Jonathan Edwards was considered one of the greatest preachers in American history. It is said that he and George Whitefield and other great preachers of there time (early to mid 17th century) were responsible for the great birth and strong foundation of the nation known as America. Jonathan Edwards's ministry and life was changed forever by a revival that hit his Northhampton congregation in 1934 through 1935. Here is what one of his biographers wrote about the man and his life.
What are the lessons for today from Jonathan Edwards? No man is more relevant to the present condition of Christianity than Jonathan Edwards. None is more needed. Take all we have been considering, and on top of that take the treatise he wrote in 1748 with the title An Humble Attempt to Promote Explicit Agreement and Visible Union of God's People in Extraordinary Prayer for the Revival of Religion and for the Advancement of Christ's kingdom on Earth. Some friends in Scotland had been meeting together to pray in this way, and they wrote to Edwards and told him about this. They asked whether he agreed with this and whether he would write about it. So he wrote this great treatise pleading with people to join together, and to agree to do so once a month and in various other ways. He argues and pleads very specially in terms of what he and they regarded then as the nearness of the second coming of Christ and the glory that was to be revealed. It is a mighty and a glorious statement. Surely revival is the only answer to the present need and condition of the church.
An apologetic which fails to put supreme ,emphasis on the work of the Holy Spirit is doomed to be a complete failure. But that is what we have been doing. We have brought out an apologetic which is highly philosophical and argumentative. We have argued about modern art, modern literature, modern drama, politics and social views as if this is what is needed. What is needed is an effusion, an outpouring of the Spirit; and any apologetic which does not finally bring us to the need of such an outpouring will ultimately be useless. I believe we are again in much the same position as that which obtained before those great things happened in the 30'S of the eighteenth century. The Boyle lectures had been instituted in the previous century to provide an apologetic, and to defend religion and the gospel. And we have been doing the same with much assiduity. Not only so, Bishop Butler's famous Analogy had appeared in defense of the gospel in a different manner. But these were not the factors that changed the entire situation. It was revival; and our only hope is revival. We have tried everything else, Edwards reminds us once more of the supreme need of revival.
Let us be clear as to what he said about this. We must know what revival means. We must know the difference between an evangelistic campaign and revival. They are not to be compared. We must realize the difference between experiencing the power of the Spirit in revival and the calling of people to make a decision. Some years ago a certain well-known and prominent Evangelical leader at the time was urging me to attend a certain evangelistic campaign, and full of enthusiasm said, 'You must go. It's marvelous. Wonderful! People go streaming forward. No emotion. No emotion!' He kept on repeating 'No emotion'. He had not read Jonathan Edwards! We should be seriously concerned if there is no emotion. If people can take some supposed decision for Christ with no emotion, what is it that really happens? Is it conceivable that a soul may realize the danger of spending eternity in hell, know something about the holiness of God, and believe that the Son of God came into the world and even died on a cruel cross and rose again from the dead that he might be saved, and yet feel no emotion?
Read Edwards on revival. The term he used always is ‘an outpouring of the Spirit'. Today, we are hearing much about what is called 'renewal'. They dislike the term revival; they prefer 'renewal'. What they mean by that is that we have all been baptized with the Spirit at the moment of regeneration, and that all we have to do therefore is to realize what we already have and yield ourselves to it. That is not revival! You can do all they teach and derive many benefits; but you still have not had revival. Revival is an out-pouring of the Spirit. It is something that comes upon us, that happens to us. We are not the agents, we are just aware that something has happened. So Edwards reminds us again of what revival really is.
That leads to a warning to those who are quenching the Spirit; and there are many who are guilty of that at the present time. A book by the late Ronald Knox on Enthusiasm has become popular among certain Evangelicals. He was an intellectual Roman Catholic ignorant of these things. He, of course, mentions Edwards and the famous sermon. The New Testament warns us against 'quenching the Spirit'. We can be guilty of doing so in many ways. We can quench the Spirit by being exclusively interested in theology. We can do so also by being concerned only about the application of Christianity to industry, to education, to art, to politics etc. At the same time Edwards gives similar warnings to those who emphasize experience only. Nothing is more striking than the balance of this man. You must have the theology; but it must he theology on fire. There must be warmth and heat as well as light. In Edwards we find the ideal combination - the great doctrines with the fire of the Spirit upon them.
Please, KP family, be praying for an "outpouring of the Holy Spirit." We need it. Our kids need it. our unsaved family and friends need for us to experience it. Our community and our nation's only hope is for us (the church) to experience an outpouring of the Holy Ghost.
-Pastor
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Will My Prayers Be Answered
I felt like someone needed to hear this today...possibly me. Very good word! Have a wonderful day.
by David Wilkerson
I believe in Holy Ghost timing. In God’s own time, all our prayers will be answered—one way or another—but the trouble is, we are afraid to submit our prayers to Holy Ghost scrutiny. Some of our prayers need to be purged because often our faith is misspent on requests that are not mature. We do not know how to pray, “Thy will be done.” We don’t want his will as much as those things permitted by his will.
Abraham exercised his faith to keep reminding himself he was a stranger on this earth. His blessing pact produced only a tent to dwell in, because he put all his faith in that city whose builder and maker is God.
Were some of these faith warriors not living in faith? Did God refuse to answer some of their prayers? After all, not all of them were delivered and not all lived to see answers to their payers. Not all were spared pain, suffering and even death. Some were tortured; others were torn asunder, wandering about destitute, afflicted, and tormented (Hebrews 11:36-38).
Some who had a reputation for having great faith “received not the promise” (Hebrews 11:39). Those who did “obtain promises” used their faith to work righteousness, to gain strength in times of weakness, and to put the enemy to flight.
Don’t worry about whether God is saying “Yes” or “No” to your request. Don’t be downcast when the answer is not in sight and, please, quit concentrating on faith formulas and methods. Just commit every prayer to Jesus and go about your business with confidence. He will not be one moment early or late in answering, and if the answer you seek is not forthcoming, say to your heart, “He is all I need. If I need more, he will not withhold it. He will answer in his time and in his way. And if he does not fulfill my request, he must have a perfect reason for not doing so. No matter what happens, I will always have faith in his faithfulness.”
God forgive us if we are more concerned about getting prayers answered than in learning total submission to Christ himself. We do not learn obedience by the things we obtain but by the things we suffer. Are you willing to learn by suffering a little longer with what appears to be an unanswered prayer? Will you rest in his love while patiently waiting for the promise?
by David Wilkerson
I believe in Holy Ghost timing. In God’s own time, all our prayers will be answered—one way or another—but the trouble is, we are afraid to submit our prayers to Holy Ghost scrutiny. Some of our prayers need to be purged because often our faith is misspent on requests that are not mature. We do not know how to pray, “Thy will be done.” We don’t want his will as much as those things permitted by his will.
Abraham exercised his faith to keep reminding himself he was a stranger on this earth. His blessing pact produced only a tent to dwell in, because he put all his faith in that city whose builder and maker is God.
Were some of these faith warriors not living in faith? Did God refuse to answer some of their prayers? After all, not all of them were delivered and not all lived to see answers to their payers. Not all were spared pain, suffering and even death. Some were tortured; others were torn asunder, wandering about destitute, afflicted, and tormented (Hebrews 11:36-38).
Some who had a reputation for having great faith “received not the promise” (Hebrews 11:39). Those who did “obtain promises” used their faith to work righteousness, to gain strength in times of weakness, and to put the enemy to flight.
Don’t worry about whether God is saying “Yes” or “No” to your request. Don’t be downcast when the answer is not in sight and, please, quit concentrating on faith formulas and methods. Just commit every prayer to Jesus and go about your business with confidence. He will not be one moment early or late in answering, and if the answer you seek is not forthcoming, say to your heart, “He is all I need. If I need more, he will not withhold it. He will answer in his time and in his way. And if he does not fulfill my request, he must have a perfect reason for not doing so. No matter what happens, I will always have faith in his faithfulness.”
God forgive us if we are more concerned about getting prayers answered than in learning total submission to Christ himself. We do not learn obedience by the things we obtain but by the things we suffer. Are you willing to learn by suffering a little longer with what appears to be an unanswered prayer? Will you rest in his love while patiently waiting for the promise?
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Survey: 72% of Millennials 'more spiritual than religious'
I thought this was a great article today in the USA Today. It says a lot about the state of the church today. I have taken the liberty to put in bold some of the findings that really should concern us as disciples of Christ. Things that we should be praying about.
By Cathy Lynn Grossman, USA TODAY
Most young adults today don't pray, don't worship and don't read the Bible, a major survey by a Christian research firm shows.
If the trends continue, "the Millennial generation will see churches closing as quickly as GM dealerships," says Thom Rainer, president of LifeWay Christian Resources. In the group's survey of 1,200 18- to 29-year-olds, 72% say they're "really more spiritual than religious."[You can interpret the word "religious" here for "doctrinally sound."]
Among the 65% who call themselves Christian, "many are either mushy Christians or Christians in name only," Rainer says. "Most are just indifferent. The more precisely you try to measure their Christianity, the fewer you find committed to the faith."
Key findings in the phone survey, conducted in August and released today:
•65% rarely or never pray with others, and 38% almost never pray by themselves either.
•65% rarely or never attend worship services.
•67% don't read the Bible or sacred texts.
Many are unsure Jesus is the only path to heaven: Half say yes, half no.
"We have dumbed down what it means to be part of the church so much that it means almost nothing, even to people who already say they are part of the church," Rainer says.
The findings, which document a steady drift away from church life, dovetail with a LifeWay survey of teenagers in 2007 who drop out of church and a study in February by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, which compared the beliefs of Millennials with those of earlier generations of young people.
AGE 18 TO 29: 'Less religious,' not necessarily 'more secular'
DROPOUTS: Young adults aren't sticking with church
The new survey has a margin of error of +/-2.8 percentage points.
Even among those in the survey who "believe they will go to heaven because they have accepted Jesus Christ as savior":
•68% did not mention faith, religion or spirituality when asked what was "really important in life."
•50% do not attend church at least weekly.
•36% rarely or never read the Bible.
Neither are these young Christians evangelical in the original meaning of the term — eager to share the Gospel. Just 40% say this is their responsibility.
Even so, Rainer is encouraged by the roughly 15% who, he says, appear to be "deeply committed" Christians in study, prayer, worship and action. [VERY TRUE...EVEN IN CINCINNATI!]
Collin Hansen, 29, author of Young, Restless, Reformed, about a thriving minority of traditionalist Christians, agrees. "I'm not going to say these numbers aren't true and aren't grim, but they also drive people like me to build new, passionately Christian dynamic churches," says Hansen, who is studying for the ministry. He sees many in his generation veering to "moralistic therapeutic deism — 'God wants you to be happy and do good things.' ... I would not call that Christianity, however." {WOW IS THAT EVER TRUE...I THINK WE KNOW WHO THESE NATIONAL PREACHERS ARE!}
The 2007 LifeWay study found seven in 10 Protestants ages 18 to 30, both evangelical and mainline, who went to church regularly in high school said they quit attending by age 23. And 34% of those had not returned, even sporadically, by age 30.
The Pew survey found young people today were significantly more likely than those in earlier generations to say they didn't identify with any religious group. Neither are Millennials any more likely than earlier generations to turn toward a faith affiliation as they grow older.
We need revival! Our church...your church...God's church in America! May we weep, cry, and pray for a move of God before its too late!
-Pastor
By Cathy Lynn Grossman, USA TODAY
Most young adults today don't pray, don't worship and don't read the Bible, a major survey by a Christian research firm shows.
If the trends continue, "the Millennial generation will see churches closing as quickly as GM dealerships," says Thom Rainer, president of LifeWay Christian Resources. In the group's survey of 1,200 18- to 29-year-olds, 72% say they're "really more spiritual than religious."[You can interpret the word "religious" here for "doctrinally sound."]
Among the 65% who call themselves Christian, "many are either mushy Christians or Christians in name only," Rainer says. "Most are just indifferent. The more precisely you try to measure their Christianity, the fewer you find committed to the faith."
Key findings in the phone survey, conducted in August and released today:
•65% rarely or never pray with others, and 38% almost never pray by themselves either.
•65% rarely or never attend worship services.
•67% don't read the Bible or sacred texts.
Many are unsure Jesus is the only path to heaven: Half say yes, half no.
"We have dumbed down what it means to be part of the church so much that it means almost nothing, even to people who already say they are part of the church," Rainer says.
The findings, which document a steady drift away from church life, dovetail with a LifeWay survey of teenagers in 2007 who drop out of church and a study in February by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, which compared the beliefs of Millennials with those of earlier generations of young people.
AGE 18 TO 29: 'Less religious,' not necessarily 'more secular'
DROPOUTS: Young adults aren't sticking with church
The new survey has a margin of error of +/-2.8 percentage points.
Even among those in the survey who "believe they will go to heaven because they have accepted Jesus Christ as savior":
•68% did not mention faith, religion or spirituality when asked what was "really important in life."
•50% do not attend church at least weekly.
•36% rarely or never read the Bible.
Neither are these young Christians evangelical in the original meaning of the term — eager to share the Gospel. Just 40% say this is their responsibility.
Even so, Rainer is encouraged by the roughly 15% who, he says, appear to be "deeply committed" Christians in study, prayer, worship and action. [VERY TRUE...EVEN IN CINCINNATI!]
Collin Hansen, 29, author of Young, Restless, Reformed, about a thriving minority of traditionalist Christians, agrees. "I'm not going to say these numbers aren't true and aren't grim, but they also drive people like me to build new, passionately Christian dynamic churches," says Hansen, who is studying for the ministry. He sees many in his generation veering to "moralistic therapeutic deism — 'God wants you to be happy and do good things.' ... I would not call that Christianity, however." {WOW IS THAT EVER TRUE...I THINK WE KNOW WHO THESE NATIONAL PREACHERS ARE!}
The 2007 LifeWay study found seven in 10 Protestants ages 18 to 30, both evangelical and mainline, who went to church regularly in high school said they quit attending by age 23. And 34% of those had not returned, even sporadically, by age 30.
The Pew survey found young people today were significantly more likely than those in earlier generations to say they didn't identify with any religious group. Neither are Millennials any more likely than earlier generations to turn toward a faith affiliation as they grow older.
We need revival! Our church...your church...God's church in America! May we weep, cry, and pray for a move of God before its too late!
-Pastor
Monday, April 26, 2010
Some Thoughts on the National Day of Prayer Issue
What do you think is God's take on the National Day of Prayer issue? Is He for it or against it? Is He concerned about more than just one day a year when Americans promote the practice of prayer?
These are questions I have asked myself recently. Here are some thoughts to consider:
1. The National Day of Prayer is a wonderful proclamation every year promoting the practice and the importance of prayer. For the most part, people gather around the nation to talk about the importance of prayer and some actually do some praying. It was first proclaimed by President Lincoln with the idea that Americans were to pray to the one true God of the bible, not just any god of any religion. However, our nation has become proud of its pluralistic beliefs and now it is assumed that this is a day for all religions to pray to their own god. So I really wonder how the one and only true God really feels about a National Day of Prayer where He is just considered one of many gods that people can direct their prayers to? Just a thought!
2. Jesus did not emphasize the practice of public prayer in his ministry. Matter of fact, he scorned at the idea of people praying in public to be seen and recognized by men (Matthew 6:5). Now I know this is not the intent of the National Day of Prayer, but on the other hand it happens. On this day, it is popular for many politicians, pastors, business leaders, and others to come together for the purpose of giving the impression that we are a very patriotic and religious people...to be seen by men. But it is to be a National Day of Prayer - not a national day of patriotism, thanksgiving, fellowship, or even a religious holiday. It is a day when the people of America should really pray to the one and only God who will hear us when we pray according to His Word. Yes, we should pray prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude, but also prayers of confession - especially confession...and petitions and intercessions as well. If we as God's people (Christians) would just take one day and really pray, fast, and cry out to God...can you imagine the power and what might springboard from that?
3. What Jesus taught more than anything was "closet praying" or "private praying." Jesus said Matthew 6:6 "But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly." Notice the word "secret" it means "hidden." Just the opposite of "public." This does not mean there is not a time and place for prayers to be made in public. However, Jesus says that we as His followers are to be people who constantly practice "hidden prayer." In the next few verses in Matthew, verses 9 through 15, He even gives us an outline to use when we pray hidden away from the world...He teaches us how to pray. How cool is that!
So I wonder...is God more concerned about whether we promote prayer one day a year or whether His people actually practice prayer daily?
Did you know the average Christian in America prays less than five minutes a day? (I doubt if that really increases on the National Day of Prayer.) Ouch!
Oh yes, I know there are some who will say if we aren't careful we might lose our right to pray. And I get that...I would hate that for our nation as well. But sometimes I wonder...if that would be a bad thing? Maybe, then, God's people, would pray more than just a few minutes a day. Maybe, then it we would truly be "hidden prayer" like Jesus wanted us to pray rather than "to be seen of men."
Just some thoughts.
Have a great week!
-Pastor
These are questions I have asked myself recently. Here are some thoughts to consider:
1. The National Day of Prayer is a wonderful proclamation every year promoting the practice and the importance of prayer. For the most part, people gather around the nation to talk about the importance of prayer and some actually do some praying. It was first proclaimed by President Lincoln with the idea that Americans were to pray to the one true God of the bible, not just any god of any religion. However, our nation has become proud of its pluralistic beliefs and now it is assumed that this is a day for all religions to pray to their own god. So I really wonder how the one and only true God really feels about a National Day of Prayer where He is just considered one of many gods that people can direct their prayers to? Just a thought!
2. Jesus did not emphasize the practice of public prayer in his ministry. Matter of fact, he scorned at the idea of people praying in public to be seen and recognized by men (Matthew 6:5). Now I know this is not the intent of the National Day of Prayer, but on the other hand it happens. On this day, it is popular for many politicians, pastors, business leaders, and others to come together for the purpose of giving the impression that we are a very patriotic and religious people...to be seen by men. But it is to be a National Day of Prayer - not a national day of patriotism, thanksgiving, fellowship, or even a religious holiday. It is a day when the people of America should really pray to the one and only God who will hear us when we pray according to His Word. Yes, we should pray prayers of thanksgiving and gratitude, but also prayers of confession - especially confession...and petitions and intercessions as well. If we as God's people (Christians) would just take one day and really pray, fast, and cry out to God...can you imagine the power and what might springboard from that?
3. What Jesus taught more than anything was "closet praying" or "private praying." Jesus said Matthew 6:6 "But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly." Notice the word "secret" it means "hidden." Just the opposite of "public." This does not mean there is not a time and place for prayers to be made in public. However, Jesus says that we as His followers are to be people who constantly practice "hidden prayer." In the next few verses in Matthew, verses 9 through 15, He even gives us an outline to use when we pray hidden away from the world...He teaches us how to pray. How cool is that!
So I wonder...is God more concerned about whether we promote prayer one day a year or whether His people actually practice prayer daily?
Did you know the average Christian in America prays less than five minutes a day? (I doubt if that really increases on the National Day of Prayer.) Ouch!
Oh yes, I know there are some who will say if we aren't careful we might lose our right to pray. And I get that...I would hate that for our nation as well. But sometimes I wonder...if that would be a bad thing? Maybe, then, God's people, would pray more than just a few minutes a day. Maybe, then it we would truly be "hidden prayer" like Jesus wanted us to pray rather than "to be seen of men."
Just some thoughts.
Have a great week!
-Pastor
Friday, April 23, 2010
A Few Light Thoughts on Glenn Beck
As a Christian, what do you think about Fox News Glenn Beck? Glenn has had his own show now for over a year and has become very popular among political conservatives and independents. A lot of Christians listen on radio and watch on television Mr. Beck and no doubt identify with many of his ideas and beliefs. As one of his consistent listeners and viewers, let me share a few pros and cons about Glenn Beck. First the positives:
#1 - I sincerely believe God is using Glenn Beck to sound the trumpet and to warn America of its pending doom if we as a nation continue to travel down the path that we are on. Its unfortunate that the church in America has very few national pastors or prophets that are willing to sound such warnings. Mr Beck and his family live under constant scrutiny and has sacrificed his personal privacy because of his bold statements.
#2 - Mr. Beck seems very respective toward the bible and its truths. He speaks often of the importance of prayer in his life and the person of Jesus Christ. He speaks very frankly of his former addiction to alcohol and how God set him free of it. I believe that Glenn Beck claims to be a Christian.
Some negatives:
#1 - Too much bad language on his radio and television shows. As a culture, we are becoming more and more crass. Profanity seems to be an acceptable form of speech today, even among social conservatives and some Christians. The problem for Christians is God's Word calls this a practice of the old nature. Once Christ comes into our lives by His Spirit and changes us, He also changes the way we speak. "You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language"[Colossians 3:7-9].
#2 - He does an effective job of warning Americans of the consequences of our nation's corruption. And I have even heard him encourage Americans to "humble themselves and turn to God." But he seems to ignore the significance of bible prophecy in regards to what the bible says about the rapture, the Antichrist, the Tribulation, and the Second Coming of Christ. I have seen him interview Joel Rosenberg when Rosenberg spoke of some of these coming events. So I know he has some knowledge of such events.
But in spite of a few things, I like Glenn Beck and pray for he and his family. He is a brave and courageous man that God is using in these last days. Whether he is a Christian or not, God uses both for his purposes. I am very thankful for Glenn Beck and the warnings and wisdom that he offers us.
Have a great weekend!
-Pastor
#1 - I sincerely believe God is using Glenn Beck to sound the trumpet and to warn America of its pending doom if we as a nation continue to travel down the path that we are on. Its unfortunate that the church in America has very few national pastors or prophets that are willing to sound such warnings. Mr Beck and his family live under constant scrutiny and has sacrificed his personal privacy because of his bold statements.
#2 - Mr. Beck seems very respective toward the bible and its truths. He speaks often of the importance of prayer in his life and the person of Jesus Christ. He speaks very frankly of his former addiction to alcohol and how God set him free of it. I believe that Glenn Beck claims to be a Christian.
Some negatives:
#1 - Too much bad language on his radio and television shows. As a culture, we are becoming more and more crass. Profanity seems to be an acceptable form of speech today, even among social conservatives and some Christians. The problem for Christians is God's Word calls this a practice of the old nature. Once Christ comes into our lives by His Spirit and changes us, He also changes the way we speak. "You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language"[Colossians 3:7-9].
#2 - He does an effective job of warning Americans of the consequences of our nation's corruption. And I have even heard him encourage Americans to "humble themselves and turn to God." But he seems to ignore the significance of bible prophecy in regards to what the bible says about the rapture, the Antichrist, the Tribulation, and the Second Coming of Christ. I have seen him interview Joel Rosenberg when Rosenberg spoke of some of these coming events. So I know he has some knowledge of such events.
But in spite of a few things, I like Glenn Beck and pray for he and his family. He is a brave and courageous man that God is using in these last days. Whether he is a Christian or not, God uses both for his purposes. I am very thankful for Glenn Beck and the warnings and wisdom that he offers us.
Have a great weekend!
-Pastor
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Called From Before Creation
by David Wilkerson
The apostle Paul says of God, “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began” (2 Timothy 1:9).
Every person who is “in Christ” is called by the Lord. And we all have the same mandate: to hear God’s voice, to proclaim his Word, to never fear man, and to trust the Lord in the face of every conceivable trial.
Indeed, God made this promise to his prophet Jeremiah when he called him (see Jeremiah 1:1-10). Like Jeremiah, we don’t need to have a message prepared to speak before the world. He has pledged to fill our mouths with his Word, at the exact moment it’s needed. But that will happen only if we trust him.
Paul tells us that many are appointed as preachers, teachers and apostles, and that they are all going to suffer for that reason. He counts himself among those: “I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things” (2 Timothy 1:11-12). He was saying, “God has given me a holy work to do. And because I have that calling, I am going to suffer.”
Scripture shows that Paul was tested as few ministers have ever been. Satan tried to kill him time after time. The so-called religious crowd rejected and ridiculed him. At times even those who supported him left him abused and forsaken.
But Paul was never confounded before men. He was never dismayed or put to shame before the world. And Paul never did burn out. On every occasion, he had an anointed word to speak from God, just when it was needed.
The fact is, Paul simply wouldn’t be shaken. He never did lose his trust in the Lord. Instead, he testified, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day” (2 Timothy 1:12). He is saying, “I have committed my life fully to the Lord’s faithfulness. Live or die, I am his.” And he urged his young charge Timothy to do likewise: “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus” (1:13).
The apostle Paul says of God, “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began” (2 Timothy 1:9).
Every person who is “in Christ” is called by the Lord. And we all have the same mandate: to hear God’s voice, to proclaim his Word, to never fear man, and to trust the Lord in the face of every conceivable trial.
Indeed, God made this promise to his prophet Jeremiah when he called him (see Jeremiah 1:1-10). Like Jeremiah, we don’t need to have a message prepared to speak before the world. He has pledged to fill our mouths with his Word, at the exact moment it’s needed. But that will happen only if we trust him.
Paul tells us that many are appointed as preachers, teachers and apostles, and that they are all going to suffer for that reason. He counts himself among those: “I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things” (2 Timothy 1:11-12). He was saying, “God has given me a holy work to do. And because I have that calling, I am going to suffer.”
Scripture shows that Paul was tested as few ministers have ever been. Satan tried to kill him time after time. The so-called religious crowd rejected and ridiculed him. At times even those who supported him left him abused and forsaken.
But Paul was never confounded before men. He was never dismayed or put to shame before the world. And Paul never did burn out. On every occasion, he had an anointed word to speak from God, just when it was needed.
The fact is, Paul simply wouldn’t be shaken. He never did lose his trust in the Lord. Instead, he testified, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day” (2 Timothy 1:12). He is saying, “I have committed my life fully to the Lord’s faithfulness. Live or die, I am his.” And he urged his young charge Timothy to do likewise: “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus” (1:13).
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
A Special Word for Someone Who is About to Give Up
Today, I was impressed to speak to those who are emotionally and intellectually bending beneath a burden too heavy to bear.
The promises of God do not seem to be working for you or your family. You have tried to please God, you pray — you truly love Him — but you are right now at the end of your strength and endurance.
Your trials increase as you hold on to your faith. It seems to you God is silent toward you.
BELOVED, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Multitudes of godly people are suffering in like manner and Satan whispers — God’s word is not true! We know that is the devourer speaking. Don’t fear the powers of hell.
Go to Job 19 - read the whole chapter. Job said “I cry, but I am not heard…God has fenced me in…He has put darkness in my path…He has destroyed me on every side…He counts me as one of His enemies…” (19:7-11).
In the midst of this satanic attack - Job cries out-“For I know my redeemer lives, and he shall stand upon the earth…and though worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God…with my own eyes shall I behold Him…” (19:25-27)
God said “Ephraim is given to idols, leave him alone” (Hosea 4:17). No trials, no tests for that tribe. But you are not given to idols. You are still the apple of His eye. God sees something in you worth working on.
God chastens those He loves. It is not pleasant, and it hurts - but it is the Father saving us for His own glory to be revealed in years ahead.
He has never loved you more than now. Take heart - God is still speaking to you.
The promises of God do not seem to be working for you or your family. You have tried to please God, you pray — you truly love Him — but you are right now at the end of your strength and endurance.
Your trials increase as you hold on to your faith. It seems to you God is silent toward you.
BELOVED, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Multitudes of godly people are suffering in like manner and Satan whispers — God’s word is not true! We know that is the devourer speaking. Don’t fear the powers of hell.
Go to Job 19 - read the whole chapter. Job said “I cry, but I am not heard…God has fenced me in…He has put darkness in my path…He has destroyed me on every side…He counts me as one of His enemies…” (19:7-11).
In the midst of this satanic attack - Job cries out-“For I know my redeemer lives, and he shall stand upon the earth…and though worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God…with my own eyes shall I behold Him…” (19:25-27)
God said “Ephraim is given to idols, leave him alone” (Hosea 4:17). No trials, no tests for that tribe. But you are not given to idols. You are still the apple of His eye. God sees something in you worth working on.
God chastens those He loves. It is not pleasant, and it hurts - but it is the Father saving us for His own glory to be revealed in years ahead.
He has never loved you more than now. Take heart - God is still speaking to you.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Farming and Building
What a long day. Annette and I both got home around 7 pm and collapsed. I guess we need to take more vitamins.
We had a good cell this AM. Had some guys missing but the fellowship and study of God's Word was great. We are studying 1 Corinthians chapter by chapter. Today was on chapter three where the Apostle Paul writes about the Christian work compared to the work of a farmer and a builder. I like where Paul says no matter whether you plant or water there are many involved in the process but God gives the increase - not man. Many times we applaud and promote the leader who is present when the increase comes. But the truth is its a team effort. It takes people who God uses to prepare the heart to receive the word. Then, he uses people to do some weed-pulling sometimes and to remove rocks. Then, there are the sowers which often comes in many different forms - not just preaching on Sunday morning. Then, there's the nurturing or gardening which includes the watering. Finally, God gives the fruit (the increase) of which he often prunes so that we might be more fruitful. But thats not the end of the process. What happens to the seed in the fruit? We must take it and sow it and the process begins all over again.
Then, there's the builder. God uses us to sometime build the foundation of Christ in people's lives and sometimes to build on that foundation. But the end result is God building a temple for His Spirit to live in. God puts great value on us as a temple that belongs to Him. Matter of fact, He says if anyone destroy it, he will destroy them.
Read 1 Corinthians 3 for yourself. I know the Holy Spirit will minister to you!
Have a great Wednesday!
-Pastor
We had a good cell this AM. Had some guys missing but the fellowship and study of God's Word was great. We are studying 1 Corinthians chapter by chapter. Today was on chapter three where the Apostle Paul writes about the Christian work compared to the work of a farmer and a builder. I like where Paul says no matter whether you plant or water there are many involved in the process but God gives the increase - not man. Many times we applaud and promote the leader who is present when the increase comes. But the truth is its a team effort. It takes people who God uses to prepare the heart to receive the word. Then, he uses people to do some weed-pulling sometimes and to remove rocks. Then, there are the sowers which often comes in many different forms - not just preaching on Sunday morning. Then, there's the nurturing or gardening which includes the watering. Finally, God gives the fruit (the increase) of which he often prunes so that we might be more fruitful. But thats not the end of the process. What happens to the seed in the fruit? We must take it and sow it and the process begins all over again.
Then, there's the builder. God uses us to sometime build the foundation of Christ in people's lives and sometimes to build on that foundation. But the end result is God building a temple for His Spirit to live in. God puts great value on us as a temple that belongs to Him. Matter of fact, He says if anyone destroy it, he will destroy them.
Read 1 Corinthians 3 for yourself. I know the Holy Spirit will minister to you!
Have a great Wednesday!
-Pastor
Monday, April 19, 2010
Franklin Graham fires back about National Day of Prayer
Monday, Apr 19 2010, 4:07 pm
WSOC-TV
From our news partner, WSOC-TV:
Christian evangelist and missionary Franklin Graham responded to a judge's ruling that declared the National Day of Prayer unconstitutional.
A federal judge in Wisconsin made the ruling last Thursday, saying the day amounts to a call for religious action.
U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb wrote that the government can no more enact laws supporting a day of prayer than it can encourage citizens to fast during Ramadan, attend a synagogue or practice magic.
"In fact, it is because the nature of prayer is so personal and can have such a powerful effect on a community that the government may not use its authority to try to influence an individual's decision whether and when to pray," Crabb wrote.
Graham responded to Crabb's statement by saying, "It sounds to me like even the judge in this case understands the power of prayer. But it's voluntary. There's no requirement that people pray. To act like a National Day of Prayer is a bad thing or somehow subversive is ridiculous. Surely our country needs prayer now more than ever."
Congress established the day in 1952 and in 1988 set the first Thursday in May as the day for presidents to issue proclamations asking Americans to pray.
"Our country has a long history of recognizing a national day of prayer. It's something that dates back to the Continental Congress, when it recommended that states set aside a day for prayer and thanksgiving," Graham said. "This is a significant part of our country's heritage."
The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a Madison-based group of atheists and agnostics, filed a lawsuit against the federal government in 2008 arguing the day violated the separation of church and state.
President Barack Obama's administration has countered that the statute simply acknowledges the role of religion in the United States. Obama issued a proclamation last year but did not hold public events with religious leaders as former President George W. Bush had done.
Crabb wrote that her ruling shouldn't be considered a bar to any prayer days until all appeals are exhausted.
Obama spokesman Matt Lehrich said in an e-mail to The Associated Press the president still plans to issue a proclamation for the next prayer day.
"As he did last year, President Obama intends to recognize a National Day of Prayer," Lehrich said.
Crabb wrote that her ruling was not a judgment on the value of prayer. She noted government involvement in prayer may be constitutional if the conduct serves a "significant secular purpose" and doesn't amount to a call for religious action. But the National Day of Prayer crosses that line, she wrote.
WSOC-TV
From our news partner, WSOC-TV:
Christian evangelist and missionary Franklin Graham responded to a judge's ruling that declared the National Day of Prayer unconstitutional.
A federal judge in Wisconsin made the ruling last Thursday, saying the day amounts to a call for religious action.
U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb wrote that the government can no more enact laws supporting a day of prayer than it can encourage citizens to fast during Ramadan, attend a synagogue or practice magic.
"In fact, it is because the nature of prayer is so personal and can have such a powerful effect on a community that the government may not use its authority to try to influence an individual's decision whether and when to pray," Crabb wrote.
Graham responded to Crabb's statement by saying, "It sounds to me like even the judge in this case understands the power of prayer. But it's voluntary. There's no requirement that people pray. To act like a National Day of Prayer is a bad thing or somehow subversive is ridiculous. Surely our country needs prayer now more than ever."
Congress established the day in 1952 and in 1988 set the first Thursday in May as the day for presidents to issue proclamations asking Americans to pray.
"Our country has a long history of recognizing a national day of prayer. It's something that dates back to the Continental Congress, when it recommended that states set aside a day for prayer and thanksgiving," Graham said. "This is a significant part of our country's heritage."
The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a Madison-based group of atheists and agnostics, filed a lawsuit against the federal government in 2008 arguing the day violated the separation of church and state.
President Barack Obama's administration has countered that the statute simply acknowledges the role of religion in the United States. Obama issued a proclamation last year but did not hold public events with religious leaders as former President George W. Bush had done.
Crabb wrote that her ruling shouldn't be considered a bar to any prayer days until all appeals are exhausted.
Obama spokesman Matt Lehrich said in an e-mail to The Associated Press the president still plans to issue a proclamation for the next prayer day.
"As he did last year, President Obama intends to recognize a National Day of Prayer," Lehrich said.
Crabb wrote that her ruling was not a judgment on the value of prayer. She noted government involvement in prayer may be constitutional if the conduct serves a "significant secular purpose" and doesn't amount to a call for religious action. But the National Day of Prayer crosses that line, she wrote.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Sunday Wrap Up
A great Lord's Day! Our senior adult service went well this morning. The choir really sounded good! Great job Garry and Jeanette.
Tonight's service was good. Great worship time around the altar. God blessed people as they tarried at the altar. The youth service was good tonight as Revelee Beavers shared a awesome message. Next Sunday night is our monthly youth service. Mike Amburgy will be sharing an illustrated message as the youth lead us in worship.
It was good seeing Amos and Sonya back this weekend. We sure miss them!
Men and women are beginning to get ready to go to encounter weekends. I will be sending our letters to men this week about going to the encounter in Chattanooga May 28-30. The ladies will be attending the encounter the weekend before and have already fifteen ladies signed up to go. We are encouraging our leaders this spring to attend an encounter as a participant with the purpose of going and receiving. Also, those that are not cell leaders are also encouraged to go. We hope to resume our KP encounters this fall.
Hey, get to bed! Have a nice week!
-Pastor
Tonight's service was good. Great worship time around the altar. God blessed people as they tarried at the altar. The youth service was good tonight as Revelee Beavers shared a awesome message. Next Sunday night is our monthly youth service. Mike Amburgy will be sharing an illustrated message as the youth lead us in worship.
It was good seeing Amos and Sonya back this weekend. We sure miss them!
Men and women are beginning to get ready to go to encounter weekends. I will be sending our letters to men this week about going to the encounter in Chattanooga May 28-30. The ladies will be attending the encounter the weekend before and have already fifteen ladies signed up to go. We are encouraging our leaders this spring to attend an encounter as a participant with the purpose of going and receiving. Also, those that are not cell leaders are also encouraged to go. We hope to resume our KP encounters this fall.
Hey, get to bed! Have a nice week!
-Pastor
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Singing about Going to Heaven
Tomorrow is Senior Adult Sunday at KP. Our seniors will be leading us in worship and Pastor Don Godbey from Dayton Crossroads will be preaching the message. Please come and join us. The senior choir has been practicing this past couple Saturdays and sound really good.
As I am writing this right now, the senior choir is practicing. They are singing a lot of hymns and I am amazed at how many of them speak of the rapture and heaven. These songs for the most part were written in the 20th century. I wonder why today we believers don't sing and talk more about the coming of Jesus to "catch up" (rapture) his saints? We all know that Christ's coming is closer, so why don't we hear more preaching and singing about the rapture?
I really think the answer is simple. We (Christians), get too tangled up with the cares of the world. We are so busy living that we take very little time to think or talk about life after death. Some might say, well people don't like to talk or think about death or life after death. But that shouldn't be for us believers, especially if we believe what God's Word says about our future and eternal home. Eternal life should be something we look forward to. Immorality, being reunited with saved friends and family, and experiencing all God has prepared for us should be something that we are anxious to experience...I really believe that. I know the idea of suffering and even death itself can be scary. But even that, Christ's resurrection power has taken the stinger out and has given us victory over.
Finally, I also believe it is the strategy of the enemy himself to keep us from thinking and singing about eternal life. He wants us to live for "the now." He wants us to live, act, and think as if heaven and seeing Jesus is kind of a fairy tale...that if it happens great but what really counts is this life. Paul under the power of the Spirit wrote in Colossians 3:1-4, "Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory. " NASU
Lets have a great day of worship tomorrow!
-Pastor
As I am writing this right now, the senior choir is practicing. They are singing a lot of hymns and I am amazed at how many of them speak of the rapture and heaven. These songs for the most part were written in the 20th century. I wonder why today we believers don't sing and talk more about the coming of Jesus to "catch up" (rapture) his saints? We all know that Christ's coming is closer, so why don't we hear more preaching and singing about the rapture?
I really think the answer is simple. We (Christians), get too tangled up with the cares of the world. We are so busy living that we take very little time to think or talk about life after death. Some might say, well people don't like to talk or think about death or life after death. But that shouldn't be for us believers, especially if we believe what God's Word says about our future and eternal home. Eternal life should be something we look forward to. Immorality, being reunited with saved friends and family, and experiencing all God has prepared for us should be something that we are anxious to experience...I really believe that. I know the idea of suffering and even death itself can be scary. But even that, Christ's resurrection power has taken the stinger out and has given us victory over.
Finally, I also believe it is the strategy of the enemy himself to keep us from thinking and singing about eternal life. He wants us to live for "the now." He wants us to live, act, and think as if heaven and seeing Jesus is kind of a fairy tale...that if it happens great but what really counts is this life. Paul under the power of the Spirit wrote in Colossians 3:1-4, "Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory. " NASU
Lets have a great day of worship tomorrow!
-Pastor
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Should we pray to witches or mediums?
This morning in my daily bible reading I came across the story of Saul praying to a witch to channel the prophet Samuel up. He was surrounded by the Philistine army and he had prayed but received no answer from Jehovah God. So even though he had excommunicated all mediums and witches from Israel, he now disguises himself and finds a medium in order to channel Samuel.
Now as you read this story, the average believer is pretty astonished that Saul successfully channels up Samuel (and by the way, Samuel wasn't too happy that he disturbed him while he was in paradise). God is clear in the Old and New Testament that his people are not suppose to mess with mediums or witches, or any kind of occultic practice. So why did God let Samuel be channeled up from the dead by backslidden King Saul?
Well, it's a good question that I don't know if I have an answer for. But there are a few things I do know.
#1 - It was not by the power of Satan that Samuel was brought back or the powers of this woman. It was purely by God's power. Satan can only do what God allows him to do. "Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world (Satan)."
#2 - God doesn't want us messing with witches or mediums because we could be possibly playing around with demonic powers. Our God is our provider and the answer for our every need. Satan can only do us evil and harm and God knows that. This is why God wants us to pray and turn to him rather than to mediums, witches, or occultic practices of any kind.
#3 - Thirdly, you and I can't always put God in a box. God chose to raise Samuel to teach Saul a lesson and to deliver him a message. The message was one that Saul did not want to hear. God basically disciplined Saul through the message and did not do what Saul wanted him to do because of his disobedience.
I am sure there are other lessons this story teaches. But the one important thing to remember from this lesson is look and pray to God to meet your needs. He will answer us according to his promises in His word.
-Pastor
Now as you read this story, the average believer is pretty astonished that Saul successfully channels up Samuel (and by the way, Samuel wasn't too happy that he disturbed him while he was in paradise). God is clear in the Old and New Testament that his people are not suppose to mess with mediums or witches, or any kind of occultic practice. So why did God let Samuel be channeled up from the dead by backslidden King Saul?
Well, it's a good question that I don't know if I have an answer for. But there are a few things I do know.
#1 - It was not by the power of Satan that Samuel was brought back or the powers of this woman. It was purely by God's power. Satan can only do what God allows him to do. "Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world (Satan)."
#2 - God doesn't want us messing with witches or mediums because we could be possibly playing around with demonic powers. Our God is our provider and the answer for our every need. Satan can only do us evil and harm and God knows that. This is why God wants us to pray and turn to him rather than to mediums, witches, or occultic practices of any kind.
#3 - Thirdly, you and I can't always put God in a box. God chose to raise Samuel to teach Saul a lesson and to deliver him a message. The message was one that Saul did not want to hear. God basically disciplined Saul through the message and did not do what Saul wanted him to do because of his disobedience.
I am sure there are other lessons this story teaches. But the one important thing to remember from this lesson is look and pray to God to meet your needs. He will answer us according to his promises in His word.
-Pastor
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
AMAZING STORY: Russian Soccer Fans Chant "Christ is Risen"
Amazing!… Russian Soccer Fans Chant Holy Day Greeting At Easter Sunday Match (Video)
Friday, April 9, 2010, 7:12 PM
Jim Hoft
What an amazing story…
On Easter Sunday opposing fans at a soccer match in Russia chanted “Christ Is Risen” and “Truly He Is Risen” at a stadium match.
Officials said it was the first occurance of its kind in the history of Russian soccer.
Russian Interfax reported, via Free Republic:
Fans greeted each other on Easter at a Sunday evening soccer match at Moscow Lokomotiv stadium.
At the beginning of the second half of the match thousands of fans of Dynamo team started chanting “Christ is Risen!”, an Interfax correspondent reports.
Thousands of fans of Lokomotiv teeam on the opposite side of the stadium responded by chanting “Truly He is Risen!”
The exchange took place several times.
The correspondent who has attended soccer matches for almost 50 years says it was the occurrence of this kind in the history of Russian soccer.
http://gatewaypundit.firstthings.com/2010/04/amazing-russian-soccer-fans-chant-holy-day-greeting-at-easter-sunday-match-video/
Friday, April 9, 2010, 7:12 PM
Jim Hoft
What an amazing story…
On Easter Sunday opposing fans at a soccer match in Russia chanted “Christ Is Risen” and “Truly He Is Risen” at a stadium match.
Officials said it was the first occurance of its kind in the history of Russian soccer.
Russian Interfax reported, via Free Republic:
Fans greeted each other on Easter at a Sunday evening soccer match at Moscow Lokomotiv stadium.
At the beginning of the second half of the match thousands of fans of Dynamo team started chanting “Christ is Risen!”, an Interfax correspondent reports.
Thousands of fans of Lokomotiv teeam on the opposite side of the stadium responded by chanting “Truly He is Risen!”
The exchange took place several times.
The correspondent who has attended soccer matches for almost 50 years says it was the occurrence of this kind in the history of Russian soccer.
http://gatewaypundit.firstthings.com/2010/04/amazing-russian-soccer-fans-chant-holy-day-greeting-at-easter-sunday-match-video/
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Fear of God or Deep Respect
The Bible makes it clear that every Christian should be 'afraid' to God. The real fear of God encompasses the deep respect and surprise, and much more. David says, "Sin says the wicked: in my heart there is no fear of God in front of my eyes to his." (Psalm 36:1) David really means: "If I see someone living in evil, my heart says that he does not at all afraid of God. He does not recognize the truth about sin and not hear God's call to holiness. "
The truth is that a healthy fear of God helps us to victory in difficult times. How do we get such a fear? Jeremiah equivalent to prophecy: "And I give them one heart and one way, so that they are afraid of me all its life, and so their goes well and their children after them. And I will make with them in the eternal covenant, so I do not turn away from them, but I do them good, and I give my fear in their hearts, so that they do not abandon me. (Jeremiah 32:39-40)
This is a wonderful promise from God. He promises to give us a holy fear. God does not put fear in our hearts with supernatural glimpse. No, he instill fear to us through His Word.
Does it mean that God created fear in our hearts only if we read the Bible? No, not at all. It happens when you consciously decide to follow the word of God in everything we read. "Ezra had given his heart the Lord of Law to study, monitor it and to teach in Israel the law and the law." (Ezra 7:10)
The fear of God is not just the Old Testament thing. It is mentioned in both Testaments. The Old Testament says: "Fear the Lord and to shy away from evil." (Proverbs 3:7) Similarly, the New Testament declares: "There is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:18) Paul continues: cleanse all the pollutions of the flesh and spirit, complete sanctification, placing the fear of God. " (2 Cor. 7:1)
The truth is that a healthy fear of God helps us to victory in difficult times. How do we get such a fear? Jeremiah equivalent to prophecy: "And I give them one heart and one way, so that they are afraid of me all its life, and so their goes well and their children after them. And I will make with them in the eternal covenant, so I do not turn away from them, but I do them good, and I give my fear in their hearts, so that they do not abandon me. (Jeremiah 32:39-40)
This is a wonderful promise from God. He promises to give us a holy fear. God does not put fear in our hearts with supernatural glimpse. No, he instill fear to us through His Word.
Does it mean that God created fear in our hearts only if we read the Bible? No, not at all. It happens when you consciously decide to follow the word of God in everything we read. "Ezra had given his heart the Lord of Law to study, monitor it and to teach in Israel the law and the law." (Ezra 7:10)
The fear of God is not just the Old Testament thing. It is mentioned in both Testaments. The Old Testament says: "Fear the Lord and to shy away from evil." (Proverbs 3:7) Similarly, the New Testament declares: "There is no fear of God before their eyes." (Romans 3:18) Paul continues: cleanse all the pollutions of the flesh and spirit, complete sanctification, placing the fear of God. " (2 Cor. 7:1)
Monday, April 12, 2010
Sunday Wrap Up
Great time of worship Sunday. I was too wiped out to write something last night. I really appreciate Brian leading worship yesterday. As always, he did a wonderful job. I know some might have been surprised and felt it to be a little awkward. But my main concern was not the church body of Kings Point an how we would respond. As I said a few weeks ago "we don't do things like the world does. As Christians our standards must be above that. We love one another, we forgive one another, we submit and are accountable to those in authority, and we work together." Overall, I believe we are a mature body and you proved that again yesterday.
Please keep Brian and Melanie in your prayers. I am sure that wherever they end up they will continue to be a blessing to the body of Christ.
Yesterday's testimonies of God's blessing and favor were encouraging. The ministry around the altar afterwards was wonderful as the body of Christ ministered to one another. One of the retired pastors at KP commented afterwards that the body ministering to the body is one of the greatest things that can happen in a church. In his words, "that's what ministry is all about."
Remember, next Sunday is Senior Adult Sunday. If you are senior and would like to be in the senior choir, their next practice is scheduled for next Saturday at 10 am.
Have a wonderful week.
-Pastor
Please keep Brian and Melanie in your prayers. I am sure that wherever they end up they will continue to be a blessing to the body of Christ.
Yesterday's testimonies of God's blessing and favor were encouraging. The ministry around the altar afterwards was wonderful as the body of Christ ministered to one another. One of the retired pastors at KP commented afterwards that the body ministering to the body is one of the greatest things that can happen in a church. In his words, "that's what ministry is all about."
Remember, next Sunday is Senior Adult Sunday. If you are senior and would like to be in the senior choir, their next practice is scheduled for next Saturday at 10 am.
Have a wonderful week.
-Pastor
Sunday, April 11, 2010
What Does it Mean to Confess Christ?
“Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 10:32-33).
The Greek word for confess in this passage means covenant, assent or agreement. Jesus is speaking of an agreement we have with him. Our part is to confess him, or represent him, in our daily lives. We are to live by his promises of protection and personal care for us. And we are to testify of his marvelous blessings by how we live.
Confessing Christ means more than believing in his divinity. It’s about more than stating he’s the Son of God, crucified, buried, resurrected and seated at the father’s right hand. The Bible says even demons believe this, and tremble at the knowledge. So, what does Jesus mean when he says we are to confess him before men?
“Whosoever therefore shall confess me…” (10:32, italics mine). By using the word therefore, Jesus is saying, in essence, “In light of what I’ve just said…,” or, “Because of what I’ve just told you…” What had Christ just told his listeners? He had said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father” (10:29). Jesus was telling them, “Think of the millions of birds throughout the earth. Now think of all the birds that have existed since Creation. To this day, not one bird has died or been snared without your heavenly Father knowing it.
Then he pointed out, “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (10:30). Christ was emphasizing, “God is so great, he’s beyond your ability to comprehend. You’ll never be able to grasp how detailed his care for you is.”
Jesus concluded by saying, “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows” 10:31). He sums everything up by saying, “Whoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven” (10:32). He is saying, “Think about what I’ve just revealed to you about the Father’s all-seeing, all-knowing care. You’re to confess this truth to the whole world. You’re to live, breathe and testify, ‘God cares for me.’”
Believe in the Father’s love for you and accept his intimate care for you. And lay down all your fears and doubts. Live before men with the faith that God hasn’t overlooked you. Confess to everyone, “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches over me.”
The Greek word for confess in this passage means covenant, assent or agreement. Jesus is speaking of an agreement we have with him. Our part is to confess him, or represent him, in our daily lives. We are to live by his promises of protection and personal care for us. And we are to testify of his marvelous blessings by how we live.
Confessing Christ means more than believing in his divinity. It’s about more than stating he’s the Son of God, crucified, buried, resurrected and seated at the father’s right hand. The Bible says even demons believe this, and tremble at the knowledge. So, what does Jesus mean when he says we are to confess him before men?
“Whosoever therefore shall confess me…” (10:32, italics mine). By using the word therefore, Jesus is saying, in essence, “In light of what I’ve just said…,” or, “Because of what I’ve just told you…” What had Christ just told his listeners? He had said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father” (10:29). Jesus was telling them, “Think of the millions of birds throughout the earth. Now think of all the birds that have existed since Creation. To this day, not one bird has died or been snared without your heavenly Father knowing it.
Then he pointed out, “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (10:30). Christ was emphasizing, “God is so great, he’s beyond your ability to comprehend. You’ll never be able to grasp how detailed his care for you is.”
Jesus concluded by saying, “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows” 10:31). He sums everything up by saying, “Whoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven” (10:32). He is saying, “Think about what I’ve just revealed to you about the Father’s all-seeing, all-knowing care. You’re to confess this truth to the whole world. You’re to live, breathe and testify, ‘God cares for me.’”
Believe in the Father’s love for you and accept his intimate care for you. And lay down all your fears and doubts. Live before men with the faith that God hasn’t overlooked you. Confess to everyone, “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches over me.”
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Don't Limit the "Holy One"
“They…limited the Holy One of Israel” (Psalm 78:41). The word for limited here comes from two root words, meaning, “grieving God by scratching out an imprint.” In short, limiting God means drawing a line, or making a circle, and stating, “God is in here, and he goes no further.” This describes the thinking of many believers. We’ve marked in our minds a very small imprint, or concept, of Christ’s magnitude.
That’s just what the early church in Jerusalem did. They limited Christ to a small circle, confining him to the Jewish population. But Jesus can’t be confined. He is constantly breaking out of our little, confining circles, and always reaching out to the uttermost.
Let me give an example. Up to about 40 years ago, Pentecostals seemed to have the baptism of the Holy Spirit confined to their movement. Many Pentecostals thought, “We are God’s Spirit-filled church!” Pentecostal preachers bemoaned the deadness of mainline denominations. “They don’t have the full gospel like we do,” they declared.
Suddenly, God’s Spirit burst through everyone’s drawn circles. The Holy Ghost fell on believers in all kinds of denominations. A classic book was written about this move of the Spirit, called They Speak With Other Tongues by John L. Sherrill.
In 1990, I attended a great Charismatic convention at the RCA dome in Indianapolis which included thousands of Catholic priests and nuns. I was amazed at what I witnessed. I had been raised Pentecostal, and had always believed that only Pentecostals and Charismatics prayed and worshipped in tongues. But not only did i witnessed that but I saw priests, pastors, and nuns weeping with conviction, crying out to Jesus.
Soon I had evangelical preachers contending with me, demanding, “What about those Catholics’ Maryology? How can you minister to people who believe in that?” I found myself answering the same way Peter did: “I don’t know anything about Maryology. All I know is, there are hungry people in the Catholic Church. And there are true Jesus worshippers among the priests. God is filling these people with his Spirit.”
God has his people everywhere, and we are not to call any of them common or unclean. We have to be careful that we do not represent Jesus as being small and box him in with our puny thinking.
That’s just what the early church in Jerusalem did. They limited Christ to a small circle, confining him to the Jewish population. But Jesus can’t be confined. He is constantly breaking out of our little, confining circles, and always reaching out to the uttermost.
Let me give an example. Up to about 40 years ago, Pentecostals seemed to have the baptism of the Holy Spirit confined to their movement. Many Pentecostals thought, “We are God’s Spirit-filled church!” Pentecostal preachers bemoaned the deadness of mainline denominations. “They don’t have the full gospel like we do,” they declared.
Suddenly, God’s Spirit burst through everyone’s drawn circles. The Holy Ghost fell on believers in all kinds of denominations. A classic book was written about this move of the Spirit, called They Speak With Other Tongues by John L. Sherrill.
In 1990, I attended a great Charismatic convention at the RCA dome in Indianapolis which included thousands of Catholic priests and nuns. I was amazed at what I witnessed. I had been raised Pentecostal, and had always believed that only Pentecostals and Charismatics prayed and worshipped in tongues. But not only did i witnessed that but I saw priests, pastors, and nuns weeping with conviction, crying out to Jesus.
Soon I had evangelical preachers contending with me, demanding, “What about those Catholics’ Maryology? How can you minister to people who believe in that?” I found myself answering the same way Peter did: “I don’t know anything about Maryology. All I know is, there are hungry people in the Catholic Church. And there are true Jesus worshippers among the priests. God is filling these people with his Spirit.”
God has his people everywhere, and we are not to call any of them common or unclean. We have to be careful that we do not represent Jesus as being small and box him in with our puny thinking.
Friday, April 9, 2010
What To Do When We Feel "Dry" - Away from God's Presence
There are times I feel so very dry—so far away from the presence of God. In such moments, I have no great yearning to read the Word. The reading of the Bible, in times of dryness, is done mostly through a sense of obligation. When I’m dry and empty, I feel little compulsion to pray even though I know my faith is intact, and my love for Jesus is strong.
Have you ever sat in church and watched those around you getting blessed, while you feel nothing? They cry; they pray; they worship with tremendous feeling. But you are not moved upon—at all. You begin to wonder if there is something wrong with your spiritual life.
I believe that all true believers experience dry spells at various times in their Christian life. Even Jesus felt the isolation—when he cried aloud, “Father, why have you forsaken me?”
What shall I do to overcome spiritual dryness?
1. I must maintain a life of prayer!
Nothing dispels dryness and emptiness quicker than an hour or two shut in with God. Putting off that date with God in His secret closet causes guilt. We know that our love for him should lead us into his presence, but we busy ourselves in so many other things—time slips away, and God is left out. We throw in his direction a whole array of “thought prayers.” But nothing can take the place of that secret closet—with the door shut—praying to the Father in seclusion.
Come boldly into his throne of grace—even when you have sinned and failed. He forgives—instantly—those who repent with godly sorrow.
2. I must no longer be afraid of a little suffering!
Christ’s resurrection was preceded by a short period of suffering. We do die! We do suffer! There is pain and sorrow.
We do not want to suffer or resist or be hurt! We want painless deliverance! We want supernatural intervention. “Do it, God,” we pray, “because I am weak and always will be. Do it all, while I go my way, waiting for a supernatural deliverance!”
But, thank God, suffering is always that short period before final victory. “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that you have suffered awhile, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you” (1 Peter 5:10).
Have you ever sat in church and watched those around you getting blessed, while you feel nothing? They cry; they pray; they worship with tremendous feeling. But you are not moved upon—at all. You begin to wonder if there is something wrong with your spiritual life.
I believe that all true believers experience dry spells at various times in their Christian life. Even Jesus felt the isolation—when he cried aloud, “Father, why have you forsaken me?”
What shall I do to overcome spiritual dryness?
1. I must maintain a life of prayer!
Nothing dispels dryness and emptiness quicker than an hour or two shut in with God. Putting off that date with God in His secret closet causes guilt. We know that our love for him should lead us into his presence, but we busy ourselves in so many other things—time slips away, and God is left out. We throw in his direction a whole array of “thought prayers.” But nothing can take the place of that secret closet—with the door shut—praying to the Father in seclusion.
Come boldly into his throne of grace—even when you have sinned and failed. He forgives—instantly—those who repent with godly sorrow.
2. I must no longer be afraid of a little suffering!
Christ’s resurrection was preceded by a short period of suffering. We do die! We do suffer! There is pain and sorrow.
We do not want to suffer or resist or be hurt! We want painless deliverance! We want supernatural intervention. “Do it, God,” we pray, “because I am weak and always will be. Do it all, while I go my way, waiting for a supernatural deliverance!”
But, thank God, suffering is always that short period before final victory. “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that you have suffered awhile, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you” (1 Peter 5:10).
Thursday, April 8, 2010
The Blink Generation
Many Christians read the Bible regularly, believing it is God’s living, revealed Word for their lives. Over and over in the pages of Scripture, they read about generations who heard the voice of God. They read of God speaking to his people again and again, with this phrase repeated time after time: “And God said…” Yet many of these same Christians live as though God doesn’t speak to his people today.
An entire generation of believers has come to make decisions completely on their own, without praying or consulting God’s Word. Many simply decide what they want to do, and then ask God to validate it. They move ahead forcefully, their only prayer being, “Lord, if this is not your will, then stop me”
We are now living in a time referred to as the “blink generation.” People are making major decisions in the blink of an eye. A best-selling book has been written on this concept, titled Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking. The theory is, “Trust your instincts. Blink-of-the-eye decisions prove to be the best.”
Think about all the hurried-up “blink language” we hear every day: “This is an offer of the century. You can make a bundle overnight. But you have only a short window of opportunity. Get on it now!” The driving spirit behind it all is, “Blink, blink, blink!”
Such thinking has begun to infect the church, affecting the decisions made not just by “blink Christians” but by “blink ministers.” Scores of bewildered parishioners have written to us telling the same story: “Our pastor came back from a church-growth conference and immediately announced, ‘As of today, everything changes.’ He decided we would become one of the popular trend churches overnight! He didn’t even ask us to pray about it...we’re all confused.”
Just a few years ago, the watchword among Christians was, “Did you pray about this matter? Have you sought the Lord concerning it? Are your brothers and sisters surrounding you in prayer? Have you received godly counsel?” I ask you, has this been your practice? In the past year, how many important decisions have you made where you honestly took the matter to God and prayed sincerely? Or, how many of those decisions did you make “in the blink of an eye”? The reason God wants full control of our lives is to save us from disasters—which is exactly where most of our “blink decisions” end up.
An entire generation of believers has come to make decisions completely on their own, without praying or consulting God’s Word. Many simply decide what they want to do, and then ask God to validate it. They move ahead forcefully, their only prayer being, “Lord, if this is not your will, then stop me”
We are now living in a time referred to as the “blink generation.” People are making major decisions in the blink of an eye. A best-selling book has been written on this concept, titled Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking. The theory is, “Trust your instincts. Blink-of-the-eye decisions prove to be the best.”
Think about all the hurried-up “blink language” we hear every day: “This is an offer of the century. You can make a bundle overnight. But you have only a short window of opportunity. Get on it now!” The driving spirit behind it all is, “Blink, blink, blink!”
Such thinking has begun to infect the church, affecting the decisions made not just by “blink Christians” but by “blink ministers.” Scores of bewildered parishioners have written to us telling the same story: “Our pastor came back from a church-growth conference and immediately announced, ‘As of today, everything changes.’ He decided we would become one of the popular trend churches overnight! He didn’t even ask us to pray about it...we’re all confused.”
Just a few years ago, the watchword among Christians was, “Did you pray about this matter? Have you sought the Lord concerning it? Are your brothers and sisters surrounding you in prayer? Have you received godly counsel?” I ask you, has this been your practice? In the past year, how many important decisions have you made where you honestly took the matter to God and prayed sincerely? Or, how many of those decisions did you make “in the blink of an eye”? The reason God wants full control of our lives is to save us from disasters—which is exactly where most of our “blink decisions” end up.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Feelings, the Messengers of Satan
by David Wilkerson
I am so glad my feelings have no meaning. I am even more grateful they do not affect my salvation or my relationship to the Lord. When the enemy comes in like a flood, trying to drown me in depressing feelings and negative thoughts, I have a tendency to blame myself. I say to my heart, “Why am I cast down, O my soul? Why am I suddenly disquieted in spirit? Why so restless and irritable—when I don’t want to be? What evil thing have I done to deserve these negative, depressing feelings?”
My negative, blue feelings did not come from God so I don’t have to put up with them!
“For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).
I can reject every negative feeling because I know not one of them is from God. Feelings that make one afraid are not sent from heaven, they are messengers from the pits of hell! They are to be rejected and bound through the power of prayer and faith.
God is saying to us, “I didn’t give you these feelings of fear and doubt. Instead, I’ve given you a spirit of love, power, and authority.” He calls us to abolish these unwanted thoughts, bringing them into captivity and obedience to himself. We dare not allow our feelings to master us. We dare not permit them to linger and grow into roots of bitterness and doubt. We must come against them in the name of Christ the Lord and cast them down. We are commanded to do so!
“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Every downcast feeling is the fruit of a satanic seed of mistrust. It is the old serpent at work trying to make us question God’s faithfulness, question God’s care, question God! These lies are the seeds of negative feelings and God commands us to war against them.
I am so glad my feelings have no meaning. I am even more grateful they do not affect my salvation or my relationship to the Lord. When the enemy comes in like a flood, trying to drown me in depressing feelings and negative thoughts, I have a tendency to blame myself. I say to my heart, “Why am I cast down, O my soul? Why am I suddenly disquieted in spirit? Why so restless and irritable—when I don’t want to be? What evil thing have I done to deserve these negative, depressing feelings?”
My negative, blue feelings did not come from God so I don’t have to put up with them!
“For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).
I can reject every negative feeling because I know not one of them is from God. Feelings that make one afraid are not sent from heaven, they are messengers from the pits of hell! They are to be rejected and bound through the power of prayer and faith.
God is saying to us, “I didn’t give you these feelings of fear and doubt. Instead, I’ve given you a spirit of love, power, and authority.” He calls us to abolish these unwanted thoughts, bringing them into captivity and obedience to himself. We dare not allow our feelings to master us. We dare not permit them to linger and grow into roots of bitterness and doubt. We must come against them in the name of Christ the Lord and cast them down. We are commanded to do so!
“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Every downcast feeling is the fruit of a satanic seed of mistrust. It is the old serpent at work trying to make us question God’s faithfulness, question God’s care, question God! These lies are the seeds of negative feelings and God commands us to war against them.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
What a game last night!
Well its late and I still need to do some praying for I hit the sack. I hope you got to enjoy this beautiful day. I visited hospitals this morning and took the afternoon off doing some work around the house trying to get the place ready for Gabe's graduation party.
You probably heard that Hillary Mayne and Velvet Crowe came through their respective surgeries well and both are home now. I also got to visit some with Grace Davis today. Please keep her and Bud in your prayers as well as Sister Arlene Miller.
I haven't heard from my mother yet. She arrived in Haiti Monday sometime. Her plane didn't get into Chicago on time due to the storms there Sunday night. Hopefully, she is doing well. Thanks to everyone who brought gum for her to give out to the children. Please remember her and her medical team in your prayers.
What a game last night! It would have been better if Butler would have won. But what a story. Being from Indiana, it was pretty special. Indiana eats and sleeps b-ball. In every small and even the large cities in Indiana, the heroes are the basketball players. The Indiana schools have great high school coaches who seem to major in teaching good fundamental basketball. Also, Indiana has fourteen of the largest fifteen high school gymnasiums in the country. Indiana kids grow up playing in big, packed gymns. My own high school was about the same size in enrollment as Little Miami and the gym seated over 5,000. The Cincinnati area has great high school football and I think really good baseball as well. But their high school basketball doesn't compare to Indiana basketball...anywhere in the state of Indiana. Kentucky too...is a great college basketball state, but can't compete with Indiana high school basketball. It stands alone. I say all this because Butler had ten Indiana high schoolers on their team including Indiana's Mr. Basketball from 2008, Gordon Heyward.
Well, sorry for the sermon on Indiana basketball. Have a wonderful Wednesday and God help us to glorify you tomorrow in all we do and say!
-Pastor
You probably heard that Hillary Mayne and Velvet Crowe came through their respective surgeries well and both are home now. I also got to visit some with Grace Davis today. Please keep her and Bud in your prayers as well as Sister Arlene Miller.
I haven't heard from my mother yet. She arrived in Haiti Monday sometime. Her plane didn't get into Chicago on time due to the storms there Sunday night. Hopefully, she is doing well. Thanks to everyone who brought gum for her to give out to the children. Please remember her and her medical team in your prayers.
What a game last night! It would have been better if Butler would have won. But what a story. Being from Indiana, it was pretty special. Indiana eats and sleeps b-ball. In every small and even the large cities in Indiana, the heroes are the basketball players. The Indiana schools have great high school coaches who seem to major in teaching good fundamental basketball. Also, Indiana has fourteen of the largest fifteen high school gymnasiums in the country. Indiana kids grow up playing in big, packed gymns. My own high school was about the same size in enrollment as Little Miami and the gym seated over 5,000. The Cincinnati area has great high school football and I think really good baseball as well. But their high school basketball doesn't compare to Indiana basketball...anywhere in the state of Indiana. Kentucky too...is a great college basketball state, but can't compete with Indiana high school basketball. It stands alone. I say all this because Butler had ten Indiana high schoolers on their team including Indiana's Mr. Basketball from 2008, Gordon Heyward.
Well, sorry for the sermon on Indiana basketball. Have a wonderful Wednesday and God help us to glorify you tomorrow in all we do and say!
-Pastor
Monday, April 5, 2010
Prayer
Please remember in prayer Grace Davis and Hillary Mayne. Also, remember Velvet Crowe as she recovers from foot surgery. The report is she came through her surgery very well. Nona Moore, Missionary Arlene Miller, and Hazel Dye are also in our prayers. KP has a prayer line. Please call the church when you have a prayer need. Also, you can list your prayer need on our church website as well and send it to us.
We are a people of prayer. We have a prayer room at the church that you are welcome to use any time of the day. You are also welcome to pray in the church sanctuary and at the cross in the sanctuary. We have prayer lists at the cross you can use your intercessory prayer time. Also, all of our cells have "prayer of threes" that prayer for unsaved friends. We have seen many of our friends and family members come to Christ through this ministry.
Someone once said, "Little prayer, little power. Some prayer, some power. Lots of prayer, lots of power."
Have a great Tuesday!
-Pastor
We are a people of prayer. We have a prayer room at the church that you are welcome to use any time of the day. You are also welcome to pray in the church sanctuary and at the cross in the sanctuary. We have prayer lists at the cross you can use your intercessory prayer time. Also, all of our cells have "prayer of threes" that prayer for unsaved friends. We have seen many of our friends and family members come to Christ through this ministry.
Someone once said, "Little prayer, little power. Some prayer, some power. Lots of prayer, lots of power."
Have a great Tuesday!
-Pastor
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Sunday Wrap Up
We prayed this weekend that formality that often comes with a worship service when there are lots of visiting guests would not limit our worship. I think our prayers were answered. Even though the sanctuary was pretty much packed and there were lots of guests, the KP church really worshiped today without any kind of limitation or hesitation. Great service this morning as well as the Friday night service!
This morning several received Christ as their Lord and Savior. After church, a young man came up to me and shared that he received Christ in one of our services a few weeks back. He and his family have been growing in Christ and he shared with me how he has been talking to God and learning to hear and obey the voice of his heavenly Father. Its great to see people coming to Christ and growing in the Lord. I thank you KP church family for your prayers and bringing unsaved people to God's house. I also appreciate you that gave in the offering for Arlene Miller today. I know God will bless you and us greatly for our giving to our missionary.
My mother left for Haiti today with a medical team. She had two large suit cases full of gum and medical supplies. Thank you so much KP family for bringing in all the gum. Also, we assisted her in an offering out of our benevolence ministries to help purchase medical supplies for the trip. The gum will go to bless hundreds and possibly thousands of the Haiti children. To them, one stick of gum is great treat. Please keep my mother in your prayers this week.
Wow, our youth ministry did a super job this morning with the human video. You can see it here on the "sermons" page along with the message from this morning's service.
Everyone have a wonderful week. And go Butler...defeat Goliath.
-Pastor
This morning several received Christ as their Lord and Savior. After church, a young man came up to me and shared that he received Christ in one of our services a few weeks back. He and his family have been growing in Christ and he shared with me how he has been talking to God and learning to hear and obey the voice of his heavenly Father. Its great to see people coming to Christ and growing in the Lord. I thank you KP church family for your prayers and bringing unsaved people to God's house. I also appreciate you that gave in the offering for Arlene Miller today. I know God will bless you and us greatly for our giving to our missionary.
My mother left for Haiti today with a medical team. She had two large suit cases full of gum and medical supplies. Thank you so much KP family for bringing in all the gum. Also, we assisted her in an offering out of our benevolence ministries to help purchase medical supplies for the trip. The gum will go to bless hundreds and possibly thousands of the Haiti children. To them, one stick of gum is great treat. Please keep my mother in your prayers this week.
Wow, our youth ministry did a super job this morning with the human video. You can see it here on the "sermons" page along with the message from this morning's service.
Everyone have a wonderful week. And go Butler...defeat Goliath.
-Pastor
Friday, April 2, 2010
Happy "Great Friday"
"Good Friday" everyone! This of course, is the day we remember the death of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. On this day nearly 2000 years ago, Jesus finished his mission by enduring the suffering of the cross and because of that you and I have our sins cleansed by his blood as we confess Jesus is Lord with our mouth and believe in our heart (Romans 10:8-10). In reality, it should be called "Great Friday."
According to the bible, Jesus died at 3:00 pm on Friday. Up until that time today, he took what should have been our punishment upon himself. Remember, he lived a sinless life. He had no sins for himself that needed to be paid for. He paid for my sins, and your sins, and the sins of all mankind...past, present, and future. He is called the Lamb of God because he was God, the Father's sacrificial, perfect, lamb offering. He is called the lamb because in the Old Testament under the law the Hebrew people were required by Jehovah God to offer a healthy, perfect lamb for their sins. As they did this, their sins were "atoned for" or "covered." Christ's death is called "the atonement" because his blood "covers our sins." The sin, the guilt, is forever gone. We are declared "not guilty" or justified by God the Father when we confess our sins and believe in him.
Have you confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior today? Have you turned from your sins and received him as Lord and Savior? If not, I encourage you to look up Romans 8:9 and 10 and do exactly what it says. Jesus will save you and change you through his resurrection power that we celebrate this on Easter Sunday.
Have a great "Great Friday!"
P.S. Join us tonight for our "Great Friday" service at 7 pm. See you there!
-Pastor
According to the bible, Jesus died at 3:00 pm on Friday. Up until that time today, he took what should have been our punishment upon himself. Remember, he lived a sinless life. He had no sins for himself that needed to be paid for. He paid for my sins, and your sins, and the sins of all mankind...past, present, and future. He is called the Lamb of God because he was God, the Father's sacrificial, perfect, lamb offering. He is called the lamb because in the Old Testament under the law the Hebrew people were required by Jehovah God to offer a healthy, perfect lamb for their sins. As they did this, their sins were "atoned for" or "covered." Christ's death is called "the atonement" because his blood "covers our sins." The sin, the guilt, is forever gone. We are declared "not guilty" or justified by God the Father when we confess our sins and believe in him.
Have you confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior today? Have you turned from your sins and received him as Lord and Savior? If not, I encourage you to look up Romans 8:9 and 10 and do exactly what it says. Jesus will save you and change you through his resurrection power that we celebrate this on Easter Sunday.
Have a great "Great Friday!"
P.S. Join us tonight for our "Great Friday" service at 7 pm. See you there!
-Pastor
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