THE 5 SOLAS

 

GotQuestions.org: "What are the five solas?"

 

  The five solas are five Latin phrases popularized during the Protestant Reformation that emphasized the distinctions between the early Reformers and the Roman Catholic Church. The word sola is the Latin word for “only” and was used in relation to five key teachings that defined the biblical pleas of Protestants. They are:

1. Sola scriptura: “Scripture alone”
2. Sola fide: “faith alone”
3. Sola gratia: “grace alone”
4. Solo Christo: “Christ alone”
5. Soli Deo gloria: “to the glory of God alone”

  Each of these solas can be seen both as a corrective to the excesses of the Roman Catholic Church at the start of the Reformation and as a positive biblical declaration.
  Sola scriptura emphasizes the Bible alone as the source of authority for Christians. By saying, “Scripture alone,” the Reformers rejected both the divine authority of the Roman Catholic Pope and confidence in sacred tradition. Only the Bible was “inspired by God” (2 Peter 1:20-21) and “God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Anything taught by the Pope or in tradition that contradicted the Bible was to be rejected. Sola scriptura also fueled the translation of the Bible into German, French, English, and other languages, and prompted Bible teaching in the common languages of the day, rather than in Latin.
  Sola fide emphasizes salvation as a free gift. The Roman Catholic Church of the time emphasized the use of indulgences (donating money) to buy status with God. Good works, including baptism, were seen as required for salvation. Sola fide stated that salvation is a free gift to all who accept it by faith (John 3:16). Salvation is not based on human effort or good deeds (Ephesians 2:9).
  Sola gratia emphasizes grace as the reason for our salvation. In other words, salvation comes from what God has done rather than what we do. Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
  Solo Christo (sometimes listed as Solus Christus, “through Christ alone”) emphasizes the role of Jesus in salvation. The Roman Catholic tradition had placed church leaders such as priests in the role of intercessor between the laity and God. Reformers emphasized Jesus’ role as our “high priest” who intercedes on our behalf before the Father. Hebrews 4:15 teaches, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” Jesus is the One who offers access to God, not a human spiritual leader.
  Soli Deo gloria emphasizes the glory of God as the goal of life. Rather than striving to please church leaders, keep a list of rules, or guard our own interests, our goal is to glorify the Lord. The idea of soli Deo gloria is found in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
  The five solas of the Protestant Reformation offered a strong corrective to the faulty practices and beliefs of the time, and they remain relevant today. We are called to focus on Scripture, accept salvation by grace through faith, magnify Christ, and live for God’s glory.

SOLA SCRIPTURA

 SOLA SCRIPTURA

GotQuestions.org: "What is sola scriptura?"

  The phrase sola scriptura is from the Latin: sola having the idea of "alone," "ground," "base," and the word scriptura meaning "writings" referring to the Scriptures. Sola scriptura means that Scripture alone is authoritative for the faith and practice of the Christian. The Bible is complete, authoritative, and true. "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16).
  Sola scriptura was the rallying cry of the Protestant Reformation. For centuries the Roman Catholic Church had made its traditions superior in authority to the Bible. This resulted in many practices that were in fact contradictory to the Bible. Some examples are prayer to saints and/or Mary, the immaculate conception, transubstantiation, infant baptism, indulgences, and papal authority. Martin Luther, the founder of the Lutheran Church and father of the Protestant Reformation, was publicly rebuking the Catholic Church for its unbiblical teachings. The Catholic Church threatened Martin Luther with excommunication (and death) if he did not recant. Martin Luther's reply was, "Unless therefore I am convinced by the testimony of Scripture, or by the clearest reasoning, unless I am persuaded by means of the passages I have quoted, and unless they thus render my conscience bound by the Word of God, I cannot and will not retract, for it is unsafe for a Christian to speak against his conscience. Here I stand, I can do no other; may God help me! Amen!"
  The primary Catholic argument against sola scriptura is that the Bible does not explicitly teach sola scriptura. Catholics argue that the Bible nowhere states that it is the only authoritative guide for faith and practice. However, this is only true in the shallowest sense. The principle is strongly indicated by verses such as Acts 17:11, which commends the Bereans for testing doctrine—taught by an apostle, no less—to the written Word. Sola scriptura is all-but-explicitly indicated in 1 Corinthians 4:6, where Paul warns not to “go beyond what is written.” Jesus Himself criticized those who allowed traditions to override the explicit commands of God in Mark 7:6–9.
  Whether sola scriptura is overtly mentioned in the Bible or not, Catholicism fails to recognize a crucially important issue. We know that the Bible is the Word of God. The Bible declares itself to be God-breathed, inerrant, and authoritative. We also know that God does not change His mind or contradict Himself. So, while the Bible itself may not explicitly argue for sola scriptura, it most definitely does not allow for traditions that contradict its message. Sola scriptura is not as much of an argument against tradition as it is an argument against unbiblical, extra-biblical and/or anti-biblical doctrines. The only way to know for sure what God expects of us is to stay true to what we know He has revealed—the Bible. We can know, beyond the shadow of any doubt, that Scripture is true, authoritative, and reliable. The same cannot be said of tradition.
  The Word of God is the only authority for the Christian faith. Traditions are valid only when they are based on Scripture and are in full agreement with Scripture. Traditions that contradict the Bible are not of God and are not a valid aspect of the Christian faith. Sola scriptura is the only way to avoid subjectivity and keep personal opinion from taking priority over the teachings of the Bible. The essence of sola scriptura is basing your spiritual life on the Bible alone and rejecting any tradition or teaching that is not in full agreement with the Bible. Second Timothy 2:15 declares, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."
  Sola scriptura does not nullify the concept of church traditions. Rather, sola scriptura gives us a solid foundation on which to base church traditions. There are many practices, in both Catholic and Protestant churches, that are the result of traditions, not the explicit teaching of Scripture. It is good, and even necessary, for the church to have traditions. Traditions play an important role in clarifying and organizing Christian practice. At the same time, in order for these traditions to be valid, they must not be in disagreement with God's Word. They must be based on the solid foundation of the teaching of Scripture. The problem with the Roman Catholic Church, and many other churches, is that they base traditions on traditions which are based on traditions which are based on traditions, often with the initial tradition not being in full harmony with the Scriptures. That is why Christians must always go back to sola scriptura, the authoritative Word of God, as the only solid basis for faith and practice.
  On a practical matter, a frequent objection to the concept of sola scriptura is the fact that the canon of the Bible was not officially agreed upon for at least 250 years after the church was founded. Further, the Scriptures were not available to the masses for over 1500 years after the church was founded. How, then, were early Christians to use sola scriptura, when they did not even have the full Scriptures? And how were Christians who lived before the invention of the printing press supposed to base their faith and practice on Scripture alone if there was no way for them to have a complete copy of the Scriptures? This issue is further compounded by the very high rates of illiteracy throughout history. How does the concept of sola scriptura handle these issues?
  The problem with this argument is that it essentially says that Scripture's authority is based on its availability. This is not the case. Scripture's authority is universal; because it is God's Word, it is His authority. The fact that Scripture was not readily available, or that people could not read it, does not change the fact that Scripture is God's Word. Further, rather than this being an argument against sola scriptura, it is actually an argument for what the church should have done, instead of what it did. The early church should have made producing copies of the Scriptures a high priority. While it was unrealistic for every Christian to possess a complete copy of the Bible, it was possible that every church could have some, most, or all of the Scriptures available to it. Early church leaders should have made studying the Scriptures their highest priority so they could accurately teach it. Even if the Scriptures could not be made available to the masses, at least church leaders could be well-trained in the Word of God. Instead of building traditions upon traditions and passing them on from generation to generation, the church should have copied the Scriptures and taught the Scriptures (2 Timothy 4:2).
  Again, traditions are not the problem. Unbiblical traditions are the problem. The availability of the Scriptures throughout the centuries is not the determining factor. The Scriptures themselves are the determining factor. We now have the Scriptures readily available to us. Through the careful study of God's Word, it is clear that many church traditions which have developed over the centuries are in fact contradictory to the Word of God. This is where sola scriptura applies. Traditions that are based on, and in agreement with, God's Word can be maintained. Traditions that are not based on, and/or disagree with, God's Word must be rejected. Sola scriptura points us back to what God has revealed to us in His Word. Sola scriptura ultimately points us back to the God who always speaks the truth, never contradicts Himself, and always proves Himself to be dependable.

SYNCRETISM

 "What is religious syncretism?"

  Syncretism as defined by the American Heritage Dictionary is the reconciliation or fusion of differing systems of belief. This is most evident in the areas of philosophy and religion, and usually results in a new teaching or belief system. Obviously, this cannot be reconciled to biblical Christianity.
  Religious syncretism often takes place when foreign beliefs are introduced to an indigenous belief system and the teachings are blended. The new, heterogeneous religion then takes a shape of its own. This has been seen most clearly in Roman Catholic missionary history. Take, for example, the Roman Catholic Church's proselytizing of animistic South America. Threatened with the fear of death, natives were baptized into the church by the tens of thousands without any preaching of the Gospel whatsoever. Former temples were razed, with Catholic shrines and chapels built on the same spot. Natives were allowed to substitute praying to saints instead of gods of water, earth and air, and replaced their former idols with new images of the Roman Catholic Church. Yet, the animistic religion the natives had formerly practiced was never fully replaced—it was adapted into Catholic teachings, and this new belief system was allowed to flourish.
  More recently, religious syncretism can be seen in such religious systems as the New Age, Hinduism, Unitarianism, and Christian Science. These religions are a blending of multiple different belief systems, and are continually evolving as the philosophies of mankind rise and fall in popularity.
  Therein lies the problem, for syncretism relies on the whim of man, not the standard of Scripture. The Bible makes it very clear what true religion is. Think on just a few things stated in Scripture: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37); "Jesus replied, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me'" (John 14:6); and "Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31-32); and “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).
  Religious syncretism is simply not compatible with true Christianity. In fact, any modification to biblical law and principle for the sake of a “better” religion is heresy (Revelation 22:18-19).

© Copyright 2002-2010 Got Questions Ministries. Used with permission.

PS> Thomas Merton is a syncretistic religionist. EBB4

THOMAS MERTON

 

Thomas Merton, Richard Foster, and a Sufi Master

lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog   Lighthouse Trails author, February 4, 2017

“Richard J. Foster’s Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth is hailed by many as the best modern book on Christian spirituality with millions of copies sold since its original publication in 1978.”—Publisher description

LTRP Note: Keep in mind three things as you read this article: 1) a strong link exists between Thomas Merton and the evangelical church, and that link is Richard Foster (author of Celebration of Discipline); 2) Richard Foster once said Thomas Merton “stands as one of the greatest twentieth-century embodiments of spiritual life as a journey”(1); 3) the current “Spiritual Formation” movement within Christianity was spawned by Richard Foster and Dallas Willard, and both men were ignited by Thomas Merton.

As you read this account of Thomas Merton, know that this same spiritual outlook that is described below has entered the church in no small way. Maybe it’s time you ask your pastor, “What do you think about Richard Foster and Celebration of Discipline?”

 

By Ray Yungen

  What Martin Luther King was to the civil rights movement and what Henry Ford was to the automobile, Thomas Merton is to contemplative prayer. Although this prayer movement existed centuries before he came along, Merton, a Trappist monk of the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky, took it out of its monastic setting and made it available to, and popular with, the masses. I personally have been researching Thomas Merton and the contemplative prayer movement for over 20 years, and for me, hands down, Thomas Merton has influenced the Christian mystical movement more than any person of recent decades.

  Merton penned one of the most classic descriptions of contemplative spirituality I have ever come across. He explained: It is a glorious destiny to be a member of the human race . . . now I realize what we all are. . . . If only they [people] could all see themselves as they really are . . . I suppose the big problem would be that we would fall down and worship each other. . . . At the center of our being is a point of nothingness which is untouched by sin and by illusions, a point of pure truth. . . . This little point . . . is the pure glory of God in us. It is in everybody. 2 (emphasis mine)

  This panentheistic (i.e., God in everyone) view is similar to the occultic definition of the higher self.

In order to understand Merton’s connection to mystical occultism, we need first to understand a sect of the Muslim world—the Sufis, who are the mystics of Islam. They chant the name of Allah as a mantra, go into meditative trances, and experience God in everything. A prominent Catholic audiotape company promotes a series of cassettes Merton did on Sufism. It explains: Merton loved and shared a deep spiritual kinship with the Sufis, the spiritual teachers and mystics of Islam. Here he shares their profound spirituality.3

  To further show Merton’s “spiritual kinship” with Sufism, in a letter to a Sufi Master, Merton disclosed, “My prayer tends very much to what you call fana.”4 So what is fana? The Dictionary of Mysticism and the Occult defines it as “the act of merging with the Divine Oneness”5 (meaning all is one and all is God).

Merton saw the Sufi concept of fana as being a catalyst for Muslim unity with Christianity despite the obvious doctrinal differences. In a dialogue with a Sufi leader, Merton asked about the Muslim concept of salvation. The master wrote back stating: Islam inculcates individual responsibility for one’s actions and does not subscribe to the doctrine of atonement or the theory of redemption.6 (emphasis added)

  To Merton, of course, this meant little because he believed that fana and contemplation were the same thing. He responded: Personally, in matters where dogmatic beliefs [the atonement] differ, I think that controversy is of little value because it takes us away from the spiritual realities into the realm of words and ideas . . . in words there are apt to be infinite complexities and subtleties which are beyond resolution. . . . But much more important is the sharing of the experience of divine light . . . It is here that the area of fruitful dialogue exists between Christianity and Islam.7 (emphasis mine)

  Merton himself underlined that point when he told a group of contemplative women: I’m deeply impregnated with Sufism.8

  And he elaborated elsewhere: Asia, Zen, Islam, etc., all these things come together in my life. It would be madness for me to attempt to create a monastic life for myself by excluding all these. I would be less a monk.9 (emphasis mine)

  When we evaluate Merton’s mystical worldview, it clearly resonates with what technically would be considered traditional New Age thought. This is an inescapable fact!

Merton’s mystical experiences ultimately made him a kindred spirit and co-mystic with those in Eastern religions because his insights were identical to their insights. At an interfaith conference in Thailand, he stated: I believe that by openness to Buddhism, to Hinduism, and to these great Asian [mystical] traditions, we stand a wonderful chance of learning more about the potentiality of our own Christian traditions.10

  Please understand that contemplative prayer alone was the catalyst for such theological views. One of Merton’s biographers made this very clear when he explained: If one wants to understand Merton’s going to the East it is important to understand that it was his rootedness in his own faith tradition [Catholicism] that gave him the spiritual equipment [contemplative prayer] he needed to grasp the way of wisdom that is proper to the East.11

  This was the ripe fruit of the Desert Fathers, the ancient monks who borrowed mystical methods from Eastern religion, which altered their understanding of God. This is what one gets from contemplative prayer. There is no other way to put it. It does not take being a scholar to see the logic in this.

(This is an excerpt from Ray Yungen’s book, A Time of Departing.)

 

Endnotes:

1. Richard Foster, Longing for God: Seven Paths of Christian Devotion (InterVarsity Press, 2009), p. 84.
2. Thomas Merton, Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander (Garden City, NY: Doubleday Publishers, 1989), pp. 157-158.
3. Credence Cassettes magazine, Winter/Lent, 1998, p. 24.
4. M. Basil Pennington, Thomas Merton, My Brother (Hyde Park, NY: New City Press, 1996), p. 115, citing from The Hidden Ground of Love), pp. 63-64.
5. Nevill Drury, The Dictionary of Mysticism and the Occult (San Francisco, CA: Harper & Row, 1985), p. 85.
6. Rob Baker and Gray Henry, Editors, Merton and Sufism (Louisville, KY: Fons Vitae, 1999), p. 109.
7. Ibid., p. 110.
8. Ibid., p. 69.
9. Ibid., p. 41.
10. William Shannon, Silent Lamp, The Thomas Merton Story (New York, NY: Crossroad Publishing Company, 1992), p. 276.
11. Ibid., p. 281.

EXCHANGING ANGER FOR GOD'S PEACE

 EXCHANGING ANGER FOR GOD’S PEACE

   Psalm 126 [NLT] When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy! Restore our fortunes, Lord, as streams renew the desert. Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest.

   Matthew [MKJV] 11:25-30 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank You, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the sophisticated and cunning, and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. All things are delivered to Me by My Father. And no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son will reveal Him. Come to Me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke on you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you shall find rest to your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.

  An incongruous event occurred as result of my rewriting and again airing DT series on anger. A DT subscriber became angry at what I’ve written about anger and SHOUTED for me to remove her name from mailing list.

  I immediately did so per her instruction. I was saddened. I rejoiced.

  I rejoiced because in past I would have, silly though it may seem to you, suffered prideful feelings of rejection and accompanying passive-aggressive anger . . . but there was not so much as a shadow of the dark combine. How great is God’s life-changing Word when it is embraced! Truly His yoke is lighter! How wonderful is His rest! (Mt.11:29-30)

  I’m saddened because having been there and knowing that such angry reaction indicates woundedness; demonstrating the need for spiritual examination and remedy of giving burdensome emotional yoke in exchange for Jesus’ lighter one, anger for His peace.

  And now there is something else you may already know: As His 2Corinthians 5:17 ambassador should never be misconstrued as a happy Christian endeavor that all people will appreciate, applaud, and love us for. 

EBB4

THE EVERLASTING ARMS

 THE EVERLASTING ARMS

Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them. 

  I drove to Branson, Missouri, to see “The Promise”. There is one scene where Jesus lifts a tiny baby above His head. The actor was holding a real live baby. That tiny baby lay in the actor’s arms neither struggling or crying. The baby trusted the arms holding it.

  How thankful I am that I too can trust Jesus holding me!

Leslie Nivens (12/12/1928-3/1/2020)

IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 3

 IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 3

   2Timothy [NLT] 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

  Paul declared “He that is spiritual judges all things” earlier having said “I speak as [though] to wise men, judge what I say.” (1Cor.2:15; 10:15) This Paul stated to a very messed up bunch of congregants.

  So what is this qualifying spiritual basis Paul refers to?

  Checking the Greek it means to think and act non-carnal. Looking at Paul’s letter to the Romans we see that a carnal mind is a hostile attitude toward God. (Rom.8:7)

  Looking at carnal versus non-carnal in the immediate text sans chapter division we see: “The natural [carnal, unrenewed] person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. "For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ. But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh [carnal], as infants in Christ.” (ESV 1Cor.2:14-3:1)

  Once again, for me the challenge comes down to living in alignment or nonalignment with the exhortation in Romans 12:1-3 “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.”

  Continuing maturation requires judging what God says, beginning with application to self, and, having experienced the joy and/or expense . . . often reluctantly . . . to all things.

EBB4

IS CVIT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 2

IS IT RIGHT TO JUDGE? Part 2

Luke [ESV] 6:37-42 [Jesus teaching} “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher. 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? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother's eye. 

  “Is it right to judge?” is a question puzzled and argued over by many sincere caring (or defensive) Christians. However, many of the discussions, lessons, sermons I’ve listened to have been devoid of topically all-inclusive Scripture. The voices selectively emphasizing certain verses from Jesus’ words recorded in Matthew 7:1-5 or Luke 6:37-42, their doing so without careful contextual 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 maturely 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; with love and mercy.

·         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 all Bible references presented and prayerfully read in context . . . 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

   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.

  Reading and studying Scripture contextually is essential to edification of self and others.

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

  This is a topic that deeply troubled me decades ago and resulted in the observation (judgment) by a mentor that I needed to cease fretting and do a Bible study on the matter.

  To answer the title question: Yes and no, depending on our position, in particular whether our motive is ego-centric or the godly interest in Biblical maturation in God’s John 1:12 family. In studying God’s Word, I discovered that godly 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 the Jesus’ Way. (Jn.14:6) We are to begin with judging self and repenting before we can consider helpfully judging any others with constructive righteous judgment! This coincides with Jesus’ exhortation recorded by Matthew. As always when reading Scripture, keep in mind that man later  inserted chapter and verse divisions – Jesus was not segueing to a totally different subject from chapter 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-first 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

A CRITICAL ISSUE: JUDGING

 A CRITICAL ISSUE: JUDGING

   Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the man who has not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, and has not stood in the way of sinners, and has not sat in the seat of the scornful.

   Romans 12:1-3 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.

  The question “Is it right to judge?” arises repeatedly.

  Most often it is heard in, itself a judgment statement, someone quoting a fragment of God’s Word out context: “Judge not, lest ye be judged”.

  I was personally initially exposed to the argument from reading it in our weekly county newspaper, The Aegis. The two main writers being my godmother Aunt Mary and our pastor Don McKnight. She believing the fragment. He believing “the whole counsel of God” and addressing the matter topically from Scripture.

 The event led me to invest time in a 2Timothy2:15-16 work. The first thing I discovered is that it is a topic not taught in most churches and consequently misunderstood by many people. But it was done by one of my older wiser mentors, Bud Bond. He Biblically teaching the difference between self-righteous criticism and righteous critiquing.

  Criticizing comes from an individual’s ego, their pride. Criticism is in mans’ unregenerate sinful nature.

  Critiquing flows from an individual’s concerned love. It is presented with the hope for edifying solution, healthy remedy. Critiquing often includes suggestions or ways in the interest of repair; regeneration pleasing to the Lord. Prophets, Jesus, the apostles, and others judged in this caring manner.

  As God’s John 1:12 authorized family we are to think and speak truth. This includes judging rightly (Jn.7:24; Lk.12:57). We can only do so on this or any other topic when studiously grounding in what God says in His Word.

  In the near future I’ll be sharing with you that which I have learned.

EBB4

MINDFULNESS

 GotQuestions.org: What is mindfulness? Should a Christian be involved in mindfulness?

  Mindfulness is a loosely defined term that has gained cultural popularity. For some, mindfulness is seen as intentional awareness of the current reality or the act of being in the moment. Others use it to talk about a specific meditative state or the meditative practices used to enter that state. Mindfulness could be understood as observation of one’s thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and emotions with no judgment of their being right or wrong. For some, mindfulness is used as a stress reducer in the midst of a hectic life. Others use it as an aid to prompt full engagement in life over rumination on the past or worry about the future. For others, it is seen as a means of self-discovery.
  Mindfulness is rooted in Buddhism, as promoters of mindfulness readily admit, although it is often adapted for secular purposes. The ideology behind mindfulness is to achieve stillness and balance of the mind. Some of the mindfulness techniques touted in popular psychology are perfectly compatible with the Bible. But the foundational assumption behind mindfulness is that we can create our own peace through our own efforts. Mindfulness might contribute to reduced stress and an increased sense of well-being, but mindfulness will never achieve for us the satisfaction our souls crave. Only God can meet our deepest needs.
  From a biblical perspective, we know that only Jesus gives the peace that can exist in all circumstances (John 14:27; Philippians 4:7). No human can control emotions or thoughts on his or her own because we are born slaves to a sinful nature (Romans 6:17–23). Only through the power of the Holy Spirit who sets our minds free to think truthfully can we know true peace. If we want to practice being more aware or insightful, there are much better options than mindfulness techniques, such as Bible study, prayer, and worship of God.
  When Christians think biblically, they see things defined through the lens of Scripture. The word mindful, which means “attentive,” is not describing anything inherently wrong. The psalmists were attentive to their surrounding and their own emotions. We can be, too. Jesus was attentive to the needs of others around Him as well as to spending private time with the Father apart from the crowds. We can mimic that same behavior. Christians can be mindful of Christ by taking every thought captive for Christ and renewing their minds with the truth (2 Corinthians 10:5; Romans 12:2). We are mindful when we examine ourselves (2 Corinthians 13:5) and ask God to search and reveal our hearts (Psalm 139:23–24). Philippians 4:6–8 tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” This behavior might be seen as mindfulness. But mindfulness, as a Buddhist meditation technique or even as a psychological self-help method meant to be a cure-all for self-awareness and self-fulfillment, is not biblical.

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CHOOSE LIFE

 CHOOSE LIFE

Deuteronomy 30:19-20  I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them. 

  My sister called last evening. She needed to talk, to grieve for her young friend that had committed suicide. The young woman was married to a doctor, had a beautiful home and lovely young children. She seemed to have everything this world could offer but she chose death.

  I can’t help but wonder if she knew Christ, “the giver of life”.

Leslie Nivens (12/12/1928-3/1/2020)

GOT FORGIVENESS?

 

GotQuestions.org: Got Forgiveness? How do I receive forgiveness from God?

  Acts 13:38 declares, "Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you."
What is forgiveness and why do I need it?
  The word "forgive" means to wipe the slate clean, to pardon, to cancel a debt. When we wrong someone, we seek their forgiveness in order for the relationship to be restored. Forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves to be forgiven. No one deserves to be forgiven. Forgiveness is an act of love, mercy, and grace. Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what they have done to you.
  The Bible tells us that we are all in need of forgiveness from God. We have all committed sin. Ecclesiastes 7:20 proclaims, "There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins." 1 John 1:8 says, "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us." All sin is ultimately an act of rebellion against God (Psalm 51:4). As a result, we desperately need God's forgiveness. If our sins are not forgiven, we will spend eternity suffering the consequences of our sins (Matthew 25:46; John 3:36).
Forgiveness - How do I get it?
  Thankfully, God is loving and merciful " eager to forgive us of our sins! 2 Peter 3:9 tells us, ""He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." God desires to forgive us, so He provided for our forgiveness.
  The only just penalty for our sins is death. The first half of Romans 6:23 declares, "For the wages of sin is death"" Eternal death is what we have earned for our sins. God, in His perfect plan, became a human being " Jesus Christ (John 1:1,14). Jesus died on the cross, taking the penalty that we deserve " death. 2 Corinthians 5:21 teaches us, "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." Jesus died on the cross, taking the punishment that we deserve! As God, Jesus' death provided forgiveness for the sins of the entire world. 1 John 2:2 proclaims, "He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." Jesus rose from the dead, proclaiming His victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:1-28). Praise God, through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the second half of Romans 6:23 is true, ""but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
  Do you want to have your sins forgiven? Do you have a nagging feeling of guilt that you can't seem to get to go away? Forgiveness of your sins is available if you will place your faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior. Ephesians 1:7 says, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace." Jesus paid our debt for us, so we could be forgiven. All you have to do is ask God to forgive you through Jesus, believing that Jesus died to pay for your forgiveness " and He will forgive you! John 3:16-17 contains this wonderful message, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him."
Forgiveness - is it really that easy?
  Yes it is that easy! You can’t earn forgiveness from God. You can’t pay for your forgiveness from God. You can only receive it, by faith, through the grace and mercy of God. If you want to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and receive forgiveness from God, here is a prayer you can pray. Saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. It is only trusting in Jesus Christ that can provide forgiveness of sins. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and to thank Him for providing for your forgiveness. "God, I know that I have sinned against You and am deserving of punishment. But Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. I place my trust in You for salvation. Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness! Amen!"
  Have you made a decision for Christ because of what you have read here?

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Does the Bible instruct us to forgive and forget?

  The phrase “forgive and forget” is not found in the Bible. However, there are numerous verses commanding us to “forgive one another” (e.g., Matthew 6:14 and Ephesians 4:32). A Christian who is not willing to forgive others will find his fellowship with God hindered (Matthew 6:15) and can reap bitterness and the loss of reward (Hebrews 12:14–15; 2 John 1:8).
  Forgiveness is a decision of the will. Since God commands us to forgive, we must make a conscious choice to obey God and forgive. The offender may not desire forgiveness and may not ever change, but that doesn’t negate God’s desire that we possess a forgiving spirit (Matthew 5:44). Ideally, the offender will seek reconciliation, but, if not, the one wronged can still make a decision to forgive.
  Of course, it is impossible to truly forget sins that have been committed against us. We cannot selectively “delete” events from our memory. The Bible states that God does not “remember” our wickedness (Hebrews 8:12). But God is still all-knowing. God remembers that we have “sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). But, having been forgiven, we are positionally (or judicially) justified. Heaven is ours, as if our sin had never occurred. If we belong to Him through faith in Christ, God does not condemn us for our sins (Romans 8:1). In that sense God “forgives and forgets.”
  If by “forgive and forget” one means, “I choose to forgive the offender for the sake of Christ and move on with my life,” then this is a wise and godly course of action. As much as possible, we should forget what is behind and strive toward what is ahead (Philippians 3:13). We should forgive each other “just as in Christ God forgave” (Ephesians 4:32). We must not allow a root of bitterness to spring up in our hearts (Hebrews 12:15).
  However, if by “forgive and forget” one means, “I will act as if the sin had never occurred and live as if I don’t remember it,” then we can run into trouble. For example, a rape victim can choose to forgive the rapist, but that does not mean she should act as if that sin had never happened. To spend time alone with the rapist, especially if he is unrepentant, is not what Scripture teaches. Forgiveness involves not holding a sin against a person any longer, but forgiveness is different from trust. It is wise to take precautions, and sometimes the dynamics of a relationship will have to change. “The prudent see danger and take refuge, / but the simple keep going and pay the penalty” (Proverbs 22:3). Jesus told His followers to “be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). In the context of keeping company with unrepentant sinners, we must be “innocent” (willing to forgive) yet at the same time “shrewd” (being cautious).
  The ideal is for the offender to truly repent of the sin and for the offended to forgive and forget. The Bible tells us true repentance will result in a change of actions (Luke 3:8–14; Acts 3:19) and that love keeps no record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:5) and covers a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). However, changing hearts is God’s business, and, until an offender has a true, supernatural heart change, it is only wise to limit the level of trust one places in that person. Being cautious doesn’t mean we haven’t forgiven. It simply means we are not God and we cannot see that person’s heart.

SIGHT & SOUND?

 SIGHT and SOUND?

… the Holy Spirit speak through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers, saying, "Go to this people and say: Hearing you shall hear and shall not understand; and seeing you shall see and not perceive. For the heart of this people was fattened, and they have heard with their ears dully; and they closed their eyes; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." [Acts chapter 28, also note Mt.13:13-14; Lk.8:10; Jn.12:39-40]    

  There is sight and sound physical and spiritual. God’s Word speaks of the distinction between the two, the message of God being seen and heard, yet not seen and heard.

  Jesus explained “That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.” (Mk.4:12)

  Romans 1:18-23 clearly shows that though seeing, men may choose to be blind. This is obvious to viewers with clear Biblical vision.

  Speaking about spiritual deafness, Jesus explained “… this people's heart has become gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and they have closed their eyes, lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." (Matthew chapter 13)

  Tragically, this day there may be those reading the above and yet not seeing or hearing the truth. To them I say “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Mt.11:15; 13:9)

EBB4

GOD's UNHURRIED WRATH

 GOD’S UNHURRIED WRATH

  In response to yesterday’s Daily Thoughts (DTs), CHRISTLIKE ANGER, Penny K. responded emphasizing an important point.

“Reading that story carefully, you will note that Christ sat down and wove himself a whip/scourge before he went down to the temple.  This indicates, to me, that his anger was a deliberate effort and not a loss of temper.   You can't weave a good scourge if you are out-of-control angry.  And we know the scourge he wove was perfect, because he was perfect.  There was no hasty weaving going on, you can bank on that!”

John [GW] 2:13-17 The Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple he found those who were selling oxen and sheep and pigeons, and the money-changers sitting there. 

And making a whip of cords, he drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and oxen. And he poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. And he told those who sold the pigeons, “Take these things away; do not make my Father's house a house of trade.”  His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for your house will consume me.” [Ps.69:9-17]

  Exercising Christlike anger sometimes requires unhurried thoughtful preparation!

EBB4

CHRISTLIKE ANGER

 CHRISTLIKE ANGER

John [CEV] 2:13-17 Not long before the Jewish festival of Passover, Jesus went to Jerusalem. There he found people selling cattle, sheep, and doves in the temple. He also saw moneychangers sitting at their tables. So he took some rope and made a whip. Then he chased everyone out of the temple, together with their sheep and cattle. He turned over the tables of the moneychangers and scattered their coins. Jesus said to the people who had been selling doves, "Get those doves out of here! Don't make my Father's house a marketplace." The disciples then remembered that the Scriptures say, "My love for your house burns in me like a fire." [Ps.69:9-17]

  Inmates sometimes ask for topical studies. I oblige and personally benefit. Some, suffering results of anger request my study file on anger, a commonality among scofflaws. I put the packet together, so it’s no surprise that the next day I awoke thinking further about anger.

  Sinful anger may show in many variations: distrust, sensitivities, embarrassment, justification, blame-shifting, indignation, petulance, argumentiveness, stridency, irritability, antagonism, exasperation, stubbornness, perturbance, assertiveness, aggressiveness, snarkiness, nuclear reactions, vengefulness. It can even be in a few unsuspecting ways: calmness (Cool Handed Luke represents this), passiveness, pacifism, shyness, exceptional privacy, irresponsibility, undependability, carelessness, dependability and exemplary performance, morality.

  By invitation we are to follow and emulate godliness according to The Word (Jn.1:1) and guidance from His Holy Spirit within (Jn.16:13-14).

  The Word got angry. (Jn.2:13-17)

  The Word says that we are to be angry without sinning: “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” (Eph.4:26)

  But isn’t our anger always contradictory, in opposition to godly love?

  Is there a uncomplicated deciding measure? There is.

  When anger is all-about-me, it is sinfully ungodly anti-Word (James 4). To assist in comprehension, please understand that it is under two seemingly different, but equivalent subheadings: antic defense as described in the first list in paragraph 2, and composed protectionism as portrayed in the second list in paragraph 2.

  Defense and protection of what? Our vanity/pride, self-esteem; the natural “old self” unregenerate life-view. (Rom.6:6; 12:1-3; Eph.4:22-27; Col.3:8-10) Put another way, the definitive distinction is between righteous anger and self-righteous indignation.

  Let us hear and heed Paul’s address to the saints at Ephesus. (Eph.1:1)

  “Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. But that is not the way you learned Christ!—assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.”  (ESV Eph.4:17-27)

  Thought question: For God’s child, can anger be patent lying about their redemption in Lord Jesus Christ?  EBB4

Confession: Something I get angry about is Christians involving in secular non-Biblical anger management literature and/or programs, and doing so without a serious thought to present and eternal expense. (Christian’s live in eternity now, not later.) Will such help? Yes, they will, but anything not done God’s Way is apart from Him; moral accomplishment and bearing not based in His Word, and gives honor and glory to other than Him. (1Cor.6:19-20; 2Cor.5:10; 2Tim.2:15) Anger is never a primary emotion. Ungodly anger is always a secondary emotion boiling above the heat of pride. We Christians are to study, realize, and apply anger’s remedy as found in God’s Word.  EBB4

MORMONISM: Part One

 

Source: Got Questions Ministries. All rights reserved. www.GotQuestions.org  (Used with permission so long as done so sans profit and credit is given to GotQuestions.org)

Are Mormons Christians? Are Mormons saved?
  Although Mormons profess to be Christians and say they believe the Word of God, there are many of their beliefs that contradict Christianity. In fact, Mormonism can be referred to as a cult, which can be defined as “a religious group that denies one or more of the fundamentals of biblical truth.” Mormons say they are Christians, but because they reject foundational truths from God’s Word, they are not.
  Joseph Smith, who referred to himself as “The Prophet,” founded the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the mid-1800s. He claimed to have seen a vision of God the Father and God the Son, in which they denounced modern Christianity and appointed Smith to reveal and restore “true” Christianity (Articles of Faith, p. 182–185). Three years later, Smith alleged that the angel Moroni told him about some golden plates on which the Book of Mormon was written. In spite of Smith’s questionable background and proclivity toward bending the truth (see The Origin, Rise, and Progress of Mormonism, New York, 1861; and Mormonism Unveiled, Painesville, Ohio, 1834), many believed Smith, and a new “religion” was born. Today, the members of the Mormon Church number in the millions.
  The Book of Mormon is purported to be a new revelation, one that Mormons say is part of the new covenant to Israel and “another witness” to the truth of the Bible (History of the Church 4:461, 8th Article of Faith). Aside from the many theological conflicts with the Bible and historical and archeological fact, the writing of the Book of Mormon was shrouded in mystery and false claims. For example, Joseph Smith and his associates asserted that one Professor Charles Anthon of Columbia University verified the Egyptian characters on the golden plates. However, this same professor wrote a rebuttal letter soon after, saying that he never did any such thing and had, in fact, found the characters to be a hoax. In addition, many verses in the Mormon scriptures have been changed over the years, as the church leaders attempt to cover up something embarrassing in their past and to defend themselves against criticism. These facts alone are enough to cast much doubt on the veracity of the Book of Mormon.
  One of the many areas in which Mormons fall short of saving faith is their belief that God is merely an exalted man who earned his position by good works (Mormon Doctrine, p. 321; Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 345). This directly contradicts the Bible, which states that God has existed in His position as God of the universe from eternity past (Revelation 1:8; 1 Timothy 1:17; 6:15–16; Psalm 102:24–27). God was never a man (Numbers 23:19; 1 Samuel 15:29; Hosea 11:9) and is the holy and powerful Creator of all things (Genesis 1; Psalm 24:1; Isaiah 37:16). Mormons also believe that they themselves can attain the status of gods in the afterlife through their works here on earth (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 345–354). However, no man can ever become like God (1 Samuel 2:2; Isaiah 43:10–11; 44:6; 45:21–22), despite what the serpent told Eve in the garden (Genesis 3:5).
  Mormons also believe that Jesus was a god, but not God Himself (Mormon Doctrine, p. 547; Articles of Faith, p. 35; Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 372). It is essential to Christian faith that Jesus is one with God and that He is God’s only begotten Son who became flesh (John 1:1, 14; John 3:16). Only Jesus’ oneness with God would have allowed Him to live a sinless, blameless life (Hebrews 7:26). And only Jesus Christ was able to pay the price for our sins by His death on the cross (Romans 4:25; Acts 4:12).
  Those who follow the Mormon faith also believe that they can attain heaven through works (Doctrine and Covenants 58:42–43; 2 Nephi 9:23–24; Alma 34:30–35; Articles of Faith, p.92). While they claim faith in Christ, they also rely on following the commandments of the Mormon Church (Doctrines of Salvation, vol. 1, p 188; Mormon Doctrine, p. 670) and practicing good works (2 Nephi 25:23; Alma 11:37) in order to achieve salvation. The Bible is very clear on this point, stating that good works can never earn the way to heaven (Romans 11:6; Ephesians 2:8–9; Titus 3:5) and that faith in Jesus Christ alone is the only way to salvation (John 10:9; 11:25; 14:6; Acts 4:12). Salvation by grace is incompatible with salvation by human works (Romans 11:6).
  Sadly, many in the Mormon Church are unaware of the religion’s shady past, amended scriptures, and even the full doctrine of their church. Many Mormons who have discovered these things have left the church and come to a true saving faith in Jesus Christ. As Christians, we must treat Mormons with love and understand that they are among those deceived by Satan himself (1 Peter 5:8). Satan’s goal is to distort the truth, produce false assurance of salvation, and extend a deceptive hope of godhood (2 Corinthians 4:4).

(GotQuestions.org Editor’s note: many of the references in our articles on Mormonism are Mormon publications, such as Mormon Doctrine, Articles of Faith, Doctrines of Salvation, History of the Church, Doctrine and Covenants, and so forth. Others are from the Book of Mormon itself, e.g., books such as 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, and Alma.)

DICHOTOMIZING SEX

DICHOTOMIZING SEX

 “Sex, in the gender-fractured view, can be just recreational. It is simply a way of having fun and making each other’s body feel good. The separation of physical attraction from emotional attraction in this worldview is perilous. Separating sex from emotion reduces the mystery of sexual union to mere bodily pleasure. However, the physical union in sex reflects the unity and intimacy found in the Trinity. To reduce it to a physical act for an individual, perverts its purpose ands leads to the misuse of sex by dehumanizing both male and female. Separating sex from emotion is at the root of prostitution, sex trafficking, and the endless ways that men have degraded women by sexually exploiting them.”

  The above is an excerpt from a book I’m reading and recommend: Anchoring Your Child in God’s Truth in A GENDER-CONFUSED CULTURE; Helping Our Children Embrace Their Calling to Godly Manhood or Womanhood, by Dr. Gary Yagel.

EBB4

UNTO THE HILLS

 UNTO THE HILLS

My Help Comes from the Lord. A Song of Ascents. I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore. (KJV Psalm 121:1-8)

  If you read today’s Scripture reference in KJV, go read it again in NIV or your favorite contemporary English version.

  We are not to look to high places (Idol worship including “Mother Nature”.) to find help!

  A friend and I have been to the beautiful hills in southeast Missouri. It is lovely foliage, especially in the spring. Yellows, pale green, orange and red. The dogwoods, redbuds and wild plum trees blooming among the other trees is a breath-taking sight.

  We repeatedly thank God for His beautiful creation, and when we had some close calls on the highways, it was God to whom we turned to for protection. I will always look to Him for help!

Leslie Nivens (12/12/1928-3/1/2020)