I received an add in the mail for an "Animate Bible Faith Practices" curriculum. It claims to be good for among other reasons being "just right theology".
Described further as, "Built on centrist Protestant theology, it's not too liberal or too conservative."
It sound ideal for folks who don't care about theology at all!
Showing posts with label Heresy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Heresy. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Thursday, May 7, 2015
False teachers and their undermining of the scriptures with emotional arguments.
Those who seek to force the church to accept lifestyles as normal, that the scriptures clearly condemn, are using emotional arguments that highlight the suffering of those who are being told they should repent of such lifestyles, rather than embrace them. There are many problems with the logic of these arguments and of course it puts human experience over scripture. James White has done a three part response to David Gushee, a leader in this false teaching movement which can be accessed through the links below. It might help us prepare to refute such arguments, if we fully understand what they are.
James White refuting false teaching part 1
James White refuting false teaching part 2
James White refuting false teaching part 3
James White refuting false teaching part 1
James White refuting false teaching part 2
James White refuting false teaching part 3
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Why do people look to celebrities for wisdom?
It seams like every day we here of another Hollywood celebrity espousing their great wisdom on the issues of the day. Why do people assume that someone is wise, just because they are famous? Does the fact that someone is an accomplished actor, actress or musician, mean that they are automatically qualified to speak on morality, politics or economics? It is bad enough that the secular culture sees fame as an assurance of wisdom, but it is truly shocking that Christians would follow suit.
Recently a number of famous Christian performers have spoken out on gay marriage, including Jars of Clay lead singer Dan Haseltine and Amy Grant. Neither of these musicians are known for their theological training or competence to teach biblical doctrine. Their claim to fame is that they have written and performed songs that are popular with many people who are Christians. Why would people with little or no theological training feel empowered to bring doubt to an area where there has been clarity and agreement for many centuries among those who have had extensive biblical training? I am not sure what is more ridiculous, people thinking these "artists" are a good source of theological information or the artists thinking they are in any position to speak out on such important issues from a position of relative ignorance.
In the articles linked above I noticed two common thoughts that attribute to the errors of these artists. Dan Haseltine suggests we can't really know what scripture means and Amy Grant suggests that she does not speak out about issues like this, because her feelings on them may later change. Well, I think these are two sides of the same error. Neither artist is seeing the scriptures as the ultimate source of truth. For Haseltine, the Bible is so open to your interpretation, that it is really not a book that can speak authoritatively, and for Grant, it is her feelings on a subject that are important, not the absolutes of God's word.
So, what is the answer? First we need to fear the Lord enough that we don't speak too quickly or lightly, on issues which He has spoken strongly and clearly!
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
But fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Next, we need to believe the word of God is able to be understood and that it should be taught and learned by those who believe!
Matt. 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
2 Tim. 3:16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Recently a number of famous Christian performers have spoken out on gay marriage, including Jars of Clay lead singer Dan Haseltine and Amy Grant. Neither of these musicians are known for their theological training or competence to teach biblical doctrine. Their claim to fame is that they have written and performed songs that are popular with many people who are Christians. Why would people with little or no theological training feel empowered to bring doubt to an area where there has been clarity and agreement for many centuries among those who have had extensive biblical training? I am not sure what is more ridiculous, people thinking these "artists" are a good source of theological information or the artists thinking they are in any position to speak out on such important issues from a position of relative ignorance.
In the articles linked above I noticed two common thoughts that attribute to the errors of these artists. Dan Haseltine suggests we can't really know what scripture means and Amy Grant suggests that she does not speak out about issues like this, because her feelings on them may later change. Well, I think these are two sides of the same error. Neither artist is seeing the scriptures as the ultimate source of truth. For Haseltine, the Bible is so open to your interpretation, that it is really not a book that can speak authoritatively, and for Grant, it is her feelings on a subject that are important, not the absolutes of God's word.
So, what is the answer? First we need to fear the Lord enough that we don't speak too quickly or lightly, on issues which He has spoken strongly and clearly!
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
But fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Next, we need to believe the word of God is able to be understood and that it should be taught and learned by those who believe!
Matt. 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
2 Tim. 3:16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Such bad, ear tickling teaching, it makes me angry, sad and motivates me to teach the truth!
I listen to Fighting for the Faith sometimes and find it a good way to get a sense of what kinds of heresy those in my church may be hearing. I was absolutely shocked at a sermon reviewed there this week, from a church that evidently is large and growing. Here is the link to the episode. The sermon review starts about half way through the program and begins with a recounting of Evil Kenevil, other daredevils and their accomplishments.
If the link does not work, you can go to fightingforthefaith.com and scroll down until you find - Sermon Review: Daredevil by Troy Gramling.
You may want to make sure there is nothing heavy at hand, as you might throw at your computer in frustration as you listen to the sermon!
For those who teach the truth - press on please!
If the link does not work, you can go to fightingforthefaith.com and scroll down until you find - Sermon Review: Daredevil by Troy Gramling.
You may want to make sure there is nothing heavy at hand, as you might throw at your computer in frustration as you listen to the sermon!
For those who teach the truth - press on please!
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Imitate Jesus' miracles or obey Jesus' words?
Many people spend their time looking for Jesus to do more miraculous works. Other people try to copy Jesus' miraculous works themselves. Did Jesus want us to focus on seeking more miracles from Him, or doing miracles like Him, or did He do miracles so we would recognize His authority and obey Him?
Some scripture to ponder -
Matt. 9:1 So He got into a boat, crossed over, and came to His own city. 2 Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” 3 And at once some of the scribes said within themselves, “This Man blasphemes!” 4 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” 7 And he arose and departed to his house.
Here we see a miracle of physical healing, but why? So we would know that Jesus has the authority to forgive sins!
John 3:1 There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”
Nicodemus respected Jesus teaching, because He had been convinced by the "signs" Jesus did, that Jesus was from God. Since Nicodemus is convinced of Jesus' authority, he does not ask for more miracles, but for truth!
John 20:30 And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.
Jesus did miracles for what purpose? So we could believe that He is who He says and know we have eternal life in Him!
Acts 2:22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know—23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.
Peter preaches the gospel at Pentecost and says Jesus' identity has been proven by "miracles, signs and wonders", as well as His resurrection! Later Peter will ask we do what in response to this truth -
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
Did Peter tell the people to go and do miracles? Did he tell the people to ask Jesus to do more miracles? No, Peter called them to repent and be baptized, in response to who Jesus has already proven Himself to be!
The concepts in view in the previous passages, Jesus using His miracles to validate His authority to save and to call us to repent and follow Him, sounds very familiar!
Matt. 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Jesus did not say He would do more miracles at our request or that we should focus on doing miracles ourselves! Jesus said He had all authority, proven by His miracles and His resurrection, so do as He says! proclaim the gospel, baptise those who believe and then teach those who do believe to obey His teaching!
We see a reminders and warnings to not disregard these things in God's word -
Heb. 2:1 Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. 2 For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, 3 how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, 4 God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will?
We should also heed Jesus' words to those who demanded a sign in His time on earth -
Matt. 16:1 Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and testing Him asked that He would show them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said to them, “When it is evening you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red’; 3 and in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times. 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” And He left them and departed.
Jesus has proven He has all authority! Will you try to copy His miracles, or ask Him for more miracles, or believe upon Him for eternal life, learn what His word says, and seek to obey Him?
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Some scripture to ponder -
Matt. 9:1 So He got into a boat, crossed over, and came to His own city. 2 Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” 3 And at once some of the scribes said within themselves, “This Man blasphemes!” 4 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” 7 And he arose and departed to his house.
Here we see a miracle of physical healing, but why? So we would know that Jesus has the authority to forgive sins!
John 3:1 There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”
Nicodemus respected Jesus teaching, because He had been convinced by the "signs" Jesus did, that Jesus was from God. Since Nicodemus is convinced of Jesus' authority, he does not ask for more miracles, but for truth!
John 20:30 And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.
Jesus did miracles for what purpose? So we could believe that He is who He says and know we have eternal life in Him!
Acts 2:22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know—23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.
Peter preaches the gospel at Pentecost and says Jesus' identity has been proven by "miracles, signs and wonders", as well as His resurrection! Later Peter will ask we do what in response to this truth -
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
Did Peter tell the people to go and do miracles? Did he tell the people to ask Jesus to do more miracles? No, Peter called them to repent and be baptized, in response to who Jesus has already proven Himself to be!
The concepts in view in the previous passages, Jesus using His miracles to validate His authority to save and to call us to repent and follow Him, sounds very familiar!
Matt. 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
Jesus did not say He would do more miracles at our request or that we should focus on doing miracles ourselves! Jesus said He had all authority, proven by His miracles and His resurrection, so do as He says! proclaim the gospel, baptise those who believe and then teach those who do believe to obey His teaching!
We see a reminders and warnings to not disregard these things in God's word -
Heb. 2:1 Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. 2 For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, 3 how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, 4 God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will?
We should also heed Jesus' words to those who demanded a sign in His time on earth -
Matt. 16:1 Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and testing Him asked that He would show them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said to them, “When it is evening you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red’; 3 and in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times. 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” And He left them and departed.
Jesus has proven He has all authority! Will you try to copy His miracles, or ask Him for more miracles, or believe upon Him for eternal life, learn what His word says, and seek to obey Him?
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Thursday, August 29, 2013
How bazaar?
I know the American church has long been distracted from its primary duty - to be the means by which the Gospel of Jesus Christ is carried to the ends of the earth. Two interesting examples came to me this morning of how we might be off track.
First a new commercial I saw several times during the morning news. It gave several examples of good works the Methodist church has done over its history and then encouraged people to "re-think church" and they could start by visiting their website rethinkchurch.org.
When I visited the website it had a rotating banner at the top declaring these various works, things like "introducing innovative teaching methods into the early 20th century" and "providing education resources to new immigrants in the 1920s". At the bottom of each of these accomplishments it says - "That's church!" Is it really? I'll get back to that in a moment.
OK, the other interesting thing that happened was a person called my office wanting to know when the "bazaar" was. I told the caller I was not entirely sure what a bazaar is, so she explained it was when our church had crafts and chicken. I am sure there is more to it than that, but I had heard enough to let her know she had called the wrong number. She quickly said sorry and I assume went back to searching for the church with the bazaar.
Do I think a church having a "bazaar" is necessarily bad - no. Do I think the Methodist church and other churches have done good and Christ honoring work by meeting the practical needs of people - Yes.
So what is my problem? Well, I hope the church know for its "bazaar", also is known for proclaiming the gospel. The re-think church website is actually free of the gospel as far as I can tell, and that is far more troubling. If you go far enough by following some links listed in the body of their FAQ's section, you can find Jesus mentioned. What I could not find was any mention of sin or our separation from God, or of how Jesus Christ is necessary to solve these problems.
They seem to be very careful to present themselves as a church that is totally open to all and without controversy, they are clear that their focus is on meeting people's needs and helping them find ways to help others. However, I fear that they have left out the most important need people have, to be redeemed by faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ. That is bazaar, sad and certainly not doing Jesus' will.
Consider Jesus' description of how the church would be viewed by the world, as it made proclaiming His words the primary task -
John 15:18 “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.
The re-think church folk seem intent on being loved by the world, and if they are, I hope they would consider if it is because they have done great humanitarian works, because they are so inclusive or is it because they have removed the gospel and the offense Jesus promised it would bring?
It could be they have re-thought church to the point that it should not be called church at all!
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
First a new commercial I saw several times during the morning news. It gave several examples of good works the Methodist church has done over its history and then encouraged people to "re-think church" and they could start by visiting their website rethinkchurch.org.
When I visited the website it had a rotating banner at the top declaring these various works, things like "introducing innovative teaching methods into the early 20th century" and "providing education resources to new immigrants in the 1920s". At the bottom of each of these accomplishments it says - "That's church!" Is it really? I'll get back to that in a moment.
OK, the other interesting thing that happened was a person called my office wanting to know when the "bazaar" was. I told the caller I was not entirely sure what a bazaar is, so she explained it was when our church had crafts and chicken. I am sure there is more to it than that, but I had heard enough to let her know she had called the wrong number. She quickly said sorry and I assume went back to searching for the church with the bazaar.
Do I think a church having a "bazaar" is necessarily bad - no. Do I think the Methodist church and other churches have done good and Christ honoring work by meeting the practical needs of people - Yes.
So what is my problem? Well, I hope the church know for its "bazaar", also is known for proclaiming the gospel. The re-think church website is actually free of the gospel as far as I can tell, and that is far more troubling. If you go far enough by following some links listed in the body of their FAQ's section, you can find Jesus mentioned. What I could not find was any mention of sin or our separation from God, or of how Jesus Christ is necessary to solve these problems.
They seem to be very careful to present themselves as a church that is totally open to all and without controversy, they are clear that their focus is on meeting people's needs and helping them find ways to help others. However, I fear that they have left out the most important need people have, to be redeemed by faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ. That is bazaar, sad and certainly not doing Jesus' will.
Consider Jesus' description of how the church would be viewed by the world, as it made proclaiming His words the primary task -
John 15:18 “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.
The re-think church folk seem intent on being loved by the world, and if they are, I hope they would consider if it is because they have done great humanitarian works, because they are so inclusive or is it because they have removed the gospel and the offense Jesus promised it would bring?
It could be they have re-thought church to the point that it should not be called church at all!
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
God's wrath a no no in PCUSA songs!
Follow this link God's wrath to an interesting article on why the Presbyterian Church USA, not to be confused with the more conservative Presbyterian Church in America, has decided to remove the song In Christ Alone from their hymnals, after failing to get the authors to allow them to replace lyrics about God's wrath with less offensive language.
1 Cor. 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written:
1 Cor. 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written:
“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,
And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.”
And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.”
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Election, salvation, and the faith that transcends circumsatances.
1 Thess. 1:2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, 3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, 4 knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. 5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.
6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. 8 For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything. 9 For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
The opening words of Paul's letter to the Thessalonians gives us a clear picture of true salvation, that which comes to us by God's power, through His word and Spirit, and is according to His election by grace. In Thessalonica, this faith came with affliction, caused them to turn from idols to God and made them eager to see Jesus Christ, their deliverer from God's coming wrath.
Consider this in contrast to the false teachings which seek to win converts to a non-biblical "Christianity", which emphasizes the pursuit of worldly success, comfort and health, "idols" and uses Jesus as a Jennie to help achieve these worldly goals.
True conversion is by God's electing grace through the power of His word and Holy Spirit, and results in us treasuring Him and eternal life in His presence, over anything this world offers.
False conversion is really just idolatry under the name "Christianity", it has nothing to do with Jesus and it is unable to save.
Now may the Lord grant me the daily grace to treasure Him above the things of this earth, as those faithful believers in Thessalonica did!
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Monday, April 22, 2013
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Wow, I must have been at church when this Superbowl add ran!
I am only posting this to give some insight into the nonsense that is being held out as truth. The logical inconsistencies in this are many.
For instance:
Does non-conformity really suggest a higher likelihood of being right about the important questions?
Is the ultimate source of knowledge, the things we see, feel and know to be true?
And my favorite inconsistency of all time perhaps - "In the eternal debate for answer, the one thing that is true, is what's true for you"!
I am making a retching noise and on the verge of weeping in response to this commercial as it seeks to encourage everyone to be their own god and makes a mockery of the words (truth, knowledge, etc.) it uses to promote its message.
Watch at your own risk and please feel free to comment.
Monday, January 14, 2013
Joel Osteen vs. Jonah at Nineveh?
Jonah 3:1 Now the word of the LORD came to Jonah the second time, saying, 2 “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and preach to it the message that I tell you.”
Here is what Jonah preached:
3 So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, a three-day journey in extent. 4 And Jonah began to enter the city on the first day’s walk. Then he cried out and said,“Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!”
In response, here is what the people did -
5 So the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them. 6 Then word came to the king of Nineveh; and he arose from his throne and laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes. 7 And he caused it to be proclaimed and published throughout Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything; do not let them eat, or drink water. 8 But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily to God; yes, let every one turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. 9 Who can tell if God will turn and relent, and turn away from His fierce anger, so that we may not perish?
OK, but that is Old Testament, what does Jesus say?
John 3:18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
Luke 13:1 There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? 3 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. 4 Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”
By contrast:
Here is Joel Osteen's message, as he stated in a recent interview with the 700 club –
“I feel like my message is to let people know that God is a good God, that He’s on their side, and no matter what happens, He has a great plan for them.”
How would Nineveh have responded to the message that Joel "feels like" he should preach today?
Probably just like Joel's audience does now, and their fate might well be the same as Nineveh's would have been, if Jonah had preached a message he felt like preaching, rather than the truth!
Here is what Jonah preached:
3 So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, a three-day journey in extent. 4 And Jonah began to enter the city on the first day’s walk. Then he cried out and said,“Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!”
In response, here is what the people did -
5 So the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them. 6 Then word came to the king of Nineveh; and he arose from his throne and laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes. 7 And he caused it to be proclaimed and published throughout Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything; do not let them eat, or drink water. 8 But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily to God; yes, let every one turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. 9 Who can tell if God will turn and relent, and turn away from His fierce anger, so that we may not perish?
OK, but that is Old Testament, what does Jesus say?
John 3:18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
Luke 13:1 There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? 3 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. 4 Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”
By contrast:
Here is Joel Osteen's message, as he stated in a recent interview with the 700 club –
“I feel like my message is to let people know that God is a good God, that He’s on their side, and no matter what happens, He has a great plan for them.”
How would Nineveh have responded to the message that Joel "feels like" he should preach today?
Probably just like Joel's audience does now, and their fate might well be the same as Nineveh's would have been, if Jonah had preached a message he felt like preaching, rather than the truth!
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Why such attention to an alleged myth?
I read two very good articles about attacks on the faith today. The first describes billboards bought by an atheist group encouraging people to keep the good things about Christmas, but not Christ! Ironically they are encouraging people to dump the myth, but by that they mean Christ, not Santa.
Another article attacking the historicity of the New Testament was published in Newsweek. Al Mohler does a fine job of critiquing this article which was written by Bart Ehrman. In a bizarre twist of logic, once professing Christian, but now agnostic Bart Ehrman, suggests that thier is spiritual benefit, even freedom in seeing the New Testament as less than historically accurate. My question is, what is the point of talking about the spiritual the benefits of things, if you are an agnostic?
Why do those who say they don't believe in Christ, feel so compelled to attack Christ, but not Buddha, Mohamed or the many God's of Hinduism?
Maybe I should not be surprised....
Psalm 2:1 Why do the nations rage,
And the people plot a vain thing?
2 The kings of the earth set themselves,
And the rulers take counsel together,
Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,
3 “Let us break Their bonds in pieces
And cast away Their cords from us.”
4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh;
The Lord shall hold them in derision.
5 Then He shall speak to them in His wrath,
And distress them in His deep displeasure:
6 "Yet I have set My King
On My holy hill of Zion.”
7 “I will declare the decree:
The Lord has said to Me,
‘You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
8 Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
9 You shall break them with a rod of iron;
You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’”
10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
11 Serve the Lord with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Another article attacking the historicity of the New Testament was published in Newsweek. Al Mohler does a fine job of critiquing this article which was written by Bart Ehrman. In a bizarre twist of logic, once professing Christian, but now agnostic Bart Ehrman, suggests that thier is spiritual benefit, even freedom in seeing the New Testament as less than historically accurate. My question is, what is the point of talking about the spiritual the benefits of things, if you are an agnostic?
Why do those who say they don't believe in Christ, feel so compelled to attack Christ, but not Buddha, Mohamed or the many God's of Hinduism?
Maybe I should not be surprised....
Psalm 2:1 Why do the nations rage,
And the people plot a vain thing?
2 The kings of the earth set themselves,
And the rulers take counsel together,
Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,
3 “Let us break Their bonds in pieces
And cast away Their cords from us.”
4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh;
The Lord shall hold them in derision.
5 Then He shall speak to them in His wrath,
And distress them in His deep displeasure:
6 "Yet I have set My King
On My holy hill of Zion.”
7 “I will declare the decree:
The Lord has said to Me,
‘You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
8 Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
9 You shall break them with a rod of iron;
You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’”
10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
11 Serve the Lord with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Monday, November 26, 2012
How will Barack Obama respond to being referred to as "lord and savior"?
I was shocked to receive a link to a story in which Jamie Foxx refers to Barack Obama as "our lord and savior" at the Soul Train Awards.
Click on the link below to view the story and video -
Obama as lord and savior?
How has God dealt with leaders who accept the worship of men in past times?
Acts 12:20 Now Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king’s personal aide their friend, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food by the king’s country. 21 So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them. 22 And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!” 23 Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died. 24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Click on the link below to view the story and video -
Obama as lord and savior?
How has God dealt with leaders who accept the worship of men in past times?
Acts 12:20 Now Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king’s personal aide their friend, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food by the king’s country. 21 So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them. 22 And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!” 23 Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died. 24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Oprah and Joel, together in heresy!
Wretchedradio.com had this posted on their site. It is one of the worst cases of taking scripture out of context and then teaching something totally at odds with the text that I have ever seen.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Sinless perfection in this life - really?
I was asked by a reader to discuss the doctrine held by some denominations that basically says: "It is possible to reach a state of sinless perfection in this life". After researching this a bit, it is clear that some who's theology find its roots in the Wesleyan tradition, such as Seventh Day Adventists, as well as some Pentecostals, would affirm this statement. It is also clear that this is not a doctrine that is held by all who claim affiliation with these denominations.
The issue at hand is the biblical doctrine of sanctification. In looking for information on who held to the notion of "sinless perfection in this life", I came across an article that gave great insight into who holds to this doctrine and also evaluates it along with other commonly held views on sanctification.
I have placed a link below to the article. I personally believe the positions presented as "The Reformed View" and the author's view, referred to as "My view", have much merit in terms of properly understanding the biblical doctrine of sanctification.
Read and decide for yourself!
5 views of sanctification
The issue at hand is the biblical doctrine of sanctification. In looking for information on who held to the notion of "sinless perfection in this life", I came across an article that gave great insight into who holds to this doctrine and also evaluates it along with other commonly held views on sanctification.
I have placed a link below to the article. I personally believe the positions presented as "The Reformed View" and the author's view, referred to as "My view", have much merit in terms of properly understanding the biblical doctrine of sanctification.
Read and decide for yourself!
5 views of sanctification
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Jesus' wife - really?
If you have heard of the ancient text fragment that some say shows Jesus had a wife, you would do well to read this story by Al Mohler: albertmohler.com
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Tim Tebow showing more discernment than many popular evangelical pastors!
Several "evangelical" mega church pastors have been taking heat for embracing T.D. Jakes as a brother, in spite of what appears to be less than biblical views on the trinity and his obvious distortion of the gospel by emphasising health/prosperity. For more on this controversy - known as "The Elephant Room" follow this link.
Tim Tebow, by contrast is showing more discernment in who he chooses to be associated with. Follow this link to a story of his "passing" on an event because of theological concerns.
Tim Tebow, by contrast is showing more discernment in who he chooses to be associated with. Follow this link to a story of his "passing" on an event because of theological concerns.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Is the God "known by many names" - known?
I was listening to an interfaith prayer service honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this morning and a Rabbi prayed an interesting prayer. He prayed to "the holy one, who we know by many names". I assume he was referring to what most of us call God, but preferred not to use that word, maybe it would be seen as too exclusive? Is it meaningful or helpful to pray to God in this vague way?
God is known by many names in Bible and I assume this Rabbi would consider the Old testament texts to be true and sacred. However, I think it is completely misleading to make it sound as though we all are worshipping the same God just because we use the word God or a substitute a term like "the holy one". There is only one God, but if He has revealed Himself in the Bible, then any other idea of God that contradicts His self-revelation is a non-god. Even if you use the same name for God as other religions, the name becomes meaningless if it is being used in a way not consistent with How God describes Himself.
If we care about people's souls, wouldn't it be best to have respectful, open and honest discussions about the differences in what we mean by "God" and hopefully all come to knowledge of the truth? Attempts to make all religious beliefs equal are not without serious negative consequences -
1 Thess. 5:1 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. (NKJV)
To say you believe in God, but suggest what you believe is no more valid than others who hold contradictory beliefs is not loving and unifying talk, but inconsistent and dangerous talk. In an effort to bring peace between different faiths these do-gooders leave people in ignorance and at odds with the real God! If God is real and can be know, then coming to know the truth is infinitely more important than trying to fit in and not offend those of different beliefs! The "god known by many names" is not a god that can be known at all, if He has not spoken. If God has spoken, then He can be known and must be known, in a much more specific way than these interfaith events would dare portray Him!
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
God is known by many names in Bible and I assume this Rabbi would consider the Old testament texts to be true and sacred. However, I think it is completely misleading to make it sound as though we all are worshipping the same God just because we use the word God or a substitute a term like "the holy one". There is only one God, but if He has revealed Himself in the Bible, then any other idea of God that contradicts His self-revelation is a non-god. Even if you use the same name for God as other religions, the name becomes meaningless if it is being used in a way not consistent with How God describes Himself.
If we care about people's souls, wouldn't it be best to have respectful, open and honest discussions about the differences in what we mean by "God" and hopefully all come to knowledge of the truth? Attempts to make all religious beliefs equal are not without serious negative consequences -
1 Thess. 5:1 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. (NKJV)
To say you believe in God, but suggest what you believe is no more valid than others who hold contradictory beliefs is not loving and unifying talk, but inconsistent and dangerous talk. In an effort to bring peace between different faiths these do-gooders leave people in ignorance and at odds with the real God! If God is real and can be know, then coming to know the truth is infinitely more important than trying to fit in and not offend those of different beliefs! The "god known by many names" is not a god that can be known at all, if He has not spoken. If God has spoken, then He can be known and must be known, in a much more specific way than these interfaith events would dare portray Him!
"Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved."
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