tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-197584892024-03-07T17:33:51.255-06:00Condition of the ChurchThis blog contains scripture helps and covers problems in the church of today in the United States and the world. I pray that you will be challanged and strengthened as you read these blogs. Your comments are welcome.Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.comBlogger133125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-1207815182099263892012-11-07T13:11:00.004-06:002012-11-07T13:11:28.977-06:00Reflections at Home At Noon Break<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">America as we know it is finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have turned the corner and are now heading
down a path that we will never recover from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>God has been giving her warning with smaller judgments but I fear they
will now accelerate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a changing
demographic that prefers something for nothing instead of responsibility and
hard work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where did this come
from?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes we have immigrants but that’s only
a small part of the story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It started
perhaps over a hundred years ago when the devil went into the conservative
Bible teaching seminaries and began to dilute and compromise God’s Word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It began to spread and it ate in the church
like a cancer until we are now seeing the full maturing of the fruit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we have perhaps 80% of the population
claiming that they are Christians, we have 40.7% of the babies born in America
to single women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Less than 50% of those
above 21 years of age are married, not counting the second and third marriages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have murdered over 50 million babies and
most of us saw via the Internet or via TV one major political party booing and
shaking their fists at God just three months ago and yet we have condoned that
behavior. We are getting so smart that we have now come out with a “study”
saying that children of lesbians are happier. “Professing themselves to be
wise, they became fools,”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Romans
1:22<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The compromising church with its watered down Bible has
produced a population that cares nothing for morals, dignity, fear of God, or
even love of country, but only with their bellies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God’s judgment is at the door, not just
because of the outcome of this election, but it many things have led up to this
breaking point!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do not look for hope in
politics or government because there is none.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I’ve painted a gloomy picture of things, and it is gloomy
when looking at it from the world’s viewpoint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But when seeing it from God’s Word, it only shows that the rapture is
all the nearer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can we have revival in
America?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, we can and maybe this is
what it will take to get people to pray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe we will really get serious with God as we see our walls come
tumbling down and the enemy coming in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
just hope it’s not too late.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-65508793741257132202012-08-24T07:41:00.001-05:002012-08-24T07:41:29.239-05:00Psalms 119:7<br>I will praise thee with uprightness of heart,<br>when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments.Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-60406567631941138632011-12-25T16:16:00.002-06:002011-12-25T16:16:52.667-06:00For Unto Us A Child Is Born<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6<br />
<br />
Today is Christmas. Even with all the extra fluff and worldly customs we have picked up through the years, it’s good to set aside a day when the world remembers one of the most important, yet hardly recognized events in human history. The fact that God came to earth in the form of a man, the second person of the Trinity, as a babe in a lowly manger, only to be tempted in all points as we are tempted, yet without sin (Heb. 4:15), is remarkable in itself. It is almost certain that he wasn’t born on December 25th due to the fact that shepherds didn’t keep their flocks out during that time of year, nevertheless, that’s the day that we have picked up so we celebrate it then. <br />
<br />
You can see by the above scripture how prophesy works in the Scriptures. By this, how several thousand years can span during one verse. The first part of the verse says this, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:” That has happened already. Yet, there is more to come. If the Christmas story ended in the manger, we would not have cause to rejoice. If it ended on the cross, we still would not have cause to rejoice. If it ended at his resurrection, we may rejoice some but that’s not the end. The fact that we can see the second part of this verse gives us cause to rejoice. It takes us beyond this present world and beyond this dispensation, “and the government shall be upon his shoulder.” This world will not always be like this as one day Christ will rule and reign on the earth. “Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.” Isaiah 24:23 <br />
<br />
One day he is coming back, but this time not as a babe in a lowly manger, but as King and ruler. “And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.” Zech 14:9 So, during this Christmas season, don’t keep looking at that babe in the manger because he’s no longer there. Look for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords to return to earth and rule and reign. Are you ready for his return?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-47619016671596538562011-07-10T15:15:00.002-05:002011-07-10T15:15:24.040-05:00Depending On ChristDepending On Christ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
“And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” Matthew 5:29<br />
<br />
This is a strange verse to start a blog with but I want to bring something out in this verse that is more than just the basic truth. First, the basic truth is that avoiding hell is so important that if a part of one’s body causes them to stumble, they should cut it off. That is very extreme and I am in no wise advocating that you do that but Jesus is trying to express the point that to avoid hell and make heaven is the most important thing we can do, even more important that trying to preserve our flesh. But that’s not all.<br />
<br />
Look who he is talking to. “And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,” His whole discourse begins in the next verse, or verse 3 and continues all the way through until the end of Matthew 7. So, see how he is talking to – his disciples as “his disciples came unto him:” After they came to him, “And he opened his mouth, and taught them…” So, if a soul cannot parish after once being saved, why would he tell his disciples to go to great lengths to avoid Hell. If one can never be lost after being a a disciple or a child of God, there would be no reason for him to say that. <br />
<br />
The truth of the matter that the doctrine of unconditional security has sent more souls to hell then just about any other false doctrine in the church because it teaches that once someone prays, there is no way they can be lost. Their reasoning’s are such as this:<br />
<br />
“Christ is able to keep me.” Yes, he is if we are willing to be kept. <br />
<br />
“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 13 ¶ Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.” James 1: 12 <br />
<br />
“No man can pluck me out of his hand” True, but there is a condition.<br />
<br />
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” John 10:27 (underline mine)<br />
<br />
“Nothing will separate me from the love of God” ….but sin.<br />
<br />
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Rom 8: 35-39<br />
<br />
Finally, “My name is there in God’s book forever.” Take a look at the scripture.<br />
<br />
“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” Revelation 3:5 A name cannot be blotted out unless it was there in the first place. <br />
<br />
Yet, we do have confidence in Christ if we are willing to follow him as he will be our help if we depend upon him for strength and guidance. <br />
<br />
“Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,” Jude 1:24<br />
<br />
The bottom line is that we must depend on him and not just some man’s doctrine of “I hope so” salvation. We can overcome by “the blood of the lamb” and by the word of our testimony. Revelation 12:11Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-58415134376475522732011-07-04T09:34:00.000-05:002011-07-04T09:34:28.101-05:00Our Independence<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">“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.” Ephesians 6:12 <br />
<br />
Today we celebrate our independence from Great Britain for the 235th time. It was a miracle of God that we were able to win against the then world powerhouse of sea and land. One needs only to lightly study the true history of the American Revolution and see that “If it had not been the LORD who was on our side” (Psalms 124:1) we would have never won. It was because of the fear of absolute tyranny that our forefathers rose up and boldly sought for independence. <br />
<br />
May I say that we are in another war for independence, not from just another country, but from those within. This is not a war that can necessarily be won with guns and tanks, but must be won on our knees. While there are no doubt many more, we can focus on three things that are damaging and threatening our freedom to worship God, work as a private citizen, raise our children according to the fear of god, and keep live in a land of peace. The first is the invasion of the Islam religion. This religion has absolutely nothing to do with Christianity except that we should try to win them to Christ, not by compromise or giving them place in our churches, but by preaching to them the anointed Word of God. They are lost sinners caught up in a cult the same as Mormons, Jehovah Witnesses, Buda’s, and any others. We love them but they need to get saved from the religion that only produces hate and malice. <br />
<br />
The second threat is socialism. Christ was not a socialist nor were the apostles. When we read the first few chapters of the book of Acts, we see how the supplies were distributed evenly, however this did not continue. Paul mentioned the same thing later however it was never intended to emerge as a tyrannical government but a way to supply for those in need. “But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:” 2 Corinthians 8:14 This meant that when someone was at need, others would supply, then in turn they would receive help when needed. It was also voluntary as we read in Acts 5:3 “But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 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.” Socials demands that money that someone has earned be taken away from those who work and given to those who chose not to work. It is a system of control, enrolling the masses into government programs so the government can be their god. Millions of Americans have bought into this already.<br />
<br />
The third, and I believe the cause of why we are where we are, is the backslidden church in America. Many fundamental pulpits are filled with those who only lightly preach the Word of God, leaving their people with only a crumb or two so they go through their whole life knowing little or nothing about the Bible, God’s promises, as well as what he expects out of his people. To most, the Bible is some strange book that is only lightly looked at and is way down on their reading list. Most know not how to fervently pray or travail in the spirit. They know little or nothing about fasting and separation but will raise up their own little projects to soothe the conscience. <br />
<br />
We have a heritage based on the scriptures and Christ. Although the authors of our history books have worked overtime to depict it is anything but Christianity, the truth is, America was wrought by God and raised up on high due to God’s blessings. We can say with the Psalmist, “The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.” Psalm 16:5 As we celebrate the 4th, we must be thankful for God’s richest blessings on us but also remember that whom God has raised up, he is also able to put down. As Satan continues to make his advances on our nation, those who know how to pray and touch God need to raise up in this hour and pray for revival as well as repent for the sins of our nation. Celebrate the 4th, we should and we will, but remember our nation and that we must stay on our knees to fight for liberty for the souls of our loved ones, our neighbors, and our country. “As long as the people of the United States are well informed and virtuous, they will be free, and their government uncorrupted. It is in their power to remedy the evils, arising from having wicked and designing men at the head of government—they can lift up and pull down at pleasure.” This was spoken in a sermon by Cypron Strong, July 4th 1799. Ponder that statement when you have a chance. In closing, John Adams said, on July 3, 1776, “The 4th ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward, forevermore." May God help America and may God stir us to seek him for revival in our beloved country!<br />
<br />
</div>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-23059203616216257162011-05-30T11:42:00.001-05:002011-05-30T11:42:53.948-05:00Memorial Day<span xmlns=''><p>"Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;" 1Peter 4:1<br /></p><p>Today, Monday, May 30<sup>th</sup>, is a national holiday called Memorial Day. It began after the Civil War when the wives of the soldiers who fell in the war decorated their graves to honor their sacrifice. The practice is still kept today and in many cemeteries throughout our country there were or will be ceremonies honoring our soldiers who gave their all so that we could enjoy freedom. As a Christian, this should make us want to guard this even more because as we see America in its declining stages, we must conclude that the root cause of this nation's decline is due to sin. America was built on Christian principles and the Constitution was written for a people with character and who feared God. It was also written for a society who had the fibers of Biblical morality in its culture so that even the heathen were ashamed to practice blatant sins out in the open. Now, that has all changed. I read recently that a poll was taken regarding immorality and the culture of our nation and the finding was that more people feel that the culture of our nation is about right today than just a few years ago, this by about eight percent. The church is supposed to be the salt of the earth. "Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men." Matthew 5:13 Salt does three things: it flavors, it can help preserve as they used to pack meat in salt in order to preserve it before we had freezers, and it is also used for judgment as God sowed Sodom and Gomorrah with salt. "But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt." Genesis 19:26<br /></p><p>In the future, when we think of spending some time in prayer and it seems uncomfortable or inconvenient to us, we may want to remember those soldiers who gave al for our freedom so we can pray without hiding. When we think we are going through a little discomfort due to fasting, we may want to remember all the brides and/or mothers who lost their sons or husbands so we could have the freedom we now have. We need revival in the church! Yes, I know eventually America will be facing judgment because that is no doubt in the prophetic scene however we can be salt to preserve our time of tranquility for us and our children if we would get on our knees now before the night comes when it may be to late. Have a great Memorial Day time with family and friends and remember why this is possible! </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-58085015701042007982011-05-23T20:50:00.001-05:002011-05-23T20:50:30.853-05:00No One Knows When<span xmlns=''><p>"But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father." Mark 13:32 <br /></p><p>According to Harold Camping and many others, the rapture of the church was to take place this past Saturday at 6:00, May 21, 2011 (but I never knew which time zone he was talking about but assume it was the west coast). No doubt, many of these people were very sincere in their belief that it was to occur on that date at that time. I'm not questioning anybody's motives or purpose. We're still here! It didn't happen! Even before May 21<sup>st</sup>, I read another headline that some group is now saying that Christ will return in October of this year, and of course there is that prediction that everything is going to come to a halt on December 21, 2012. So what does this tell us? The first and most obvious answer is that we can't set dates on Christ's return. The scripture above plainly states that only God the Father knows that. Funny how man thinks he is smarter than God, even when running his own program. But there is another underlying thing that we can observe and that is that these things are coming ever increasingly. I personally believe that man is aware that we are on the edge of history so he is groping for answers. He may not know when, he may not know how: he may not know exactly why, but he is searching. <br /></p><p>Jesus was very plain in the following verse as to what the Christian should do in times like these. "Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is." Mark 13:33 If there is any time to pray, it is now. If there is any time to watch the world events, it is now. If there is any time to win souls and pray for revival, it is now! I read a newspaper article a couple days prior to Saturday the 21<sup>st</sup> and the reporter asked about 30 people in our conservative East Texas area what they would do if they know things were going to end in a couple days. Most said they would spend the time with their families, one man said he would get right with God, and a few said they would pray. NOT ONE, no not one said they would try to win their friends and family to Christ in the remaining time. This shows the pattern of the Laodicean church of today. It was all focused on self and maybe a few around them. What is our focus, is it just on self and those few family members around us or are we concerned about others we cone in contact with or those we know even on a limited basis. It is time to examine our hearts as we live in the last of the last days. I firmly believe that God wants to bring revival to America but in order to do it, we must all look inside ourselves and take inventory according to God's Word. Remember what Jesus said in Mark 10:15, "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." We must humble ourselves before the Lord that he may exalt us in due time. </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-44504036450634211812011-05-14T22:03:00.001-05:002011-05-14T22:03:22.474-05:00Christ Will Keep Those Who Want to be Kept<span xmlns=''><p>"For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." 2 Timothy 1:12<br /></p><p>One of the biggest arguments raised to defend the Unconditional Eternal Security doctrine is that Christ is able to keep the soul from perishing. The last part of this verse is quoted to support this. As this is the Word of God, it is no doubt true. The fact that "he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day, " is right in that there is no danger in losing one's soul as far as Christ is concerned. The problem lies when we chose to leave him. John 10:27-28 state, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." It is correct that no can pluck you out of the hand of Christ but there is a condition and it lies in verse 27 which says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." The sheep have to follow the shepherd in order to keep their souls. The shepherd will not leave them provided they follow them. Also, see what Christ said to the Church of Philadelphia: "Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown." Revelation 3:11 Can a man just walk up and take your eternal crown? No! But he can persuade you to follow heresy or influence your soul to the point where Christ is no longer your redeemer in heart, but only in word. "This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me." Matthew 15:8<br /></p><p>Another argument states that if one lost his soul after being saved, it would make the Christ's sacrifice void. Yes, for that person it would, but at his own choosing however Christ still suffered on the cross and rose from the dead. This is a fact that cannot be reputed nor will his shed blood be void unless it is made void by a sinner refusing to come to him or a Christian backsliding and trampling under it. "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame." Hebrews 6:4-6 <br /></p><p>Jesus said to the Jews that believed on him, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;" John 8:31b These Jews actually believed on him but when they were told that they needed to continue following him, then things changed. We read further down in verse 59 that they got so mad at him that they were getting ready to stone him. It's one thing to say a sinner's prayer, shake the preacher's hand, get baptized and receive the certificate, but it's another thing to actually follow him. Because of this erroneous teaching, millions have went to hell thinking they were saved just because someone told them that they were on their way to heaven since they said the prayer and got baptized. They were told that Christ is well able to keep their soul so not to worry about anything, even the way they live. While we don't worry about staying saved, we are to follow him which is not a grind but a pleasure and delight. I have even witnessed preachers of this persuasion tell demon possessed people that all they need to do is take advantage of their Christian rights that they received when they prayed several years ago and everything will be alright! Why do you think that God told the church of the Laodiceans that he was going to spue them out of his mouth. These were church folks like today. They went to church because they were partly hot but that's about all they did because they didn't think they needed anything yet they were unaware of where they really stood with Christ as they were blind to their own condition. Today is the same as we are in that age right now.<br /></p><p>This doctrine is troubling to me because there are good men who teach this doctrine. There are men who are worthy of some respect in their knowledge of the Word who embrace this, but no matter what or whom, it is a grave error. Many hold this doctrine because it was taught them in their schools and seminaries and it is a convenient doctrine for these last days of lukewarm church goers. Don't be fooled by it. Get into the Bible. Live a separated life looking unto the Author and Finisher of the Word. "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Revelation 22:12 Christ is well able to keep us, if we chose to be kept. </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-79537778528447122972011-04-22T16:35:00.001-05:002011-04-22T16:35:41.806-05:00Seeking God<span xmlns=''><p>"Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." <em>Jeremiah 29:12-13</em><br /> </p><p>When was the last time you took time to really seek God? How long ago has it been since you've set aside two, three, maybe a whole day to do nothing but just seek Christ as well as study and meditate in his word? Do you think that there is a need? I tell you there is, not only for your own soul, but the souls of others, and for the salvation of our nation if it can still be salvaged. Do you think you will escape the very soon coming storm that will hit our nation? Will you have the faith to see it through or will you be carried about with the whims of the world and fear their fear and dread their dread. <br /></p><p>The church needs revival, a real sin-killing, sanctification giving, soul saving revival! The church in America on the most part has lost its zeal, power, and even separation. I know what it's like to try to pray. Just when you start, that's when the phone rings, the neighbor decides to mow his lawn, someone starts yaking real loud out in the street, or your mind begins to wander. The devil will hinder you and try to stop you. You must be determined and consistent. Many who believe they belong to Christ's church do not even know how to pray nor do they even understand when one talks about spending several hours with the Master. It is foreign to them and their lives show it. Don't fool yourselves, God is not coming after an anemic church or a believer with an anemic faith. Remember the ten virgins. Read it for yourself in Matthew 25:1-13. They were <span style='text-decoration:underline'>ALL</span> virgins, they <span style='text-decoration:underline'>ALL</span> had lamps that started out burning, they <span style='text-decoration:underline'>ALL</span> had the same objective but five forgot to have extra oil and it cost them a place with the bridegroom. Many start out but not all will have the extra oil or the Holy Ghost and faith to make it. Please don't kid yourself. You can be lost and go to hell after you were once saved if you lose your fellowship with him and live in sin. That does not make Christ's sacrifice void, only for those who turned their back on him. <br /></p><p style='text-align: justify'>"For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them." <em>2 Peter 2:20-21</em><br /> </p><p>You may also want to consider the following: "Every branch <span style='text-decoration:underline'>in me</span> that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." <em>John 15:2 (underline mine)</em> Jesus said that the branches were "in me," that is, in Him. They were a part of him but he cut them off because they didn't bear any fruit. By the way, this was not just to the Jews but to the church, even for us today. <br /></p><p>I know this is very pointed and straightforward and I usually don't blog this way but I feel the urgency and believe that there is a storm coming very soon to our nation. If there is any time we need genuine revival it is now! If there is any time the confessing Christian needs to get serious about the things of God it is now! If there is any time we need to trim our lamps, it is definitely now. Some will be offended because of the bluntness of this blog. Others will laugh it off, many will be stirred a little but nothing else will happen, but some will take it seriously and begin to call upon God. I pray that will be you! May god help you and bless you as you seek him. <br /></p><p><strong><em>"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 </em></strong></p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-15576382011926006702011-04-16T13:04:00.001-05:002011-04-16T13:04:23.938-05:00Calling Evil Good and Good Evil<span xmlns=''><p>"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" <em>Isaiah 5:20 <br /></em></p><p>If a Bible reading Christian (I really don't know how there can be any other kind unless perhaps they are in a place where the Bible is not available where God gives them extra grace) can read the news today and be complacent and ho hum, than there's something terribly wrong. When I see the headlines and occasionally delve into the stories, I have mixed emotions. I guess the best way to express it is to say I feel anger, sadness, and yet excitement. I feel the anger because I see how evil continually triumphs in most every case and how our government officials are getting bolder and bolder in their efforts to knock over the constitution. But not only the constitution of our once great nation which was written with responsible God-fearing people in mind, the continual trampling on basic Biblical principles and institutions such as the Biblical family, morality, protection of Israel, and even the Holy Word of God itself. It is even more frustrating to see, not only the government, but many in the so-called church trampling down the precepts of Christ and bringing in Islam, and whatever else seems to be convenient into the mix. This is even more disturbing because those who should be holding up the banner of sanctification and purity are doing everything they can to bring it down, along with diluting God's Word. <br /></p><p>Sadness comes when I see so many fall for the lies that are being perpetrated through our media and even from many of our pulpits. It almost seems as the masses are just sitting and loving to be stroked to sleep, believing anything that sounds good to the flesh. This is happening even in the church. Proverbs 14:15 says, "The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going." Many believe because they have pleasure in unrighteousness. "And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 <br /></p><p>Then, after backing off and surveying all of this, I realize that Christ's coming is very near. No matter if he comes before, in the middle, or at the end of the tribulation period, it is definitely at the door and very soon. This is not the time to back down but it is high time to strengthen our faith and stay in the Book, the Word of Life. It is time to keep our eyes on the eastern sky waiting for his return, but also to occupy while we are waiting and keep reading, witnessing, leaving gospel tracts wherever we can, and work for Christ. In closing, remember the words that Jesus said: "I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work." John 9:4 Anger, sadness with a burden, and even frustration is not uncommon when listening to the happenings of today, but keep the bigger picture in mind, soon all of this will be past. The true saint of God is like Abraham "For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." Hebrews 11:10<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p> </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-47607547584973442952011-04-02T17:24:00.001-05:002011-04-02T17:24:27.615-05:00Four Reactions to the Gospel<span xmlns=''><p>"Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." Mark 10:15 <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>We react to the gospel in four basic ways. When we speak of reacting to the gospel, we also mean our reaction to some truth we have learned in God's Word, something the Holy Ghost is impressing upon us to do or obey, a doctrine that we have been made aware of and know of its truth, or some area of sanctification in our lives that the Holy Ghost has put his finger on for our attention. Whatever it is, we react in one of four ways. We find them in the parable of the sower.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p style='text-align: justify; margin-left: 36pt'>"And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Matthew 13:3-8<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The first reaction could be that like that of Festus, the Roman governor in Acts chapters 25-26. The word "Festu" meant "festival." He also was called Porcius meaning "swine." From this, we believe that this guy liked to eat, drink, and just have a good time. He really wasn't a bad guy, not as bad as some of the Herod's but the Bible gives no reference to his even being moved by Paul's preaching. In one place, he called it "superstition" and in another, after Paul gives most of his testimony, he blurts out, "Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad." Acts 26:24b He just didn't get it. It went in one ear and out the other. He didn't try to suppress it, nor did he try to embrace it but his reaction was that of so many today, "Whatever!" <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The second way is when one reacts like King Agrippa II. This is the group Christ referred to where the seed feel on stony earth but when things got too hot, they withered away. Agrippa II was that way. The Bible says about his reaction, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." Acts 26:28b Agrippa II knew the scriptures and had heard of Christ. He had never had anyone really explain about Christianity but when Paul did, he knew the truth and was almost persuaded to embrace it. But, as is in the parable, the sun came out and he realized what he would have to do to live it. He would have to break off the incestuous relationship with his sister Bernice plus no doubt deal with many other issues. He just couldn't, even though he saw the judgment of God at work in his father Agrippa I in Acts 12 who was eaten of worms. So we receive the wooing of the Holy Ghost on various matters and yet, do we reject them knowing full well they are correct? The Bible never records an instant where God deals with Agrippa II again. <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The third way of reaction is that characteristic of the seed sown among the thorns. They receive the truth and even go forth, but are choked with the cares, riches, and pleasures of this life and bring no fruit to perfection. (Luke 8:14) When the Roman ruler, Felix, heard the gospel, the Bible says that he trembled at the preaching of Paul. But it stopped there. It is not enough just to get moved by the Holy Ghost and feel conviction, one has to act. "And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee." Acts 24:25 There is never a better day to obey God's Word than today. "…behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)" 2 Corinthians 6:2b Felix, whose name means "happy," kept calling for Paul but for different reasons. In Acts 24:26 we read, "He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him." He was looking for a way to profit from the gospel. Much could be said here but there isn't time or space. It doesn't stop there. He used Paul as a political ploy to try to keep him out of hot water with the Romans. "But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound." Acts 24:27 Because of some of his ruthless dealings with the Jews, he was fearful they would accuse him before the emperor so he hoped to appease them by keeping Paul bound. Many hear the truth, knowing it is right but fail to react and after while even become antagonistic towards it. How many times I've seen God deal with someone regarding an area of sanctification, only for them to finally reject it and later buffet those who hold that stand they rejected! <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>But the last group is like that of Zacchaeus. He was a tax collector and became rich from his profession. No doubt, like most tax collectors then, it wasn't always by being honest, in fact tax collectors or publicans, were known to be cheaters. But when he saw the Lord, it all changed. "And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold." Luke 19:8 He was ready to obey right away! Oh that we could have a heart of obedience like that so God could use us! He didn't ask a lot of questions, didn't try to use his intellectual reasoning, but just believed and obeyed because he know the Holy Ghost had shown him the truth. May we react the same way as he, like a child. As quoted at the beginning, "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." Mark 10:15 That's means, we walk humbly before Him! </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-54721193180679240172011-03-02T15:30:00.001-06:002011-03-02T15:30:10.947-06:00Have You Received the Power Since You Believed<span xmlns=''><p>"And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost." Acts 11:15-16<br /></p><p>Peter had been to Caesarea to the house of Cornelius who was a centurion, or captain over one hundred men, in the Roman army. You can read about the thrilling details in Acts 10 and I urge you to do so but the end result was Cornelius, and his relative that were with him, were saved and then filled with the Holy Ghost. Because he was a gentle, Peter was called in question for having fellowship with him as that was not the Jews custom. So now we quickly come to the verses above in Acts 11:15-16 where he is relating the incident to the Jews in Jerusalem. He noted that "the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." We can read about how it fell on them in Acts 2:1-4<br /></p><p>"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."<br /></p><p>The question I have is, have you received the power of the Holy Ghost since you believed? Someone may say, well I have it by faith and there's really no way of knowing if you have the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit (both are the same). According to scripture, there is a way to know; they spoke in other tongues. <br /></p><p>Peter knew that those in the Cornelius's family had received the Holy Ghost. "For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter," Acts 10:46 Paul met twelve men in Ephesus who had been saved under John the Baptist's ministry but knew nothing about the baptism of the Holy Ghost. But then we read the following in Acts 19:6, "And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." During a revival in Samaria, Peter was laying hands on folks who were getting the Holy Ghost as well. While the Bible does not specifically say that the spoke in other tongues, the outcome was so awesome that Simon the magician tried to buy the power from Peter but was sharply rebuked for his folly. <br /></p><p>People back away from this valuable doctrine for several reasons:<br /></p><ol><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>They don't fully understand it and are afraid that it may not be of God. We can not fully explain how a lost sinner can suddenly become a new person with new desires and goals just from praying, but it happens. <br /></span></li><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>They have been told that it is of the devil. There is absolutely no scriptural basis for that. <br /></span></li><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>It is humbling to yield to God and trust him to receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost and be re-filled I'm afraid we have way too much pride in the church. <br /></span></li><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>They are told that it is not for today. The scripture used is found in 1 Cor. 13:8, "Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away." They say that tongues will cease, but if that is the case, so will knowledge. When read in context, Paul is talking about when we see God face to face. At that time, tongues, prophecies, and knowledge will cease, but not until. "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." 1Cor 13:12 <br /></span></li><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>Perhaps bad incidents or things have happened causing one to be prejudiced against this doctrine. I will assure you that I can tell you of things that have gone on that were not of God and they were done by people who spoke in other tongues. But I've had rotten fruit before but haven't quit eating fruit because I got a bad apple. <br /></span></li></ol><p>If there is any time that we need the power of God it is now in these last days. Being filled with the Holy Ghost will greatly enhance your understanding of the Word of God and will give you more power in prayer. It is really not an option, but a command, "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;" Ephesians 5:18 If you really desire the Holy Ghost, I recommend the following:<br /></p><ol><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>Examine yourself and forsake any know sin in your life. Your conscience must be clear before you can fully yield to Christ, which means you must get all of the known sin out of your life and be clean. <br /></span></li><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>Spend time fasting to receive the Holy Ghost and earnestly pray for it. Luke 11: 9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 11 If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? 12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? <br /></span></li><li><span style='font-family:Arial; font-size:14pt'>Don't give up! Study scriptures that relate to the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit. Keep focused on Christ because he is the giver! </span></li></ol></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-8901341843643114542011-02-26T20:43:00.003-06:002011-02-27T08:29:54.822-06:00It Is High Time<span xmlns=""> <p>"And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed." Romans 13:11<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Do you know what time it is? Are you aware of where we are in history? Do you have any idea what is coming upon the earth? Let me give you some answers if I may.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>First, it is "high time," that is it is time to wake up out of slumber and spiritual sleep. We are not living in normal times but are on the edge of apocalyptic times, that is times that reflect direct prophesy in the scriptures. To put it plainly, we are near the tribulation period. Of course, how near is still the question but it is fairly certain we are near. We know this for several reasons:<br /></p><ol><li><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14;"><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">Israel has become a nation.</span> Jesus said in Luke 21:29-31, "…Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand." Israel is the fig tree. Christ makes this plain in another place when he refers Israel as the fig tree in a parable found in Luke 13:7-9. "6 ¶ He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down." Here, it is believed that he was in his final year of ministry and after three years Israel had not excepted him, bearing fruit as a nation. THE FIG TREE HAS BLOSSOMED! Israel became a nation on May 14, 1948.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14;"><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">The time frame is short once the fig tree blossoms.</span> See what he says in Matthew 24:32-34. "Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, <em>This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. </em>(Italics mine). Bible scholars believe that once the fig tree blossoms then it is only a generation before all the prophecies regarding the final days and setting up of his earthly kingdom are fulfilled. Israel became a nation on May 14, 1948 as I stated earlier. That was almost sixty-three years ago. So how long is a generation? Good question but let's look at the scripture to get the answer. Moses writes in Psalm 90:10, "The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow." He said a generation or lifespan is 70 to 80 years. Yes, there are those who live longer but that's about the lifespan of a generation. This would put the final time to around 1928. Now, we are not setting dates but just calculating 80 years plus 1948. It may be longer and perhaps shorter as a person born in 1948 could live until 2048 longer so we don't really know, but we do know that things are not going on for a lengthy period of time. <em><br /></em></span></li><li><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14;"><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">The forming of the European alliance rising up within the borders of the old Roman empire.</span> This has happened as the economic power is being transferred from the United States to the European Union. When we look at Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel chapter 2, we see where he saw two legs of iron which represent the East and West Roman Empires, then he saw the feet with the ten toes, mixed with iron and clay. From this, it is believed that the world will be ruled by the state rising up out of the old Roman Empire, which would probably be the European Union. <em><br /></em></span></li><li><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14;"><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">The middle east countries, especially those surrounding Israel are falling and will probably be taken by the Islamic Brotherhood, bringing them under Sharia Law.</span> This would mean that Israel would be surrounded by enemies whereas before, Egypt and Jordan were somewhat allies. This situation could easily cause Israel to one day make an agreement with someone who could "calm the storm" sort of speak. This is outlined in Daniel 9:27, "27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate." This would be referred to, as we know him, the anti-christ. He will make a covenant with Israel for peace and security but break this covenant in the middle of a seven year period or after three and a half years. <em><br /></em></span></li><li><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:14;"><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">The nations are aligning themselves up for the war mentioned in Ezekiel 38 and 39.</span> Without going in to lengthy detail, the nations are aligning themselves up for battle as mentioned in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39. These are main Islamic nations along with Russia. It is felt that this war may take place before the tribulation or just after the covenant with the anti-christ is made. <em><br /></em></span></li></ol><p><br /> </p><p>Whle there are many more signs that could be pointed out, you can see from these that it is time for us to wake up and take the things of God seriously. The Apostle goes on in Romans 13:12 to say, "The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light." It is time for us to live holy and strive to live according to God's Word. We must constantly examine ourselves and strive to walk closer to him as the day approaches. Jesus said in John 9:4, "I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work." This night may come sooner that we think so we must be about our Father's business while we can. </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-19934206146683799772011-01-20T19:49:00.001-06:002011-01-20T19:49:20.059-06:00Christlam<span xmlns=''><p>"And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." Genesis 28:14<br /></p><p>I always wondered how the Moslem religion would be molded into the ecumenical church. I thought, since the Koran and the five pillars of Moslem are so different than Christianity and the Bible, how can they find enough similarities? I am aware that the Pope has reached out to the Moslems and has met with them in the past but how would all this filter down. Well, this afternoon, I learned the answer. It is in the new religion called Christlam. You may have heard of it before but I haven't up until today. It is basically what it sounds; a merge of the Christian religion with the Moslem religion. So, is this of God and is this a true religion or false? <br /></p><p>According to sources, it was founded in 1999 by a man named Samson Saka who after making a pilgrimage to Mecca was told by God to make peace between Christians and Moslems. While we are told in the Word of God "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;" Matthew 5:44, we do not love the doctrine of Islam which does not hold Christ as Savior and Lord. Remember, Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6 Yes, it is a narrow way and Christ is the ONLY way, not Mohammad, or any other! "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." Matthew 7:14 <br /></p><p>It is said by those who support this movement that we all pray to God who is a loving God. This is not true as their God, which is Allah, is not the same. See the following: <br /></p><p><strong><em>Allah, as the Quran itself is witness, was well known in pre-Islamic Arabia. Indeed, both it and its feminine form, Allat, are found not infrequently among the theophorous names in inscriptions from North Africa"</em> (Islam: Muhammad, and His Religion, New York: The Liberal Arts Press, 1958, p. 85). <br /></strong></p><p><strong>The word "Allah" comes from the compound Arabic word, al-ilah. Al is the definite article "the" and ilah is an Arabic word for "god." It is not a foreign word. It is not even the Syriac word for God. It is pure Arabic. (There is an interesting discussion of the origins of Allah, in "Arabic Lexicographical Miscellanies" by J. Blau in the Journal of Semitic Studies, Vol. XVII, #2, 1972, pp. 173-190). <br /></strong></p><p><strong>Neither is Allah a Hebrew or Greek word for God as found in the Bible. Allah is a purely Arabic term used in reference to an Arabian deity. Hastings' Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics I:326, T & T Clark, states: <br /></strong></p><p><strong><em>'"Allah" is a proper name, applicable only to their [Arabs'] peculiar God.</em> '<br /></strong></p><p><strong>According to the Encyclopedia of Religion: <br /></strong></p><p><strong><em>'"Allah" is a pre-Islamic name . . . corresponding to the Babylonian Bel'</em> (Encyclopedia of Religion, I:117 Washington DC, Corpus Pub., 1979). </strong>Please see the following web site <a href='http://www.biblebelievers.org.au/islam.htm'>The Cult of the Moon God</a> for more information. From this we can see that Allah and our God or Jehovah are not the same.<br /></p><p>Another claim is that we both descended from Abraham. While this is true it is clear that the Jews, whose seed came the Messiah, came through Jacob as seen in the scripture in the beginning. <br /></p><p>There are many other points that can be brought out but this is enough to prove that they are not the same. It is Christ and Christ alone. Any Bible reading believer will quickly catch their tricks no matter who sells out to this. Don't fall for something that is not biblical even though so-called Christian leaders are buying into this. Stand on the foundation of Christ as he is the chief cornerstone. While God is a God of love, he will one day judge the earth for sin. "And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him." Jude 1:14-15<br /></p><p>Stand for the truth. We want to win the precious Moslem people to Christ, not be pulled into the same errors which lead to perdition. For your sake and theirs, stand!<br /></p><p> </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-71685515477502205822011-01-01T16:53:00.001-06:002011-01-01T16:53:36.028-06:00Redeeming the Time<span xmlns=''><p>"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:16 <br /></p><p>It's a brand new year and time moves on. we can talk about what has been done (or not done) in 2010 but there are plenty of articles, both Christian and secular that can give more information than we probably want. But when I look at the socialistic, God-hating, sin-loving trend that is moving in our government and society in general, I can only back up and see things from the broad prospective of God's Word. When you're on the ground, you only see the present surroundings that are in your limit of vision but when you are in an airplane, you see how that little area you were in fits into the who picture. That's the way it is when seeig things through God's prospective or through his Word. Political movements to the right are fine but without God's morality and him as the center there is little hope for them to go far or last long. That's why the only solution to our problems in the church and America is revival and faith in his Word. <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The Christmas season is fun and always a wonderful time, spending time with family and friends. It's a time when there just seems to be a special spirit in the air that is not there the other times of the year. However, when the season is over, it has a way of leaving one spiritually drained so this is now a good time to "redeem the time" and get our prayer and fasting life back in order. Redeeming means, "by payment of a price to recover from the power of another." There are times we will have to fight - not in the physical sense - for our prayer time and press in for study time. <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The previous verse is also interesting to note: "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise," Circumspectly means "exactly, accurately, diligently" which implies that we should walk as God's Word dictates. The world, of course, doesn't lke it but we also know that the Bible is clear on the outcome of things. All of this is just temporary but God's kingdom is permanent. Hollywood stars and other prominent personalities who have sold out to Satan are getting their due here, but the day will come when Satan will come to collect and then their souls will be damned. We too, will meet certain judgment if we don't take heed to God's word and his commandments. "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 We must keep our eyes on the prize of eternal life, not only for us but our loved ones. We must keep our eyes on that which is eternal and that which is noteworthy for Christ. We must keep our eyes on the Word of God, knowing whom we believe and trusting in Him. We must keep our eyes on the only solution to the problems in our churches and country. If we do that, we may just have revival in 2011! Maranatha!! </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-57569263686618249402010-09-10T22:38:00.001-05:002010-09-10T22:38:07.907-05:00They became fools!<span xmlns=''><p>" Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools," Romans 1:22<br /></p><p>It's not often that I read something that really gives me a charge but after reading the article <a href='http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2010/september/9.24.html'>Hipster Faith</a>, I couldn't help but comment. What I said is written below although not all got posted because of the 1000 characters limit. <br /></p><p>"It is apparent from this article how far the "church" has moved from the Word of God. America is falling and many are too blind to see why. But the fault lies in the church and its backslidden ways! We have become so proud as a people that we can't even admit we're wrong. I'm just going to say it like it is: This whole thing is disgusting and a stanch in God's nostrils. When someone is saved, they repent which means change from their old ways. No wonder Paul said the following: "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;" 2 Thessalonians 3:1-4 KJV It is evident that we are truly in the Laodicean era and fit the description that Jesus gave of them found in Revelation 3:17, "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:" These are blind to their own condition and others are rooting them on as the blind leading the blind. WAKE UP! Judgment will come to America then what will this "Hipster Faith" do them! All those who serve Christ in holiness and truth, be encouraged. You may think you're the only ones as Elijah thought, but you are not! Lift up your heads for your redemption cometh nigh!" Just to give you a little taste of this "new Hipster Christianity," it starts out like this. You can read the rest, if you can stand to read all of it. I couldn't. <br /></p><p>"<span style='color:black; font-family:Georgia'><br /> </span>Here's a riddle: A young man walks into a building. From the outside, it looks like a nondescript, run-down, abandoned warehouse. Inside he finds mood lighting, music with throbbing bass, and young people wearing skinny jeans and superfluous scarves. A bar off to the side offers drinks of some sort, and a frenetically lit stage is shrouded in fog. Jumbo screens display what appear to be music videos. Everywhere people text on their iPhones.<br /></p><p>A young woman with a nose ring and a vaguely Middle Eastern tattoo comes up andintroduces herself. She makes awkward (but refreshingly earnest) small talk about her passion for community gardens and food co-ops. She asks him if he has heard Arcade Fire's new album, and compliments him on his bushy beard and lumberjack look. Beards like that are cool, she says. Eventually she asks him for his contact information.<br /></p><p>Question: Is the man in a bar? Or is he in a church?<br /></p><p>It could go either way." Well, you guessed it, they were talking about a church!! Is this not the new ecumenical church that will be alive and well in the tribulation period as nothing has any relevance but all will have their own little view of God. They've cast off the traditional church and the Word of God and suddenly, after 2000 years, they think they have a better way. <br /></p><p>My friends, this trend is deeply entrenched in the church world, especially in America. They are not even "on the same page" as the true Bible believing Christian and many who are standing for the true faith will become more discouraged as they see their family and loved ones fall off into this cultic like "christianity" - small "c" for that one please. It's time to get back to the basics of the Word of God. The sad part of it is, these people think that they are right with God and OK but they are blind to their own condition. One may say, "you're judging." Call it what you will but I'm inspecting fruit. They'll brag about a few good deeds done but big deal! A good community service organization does that, so what makes them any different? Folks, don't get caught up in this mess but stay in the Bible and keep the faith! We are in the last days and it is apparent that we watch for his appearing! Romans 8:9 says, " But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." Also, remember: " If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit." Galatians 5:25 <br /></p><p> </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-20226955114844428332010-08-30T21:32:00.003-05:002010-08-31T02:57:26.112-05:00Lukewarm State?This post was published to Condition of the Church at 9:32:39 PM 8/30/2010<br />Lukewarm State?<br /><br /><br />"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<br />I hesitate to write on this verse because I know I've addressed it before, but maybe it is needful, at least for myself if not for others. We are living in the Laodicean Church age, there's no doubt about that. The description that Jesus gives of them fits the general church it a tee. <br />" I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing:" While, in general, people will not say this, the actions betray themselves. When the church can get more excited about a sporting event, a sale, a dinner, or anything else that may amuse and excite the flesh than the things of God, the above statement is being said, only not outloud. When we seem to place the things of God such as reading his Word, prayer, doing his work, at the lower end of our list and important things to do, we are saying the above. <br />" knowest not that thou art wretched," Christ then goes on to say, "Don't you realize what shape you are in?" Wretched means " enduring toils and troubles" but in this sense, not in persecutions but in problems brought on by over involvement and entanglement in this world. Paul told Timothy, " No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier." 2 Timothy 2:4 While we have to live and work in this world, we must keep our affections on things above as Paul stated, " Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." Colossians 3:2 Because of lukewarmness, the church is cumbered about details and problems that perhaps, in many ways, could be solved by Christ if the affections were on him instead of on our own ambitions. <br />He then says they were "miserable." How many people attend church today only to wait for the service to end. They set their timers and their watches and woe to the preacher who may preach a few minutes over his allotted timeframe! People do not enjoy church, or it becomes nothing but an entertainment center simply because there is no spirit, no Holy Ghost moving, and no unction from the preaching and singing. They leave the same way they came and are never stirred. <br />For a church to be "poor" as Christ describes it, is not that it lacks money. No, that's wasn't and still isn't the problem in most cases. It means that it has little to offer in the spiritual realm. Oh yes, it can offer a great deal of amenities and even do some good things in the community but there is no deliverance, no families restored, sin is not stopped and the love of Christ is not growing. This is what "poor" is.<br />To be "blind" does not mean to have poor vision, but to not be aware of one's own spiritual poverty and need. Today, much of the church simply cannot see their condition and cannot understand the scriptures. While we have some very brilliant people handling the Word of God, it is only in intellectual experience to the hearer but it takes Christ and the Holy Ghost to put it all together and apply it to our lives. This takes prayer, experience, and study. " But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." James 1:4<br />The last word to describe the church is to be "naked." With the immodest dress these days this could probably be taken literal but no doubt he means that to be "naked" implies that they were without defense. Another words, they could not defend themselves against Satan's attacks. Again, today, in many cases, the church as a whole seems to be defenseless against Satan. Yet, this should not be. <br />So, Jesus did not leave them or us hanging but told them as well as us what to do. He said in the following verse to " buy of me gold tried in the fire," This gold is faith that is tried and can only be purchased or gotten from Him, yet, he wants us to ask him for it. Remember what is written in Hebrews 11:6, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." He longs for us to ask and seek for that faith that will be like gold so he can use us in greater ways for him. <br />His next advise was to buy of him " white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." This is holiness and separation from the world. Today, the general church is almost a laughing stock of the world. If you don't believe it, just look how it is treated in the media and Hollywood. When people become holy on the inside and out, then they may be scorned for being a Christian, but not laughed at for having a double standard. We may be the only Bible that some will read so let's make sure they get a good and accurate reading. I'll pray for you if you pray for me.<br />Finally, he advises them to " anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see" which would allow them to have spiritual enlightenment. It is one thing to intellectually understand the Word but another to apply it to one's life and heart. God would like to show the church greater truths but will not unless we are meeting his qualifications and have that gold that is tried, the white raiment, as well as that special spiritual eye salve that will help us see. So, in closing, let me just say, " If God be for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31b Let's get out of the lukewarm state and get on fire for Christ!!Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-61196397326362966322010-08-27T18:07:00.001-05:002010-08-27T18:07:25.028-05:00Be Alive!<span xmlns=''><p>" And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead." Revelation 3:1<br /></p><p>Christ was speaking to the seven churches and had addressed four already. When he got to the church of Sardis, he gave a chilling description saying that they had a name that seemed to indicate they were alive and well but in reality were dead in spirit. Sardis represents the dispensation that covers the historic time of the Reformation or what secular history refers as the Renaissance period. During this period of history, there were truly great men of God such as Luther, Knox, and others however when one looks at the period closely, it was a period that was, in most cases, the church being merged with the world. For instance, Samuel Wesley, father of John Wesley who was later a powerhouse for God, commented that the strongest witness of the Christian faith was that small inner witness. Of course, we know that out of this period, the great period of the Philadelphia church rose boasting such men as John Wesley, D. L. Moody, Jonathan Edwards just to name a few. <br /></p><p>But what about the church today with all of it's offerings that t can offer - all of the amenities and activities? What about us who claim even to be Pentecostal yet haven't spoken in tongues for several days and even weeks? What about us if we haven't felt the power of the Holy Ghost in our services or our prayer closets? It's easy to look at another age or people and say, "Glad I'm not like that" but when we examine ourselves, we can bare that same description - that people think we are lively, full of power, lover of Christ, yet really dead in spirit. <br /></p><p>We have to constantly keep up our prayer life. It's a battle. The devil will see to that. As one man put it, "He wouldn't be a good devil if he didn't." But we must not give up and we must strive forward in prayer. Not only that, but I believe that God wants us to enjoy his presence. This is not a drudgery but it should be a joy to serve him. In Psalm 37:4 we read, "Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart." The word "delight" means to be soft, delicate, be happy about, make merry over. It constitutes a pleasure that nothing in the world can replace but too often we rob ourselves of this pleasure, but it's delighting ourselves in him that can give us life. It gives us courage and strength to go on and joy when in every circumstance. This the life that Christ wants for us. Let him look at us and say, "They are alive and well." </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-51294791439474567162010-08-21T08:52:00.002-05:002010-08-21T18:25:58.299-05:00He Pleased God<span xmlns=""> <p><br /> </p><p>"By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God." Hebrews 11:5<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The church anxiously awaits what we refer to as the rapture or "catching away" of its members into heaven to be with Christ for eternity. When this will happen is not known because Jesus even said, "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.": Matthew 24:36 It is therefore not wise to fix dates even though we are prone to try to place it in various scenarios and times. We do know, however, that the fig tree, which is Israel, has blossomed as it has again been restored as a nation so the signs point to Christ's coming as near. Most are in agreement about that.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>What much of the church is having problem with is the question as to who will be taken and who will be left behind. It appears that during the middle of the tribulation, during the great flight of Israel, that some will be taken and others left, if that is what is ment but who will actually go int he rapture? I believe we can find the answer in Enoch. <span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">He had a testimony that he pleased God!</span> We are going to have to have this same testimony if we expect to be taken up. In Hebrews 11:6 it says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." We must have the faith to please him and to live for him. How can we expect to have the faith to go in the rapture when we don't seem to be abe to muster enough faith to make it our 100% effort to please him. Sadly, much of the church is lukewarm and Jesus said he would spew them out of his mouth. We must take care that we are not one of those rejected by Christ due to a lackluster, half-hearted Christian life.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>It was said of Enoch in Genesis 5:21-24, "And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him." Notice Moses records that Enoch "walked with God" two times. The word walk in the Hebrew basically means "to go with, come, depart, die, live, and manner of life." This shows that he walked with God 24/7, doing as Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, "Pray without ceasing." While Enoch didn't have the Holy Ghost like we now have today, he still could walk with God. So how do we walk with him, the answer is that we strive to please him. We cannot do this alone, but we must have his help which can be obtained by living in the Spirit. In Galatians 5:16 the Apostle Paul writes, "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh." This means we are continually "in tune" or in fellowship with Christ through the Holy Ghost. We obtain this, we are ready for the rapture. Can this be done? Of course, but there are times when we seem to get side tracked and things of the world drown this out. Do we give up and say, "I've lost my tender relationship with the Master so there's no use in trying to get it back." No way! We climb back up the mountain and partake of his blessings so we can continue to fight the battle against sin and see souls saved. We will always have hindrances and distractions but so did all the saints before us. We will always have responsibilities such as family, work, and other essentials of life but when walking in the spirit, God can help us bear fruit in these for his glory! Keep in there! Don't give up! God is on your side if you are on his and he'll help you even if you think you've failed. Remember what Paul said in 1 Timothy 6:12, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>In closing, there is also a very good devotion regarding Enoch by David Wilkerson and I urge you to read that as well. <a href="http://www.worldchallenge.org/en/devotions/2010/walking-with-god">Walking With God</a> - David Wilkerson</p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-39702210750850829842010-07-26T20:06:00.001-05:002010-07-26T20:06:43.166-05:00God's Habitation<span xmlns=''><p>"In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit." Ephesians 2:22 <br /></p><p>You may wonder what the church is really here for. It would be surprising to hear the answers from many Christians if I asked them why they thought the church existed in the first place. Now let's be clear first: When I speak of the church, I'm not talking about just a building with a bunch of people in it, but a whole group of people throughout the world. So I would get many answers and probably most of them would be correct for the most part. Some would say to win souls to God's kingdom, to provide a place of fellowship and strength and teaching for the believers in Christ, or to help those less fortunate then us just make their way in this life by providing to them the things they need. Yes, all of these answers are no doubt correct but the real reason God has his church is to have a place of habitation and an organism in which he can move through. Of course we know God is everywhere and knows everything. We know he is all-seeing, all-knowing, and all-powerful and can do what he wishes. But as he didn't assign the angels the task to take the gospel to the lost, so he didn't assign them to be the agents to which he could move through although they do engage in spiritual warfare but only at his command and that is done through the prayers of the church. God ordained that the church would be the organism to which he would move through. That's why Paul said that it is the habitation of the Spirit. <br /></p><p>In verse 19 we read, " Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God." When someone really gets saved, they become members of the church. No, not from signing a church roll or a certificate, but from being truly born again with their sins washed away by the blood of Jesus Christ. Those who are really members of the church are not citizens of this world in that the world is only a temporary place where we can work for God, but our home is in heaven. <br /></p><p>We learn that it is like a building that has been in progress since Christ rose from the dead for we read in verse 20, " And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone". It all begins with Christ as he is all and all. <br /></p><p>So if the church is to be the instrument in which God moves through, it is a necessity that his people pray. The reason our country is in the condition it is in is because of the church! The reason we have killed about 50 million babies, see homosexual behavior on the rise, have continual corruption in our government, is because of the church. Hollywood runs rampant with filth, the cults including the Moslems are increasing and gaining influence, and our families are breaking up is due to the church and the lack of prayer in it. <br /></p><p>The church is not for a gymnasium or a social club but a place for prayer and teaching God's Word. It's should be a place where people can get deliverance from sin, bad habits, and get healing. We will see revival in American when people pray, really pray. We will see wickedness less prominent and vctories won in the name of Christ when we pray! Will you pray? We will see revival in America! I hope you are in on it. I want to be! Pray church pray! <br /></p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-55280321212843204732010-07-12T08:41:00.001-05:002010-07-12T08:41:38.719-05:00Church and the Home<span xmlns=''><p>"And all the people saw the cloudy pillar stand at the tabernacle door: and all the people rose up and worshipped, every man in his tent door." Exodus 33:10<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>This took place when the children of Israel were in the desert and had only been so for a couple of months. Many starring events had occurred even within this short time frame and I invite you to review these which are found, especially in chapter 32 and chapters 12 through 20, not to mention the first 11 which cover their history in Egypt and the plagues. Not Moses has interceded for them on the mount after they made the golden calf. They have the tabernacle where the holy of holies is located and which is the central point where God meets with them. We read that when Moses went to the tabernacle, the children of Israel stood. Then we see that the presence of God is with Moses in the tabernacle because his cloud is over it. But then we read another interesting thing. "and all the people rose up and worshipped, every man in his tent door." They worshipped, not at the tabernacle but in their tent door. God is showing us that there are two mportant instructions and places for worship, the church and home. Yes, we can worship him everywhere in prayer as we are told to "Pray without ceasing," in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and that we should do. But the church and home are two places where we should be able to plray without hindrances, albeit Satan will hinder us everywhere but the church and home should be like sanctuaries away from the world. <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Now, let's get to it. The church cannot be a sanctuary from the world when it brings the world in. Yet, the church is doing all of that and more. Instead of making itself more foreign to the world, it's using the world's tactics, methods, and providing the the amenities that a world class resort or country club would provide to entice membership. Yet, to put a religious ding to it, they still go on mission trips, try to feed the poor when it is convent, and even quote the sinners prayer with folks then baptizing them so they can gleefully boast of their converts and add them to their ever gloating numbers. Yet, for all of this, America's culture and the church's influence in it are less today then it was even ten years ago. Would you say that something is wrong? <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Then we go into the home. The home cannot be a sanctuary when Hollywood is blaring their goods in your living room from morning 'till night or the satanic rmusic is constantly pounding in your ears. How can that be a place where one can get alone with God and have fellowship with him? Our homes in America are being ravaged by Satan because of what is brought in and is constantly flowing in from outside. Sometimes, we just have to shut these things off or switch our listening. How about listening to some good, challenging preaching at night instead of the sensual programming that is on TV that will damn the soul? Even the talk shows are many times nothing but bickering and arguing with nothing resolved. Don't we have enough of this in our lives without inviting more? If the true believer would turn his attention to the things of God instead of the things that seems to flow into his home, we could see revival in America. Yes, the big churches of this world would still have their retainers, but we would see God change lives and the influence of the church would be felt in this falling nation of ours. May God send revival to my heart and yours!</p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-65337850597269429492010-05-23T13:43:00.001-05:002010-05-23T13:43:15.800-05:00The Salvation Club<span xmlns=''><p>"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." John 10:27-28 <br /></p><p>The thing that seems to be so troublesome today is that there are thousands and perhaps millions being told that they are saved when in fact, they are as lost as the devil himself. Much of this is happening by pastors and evangelists making an alter call, people come forward, they quote the sinners prayer, go forward to baptism, sign the required document for baptism, and go on their way being told they are now saved. Yes, they are now in the salvation club. They are told that all they have to do is say Jesus Christ is their Lord and savior, shake the preachers hand as an acknowledgment of that, and that's it. There in!! That does wonders for the numbers game but most go out the same way they came in, lost! Yes, the went forward and even quoted the sinners prayer after being led through the Romans' Road. They felt that was the cultural or intellectual thing to do, and even felt a little religious and perhaps a little repentant for a few minutes. But like the seed that was sown on the stony ground, they soon are scorched by the world, their besetting sins, and life's trials and they lose out. Many never had it in the first place but went forward just because it was the thing to do. I know, I did that myself when I was a teen. Yet, all of these are told they are saved and on their way to heaven even though they are still laden down with their sins and lust without any way to try to overcome them. Their life is a defeated life in that, while they know they shouldn't do some of the things they are doing, they still do them and bemoan the fact that they just can't overcome them. Yet, again, they are told they are saved because after all, no man shall pluck you out of his hand as says John 10:28. What a sad lot.<br /></p><p>Those who tell them forget to read the previous verse that says "My sheep hear my voice and follow me." Yet, they are unable to really follow him because they are not his. Why? There was never true repentance or a hunger to please God, and if there was, it was snuffed out by someone who told them that that's all there is, no further, you're in the club - sort of speak. <br /></p><p>Our God is not like that but will give us what we need to overcome sin in our bodies and minds. If we will truly follow him and listen to his voice through his Word and spirit, we can have victory over sin. Yes, we fight this flesh and will will continue to fight it but we can have victory through Jesus Christ. If you are one of those who bemoan your sin because you can't seem to get out of it and really don't seem to have any power in your life, make a fresh start and do the first works over again and come back to Christ, confessing your sins and asking him to come into your heart and life and give him your all. Yes, there are those who are in Christ who are struggling with some things yet, I'm sure as we are not changed in a day on this earth, but if you are one of those, as for new strength and a new desire to come clean of whatever sin that is besetting you. "Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." 1 Thessalonians 5:24<br /></p><p>I can't help but to be reminded of the passage in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27: Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." Even the rugged Apostle Paul was fighting the flesh but fought it by keeping it under with the help of the Holy Ghost. Don't be just a statistic on someone's church role or attendance board for a few weeks but become a warrior for Christ against Satan and seek God and his righteousness. Let's pray for revival in our own hearts, our families, churches, and our nation. Be a powerhouse for God through the power of the Holy Ghost!! 24 ¶ Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.<br /></p><p> </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-35725566060844155982010-05-16T13:20:00.001-05:002010-05-16T13:20:54.550-05:00Preaching for Hire<span xmlns=''><p>"The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine for money: yet will they lean upon the LORD, and say, Is not the LORD among us? none evil can come upon us." Micah 3:11<br /></p><p>Doesn't this sound familiar? It was then in Israel as it is today. The priests, or ministers preached as the people desired instead of from the Word of God and with the unction of the Holy Ghost. The people said then as the masses say today, "See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:" Isaiah 30:10. Large TV and radio ministries need lots of cash to keep running so preachers today must appeal to the crowds in an entertaining way and yet give them a bit of challenge so folks will think they've "been to church." Unfortunately, they are not getting to the root cause of America's downfall and looming judgment and the coming massive falling away of many in the church into a false, yet somewhat Christ-like church. Notice I said "Christ-<span style='text-decoration:underline'>like</span>." "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;" 1 Timothy 4:3 This has been happening and will continue to happen more and more as many in the church wil harden their hearts toward the true gospel and believe a lie because they have pleasure in unrighteousness. "And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12. So because of this massive reach for the half-truth, men are providing for them and not addressing the root causes of their troubles and woe, which is sin. <br /></p><p>Notice that Micah was speaking about a religious people, who thought that God would do nothing to them as we read, " yet will they lean upon the LORD, and say, Is not the LORD among us? none evil can come upon us." They actually did not feel that God would intervene in any activity or that he had any more control over the events of the world and their local environment. They had the same attitude as the citizens of Jerusalem had a few years prior to its fall to Babylon. " Then said he unto me, The iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah is exceeding great, and the land is full of blood, and the city full of perverseness: for they say, The LORD hath forsaken the earth, and the LORD seeth not." Ezekiel 9:9 Doesn't this sound like modern humanism that has invaded the church as well? People with an attitude such as this have no fear of God. They feel that God really doesn't play a part in today's events or that he has control of the future. Unfortunately, they also don't understand his love toward them and how he would like to see them saved and delivered for their sins.<br /></p><p>But there are also those who are clinging to his Word and walking in the light of his Word. There is still a remnant in the true church that fear God and know that his Word is real. There is a people who are seeking after God and the fullness of his Spirit and there are still preachers who are fasting and praying that they will preach with an unction of the Holy Ghost and preaching from his Wird. There are still those who are praying for a great outpouring in these very last days and that a revival can come to America before the coming of the Lord. If you are one of those, may the Lord bless you! May God help you and encourage you by his Spirit. Let us pray for one another as we see the day approaching when we will meet him in the air. " But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief." 1 Thessalonians 5:4 </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-36190242196443113702010-05-07T21:59:00.001-05:002010-05-07T21:59:06.070-05:00How Do We Know We're In the Last Days?<span xmlns=''><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>"And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows." Mat. 24:</span><br /> <span style='font-size:14pt'>6-8 <br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Are we at what Christ described is being at the beginning of sorrows? If the "beginning of sorrows" mean the beginning of the final judgment of this earth by God commonly known as the tribulation period, then I would say it is at the door. Likewise, if the church goes before this happens, the rapture of the church is even closer! So, are we in the final days before the tribulation period? I believe so. Now let me be very clear in that I'm not setting dates nor when I say "final" does that mean tomorrow for several years, such as ten or even fifteen, are few compared to the whole time of the dispensation of grace which has lasted over 2,000 years so far. So let's look at some basic reasons why I feel we are getting very near the end. This is by no means exhaustive but hopefully it will get you and I both set to thinking and praying, getting ready for Christ's return so we won't be left behind.<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt; text-decoration:underline'>1948 is significant: <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>The year 1948 is a significant year for at least two reasons. <br /></span></p><ul><li><span style='font-size:14pt'>The first reason, and the one that really starts the clock ticking is that Israel became a nation. This happened officially on May 14, 1948 when the Knesset officially proclaimed Israel as a nation. <br /></span></li><li><span style='font-size:14pt'>The World Council of Churches officially came into existence in August 14, 1948 in Amsterdam. While it had been in various forms prior to that, it became an official world movement then, which began the world ecumenical movement that will one day be the super church of the false prophet. <br /></span></li></ul><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>When we look at the following scripture in Luke, we see that the fig tree has blossomed and all the other trees are in bloom as well. Israel is considered the fig tree. Read Luke 21:29-32. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>"<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled." <br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Notice it said in the last verse that this generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. It didn't mean that it would just be a generation period which is usually defined as a twenty year period, but that "it would not pass away." So how long should that generation last? We can look into the Word of God and get a pretty good idea. See what Moses says in Psalm 90:10. "The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away." This is just a thought: Eighty years from 1948 would bring us to 2028. <br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt; text-decoration:underline'>How do we know we are living in the last days?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Let me give you a few basic things that may help. Again, there is much more that can be written about each but I try to keep these short so I'll list these and keept them as concise as I can.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>1. Israel is our clock. (see above)<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> A. The tremendous burden that nations have for Israel and it's destruction. The powerful nations of the world, including the United States, are in a constant state of concern as to what to do with the little nation of Israel. Zechariah 12:3 "And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it."<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> B. The constant attention that little nation gets on the world stage. This nation, that is about the size of New Jersey, is constantly ont he world stage and one can hardly read the news for a day without its being mentioned, many times on the front page. I remember back in 1976 that I was at a meeting and someone prophesied that the day would come when God would be in direct control of the headlines. The meaning of course was that his direct concerns regarding his plan would be in focus. That is happening now as we see the drama unfold in the Middle East.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> C. The aligning of nations in preparation for the war outlined in Ezekiel 38-39. Whether you were for the Iraq war or not, one thing happened that needed to happen in order to make the war of Ezekiel 38-39 possible, and that was to neutralize Iraq. Iran, which is referred as Persia, as well as Gog and Magog, referring to Russia and other nations in the north are now in diplomacy. They are exchanging weapons and Russian is helping Iran. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> D. The drilling for oil in Israel. While there has never been much oil drilling in Israel in the past, there has become a renewed interest in drilling for oil as it seems to be pointed out in the scripture. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Deut. 33:24 "And of Asher he said, Let Asher be blessed with children; let him be acceptable to his brethren, and let him dip his foot in oil." <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Gen. 49:</span><br /> <span style='font-size:14pt'>25 "Even by the God of thy father, who shall help thee; and by the Almighty, who shall bless thee with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that lieth under, blessings of the breasts, and of the womb:" (<em>Joseph</em>) If oil is stuck in Israel by a greater quantity, it would change the whole playing field from an ecconomic standpoint on the world stage. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> E. The nations of the world, including the U. S. turning against Israel which will eventually usher in war and an eventual false peace and covenant with the Antichrist. Unfortunately, the United States is turning its back on Israel which can only mean problems for America. See the scripture below. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Gen. 12:3 "And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed."<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>2. From the technological sense we are close: <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> A. Man has the ability to communicate around the world in a split second which will eventually be used by the one world ruler for communicating to the world. For almost twenty years it has been possible to literally watch what was happening across the world while it was happening. We really witnessed this first during the war in Kuwait in 1991. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> B. The ability to provide a mark with a chip implanted. Again, companies have been able to produce this for several years.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Revelation 13:17 "And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name."<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> C. Science has advanced to the point of man is trying to become his own god and change his own destiny as well as control life and genes. How much longer will God allow man to play with elements that he has no business playing with? <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> D. It is said that knowledge doubles every 72 hours. That is amazing but it is also the sign of the last days. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Daniel 12:4 "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> E. Man has the ability to destroy himself and no doubt will unless God intervenes. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Mark 13:20 "And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days."<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>3. From the economic standpoint:<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> A. There is now a world banking system, a world economy, and soon a world banking tax.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> B. There is an ever increasing talk of switching to a one world monetary system. This, we are told, could be done in just a few weeks period of time. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> C. The ability to transfer money from one country to another within seconds will allow funds to easily be transferred within the world market. Again, this has been the case for several years now. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> D. The world financial base is gradually shifting from the Unites States to the revived Roman empire or the European Union (EU). While other nations may come into play, they are said to be in financial trouble themselves. <br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>4. The attitude of this culture and generally the who world is that there is a feeling of an impending crisis is coming. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> A. If you are a movie goer (which I'm not), you will no doubt recall many of the movies that Hollywood has produced lately that seem to point to disaster or man's cruelty. Consider movies such as Avatar or 2012. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> B. The global warming "crisis" as well as HINI which never materialized was bought by the public until it was discovered that the global warming crisis was really a scam. But, the public bought it hook, line, and sinker. Why? Again, there is a sense that something is coming.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> C. Man's general outlook as calling evel good and good evil, even in the name of political correctness is characteristic of the last days. Theese are " perilous" or dangerous times as described below in 2 Timothy 3:1-5<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>This know also, that in the <span style='text-decoration:underline'>last days</span> perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." incontinent incidentally means "without self control." See also Isaiah 5:20 "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!"<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>5. Look at the condition of the modern church.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> A. Most of the true church believes that Christ's return is near. While many will disagree on particulars and points of doctrine, there seems to be a fundamental belief and sense that Christ's coming is near. In words of prophesy we have been reminded several times that he is "even at the door."<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> B. There is an acquiring of wisdom and opening of understanding of the end time prophesies. This is due to the fact that many events have actually unfolded where were noted by the Old Testament prophets as well as God giving us a greater sense of the times by his spirit. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'> C. Growing of the apostate church and that of lukewarmness is surely a sign of the end being near. We are at the final period of the dispensation of grace which is the Laodicean period where most are just lukewarm. This means they are not ready to give it up, but yet not willing to be on fire for God. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Here is what Christ said to the Laodicean Church and to this age as well. <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>Revelation 3:15-17 "</span><br /> <span style='font-size:14pt'>I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:14pt'>So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 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:" This is the basic condition of the modern church. He advises them to do the following in verse 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." Then, in the next verse, he gives a warning. "</span><br /> <span style='font-size:14pt'>As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." Does this mean that he will chasten the lukewarm believers by taking them through the tribulation? I'll let you decide that but I don't believe that, when Christ comes back to take his church, he'll be taking up someone who is half hearted and has no faith. "</span><br /> <span style='font-size:14pt'>And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him." Genesis 5:24 If we want to go in the rapture, we are going to have to be like Enoch and walk with God. Truly this is a time of temptation and oppression with testing but we are going to have to be determined to get back up when we're knocked down by Satan. There is a remnant who are looking for his return and who will be ready. I want to be with that remant. I hope you do too. <br /></span></p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19758489.post-42215768551725381472010-04-18T14:25:00.001-05:002010-04-18T14:25:49.974-05:00Are We Limiting God?<span xmlns=''><p>"Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel." Psalm 78:41<br /></p><p>I challenge you to read the entire Psalm 78, or at least from verse one through verse 42. When you do, you'll see the familiar pattern of Israel which is that of receiving God's blessings, forgetting him, getting into trouble, then calling on him for help. Being a merciful God, he obliges and brings them out of trouble. Doesn't that sound like us? We receive God's blessing, then we get a little lax or cold, we get into trouble, we call on God, and in his mercy brings us out. I can think of this happening through my Christian life several times. No, I didn't go out into sin, but just got cold and careless about my relationship with him and didn't care if I felt his love and spirit or not, so long as I was doing my duty. But, what we don't realize is, when we act like this, we are limiting God. We are keeping the power of God from moving through our lives and we are also allowing sin to grow in our communities and country. " <span style='font-size:14pt'>Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.</span>" Ecclesiastes 8:11 <span style='font-size:14pt'>Men are not judged today in "Christian" America because of lack of power in the church. </span> God is unable to move through the church for deliverance of souls from hell, sickness, demon possession, because of our "limiting God." You may say, God can do anything he wants. Yes, he can but he has made the church and those who are a part of his church his tools for witnessing and vessels of the Holy Ghost for healing and the other gifts of the spirit, and demonic deliverance. <br /></p><p>The first thing we see is that Israel "turned back." The backslid or looked back from where they came. They had their hearts set in Egypt which is the world. "We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick:" Numbers 11:5 We turn back when we get our eyes on the world and forget the battle we are in. We get immersed in worldly things and turn back and lose sight of Christ. While we must work and live in this world, we must keep in Christ and know that he is first. " No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully." 1 Timothy 2:4<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>They then tempted God. They once asked, "Is God among us or not?" Usually, coldness sets in then lack of trust. " I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain." Galatians 2:21 The Galatians were turning back and began to turn again to the works of the law instead of grace. When we get cold, we get ritualistic and tend to do things just for duty's sake. Don't get me wrong, sometimes there is an oppression and we don't always feel the Holy Ghost so there are times that we just go forward, not on feelings but just because we know we need to. However, after a while victory should come and we should be able to break through that oppression by the power of his spirit. <br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The last thing is that, after looking back and getting cold and tempting God, they limited his power and work. This is what is happening in the church today and in many lives of professing Christians. But this is not the time to back up on God. Our nation is in trouble and the world is reeling. Christ's return is soon and we know not the day or hour. Now is the time for revival in the church that we can have revival in America! Let's not limit God but let him use us as willing vessels! <br /></p><p><br /> <span style='font-size:14pt'><br /> </span> </p></span>Roger Purdy, Sr.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14692194687564802861noreply@blogger.com0