tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6005789828483224172023-06-20T08:01:27.795-05:00Profane FireWelcome to Profane Fire Blog. I will be working on doing some remodeling the website, so be patient with me. I am currently homeschooling my teenagers and finishing a book, hope to have it reading soon. Feel free to comment but keep it biblical.Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-26783018611532802112017-08-31T13:00:00.001-05:002017-08-31T13:03:23.732-05:00Pastor Takes Credit for Hurricane Harvey leaving (satire)<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Pastor Roger Heresy takes credit for Hurricane Harvey finally leaving Texas. Pastor Heresy, senior pastor of Houston Congregation Word of Faith Pentecostal Chapel, told local news networks that his fervent prayer finally was answered after many days of prayer. His family was also praying, but for evacuation of his $400k home in Southeast Houston. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Pastor Heresy was visiting the Osteen's home when the hurricane hit. Frustrated that God did not warn of the incoming danger of landfall from Hurricane Harvey, he was nonetheless not to be deterred. inspired by the great Word of Faith teaching of Kenneth and Gloria Copeland, that through their faith, that the weather can be controlled. <br />"Jesus calmed the storm while the disciples panicked," replied the Senior Pastor. "I had no doubt that the weather was also under my domain as a believer. It was reminded to me of the persistent lady in Luke 17, who kept coming to the judge until he could not take her nagging anymore. I knew the weather would be like that judge. Eventually, it would be subjugate to my faith in prayer."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">While many questioned why he couldn't keep it from coming to Texas, he reassured his congregation that, without his persistent prayer, Houston would be under 25 feet of water. His alibi was prayer would come faster than having time to build an ark.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Many of the Word of Faith preachers have cancelled many of the appointments in December to come to Texas and personally congratulate Mr. Heresy on his faith and persistence in removing Harvey from the Houston area. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"I know it took five days, but this was a big storm," mentioned Pastor Heresy. "This took great faith and great courage to be in prayer one hour a day for five days to remove such a great storm. It took all my effort to use that time, since the Osteens have such a great cook. I lost my position on 'Call of Duty' so I could answer this great call of God. I also prayed my vacation ranch near Corpus Christi survived the hurricane, but my faith says it is."<br />Pastor Roger Heresy says his family and congregation will be ready for the next tragedy to show their faith to the world. He believes his next great feat of faith will be to prevent the Great Tribulation and the next drought in California, whichever comes first.</span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-31366395819792905472017-03-21T18:43:00.002-05:002017-03-21T18:43:34.830-05:00The Radical Cross<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A. W. Tozer was a very unique man of God. He saw things like very few man ever did. Interestingly, he was saved in the attic of his parents after hearing a street preacher leaving work in Akron, Ohio. After doing some street preaching himself, he was called to pastor a storefront church in West Virginia. Thus began his long and great work of pastor and editor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Many saw him as a modern-day prophet and he dared many who listened to him to walk the narrow path. He didn't care which friends he had, those who understood him stood by him. What should stand out is Aiden Wilson Tozer never had any biblical seminary training. How did this man learn so much? Simple: the Holy Spirit and his separation from the world. Complete and iconic.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In the book "The Radical Cross," the first chapter points out what American Christianity ignores in the attributes of a crucifixion. We think we see it as a thing of beauty, a shiny garb around our neck or a tattoo on our arm. We are ignorant of the power of God through the Cross, as noted in 1 Corinthians 1:18. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It is not the resurrection that we are talking about, this occurred three days later after Jesus was slain. We need to see the cross for what it truly is, an instrument of death and destruction. Let me go through briefly what the cross was, how the power of God pertains to it, and how it reflects to Christians.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">First, as already said, it is a symbol of death. Everyone who was sentenced and nailed to it succumbed to it. It left no one still alive, even the Son of Man. It had no mercy, no compromise; the only ultimatum it gave to its victims to come off was death. Once you knew you would be crucified, death was the only option you had on getting off. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Crucifixion was bloody and gory. Your friends no longer walked by your side. They did not want to be affiliated with you anymore. Even the disciples fled and were nowhere to be seen. Pain brought from the nails, the stretching of the body by the wood and gravity only added to the eventual demise. Lastly, also consider where Golgotha was; on a hill for all to see. It was a sign of humiliation and shame.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How does all of this apply to us? Interesting that many Christians and pulpits quote Galatians 2:20, where Paul said I have been crucified with Christ, not I but He who lives in me. Paul also said that as the sufferings of Christ abound in him, so consolation also abound by Christ (2 Corinthians 1:5).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We are not called to be physically crucified. We are called to crucify the old man (Romans 6) and bury him. Jesus said no one is worthy to follow him if he does not take up his cross (Matthew 10:38). Another saying Jesus told was to "deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Me (Matthew 16:24). Note what need to do; deny ourselves first, take up our cross, THEN we follow Him. <br />We can only have the abundant life what Jesus desires us to have until we sentenced the flesh to death. Look at Paul went through in following Christ. Stoned, beaten with rods, flogged, shipwrecked and imprisoned. All this and he never wavered. Once the old man was crucified, all that was left was a spiritual man wanted nothing more than to preach Christ crucified and holy solitude with the King.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sorry to say, the crucifixion of Jesus leads us to the gate but the path requires us to take up our own cross. The sufferings we will go through, trials, tribulations, mockings; this is the nails to the flesh, for none of the forementioned the flesh wants to endure. If you love the luxury and freedom in America, all the gadgets and fine living, maybe this is what is keeping you from carrying your cross.<br /><br />Jeremiah 9:23-24</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Michael </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-45632049914147394652017-02-08T18:03:00.002-06:002017-02-08T18:03:35.307-06:00The Divided People of America<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The internet, social media in particular, is now destroying America, in my personal opinion. All you need to do is perform a deep research on how people feel on certain issues and you will see how divided we are. The election and inauguration of President Donald Trump have exemplified and amplified the fractures in our freedoms for the last twenty years.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Many liberals, (especially the LGBTQ factions) have been making demands they want, regardless of the freedom of others in speech, religion, and media. There were riots (no such as "peaceful when businesses are looted and cars set on fire) on the day of the inauguration, a Women March that had more to do with pro-choice and their hatred for Trump than women rights, and the current abyss in Congress with the continual movement of the left.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Conservative views, in general, have not changed drastically in the last fifty years or so, in my opinion. The Western Church has been changing to meet the will of the culture which, in turn, has caused her to stray away from the firm apostles' creed and foundation of the Word. While this has happened, it has weakened her influence on the culture around her. Instead of her making her mark on the culture through holiness and repentance, she has taken in the world and watched the structure change to pragmatism and humanism. Because of this, she does not possess the power to transform itself to holiness. Thus, she has become more willing to conform to the culture for her pleasure than her willingness to bear her cross.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In my fifty plus years of being an American, they change from the 1970s to now is extraordinary. I am ignoring the technological advances, our gain of knowledge in all areas. I am specifically noting our view and our purposeful neglect of what our freedom truly stands for to the citizens of America. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It is a real sad state of affairs when people take their right to protest and free speech, then use it to voice their views with intolerance and hatred. I have seen vulgar language on both sides of the agenda. I have even seen very disrespectful speech against the very genre of people who fought to defend that same right to speech. It is ironic how Americans have used the freedom of speech to divide or even threaten others because of differences of beliefs, views, and religion.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hypocrisy fills America's social media and airwaves. UC-Berkeley was a scene of a riot recently, all was done in protest of free speech, in which Milo Yiannopoulos was going to speak. Christians bakers who politely refused to bag a cake gets slammed with a six-figure lawsuit, while Ellen DeGeneres retakes an offer for Kim Burrell to appear on her show, for her speech against gay marriage at a church. At this writing, there is a court fight over immigration about letting just "anyone" in through our borders yet, we lock our doors at night to protect what is close to us. To top of the proverbial cake, we have sanctuary cities that break laws of immigration. California (of course) is looking into being the first "sanctuary state" (IMHO, they already hold the distinction).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Individuals and groups have been making threats for special rights over others. We have the hate crime, which only is used with a one-way mirror. Marriage has been changed to accept the "pursuit of happiness." The cry is not "finally, equality," it is if you get an inch, continue to go the mile. Sadly, we see people and special groups use these freedoms for themselves. Now that Donald Trump is the 45th President (only three weeks + in), people have taken their being upset to new levels.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We have the elements for a profane civil unrest. Racism has risen exponentially, due to some elevating even the smallest of issues. There are groups that supposedly promote one thing, while they look forward to following their true, hidden agenda. The economy might be stable, but as long as our government continues its unsurmountable deficit spending, the experts believe it is inevitable. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Many liberals are trying to stoke a fire they will realize later they don't want. The abyss of political and social extremes grows wider by the day. Others are willing to lie (or believe in a lie) to keep the ignorance against anyone that refuses to agree with their views. They are more open to degrade the other side. Social media has become a dessert lover's dream for those to desecrate anyone who they believe is intolerable to their mindset. Hence, they keep digging a bigger ditch and blame the right for the gap.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">America is in trouble - financially, politically, socially, and spiritually. The Church needs to get right with God - and soon. I cannot say if any major unrest will bring martial law or will it usher in the Great Tribulation. The ingredients are there in the world. The selfishness has infiltrated the Western Church. We need to get on our knees.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jeremiah 9:23-24<br /><br />Michael</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-1310383910442116102017-01-25T20:46:00.001-06:002017-01-25T20:46:43.510-06:00Christian quotes to Ponder<b><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">"You contribute nothing to your salvation except the sin that made it necessary."</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">"How can you expect to dwell with God forever if you so neglect and forsake Him here?"</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">"Godliness is more easily feigned in words than in action." </span></span></b><br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jonathan Edwards</span></span></b></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">"My talent is to speak my mind. God won't object if you bury that talent."</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">"The Church recruited people who had been starched and ironed before they were washed." </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">"Any 'Christian' who takes for themselves any more than the plain necessities of life; live in an open habitual denial of the Lord. They have gained riches and hell-fire."</span></b><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">John Wesley</span></b></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">"Churches don't need new members half as much as they need the old bunch made over."</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">"One reason sin flourishes is that it is treated like a cream puff instead of a rattlesnake."</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">"The only way you can keep a broken vessel filled is by keeping it under the tap." </span></span></b><br />
<i><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Billy Sunday</span></span></b></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"You can always tell the power of a church by the number of people who attend the prayer meetings."</span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"My crusade is the wake up the Church from its spiritual lethargy, rousing it to the fact that it is being brainwashed and propagandized."</span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Before there can be fullness there must be emptiness. Before God can fill us with Himself, we must first be emptied of ourselves."</span></span></span></b><br />
<i><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A. W. Tozer</span></span></span></b></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"Jesus Christ went more willing to the Cross than we do to the throne of God."</span> </span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">"Are there not more millions of us who would rather go sleeping to hell than sweating to Heaven?"</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">"Christ is never loved until sin is loathed." </span></span></b><br />
<i><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Thomas Watson</span></span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>"The beginning of the way to heaven is to feel we were on the way to hell."</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>"A sin...consists of doing, saying, thinking or imagining anything that is not in perfect conformity with the mind or law of God."</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>"Obedience is the only reality... It is the real test of real discipleship among the Lord's people."</b></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>J. C. Ryle</b></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"The early church was married to poverty, prisons, and persecutions. Today, the Church is married to prosperity, personality, and popularity."</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"If Jesus preached the same message that ministers do today, He would never have been crucified."</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"It is much easier to wear a cross than bear a cross."</span></b></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Leonard Ravenhill</span></b></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Blessings,</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michael</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jeremiah 9:23-24 </span> </b></span><br />
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<br />Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-47944821828683654322017-01-15T21:11:00.001-06:002017-01-15T21:11:24.746-06:00What We Truly Worship<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">In the region where I reside at this time, I am surprised how much the Green Bay Packers get praised. Even churchgoers complain about going to church in a couple inches of snow but make every effort to get to the stadium two hours before game time. These same people will sing quietly during worship yet, yell out loud when Aaron Rodgers throws a touchdown pass.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">We are guilty of what I am about to write. I read this in a pamphlet from Duncan Campbell. It was about spending more time getting our little things and assume our salvation as many go through the motions. Americans hold more value in the worship of materialism than we do in our so-called "walk with the Lord." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Many of us are addicted by social media. It is amazing how we post when some arrive at church that "I am here to worship the LORD." This may be harmless in itself but somehow we have related going to church as our sole means of worship. Also, I see today that many Christians cannot worship without music to enhance the atmosphere.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It is sad we are willing to spend more effort on a football game that we are in preparing to be with God. Worship is a constant act with us. Yes, there are times we cannot be paying homage to the Almighty. What we are willing to put our worth into can become an idol before our worship with God.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I am not here to write there are no real believers who are diligently seeking after the King of kings. I question who do the saints of old seek God in prayer. The office bearers who were praying for God to come happened to spend five hours on Tuesday and Friday night in a barn on their knees. From my perspective, we should be ashamed. Our prayer meetings hardly last two hours.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Even Leonard Ravenhill was shocked when he heard a Christian from Africa say to him that Americans don't know what worship truly is. We last maybe a half hour and he said his church spends three hours in worship! How's that for preparing to be in His presence?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Let me add one note. There is a lost art in Christianity today that A. W. Tozer practiced many times. Jesus, at times, became overwhelmed by the people many times. His answer was to retreat and spend silence with His Father. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">You can worship in his presence without words or music. Giving Him homage by your full honoring God. Sitting or walking in holy silence, even waiting on Him, is a worthy form of worship. Psalm 46:10a speaks volumes in ceasing from everything we do and paying all respect to the Most High, allowing Him to present Himself as our King, God and Father.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I am at a loss at words why this is no long sought after in our prayer time. Do we have the patience or the time to sit in a quiet place and wait on Him?<br /><br />Jeremiah 9:23-24</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Michael </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-4041732640987155362016-10-02T11:44:00.002-05:002017-01-15T21:23:20.225-06:00Memberships, Life Groups and Church<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>2 Corinthians 3:1 <br />Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? <br /><br />Luke 16:10 <br />He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.</b><br /><br />I have had much research looking for reason of the above, and none is worth much value except what you place in it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First, membership. It is amazing how much merit is placed on people to become a "member" of a local assembly of believers. I hear pastors and leaders <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">put</span> so much emphasis, but why? In some mysterious cloud, many believe you will become more active and willing to serve within <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a</span> body of believers. Also, the view of democracy fits right in with America. But how does a democratic view piece itself within the confines of a monarchy? Doesn't Jesus pick the pastors (Ephesians 4:11)?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know some will use the "elect" mentality for the elders and deacons. If this is true, the word "elect" and "predetermined" is used by Paul in his epistles to the Romans, Corinthians and the church in Galatia. We can't use the same study for these words. It would then appear the God holds a "vote" to see how is approved as a believer. Also, nowhere in the Word of God does it say to hold a congregational vote to determine leadership in the church. It is picked accordingly by the leaders. The only "vote" is when there is sin among the leaders and there better be accountability. If there is none, it is best for you to find another assembly of honor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jesus called us to be faithful stewards. We are to be faithful to HIS work and glory, not to your respective place of assembly. ALL believers are called to glorify Christ, not the church we attend. It is good we do this among our brethren but leaders restrict many to their own flock. We are ALL part of the Body of Christ, not just a limb or even a finger. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What membership did Paul have? What about Peter? James? Timothy? Philip? Did all of these need letters of commendation to prove who they are in Christ? Well before our current forms of instant communication, these men's reputations went before them. It wasn't membership that approved them, it was their faithfulness to glory Christ. Paul took beatings, even among the Jews, to prove what he went through for the gospel. Simply, when believers die, they will not hear Jesus pronounce their membership to XYZ Church. The words "good and faithful servant" will echo out from the words of their Savior. This should be the importance. If you are faithful, no membership is needed. These people are there to serve Christ, not XYZ Church.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Life groups are today's church method of keeping it as simple and superficial as they can. It actually takes the calling of teacher out of play. Here's why.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Most Life group leaders are not trained to study and teach the Word. Just get a study guide or book (other than the Bible) and let the author do it for you. You can take as long as you want, and there is a good chance the leadership will approve it, since it takes the individual out of play. It also takes the Holy Spirit out of his ministry. How do I say?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">His ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8). I am not saying all of this wrong, it is many are now going the way where it is easy to follow along to another author's steps in becoming a better Christian. This may fit well in some areas but not as a whole, for many do not begin our walk with God from the same starting point. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another thing that is not mentioned is to get to know what the author is writing about and to, one of the best forms of acknowledgment is to understand "said author." <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I</span>f James Doe wrote a book on area restaurants, it will be tailored to his liking and tastes. He may not approve of a certain type of pizza because of spices, while others may enjoy it. It all begins with knowing the author. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is a very slim chance we can bring James Doe into our restaurants and get a "feel" why he likes and dislikes certain food. Since the Holy Spirit assisted in the writing of the Bible and Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), we can have the Spirit with us when we study the Word of God. Bringing this author in with us creates a whole new ability to understand the Word, for He is the guide to all Truth. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is another difference that many leaders will either disagree or despise. Many do not trust in these leaders' ability to teach straight from the Word of God. One former pastor held to others as no problem. God even admonished to him that if you teach the Word r<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ighteously</span>, they will teach it correctly as well. Once you begin to lose confidence in those underneath you, it may be the leader that needs to see this need of change.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Many pastors cannot rely on those leading life groups to teach the Word righteously. Many of these pastors themselves are not teaching the Word with a depth and a strong desire for their congregation to be good Bereans. They rather have them follow them and trust them rather than the leading of the Holy Spirit. So what do they do? They want Life Groups to keep it on the surface where they can oversee them. In fear, these Life Group leaders pick something they believe the pastor will support, so instead of letting the Holy Spirit guide them through the Word, they pick a study guide with questions - where even a monkey can follow the steps. Easy, neat and clean - but very superficial. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Western churches have become so fearful of people leaving and keeping their chairs filled than filling their hearts with the Truth. We severely lack living water, and we have been taught and fed the same bowl of cereal the congregation expects nothing more. With such superficial ways, we go home and there isn't enough nourishment to where many want more meat, so they will read and study at home. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We need to be more zealous of being with God, but also acknowledging it will require getting burned with getting close to the all consuming fire (Hebrews 12:28). Our sin will be exposed as well as our pride, and any worthiness we feel will be of Him and not of us. We are being taught to take our rowboat and go great lengths to cross the ocean. If we are taught our gifts and act in the same accord to cross the ocean, we can all build a ship and carry as many as we can. Only if you are willing to work together and know God's will for us, then we can attain the ultimate prize.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 6:15-16<br /><br />Michael </span><br />
Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-58389700983360551962016-09-05T17:09:00.002-05:002017-01-15T21:24:16.040-06:00When His Body Separates Among Itself<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: red;"><i>Matthew 16:18 <br />And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.</i></span></b><br /><br />Notice that there is ONE church and it belongs to Jesus. What burdens me is I hear "churches" request membership to be part of "their church." I do not believe God intended for believers to literally separate themselves among their own assembly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I note how some promote reasons for membership. I get some significance for it but by doing this, I sincerely restrict any assembly to itself. It isn't about "ABC church" or XYZ church or First Assembly of MRS of <City or Town>. It is solely about Jesus and glorifying HIM through His Body.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Granted, I have no idea if He is disheartened over different denominations and beliefs, though some are so out of reach, it would be embarrassing to call it "Christian." What is heartbreaking is how we seem to be in competition for numbers, regardless of doctrine or salvation. Churches are forced to make a name for themselves to get anyone who even hears the name Christ into their building.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Membership may give you a right to vote, though even that isn't Scriptural. We are not called to vote, as a democracy, for leadership, especially pastor. We cannot mix democratic or republic standards of government with a monarchy of Christianity. There is to be accountability among leaders and when there is none, you get up and leave. Let it fall without you in it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We are all different parts of the Body. Nowhere in Scripture does it force it to be separate among other parts and work only among its circle of brethren. Nowhere in Scripture is any part of the Body relegated to those of the same. Even Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 12 about neglecting other parts of the Body, thinking they might not be needed, even due to size or importance. All who strive to follow Christ, from the unknown intercessors to the greatest preachers and the apostles of old hold the same ticket of salvation. We all belong to Him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This isn't about competition or the size of our ministry. Many preach Jeremiah 29:11 but take it out of context because of translation. NIV and ESV talks of the "plans I have for you" and "to prosper" but the KJV speaks of the "thoughts I think toward you" and "having peace and an expected end." The words that are the most important isn't your boasting of your public ministry, it is how faithful you were with what God called you to be. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Nothing more, nothing less.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Churches were meant for assembly but not to be separate from other brethren. We were called as united and minister and pray for each other (James 5:15). Let's stop looking among four walls and see among the Body and see it all work and function for His glory. Maybe our mindset will change.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jeremiah 9:23-24<br /><br />Michael</span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-40272469273600346892016-08-06T17:16:00.001-05:002017-01-15T21:24:56.816-06:00The Journal of John Wesley<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you ever want to feel ashamed of being a Christian, don't read the book "the Journal of John Wesley." What this man did during a small snippet of his lifetime would make the greatest today placed in shame, including Billy Graham. I am not going to say what Billy Graham, and others, did were not significant, not at all. What I have read so far (and made it about 60% at the time of this blog), the effort we put into preaching and witnessing pales to the work of John Wesley.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Most of his travels came by horse, while others were done by either boat or walking. The weather in England can get nasty at times and it was no different during the 18th century. He dealt with rain, hail, wind and snowstorms, yet, he traversed through much of this so he could preach all over England and Ireland, with some time sent in the American colonies. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">He was met by mobs and beaten on some occasions. Quite a few churches he was never invited back, his strong words were threatening enough for the sinners some churches needed to keep. Even through some of his strong preaching (the majority done in fields, as was George Whitefield, because the churches couldn't contain the size), he ministered to felons and captured French soldiers. Through this, he collected donations so the soldiers could be kept warm and sleep on decent mattresses while imprisoned. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">During one three week stretch, he preached at six churches, in which he was told by the deacons of five of them he could not return. Another episode John Wesley spoke of was when a mob riled up a bull and set him loose, only to see the bull run <i>around</i> where the crowd was singing and praising God until it collapsed from exhaustion. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It is very well possible that in many cases, John Wesley would not approve of the way American churches do services today. He noted one church would be talking during certain parts of preaching and have no problems in church being loud right after the service. Another church in Ireland were just plain disrespectful to any church, and he commanded them to be more upright. He believed the entering and leaving the House of God demanded reverence, wherever the Word of God was being preached.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">John Wesley faced much opposition. In one saying, he mentioned he hated field preaching as much as the devil did. Today, we want the best of conditions: cozy seats, air conditioning, some won't go to church if the weather becomes bad. Not so with John Wesley. He went through it all. Preached in the wind and the rain, against mobs that would throw stones to break doors and windows where he was staying. Interestingly, he saw this rebellion as some needing to hear the gospel; which persuaded him further on until his death.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">He remembered some unique times where people would be instigators and later apologize. Other times seeing people what appeared to be trances where God was showing them glory for some and damnation to others. He strongly believed in fasting as an assembly and spending long times in prayer. Lastly, from what I read so far, he never kept track of his "converts." It was never a numbers game for him, it was being faithful for all he had.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We boast of two or three that said the "sinner's prayer," while men like Wesley and George Whitefield went out and just their witness commanded thousands to come to hear their message of sin and salvation. Both men saw many needed salvation while the church was backsliding and needed to return to her foundation. Wesley was so strongly convicted in his faith of Jesus Christ, he felt all compelled to preach to all the country. <br />How we all should have this amount of faith and fear of God - including me.<br /><br />Jeremiah 6:15-16<br /><br />Michael</span><br />
Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-31021799700013645542016-07-03T21:11:00.004-05:002017-01-15T21:25:30.848-06:00That Refiner's FireSomeone said that many want the blessings of God but few ever ask for the refiner's fire, and I have made the request twice. According to my flesh, I was stupid enough to go through this again, and compared to what was left from the former, the latter one is breaking anything I might have had left. <br />
Nowhere in the Bible did Job ever ask to go through what he did. No where in the Bible can I find anyone make such a "noble request." It is best to tell you how I feel in the midst of this one, because I have no idea how I will get through this.<br />
No matter what I attempt to step out to appease even my wife, things came crashing back at me, like huge ocean waves hitting the beach and destroying the castle you spend time to build. It appears anything I have tried to do comes back to bite me. Never have I ever wanted to walk away from everyone. All my confidence has been annihilated and smashed beyond any hope of recognition. I don't believe I can get any job, I don't believe that my wife believes in any of my abilities that don't coincide with what her happiness reqiests. I have lost all confidence in anything, any ability or any talent I had. <br />
It is all gone. I don't know where to go from here.<br />
I have had two churches reject me, yet, my wife says I should go. Yes, go where people don't believe in you unless you change for their clique. Truthfully, I don't know who I am anymore. I need God to tell me what is wrong. I just don't know anymore.<br />
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Jeremiah 6:15-16<br />
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MichaelMichael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-27996746318159431982016-06-26T15:00:00.000-05:002017-01-15T21:26:44.500-06:00The American Churches Unfortunate Direction<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Leviticus 16:1-2 <br />And the Lord spake unto Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they offered before the Lord, and died; And the Lord said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat. </b></i></span><br /><br />It was interesting when my wife went to church and watched a video of someone giving up on attending church, and she mentioned to a colleague that I was definitely like the person in the video. Though I did not see it, I can relate. I truly believe that many churches don't give a damn about those like me. They care more about getting "converts" into the church. What does the difference make if you can't keep those already established in the faith?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are many who are truly chasing God but end up chasing another dream brought forth by the leaders of the church. This may not be entirely wrong, but when it only allows certain people (the "clique) to be permitted in positions of leadership, many of those who have been mentored and seasoned in the Word are locked out, unless they become like the flock.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />The problem with the above Scripture was applied when two of Aaron's sons, Nahab and Abihu, went into the Holy of Holies without any reverence toward God. The same applies today, but we assume that either the tangible presence of God is there at the service or we are worshiping a god that is more manageable. Worse, no one in these service will ever admit the standards have been lowered to where humanism and being relevant are more soluble. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Why have some left? Listed below are some of the reasons. I don't believe I can list them all, since I am writing from my perspective. What is sad is many leaders don't listen, don't want to accept that something needs to change. I will give why I left:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><b>1. Too much control.</b></u><br />I see so many leaders have been hurt by someone who took advantage of a place, people, or situation, and brought division. What was done is go completely to the other side and allow the freedom to occur to their decision. Many only gauge someone by how well they know the person instead of by the fruit. Which leads to #2.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><u><b>2. Relationship over Spirit.</b></u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This one seems easy. My wife and I spent years being mentored and being chosen in leadership at one church. As the last two churches we attended, the leaders chose how well they know you over the abilities you have in the Spirit. Why? Because the Spirit's work isn't fully evident and it cannot be discerned properly through man's work. Instead of seeing the gifts we have, the leaders chose to attack my character while I waited patiently (almost three years) to watch the Holy Spirit work. This leads to #3.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><b><u>3. The Holy Spirit has become almost nonessential to the services.</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It is a shame to see how we can build such a big church and have emotional services and still have the Holy Spirit absent from our walk and assembly. He may see one or two that He gets to minister, but when it comes to 1 Corinthians 12, anything of the Spirit is squashed by the control of the leaders. He has no freedom to work through He wills, only those when and who the leadership allows. This is not the church Jesus built.<br /><br /><b><u>4. Always looking for new methods to run church.</u></b><br />Instead of following the New Testament doctrine, we implement new ways, we seek new interpretations, we follow new doctrines and believe this is God's will. We now base what we feel as truth, instead of making Truth or way of worship. We hear sermons on how to make us a better person but we do it with as little of the Bible as possible. We no longer seek truth to transform us but seek feelings in hopes that the Truth will be transformed to what we want. Humanism at its best. Making God come to our terms instead of us coming to Him on His terms.<br /><br />These are a few. In Leviticus 16, the priests were required by law to perform certain things to enter into His presence. The most intriguing factor is the fear of the Lord they had compared to today, which is almost nothing. The priests, if they did not follow what they were called to do, would lose their lives, just as Nahab and Abihu did. We assume by stepping into church, God is there. His holiness requires much more than what we do and who we are. He is much more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />I left because churches choose to remain in their stagnant state. It wants to remain close to the world but close enough to assume He is happy with us. We want Him to be pleased? Leave the world and seek Him with all you have. How much are we willing to give up to seek Him? It is easier to chase Him with an empty briefcase of the world. <br /><br />The sacrifices are done but His glory has not changed. If we truly want to get closer to Him, we need to change our view of Him. <br /><br />Jeremiah 6:15-16<br /><br />Michael </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-54603237934281349182016-06-11T14:38:00.002-05:002017-01-15T21:27:41.713-06:00Done With Church Part Trois<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Acts 2:37-41 </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b><i>Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. </i><br /><br />According to the above verses, Peter speaks to a fairly large crowd, and they were deeply disturbed. in which the crowd asked what must they do? Peter was simple, by saying repent, be baptized and save yourselves from this unfaithful generation. About 3000 people came into repentance that day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now you can go to church and hear about some leaders boasting on their two or three that came to church and "know Christ" with the unbiblical sinner's prayer. Just tell them about heaven and avoid the drastic of sin and hell and shove those sinners without repentance past the gates in the Kingdom of God. Chalk more up on our little board how many we have brought to Christ. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Aren't we the evangelists?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We present such a watered down gospel that it takes a watered approach to witness. I have heard many preachers speak of their own interpretation of Scriptures. Other more popular ones make dramatic appeals in their own realm to make their version of the Bible become more personal in nature. Others talk of sin like it belongs to anyone outside their congregation and even their home. Yes, we are human and fall short. The bottom line is are we willing to deal with sin as strongly as we demand it outside our little country club?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The answer is blatantly NO.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have been to a service where the music was so loud it was actually making my heart vibrate. You may think this is extreme; I assure you, it is not. I had to walk out of the service just to get my heart back into its normal rhythm. Many "worship" parts of the service, (remember, worship and music are linked, one cannot be without the other in today's churches) have the music loud enough where the congregation either doesn't need to sing or can't be heard anyways. It is just like the secular venue; it portrays our feelings more than truth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">After the "excitement," we head over to the announcements and giving, then the sermon. By this time, many of us drained but hopefully, there is enough adrenaline to make the service plausible until the routine begins again the next week. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is some more things on how the church has strayed away from the original:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. Worship is forever linked to music. It is no longer a way of life. It is now a form of entertainment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2. Prayer is no longer a priority, unless it is for the vision and direction of the church.<br />Prayer for individuals or families are now relegated to "prayer chains." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">3. Life groups have replaced Bible studies. These are done so not to offend. Many have followed "surveys" suggesting that relationships override truth and witnessing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">4. Churches have become business minded. Hire who they know rather than hiring who the Spirit wants.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">5. Churches are more lethargic than they were fifty years ago. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">6. We have no reverence for God anymore. Acceptance is more feared than holiness. We no longer bow or kneel. We prefer to be more comfortable than afflicted in our soul. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">7. We ch<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">o</span>se doctrine than the Holy Ghost.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">8. We are so illiterate concerning the Bible, we accept any good word that comes our way. As long as there is no condemnation, we are "safe."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We need to return to the way God has called us to be. We want new ways and every single one of them is man's idea where we attempt to make His will. Look at all the translations and versions of the Bible. We have the Queen James version, we have a porn star version, we have the 100 minute Bible, for those with deliberate small attention spans. Man continually wants to work his way to the throne where God wants to be in our temple. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We need to return. More on this later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Jeremiah 6:15-16<br /><br />Michael </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-86614433386235401442016-06-06T15:15:00.002-05:002016-06-06T15:15:32.031-05:00Rejection<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For all those who have been in my shoes and actually found success, I applaud that God has blessed your efforts. As for me, I turn 51 next week and I feel less worth than a pile of midget dog poo in the middle of the street. I have actually reached my limit where I don't give a damn anymore and want to be alone for however breaths I have left.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I ponder why God leaves me in the condition that I am in. People say they care but their actions speak loudly, and refuse to spend any time with me. Everyone else is more important. Why should anyone want to even think of someone like me. I am back to having no job, God is back to His way of not speaking, at least the beggar was cradled by Abraham for such a miserable life he had to face. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I cannot take the rejection anymore. I had spent way much time filling out applications after I graduated tech college. I had so much expectations only to get the silent treatment from countless employers. I truly wonder if I fell off the face of the earth, would anyone care, besides my children?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am no longer convinced that anyone is willing to take a chance on me. I thought getting married would bring closure to my loneliness; it only brings more despair. I sit day after day, night after night, lonely on the couch. Now, whoever reads this is thinking that maybe I will blame someone else for this. Nope, it has to be me. All of it. 100%. It always has been me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How many times can a man take of getting let down on a consistent basis? It is obvious that I am the problem and it is understandable that people like me, who have accomplished almost nothing in their life, and can't even get a call for a job interview from a gas station, why should I be on anyone's radar?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I don't regret getting married because of my wife. I regret getting married because of me. It appears I make a mess over everything I am part of. This is the life God gave me. Not everyone is blessed. I was meant to be alone and I should have stayed away from anyone else. For all those who knew me or I was part of the family...I am sorry. Life would be better if I was not around. I thought I had the key for my wife. Her life is only getting worse, so it looks like I opened Pandora's Box. Again, for all those who knew me, I hope life gets better for you. If it is because you have stayed away, continue. Act like you never knew me. The curse will remain on me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am part of the unloveable group. I no longer believe there is anyone on this earth today who could love me. That's why I am lonely today. <br /><br />Michael </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-40245271736189747132016-06-03T16:26:00.000-05:002016-06-04T19:58:42.598-05:00We are a Stiff Necked People<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am going to give another reason why I am a "Done" from the church. Christians have no idea how stiff necked and selfish they are, and this includes me to some degree. I recently seen a church go through what they deemed "transformations" but, in essence, it becomes the old adage:<br /><b>"No matter how much things change, they always remain the same."</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I watch churches make more determination to change the view of the way church looks than how it acts on the inside. I have been part where I took some steps to be part of a church but watched them turn me away. We have no idea how well we turn others off from the Christ that died for them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We treat churches like a business more than a family. We have our favorites and many are willing to oversee much because it will affect what others see in our choices and judgment. We fail to utilize the ability of the Holy Spirit to guide us corporately. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Many of us, especially Christians, have hurts and past pains they have trouble getting over. I have been treated poorly so many times in the past that the few times I have attempted to step up in my calling that the reaction I received has caused me to walk away. I can trust Christ but I cannot trust the church.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I will not say that all of them are like this. Somehow, this appears regional. I truthfully cannot stand feeling purposely left out and lonely. I am not sure I am not just speaking for myself but I bet there are more in church who wish they could feel more appreciated and part of this "family." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It is sad that many parts of the leadership tell of reaching out to the community but can't reach out to their own. It sounds more that these leaders care more about the numbers than what they will do once they get into the doors. We don't truly see how truly broken the system is for our churches.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It needs a true fasting and praying session to get right down to where God wants His Church to be. Anything else we do in an attempt to be His will is only making this a lie.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Jeremiah 6:15-16</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Michael </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-9176077818484081932016-05-14T11:32:00.002-05:002016-05-14T11:32:45.611-05:00The ONE Weird Jigsaw piece<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 Cor. 12:11, 24<br />But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: </span></b><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday, I was compelled to put my two week notice in at my employment. It wasn't tough at all, for they cut my hours down to the point where a two week stretch I was not working at all. Zero. The next thing may be pondering, why am I putting it on blog? Let me tell you...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have spent around 40 years of my life trying to please people and be liked. It didn't matter, at school, at work, around the neighborhood, I tried. I found out I keep ending up at point A. More interesting to note. I find Christians are just as bad as the world when it comes to choosing who they like in their cliques.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I remember "certain friends" would ask me if I finished my homework so they could copy it. I finally put my foot down and said no, this was the last time I saw them. Ever. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I caved in to peer pressure when I was in the Navy. Began drinking a little more, started smoking, even went to the prostitutes overseas. I still found myself on the outside. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">About a year ago, I decided to take a step forward and see what I could do about what I know I am called to do and bring it up to the pastor. What happened made me feel ashamed and there is a good chance I may never again desire to use my gifts within the church walls. Please note I am not saying "never again" and completely ruling out the possibility of this happening. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I see more and more churches are building on "who you know" more than "who they are." I have seen just as much favoring who they know more on who the Spirit wants. It all depends on how well you can get into the main room of the church and its higher members to use "your talents."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was at a church where they went out to meet you and get you involved, not to where you post a meeting and get the select few to attend. I was awestruck that this church, even if it meant to be a greeter at the time, wanted me to serve. They came out to me. Later, when I was part of the leadership, I found out how and why. They kept a list of all those at least semi-regularly attending and got the leaders involved to see what could they do to get the others to part. I find there are usually three types of people going to church: </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Those who do not know their gifts.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Those who do know their gifts but can't attend meetings.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Those who do know their gifts and are not permitted.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The majority who go to church and sit week after week are in the first category.<br />There are some in the second that want to be part but can't because of schedule conflicts. Then there is the third, who know what their calling is and there is a rare group within that I will bring up briefly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I believe there are a select few who are not "normal jigsaw pieces." There are many pieces that appear to look like others and sometimes the best some do is jam these pieces in and make them fit the best they can. Then we have some who do not look like that all. We appear to be the old "Sesame Street" ploy...where out of the four, one is not like the others. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Spirit places all the members as HE WILLS. Today, churches play businesses, we want relational issues to play key roles in our ministries. I assume this, but nowhere in the Bible does it say this. We are to judge by the fruit, not our feelings. It hurts me to see so many people in the church have no part in the church because many have been frozen out. So many are forced to bury their talents and many don't know what they are. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am not a young pup anymore. I truly do not know whether I will go to heaven first or if Jesus will return, it could be in the next few minutes, tomorrow or a thousand tomorrows from now. It will be one of the greatest shames to see much of the church squander 75% of the gift and callings in the church for a select few. Sadly, we are doing it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We need to seek God in repentance, humbly on our knees and bring forth all the fruit. We need to use all members of the Body of Christ, and do it for the glory of God. Why are churches and leaders willing to waste such a great resource? </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-90615585704362456752016-04-19T20:35:00.000-05:002016-04-19T20:35:10.237-05:00The Golden Calf<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">When the Hebrews grew impatient with Moses not returning as they expected from Mount Sinai, the people decided to do what we do - play church. Out of their restlessness came the golden calf. God's anger came upon the people, and Moses ground the idol, put the remains in water and made the people drink it. Pretty cruel, but consider the circumstances they created by kindling God's anger against them. It could have been much worse.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I believe many Christians have put their view of God in a form of a golden calf. By doing this, it brings forth two things:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><i><u>1. It gives them a more manageable God.</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b><i><u>2. A golden calf will never punish them for their sinful lifestyle.</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">These idols are everywhere but we don't "see" them. Technology is everywhere and technology runs much of our life. Many off us cannot go anywhere or do anything without smartphones and the access to our connections. We need constant news, we need instant information, we need everything now, and we treat God and prayer requests in the same method. We just can't wait. Once our patience runs low, out comes our golden calf.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">We seek a god that can do our bidding and keep the old man on his throne. We demand a god that we are willing to serve that answers at every whim and beckoning. This is how we like our technology and lifestyle. We must have things our way. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">We have changed our view of an incorruptible God into a corruptible one (see Romans 1). We have grown so accustomed to this standard of believing God in this way that we now see Him in this stained glass masquerade. The Western churches have now effectively lowered the God of Israel to the form of a golden calf. Even the euphoria we feel when we up the beat in our worship music doesn't constitute His holiness is present. All it means is we have substituted the adrenaline rush for His presence, but the golden calf doesn't seem to mind.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Remember, the golden calf has no care or power to change us. All it does is keep the flesh in control and satisfied, while the spiritual man is fooled into worshiping a deity that is more complacent to the flesh than the spirit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The golden calf loves entertainment. It loves the affection it endures from the flesh that we enjoy. As long as it gets its place in our hearts, outside of the hour and a half at church, it is willing to let that time go so it can be praised the rest of the week. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">God demands reverence and a repentant heart. God demands us to be holy and to hate the world and its lusts. If thee is no regeneration or willingness to relent of all the world has to offer, maybe the golden calf is resting on the altar of your heart. The only way to remove him is to remove its food and recognize it as an idol. God will not share Himself with another god.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Jeremiah 9:23-24</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Michael </span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-50615393651083072682016-03-28T09:31:00.003-05:002016-05-16T21:36:26.769-05:00Psalm 46:10a<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Be still; and now I am God.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It is amazing how many Christians have their lives so filled with "doing" that they have little or no time to wait and be still with God. We have used so much of our valuable time wanting to be entertained. Even being busy doing the Lord's work can be so consuming that we lose focus on having communion with the Holy Spirit. There is very little prayer time for individuals and in groups. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I read in a book called "Revival! A People Saturated With God" by Brian Edwards, a pastor came back from Jerusalem to his English church in 1859. What he saw astonished him, as he witnessed close to 40 prayer meetings, eight of them done solely by children up to twelve years of age. We boast of our monthly fasting and prayer, or our weekly Wednesday night meetings, and many of these are filled with barely 10% of those in regular Sunday attendance. Worse is some of the prayers are so routine, we couldn't set a dry match on fire. Yes, I am including myself in this matter; I am no better.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Last year, I went on my normal walk, but this was different. Most times, I spend giving my concerns and supplications to Him. That day, I didn't get three words out what He told me not to say a word. Understand, this wasn't what you'd expect.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">He said nothing, nevertheless, the closeness and communication I had through the heart was something I will never forget. Unfortunately, the best word to describe this communion with the Most High is indescribable, and I believe it is best interpreted only if you could experience it yourself. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Interestingly, it is the pain caused by leaders of a church that has driven me to this passion to seek Him for answers and a "cure" for these wounds. It is those times where I am idle (Hebrew word raphah - means to cease work, to be idle) where I have found I am more receptive to the Almighty. The Scripture verse above literally means, to cease from activity, and let Him show you "I AM." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I cannot conform this story, for I do not remember where I read it. There was an preacher from the late 1800s, and he would spend two weeks in a special place in the woods, and he would only tell his wife where he was going, so he could not be distracted from his "be still" time with God. He would come back with such a refreshing, he made it a practice to this whenever he could.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Reading the Word is good, and the Holy Spirit can speak through this as well. Sermons, listening to praise music, all are good within their own parameters. The Bible can lead you to God, and tells you much of Him, but until we spend time with Him, our view of Him will always be limited by how we "read" about Him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am longing for the weather to warm up, so I can get away and be with my Father. Any entertainment can be sacrificed so you may be with Him. Imagine your spouse ignoring you, watching movies, spending time with friends, going shopping and you feel hurt and rejected because you want them alone - just you and your spouse. Now think how God feels, even giving Him fifteen minutes is good but is it enough for the One who died for you? Is that all you give to your idols? Who truly gets more time and affection - entertainment and friends or God?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have been married for fifteen years, and there is no one on earth today who knows my wife as I do. This should never stop me from being intimate with her, and likewise with me. Once this passion begins to dissipate (and it comes unknowingly), we fall in a routine in our relationship that loses that potency through intimacy, and the same goes with our relationship with the Holy Spirit. Once a burning flame now scarcely flickers in the dark. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If this is so, there are other things that is taking away from its source to continue burning to be with our Father. If you spend more time on Facebook than on your knees, it is an idol. If you spend more time watching movies and television than in communion, what do you love more? If your smartphone gets more attention than Him or your spouse, maybe you need to realize you have a golden calf in your heart. <br />If God is you All in All, prove it. Prove He is more than the world has to offer for you. Give up our idols, and take that time and give it to Him. You will never regret it, and that fire will burn hot again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Jeremiah 9:23-24<br /><br />Michael</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-61777507920767156962016-03-12T10:56:00.000-06:002016-03-12T10:56:37.542-06:00Done With Church For Now and 2 Samuel 16:5-13I am aware that sometimes public places are not a place to air what some seem "dirty laundry." From my standpoint, anyone who doesn't wash clothes but still hangs them outside to dry, maybe they are doing it with the clothes belonging the other. I am not doing this for my satisfaction or gratification, I am doing this in hopes that if there are others who have run into the same situation that me and my wife have recently, my prayer is to help you get through it.<br />
Over two years ago, we started attending another church. My wife thought this would be a good place to go, since the last church had their cliques filled and we watched as many lonely people were avoided like leprosy from these cliques. As we slowly became acquainted with the process of how it is ran and the people, I was prompted by the LORD to get in touch with the leaders. They asked me to write them so they can pray about it. In May, 2014, the meeting was set up, and two elders and I began at the church.<br />
In the letter was a brief description of what I saw, and it was someone sweeping some dust under the rug, but the LORD did not inform me who it was. The second was what I felt very strongly about bringing, which was praying and practicing to wait on Him. <br />
The first seventy minutes went well. The last fifteen or so minutes was an attack on me assuming the role of a prophet over their church. It got the point where one was demanding when did God call me as a prophet and I refused to make this about me. I ended up walking out of the meeting, since I knew this was all about getting me angry and defending me more than the other.<br />
Fast forward two and a half years to close to today. I had walked away from the church for almost eight months, my wife still decided to try to push through the muck. She set up a meeting with the pastor again (against my wishes) to get to the issues, and it all finally came out. The leaders, especially the pastor, felt I was prideful, arrogant, also non-submissive. Every time my wife came up with a rebuttal, he brought new factions against me. He mentioned that many of the leaders unfollowed us on Facebook because of my strong posts, since they were getting offended. All this JUST from my Facebook posts. Remember, I hadn't been in the church in quite a period of time. Yet, they still held this all against me. Ironically, the pastor preached a message that they still need to extend grace to those who disagree with them. <br />
My wife was told I was not coming to him (the pastor) about not resolving my issues. I had met with the elders, submitted a letter to them, I have met with him in his office twice, even invited him over for lunch at our place and our expense. I humbled myself in this regard several times, but I am still at fault. Simply, I have been part several ministries within a church that gladly sought believers to serve, and work out all the issues with leaders proceeding over groups. Somehow, my issues are worse than others, and it is noticeable in what they do.<br />
I am not looking for any retribution or vengeance. In fact, I am taking David's approach in 2 Samuel 16:5-13. One of Saul's relatives began cursing David for what he believed he did against Saul. One of the David's military leaders wanted to smite him, but David responded this might be the LORD and reminding him of his own afflictions. This was a good way, in David's heart, to remain humble, despite his position of authority. <br />
All this is actually driving me toward God. Last year, I asked God to throw me in the refiner's fire. Very few believers will ever volunteer for this, but I did, and I felt awful but God met me after the trial. I began to come to a realization that I tried to find him through the church, when I need to find God and let him find the church for me. We spend so much time believing what churches are doing and that is satisfactory in our relationship with God. I will tell you honestly, it does not suffice.<br />
If you have been through this, it is very easy to send allegations back to the church, and you may have every right. Before we need to bring this up, first go to God, and do it not with finding a retaliatory action but come in on honest supplication before Him. Next is to sit in silence in loneliness of Him and wait as long as it takes for an answer. Be prepared for a response you will not expect. We are only righteous because of His Son, and we have faults. <br />
Is it possible any of the allegations these leaders send about me were true? For all of 2015, my only prayer was for God to bring up the dross of much that was not good, and I saw it. It is the most ugly sight my spiritual man could ever want to see. I would be willing to go through the fire again, for some things will burn in a fire, others with only get purified and not burn at all (see 1 Corinthians 3:10-15). <br />
As of now, I will be spending more time with the Refuge and my Rock. He is my only recluse, with all the pain I had to endure, it only makes sense to want the Almighty. Place your anger on the altar, and give it honestly before Him. We all have emotions and feelings, we need them, God gave them to us. Even praying angry to God is well, as long as we humbly admit these shortcomings before our Judge. Leaving it in His hands is going to be the toughest thing ever to release, and the best option we have, in hopes there may be reconciliation.<br />
Do I hope there can be? Undoubtedly. I must hold out for hope, even it may never happen. I believe God has a place, as He says He places us as He wills (1 Corinthians 12). We have been searching for so long, and now it gets more "selective." I want to find an assembly that wants God and nothing else matters. They will lay aside all just to find Him. They will empty themselves of the world just to be filled with the Holy Spirit, so He can guide them throughout their lives. There has to be a remnant somewhere.<br />
I will keep looking. Until then, my search will continue to find God and Him alone.<br /><br />Jeremiah 6:16<br /><br />MichaelMichael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-61681513480644277632014-11-27T20:09:00.000-06:002014-11-27T20:09:11.616-06:00The Old Cross vs. the New Cross by A. W. Tozer<div class="popuphead_ct" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The Cross: New vs. Old</span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">by A. W. Tozer</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><em>"Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, <br />
let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me."</em> (Matthew 16:24)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">All unannounced and mostly
undetected there has come in modern times a new cross into popular
evangelical circles. It is like the old cross, but different; the
likenesses are superficial, the differences fundamental.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">From this new cross has sprung a
new philosophy of the Christian life; and from that new philosophy has
come a new evangelical technique, a new type of meeting and a new kind
of preaching. This new evangelism employs the same language as the old,
but its content is not the same and its emphasis not as before.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Good, Clean Fun</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The old cross would have no
truck with the world. For Adam's proud flesh it meant the end of the
journey. It carried into effect the sentence imposed by the law of
Sinai. The new cross is not opposed to the human race; rather, it is a
friendly pal, and if understood aright, it is the source of oceans of
good clean fun and innocent enjoyment. It lets Adam live without
interference. His life motivation is unchanged; he still lives for his
own pleasure, only now he takes delight in singing choruses and watching
religious movies instead of bawdy songs and drinking hard liquor. The
accent is still on enjoyment, though the fun is now on a higher plane
morally, if not intellectually.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="i_maintxt_headline2">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The World but at a Higher Level</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The new cross encourages a new
and entirely different evangelistic approach. The evangelist does not
demand abnegation of the old life before the new life can be received.
He preaches not contrasts but similarities. He seeks to key into public
interest by showing that Christianity makes no unpleasant demands;
rather it offers the same things the world does, only on a higher level.
Whatever the sin-mad world happens to be clamoring after at the moment
is cleverly shown to be the very thing the Gospel offers; only the
religious product is better.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="i_maintxt_headline2">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Following Human Taste and Reasoning</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The new cross does not slay the
sinner, it redirects him. It gears him into a cleaner and jollier way of
living and saves his self-respect. To the self-assertive it says, "Come
and assert yourself for Christ." To the egoist it says, "Come and do
your boasting in the Lord." To the thrill seeker it says, "Come and
enjoy the thrill of Christian fellowship." The Modern message is slanted
in the direction of the current vogue, thereby catering to human taste
and reasoning.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The philosophy back of this kind
of thing may be sincere, but its sincerity does not save it from being
false. It is false because it is blind. It misses completely all the
meaning of the cross.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="i_maintxt_headline2">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>A Symbol of Death or of Redirection?</b> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The old cross is a symbol of
death. It stands for the abrupt violent end of a human being. The man in
Roman times who took up his cross and started down the road had already
said goodbye to his friends. He was not coming back. He was not going
to have his life redirected; he was going out to have it ended. The
cross made no compromise, modified nothing, spared nothing, it slew all
of the man, completely and for good. It did not try to keep on good
terms with its victim. It struck swift and hard, and when it had
finished its work the man was no more.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The race of Adam is under death
sentence. There is no commutation, and no escape. God cannot approve any
of the fruits of sin, however innocent they may appear or beautiful to
the eyes of men. God salvages the individual by liquidating him, and
then raising him again to newness of life. God offers life, but not an
improved old life. The life He offers is life out of death. It stands
always on the far side of the cross. Among the plastic saints of our
times Jesus has to do all the dying and all we want is to hear another
sermon about His dying. We want to be saved but we insist that Christ do
all the dying. No cross for us, no dethronement, no dying. We remain
king within the little kingdom of Mansoul and wear our tinsel crown with
all the pride of a Caesar; but we doom ourselves to shadows and
weakness and spiritual sterility.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="i_maintxt_headline2">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Not Diplomats but Prophets</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">That evangelism which draws
friendly parallels between the ways of God and the ways of men is false
to the Bible and cruel to the souls of the hearers. The faith of Christ
does not parallel the world; it intersects it. In coming to Christ we do
not bring our old life up onto a higher plane; we leave it at the
cross. The corn of wheat must fall into the ground and die.We who preach
the Gospel must not think of ourselves as public relations agents sent
to establish good will between Christ and the world. We must not imagine
ourselves commissioned to make Christ acceptable to Big Businessmen, or
the Press, or the World of Sports, or Modern Education. We are not
diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an
ultimatum.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">God offers life, but not an
improved old life. The life He offers is life out of death. It stands
always on the far side of the cross whoever would possess it must pass
under the rod. He must repudiate himself and concur in God's just
sentence against him.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So subtle is self that scarcely
anyone is conscious of its presence. Because man is born a rebel, he is
unaware that he is one. His constant assertion of self, as far as he
thinks of it at all, appears to him a perfectly normal thing. He is
willing to share himself, sometimes even to sacrifice himself for a
desired end, but never to dethrone himself. Sin has many
manifestations, but its essence is one. A moral being, created to
worship before the throne of God, sits on the throne of his own selfhood
and from that elevated position declares, "I AM." That is sin in its
concentrated essence; yet because it is natural it appears to be good. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"What shall we do?" (Acts 2:37)
is the deep heart cry of every man who suddenly realizes that he is a
usurper and sits on a stolen throne..... There must be a work of God in
destruction before we are free. We must invite the cross to do its
deadly work within us.... Our uncrucified flesh will rob us of purity of
heart, Christ-likeness of character, spiritual insight, fruitfulness;
and more than all, it will hide from us the vision of God's face.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">If I see aright, the cross of
popular Evangelicalism is not the cross of the New Testament. It is,
rather, a new bright ornament upon the bosom of a self-assured and
carnal Christianity. The old cross slew men; the new cross entertains
them. The old cross condemned; the new cross amuses. The old cross
destroyed confidence in the flesh; the new cross encourages it.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="i_maintxt_headline2">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Repent, Believe, and Forsake</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">What does this mean to the
individual, the condemned man who would find life in Christ Jesus? How
can this theology be translated into life? Simply, he must repent and
believe. He must forsake his sins and then go on to forsake himself. Let
him cover nothing, defend nothing, excuse nothing. Let him not seek to
make terms with God, but let him bow his head before the stroke of God's
stern displeasure.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</span><div align="left" class="popup_text">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Having done this let him gaze
with simple trust upon the risen Savior, and from Him will come life and
re-birth and cleansing and power. The cross that ended the earthly life
of Jesus now puts an end to the sinner, and the power that raised
Christ from the dead now raises him to a new life along with Christ.</span></div>
Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-33221403903231415522014-11-21T20:49:00.000-06:002016-03-28T09:32:16.269-05:00Why I Left Church For A Season<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>What has turned me off
from going to church.</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I left my last church around two months
ago. Churches have been turning me more off than on. I found such
a shift that many of today’s churchgoers barely notice the changes
that have occurred over a period of time. Another problem is many in
the church accept this as the norm for services.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I read a link that Stand Up For the
Truth to Pastor Randy White. Much of what he wrote was intriguing
reading and all of what he said and relayed, I have to agree with
those statements. I will add more, but let’s get on with the
nitty-gritty of what is keeping me from church in this moment.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last year, I could not understand why
contemporary worship music was not giving me “the high” I
received when I was a newer Christian. Simply, since I was not fully
established in the Word and my relationship with the Holy Spirit, I
did not know any better.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After a period where I spent more time
being lukewarm than chasing God, I realized many things that kept me
from the chase. While my wife was attending WoF conferences (more on
this later), I couldn’t stomach what was going on during these
services. I stayed out on the foyer during these times, and the
blessing is my wife finally saw what was wrong and left the movement.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What is REALLY keeping me away from
churches today? Since I was so lukewarm, I repented and began
seeking the Lord with a new passion. I re-read some books by Charles
Finney and Derek Prince, and starting realizing what TYPE of church
was being played in Western churches.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Understand, I am not saying ALL
churches in America are like this. Also note that I believe there is
a zero probability that anyone has been in every church in America.
By my writing, I can only write about what I see and research on the
internet. Remember, as you read forward, this is opinion from my
standpoint and no expertise in theological standings for churches.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First, it relates to my question on why
church membership isn’t growing, except for the Emerging
megachurches in many of the metropolises today. I read an article
recently about why membership is declining, and the writer gave five
thesis, on which I could only agree on one.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The writer said that churches are not
setting high enough standards for Christians to obtain membership.
Granted, the only one I agreed with was that many were not getting
involved with the church’s ministry, and I have not been part of a
ministry since 2005.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I do not believe in going to church
just to go. Every church I went to have the same basic program –
worship, announcements, tithe, and sermon. Anything else became “led
by God” for an altar call and prayer time. I am not saying this is
wrong, but I have attended a church where the Holy Spirit disrupted
the services for a month. Just worship and watching people get
ministered to for two hours. The pastor was not allowed to preach
during this time.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Worship music</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let’s start with worship. I have
been to some churches where the worship was recorded, because the
size of the church wasn’t enough to have a band. Another was
straight basic, with little electrical instruments but the worship
was there. On the flip side, I have also been to churches where
worship is a full blown concert, with loud amps and flashing lights.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I stumbled upon an ebook called
“Spiritual Anorexia” by Doug Erlanson, and what he wrote was
astounding. He was unaware of the changes from hymnal based to
contemporary worship music and, until he went to an older style
church. When the worship band played a hymn, he listened to the
words, and it took on a whole another meaning for worship. I concur.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know what someone is going to say –
you do not like the new music. Sadly, you are easily wrong. I was
raised in the songwriting era in the 1970s, disco, techno, and the
hair bands in the 1980s, so don’t tell me I despise the upbeat.
Some Christian songs are just wrong, due to trying to employ rock
songs and making them Christian, because it was sung by a Christian
artist.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lyrics have changed so subtly that
churches haven’t noticed it. When you compare a hymn with many
popular contemporary worship music today, you will find the lyrics
are so drastic, it woke me up. What a difference.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First off, when I was a teenager, I
listened to music incessantly. I fell asleep listening to music, I
woke up listening to music, I would head to the basketball court with
headphones attached to the boom box (if you are not old enough,
please ask someone older than you). I know what this music gave you,
and it was an emotional charge. As long as the fuel with an upbeat,
no matter the lyrics, was good to get the juices flowing for any
young person. And now we have this in the worship today as well</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now the lyrics. Here are the lyrics to
the old hymn The Old Rugged Cross:</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>On a hill far
away stood an old rugged cross,<br />The emblem of suff’ring and
shame;<br />And I love that old cross where the dearest and best<br />For
a world of lost sinners was slain. <br /><br />Refrain:<br />So I’ll
cherish the old rugged cross,<br />Till my trophies at last I lay
down;<br />I will cling to the old rugged cross,<br />And exchange it
some day for a crown. <br /><br />Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised
by the world,<br />Has a wondrous attraction for me;<br />For the dear
Lamb of God left His glory above<br />To bear it to dark Calvary. <br /><br />In
that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,<br />A wondrous
beauty I see,<br />For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and
died,<br />To pardon and sanctify me.<br /><br />To the old rugged
cross I will ever be true;<br />Its shame and reproach gladly
bear;<br />Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,<br />Where
His glory forever I’ll share.</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now I will show you the lyrics to the
recently popular song I Am Free:</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Through You, the blind will
see</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Through You, the mute will sing</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Through You, the dead will
rise</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Through You, all hearts will praise</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Through You, the darkness
flees</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Through You, my heart screams</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />I am free</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Yes, I am free</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am free to run</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />(I am free to
run)</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />I am free to dance</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />(I am free to dance)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am free to live for You</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />(I
am free to live for You)</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />I am free</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />(I am free)</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Yes, I am
free</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />(I am free)</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Through You, the Kingdom
comes</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Through You, the battle's won</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Through You, I'm not
afraid</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Through You, the price is paid</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Through You, there's
victory</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Because of You, my heart sings</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />I am free</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />Yes, I am
free</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>And I am free to run<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am
free to run)</i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br />And I am free to dance<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am free to dance)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
<i> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>And I am free to live for You<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I
am free to live for You)<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am free<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am free)<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Yes, I am
free<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am free)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
<i> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Who the Son sets free, is free
indeed<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(Now the Son sets free)<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Who the Son sets free, is free
indeed<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(Now the Son sets free)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
<i> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am free to run<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am free to
run)<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am free to dance<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am free to dance)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
<i> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>And I am free to live for You<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I
am free to live for You)<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am free<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am free)<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Yes, I am
free<br /> </i></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 0.07in; margin-bottom: 0.07in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-top: 0.07in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>(I am free)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is three major differences
between the hymns and today’s worship.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />1. Repetition.<br />Look at the
repetition of “I Am Free” compared to “The Old Rugged Cross.”
In the old hymn, the song only repeats through the refrain. The
song I Am Free repeats itself many times over and over. As long as
the emotional charge is there from getting the feel that “you are
free,” might as well say it over and over again.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Old Rugged Cross gives four sets of
verses, with the chorus and refrain sung after each one. Unless
someone finds a way to modernize the music, this song would not go
over well with the younger generation. The strange thing is noting
that the old hymns have stood the test of time for their next view.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am amazed how many songs today have
maybe one or two sets of lyrics, and chorus and repetition allows the
song to reach past four minutes long. I am talking of Christian
contemporary worship music now, not that regular rock played mostly
on Christian radio stations. I makes me think that either this is
all they have to offer or what is listed as #2.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. It is devoid of revelation.<br />Look
at not just the words (ignore thy, thine, etc) but how they are
written. Today’s worship music has most of the same words jumbled
into different music. God’s love, more words use to describe God
and Jesus as “You and He,” and it emphasis more on feeling good
for who we are than Scripture based. It appears today’s writers
are more concerned about getting words to rhyme and people’s
emotions more than the works of the Jesus and how God served us.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rich Mullins was a rare writer in the
1980s and 1990s with his music. When I owned some of his CDs, I
noticed in many of the lyrics were Scripture references for much of
his songs. Awesome God was only a three minute song, but its impact
through Scripture holds its own, compared to Christian songwriters
today.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I rarely hear songs about the Blood and
Calvary anymore. You cannot get riled up talking about the suffering
Jesus went through, and somehow we assume the presence of God is the
best for our flesh and spirit. It isn’t about honoring our God
anymore, it is about the third point.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It seems much of worship that is played
and selected for the beginning of service holds more for uplifting my
the beat and music and not of the lyrics. What would happen if the
electricity went out? Would the bands be able to continue at the top
notch many have come to expect week after week? What of those places
in Africa that have no electricity, I wonder of their worship time is
better than the concerts we have in America...</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. Man centered vs. God centered. <br />In
the song I Am Free, the only reference you see of God/Jesus is “You.”
Any nonbeliever who walked in the church may have no idea who You
is. But the song more focuses on “I,” and what I am. I am free
to do this, I am free to do that. I hate to say this, but others are
free to run, and free to dance, but why? What did God do? What took
place for all this to happen?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Psalms are replete where David saw
God deserved all the praise. In the last five chapters (146-150),
all that is written is praising Him. Any instrument, any voice, any
time of day, He deserves every praise. It should never be about us.
It is all about Him.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Old Rugged Cross was written in a
way that it would reflect all the glory to Calvary and the sacrifice
of Jesus in our place. The writer made every point there was no way
any thing he could do unless Jesus suffered and took his place on
that Cross.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I Am Free took the other approach. At
the start it may seem God gets glory, but nothing is mentioned what
took place for all this to happen. The glory doesn’t go to God but
“I.” It reflects more of what I can do, now that God has done
all this for me.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Where is the reverence to the LORD in
these songs? Where does the growth come from in worship songs that
is based more on how you feel than who He is? The lack of content in
many of today’s worship songs does little to direct us to the
Bible, does little to delve to know more of Him besides what is sung
over in different songs. I have come to dislike these songs.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Worship has come to be more of a
concert to give a charge to start the service. Once that gets some
of the congregation in the motion, it sets the stage for the
announcements. If these churches have the technology, most will
broadcast them on the big screen. These are either taken from
another church program or prerecorded from the other pastors and
edited for presentation. This is usually done between songs are at
the end, with the sound turned up like a concert hall.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Preaching on Tithe</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Depending on the need of the church or
ministry, the tithe offering is next. Please don't send verse on
tithing, I am well aware that the church needs these to survive and
do God's work, especially the laymen. I am not here to argue of the
collection, but I have heard some preachers give a 20-30 minute
mini-sermon every week on the practice of tithing, and they make sure
they tell you Malachi 3, to testify that YOUR storehouse will be
full. The preacher will emphasize that God will bless you in return
of 30, 60, or a hundredfold, which is not directly Biblical. Some go
so long, you just want to give so they get off the subject.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The reason I hate it is that people
look to give to God just to get back. With that attitude, why bother
to give. Let God do what He wants with it, and let God bless you as
He wills, WHEN He desires to do so. He desires a cheerful giver (2
Corinthians 9:7), then churches should present the giving as an
offering to Him. Guilty and manipulative practices to get you to
give, especially when you don't have it to give, is dangerous. I
heard one person trust what was promised that God will give back, she
overdrafted her bank account. In a sense, it caused to give MORE for
what she had.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Sermons (Tickling Ears)</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First, I will say that I believe there
are many preachers and pastors who have a desire to preach the Word.
I believe there are very good churches that have pulpits that are
filled with laity that preach such solid food that believers eagerly
learn week after week. Some churches need this desperately, and
only get milk.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Granted, I believe it is hard to teach
from the pulpit when there come new believers who can’t readily
handle the meat that sometimes need to be presented from the Bible.
What becomes a dilemma is when preachers continue to give milk and
this prevents those who need to reach spiritual maturity to get there
when they are still given the proverbial baby bottle. Usually, these
are good times to get the newer believer engrained in a Bible Study.
Get many of them in fellowship and learning the Word, where they can
ask questions and gain insight more freely.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are preachers who afraid of
letting go of some of their congregation, or fear some will leave if
the message gets “too hot.” Frankly, some will leave because
they don’t want the message too hot or too cold just enough to keep
them warm enough by the fire, but not in it. The problem is, this
may keep them in their seat but that is as far as the butt will take
them.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Giving them the message they want to
hear may be good for some seasons, however, many like to gravitate to
the fire to keep them warm only. Scripturally, fire is used to
purify or to consume (1 Corinthians 3) and when a message is given
just to roast marshmallows, we miss what it really needed.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Paul warned of those who need to have
their ears tickled (1 Timothy 4:3) and they will chase unsound
doctrine to get it. It give them the benefit, they want all the
promises of God without obedience to do His Word accordingly. Grace
is extended past the point of repentance, and many are happy to live
their lifestyles of the world while believing the will reap the
promises of heaven. This is all to keep butts in the seats and the
coffers flowing for the salary of those in the church.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are many warnings to the church
in the Bible, and many are ignored, maybe because those in attendance
needs to hear but fear a backlash of exodus. Strangely, if message
like this are done, like 1 Corinthians 6, those who are feeling the
sting and leave may be the ones who are living a sinful lifestyle and
don’t want to be confronted.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let me say this before stones of
judgment can be tossed at me. I have sinned. I have fallen. I have
backslidden at times. I AM NOT PERFECT in the LORD’s eyes by any
means. The ones that struggle with sin and want to be free from it,
willing to confess these before God and others, those we should pray
for and help them in any way we can to break free of this bondage.
Like Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 6, one was purposely living in sin,
and the people did not mourn of the leaven that was infecting the
whole church. Simply, they did nothing, and Paul saw this glorying
was not good.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Well, others are not sinning as bad as
what was described, someone sleeping with his father’s wife. Sin
is sin. What is troublesome is that there was no repentance, and
worse, the people did not see this as concern. And we wonder why the
world sees us as no different from them. We strive for forgiveness
but not holiness. Holiness is another thing that should be preached
from the pulpit.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Grace has been watered down to the
point it has lost any effectiveness to bring people back to the
Cross. We have people claiming baptisms of the Holy Spirit but
ignore communion with Him. We are taught that God serves us with all
the promises, grace and mercy we can hold in. Obedience is becoming
the forbidden fruit, when it should be the center of our lifestyle
unto the Almighty.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sermons used to be so filled with the
Word that believers held the Bibles open, always searching for the
Scripture verses that the preacher said in the sermon. The way it
was meant to be was, if any of the family members had a question of
the sermon, they were to bring it up to the father, and they would
discuss it at home.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, we print easy to follow “fill
in the blanks” pamphlets that offer little in growth. Large
projector screens have the verses all for you in an easy to follow
PowerPoint layout. (Understand, for those who have problems reading
the Bible, this is good for those, so I will not dismiss this as
totally wrong, IMO.) For many people, why bring a Bible, it is
already lined up for them. Just take the pamphlet home, and maybe
read it later.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We are called to test EVERYTHING (1
Thessalonians 5:21), even what is taught from the pulpit. I have
heard preachers make mistakes, but some are concerned about teaching
Scripture that seems “offensive,” so they twist it to make you
feel more at ease. Taking some verse out of context is more taught
to them by seminary’s doctrine than from the Holy Spirit is another
common problem from the pulpit.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are times we need messages that
prick our hearts (Acts 2:37) and cause us to make a major decision,
and this includes inside the church. The younger generation needs to
be challenged, and we need to stop patronizing the congregation into
simplistic promises where obedience, holiness and sanctifying
ourselves should be a common practice. Preach sin as it is, and do
not be afraid to preach on the wrath and judgment of God. It is a
character of Him, and you cannot truly know Him without understanding
His judgment (Jeremiah 9:23-24). Stop picking and choosing, Jesus is
waiting for a spotless Bride without blemish.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Prayer</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I will say this, and I have wondered
where my passion has gone in this area, and that is prayer. In
service, you might here in half-hearted prayer that coincides to the
worship song that preceded it. If the song is “All About You,
Lord,” then the simplified prayer will be “that we are here for
You, and it is all about You.”
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leonard Ravenhill always talked about
how much prayer is missing from the churches, and he passed away in
the early 1990s. He mentioned how he was having services on
Wednesday nights, attended by about a hundred. When he changed it to
a prayer meeting, the people stopped coming, only a remnant came.
Why the difference?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Could it be that the Holy Spirit is not
part of these meetings? Sometimes our flesh gets into these
meetings, and we pray from it. When we pray in the Holy Spirit, we
are in communion with Him, I believe there is a unity that flows
within these meetings. When He is not present, it is like a dry
tree, and there is nothing to ignite it with.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are churches that are lucky to
have community prayer once a month, and barely get a tithe to go.
Sometimes it is the same old routine. Play some worship music to get
you “in the mood.” Then the leaders tells the group what should
be prayed for, and maybe gives a list of things. Then it is done.
This is scheduled once a month.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From what I have read in the Bible, we
are to be in prayer unceasingly (1 Thessalonians 5:17). We must
admit, there are very few who are in prayer constantly. Yes, there
is work, children and bills to take care of, stress, and eating. I
believe God knows all this. I fail this many times. Even Samuel
called prayerlessness a sin (1 Samuel 12:23) and I am guilty of this
countless times. Count me as one where I should pray more than I
ought.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Fear and Respect</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In olden times, I heard that when it
came for the sermon, the Word was read, and everyone stood
accordingly to give homage and respect. Prayers before the sermon
were sometimes lengthy, but needed. Now people go into churches with
their lattes and coffee, holding one hand up with the cup in another.
Where is our fear and respect in His house of worship?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What is ironic that some of the older
preachers, ranging from John Wesley and Jonathan Edwards to A.W.
Tozer, Paris Reidhead and Duncan Campbell never feared the people
before giving their messages. Their conviction was more on James 3:1
and truly poured their hearts as a sacrifice, and were more than
willing to preach truth to a people who unknowingly were desperate
for it.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">During the Hebrides revival
(1949-1952), Mr. Campbell was known to preach hell to a congregation,
and the wrath of a holy God was bearing down on those who were not
right with Him. It is has been known that people were crying mercy
during these sermons were commonplace during this time. Only after
the sermon, would he invite those who were serious of their
salvation, and those that did not accept, he let them to their own
device. His understanding of God and knowledge of Him was based on
reverence.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We have no reverence of Him in hardly
any church today. Worship starts, and half of the people are still
in the foyer talking or gossiping. Some enter the sanctuary, still
having conversation while the music plays. Sermons and Bible Studies
are given that He is a loving God, and I even got to hear someone
candidly waiting for a time he can sit on “Daddy’s lap.” Why
not, what do Christians have to fear because “If God is for me, who
can be against me?” Right?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have not been able to count how many
verses are about fear and reverence. We ignore the fact that He is
King of kings and Lord of lords. In the book of Esther, it mentions
all the preparation and prayer it took before Esther presented
herself before the King, even though he was her husband. We should
wonder why God does not come down in His glory and holiness, because
the church has not prepared herself for His presence. As long as it
took Esther to get ready, how much more should we be before our King?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here are some verses that give much
insight on why we need to have the fear of the LORD:</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Psalm 119:120 <br />My flesh trembleth
for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 1:7<br />The fear of the Lord is
the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 8:13<br />The fear of the Lord
is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the
froward mouth, do I hate.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 9:10<br />The fear of the Lord
is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is
understanding.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 14:26-27<br />In the fear of the
Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of
refuge. [27] The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart
from the snares of death.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:16<br />Better is little with
the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Proverbs 15:33<br />The fear of the Lord
is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If the Bible is replete with the fear
of the LORD, then the importance is much more than we proceed in our
life. We are called to work out our salvation in fear and trembling
(Philippians 2:12), and if pastors are called to watch over and feed
the flock, then their concern should be much more. It should NEVER
be enough to believe that people say that Jesus Christ as Lord, but
to walk out their lives in the ways of our Savior. Job was so
concerned over his children, he continually offered sacrifices for
them (Job 1:5). Even as a father, I have these concerns for my
children as they grow. Do pulpits really have this passion and see
what fruit their congregation has, and not what their wallet holds?
I am not that it isn’t so, it doesn’t appear from my perspective
that leaders are searching through all their congregation and getting
them involved with church.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Life Groups</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There has been a recent trend to shift
what has been called Bible Study to the term “Life Groups.” This
was done to bring more of a family feel to a group. I now wonder,
what was wrong with calling it Bible Study?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It has evolved to where the main focus
isn’t just walking and studying the Word anymore. Many are
following study guides that other people wrote. I am not saying this
is bad, but there has been a strong change to getting these study
guides. No deviation, just read what is required, discuss what you
“liked” from the study, and fellowship afterward.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>Many churches are
hoping by calling them Life Groups, that they can attract their
congregation in a most serene way. I understand that some people may
feel a little underwater when it comes to learning the Word, but that
is why there should be gifted teachers.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bible Studies feel good about what was
studied, tell everybody, and forget. Use of study guides are growing
more as a substitute for the genuine study of the Word. No need to
prepare and pray about the upcoming life group, it has already been
done for you.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The best part is that is usually
follows the latest Christian item going on. The movie that played
over the summer, “God's Not Dead,” created a study guide, though
I have not looked at it. What we must be careful for is not everyone
walks the same path, so what worked for one may not work for another.
(Interestingly, why did the movie show the professor getting killed,
when the original had a cameo in it?)
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some of these use Scriptures to best
suit the author's theme out of context. Many don't remember what was
originally read, and the leaders do their best to follow the steps to
complete the study guide portion for that day. The best part is
bragging how marvelous the study was, fellowship the rest of the
time, and don't realize when most get home later, they barely recall
what was taught.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I grew so much from the Bible Studies I
attended when I began to take my walk with God seriously. Bringing
your Bible to these groups are not required, as the study guide
supplies the needed ones for you. Again, we should test everything,
but seek God what is best for you in your walk with Him. From my
standpoint, I would rather talk about the Bible, let someone ask
questions, wing it and see the Holy Spirit lead.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Cliques</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">My
family attended a church off and on for about a year and a half (It
would have been more, but every other weekend was spent taking care
of the mother-in-law). After the service, there was time for
fellowship in the basement. What was difficult was the traverse time
we spent trying to find friends within the church. One couple always
volunteered for greeting, so they were open with everyone. Another
one came to us once in a while, but we ended up talking with the ones
who were like us, outside cliques. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There
just was not any “room” in the inn here. No matter how much we
tried, we found some family and friends held up the “No Vacancy”
sign. After a period of this, we just gave up and sat alone, or most
times we just left after the service. Since we felt we weren't going
to be part of the church, we felt it was best to move on. Then I
watched as some elders felt we weren't part of their church. I
straight up told them what happened and I heard no response. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">What
we should realize that the Body is called to be a family. If we are
called to be sons of God and daughters of Zion. Sons and daughters
are siblings, and if this is true, we are to be like spiritual heirs
to God. Sadly, we fight like siblings at well, but that mostly
happens when children are immature. Yes, I still try to annoy my
sister after all these years, but I still love her and give her
respect and honor. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
old cliché “birds of a feather flock together” holds more true
in the church. I am not implying women spent more time with women,
and the same goes for men, we each need to sharpen each other, and
mentoring has its needs as well. How it is today comes forth of
people who act this way will gravitate toward people who think in the
same way. Ironically, people who speak the truth at most risks to
their reputation are not liked by believers who promote love and
grace more. Those who don't like “judging” avoid those who hate
sin. So on and so on...</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Division
will only grow in the church as we speed on toward the coming of
Jesus Christ. It may come down to the division of the ten virgins,
as the five who keep their lamps full are always looking ahead and
desiring their lives to be full of light, while the other five waited
until it was too late. Choose your group wisely...</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>The Holy Spirit</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This
was the biggest challenge I ever faced with a leader. I brought a
DVD that focused not on the baptism of the Holy Spirit but the
communion (intimacy) to him. It took almost three months before he
found time to watch this, and before he finished the second one, I
received a small “tongue lashing” about this, and I had a letter
written in response, but I did not send it out. The Spirit knows
ahead of time...</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He
finally finished the second and it seems he got the message that He
longed for him to have, and he received at surprise at church the
following Sunday, as the Holy Spirit showed up and disrupted the
service. Obviously, there was a reason for him to see this, and I
hope this happens more frequently.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">What
many of us claim is the baptism of the Holy Spirit but not communion
with Him. Some of us can pray in the Spirit's tongues but we need to
learn how to pray with His leading and help. In fact, if there is
one Person who needs to be a part of not just church but our every
day walk, it is the Holy Spirit.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Referring
the songs of today against the main focus of the Holy Spirit is like
fire and ice. The Holy Spirit never talks of Himself, only directs
us to glorify Jesus (John 16:14). He counsels and convicts us, He
speaks for us and helps us pray for what is God's will. We need to
stop believing what we think is God's direction without the Holy
Spirit. It is difficult to do so we are not in communion with Him.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Many
of us will claim the baptism of the Holy Spirit but we neglect the
baptism of fire. Some claim this is one in the same but that is not
always true, since at Pentecost there was seen tongues like fire
(Acts 2:3). We are called to be filled daily (Ephesians 5:18). Paul told the
Corinthians to keep with the communion of the Holy Spirit (2
Corinthians 13:15). </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Communion (Lord's
Supper)</b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This
is a touchy subject and this is to be understood of what I have seen.
The reason I bring this up is I have seen churches take this too
lightly. Some go through the routine of reciting 1 Corinthians 10,
than take the elements. This may not be “bad” in essence, but we
miss another point that Paul wanted to make and clear in both
Chapters 10 and 11.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chapter
10 gives this as a warning:<br />1 Cor. 10:21-22 <br />Ye cannot drink
the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of
the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. [22] Do we provoke the
Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he? </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now
on the Chapter 11:<br />1 Cor. 11:27-32 <br />Wherefore whosoever shall
eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be
guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. [28] But let a man examine
himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.
[29] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh
damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. [30] For this
cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. [31] For if
we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. [32] But when we
are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be
condemned with the world. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">When
we partake together, does the pulpit warn us of taking the elements
unworthily? Do some of us attempt to take of the world and of the
Lord's table? Do we realize when we think we are right with the
LORD, and partake in communion, we can provoke the Lord into
jealousy? We are called to judge ourselves, and “judge” is the
same Greek word that Jesus uses in Matthew 7:1 (krinos). Simply, if
we judge ourselves to the point if we are right with God or not
according to the Word, we would not be judged in accordance when we
take communion. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
don't know why we do not take things more seriously in our walk with
God. Many come to church and their plain assumption that they are
right with God, and have literally no relationship with the Holy
Spirit. Many of us going through our life on earth and use the mere
reflection of Jesus in our walk at church, maybe in hopes we will
have the form of godliness, but we deny its power to transform (1
Timothy 5:8). We readily accept any word that comes from the pulpit
as truth without testing it against Scripture. The main reason this
happens is those who are lukewarm only hear the Word from the pulpit
and their knowledge is restricted to Sunday mornings. Churches go
through services in the same routine week after week, and they expect
different results. Sermons have barely enough strength to get their
congregation out the door feeling good of themselves but not much
else.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We
need truth that reaches to the division of soul and spirit (Hebrews
4:15), and this holds the possibility of damaging the flesh. We need
to seek holiness that far bypass what we believe it is. In fact,
this is one topic that needs to return to the sermon list. Fasting
and prayer should be once a week, and with conviction of the Holy
Spirit to lead us in this arena. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There
is one area that I have lost, and that is the spirit of prayer.
Jesus taught that we should go into our closets (Matthew 6:6). This
is so we can give our undivided attention, not just so we can give
our supplications to Him but so He can speak to us as well. My
current conditions makes it difficult. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Before
I met my wife, I would go to a quiet location and spend much time
alone. At the time I wrote this, I realized how much I have not been
able to be alone with Him. My wife sleeps in the afternoon for her
night shift, so I can't go in my room to pray. I need to pay
attention to my children, and usually one of them is in the other
bedroom. During the day, I home school my children, and at night I
do my schoolwork, though I graduate soon. By the time my kids are
crashed for the night, so am I. Considering it is winter, walks are
not a solution, either. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It
has affected my relationship with God, and sometimes I do not spend
as much time reading the Word as I should. I lay in bed listening to
old time sermons, which helps, but I am guilty, and I can freely
admit it. Which leads to another thing...</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">James
5:16 <br />Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for
another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a
righteous man availeth much. </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">How
come this is rare? There are some things we are willing to profess,
but many are not the deep ones that cause us strife. The Greek word
translated fault here is </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">paraptoma</span></i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
which literally means side-slip. Other words Strong's Concordance
uses is lapse or deviation. We are human. There should be a small
trust among us where we can confess these among ourselves and pray
for each other to make us whole.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
want to be a part of a spiritual family, that takes part not just
church functions but part of ALL of the manifestations of the Holy
Spirit for the benefit of ALL. I don't want to see part of the
church fall through the cracks, where some don't care and just
willing to sit in the seat. Others have the gifts but cannot use
them. Then there are some who believe they are in the Body of
Christ, but are lukewarm and have pushed Christ outside the door (see
Revelations 3). We need revival.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Duncan
Campbell said it best, that “revival is a community saturated with
God.” Revival starts with the cleansing of the church, for God
does not want to seek unbelievers without bringing her to a bride
without blemish. Brian H. Edwards studied revivals throughout
history, and found three things that associated all the solid ones - </span></span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1.
Spirit of prayer<br />2. Conviction of sin<br />3. Fear of God and His
holiness</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Revival
won't be come unless we seek these three things. Revival can't come
until we realize we fall short in all three – me included. Until
we sit back and find the church is not saturated with God, either,
and we are not as holy as we should be. We must step forward and
step up, see our flaws, acknowledge our sin. We need to ask why we
are not experiencing the Holy Spirit in our churches in His
wholeness. </span></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We
are not as desperate as we should be. God is much more, Jesus is
coming back for a bride with more pureness than we say we are. What
is our purpose? </span></span>
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</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-26232803513090427422014-04-22T23:54:00.001-05:002014-04-23T11:41:29.172-05:00Sabbath<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I was going to start on another subject, but last weekend I was involved in a debate where I was called drastic names from an old co-worker. It was all about should we still honor the seventh day (Shabbot) or has it changed. It has been a hot topic recently with a friend.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In the Old Testament, the first command was to Moses with in the wilderness on their way to the Promised Land (Exodus 16). It was given as the Fourth Commandment out of the Ten, written in stone. Even after the death of Jesus, much of the old way was practiced by the Jews, and some who are still waiting for the First Coming of the King practice the rest. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The debate rages on. Should we continue to take the seventh day off, or was it changed or abolished at the Cross? As I have seen both sides of the argument, I will do my best not to pick sides. There are some who believe you are doomed to hell for not keeping the sabbath, and there are others are "keeping" it but not in the ways the Jews did in the time. So the issue with the latter is, if God commanded the seventh day to be rest, what changed the method to what some claim today? Which actually leaves me two questions to ponder...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now we come to certain Scriptures and what interpretation do you use in substantiating your view? I will bring both to the best of my ability. Lets start with Jeremiah:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jeremiah 31:31-33 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b> Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: [32] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the Lord: [33] But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">First, God said He would make a new covenant, NOT according to the one He made in the wilderness, but this one will be written in their hearts. Before we go on, there are people are say that the Ten Commandments and the Mosaic laws are different, since the TC were written in stone and placed inside the ark, while the Mosaic law was written on parchment and remained OUTSIDE the ark. (I am not taking any stance, here. I need to absorb as complete an argument as I can.) Understand, the feasts, the laws and commandments, the sacrifices, even the Ten Commandments were given in the wilderness. So, does above Scriptures dictate that JUST the Mosaic law vanished upon the endorsing of the new covenant, or was it all that was written and given in the wilderness? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Paul wrote to the church in Rome about the law and its effect. One argument needs to be made here, is if the law was nailed to the Cross, than it should have no place today. Yet, Paul still needed to write about it. Note who the audience was in the letter. It wasn't non-believers, it was believers. Why did Paul see the need to write a portion of the letter about the law, if it became null and void at the Cross? (I am giving no answers, just queries.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Let's look at another Scripture that has a hangup:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 Cor. 3:3 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <b> Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, <u>written not with ink</u>, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in <u>tables of stone</u>, but in fleshy tables of the heart. </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>(emphasis mine)</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This tends to be an issue of different interpretation between debaters of Shabbot. It does look like that the Mosaic law (written in ink) has no ministry in our lives, but not the second part, we no longer have tables of stones but now written on our heart. It DOES APPEAR TO SAY that the Ten Commandments were transferred from the tablets to our hearts.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Let's look at another Scripture that is quite an argument for both sides:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Col. 2:14-17 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <b> Blotting out the <u>handwriting of ordinances</u> that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; [15] And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. [16] Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the <u>sabbath</u> days: [17] Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">First, the handwriting of ordinances was the Mosaic law. The main reason is that all the sacrifices and laws were temporary and destructive, as no man was able to fulfill them, outside of Christ. As we skip to verse 16, this is where the sticky goo comes into play. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">With two different interpretations being used, most Sabbath keepers with always use sabbath days as ceremonial Sabbaths that always related to feast days the Israelites were commanded to keep in the Mosaic law. But somehow, this does not coincide with the other verses where the Greek word was used. The author makes no separation in this word.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here is the Strong's definition in this word translated into sabbath:</span><br />
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">sabbaton, Greek 4521, Strong’s</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> sab'-bat-on; of Hebrew origin [Hebrew 7676 (shabbath)]; the Sabbath (i.e. Shabbath), or day of weekly repose from secular avocations (also the observance or institution itself); by extension a se'nnight, i.e. the interval between two Sabbaths; likewise the plural in all the above applications :- sabbath (day), week.</span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Note this does not give strong indication that this plural. When read in the KJV, the word days is italicized, which means it was added for clarity. This word gives no clarity if it means plural or not. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In the New Testament, sabbaton was used fifty-eight times to translate into sabbath, seven times as in the first of the week, and one time as week (Luke 18:12). As I studied each of these Scriptures, it gives no clarity that any of them meant the ceremonial sabbaths, Even in Matthew 12:8, there is no direction translation for the word, but translated as such. <br />One must remember that the Ten Commandments, the Mosaic laws, the feasts and other commandments were given to the Hebrews only. With the exception of Moses' wife, Zipperah, all who were present at the foot of Mount Sinai were Israelites, God's chosen people.<br /><br />Doug Batchelor of the Seventh Day Adventists mentions in Matthew 28:1, that once Jesus rose from the dead, "after" takes a deeper spiritual meaning, as this creates a new dispensation of the Jewish custom of Sabbath. I would like to know where he got this information, because from his perspective of Scripture, the day didn't change (which I will not dispute here). In his words, Jesus rising from the dead inaugurated a NEW way to honor the Sabbath.<br /><br />After the death of Jesus, many Jews still kept the custom of Sabbath, in only the way that has done for generations. No NEW way was taught to the disciples, or any of people that Jesus met after the resurrection. If there is, I haven't found it in the Bible.<br /><br />As the video continued, he proposed that the Fourth Commandment was given again in the New Testament, and he quoted Hebrews 4:4,9 (I am including the verses in between as well for clarity):</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hebrews 4:4-9 <br /> <b> For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. [5] And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest. [6] Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: [7] Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. [8] For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. [9] There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. </b><br />I am sorry, but I cannot see where the Fourth Commandment is worded in there by the author, and same goes with verse nine. His surmise comes from the word rest, which is the Greek word sabbatismos, which he interpreted as "sabbath [day of] rest." The literal interpretation<br /> given by Strong's Concordance is below:<br /><br /><b><span style="color: red;">Greek 4520, Strong’s<br />sabbatismos, sab-bat-is-mos'; from a derivative of Greek 4521 (sabbaton); a “sabbatism”, i.e. (figurative) the repose of Christianity (as a type of heaven) :- rest.</span></b><br /><br />Note the difference between sabbaton and sabbatismos, one was referred as a day a rest, the other derives of heaven, or eternal rest. rest is the root word, but the suffix gives it another meaning. Hebrews 9 is the ONLY place in the Bible where this Greek word is used. If this meant to be as a sabbath day of rest, wouldn't the author chose the other word "sabbaton?" <br />What I find interesting is in Hebrews 4:3, we read this:<br /><br /> <b> For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. </b><br /><br />Enter is an intriguing word to use, then the words "works are finished" right after the previous part of the verse. When will the works be finished? After the final battle, the devil and his followers are banished to the Lake of Fire, and we enter in the New Jerusalem. The author is referring to the eternal rest at the end of the last days, not a seventh day rest. How does this sound, when the Word says that IF Jesus HAD given them rest, they would not have spoken of another day. (Heb 4:8). What is that "another day?" Another day, another time...<br /><br />Later, Mr, Batchelor chose another Scripture to use for sabbath debate, and this is in Romans 14 2-6:<br /><br /> <b> For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. [3] Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. [4] Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. [5] One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. [6] He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. </b><br /><br />Mr. Batchelor does well in dissecting this in reference to the Bible. One man regards one day, another likes all the days. I see no implying to where the sabbath is in this verse, nor does it have a connection to the week. I may hold my wedding day in esteem, as well as the birth of my children, while others will not hold the days. Interestingly, many Christian hold Easter in high regard, but this is found now where in Scripture to do so. <br />It even goes into the eating category, as some still held certain foods out of bounds, while others see where God told Peter in a dream that all foods were made clean. In simplicity, the author wanted to make sure no one felt left out or offended of the rules they kept concerning eating, drinking, and the days that some honored. I am not saying sabbath was not a possibility, but if it was of importance, I believe the Holy Spirit would have made it clear. Mr. Batchelor says these were the Jewish feast days. But, weren't these nailed to the Cross?<br />Last claim by Mr. Batchelor made is that Jesus honored the Sabbath in the tomb. First, Jesus is DEAD. In fulfillment of prophecy, He said He would rise after THREE days. The hidden purpose was the first day of the week after Passover was firstfruits. He became the first fruit of the Resurrection AND the new covenant. <br />Second, is 1 Peter 3:18-19:<br /><br />1 Peter 3:18-19 <br /> For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: [19] By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; <br /><br />How can Jesus, born of God AND flesh, go preach to the spirits in prison? After his death and before His resurrection. He went to Paradise, preached, and set those free. Then He went to Hell, and preached as well so they would see the Savior that was prophesied. He may have honored the Sabbath by preaching nor does it say which day He went on the Sabbath. Let's see both ways: Paradise, He went to free them to Heaven. Hell, He took the keys away from satan. Sounds to me it was more than preaching. But since He is the LORD of the Sabbath, He made the rules.<br /><br />The two questions come to mind:<br />If the sabbath does apply today, why aren't we honoring it the way God told the Israelites in the wilderness? Reading through Scripture, I see where nothing was changed in HOW we should honor it. One of the Scriptures I noted said the the Laws on stones were now written on our hearts. Thus, all should still apply to us. If I asked HOW people honored the Sabbath, good chance it is nothing compared to the tradition held by the Jews. Considering it was told by them by God via Moses, I think they would have better knowledge than some of us Gentiles.<br />Second question is for Mr. Batchelor and those who follow the SDAs, If there is a NEW inauguration of the sabbath, how SHOULD it be honored? Many from those beliefs believe that the ceremonial sabbaths was nailed to the Cross. Since those ways no longer apply, what Scriptures will show me the way to honor the seventh day? I have yet to find Scripture that tells us the correct New Testament was to honor the Sabbath.<br />The New Testament Sabbath points to Jesus. Jesus said He needed to go, not just so the Comforter would come, but He would prepare a place for us. In O.T. times, a man went looking for His bride. When all was agreed by the bride's father, the future groom would head back to "prepare a place." This was not to be where they would live in the father's house, but the GROOM'S mansion. He is preparing a place for His future place at HIS place. Once he comes back for His bride, we will find REST at the mansion. We will have ETERNAL REST. It appears Hebrews 4 mentions more of complete rest than a day of rest.<br />More proof? Peter quoted that a thousand years is as a day, and a day is as a thousand years to the LORD (2 Peter 3:8). This is spoken in clear parallel to a week. When the 6000th year arrives, this begins the seventh day. REST. Now we can have arguments about following the 1000 year reign of Christ (remember about "another day" he spoke about), but this has merit. Because these are the last days, we will have no rest, for the enemy is like a roaring lion. <br />As one last note, Mr. Batchelor said that God told Adam and Eve about keeping the Sabbath holy. The first mention of anything of this was in Exodus 16. All God gave was ONE COMMANDMENT, thou shall not eat from the Tree of Life, and they blew that. Not until AFTER the fall, was there more, and this was because of deception and sin.<br /><br />I have not found answers to my questions above, so I have not found a concrete answer. The expert, Mr. Batchelor, did nice work on picking his Scriptures, and making his own interpretation to suit his case. But it did answer the question I ask. <br /><br />Copy and paste the video below and discern for yourself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1Fj6hHqPe0</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jeremiah 6:16<br />Michael </span><br />
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<br />Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-82228676359501417862014-04-07T23:27:00.000-05:002014-04-07T23:27:28.878-05:00Where are the fathers?<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">What happened to being a father? I have been thinking of someone who is into "spreading his seed" and hopes he will avoid paying any child support. Worse, is seeing this child being raised without a father. This will be the third woman he has gotten pregnant. He already has a six year old son, while his third child will be born later this year. What gives?<br />I am not sure what is going through his mind. Is he loving unprotected sex, and expecting these women not to get pregnant? How come he doesn't take this serious? Please note that his father was not much in his life either, and it looks like this will passed down to the next generation. <br />What he brags about is that he already owes on child support, and he has made very little attempt to pay it, yet he and his father demand visitation to see his oldest. It isn't money that his son needs, it is a father figure who he can grow up, admire and emulate. He has no idea how much of an affect he will have by NOT BEING THERE.<br />My father was not in my life, either, but for an entirely different reason. My mother refused any child support and avoided any contact with him. Why? He already got two women pregnant in high school and my mother did not know this before she married him. During my mother's pregnancy with my sister, my mother found out he got two more women pregnant in the Philippines AND he managed to get one of his ex-girlfriends pregnant again from high school. That was enough for my mother, to be married to a man who would pay child support for other kids. Knowing that a man who would cheat in his marriage and be a father to seven children by the age of twenty-two was more than enough for a divorce. He even had the nerve to tell his fellow sailors that me and my sister were not his, that my mother cheated on him. So my sister and I had no father for virtually all our lives.<br />Remembering my life and growing up with no father figure hurt me in the long run. I was scared to date, in fact, I did not have a long time relationship until I was 31. If it wasn't for my time with God did I realize how much of a father is needed in any relationship. I remember having to learn sports myself, and how much I felt alone as the only male in the household. When my wife was pregnant with our first child, my promise to her and my son is they would have a father that will be there for them.<br />I hug my children every night I can. Except for a six week time I spent in Erie, Pennsylvania, I have spent mostly every day around my children. They know they are loved, and I remind them every chance I get. I want my children to know their father is there for them. I want my daughter to understand how a godly man should treat her when she gets older. I want my son to know how to be a man and seek a godly woman when his time has come. I want NEITHER of them to go through their growing years as I did, and that I promised God, and He has reminded me on this promise.<br />40% of all pregnancies today in America are now from unmarried women. In the black community, this number is 75%, where there is no father in this children's lives. We wonder why there is so much dysfunction in society today. Chicago has such a truancy rate, it is scary what the next generation has in store for them. Some are so illiterate, that the only job worthy in their eyes is dealing drugs. Liberals believe there is nothing wrong, it is okay for "strong" single mothers to raise their children. Encompass the feminist movement, even this group demand men not to be in their lives except to get pregnant, than they will show that men aren't needed. <br />Fathers are authority figures. Fathers are the spiritual heads. God has called MEN to lead for the family. When you take that part of the equation out, what is left for the children? Anything goes.<br />There is a place for men, husbands and fathers. God created procreation between and man and woman, and both are needed to raise a child. Anything less will not be enough, and what damage is done can be devastating. <br /><br />Blessings,<br />Michael</span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-5942671207995352792014-02-17T21:46:00.001-06:002014-02-17T21:48:01.838-06:00Change of Pace<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9Pv0ldDZOg">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9Pv0ldDZOg</a><br />
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<br />I have been too busy with my school and other things, SO I thought I would let someone else do some talking...<br /><br />Hope you are still dancing and praising the King...Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-37945199691528219622013-12-21T15:35:00.002-06:002013-12-21T15:35:44.857-06:00Another good can of worms...<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Word has spread quickly on Duck Dynasty and the removal of leader Phil Robertson from the A&E program. As of now, there is no word on what will happen from here but the lines are drawing more distinct concerning the world vs. Christianity. A&E would rather choose the 2% populous of those in the LGBT community and their coffers than the Christians who support the beliefs. My quick take on this is I am hoping A&E will remove DD from their lineup and contract, allowing them to go somewhere and their fanbase to better places. Then let A&E see how far the LGBT community and money will carry them.<br />The BIGGER dilemma is the aftermath of what is REALLY going on in America. If those who choose morality speak up, it is quickly quashed bu the media and any liberal minded goon who runs it. It is fine to mock Jesus, promote songs that bash Christianity, sing of sexual activities and drugs, but those who care are thoroughly silenced. Free speech is no longer a promise concerning Christians who truly love the LORD, while those demanding tolerance are the ones who promote intolerance to those who believe are the most intolerant. <br /><br />How many believe it is fine to just allow the world to slowly take advantage of us? The enemy knows that a full frontal assault will not work, but the Balaam process is much more effective approach, just do it little by little until the back is against the wall. By then, there is no leverage left, and the only thing left for you to fight for is your life. <br /><br />Yes, in America it will happen. We just don't look behind us and notice the little ground we have left, and we don't care right now. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />I believe Phil Robertson knew the cost when he spoke those words, and we are seeing it right now. The liberal minority is demanding their way, and they are getting it. All it takes is one or two to voice their opinion, and their cry is affecting the justice more than the morality we should be showing in the church. Our costs seem to be more related to our jobs and materialism than Christ, and eventually our belongings will go, too. Then what do we have?<br /><br />Hitler put into motion of getting people to believe he was the Messiah, not literally, but for what the people were clamoring for, they would take anything, and they freely gave it up. Hitler gladly took it, then found a good blame to pass the buck on for the reason Germany was in such a bad state - the Jews, God' people. The reason why I bring it up is this is currently happening here in America, though not as subtle. <br /><br />We need to fight back before it is too late. The cost today is a lot easier to lose than your life. How long will YOU wait...or do you love Jesus less than you thought...<br /><br />Michael<br />Jeremiah 6:16a</span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-38763847008405354612013-12-12T22:04:00.002-06:002013-12-12T22:04:48.428-06:00The Modern American Political Party<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am sick of power, or mainly, the abuse thereof. Congress and the Executive Branch is so full of power that all they want to do is flaunts it and will do EVERYTHING it can to remain in power. It truly does not care for the American people.<br />We have a President that does not like America, does not like the Constitution, and finds ways to circumvent the checks and balances in place to prevent abuse to occur. His administration has hired many Islams, his promotion to protect this religion while claiming Christian, and later fighting against its foundation, is only a portion of what he is doing, and what he wants to eventually do. He is still hoping that the rest of America will fall into place concerning his rule in the Affordable Care Act. I believe he was hoping many Americans would remain ignorant for its devastation, and the poor that continually vote Democrat truly do not care, as long as they get their entitlements. Little do they know they are the frog on the slowly heating water. By the time they find out, it is too late to get out of the pot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Religious freedom has been under attack for decades, but in the last few years, it has escalated. Freedom From Religion in Madison WI, has been amping up its efforts to remove Christianity from US grounds. It has not attacked ANY other religion base, especially since Obama's administration is filling up with Islamists. You can promote Muslim religion is public schools but cannot even mention even the word prayer. Where is the media when a Muslim school gets federal money and does their five times a day prayer, even during school hours? <br />Ironic how zero tolerance is built up without the use of common sense. In schools, you have a gun free zone, but you cannot have anyone near or protecting these schools. Recently, a six year old boy kissed a girl on the cheek, and the school wanted to file sexual harassment against him. Where is the reasoning? Does a six year boy know sexual, or harassment? The girl even said she didn't mind, but I guess that still constitutes she was harassed.<br />We have a government that cannot control spending, and they want more. <br />We have a government that runs Amtrak, it has not made a profit yet.<br />We have a government that runs UPS...it loses billions each year.<br />We have a government that said it finally paid off GM. It "bought it" with taxpayer money around $100 a share. It sold it back around $30 a share (maybe). <br />Nice profit.<br />I will never trust any part of government again. I am not saying there isn't anyone IN government, I do know someone who once served in some governmental capacity, and he is a very nice man. As far as the federal government, it is all about power.<br />The glorious indignation of Obamacare becoming law has some Democrats still glowing, and since they have been in power for their jurisdiction for many years, there is very little that can be done to remove them. The same lies that have brought them to power will keep them in power, because of simple name recognition is enough to keep the votes coming. Even the stupidity that has evaded their lips amazes me that they still have a position in Congress.<br />America has become such a selfish generation, and we have a government that keeps growing by the minute. It continues to usurp its authority, find more authority, and pass laws that will either circumvent its own laws or create ways to prevent the same citizens that oppose them their rights against them. NSA spying on all Americans, using their "right" as protection. Their protection, not ours. <br />There is a building that is nearing completion in southern Utah that will house enough computer memory capacity that can save every call, every text, every site and keystroke of every American for the next two years. All for the sake of terrorist freedom, y'all. And we have politicians that giving to terror organizations our taxpayer money, but say they are protecting our freedoms here. The President just hired a man whose desire is to give up our international waters to the U.N. Think about it, this will give any fisherman rights, oil company drilling platforms, and its productivity, to the U.N.<br />If this isn't a great way to kill the economy, what will?<br />Oh yeah, there is some common ways to do that as well. One is to promote regulations galore for the benefit of "business and competition." Is any normal citizen aware that when the President was reelected until his second inauguration, he proceeded to file almost 6,000 new regulations that are business killers? Where did he get this unprecedented power? He has elected several people during times he could not, the courts have ruled against him, yet, these people have not been removed and they are still collecting paychecks. Congress has no balls to stand up and KEEP him into place, and he will continue to take MORE power. He will not stop UNTIL he destroys the Great Satan, in which the Muslims call us. <br />I can also add Fast and Furious, Benghazi, IRS-gate, and the ultimate destruction of Obamacare and no one stands up. Congress acts like it is doing something but doesn't care that their claws were removed by the liberals who now entertain some of the seats. They have allowed the gay rights committee and their money coffers to dilute any morality. They have infiltrated the schools and demanded their views and rights be shoved down the throats of children, and teach them that anyone who are conservatives are the ones who wish to destroy the American foundation. The Constitution is an old relic that has no place in today's modern America, and they want it removed as quickly as possible. And will all this destruction happening from within, I believe with what Obama is doing is sufficient to keep the extreme Wahabbists from attacking in America. They don't need to, as politicians, liberalism, and the socialism has slowly taken out the bricks from the walls of America.<br />I have no doubt that the end times is closer that people realize. Once the American economy collapses, and it isn't improving. When over 90% of the jobs created are part time, and the labor department uses it against the employment data. Companies are now letting many people go or cutting hours to get around the health care law, which does bring something else (or two).<br />Does anyone remember that Muslims are exempt from the law? Or that you would pay for services that you won't need. A single man will need to pay for pregnancy needs, or even a woman who is well passed the ability to have a baby. Nothing like a woman going in for a mandatory prostrate exam.<br />Lastly, doctors in California are dropping out of Cover California coverage, because many of them know the governments issues with payment they feel isn't necessary. If the issues that go on in Canada, with the wait time for surgeries and even specialists is bad, we have seen nothing yet.<br />Barack Obama knows what he is doing, and he is finding ways to take freedoms, and anyone who atands by his side, wants to remain in power, regardless of where America is going to be, and that is America is the main thing that is keeping the New World Order from entering in. <br />Are you prepared for the last days?<br /><br />They are coming...<br /><br />Michael<br />Jeremiah 6:16a<br /></span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-600578982848322417.post-61084823163018469172013-12-05T23:45:00.001-06:002013-12-05T23:45:21.777-06:00Why I Am Getting Turned Off By Church<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I dedicated my life to the LORD, I did not have a church. Later, I began dating a woman and I started attending a church where her parents went. After we went our separate ways (more like I couldn't handle it anymore), I was drawn to an Assemblies of God church in Duluth, MN, where I later met my wife at one of its Bible studies. We left in 2005, as we moved to another city and began a new journey. <br />I have attended a handful of churches since then, some getting into the supernatural extreme, others as dull as a rock (from my perspective). The dilemma is that I have seen so many different walks, and the view being taught in many of these churches end up preaching a gospel that will neither examine their faith nor test their walk in the LORD. I know my walk is crumbling away, and the problem is I see the neglect of teaching the true nature of sin.<br />I still remember a time where the pastor asked his congregation of the names of God, and most everyone said Nissi or Rapha. How come no one mentions Him as Jealous (Exodus 34)? <br />Churches has changed so much many pulpits afraid to offend their flock. You don't want to seem harsh or unloving, do you? No one seems to care if you are struggling to the point where someone is about to go off a spiritual cliff, and when they fall off, they wonder where they went, but later forget about it. <br />Another issue is the birds of a feather mentality. Everywhere you go there are cliques, and I understand that, but I believe it is worse with believers. Before service and after, I do notice that the same people are with the same people. Jesus usually talked about believers as brothers and sisters, not friends. The last church we attended seemed more this way then anything else, especially those who were prominent in their place there. Very rarely did we get to talk to any elders or the pastors, they were just too busy to "step down" to meet with other peons like myself. <br />I come from a family where my father was gone before three because he was too busy spreading his seed among the world's women. Currently, I cannot get my mother to call or talk to me on the phone, for some reason she acts like she is jealous I have another woman in my life. As far as my sister and my cousins, we are not even close to speaking terms (my sister, once in a while). My mother wouldn't even tell me of her cancer scare, and I live with fear everyday that she may avoid telling me something if it is wrong now.<br />Not everyone are step forward people when starting a conversation, including me. I can be straight forward for many issues but if you are waiting for me to start talking to people, very rarely will that happen, including my wife. (She loves to talk, so why bother be an instigator of conversation in my own house among adults) I just see many churches are happy with the people they have, and many have no concern for others, as there is no more room for others in the inn.<br />If Jesus were walking the earth today, would He come to people like me, or others who are shy? Would some even look outside their clique to get to know another, or are you satisfied with the group of "friends" you have now? Do some pray who needs a friend, and if God picked you, are you willing to step outside the comfort zone?<br />I am saddened to watch one of my former churches change to the "good" mentality of the gospel that will never offend you. I have been criticized for my strong stance against what I fear is not good for the church, and many of the "friends" we knew when we attended are no longer on speaking terms with us. And this is the love we send IN church as well as OUT of the walls.<br />I haven't felt welcome at a church for the longest time, and because of our schedule, we can't attend most of the other functions with a church we have been there for the last two months. I wish I was old enough to be during the older churches before all this supernatural chasing infiltrated many institutions. How it should happen now.<br /><br />Michael<br />Jeremiah 6:16a</span>Michael Nelsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06044505015766166709noreply@blogger.com0