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10月25日 Jumping AheadWell, I'm jumping ahead in the 'Armed and Dangerous' book today. The next topic was going to be accountability, and I WILL do that one, but I've chosen to jump ahead to another topic, death, in light of recent events.
A friend of mine recently had her father pass away quite suddenly (As is my understanding), and just his morning I found out that my aunt passed away last night quite suddenly in hospital. Upon reflection, my friend's father and my aunt are two of many people who die everyday...but you don't really think much of these things until it happens to you or someone you know. This post is for all those in mourning, but also can be used to prepare yourself, as much as one can prepare ones self, for the death of a loved one.
When Christians think of death, or even danger, one of the first verses that seems to come to mind is Psalm 23:4 "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff comfort me." But that seems more focused on the mourner, in the case of death. What verse came to my mind was one many hear, and even many non-Christians know where the verse is located. John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Christians have heard this verse so many times that we have almost become dull to it. But really read it again...whoever believes in Christ will NOT die...but have everlasting life.
So what does that mean, then, for Christians in mourning? Well, it depends on who just passed away.
If the person who passed away was a Christian, then don't mourn for that person who died. There will be mourning that you will not see them again, that you will miss their company and council, and there will be mourning for those experiencing that loss...but there is no need for mourning for the person who is passed. They are with Christ - free from the pain, sorrow, and sin of this world. And while you certainly WILL miss them (As is normal), do take comfort in the fact that they now reside with the Lord. Don't feel guilty about mourning your loss, that certainly isn't wrong (I'm not sure anyone would say it IS wrong), though take care that your mourning dooes not consume you. They have been called home and that can be a very sad thing, but there is still so much to be done here.
If the person who passed away was NOT a Christian...well then things change a little. First off, please don't be fooled by churches or groups who will tell you that everyone goes to heaven when they die. Scripture is very clear that Christ is the only way to salvation. Mark 16:16 ("He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."), John 14:6 ("I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."), and many other verses restate this fact. I know that seems kind of blunt and some people who ARE mourning and who read that may just stop reading at that point, but it is important that you don't gain hope in false salvation...because your loss will only be that much greater once you realize and see the truth. And for those who aren't mourning, who may have a loved one in the hospital who is near death and who isn't saved...now is the time to talk to them. Not later (Because there may not BE a later). Speak to them...tell them and talk to them about Jesus Christ and what he has done for them. It isn't for someone else to do. Don't think that someone else will do it...go and see them. There is a song by a Christian band, Casting Crowns, that speaks just of that situation:
Here I Go Again:
Father, hear my prayer
I need the perfect words Words that he will hear And know they're straight from You I don't know what to say I only know it hurts To see my only friend slowly fade away So maybe this time I'll speak the words of life With Your fire in my eyes But that old familiar fear is tearing at my words What am I so afraid of? Chorus: Cause here I go again Talkin 'bout the rain And mulling over things that won't live past today And as I dance around the truth Time is not his friend his might be my last chance to tell him That You love Him But here I go again, here I go again Lord, You love him so, You gave Your only Son If he will just believe; he will never die But how then will he know what he has never heard Lord he has never seen mirrored in my life This might be my last chance to tell him That You love him This might be my last chance to tell him That You love him You love him, You love him What Am I so afraid What am I so afraid What am I so afraid of? How then will he know What he has never heard I know this blog isn't on accountability (That'll be the next one), but that IS accountability. You have the power and opportunity to witness to somone the saving grace of Christ Jesus. You don't have to be a great speaker, you don't have to be very eloquent, you don't even need Bible verses memorized (Bring the Bible with you!)...you just need to love the Lord and trust in Him to give you the words to say. The person may or may not believe, but you have that obligation. And, to make things clear, despite what mormons, and some catholics, think, salvation is not availbable after death. There is nothing in scripture that says otherwise. Now, I'm not going to get into a 'point / counter-point' debate full of 'what ifs' when it comes to people who NEVER heard about God and Jesus and all that (If you want to discuss that, email me. I'll talk to you about it then), and, again, it may be hard to hear...but salvation is not available after death.
Whether the person was saved or not, let Christ be your comfort in all mourning. And let this prominant example of our mortality here on earth open your eyes to the fact that we aren't here for long. And whatever plans we make for tomorrow don't mean anything if we die today. So, since our time here IS short, use today to witness to others the saving grace of Christ Jesus. You don't need to see results, so don't be discouraged if no-one falls to their knees in repentance. Just plant the seed and let the influence of others, prayer, and the Holy Spirit make that seed grow.
And remember that seeking comfort in your brothers and sisters in Christ can also be a great help. Christ's love for you shines through the love that Christians have for each other (And, hopefully, others). So receive comfort from the body, that we may mourn with you and support you with prayer and love during your time of mourning.
If you are experiencing loss or any other burden for that matter, feel free to email me for prayer support as well as any other support that I can give.
Godbless,
Tim.
Questions? Comments? Need Prayer?
10月10日 A Reply for Dave and thoughts on AbuseHello to all 2 readers of this blog! I'm attempting to stay on top of my pledge to do at least one blog a week, so this week will be no different! The next topic in the book "Armed and Dangerous" is abuse and offers verses for both the abused, and the abuser. I will be addressing both, but after a quick response to Dave, my resident (It would seem!) athiest/evolutionist.
Dave left a comment on my last post on abortion that was quite long (As Dave often does) and therefore I'm not going to post the whole comment here for those who have not read it. I'll sum it up, or you can scroll down and check for yourself, it's easy. Before I begin, however, I'm very happy that Dave is dipping his toe into a theological and philisophical argument. Quite exciting, Dave!
Dave, basically, said that if God knows us BEFORE we are even born, then we must live in some place waiting for a 'shot' at life. Now, That seems rather short and I know Dave is probably thinking 'Hey! I said WAY more then that!' But, Dave, the entirety of the rest of your argument rests on the assumtion that we live somewhere as souls, or whatever, before we are born here on earth. Well, you'd be right IF I was mormon. Mormons have this idea that souls fly around heaven (OR Kolob or wherever mormons think they fly around) and choose to live on earth to earn heaven (Or some other twisted theology that isn't based on Scripture). I, quite obviously, am certainly NOT mormon. No Dave, we don't live somewhere before we are born. How does God know us then? Well, some might say that God is clairvoyant (Can see the future) and knows us that way, but that isn't right either. What both Dave's and the clairvoyant argument is doing is placing God WITHIN time, when God is not within time. God doesn't SEE the future or the past, God is IN the future and IN the past and IN the present. He sees us when we are young while at the same time seeing us when we are old WHILE seeing us in what we would call our present. Time was created by God, it doesn't govern Him. Now, to us that just seems mind blowingly impossible, but then again we aren't God (Sorry again, mormons, we aren't and never will be). Dave, you said that:
"Surely, then, every other potential person, ever, must also exist in that place, waiting for their chance at conception to come into the world. That would include many very similar (but slightly different) versions of Tim that would have resulted from a different sperm or different egg making your parent's child (and thus having different genetics)."
But that is also under the assumption that things like parents and grandparents and eggs and genetics are completely random to God. There is only one way in which things happen, only we don't know what way that will be. God knows what both you and I and everyone else will do tomorrow. He knows the choices we will make, making the outcome SEEM random to US (Because we don't know what will happen), but for God it is set (Though He can change it if He so wills). He knows. He knew who my parents would be and what genetics I would recieve before my great grand parents were born. Again, not because he could SEE what they would call the future, but because we was IN what they would call the future.
So while I am very impressed that you, Dave, thought about this along theological and philisophical lines, you've got the wrong idea by constricting the power of God by placing Him within the confines of time.
As for your argument that potentially lethal parasites and the like that live in our stomach show there there could not have been a 'perfect world', as ask you this: Why do they NOT harm me, then? What causes these lethal bacteria in my stomach to NOT kill me? The way my stomach is DESIGNED perhaps? Evolution is the process of an animal slowly and slightly changing over time in order to adapt to it's enviroment. Like more fur or fat in cold weather, or the longer neck of a giraffe in long grass to see its enemy. But, how would the bacteria in the stomach happen? Either the bacteria came first, or the special lining (Or whatever may protect our bodies) did. Now, the lining COULDN'T have come first, because there was absolutely no REASON for the protection (Being nothing bad in our stomach), but the if the bacteria came it would be lethal and kill us. And dead animals can't evolve. And, since I'm sure that Dave is ready to drop some 'bombshell' about how they evolved TOGETHER (Or something to that effect), how WOULD they evolve together? As you say, Dave, evolution takes MILLIONS of years to occur! This is the forming of a complete stomach to breakdown food using these bacteria (Which are lethal) to help us, which of course would have to develop right along side the rest of the digestive system (There is bacteria in the intestines too!). Doesn't make a lot of sense, Dave. So let me ask YOU a question (Since it seems more often then not that I am on the defence): How would genders evolve? The abiogenesis theory says that we (really basically) came from simple cells. These simple cells were self replicating (Produced a-sexually). So, how does an organism go from a-sexual reproduction into a gender based species? That is to say, how is it that one member of the species 'evolved' into the male while the other into the female? Why not stay a-sexual, seeing as you wouldn't be dependant on another animal for survival?
Anyways, onto 'Abuse':
Abuse comes in many different forms, and all are terrible. There is verbal abuse, mental abuse, sexual abuse, and physical abuse. All of those have the immense potential to seriously damage a person for life, and as Christians we should be very watchful of people in our congregations, neighbourhoods, and families (As well as ourselves) who are committing these terrible acts upon people.
"Armed and Dangerous" offers the following verses for abused people:
"Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28)"
"Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you (1 Peter 5:7)"
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths (Proverbs 3:5, 6)"
Giving things up to God reminds us that God is in control while easing our fears and anxiety. However, while giving things up to God means we don't worry about things, it does NOT mean that we just do nothing. ESPECIALLY in situations like abuse. If you are being abused, or know of someone who is being abused (Or abusing someone) in ANY of the ways mentioned above: SAY something. DO something. And before anyone drops the 'judge not lest ye be judged' line, remember that Christ said 'if your brother sins, rebuke him'. The Good samaritan didn't stop at the beaten man and say 'I'll give this up to God' and then left him there. He HELPED the man. To take a line from a not very christian movie 'Boondock Saints' (And from memory, so pardon me if it isn't perfect): 'We should all fear the actions of bad men. But there is something else that good men fear most: The INACTION of good men.' There has been so many families and lives RUINED by abuse in all its forms. So much could be avoided and so MANY could be helped if we as Christians STAND and help those hurt and broken. Whenever I hear about another young boy or girl who was sexually abused, or beaten, or teased at school to the point of suicide...I am filled with a deep sadness and anger. Anger, by the way, in it self isn't a sin. It is what we DO in our anger that is a sin. Christ Himself tipped over tables in the temple courts. He was angry. God got angry MANY times throughout the old testament (Those Isrealites just kept on complaining!). Christians have this idea that we are to just quietly sit off to the side and watch everything. Let me lift that veil off your eyes right now, because it is THAT idea that allows so much abuse to happen to the young and old of our congregations, families, and friends. And abuse isn't limited to physical, mental, verbal, or sexual. There are abuses of power as well. Pastors and leaders of churches who impose their unbiblical views and traditions on their churches. Christians, we need to remember that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and the SECOND greatest is to love your neighbour...and that INCLUDES protecting them.
The verses that "Armed and Dangerous" provideds for people who are doing the abusing center around husbands abusing their wives (Which, of course, is FLATLY denounced). But there is ONE verse that pertains to all:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22,23)"
If others confront you or you know that you are being abusive to someone, be it your family, friends, or co-workers, and whether it's physically, mentally, verbally, or sexually...you MUST seek help. God will forgive you if you ask it of Him, but forgiveness in and of itself doesn't stop you from sinning again. It will take self discipline, help from loved ones (Or a professional), as WELL as God's grace for you to stop your abusive ways. You first, however, must recognize your sin...because you cannot be helped and healed if you cannot even see the sickness.
If you need help and don't know who to turn to, please email me and I will do everything I can in order for you to get help...whether you are being abused or are finding yourself abusing others.
Godbless,
Tim
Questions? Comments?
My In-Box is always open:
10月2日 AbortionWell, like I said in my last post, I was going to go through a book of topics and verses (Armed and Dangerous...I recommend picking it up) and elaborate on each topic (Since the book itself doesn't...I still recommend picking it up). Well, wouldn't you know it the first one is a big one that has many people talking and debating: Abortion.
This really seems like a no-brainer to many Christians. Exodus 20:13 and Deuteronomy 5:17 really spells it out with "Thou shalt not kill". But THAT is where the debating begins. People will start bringing up semantics and use that just theologically justify the murder of children. What semantics? "When does life start?" They'll ask. "It isn't really murder if they aren't officially a person." Well, if you're a Christian, lets look to the Bible and see what God says about that:
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." Psalm 139:14-16
Now, before anyone who actually knows about theology and the scriptures tells me that David's psalms were for praise, and not instruction and law...let me direct you over to the book of Jeremiah, where God says to Jeremiah:
"Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." Jeremiah 1:5
God knows you before birth, and before conception. 'When does life start?' is a useless question to ask if you're a Christian, and makes absolutely no point whatsoever in the abortion debate. By following through with an abortion, you are taking human life that God has granted, and therefore are basically saying that you know better then God. And, if you really ARE a Christian, you know that is abolutely not true.
What about the other famous argument that I hear more and more: "Well, its my body so its my choice." Well, for the Christian, that argument is, again, completely moot. Let's turn again to the word of God:
"For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's."
Romans 14:8
"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"
1 Corinthians 6:19
The commonality between these verses is QUITE clear: That you are not your own, but belong to God. Even non-Christians belong to God, despite their unbelief (You heard me, Dave!). The beginning of the Heidelberg Catachism sums it up QUITE well, in response to the question 'What is your only comfort in life and death?': That I am not my own, but belong body mind and soul to my faithful saviour Jesus Christ. Now, the answer goes on (And I recommend looking it up to read it) but that opening part really puts it quite nicely. So, no, it isn't your body. You belong to God, and therefore so does the life growing within you.
Coming with abortion, however, is more then the debate of 'is it ok?'. There are all these 'what if' situations that try and justify the murder of Children. Like rape and incest, for example. Well, what about those situations? I'm not trying to downplay the horrific and terrible crime of rape, but that is still not a justification for an abortion. The child didn't rape you, the man did (I don't call the rapist a father, because that is a title EARNED, not gained through making a child), and the child should certainly not be killed for the crimes of the father. The exact same applies for the case of incest (Which WOULD be rape...but if it ISN'T, that is a WHOLE other blog). It's murder, plain and simple.
Much of what I've said (That is, EVERYTHING that I've said) applies to Christians. So what about non-Christians? Why should they not get abortions? Well first of, and nearly every 'pro-choice' person I've ever talked to agrees, abortion isn't a form of birth control. You don't get an abortion because you had a 'good time' and 'forgot'. There are so many options for birth control (Waiting until marraige is one of them! HINT HINT!) that you really have NO excuse other then 'I couldn't wait'.
But, aside from that, when is it ok to abort a child? I over heard a man on the radio (Todd Friel, I think) ask a woman this, and the conversation went something like this:
Would be ok to abort a child 1 month into the pregency?
(The woman said 'yes')
What about 4 months in?
(Again, 'yes')
What about with 1 month until birth?
('yes') 1 week until birth? ('yes')
1 hour?
(She was silent now)
What about 1 hour AFTER birth?
Funny how if you kill a child 1 minute after birth, its murder, but one minute BEFORE birth and its an abortion. And for those who are all up in arms and read to throw down an SCATHING comment or email, let me challenge you to watch something first. I've actually seen footage of a live birth abortion, and I challenge you to watch the same. You sit and watch that video and tell me its not murder.
Now, before I end this very long blog, I want to add one thing. If you have already had an abortion, there is forgiveness for it. It is not an unforgivable sin. Christ died for the salvation of all sins, and if you seek his forgiveness you will be forgiven. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Know that you've sinned, repent to Christ, recieve His grace and mercy, and "...Go and sin no more" (John 8:11).
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments?
9月28日 Everything Old is New Again"I swore that I would scratch and claw my way back up to the surface of the living...AND I HAVE DONE IT!"
Well, it has been far too long, let me assure you. I originally decided to merely take a month or so off to clear my head and focus on school work and job work for a while without the mental distractions of my blog and the debates happening therein. Recently, however, I remembered my lost little hobbie of blogging and, much to the pushing of friends and my girlfriend ('The Mrs.' as I affectionally call her), I am starting this hobbie up once more. Now, I still have quite the busy life going on right now, so updates may not be a frequent as some may like (Phht, as if I have fans) but I will do my best to make sure that I get at least ONE post a week up on this thing.
Oh, and a big virtual high-five to the first person who can tell me where that quote I opened with comes from.
During my absence I certainly have not been lax in my work for the Lord. Which, therefore, means that I certainly have not weakened in my faith. If anything, I've only become stronger and more resolved in my dedication to the Lord (Sorry, Dave! Just kidding, I'm not sorry). This has only been possible through His grace, the friends He has put in my life, and the amazing woman He put in my life who challenges me constantly with the way she loves and serves the Lord in her daily life. Let me tall you that anyone can stand and soapbox about God, but it takes a strong person to truly live as an example to others. She is my example, and I love her dearly (Fall 2007, Lord willing!).
Now, this wouldn't be a post at all if I didn't actually say something to challenge anyone who might read this to live a more active Christian lifestyle. While, at the same time, reaffirming that there is only one God, one Faith, and one Salvation...and that belongs solely Christ Jesus, our Lord and Saviour and Redeemer, whom without there would be no hope.
So what, then, is my challenge to Christians? Live by example. Seems almost too simple and old fashioned, with 'living by example' and 'being the light of the world' being extremely familiar sermon topics. We've all heard it before, so why hasen't it sunk in? For those who are new to this blog and have stumbled here by accident (Or on purpose, Lord willing), please be assured that I am in now way saying that I live that example. I am as much a sinner as any non-Christian. So this post is for my benefit, as well as for every Christian who reads it. Living by example is how people KNOW we are Christians. Once you become a Christian, once you repent of your sin and become baptised you don't suddenly get this neon sign that follows you around saying that you love Jesus. There isn't some big tatoo or brand put on your forehead. It isn't the cross around your neck, or the Jesus fish on your car, or the Christian slogan on your shirt. What shows others that you ARE a Christian is the life you live. It shows at home, at school, at work, on vacation, when you're with friends, when you're with strangers, and when you're alone. It shows and it looks for no recognition other then that people will see how you act, and give glory to the Father in heaven. People do take notice when you act, and as the scriptures say: Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them (Matthew 7:20). So stay alert to your actions and words, pray for help, and don't put yourself in situations where you KNOW you'll mess up. The last one seems ultra common sense, but it's important to remember.
I'm planning to do a series of posts on a variety of subjects soon. My best bud Luke let me borrow a book of his entitled 'Armed and Dangerous'. It covers many topics and gives Scripture verses regarding them all. But, it ONLY gives scripture verses, not advice or anything like that. SO, I'm planning on going through the entire book and every topic and touching on each. We'll see how THAT goes.
In the mean time, its good to be writing again.
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments?
4月7日 The narrow road...I was reading a blog of a fellow Christian who was expressing remorse over the fact that they keep falling to sin. So, I've got to say, I hear ya. Every Christian SHOULD have that problem. Now, I'm not saying that every Christian should go out and make bad, sinful choices. No no, not at all. BUT, if you are saying that you are a Christian and you are finding that being a Christian, and living like a Christian should, is EASY for you to do...then you are doing something wrong. You will always get angry, you will always lie, you will always SIN as long as you are living on this earth. And to think that you can stop, is not only impossible, but is un-Biblical. If man could get to a point where they did not sin anymore then we would not need Christ. His death and resurection would not be neccessary for the salvation of man, and let me tell you, that it most certainly certainly is.
Even as Christians bad choices will continuously be made, despite that desire for a reformation in ones life that leaves behind that sinful nature and replaces it with that pure, completely Christ-centered worldview and lifestyle. Some fellow Christians don't agree with me. They'll say we CAN reach a level where we won't sin any more, and let me assure you that is not true. I'm often quoted Romans 6: 1-4...
What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
This, actually, makes my point. Christ did NOT come to make bad men good. Christ came to make dead men live. And when we become born again, and alive in Christ, we become dead to sin. Dead to sin does NOT mean we don't sin, dead to sin means that we are dead to the eternal consequences of sin (That is, hell) and it means we are dead to the way sin masks itself. By this I mean, we are far more AWARE of sin once we realize the law of Christ. Paul in Romans 7:7 says he did not KNOW sin, but by the law. The law (word) of God exposes sin for what it is: The perversion of God's creation, the denial of God's sovereignty, and the decontruction (Or even complete removal) of shame and morality.
The road to salvation is described in the Bible as narrow (Matthew 14:7) and hard to get through. I've also heard about the road being winding and difficult. And I was thinking...the road isn't winding...we are. The road to salvation, the road to God is as straight as an arrow. There is one road, one direction. It is us, as humans in our sinful nature and desires, that cannot walk straight.
Try this: goto a beach and draw a long, straight line in the sand. Then, standing at one end, spin around very fast for 10 seconds. Once you have done that, immediately try and run along that line. Once you have regained your composure, look back and see how you did not run along that line straightly at all. You may have crossed over it a few times, you may have fallen, and you have have ended up far away from the end of the line. That dizziness obscured your vision and your balance. No matter how determined you are, no matter how hard you try, that dizziness has such a hold on you that you will not, and can not, run straight.
THAT is the effect of sin on our walk with God. It blurs our sight, it knocks us down, it leads us off the straight course of God. And no matter HOW determined man is, and no matter how hard man tries...sin will best man every time. THIS is why we need Christ. THIS is why we need the forgiveness, the grace, and the mercy of Christ. Because if we repent and have that forgiveness, then when we've run that line and fallen and stumbled and failed...he will be there to take our hand, clear our vision, restore our balance, and lead us to the Father.
Amen.
Godbless,
Tim
Questions? Comments?
3月30日 For HizzleWHOA its been a long while. I really have no excuse, as my college was on strike for 3 weeks (Stinkin' teachers being greedy again). But I'm here now, and I haven't forgotten about DA BLOG. I also notice the number of comments left in my absence. Dave, my resident athiest and evolutionist (Heh...resident athiest...like that Dave?) asked me question a while ago that I didn't answer for a mix of laziness, school work, and other work. But I'll answer them now!
So, Dave's questions were as follows:
1) Does God want people to goto Heaven?
2) At what point does a person's 'soul' become instilled in their body?
3) Are Non-Christian people sinner from the moment of birth (Or even conception) or do they actually have to sin to become sinners?
Good questions Dave, lets answer them.
Does God want people to goto Heaven? Now answering this can unleash a stab either way. If I say simply 'yes' then Dave will probably retort with something like 'Then why doesn't he just let everyone goto heaven? He's God, he can do anything'. And if I say 'No' then Dave might respond with something like 'But doesn't God love us? If God is so loving, then why doesn't he want everyone to goto Heaven?' So, Dave, the answer isn't simply yes or no. God does love us, but God wants us to obey Him. So in a sense God DOES want us to goto Heaven, but if we disobey His word, and/or don't give Him (who created us and gave us life) any recognition then we don't deserve Heaven. Now not ONE person can succeed in living the way God calls us to in his word. Not one. Only Christ did, and he's God (Sorry Mormons and Jehova's Witnesses...you're wrong). So that means we ALL deserve hell, not heaven. Christ came, thankfully, and sacraficed himself (As perfect and sinless as he was) and took the burden of all sin, and He did that of love for us. Well I'm kind of veering off a little bit, so let me sum this up: God loves us and wants us to goto heaven, but if we don't obey Him (Or seek forgiveness for NOT obeying Him) or live as He commanded or love him back then we don't deserve Heaven and God won't give it to us.
At what point is a person's soul instilled in their body? This is kind of a weird question, Dave. And, also, rather unanswerable. People tend to think of a soul as our connection with 'the spiritual realm'. The way God sees or knows us. Well, God has ALWAYS known us, long before birth and long before conception. Psalm 139:16 says "your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." If this question was asked by anyone else, I'd think they were trying to make a point about abortions or something like that. Trying to figure out if its ok or what have you. I guess the answer could be conception...but I'd say that isn't entirely accurate. I'd say always. Maybe not what you're looking for, but thats my answer.
Are Non-Christian people sinner from the moment of birth (Or even conception) or do they actually have to sin to become sinners? Ahh yes, actually a pretty popular question. Well Dave, we are born sinful. Paul refers to the 'sinful nature' all throughout his letters to the churches. Now, I can see questions about still borns and SID sydrome cases and four year olds getting hit by cars and do they goto hell because they are sinful? Well there is something to be said about the innocence of a child. Christ said, about children, that 'the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these'. There comes a time in every person's life where they begin to understand and make their desicion when it comes to God. Paul wrote that "When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me." This isn't a set age, only God knows. And, Dave, only God will say who goes to Heaven and hell. God's word, the Scriptures, tell us how we ought to live and treat one another and it tells us God's punishment for those who don't follow Him. But God makes the final say. And, yeah there is grace. God didn't HAVE to send His son to die for our sins, and he certainly doesn't have to forgive us when we sin over and over and over again every single day. But he does by his grace and mercy. And it IS a Trial. Not in the traditional sense that we can defend ourselves because we can't. We've broken God's perfect law and the wages of sin is death. And unless we've recieved forgiveness and, therefore, pardon from Christ then we'll be found guilty of His law and condemned. So, since I veered off again, lets sum up the answer to this queston: EVERYONE is sinful by nature from birth. I don't know what you meant by 'non Christian people'. I'm just as sinful as the next guy.
And, Dave, I've got to admit that I'm quite impressed with the way you have clung for dear life onto theorys that are really vague for being 'scientific fact'. You know Dave, I have nothing against science. I've said that before, I obviously didn't make it clear enough. Science? NO problem. Evolution? Yeah, I've got a problem. Try asking www.drdino.com some questions. You probably won't, but give it a shot. I've been open to evolution and its totally unconvincing. Try being open that it could be wrong.
And thanks! Life is going well for me!
Godbless,
Tim
Questions? Comments?
2月22日 Ok, something had to be saidThis is going to be short...I think.
I just read THIS news article:
United Press International
Nearly 450 Christian churches in the United States are celebrating the 197th birthday of Charles Darwin Sunday. The churches say Darwin's theory of biological evolution is compatible with faith and that Christians have no need to choose between religion and science, the Chicago Tribune reported. "It's to demonstrate, by Christian leaders and members of the clergy, that you don't have to make that choice. You can have both," said Michael Zimmerman, dean of the College of Letters and Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, who organized the Evolution Sunday event.
http://www.cbs47.tv/news/weird_news/story.aspx?content_id=A44F1690-382A-4183-9C21-9AD2DDD49AC5
Ok, let me say that evolution is NOT compatible with Christian faith. And it is NOT a choice between religion and science (Dave, leave this alone...we've gone through this all before). All this tells me is how dire the situation of the Christian Church is when they don't even believe the first chapter of the Bible. The Bible is either ALL true, or not true at all...and let me tell you that its all true. You can't pick and choose and rip out parts of the Bible to believe in...thats called idolatry. You're making up a God to suit YOU and your already pre-concieved notions of life and death. That won't work, trust me. IF you think you can believe both in Christianity AND evolution...you're wrong. You can't. Plain and simple. Is anyone else blown away by this??
Godbless.
Questions? Comments?
..Well thats true for YOU...What happens when you die?
Apparently, its whatever you want it to be. I find it funny how many times I talk to people about religion and faith, and they all think that they are radical thinkers because they all come up with this little beauty: "Whatever you believe, is true for you. So what happens to you die is whatever you believe." Wow. Thats great, I mean just great. I don't know WHAT I was thinking! I'm just going to start worshipping my pen. Yup, I'm going to pray to and worship my pen. The mighty BIC! And, when I die, I'll go to BIC heaven where I'll enjoy a pen-like happiness for the rest of eternity. Now, for those who aren't as quick as they'd like, I was being sarcastic. Praying to and worshipping a pen is, of course, ridiculous. But do you know what even MORE ridiculous? People say that its true. I'll bring that analogy up with these people, and they'll say 'yeah, thats true.' Can you believe THAT??
Now, whats wrong with this 'everyone is right' worldview is that it cannot work. If I am right, then everyone else is wrong. I believe (That is: I KNOW) that The Bible is the word of God, that it is totally true 100%, and that those who do not repent of their sins (Not JUST believe...but repent) will NOT goto heaven. They will (Sadly, I'm not happy about this) goto hell when God judges the living and the dead. Now, I'm either right or wrong. I can't be sort of right. I can't be 'right for me'. If I goto heaven, but everyone else goes to their own little heaven or afterlife, then I'm wrong. But that seems to be the taboo, saying someone is wrong. People can't be wrong in this new age of whatever you feel theology. Well I hate to break it to you, but yes you can.
If you believe in reincarnation, you're wrong. I'm sorry, but its true. Reincarnation just doesn't work. If we get reincarnated as just people, then where are all these new souls coming from (Because the population of the world is certainly bigger now then it has ever been)? And if we get reincarnated as animals too, then where are all these TONS of new souls coming from? Well, I've got an answer: Its bunk. Yeah, yeah its baloney. What is it based on? Who came up with that? Where is THAT written?
Mormon (Ahh the mormons) = wrong. Sorry guys, you're totally wrong. WAY off. I mean honestly: Kolab? Look Mormons, if salvation is written in and available with the Bible...why do we need the book of Mormon? I mean really? Becoming gods? Show me a BIBLE verse that supports THAT.
I'm not trying to be mean or cruel, I'm really really not. I don't hate anyone who isn't Christian, but I DO worry about them...because on the day of judgement they'll be quite surprised. And Christians: Don't be afraid to say you're right...you are. Stand firm in that truth, and support eachother.
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments? Hate Mail?
2月15日 Cartoons of DOOM!So, everyone even remotely connected with the outside world has heard about the Cartoons of the Muslim Prophet Mohammad that is causing such a hullabaloo. This, of course, really bugs me.
First it bugs me that some (Not all) Muslims are getting outright VIOLENT over this. Look guys, I understand that this guy is sacred to you, but suck it up. Do you realize how many times Christ has been depicted and spoken about in a rude and blasphemous way? Now, I do get upset about that, no question. But NEVER would I spark a violent riot or burn down buildings, and I hope NO Christian would do that (I HOPE, though I think there would be some who would...but they aren't really Christians). And do you realize how BAD you are making yourselves out to be to the world? I don't view you as people standing up for right, I view you as an unruly MOB who is destroying not only buildings, but the world's respect for the Muslim community.
Now, to the Muslims who are NOT rioting or threatening violence: Thank you. I DO understand that the prophet is sacred to you, and I think its wrong who they have depicted him in an insulting manner. I'll sign any petition and speak out that those comics are not appropriate and should be removed. And I applaude the Muslim people who are taking that initiative by writing letters, circulating petitions, and making calls to let their voice be heard. I wish more Christians were as ready to stand up and shout when Christ is depicted in a blasphemous way.
And, finally, to the people who made these comics: What are you thinking? I mean honestly. This isn't exercising your freedom of speech, this is you hiding behind your 'artistic medium' (THATS a load of crap) to shout out your ridiculous ideas of a religious group. I'll bet dollars to dimes that the people who made these comics would never DARE stand on a street corner holding the cartoons up and shouting out what they mean because they KNOW the reaction they'd get. Its wrong, its (Obviously) hurtful, its disrespectful, and its downright cowardly.
I don't agree with the Muslim faith. We have very differing theological worldviews. But I am called by Christ to love my neighbour, and I hope all Christians can not only see this situation and see how wrong it is...but also make us more aware of how God and Christ are depicted in our culture. I don't like it! Its straight up offencive! And we shouldn't stand for it anymore! Let the Christian voice of Truth be heard in this age of humanism.
Godbless,
Tim
Questions? Comments?
2月6日 Wake up CallWHOA its been a LONG time since I blogged!! Almost a month!! WOO! Sorry, school has been quite busy as well as visiting Gabrielle and her visiting me. But here it is!! And Dave, I'll answer your questions soon!
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you. Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men. At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. (Titus 2:11 - Titus 3:7)
A friend of mine recently asked me if I would consider being an elder in my church. Me, being only 21 years old, had to really think about it. So I went to scripture to read what it had to say about being an elder and came to the book of Titus. This book, for me, is a very under-read book of the Bible...so when I came across the passage above I was floored. What an amazing passage, and a profound message to Christians young and old. For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you. (Titus 2:11-15)
At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
I pray I can live in reflection of that love and mercy.
Godbless, Questions? Comments? 1月9日 A Great Bad ExampleOk, this really bugs me. Christians are already getting enough flak from liberalists who deem the mere existance of Christianity insulting, as well as the steady rise of humanism and self-worship, an of course lets not forget the watering down of the gospel for the appealing of the masses and distorting of scripture by cults who claim to be Christian (Oh you crazy mormons, jehova's witnesses, and 7th day adventists). But now, Christians have got to say really really stupid things on TV that just gets everyone mad at our worldview in general. And these things aren't even true!
Pat Robertson, a Tele-evangelist, says that Ariel Sharon's stroke (The Prime Minister of Isreal had a major stroke, for those who don't watch the news) was the work of God. Oh Pat, please...just be quiet. First of all, his basis for this is because Sharon pulled out of the Gaza Strip and left that land for the palestinians. Of course, according to Pat, that land is God's land and "...God has enmity against those who ‘divide my land.'” (Thats a direct quote) Now Pat gets this from the book of Joel, Chapter 3. Pat, the inheritance that is spoken of is that of Jacob, the people of Isreal...the OLD covenant. We are living in the new covenant of God, Pat. The messanaic times. Otherwise we would live by eye for an eye, not turn the other cheek. We would sacrafice lambs and cows for the forgiveness of sins rather then asking Christ for forgiveness through his final sacrafice. But we aren't in the old covenant of God, are we Pat?
Even so, Pat. WHY would you even say something like that? Even IF you believed it (WRONG), why would you say something like that? When the sick were brought to Christ, did he say: 'Ohh, well this is because you upset God when you did this or that.' No, of course not. He had compassion on them and healed them. No words of woe, no 'well, its because you're bad.'...He just healed them.
AND BESIDES Pat! ALL Land is God's land! You think that God's land is limited to Isreal? Everything belongs to God! Every hill, valley, sea, desert, forest and swamp...its all His. Look Pat, whether or not you believe something like that is besides the point...is what you are saying reflective of Christ's message? What would Jesus have said?
Come on Pat, think man.
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments?
1月5日 All sinners, equally forgivenA friend of mine and myself went out for lunch today. And we were talking about different little bits of theology and he brought up a quote he heard somewhere. It was 'The more suffering one has before they come to Christ, the better the testimony.' So, basically, if you have a horrible life before you come to christ, your tesimony will be better to hear then the guy who didn't have many addictions or criminal problems. Well, I've got to say that I really didn't like that at all. It bugged me. Its a very humanist view on someone's testimony.
Godbless,
Questions? Comments? 1月2日 You brood of vipers...Wow! Its been a while since I blogged. Sorry! very little internet connection at my house...plus I've been wroking at the radio station a lot this break! BUT NOW I've got one, so lets get started!!
I'm going to blog today about a couple that I know that will remain nameless for privacy reasons. This couple had been married about 5 or 6 years and have been having marraige problems. Recently, the man cheated on his wife with another woman. They are getting a divorce now, and the man is still with this other woman...who is now expecting a child. The man knows that his actions were wrong, and that he made a mistake...but we actually won't be talking about that this blog. We are actually going to be talking about the woman's church and their response to this whole situation.
They have basically shunned the man, and all but kicked him out of the church with harmful words, (To him and behind his back) and glances, and body language. He doesn't go there anymore. Now, was that the RIGHT thing to do? Hopefully people will agree when they say NO. That is NOT the right thing to do. Christ said the greatest commandment was to love the Lord with all your soul, strength and mind. Christ then said that the SECOND greatest commandment was to love your neighbour as yourself. I find that many 'Christians' are forgetting this. Did this man make a mistake? Of course he did! I would never deny that, or even defend his actions. But we aren't talking about his mistake. Fellow Christians! Listen! WE DO NOT CONDEMN PEOPLE. We do NOT control their salvation, God does. But we DO control OUR responses to their sin. I do not agree with homosexuality. Its a sin, and I'm not afraid to share that with anyone. But, I would NEVER kick a gay man or lesbian woman out of a church...I wouldn't shun them, yell at them, hate them, or hurt them. That isn't Christ's message of love, now is it? People like to focus on God's judgement, but let me tell you that you have no control over God's judgement. In reference to this man and his actions of adultery, lets look to a surprisingly similar story in scripture (John 8:1-11):
But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" "No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."
Now, these people were ready to stone this adulteress to DEATH. KILL her because she had sinned. And what did Christ do? Did he strike her down? No. Now, did he strike THEM down for their arrogance? No. He simply said that only the one who is blameless can blame. So, these people in the church aren't trying to kill the man physically...But they are killing him spiritually! Because of their actions, he no longer goes to church. Is THAT God's message? Is that loving your neighbour? Now, again, this isn't accepting sin, this isn't PERMITTING sin. This is simply a compassionate love in light of sin. Christ himself said "Neither do I comemn you." BUT he ALSO said "Go now and leave your life of sin." See, Christ didn't condemn the woman...but he did tell her to stop her life of sin. He SAVED her from DEATH...like he did you and me, and pointed her toward life. By ALL RIGHTS he should have struck her dead, for the wages of sin IS death...but thats not why Christ came. Christ came to forgive sin...to die for YOUR mistakes...not to kill all those unworthy. And you should thank the Lord for that, because we'd all be dead. Lets look one more time to scripture to bring this to a close (Matthew 18:23-35):
"Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. "The servant fell on his knees before him. 'Be patient with me,' he begged, 'and I will pay back everything.' The servant's master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go. "But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii. He grabbed him and began to choke him. 'Pay back what you owe me!' he demanded. "His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, 'Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.' "But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. When the other servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed and went and told their master everything that had happened. "Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."
The first servant is like that church. They knew they were sinful when they came to God, and begged for forgiveness. And God sent his only begotten son to die for their sins. But now, when the man sinned, they no not forgive. They don't even wait for the man to ask for it! They condemn! Where is the message of Christ's love there? Where is the forgiveness? Where is the compassion? God does not want us to love sin. We HATE sin. But God DOES want us to love sinners.
If you cannot forgive those who sin (Against you or otherwise)...why should God forgive you when you sin?
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments?
12月13日 A call to arms...lift high your prayersBrothers and Sisters in Christ, something has come to my attention.
I'm on the mailing list for the 'Gospel for Asia', where the word of God is spread to the countries that haven't received it yet. I have recently received numerous emails describing a church in the small Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. 60 new believers had been threatened with death by radical hinduists if they did not convert back to hinduism. Their pastor was beaten badly and was told that, unless he and the other 60 took part in a 'conversion ceremony', they would be burned to death. Well due to police intervention (And God of course), the ceremony was dropped and the people spared. But now there is a new problem. The church has been forcefully taken over by the hindus, and turned into a hindu temple. The pastor and his family have been kicked out of their home of 25 years and are living with relatives. Local authorities are doing nothing, and the local leader of the hindus is threatening a massive village by village campaign to force Christians to convert to hinduism.
The whole story is here: http://www.gfa.org/gfa/newsupdate121205
Now I bring this up in hopes that we, as a community of believers, will be able to pray for a quick and peaceful resolution to this problem. But I also bring this up as an example. An example of the persecution that fellow Christians are facing in parts of the world that aren't as...liberal as where we live. These people need prayer. If we aren't there to physically help them in their daily lives, the absolute least thing we can offer is prayer (Which is no small thing!). And be prepared, because there will be a time where something like this will happen to Christians everywhere. In light of the liberalist workdview being adopted by the current generation, two things will happen: A watered down version of the Gospel will take over as the 'new christian' (Which isn't Christian at all), and the old Christian (Read: TRUE Christian) will be dubbed as a bigot and outdated and hated by the people who call themselves 'accepting'.
Funny how I can already see that happening.
Pray for those who suffer for the faith, and prepare yourself to do the same.
Clouds gather on the horizon...the storm approaches...
Come what will, I've got Christ behind me.
Godbless,
Tim
Questions? Comments?
12月6日 Sowing seeds...and loving itFaith is a muscle.
It must be worked...it must be used in order for it to grow in strength. If Faith is ignored and not used, it grows weak, and dies.
A dead Faith, a weak Faith, is useless.
For when strain comes, and Faith is called,
It will buckle under the strain of temptation, of doubt, and of sin.
But if Faith is strong and hardy, then that weight will be but a trifle.
So called burdens will be cast off as an insect buzzing the ear...
A mere annoyance.
Faith sustains us, and leaving it to weaken and die...
Is death.
When I went to church on Sunday, there was a passage written on the cover of the bulletin. John 1:5 "The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it." Wow...what an amazing yet simple passage. I had a huge conversation on the previous Friday with a girl in my class. We talked about drinking at first, but then it slid over into theology...and you know what? She didn't get it. Not many in my classes (That I've talked to) do. This simple notion of sin, repentance, forgiveness, and life is lost on them...and no amount of talking seems to be getting through. You know what my problem is though? I'm expecting too much right away. I'm hoping to see that change...that spark right in front of me. I'm hoping to see that evidence that my witnessing isn't in vain. I'm wanting to plant the seed, water it, and reap the harvest. Content...Content is what I must be in just sowing seeds. I may be called to water, I may be called to reap, but I cannot frown at sowing...because without the seed there can be no harvest. Thats big. Thats huge! Let me say that again: Without the SEED, there can be NO harvest. And seeds aren't just big theological discussions...seeds aren't just wearing a cross or Christian T-Shirt...seeds aren't just tracts...seeds are the reflection of Christ's love for you, to other people. Thats another big one! SEEDS are the REFLECTION of CHRIST'S LOVE for YOU, to OTHER PEOPLE. Ever heard of 'pay it forward'? Where you do a good deed to someone because someone did something good to you first? Well guess what? That movie stole it from God. Christ did not just 'do something nice', he did something REMARKABLE out of his love for us.
...pay THAT forward.
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments?
11月28日 Who will go and show them the way?Some friends and I were eating at Montana's Saturday night when we ran into a friend of ours and her agnostic friend from work. WELL it was a great conversation of faith and theological understanding. MAN! I LOVE those converstations. At the end, when they left, I gave her a tract I had (Always got 'em!) and promised to talk to her later about it.
So what is this post all about? Well, its about stepping out! Its about being the salt and light for this world, because let me tell you that things aren't getting better. For those of you in a secular school or enviroment, maybe you know what I'm talking about. I was eating lunch today, and a girl was saying how she was looking for the next guy she wanted to sleep with. Ok, gross. Even if I wasen't Christian I wouldn't touch that.
We (As Christians) have a job to be a solid rock in this sea of degredation! Many seem to be content just to be tossed by the waves and do what they want, but unless they take hold of the ropes we throw them then they'll either drown in their own inaction, or be dashed on the rock.
BUT we have to throwing those ropes! We can't just stand on the rock and look into the waters! We've got to get everyone out! They are DYING, people, and we have the cure! But does that really hit us? Can we fathom how many aren't saved? Its HUGE! Waah....I mean, I know I blog this alot...but we've got a heck of a lot of work to do.
Lets pray about this, and I'll come up with a more original blog topic.
Godbless.
Tim
Comments? Questions?
11月22日 Awww, I don't WANNA get up! It won't matter just once...My friends and I were talking the other night about lukewarmness and lazyiness (Did you know that the term lukewarm is only said once, in Revelation, in the NIV?) in Christianity. Lazy Christian...What is that really? What defines a lazy Christian? Well, lets take a little quiz! 1) Do you goto church?
Now Christianity is a growing process, and people who are into those things will have to grow out of them (Because becoming a Christian isn't an INSTANT transformation...for some it is, and thats great, but not everyone). But effort must be made. If one expects progress to be made in their walk, and they are wondering why 'God isn't speaking to them anymore' then they have GOT to look at how they are living, and if that living glorifying to God. Come on, I know 'Christians' who goto strip clubs and get plastered...and see nothing wrong with that. Do they even READ the Bible anymore? Is Christianity just something they call themselves in order to please their parents? Or get chicks (Does that work? Because it certainly doesn't work for me)? And then athiests and agnostics throw stuff like that back in the face of REAL Christians (Because they LOVE having new material, the crusades thing is getting old).
Godbless. 11月15日 The cure of a lifetimeAs I walk the halls of my school, I pass people talking about sex, about drugs, about drunkness, about fighting, about abortions, and all the while using my Lord's name as a filth word.
All I am is filled with a sadness
...a sadness and a resolve.
This world is dying, and we are seeing it first hand in our schools, on our streets, in our homes, in our media, in our governments, in our churches, in places nearby, and in places far away.
People are too fat while people are starving.
People waste water while people are dying of thirst.
People live in huge homes while people have no homes.
People have piles of clothing while people have nothing to wear.
People have plenty of money while people have none.
People know the saving grace of Christ while people haven't a clue.
I challenge you, the church, and myself in the fixing of these problems, because as Christians we should settle for nothing less.
This world is dying of a terminal illness...and we've got the cure.
Who will go for us?
I will...will you?
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments?
11月3日 Come one!! Come all!!Now this does not happen very often! That is a person asking me a theoligical question. Mostly I get athiests who like to peg me with scientific information that still doesn't add up (Ahh Logan and Dave, I love you guys). But BEHOLD! Theology! Someone screen-named 'Rembrandt van Rijn' posted this interesting, yet saddening comment:
"Hey Tim, I used to love your blogs, I have recently found Christianity to be untrue though. I'd like to see you tackle one of the big issues that drew me away from the Church: there doesn't seem to be equal opportunity for each person on earth to find Jesus, yet there has to be if God is just. I look forward to reading your future blogs."
Well Rembrandt, lets talk about that 'equal opportunity' and what you mean by that. I'm guessing you're talking about countries and such who don't allow the spreading of the Gospel and who imprison or kill Christians (Or one, then the other). So, how can God allow this to happen to his people? I think thats what you meant, so I'll address that first (I'll try other approaches in a minute).
Now this issue doesn't just stick to the question of 'Why does God allow bad things to happen to his people?' but also the question of 'Why does God allow bad things to happen?'. Well, quite simply: Sin. You see, when satan first tempted Adam and Eve in the garden, and they disobeyed God, they brought sin into this world. Sin corrupts men and creation, distorting what God deemed good. Now, this doesn't answer the question, I know that...bear with me. You see, God forgave Adam and Eve. BUT that didn't mean that they were totally off the hook, did it? No, sadly they had to live with the consequences of their actions and were removed from the Garden. You see, while God IS merciful, he is also a judge (And a good one at that). He will forgive, but that doesn't mean that the world will be flipped upside down to fix what you've caused. If two teens have premartial sex and the girl gets pregnant, they CAN be forgiven (If, of course, they ask for it). But that doesn't mean the baby is going away. It's there now, and they must live with their actions. Now, that STILL doesn't fully answer that question does it? Well, then lets elaborate a little more: God made man with a free will. We aren't robots. And because of such we must also live with the consequences of other's sin (Whether they know its sin or not). So there will be people, organizations, and whole countries who will be outright violent toward Christians. But do not be doubtful because of the workings of man, because they may cause unrest on earth, but they will recieve their 'reward' in full at the end of the age unless they repent. Christ said in Matthew 5:11, 12
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
If these people are outright violent against Christians, then its all the more reason to work within that country and get the Gospel to those who are seeking. Rembrandt, there is much suffering and pain on this world, and not just from Christians. But lets not ask what is God doing, what are WE doing? God is in control, of that I have no doubt. It is US, his CHURCH that is dropping the ball. Remember the book of James: 'As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.' We need to work, and we've got a LOT of that ahead of us.
Well Rembrandt, I hope that helps you in your walk...that is if thats what you meant by 'equal opporunity'. If you meant that Christianity makes it hard for people who have different ideals or lifestyles to become Christian, then thats a WHOLE other tangent.
And here it is.
You see, the modern idea of religion is: You believe what you do because it fits with what you believed BEFORE you got religious. Well, thats stupid. Thats not faith, and thats not belief...thats going out to the religion store and picking up what looks right for you. Matthew 7:14 makes it very clear that not many people are going to make it into the kingdom of heaven, it is ONE TOUGH road to be sure (Though, our job as Christians is to prove that verse wrong!! CAN I GET AN AMEN??). Now there are 'Christians' who are teaching a watered down Gospel (If you can call it that) that is more lapse in its dealling with certain situations and issues (Such as abortions, homosexuallity, the death penalty, etc.). They preach very little (If any) Sin and judgement, and only God's love. Well God IS love and mercy, but God is ALSO judgement. And we need a healthy dose of both (Not one or the other) to have a true representation of the Gospel. And if that representation doesn't fit within the box or ideas or worldview that you already have, then tough! Sorry, but there is one truth and one way and one life and that is Jesus. Christianity isn't a cake walk! Its not like a Zeller's Club Card that you sign up for and now you're in! Its work! Its hard! And its the only way to properly serve the true God.
Man I hope thats not what you meant Rembrandt.
Anyways, I'll pray for you Rembrandt. If you have questions for me that you'd rather NOT have turned into massive blogs, then email me. I'll respond.
Godbless
Tim 11月1日 This is no summer fair...You know what?
This is hard.
I mean REALLY hard.
I'm talking about being Christian, of course (What else do I talk about?).
There are all these verses, teachings, parables, and laws of life that are written in scripture that we've got to follow. And on top of all that, the Bible is pretty darn clear that we cannot live up to the standards God has set before us. The Bible also tells us that "...unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 18:3)
Whats that? Become like little children? Like, throw a fit if I don't get the toy I want? Or crap my pants (Depending on how 'little' we are talking here)? No, it means have the faith of a child. If you watch children in sunday school or in your church, you'll see a faith...a very simple faith that can put you to shame.
No doctrines...
No deep theological discussions...
No denominational ties...
Just a simple love for the creator. Its a good thing that Christ is merciful, because I cannot think of anyone over the age of 6 who has this type of faith (Myself included of course).
...just a small one today...
...I was just thinking...
Godbless
Tim 10月18日 Second NatureI was in class the other day, and we had a Speaker from Rotary International, and he was talking about all the things that Rotary does within the local communities and across the world (Like the Polio Plus program). Now I have no problem with Rotary (I'm saying this now before people nail me with flak about it), but what kind of interested me was his reasons for doing these...'good works'. The one he gave that really caught my attention was when he said it gave you a sense of well being (Makes you feel good) to help out people less fortunate. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend. You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone. In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
So now then, what does this say? It says two-fold: That deeds without faith are dead, and that faith without deeds are dead. Lets look at the first part: Deeds without faith are dead. This means that no matter how many 'good things' you do in this world, if you don't have faith in God (Note: The ONE and ONLY God) then those deeds mean nothing to Him. Therefore there is no 'buying' your way into heaven with good deeds. Doesn't happen. God's judgement isn't a scale, he doesn't take all the good things you did and all the bad things you did and weigh them out (Sorry agnostics). The second statement is what we Christians must pay attention to: Faith without deeds is dead. Now, I'm not saying that you need to do good deeds in order to be saved...but why wouldn't you do them? Think of it like this: If I say I'm a Christian and am walking by a man who is hurt (Or cold, or hungry) why WOULDN'T I help him (Or give him a blanket or food?)? I mean, if you truly HAVE Faith in God, and you truly love Him and are trying to Live by his word, then those good deed will come naturally. Now Christianity is a growing process, and I don't expect new Christians to instantly change into 'Super Christians!' Full of good deeds and awesome! No, it will take time to implement God's word and those deeds into your life. So if you TRULY have faith...then why WOULDN'T you work at it? Now this idea of 'Why wouldn't you' can also be reversed for doing BAD deeds. If I say I'm a Christian and I go and get smashed, beat the crap out of some guy, and sleep with some girl I just met...am I Christian? The Bible plainly speaks against all of those things, so if I'm TRULY a Christian and TRULY have faith...why WOULD I do those things? Could you call me Christian if I did those things? Certainly not, for as Matthew 7:20 states: "Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." Therefore, Brothers and Sisters, let us not only be aware of our action, but our inaction. Bringing God's word into the world isn't merely spreading the Gospel, but is also being an earthly representation of Christ's mercy, forgiveness and love. We are the salt of this world, but let us not ONLY preserve, but build up our fellow man.
Godbless. Tim
Questions? Comments? 10月4日 Stuck between the dying and the deadA friend and I were talking the other night.
We were coming home from a youth service in a nearby town and we were talking about the kids that were there. The Church was actually pretty full with youth, I'd say about 40 kids were there. And the speaker for the night even said: 'I'm really glad to see so many youth out tonight!'. But WHY were they there? Nearly all the kids around us were talking the whole time (During prayer, singing, the sermon, etc.) and some were mocking the way the speaker raised his hands during praise and worship. The speaker talked about how he had been big into drugs and alcohol before he was a Christian, and kids around us were saying things like 'don't knock drinking' and so on and so on.
Needless to say, my friend and I are a little discouraged. Not just because we saw these kids this way, but because we see kids like that everywhere. And I'm talking about a complete and utter lax additude toward God and his message. And these kids are 'Christian'? I'm 21 years old, and I'm not the next generation. There is a generation above me and these kids below me and, frankly, I'm worried about the future of the Church. Oh, I'm sure the Church will be there in 30 or 40 years for the NEXT generation...but what kind of Church will it be?
With the continued barrage from today's media and the ever growing presence of humanism and 'new age' movements, Christianity isn't disappearing, its changing into a completely different worldview. Even Christians today are 'of the world' rather then simply 'in the world'. They are reforming the Gospel around the ideologies of our 'culture' so that they can fit their chosen lifestyle. And what worries me is that its people in MY age group doing this, and its the next generation that will implement it into the Church in the future.
There will be some who follow the word properly, but I'm fearing that that number will only get smaller and smaller...who then can be saved?
BUT there is hope (As there always is with God) , brothers and sisters! People of the faith, we must educate the children about the Gospel! We must educate the next generation the truths of scripture and show them hte importance of the continuation of the Church. This lukewarmness within the Church must go, and we must lead these kids, not just by words, but by action in the faith. Remind these kids that we are 'In this world, but not of it' and that pursuing these earthly desires will only take them down the wide road. My friend and I are thinking of ways to reach these kids, I hope you will as well.
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments?
9月28日 Will you be happy? I'll be terrified.Christ is coming again, brothers and sisters.
The sky will be split and Christ will return.
Amen.
I find that many sermons and Christians are talking about how they can't wait for this day. 'Maranatha!' they shout, praying it happens sooner then later. I've got to say, this bugs me (But, if you've read my blog before this wouldn't suprise you). Why? Why would the idea of Christ's return bug me?
Well, Christ's return doesn't bug me. Its that tunnel vision worldview that does. People who say that he hopes He comes now. 'Why?' you may ask?
Well, Are you ready? There is a shirt I've seen that says: 'Jesus is coming, everyone look busy.' Now I did chuckle at the shirt, but the shirt speaks truth. Look at the world today! Look at our culture! Look how many people are lost! When Christ returns and turns to his people, will He say 'well done, good and faithful servants?', or will he ask us why we didn't do more? If Christ turned to you (Or me!) oh that day, will he say 'You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.' (Matthew 25:21)? I've heard some say 'well its the degredation of society, and that can't be helped.' Well I say to that: YES! YES IT CAN! Its not impossible! Through God, all things are possible! Christianity isn't a cake-walk! We've got work to do people, and frankly I'm sick of sitting on the side lines. There are people who need the Gospel! There are Christian voices who need to be raised up in ONE voice! Not in hate, and not in malice! But in conviction and in a sure-footed knowledge in the Truth of Jesus Christ, our risen saviour! The one passage of scripture that always scared me was Matthew 7:14: 'But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.' Few will find it, brothers and sisters! Christ knew that many people would harden their hearts to his message, but they must HEAR it first!
Support each other brothers and sisters! Teach to each other who are seeking. Read God's word if you are hungry for truth! Let the body of Christ grow in His truth!
"Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work."
Ephesians 4:14-16
Amen.
Godbless Brothers and Sisters, time to get to work.
I'll pray for you all, do likewise.
Tim.
Questions? Comments?
9月15日 Sorry, didn't know you were a ChristianA friend of mine was walking through the halls of his college a year or two ago wearing a shirt with a cross on it. He walked by a girl and offered a smile, she smiled back and glanced at his shirt. Her smile then turned into a frown as she rolled her eyes and walked by faster.
Why is it that the public gets mad at Christians for 'treating people differently', but yet thats all they do to us? If you tell someone that you are a Christian, they will watch you like a hawk and NAIL you as soon as you do something they deem as 'not Christian'. And don't tell me thats not true, I've seen it done MANY times to others, as well as it being done to me many times.
But why is that?
Today's society boasts leaps of progress in equality and acceptance but is unwilling share that with Christians who are firm in their beliefs. Instead we get terms such as: bigot, elitest, and fundamentalist. And look at school systems! Why is it that Catholic schools are funded, but not Christian schools (YES, there IS a difference)? Or, heck, even Islamic or Jewish schools (If they exist, I really don't know)!
Does that makes sense?
What about political correctness? You can't call natives 'natives' anymore, now they are 'first nations'. Black people are 'african american'. Why were these changed? Out of respect for these people, right? But yet, why then do people feel the need to go around saying 'Jesus Christ!' (or just one of those two words) as a curse or exclamation? That truly is offencive, but people don't care. If I was black and somone called me 'black', I could say 'Hey, I don't like that term, could you please call me african american?' And they would out of respect for that person. If someone says 'Jesus Christ!' in front of me, and I ask them to 'please not say that in front of me', they brush me off.
Why is that?
If I pray before my meal in the cafeteria here at my school, why do people laugh? If I have a shirt with the words 'Forgiven Sinner' on it, why do people give me dirty looks? If I have a fish on my car, why do people key my car (True story)?
Ok, here is your equality sir...whoops, sorry...I didn't know you were a Christian.
Wake up Canada.
Godbless.
Tim
Comments? Questions? Hatemail?
9月12日 Katrina's JudgementYou know, there are more then a few Christians out there who are hollering the 'ol doomsday shouts in wake of this terrible event in New Orleans.
'Its a judgement on their wicked lifestyles!! Its like with noah or sodom and gamora (Or however its spelled...I don't have my Bible right here)' and other such shouting. Well I GOTTA tell all you people who are doing that:
Stop it, you're wrong.
Why are you wrong? Because thats not the way God works. Lets look at the examples I've seen given: Noah and Sodom and Gamora (Thats how I'm spelling, so deal with it). In BOTH times, there was not ONE good person. Noah was the only man who walked uprightly (Along with his sons), and Lot even asked God if there was one good person would he spare the city (And God said yes!). Now, it would be very stupid, arrogant, and un-Christian for us to say that there was not one Christian in that whole area.
Now, nothing is outside of God's will, but God isn't a Smiting God. Would you say that God smote the 6 million Jews in WW2? Or that God smote the people of 9/11? Or would you say that God IS smiting the thousands upon thousands dying of AIDS and hunger in Africa? Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour, was surrounded by skeptiks, by nay-sayers, and by a whole empire of corruption and unbelief, but Christ did not smite anyone. With Christ's sacrifice, he took the burden of sin. It was the 'final smite' if you will, and therefore God will no longer 'smite' anyone for reasons of sin, unless it is a sin against the Holy Spirit as told by Christ in John (One of the Gosples, I THINK ist John...might be Mark), shown in Acts, and restated in Hebrews. Their WILL be a judgement, of that you can be sure, but not a smiting. Come on.
BESIDES, was Christ's message: 'If your brother falls, say how they MUST have done something wrong'? OR was it 'if your brother falls, lend a loving and compassionate hand'? Maybe not those words exactly, but might as well be. Love thy neighbour, and that doesn't mean making snide remarks while donating money.
Godbless.
Tim
Questions? Comments? Hatemail?
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