I went to Starbucks this evening to finish up some homework, and to watch some movies. I sat in one of the two lounge chairs just to the left of the main door. After sitting there about 45 minutes, this guy walked in and sat down in the chair next to me. I could tell he was a fellow LeTourneau student, because he had a stack of books, a laptop, a worksheet he was working on, and a Venti coffee to keep him awake. He and I never said a word to each other: no “hi”, “hello”, or “how are you doin’?”; just a brief moment of eye contact. We each sat there working away at our own tasks for about a half hour, not speaking a word to each other.
Then in comes this older couple. They walk up to the counter, order their coffee and sit down at the table directly in front of us. Not two minutes after they had sat down, the older gentlemen looked at me and said, "Nothin’ runs like a dear, eh son?" I looked back at him somewhat confused, not remembering I was wearing my John Deere hat. Realizing my confusion he repeated his statement. I respectfully replied, "No sir, nothin’ runs like a Deere." That simple question sparked an hour long conversation that covered life experiences from seventy four years ago to today.
The guy next to me joined in the conversation after soon realizing that we’re from towns no more than 20 minutes apart. He is from Round Rock, the older couple from Austin, and me from Hutto. So we talked and talked about where they had lived, where they went to school, what it was like growing up, and how school was going for us students.
I really enjoyed talking to them, it was like taking a breath of fresh air; just good Texas folk talkin’ to each other.
After about an hour, I made my exit, having shook Mr. and Mrs. Cadds hands. As soon as I got in my car I began to think, “What will this next generation be like?” The other college student and I didn't say a word to each other, didn't even acknowledge each other, but this older couple began talking to us immediately.
Have we moved so far away from traditional values that we don't even talk to one another? People are important. That is an important value, and we should all be willing to care about others enough to start a conversation with just about anyone. I hope that when my generation is old that we aren't buried in our laptops and gizmos, so much that we don't take the time to talk to others, share stories and experiences with the generation to come after us, and to genuinely care about others.
That's my life lesson for the day. Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Cadds
Know the Blessing,
Michael R. Bullock
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
THE EVIDENCE of the Holy Spirit
How often do you get caught up in the details and over complicate matters? It happens to me regularly. I get bogged down in the details of my life and sometimes miss the big lessons that God has clearly set forth in His Word. I spend much time analyzing the details of certain passages and neglect the main point. This has happened with the doctrine of the Holy Spirit, Pneumatology.
Some approach the Holy Spirit with a cessationist perspective, denying contemporary special gifting of believers. They deny modern day miraculous signs and wonders, such as healing or speaking in tongues. Others herald speaking in tongues as the evidence of the Holy Spirit. Neither of these positions deals with the main point.
The evidence of the Holy Spirit is very basic. It is fundamental to the Christian faith. It is an obvious fruit that is overlooked in many senses, and associated with legalism in some circles. I am speaking of conviction, specifically the conviction of sin, righteousness, and the judgement to come.
This is not rocket science. When a person comes to faith in Christ, the sign of the Holy Spirit is manifest in these three matters. Man is sinful, The Lord is our Righteousness, and all men will face judgment. These workings of the Holy Spirit are central to true belief.
Know the Blessing
Some approach the Holy Spirit with a cessationist perspective, denying contemporary special gifting of believers. They deny modern day miraculous signs and wonders, such as healing or speaking in tongues. Others herald speaking in tongues as the evidence of the Holy Spirit. Neither of these positions deals with the main point.
The evidence of the Holy Spirit is very basic. It is fundamental to the Christian faith. It is an obvious fruit that is overlooked in many senses, and associated with legalism in some circles. I am speaking of conviction, specifically the conviction of sin, righteousness, and the judgement to come.
This is not rocket science. When a person comes to faith in Christ, the sign of the Holy Spirit is manifest in these three matters. Man is sinful, The Lord is our Righteousness, and all men will face judgment. These workings of the Holy Spirit are central to true belief.
John 16:7-11 (ESV)What about you? Are you convicted or just cruising along? Are you waiting in expectation of judgment on all evil deeds? Is sin your enemy or just an unpleasant thought? Is the righteousness of God your longing and desire?Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. -
Know the Blessing
Friday, August 14, 2009
Eradicating My Enemies
The Old Testament boggles the mind of many unbelievers, atheists, and liberal Christians. The plagues, wars, blood, death and destruction are too much for them to digest. Massive death and destruction cause them to doubt that character and nature of God, as well as the credentials of the Old Testament. Liberal Christians reject and dismiss the value of Old Testament to their own detriment.
The matter is really quite simple. God has made a promise that He keeps. We have seen this promise at work through the course of history. We will see its grand conclusion, and we will stand, and cheer, and shout for joy, while we raise our voices praising His Holy Name for all eternity.
You share in God’s passion for this cause. It is the destruction of the enemies of man and the enemies of God. Let me ask you a question. Will heaven be heaven if it contains liars? Will heaven be heaven if it contains the sexual immorality? Will heaven be heaven if it contains material idolatry? Of course not! Heaven will only be heaven if all of the enemies of God and man are absent.
In the Old Testament, God was eradicating wickedness. He was making a Holy People for Himself and for humanity. We often forget how beguiling evil can be. We are surrounded in this world with evil, and sometimes it lures us into it fold. God is in the process of destroying evil. If we desire to join in His cause, we must embrace the ways of God. His ways are above our ways. His ways are the best ways to love others. His ways are the only ways that endure the test of eternity.
Even death itself is an enemy of man that God will destroy. He has already proven himself powerful over death, and it is the final enemy to be destroyed.
Know the Blessing
Photo: Dr. Squintum Exaltation or the Reformation - Great Awakening Revivalist George Whitefield
Note: Read Psalm 37 for futher encouragment
The matter is really quite simple. God has made a promise that He keeps. We have seen this promise at work through the course of history. We will see its grand conclusion, and we will stand, and cheer, and shout for joy, while we raise our voices praising His Holy Name for all eternity.
You share in God’s passion for this cause. It is the destruction of the enemies of man and the enemies of God. Let me ask you a question. Will heaven be heaven if it contains liars? Will heaven be heaven if it contains the sexual immorality? Will heaven be heaven if it contains material idolatry? Of course not! Heaven will only be heaven if all of the enemies of God and man are absent.
Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
In the Old Testament, God was eradicating wickedness. He was making a Holy People for Himself and for humanity. We often forget how beguiling evil can be. We are surrounded in this world with evil, and sometimes it lures us into it fold. God is in the process of destroying evil. If we desire to join in His cause, we must embrace the ways of God. His ways are above our ways. His ways are the best ways to love others. His ways are the only ways that endure the test of eternity.
Even death itself is an enemy of man that God will destroy. He has already proven himself powerful over death, and it is the final enemy to be destroyed.
The last enemy to be destroyed is death. 1 Corinthians 15:26He has given you a promise, and you can begin embracing it today. He will destroy all of your enemies, and you can enjoy a bit of heaven today by embracing his commands through faith in His perfect son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Know the Blessing
Photo: Dr. Squintum Exaltation or the Reformation - Great Awakening Revivalist George Whitefield
Note: Read Psalm 37 for futher encouragment
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Except Ye Be Converted
The King James Version and the Old English language threw me for several loops when I was a child. I could not understand; it just didn't make sense. The New International Version has played a major role in helping me to know God and His ways. Today, I have a little love for the old English language. In certain cases, it really brings light on the hard realities of this life. Consider these words of Christ as translated from Greek into the Old English ...
These are strong words. Jesus was very direct in many cases. In this passage, focus first on the words "converted", "change", or "turn". The passage deals first with repentance. It tells us we must do a one-eighty. We must reverse our path. We need to change.
Next we must ask, "How should I change?". What is it about the child that Jesus is emphasizing? The second verse tells us, "humble yourself". Reading between the lines, please allow me to advise you. Humble yourself, before someone else does it for you.
Combing the two passages, we find the essence of God's instruction to man. Turn from your path of pride, self-righteousness, hypocrisy and arrogance to the path of humility, righteousness that comes from God, acknowledgment of sin, and our dependence upon God. We need Him desperately. Without Him we never existed. Without His sustaining presence we perish. Without His ways in our life we destroy ourselves and those we love.
Not so with a child. A child believes and trusts; that is true faith. A child has no pretentiousness. The child has not even learned to compare himself to others, or even consider providing for himself. The child is totally dependant upon others for sustenance.
Know the Blessing
Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. The ESV says it this way, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." I'll say it this way, "Unless you turn from your pride, you are not heaven bound."
- Matthew 18:3-4 (KJV)
These are strong words. Jesus was very direct in many cases. In this passage, focus first on the words "converted", "change", or "turn". The passage deals first with repentance. It tells us we must do a one-eighty. We must reverse our path. We need to change.
Next we must ask, "How should I change?". What is it about the child that Jesus is emphasizing? The second verse tells us, "humble yourself". Reading between the lines, please allow me to advise you. Humble yourself, before someone else does it for you.
Combing the two passages, we find the essence of God's instruction to man. Turn from your path of pride, self-righteousness, hypocrisy and arrogance to the path of humility, righteousness that comes from God, acknowledgment of sin, and our dependence upon God. We need Him desperately. Without Him we never existed. Without His sustaining presence we perish. Without His ways in our life we destroy ourselves and those we love.
Not so with a child. A child believes and trusts; that is true faith. A child has no pretentiousness. The child has not even learned to compare himself to others, or even consider providing for himself. The child is totally dependant upon others for sustenance.
I tell you the truth, unless you change and be like little children. You will never enter the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 18:3 NIVThrough the Gospel of Christ we can embrace this command. By the example of the Suffering Servant, the blood of His brow, we know He desires us as His children despite our past arrogance and pride. Through his faithfulness we can from our adultery with the world. Now that we are adults polluted by the world let us embrace the ways of a child created of God.
Know the Blessing
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Call 2 Fall
REPENT! REPENT! Can you hear the voice of one calling in the dessert?
Yes, I know. You can do without the yelling. Might I suggest that you have not done well without the yelling? Might I suggest our nation is far from God, and far from repentance? It is time to fall; time to fall on our knees and humble ourselves. Time to turn from our wicked ways that He might heal our land.
Those are the words of Paul from Romans 7:24. Seven days a week; twenty-four hours a day. What a wretched man am I. Who will rescue me from this body of death? Repentance, humility, turning from the ways of man to the ways of God: these should be daily acts of a nation that knows The Almighty. This character should be ingrained into the Christian way of life, but we have lived without it, emphasizing His Grace over His Righteousness, and His mercy over our need to change.
Now is the time. Join with me this coming Sunday, July 5th, 2009. It's the Call 2 Fall: visit http://www.call2fall.com/ for more information. Listen to the Political Hope Radio Show life on FM Radio or via internet as we help lead America to repentance. http://www.politicalhope.com/
REPENT! Turn from your sin you double minded!
"Make straight the path of the Lord!"
"Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
Yes, I know. You can do without the yelling. Might I suggest that you have not done well without the yelling? Might I suggest our nation is far from God, and far from repentance? It is time to fall; time to fall on our knees and humble ourselves. Time to turn from our wicked ways that He might heal our land.
"What a wretched man am I! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God-through Jesus Christ!"
Those are the words of Paul from Romans 7:24. Seven days a week; twenty-four hours a day. What a wretched man am I. Who will rescue me from this body of death? Repentance, humility, turning from the ways of man to the ways of God: these should be daily acts of a nation that knows The Almighty. This character should be ingrained into the Christian way of life, but we have lived without it, emphasizing His Grace over His Righteousness, and His mercy over our need to change.
Now is the time. Join with me this coming Sunday, July 5th, 2009. It's the Call 2 Fall: visit http://www.call2fall.com/ for more information. Listen to the Political Hope Radio Show life on FM Radio or via internet as we help lead America to repentance. http://www.politicalhope.com/
REPENT! Turn from your sin you double minded!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Life for Death
Many folks claim the Bible is full of contradictions. Typically hung up in details, they fail to comprehend the great worth found in paradoxial statements flowing from the mouth of God. Some spend their lifetime arguing variances in numerical accounting, all the while missing the one reality that will change their eterinal destiny.
David Norman wrote recently an article titled, "Putting the American Dream to Death". It's about the church's pre-occupation with the American Dream. A friend of mine refers to the problem as the "suburban church". This all reminds me of the beginning of my disenchantment with the American material Dream, which in turn reminds me of Dennis McDaniel's book, Lost in the American Dream. Read Norman's post by clicking here >>
As much as I despise it, I still get lured into the trappings of the world and its material pursuits. Consumption with relaxation, indulgence, luxury and entertainment could easily eat up most of my time. Certainly, I have it easy compared to many in the world. I also recognize that I have given up much of my worldly ways for Christ' sake. The problem is, that's not what the text says.
Christ didn't call me to give up part of my life for His. He did not give just an arm or a finger for me. He gave it all. He lived a perfect life without ever owning a home. He lived in my place with no place to rest his head. I get cranky, when I'm a little sleep deprived.
The words of Christ ring loud in my mind, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?". "Whoever wants to gain his life, must lose it for my sake."
Has the American Dream sucked the life out of you too?
Know the Blessing: Surrender it all to Jesus!
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? - Matthew 16:24-26 (ESV)
David Norman wrote recently an article titled, "Putting the American Dream to Death". It's about the church's pre-occupation with the American Dream. A friend of mine refers to the problem as the "suburban church". This all reminds me of the beginning of my disenchantment with the American material Dream, which in turn reminds me of Dennis McDaniel's book, Lost in the American Dream. Read Norman's post by clicking here >>
As much as I despise it, I still get lured into the trappings of the world and its material pursuits. Consumption with relaxation, indulgence, luxury and entertainment could easily eat up most of my time. Certainly, I have it easy compared to many in the world. I also recognize that I have given up much of my worldly ways for Christ' sake. The problem is, that's not what the text says.
Christ didn't call me to give up part of my life for His. He did not give just an arm or a finger for me. He gave it all. He lived a perfect life without ever owning a home. He lived in my place with no place to rest his head. I get cranky, when I'm a little sleep deprived.
The words of Christ ring loud in my mind, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?". "Whoever wants to gain his life, must lose it for my sake."
Has the American Dream sucked the life out of you too?
Know the Blessing: Surrender it all to Jesus!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
The Most Dangerous Religion
Arm chair philosophers oft assess which presents the greatest danger, "Science, or religion?" So too maybe we should ask, "Which religion is most dangerous?", "What is the modern day 'Yeast of the Pharisees?'"
The choices are vast. There are the major world religions of Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and Christianity. Within each there are all manner of variations and perversions thereof. There are the "true" ardents of each sect, as well as the "cults". While these are all fascinating, none of them take the cake in my book. There is yet another religion to consider.
Matthew records relevant words of Jesus,
The most dangerous religion in the world today is Secular Humanism. It is a religion as stated in Humanist Manifesto I. Humanism stands in stark contrast to Biblical teaching; it is one-hundred-eighty degrees out of phase with God's Word on almost every point. It aligns with the progressive political movement, and in fact, is the unrealized enemy of conservatives.
Secular Humanism has permeated the U.S. public school system and much of our culture, and most Christians do not recognize it. It is the most dangerous religion. It is destroying our culture, our political system, and our children.
Know the Blessing of the Rarest of Jewels - Godly Wisdom
The choices are vast. There are the major world religions of Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and Christianity. Within each there are all manner of variations and perversions thereof. There are the "true" ardents of each sect, as well as the "cults". While these are all fascinating, none of them take the cake in my book. There is yet another religion to consider.
Matthew records relevant words of Jesus,
“Watch and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” - Matt 16:6 (ESV). "... teaching as doctrines the commandments of men." Matt 15:9 (ESV)The religious leaders of Jesus' day had perverted the commands of God. They traded the commands of God for the traditions of men. They had lost that which they were entrusted with ... the very words of God. The Pharisees and Saducees were substituting the revealed with the rational. They valued the thoughts of man over the Wisdom of God, but did not even realize it. Today, such a system has become a formal religion.
The most dangerous religion in the world today is Secular Humanism. It is a religion as stated in Humanist Manifesto I. Humanism stands in stark contrast to Biblical teaching; it is one-hundred-eighty degrees out of phase with God's Word on almost every point. It aligns with the progressive political movement, and in fact, is the unrealized enemy of conservatives.
Secular Humanism has permeated the U.S. public school system and much of our culture, and most Christians do not recognize it. It is the most dangerous religion. It is destroying our culture, our political system, and our children.
Know the Blessing of the Rarest of Jewels - Godly Wisdom
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Only the Lost Sheep of Israel
Christianity is oft cited as an exclusive religion. Can Jesus really be the only way to heaven? Inclusion is heralded as "must have" positive character trait. While we can certainly make the case that Christianity is positively and negatively inclusive, Jesus' mission on earth was exclusive in some senses.
When hounded by a Canaanite woman with a demon-possessed daughter, Jesus initially ignored the woman and the disciples complained about her persistence. They asked him to do something, and Jesus replied, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” Matthew 15:24
An exclusive mission for the Messiah; Israel only, The lost sheep of the chosen race. We also know that His mission to Israel changed the world. While, the Redemption began with the children of Father Abraham, there it did not end. In the book of Acts we know that it spread from Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, to the ends of the earth...
Do not neglect ministry to your own household. Do not neglect your own community and workplace. On this National Day of Prayer America needs God. We need His ways in our nation. We have turned away and He is still waiting; Waiting for you to take care of your Jerusalem.
Know the Blessing
When hounded by a Canaanite woman with a demon-possessed daughter, Jesus initially ignored the woman and the disciples complained about her persistence. They asked him to do something, and Jesus replied, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” Matthew 15:24
An exclusive mission for the Messiah; Israel only, The lost sheep of the chosen race. We also know that His mission to Israel changed the world. While, the Redemption began with the children of Father Abraham, there it did not end. In the book of Acts we know that it spread from Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, to the ends of the earth...
So where is your Jerusalem? What is your Judea? Where is your Israel?All too often we over look our own home and work place. We over look the path that we travel daily. You can minister the word where you are and as you go. You can be an agent for the Spirit of God right where you are.
Do not neglect ministry to your own household. Do not neglect your own community and workplace. On this National Day of Prayer America needs God. We need His ways in our nation. We have turned away and He is still waiting; Waiting for you to take care of your Jerusalem.
Know the Blessing
One Hilarious Verse in the Bible
Imagine the scene with me. Jesus is yet again confronting the Pharisees and teachers of the law. They are complaining to Jesus, because the disciples did not wash their hands before they ate. Maybe, they were concerned about the disciples catching the swine flu. Maybe, they were concerned about Jesus having more followers on Twitter.
Whatever their motive, Jesus blasts the Pharisees,
Ouch! And then comes the most brilliant statement in all the Bible. The disciples approach Jesus after the exchange stating, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?"
Are you kidding me? I offended them? I am soooOOOO SORRY! Please, let's go back and apologize. I did not mean to hurt their feelings. Let me re-phrase that, so it will be more kind and gentle.
That has to be one of funniest statements in the Bible. Of course he offended them. Of course they were taken back. He called them hypocrites! He said they worshiped him in vain! In other parts of the gospel accounts, Jesus says they are children of the devil. He goes on to call them blind guides, and says, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots".
The truth of our selfish nature and pride is offensive! The smell of our indulgences cannot be drown out by incense. The wage of our sin cannot be paid by a mere human offering. God is only tolerating sin for a season. He will put a stop to it. He will up root and burn all the unproductive fruit of this earth. He will destroy The Destroyer, death itself.
My friends, the spiritual war we engage is serious business. There is plenty of fun and laughter along the way, but the cost of discipleship is your very life! The price for following Jesus is alienatation from the world. Anyone that is a friend of the world is an enemy of God. And that is not funny.
Know the Blessing
Whatever their motive, Jesus blasts the Pharisees,
"And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition? ... You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you:” ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’ Read all of Mattthew 15 >>
Ouch! And then comes the most brilliant statement in all the Bible. The disciples approach Jesus after the exchange stating, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?"
Are you kidding me? I offended them? I am soooOOOO SORRY! Please, let's go back and apologize. I did not mean to hurt their feelings. Let me re-phrase that, so it will be more kind and gentle.
That has to be one of funniest statements in the Bible. Of course he offended them. Of course they were taken back. He called them hypocrites! He said they worshiped him in vain! In other parts of the gospel accounts, Jesus says they are children of the devil. He goes on to call them blind guides, and says, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots".
The truth of our selfish nature and pride is offensive! The smell of our indulgences cannot be drown out by incense. The wage of our sin cannot be paid by a mere human offering. God is only tolerating sin for a season. He will put a stop to it. He will up root and burn all the unproductive fruit of this earth. He will destroy The Destroyer, death itself.
My friends, the spiritual war we engage is serious business. There is plenty of fun and laughter along the way, but the cost of discipleship is your very life! The price for following Jesus is alienatation from the world. Anyone that is a friend of the world is an enemy of God. And that is not funny.
Know the Blessing
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Vacating the Vision
A good friend asked me this week,
I must admit. At that moment the vision was not clear in my mind. Then came last night ... After being in downtown Austin all day, I came home to find Dede watching "The Rookie".
"The Rookie" is a great movie for many reasons; it was filmed in Hutto, Texas; Kitty, my niece, is in the movie; it's about small towns and baseball, and it is about family and funny teenagers. My appreciation for the movie and the story behind it grew even more last night. Most of you know that I'm an emotional kind of guy. Last night I noticed that my emotions where going up and down with this movie more so than any other time watching it. "Lord, what is going on here?", I asked within.
Dennis Quaid plays Johnny Morris, who has given up on his dream, but the vision of playing Major League Baseball is recaptured when a motivational speech backfires on Coach Morris. Johnny's dad, and his wife, Lorri, give him the reality check of family obligations as he is re-engaging the dream through an unexpected opportunity. Lorri quickly realizes the duplicity of her words to her husband compared with the values she wants to instill to her eight year-old boy. Within hours Lorri reverses course and encourages her husband to pursue the dream even though she must sacrifice greatly.
My answer also came quickly. The Lord has given me a vision. That vision is much bigger than I am. It is a vision that I cannot accomplish. It is a vision that requires you; a vision that requires God. A vision that some call lofty, though it is not beyond the realm of history.
I dream of the day when America returns to God. I dream of the day that salvation crashes on these shores again. I dream of the day when parents value Godly children more than Western culture. I dream of the day that true liberty defeats the oppression of Secular Humanism. I dream of an America that blesses the name of the Lord God Almighty. God is honoring that vision. God is calling His people unto Himself.
I am but one soldier in a raging war. I must confess, "I get discouraged". I lose my focus and drift off course. I allow the circumstances of the day to defeat the vision for a moment. But just when I need Him most, God is there. God is faithful, when I am not. God is holy and just, when I am sinful and filled with spite. God knows where He is leading, when I get off the narrow road. Praise Him for the call. Praise Him who directs our steps!
This is the blessing of knowing Christ our Risen Lord and Savior! This is the blessing that surpasses all understanding. This is the hope that endures. Know the Blessing!
God Save the U.S.A.
"Where do you see yourself in three years?"
I must admit. At that moment the vision was not clear in my mind. Then came last night ... After being in downtown Austin all day, I came home to find Dede watching "The Rookie".
"The Rookie" is a great movie for many reasons; it was filmed in Hutto, Texas; Kitty, my niece, is in the movie; it's about small towns and baseball, and it is about family and funny teenagers. My appreciation for the movie and the story behind it grew even more last night. Most of you know that I'm an emotional kind of guy. Last night I noticed that my emotions where going up and down with this movie more so than any other time watching it. "Lord, what is going on here?", I asked within.
Dennis Quaid plays Johnny Morris, who has given up on his dream, but the vision of playing Major League Baseball is recaptured when a motivational speech backfires on Coach Morris. Johnny's dad, and his wife, Lorri, give him the reality check of family obligations as he is re-engaging the dream through an unexpected opportunity. Lorri quickly realizes the duplicity of her words to her husband compared with the values she wants to instill to her eight year-old boy. Within hours Lorri reverses course and encourages her husband to pursue the dream even though she must sacrifice greatly.
My answer also came quickly. The Lord has given me a vision. That vision is much bigger than I am. It is a vision that I cannot accomplish. It is a vision that requires you; a vision that requires God. A vision that some call lofty, though it is not beyond the realm of history.
I dream of the day when America returns to God. I dream of the day that salvation crashes on these shores again. I dream of the day when parents value Godly children more than Western culture. I dream of the day that true liberty defeats the oppression of Secular Humanism. I dream of an America that blesses the name of the Lord God Almighty. God is honoring that vision. God is calling His people unto Himself.
I am but one soldier in a raging war. I must confess, "I get discouraged". I lose my focus and drift off course. I allow the circumstances of the day to defeat the vision for a moment. But just when I need Him most, God is there. God is faithful, when I am not. God is holy and just, when I am sinful and filled with spite. God knows where He is leading, when I get off the narrow road. Praise Him for the call. Praise Him who directs our steps!
This is the blessing of knowing Christ our Risen Lord and Savior! This is the blessing that surpasses all understanding. This is the hope that endures. Know the Blessing!
He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. - 1 Thess 5:24 (ESV)
God Save the U.S.A.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Death & Suffering in this Temporal World
Death and suffering is an issue oft ill-addressed in church teaching. The thought of death and suffering drives many away from God, yet the topic is foundational to understanding the nature of God.
Allow me to summarize the Bible in three words: Generation, de-generation and re-generation. God created the Edenic world (generation). Sin entered the hearts of mankind (de-generation). The price of that sin is death. God sent Christ to pay that debt, and He promises to make everything new (re-generation). Re-generation begins with acceptance of Christ and the Holy Spirit, but is not completely fulfilled until He totally destroys His enemies. Death is the final enemy to be destroyed in the end (1 Cor 15:26).
A huge part of the problem, is that we say “God took him”, or “God called her home”. That is not theologically correct. Sin took him/her. The wages of sin is death, and it is the enemy that we all face. Sin has physical repercussions. Walking in the ways of man brings about natural consequences. Of course, none of this do we like, nor do we readily admit.
The Glorious Hope is that God has proven His power over death in the Resurrection of Christ. He has promised that the old order of things will pass away. This life is but a vapor. The question rests on our trust in His promises. Do we rest and trust in the Kingdom to come or the temporal kingdom on earth, where we currently reside? When you find the Pearl of Great Price, are you willing to give up everything you did have to get it?
Everybody, wants to go to heaven (where there are no more enemies), but no body wants to die (even in this troubled world).
Know the Blessing
Allow me to summarize the Bible in three words: Generation, de-generation and re-generation. God created the Edenic world (generation). Sin entered the hearts of mankind (de-generation). The price of that sin is death. God sent Christ to pay that debt, and He promises to make everything new (re-generation). Re-generation begins with acceptance of Christ and the Holy Spirit, but is not completely fulfilled until He totally destroys His enemies. Death is the final enemy to be destroyed in the end (1 Cor 15:26).
A huge part of the problem, is that we say “God took him”, or “God called her home”. That is not theologically correct. Sin took him/her. The wages of sin is death, and it is the enemy that we all face. Sin has physical repercussions. Walking in the ways of man brings about natural consequences. Of course, none of this do we like, nor do we readily admit.
The Glorious Hope is that God has proven His power over death in the Resurrection of Christ. He has promised that the old order of things will pass away. This life is but a vapor. The question rests on our trust in His promises. Do we rest and trust in the Kingdom to come or the temporal kingdom on earth, where we currently reside? When you find the Pearl of Great Price, are you willing to give up everything you did have to get it?
Everybody, wants to go to heaven (where there are no more enemies), but no body wants to die (even in this troubled world).
Know the Blessing
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Faith in the Law
My fellow lawbreakers, do you have faith in the law? That question could conjure up many different notions, so please allow me to elaborate.
Most religions advocate salvation by works. If you follow the rules, you get the prize. Christianity is very different in that we teach the prize comes by faith. Faith in what? Faith in Christ. But what would faith in Christ be, if Christ had not followed the law?
Christ was perfect, spotless; the unblemished Lamb of God. Certainly, he was tempted and tested, but without sin. Had he sinned, would not his sacrifice been disqualified? Christ's food was to do the will of His father. Christ did the things the Father showed Him. Christ adhered to the ways of the God. Christ obeyed the law; the Truth of God. In fact, Christ was and is The Way, The Life and The Truth. No one comes to the Father, but through Him.
Now, back to the question,
More precisely, do you have faith in the Ways of God. Salvation is ultimately found in the ways of God. Our life here on earth is greatly impacted by our own adherence to the ways of God, and it is impacted by the adherence of those around us. When we follow God's commands, we are less likely to suffer the practical ill affects of sin. When we walk in the ways of man, we are beset by the short-comings thereof. His ways are perfect. Ours are ... well, they're human.
Furthermore, do you think heaven will tolerate the ways of man? Contemporary U.S. citizens believe freedom is the right to do whatever you desire, regardless of its alignment with God. True freedom is found in doing what is right and good. In heaven, theft, lies, lust, envy, deceit and death itself will be absent. The will and ways of God, holiness and righteousness will dominate. That's what makes it His Kingdom. His Kingdom is under His Rule. The enemies of God are tolerated in this temporal setting, but God promises to destroy them.
May your faith be extended to trust and depend on His Ways above man's ways. Not because keeping his laws will make you a Christian or bring you eternal security. Rather, may you keep His ways, because you are a believer, and you because you do have eternal security through the one that does keep the law, Christ Jesus Our Lord. May our sin be transferred to his account, and his righteousness be transferred to our account, both now and forevermore.
America Bless God
Most religions advocate salvation by works. If you follow the rules, you get the prize. Christianity is very different in that we teach the prize comes by faith. Faith in what? Faith in Christ. But what would faith in Christ be, if Christ had not followed the law?
Christ was perfect, spotless; the unblemished Lamb of God. Certainly, he was tempted and tested, but without sin. Had he sinned, would not his sacrifice been disqualified? Christ's food was to do the will of His father. Christ did the things the Father showed Him. Christ adhered to the ways of the God. Christ obeyed the law; the Truth of God. In fact, Christ was and is The Way, The Life and The Truth. No one comes to the Father, but through Him.
Now, back to the question,
"Do you have faith in the law?"
More precisely, do you have faith in the Ways of God. Salvation is ultimately found in the ways of God. Our life here on earth is greatly impacted by our own adherence to the ways of God, and it is impacted by the adherence of those around us. When we follow God's commands, we are less likely to suffer the practical ill affects of sin. When we walk in the ways of man, we are beset by the short-comings thereof. His ways are perfect. Ours are ... well, they're human.
Furthermore, do you think heaven will tolerate the ways of man? Contemporary U.S. citizens believe freedom is the right to do whatever you desire, regardless of its alignment with God. True freedom is found in doing what is right and good. In heaven, theft, lies, lust, envy, deceit and death itself will be absent. The will and ways of God, holiness and righteousness will dominate. That's what makes it His Kingdom. His Kingdom is under His Rule. The enemies of God are tolerated in this temporal setting, but God promises to destroy them.
May your faith be extended to trust and depend on His Ways above man's ways. Not because keeping his laws will make you a Christian or bring you eternal security. Rather, may you keep His ways, because you are a believer, and you because you do have eternal security through the one that does keep the law, Christ Jesus Our Lord. May our sin be transferred to his account, and his righteousness be transferred to our account, both now and forevermore.
America Bless God
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Left Over Red Letters
Maybe you've heard of the Jesus Seminar. This group of supposed experts claim authority over which of the Red Letters were spoken or not spoken. This false persuasion of Christianity places emphasis on the assertions of man over the assertions of the Bible. Such assertions embrace the curse, rather than the blessing.
Just as bad are those that emphasize some aspects of the Scripture over others. In today's American Christian church, even among Bible believers, God's grace is heralded repeatedly, while His justice is oft neglected. His love is proclaimed loudly, while His wrath is swept under the rug. I understand it is much more pleasant that way, and it is easier for you to tell people about the "pleasant" attributes of God.
Paul is recorded by Luke, saying ...
Imagine the common thinking of American culture contrasted to the real Red Letters ...
When man gets done with the Red Letters, there is not much left. When man has his way, God's character is fashioned in man's likeness. This should not be. Let us embrace the whole counsel of God. Let's us read and study all of His Word. Let us understand that the God of Mercy is the same God that will destroy everything that is evil.
If God allows evil to remain, heaven won't be heaven, will it? It will be just like the temporal world, where man asserts his ways over God's ways. Seek the whole counsel of God. Seek the whole Truth that is found in His ways.
America Bless God
Just as bad are those that emphasize some aspects of the Scripture over others. In today's American Christian church, even among Bible believers, God's grace is heralded repeatedly, while His justice is oft neglected. His love is proclaimed loudly, while His wrath is swept under the rug. I understand it is much more pleasant that way, and it is easier for you to tell people about the "pleasant" attributes of God.
Paul is recorded by Luke, saying ...
"I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that none of you among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom will see my face again. Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all of you, for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God."
Acts 20:24-27 (ESV)
Imagine the common thinking of American culture contrasted to the real Red Letters ...
“Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin."
Luke 17:1-2 (ESV)Let's teach our children about the various forms of sexually identity and expression, so their bigoted parents will not teach them intolerance toward their fellow man.
"Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." Mark 16:16 (ESV)
“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.
Matt 7:13-14 (ESV)There are many paths to God. All that believe in God will be saved.
When man gets done with the Red Letters, there is not much left. When man has his way, God's character is fashioned in man's likeness. This should not be. Let us embrace the whole counsel of God. Let's us read and study all of His Word. Let us understand that the God of Mercy is the same God that will destroy everything that is evil.
If God allows evil to remain, heaven won't be heaven, will it? It will be just like the temporal world, where man asserts his ways over God's ways. Seek the whole counsel of God. Seek the whole Truth that is found in His ways.
America Bless God
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
New Babylon Rising
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. The pictures you are about to see will take your words away, and fill your mind with awe and wonder.
The city of Babylon is mentioned throughout the Sacred Scriptures. It is the city where human ingenuity came to life, and made itself known as an enemy of God. It is the city known for one of the Sevens Wonders of the world, the Hanging Gardens. It is the city known for the hand writing on the wall, and much much more.
The city was destroyed, and has been in ruins for most of the past thousand years. It did lie in desolation as the OT prophets had spoken, until, under Saddam Hussein, it got a new beginning. The city was restored under Hussein, and became occupied by the U.S.M.C. during the invasion of Iraq in 2003. Today, the U.S. Military refers to the location as Camp Alpha. The location north of present-day Al Hillah, Iraq about 55 miles south of Baghdad. Below is a link that will take you to the exact location on Google maps. Be sure to turn on the Photo option (under the more button) to see some real pictures taken of the restored palace.
Click here to see the Palace at Babylon on Google SatelliteThere is reason to believe the United Nations has chosen this site for their next world headquarters (some speculation required). The area has been recently been transformed into an agricultural mecca, which the U.S. invasion and the United Nations have helped bring about. The Tower of Babel is also thought to be in this region.
Is this a New Babylon rising? What do you think?
God's ways are above our ways. Human rationale will fail. God never fails.
Know the Blessing of His Ways
Thursday, March 12, 2009
I Will Be My Brother's Keeper
Clint Eastwood would say, "Go ahead, punk. Make my day". Badge or not, Dirty Harry carried a vigilante style of law enforcement. Abel's brother, Cain, carried a similar attitude. I know we all love to see the bad guy meet his maker. Unfortunately, our pursuit of justice often trumps discernment. Then we wind up cutting down the fruit of the vine. Allow me to explain.
In the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13, we see the seeds fall on different types of soil. Some soils are more conducive to plant growth than others. Many times we look at the soil condition merely as the circumstance of life, of which we can do nothing about. We forget that we are the cultivators. We are the pest control company. We carry water. We watch for disease. We are our brother's keeper.
Following the Parable of the Sower is the Parable of the Weeds. This parable references wheat and weeds. The weed referenced is likely darnel (tares), which look very much like wheat when it is green. Suppose a young man accepts Christ at sixteen, and we find him drunk and carousing in a bar at the age of eighteen. Do we put the axe to the vine? He is still an immature plant. Should we cut him down or help him grow?
While certainly there does come a time to cut off a rebellious believer, we must be sure we allow time for maturity and correction. Most transformations do not occur over night. Green plants often look a lot like green weeds. It's not until they mature and achieve the ability to reproduce that we can discern which is a weed and which is a fruitful plant.
Thank God for Rich Mullins. Thank God for His compassion and mercy. Now, go and do likewise.
America Bless God (and your brother)
listen on-line
In the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13, we see the seeds fall on different types of soil. Some soils are more conducive to plant growth than others. Many times we look at the soil condition merely as the circumstance of life, of which we can do nothing about. We forget that we are the cultivators. We are the pest control company. We carry water. We watch for disease. We are our brother's keeper.
Following the Parable of the Sower is the Parable of the Weeds. This parable references wheat and weeds. The weed referenced is likely darnel (tares), which look very much like wheat when it is green. Suppose a young man accepts Christ at sixteen, and we find him drunk and carousing in a bar at the age of eighteen. Do we put the axe to the vine? He is still an immature plant. Should we cut him down or help him grow?
While certainly there does come a time to cut off a rebellious believer, we must be sure we allow time for maturity and correction. Most transformations do not occur over night. Green plants often look a lot like green weeds. It's not until they mature and achieve the ability to reproduce that we can discern which is a weed and which is a fruitful plant.
My Brother's Keeper - by Rich Mullins
My friends ain't the way I wish they were
They are just the way they are
And I will be my brother's keeper
Not the one who judges him
I won't despise him for his weakness
I won't regard him for his strength
I won't take away his freedom
I will help him learn to standAnd I will ~ I will be my brother's keeper
Thank God for Rich Mullins. Thank God for His compassion and mercy. Now, go and do likewise.
America Bless God (and your brother)
listen on-line
Thursday, January 8, 2009
The Anti-Establishment Church
The prophets dealt with it. Jesus rebuked it. He and the Apostles died because of it. Bible translators were killed by. Today, the Word of God is maligned by it; and many people reject it.
One of the lies from the Garden of Eden is that you shall become like God. This is the pursuit of Satan and the unregenerate man. Men pursue wealth, power, and authority. Governments and councils seek it with material and worldly aims. The poor are oppressed and the average person is taken advantage of by such corrupt power. It infects the man, the family, businesses, governments, and social institutions, even religious institutions.
One of the most powerful Red Letter passages is found in Matthew chapter 10. Jesus is speaking to the disciples before sending them out among the Israelites...
This passage is truly timeless. Since the inception of Christ' kingdom on earth, the establishment has opposed Him, His disciples, His teaching, and His kingdom. Man seeks to build his own kingdom. Man wants his own empire and his own rules. The natural man rejects the will and way of God, and establishes his own dominion, as far as the Lord allows.
Our experience with human institutions drives many of us away from establishment churches and other establishment organizations. Our experience tells us that these institutions become corrupted and political. Poor character, poor conduct, and human agendas take over, thereby, wrecking the organization. Organized religion has killed the prophets, killed the Christ, the apostles, the Bible translators, missionaries, evangelists, and many more left untold.
Even with all this, the true church, the bride of Christ lives on. The Beautiful Bride; The Bride washed in the Blood of the Lamb is being continually sanctified and purified. She is being fitted for that Great & Dreadful Day. She is being prepared for the Wedding Supper of the Lamb, and you need her.
If you are His disciple, you need to be a part of the church. You and I need the fellowship, the accountability, the rebuke, the comfort, the joy and the teaching of the One True Church. No man is an island. Do not let your anti-establishment attitude bring your demise. Do not let the human institutions keep you away from the One True Church.
It is establishment religion, in opposition to the One True Church.
One of the lies from the Garden of Eden is that you shall become like God. This is the pursuit of Satan and the unregenerate man. Men pursue wealth, power, and authority. Governments and councils seek it with material and worldly aims. The poor are oppressed and the average person is taken advantage of by such corrupt power. It infects the man, the family, businesses, governments, and social institutions, even religious institutions.
One of the most powerful Red Letter passages is found in Matthew chapter 10. Jesus is speaking to the disciples before sending them out among the Israelites...
Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. “A disciple is not above
his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more will they malign those of his household."Matthew 10:16-25 (ESV)
This passage is truly timeless. Since the inception of Christ' kingdom on earth, the establishment has opposed Him, His disciples, His teaching, and His kingdom. Man seeks to build his own kingdom. Man wants his own empire and his own rules. The natural man rejects the will and way of God, and establishes his own dominion, as far as the Lord allows.
Our experience with human institutions drives many of us away from establishment churches and other establishment organizations. Our experience tells us that these institutions become corrupted and political. Poor character, poor conduct, and human agendas take over, thereby, wrecking the organization. Organized religion has killed the prophets, killed the Christ, the apostles, the Bible translators, missionaries, evangelists, and many more left untold.
Even with all this, the true church, the bride of Christ lives on. The Beautiful Bride; The Bride washed in the Blood of the Lamb is being continually sanctified and purified. She is being fitted for that Great & Dreadful Day. She is being prepared for the Wedding Supper of the Lamb, and you need her.
If you are His disciple, you need to be a part of the church. You and I need the fellowship, the accountability, the rebuke, the comfort, the joy and the teaching of the One True Church. No man is an island. Do not let your anti-establishment attitude bring your demise. Do not let the human institutions keep you away from the One True Church.
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