure that murderers, rapists, thieves, liars, etc. receive justice. He would be a corrupt Judge if He turned a blind eye to injustice. Have you kept the Commandments?
The Bible says that the Law is perfect. It commands you to be perfect (Matthew 5:48). Are you perfect (in thought, word, and deed)? Will you make it to Heaven? You may say that you are still good, but God says you're not (see Psalm 14:2-3). So one of you is lying, and the Scriptures tell us that it is impossible for God to lie. Remember that all liars will be cast into the Lake of Fire (Revelation 21:8). God's Law demands justice, and the penalty for sinning against Him is death and Hell. Listen carefully if you want to live.
God Himself made a way where His justice and His goodness could meet. We broke the Law, but He became a man to pay the fine. Jesus suffered and died on the cross to satisfy the Law. God can forgive us and grant us the gift of everlasting life! But you may still think that you can (from now on) keep the Ten Commandments. But isn't it true that the best of us have lied, stolen, lusted, hated, failed to love God above all else, and failed to love our neighbor as ourselves?
How can we then, live a "good" life if we have already sinned against God? At best we are reformed liars and thieves . . . but still Lawbreakers. Think of it this way - would you sell one of your eyes for a million dollars? Would you sell both for $50 million? I'm sure you wouldn't. Your eyes are priceless, yet they are merely the windows of your soul. What then must your life (soul) be worth? With these thoughts in mind, what would be a fair price to pay for everlasting life? It is utterly without price. Yet, if we trust in our own goodness to enter Heaven, we are saying to God, "I should enter Heaven because I have done good - I have earned my way in."
Imagine if you wanted to give me a brand new (very expensive) car, but I said, "I can't take it! I feel embarrassed receiving such a gift . . . here's 10 cents for it." I'm sure you would be very insulted by such a pathetic offer of payment. Besides, if I pay for it, it is no longer a gift, it's a purchase . . . it's mine by right.
When we talk of entering Heaven by being good, by trying to keep the Ten Commandments etc., we are tossing God 10 cents of "self-righteousness," which is a terrible insult to Him, in the light of His sacrifice. The only thing we can do is humble ourselves, repent of our sins, and receive the gift by trusting Jesus Christ alone. Almighty God demonstrated how much He loves you when Jesus suffered for you on the cross. If you want to trust in your own goodness, then you are saying His agonizing death on the cross was in vain. The Bible says, "For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." You cannot earn a gift.
When Jesus said to "believe" on Him, He was saying we should have faith in Him, in the same way you would trust a parachute to save you when you jump from a plane. You don't merely believe in the parachute - you put it on. Please don't "jump" without Jesus. If you die in your sins there is no second chance. God will give you justice, and you will end up in Hell forever. Any troubles you have at present are dwarfed by the trouble you are in with your Creator. His wrath abides upon you (John 3:36). God doesn't want you to go to Hell. Neither do you want to go there, so confess your sins to God right now, put your trust in Jesus to save you, and you will pass from death to life. Then read the Bible daily and obey what you read. (See John 14:21). Your obedience to God is the proof of your love. Have faith in God, He will never fail you.
Pray something like this:
"Dear God, today I turn away from all of my sins (name them). This day I put my trust in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. He is the only way for me to be saved. He is 'The way, the truth, and the life.'" Please forgive me, change my heart, and grant me Your gift of everlasting life. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen."
from www.livingwaters.com
- You shall have no other gods before Me. (Have you always loved God above all else?)
- You shall not make yourself an idol. (Have you made a god in your mind that you're more comfortable with, a god to suit yourself?)
- You shall not take God's name in vain. (Have you ever used God's holy Name as a cuss word?)
- Remember the Sabbath Day, to keep it holy.
- Honor your father and mother.
- You shall not murder. (God considers hatred to be as murder).
- You shall not commit adultery. ("Whoever looks upon a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart" Matthew 5:27-28; this also includes sex before marriage).
- You shall not steal. (Have you ever stolen anything? the value of the item is irrelevant).
- You shall not lie. (Have you lied even once? Including answering these questions).
- You shall not covet. (Have you ever jealously desired what belongs to others?)
The Bible says that God will punish all murderers, rapists, thieves, liars, adulterers, etc. He will even judge our words and thoughts. On Judgment Day, will you be found to be guilty or innocent of breaking His commandments?
Perhaps you think that God is good, and will therefore overlook your sins. But it is His goodness that will make sure that murderers, rapists, thieves, liars, etc. receive justice. He would be a corrupt Judge if He turned a blind eye to injustice. Have you kept the Commandments?
The Bible says that the Law is perfect. It commands you to be perfect (Matthew 5:48). Are you perfect (in thought, word, and deed)? Will you make it to Heaven? You may say that you are still good, but God says you're not (see Psalm 14:2-3). So one of you is lying, and the Scriptures tell us that it is impossible for God to lie. Remember that all liars will be cast into the Lake of Fire (Revelation 21:8). God's Law demands justice, and the penalty for sinning against Him is death and Hell. Listen carefully if you want to live.
God Himself made a way where His justice and His goodness could meet. We broke the Law, but He became a man to pay the fine. Jesus suffered and died on the cross to satisfy the Law. God can forgive us and grant us the gift of everlasting life! But you may still think that you can (from now on) keep the Ten Commandments. But isn't it true that the best of us have lied, stolen, lusted, hated, failed to love God above all else, and failed to love our neighbor as ourselves?
How can we then, live a "good" life if we have already sinned against God? At best we are reformed liars and thieves . . . but still Lawbreakers. Think of it this way - would you sell one of your eyes for a million dollars? Would you sell both for $50 million? I'm sure you wouldn't. Your eyes are priceless, yet they are merely the windows of your soul. What then must your life (soul) be worth? With these thoughts in mind, what would be a fair price to pay for everlasting life? It is utterly without price. Yet, if we trust in our own goodness to enter Heaven, we are saying to God, "I should enter Heaven because I have done good - I have earned my way in."
Imagine if you wanted to give me a brand new (very expensive) car, but I said, "I can't take it! I feel embarrassed receiving such a gift . . . here's 10 cents for it." I'm sure you would be very insulted by such a pathetic offer of payment. Besides, if I pay for it, it is no longer a gift, it's a purchase . . . it's mine by right.
When we talk of entering Heaven by being good, by trying to keep the Ten Commandments etc., we are tossing God 10 cents of "self-righteousness," which is a terrible insult to Him, in the light of His sacrifice. The only thing we can do is humble ourselves, repent of our sins, and receive the gift by trusting Jesus Christ alone. Almighty God demonstrated how much He loves you when Jesus suffered for you on the cross. If you want to trust in your own goodness, then you are saying His agonizing death on the cross was in vain. The Bible says, "For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." You cannot earn a gift.
When Jesus said to "believe" on Him, He was saying we should have faith in Him, in the same way you would trust a parachute to save you when you jump from a plane. You don't merely believe in the parachute - you put it on. Please don't "jump" without Jesus. If you die in your sins there is no second chance. God will give you justice, and you will end up in Hell forever. Any troubles you have at present are dwarfed by the trouble you are in with your Creator. His wrath abides upon you (John 3:36). God doesn't want you to go to Hell. Neither do you want to go there, so confess your sins to God right now, put your trust in Jesus to save you, and you will pass from death to life. Then read the Bible daily and obey what you read. (See John 14:21). Your obedience to God is the proof of your love. Have faith in God, He will never fail you.
Pray something like this:
"Dear God, today I turn away from all of my sins (name them). This day I put my trust in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. He is the only way for me to be saved. He is 'The way, the truth, and the life.'" Please forgive me, change my heart, and grant me Your gift of everlasting life. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen."
from www.livingwaters.com
Monday, February 11, 2013
The Testimony of C.H. Spurgeon
I had been about five years in the most fearful
distress in mind, as a lad. If any human being felt more of the terror of
God's law, I can indeed pity and sympathize with him. Bunyan's "Grace
Abounding" contains, in the main, my history. Some abysses he went into I
never trod; but some into which I plunged he seems to have never known. I
thought the sun was blotted out of my sky--that I had sinned so against God
that there was no hope for me. I prayed - the Lord knoweth how I prayed, but
I never had a glimpse of an answer that I knew of. I searched the Word of
God; the promises were more alarming than the threatenings. I read the
privileges of the people of God, but with the fullest persuasions that they
were not for me. The secret of my distress was this: I did not know the
gospel. I was in a Christian land, I had Christian parents, but I did not
fully understand the simplicity of the gospel.
I attended all the places of worship in the town where I lived, but I honestly believe that I did not hear the gospel fully preached. I do not blame the men, however. One man preached the divine sovereignty. I could hear him with pleasure; but what was that to a poor sinner who wished to know what he should do to be saved? There was another admirable man who always preached about the law; but what was the use of plowing up ground that needed to be sown? Another was a great practical preacher. I heard him, but it was very much like a commanding officer teaching the maneuvers of war to a set of men without feet. What could I do? All his exhortations were lost on me. I knew it was said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus and thou shalt be saved," but I did not know what it was to believe in Christ.
I sometimes think I might have been in darkness and despair now, had it not been for the goodness of God in sending a snowstorm one Sunday morning, when I was going to a place of worship. When I could go no farther, I turned down a court and come to a little Primitive Methodist chapel. In that chapel there might have been a dozen or fifteen people. The minister did not come that morning; snowed up, I suppose. A poor man, a shoemaker, a tailor, something of that sort, went up into the pulpit to preach.Now it is well that ministers should be instructed, but this man was really stupid, as you would say. He was obliged to stick to his text, for the simple reason that he had nothing else to say. The text was "Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth." He did not even pronounce the words rightly, but that did not matter.
There was I thought, a gleam of hope for me in the text. He began thus "My dear friends, this is a very simple text indeed. It says 'Look.' Now that does not take a great deal of effort. It ain't lifting your feet or your finger, it is just 'look.' Well, a man need not go to college to learn to look. You may be the biggest fool and yet you can look. A man need not be worth a thousand a year to look. Anyone can look; a child can look. But this is what the text says. Then it says 'Look unto Me.'" "Ay," said he, in broad Essex, "many of ye are looking to yourselves. No use looking there. You'll never find comfort in yourselves. Some look to God, the Father. No, look to Him by and by. Jesus Christ says, 'Look unto Me.' Some of you say, 'I must wait the Spirit a working.' You have no business with that just now. Look to Christ. It runs: 'Look unto Me.'"
Then the good man followed up his text in this way: "Look unto Me; I am sweating great drops of blood. Look unto Me; I am hanging on the cross. Look! I am dead and buried. Look unto Me; I rise again. Look unto Me; I ascend and sit at the Father's right hand O! look to Me!" When he had got about that length, and managed to spin out ten minutes or so he was at the end of his tether. Then he looked at me under the gallery, and I dare say, with so few present, he knew me to be a stranger, He then said, "Young man, you look very miserable." Well I did, but I have not been accustomed to having remarks made on my personal appearance from the pulpit before. However, it was a good blow struck. He continued:
"And you will always be miserable in life, and miserable in death if you do not obey my text. But if you obey now, this moment you will be saved."Then he shouted as only a Primitive Methodist can: "Young man, look to Jesus Christ!" I did "look."
There and then the cloud was gone, the darkness had rolled away, and that moment I saw the sun: I could have risen that moment and sung with enthusiasm of the precious blood of Christ, and the simple faith which looks alone to Him. Oh, that somebody had told me that before. TRUST CHRIST, AND YOU SHALL BE SAVED. Remember, dear brother, if you give your whole soul to the charge committed to you, it does not matter much about its appearing to be a somewhat small and insignificant affair, for as much skill may be displayed in the manufacture of a very tiny watch as in the construction of the town clock; in fact, a minute article may become the object of greater wonder than another of larger dimensions. Quality is a far more precious thing than quantity.
—C.H. Spurgeon
I attended all the places of worship in the town where I lived, but I honestly believe that I did not hear the gospel fully preached. I do not blame the men, however. One man preached the divine sovereignty. I could hear him with pleasure; but what was that to a poor sinner who wished to know what he should do to be saved? There was another admirable man who always preached about the law; but what was the use of plowing up ground that needed to be sown? Another was a great practical preacher. I heard him, but it was very much like a commanding officer teaching the maneuvers of war to a set of men without feet. What could I do? All his exhortations were lost on me. I knew it was said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus and thou shalt be saved," but I did not know what it was to believe in Christ.
I sometimes think I might have been in darkness and despair now, had it not been for the goodness of God in sending a snowstorm one Sunday morning, when I was going to a place of worship. When I could go no farther, I turned down a court and come to a little Primitive Methodist chapel. In that chapel there might have been a dozen or fifteen people. The minister did not come that morning; snowed up, I suppose. A poor man, a shoemaker, a tailor, something of that sort, went up into the pulpit to preach.Now it is well that ministers should be instructed, but this man was really stupid, as you would say. He was obliged to stick to his text, for the simple reason that he had nothing else to say. The text was "Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth." He did not even pronounce the words rightly, but that did not matter.
There was I thought, a gleam of hope for me in the text. He began thus "My dear friends, this is a very simple text indeed. It says 'Look.' Now that does not take a great deal of effort. It ain't lifting your feet or your finger, it is just 'look.' Well, a man need not go to college to learn to look. You may be the biggest fool and yet you can look. A man need not be worth a thousand a year to look. Anyone can look; a child can look. But this is what the text says. Then it says 'Look unto Me.'" "Ay," said he, in broad Essex, "many of ye are looking to yourselves. No use looking there. You'll never find comfort in yourselves. Some look to God, the Father. No, look to Him by and by. Jesus Christ says, 'Look unto Me.' Some of you say, 'I must wait the Spirit a working.' You have no business with that just now. Look to Christ. It runs: 'Look unto Me.'"
Then the good man followed up his text in this way: "Look unto Me; I am sweating great drops of blood. Look unto Me; I am hanging on the cross. Look! I am dead and buried. Look unto Me; I rise again. Look unto Me; I ascend and sit at the Father's right hand O! look to Me!" When he had got about that length, and managed to spin out ten minutes or so he was at the end of his tether. Then he looked at me under the gallery, and I dare say, with so few present, he knew me to be a stranger, He then said, "Young man, you look very miserable." Well I did, but I have not been accustomed to having remarks made on my personal appearance from the pulpit before. However, it was a good blow struck. He continued:
"And you will always be miserable in life, and miserable in death if you do not obey my text. But if you obey now, this moment you will be saved."Then he shouted as only a Primitive Methodist can: "Young man, look to Jesus Christ!" I did "look."
There and then the cloud was gone, the darkness had rolled away, and that moment I saw the sun: I could have risen that moment and sung with enthusiasm of the precious blood of Christ, and the simple faith which looks alone to Him. Oh, that somebody had told me that before. TRUST CHRIST, AND YOU SHALL BE SAVED. Remember, dear brother, if you give your whole soul to the charge committed to you, it does not matter much about its appearing to be a somewhat small and insignificant affair, for as much skill may be displayed in the manufacture of a very tiny watch as in the construction of the town clock; in fact, a minute article may become the object of greater wonder than another of larger dimensions. Quality is a far more precious thing than quantity.
—C.H. Spurgeon
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
And Shall I Pray...
“And shall I pray Thee change Thy will, my Father,
Until it be according unto mine?
But no, Lord, no; that never shall be, rather
I pray Thee, blend my human will with Thine.
“I pray Thee hush the hurrying, eager longing,
I pray Thee, soothe the pangs of keen desire,
See in my quiet places wishes thronging–
Forbid them, Lord, purge, though it be with fire.
“And work in me to will and do Thy pleasure,
Let all within me, peaceful, reconciled,
Tarry content my Well beloved’s leisure
At last, at last, even as a weaned child.”
Nathan Brown of Burma, from Elisabeth Elliot’s “Shadow of the Almighty”
Until it be according unto mine?
But no, Lord, no; that never shall be, rather
I pray Thee, blend my human will with Thine.
“I pray Thee hush the hurrying, eager longing,
I pray Thee, soothe the pangs of keen desire,
See in my quiet places wishes thronging–
Forbid them, Lord, purge, though it be with fire.
“And work in me to will and do Thy pleasure,
Let all within me, peaceful, reconciled,
Tarry content my Well beloved’s leisure
At last, at last, even as a weaned child.”
Nathan Brown of Burma, from Elisabeth Elliot’s “Shadow of the Almighty”
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Maker of the Universe
Maker of the Universe
As Man, for man was made a curse.
The claims of Law which He had made,
Unto the uttermost He paid.
His holy fingers made the bough,
Which grew the thorns that crowned His brow;
The nails that pierced His hand were mined,
In secret places He designed.
He made the forest whence there sprung
The tree on which His body hung;
He died upon a cross of wood,
Yet made the hill on which it stood.
The sky that darkened o'er His head,
By Him above the earth was spread.
The sun that hid from Him its face,
By His decree was poised in space.
The spear which spilled His precious blood
Was tempered in the fires of God.
The grave in which His form was laid
Was hewn in rocks His hands had made.
The throne on which He now appears
Was His from everlasting years;
But a new glory crowns His brow,
And every knee to Him shall bow:
The Maker of the universe.
---- F.W. Pitt
Monday, December 19, 2011
Why Jesus Is Better than Santa Claus
Why Jesus Is Better than Santa Claus
Santa lives at the North Pole ...
JESUS is everywhere.
Santa rides in a sleigh ...
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.
Santa comes but once a year ...
JESUS is an ever-present help.
Santa fills your stockings with goodies ...
JESUS supplies all your needs.
Santa comes down your chimney uninvited ...
JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your
heart when invited.
You have to wait in line to see Santa ...
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.
Santa lets you sit on his lap ...
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.
Santa doesn't know your name; all he can say to the little
boy or girl is, "What's your name?" ...
JESUS knew your name before you did. Not only does He know
your name, He also knows your address. He knows your history
and future and He even knows how many hairs are on your
head.
Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly ...
JESUS has a heart full of love.
All Santa can offer is HO HO HO ...
JESUS offers health, help, and hope.
Santa says, "You better not cry" ...
JESUS says, "Cast all your cares on me, for I care for you."
Santa's little helpers make toys ...
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken
homes, and builds mansions.
Santa may make you chuckle, but ...
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.
While Santa puts gifts under your tree ...
JESUS became our gift and died on a tree.
It's obvious there is really no comparison. We need to
remember WHO Christmas is all about. We need to put Christ
back in CHRISTmas. Jesus is still the reason for the season.
Yes, Jesus is better, he is even better than Santa Claus
Santa lives at the North Pole ...
JESUS is everywhere.
Santa rides in a sleigh ...
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.
Santa comes but once a year ...
JESUS is an ever-present help.
Santa fills your stockings with goodies ...
JESUS supplies all your needs.
Santa comes down your chimney uninvited ...
JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your
heart when invited.
You have to wait in line to see Santa ...
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.
Santa lets you sit on his lap ...
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.
Santa doesn't know your name; all he can say to the little
boy or girl is, "What's your name?" ...
JESUS knew your name before you did. Not only does He know
your name, He also knows your address. He knows your history
and future and He even knows how many hairs are on your
head.
Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly ...
JESUS has a heart full of love.
All Santa can offer is HO HO HO ...
JESUS offers health, help, and hope.
Santa says, "You better not cry" ...
JESUS says, "Cast all your cares on me, for I care for you."
Santa's little helpers make toys ...
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken
homes, and builds mansions.
Santa may make you chuckle, but ...
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.
While Santa puts gifts under your tree ...
JESUS became our gift and died on a tree.
It's obvious there is really no comparison. We need to
remember WHO Christmas is all about. We need to put Christ
back in CHRISTmas. Jesus is still the reason for the season.
Yes, Jesus is better, he is even better than Santa Claus
Monday, October 17, 2011
Modesty—A Lost Cause?
Modesty—A Lost Cause?
Kim Melton
“In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” 1 Tim. 2:9, 10
We live in a society where it is perfectly acceptable for the human body to be displayed in clothing that would have caused our grandparents to blush in shame. It used to be that these displays were on the people “of the world,” but in the past several years immodesty has begun to creep into the church. I have watched a married man avert his eyes when a young lady passed him in church in a dress that was provocatively cut. I overheard a Christian mother and her daughter discuss in a positive way how sexy the daughter looked. I have viewed pictures from weddings (a Fundamentalist pastor officiating) with dresses on brides and bridesmaids that several years ago were sold in stores as sleepwear.
There are many differing opinions among Christians about what is acceptable. Often you hear the term “Christian liberty” used when someone is defending what she is wearing. The purpose of this article is not to set a standard, but to make us stop and think about what kind of example we are setting.
I must confess that as a young woman I never gave the issue of modesty much thought. I had a mother who made sure I was modest. To my shame, I can remember times when I fought her about it, but she stood firm. Now I am grateful for the instruction she gave me in this area.
Even as a young married woman I didn’t think much about what was modest because at that time it was easy to go shopping and find clothing that was acceptable. I remember a time shortly after my marriage when my husband asked me kindly not to wear a certain blouse any more. I remember inwardly wrestling with whether or not I would do what he asked. I realized there must be a reason he didn’t want me to wear it, so I decided to listen to him. Now that I am older and hopefully a little wiser, I realize that a man knows how other men think, and I need to listen when my husband speaks about this important area.
There are many people (not just in our Fundamentalist camp) who are trying to fight this issue of immodesty. I watched a news clip recently on the local channel about a fashion group that was started by an unsaved mother who was concerned about the immodest apparel available for her teenage daughter to purchase. The fashion show demonstrated how to buy and layer fashionable clothing that covers appropriately. If this mother who doesn’t know the Lord is concerned, how much more concerned should we be who represent the King of kings!
Over the years I have heard good teaching in this area and have read many books on the subject. Perhaps the thing that has helped me the most was teaching I received by the former assistant pastor of my home church, Gordon Dickson. He was teaching on the fear of the Lord, and he asked the question, “How can I dress today to show that I fear the Lord?” This simple question has stuck with me over the years, and it can be applied to any area of our life as we seek to show that we fear the Lord.
Sometimes I feel that modesty is a lost cause. It is becoming increasingly difficult to buy modest clothing. Everything is getting lower, tighter, shorter, and more provocative. What are we to do? Sewing is becoming a lost art, but for those who do sew, this is a great solution. You can hire a seamstress to sew for you or to alter existing clothing to make it modest. I did a Google search for modest clothing and came up with a number of sites offering fashionable clothing. God will lead you in this area if you allow Him to do so! “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33).
Ladies, please don’t give up in this vital area. Set an example for others around you. Train your daughters. Let’s adorn ourselves in modest apparel “which becometh women professing godliness”!
Kim Melton
“In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” 1 Tim. 2:9, 10
We live in a society where it is perfectly acceptable for the human body to be displayed in clothing that would have caused our grandparents to blush in shame. It used to be that these displays were on the people “of the world,” but in the past several years immodesty has begun to creep into the church. I have watched a married man avert his eyes when a young lady passed him in church in a dress that was provocatively cut. I overheard a Christian mother and her daughter discuss in a positive way how sexy the daughter looked. I have viewed pictures from weddings (a Fundamentalist pastor officiating) with dresses on brides and bridesmaids that several years ago were sold in stores as sleepwear.
There are many differing opinions among Christians about what is acceptable. Often you hear the term “Christian liberty” used when someone is defending what she is wearing. The purpose of this article is not to set a standard, but to make us stop and think about what kind of example we are setting.
I must confess that as a young woman I never gave the issue of modesty much thought. I had a mother who made sure I was modest. To my shame, I can remember times when I fought her about it, but she stood firm. Now I am grateful for the instruction she gave me in this area.
Even as a young married woman I didn’t think much about what was modest because at that time it was easy to go shopping and find clothing that was acceptable. I remember a time shortly after my marriage when my husband asked me kindly not to wear a certain blouse any more. I remember inwardly wrestling with whether or not I would do what he asked. I realized there must be a reason he didn’t want me to wear it, so I decided to listen to him. Now that I am older and hopefully a little wiser, I realize that a man knows how other men think, and I need to listen when my husband speaks about this important area.
There are many people (not just in our Fundamentalist camp) who are trying to fight this issue of immodesty. I watched a news clip recently on the local channel about a fashion group that was started by an unsaved mother who was concerned about the immodest apparel available for her teenage daughter to purchase. The fashion show demonstrated how to buy and layer fashionable clothing that covers appropriately. If this mother who doesn’t know the Lord is concerned, how much more concerned should we be who represent the King of kings!
Over the years I have heard good teaching in this area and have read many books on the subject. Perhaps the thing that has helped me the most was teaching I received by the former assistant pastor of my home church, Gordon Dickson. He was teaching on the fear of the Lord, and he asked the question, “How can I dress today to show that I fear the Lord?” This simple question has stuck with me over the years, and it can be applied to any area of our life as we seek to show that we fear the Lord.
Sometimes I feel that modesty is a lost cause. It is becoming increasingly difficult to buy modest clothing. Everything is getting lower, tighter, shorter, and more provocative. What are we to do? Sewing is becoming a lost art, but for those who do sew, this is a great solution. You can hire a seamstress to sew for you or to alter existing clothing to make it modest. I did a Google search for modest clothing and came up with a number of sites offering fashionable clothing. God will lead you in this area if you allow Him to do so! “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33).
Ladies, please don’t give up in this vital area. Set an example for others around you. Train your daughters. Let’s adorn ourselves in modest apparel “which becometh women professing godliness”!
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