IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 2

IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 2

Tuesday, October 31, 2017

   Luke [MKJV] 6:39-46 And He [Jesus] spoke a parable to them: Can the blind lead the blind? Shall they not both fall into the ditch? The disciple is not above his master, but everyone who is perfect shall be like his master. 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? 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. For a good tree does not bring forth corrupt fruit, neither does a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 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. 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. And why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?

  “Is it right to judge?” is a question puzzled and argued over by many sincere caring Christians. However, many of the discussions, lessons, sermons I’ve listened to have been devoid of all-inclusive Scripture. The voices selectively emphasizing certain verses from Jesus’ words recorded in Matthew 7:1-5, their doing so without careful study. To teach we should never 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 constructively told a man “you have correctly judged” Lk.7:43

·         To others, Jesus 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.

·         Mature judgment begins with self-examination. Mt.7:5; Lk.6:42; 2Cor.13:5

·         The end goal of judgment should always be good fruit, edification; seeking first the kingdom of God. Mt.6:33; Lk.6:43-45; 12:31

·         Judgment is to be done Christ’s way; with love, grace, and forgiveness. Lk.6:46

·         Judging should never ever be ego-centric It must be charitable. 1Cor.13

·         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; 2Tim.3:16-17

·         The blind cannot lead the blind with godly characteristic. Lk.6:39

·         Hypocrites shouldn’t judge, evaluate, profile others. Mt.7:1-5; Lk.6:39-46  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.

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

·         Basic guideline is given in 2Timothy 3:16-17.

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

EBB4

PS. Having now read the above and looked up Bible references presented . . . are you now judging the author and the content of what he wrote? I hope so, for it is your Christian responsibility.

IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 1

IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 1

Monday, October 30, 2017

   2Timothy [ESV] 3:16-17 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.

  Does God’s Word say it’s wrong to judge?

  Before answering the question please understand that with other judgments recently and particularly this morning I judged the need to personally review and share my file on the topic. A topic that deeply troubled me decades ago and resulted in judgment by a mentor that I needed to cease fretting and do a Bible study on the matter.

  To answer the question: Yes and no, depending on our position, in particular whether our motive is ego-centric or godly interest in biblical maturation in others. In studying God’s Word I discovered that judgment is not only proper, it is a positive duty in truly loving one another in Christ-like manner. The Lord Jesus Christ commanded “judge righteous judgment.” (Jn.7:24) Using Strong’s I go to examine the Greek text one word at a time.

·        “judge” G2919 κρίνω; krinō; kree'-no Properly to distinguish, that is, decide (mentally or judicially); by implication to try, condemn, punish: - avenge, conclude, condemn, damn, decree, determine, esteem, judge, go to (sue at the) law, ordain, call in question, sentence to, think.

·        “righteous” G1342 δίκαιος; dikaios; dik'-ah-yos From G1349; equitable (in character or act); by implication innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively): - just, meet, right (-eous).

·        “judgment” G2920 κρίσις; krisis; kree'-sis (Subjectively or objectively, for or against); by extension a tribunal; by implication justice (specifically divine law): - accusation, condemnation, damnation, judgment.

  And who and what was Jesus urging them to judge. Reading verse 24 in context He was pointing out their wrongheadedness. They, we, are to begin with judging self, repent, before we can consider judging any others with righteous judgment! This coincides with Jesus’ exhortation recorded by Matthew. As always when reading Scripture, keep in mind that man inserted chapter divisions – Jesus was not segueing to a totally different subject from 6 to 7. “… seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.”

  So, yes, we are to judge, but never in wrong-hearted ego-centric manner. (Rom.12:1-3) And then only as we constructively seek first the kingdom of God. Kingdom first, me never . . . this according to our earnest expectation and hope, that in nothing we shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in our body, whether it be by life, or by death. For us to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (Phil.1:20-21)

EBB4

HEBREWS 10:25-26

The Selfishness of Skipping Church, by Art Heinz October 17, 2015

 [Hebrews 10:25-26]

The overwhelming [USA] consumerist mentality in our nation has spilled over and saturated the thinking of Christians throughout the Church in the United States.  More and more believers in America approach the concept of finding and remaining in a church the same way they would handle buying a car, shopping for the latest technological advancement, or choosing a movie to watch.  An institution whose founder came not to be served, but to serve, has been tainted by a ceaseless drum beat of “what can you do for me?”  The worship environment, the style of music, the dress code, the church programming, and the overall focus of the church, is no longer about the Lord and His agenda, but about the personal preferences of individual church shoppers.

The crisis of commitment and ownership in the American Church is reflected in the 2015 Pew Research Study that showed a serious decline in Americans self-identifying as Christians.  The problem is demonstrated any given month as families who used to attend church weekly and even several times a week now attend services one to two times a month (and I’m not referring to the shut-in, the sick, or those who must work). It is impossible to build anything of consequence in any sector of society with such inconsistency.  Imagine if a construction crew showed up to a building site only once or twice a month.  Think of what would happen if physicians and nurses manned the hospitals and ERs only a couple of times a month.  Consider the problems in education if our teachers worked only two days a month.  And yet, the welfare and future of our great nation hangs in the balance as rabid hedonists, religious fanatics, and ignorant young socialists and progressives march on fully committed to their causes.  We cannot build godly, committed, and society-changing future generations with a selfish hit and miss approach to church.

The key to the restoration of our culture and society is not the economy, our healthcare system, or even education, but the tone and temperature of our nation spiritually.  How can cold, lifeless, church skipping Christians possibly be the catalyst for fanning the flames of spiritual renewal and fire in the United States?  This coldness and lifelessness is reflected in the attitude of the Christian who says I don’t need to attend church all that much because I can get my spiritual food online or through broadcast media.  The attitude is reflected in the individual who says I don’t need to go to church because I can commune with God in nature on my own.  It’s reflected in the family that emphasizes every other kind of activity and pursuit other than spiritual education in the name of putting the family first.  It’s reflected by the one who points to their hurts, their disappointments, or their needs as an excuse to be absent from church.  It’s reflected in church workers who only show up to church when they are scheduled to serve, teach, or lead.  It’s reflected by parents who teach their children, by ungraciously and habitually leaving church after church, that the Church and its people are fatally flawed and not worthy of real commitment.  It’s reflected in the people who pursue amusement, recreation, and entertainment to the detriment of their spirituality and places of worship.

So, what’s the issue here?  The primary issue is a fundamental misunderstanding of why we gather as Christians.  True, we gather to worship God, learn the principles of God’s Word, and fellowship with one another.  But if you read the words of the writer of Hebrews, our priority is gathering so that we can encourage and help one another to progress spiritually in an increasingly secular, pessimistic, and antagonistic culture:  “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Luke tells us Jesus, the one we say we are following, left an example of faithful attendance explaining, “on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom” (Luke 4:16).  Think about that.  Jesus, the Son of God, had a habit of going to the house of God.  How much more do His followers need to develop that habit?

The culprits in the current spiritual malaise and indifference in our country are the selfish Christians who fail to consider how they can help, assist, and encourage someone else by coming faithfully to church instead of focusing on and serving their own wants, preferences, needs, and schedules.  That single mindset of coming to church not for what you can receive, but for what you can provide is the key to a true spiritual renewal in our land. When you are not in church the gifts and abilities in you are not made available to others.  That’s why skipping church is selfish and the complete opposite of the example of Jesus, the mission of Jesus, and the commands of Jesus.  If you are a consistent, constant, and faithful church goer, don’t let anything stop you from continuing in your dedication.  If you have become distant, cold, lifeless, and selfish in absenting yourself and your family from the Church, repent and return to a faithful lifestyle and relationship with your local church.  As the writer of Hebrews challenged us, we should become more diligent and dedicated to one another as we see the end coming, not more selfish.

CHRISTIANITY VERSUS ISLAM

CHRISTIANITY VERSUS ISLAM

GotQuestions.org

Question: "What is the difference between Christianity and Islam?"

While some similarities exist between Islam and Christianity (they are both monotheistic religions, for example), their differences are clear-cut, significant, and irreconcilable. For this article, we will survey four key areas: the founders of the two religions, the contrasting views of God, the sacred literature, and the means of salvation. We will see that Islam differs from Christianity in each of those four areas.

Islam and Christianity: Founders of the Religions

Islam was founded by an Arab merchant named Muhammed about AD 622. Muhammed claimed to have received a revelation from an angel of God, and, although he initially feared his revelation had come from Satan, Muhammed later claimed to be the last and greatest of all of God’s prophets. Muhammed had fifteen wives (although he limited other men to four wives apiece) and sanctioned the beating of wives (Sura 4:34). Muhammed was well known for spreading his new religion by force. He commanded, “Fight and slay the Pagans wherever you find them” (Sura 9:5), and he specified the proper way to execute an unbeliever was to cut his throat (Sura 47:4). Muhammed led raids against caravans to plunder their goods, broke oaths, ordered the murder of those who mocked him, and wiped out the last Jewish tribe in Medina—he killed all the men and enslaved the women and children. Interestingly, Muhammed acknowledged his own need to seek God’s forgiveness on occasion (Sura 40:55).

In stark contrast to the moral depravity of Muhammed, Jesus Christ was above reproach in every way (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus never married, He defended and honored women (John 8:1–11), and His law was “love one another” (John 13:34). Accordingly, Jesus never assassinated anyone, never beat a woman, never enslaved a child, never broke a promise, and never plundered a caravan. On the cross, when Jesus was mocked by those nearby, His response was, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34).

Islam and Christianity: Views of God

Islam teaches that Allah, or God, is the sovereign Creator and Ruler of all that is. Muslims emphasize God’s absolute unity, which will admit of no division, and God’s will. In fact, the will of God is more basic to who He is than His love or mercy. God could choose not to be merciful, and He can choose not to love; thus, Allah’s mercy and love are not intrinsic to His nature but are choices He makes. More important than loving God—or even knowing Him—is submitting to His will. The word Islam means “submission.” According to Islam, God cannot be considered a “father” and He has no son. Allah does not love sinners (Surah 3:140).

Similar to Islam, Christianity teaches that God is the sovereign Creator and Ruler of all that is—but that is about where the similarity ends. Christians believe in one God who exists in three eternal, co-equal Persons (Father, Son, and Spirit) who share the same indivisible essence. According to Christianity, God loves because His very nature is love (1 John 4:8)—not just because He happens to choose to love. God’s essence includes the attribute of mercy, so divine displays of mercy are more than choices God makes; they are extensions of His character. God is knowable and desires a relationship with us based on love (Mark 12:30). Obeying God is important, but obedience without a relationship based on love is worthless (1 Corinthians 13:3). According to Christianity, God the Father has an eternal relationship with God the Son. God does love sinners (Romans 5:8).

Islam and Christianity: Sacred Literature

Islam holds that the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament), the Psalms, and the Gospels were given by God—with this caveat: Jews and Christians have corrupted God’s Word and therefore Bibles cannot be fully trusted. Muslims believe that God’s final Word, the Qur’an, was miraculously given to Muhammed over a period of twenty-three years. The Qur’an, which is perfect and holy, is divided into 114 chapters called suras. In addition to the Qur’an, the Muslims have the Hadith, a collection of Muhammed’s sayings, opinions, and actions as reported by those close to him.

Biblical Christianity holds that the Old and New Testaments of the Bible are God’s inspired Word and the only authoritative rule of faith and practice. The Bible warns against adding to God’s Word (Revelation 22:18); Christians reject the Qur’an as an attempted addition to God’s Word and as a document that contradicts the Bible in many ways.

Islam and Christianity: Means of Salvation

Islam teaches a works-based salvation and in this way is similar to other man-made religions. A Muslim must keep the five pillars of Islam: he must confess the shahadah (“there is no God but Allah, and Muhammed is his prophet”); he must kneel in prayer toward Mecca five times a day; he must fast during the daylight hours one month of the year (Ramadan); he must give money to the poor; and he must make a pilgrimage to Mecca sometime in his lifetime. Islam teaches that the day of judgment will involve a person’s good and bad deeds being weighed in a balance—so the standard for judgment is one’s own actions (Surah 7:8-9; 21:47). The Qur’an forbids anyone from bearing another’s burden of sin (Surah 17:15; 35:18) and pointedly denies the death of Jesus (or Isa) on the cross (Surah 3:55; 4:157–158). If you will be saved, you must save yourself.

Christianity teaches a grace-based salvation. A person is saved by the grace (the undeserved blessing) of God, through faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9; Romans 10:9–10). The standard for judgment is absolute perfection—the righteousness of Christ. No one can measure up to perfection (Romans 3:23), but God in His grace and mercy has given His Son as the substitute for our sin: “When you were dead in your sins . . . God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross” (Colossians 1:13–14). We cannot save ourselves, so we turn to Christ, our sinless Savior and the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).

Islam and Christianity, having different beliefs on essential doctrines such as God, Jesus, Scripture, and salvation, are irreconcilable. Both religions cannot be true. We believe that Jesus Christ, as presented in the Bible, is the true Son of God and Savior of mankind. “Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17).

Recommended Resource: Answering Islam: The Crescent in Light of the Cross by Norm Geisler

Related Topics on GotQuestions library:
Who was Muhammad?
I am a Muslim. Why should I consider becoming a Christian?
Who is Allah? What is the origin of belief in Allah?
What is Islamism?
Shia and Sunni Islam - what are the differences?

THE NOT SO OBVIOUS IN ENGLISH

THE NOT SO OBVIOUS IN ENGLISH

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Genesis [MKJV] 12:2  And I will make you a great nation. And I will bless [ ] you and make your name great. And you shall be a blessing [  ].

  Last evening in Pastor John’s class I was again reminded that understanding Scripture in English is not always so obvious.

  As he was teaching about the ongoing presence of God he led us to read of God’s promise to Abraham recorded in chapter 12 of Genesis. Curious about “bless” and “blessing” in verse 2 I searched Hebrew meanings and discovered that though the “bless” is about receiving and “blessing” is about dispensing there is further distinction within Abraham’s tale. I fell asleep mulling and awoke this morning still thinking of our responsibility as God’s John 1:12 children to receive . . . and dispense while doing so.

  Commonly it is happy occasion to receive God’s favor, but not entirely; testing is typically involved. When agreeing to His provision it may be emotionally stressful. It may be like joyful deliverance and then being confronted by the Red Sea.

  WHAT, leave home . . . family, friends, culture and geography accustomed to and loving . . . and go to a new unfamiliar setting?! And while doing so share your prosperity with others that don’t want you there? When I read of Abraham I do identify with him. Though in 1984 God definitely favored me and my dependent family it was not a care free comfy transition.

  Why read of Abraham? Why remember our similar experiences? To learn, trust, and be fortified as citizens of the kingdom of heaven pleasing the King, that’s why.

Amen?

EBB4

FROM ANGST TO FREEDOM IN GOD'S GLAD SERVICE

AWAY WITH ANGST!

Dear fellow travelers,

This morning I awoke with no DT in mind, so I busied myself for awhile but still zilch. Decided to utilize the time to review history to see where I’ve grown and add recent steps to my record for future reference in accountability to God, self, and you. as happens the effort became much more involved than thought it would be. Please feel free to comment or question.

Edwin Bennett Bullock 4^th 10/25/17

  I’ve been asked to share personal testimony on my developing and continuing release from worry to peace. The following are the main event and action points. They are not in any particular order so far as original edifying conviction and application, nor are they an in-order check-off list as God continues the work in my daily sojourn. Please understand that a basic belief I hold to is God’s Word is authentically His and has complete instruction on how to live eternally and presently while remaining this side of heaven. I am responsible to learn and implement His written direction. God will not force me to do so nor will Satan and company force me not to do so.

·         I accomplished nothing on my own by personal strength, fortitude, or intelligence. I had to accept the truth that I am weak! The mix included wise experienced people, His Holy Spirit, studying God’s Word. Matthew 26:41 “Stay awake, and pray that you won't be tempted [Greek: Tested by adversity.]. You want to do what's right, but you're weak." (Mk.14:38) 2Corinthians 12:9 But he told me: "My kindness is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak." So I will brag even more about my weaknesses in order that Christ's power will live in me.

 

·         Relinquishing my anti-authority attitude is necessary. (One constant reminder is my life verses, Ps.32:8-9) Luke 11:2 Jesus told them, "When you pray, say this: Father, let your name be kept holy. Let your kingdom come. (Mt.6:10) God’s will be done!

·         Knowing that I am not going to always agree with God, but must accept that He is ultimately infinitely Omni Sovereign and that of myself I am definitely finitely human. Isaiah 55:8-9 "My thoughts are not your thoughts, and my ways are not your ways," declares the LORD. "Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts are higher than your thoughts."

·         I changed my thinking about true worship.  I realized that worship isn’t just a church thing. Worship is a life of “Not me, Him!” When I would worry and be stressed it was all centered in me, not God, plus a whole lot of not others. I wanted everything to run the way I thought it should. This was and easily could be again a matter of pride. Stress and worry meant I was worshipping Edwin Bennett Bullock 4^th, not God. When my focus began shifting (and continues as a daily work) my burden lightened and I enjoy freedom and peace. Romans 12:1-3 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. Because of the kindness that God has shown me, I ask you not to think of yourselves more highly than you should. Instead, your thoughts should lead you to use good judgment based on what God has given each of you as believers.

·         I accepted responsibility for my detrimental thought habits and changed my thinking to realign with

         godly guidance laid out in Philippians 4:4-8 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.

·         I was informed by a trusted experienced fellow that “Worry is a matter of pride!”  Romans 12:3

         This is something I must often be reminded of.

·         I learned that stress and worry very much involves taking on more responsibility than God intends for me. 1Corinthians 10:12-13 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

·         I discovered Biblical self-acceptance is not anything like self-esteem; they’re in conflict.

         Satan hates humans because we are made in the image of God. Genesis 1:26-27 Then God said,

        "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the   

        sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every   

        creeping thing that creeps on the earth." So God created man in his own image, in the image of God

        he created him; male and female he created them.

·         I was gifted with a copy of BOUNDARIES; When to Say YES; When to Say NO by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend. I read it carefully and thoughtfully and began applying the truth therein having to do with boundaries or lack thereof spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically.

·         A main precept shift for me was accepting His ownership in broad life terms beyond list of dos and don’ts. Psalm 118:24 This is the day the LORD has made. Let's rejoice and be glad today! 1Corinthians 6:20 You were bought for a price. So bring glory to God in the way you use your body.

·         When I sense onus, shift the load asap. 1Peter 5:7 Turn all your anxiety over to God because he cares for you.

·         To continue changing the way I think so I can best determine the right thing to do. Romans 12:1-3; 1Peter 5:8  Keep your mind clear, and be alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion as he looks for someone to devour.

·         Understanding I’m not by any means the special target that I thought I was.1Peter 5:9  Be firm in the faith and resist him, knowing that other believers throughout the world are going through the same kind of suffering.

·         Standing firm is my responsibility. Hebrews 3:6 Christ is faithful over God's house as a son. And we are his house if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope. 1Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful.

·         Knowing the truth and living freely without guilt and fear. John 8:31-32, 36 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." ... So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. Psalm 139:23-24 Examine me, O God, and know my mind. Test me, and know my thoughts. See whether I am on an evil path. Then lead me on the everlasting path. 2Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are still in the Christian faith. Test yourselves! Don't you recognize that you are people in whom Jesus Christ lives? Could it be that you're failing the test?

·         Living a confessional life without guilt and fear. 1John 1:8-9 If we say, "We aren't sinful" we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. God is faithful and reliable. If we confess our sins, he forgives them and cleanses us from everything we've done wrong.

·         Understanding the truth about patience and working to apply it in every situation. Romans 12:12-18 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Galatians 6:9 ... let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

·         Understanding and accepting that His peace and world’s peace is very different and in opposition. John 14:27;16:32-33  [Jesus explained] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. ... Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."

·         Understanding and accepting that joy is far above and beyond happenings. 1Peter 1:6-9 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

·         Stay away from brush fires. 2Timothy 2:4 No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.

·         I’m God’s priestly ambassador and am to confidently act accordingly. 1Peter 2:9-12 ... you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. 2Corinthians 5:16-20 From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, 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. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

·         Radiate morality. 2Peter 1:2-9 May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins.

·         Live enthusiastically by faith. Nehemiah 8:10b ... do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength. 2Corinthians 5:6-7 So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight.1Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice always

·         Strive for orderliness. (Am still striving.) 1Corinthians 14:40 But all things should be done decently and in order.

·         Continue seeking. Matthew 7:7-10 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? (Lk.11:9-13)

EBB4

INVESTING IN HEAVEN

INVESTING IN HEAVEN

Tuesday, October 24, 2017

   Matthew [ESV] 6:19-20 "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.

  Jesus’ exhortation recorded by Matthew is easy to understand, or is it? Reading 6:20 in the numerous translations and versions I have at hand they seem the same – in English yes, but what of investigating the Greek?

  When we think of investing eternally in heaven as opposed to temporal earthly treasures we typically may consider it involving the collection plates at church or the coffers of parachurch ministries. But is that precisely what Jesus is directing?

  What is this heaven He refers to?

  Indeed it is what we first think of, but the Greek meaning goes beyond the place of eternal salvation.

  οὐρανός; ouranos; oo-ran-os' indeed does mean the abode of God. It also by implication means happiness, power, eternity; specifically the Gospel.

  Which brings us to the question of what is the gospel? To answer I investigated several sources and chose gotquestions.org as the easiest summary for this man to grasp: “The word gospel literally means “good news” and occurs 93 times in the Bible, exclusively in the New Testament. In Greek, it is the word euaggelion, from which we get our English words evangelist, evangel, and evangelical. The gospel is, broadly speaking, the whole of Scripture; more narrowly, the gospel is the good news concerning Christ and the way of salvation.“

  Which raises yet another question: If the church or ministry that we donate funds, labor, time to is not clearly presenting the whole of Scripture concerning Christ and the way of salvation . . . are we laying up treasure in οὐρανός?

EBB4

SIGHTFULNESS

SIGHTFULNESS

Monday, October 23, 2017

  John [NLT] 3:1-3 There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee. After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. “Rabbi,” he said, “we all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.”Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”

  Jesus said “… I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”“If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.” (Jn.9)

  Prior to October of my 27^th year I had no idea as to exactly how blind I was. I was happy. I was enjoying life! After trusting Jesus on the from work drive home to my beloved family I felt relief, but not much else seemed different. Upon wakening the next morning I sensed a drastic change in vision and immediately acted upon it in telling others the Good News.

  I already did not “Drink, smoke, or chew, nor run with women that do.” so I couldn’t hold onto an emotion generating deliverance testimony. What I did clearly know is I saw all things quite differently. (Later I realized more correctly is that I had only started to see more clearly.) Pastor’s sermon yesterday set me yet again to appreciating the work of Jesus Christ that goes far beyond initial eternal redemption; He also offers a resurrection life that includes opportunity to increased citizenship vision of and activity in the kingdom of heaven. (Phil.3:20)

  Beginning with the initial personal regeneration of John 3:3, trusting Lord Jesus Christ further continues to result in recognized transformation by:

    2. Focusing more on seeing things thru the lens of God’s Word. (Mt.6:22-23; Lk.11:34)

    3. Seeing more via Jesus’ “the kingdom of heaven is like” thanks to Pastor’s recent provocative series of the parables of Christ.

  Now seeing these truths, how clear shall our vision be this day and herafter?

EBB4

AFFECTION MAKES FOR EFFECTIVENESS

AFFECTION MAKES FOR EFFECTIVENESS

Sunday, October 22, 2017

   Deuteronomy 6:5-9 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. [Jn.14:15; 1Jn.5:2-3]

   Matthew 22:23-40 The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him, Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. Now there were with us seven brethren: and the first, when he had married a wife, deceased, and, having no issue, left his wife unto his brother: Likewise the second also, and the third, unto the seventh. And last of all the woman died also. Therefore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? for they all had her. Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living. And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine. But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together. Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

  As God’s John 1:12 children we are to love the Lord above all others. “love the Lord” is in 17 verses, 14 in OT, 3 in NT, beginning with Deuteronomy 6:5 and lastly recorded from the lips of Jesus in Luke 10:27.   

(Deut.6:5; 11:1, 13, 22; 13:3; 19:9; 30:6, 16, 20: Jos.23:11; Ps.31:23; 97:10; 116:1; Mt.22:37; Mk.12:30; Lk.10:27)

  We may tend to think this commandment and request is wholly because of God’s jealousy. (Ex.20:5; 34:14; Deut.4:24; 5:9; 6:15; Jos.24:19; Joel 2:18; Nah.1:2; Zec.1:14; 8:2; Jam.4:4-5) But it is not. It is beneficial to those that love Him.

  Only as we live in deep affection for God can we live a life pleasing Him:

·         Let us understand and accept that in serving the Lord we indeed do take His burden upon us, but it is not a grievous burden. (Mt.11:29; Jam.4:5)

·         Agreeably taking Jesus’ yoke of loving the Father and others we leave our burdensome yoke of self by the wayside, and gain rest. (Heb.4:3; 11:5-6; Jam.4:5) We need to stop thinking escaping from the rigors of life is true rest. It is not. God’s rest is to be daily currently realized and practiced where we stand and walk.

·         Loving the Lord as He commands and leads we live by and thereby in His present and eternal portion. (Deut.30:6, 16; Ps.31:23; Heb.11:6)

  Knowing this, where does it leave us this day concerning loving God and living effectively? 

EBB4

LED ASTRAY BY MYTHS

LED ASTRAY BY MYTHS

Friday, October 20, 2017

2Timothy [GW] 4:3-4 A time will come when people will not listen to accurate teachings [KJV “sound doctrine”}. Instead, they will follow their own desires and surround themselves with teachers who tell them what they want to hear. People will refuse to listen to the truth and turn to myths. [Also note 2:15-19]

  If we fail to study God’s Word and see and accept the facts we live a cankered vulnerable life.

  One favorite non-biblical myth is the philosophy of the more you trust God the more your physical life will be prosperous and secure. Studying the record in God’s Word reveals this is typically not true. God’s record warns us of unrealistic expectations:

·          Jesus was faithful above all others. His life and death?

·         The life and death of the faithful accounted for in Old Testament and New?

·         The apostles?

·         Stephen?

·         Paul?

·         The record of the faithful in our contemporary times?

·          Today’s news reports?

·         Those of you presently or having been active Christians?

  I’m not saying that faithful people will definitely live a miserable life. What I’m saying is we must be realistic. Jesus warned of the allusion. (Jn.15:17-21)

  Paul warned.  (Rom.8:16-18)

  Observing Christians with an unbiblical mythical philosophy saddens my heart when they become disillusioned as a result of unrealistic expectations.

  Fear not, but let us be prepared lest we walk unsteadily. Living a godly life definitely requires large doses of realism.

EBB4

PS. All written exams I’ve taking show the same results. I’m a realistic optimist. And you?

ALL IS SPIRITUAL

ALL IS SPIRITUAL

Thursday, October 19, 2017

   John 7:37-38 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

   Ephesians 6:10-19 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. [Eph.2:2 The ruler of the authority of the air, the power of this world, the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience, those that live by their own religiosity apart from biblical godliness.] 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

   James 3:11-12 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? 12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

  I’ve said or wrote it many times: all is spiritual, there is no such thing secular (the idea of nonspiritual, earthly, irreligious), and I’ve not changed my belief; such belief itself being part of my spiritual existence.

  Spirituality being nothing more or less than personal or group belief system, everyone has and lives by spiritual belief: Christian, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist, Unitarians, humanists and all other sects and denominations, agnostics, deists, polytheists, monotheists, atheists, democrats, republicans, liberals, conservatives, moderates, libertarians, socialists, communists, monarchists (Yep, they’re still around in the wings awaiting.), anarchists, revolutionaries, Nazis, neo-Nazis, dictators and every other stripe of person. Our positions and actions flow naturally from what we spiritually believe.

  Though I often hear spoken as such; spiritual should not be equated singularly with Christian biblical godliness. Man was created a spiritual being (Only a spiritual being can sin.), and beginning with Adam has gone on to individually determining in God-given freewill what spiritual is; the religion, belief system, lifeview, he measures all decisions thereby. All men are spiritual beings. There is no such thing as a secular being, it a false invention commonly accepted. (When invented?)

  Think not that spiritual belief only drives decisions in companies like Hobby Lobby or Chick-a-fila. Spiritual belief drives every company’s operation. Warren Buffet’s decisions are according to his spiritual beliefs, dare not think otherwise!

  Politics are prime example of being driven by spiritual beliefs regardless of party identification.

  Communism denying religion though driven by spiritual beliefs satanically religiously lived; and they changing according to beliefs of leadership: Frederich Engels believed in Claude-Henri de Rouvroy Saint Simon’s belief. (A aristocrat that somehow escaped the French Reign of Terror to become a paid political philosopher. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claude_Henri_de_Rouvroy,_comte_de_Saint-Simon )

Saint-Simon believing in power of positive thinking connected to the discipline of sociology, more commonly later known as Marxism.

  Engels latched on to a summarizing phrase from Saint-Simon “the government of men should be replaced by the administration of things.” Though idealistically sincere in beginning, Communism very quickly became an oppressive governmental bureaucracy.

  It all made sense to Lenin but he soon determined that it wouldn’t come about naturally, but would have to begin with ruthless purging of the ruling class, including young Anastasia.

  These authors of The ABC of Communism, when things didn’t change immediately as expected, encouraged people to be patient.

  Stalin had otherwise belief (Did you know he read the Bible?) and consequently began with the elimination of the authors of The ABC of Communism, then decidedly gathered around him like genuine believers and useful political survivalists, some soon meeting same fate of ABC authors. Stalin brutally enforced his beliefs.

  Beginning with our founding fathers on through contemporary leaders, all were, still are led by their spiritual beliefs. This even comes down to elected and non-elected influential individuals religiously believing themselves saviors of society.

  Consider the recent dietary rulings in public schools and the requirement that employees police them. I received recent info from OPS school food service employee that if a child brings now declared “unhealthy” peanut butter& jelly sandwich in his lunch it is to be taken away from them and destroyed. In the few days since I’ve been telling people at all levels I encounter, including medical professionals working to repair me. And what do I get in response? Shrugs. “Oh well, whatta ya gonna do?” “So goes life today in the USA.”

  Never ever forget that all is spiritual, never secular. Biblical Christians are not at war with secularism, we’re battling spiritual persons deep in religion of godless disobedience. We must never divide our thinking as to they being two separate entities. They are of their father the devil, and the lusts of their father they do. Satan abiding not in God’s Truth is destroyer from the beginning. There has been is not one shred of pure truth in him. The Destroyer speaks only to his own evil designs, always the liar, he is the father of lying. Jesus told the truth about this and yet people believed Him not then or now. (Jn.8:44-45) 

EBB4 

LIVING OUTSIDE OF THE GARDEN

LIVING OUTSIDE OF THE GARDEN

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

   Genesis [GW]  … Then the LORD God took the man [Adam] and put him in the Garden of Eden to farm the land and to take care of it. The LORD God commanded the man. He said, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden. But you must never eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil because when you eat from it, you will certainly die." Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper [Eve] who is right for him." … The man and his wife were both naked, but they weren't ashamed of it. … The snake was more clever than all the wild animals the LORD God had made. He asked the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must never eat the fruit of any tree in the garden'?" The woman answered the snake, "We're allowed to eat the fruit from any tree in the garden except the tree in the middle of the garden. God said, 'You must never eat it or touch it. If you do, you will die!'" "You certainly won't die!" the snake told the woman. "God knows that when you eat it your eyes will be opened. You'll be like God, knowing good and evil." … So she took some of the fruit and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then their eyes were opened, and they both realized that they were naked. … [Please read the entire record in your personal Bible.]

   Ephesians 6:10-18a Finally, receive your power from the Lord and from his mighty strength. Put on all the armor that God supplies. In this way you can take a stand against the devil's strategies. This is not a wrestling match against a human opponent. We are wrestling with rulers, authorities, the powers who govern this world of darkness, and spiritual forces that control evil in the heavenly world. For this reason, take up all the armor that God supplies. Then you will be able to take a stand during these evil days. Once you have overcome all obstacles, you will be able to stand your ground. So then, take your stand! Fasten truth around your waist like a belt. Put on God's approval as your breastplate. Put on your shoes so that you are ready to spread the Good News that gives peace. In addition to all these, take the Christian faith as your shield. With it you can put out all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Also take salvation as your helmet and the word of God as the sword that the Spirit supplies. Pray in the Spirit in every situation. Use every kind of prayer and request there is. For the same reason be alert.

  Again much is in the news about sexual harassment in its various forms, including physical sex. This highlighting is rightly so, but will this time complete societal respect be the outcome? I say no.

  Prior to Eve, then Adam, not trusting God they didn’t even know they were naked. Equipped with their misbegotten knowledge of good and evil their eyes were opened to their exposure. Men and women ever since have been conflicted with at times wanting to see or be seen and not wanting to see or be seen. And like the first couple, lying about it.

  What is the remedy? Trusting God of course, in particular focusing on eternal purpose as others vigorously fought the good fight pleasing to Him. (Rom.12:1-3; Heb.11)

   Jesus explained “Your heart will be where your treasure is. The eye is the lamp of the body. So if your eye is unclouded, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is evil, your whole body will be full of darkness. If the light in you is darkness, how dark it will be!“ (Mt.6:21-23; also note Lk.11:34)

  And Paul testified to, stating “I run to win that which Jesus Christ has already won for me. Brothers and sisters, I can't consider myself a winner yet. This is what I do: I don't look back, I lengthen my stride, and I run straight toward the goal to win the prize that God's heavenly call offers in Christ Jesus. Whoever has a mature faith should think this way. And if you think differently, God will show you how to think.

However, we should be guided by what we have learned so far. “ (Phil.3:13-16)

  So, what will our chosen wardrobe be this day and henceforth, fig leaves or the whole armor of God?

EBB4

500 MINUS 95

500 MINUS 95

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

“According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, an indulgence is “the remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sin whose guilt has already been forgiven. A properly disposed member of the Christian faithful can obtain an indulgence under prescribed conditions through the help of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints. An indulgence is partial if it removes part of the temporal punishment due to sin, or plenary if it removes all punishment.” [Source: GotQuestions.org, & Wikipedia.org]

  It’s been 500 years since Martin Luther posted his 95 theses. People read them then. People don’t read them now. Because of the latter I decided to acquire and read them. I thoughtfully did so five times this past week. One conclusion I’ve arrived at is though I’ve always been taught that Luther was absolutely against indulgences, he was not so as such.

  Luther was mainly against indulgences because they had church members relying on them for deliverance and thereby neglecting being responsible for themselves before God.

  But what of today for those of us that wouldn’t give one cent for a cart full of indulgence documents because we know they have no present or eternal value? Ours is a non-indulgent mindset, right? Maybe.

  What of extravagant reliance on “God (or guardian angels) will take care of me.” producing the same misguided dependency sans personal lifestyle responsibility? It certainly can.

EBB4

MARISA'S DONUT SERMON

MARISA’S DONUT SERMON

Monday, October 16, 2017

1Thessalonians 5:16-19  Rejoice evermore.  Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit.

  Yesterday I heard yet another indirect sermon. Impossible to tabulate them in column other than direct sermons, but I very much suspect they outnumber the latter by more than a multiplication factor of 12.

  I arrived early for Sunday School. Said good morning to a few of the regular early birds then grabbed a donut. I silently thanked Jon for providing them every Sunday.

  After weeks of trial and error I sit in spot acoustically best for these dull ears. While enjoying my donut Marisa sat in the chair on my left, laid her donut on napkin on table and bowed her head and silently gave thanks as though it was a seven course dinner. Then began our lesson with much good discussion including some personal sharing on the topic from Matthew.

  Arriving home just before noon I prepared a large serving bowl full of salad and dressed it with Balsamic & Basil Vinaigrette. With it I dined on a slice of toasted multi-grain bread spread with Philadelphia cream cheese. And as always of course I prayed before taking a single nibble.

  Next week, assuming Jon again provides donuts, I’ll also be praying over my selection.

EBB4