CELEBRATING MURDER; Part One

 

CELEBRATING MURDER; Part One

  In His Word God plainly condemns the shedding of the blood of innocents. Doing so by abortion being one way that gains God’s displeasure. (Ex.23:7 et al) Abortion is a self-interest pagan practice not only now exercised in civilized nations, but yesterday again publicly celebrated. This time in the streets of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Will Argentines soon surpass USA tragic statistics?

  In His Word God specifically states that whoever sheds innocent blood for personal gain will be cursed. (Deut.27:35) In reflecting on this truth it has been brought to my attention that though the USA only represents 4% of world population, that as an advanced civilization we suffer 20% of world COVID deaths, thus far exceeding our WWII casualties. Definitely a notable statistic needing spiritual notice.

  As an optimistic realist I’m saddened by the observable cultural drift away from Biblical Christianity to cultural cafeteria christianity.

  To aid in further topical edification, please consider the following two summarizing essays from GotQuestions.org.

EBB4

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Is abortion murder?

  The subject of abortion is perhaps one of the most highly charged issues of our day. Finding an honest answer to the question “is abortion murder?” takes courage for those who have performed abortions or have had abortions themselves. The Bible is clear about the fact that murder is wrong (Exodus 20:13). However, in some cases, the Bible does not forbid killing. Soldiers representing their country were expected to kill soldiers on the opposing side (Joshua 11:20). That is not murder. Animals were killed for food and for sacrifice (Exodus 24:5; Genesis 9:3–4). That is not murder either.
  Murder is defined as “the unlawful, premeditated killing of one human being by another.” Murder is unlawful killing—that is, killing that is done by the judgment of one human being against another, for personal (rather than national) reasons. The Bible condemns murder repeatedly as a characteristic of a wicked society (Deuteronomy 5:17; Isaiah 1:21; Hosea 4:2; Matthew 5:21). Determining whether or not abortion is murder involves two considerations: first, whether or not a fetus in utero is actually a human being, and, second, if a fetus is a child, whether or not abortion can be rightly called murder since it is legal in most countries. If murder is unlawful killing, it would follow that a lawful killing would not be murder.
  One reason murder is outlawed in many places is that it is unethical for one person to unilaterally decide the fate of another. Under the Old Testament Law, a murderer was not put to death unless there were multiple witnesses: “No person shall be put to death on the testimony of one witness” (Numbers 35:30). In war, soldiers do not decide to kill for their own purposes; rather, they kill in the national interest—if they fight for an honorable nation, the national interest will be to protect innocent civilians from some threat. Abortion is different. Abortion is killing based on a mother’s unilateral judgment and choice. Such unprovoked killing of the defenseless is unethical and should define abortion as murder in any society—unless the fetus is not human. If the fetus is just a mass of impersonal tissue or something less than human, ending its life would not face the same ethical challenge and would not be considered murder.
  So, is a fetus a human? Or is it something else? Biologically speaking, human life begins at conception. When the mother’s egg and the father’s sperm come together, they combine and create a new string of DNA that is personalized and totally unique. DNA is coded information, the blueprint for the new human’s growth and development. No more genetic material needs to be added; the zygote in the womb is as human as the mother in whose womb it dwells. The difference between a fetus and any one of us is one of age, location, and level of dependence. When a mother aborts the process of fetal development, she is destroying a unique life.
  The Bible clearly points to conception as the beginning of human life. Samson said, “I have been a Nazirite to God from my mother’s womb” (Judges 16:17). He refers to his unborn self as having already been what God planned him to be—a Nazirite. David says, “You formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13). Again, we see David referring to himself as a person in the womb. Then, he says, “Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them” (Psalm 139:16). David is saying that God had all of his days planned out for him while he was still in the womb. Again, this evidence points to personhood beginning at conception, rather than at the moment of birth. We see God had a similar plan for the life of the pre-born Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5).
  The Bible considers a fetus to be an unborn child, a planned human being that God is forming from the moment of conception. This being the case, it doesn’t really matter what human jurisprudence says or how socially or politically acceptable abortion is. God’s law takes precedence. A mother who decides to abort her child is unilaterally making a decision to end another person’s life—and that is and always has been the definition of murder.

 

Recommended Resource: The Case for Life: Equipping Christians to Engage the Culture by Scott Klusendorf

CHRISTMAS GiFTS

 

CHRISTMAS GIFTS

   Exodus [MKJV] 15:26 And he said, If you will carefully listen to the voice of Jehovah your God, and will do that which is right in His sight, and will give ear to His commandments, and keep all His Laws, I will put none of these diseases upon you, which I have brought upon the Egyptians; for I am Jehovah who heals you.

  John 14:15, 21 If you love Me, keep My commandments. … He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me. And he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will reveal Myself to him.

  John 15:10-12 If you keep My commandments, you shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. I have spoken these things to you so that My joy might remain in you and your joy might be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

  Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

  James 1:12-17 Blessed is the man who endures temptation, because having been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one being tempted say, I am tempted from God. For God is not tempted by evils, and He tempts no one. But each one is tempted by his lusts, being drawn away and seduced by them. Then when lust has conceived, it brings forth sin. And sin, when it is fully formed, brings forth death. Do not err, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness nor shadow of turning.

  Who is it that doesn’t like to receive gifts? Not I!

  The gifts we cherish the most of all is a tell-all about who and where we really are in this brief life sojourn ours. Jesus made this principle quite clear: “No one can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” (MKJV Mt.6:24)

  Among God’s numerous perfect gifts are His commandments, all of them. Allowing our contrary feelings to influence us in opposition to His Word is to seriously err from truly lovingly worshipping Him. (Rom.12:1-3)

  This love-life scenario may even include affectionate gift(s) that He alone can and has given us if we are above and beyond cherished material blessings. For example, consider the Ephesians as recorded in Revelation 2:1-5. They, as is so with all of God’s children received gifts of ministry and service. (1Cor.12:1-31) As is so easy for us to do once we begin enjoying true eternal meaning in life, they slipped into loving ministry more than God.

  Knowing this truth, let us take care not to love His gift(s) more than The Giver. 

EBB4

SPARGANOO

 

SPARGANOO

  Luke 2:1-12 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

  “Sparganoo” is the Greek text word for swaddling. “Swaddling” being a foreign word in our USA culture; seldom used in common conversation, and lacking in contemporary physical practice. It describes the Oriental Middle Eastern practice of using strips of cloth (sparganon) to bundle a baby.

  Friends Mark and Lordina Welch introduced Ann and I to both the word and practice.

  Years ago they rejoiced in the birth of their now adult precious daughter, Aiko. With great joy they arrived home with her from the hospital, soon finding her a very noisy little lady. All night noisy!

  As all we such experienced parents know, rested or not, you still must go to work the next day(s).

  Finally, in desperation they phoned their pediatrician. The good doctor not being one to jump for his prescription pad, he explained how the frazzled parents and child could enjoy improved sleep. “Wrap the baby snugly in cloth.” Aiko slept like a baby!

  So it was in practice when Jesus began His life, swaddled in cloth, confined in the body of man. He whom formed and maintains all that was, is, and ever will be; bound and limited. To this He agreed.

  So it was that Jesus ended His life; confined, nailed to a cross with all its limitations. To this He agreed.

  So it was that he was entombed; confined, tightly swaddled in grave clothes in a tomb sealed, secured and guarded by Roman soldiers around the clock. To this He agreed.

  And yet He was, as ever, truly free; glorious example and model for our living free while temporarily swaddled this side of heaven. (Please note I said “heaven”, not “eternity”, for truly individuals always live life or death everlasting.)

  Life’s sparganoo is present, but can in no way restrict our God given freedom (Jn.8:36), unless of course we reject, allow, or even embrace otherwise.  

EBB4

IN HEAVEN

 

HOW ANCIENT THE CHRISTMAS STORY?

 

HOW ANCIENT THE CHRISTMAS STORY?

Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was this way (for His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph) before they came together, she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.

  There are those today that are clueless as to Christmas beyond its commercialization. There are also those that know better but don’t live accordingly in the true spirit of Christmas. For some it’s a fixation on the immediate of partying, shopping, presents, trees, and tinsel.

  We must not limit God working in us by confining our thinking to “Over 2,000 years ago …”

  First, considering it’s God’s Word that tells us the wonderful story, let’s look at a few foundational truths.

·         The Bible contains total of 66 books.

·         God employed about 40 penman over a 4,000+ year period.

·         Most of them never knew each other.

·         Their writings were not the product of writer’s workshops or seminars.

·         They were from diverse cultures, areas, and educational backgrounds.

·         Their writings, though not concurrently penned, are harmonious.

·         Their style is various, but their theme is consistent.

·         They served under the aegis of The One Editor.

  Some wrote of the coming First Advent of Christ, that which we know as Christmas. (Dates are circa by Ussher.)

·         BC 4004, Genesis 3:15, the initial prophecy of Christ’s birth.

·         BC 1452, Numbers 24:17, the Star of Bethlehem.

·         BC 977, Ecclesiastes 9:14-15, He would come, save, and be forgotten by His own people.

·         BC 742, Isaiah 7:14, virgin birth foretold; 9:17 Messiah prophesied.

·         BC 600, Jeremiah 10:3-5, Christmas tree?

·         BC 710, Micah 5:2, birthplace foretold.

  Though some may believe so, Christmas didn’t begin with the St. Nicholas. 

EBB4

CHRISTMAS HECTICRAMA

 

CHRISTMAS HECTICRAMA

   John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

  Philippians [ESV] 4:4-8 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 

  I just now read about the post-Christmas burgeoning gift return busyness. WOW!

  Serenity in the midst of hectic times is possible, depending on its being an integral part of our life.

  Christmas can be very stressful, a hectic scene, a time of confusion and anxiety.

  Hectic-rama: using paraphernalia, the working at trying to create a time of joy and peace on earth; “earth” for most spelled “family”.

  Hectic-rama is easily recognized. It is fleeting life-piece apart from abiding life-peace that Christ-worship, adoration with trust of and in Him alone provides.

  Enjoy Christmas, please do, especially as time with loved ones.

  Do not however let Christ-mas pass as a season, for He alone is life with peace. (Lk.4:4; Jn.14:6) 

EBB4

A FARMER'S CHRISTMAS STORY

 A FARMER’S CHRISTMAS TALE

Dear fellow travelers,

I can never let this joyful season pass without again airing this old favorite illustrative story. Every time I read or hear it and consider the truth recorded in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians it brings tears to my eyes. Be blessed as you read. Bless others by sharing copies.

It is our privilege to serve Him all our days,

Ed   Philippians 2:6-11

  There was a farmer that didn’t believe in God, and was quite outspoken about religion, Easter, and Christmas. His wife, a believer, raised their children to be God-fearing. The man and his spouse loved each other dearly with sacrificial devotion, but there was always what he deemed “The Difference.”

  One snowy Christmas eve, she prepared to take the children to church. As always, she invited him to go with them. As always, he refused, adding his usual “That story is nonsense! Why would God abase himself by living on earth as a man? That’s ridiculous!” So, as usual, she went, he stayed home.

  Sitting at the kitchen table relaxing with a cup of coffee and a hunk of his wife’s delicious Christmas fruit cake, he noticed the wind rising as the snowing increased. Before long a blizzard developed. He didn’t worry about his family as he knew, if need be, they’d stay with friends near the church.

  Suddenly he was startled by a loud thump against the side of the house, then another soon followed.

  Turning on all the yard lights he couldn’t detect anything so he bundled up and went out into the driving storm to look around. In the yard he found a flock of late traveling southern bound geese. They were obviously disoriented and in despair. Knowing they would be safer in shelter with food, he opened the nearby barn’s big doors.

  Returning inside he, concerned, watched them out the window. They didn’t go in the barn where he had scattered corn on the floor.

  Bundling up again he tried shooing them into the barn. It did not work.

  Then he tried laying a path of corn. It didn’t work.

  Next he tried slices of bread. It didn’t work.

  The frightened geese just kept honking and huddling, not noticing the barn or what it meant to them; nourishment and shelter from the storm.

  “Why don’t they follow my lead . . . can’t they see the only place they can survive the storm?”

  He thought for a moment and realized they wouldn’t follow him, a human. “If only I were a goose, then I could save them.” he said aloud.

  With that realization he went to the barn and gathered one of his domesticated geese in his arms, took her to the yard and released her on the far side of the stressed wild flock. Having full knowledge of good sense, she waddled quickly thru the group. They followed to safety.

  Though quite cold by now, he stood silently with the blizzard howling about him and the icy snow stinging his face. Suddenly it all made sense.

  That is what God had done and he was like those lost geese needing guidance.

  Jesus, his dear wife and children, and others, had been showing him the way of salvation, but he had refused and kept milling about in life.

  Suddenly the revelation of truth overwhelmed him and he fell to his knees, begging God’s forgiveness and trusting Jesus as Redeemer.

  As the wind and snow relented, his soul became quiet and pondered the wonderful simplicity of it all; understanding what Christmas was truly about; the reason Christ had come. He then prayed his first prayer of thanksgiving, “Thank you God for coming in human form to get me out of the storm!”

 (Author unknown, rewritten from file notes and memory. EBB4) 

CHRISTMAS CONFIDENCE

 

CHRISTMAS AUTHENTICITY INCLUDES GODLY CONFIDENCE

   John [ESV] 1:1-14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

   1John 3:16-21 By this we know love, that he [Jesus, the Word] laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God;

  What does today’s above Scripture selections have to do with Christmas? Considerable.

  For many folks Christmas is interpreted by lights, gifts, tinsel, and entertainment – hustle, bustle, and stress. Authentic Christmas means Christ-adoration, worship. Authentic Christmas involves a “quickened” life of Ephesians 1:1; 2:1-3 (Also note Col.2:13; 1Pet.3:18) personal resurrection with its peace and freedom; said peace and freedom heart-centered in confidence toward God and His pledge of physical resurrection. (Phil.3:10)

  Confident godly peace and freedom is inseparable from authentic Christmas. Without our heart confident in and by godliness, Christmas is mere pagan yuletide holiday, tinseled at its utmost.

  Truly, authentic Christmas includes the matter of a confident heart. 

EBB4

 

PS. Indeed Lord Jesus came to bring “peace on earth”. He did not however say earth at peace. Though I too very much emotionally prefer a whitewashed holiday season, check it out for it too is very much a part of the Christmas story: Luke 2:1-14; Mt.10:32-38; Lk.12:51-53

CONFESSING CHRISTMAS

 

CHRISTMAS CONFESSION – Expressing or Suppressing the Truth of Christmas

   Isaiah 52:7-8 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, "Your God reigns." The voice of your watchmen—they lift up their voice; together they sing for joy; for eye to eye they see the return of the LORD to Zion.

   Luke 9:26 [Jesus explained] For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.

   Romans 1:16-19 [Paul exclaimed] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, "The righteous shall live by faith." For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.

  Arguing for “Merry Christmas” and against politically acceptable ecumenical generic “Happy Holidays” is one thing, confessing Christmas (i.e. Christ-worship) is quite another.

  God’s Word tells us that a characteristic mark of a believer (i.e. Christian: follower of Christ) is verbal public confession: "The Word is near you, even in your mouth and in your heart"; that is, the Word of Faith which we proclaim; Because if you confess the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses unto salvation. For the Scripture says, "Everyone believing on Him shall not be put to shame." For there is no difference both of Jew and of Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call on Him. For everyone, "whoever shall call on the name of the Lord will be saved." How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without preaching? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace and bring glad tidings of good things!" But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed our report?" Then faith is of hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. (Rom.10:8-17)

  How easy it is to speak His name in Sunday School, Bible study group, church congregation, Christmas carols, and in writing devotional thought.

  Ah, but what of place outside of comfortable religious settings?

  Apart from cozy pious zones . . . will we outlier speak of baby or adult Lord Jesus Christ on even so much as during the time celebrated as His birthday?

  Let us say “Merry Christmas”-- good, but to what end? Does such well wishing speak of my confession of salvation through and by Jesus?

  Believing in our heart, let us stand on beautiful feet (Rom.10:15) saying “Jesus is Lord” … someone just may believe the report and receive Jehovah God’s Christmas gift of present and everlasting redemption through trusting in God’s only begotten Son.  (Jn.3:16)

EBB4

AN ESSENTIAL CHRISTMAS QUESTION

 AN ESSENTIAL CHRISTMAS QUESTION

Is it possible to have an authentic Christmas without Biblically personal John 3:3 resurrection?

EBB4

NOT ALL COME

 

NOT ALL CAME

  Matthew 2:1-2 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

  John 1:9-13 He [Jesus] was the true Light; He enlightens every man coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, He gave to them authority to become the children of God, to those who believe on His name, who were born, not of bloods, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but were born of God.

  Is it reasonable to think that more people than the gentile Magi saw the star? I believe so. If a candle or match flame can be seen at great distance, what of a brilliant star?

  Especially without the light pollution we have today, wouldn’t multitudes have seen the star? And wouldn’t there be others that had studied and understood the meaning? I believe so.

  What of all the Jews that had been discussing and eagerly awaiting the coming of Messiah? Is it far-fetched to think of some of them as mindful . . . but not acting upon what they told others they believed . . . or, believing about the light, were preoccupied with the day’s problems or entertainment?

  Fast forward thousands of years from Bethlehem until now, considering in all of the elapsed time and yet active presently . . .  Jesus has and currently is enlightening every person born, lived, and died (Jn.1:9b) . . . and yet so few have come to The Light.

  Jesus clearly explains the present and eternal condemnation; that the Light has come into the world, but people love darkness rather than the Light, because their deeds are evil. “I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life…. I have come as a Light into the world, so that whoever believes on Me should not remain in darkness.” (Jn.3:19; 8:12; 12:46)

  Christmas has never lacked sufficient Light, and never will. The problem lies not with thinking of Jesus as a babe in a manger, but in the preference of multitudes to choose continuance in darkness. 

EBB4   

PEAL THE BELLS

 

PEAL THE BELLS

  On Christmas Day in 1863 Henry Wadsworth Longfellow continued to grieve the death of his beloved second wife Fannie who had died two years prior when her housedress caught fire. Longfellow himself tried to extinguish those flames with his own body but Fannie did not survive the accident. During the subsequent two years Henry's oldest son would enlist in the Union army to fight in the Civil War. On December 1 of that year, Henry would receive a telegram that his son had been shot during a battle of the Mine Run campaign. The location of the exit wound from the bullet would put his son at risk of being paralyzed.

  This father of six, now widowed, worried for the future of his children, all while cannons thundered in the south, captured his feelings as he heard the bells that Christmas day in his poem titled, 'Christmas Bells'. Yesterday as we sang this poem (now song) in our church congregation, I felt as though I could relate a little more to Longfellow and his feelings of despair that were overcome with hope by what he chose to listen to. He chose amidst the grief, amidst the cannons, amidst the fighting and hate to listen to the bells of hope. Those bells would breathe peace into his life just as they have into mine.

  I include below the words to the entire poem with verses that are not included in the song. They paint the beautiful picture of a man who found his hope as he bowed his head and listened more intently to his maker. Rachel Hixon

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep, God is not dead, nor doth He sleep!

I know that bowing our heads is the first step toward hope and peace in our lives.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old, familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet

The words repeat

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come,

The belfries of all Christendom

Had rolled along

The unbroken song

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Till ringing, singing on its way,

The world revolved from night to day,

A voice, a chime,

A chant sublime

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Then from each black, accursed mouth

The cannon thundered in the South,

And with the sound

The carols drowned

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

It was as if an earthquake rent

The hearth-stones of a continent,

And made forlorn

The households born

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;

"There is no peace on earth," I said;

"For hate is strong,

And mocks the song

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!"

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:

"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;

The Wrong shall fail,

The Right prevail,

With peace on earth, good-will to men."

PERSONAL RESURRECTION: The Forever Christmas Gift

 

PERSONAL RESURRECTION: The Forever Christmas Gift

 

Jesus declared “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. … For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” 

 

  The Biblical answer to the question “Is it possible to have an authentic Christmas without Biblically personal resurrection?” is no, we cannot have an authentic Christmas (Christ-worship) without personal resurrection as provided by the John 1:1 Word of God; He that began His life here in a stable manger and finished it on a cruel cross.

  As with all things in genuine relationship with God, Christmas is a John 1:12 family matter. Outsiders may look, but they cannot really see.

  Jesus explained this to Nicodemus and for all to know hereafter in reading the record; individuals must gain new life in order to see clearly God’s kingdom present and future. (Jn.3:1-21)

  As recorded, Paul, a dynamic follower of Christ, explained this rebirth to the congregation in Ephesus. (Eph.2:1-22)

  If you have not gained His new sight through trust in Him, I encourage you to this day to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and receive His gift of present and eternal redemption and all it entails, including Christmas joy beyond this world’s norm.

EBB4

CONSPIRACY THEORIES

 

A CONSPIRACY THEORY IT IS NOT

  Yes, there are conspiracy theories galore.  I opine that they began soon after Adam’s original sinning. But just because they are labeled as such by authorities does not mean they are actually a theory. Depending on common media to decide whether true or false may be a serious mistake; For we are ultimately responsible.

  An example: MAJOR USA BANKS HAVE AMENDED AN AGREEMENT TO FREEZE YOUR MONEY IF THERE’S A BANK FAILURE. A conspiracy theory? Not at all.

  Upon investigation you’ll discover that in the event of bank collapse banks are legally authorized to seize 50% or more of depositor’s funds. They simply recategorize depositors as “unsecured creditors,” giving banks the capacity to avoid insolvency. This being the opposite of a government taxpayer funded “bail-out”. It being a “bail-in” using depositor funding.

  You are not alone in lacking this knowledge. I too missed being informed about the Dodd-Frank Title II Orderly Liquidation Authority (OLA) bill passed several decades ago. Even if I’d heard of it then, would I have grasped the implication of its opaque designation?

  God’s Word warns “… we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, …” (ESV Eph.6) This being an essential life-principle to wisely apply.

  Conspiracy theories are thicker than swarming mosquitoes on the Eastern Shore of Maryland on a summer evening. Insects easily seen. Facts are not always so without scrutiny. Said scrutiny being an onus for many, it being easier to research, discover, and rely upon authentic authorities. (Please contribute your trusted resources for use here.)

EBB4

PS. And then there’s the media choosing when to apply “alleged” or “baseless” and other such guiding words.

WHO/WHAT IS SATAN?

 

"Who/what is Satan? Who/what is the devil?" gotquestions.org

  People’s beliefs concerning Satan range from the silly to the abstract—from a little red guy with horns who sits on your shoulder urging you to sin, to an expression used to describe the personification of evil. The Bible, however, gives us a clear portrait of who Satan is and how he affects our lives. Put simply, the Bible defines Satan as an angelic being who fell from his position in heaven due to sin and is now completely opposed to God, doing all in his power to thwart God’s purposes.
  Satan was created as a holy angel. Isaiah 14:12 possibly gives Satan’s pre-fall name as Lucifer. Ezekiel 28:12-14 describes Satan as having been created a cherub, apparently the highest created angel. He became arrogant in his beauty and status and decided he wanted to sit on a throne above that of God (Isaiah 14:13-14; Ezekiel 28:15; 1 Timothy 3:6). Satan’s pride led to his fall. Notice the many “I will” statements in Isaiah 14:12-15. Because of his sin, God permanently removed Satan from his exalted position and role.
  Satan became the ruler of this world and the prince of the power of the air (John 12:31; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:2). He is an accuser (Revelation 12:10), a tempter (Matthew 4:3; 1 Thessalonians 3:5), and a deceiver (Genesis 3; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 20:3). His very name means “adversary” or “one who opposes.” Another of his titles, the devil, means “slanderer.”
  Even though he was cast out of heaven, he still seeks to elevate his throne above God. He counterfeits all that God does, hoping to gain the worship of the world and encourage opposition to God’s kingdom. Satan is the ultimate source behind every false cult and world religion. Satan will do anything and everything in his power to oppose God and those who follow God. However, Satan’s destiny is sealed—an eternity in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10).

STRAW DOCTRINE

 

STRAW DOCTRINE

 

2Timothy [GW] 1:13-14 With faith and love for Christ Jesus, consider what you heard me say to be the pattern of accurate teachings. With the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us, protect the Good News that has been entrusted to you. 

 

  The above picture was recently posted on Facebook. It getting a number of “Like” from professing Christians. But is it truly Biblically “sound doctrine”? Is it Holy Spirit inspired?  Does it project the Good News entrusted to God’s John 1:12 family of 2Corinthians 5:20 ambassadors?

  The nice manger picture and caption “One unplanned pregnancy saved us all.” is false on all counts! It is not sound doctrine. Not being sound doctrine, it is not Holy Spirit inspired. It is absolutely contrary to the Good News.

·         The birth of Jesus Christ was planned: Isa.7;14; 9;6; 53:3-7; Zech.9:9; 12:10; Ps.22:16-18

·         Jesus’ birth saves no one: Jn.3:3-21; Acts17:2-3

·         God’s Holy Spirit never contradicts God’s Word: Jn.16:4-15; 17:17

  Beware the quaintness of straw doctrine in its many sentimental forms.

EBB4

AGING WELL? Part Four

 

AGING WELL? Part Four

  Isaiah [ESV] 58:11-12 And the LORD will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in. 

  1Thessalonians 5:16-21 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. 

  Mother had always lived an active happy live, enjoying people and they enjoying her. Was she ever sad? Not that I saw while her dear Ed lived.

  At the family and friends gathering after Dad’s funeral, Mom had me silence the crowd as she said she wanted to make an announcement. “My life is over.” she firmly declared. And so she unhappily lived her remaining years. For those who loved her it was a “Where did Charlotte go?” experience.

  God does not fix people. He prescribes His Word written and exemplified through Jesus. It is our choice as to whether we embrace or reject His provision. Adverse emotions may arise, but it is our choice whether to inflate or deflate them; to give them place or displace them; to allow them to dominate our life or not. Legitimate Biblical guidance we may squelch, or not. (Phil.4:4-8)

  At any time in our life we may deny ourselves God’s available:

Love (Gen.1:28; 2:7, 21-22; 3:8; Jer.31:3; Jn.3:16; 15:9-11; Rom.5:6-8;)

Significance (Isa.58:11-12; Jer.29:11)

Security (Ps.139:1-3; Rom.8:1-2, 28, 31132; Phil.4:19; Heb.13:5).

  Relying on the Word, living and written, “We do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” (2Cor.4:16) Being one of the “We” always being a matter of choice.

EBB4

AGING WELL? Part Three.

 

AGING WELL? Part Three

Genesis 2:15 The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. 

Proverbs 18:14 A human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?

  Godliness with contentment is great gain. (1Tim.6:6)

  Feelings are largely a matter of personal perspective, individual responses varying in situations.

  Most people like feeling useful. I am one. But it should never be the reason for being, though for some it is an essential driving emotion.

  The man was an energetic determined person that accomplished admirable goals in the face of adversities. The Great Depression for one. Though as a boy I didn’t understand and consequently didn’t think much of it at the time, he told me “When I don’t feel useful anymore, I don’t want to live.”

  As he grew old his body developed problems that curtailed his favored activities. He compensated by initiating a large vegetable garden plus a few other less demanding pursuits. Within a few years they became too difficult and he curtailed them.

  After age 80 he required hospitalized “adjustments” to his lifestyle. During his last hospitalization he decided the “Useful?” question, and refused sustenance even when the staff allowed his favorite foods and drinks brought in.

  It took 6 weeks for my beloved father to die of malnutrition.

  Feelings are largely a matter of perspective, individual responses varying in situations.

EBB4

AGING WELL? Part Two.

 

AGING WELL? Part Two.

Ecclesiastes [ESV] 12:1-14 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”; before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars are darkened and the clouds return after the rain, in the day when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men are bent, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those who look through the windows are dimmed, and the doors on the street are shut—when the sound of the grinding is low, and one rises up at the sound of a bird, and all the daughters of song are brought low—they are afraid also of what is high, and terrors are in the way; the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper drags itself along, and desire fails, because man is going to his eternal home, and the mourners go about the streets—before the silver cord is snapped, or the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher is shattered at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern, and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it. Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity. Besides being wise, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arranging many proverbs with great care. The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth. The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd. My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh. The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil. 

  As we aged well, someplace along our lifeline we discovered that the main goal is not happiness for self, our children, or any others. The main goal being as Jesus summarized: To love God and therefore love people. (MK.12:28-34) Authentic happiness being a possible byproduct of doing so.

  This mature endeavor very much entailing true worship as Paul spelled it out: I beseech you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, pleasing to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to every one who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think. But set your mind to be right-minded, even as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith. (MKJV 12:1-3) Anything less than this, including reliance on good works and/or awesome religious ritual, is immature on our part.

  This I know and am still learning.

EBB4

AGING WELL?

 

AGING WELL? Part One. 

Dear fellow agers,

  If we have sense and sensibility other than in library book form, we are aware that aging and aging well are two distinctly different areas; some just getting old physically while others also mature spiritually, which definitely includes mentally and emotionally resulting in heightened physical heath.

  Those of us aging well recognize indicators, something of itself reflecting aging well.

  Today I share a helpful list that I read recently and have been pondering.

  First there’s the basic 3 needs: Love, Significance, Security. Without being fulfilled we don’t age well. Supportive family, friends, and acquaintances may be helpful in this, but only our Creator can optimize fulfillment . . . if we freely are agreeable in submissive acceptance.

  Here are 5 of the indicators that show we are aging well, or not:

1. We don’t live with self-pity, understanding and maturely accepting that life is lived with apparent losses and gains. Rom.8:28; 1Thes.5:18

2. We are realistic, but not pessimistic about the future. Isa.46:9-10; Rom.15:13

3. We don’t live to win arguments. 1Pet.3:15

4. We do not deliberately isolate ourselves from family, friends, acquaintances, or others. Pr.17:17; 18:24; Act.20:35

5. We don’t live with doubts about God’s available direction. Ps.32:8; Jer.29:11

  If I remember, I’ll be sharing more on this topic tomorrow.

EBB4

I DON'T CHEW

 

I DON’T CHEW

  Proverbs [GW] 27:17  As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens the wits of another. 

  John Chapter 16 … I am telling you the truth: It's good for you that I'm [Jesus] going away. If I don't go away, the helper [Holy Spirit] won't come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. He will come to convict the world of sin, to show the world what has God's approval, and to convince the world that God judges it. He will convict the world of sin, because people don't believe in me. He will show the world what has God's approval, because I'm going to the Father and you won't see me anymore. 

er be used. There is the gift of speaking in other languages, but it will stop by itself. There is the gift of knowledge, but it will no longer be used. 

  1Corinthians 13:11 When I was a child, I spoke like a child, thought like a child, and reasoned like a child. When I became an adult, I no longer used childish ways.

  James 5:16  So admit your sins to each other, and pray for each other so that you will be healed. Prayers offered by those who have God's approval are effective. 

  “I don’t smoke, drink, chew, or run with women that do!” was once a declaration of Christian identity for some. Personally believed but some, a quaint summary by others, but hardly approaching Philippians 4:13. The point being that there’s more than “I don’t chew” involved in Romans 12:1-3 worship and public testimony.

  Yesterday I was again reminded of this. God’s Holy Spirit ever the trainer, He often using fellow travelers to school us.

  I laughed when I viewed the darkly humorous cartoon on Facebook, and while still snickering hit “Share” sending it to my many FB friends.

  I soon received a “Surprised at you Granpa” chastising response. (To chastise is not judgementalism. It is with the goal being healthy correction.)

  Immediately I considered my reason for the action. It being my youthful peer conditioning. We boys enjoying repeatedly singing macabre songs. Portions of which contained “Lizzie Borden took an axe, gave her mother 40 whacks …” and another “The worms crawl in, the worms crawl out. They play pinochle on your snout …”

  A reason, yes, but certainly not an excuse.

  Thank you Lord. Thank you Amber.

EBB4

   

REMEMBER PEARL HARBOR

 

REMEMBER PEARL HARBOR

  It is important to remember events . . . and the lessons therein. This is a pedagogical Biblical principle. (Jn.3:9-10; 2Tim.2:2, 14)

  Pedagogy may be interpreted as the ladder rungs of educating; Precept upon precept. Beginning with learning the ABCs of any topic being the primary example.

  I’m concerned that the lessons inherit to “remember Pearl Harbor” are no longer in the tidal wash of many in the American consciousness.

  Serious? Yes. But not so serious as the USA present day paucity of knowledge of Scripture. A knowledge that at one time contributed to protecting us from being duped by “Wonderful Bible quoting politicians”. Politicians, and some preachers and tele-evangelists, that manipulate an unknowledgeable congregation by twisting, fragmenting, misquoting, misapplying, non-contextually speaking God’s Word. A marketing ploy in appealing for the Christian consumer afflicted with consumption to buy their wares.

  And so it was with the courteous smiling Japanese diplomats speaking of and selling peace in distant Washington D.C. as the Rising Sun warplanes roared toward far and away Pearl Harbor. (And attacking the Philippines and elsewhere.)

  Beware! Be Biblically equipped. Recognize the ploying.

EBB4

 

666

  I haven’t thought about eschatology, “the study of what the Bible says is going to happen in the end times”, for quite a while. And I haven’t been asked for or provided pertaining information for longer than that. I’ve primarily been studying and providing Biblical guidance on how to mature in worshipful service pleasing to God. (Rom.12:1-3; 2Tim.2:1-2)

  What jogged me? Not so fast a pace. It was a slow walk as for the first time I trundled the city provided 96 gallon mechanically picked up trash and recycle containers to the curb. They having chips identifying that they are assigned to me. Or is it that I am assigned to them, they providing the weight of my consumption and possibly other info?

  So, I then read the essay below and am now passing it on to you for your thoughtful examination.

EBB4

GotQuestions.org "What is Christian Eschatology?"

  Eschatology is the study of what the Bible says is going to happen in the end times. Many treat Eschatology as an area of theology to be avoided. Of course, Eschatology is not as crucial as Christology or Soteriology. That does not mean, though, that it is unimportant to a Biblical worldview. How we understand Eschatology has an impact on how we should live our lives and what we are to expect to occur in God’s plan. Some important issues in Eschatology are these:
  What is the Rapture? The word "rapture" does not occur in the Bible. The concept of the Rapture, though, is clearly taught in Scripture. The Rapture of the church is the event in which God removes all believers from the earth in order to make way for His righteous judgment to be poured out on the earth during the Tribulation period.
  When is the Rapture going to occur in relation to the Tribulation? Will the Rapture occur before the Tribulation, at the middle of the Tribulation, or at the end of the Tribulation?
  What is the Second Coming and why is it important? Why is it so important for Jesus Christ to return? When is Christ going to return? What will be the signs of Christ’s return?
  Is the millennium literal or figurative? The fulfillment of many of God’s covenants and promises rest on a literal, physical, future kingdom. There is no solid basis to deny a literal understanding of the Millennial Kingdom and its duration being 1,000 years.
  Will the generation that saw Israel re-formed as a nation still be alive for the Second Coming? It is not Scriptural to teach that the generation that sees Israel become a nation will also see the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This may be the case, but Scripture does not specifically say so.
  The Bible describes a terrible period of tribulation in Revelation chapters 6-18. Will this Tribulation be preceded by the Rapture, will it conclude with the Rapture, or has it in fact already occurred? These different perspectives have a great impact on what we should be preparing ourselves for. Eschatology helps us to understand the Bible’s prophetic passages and how to live our lives in response to what God is going to do in the end times. There is a great deal of controversy in Eschatology, but that does not relieve us of our responsibility to study and understand what the Bible teaches about the end times. An understanding of Eschatology will eliminate many of the fears we have about the future. Our God is sovereign, He has a plan, and it will all unfold according to His perfect will and timing. This is a great encouragement to those who are in Christ!
  A key verse on Eschatology is Titus 2:13: "we wait for the blessed hope - the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ."

Recommended Resource: Understanding End Times Prophecy by Paul Benware

CLOISTERING BENEATH A BUSHEL

 

CLOISTERING BENEATH A BUSHEL

  Jesus is the light of the world, declaring “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. … As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.“ (Jn.8:12; 9:5)

  This same light he passed into those trusting Him, saying to His disciples, “Ye are the light of the world.” (Mt.5:14a; also note 1Cor.3:16)

  Jesus continued by saying that we are not to hide the light. We are to shine forth as beacons glorifying out Father. (Mt.5:15-16)

  As warned in Paul’s letter to the Thessalonicans, it is however possible for Christians to suppress the light. 1Thes.5:16-22) How so?

  I testify of 3 ways from my own historic actions:

·         Under certain circumstances, like Peter, being a closet Christian.

·         Times when I went along to get along.

·         Cloistering: Gravitating to and primarily associating with those of agreeable like belief religiously and politically. Doing so being contrary to Jesus’ example.

  During this time of popular enjoyable lighting, let’s be God’s lights . . . even if not popular or enjoyable.

EBB4