How does AI impact me?

 Several weeks ago i began noticing an uptick in my conversations regarding AI and the impact on family, business, and church. I wouldn't say most of the communication was from an overabundance of knowledge and mostly sharing of concerns and opportunities. 

What really turned my attention was an article regarding the trends with youth and the use of AI among people for things they used to see their pastor, teachers, coaches, parents, counselors, doctors and lawyers for. No kidding, this is such a big switch in humans seeking personalized compassionate help for life's toughest issues. For instance a woman was asking AI if she should get a divorce, another asking if she should have an abortion, a man asking the risks of getting caught cheating, a youth asking dating advice and the list goes on and on. One that really caught me was a newer AI app, that is targeting youth and carry the tag line something like, "It's like having a youth pastor and coach right in your pocket.

Now i am careful to mention names, of certain AI options and app options as i would prefer to sound the caution in general and let you search the specifics.

I recently attended a pastoral conference where the speaker was a young man who was very knowledgeable. I would probably call him an expert in this field and as you can imagine the terminology and principles were over the majority of the attenders heads. With a background in electronics and specifically the repair and maintenance realm, I felt I would be more in touch with the technology but things are so quickly moving, it was a day of education for sure.

The presentation was pretty good and then we turned to the specific discussion on AI in the church. This grabbed my attention because i already know of students at all levels using AI to write research papers and this is from 1st grade through college including seminary.  It didn't take long for someone to ask about the morality of using it for those papers, and before you knew it we were in heavy discussion regarding writing sermons. I am at a loss for words to hear how many pastors use AI to write a sermon in a matter of a few minutes. 

The discussion revolved around the term "temperature". This is the liberty AI has in coming up with your answers. You can adjust it and force it to be more conservative or totally out there. We were given examples of how the response would change based off of the temperature setting and even in the tightest setting you have a technology that takes the most current and popular information and uses that to compile responses. 

When  you get your report or sermon or response back you can tighten the parameters, but know this before you move in that direction. AI is directional. The instructor took a response and wrote new objectives but AI kept building on what it had already presented, only tighter to the requirements. Yes it made more sense, and yes it read more comprehensive, but AI does not back up. The example with the instructor was three settings of the temperature and a statement like, the apple was -------. AI was supposed to finish the sentence. The conservative setting said something like red or tasty or something, the middle setting kept adding new words each time saying it had a big furry worm, and the crazy one said something so crazy the sentence didn't even make sense. 

I am overly cautious on the use of this dumbing agent we call intelligence. When it comes to your personal use, can I just caution you on the use of it when it comes to life decisions, spirituality and relationships? I see screen time for our children exploding and with every moment they are being monitored, not so much for protection unless you put that on, but for usage. If we sign into our AI accounts that now every phone and computer have, you will begin to receive responses to your inquiries that are eerily like your searches and anything you are doing on those devices.  All I can ask is that you will consider limiting your youths use, check the settings and talk to them about the moral implications of using AI. 

You have been warned. Just like the computer taking over the typewriter, or the cell phone taking over the pager, AI is here and will not be leaving. Companies are scurrying to make it mandatory and even church sermon software like logos have added AI components to their programs. Proceed with caution. 

Till next time

P.M. 

Input affects output

 Not so long ago i was approached and asked how I felt about some of the worship groups that are popular. I knew where the conversation was headed and so my response was, "Even a broken clock is right twice a day." 

What I meant is although their ministries were surrounded by controversy and certainly we don't support the poor theology and poor model of what a Christian is, God may still use them to His glory. 

Case in point. I was sitting in my office getting ready to study for a sermon and I usually have Pandora in the background. As I began to write notes I took notice of the song that had come up. It was an older one and by one of those bands that are questionable and seem to have strayed from their first love. I recognized the familiar melody but if I am honest I really hadn't paid very close attention to the words of this song that is popularly used in worship throughout the U.S. and beyond. The song I am referring to is "o come to the altar" by elevation worship. As I listened to the words it began to move my heart. Here are some of the lyrics..

Are you hurting and broken within,
Overwhelmed by the weight of the sin,
Jesus is calling.
Have you come to the end of yourself,
do you thirst for a drink from the well,
Jesus is calling.

O come to,
the altar,
the fathers arms are open wide,
forgiveness,
was bought with,
the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

Leave behind your regrets and mistakes,
come today there’s no reason to wait,
Jesus is calling.
Bring your sorrows and trade them for joy,
from the ashes a new life is born,
Jesus is calling.

O come to,
the altar,
the fathers arms are open wide,
forgiveness,
was bought with,
the precious blood of Jesus Christ.
[repeat]

Oh what a savior,
isn't he wonderful,
sing hallelujah Christ is risen,
bow down before him,
for he is lord of all,
sing hallelujah Christ is risen.
[repeat]

Bow down before him,
for he is lord of all,
sing hallelujah Christ is risen

O come to,
the altar,
the fathers arms are open wide,
forgiveness,
was bought with,
the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

My intentions are not to support or reject elevation, but simply to say that we need to evaluate every aspect against the word of God and only engage in those things that meet the criteria. Our culture is filled with people who we followed and then realized they were wacked. The church was talking about the great marriage ministry of a particular couple that then announced they would be getting a divorce. We bought up the resources on purity from a man who was found out to be living in a very pornographic lifestyle. We are children of God and we weigh our input through scripture and although men will come and go, rise and fall, we must discern what is good and proper, what is healthy and not so much on the human that failed. You may be next, but that doesn't mean we should throw out everything you have said or done, the ripples are already in place and will continue on. Just a thought.That's all for this chilly Wed. morning. May you find truth in the songs, books and resources as you worship and glorify God. 

Till next time, worship your King.

P.M. 

John 10:22-42 extra points

I and the Father are one, is the subject of this text as the first 21 verses, were Jesus as the good Shepherd.

The Jews wanted to hear plainly if He is the Messiah or not. They clearly understood Jesus' claim as we read in verse 30, I and the Father are one. We know this because the response was not to fall to their knees and worship, it was to stoop, pick up rocks, and intending on stoning Him.

Several things to address.

First, this word "one" is what seems to confuse people even today.  Some claim that the trinity is polytheistic, or worshiping multiple gods. Others claim that the trinity is a manifestation of God in three ways at different times and they exist apart from one another not simultaneously. Both are heretical views and should be ignored. The term "one" is complicated but put with other scriptures such as Jesus baptism where all three persons of the God head are present and believing that scripture supports scripture it will come into focus. 

Its similar to when we read that we were created in God's image. Does that mean that God is multicolored, male and female, short and tall, etc? OF course, not, so we look to other scriptures and see that we were created with intellect, emotions, etc. So when it comes to the trinity or in this case two of the members of the trinity being one, it becomes clear they are unified, all wise, loving, patient and on and on we go. The primary purpose of the Lords statement was to clarify, that not only did the Father send Him, He came from the Father and they are one in purpose and essence, yet distinct in person hood. 

We covered the reality that some are not of the sheep pen, others (gentiles or us) are of a "different" pen but will be brought along with the sheep that are in Israel. This is great news for the gentile believer that we also are included in the plans of redemption and eternity in heaven.

How do we know if we are of His sheep? Glad you asked, Jesus answers. The sheep of His fold, recognize His voice and they follow Him. They know the character of the shepherd and respond the only way they know how. To be present with, to follow after. We feel safe and taken care of in His presence, we desire to be with Him in the word, and prayer, we strive to live a life that reflects the shepherds values and that includes loving Him and loving others. Where He goes, where He sends us we obediently go and we are confident He has a plan and it is to prosper and not to harm us.

He gives us eternal life. No other source, no other way, it comes from Him and it is a gift to those who respond. You are sealed for the day of redemption.

But let's take a quick look at the disbelief of those who reject the Lord.

Their reactionary response show us the passion in which they hated Jesus. They were willing to take His life. Do you know why? Ultimately, it stems from pride and self righteousness, both of those qualities are absent from the Lord but very present in the devil. They are responding in the flesh to a spiritual conviction. Why do you suppose people even today are critical towards the church? They point out your flaws and persecute the church, (the true church) as a sign of proof that we are hypocritical yet miss their own hypocrisy.  Yet Jesus' response was one of truth, consistency and love. 

Those who rejected Him also considered themselves "religious". Sound familiar? The way Jesus addresses it is similar to what He did in the wilderness when tempted by Satan, He responded each time with scripture. What is the weapon of choice in Ephesians 6? It is the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. That is what matters, that is what makes the difference and that is what divides.

Heb 4:12  For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 

Jesus takes the Jews to the word of God to show them the fallacy of their arguments. Jesus quotes out of psalms using a statement that they had taken out of context regarding those who were judging and proclaiming to be a spokesman for God, yet were really only projecting themselves. The phrase, called you gods, isn't recognition that there are other gods, but simply a form of rebuke to the self righteous living as though it is all about them. The Jewish leaders would be rebuked in this statement and so Jesus follows it up with the truth. If I do the things of my Father then believe, if I do not do the things of my Father don't. In fact He goes so far as to say, don't believe me then, believe the works that are evidence of who He is. 

I suppose that is a good place to stop, My only hope is this clarifies your own experience and gives you hope as you share the good news with others. The rejection is not towards you, but because of your affiliation with Jesus and the conviction that comes with the flesh. Keep sharing the gospel and be encouraged. 

Till next time.

P.M.

Dont look away!!

 As of late I have found myself with an unusually significant amount of distractions. Sure, just like anyone I have times where I just can't seem to focus, but this is more than that. Things that normally would be dismissed and not another thought given have occupied space and energy in my life taking valuable time and resources from where I should be expending efforts. These things are joy stealers, cause anxiety and make me want to respond in the flesh to "take care of business".  But I know, this is a tactic we see in the Bible time and again, as Satan attempts to pull us away from our Lord. From the garden to the final book of Revelation his tactics have proven to be effective. Wear you down and create distractions because he can't have you if your in Christ, but he can by extension, render you ineffective for productive heavenly use. Christmas is just such an occasion for many people. The joy of giving gifts and receiving them, can become a future distraction as you are preoccupied by the new toy or gadget and if that doesn't distract you maybe the return process will for a defective item. Or maybe that credit card bill that comes in higher than expected. Leaving you with regret, sorrow, anxiety and of course as the season ends and a new year comes many are plagued with depression. I am aware of the distractions in my life, I know many are spiritually motivated to distract me from serving and loving God and His people the way I should. But what about you? The first step to resolving these distractions is to address them head on and recognize they rob you of your primary purpose. After acknowledging these distractions it is important to resolve them. I would suggest that you take them to the cross first and give them to God. You trust Him with your eternity so why not trust Him with the day to day things? Remove time wasters and distractions such as games on your phone, news aps that you are constantly waiting on the next headline as if there won't be several more in the moments following, and using the latest social medias sites, posting, filming, responding, and following the latest trends. Which by the way is never a great plan. I guess I just wanted to encourage you today that the God of all creation cares about your choices, not only the big ones but the little ones. He delights in a child of His who is willing to protect against such distractions because He doesn't want to compete with the flesh, He in fact has conquered the flesh and defeated death. He has given His Spirit to us that we might live wisely and experience the joy He intended from the beginning. 

Col 3:15  Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.
Col 3:16  Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
Col 3:17  Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Are you weary?

 I usually try to limit myself on my media updates, specifically world news and even more specifically what's going on crossed the nation. I do this because like many others, I grow weary of the same old things, the same old stories, anything to get us heated. I can say that pretty confidently because no matter who you are you have a preferred news source, even if you don't listen to it or watch it you are getting it through the updates on the radio or in the midst of your t.v. show commercials. 

We see the same old stuff, the same agendas being shoved down our throats and a world desperately seeking to align with whatever agenda suits their fancy. I can't stand the new advertising agenda with same sex partners, men claiming to be women competing in women's sporting events, teachers telling kids that doctors sometimes make mistakes calling a biological girl a boy and visa versa. No longer do you see the family of God's design. Men and women with children.

One such instance is the reparations to African Americans for slavery, victims of gun violence from the gun manufacturers, and to the lgbtq population for the discrimination over the years. In fact the last article I just read a headline for was in sunny California where papers are being submitted by those who identify as one of the above lgbtq and  in response to publicly acknowledging it will be given 900 a month check for their discrimination. Once they have signed up they are good to go and regardless of income levels will receive this amount without deadline.

This is the same country where Christ followers are discriminated against in how they run their business, power hungry mayors demanding the transcripts from pastors and arrested for speaking hate crimes as they preach the word of God.

I sometimes just sit and think, how much more will God allow before He allows the same fate as Sodom and Gomorrah, or even the nation of Israel in their disobedience. Yes I too am weary.

Should we hate them for their stance? Of course not, we are to be a light to the world, that is why we are in it.  If we respond like the world, then why should they see anything different in Christianity? Can we set boundaries? of course, and in deed we ought! Never lose sight of the truths of scripture and the main idea of spreading truth, even in hostile environments.

Yet once we understand that what we have here is a lack of objective truth understanding, a sort of parable to those who are living in a subjective world, it is easier to see that the fight must continue.We mustn't grow weary, but we must continue to speak truth. The word of God speaks to every aspect of what we see in the headlines, the battle is with those who demand to live by their own standards but get upset when someone lives by their own. At some point we know logically that if everyone pursues their own truth, there simply won't be the acknowledgment of any objective truth and therefore the source of objective truth, the Bible will be viewed as irrelevant and hateful. I just heard of a study where a multitude of college age adults were asked if the Bible would make any difference in the world. It was reported that 41% said it definitely would make a difference, down 9% from just a year ago, and 54 % said it doesn't make any difference, simply irrelevant. 14% (I know its over 100. but somehow this is the result they are giving) claimed it would actually make it worse. Can you imagine?

Thankfully, we have the promises of scripture that we are aliens traversing in a foreign world. Not that we are traveling the globe, but literally our residence as believers is in heaven and at the end of our time serving here, we will be taken home. 

Home is where the people we care for reside. It has a wonderful table where we experience close fellowship and where we have our most serious conversations. We have the ability to go where we would like, to explore new areas never seen by human eyes and to experience food, and smells without the polluted stench of corruption.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

Here are a few other verses to look up and study this week regarding growing weary that may offer you some encouragement. Matthew 11:28, Acts 24:4, Galatians 6:9, 2nd Thessalonians 3:13, Hebrews 12:3, Revelation 2:3. Don't forget to read the context so that you can more fully appreciate what is written.

It's time to reclaim your daily joy in serving the Lord, don't allow one more day to pass where the world steals away your joy, rejoice always, in every situation and live for the King. 

Till next time.

P.M.

Old habits die hard

 I am amazed as I look back over my life and see how patient God has been with me. Maybe it's because the older I get the more I can see my failures. Maybe I wasn't open to addressing those failures and to be honest many of them I enjoyed. I have heard many Christian teachers tell new converts they will be totally different since giving their life to Jesus and that His biggest desire is to make you happy. Of course, you and I know that even as a Christ follower we will face difficult times. The loss of a loved one suddenly, the loss of a job, marital trouble, misbehaving kids and so on. The difference is we are told in a multitude of places in the Bible that God will work even these things to His glory. Those that are reaping self induced consequences, those that are being crushed under someone else's' doing and those who are face to face with life in a fallen world.

So as a young Christian I would often revert back to the ways I was before. Reacting rash and defensively. using language unbecoming of a Christ follower and showing my displeasure with peoples decisions and honestly having to recognize consequences to my own choices. For some reason I felt I was beyond being judged and certainly by any others, saved or not. One of the hardest things to combat was my temper. Having spoken to many men I could tell quickly this was a flesh vs spirit issue commonly found among God's people. We see in 1st Timothy the qualifications of an elder or overseer and one of those things is that a man must be temperate. 

With time and the more I studied the word, the better I was able to keep my temper under control and submit to God's grace as I became more aware and when the consequences came around I acknowledged they were from my poor decisions and even in the pain of the moment to not lose sight of the future hope in Him, where I will no longer fight the flesh the way many of us do here and now. 

I became increasingly interested in understanding what some Christians called "righteous anger" and they always used the same verse found in Matthew 21:12 where we see Jesus throwing tables over in the temple and driving people out of the church who were set up making a profit. I get the visual this wasn't a quiet thing that took place, Jesus was livid and everyone knew it. The next verse, 13, Jesus quotes out of Isaiah and says that "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a robbers den."(NASB)

His anger was kindled by the fleshly actions of people just like you and me. Jesus knew what He was doing and in case you have forgotten, Jesus is without sin. So the response to sinfulness must have been ok at least for Him. So how does this apply to our current world situation? How do you suppose Jesus would respond to the ridiculousness of our politcal leaders? How do you think He would rebuke those pushing to legalize abortion, those getting rich off of the lies and fears of the supposed epedemic and those smuggling people for trafficing purposes, just to name a few? 

And not to mention how I respond out of frustration and unbelief that things can be this ridiculous. I just heard of a group of public schools that have installed litter boxes in the bathroom for students that identify as cats. You can't make this stuff up. Where are the parents, where are the schools common sense, after all they are the ones you trust your kids to and now they are in school peeing in litter boxes. Of course my old habit of anger rears its head. I don't even know who to focus it at? The parents, the next generation, school leaders, political leaders, or the guy that cut me off going to work last week. 

My conclusion? After we strip away the face of the person that we feel is responsible for these things and we begin to consider the words of the Bible I must conclude that any anger or if we call it righteous anger must be directed toward our enemy who is doing everything he can to take my eyes off Jesus. It is well-known that you serve one of two masters, God or His enemy. There are a good many people serving the enemy of God by default. They wouldn't say that or probably even agree with that statement if they don't know God, but it doesn't make it untrue. Satan has been given dominion over this fallen chunk of real estate but the key phrase is "for a time". We must continue to defend the faith, fight for righteousness and justice, protect the children born and unborn, help the widows and widowers and keep our focus on God. A long story for a short answer. 

Today pray for good decisions and begin to humble yourself before God to see as He sees and take a stance where He would take a stance. By the way Jesus was particular in His battles. When asked about paying the ridiculous taxes His repsonse was render unto Caesar what is His and unto God what is His. That is a great rule to remember and you will find your temper coming back into check. Good luck. 

until next time.

P.M.

Chistmas cheer

 What a beautiful time of year! The beautiful lights twinkling around a bushy pine, fires crackling in the fireplace, eggnog and cocoa steaming out of our cups, a soft white blanket of snow covering the ground so fresh the only prints are that of a young rabbit. The air is filled with the smell of Christmas, the pine tree brings the outdoors inside, the char of the fire, treats coming out of the oven and the sounds of Christmas carols fill the background in a room filled with family and conversation. Sounds to good to be true, probably because it is. We love this time of year as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, but many of these wonderful things can lead you into distraction. 

For instance, who handles the decorating in your house? Is it really possible to decorate without at least a few barbs against each other? Who picks up all the Christmas gifts and cooks the meals, cleans up the spilt eggnog and pays the credit card bill? These are all consequences of the above sensational state of mind.

Anytime we fix our attention on the physical we will be truly disappointed. After all none of these things are truly representative of what Christmas is all about. Sure I have heard the stories of what the candy cane stands for, who st. Nick really was, and all the other things that are supposed to point to Christ, but why don't we just point to Christ? Persecution or not, He is the reason for the season, He is the face of Christmas. I have used candy canes and decorations to teach the gospel to kids but what do we do when its January, April or June?

So here is my thought for the day. Don't accept the deceit! Reject everything that pushes Jesus out of Christmas and embrace everything that draws us closer. The funny thing is this isn't even a Christmas thing, its a Christian thing. 24/7/365. 

I really do love Christmas. People are nicer in general, things are prettier, people begin to make spending time together more of a priority and we have Christmas services where little girls wear thier pretty little dresses and the little boys thier little suits or sweaters. There is definately a lot of emotion that goes with Christmas, but our faith must not be an emotion. Enjoy the season, and proclaim the name of Jesus to everyone you encounter, give thanks before you eat that bountiful meal, and join in with the multitude worshipping. You'll be glad you did.

Oh yeah, one final thing. It's not xmas, it is CHRISTmas, so say it with emphasis on the Christ.

Till next time

P.M.

Who would intentionally cause harm to a child?

 It used to be that as a child you could always turn to one of three places to be safe.

First we could call the police, flag one down or go to the police station and receive help or instruction without fear of being abused in some way.

Second we could always speak to the school faculty. Advisors, teachers, counselors, and principles were always available and ready to listen to us and help us out.

Thirdly is the church. Most any kid, churched or not, knew that if they got in a bind or needed help they could reach out to a church pastor or leader.

I really couldn't say when things turned upside down, maybe only that it was over a few decades it became increasingly worse. As we have seen in the last year specifically all three of these, "once safe", places are under fire. Defund police, sick health and sex agendas being discussed in our schools for our children, pastors who have fallen hard in their sins and abuse of position in all three. I am glad my kids are grown, but now with grand kids I feel even more protective of what these three institutions have become.

Two of my daughters have tried to opt out of the stimulus' because of the corruption they stand for and the uncertainty of the amounts and have both been told that without releasing biometric information they would not be allowed to opt out. I sat in a meeting last night led by Matt Innis who revealed that the new health mandate Nebraska schools are considering has a portion that does not allow the families the right to opt out. When I hear these things it makes me boil. We have been compliant for far too long and it has left us right where we are. I told my wife its like a wasp nest. I have torn down countless nests and have never been stung because of it. I hit the nest down and wasps buzz me and might even run into me but in general they fly around hopping mad darting all over the place but they eventually quiet down if I just leave them alone and they go about thier business dealing with the fall out but in the end nothing has changed. A stolen election, a wickedly evil education agenda and rioters who are allowed to do as they want. A movement to hold whites accountable for the evil of the past instead of mending the relationships. And for the record I could care less what color someones skin is, I care about thier attitude and character and it was whites who fought to stop the slavery and put an end to it. But most of our history classes wouldn't teach that. I can easily become frustrated and try to turn to scripture as a source of dealing with my own attitude and understanding why it is the way it is. Not only have I learned that it will get worse and that we are to stand up for truth and not be passive and complacent, I also recently read a familiar scripture and in fact preached on it for Fathers day, or at least it was part of the text I used. You will recognize it also...

Luk 11:11  "Now suppose one of you fathers is asked by his son for a fish; he will not give him a snake instead of a fish, will he?
Luk 11:12  "Or if he is asked for an egg, he will not give him a scorpion, will he?
Luk 11:13  "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?" 

This time when I read these words it stopped me cold in my tracks as I considered the discussions among the Nebraska state board of education as well as many of the communities whose school boards are toying around with this discussion as well. I am so proud of some of the communities whose board stood firm and rejected it fully saying that they will not consider any part of it including the critical race teaching. I truly believe that what these folks are doing is exactly what Jesus is asking the disciples, what caring loving adult who wants what is best for children would even be willing to discuss this garbage let along try to force its way into our schools? What scripture teaches us, is that these are wickedly evil people and indeed they are not only trying to take our children from us they are poisoning them with profane things. I personally believe anyone who has voted for this agenda should be arrested and charged with child endangerment and thrown in prison. What they are doing is far worse than what many parents have been arrested due to human services records.

It is time for us to put our feet down and say no more. If you love your children and desire to see them flourish in their future goals, you will need to be willing to not stand by, but just the opposite, stand in and say "no more". When evil presents itself their is no compromising with it. When it threatens us or those we care about, you cannot convince it to go away. You cannot ignore it and you cannot wish it away. No...evil must be confronted head on and firmly. Our greatest ministry opportunities may come from showing someone a better way but when they will not listen to reason and truth you must not back down and abandon your convictions. Stand together and lets give our nation back to God.

Till next time

P.M.

 

Security of Salvation part 2

 Last time we began to discuss the controversial Hebrews 6 passage. A widely misunderstood and mysterious section of scripture that is difficult even for the scholars.

We made it through the first few verses last time but this week we really get to the nuts and bolts of the scripture as we ask the question, "once someone has come to faith in Jesus, can he/she lose or turn from that faith and lose salvation?" Of course one concern is the genuineness of ones profession and the authenticity of being truly "born again" in Christ.

Let's look at the text before breaking it down.

Heb 6:4  For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit,
Heb 6:5  and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come,
Heb 6:6  and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame. 

(NASB)

When we look at the text there are a few words that will need to be defined.

First we see the word enlightened. This does not pose any real confusion to our question, as it is simply the revelation of Jesus Christ. Once anyone has heard the gospel or been told of the grace of God they no longer walk in darkness regarding Jesus' sacrifice and the way of salvation. In fact if you simply look at the disciples, Judas Iscariot was enlightened, acted as if one of the followers but in reality had rejected the Light.

The second word that needs explained is "tasted". Some of the people addressed in this letter to the Hebrews had tasted the heavenly gift. The heavenly gift here is the Lord Jesus, his words, grace, miracles, etc. There is no mention of repentance and eating and drinking, only tasting. I would guess this concept is pretty straight forward as we see a similar idea in 1st Corinthians 7:14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband; for otherwise your children are unclean, but now they are holy.  (NASB) The teaching here is not that the unbeliever is saved because of someone else's faith, but they are receiving the blessings of the other persons faith. When God blesses the righteous those around them will be able to taste of those blessings, maybe even look like it is because of them. In Matthew chapter 27 Jesus was offered wine mixed with gall. A drink to help with the pain that had a bitter taste. Jesus tasted it but would not drink it. John 6:53 tells us tasting is not enough, Joh 6:53  So Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in yourselves. Joh 6:54  "He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. Clearly the people who have been informed and experienced Jesus have all but accepted Him. So what about the last part of verse 4 where it appears they are genuine because they have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit? Well hang on because this goes deep. The Spirit of God reveals the truth of God to the unregenerate, which is all of us at some point before coming to Christ. One author calls it the preconversion ministry of the Holy Spirit. In other words we in our own flesh are unable to discern spiritual matters and so the Spirit of God opens our eyes to Spiritual truth. In reality it would be impossible for us to choose Christ without the revelation or enlightenment, through whatever source, and the Holy Spirits revelation to us of these spiritual truths. The Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost....you and me. According to John 16:8 He convicts unbelievers of sin, of righteousness and of judgment so a person can partake in these benefits without being indwelled by Him. Let me remind the readers that it would be foolish to believe every person in church on any given Sunday is truly regenerated. They are partakers in service and events, maybe even try to teach and direct, but God knows their hearts. They receive the glory they long for by being in and among the blessed believers and take the glory from God as if it is theirs. Every church has these people!

Verse 6 therefore is referring to those who appear by all indications to belong to the body of Christ but resemble Judas more than Jesus. When I was serving in missions I went through a tough phase when it finally occurred to me that if I share the gospel and someone rejects it that they are without excuse, they have been informed, invited and warned. Of course, how naive to believe anyone has a valid excuse, but I think you see my point. Those who hear and taste and reject the truth..ie Jesus, will be allowed to have their choice. God will not force them to come to Him. So the concept of verse 6 is once a person has come to this point of experiential faith and never personalized it, never repented, never trusted in Jesus and walked away, they will be turned over to their consequences. I have had two men in my life share the gospel and although I didn't respond until a third man shared with me, I never became hostile or flat out rejected Christ, I just didn't gravitate toward him at that time. I became increasingly curious, felt the hand of God leading me toward Him and eventually accepted His gift of salvation, through faith in Christ. I shudder to think it could have gone the other way, my attitude in those days very well could have rejected the truth and according to verse 6, once my decision has been made I am clearly disregarding God, betraying His invitation, spurning Christ, and joining the forces that oppose Him. This could be almost instantaneous or it could be years in the making. Billy Graham had a mentor who got him involved in ministry by the name of Charles Templeton. Charles was charismatic and a great speaker, enthusiastic and seemed to be on fire for Christ. Until one day he revealed he had been living a lie and was done with the charade. Billy and others were shocked and devastated, but Charles went on sadly to reject the Lord. Even Lee Stroble tried to reach him but it was unclear if he was able to complete Lees book before his death. 

In case you were unfamiliar with what an apostate is, it is someone who hears the gospel, makes a profession of being a Christian, becomes identified with a christian church, then abandons their profession of faith, decisively repudiate Christ, desert the christian fellowship, and take their place among the enemies of the Lord Jesus Christ. By default if your not with Christ, your against Christ, this isn't the NFL where you can pick your team. One more thing, the apostate can only be a non-Christian. Not to be confused with the average person who hears the gospel and does nothing about it.

For those apostates it is impossible for them to be renewed again because they were never renewed to begin with. This would be suggesting a second crucifixion of Christ which would suggest the first one wasn't enough or appropriate. 

This is a condensed exhortation of these verses and certainly many other aspects and considerations could be followed up for even more clarity. But if you are like me and this text has caused you to question your security in Christ, let me remind you...Joh 10:26  "But you do not believe because you are not of My sheep. Joh 10:27  "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;
Joh 10:28  and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. Joh 10:29  "My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. Joh 10:30  "I and the Father are one."

Maybe in my next blog I will try to answer the question that is closely related to today's topic, "is there such a thing as a carnal Christian and if so are they truly saved?"

Till next time.

P.M.

Security of Salvation part one

 Paul tells the Corinthian church, 2Co 6:2  for He says, "AT THE ACCEPTABLE TIME I LISTENED TO YOU, AND ON THE DAY OF SALVATION I HELPED YOU." Behold, now is "THE ACCEPTABLE TIME," behold, now is "THE DAY OF SALVATION"— . (NASB) The Corinthian church was full of milk drinking infant Christians and Paul had written to them multiple times to address their infancy in faith.

Today i want to touch on a scripture that gave me a wrestless year of trying to figure it out and is one of the deep subjects of scripture. I in no way feel adequate to explain such complex spiritual issues but I know others have struggled with this scripture as well. The scripture in reference here is Hebrews chapter 6 which some would suggest support the loss of salvation. I had been taught once saved always saved but never could reconcile my stance with this verse. Probably because I was looking to support what I already believed instead of approaching the text to see what it actually teaches. That would be the difference between eisegesis and exegesis.

We must understand that in chapter 5 the author was discussing the priesthood of Jesus until verse 11 where he digresses to rebuke the Hebrews. He says that they have become dull of hearing and by this point ought to be teachers but are still infants in need of being taught the elementary teachings of the faith. In short what the author is doing is warning the Hebrews not to become apostates, or someone who falls away from their original beliefs.

So when we get to chapter 6 we see the word therefore, which is a continuation of thought. Another way to say it might be, "in light of this warning, let me press on and stress the need for your spiritual growth.

Remember he his writing to the Jews who held to a stringent code of rules and regulations.They struggled with the mere idea of faith as opposed to works, even though it has always been about faith the code required obedience which is key to understanding this passage. 

In verses 1 and 2 the author contrasts the Jewish faith with the christian faith. One could say that the Jewish faith was the infancy and beginning words of God. After all the prophets, the historical writings and the patriarchs were taught about the foundation, or the coming of a messiah. The messiah that we would need to approach with faith. We see this further in these first verses as many of the Jewish doctrines were to prepare them for this messiah. These basic doctrines stopped shy of the death and resurrection. The Old Testament believers believed that God would send a messiah but not everyone recognized Him when He came. Christianity then, would be the advancement to maturity living under grace and not law. (Romans 6:14-15). 

According to verse 3 maturity will follow, God permitting.

One final thought before we approach the core of the text found in verses 6:4-6. The phrase "faith toward God" found in verse one is very Jewish oriented. This is a phrase that was much more common in the Old testament than in the New testament where the phrase is usually faith in Christ or in Jesus. This reminds us of who the main recipients were of this letter.

Well thats all we have time for this week, be sure and catch the conclusion to this fascinating scripture next week in part two. 

Till next time.

P.M.

Foolishness of the Cross

 Just a few weeks till Easter and undoubtedly the minds of many are turning toward the death burial and resurrection of Jesus.

Over the years countless individuals have studied and made claims that the cross of Jesus just isn't possible. The time line doesn't line up, the gospels seem to have conflicting reports and so they conclude the error lies within the Bible. If something that significant, in other words all of Christianity hinges on the cross, is faulty than the entire Bible must be dismissed as unreliable. This of course brings into question those who are desperate to understand and are confronted with this supposed wisdom, those who are persuaded that the Bible is untrustworthy and renders their faith foolishness.

This concept and attempt to hijack the gospel with self proclaimed wisdom has bothered me more and more in recent years. Many times it is the "creastors" those who only attend church two times a year, who want to educate those who actually come to church regularly, read their Bibles and take a genuine interest all year in the gospel. But this year in God's providence I have been studying through the book of 1st Corinthians for our current series, "Corinthian coach". I say in God's providence, because the first chapter addresses this very current dilemma in the church. By verse 10 the apostle Paul is already rebuking the believers for the factions they have formed. Arguing over which man to follow when the gospel clearly reveals only one man worth following. But by verse 18 Paul has identified two people groups. don't forget this letter is to the church and therefore is assuming that they know the gospel and love God.Of course, they don't have the parable of the tares yet so they don't realize that even the first century church contained weeds mixed throughout the wheat.

The first people group are those who are perishing. These people may look like, act like and sound like the real deal but in their hearts they are playing church. They don't believe the gospel and have their own ideas on what it means to be saved.

The second group are those who are being saved. These folks don't claim to know everything, there are things about the Bible, God, and even the gospel that are confusing and hard to understand but in their hearts they know the word of God is reliable and the lack of understanding is not a reason to void the truth.

But the interesting thing is Paul says the thing that distinguishes them into these two groups is the word of the cross. Or course you and I call it the gospel today but it is the same thing that Paul is referring to. It is found in verse 18 of chapter one. He says the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing. In fact what is being emphatically stated between the lines here is without believing the gospel of the cross it is impossible to be saved. These people search for humanly wisdom which is kind of an oxymoron. They might be wise in their own sight but Paul later says the foolishness of God is wiser than the wisest humans claims. In fact the term foolishness here is where we get our word moron from and the word perishing in verse 18 means to destroy. 

on the other hand to those who are being saved it is the power of God. Maybe you have heard someone speak of the power of the gospel. It is the most life changing truth you can possibly hear if you are willing to believe. We as humans seek to understand and that's a good thing, but when it comes to the gospel we have entered into the world of spiritual revelation. Without God's Holy Spirit it would be impossible to understand the gospel. Why? Because it is spiritually discerning and contains great wisdom and insight into our creator. 

So what is the gospel exactly? The gospel contains what most have called the bad news, good news syndrome. The bad news, you are a sinner, you were born that way and your sin offends a holy and righteous God. And by the way you are helpless to remedy the situation. A just judge requires justice and that is God's demand. We were given the 10 commandments, which Jesus summarized into two, love God, and love others. This served as a guide to reveal that not one of us can keep the commandments and therefore even if we think we are good, the standard shows we fall flat. The good news, which is where we get the term gospel, is that God provided payment for our sins, past present and future. He sent His Son Jesus who willingly went to the cross, having never sinned, fulfilling the law and therefore provided the perfect sacrifice for mankind. Having been crucified on a cross, He was killed, buried and rose from the grave 3 days later. His resurrection was the defining moment that defeated death and for those who believe give us the glorious hope of eternity in heaven. 

That being said it does sound pretty sensational and hard to believe, that is why it is called faith. For example you believed the chair you are in would hold you up when you sat down. The faucet had water come out when you turned it on and the computer had power when you plugged it in. All things you probably couldn't explain every detail about,, yet you believe, that is faith.

I will leave it at that and let you wrestle with it for now. your comments and questions are welcomed and my prayer is that all who read this will come to the same conclusion I have.....Jesus is my Lord and savior and I place my faith in Him and abandon my own efforts to be saved. After all it is not foolishness, it is the power of God.

Till next time.

P.M.

Ashes to ashes

 As a pastor you get some regular type questions, and they usually come about the same time of year. There are many surrounding Christmas, such as how many wise men were there? Was Jesus born in a cave? Doesn't the Old Testament say it is evil to bring a tree into the house and decorate it? 

But there are other times as well that bring questions to the minds of people. How could it be 3 days if Jesus died on Friday and rose on Sunday? If we have a fall festival and have the kids dress up is that better than having the kids go trick or treating?

Some of these questions are wonderful and show a persons interest in following scripture as best as they can, while others are just for argument sake. 

Today I want to address a question regarding Ash Wednesday. I have had over the years dozens of questions, from what time is service to, does the ash have to be on the forehead or can it be on the wrist, and probably everything in between. The entire subject is very confusing and based more on tradition than anything Jesus said or did regarding Ash Wednesday.

Let me first be clear that I never have done ash Wednesday services and will not be. That is not to offend those of you that go and have a cross of ashes painted on your forehead but let me explain why I personally disagree with it. 

Ash Wednesday marks the start of the Lenten season, a period of 46 days of fasting and prayer that lead us into Easter. While most of the churches that have this service will acknowledge that it was never a command from Christ they tie it to the 40 day temptation of Jesus. I will be the first to say that is a bit of a stretch. They also would claim the basis of the ashes, are the several records in scripture of putting on sackcloth and covering themselves in ashes while mourning. If this is the case wouldn't Good Friday make more sense to receive the ashes, considering the temptation is an entirely different subject theologically not to mention the fasting and praying. When you get right down to it, many will observe the ashes but neglect the fasting even if they do the praying part.

When it boils down to it this is a matter of tradition, not all bad, and theology. Simply put, if the theology doesn't make sense then why are we doing it? Really we could put ash on our heads and fast and pray anytime of the year. In fact wouldn't it make more sense when we lose a loved one, seeking Jesus or at a time of desperation to seek God in fasting and prayer as we saw with Job and others?

So here is problem number one I personally have. The same people that usually observe the ashes, will often recite the Lords prayer as a prayer, instead of the intended model it was meant to be. Did you realize that before the Lord gives the model of praying in Matthew chapter 6, He gives warnings, not to be like the hypocrites who stand before men to be seen, instead you are to do it in the inner room in secret. You are not to use meaningless repetition, in other words, God wants to hear your heart not some predescribed montra to chant. (Mt. 6:5-8) You can pray publicly or privately but do it in the right sense. But that is just the beginning. When we fast we are not to be obvious about it. We are to make this a matter between the Lord and ourselves, so when we walk around with an ash cross on our forehead we are asking to be noticed. If you disagree with me I would personally challenge you to put on sackcloth and ashes and sit in a prostrate position and then maybe i will consider your motives. An ash cross does indeed draw peoples attention to the fact you are in mourning if that is why we do it, right? But my opinion is no more special than anyone elses, so I wonder what scripture might say about this. 

Mat 6:16-18 "Whenever you fast, do not put on a gloomy face as the hypocrites do, for they neglect their appearance so that they will be noticed by men when they are fasting. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face so that your fasting will not be noticed by men, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. (NASB)

certainly we have two topics here, that of fasting and praying and that of mourning. While I do agree that sackcloth and ashes were a sign of mounring, I still must maintain that  this practice was long before Jesus' temptation and should be studied out carefully. We see many places in the New Testament where fasting and prayer were prescribed but don't seem to be followed by the sackcloth and ashes, let along a one day event, because we know we are not going to have that cross on for very long or people will think we don't shower, haha. 

Anyway this is just the tip of the iceberg so if you decide to observe with ashes, do your homework and understand as well as observe all that goes with it traditionally. If you choose not to observe ashes, I would also challenge you to stand with clear understanding why you do not. It isn't merely enough to do something, we must be in accord of what scripture says and proceed with a clear conscience before the Lord. May the Lord give you the clarity of understanding and be able to differentiate between theology and tradition. 

Till next time

P.M.

 

Baby NewYear, done growed up!

 I remember as a kid watching the Christmas specials year after year as if it was the first time I had ever seen them. From the miser brothers to Ralphie, it was like visiting old friends. There was one specific cartoon Christmas show that starred the emphamis baby new year who wore his diaper, a top hat which covered his very large ears. Baby new year ran away because people were making fun of him every time his hat came off. But it wasn't until later in life that i began to see the irony in this new year running away because of his being made fun of and in the end everyone rallying around him to encourage him that we needed him to start the new year. At the time I neglected to see the encouragement as being self serving. After all who wants to get stuck in 2020 for another year? 

The reality is that 2020 was what we made of it. Good times, bad times, it all comes back to your response and how you dealt with the challenges and blessings. As a Christ follower, we know that God works all things to the good of those who love Him, but through out our trials and challenges it is easy to forget that. For instance maybe you lost your job and blame 2020 when in reality it was a series of events that stemmed from bad decisions, cut backs or hundreds of other things until it came to pass. These events were undoubtedly rooted in the past, maybe just a few days or weeks but could be as far back as years. The same is true when you think of a new job. It didn't just come about one day, it took someone losing thier job, quitting or retiring or maybe a new position was created, they went through the resume and interviewing process and then you are offered a job. So we credit 2020 as the year of the job blessing. What we need to consider is regardless of a new year, mid year, or anywhere in between, God was still moving people, working the plan so that when the time came you got the job, or in some cases you lost your job. What seems like a crisis at the time will undoubtedly yield new opportunities in the future for those who stick to thier faith and find thier security in Christ.

What I want to tell you on the threshold of this new year is to not use this as an opportunity to classify a year as good or bad solely on the basis of how your life went. Rather it would be prudent to see the timeless hand of God who orchestrates all things together for His glory. That doesn't mean that God caused you to lose your job, but certainly He will provide another and who knows it could just be the best thing you have never asked for. This year as you look into the new year, take a moment and reflect on the past and the consequences they have had on your present status. The future is promising and if you will take on the right attitude you will find thankfulness in the most unusual things. Why not leave a comment for others to see just how God sees us through from year to year? That is how baby new year grows up.

Till next time

P.M.

Christmas time is quickly approaching

 Hard to believe that 2020 is almost complete and we are down to the final weeks before Christmas. For many of us 2020 has brought unexpected changes and unprecedented challenges. Although the year, according to our calendars, is about to expire and we welcome a new year with renewed hope, it is more than likely that our current situations will once again be there on January 1st. I don't say that as a discouragement, but rather as an encouragement. Let me explain. When we start a new year we say we will lose weight, exercise more, quite smoking, be a better person, start going to church, etc. and we all know that these goals fizzle and fall flat by February 1st. We falter and get discouraged or pick a new starting point down the road a bit and before you know it another year has whizzed by. You and I both know that it doesn't take a new year for a new start and honestly why wouldn't we use Christmas if we wanted a fresh start on a calendar date? The celebration of hope, the recognition that our creator came to live among us that He might die in our place, having done nothing wrong. If you think about it the entire season is messed up with deception and misgivings. I have been preparing my Christmas series for preaching and I told my wife at lunch the other day that its like you celebrate Independence day 364 days out of the year and then the last day is a day to celebrate America. Isn't it kind of the same thing just a specific day set aside where we can get out of work, eat a lot of food, enjoy family and friends and exchange gifts? I am no way undermining the importance of celebrating Christmas, just challenging the priorities this time of year. Boxes and bowes, ribbon and glitter, trees and pointsettias, lights and stars, manger scenes, office parties, huge spread of food, gift getting and giving, new dresses, and suits, where does it stop? And what does it have to do with the birth of Christ? We can expect excuses to explain away our behavior but God know our hearts. The excitement the children get when they wake up and see santa has been there, instead of Jesus. By the way anyone else find it creepy that we convince our kids an old fat guy has access to our houses where everyone else is locked out and we are ok with it? And in addition he won't come unless your asleep. On the flip side, you don't have to wait till Jan. 1st or until your in deep sleep to get a new beginning. Jesus is only a prayer away, nothing creepy or disturbing about it, unless you consider why He would be there for us after all we have done to dishonor Him. 2nd Corinthians 6:2 says this; for He says at the acceptable time I listened to you and on the day of salvation I helped you. Behold, now is the acceptable time, behold, now is the day of salvation." That my friends is the reason for the season. Till next time

P.M.

Not conformed, Be transformed!

 As a church family we have been going through what we call, "redemption road". It is one of the Bible reading challenges we have undertaken as of late, reading a chapter a day, Monday through Friday with weekends of. The scripture for redemption road is the book of Romans. Romans is known for its rich theology and clear gospel. There is so much for us to learn and apply in these 16 chapters than to just read a chapter and cross it off our to do list. Already we have learned so much but today as I opened my Bible and began to read the 12th chapter I was reminded of one of the most important truths a believer in Jesus can understand. Paul starts off stating that we are to present our bodies, a living and holy sacrifice, pleasing to God.... This is our spiritual act of worship. That is quite a statement but he continues in verse two with a most profound truth, "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect."

I love the do and don't contrast. Do not be conformed to this world..... Take a moment and let that sink in. How often do you go along with things because, well, thats just the way things go? Or how often do you blend in with the world and its corruption because you don't want to be one of those stuffy Bible thumpers?

The reality is that for a regenerated heart, it will increasingly become more difficult to live in the world. On the one hand you will begin to take on its character and corruption but on the other hand Paul finishes by saying that you, "are to be transformed by the renewing of your mind" Transformation is a process and it comes from the renewing of your mind. In other words, putting spiritual truths above the worlds suggestions. Embracing the righteousness of God in the face of corruption and continually seeking God in everything. In so doing you will prove the will of God, which Paul says is good, acceptable and perfect. Something we know the world and its corruption can never claim, even though it tries. 

Paul goes on to speak about using spiritual gifts, behaving like a Christ follower and ends with a warning. Verse 21, Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good. 

So why don't we use today to do good? Give that person a smile, greet that person who you never talk with, let someone go in front of you, buy someones coffee, or ask if you can sit with someone who is alone. These are pretty minimal in effort but will read great opportunity to show the will of God. After a few days of doing these things you might just find out you are being transformed into the image of our savior. There is no going back, let us push through striving to do good works, not for salvation but because of salvation. Till next time

P.M.

Church Life

 We have been studying through a series called Church by the Book the last couple of weeks. It is one of my favorite sections of scripture found in Acts 2:41-47. These few verses are packed so full of rich truth and intentionality it is hard to just spend a few weeks in it. But the more I study it the more God reveals His instruction and design for a successful church. 

I was told long ago that a church that is faithful to the word will always be growing because we will be faithful to the Lord's expectations. I had others tell me that attendance is top priority, as if God takes roll call. (I will say as a pastor I have found people expect me to be there, miss a week and they think they can too. haha) All this to say that so many of the cliches that we use are actually not very good theology. They make for a good conviction but not a good reality. Of course we want to stay true to the word and if your not then your doors ought to be closed. I think of church as being the huddle where we learn more about the Lord and His teachings and then we spend the week on the field, fighting the enemy. When we come into the huddle, we are encouraged, challenged and given perspective through God's eyes through His word and His people. Those who don't know the Lord will find the Christian to be one sided, narrow minded and they desire them to broaden thier minds. But to adopt this seeker sensitive rubbish on how to do church is similar to asking the pilot of your plane to disregard the flat, hard well maintained runway for a city street, jungle animal path, or to just make your own path through a residential neighborhood. We know the significance of the runway when it comes time to land and how narrow that little strip of pavement is. Likewise if you call yourself a Christ follower, if you know Him to be your Lord and Savior than you must understand the unwillingness to compromise on God's design. 

The church has fought for years regarding deep or wide ministries. Should we teach deeply and know that many who are not redeemed in the pews will find offense, or do we shallow the waters a bit and make it an enjoyable festive welcome party, week after week? Acts would teach us that the church was a place for believers to be built up,  sent out and recieved back anxious to hear about each others ministries. At the foundation of the church in Acts 2:42 was the Apostles teaching. They were to teach what they had learned from Jesus and instruct others to go and do the same. Creating disciples with every opportunity. 

So when you turn your attention toward the political arena, Christians are sure to have a different perspective than much of the country. We seek out truth and we seek no savior but Jesus. We do not live as though a mere political figure can fix what is wrong. We live in a broken world that will continue to erode and no replacement parts can be found. You will not find the love, encouragement, and purpose from this broken world, only in the church. Yes, do your part, vote, go out and make a difference, defend lives, serve others, love without hesitation and expectancy but your weekend huddle with a church that preaches the truth and loves God and others is the only place you will find true rest.

Here is my point in all this. When a political figure claims to be Christian, who supports the murder of babies, they are lying to you. You can not have a person who stands for life and votes to kill babies, that is narrow objective truth. When you are told by a candidate that they will keep you safe but take away your constitutional rights such as bearing arms, attending church, singing hymns and go so far as to encourage the looting thugs who are under special priveledge, they are untrustworthy and not worthy to lead this country. When thier lives are full of scandals and make up fake stories to take the focus off of themselves, they are deceitful wicked individuals. Once again narrow truth, we cannot be so contradicting of our own words or actions and be genuine in what our mouth asserts we are or are not. I call upon all who call themselves Christians to defend the truth and never accept the challenge to broaden your thinking. 

The first century church did grow by thousands in its early days, hundreds all the time recorded in the first chapters of Acts, but the people were responding to the gospel and then be discipled. The 120 mentioned earlier in Acts were the ones who were among the apostles  and through the work of the Spirit around 3000 were added to thier number. They were drawn by the works of the Spirit, specifically the pentecost account. Sounded like a violent rushing wind that filled the house they sat in, and flames as if fire split and came upon each of them and they spoke in a language that was understood by different nationalities. Yet even in this remarkable event, some came up with what they felt was a reasonable explanation. "They are drunk" Thats the best they could come up with to discount the hand of God. No slurring, falling over or any of that, just a real language that was spoken to different people so that they would hear the teaching in thier native tongues. 

Its not going to get easier, we must make it a priority to grow in our faith and understanding and not accept the worlds, anything goes mentatlity. Hold fast to the truth and be assured that scripture will speek to whatever it is you run into. Be encouraged, the time draws near when the Lord will call the names of His children and we will live in peace forevermore. But until then be steadfast. 

Till next time. P.M.

What is church?

 We could have a room full of people, pose the question, "what is church" and have just as many responses as people. The problem is that many of the responses would be subjective and would have more to do with a persons upbringing, experience, preferences, and traditions than what the word of God teaches. Many have the view of church being a stuffy, irrelevant, "have to" when in reality it should be the highlight of the week. The joy of corporate worship, the command of our Father and the encouragement we gain from fellowship should far outweigh the inconvenience of church. 

That being said most of us already know that the church is not a building it is people. Sadly with each generation we are seeing a trend that church simply doesn't matter, after all what is God going to do if I don't go to church?

There was a pastor in the upper east part of the country who took on a dyeing church with enthusiasm and energy, he gave it his all week after week. Seeing little to no change, he ramped up efforts and to his dismay the church continued to dwindle. He had one last thought, a final shot at building the church. He ran an ad in the paper with the death notice of the church. He made arrangements for the funeral at the church with a casket in front covered in flowers and the date was set. Curiosity consumed the community and they came to see what this funeral was all about. Starting 30 minutes before service the sanctuary filled up, bringing tears to the pastors eyes as he desired to accomplish this with all the work before and now seeing all the people brought mixed emotions. By service time there was standing room only and those in the back on tip toes to get a glimpse of the casket. The service began and the pastor delivered a wonderful eulogy, but the people couldn't wait to see the casket. The pastor invited people to give their final respects as they would line up and file by the casket. He moved the flowers aside and opened the lid, moving aside so the people could funnel by. As each person walked by, soberness filled their faces. As each person shuffled by, responding in shame, they set eyes on the dying church...... a mirror that the pastor had placed inside the casket reflecting the church that had died.

Why is it people like to say they belong to a church when they seldom place priority on entering the front doors?

We see the condition of our great country and see the attacks on churches and pastors daily, but in many cases we literally don't lift a finger to change the tide of change. We know that things will grow increasingly worse, but no where in scripture does it speak to giving in, laying back and watching the destruction. You and I are called to fight the battle, serve Christ and instead of licking your wounds at home, to celebrate with the brethren that we are found worthy to pick up the sword for our Lord. The gathering, corporately, is for worshiping God, but in that we get so much out of it. Praying for one another, serving one another, encouraging one another and so much more. 

So here is my challenge. Forget what you thought you knew about the church and open your Bibles to Acts chapter 2:36-47. The first century church was bold, vibrant, unified and focused on what mattered most. Join me as we explore getting back to doing church correctly. 

Till next time.

P.M.

You can only push so far.

When I was a young lad and constantly looking for trouble, my uncle took me aside and taught me how to use my fingers as a rubber band gun. As a side note, I have been told that the police were dispatched not so long ago to a report of a little boy making a pretend gun out of his fingers and concerned citizens reported him. Thankfully when the cops arrived it was empty, no rubber bands, so he just got yelled out. But as my uncle laughed, I began to hone in my new talent of rubber band shooter and got to the point that I could hit a fly on a wall several feet away. I know that is really impressive and plays a major part of where I am today but that's not my main point. You see all that practicing meant I had to have plenty of product. Dad owned an office supply store so I was covered there. And secondly I had to have targets. Once again, I had two sisters and so that was covered as well. As a little boy my job was to annoy my sisters and this was the avenue to accomplish my task. That is until the, "mean sister" began shooting her own with a plastic device you could buy that shot the rubber bands, more accurately and with more power. I quickly learned when I appeared to have a rash, turned out to be rubber band snaps, the law of "Enough already"
I bring this up because I see this now taking place among Christians. There has been a long ongoing patience and passivity as well as complacency, among modern Christianity. Those who oppose our God, or should I say Master, have been berating, abusing, and devastating the church for years. Not nearly as severe as of late. I have grown weary of rebuking fellow Christ followers because of their supposed grace, showing them Jesus' behavior as He walked through town. The funny thing is many Christians use Jesus' silence and obedience during his betrayal, beating and crucifixion as the example. Christ went willingly to the cross, silently enduring the oppressors and murderers because He knew what must be done to bring reconciliation. I don't know too many of us that have that burden on our backs. Instead, Jesus would go into the synagogues even as a young man and teach. He didn't let the money changers just keep going because He might offend someone, in fact He threw over the tables showing His zealousness for the house of God. And yes, His actions today would have been called, racist, discriminatory, hate crime or whatever else might make for a good read. But you see the thing that has been encouraging me is I am seeing Christ followers everywhere still showing grace but taking a stand, enough already.  They are effectively telling others, if you don't like my God, you don't like me, and we are ok with that. We still want you to know God but you have the right to refuse and I am not going to shove it down your throat. Here is a question for you to ponder, "Who did Jesus ever chase down and "pursue" with the gospel? Yep, I came to the same conclusion.... no one. Jesus took the opportunities and when they refuse Him he let them walk away knowing He had spoken truth. Brothers and Sisters its time to let your voices be heard, unappologetically. Christianity isn't about skin color, education, gender or any of the things the trouble makers are saying it is about. It is a relationship with God, end of story. I leave you with this final rant.... Those who live in California where it was just mandated that you cannot sing in church, better make up your mind if you will follow mans law or Gods. We were created to worship and no man or woman has the power or authority to require such a thing. Unfortunately you live in a state where you have remained passive far too long, and you aren't alone. New York, Michigan, Minnesota and several others have created religious restrictions that they don't have the authority to mandate. This isn't a call for rebellion it is a call to get your priorities straight. God first. Can I hear an amen?
Till next time,
P.M.

I know, I know, I'm not politically correct.

By now you know the jargon, that, ....... lives matter. This ranges from color of skin, to vocations, to where we are from and honestly enough is enough. Do black lives matter? Of course they do what moron came up with that question? Do cops lives matter? Why don't you ask that the next time an intruder breaks in and harms your family or you are in a scary spot with a car that wont start. Of course they matter. Do illegals matter? Once again of course they do, they need to learn the law of the land, but that isn't the same discussion for today. And yes, White lives matter. unapologetically, without reservation, I would stand in support of all lives matter, which isn't a popular concept these days. Especially if your in the womb and not given a voice. The thing that amazes me is the extremity of the violence and mayhem that thugs, black, white or yellow with purple polka dots have resorted to. You will sense my sarcasm because once again regardless of skin color they are a cowardly, wicked, group that seeks their own agenda at the cost of anyone who dare oppose them. Even more absurd is the cowardice officials who will allow police to be put on the chopping block and allow the terrorists who have taken city after city captive to continue to operate and have even tried to negotiate with them. Here is my point. You and I have lost loved ones who fought for our freedom that is now in the balance. You and I observe the laws and try to get along with others and do the right thing. Where have the men and women gone that used to intervene when a 92 year old gets beat up by a thug? Regardless of color, we know that's not right! Where are they when a store owner pleads for them to leave his business alone, it is all he has and they kill him for it. (And if you haven't figured it out yet they are not wearing face coverings because of covid, it is because they are too cowardly to show their faces. I have lived in many different states and have seen some of the monuments they have destroyed and if you know your history you too would understand this isn't about black and white.Why don't you ask Dear-borne, MI what it looks like and how it works to have sections of your city the cops don't go, because they set up sharia law? To many of us this is a foreign concept, to have an enemy who is established on our own soil because we are the land of the free, unless your a law abiding, Christ worshiping, contributor to society. By the way how is it the thugs can stay on the streets for weeks at a time. They must not have jobs or if they do very understanding bosses, or maybe they are self employed, self made millionaires who can spend their day golfing or thuggering. (Yes, I just made that word up and I do believe it will catch on.) Otherwise we must except they are professional thugs being paid or living on your taxes instead of getting a job. Well enough of my ranting, you've heard it all before, nothing new under the sun. I guess I just want to point out that because you read or hear something it doesn't make it true. You need to go and look into it and see if it is accurate or not. There was a group of people who were considered noble because they did exactly that. Someone brought a new way of thinking and presented a new way to be in God's grace that challenged their current ways. Oh how I miss the good old days when we could disagree and not hate each other. This specific man was none other than the apostle Paul who was journeying through the land sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Believe it or not, it wasn't the most welcomed message from many of the folks he ran into. In fact the city before had ran him out of town with the hope to catch him and stop him from speaking. He found himself in the Barean community who listened to his information and left at the end of the day to research and see if what Paul said was true. He continued with them for a time as they welcomed him eager to learn and yet willing to validate the new knowledge they had been taught. You see if I am standing beside someone who claims they are doing something for a specific reason and the evidence validates the opposite they are a hypocrite. When a young person fighting for black lives matter beats up a black store owner, kills an innocent woman, and bashes an old white woman posing no threat they are using it as an excuse to play out their wickedness. When they try to visit with people, show them why black lives matter by overcoming the racial boundaries instead of reverse racism they are legit. This truly is a Spiritual war and scripture is clear this is going on and in deed will continue but we are to resist them and stand firm in Christ. Don't give up, don't grow weary, we are the majority who love Christ and love one another and they cannot take that away from us by the deeds of a few who reject the love of Christ and of course you. Unfortunately the media paints a very different picture hoping you will buy the propaganda.
Till next time.
P.M.

Who is the real enemy here?

I live in a fairly quiet neighborhood so you can understand why I became agitated as cars continually drove by laying on their horns from one end of the block to the end of the block two blocks away. The first few times I assumed were for the high school senior who is graduating a crossed the street and with all the senior parades and cruising nights that made sense, but when it persisted I had to go investigate. As I looked out the window of our porch on this dreary rainy cold day I saw two balloon bouquets with signs in the neighbors yard. Upon further inspection I could see the signs read, :Honk when you go by for {our neighbors name} in appreciation for her birthday beings they couldn't have a party. I thought that was a pretty cool thing to do but then the next sight left me scratching my head. There were several cars but all I could see was one lady with a mask over her face sitting in a lawn chair in the driveway in the midst of the rain and the owner of the house sitting in the garage door opening without a mask. I told my wife that they are practicing social distancing but must not have read the sign. I was still confused as there were far more cars than people, but my wife cleared everything up when she shared the garage is full of people.
Now my point isn't to belittle anyone or pass judgement but this truly reveals the desire most people have to be around others. Even the one wearing the mask faced the fear to sit in the rain and be in fellowship with her dear friend. I have wondered if she caught pneumonia from sitting in the rain, but that's not funny is it?
I have noticed two camps of people. Let me give you a scenario to see where you fall.
Settle down now, this is all in fun.
Let's say your sitting in your favorite chair on your porch with your favorite beverage and a great little snack, just watching the squirrels and birds, with an occasional family out for a walk. Every so often a car will pass and you wave because in my story we are all friends and that is what friends do. Anyway, a car suddenly catches your eye and as you turn to see it isn't the car it is what is inside. It looks like an alien and they are covered so you don't know if they are someone you know or not. They have a hazmat suit on and a respirator, not one of those flimsy paper ones, I'm talking about the kind with replaceable cartridges, charcoal filters and straps to secure it with rubber seals that seal tight against your skin. They have two sets of rubber gloves on in case one set is breached they will still have time to reach safety.
By now you have formed an opinion, probably that i am full of drama, but in regards to the driver.
The first group see this spectacle and shake their heads in approval of how seriously they are taking the threat and in fact probably have taken a couple of notes down to pick up some better gear to fight this pandemic. You see the logic in their decision and blow them a kiss as they drive by. unfortunately they don't see you because their safety goggles that prevent them from rubbing their eyes have fogged over.
The second group who undoubtedly has been laughing are those who have already labeled them as a fanatic with paralyzing fear. They actually might even get mad about the drastic depths this person is willing to go and even point out that medical experts have told them not to drive with masks its not safe or healthy.  This is quite a dilemma when two sides are so far apart and can't seem to see the logic through the biased set of glasses they are adorning. This seperation exists even among Christ followers.
So here is the lesson. You and I make strong arguments with little information. For instance we can only assume the covid is why they dressed that way and reject the idea they are on their way to a major accident with a chemical spill. You have to admit we don't know for sure. both groups are united in their assumption and both think they are right. This is called justification. We make an argument to support our conclusion and we have to "justify" it by any means possible. Let me ask you a question. Is it ok for two people to have opposing views and still fellowship? Of course not that would be like saying Christ could live among people. Oh..... wait ......He did. And He loved us so much He gave His life that we may gain life eternal. Let us not lose track of who the real enemy is here. Chew on that for a couple of days.
Till next time.
PM