Monday, February 28, 2011
Awesome Scene
When True Grit proved to be a huge hit , they decided to do a follow up called Rooster Cogburn. Perhaps not as good as Grit , nonetheless it is an excellent Wayne western. The fun of the movie is the interchange between Wayne and Hepburn . In my list of westerns and movies I loved as a kid , this is one. It still is.
John Wayne was a unique actor and man .They sure do not exist in the current crop out in film land. He was so suited for westerns . One of my all time favorites.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Needed To Hear This Song Today
.
This beautiful song by Chris Rice was much needed today. Is not the love of Jesus a beautiful and amazing thing. Apart from Him in one's life , what would you have . Nothing!Thanks to a Facebook friend that linked to this song.
Verse Of The Day : [8] but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. [9] Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. [10] For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. [11] More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
(Romans 5:8-11 ESV)
This beautiful song by Chris Rice was much needed today. Is not the love of Jesus a beautiful and amazing thing. Apart from Him in one's life , what would you have . Nothing!Thanks to a Facebook friend that linked to this song.
Verse Of The Day : [8] but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. [9] Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. [10] For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. [11] More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
(Romans 5:8-11 ESV)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Marriage is Indeed a Minefield
Marriage is a wonderful and amazing gift from God. That is not to say it is easy or for the timid but the fact is , unless one is called to singleness , most will marry . In this fallen world lets not kid ourselves either , many things assail marriage. Many enter into it with a false idea of what its all about . They seem to forget the vows they say within a nano second.
The tragic stat of less and less people getting married is a clear sign Satan has done a great job in undermining the institution of marriage , which makes sense because a family makes up a stable element in society. It is the cement that hold communities and countries together. With more young men not wanting growing up and 40 somethings acting like teens and young women either putting off marriage or rejecting it outright , we are seeing a shift . More couples are just living together , saying they don't need a paper to say they love each other .This may sound right at the surface but the bottom line it is a rejection of God's covenant of marriage. As my Grandmother would say , its is living in sin .
When one stands before others , a pastor and ultimately God , to say your vows and enter into a covenant with God that you will love this women or man till death do you part, takes on a whole unique quality then just shacking up. Which I believe is nothing more than a friend with benefits.
Its not an easy road , but the pay off is huge . I can clearly say , loving and cherishing my wife has been blessing. In serving her , it has helped me comprehend what Jesus said that we are to lay down our lives and be a servant to others. The man in a marriage is to lead with humble headship and a heart that is willing to die for your wife. I have been far from perfect , and she has been very gracious in forgiving my failures and sins . But I hope when all is said and down , she will know that I loved her and would without hesitation lay down my life for her .
Marriage is indeed a minefield but in Christ and His promises , if we build upon Him , the minefields will be navigated through . Sure we may have some scars but each one will be worth it .
So I hope you enjoy this beautiful song by Andrew Peterson . Now take a moment to dance with your spouse and be thankful to God for the blessing of His gift of marriage.
The tragic stat of less and less people getting married is a clear sign Satan has done a great job in undermining the institution of marriage , which makes sense because a family makes up a stable element in society. It is the cement that hold communities and countries together. With more young men not wanting growing up and 40 somethings acting like teens and young women either putting off marriage or rejecting it outright , we are seeing a shift . More couples are just living together , saying they don't need a paper to say they love each other .This may sound right at the surface but the bottom line it is a rejection of God's covenant of marriage. As my Grandmother would say , its is living in sin .
When one stands before others , a pastor and ultimately God , to say your vows and enter into a covenant with God that you will love this women or man till death do you part, takes on a whole unique quality then just shacking up. Which I believe is nothing more than a friend with benefits.
Its not an easy road , but the pay off is huge . I can clearly say , loving and cherishing my wife has been blessing. In serving her , it has helped me comprehend what Jesus said that we are to lay down our lives and be a servant to others. The man in a marriage is to lead with humble headship and a heart that is willing to die for your wife. I have been far from perfect , and she has been very gracious in forgiving my failures and sins . But I hope when all is said and down , she will know that I loved her and would without hesitation lay down my life for her .
Marriage is indeed a minefield but in Christ and His promises , if we build upon Him , the minefields will be navigated through . Sure we may have some scars but each one will be worth it .
So I hope you enjoy this beautiful song by Andrew Peterson . Now take a moment to dance with your spouse and be thankful to God for the blessing of His gift of marriage.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Catechism Friday
19. Q. From where do you know this?
A. From the holy gospel, which God Himself first revealed in Paradise.[1] Later, He had it proclaimed by the patriarchs[2] and prophets,[3] and foreshadowed by the sacrifices and other ceremonies of the law.[4] Finally, He had it fulfilled through His only Son.[5]
[1] Gen. 3:15. [2] Gen. 12:3; 22:18; 49:10. [3] Is. 53; Jer. 23:5, 6; Mic. 7:18-20; Acts 10:43; Heb. 1:1. [4] Lev. 1:7;John 5:46; Heb. 10:1-10. [5] Rom. 10:4; Gal. 4:4, 5; Col. 2:17.
20. Q. Are all men, then, saved by Christ just as they perished through Adam?
A. No. Only those are saved who by a true faith are grafted into Christ and accept all His benefits.[1]
21. Q. What is true faith?
A. True faith is a sure knowledge whereby I accept as true all that God has revealed to us in His Word.[1] At the same time it is a firm confidence[2] that not only to others, but also to me,[3] God has granted forgiveness of sins, everlasting righteousness, and salvation,[4] out of mere grace, only for the sake of Christ's merits.[5] This faith the Holy Spirit works in my heart by the gospel.[6]
[1] John 17:3, 17; Heb. 11:1-3; James 2:19. [2] Rom. 4:18-21; 5:1; 10:10; Heb. 4:16. [3] Gal. 2:20. [4] Rom. 1:17;Heb. 10:10. [5] Rom.3:20-26; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2:8-10. [6] Acts 16:14; Rom. 1:16; 10:17; I Cor. 1:21.
Heidelberg Catechism (1576 A.D.)
22. Q. What, then, must a Christian believe?
A. All that is promised us in the gospel,[1] which the articles of our catholic and undoubted Christian faith teach us in a summary.
23. Q. What are these articles?
A. III.1.I believe in God the Father almighty, III.1. Creator of heaven and earth. III.2.I believe in Jesus Christ, III.2. His only begotten Son, our Lord; III.3. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, III.3. born of the virgin Mary; III.4. suffered under Pontius Pilate, III.4. was crucified, dead, and buried; III.4. He descended into hell; III.5. On the third day He arose from the dead; III.6. He ascended into heaven, III.6. and sits at the right hand III.6. of God the Father almighty; III.7. from there He will come to judge III.7. the living and the dead. III.8. I believe in the Holy Spirit; III.9. I believe a holy catholic Christian church, III.9. the communion of saints; III.10. the forgiveness of sins; III.11. the resurrection of the body; III.12. and the life everlasting.
24. Q. How are these articles divided?
A. Into three parts: the first is about God the Father and our creation; the second about God the Son and our redemption; the third about God the Holy Spirit and our sanctification.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
See These Movies or Face My Wrath (Just Kidding)
Over the next couple of weeks I'm going to feature my top 10 films . They will be in no order.
The first is Braveheart. It is an excellent movie that stirs my heart every time I view it. The intensity of the acting and the beautifully scenery is breath taking. The performances are stellar and if you have any Scottish or Irish blood within you , once those bagpipes start and the Irish flute pipes in ,you are hooked. Once the film closes you will find your kilt and shout ,FREEDOM!
The first is Braveheart. It is an excellent movie that stirs my heart every time I view it. The intensity of the acting and the beautifully scenery is breath taking. The performances are stellar and if you have any Scottish or Irish blood within you , once those bagpipes start and the Irish flute pipes in ,you are hooked. Once the film closes you will find your kilt and shout ,FREEDOM!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Gout and The Fall
This will be a short one today for pain makes the mind very tired . Suffering from an attack of Gout. No its not n animal ,had to say it for the laugh factor.Its a form of inflammation that attacks the large toe joint . My dad suffered from it and both my brother and sister have had attacks . So not wanting to be left out I figured why not join the club. Needless to say it is very painful and makes sleeping very hard.
So lying awake the other night , I thought about what is like for Adam and Eve before the fall. To live in the garden ,enjoying fellowship with God. To labor and not be worn out , to rest in in the garden without the worry of pain . So as I laid there with pain throbbing in my foot , I thought of my sin and how Adam , when he as my perfect representative , brought the curse of sin and death into the world .
Pain is that reminder that we are a broken race. That because of the fall pain,tears and death are all part of our lot . But then I thought of Jesus and how how he was broken for me and that one day all things will be made new. That in a real way makes pain more bearable. The thought of no more pain and that we will rise up like eagles and never tire is a awesome thought. What a great Saviour we have .
Verse Of The Day : He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
(Revelation 21:3-4 ESV)
So lying awake the other night , I thought about what is like for Adam and Eve before the fall. To live in the garden ,enjoying fellowship with God. To labor and not be worn out , to rest in in the garden without the worry of pain . So as I laid there with pain throbbing in my foot , I thought of my sin and how Adam , when he as my perfect representative , brought the curse of sin and death into the world .
Pain is that reminder that we are a broken race. That because of the fall pain,tears and death are all part of our lot . But then I thought of Jesus and how how he was broken for me and that one day all things will be made new. That in a real way makes pain more bearable. The thought of no more pain and that we will rise up like eagles and never tire is a awesome thought. What a great Saviour we have .
Verse Of The Day : He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
(Revelation 21:3-4 ESV)
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
All Is Vanity
We have heard this story before of the rich and famous , those we would think would be deeply satisfied with their accomplishments . Even Brand admits he wanted the fame,money but when he had it all , the women and every vice under the sun , he was unhappy. Is this not a broken record . The list could be as long as one could make it. Fame,money,possessions do not make one content or happy.
Perhaps this is why so many who have been given so much involve themselves with so many charities. Maybe they are trying to give their lives meaning. But even the common man or woman will do the same thing. We will place kids, a marriage partner ,job or whatever to try and find meaning or satisfaction. However all these things are really futile and empty for they all can be gone in a blink of an eye.
King Solomon is known to have been the wisest man the world has ever seen. His kingdom , his riches , were great and plentiful. But when looking over his vast wealth and pleasures this is what he said , "[11] Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun.
(Ecclesiastes 2:11 ESV) All his striving was for nothing. It was all in vain. So Brand really and all who have said the same thing are just echoing what King Solomon said almost 3000 years ago. Some things never change .
So if fame,money,sex,family and pleasures cannot satisfy where can we find it? How can we find it? First we have to comprehend there is something wrong with us. If we are to truly want a soul satisfied we must admit that we are nor right. That we have been separated form the one who can be our satisfaction,our joy,our contentment. Our sin has left us an enemy of God. Therefore all those things we try and replace Him with will not fulfill our hearts.
The solution is Jesus Christ . When we come to Him for forgiveness of sins , our relationship to God is restored . Then being in Christ , His promises to be our bread of life, our source of living water that will truly satisfy the soul, are ours to enjoy .
So what Brand needs is Jesus Christ. It is that simple. We can try and find happiness and peace in sort of places but when all is said and done , those who labor not in Christ will labor in vain for only hell and God's wrath will await.
Verse Of The Day : Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
(1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV)
Monday, February 21, 2011
Simple,Complex and Deep
One of the unique aspects of the Christian faith it is both a simple message and at the same time , as we mind the depths of the Bible, interacting with other world views and religions , it can produce a book with the scope of Micheal Hortons.
Some might ask why should one invest time with a book like this .Should we just read the Bible? The answer to that is very simple . The primary source of all information must be the word of God. It is the place where we encounter God. The story of man,the fall,sin,death,wrath ,forgiveness and consummation of the age, is all laid out before us.It is in God's word we encounter Jesus Christ , the gospel and the good news of God clothing Himself in flesh . But at the same time ,as is clear in the pastoral epistles ,God has given to the Church Elder teachers who are to preach and refute those who are twisting God's word or attacking the truth .The years of study and knowledge they bring to bare should not be ignored.
Yes the message of the gospel is simple , that even a child can understand it but at the same time as one plumbs the depths of scripture and as one has to encounter other false religions and world views , one will have move on to a more comprehensive understanding of God's word in order to give an answer for the hope within us(1 Peter 3:15). When one gives this answer , sometimes it will be simple , sometimes complex and deep. Who you are talking with will dictate the content . A child will not have lived a life smothered with the blanket of competing ideas an adult has and will bring to the table.
So knowing your audience is key. But no matter who you may be witnessing to or defending the faith , the maxim keep it simple stupid works. That is not to imply simple is naive or "childlike" but let your words be clear,concise and to the point. I agree with what Paul said about preaching Christ and Him crucified. In other words , its about the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Thats why a books like Horton's are so valuable . They are Christ centered and gospel driven . So as I read through it, look for some quotes or thoughts to be featured . Now for some tea and lets get started.
Verse Of The Day : Our soul waits for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
For our heart is glad in him,
because we trust in his holy name.
Let your steadfast love, O LORD, be upon us,
even as we hope in you.
(Psalm 33:20-22 ESV)
Sunday, February 20, 2011
The Bitter Cup
This song by the Getty's truly captures the anguish of Jesus when He was in a garden knowing what laid before Him .Where in one garden sin entered the human race ,in this garden with Jesus words , Father your will be done , sin,death and Satan all were put on notice , your time is up. With the walk to Golgotha , clothed with a blood stained robe ,from a brutally broken body, a crown of thorns on His head , and a cross to crucify , Jesus paid it all , for you ,for me . Jesus died for me ,can you say that ? Jesus loved me to the point of death , my sin placed on that cross. I whipped him ,stripped Him ,placed the thorns on His brow and drove those nails through His flesh .
Oh what love upon tree , where my Lord was crucified for me , all to bring my soul from wrath , to His kingdom of light that will ever last !
Verse Of The Day : But he was wounded for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned—every one—to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
(Isaiah 53:5-6 ESV)
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Can We Truly Comprehend
Is it not hard to fathom the love that was on display when Jesus laid down His life so that we might be called children of God. May we lift up His name and sing the praises of God for such an amazing gift.
Verse Of The Day : Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
(John 15:13 ESV)
Verse Of The Day : Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
(John 15:13 ESV)
Friday, February 18, 2011
Catechism Friday
Heidelberg Catechism (1576 A.D.)
14. Q. Can any mere creature pay for us?
A. No. In the first place, God will not punish another creature for the sin which man has committed.[1] Furthermore, no mere creature can sustain the burden of God's eternal wrath against sin and deliver others from it.[2]
15. Q. What kind of mediator and deliverer must we seek?
A. One who is a true[1] and righteous[2] man, and yet more powerful than all creatures; that is, one who is at the same time true God.[3]
[1] I Cor. 15:21; Heb. 2:17. [2] Is. 53:9; II Cor. 5:21; Heb. 7:26. [3] Is. 7:14; 9:6; Jer. 23:6; John 1:1; Rom. 8:3, 4.
16. Q. Why must He be a true and righteous man?
A. He must be a true man because the justice of God requires that the same human nature which has sinned should pay for sin.[1] He must be a righteous man because one who himself is a sinner cannot pay for others.[2]
17. Q. Why must He at the same time be true God?
A. He must be true God so that by the power of His divine nature[1] He might bear in His human nature the burden of God's wrath,[2] and might obtain for us and restore to us righteousness and life.[3]
18. Q. But who is that Mediator who at the same time is true God and a true and righteous man?
A. Our Lord Jesus Christ,[1] whom God made our wisdom, our righteousness and sanctification and redemption (I Corinthians 1:30).
Verse Of The Day : But the LORD is the true God;
he is the living God and the everlasting King.
At his wrath the earth quakes,
and the nations cannot endure his indignation.
(Jeremiah 10:10 ESV)
Thursday, February 17, 2011
7 Times 70 , Radical Call To Forgive
Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” [22] Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven.
(Matthew 18:21-22 ESV)
When Peter comes to Jesus to inquire about forgiveness and how many times someone is obligated to forgive another he makes the statement of perhaps seven. Using the number of perfection and more than doubling the amount that was taught to the Jews of the day . The religious leaders taught 3 times one was to forgive another. So Peter perhaps playing a bit of a look at me card , going see how righteous I'm , I will say 7 . But Jesus throws him for a loop coming back not 7 times but 7 times 70. This is not a literally designation in just numerical value , what Jesus is saying that forgiveness should be in the heart of a believer and that we are not to keep a score card .
But lets face a real fact. Just as Peter sounded so religious by saying 7 times , we too can glibly say , yes we should forgive.The reality is when we have been hurt or we have been the one to hurt another be it in conduct or word , then that is where the rubber hits the road. But the truth is we are commanded to be a marked by forgiveness. Jesus earlier in Matthew 6:14 after he delivers the Lord's prayer , tells His followers that unless they are willing to forgive others , the Father will not forgive you. It is a warning to check our hearts . If we truly comprehend how much we have been forgiven by God through the work of Christ on the cross, when we call to Him in repentance , and come to faith , the natural outcome should be a heart willing to forgive.
If someone does you harm and they don't come to you to ask for forgiveness , should we still forgive them ? I believe in that instance we need to still practice a heart of forgiveness.We are never told to hold anger or bitterness against anyone . It may take time for this to work out , and we need to ask God for grace . But a heart that withholds forgiveness is open to self righteousness,bitterness,hatred and will only lead to ruin.
Ultimately within a Church setting if another brother sins against one we are told to approach them privately , if they repent we are told to forgive them . That is a model we need to practice. It is a bit more complicated if it is an outsider or unbeliever . Still one cannot read through the Bible and not see that forgiveness should be a marked trait in those who say they follow God, for Christianity is a faith marked by a profound forgiveness given to us when we did not deserve it .
Verse Of The Day : Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”
(Luke 17:3-4 ESV)
(Matthew 18:21-22 ESV)
When Peter comes to Jesus to inquire about forgiveness and how many times someone is obligated to forgive another he makes the statement of perhaps seven. Using the number of perfection and more than doubling the amount that was taught to the Jews of the day . The religious leaders taught 3 times one was to forgive another. So Peter perhaps playing a bit of a look at me card , going see how righteous I'm , I will say 7 . But Jesus throws him for a loop coming back not 7 times but 7 times 70. This is not a literally designation in just numerical value , what Jesus is saying that forgiveness should be in the heart of a believer and that we are not to keep a score card .
But lets face a real fact. Just as Peter sounded so religious by saying 7 times , we too can glibly say , yes we should forgive.The reality is when we have been hurt or we have been the one to hurt another be it in conduct or word , then that is where the rubber hits the road. But the truth is we are commanded to be a marked by forgiveness. Jesus earlier in Matthew 6:14 after he delivers the Lord's prayer , tells His followers that unless they are willing to forgive others , the Father will not forgive you. It is a warning to check our hearts . If we truly comprehend how much we have been forgiven by God through the work of Christ on the cross, when we call to Him in repentance , and come to faith , the natural outcome should be a heart willing to forgive.
If someone does you harm and they don't come to you to ask for forgiveness , should we still forgive them ? I believe in that instance we need to still practice a heart of forgiveness.We are never told to hold anger or bitterness against anyone . It may take time for this to work out , and we need to ask God for grace . But a heart that withholds forgiveness is open to self righteousness,bitterness,hatred and will only lead to ruin.
Ultimately within a Church setting if another brother sins against one we are told to approach them privately , if they repent we are told to forgive them . That is a model we need to practice. It is a bit more complicated if it is an outsider or unbeliever . Still one cannot read through the Bible and not see that forgiveness should be a marked trait in those who say they follow God, for Christianity is a faith marked by a profound forgiveness given to us when we did not deserve it .
Verse Of The Day : Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”
(Luke 17:3-4 ESV)
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
The New Pulpit
Traditionally when you say preaching , you think of a Pastor standing behind a pulpit ,open Bible and opening up the word in religious instruction. Plus it is not just to hear himself speak but to bring about change in the listeners . Hopefully he will trust in the Holy Spirit to bring about this change and just open up God's word , preaching the gospel clearly so that the Christian is instructed and blessed and the unbeliever will come to faith . repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.
Of course you also have heard people say , don't preach at me , I will live as I will. Most of these same people who make these type of statements have never darkened the door of a Church. So its funny that with the age of entertainment upon us , this same group are the most preached at group that has ever existed . With the advent of movies,TV,popular music and video games , they sit, watch and listen to sermons everyday . The majority of this indoctrination is completely passive. Unlike sitting with a Church with a open Bible were one can interact with sermon , they digest this stuff without blinking an eye.
Well they might say , they are not preaching at me . Oh really . This is one definition of preaching , "To advocate, especially to urge acceptance of or compliance with ". Any type of medium that advocates an idea or world view at its very nature is preaching. To sit in front of a TV program or movie, to play a video game or listen to a artist , you are receiving a message that is advocating a way to live. It has a platform to your mind. This is the new pulpit .
Take for example the new sensation sweeping the world of entertainment,Lady Gaga . She is really doing nothing different than what other artist in the past have done ,but where many in the past would be subversive in the message, it has progressively gotten bolder and more in your face. Sin is promoted and anti-Christian messages dominate the landscape. Just read this from Gaga's newest song and tell me it doesn't fit into the category of preaching.
Born This Way - I'm beautiful in my way
'cause god makes no mistakes
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
Don't hide yourself in regret
Just love yourself and you're set
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
[Post-chorus]
Ooo there ain't no other way
Baby I was born this way
Baby I was born this way
Ooo there ain't no other way
Baby I was born-
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be!
[Verse 2]
Give yourself prudence
And love your friends
Subway kid, rejoice your truth
In the religion of the insecure
I must be myself, respect my youth
A different lover is not a sin
Believe capital h-i-m (hey hey hey)
I love my life I love this record and
Mi amore vole fe yah (love needs faith)
Now it is very evident what she is advocating . From her pulpit of the entertainment , she is preaching that homosexuality is God ordained. That God makes no mistakes and only the religious insecure are not embracing this message. She is trying to sway people , to influence those who will sit before her and openly promote a world view that is contrary to God's word and His truth . But here is the kicker, those who swallow this open promotion of sin will not at the same time , be willing to have a God fearing preacher like John Piper or John MacArthur open up God's word about what it says about homosexuality and sin.
The fact that those under 35 having virtually no contact with real authentic ,intellectually stimulating Christianity, come with such a bias and have been given so much misinformation, that they come at us with presuppositions drenched in a hateful bias. The new pulpit in thriving alive and well . It even starts in school where your kids will encounter teachers with a clear bias against the Jesus Christ and the God revealed in the Bible.From science to even sociology , they will sit and hear how faith in God,trust in the Bible is foolish.But this same group have been deeply influenced by the pulpit of entertainment. They are the ones that grew up with TV,rock n roll . They are the generation as well left the Church in droves.
We need to be prepared to deal this with open and honest dialog.It will not be easy .But we most be willing to do our homework , understand what is being said by the new preachers and combat it with the truth of God's word.
Verse Of The Day : “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.
(Matthew 5:43-45 ESV)
Of course you also have heard people say , don't preach at me , I will live as I will. Most of these same people who make these type of statements have never darkened the door of a Church. So its funny that with the age of entertainment upon us , this same group are the most preached at group that has ever existed . With the advent of movies,TV,popular music and video games , they sit, watch and listen to sermons everyday . The majority of this indoctrination is completely passive. Unlike sitting with a Church with a open Bible were one can interact with sermon , they digest this stuff without blinking an eye.
Well they might say , they are not preaching at me . Oh really . This is one definition of preaching , "To advocate, especially to urge acceptance of or compliance with ". Any type of medium that advocates an idea or world view at its very nature is preaching. To sit in front of a TV program or movie, to play a video game or listen to a artist , you are receiving a message that is advocating a way to live. It has a platform to your mind. This is the new pulpit .
Take for example the new sensation sweeping the world of entertainment,Lady Gaga . She is really doing nothing different than what other artist in the past have done ,but where many in the past would be subversive in the message, it has progressively gotten bolder and more in your face. Sin is promoted and anti-Christian messages dominate the landscape. Just read this from Gaga's newest song and tell me it doesn't fit into the category of preaching.
Born This Way - I'm beautiful in my way
'cause god makes no mistakes
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
Don't hide yourself in regret
Just love yourself and you're set
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
[Post-chorus]
Ooo there ain't no other way
Baby I was born this way
Baby I was born this way
Ooo there ain't no other way
Baby I was born-
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be!
[Verse 2]
Give yourself prudence
And love your friends
Subway kid, rejoice your truth
In the religion of the insecure
I must be myself, respect my youth
A different lover is not a sin
Believe capital h-i-m (hey hey hey)
I love my life I love this record and
Mi amore vole fe yah (love needs faith)
Now it is very evident what she is advocating . From her pulpit of the entertainment , she is preaching that homosexuality is God ordained. That God makes no mistakes and only the religious insecure are not embracing this message. She is trying to sway people , to influence those who will sit before her and openly promote a world view that is contrary to God's word and His truth . But here is the kicker, those who swallow this open promotion of sin will not at the same time , be willing to have a God fearing preacher like John Piper or John MacArthur open up God's word about what it says about homosexuality and sin.
The fact that those under 35 having virtually no contact with real authentic ,intellectually stimulating Christianity, come with such a bias and have been given so much misinformation, that they come at us with presuppositions drenched in a hateful bias. The new pulpit in thriving alive and well . It even starts in school where your kids will encounter teachers with a clear bias against the Jesus Christ and the God revealed in the Bible.From science to even sociology , they will sit and hear how faith in God,trust in the Bible is foolish.But this same group have been deeply influenced by the pulpit of entertainment. They are the ones that grew up with TV,rock n roll . They are the generation as well left the Church in droves.
We need to be prepared to deal this with open and honest dialog.It will not be easy .But we most be willing to do our homework , understand what is being said by the new preachers and combat it with the truth of God's word.
Verse Of The Day : “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.
(Matthew 5:43-45 ESV)
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Not For The Faint of Heart
Let no man think to kill sin with few, easy, or gentle strokes. He who hath once smitten a serpent, if he follow not on his blow until it be slain, may repent that ever he began the quarrel. And so he who undertakes to deal with sin, and pursues it not constantly to the death.
John Owen (1616 –1683)
John Owen (1616 –1683)
The great theologian hits the nail on the head when it comes to dealing with sin in a believers life. We cannot play footloose and fancy free with whatever sin still tries to have sway over us. It is a fight against the old man , a war that one must take serious , deadly serious.
Jesus said that if your eye causes you to sin , pluck it out . If your hand , cut it off . The point Christ was driving home is sin must be taken serious. It needs to rooted out and dealt with . That is why everyday we need to be in prayer , practicing confession, repentance and trusting in God to give us strength in the battle.
Fixing our eyes on the cross and understanding the heinous nature of our sin , should compel us to hate it , to despise it because it was the cause of the cross. We must ask God to help us see sin for what it is , a full shake of the fist in God's face.
As a believer unconfessed sin robs us of our joy and peace in God. When David tried to conceal his sin , he was miserable . But once he was confronted, confessed and repented , God restored his joy and peace(read Psalm 51).
If we don't take this battle serious , it will have its way with us. But as Owen says,if your going to take it on , be prepared for the old sinful nature ,the world and Satan are real enemies but greater is He that is in me than all three.Let Christ be your conqueror and be a warrior for God.
Verse Of The Day : May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
(Romans 15:13 ESV)
Verse Of The Day : May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
(Romans 15:13 ESV)
Monday, February 14, 2011
Something Funny To Start The Week
I used to love watching the Dean Martin Roast . They were funny and clean .How far we have fallen with the new ones . I tried to watch one newer Roast formats featuring William Shatner and had to turn it off in less than 5 minutes .Filthy and not funny.
Anyway Rich Little was a staple on most of them , with his amazing impressions. Hope you enjoy as Little roast one of the my favorite actors ,Jimmy Stewart.Hope you enjoy . Imagine laughing without the filth . Takes more talent .
Verse Of The Day : But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.
(Colossians 3:8 ESV)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Coming Soon
On the Lord's day its always so refreshing to spend time in worship and praise to our great God. To gather with other saints and join in community to extol the amazing love of God is a delight. Sometimes when I walk through the doors of my Church I pause to think of brothers and sisters in the faith around the world who mark themselves each time they gather. The areas they live are hostile to the gospel of Jesus Christ. In fact they could face persecution at anytime. Churches have been blown up,burnt down and believers have been looted, had businesses destroyed and in the worse cases , beaten and even murdered.
In Canada , we are so blessed with freedom to assemble , to speak freely and not face the same extreme hostility. To some degree perhaps its because we have a watered down gospel , that has taken off the rough edges . We have pastors who speak rarely of the wrath of God , hell and the exclusivity of Christ. Plus with the changing landscape of sexuality and with younger people totally excepting the "alternative" lifestyles , Churches are finding themselves very hesitant to openly speak God's truth in these areas.
What I'm saying as blunt as possible, to hold to the essential truths of God's word will be put to the test as this younger generation takes power. Poll after poll shows they are drifting away from any direct influence of the Church. Even those within the Church in this age demographic of 18-35 have been on a slippery slope .
But we need to take heart . Yes no one wants to face persecution but we must never think we are above our Lord .Jesus said that the world would hate us , for it hated Him first and if we are truly His , then we will not be free of this reality. In truth what is this time we have here on earth compared to reality of heaven to enjoy and delight in God forever. It is a vapor , a blink of an eye. If Jesus is our treasure,our first love , our delight then suffering for the sake of His glorious name is worth it.
We live in changing times but we have this promise of Jesus that is recorded for us to help us stand firm ,
.....[33] I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
(John 16:33 ESV)
We are safe in the arms of Christ .May we never forget that no matte what may come.
Verse Of The Day : For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
(Romans 8:38-39 ESV)
In Canada , we are so blessed with freedom to assemble , to speak freely and not face the same extreme hostility. To some degree perhaps its because we have a watered down gospel , that has taken off the rough edges . We have pastors who speak rarely of the wrath of God , hell and the exclusivity of Christ. Plus with the changing landscape of sexuality and with younger people totally excepting the "alternative" lifestyles , Churches are finding themselves very hesitant to openly speak God's truth in these areas.
What I'm saying as blunt as possible, to hold to the essential truths of God's word will be put to the test as this younger generation takes power. Poll after poll shows they are drifting away from any direct influence of the Church. Even those within the Church in this age demographic of 18-35 have been on a slippery slope .
But we need to take heart . Yes no one wants to face persecution but we must never think we are above our Lord .Jesus said that the world would hate us , for it hated Him first and if we are truly His , then we will not be free of this reality. In truth what is this time we have here on earth compared to reality of heaven to enjoy and delight in God forever. It is a vapor , a blink of an eye. If Jesus is our treasure,our first love , our delight then suffering for the sake of His glorious name is worth it.
We live in changing times but we have this promise of Jesus that is recorded for us to help us stand firm ,
.....[33] I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
(John 16:33 ESV)
We are safe in the arms of Christ .May we never forget that no matte what may come.
Verse Of The Day : For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
(Romans 8:38-39 ESV)
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Come Weary Sinner
We are called to come , to repent and recognize our need for salvation . In the exchange we are clothed with the righteousness of Christ , is that not amazing.Our hearts are changed from a dead stone to a living one , who loves God and has passed from an enemy bound for hell ,to a being called sons and daughters of the most high. May worship be sweet and full of reverence and awe of our holy triune God.
Verse Of The Day : but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.
(Romans 5:8-9 ESV)
Friday, February 11, 2011
Catechism Friday
Continuing on our journey through the Heidelberg Catechism , my hope is it is truly digging deep into our soil and planting firm roots.
9. Q. Is God, then, not unjust by requiring in His law what man cannot do?
A. No, for God so created man that he was able to do it.[1] But man, at the instigation of the devil,[2] in deliberate disobedience[3] robbed himself and all his descendants of these gifts.[4]
10. Q. Will God allow such disobedience and apostasy to go unpunished?
A. Certainly not. He is terribly displeased with our original sin as well as our actual sins. Therefore He will punish them by a just judgment both now and eternally,[1] as He has declared:[2] Cursed be every one who does not abide by all things written in the book of the law, and do them (Galatians 3:10).
Continuing on our 11. Q. But is God not also merciful?
A. God is indeed merciful,[1] but He is also just.[2] His justice requires that sin committed against the most high majesty of God also be punished with the most severe, that is, with everlasting, punishment of body and soul.[3]
[1] Ex. 20:6; 34:6, 7; Ps. 103:8, 9. [2] Ex. 20:5; 34:7; Deut. 7:9-11; Ps. 5:4-6; Heb. 10:30, 31. [3] Matt. 25:45,46.
12. Q. Since, according to God's righteous judgment we deserve temporal and eternal punishment, how can we escape this punishment and be again received into favour?
A. God demands that His justice be satisfied.[1] Therefore full payment must be made either by ourselves or by another.[2]
13. Q. Can we ourselves make this payment?
A. Certainly not. On the contrary, we daily increase our debt.[1]
Verse Of The Day : Your words have upheld him who was stumbling,
and you have made firm the feeble knees.
(Job 4:4 ESV)
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Amazing Memories,Amazing Voice
This is one stirring version. When John Newton penned this song , after being saved and repenting of being involved in the slave trade and then preaching against it , I have no doubt his eyes would well up with humble tears ,giving his Saviour all the glory , to hear a powerful version like this sung by Wintley Phipps .
My special memory of this song goes back to my Mom. When I first started learning guitar, my Mom who could play , help me learn the basics of this song .More or less it was G,C,D and that was it. There we were 2 non believers singing one of most loved Christian hymns of all time. Who knows what seeds have been planted with this song. When I hear it , it sends right back to a kid with my Mom.
Now when I hear it I also praise God for that amazing grace , that saved a wretch like me and my Mom who went to be with the Lord 19 years ago. God is great indeed.
Verse Of The Day : The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
(2 Corinthians 13:14 ESV)
Monday, February 7, 2011
The Only Security
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered.
(Matthew 10:29-30 ESV)
In a world that at times seems to be coming apart , knowing God is absolutely sovereign over all is a place of hope. Even as believers we are not immune from the affects of still living in the tension of the here and not yet.We will have endure things that will not make sense.
Is it not an amazing thing to comprehend that a sparrow will not fall to the ground apart from God's decree or the fact God knows the number of hairs on your head. Knowing this, we can take comfort that God is not some distant deity who plays foot loose and fancy free . No He is intimate with us , knowing us and loving us .Then think of the Son , coming to die for His sheep . A shepherd would know his sheep . He could tell them apart . Jesus as our great shepherd loves us and knows what is best for us .
So no matter what one is going through , to understand that there are no random events , no fluke happenings in God's dealing with us ,Should humble and comfort us. From our sins and failures to our victories, God works all our circumstances for His glory and our ultimate good.
We cannot see past the horizon , and as it has been said before God sees all. What we cannot understand in the moment , when seen through the lens of eternity will make sense.
May our trust in God grow and may it lead to a greater love for the one who holds us in His arms.
Verse Of The Day : He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
(Colossians 1:13-14 ESV)
(Matthew 10:29-30 ESV)
In a world that at times seems to be coming apart , knowing God is absolutely sovereign over all is a place of hope. Even as believers we are not immune from the affects of still living in the tension of the here and not yet.We will have endure things that will not make sense.
Is it not an amazing thing to comprehend that a sparrow will not fall to the ground apart from God's decree or the fact God knows the number of hairs on your head. Knowing this, we can take comfort that God is not some distant deity who plays foot loose and fancy free . No He is intimate with us , knowing us and loving us .Then think of the Son , coming to die for His sheep . A shepherd would know his sheep . He could tell them apart . Jesus as our great shepherd loves us and knows what is best for us .
So no matter what one is going through , to understand that there are no random events , no fluke happenings in God's dealing with us ,Should humble and comfort us. From our sins and failures to our victories, God works all our circumstances for His glory and our ultimate good.
We cannot see past the horizon , and as it has been said before God sees all. What we cannot understand in the moment , when seen through the lens of eternity will make sense.
May our trust in God grow and may it lead to a greater love for the one who holds us in His arms.
Verse Of The Day : He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
(Colossians 1:13-14 ESV)
Sunday, February 6, 2011
A Great Song
Verse Of The Day : ... and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.
(Romans 3:24-25 ESV)
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Church For The Blues
Sunday morning Christians will gather and for many in the "new" hip and cool approach to worship , the worship leader will stand and greet the Church in a casual way . Then if the response given is not warm enough,happy enough or joyful enough he will act as a cheerleader to get the congregation to pump up the response. Then they will launch into a usually upbeat worship song . Happy , joy , joy and don't forget to clap.
But what if the person standing right next to you has had a horrible week. Perhaps they have lost their job and are facing economic disaster. Perhaps sickness or disease has invaded their lives be it themselves or someone they love. Perhaps another has struggled with sin , they are broken. They may smile , they may muster up all they can to be shiny happy people on the outside , because are we more than conquers in the Lord and doesn't our lives have a purpose driven agenda.
Shouldn't coming to worship be a place that is real and true. We may be in Christ but at the same time we live in a fallen world that results in pain,sorrow,doubt,struggle,fear and loss. To come and gather together we need to hear the good news of the gospel. We need to hear that Christ knew pain,grief,sorrow,abandonment. He knew what it meant to be an outcast . He was tempted but did not sin.But all these things makes Him our great High Priest. We can run to , trust in and cry out to in our afflictions and blues. We can weep in the arms of Jesus.
When Jesus said that all who are weary and burdened , come and they will have rest that is a promise we need to hear more often on Sunday. It is in resting in Christ we can come honestly and truthfully . When we allow ourselves to be real before our Lord and ask Him to search our hearts , then healing can come. Not only healing but restoring hope .Preachers and worship leaders need to lift our hearts and eyes to the hope of the cross. To let people know that Christ has come to call the sick , the sinner to come home and in His love and care , He will be their joy ,peace and hope.
All one has to do is read the Psalms to realize that lament and the blues are not a unknown in the lives of those who call on the Lord. But our trust or confidence comes from not our flesh or circumstances , but in the one who is our redeemer and rock. So if you are feeling like a lament or feeling blue , be real this Sunday and cry out to God with an honest heart and don't buy what so much contemporary worship is selling.
Verse Of The Day : Give ear to my words, O LORD;
consider my groaning.
Give attention to the sound of my cry,
my King and my God,
for to you do I pray.
(Psalm 5:1-2 ESV)
But what if the person standing right next to you has had a horrible week. Perhaps they have lost their job and are facing economic disaster. Perhaps sickness or disease has invaded their lives be it themselves or someone they love. Perhaps another has struggled with sin , they are broken. They may smile , they may muster up all they can to be shiny happy people on the outside , because are we more than conquers in the Lord and doesn't our lives have a purpose driven agenda.
Shouldn't coming to worship be a place that is real and true. We may be in Christ but at the same time we live in a fallen world that results in pain,sorrow,doubt,struggle,fear and loss. To come and gather together we need to hear the good news of the gospel. We need to hear that Christ knew pain,grief,sorrow,abandonment. He knew what it meant to be an outcast . He was tempted but did not sin.But all these things makes Him our great High Priest. We can run to , trust in and cry out to in our afflictions and blues. We can weep in the arms of Jesus.
When Jesus said that all who are weary and burdened , come and they will have rest that is a promise we need to hear more often on Sunday. It is in resting in Christ we can come honestly and truthfully . When we allow ourselves to be real before our Lord and ask Him to search our hearts , then healing can come. Not only healing but restoring hope .Preachers and worship leaders need to lift our hearts and eyes to the hope of the cross. To let people know that Christ has come to call the sick , the sinner to come home and in His love and care , He will be their joy ,peace and hope.
All one has to do is read the Psalms to realize that lament and the blues are not a unknown in the lives of those who call on the Lord. But our trust or confidence comes from not our flesh or circumstances , but in the one who is our redeemer and rock. So if you are feeling like a lament or feeling blue , be real this Sunday and cry out to God with an honest heart and don't buy what so much contemporary worship is selling.
Verse Of The Day : Give ear to my words, O LORD;
consider my groaning.
Give attention to the sound of my cry,
my King and my God,
for to you do I pray.
(Psalm 5:1-2 ESV)
Friday, February 4, 2011
Catechism Friday....Excited Yet ,You Should Be
We will cover a few more questions and answers each Friday from the Heidelberg Catechism.Read through with intent and check the scripture proofs. May it bless you with a deeper knowledge of our Lord and His truth.
Heidelberg Catechism (1576 A.D.)
2. Q. What do you need to know in order to live and die in the joy of this comfort?
A. First, how great my sins and misery are;[1] second, how I am delivered from all my sins and misery;[2] third, how I am to be thankful to God for such deliverance.[3]
[1] Rom. 3:9, 10; I John 1:10. [2] John 17:3; Acts 4:12; 10:43. [3] Matt. 5:16; Rom. 6:13; Eph. 5:8-10; I Pet. 2:9,10.
3.Q. From where do you know your sins and misery?
A. From the law of God.[1]
[1] Rom. 3: 20;
4. Q. What does God's law require of us?
A. Christ teaches us this in a summary in Matthew 22: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.[1] This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets.[2]
[1] Deut. 6:5. [2] Lev. 19:18.
5. Q. Can you keep all this perfectly?
A. No,[1] I am inclined by nature to hate God and my neighbour.[2]
[1] Rom. 3:10, 23; I John 1:8, 10. [2] Gen. 6:5; 8:21; Jer. 17:9; Rom. 7:23; 8:7; Eph. 2:3; Tit. 3:3.
6. Q. Did God, then, create man so wicked and perverse?
A. No, on the contrary, God created man good[1] and in His image,[2] that is, in true righteousness and holiness,[3] so that he might rightly know God His Creator,[4] heartily love Him, and live with Him in eternal blessedness to praise and glorify Him.[5]
7. Q. From where, then, did man's depraved nature come?
A. From the fall and disobedience of our first parents, Adam and Eve, in Paradise,[1] for there our nature became so corrupt[2] that we are all conceived and born in sin.[3]
8. Q. But are we so corrupt that we are totally unable to do any good and inclined to all evil?
A. Yes,[1] unless we are regenerated by the Spirit of God.[2]
Verse Of The Day : May his name endure forever,
his fame continue as long as the sun!
May people be blessed in him,
all nations call him blessed!
(Psalm 72:17 ESV)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)