IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE?

IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE?

Friday, January 31, 2013

Matthew 7:1-5 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.

Luke [MKJV] 6:39-46  And He spoke a parable to them: Can the blind lead the blind? Shall they not both fall into the ditch? 40 The disciple is not above his master, but everyone who is perfect shall be like his master. 41 And why do you look at the splinter that is in your brother's eye, but do not see the beam that is in your own eye? 42 Or how can you say to your brother, Brother, let me pull out the splinter in your eye, when you yourself do not see the beam that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First cast out the beam out of your own eye, and then you shall see clearly to pull out the splinter that is in your brother's eye. 43 For a good tree does not bring forth corrupt fruit, neither does a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth the good. And an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth the evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. 46 And why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?

  “Is it right to judge?” is question puzzled and argued over by many sincere caring Christians. However, most of the discussions I’ve listened in on have been devoid of Scripture other than without careful study selectively emphasizing certain verses from Jesus words recorded in Matthew 7:1-5. To teach not to ever judge comes from the mouth of misguided Christians and produces misguided weak congregations. To judge according to Jesus’ and apostles teaching is our responsibility. But what is taught? In reading Scripture:

·         Jesus commanded “Judge righteous judgment.” Jn.7:24

·         Jesus told a man “you have correctly judged” Lk.7:43

·         To others, He said “Why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?” Lk.12:57; also note 2Thes.3:6 & 1Cor.5:12

·         Never forget we are all under the same standard; God’s Word. This so by both God and family.

·         Judgment begins with self-examination. 2Cor.13:5

·         Judgment requires Christ-like example. Lk.6:40, 46; 1Cor.2:13-16

·         To correct, for health, to avoid corruption, judgment is required. 1Cor.5:1-6

·         The blind cannot lead the blind.

·         Hypocrites shouldn’t judge, evaluate, profile others.

·         Mt.7:5 and Lk.6:42 - Strong’s informs from the Greek, a hypocrite is [G5271] “an actor under an assumed character (stage player), that is, (figuratively) a dissembler”

·         Dictionary.com defines a dissembler as “to give a false or misleading appearance to; conceal the truth or real nature of: to dissemble one's incompetence in business.”

·         We are to judge as Jesus exemplified; sans condemnation with compassion and to buildup.

·         The Apostle Paul invited judgment. 1Cor.10:15

  So, is it right to judge? When Biblically qualified in character, yes.  EBB4

 

 

Christian Film Booted from 'Best Song' Oscar Nomination

Christian Film Booted from 'Best Song' Oscar Nomination

Posted 4 hours ago by Gary DeMar

  There is more controversy in the entertainment world. First it was the same-sex marriages at the Grammy Awards, and then Katy Perry's ode to dark powers. Now a woman in a wheelchair is being pushed around by some Oscar people: “This year’s most-obscure Oscar nominee is no more.

  "At a meeting this week, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences board of governors decided to strip the surprise nomination for Best Song from ‘Alone Yet Not Alone,’ which appears in the independent Christian-produced film of the same name.”

  The song is performed by Joni Eareckson Tada who has been confined to a wheelchair since 1967 when “she dove into Chesapeake Bay after misjudging the shallowness of the water. She suffered a fracture between the fourth and fifth cervical levels and became a quadriplegic, paralysed from the shoulders down.” You can read about her story in the book Joni.

  Joni “founded Joni and Friends (JAF) in 1979, a Christian organization that ministers to “the disabled community throughout the world. In 2006 the Joni and Friends International Disability Centre in Agoura, California, was established.”

  Now back to the song controversy. “With limited lung capacity due to her disability, Tada, . . . had her husband, Ken, pushing on her diaphragm while she recorded the Oscar-nominated song to give her enough breath to hit the high notes.”

  You can read the story on Variety’s website as well as here. “The Los Angeles Times reports the song may have been nominated because it played a crucial, recurring role in the film. Bruce Broughton, a winner of multiple Emmy awards and a previous Oscar nominee (Silverado), was one of the composers.”

  Joni, while disappointed, has been more than gracious as the controversy kicked up some dust among some disgruntled film people.

  I don’t know what the truth is, but I do know how liberals would respond to such an action if the song had been sung by an atheist woman who was in a wheelchair and a conservative organization had made a similar decision.

  First, the facts would not matter.

  Second, we would be hearing about the incessant liberal narrative about how conservatives are at war with women.

  [Third], conservatives would be attacked because they had gone after a defenseless woman in a wheelchair. You know, kind of like the way that Abortion Barbie Wendy Davis supporters mocked Texas Lieutenant Governor Greg Abbott who is also confined to a wheelchair because of an accident to his spinal cord.

Read more at http://godfatherpolitics.com/14189/christian-film-booted-best-song-oscar-nomination/#gFrCp11V7EFifFKF.99

 

BALANCE

BALANCE

Thursday, January 30, 2014

2Corinthians [NLT] 5:11-21 Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too. Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart. If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit. Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.

  So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

  And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

  One of the most difficult areas of following Lord Jesus Christ is fulfilling our responsibility to judge all things, beginning with self, and then others when situations call for the need . . . and not do so in prideful judgmentalism. To facilitate understanding of this balance problem ours, I again share an excellent summarizing essay from www.GotQuestions.org .  EBB4

Question: "What does the Bible mean that we are not to judge others?"

Answer: This is an issue that has confused many people. On one hand, we are commanded by the Lord Jesus, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged” (Matthew 7:1). On the other hand, the Bible also exhorts us to beware of evildoers and false prophets and to avoid those who practice all kinds of evil. How are we to discern who these people are if we do not make some kind of judgment about them?
  Christians are often accused of "judging" whenever they speak out against a sinful activity. However, that is not the meaning of the Scripture verses that state, "Do not judge." There is a righteous kind of judgment we are supposed to exercise—with careful discernment (John 7:24). When Jesus told us not to judge (Matthew 7:1), He was telling us not to judge hypocritically. Matthew 7:2-5 declares, "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." What Jesus was condemning here was hypocritical, self-righteous judgments of others.
  In Matthew 7:2-5, Jesus warns against judging someone else for his sin when you yourself are sinning even worse. That is the kind of judging Jesus commanded us not to do. If a believer sees another believer sinning, it is his Christian duty to lovingly and respectfully confront the person with his sin (Matthew 18:15-17). This is not judging, but rather pointing out the truth in hope—and with the ultimate goal—of bringing repentance in the other person (James 5:20) and restoration to the fellowship. We are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). We are to proclaim what God's Word says about sin. 2 Timothy 4:2 instructs us, "Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage — with great patience and careful instruction." We are to "judge" sin, but always with the goal of presenting the solution for sin and its consequences—the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:6).

                               © Copyright 2002-2014 Got Questions Ministries. (Used with permission.)

AM TOO A CHRISTIAN!

AM TOO A CHRISTIAN!

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Acts 4:8-12 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, Rulers of the people and elders of Israel, 9 if we are examined today on a good work for an infirm man, by what this one has been healed,10 be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, in this name does this man stand before you whole. 11 This is the Stone [Jesus Christ] which you builders have counted worthless, and He has become the Head of the Corner. 12 And there is salvation in no other One; for there is no other name under Heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

Romans ESV 10:1-11 [Apostle Paul wrote] Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. 2 For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. 5 For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. 6 But the righteousness based on faith says, "Do not say in your heart, 'Who will ascend into heaven?'" (that is, to bring Christ down) 7 or "'Who will descend into the abyss?'" (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). 8 But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); 9 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. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. 11 For the Scripture says, "Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame."

  Does anyone other than me remember as small children being teased or taunted, with adamant response of “Am too!”? I was reminded of this when reading interview of actor Tim Allen in Sunday PARADE.

  Allen was asked “What would people be surprised to know about you?”

  He responded “On a philosophical level, I’m very religious. I call myself an intellectual Christian. I’ve been seeking answers and information about Christianity, as well as Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism, since my father died [in a car crash, when Allen was 11], trying to explain life and death. My brother put it best a long time ago when he said, ‘You’re a lot more perceptive than I ever imagined.’”

  Indeed there are intellectuals that are Christians, just as there are non-intellectuals that are Christians. But there is no such thing as an “intellectual Christian” seeking answers in various religions as qualifier as Christian.

  An intellectual is someone “guided or developed by or relying on the intellect rather than upon emotions or feelings; rational.” Intellect is:        1. the power or faculty of the mind by which one knows or understands, as distinguished from that by which one feels and that by which one wills; the understanding; the faculty of thinking and acquiring knowledge. 2. capacity for thinking and acquiring knowledge, especially of a high or complex order; mental capacity. 3. a particular mind or intelligence, especially of a high order. 4. a person possessing a great capacity for thought and knowledge. 5. minds collectively, as of a number of persons or the persons themselves. (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/intellectual )

  In his writings, the Apostle Paul , whom I consider a great intellectual with great emotion, warned that it’s possible to have a form of godliness, but still deny the power of Lord Jesus Christ; to be ever learning religion and never able to come to the full knowledge of the truth.

  What makes a person a Christian?

  Just defining word “Christian” will clarify. First mentioned in Acts 11:26, “Christian” fundamentally means “little Christ”, originally thought to be a snide derogatory term. Over time those trusting in Christ as personal Redeemer took it to identify themselves as followers of Jesus Christ. A Christian is a person who follows Jesus Christ!

  It wasn’t until later ages that “Christian” began being used as term in a broad generic sense often having little or absolutely nothing to do with trusting Lord Jesus Christ or Biblical Christianity: Christian nation . . . If not a Jew, a Christian . . . If not atheist or agnostic, a Christian . . . intellectual Christian. 

EBB4 10/17/11

 

STRAW MAN REASONING

STRAW MAN REASONING

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

2Timothy [MKJV] 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be perfected, thoroughly furnished to every good work.

straw man: noun; 1. a mass of straw formed to resemble a man, as for a doll or scarecrow. 2. a person whose importance or function is only nominal, as to cover another's activities; front. 3. a fabricated or conveniently weak or innocuous person, object, matter, etc., used as a seeming adversary or argument: The issue she railed about was no more than a straw man.  Origin:  1585

  Straw man reasoning is commonplace. Tragically, as is even evidenced from many professing Christians interviewed or as commentators in the news media. Their arguments as to the why of mall murderers, school slayers, theater terrorists kill don’t stand up to the breath of God. As mere professors or ignorant Christians they are short of the furnishings He freely provides. Or do they have the equipping but like straw men lack a backbone? Or worse yet, are they like Balaam?

  The straw man philosophies include “need more jobs”, “living below the (USA government determined) poverty level”, and a few other humanistic ill-conceived arguments; the list topper these days being mental health and the shortage of facilities and programs.

  Looking to God’s furniture, His Word, we see that the result of Adam not trusting Jehovah are separation, surviving by sweat of brow fighting corrupted environment all while contributing to the pollution thereof, never-ending expensive maintenance of infrastructure, change of diet, losing the freedom, security, and comfort of nakedness, surrounded by constant trepidation, frustration and irritation that we too easily internalize, stress in relationships, community at odds even during the best of times (includes the church), emotional and physical pain and deterioration with death ever looming . . . all with loss of sound mind. Thankfully, sound mind that can be regained and retained from and by God through His provision. (1Cor. Chapter 2; 2Tim.1:7)

  Man does not commit murder and mayhem as result of upbringing, environment, poverty, mental health or lack of education, vocation et al. It is decision resulting from Biblical spiritual deficiency.

  Why did Cain slay Abel? Because God evicted his parents out of the garden? Because God didn’t communicate with him personally? Because God didn’t give him clear direction? Because God didn’t give Cain opportunity?

  No, it is as James explained: “What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. What do you think the Scriptures mean when they say that the spirit God has placed within us is filled with envy? But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but favors the humble.” So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.” (NLT 4:1-10)

  Please be aware that straw men never survive the test of God’s fire. Study God’s Word, be equipped, be fireproof!  EBB4

DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEY: US

DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEY: US

Monday, January 27, 2014

The following is written from my notes taken and thoughts provoked during Pastor Paul’s Sunday sermon.

  Just who or what exactly are we following? In fasting from food, sugar, coffee, TV, radio, impatience, internet, judging, confrontations and argumentalism, etc. . . . individual congregants shared what they’d learned.

  God showed in creating Even that He never intended an individualistic ME, but a caring community minded active US. Indeed salvation, present and eternal redemption is personal, but together we make up His church (Not a brick & mortar edifice!) This, His John 1:12 family, is what Jesus and Paul are referring to in Matthew 7:15-16 and Galatians 5:19-23. Our fruit reveals what kind of tree we are! Are we spiritually healthy or corrupt?

  Employee or elementary school evaluations often include “Works/plays well with others.” Or not. My grandson embodied this. Though underage, not old enough to play in competition, he, though unskilled and not even understand as yet the game rules, qualified as cooperative (i.e. Not a ball hog.) and now does practice once a week with a local soccer team.

  In John 13:33-36 [MKJV] it’s recorded Jesus said “Little children, I am with you yet a little while. You shall seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, Where I go, you cannot come, so I now say to you. I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. As I have loved you, you should also love one another. By this all shall know that you are My disciples, if you have love toward one another. Simon Peter said to Him, Lord, where do You go? Jesus answered him, Where I go you cannot now follow Me, but you shall follow Me afterward.”

  In pondering these words from our Lord, I took note of not just what Pastor Paul was emphasizing, but also 2 new things to me.

1.       Jesus spoke of community. Peter expressed concern for self.

2.       I’d often heard or read that though theme throughout OT, “new” had to do with who He was talking to. Whereas the “new” about loving one another is “As I have loved you”. My mind then connected this dot with Ephesians 5:25.

  Like any team interested in playing well, we practice at home in preparation for the away games. At this time what is Benson Baptist’ score?

  We have been losing members due to job changes, age, retirement, illness, death et al. Is lack of loving attention another reason some have left, or visitors haven’t come back?

  Are we simply satisfied that we have our ticket to heaven lackadaisically waiting for the trip?

  We are surrounded with opportunities to love more than we do. We must study, train, and practice. Hopefully we’ll have an outbreak of kindness and it will be contagious beyond this group!

  Pastor Donald McKnight (Evangelical Methodist Church, Dublin MD) always taught that it is imperative that we not come to church services to visit family and/or old friends. He said “That’s what you do outside of this building.”

  Pastor Paul closed with an action list to which I’ve added a bit of my training:

·         Look for those visitors or those you don’t know

·         Make them feel welcome

·         Invite and treat them to lunch out or a meal at your home.

·         Smile. (I need to work on this one.)

·         Be courteous, hold door etc.

·         Make eye contact.

·         Ask “How are you?” and really listen to their answer.

·         When in conversation do not allow impolite interruptions from family, other members, or a pastor.

·         Move! Sit in different spots. Sit next to someone you don’t know.

·         Write cards and notes of encouragement. Should Holy Spirit speak to your heart, this kind of note passing is permitted during service.

·         Give attention to noisy child if helpful.

·         Visit; take food, repair items, chauffer those going through difficult time.

·         Join Sunday School class or small group.

·         Volunteer!

·         Collaborate!

·         Celebrate!

  My final thought: Five+ months to go on learning discipleship from Pastors Paul Marine and Josh Klein. Obviously there is much to learn and/or be reminded of.  EBB4

 

LOVE VERSUS LUST

LOVE VERSUS LUST

Sunday, January 26, 2014

  In once again considering Biblical love, I again considered the truths of 1Corinthians 13 and how often they are life for me. As part of my exercise this morning I typed in “patient love graphics” and discovered an entire website on the topic.

I share with you one of the graphics to ponder.

For those of you that graphic doesn’t make it thru cyberspace: http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=patient+love+graphics&id=B662F31EC75A116E97CC5F5D996177DBAC26A7E0&FORM=IQFRBA#view=detail&id=C9EB476FAB4D997BCDD88C3806DF663FE5D79E6E&selectedIndex=28

EBB4

 

 

 

LOVE VERSUS LUST

Sunday, January 26, 2014

 

  In once again considering Biblical love, I again considered the truths of 1Corinthians 13 and how often they are life for me. As part of my exercise this morning I typed in “patient love graphics” and discovered an entire website on the topic.

I share with you one of the graphics to ponder.  EBB4

 

 

 

SINGING SONG OF MATURATION

SINGING PSALM OF MATURATION

Friday, January 24, 2014

Psalm 40: [To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.] I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD. Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, …

Ephesians 5:8-10 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) 10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

  There are those that can tell of deliverance from alcohol, drugs, or other such. As with many of you, I cannot. We all however can testify of tales of redemption from self as God’s Spirit within brings forth fruit.

  Our family dentist of 3 decades is a lifelong avid waterfowl hunter. Knowing I would see him at scheduled 6 month cleaning this week I took my 80 dollar Duck Commander teal duck call to show him. After getting scraped and polished I sat with beautiful wood workmanship concealed in hand. He entered, checked x-rays and physically examined my teeth, then sat for our usual after session chat. I told him to hold out his hand and then placed the duck call in it.

  He immediately started gleefully calling ducks.

  After a time of honking he smiled broadly and thanked me for the gift.

  I sensed he needed this unexpected encouraging event, and though not originally intended to be a gift,  immediately decided to let it be a present, telling him “My privilege … you are appreciated.”

  Then, taking hygienist advice, I drove to the nearby Walmart to purchase an Oral-B electric toothbrush. While there I decided to buy a few bananas and salad vegetables.

  Sliding card, punching credit, the checkout screen read $6.75. I told the cashier the total was incorrect. She insisted it was. I politely disagreed. She insisted the total was correct. I again politely disagreed. She again insisted I was wrong.

  One of the two elderly women waiting behind me gently smiled and suggested the clerk look in the plastic bags. She did so, and made the correction. I re-swiped my card and paid the $60.22. Looking delightfully relieved, the clerk told us she hadn’t been feeling well lately. The three of us wished her improved health.

  Later at home I rejoiced thinking “It’s a mighty fine day when standing on solid ground above the rotten old swamp.”; for many years ago prior to 1Corintians 13:11 agreement I would have never recognized or considered people’s needs as I now sometimes do.

  How wonderful is the maturation of our Lord and King!  EBB4

 

PRAISEWORTHY TALES

PRAISEWORTHY TALES

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Psalm 103:1-2, 22; 104:1, 35 [A Psalm of David.] 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: … Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul. . . . Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. … Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD.

Galatians 5:22-26 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance [Greek: self-control]: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

1Thessalonians 5:18-21 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

  There are two personal categories when it comes to telling tales. One is egocentric all-glory-to-meism. The other is embodied in the psalmists’ wanting to be a blessing to God.

  Christians, especially those with confessed history of braggadocio, are too often reluctant to tell about their Christian experiences for fear of it being interpreted as prideful conversation; whereas ours is the privilege and responsibility to honor and glorify God’s works as did the psalmists of yesteryear.

  As we are thankful, the work of His Holy Spirit within us is constant and productive. Thankfulness should not be conserved within or we thereby quench the Spirit. Publishing our thankfulness is the sharing of God’s life-giving refreshing: “On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.)” (NLT Jn.7:37-39)

  The Apostle Paul explained “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Rom.10:9-15)

  Now, as God’s 2Corinthians 5 ambassadorial tabernacles let us not practice a Lucifer pleasing false modesty. Let our souls join in marching forth with joyful tales that bless both God and man.  EBB4

   

FAITH IN CHRIST ALONE SAVES

FAITH THEN AND NOW

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

All of today’s scripture selections from New Living Translation (NLT)

Romans 4:4-8 Abraham was, humanly speaking, the founder of our Jewish nation. What did he discover about being made right with God? 2 If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. 3 For the Scriptures tell us, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.”4 When people work, their wages are not a gift, but something they have earned. 5 But people are counted as righteous, not because of their work, but because of their faith in God who forgives sinners. 6 David also spoke of this when he described the happiness of those who are declared righteous without working for it: 7 “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. 8 Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of sin.”

Galatians 2:16 Yet we know that a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law. And we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be made right with God because of our faith in Christ, not because we have obeyed the law. For no one will ever be made right with God by obeying the law.”

Titus 3:5-8 [God] saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.” 8 This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.

James 2:24-26 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone. 25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road. 26 Just as the body is dead without breath,[a] so also faith is dead without good works.

  During the 70’s Walt rode back and forth to work with me for a number of years. He was my first pickup, last dropoff. Walt was a highly skilled Master Machinist, a devout Roman Catholic, one of the finest men I’ve known. An unsung hero that did not demand or expect recognition for the work he did as a volunteer developing medical devices in cooperation with Johns Hopkins. Once in use, there was no Walt in the credits. The public tribute went to the department manager.

  Each day in coming and going Walt and I had 10-12 minutes alone. It was a delightful time as he had a keen mind interested in many topics. His favorite subject was faith, which I was quite happy to discuss.

  Finally Walt was retiring, doing so early as he wanted to put more volunteer energy into medical device development. On our last day together Walt wanted to talk about faith. We did so.

  In his concluding farewell remarks he told me he liked and respected me, but to live as I lived by grace, love, and application derived from personal and group Bible study . . . would never work for him. Though a very intelligent men, he had decided that only the age old Roman Catholic church and its seminary educated priesthood had figured out what it took to please God and go to heaven; religious good works that contributed to hoped for present and eternal redemption.

  Whether Walt still walks this side of death or not, I know not as we never met again. Hopefully he rethought the Scripture (above) I had shared with him, and trusted Jesus Christ alone as his redeemer and realized God’s blessed assurance.  EBB4

CONTINUING IMPROVEMENT OF SIGHT

CONTINUING IMPROVEMENT OF SIGHT

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

John [MKJV] 1:1-13; 3:1-7 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came into being through Him, and without Him not even one thing came into being that has come into being. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overtake it. 6 There was a man sent from God; his name was John. 7 This one came as a witness, to bear witness concerning the Light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 He was the true Light; He enlightens every man coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own received Him not. 12 But as many as received Him, He gave to them authority to become the children of God, to those who believe on His name, 13 who were born, not of bloods, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but were born of God. . . . 3:1 And there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 He came to Jesus by night and said to Him, Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no man can do these miracles which you do unless God is with him. 3 Jesus answered and said to him, Truly, truly, I say to you, Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus said to Him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Truly, truly, I say to you, Unless a man is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, You must be born again.

  Trusting the Redeemer at age 27 drastically changed my life and continues to do so. The big change wasn’t so much in stopping doing certain things, but in how I afterward see life, love, people, property, position, authority, who I am and why I am here.

  To further comprehending Scripture I took a course using text written by J. Edwin Hartill, Principles of Biblical Hermeneutics. I encourage you as brethren in Christ to gain the study tool of hermeneutics.    

  For reasonable price study books on the topic can be acquired on paper or Kindle. http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Principles+of+Biblical+Hermeneutics

  Why bother, what is hermeneutics?

  For a succinct one page essay on the answer, go to http://www.compellingtruth.org/biblical-hermeneutics.html

EBB4 

DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEY: ME

DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEY: ME

Monday, January 20, 2014

  As promised, today’s DT is written from my notes and sidebar thoughts jotted down while Sunday morning sitting at feet of Pastor Paul as he taught second of “D” JOURNEY 6 month sermon series. Associate pastor, Josh Klein, preached the first last Sunday. EBB4

  One aspect of fasting, whether from food, TV, internet, Facebook, cellphone et al, is what we may learn about self in relationship/fellowship with God and others. Our Sunday School class leader, Cheryl, first asked in class, then pastor asked in church: What did you give up and what did you learn and/or gain from the experience. Answers ranged from headaches without caffeine to serious categorical God got my attention about self. One person shared that they heard their complaining.

  In Genesis 41:50-52 is the record of Joseph, after going from favored son to dispossession of being sold into slavery to trusted position in Potiphar’s household to deprivation in prison to position of authority there to Chief Operating Officer of great nation Egypt . . . indicative of appreciative attitude named his sons Manasseh (Hebrew: causing to forget) and Ephraim (Hebrew: double fruit).

  In NT we read of Saul of Tarsus, man of great education and social standing with tremendous civil authority, accustomed to having things his way, humbled by God, then as Apostle Paul serving the Lord faithfully in his new 2Corinthians 5:17-20 identity . . . and suffering deprivation in many ways and yet declaring “Always be joyful in the Lord! I'll say it again: Be joyful! Let everyone know how considerate you are. The Lord is near. Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God's peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise: things that are true, honorable, fair, pure, acceptable, or commendable. Practice what you've learned and received from me, what you heard and saw me do. Then the God who gives this peace will be with you. The Lord has filled me with joy because you again showed interest in me. You were interested but did not have an opportunity to show it.  I'm not saying this because I'm in any need. I've learned to be content in whatever situation I'm in. I know how to live in poverty or prosperity. No matter what the situation, I've learned the secret of how to live when I'm full or when I'm hungry, when I have too much or when I have too little. I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me.” (GW Phil.4:4-13)

  Do we see ourselves as new creatures in Christ, a royal priesthood ordained to present to others His way of redemption; God’s present and eternal reconciliation? (2Cor.5:17-21) Or do we still think as is typical of immature children: me, myself, and I? (Rom.12:2; 1Cor.13:11)

  Consider this: God likes us better than we do. Study Scripture and find absolute proof.

http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=who+am+I+in+Christ&qpvt=who+am+I+in+Christ&FORM=IGRE#view=detail&id=73B7A618546EB8113798255EC475DEAD0A5A5007&selectedIndex=1

  “What can we say about all of this? If God is for us, who can be against us? God didn't spare his own Son but handed him over to death for all of us. So he will also give us everything along with him. Who will accuse those whom God has chosen? God has approved of them. Who will condemn them? Christ has died, and more importantly, he was brought back to life. Christ has the highest position in heaven. Christ also intercedes for us. What will separate us from the love Christ has for us? Can trouble, distress, persecution, hunger, nakedness, danger, or violent death separate us from his love?” (GW Rom.8:31-35)

  But how can I change from living a ME life? Let go of my ideas! Be like the one out of many as epitomized in Luke 17:11-19; free of the self leprosy of life, thankful for God’s salvation. To not be thankful is not just dampening one’s spirit, it suppresses the Spirit! (1Thes.5:18-19)

  Satan reminds us of our shortcomings, failures, sins. Hear him not!

  And be prepared to report what we learned from fasting again this week.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RELIGION AND SPIRITUALITY?

Question: "What is the difference between religion and spirituality?"

Answer: Before we explore the difference between religion and spirituality, we must first define the two terms. Religion can be defined as “belief in God or gods to be worshipped, usually expressed in conduct and ritual” or “any specific system of belief, worship, etc., often involving a code of ethics.” Spirituality can be defined as “the quality or fact of being spiritual, non-physical” or “predominantly spiritual character as shown in thought, life, etc.; spiritual tendency or tone.” To put it briefly, religion is a set of beliefs and rituals that claim to get a person in a right relationship with God, and spirituality is a focus on spiritual things and the spiritual world instead of physical/earthly things.
  The most common misconception about religion is that Christianity is just another religion like Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, etc. Sadly, many who claim to be adherents of Christianity do practice Christianity as if it were a religion. To many, Christianity is nothing more than a set of rules and rituals that a person has to observe in order to go to heaven after death. That is not true Christianity. True Christianity is not a religion; rather, it is having a right relationship with God by receiving Jesus Christ as the Savior-Messiah, by grace through faith. Yes, Christianity does have “rituals” to observe (e.g., baptism and communion). Yes, Christianity does have “rules” to follow (e.g., do not murder, love one another, etc.). However, these rituals and rules are not the essence of Christianity. The rituals and rules of Christianity are the result of salvation. When we receive salvation through Jesus Christ, we are baptized as a proclamation of that faith. We observe communion in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice. We follow a list of do’s and don’ts out of love for God and gratitude for what He has done.
  The most common misconception about spirituality is that there are many forms of spirituality, and all are equally valid. Meditating in unusual physical positions, communing with nature, seeking conversation with the spirit world, etc., may seem to be “spiritual,” but they are in fact false spirituality. True spirituality is possessing the Holy Spirit of God as a result of receiving salvation through Jesus Christ. True spirituality is the fruit that the Holy Spirit produces in a person’s life: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Spirituality is all about becoming more like God, who is spirit (John 4:24) and having our character conformed to His image (Romans 12:1-2).
  What religion and spirituality have in common is that they both can be false methods of having a relationship with God. Religion tends to substitute the heartless observance of rituals for a genuine relationship with God. Spirituality tends to substitute connection with the spirit world for a genuine relationship with God. Both can be, and often are, false paths to God. At the same time, religion can be valuable in the sense that it points to the fact that there is a God and that we are somehow accountable to Him. The only true value of religion is its ability to point out that we have fallen short and are in need of a Savior. Spirituality can be valuable in that it points out that the physical world is not all there is. Human beings are not only material, but also possess a soul-spirit. There is a spiritual world around us of which we should be aware. The true value of spirituality is that it points to the fact that there is something and someone beyond this physical world to which we need to connect.
  Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of both religion and spirituality. Jesus is the One to whom we are accountable and to whom true religion points. Jesus is the One to whom we need to connect and the One to whom true spirituality points. Are you interested in discovering true religion and true spirituality? If the answer is yes, please begin your journey on our webpage that describes receiving Jesus Christ as your Personal Savior - http://www.gotquestions.org/personal-Savior.html.

© Copyright 2002-2014 Got Questions Ministries.

(Used with permission.)

Read more: http://www.gotquestions.org/Printer/religion-spirituality-PF.html#ixzz2qqS6E1xh

DISCIPLES ARE LEARNERS, MAYBE

DISCIPLES ARE LEARNERS, MAYBE

Friday, January 17, 2014

John [NLT] 4:21-26 Jesus replied, “Believe me, dear woman, the time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem. 22 You Samaritans know very little about the one you worship, while we Jews know all about him, for salvation comes through the Jews. 23 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. 24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”25 The woman said, “I know the Messiah is coming—the one who is called Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.”26 Then Jesus told her, “I Am the Messiah!”[Ex.3:14]

  So, dear fellow follower of Christ (i.e. Christian), what did you learn from yesterday’s longest ever DT?

A.      “disciple” means “learner”.

B.      Reading all “disciple” “disciples” Bible verses in context and pondering takes a lot of time.

C.      Discipleship is a major theme throughout God’s Word.

D.      “disciple” means personal application of God’s Word.

E.       I know more about my job and/or hobby than I do about being a disciple of the Word.

F.       Being a disciple of The Word Living (Jesus) and written (the Bible) isn’t just about eventually dying and going to heaven.

G.     I am lazy when it comes to mental work.

H.      I am a dilatory follower of Christ.

I.        I learned a lot by reading and pondering all those verses.

J.        Reading the verses led me to a deeper understanding of God’s desire for me.

K.      Reading the verses I learned a lot about myself.

L.       Reading the verses I now understand where I stand in God’s family.

M.    I don’t focus enough on spiritual matters.

N.     I’ve been focusing on sacred places and events at the expense of that which is most important, sacred relationships.

O.     I discovered some thing(s) I’ve been taught in Sunday School, catechism, or church, is not according to the emphasis of God’s Word. (Emphasizing church attendance while not teaching His Word about discipleship is a prime example.)

P.      Reading the verses I learned a lot about God’s love for me.

Q.     I didn’t read the verses.

R.      I am never going to read the verses.

S.       I am going to continue studying discipleship.

T.       Reading the verses I enjoyed God’s blessed assurance.

U.     I spend more time shaving and brushing my teeth than about being a disciple of Christ.

V.      I love studying God’s Word.

W.    I dislike reading or studying God’s Word and need to be honest about why.

X.      ______________________________________________________ .

Y.       I drank 3 cups of coffee while reading the verses.

Z.       I’m not sure I like EBB4