Sunday, October 25, 2015

DEBATABLE MATTERS

DEBATABLE MATTERS
Sunday, October 25, 2015

Psalm 103:1-3 Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
Psalm 119:10-13  With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth.
Romans [GW] 12:2  Don't become like the people of this world. Instead, change the way you think. Then you will always be able to determine what God really wants-what is good, pleasing, and perfect.

Dear fellows,
  I’ve opted to take a few days off, but not without leaving you with something to think upon.
  Every day we are faced with having to make decisions small, middlin’, and large. Romans 14:5 tells us that we individually are to decide matters “fully convinced in our own mind”. How do we do this? We decide matters in one of two ways, ether carnally or godly.
  Carnal decision making is based in emotions, familial and cultural and religious and political  and media shaping, physical senses including whether you had morning coffee or not, male or female hormones individual – in synch or competing, and other inconsistent sliding factors.
  As followers of Christ godly decision making involves primary question “What does the Word say that is applicable to arriving at conviction that is pleasing to Him above all others?” . . . followed by vigorous application of the answer(s).
  Here is exercise:

·         What have you decided about Kim Davis and her stance?

  Upon my return I will compile your answers with your proofs and publish them as a DT.
I’ll be back,

EBB4  

Friday, October 23, 2015

THE ALTERNATIVE IMMIGRATION PLAN

THE ALTERNATIVE IMMIGRATION PLAN
Friday, October 23, 2015

Psalm [MKJV today]128:1-4 Blessed is everyone who fears Jehovah, who walks in His ways. For you shall surely eat the labor of your hands; you shall be happy, and all is well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine by the sides of your house; your sons shall be like olive plants around your table. Behold! So shall the man be blessed who fears Jehovah.
Romans 12:1-3; 8:24-28 I beseech you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, pleasing to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to every one who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think. But set your mind to be right-minded, even as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith. … we are saved by hope. But hope that is seen is not hope; for what anyone sees, why does he also hope for it? But if we hope for that which we do not see, then we wait for it with patience. Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And He searching the hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

  Demographics today are daunting as huge numbers of people are on the move here and abroad. Immigration is major political issue in USA, Europe, Australia and elsewhere. The en masse movements are resulting in stressful turmoil and unrest in both receiving and invaded countries. Reading and hearing news, Facebook comments, emails and phone texts tells me that many Christian people and organizations are caught up in the heated pro versus con, con versus pro, political viewpoints. Quite a number of souls are even fiercely positioned.
  But should a licit political stance, silent or vocal, be the utmost list-topper for the followers of Christ?
  In pondering the matter this morning Exodus 23:9 came to mind. “… you shall not oppress a stranger. For you know the heart of a stranger, since you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”
  And then my thoughts turned to October 17th WORLD magazine information I read recently.
  It is no secret that Europe is not a Christian Entity like the USA. Though once was, it gradually became a secular bed as result of a variety of human choices. There does remain however a remnant of quickened believers scattered throughout Europe thinking and acting in godly manner.
  Then my thoughts turned to those immigrants under great duress coming to secular Egypt, “And Joseph said to them, ‘Do not fear. For am I in the place of God? But as for you, you thought evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save a great many people alive. And now do not fear. I will nourish you and your little ones.’ And he comforted them, and spoke to their hearts.” (Genesis chapter 50)
  Because immigrants to Europe come from religiously intolerant cultures, the religious freedom of Europe offers them the opportunity to explore Christianity. Awaiting them are followers of Christ as individual, families, assemblies, and para-church ministries (Navigators et al) that are responding with Romans 5:8 love. Whereas we physically send missionaries to them, as immigrants they are physically arriving in places of Christ-like outreach!
  Gottfried Martens, pastor of a Lutheran church in Berlin “… told The Wall Street Journal he has baptized about 400 people with Muslim backgrounds since 2011. Martens said ‘90% of the converts continue to come here even after they obtain [legal] asylum. They wouldn’t do that if they had done it just for papers.’”
  Indeed we in the USA are to obey God ordained authority. But are we by opinion or activity to displease God? (Rom.13; Mt.22:21; Mk.12:17; Lk.20:25)
  The last verses I contemplated this extended morning are found in James’ epistle, chapter one: ”… the wrath of man does not work out the righteousness of God. Therefore putting aside all filthiness and overflowing of evil, receive in meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save your souls. But become doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if anyone is a hearer of the Word and not a doer, he is like a man studying his natural face in a mirror. For he studied himself and went his way, and immediately he forgot what he was like. But whoever looks into the perfect Law of liberty [Ps.19:7, 11] and continues in it, he is not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work. This one shall be blessed in his doing.”
EBB4

  

Thursday, October 22, 2015

BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE: CHRISTIAN?
Thursday, October 22, 2015

John 1:1-5 In the beginning was the Word*, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
Acts 11:25-26; 26:27-28 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found      
        him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled   
        themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians
        first in Antioch. … King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. Then
        Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.
1Peter 4:16-17 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

  In general world perspective and description, “Christian” is a religious subset group that also worships god; many religions – one same god. It, “god”, is typically used in speech and literature as is Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, et al. But in all 3 mentions in God’s Word it means nothing of the kind. “Christian” specifically means “follower of Christ”. Not a follower of Christ = Not Christian.
  Which brings me to the misnomer generally applied to the USA; “Christian nation.” Are we a nation made up of followers of Christ? Generally speaking, do we as a population follow Jesus or pursue happiness?
  Does USA citizenry, elected leaders and bureau managers and workers, presidents past and present follow Christ and make decisions and acts according to Him; The Word? (Jn.1)  There is a minority, but the USA majority does not follow Christ; this truth evidenced in USA chosen options and resultant societal function contrary to The Word.
  Consider how local, county, state, national, international political and business decisions and actions would be if citizen and especially those with leadership authority consulted and followed The Word?  EBB4

*For those interested in further understanding, from Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible: John 1:1

In the beginning - This expression is used also in Gen_1:1. John evidently has allusion here to that place, and he means to apply to “the Word” an expression which is there applied “to God.” In both places it clearly means before creation, before the world was made, when as yet there was nothing. The meaning is: that the “Word” had an existence before the world was created. This is not spoken of the man Jesus, but of that which “became” a man, or was incarnate, Joh_1:14. The Hebrews, by expressions like this, commonly denoted eternity. Thus. the eternity of God is described Psa_90:2; “Before the mountains were brought forth, etc.;” and eternity is commonly expressed by the phrase, before the foundation of the world.” Whatever is meant by the term “Word,” it is clear that it had an existence before “creation.” It is not, then, a “creature” or created being, and must be, therefore, uncreated and eternal. There is only one Being that is uncreated, and Jesus must be therefore divine. Compare the Saviour’s own declarations respecting himself in the following places: Joh_8:58; Joh_17:5; Joh_6:62; Joh_3:13; Joh_6:46; Joh_8:14; Joh_16:28.
Was the Word - Greek, “was the λόγος  Logos.” This name is given to him who afterward became “flesh,” or was incarnate (Joh_1:14 - that is, to the Messiah. Whatever is meant by it, therefore, is applicable to the Lord Jesus Christ. There have been many opinions about the reason why this name was given to the Son of God. It is unnecessary to repeat those opinions. The opinion which seems most plausible may be expressed as follows:
1. A “word” is that by which we communicate our will; by which we convey our thoughts; or by which we issue commands the medium of communication with others.
2. The Son of God may be called “the Word,” because he is the medium by which God promulgates His will and issues His commandments. See Heb_1:1-3.
3. This term was in use before the time of John.
(a)      It was used in the Aramaic translation of the Old Testament, as, “e. g.,” Isa_45:12; “I have made the earth, and created man upon it.” In the Aramaic it is, “I, ‘by my word,’ have made,” etc. Isa_48:13; “mine hand also hath laid the foundation of the earth.” In the Aramaic, “‘By my word’ I have founded the earth.” And so in many other places.
(b)     This term was used by the Jews as applicable to the Messiah. In their writings he was commonly known by the term “Mimra” - that is, “Word;” and no small part of the interpositions of God in defense of the Jewish nation were declared to be by “the Word of God.” Thus, in their Targum on Deu_26:17-18, it is said, “Ye have appointed the word of God a king over you this day, that he may be your God.”
(c)      The term was used by the Jews who were scattered among the Gentiles, and especially those who were conversant with the Greek philosophy.
(d)     The term was used by the followers of Plato among the Greeks, to denote the Second Person of the Trinity. The Greek term νοῦς  nous or “mind,” was commonly given to this second person, but it was said that this nous was “the word” or “reason” of the First Person of the Trinity. The term was therefore extensively in use among the Jews and Gentiles before John wrote his Gospel, and it was certain that it would be applied to the Second Person of the Trinity by Christians. whether converted from Judaism or Paganism. It was important, therefore, that the meaning of the term should be settled by an inspired man, and accordingly John, in the commencement of his Gospel, is at much pains to state clearly what is the true doctrine respecting the λόγος  Logos, or Word. It is possible, also, that the doctrines of the Gnostics had begun to spread in the time of John. They were an Oriental sect, and held that the λόγος  Logos or “Word” was one of the “Aeones” that had been created, and that this one had been united to the man Jesus. If that doctrine had begun then to prevail, it was of the more importance for John to settle the truth in regard to the rank of the Logos or Word. This he has done in such a way that there need be no doubt about its meaning.
Was with God - This expression denotes friendship or intimacy. Compare Mar_9:19. John affirms that he was “with God” in the beginning - that is, before the world was made. It implies, therefore, that he was partaker of the divine glory; that he was blessed and happy with God. It proves that he was intimately united with the Father, so as to partake of his glory and to be appropriately called by the name God. He has himself explained it. See Joh_17:5; “And now, O Father, glorify thou we with thine own self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.” See also Joh_1:18; “No man hath seen God at any time; the only-begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.” See also Joh_3:13; “The Son of man, which is in heaven.” Compare Phi_2:6-7.
Was God - In the previous phrase John had said that the Word was “with God.” Lest it should be supposed that he was a different and inferior being, here John states that “he was God.” There is no more unequivocal declaration in the Bible than this, and there could be no stronger proof that the sacred writer meant to affirm that the Son of God was equal with the Father; because:
1.    There is no doubt that by the λόγος  Logos is meant Jesus Christ.
2.    This is not an “attribute” or quality of God, but is a real subsistence, for it is said that the λόγος  Logos was made flesh σάρξ  sarx - that is, became a human being.
3.    There is no variation here in the manuscripts, and critics have observed that the Greek will bear no other construction than what is expressed in our translation - that the Word “was God.”
4.    There is no evidence that John intended to use the word “God” in an inferior sense. It is not “the Word was a god,” or “the Word was ‘like God,’” but the Word “was God.” He had just used the word “God” as evidently applicable to Yahweh, the true God; and it is absurd to suppose that he would in the same verse, and without any indication that he was using the word in an inferior sense, employ it to denote a being altogether inferior to the true God.
5.    The name “God” is elsewhere given to him, showing that he is the supreme God. See Rom_9:5; Heb_1:8, Heb_1:10, Heb_1:12; 1Jo_5:20; Joh_20:28.
The meaning of this important verse may then be thus summed up:
1.    The name λόγος  Logos, or Word, is given to Christ in reference to his becoming the Teacher or Instructor of mankind; the medium of communication between God and man.
2.    The name was in use at the time of John, and it was his design to state the correct doctrine respecting the λόγος  Logos.
3.    The “Word,” or λόγος  Logos, existed “before creation” - of course was not a “creature,” and must have been, therefore, from eternity.
4.    He was “with God” - that is, he was united to him in a most intimate and close union before the creation; and, as it could not be said that God was “with himself,” it follows that the λόγος  Logos was in some sense distinct from God, or that there was a distinction between the Father and the Son. When we say that one is “with another,” we imply that there is some sort of distinction between them.
5.    Yet, lest it should be supposed that he was a “different” and “inferior” being - a creature - he affirms that he was God - that is, was equal with the Father.
This is the foundation of the doctrine of the Trinity:
1.    that the second person is in some sense “distinct” from the first.
2.    that he is intimately united with the first person in essence, so that there are not two or more Gods.
3.    that the second person may be called by the same name; has the same attributes; performs the same works; and is entitled to the same honors with the first, and that therefore he is “the same in substance, and equal in power and glory,” with God.



Wednesday, October 21, 2015

LOOK!

LOOK!
Wednesday, October 21, 2015

John 3:3 Jesus replied to Nicodemus, "I can guarantee this truth: No one can see [Greek: a primary verb (action word) meaning to literally or figuratively be aware and behold, consider and perceive knowledge, understand and be sure and tell] the kingdom of God without being born from above."
Romans 12:1-2 Brothers and sisters, in view of all we have just shared about God's compassion, I encourage you to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, dedicated to God and pleasing to him. This kind of worship is appropriate for you. Don't become like the people of this world. Instead, change the way you think. Then you will always be able to determine what God really wants-what is good, pleasing, and perfect.

  Yesterday afternoon for a few hours my “Two years old.” greatgranddaughter provided delightful companionship with her recurring declaration “Look at this!” I thoroughly enjoyed seeing what she discovered. The experience did however set me to thinking about how easily our sight can be manipulated and fixed upon other than the present and eternal reality of Jesus’ realm.
  Too often we allow media, whether foxy or not, Herald or Banner, to focus our vision. They choose a newsworthy event or issue and Tom-Tom it relentlessly when there’s much much more happening nationally and internationally. But then maybe an occasional around-the-world-in-90 seconds is comprehensive?
  To illustrate by example: How many of you remember HIV/AIDS as the endlessly streaming news? Where did it go, less of a problem, away? How about drunk driving? Remember when it was THE NEWS?
Or when a hurricane is worrisome whirly off our Atlantic coast . . . is there other weather in USA, or Europe, or Africa, or Asia, or ______? Then there’s the guy people can’t stop seeing because he’s like “A car crash --- you just can’t look away!”.
  A few facts from a recent USA year: 13,712 HIV deaths is more than 11,208 gun homicides is more than 10,076 drunk driving fatalities. And at any given time air blows hot and cold on many continents and platforms.
  After reading the above words what are you seeing? Your childhood? Grandchildren? Bill O’Reilly? Charlie Rose? The weather? Homosexuality? Drunk drivers? Blowhards? Or the greater importance of seeing all that was, is, or will be thru the lens of God’s kingdom within the kingdom(s) that the worldly media talks so much about?
  Jesus explained “My kingdom is not of his world”. (Jn.18:36) But oh my it does take concentrated effort see His Way as we live among flashing visuals, dinning trumpeters, . . . and lovely little lads and lassies.
EBB4


PS. I would much rather while my day away sitting and watching Sapphire “Nicely swing.” Under the backyard oak tree.

Monday, October 19, 2015

JUST SUPPOSING

JUST SUPPOSING
Monday, October 19, 2015

  Medical scanners are amazing.
  Using results from technical scans neurologists (yes, plural) tell me I’ve had 7 strokes since August 2014, and having done all they can with meds and lifestyle changes to prevent future episodes I will nonetheless continue having them. (What they didn’t factor in is “Depending on what God decides.”)
  Four events I definitely recognized. Three I must have slept thru.
  One of the lifestyle changes is having a one button emergency alert device within reach at all time. It is in pocket, around neck on lanyard, or in head of bed. Being hardheaded I’ve used it once. My demolished kitchen door is evidence that it works.
  The device does much more than invite into my home the wonderful men and women in blue uniform.
  When activated the operator inquires as to need and continues talking until rescue is accomplished..           
  It alerts family list when I push button.
  It facilitates ask-a-nurse.
  It facilities foot or wheel directions if lost.
  It knows where I am at any given moment.
  Via their smartphones it keeps my daughters informed as to whether I’m home or “Out and about”. And when they touch phone screen it gives my present location address and phone number. Additionally it provides them with a weekly summary of time home or out and about.
  Suppose God had such wondrous capability . . . and the difference our constant awareness thereof would make?

EBB4 

Thursday, October 15, 2015

BIBLE STUDY -- COUNTING

BIBLE STUDY – COUNTING
Thursday, October 15, 2015

2Timothy [ESV today] 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
2Timothy 3:12-17 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

  Another Bible study tool is counting the number of times a topic is referred to.
  People that use a public platform are shrewd, programmed and prepared in using this emphasis tool when speaking or being interviewed. It is also a useful discernment tool that works well in listening to or reading individuals and parties words. (Example: In a recent debate involving 5 important people one significant national topic was mentioned 14 times yet a current critical international issue was not mentioned at all.) 
  Jesus, as He walked this earth, was all-wise God Incarnate. (Jn.1:1-3; Phil.2:5-9) He didn’t speak unprepared chatty casual remarks. He could do nothing of Himself. (Jn.8:28) As He was and is and always will be, so is the Word! (Isa.40:7-8; 41:4; 48:12; Rev.1:8, 11; 21:6; 22:13)
  An exercise: Of which did Jesus speak of most often, heaven et al, or hell et al?
  And then there’s the question of do I speak of hell et al at all?

EBB4

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

A STUDY IN GRACE

A STUDY IN GRACE
Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Nehemiah 7 And my God put into mine heart to gather together the nobles, and the rulers, and the people, that they might be reckoned by genealogy. And I found a register of the genealogy of them which came up at the first, and found written therein, These are the children of the province, that went up out of the captivity, of those that had been carried away, … (KJV Neh.7)
James [GW] 4 "God opposes arrogant people, but he is kind to humble people." So place yourselves under God's authority. Resist the devil, and he will run away from you. Come close to God, and he will come close to you. Clean up your lives, you sinners, and clear your minds, you doubters. Be miserable, mourn, and cry. Turn your laughter into mourning and your joy into gloom. Humble yourselves in the Lord's presence. Then he will give you a high position. Brothers and sisters, stop slandering each other. Those who slander and judge other believers slander and judge God's teachings. If you judge God's teachings, you are no longer following them. Instead, you are judging them. There is only one teacher and judge. He is able to save or destroy you. So who are you to judge your neighbor? Pay attention to this! You're saying, "Today or tomorrow we will go into some city, stay there a year, conduct business, and make money." You don't know what will happen tomorrow. What is life? You are a mist that is seen for a moment and then disappears. Instead, you should say, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and carry out our plans." However, you brag because you're arrogant. All such bragging is evil. Whoever knows what is right but doesn't do it is sinning. (GW Jam.4)

  Though I don’t get to spend much time on it and primarily rely on family for their records, research, photos and stories, I enjoy genealogy and find it seriously worthwhile.
  I do however look at our family tree mindful of God’s warning to never take pride in birth or blood! (Jn.8:31-34; 1Tim.1:4; Tit.3:9)Unless the family characteristic of tenacity would be twisted to MAJORDOMO MEISM, thankfully thus far I’ve not grafted into branch narrative or twig tale to the fruition of or in support of personal puffery. 
  Other than being fun, relaxing, and making for happy cousin communication . . .  how is genealogy seriously worthwhile for me?
  From childhood on I’ve always been interested in history because of the way it provokes edifying  thoughtfulness.
  Genealogy makes large history intimately personal. There is vast difference between distant reading of the horrific number of deaths and injuries in coal mining and discovering my great-uncle Thorton James Crowe on June 21, 1913 left Isabella a widow when he was crushed to death in Ocean Mine #1, Consolidated Mines, Allegany, Maryland.
  Genealogy humbles me.
  Genealogy brings grace to my thoughts and writing as does another interest, gardening . . . both never letting me forget the fragility of life.  EBB4


Tuesday, October 13, 2015

ANXIETY'S AFFILIATION?

ANXIETY’S AFFILIATION?
Tuesday, October 13, 2015

  The following questions have come up again. Since it has been 18+ months since last asked, and assuming we have matured further in that time period, I again present them for your ponderance and responses.
  Is worry prideful?
  If so, how?
  Is there Scripture that is applicable?
  If so, what verses?

EBB4

Monday, October 12, 2015

AUTHENTIC WORSHIP

AUTHENTIC WORSHIP
Sunday, October 11, 2015

Dear fellow travelers,

Psalm [ESV] 119:10-16 With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Blessed are you, O LORD; teach me your statutes! With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth. In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches. I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.
John 4:24 [Jesus explained] God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.

  How do we know what authentic worship is?
  Am I truly worshipping in the way pleasing to God? (Not pleasing = Not worshipping.)
  Always striving for Acts 17:11 Berean nobility, we look to God’s Word for answers.
  What does “I AM THAT I AM” (Ex.3:14), the Word, Living and written, say on the topic? Or do we without personal question or individual analysis lazily rely on tradition, our own ideas, or how worship makes ME feel?
  We know that “exceeding reverence” of Jehovah God Almighty is essential ingredient for authentic worship. For “Fear is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Pr.1:7; 9:10) This veneration can never be apart from genuine “Thy will be done” trusting that His will may be preservation, diminishment, or demise.
  God clearly explains worship throughout His Word (written) and by the Word (the Lord). We would do well to search from Genesis through Revelation, of itself being worship exercise, but in the interest of your getting to other responsibilities this day, I’ve chosen one summarizing passage: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.” (ESV Rom.12:1-3)
  We must not let ego, self-esteem, it feels good for me, get in the way of God’s utmost all-wise supplying. His measure is the ultimate standard, not ambience or sophistication. Reality is as Jesus pointed out to Hebrews; it is possible to be very religious and yet not be worshipping Him.
  What does the Word say? What is the whole counsel of God? Are we reverencing deliverance to heaven sans recognition of freedom from past “condemned already”? (Jn. Chapter 3) Do we tell others His Truth as an act of worship?
  And then there is praising in enumerating and pondering the mercies of God whether congregating with brethren or surrounded by hell-bound unbelievers. Counting “the mercies of God” is very much worship pleasing to our Lord and King:
·         Unearned and undeserved blessings.
·         His imputed righteousness unto everlasting redemption.
·         Justification!
·         Sanctification.
·         Freedom indeed.
·         Available daily deliverance from self.
·         His eternal love.
·         His daily and continuing grace.
·         Christ’s ongoing intercession.
·         His comforting and convicting Holy Spirit.
·         Blessed assurance. Absolute eternal security.
·         Faith that is not inert.
·         His provision for strength. (For those interested I’ve a study file on the topic.)
·         Joy unspeakable.
·         Forgiveness always available.
·         John 1:12 family empowerment.
·         A “sound mind” apart from fearful living.
·         Wisdom immeasurable. “the mind of Christ”
·         Training in life skills, especially patience.
·         Position of ambassador of reconciliation.
·         Equipping to serve Him and our fellows.
  And much much more; all of which leads us to whenever wherever to “present our bodies a living [quickened, alive!!] and holy sacrifice.”
To serve Him all our days,
EBB4


Sunday, October 11, 2015

BLESSED ASSURANCE

BLESSED ASSURANCE HERE AND NOW
Sunday, October 11, 2015

“I consider our present sufferings insignificant compared to the glory that will soon be revealed to us.” The Apostle Paul in writing to Roman Christians suffering for their faith in Lord Jesus Christ. Romans [GW] 8:18 

1.            Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
                O what a foretaste of glory divine!
                Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
                born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.
Refrain:
                This is my story, this is my song,
                praising my Savior all the day long;
                this is my story, this is my song,
                praising my Savior all the day long.

2.            Perfect submission, perfect delight,
                visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
                angels descending bring from above
                echoes of mercy, whispers of love.
                (Refrain)

3.            Perfect submission, all is at rest;
                I in my Savior am happy and blest,
                watching and waiting, looking above,
                filled with his goodness, lost in his love.
                (Refrain)

Then many years later two believing women express their trust in Him.
BLESSED ASSURANCE; The United Methodist Hymnal Number 369
Text: Fanny J. Crosby, 1820-1915; Music: Phoebe P. Knapp, 1839-1908


And us?  EBB4

Friday, October 9, 2015

FEAST OF THE TABERNACLES

Question: "What is the Feast of Tabernacles / Booths / Sukkot?"

Answer:
The Feast of Tabernacles, also known as the Feast of Booths and Sukkot, is the seventh and last feast that the Lord commanded Israel to observe and one of the three feasts that Jews were to observe each year by going to “appear before the Lord your God in the place which He shall choose” (Deuteronomy 16:16). The importance of the Feast of Tabernacles can be seen in how many places it is mentioned in Scripture. In the Bible we see many important events that took place at the time of the Feast of Tabernacles. For one thing, it was at this time that Solomon’s Temple was dedicated to the Lord (1 Kings 8:2).
  It was also at the Feast of Tabernacles that the Israelites, who had returned to rebuild the temple, gathered together to hear Ezra proclaim the Word of God to them (Nehemiah 8). Ezra’s preaching resulted in a great revival as the Israelites confessed their sins and repented of them. It was also during this Feast that Jesus said, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water” (John 7:37–39).
  The Feast of Tabernacles takes place on the 15th of the Hebrew month Tishri. This was the seventh month on the Hebrew calendar and usually occurs in late September to mid-October. The feast begins five days after the Day of Atonement and at the time the fall harvest had just been completed. It was a time of joyous celebration as the Israelites celebrated God’s continued provision for them in the current harvest and remembered His provision and protection during the 40 years in the wilderness.
  As one of the three feasts that all “native born” male Jews were commanded to participate in, the Feast of Tabernacles is mentioned multiple times in Scripture, sometimes called the Feast of the Ingathering, the Feast to the Lord, or the Feast of Booths (Exodus 23:16; Deuteronomy 16:13). As one of the pilgrim feasts (when Jewish males were commanded to go to Jerusalem), it was also the time when they brought their tithes and offerings to the Temple (Deuteronomy 16:16). With the influx of people coming to Jerusalem at that time, we can only imagine what the scene must have been like. Thousands upon thousands of people coming together to remember and celebrate God’s deliverance and His provision, all living in temporary shelters or booths as part of the requirements of the feast. During the eight-day period, so many sacrifices were made that it required all twenty-four divisions of priests to be present to assist in the sacrificial duties.
  We find God’s instructions for celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles in Leviticus 23, given at a point in history right after God had delivered Israel from bondage in Egypt. The feast was to be celebrated each year on “the fifteenth day of this seventh month” and was to run for seven days (Leviticus 23:34). Like all feasts, it begins with a “holy convocation” or Sabbath day when the Israelites were to stop working to set aside the day for worshiping God. On each day of the feast they were to offer an “offering made by fire to the Lord” and then after seven days of feasting, again the eighth day was to be “a holy convocation” when they were to cease from work and offer another sacrifice to God (Leviticus 23). Lasting eight days, the Feast of Tabernacles begins and ends with a Sabbath day of rest. During the eight days of the feast, the Israelites would dwell in booths or tabernacles that were made from the branches of trees (Leviticus 23:40–42).
  The Feast of Tabernacles, like all the feasts, was instituted by God as a way of reminding Israelites in every generation of their deliverance by God from Egypt. Of course, the feasts are also significant in that they foreshadow the work and actions of the coming Messiah. Much of Jesus’ public ministry took place in conjunction with the Holy Feasts set forth by God.
  The three pilgrim feasts where all Jewish males were commanded to “appear before the Lord in the place he chooses” are each very important in regards to the life of Christ and His work of redemption. We know with certainty that the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread are symbolic of Christ’s atoning sacrifice on the cross. Likewise, we know that Pentecost, which marked the beginning of the Feast of Weeks, was the time of Jesus’ bodily ascension. And most scholars would agree that the Feast of Tabernacles is symbolic of Christ’s Second Coming when He will establish His earthly kingdom.
  There are also some who believe that it was likely during the Feast of Tabernacles that Jesus was born. While we celebrate Christ’s birth on December 25, most scholars acknowledge that this tradition was begun in the fourth century AD by the Roman Catholic Church and that the exact day of Jesus’ birth is unknown. Some of the evidence that Jesus might have been born earlier in the year during the Feast of the Tabernacles includes the fact that it would be unlikely for shepherds to still be in the field with their sheep in December, which is in the middle of the winter, but it would have been likely they were in the fields tending sheep at the time of the Feast of Tabernacles. The strong possibility that Jesus was born at the time of the Feast of Tabernacles is also seen in the words John wrote in John 1:14. “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” The word John chose to speak of Jesus “dwelling” among us is the word tabernacle, which simply means to “dwell in a tent.”
  Some believe it is very likely that John intentionally used this word to associate the first coming of Christ with the Feast of Tabernacles. Christ came in the flesh to dwell among us for a temporary time when He was born in the manger, and He is coming again to dwell us among us as Lord of Lords. While it cannot be established with certainty that Jesus was born during the Feast of Tabernacles, some believe there is a strong possibility the Feast of Tabernacles not only looks forward to His second coming but also reflects back on His first coming.
  The Feast of Tabernacles begins and ends with a special Sabbath day of rest. During the days of the feast all native Israelites were “to dwell in booths” to remind them that God delivered them out of the “land of Egypt” and to look forward to the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would deliver His people from the bondage of sin. This feast, like all of the feasts of Israel, consistently reminded the Jews and should remind Christians as well that God has promised to deliver His people from the bondage of sin and deliver them from their enemies. Part of God’s deliverance for the Israelites was His provision and protection of them for the 40 years they wandered in the wilderness, cut off from the Promised Land. The same holds true for Christians today. God protects us and provides for us as we go through life in the wilderness of this world. While our hearts long for the Promised Land (heaven) and to be in the presence of God, He preserves us in this world as we await the world to come and the redemption that will come when Jesus Christ returns again to “tabernacle” or dwell among us in bodily form.

Recommended Resources: Our Father Abraham: Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith by Marvin Wilson and Logos Bible Software.
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Thursday, October 8, 2015

TRIFECTA PLUS

TRIFECTA PLUS
Thursday, October 08, 2015

Romans [GW] 10:13-14 So then, "Whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." But how can people call on him if they have not believed in him? How can they believe in him if they have not heard his message? How can they hear if no one tells the Good News?
2Corinthians [ESV] 5 … if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. …

  Responding to the murdering of police officers, Jim Pasco, executive director of the USA national Fraternal Order of Police, succinctly stated that many officers now serve in an anti-police environment. He points out that it’s not just a single thing that officers are confronted with, “It’s a trifecta.”
  “There’s [1] a hostile element within the community at large. There’s in many incidences [2] a lack of support on the part of elected officials and police management. And there’s [3] this ubiquitous [i.e. omnipresent] social media effort to discredit all police officers because of the extraordinary rare misconduct by a very few.”
  As followers of Christ we pray for the work conditions of those that Protect and Serve.
  There is however another utmost need that we should be praying for.
  As with all persons, after this life police officers spend eternity in the presence of God or cast in outer darkness suffering forever.
  Hear the Word of the Lord: “Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.' And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests."But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. And he said to him, 'Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, 'Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen." “ (MKJV Mt.22:9-14; Also note Jn.3:3-18)
  Indeed let us pray for the problems Jim Pasco points out, but above all let us pray for the greatest need of all; blessed assurance of their eternal salvation before it is too late.
EBB4

  

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

BEING WRONG

BEING WRONG
Wednesday, October 07, 2015

Job [MKJV] 26:12 He quiets the sea with His power, and by His understanding He shatters the proud.
Proverbs 18:12 Before shattering, the heart of man is proud, and before honor is humility.
2Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brothers, rejoice. Perfect yourselves; encourage yourselves; mind the  
       same thing; be at peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control; against such things there is no law. But those belonging to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
James 4:6-7 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says, God resists the proud, but He gives grace to the humble. Therefore submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
1Peter 5:5-7 Likewise, younger ones, be subject to older ones, and all being subject to one another. Put on humility. For God resists proud ones, but He gives grace to the humble. Therefore be humbled under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your anxiety onto Him, for He cares for you.
1John 4:18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has torment. He who fears has not been perfected in love.

Dear fellow travelers,
  Being wrong can be an exemplary classroom, if, in humility, as students of Almighty God we agree to His shattering way. It is a conflicted exercise.
  Pride is contrary to love. Pride is protective of my comfort. Pride does not like risk and challenge outside of personal protocol. Pride is self-centered and consequently fear-filled.
  Fear-filled? Indeed it is. We know this not just because of experienced anxiety; but because God’s Word shows us that angst is an element of pride; whereas mature love is free of dread and transparent in presenting Biblical testimony without dread of offending hearers. The Apostle Paul says “Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. … "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, "Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame." (ESV Romans 10)
  Which brings me back to one of my life’s oft repeated challenges: For what reason do I choose to mature, primarily because of troubling emotions that I finally wish to be rid of . . . or uttermost because of God’s purpose for and pleasure in me as His beloved redeemed child? 
  Live in ego-centric pride, live in constant apprehension.
  Practice the sin of pride and live as the slave of pride and its companion fear.
  Live in godly love, and we are peacefully free indeed. (Jn.8:34-36) 
  Will I be perfect this day? I’m certain I shall not. Will I then hide fearfully behind a foolish wall of pride? Every day being a classroom for God’s child, it remains as yet to be seen. 

  Sincerely yours, a fellow student.  EBB4 

Monday, October 5, 2015

WHERE IS BEN NOW?

WHERE IS BEN NOW?
Monday, October 05, 2015

Acts [GW today] 4:11-12 [Peter said] He [Jesus] is the stone that the builders rejected, the stone that has become the cornerstone. No one else can save us. Indeed, we can be saved only by the power of the one named Jesus and not by any other person."
1Corinthians 3:11 [Paul explained] After all, no one can lay any other foundation than the   
       one that is already laid, and that foundation is Jesus Christ.
James 2:19 You believe that there is one God. That's fine! The demons also believe that, and they tremble with fear.

  Asked if Benjamin Franklin is a Christian, I searched commentary and record of what he himself wrote on the topic. If you wonder about the religious beliefs of Franklin or any other leaders past or present, I encourage you to personally do the same. While doing so please keep in mind not just how the leader answered, but also seriously consider how they do not. Is their answer Biblical or otherwise?
  Yahoo answers: Franklin’s Puritan upbringing was a central factor throughout his life, as a philanthropist, civic leader and activist in the Revolutionary War.[61] Franklin rejected much of his Puritan upbringing: belief in salvation, hell, Jesus Christ’s divinity, and indeed most religious dogma. He retained a strong faith in God as the wellspring of morality and goodness in man, and as a Providential actor in history responsible for American independence.[62] He often invoked God as being in support of the American Revolution, as did most of the founding generation.[63] Franklin wrote, “Rebellion to Tyrants is Obedience to God.”[64]
  Ben’s Creed written to Letter to Ezra Stiles, 9 March 1790 a few weeks before his death: “You desire to know something of my religion. It is the first time I have been questioned upon it. But I cannot take your curiosity amiss, and shall endeavor in a few words to gratify it.
Here is my creed.
I believe in one God, the creator of the universe.
That he governs by his providence.
That he ought to be worshipped.
That the most acceptable service we render to him is doing good to his other children.
That the soul of man is immortal, and will be treated with justice in another life respecting its conduct in this.
These I take to be the fundamental points in all sound religion, and I regard them as you do in whatever sect I meet with them.
As to Jesus of Nazareth, my opinion of whom you particularly desire,
I think his system of morals and his religion, as he left them to us, the best the world ever saw or is likely to see; but I apprehend it has received various corrupting changes,
and I have, with most of the present dissenters in England, some doubts as to his divinity;
though it is a question I do not dogmatize upon, having never studied it, and think it needless to busy myself with it now, when I expect soon an opportunity of knowing the truth with less trouble.
I see no harm, however, in its being believed, if that belief has the good consequences, as probably it has, of making his doctrines more respected and more observed;
especially as I do not perceive that the Supreme takes it amiss, by distinguishing the unbelievers in his government of the world with any peculiar marks of his displeasure.”
  After reading the above and more in context I see Franklin was a religious man believing in and praying to a provident God , but very much denying the deity if Lord Jesus Christ; Benjamin Franklin is not a Christian.

EBB4

Sunday, October 4, 2015

TWO-EDGED SWORD

TWO-EDGED SWORD
Sunday, October 04, 2015

Hebrews 4:9-14 So then there remains a rest to the people of God. For he who has entered into his rest, he also has ceased from his own works, as God did from His. Therefore let us labor to enter into that rest, lest anyone fall after the same example of unbelief. For the Word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing apart of soul [G5590] and spirit [G4151], and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight, but all things are naked and opened to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. Since then we have a great High Priest who has passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

“Here's my collaborative question - this passage days the sword divides the spirit from the soul - I thought the spirit and the soul were the same thing!   Cheri (NV)” 9/15/15

  When people unpleasantly respond to our witnessing as to the authenticity of the Word of God they appear to be resentful toward us. The other evening in just such a sidewalk encounter I experienced the most polite rebuke to date. As though from Downton Abbey, a spot on sophisticated rebuke. The chap, who obviously likes me otherwise, wasn’t reacting adversely to my words. He was countering the discomfort of the Word’s deep surgery; God’s painful dissection.
  Friend Cheri is not such an adverse reactor. She asks want-to-know questions. Her life evidences the desire to live under the hand of the Great Physician.
  So, what is the distinction between soul and spirit?
  As Cheri states, the soul and spirit are one and the same to most of us. Obviously we don’t naturally see as God sees. He is our Maker and knows the difference quite clearly.
  Using Strong’s Greek Dictionary what do we see?

“soul” G5590
Ψυχή; psuchē; psoo-khay'
From G5594; breath, that is, (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from G4151, which is the rational and immortal soul; and on the other from G2222, which is mere vitality, even of plants: these terms thus exactly correspond respectively to the Hebrew [H5315], [H7307] and [H2416]: - heart (+ -ily), life, mind, soul, + us, + you.

“spirit” G4151
πνεῦμα; pneuma; pnyoo'-mah
From G4154; a current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively a spirit, that is, (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, daemon, or (divine) God, Christ’s spirit, the Holy spirit: - ghost, life, spirit (-ual, -ually), mind. Compare G5590.

  Now what do we see?

EBB4