Thursday, December 31, 2009

Time Moves On

"Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath. So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom." Psalm 90:11-12

We are about to end another year and start another. As I look back at this year I can only sum it up like this, that things are fast approaching for the rise of the anti-Christ and world government. We see the U. S. economy continuing to slip and our morals erode, not only outside the church but also inside. The spiritual temperature in the church is sick and feverish, as a friend of mine recently described it America, as a nation will soon fall as a world power with the help of our leaders but also because of the prophetic times we are now in. I don't say not to pray for our beloved country because that would be contrary to scripture found in 1Timothy 2:1-3 which sways, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." 2Timothy 2:1-4 There is nothing wrong for praying for p eace and even a bit of prosperity but that is not the end, salvation and work for Christ is the end as mentioned in verse 4 that says, " Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." The salvation of souls and their continual growth in Christ is our number one business as well as keeping the saints walking in the light of his Word.


 


 

The Bible is the only real book that will save America, if there is still time for it to be saved. The unadulterated word with the correct and upright translation (KJV) is imperative for our use. I do not want to go into a long detailed exposé' on why I believe this is true as I always try to keep these short only that I can tell you that basically, this English version was in general usage of the church until recent years when suddenly we felt we needed to upgrade the common version that has been used to spawn revivals and build the greatest country on earth.

No one really knows what next year will bring. I talked with an evangelist a day ago who does street preaching and was on his way to preach in Las Vegas then the Rose parade and Rose Bowl. As we discussed the possible future, one scripture kept coming to me that has always been brought to my heart each time I think of the uncertain future of this country. I challenge you to read and meditate on Psalm 91, especially the first few verses. I will print it below but as you read, keep in mind that every promise has a condition. Look closely at the conditions for fulfillment of promises in this Psalm. May God keep you and help you grow in Him this next year. (Underlines and notes, mine).

1 ¶ He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (We must live in him. See John 15:1-7J)

2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. (He can keep you from being led astray and misled by the word's system).

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. (Knowing and trusting in God's Word requires diligent reading of it and study. Instead of listening to the same commercials and news items over and over, read and listen to His Word over and over so you can have faith. "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Romans 10:17)

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. (This covers about any kind of disaster, even those that occur that you have no control over. God can give wisdom and help to avoid or ride through these without harm IF you continually abide in him.)

9 ¶ Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; (A habitation is a dwelling place, or a place to live. Does Christ live in our heart? Read what he told his disciples the night before he went to the cross. "
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him." You cannot abide in him or have him for a habitation until he abides and dwells in you. Does if live in you?

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

The last few verses are prophetic for Christ but in a sense can still be applied as he can keep us in "all thy ways" or the ways of Christ. He will answer our prayers.

Again, may you have a wonderful new year in Jesus Christ, our Lord!

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Forgetting God

"They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel:" Psalms 106:13

No group had seen the works of God like the children of Israel. They saw the plagues in Egypt and how, after the first couple, were severed from the rest. They saw the Red Sea part which allowed to cross on dry land while it covered their enemies. They saw the cloudy pillar by day and the fire by night to guide them. They even saw the tremendous magnitude of God's power and presence on Mt. Sinai – so much so that they plead for Moses to talk with God and relay to them what he wanted them to know. Yet, they soon forgot his works. It didn't take long, only a a few months. When they became hungry, they didn't call on God but instead looked to Moses and began to complain. Forgetting what God has done in our lives is a sure sign of backsliding. We must remember the things that he has done for us so we may be encouraged.

Such is America. She has been given more light than any nation on earth in these last several hundred years. Even today, Bibles are easily accessed. Gospel preaching is still on TV (so I'm told) and on the radio. There are countless books written about the Bible and commentaries are numerous, old and new. America has seen how God brought us through World War I and II and prosper in the 50's. While other nations were subjected to tyranny, we were free and prosperous. Many know what it's like to have the Holy Ghost move on them and be filled and healed. Yet, America, and the church, are forgetting what God has done for us. She's trading the sanctity of prayer and study of the Word of God for social works and many are now down right embracing socialism with a Godly twist.

The people of Israel did not wait for the counsel of God but lusted in the wilderness. God gave them their request but "sent leanness into their souls." Psalm 106:15 God gave them what they wanted but there was a price, lack of faith and lack of power. They wondered in the wilderness for forty years due to the leanness and are still a nation that does not embrace Christ. Yet, America is doing the same thing. God prospered the church and answered prayers for prosperity and wealth but sent leanness unto our souls. You want a socialist gospel, God will give it to you but will send leanness unto your soul which will eventually cause judgment. The church in general has become lean in soul and we are paying a price in our nation right now and will continue to pay a price. I'm afraid judgment for America is at the door unless we get serious before God. Christ is our only help for our nation and the church and if we reject him, where can we go? Remember what Jesus said, "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more." Luke 12:48

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Our weekly podcasts are at Pentecostal Voice of Truth at 5:00 PM on Saturdays or 3:00 PM on Sundays, CDT. This week - John on Patmos and the Seven Churches.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Muzzling Our Speech

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;" (1 Timothy 2:1-3)

If there has ever been a time that we need to pray for our rulers, it is now. The reason is simple, "that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." That means that we can maintain our freedom of speech and expression so long as it doesn't hamper other people's freedom and is not offensive. While we must be sensitive to other people's feelings to a degree, how far do we go with the "offensive?" In this day of political correctness which is designed to keep all from being offended, it seems to only achieves one thing, providing the rights of the liberal and unbelieving the license to say what they will at almost any time but shut the rest of us up. Here is a frightening example that hit home recently in the work place. We all received an email from a second level supervisor since our immediate supervisor was out on extended sick leave. It basically said that open conversations in the office criticizing President Obama were found offensive by some coworkers. It continued by saying that if anyone wanted to discuss politics, religion or any sensitive subject, that it should be done in a private area.

Someone was offended when they heard several of us express our misgivings regarding the president's recent win of the Nobel peace prize. This person or persons were appearently offended and called the concerned party (whoever it was). Now we have sexual harassment laws that protect ladies from harassment. That's good. But like the political correctness that has plagued us since the Clinton years, they extend far beyond that so that when you receive the training on this you get the idea that just about anything is protected except good, descent, Biblical, Christian living.

When some of our staff talked against George Bush, or other conservative figures, no one complained or called anyone. I, along with others, debated staff members several times regarding these things but we always came away friends and could talk of other professional matters five minutes later without any problem. What is really disturbing about this is that this is not just an isolated problem but is the trend and spirit that is pressing throughout the whole nation. So why are the ones "offended" always the ones on the left and the Obamaites? After experiencing reading the above email, I know for sure why, even though I suspected the answer.

When I read the above email, I felt an attach of Satan that I hadn't felt for a long time although the person who wrote it probably felt they were doing their job and duty. I felt as someone had just kicked me in the stomache and was actually pushing down on my whole body. I knew it was demonic so while I wasn't frightened, it showed me that this was much deeper than just someone getting their feelings a little ruffled because we were criticizing their man. It wasn't that someone just disagreed on politics or even religion, it was an attack of Satan to frighten and silence all voices of opposition to not only Obama, but anything that would stand for Christianity and holiness. Yes, it did say "religion," but I know how that is played out as well. A religion is no problem in most places as long is Jesus isn't involved. I don't think I would have felt so concerned if the word "religion" weren't also there, as is not enough to muzzle the mouth of those why may dare criticize this president. God forbid! So, Satan uses these tactics to not only allow dictators to take control, but also stop all talk of the things of God. This is why we must pray even harder that we ever have for our country. Our freedoms are being shut down not inch by inch, but mile by mile and if we expect to have anything left for our children or even a chance to work for Christ much longer should He terry, we need to pray. Remember the scripture in Ephesians 6:: 12 "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." We are fighting the forces of this world. We must learn to pray in the spirit, speak and pray in other tongues as the spirit gives us utterance, and be able to groan in the spirit to break down strongholds of the devil. This is our only hope! It's what will help us love our enemies and win the battle. It's now or never!!!

In closing, I'm reminded of the statement of English martyr Hugh Latimer who said, "Whenever you see persecution, there is more than a probability that truth is on the persecuted side." We must walk in Truth and love and we can only do that with God's grace and help. May Christ help those who need their hearts truly cleansed by his blood.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

The Family Institution

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)" Ephesians 6:1-2

The other day I heard a commercial that was very disturbing. It wasn't the message that it was bringing for the actual message was a very good one. It was one that we have all heard many, many times regarding putting out our fires when we're finished with them when out in the woods. We all remember Smokey the Bear saying, "Only YOU can prevent forest fires!" Yes, that's a good thing and a very good message, so that wasn't the problem. The problem was who was playing what part. To sum it up, the father and son were leaving a site where they had a camp fire and the father was the one that was playing the role of the careless one, while the son was the one with the wits and the common sense, giving instruction to the dad. This leaves a subliminal message that I believe is no accident. I have heard other commercials like this where the mother is played as the consoling one, the child is the one with the answers, and the father is the stumblebum who just doesn't get it right and needs the child to help him. Not saying that everyone that writes commercials like this has some conspiracy in mind as many are probably just following a trend. I challenge you, listen for this pattern as you'll surely hear it.

The above pattern, where the dad is the goof ball, the mon is the calm collected one, and the child is the wiz kid destroys the family institution in which God has ordained. While men do not always make the right decisions, they should still have the final authority in the home. While the wife does not always see things right, she is the keeper of the home, and the children are to obey the parents as mentioned above. When Benjamin Spock was asked by my college Humanities teacher in 1970 where he got all of his information, he replied that he learned from the children. What an answer from a man who was supposed to be able to tell people how to raise kids!

It is apparent that when the family system breaks down in a society, the society soon falls. This is what Satan is wanting to see done and is doing everything he can to achieve it. He will use every means possible to accomplish his goal. Don't get caught in the trap.

Monday, September 07, 2009

Does The Bible Teach Socialism?

And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common" Acts 4:32

I was listening to a radio program this morning, enjoying the holiday when I heard a conversation between the announcer and a young man. The discussion was regarding the resignation of Van Jones, the environmental czar. After some dialog, the announcer finally asked the young man if he minded that Mr. Jones was a communist? He said he didn't. But then came the shocker. The announcer then asked if he would vote for him as present. He said he would. When asked if he know that communism meant that all land belonged to the government, he remarked that he understood that. I was shocked but yet, maybe I shouldn't have been.

I recall an experience I had when I was in Haiti a little over twenty years ago. We were riding with a young man from that country and he proudly proclaimed that he was a Christian Communist. I'd never heard of such of a thing. He claimed that, while he was a Christian, he also was a communist because the government would provide milk for his baby and food for his family.

From the above scripture, many conjure that the Bible teaches socialism and communism. It even goes on further and relates more in Acts 4:34-37.

"Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet."

Here we have further cause for their belief where there is the account of Barnabas selling land and laying the money at the apostles' feet. Sounds like communism and/or socialism? Well let's see. First, let's define socialism. It is basically defined as, "a political theory advocating state ownership of industry, An economic system based on state ownership of capital." Communism is defined as, "a form of socialism that abolishes private ownership, A political theory favoring collectivism in a classless society." So, does the Bible teach socialism or communism? No! Here are some reasons why.

  1. There were of one heart and soul: They were in a state of the most perfect friendship and affection. In all the 5000 there appeared to be but one heart and one soul; so perfectly did they agree in all their views, religious opinions, and holy affections.' Adam Clark This is unachievable in a communist state as man all have their own opinions. It will never be achieved until Jesus comes back to rule.
  2. God is the provider: In Exodus 16:18 we read, "And when they did mete it with an omer, he that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating." One may say that God was the perfect example. It's true that everyone had the same amount of manna however he didn't take it from one person to give it to another but God was the giver, not the state.
  3. This was not continued: Paul brought alms to Jerusalem several years later.
    1 Corinthians 16:1 says the following: "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye." Also read Acts 24:17. "Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings." Again in Romans 15: 25-26 we read this. "But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints. For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem."
  4. It was all voluntary: When a nation is under a socialist or communism government, there is no choice as to what one gives, but in this case, there was. We see that in Acts 5:4. "Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God." Here Peter was talking to Ananias who lied about the price he received from selling a piece of land under the guise of giving it all. Peter tells him that the money was his to do as he pleased so why put on the show and lie to the Holy Ghost and the people. Paul further points this out regarding giving in 2 Corinthians 9:7. "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." Underscore – mine)
  5. This practice was never later commended or spoken against in scripture.
  6. Churches shared with each other later and helped each other but still with a willing mind. Read 2 Corinthians 8:10-15.
  7. While this seemed to be the practice among the disciples and our Lord, it appears that some property was still retained. The apostle John seemed to have a home as we read in John 19:27. "Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home." (underline mine)
  8. This practice was not unusual for the Jews to do in times of the feasts. It was like a big camp meeting. Many Jews came from around the area to celebrate the feasts, three within a fifty day period therefore the Jews in Jerusalem were accustomed to provide for them. Remember, there were few inns and not enough to accommodate such a crowd.
  9. This was also vital in that, due to the revival, many stayed longer. God needed time to get his church started so this was the technique used to provide for the masses during this time.
  10. Even though the Jews provided for the people coming to the feasts, the new Christians may not get the same treatment by embracing Christ therefore it was more vital. It was customary for the Jews to give some of their sacrifices to the poor however this favor may not have been shown to new Christians embracing a Christ that the jewis nation as a whole did not accept.
  11. It was the cause of the first source of murmuring: Acts 6:1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
  12. Eventually corruption begins to loom when goods are centralized and under control of one or a few due to the lust for money and power.


 

This could go on further but we can conclude the following:

  1. It has been the duty of the church to help their poor and even the poor in general. Gal 2:10 Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.
  2. The love of money and possessions is addressed by giving. 1Ti 6: 17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
  3. The end of all things is Christ, and he must be the cornerstone in the church. Bringing one to Him is the most important.

The Bible does NOT teach socialism nor communism and there is no such thing as a Christian Communist. We act in love and our giving and receiving is done in thankfulness, not from entitlement. May God help America and send revival!!


 


 


 


 


 

Tuesday, July 07, 2009

The Peace of God

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7

Today the world mourned the death of a man they called "The King of Pop." I'm not a Michael Jackson fan and since I was saved at the age of 24 never listened to his music so I couldn't give you a name of one song of his since that time. However, I couldn't help but feel a little sad this morning when I read the headline on the Drudgereport that said, "Never Can Say Goodbye." I couldn't help hearing that small voice singing that song when I was a teenager. Surprising enough, I could still remember the whole tune. But what a tragic end! I don't have enough information to say that he didn't make it to heaven but the chances are pretty good that he didn't. Here was someone who in all appearance had everything but could not find the one thing he really longed for, peace.

God's peace passes all understanding and it should be our number one objective as Christians to have peace with God and our fellow man. To be at peace with Him is worth more than all the riches in the world. "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Matthew 16:26 The lesson that the world should learn from this is that riches and fame do not make happiness or peace, but they won't. Will we learn as a church? We constantly seem to want more and more only for it to add more and more pain and heartache. "When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes?" Ecclesiastics 5:11

To have peace with God and be right with him is more important and more fulfilling than any other thing in life because when you have peace with Him, everything else works out well. Even in the valleys, God can guide you through. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." Psalm 23:4 There can be peace in the home, at the workplace, when in the car, and there could be peace in our nation if the church would grab a hold of this truth. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:" Isaiah 26:3-4

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Monday, June 08, 2009

Begin At My Sanctuary

"For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?" 1 Peter 4:17

When God showed Ezekiel how he was going to bring judgment on the children of Israel, particularly Judah and Jerusalem since the ten northern tribes were already in captivity, he gave him a chilling vision. The best way to relate it is to let you read it yourself from Ezekiel 9:1-6. Here it is.

He cried also in mine ears with a loud voice, saying, Cause them that have charge over the city to draw near, even every man with his destroying weapon in his hand. And, behold, six men came from the way of the higher gate, which lieth toward the north, and every man a slaughter weapon in his hand; and one man among them was clothed with linen, with a writer's inkhorn by his side: and they went in, and stood beside the brasen altar. And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer's inkhorn by his side; And the LORD said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof. And to the others he said in mine hearing, Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at my sanctuary. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.

As you just read, God first marked those in the city who sighed and cried for all the abominations that were in the city. He knew whose hearts were tender toward him and who was not hardened in sin. God knows our works as he states many times in Revelations. He knows our motives. Are we burdened for the sins of our nation and the millions who are heading head-long into a devil's hell? Are we saddened when we see sin running unchecked in our institutions and our streets as well as over the air waves? Are we sickened to see the sin that is so rampant in the church without even a small admonition for restraint? Remember what Romans 1:32 says, "Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them." It's not just those who commit the sin that are punished, but those who give it a green light even though they wouldn't think of doing it themselves.

Oh how we must learn to feel God's presence! How we must learn to dwell in the Spirit of God! How we need the heart of God within us then we will weep when we think of the sinful path our nation and the world is on which will only lead to judgment and destruction.

But the chilling thing about the vision in Ezekiel quoted above is that, when God told the others to smite those who didn't have the mark given to them by the six angels. That is chilling enough but perhaps expected. However, the most chilling is that he told them to "begin at my sanctuary." God will begin his judgment in the church. Those who are lukewarm will suffer the most. This will be the vomiting out that Jesus is talking about. Many will be tried and many will be found to embrace the Gospel. Now is the time to take spiritual inventory. Ask these questions that are vital!

  1. Am I REALLY saved? Many think they're saved and yet are far from God. There must be a spiritual change inside as well as a confession outside and only the spirit of God can do that. That's why Romans 10:9-10 says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." There is a confession and then the belief in the heart and that union must be with God. If you were saved, you will remember the experience and joy, but if it was only for a fleeing minute, then friend, you better consider.
  2. If you really think you're saved, then are you striving to be a vessel for his use and are you zealous for an experience with Him? If not, then you need to re-kindle the fire on the alter. Leviticus 6:13 says, "The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out." If God meant that for offering sacrifices that could only look toward the cross, how much more after the cross!
  3. Are you filled with the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking with other tongues? That is the Biblical evidence of being filled with the Holy Ghost! If you have never spoken in tongues and are going around saying that you are filled with the Holy Ghost yet there is no manifestation, then you are not filled, my friend. In most all the cases in Acts, the evidence was that they spoke in tongues when filled.

In the interest of keeping these fairly short, I didn't take the time to go into the scriptural references and the depth that each of the above deserves. But I do hope that you will take inventory of your spiritual attributes which are the most important because you want to be prepared when God brings judgment to the "house of God," and you'll not be found wanting. Remember, we must admonish each other daily while it is called today lest we be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Hebrews 3:13

Saturday, April 25, 2009

The Gospel In Our Time

We are excited to write that we are now on Internet radio. The station is the Pentecostal Voice of Truth. We air at 6:00 EDT on Saturdays, and the same program airs at 4:00 PM EDT on Sundays. You can also get our podcasts of the program which we call The Gospel In Our Time from the podcast page.

Incline My Heart

"Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness." Psalm 119:36

The word "incline" here has a meaning of "to bend," or "to extend." One version says, "Let my heart be turned to your unchanging word, and not to evil desire." Here, it seems the Psalmist is asking God to bend or turn his heart toward the His Word and not unto the covetous practices of the world. What a prayer and what a response God will give if we really mean it. We must stay in His Word in order to keep from the covetous practices and philosophies of the world otherwise our faith will falter and become as the man whose heart becomes withered as said in Psalm 14:1, "The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good." Here, this "fool" has come to the place that he he become so discouraged by the triumphing of the wicked and covetous that he finally throws up his hands and says,, "There is no use."

When we look at the condition of the world itself, there is plenty to be discouraged about. Just watching the headlines each day and the direction our country is heading will give any God fearing person cause to be discouraged. The world is heading for the final judgment and is moving faster and faster each day. As our nation seems to continue to go farther and farther into the depths of sin and rebellion at an alarming rate, anyone that knows the scriptures and is faithful to the God of heaven and his Son can see that judgment is coming. However, this is not the time to back off on God and say there is no use. We are in times that men have prophesied about thousands of years before and if we trust in the living God and keep his Word, he can incline our hearts in the right direction. We sing, "This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." Ps 118:24 That is because God has placed you and I in this time for a reason. Even though you and I may not fully understand, he has put you in this time of history for his purpose. Sometimes we get discouraged because we see some making great strides in the things of God as it seems, or in other areas that we are working in but understand this, we don't know everything that is happening. For God knows the secret things: "He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him." Daniel 2:22 Also,," for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7b Another words, God sees your labor of love and if you are doing it with the love of God and man in our heart, you will be rewarded.

Look further and see how God even sees when we talk about Him in truth. "Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him." Malachi 3:16-17 You may not fully understand why you are going through what you're going through, but God knows. Keep your faith in Him and let him incline your heart unto his Word for obedience, trust, and faith.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

The Reproach of Sin

"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." Proverbs 14:34


 

As a country, we are falling, or have fallen already. We have been judged by the Almighty God in heaven who is the supreme judge and have been found guilty. We tried to make our defense but to no avail. We told Him we wanted to make life better for everyone but that didn't work. We said that we would try to make everyone happy on this earth but he didn't listen. We, as a nation and church within the nation, said we'd even help the poor and try to make things better for them. It didn't work. Instead, we were slapped in the face with the very words, "Depart from me, I never knew you." Matt. 7:23b


 

We again tried to make our defense. "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? Matt. 7:22 But this was only met by the statement, "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matt. 7:23 Then he made this shattering statement. "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." Matt. 7:21


 

We asked, "what is the will of the Father?" The answer is to love his Son, Jesus Christ and serve him in sincerity. "That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;" Philippians 1:10 His will is that we are one with him, having him fully in our heart and that we walk in the light of his Word and walk in his Spirit which enables us to love others as ourselves, something that we cannot do in the flesh.


 

But as a church and nation, we have not. The trial continues: Our Lord begins to tell us our crimes. We have been blessed and have not only received the material blessings but a heritage that is unlike any other nation. We rode on the high places of the earth and were placed as the envy of the world, like a shining city on a hill. But now, that shining city has gone dim and is fast going out. We have sold out to humanism that champions only the temporary happiness and leaves out Christ. We have allowed this to infiltrate our body so much that we are more concerned with being like the world than Christ. The ball games have become our god as well as the movies from Hollywood. We have no time for his Word and if we take the time, it is for only a short while. God is no longer the end but the means to happiness. Now, we have been given what we want as a nation, a false god. We stand guilty as a nation before Him and we have no more defense. I can list the sins but you know them already. Darkness will continue to fall on this nation and only those who walk in the light of his word will survive the thrashing that will come upon the church.


 

God will keep his people. "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1 What a promise! But there is a condition, and that is to dwell in the secret place of the most High God and his Son, Jesus Christ. To "dwell" means to stay there. You're not a Christian one day than maybe not so the next, but every day, 24/7. While we do our work, we are Christians ready to serve Him. We care more about time spent with Him than even our recreation. To the true believer, Christ is the end, not the means to an end. Dark times are coming to America, but God will keep you if you want to be kept in Him. "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:" John 10:27 If you are truly one of His, you will hear his voice, which is primarily that of his Word, the Bible. "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." John 10:28 You will not perish or be lost but only IF you follow the conditions set out in verse 27 which is to hear his voice and follow him. Will you follow Him and hear the voice of his Word?

Sunday, February 08, 2009

A Golden Perachute

Woe to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house, that he may set his nest on high, that he may be delivered from the power of evil!" Habakkuk 2:9

We constantly hear commercials advertising gold for sale. They say it is the best security against the future for if the dollar goes, (and I believe it probably will),gold will survive. Christian leaders and financers are constantly telling us to buy gold against the future. You have probably heard the statement, "Have a golden parachute." But what does God say about this.

First, it is certain that we must use wisdom, that's for certain. In Proverbs alone, there are many proverbs that talk of the future. "A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished." Proverbs 22:3 "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest." Proverbs 6:6-9 There are other verses regarding looking at the future and storing goods as God directs, so that is not a bad thing, but wise. However, for one to put his trust in gold does not seem to be what Christ had in mind when he said in Matthew 6:19-21, "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." First, that gold and silver can be stolen, lost, and even lose value regardless as to what they say. What good is it when you pay a thousand dollars for an ounce of gold but can't find anywhere to sell it? Plus, it becomes a trusting place when Christ is our trusting place and provider.

While it is necessary to have money in this world, we can't love it. Paul wrote this to Timothy in I Timothy 6:10: "For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." So what should we do if we have resources? The answer is in verses 17-19 of the same chapter. "Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

The church is in the shape it is in today due to the love of money. "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:" Revelation 3:17

God has been go to America! We have prospered much as a nation due to God's blessing but now I fear this blessing is coming to an end. It is now time for us to not trust in a "golden parachute" but to trust Christ and his Word and get a firm foundation of faith. Take the suggestion that Jesus gave to the church of Laodicea: "I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see." Revelation 3:18

Make faith in Christ and his Word your golden parachute! He will not fail!

Tuesday, February 03, 2009

Response Regarding “Sipping Christians”

I want to respond to a comment made regarding the recent post, Sipping Christians. The best way is to insert comments so I will. I appreciate your response but I feel this deserves a public response. The responder's comments are in quotes.

"I want to respond to this blog post not because I necessarily want to change your mind (though I'd be glad if you did) but because I would like to convince you that there are Bible-believing, Jesus-loving, true-blue Christians who believe that God has not forbidden moderate consumption of alcohol."

First, there is no convincing me of this so forget that. I have been saved for almost thirty-three years now and I plan to stay on the same road I've been on. I've lived in victory in Jesus for the past thirty-three years and plan to continue with God's help. I've had the same wife for thirty-two (and the only one) and four grown children who attend church regularly. I will tell you that some of them are not living like they should but they have not rejected God or his word. Some just don't live all of it. I used to drink and play in the nightclubs in college and after that but when I got saved, the alcohol went. Why would I want to partake in something that even many sinners will not partake in and many others have been delivered of?

"The Bible clearly prohibits getting drunk; I'm not aware of any Christians who disagree with that statement. As for the verses you quoted I believe they are all concerned with the abuse of alcohol, not its moderate use. The statement "wine is a mocker" is the same sort of statement as "knowledge puffs up" in the New Testament. Of course we don't believe everyone with knowledge is arrogant. The verse is saying that knowledge has the potential to make someone arrogant. The same goes for wine. It will mock the one who is deceived by it. And note the language: "mocker" and "raging." Both sound like words used to describe someone who is drunk. Being "deceived" by wine and strong drink sounds like a euphemism for being drunk."

I don't think you can take the scripture regarding "knowledge puffs up" in the same context as "wine is a mocker." Here is the scripture: "Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth." 1 Corinthians 8:1 The last part of the verse sheds more light as to why we should not partake of beer, wine, etc. Paul was talking about eating things sacrificed to idols and his main point was that, the idol is nothing to the believer however to the idol worshipper it was like a deity, therefore the believer's eating things sacrificed to idols would definitely be a bad witness. The same goes for alcohol.

"There are, in fact, positive references to alcohol in the Bible. God has given wine to make men's hearts glad (Psalm 104:14-15). Melchizedek gives wine to Abraham. Wine is a part of various OT sacrifices. We should drink wine with a merry heart (Eccl. 9:7). There are others: Is. 55:1, Amos 9:13-15, Is. 25:6-9."

Note that none of these are in the New Testament and you may also want to consider the incident of Noah and Canaan when Noah became drunk and what happened. Please read Genesis 9:20-29. Also, the incident of Lot and his two daughters where wine was used to cause their father to commit insect. Please read Genesis 19:30-38. The positive references are made in that the wine was not fermented as is today.

"It is furthermore pretty clear that Jesus himself drank wine. In Luke 7:33-35 Jesus contrasts himself with John the Baptist, who ate no bread and drank no wine. In Luke 1:15 John is prohibited from drinking wine and strong drink. (Even if you want to argue that wine is not alcoholic I'd say it's pretty clear that "strong drink" is alcoholic. And if God's people were not permitted to drink alcohol then why would there need to be a special prohibition made for John?) Jesus contrasts himself with John by saying that his enemies call him a drunkard. There's a clear parallelism here. John did not drink alcohol but Jesus did. Besides, how could Jesus' enemies call him a drunkard if he never drank alcohol?"

Yes, Nazarites, which is what John the Baptist was, were prohibited from drinking anything regarding wine, even the cernal, that's true. However, once again, wine was a staple that was common among the Jews but the fermentation was not like today.

"I think your concern about alcohol being the appearance of evil is misguided. The only people who think moderate consumption of alcohol is a morally questionable practice are those who have been taught that it is. Here's the kicker: consumption of alcohol has only been an issue among Christians in the past couple of centuries, particularly here in America, because of the prohibitionist movement. Talk to a Christian in the ancient or medieval world and they wouldn't understand your concerns. Your argument about alcohol being the appearance of evil only makes sense to you because we are in a culture that has a history of being uncomfortable with alcohol. If you were born in Ireland or Italy or France you wouldn't be asking these questions. And we are not permitted to bind the consciences of God's people just because we are the descendents of sincere, well-meaning, but misguided prohibitionists."

There is no "kicker." You are correct in that through the centuries many in the church drank wine and such however you are not aware of the progress of the church age given in Revelation 2:3 as in the letters to the churches. The sixth church, which was the previous age, was when much of the missionary work was done and ushered in the revivals of the 1900's.

7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;

8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.

10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.

12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. Revelation 3:7-13 This describes the church up to the recent times.


"Alcoholic wine has always been used in the Lord's Supper throughout church history. Martin Luther, who rediscovered the doctrine of justification by faith alone, was a lover of beer. John Wesley, to whom your own tradition owes so much, is known to have drank wine and beer. (Later Methodists repudiated his example and became prohibitionists.) With all due respect, you're quite wrong that the traditional, Bible-believing church has rejected alcohol. It's quite the opposite.

As I said, I'm not trying to turn you into a drinker. I am troubled, however, by your condemnation of Christians who disagree with you on this issue. Believe me, I know many devout Christians who love Jesus every bit as much as you do, who pray, go to church, read and believe the Bible, and still do not believe there is any sin is drinking a beer or having a glass of wine. But we don't even have to get into that kind of argument. I think the Biblical argument is strongly on my side. At the least I'd for you to acknowledge that there is a possibility that fellow Christians can disagree about this and not condemn each other as false Christians. "

You are right though, about today. Many do believe they can "sip" and still be right with God. That's because we are now in a different age. See below.

But, you may have a point, because now we are living in the Laodicean age where Jesus says, "15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:

18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

Could it be that we're too busy trying to justify our sins and actions to get that faith needed to make it through? That glass of wine isn't going to help you pray through to salvation and the Holy Ghost! May the Lord Help you as you seek after him in the Spirit of Truth.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

Sipping “Christians”

"Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." Proverbs 20:1

Lately, I have been hearing more and more about "Christians" partaking in "adult beverages" as they have been referred to lately. Not every one who names the name of Christ is one of his, that's for certain but for a Christian to be partaking of wine and other strong drinks is wrong and I truly question their relationship with Christ. I know, there is that old argument that Jesus and his disciples drank wine and that he even made water into wine which was his first miracle but it was also commented by the governor of the feast, "And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now." John 2:10 That's because it was the new wine which was hardly fermented. Paul said the following in Ephesians 5:18, "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit". Wine was the principle beverage then and even children drank it but that was because it was not as potent as now. But, I'm not an expert on that so I suppose one could argue on the technical aspects of wine.

There is also another problem with wine, whiskey, and other strong beverages" they are the appearance of evil. While the church seems to be slipping ever so much more into decay, the average sinner on the street will still tell you that it is really wrong to partake of a beverage of this type. While they still do it, they know it is really not pleasing to God. They look to the church as a light but, once again, the light in general is getting dimmer. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 says, "Abstain from all appearance of evil." Only a backslidden or carnal Christian by name only will really defend this.

It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more. Proverbs 31:4-7

It was advised for kings not to drink strong drink, so much the more for Christians who are to be filled with the spirit. Another reason is that the traditional church, that is the Bible believing church, has never embraced social drinking until the past few years when Hollywood stars suddenly became Christians and yet never came out of that filth they were in. It's time we get back to the Bible and the things that bring the church forward instead of constantly making excuses for the things we now allow. Christ will not take part with the devil and we can't be part Christ's and part Satan's. "Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit." Matthew 12:33 May we that are truly Christians strive to bring forth good fruits. May the Lord bless you as you follow Him.