The Narrow Gate

Reviewing the Comments of TD Jakes in the Elephant Room

2012-01-30T09:14:00.000-08:00

Secret Sins

2012-01-28T06:59:00.000-08:00

Secret sins driven out by stinging hornets
‘Moreover the Lord thy God will send the hornet among them, until they that are left, and hide themselves from thee, be destroyed.’ Deuteronomy 7:20
Suggested Further Reading: Psalm 19:7–14
John Bunyan in The Holy War very wisely describes the town of Mansoul after it had been taken by Prince Immanuel. The Prince rode to the Castle called the Heart and took possession of it, and the whole city became his; but there were certain Diabolonians, followers of Diabolus, who never quitted the town. They could not be seen in the streets, but lurked about in certain old dens and caves. Some of them got impudent enough even to hire themselves out for servants to the men of Mansoul under other names. There was Mr Covetousness, who was called Mr Prudent Thrifty, and there was Mr Lasciviousness, who was called Mr Harmless Mirth. They took other names, and still lived there, much to the annoyance of the town of Mansoul, skulking about in holes and corners, and only coming out on dark days, when they could do mischief and serve Diabolus. Now in all of us, however watchful we may be, though we may set Mr Pry Well to listen at the door, and he may watch; and my Lord Mayor, Mr Understanding, be very careful to search all these out, yet there will remain much hidden sin. I think we ought always to pray to God to forgive us sins that we do not know anything about. Perhaps the sins which you and I confess are not the tenth of what we really do commit. Our eyes are not sufficiently opened to know of the heinousness of our own sin. It is possible that God in mercy suffers us to be somewhat blind to the abominable accursedness of sin. He gives us enough of it to make us hate it, but not enough to drive us absolutely to despair. Our sin is exceedingly sinful.
For meditation: ‘Be sure your sin will find you out.’ (Numbers 32:23) Be also sure that you will never find out all your sins. Even if you could, you could never make yourself right before God. He alone knows the extent of the wickedness of your heart (Jeremiah 17:9 ); only God the Son could shed his blood and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:7,9).

Sermon no. 673
28 January (1866) C.H. Spurgeon

The Humanity of Christ Matters

2012-01-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

The Humanity of Christ Matters

Deception

2012-01-24T07:51:00.000-08:00

Although many would deny it vehemently, people appear to know that there islife, or something, after death.
One only has to read the special messages placed in newspapers.
There came a day in King Saul’s life when he was desperate and he needed aword, and it did not matter where that word came from.
He was surrounded by the Philistine army.
Samuel was dead. Saul had played the fool, and received no answer from God.
David was in hiding, Saul was in fear, Israel was in turmoil and leaderless.
Saul issues one swift wrong command demonstrating his impatience andfrustration.
He sneaks out in disguise to visit a medium. The poor man went in the darkin more ways than one.
He asks the woman to bring up Samuel. How far has Saul sunk?
Our nation will turn to almost anything in these present critical times,except to the risen and living Lord Jesus Christ and His Word.
An apparition appears masquerading as Samuel and impersonating the prophetSamuel. This mirage, this demonic deception, this visitation, whatever it was,brings troubling news, and not the word of reassurance or peace for which Saulwas expecting. Saul collapses.
You do not go to these people for anything else but to be pacified, andoften the opposite happens.
If this were possible, if people could be disturbed and brought from heaven,then heaven would be no heaven at all! The whole idea is biblicallypreposterous.
There is an attraction in what is forbidden. Resist the forbidden with allyour might.
Jesus Christ taught that there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who wantto go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.
Sandy Shaw
Nairn Christian Fellowship
Copyright Statement
'Word from Nairnshire' Copyright 2012 © Sandy Shaw. 'Word fromNairnshire' articles may be reproduced in whole under the followingprovisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end ofeach story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Word from Nairnshire' content may not be arranged or"mirrored

Going In The Way Of Egypt

2012-01-20T15:49:00.000-08:00

Words of expostulation
“And now what hast thou to do in the way of Egypt, to drink the waters of Sihor? or what hast thou to do in the way of Assyria, to drink the waters of the river?” Jeremiah 2:18
Suggested Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 6:14-7: 1
In the life of Madame Guyon, who, though professedly a Papist, one must ever receive as being a true child of God, I have read an anecdote something to this effect. She had been invited by some friends to spend a few days at the palace of St. Cloud. She knew it was a place full of pomp, and fashion, and, I must add, of vice also; but being over-persuaded by her friend, and being especially tempted with the idea that perhaps her example might do good, she accepted the invitation. Her experience afterwards should be a warning to all Christians. For some years that holy woman had walked in constant fellowship with Christ; perhaps none ever saw the Saviour’s face, and kissed his wounds more truly than she had done. But when she came home from St. Cloud, she found her usual joy was departed; she had lost her power in prayer; she could not draw near to Christ as she should have done. She felt in going to the lover of her soul as if she had played the harlot against him. She was afraid to hope that she could be received again to his pure and perfect love, and it took some months before the equilibrium of her peace could be restored, and her heart could yet again be wholly set upon her Lord. He that wears a white garment must mind where he walks when the world’s streets are as filthy as they are. He that has a thousand enemies must take care how he shows himself. He that has nothing on earth to assist him towards heaven should take care that he does not go where the world can help towards hell. O believer, keep clear of fellowship with this world, for the love of this world is enmity against God.
For meditation: Commonsense should tell us that when something clean and something unclean brush against one another, the unclean object is not improved but the clean object is changed for the worse (Haggai 2:11-14).
Sermon no. 356
20 January (1861)

C.H. Spurgeon

Bible Verse & Quote

2012-01-20T15:43:00.001-08:00

'Bible verse and quote' with Jan Couns
Jan 20, 2012

Bible and Quote Feb 16 - 20

(He makes my feet like the feet of a deer;) He enables me to stand (remain, endure, take one's stand) on the heights. 2 Samuel 22:34b
Apart from grace-driven effort, people . drift toward compromise and call it tolerance; drift toward disobedience and call it freedom; drift toward superstition and call it faith. We cherish the indiscipline of lost self-control and call it relaxation; we slouch toward prayerlessness and delude ourselves into thinking we have escaped legalism; we slide toward godlessness and convince ourselves we have been liberated. D.A. Carson, For the Love of God, Cited in "Reflections," Christianity Today July 31,2000
He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. 2 Samuel 22:35
God, who foresaw your tribulation, has specially armed you to go through it, not without pain but without stain. C.S. Lewis, English apologist

You protect me with salvation-armor. 2 Samuel 22:36a
The grace that saves us sustains us. David Jeremiah 1941, Christian Preacher

(David to God) Your gentleness (soft and humble help) has made me great. 2 Samuel 22:36b
God works powerfully, but for the most part gently and gradually. John Newton, 1725–1807

You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn. 2 Samuel 22:37
God blesses us all up to the full measure and extremity of what it is safe for him to do. If you do not get a blessing, it is because it is not safe for you to have one. Charles Haddon Spurgeon, 1834-92, British Reformed Baptist, highly influential amongst Christians of different denominations

Meet the Author:
Birth: 1948, Biloxi, Mississippi
Live: Knoxville, Tennessee
Hobbies: gardening, Bible study
Married, two daughters, one son-in-law, 1 mother, 1 dog

Copyright:
'Bible verse and quote' Copyright 2012 © Jan Couns. 'Bible verse and quote' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with their complete bio and a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Bible verse and quote' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

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Confessing Sin

2012-01-19T09:36:00.000-08:00

Here is a subject we seldom hear from our churches today...Lord grant us all the kind of repentance that Job had, that David had...in Your mercies Lord grant us true repentance.

Confessionof sin–a sermon with seven texts
“I havesinned.” Exodus 9:27; Numbers 22:34; 1 Samuel 15:24; Joshua 7:20; Matthew 27:4; Job 7:20; Luke 15:18.
SuggestedFurther Reading: Psalm 51
Unless therebe a true and hearty confession of our sins to God, we have no promise that weshall find mercy through the blood of the Redeemer. “Whoso confesseth (hissins) and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” But there is no promise in theBible to the man who will not confess his sins. Yet, as upon every point ofScripture there is a liability of being deceived, so more especially in thematter of confession of sin. There are many who make a confession, and aconfession before God, who notwithstanding receive no blessing, because theirconfession has not in it certain marks which are required by God to prove itgenuine and sincere, and which demonstrate it to be the work of the HolySpirit.
thehardened sinner–pharaoh. It is of no use for you to say, “I have sinned,” merelyunder the influence of terror, and then to forget it afterwards.
thedouble-minded man—balaam. It is idle and useless for you to say, “Ihave sinned,” unless you mean it from your heart.
theinsincere man—saul. To say, “I have sinned,” in an unmeaning manner, isworse than worthless, for it is a mockery of God thus to confess withinsincerity of heart.
thedoubtful penitent—achan . The most we can say is, that we hope their souls aresaved at last, but indeed we cannot tell.
therepentance of despair—judas. If you have such a repentance as that, itwill be a warning to generations yet to come.
therepentance of the saint—job. This is the repentance of the man who is achild of God already, an acceptable repentance before God.
theblessed confession—the prodigal. Here is that which proves a man to be aregenerate character–“Father, I have sinned.”
Formeditation:All have sinned. ( Romans 3:23) “Thou art the man” (2 Samuel 12:7); but which one?
Sermon no. 113
18 January (1857)

Grace Exalted

2012-01-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

Graceexalted—boasting excluded
‘Where isboasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law offaith.’ Romans 3:27
SuggestedFurther Reading: Galatians 3:1–14
There aretwo ways by which man might have been for ever blessed. The one was by works:‘This do and thou shalt live; be obedient and receive the reward.’ The otherplan was: ‘Receive grace and blessedness as the free gift of God; stand as aguilty sinner having no merit, and as a rebellious sinner deserving the veryreverse of goodness, but stand there and receive all thy good things, simply,wholly, and alone of the free love and sovereign mercy of God.’ Now, the Lordhas not chosen the system of works. The word ‘law’, as used twice in the text,is employed, it is believed by many commentators, out of compliment to the Jews,who were so fond of the word, that their antagonism might not be aroused; butit means here, as elsewhere in Scripture, plan, system, method. There were twoplans, two systems, two methods, two spirits,—the plan of works and the plan ofgrace. God has once for all utterly refused the plan of merit and of works, andhas chosen to bless men only, and entirely through the plan, or method, or lawof faith. This indeed is the bottom of theology, and he who can understand thisclearly, it seems to me, can never be very heterodox; orthodoxy must surelyfollow, and the right teaching of God must be understood when we once for allare able to discriminate with accuracy between that which is of man—works, andthat which is of God—faith, and grace received by faith. Now the plan ofsalvation by works is impossible for us.
Formeditation:There are still two basic ideas of salvation—God’s way of sending the LordJesus Christ down to earth to lift to heaven all who trust in his death on thecross (John 3:16); and man’s way of trying to climbheavenwards by some other route, even though the Lord Jesus Christ is the onlyway back to God (John 14:6 ). Which path are you on—the one called‘God’s way’ or the one called ‘My way’? They lead to different places (Matthew 7:13–14).
Sermon no. 429
19 January (1862)

C.H. Spurgeon

Reformed Quote

2012-01-17T17:32:00.000-08:00

Sinner, I think this should go like a dagger to your heart, to know that God is your enemy. Oh where will you go? Where will you shelter yourself? There is no hope for you, unless you lay down your weapons and sue out your pardon, and get Christ to stand as your friend and make your peace. If it were not for this, you might go into some howling wilderness, and there pine in sorrow, and run mad for anguish of heart and horrible despair. But in Christ there is a possibility of mercy for you, yea, an offer of mercy to you, that you may have God more for you than He is now against you.
- Joseph Alleine

Fresh Revelation

2012-01-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

The Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him. Genesis 13:14
Abram's life was one of an ever-perfecting separation. But out of these experiences sprang his rarest joys. The separate and obedient soul may reckon on:-

Fresh Revelation. - Whenever Abram dared to step out in obedience, the Lord spake freshly to him. But in Egypt we find no trace of the Divine voice. If God spake there, it would be in warning and rebuke. Has the voice of God long been silent to thee - no fresh command, no deeper insight into truth? See to it that thou art not in Egypt. Separate thyself, not only from Haran, but from Lot; not only from what is clearly wrong, but from all that is questionable; and the Lord will speak to thee things it is not possible for men to utter.

Further Vision. - Lot lifted up his eyes to espy what would make for his advantage and well-being, and beheld only the plain of Sodom, which indeed was well-watered, but the seat of exceeding sin. But when Abram lifted up his eyes, not to search out ought for himself, but to see what God had prepared, he looked northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward-words which remind us of the length, and breadth, and depth, and height of the love of Christ. The single eye is full of light; the far climber gets the widest horizon; if thou wilt do His will, thou shalt know.

Hundredfold old Compensation.-Whatever Abram renounced, when he left his home, or gave Lot the right to choose, he received back in the usual measure of God, with an overflowing overpass. God gave him the entire land, including Lot's -portion. We can never give up for God, without receiving in this life more than we gave.

F.B. Meyer

The Message Of Peace

2012-01-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

I am working my way through the topical index of John MacArthur's study Bible and he puts Access to God in first place.

Here is a piece of John Calvin's comments upon Eph 2:17-18. The Person of the Holy Spirit is a huge topic and I don't understand His work very well, He is always glorifying Christ, not Himself. Anyway, Paul will speak of the Holy Spirit giving us access to the Father...for Jew and Gentile alike; the gospel is the message of peace. Boy, I sure never heard this in church...now I thank God I am hearing it now.
For one thing...I never knew God was angry with me and my sin...did not know I needed a saviour, many people are probably like that today. Hope these words help both believers and those outside the faith or those struggling with the Law to find His peace.

The faith of the gospel would be weak indeed, were we to look no higher than to men. Its whole authority is derived from viewing men as God's instruments, and hearing Christ speak to us by their mouth. Observe here, the gospel is the message of peace, by which God declares himself to be reconciled to us, and makes known his paternal love. Take away the gospel, and war and enmity continue to subsist between God and men; and, on the other hand, the native tendency of the gospel is, to give peace and calmness to the conscience, which would otherwise be tormented by distressing alarm.

18. For through him we both have access. This is an argument from the fact, that we are permitted to draw near to God. But it may be viewed also as an announcement of peace; for wicked men, lulled into a profound sleep, sometimes deceive themselves by false notions of peace, but are never at rest, except when they have learned to forget the Divine judgment, and to keep themselves at the greatest possible distance from God. It was necessary, therefore, to explain the true nature of evangelical peace, which is widely different from a stupefied conscience, from false confidence, from proud boasting, from ignorance of our own wretchedness. It is a settled composure, which leads us not to dread, but to desire and seek, the face of God. Now, it is Christ who opens the door to us, yea, who is himself the door. (John 10:9.) As this is a double door thrown open for the admission both of Jews and Gentiles, we are led to view God as exhibiting to both his fatherly kindness. He adds, by one Spirit; who leads and guides us to Christ, and "by whom we cry, Abba, Father," (Romans 8:15,) for hence arises the boldness of approach. Jews had various means of drawing near to God; now all have but one way, to be led by the Spirit of God.

And He came and preached peace to to you who were afar off and to those who were near.

For through Him (Christ) we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.

Ephesians 2:17-18

DG Pulls Lectio Divina Endorsement

2012-01-11T08:22:00.000-08:00

Thought it was fair to DG to post this, still, I am very troubled with John Piper's spiritual leadership...right now.

DESIRING GOD PULLS LECTIO DIVINA

ENDORSEMENT

By Ken Silva pastor-teacher on Jan 10, 2012 in Current Issues, Features

In What John Piper And Jim Wallis Have In Common And Why The Pope Will Be Delighted here at Apprising Ministries I told you that over at the Desiring God blog in A System for Praying in 2012 , which was his New Years Eve post, Jonathan Parnell recommended Lectio Divina:

(Online source)

Tonight he has amended his post:

(Online source)

HT: Do Not Be Surprised…

Keeping Up

2012-01-07T16:08:00.001-08:00

I have not had time to really read or watch all of this...so I am putting it here to read when I am not tired.

I decided to put a better post here as I was very blessed by John Piper's ministry at one time...now I must say with grief in my heart that I no longer follow him or most the folks he has joined himself to.

You will find the link to Apprising Ministries in the sidebar.

BETH MOORE AND JOHN PIPER LEAD LECTIO DIVINA-LITE AT PASSION 2012 : Apprising Ministries

UPDATE
This makes everything a lot clearer:
WHAT JOHN PIPER AND JIM WALLIS HAVE IN COMMON AND WHY THE POPE WILL BE DELIGHTED
Apprising Ministries has been warning for years concerning the evil effects of the neo-liberal in the Emerging Church aka the Emergent Church.
It’s an incontrovertible fact that right from its hatching in hell corrupt Contemplative Spirituality/Mysticism (CSM), such as that taught by Living Spiritual Teacher and Quaker mystic Richard Foster along with his spiritual twin and Southern Baptist minister Dallas Willard, was a core doctrine.
Spreading as a spiritual cancer throughout apostatizing evangelicalism, we even see that it’s slithered all the way into the New Calvinst neo-reformed camp e.g. as in Acts 29 Network And Reformed Counter Reformation Spirituality? One of the fruits of CSM is a blurring of doctrinal lines, which is particularly dangerous in this time of postmodernism and growing spiritual blindness.
It’s also giving rise to a rebirth of Pietism; this isn’t surprising when you consider that CSM flowered in the antibiblical monastic traditions of apostate Roman Catholicism. As the evangelical fad of CSM expands there’s a decided charismania also developing, which is producing a syncretism where Word Faith heretics like Joel Osteen and T.D. Jakes are essentially considered mainstream now. With all of this has come more and more people claiming to have direct experience with God.
The end result is making the climate more condusive for things like Beth Moore Recommending “Jesus Calling” Book Claiming Direct Divine Revelation. This is the backdrop upon which to better see what’s happening as you watch the video clips to follow below from the Passion 2012 Conference. This conference has been going on in Atlanta, and was largely aimed at young adults and students.
Hosted by Louis Giglio, pastor of Passion City Church in Atlanta, Passion featured an interesting lineup of speakers such Francis Chan, Beth Moore and New Calvinist mentor John Piper. Not surpisingly the conference had a distinctive charismatic and even contemplative flair; e.g. prayer walking. After one session the crowd was urged to break into “love groups” and go out to pray and “take back the city of Atlanta.”
Years of emerging bombardment of pro-CSM propaganda aimed at younger sectors of the Christian community fired right out of evangelical publishing houses has also had much effect upon the broader culture of the more charismatic/emotion-driven side of the church visible as well. To serve as an illustration, below we have SBC Lifeway-sponsored Beth Moore praising an apostate (at best) Roman Catholic mystic and the crown jewel of CSM.
If you didn’t know, this is a form of meditation in an altered state of consciousness commonly known as Contemplative/Centering Prayer (CCP):

Moore’s admitted practice of some form of CCP, which is actually divination, has opened her up to even receive direct revelation and visions from God. Below from a 2002 series called Believing God, available right now at Lifeway’s website, Moore describes a vision God gave her concerning His Church.
Sounding not too unlike Word Faith wingnuts she tells us God took her into some kind of dimension where she was able to see the Body of Christ as Jesus sees it:

Apparently the Protestant Reformation was really some sort of horrible mistake because Moore’s Jesus sees the Roman Catholic Church as another Christian denomination. This becomes clear below as Moore demonstrates what she saw in her vision from God:

Yet despite this obviously false vision ten years ago, there was Beth Moore preaching to thousands alongside New Calvinists John Piper and Francis Chan. I guess we really should expect this because Piper has told us before: “I’m Happy To Learn From Beth Moore.”
Who knows, perhaps he even shares Moore’s view that men like John MacArthur are guilty of teaching extreme error in the Body of Christ:

By the way, the other extreme teaching in the Body of Christ that Beth Moore sees is what she calls “sensationalism.” Something I personally think she’s now become involved in. As I said earlier, the CSM being dabbled with now in mainstream evangelicalism is bringing about a form of Pietism; an emotional, sentimental, emotion-driven form of worship. What you saw at Passion 2012.
Christian apologist Bob DeWaay is dead-on-target as he explains:

Pietism is difficult to define because it can be taught and practiced in an unlimited number of ways. Some versions appear to be innocuous while others are so radical that most people would see that something is wrong. I now know that no version of pietism is actually innocuous. If a teaching is called pietism but teaches no more than what God has always used to sanctify Christians, then it is not really pietism. Real pietism always harms those who embrace it.

The essence of pietism is this: It is a practice designed to lead to an experience that purports to give one an elite or special status compared to ordinary Christians. The Bible addresses this error in the book of Colossians. The false teachers in Colossae claimed to have the secret to a superior Christian experience that would cause people to rise above the bad “fate” they feared. Paul went on to explain that they already had everything they needed through Christ and His work on the cross. Another way of stating this is: If after having fully trusted Christ’s finished work on the cross, you are told that you are still lacking something, you are being taught pietism.

Church history is littered with misguided pietistic movements. Many of them are linked with mysticism… Pietism can be practiced many ways including enforced solitude, asceticism of various forms, man made religious practices, legalism, submission to human authorities who claim special status, and many other practices and teachings.
(Online source)

In closing this, for now, I’ll show you something that gives us real cause for concern in the seeming dangerous drift of Beth Moore and John Piper. Following are clips from Session 5 of Passion 2012 where we were to enter into the silence to let God speak to us, not only through Scripture, but directly inside of us as well. However, this is language actually straight out of CSM and can also refer to the TM-lite of CCP.
Beth Moore, John Piper et al each took turns reading from the Book of Ephesians; then they each would ask for silence and say something along the lines of: “Be still and let Jesus speak to you.” This is Beth Moore:

Now John Piper:

Finally, here’s Louis Giglio closing out Session 5. Any doubt about what’s been going on in the silence is dispelled at :20 below. To all but the most naive it will become clear to you that, contra the proper Christian spirituality of sola Scriptura, Giglio is talking about direct encounters with God in addition to Holy Scripture:

How many of you heard the voice of God speak specifically, clearly, directly, and personally, to you? Can you just put a hand up? I’d like you to share it. Can you put a hand up for a minute?
Just want you to look around; that’s people saying, “God Almighty (pause) the Maker of heaven (pause) the one Who’s sitting on the only throne (pause) that’s not under threat (long pause, audience cheers)—He spoke to me. He spoke to me.”
“God spoke to me.” (long pause) Don’t let the voice of the darkness, tell you that you are not (pause) worth (pause) that God would not speak to you. (pause) Don’t let him tell you, you don’t matter. (pause) God spoke to you.

Perhaps this is why more and more in the charismatic camp have been embracing the Roman Catholic Church as another Christian denomination; like Rome, they now also have the Bible…plus…

The Victory Of Faith

2012-01-04T08:50:00.001-08:00

How Do I Love Thee?

2012-01-04T05:11:00.000-08:00

This little piece of writing really hits home. Makes me examine myelf a bit, especially when I see how isolated my life has become as I have aged and been sick. How much do I love God? How much do I love the brethren? I think I have plenty of room for growth here...yet the relationships that I do have stretch me, guess that is a good thing, thank You Lord for blessings in disguise.

We do seem to be an isolated culture...always on a cell phone or the internet, but how often are we "face to face?" Guess this is not a new problem for the human race...Lord we just need a real awakening and move of Your Spirit among us, what can we possibly do without You, not much that is of real, lasting value in Your eyes.

I like the encouragement here by F. B. Meyer...to think about being our brothers keeper:

Where is Abel thy Brother? Genesis 4:9

The first question God puts to the soul is, "Adam, where art thou?" The next, "Where is Abel thy brother?" We are our brothers' keepers. Each within our reach, all who need our help, all related to us by the ties of the family, have a claim on us. We must not take an advantage over them; their weakness and need are strong claims on our resources of every kind; we are bound to keep them so far as we can; we may at any moment be called to give an account of their whereabouts. To dispute this is to' betray the spirit of Cain, who was a murderer.
God keeps an inventory of His saints. - In His book their names are written. Their names, abode, and circumstances; their fathers, mothers, and brothers; their occupation, whether they keep the sheep or till the land: all are known to Him, because fixed by His providence. Whatever touches them is, therefore, instantly known to Him. It is as though they were part of His very being, and a stab of pain to them thrills His heart.

God calls us to help Him in keeping one another. - We are to watch for each other's souls; to consider one another to provoke to good works; to bear one another's burden; to exhort each other, to convert the wanderer from the path of the destroyer, and to wash stains from his feet. The cure of souls is the work of all the saints. But this is only possible to those who have been baptized into the Spirit of Christ. Remember that you have just as much love toward God, as you are willing to show toward the brother whom you have seen. "This commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also."

New Year

2012-01-03T09:04:00.000-08:00

After letting most of my blogs go dormant, I have decided to activate this one for 2012. Who knows, someone might find the info posted here and be blessed.I have a couple new blogs over at Wordpress...went there due to glitches that went on for a long time at Blogger...but I still love the Blogger format and apps.The world is still needing a saviour, we are looking every where but to the One God provided for us...namely Jesus Christ. Maybe it is because we always want to lift ourselves up instead of a humble God/Man...I find this problem in my own heart. I want to congratulate myself upon "being good"...and no one is good except God and He has revealed Himself to us in His Son Jesus Christ.Lord I pray many are enlightened this year to really see who You are and repent, repent of their unbelief and receive Your salvation in Christ Jesus, amen.

A Seasonable Prescription

2011-07-26T08:03:00.001-07:00

Enemies Of The Truth

2011-07-05T15:07:00.001-07:00

Persecution of Christians

2011-05-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

Q and A

2011-05-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

Christless Christianity

These sessions are so rich...take time to listen.

Earthquakes

2011-04-25T08:21:00.001-07:00

The Wonder Of The Cross

2011-04-25T08:04:00.001-07:00

Defending The Faith

2011-04-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

RC Sproul "Defending the Faith" from Ligonier on Vimeo.

Hebrews 9:15

2011-03-29T08:42:00.001-07:00

The Only Road To Heaven

2011-03-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Are you Born Again?

2011-03-18T10:37:00.000-07:00

Are You Born Again?

by J. C. Ryle

Are you born again? This is one of life's most important questions. Jesus Christ said, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3).

It is not enough to reply, "I belong to the church; I suppose I'm a Christian." Thousands of nominal Christians show none of the signs of being born again which the Scriptures have given us—many listed in the First Epistle of John.

No Habitual Sinning

First of all, John wrote: "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin" (I John 3:9). "Whosoever is born of God sinneth not" (5:18).

A person who has been born again, or regenerated, does not habitually commit sin. He no longer sins with his heart and will and whole inclination. There was probably a time when he did not think about whether his actions were sinful or not, and he did not always feel grieved after doing evil. There was no quarrel between him and sin; they were friends. But the true Christian hates sin, flees from it, fights against it, considers it his greatest plague, resents the burden of its presence, mourns when he falls under its influence, and longs to be completely delivered from it. Sin no longer pleases him, nor is it even a matter of indifference to him; it has become a horrible thing which he hates. However, he cannot eliminate its presence within him.

If he said that he had no sin, he would be lying (I John 1:8). But he can say that he hates sin and that the great desire of his soul is not to commit sin at all. He cannot prevent bad thoughts from entering his mind, or shortcomings, omissions, and defects from appealing in both his words and his actions. He knows that "in many things we offend all" (James 3:2). But he can truly say, in the sight of God, that these things cause him grief and sorrow and that his whole nature does not consent to them. What would the apostle say about you? Are you born again?

Believing in Christ

Second, John wrote: "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God" (I John 5:1).

A man who is born again, or regenerated, believes that Jesus Christ is the only Saviour who can pardon his soul, that He is the divine person appointed by God the Father for this very purpose, and beside Him there is no Saviour at all. In himself he sees nothing but unworthiness. But he has full confidence in Christ, and trusting in Him, he believes that his sins are all forgiven. He believes that, because he has accepted Christ's finished work and death on the cross, he is considered righteous in God's sight, and he may look forward to death and judgment without alarm.

He may have fears and doubts. He may sometimes tell you that he feels as if he had no faith at all. But ask him if he is willing to trust in anything instead of Christ, and see what he will say. Ask him if he will rest his hope of eternal life on his own goodness, his own works, his prayers, his minister, or his church, and listen to his reply. What would the apostle say about you? Are you born again?

Practicing Righteousness

Third, John wrote: "Every one that doeth righteousness is born of Him" (I John 2:29).

The man who is born again, or regenerated, is a holy man. He endeavors to live according to God's will, to do the things that please God and to avoid the things that God hates. He wishes to continually look to Christ as his example as well as his Saviour and to prove himself to be Christ's friend by doing whatever He commands. He knows he is not perfect. He is painfully aware of his indwelling corruption. He finds an evil principle within himself that is constantly warring against grace and trying to draw him away from God. But he does not consent to it, though he cannot prevent its presence.

Though he may sometimes feel so low that he questions whether or not he is a Christian at all, he will be able to say with John Newton, "I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be, I am not what I hope to be in another world; but still I am not what I once used to be, and by the grace of God I am what I am." What would the apostle say about you? Are you born again?

Loving Other Christians

Fourth, John wrote: "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren" (I John 3:14).

A man who is born again has a special love for all true disciples of Christ. Like his Father in heaven, he loves all men with a great general love, but he has a special love for those who share his faith in Christ. Like his Lord and Saviour, he loves the worst of sinners and could weep over them; but he has a peculiar love for those who are believers. He is never so much at home as when he is in their company.

He feels they are all members of the same family. They are his fellow soldiers, fighting against the same enemy. They are his fellow travelers, journeying along the same road. He understands them, and they understand him. They may be very different from himself in many ways—in rank, in station and in wealth. But that does not matter. They are his Father's sons and daughters and he cannot help loving them. What would the apostle say about you? Are you born again?

Overcoming the World

Fifth, John wrote: "Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world" (I John 5:4).

A man who is born again does not use the world's opinion as his standard of right and wrong. He does not mind going against the world's ways, ideas and customs. What men think or say no longer concerns him. He overcomes the love of the world. He finds no pleasure in things which seem to bring happiness to most people. To him they seem foolish and unworthy of an immortal being.

He loves God's praise more than man's praise. He fears offending God more than offending man. It is unimportant to him whether he is blamed or praised; his first aim is to please God. What would the apostle say about you? Are you born again?

Keeping Oneself Pure

Sixth, John wrote: "He that is begotten of God keepeth himself' (I John 5:18).

A man who is born again is careful of his own soul. He tries not only to avoid sin but also to avoid everything which may lead to it. He is careful about the company he keeps. He knows that evil communications corrupt the heart and that evil is more catching than good, just as disease is more infectious than health. He is careful about the use of his time; his chief desire is to spend it profitable.

He desires to live like a soldier in an enemy country—to wear his armor continually and to be prepared for temptation. He is diligent to be watchful, humble, prayerful man. What would the apostle say about you? Are you born again?

The Test

These are the six great marks of a born again Christian.

There is a vast difference in the depth and distinctness of these marks in different people. In some they are faint and hardly noticeable. In others they are bold, plain and unmistakable, so anyone may read them. Some of these marks are more visible than others in each individual. Seldom are all equally evident in any one person.

But still, after every allowance, here we find boldly painted six marks of being born of God.

How should we react to these things? We can logically come to only one conclusion—only those who are born again have these six characteristics, and those who do not have these marks are not born again. This seems to be the conclusion to which the apostle intended us to come. Do you have these characteristics? Are you born again?

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http://www.eternallifeministries.org/jcr_bornagain.htm

How To Escape Hell

2011-03-12T08:01:00.001-08:00

Pornography and The Christian

2011-03-10T08:27:00.001-08:00

Do Not Be Unequally Yoked

2011-03-04T10:01:00.000-08:00

'Point of Reference' from Fred Price

Week of February 27 - March 6, 2011

DO NOT BE YOKED TOGETHER WITH UNBELIEVERS 2 Corinthians 6:14

To understand this admonition fully we should define what it means to be yoked. Webster defines it as the harnessing together of two individual creatures to fulfill a job. The yoke being a farming apparatus that fits over a pair of animals’ necks, combining their strength to accomplish a goal, creating a condition of control. The question being – Whose? He who puts the yoke in place, the two no longer choosing their separate ways but being directed – through the yoke – to a single purpose. The two now being united or bound to a common cause for a specific purpose.

A precondition for yoking animals is that they be physically and temperamentally compatible. Thus Deuteronomy 22:10, “Do not plow with an ox and a donkey yoked together.” The reasoning behind this injunction being self-evident, but Middle Eastern people often overstate the obvious to emphasize a deeper, “hidden” truth. Besides being unfair to the ox in it’s having to bear the bulk of the load as well as to the donkey which couldn’t hope to match it’s abilities, there may be a message here about mismatching people as well.

This scripture is typically used as a caution against young people of faith marrying unbelievers or becoming involved with those of marginal involvement in church. There’s a reason for that. Both Testaments deal extensively with the need for us to be separated from evil influences, but the Old Testament deals more specifically with the injunction against believers intermarrying with unbelievers or with those of other faiths. “Do not inter-marry with them… for they will turn your sons away from following me to serve other gods (or none at all), and the Lord’s anger will burn against you…” Deuteronomy 7:3 But we don’t have “other gods” anymore, do we? How about careers, houses, cars, loved ones, comfort and entertainment; anything and anyone taking precedence over God in your life being an “idol”, a distraction from the one true God. We are not to expose ourselves on such a personal level to unbelief or conflict of interest – the danger being obvious! (Even if we do convince ourselves we can change them before they change us.) Scripture illustrating how what we often consider “innocent” exposure progresses in our lives, continuing to use interpersonal relationships as an example. “Be careful not to make a treaty (a pact of understanding and tolerance – if not outright cooperation) with those who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves to their gods and sacrifice to them, they will invite you (passive involvement) and you will eat their sacrifices. And when you choose (now active participation) some of their daughters as wives for your sons and those daughters prostitute themselves to their gods, they will lead your sons to do the same.” Exodus 34:15

We are to be holy, not perfect but different; always striving to be better, more of what Christ would have us be – more like him. Those outside the faith may be good in many ways but cannot be holy outside a relationship with him who defines holiness. Disobedience merits God’s wrath. (Romans 2:8) “Therefore do not be partners with them.” Ephesians 5:3-7 “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well-spring of life.” Proverbs 4:23 And we do that by limiting our exposure to sin and it’s temptations, to the influence evil can and will exert on our lives if we routinely spend time in it’s presence. “For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14 (See also Matthew 5:14 and John 3:19)

Are we then to shun all unbelievers, having nothing to do with the unchurched? Where would our witness be? Do we refrain from any involvement in an unbeliever’s life? What worth would our lives have if not invested in influencing others for good? We must be involved – but not to the point of participation in a contrary lifestyle, nor can we merely enable others to continue in ungodly behavior. Paul, who declared, “I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.” 1 Corinthians 9:22; also realized the danger of an overly intimate relationship with unbelievers and noted that, “Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 At times we have no choice but to, “…come out from them and be separate,…” 2 Corinthians 6:17 Which does not exclude all relationships with unchurched people, but rather strongly cautions against intimate relationships with people who do not – and will not – heed the teachings of Christ and persistently engage in unchristian behavior. One or the other will dominate any relationship. Like the light and darkness of 2 Corinthians 6:14 – one always cancels out the other. They cannot co-exist!

Paul worked tirelessly among unbelievers, yet guarded himself from the destructive influence association with unresponsive people could have. For in response to our own sin natures, we often are tempted to wink at sin in others – to excuse it in those we are acquainted with – if not actively engage in it with them. Then there is the possibility that there are things you may better deal with after some growth and maturing occur – both in faith and age – that might be unadvisable and even dangerous now; we often desiring to “help” those people who are struggling with the same things we are but which we have no answer for.

Our needs, desires and goals may be similar to unbelievers but the way we go about accomplishing those goals and fulfilling those desires should be demonstrably different. For realistically, “What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?” 2 Corinthians 6:15 Your vision of who you are and of the world about you should be enlightened by the word of God, enabling you to see the world as it really is and responding to its needs appropriately. Making Christ’s call to, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me…” all the more reasonable, practical and profitable for the here-and-now as well as the here-after. Matthew 11:29

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Author's Bio:

Fred Price - married (37 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six. Attends First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana, having served as a Deacon and Discipleship Leader for youth. Fred is currently co-teacher of the College Age Sunday School Class. Factory worker with a heart for young people and the challenges they face today, thus his participation in his church and this column.

Copyright:

'Point of Reference' Copyright 2011 © Fred Price. 'Point of Reference' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Point of Reference' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

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Watch and Pray

2011-03-02T08:07:00.001-08:00

The Unshakable Kingdom

2011-02-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

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'Today's Little Lift' from Jim Bullington

Week of February 20 - 27, 2011

The Unshakable Kingdom (2-25-11)

“See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven, whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, ‘Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven.’ Now this, ‘Yet once more,’ indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire.” (Hebrews 12.25-29).

The kingdom which the Hebrews writer and his fellow believers received was an entirely different and unique kingdom. Every kingdom upon this earth can be shaken/removed. Yet, the kingdom which the Hebrews writer identified was entirely incapable of being shaken, and that because it was not made of things that were made, i.e. material items such as stone, brick and mortar. Rather, the kingdom spoken of here was made of non-material things, i.e. items which were not made! The contrast could not be greater. A physical kingdom vs. a spiritual kingdom! The physical kingdom was the inferior and the spiritual kingdom the superior. That superior kingdom, the kingdom which could not be shaken, was both a hope and a reality to the first century Christians.

Why is it that some still look for and build entire theological systems on the hope of the inferior? Jesus did not come to be a king upon the earth, but rather to qualify Himself to sit upon David’s throne in the heavens. That mission was complete on the first Pentecost following His resurrection. Peter quoted David as having said: “I foresaw the LORD always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken. Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad; Moreover my flesh also will rest in hope. For You will not leave my soul in Hades, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.” (Acts 2.25-27).

Continuing his explanation of current events as they related to ancient prophecies, Peter explained, “Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear.” (Acts 2.29-33).

How could it be plainer? Jesus inherited David’s throne and He was seated at God’s right hand as Peter spoke! The throne of David is not empty; it has been occupied for almost 2000 years. Don’t pursue the inferior; demand the superior!

Questions:

1. What are the things that can be shaken? Of what are they made?

2. Of what was the kingdom composed which cannot be shaken? Since it is/was made of non-material things, how is it superior the old?

3. What did God promise David through the Holy Spirit (see Acts 2.29-31).

4. How did God fulfill His promise (see Acts 2.36)

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Author's Bio:

Jim Bullington - A Christian writer whose insight into the scriptures is reflected in practical application lessons in every article. The reader will find that the Bible speaks directly to him/her through these articles. God is always exalted and His word is treated with the utmost respect in this column.
Copyright:

'Today's Little Lift' Copyright 2011 © Jim Bullington. 'Today's Little Lift' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Today's Little Lift' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

The King's Highway

2011-02-25T08:33:00.000-08:00

The King's Highway

James Smith, 1861

"Set your heart toward the highway." Jeremiah 31:21

In anticipation of the expiration of the seventy years' captivity in Babylon, the prophet Jeremiah was directed and inspired by the Holy Spirit, to stimulate, encourage, and direct the Jews in reference to their return to their own land. And among other things he said to them, "Set your heart toward the highway" — the way by which many of them were brought into Babylon, and the way by which all of them must return. Now as there was a highway from Babylon to Zion — so there is a highway from earth to Heaven, and to this I wish now to direct attention.

The Object. The highway, that is Jesus — for he is the way, and no man comes to the Father but by him. Now this is the way that just suits sinners, and it is the only way that will suit them.

It suits them, because it is a way in which we can get rid of sin. We no sooner enter on this way, than we get rid of . . .

the guilt of sin from the conscience,

the power of sin from the heart,

the practice of sin from the life, and

the penal consequences of sin from the person.

It is a way in which we acquire a title to property. When a government wishes to colonize, it often offers a grant of property to emigrants, to induce them to leave their native land, and sail for a far-off country. So when we enter upon Christ, the highway to the land of glory — we acquire a title to an inheritance which is incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fades not away.

It is a way in which we find provision made for the entire journey. What Joseph said in reference to his brethren, "Give them provision for the way," Jesus does in reference to all who seek to go to glory by him. Here we find strength and wisdom, comfort and courage, the bread of life, and the waters of salvation! No one can faint by the way, or fail of reaching the end, from lack of provision. There is provision made for us from the first step out of a state of sin, until we step into glory.

There is, in this way, the certainty of a safe arrival. The righteous shall hold on his way. No funeral was ever seen on this highway. No bleached bones of pilgrims who had sunk and perished along the road, were ever seen here. All who enter upon Christ, all who start aright — arrive safe at the journey's end.

O blessed way, where we . . .

get rid of all sin and its consequences,

get an unquestionable title to Heaven,

find plentiful provision for our journey, and

prove that as our day, so is our strength, until we arrive at Mount Zion!

This way is PLAIN, the simplest mind cannot mistake it — it is only believe, trust in Christ alone, venture wholly on Christ — and you shall be saved.

It is a WELL-TRODDEN way, for from the days of righteous Abel until now, pilgrims more or less numerous have trodden this way. Millions have proved it to be suitable, safe, and certain!

It is very often found to be a SHORT way. The thief on the cross found it so, and so have many others. They have stepped out of self on to Christ — and have passed in a very brief space of time, to glory. It is just the way to suit weak, weary, and dying sinners.

It is a FREE way, no toll-booths, no fees, no conditions — all is free. Whoever will, may enter on it, pass along it, and reach the home of the blessed by it.

It is a PUBLIC way — the king's highway. The nobleman may walk with the peasant, and the pauper with the king. The publican and harlot have the same right to use it — as the most chaste and moral. Upright and moral character is not required. Whoever will, may come, and travel unmolested to the heavenly Canaan!

It is a LIVING way. It gives life. It increases life. It ensures life. It introduces to everlasting life. Death never set his foot on it, nor ever will.

It is the ONLY way. By this way, anyone can get to eternal glory — but by no other. By this way, the greatest number, of the greatest sinners, may escape from the wrath to come. But by no other way can anyone reach the promised land. O that it were thronged by perishing souls, hastening from earth to Heaven!

The Exhortation. Set your heart toward the highway! Reader, do you need this exhortation? Or, are you on this road? Don't try any bye-path — neither pope nor prelate, priest nor presbyter, ceremony nor sacrament — but come to Christ at once — venture on Christ alone. Direct the eye to this highway — let the heart move in the dirction of it, be sure you enter upon it, persevere in it, and think often of the glorious end to which it leads.

Do not imagine that you are in the way — when you are not. Do not be deceived by a dream. But make sure work of it. In the way — you are safe; but out of it — you are lost forever! Are you willing to leave the Babylon of this world? Many to whom Jeremiah spoke were not willing to leave Babylon of old, and therefore they perished there. Will you start for Mount Zion at once? For what should you wait? Why should you delay? What will you get by it? Rather, what will you lose? If you are willing, listen to the prophets advice, "Set your heart toward the highway!"

Make up your mind then, solemnly, seriously, deliberately make up your mind. Be determined to escape from eternal wrath, to obtain salvation, to find a home in the promised land.

Never rest outside of this way. Do not rest in mere desires, resolves or wishes — but enter upon the way, make thorough work of it.

The entrance is strait and narrow. You must strip, and give up self, sin, and the world — and then you pass through it. There is plenty of room for the sinner, the naked sinner, any naked sinner — but only the naked sinner.

The way is narrow — but it is wide enough for you. Greater sinners than you, have traveled this way, and gone singing from earth to Heaven. As flagrant sinners as you, have entered the strait gate, and journeyed along the narrow way — the grace that enabled them, will enable you. It is only . . .

repent, or change your mind, which has been to live in sin, reject Christ, and go with the world;

believe, or venture on Christ, trust in Jesus, commit yourself to him, renouncing all and everything beside;

give God the heart, the whole heart, the heart just as it is! Give it him to cleanse, adorn, and save

— and thus make a start for eternal glory.

Is there any difficulty finding the way? Be sure you ask of those who know. Take the prophet's representation for your example, "In those days, at that time, the people of Israel and the people of Judah together will go in tears to seek the Lord their God. They will ask the way to Zion and turn their faces toward it. They will come and bind themselves to the Lord in an everlasting covenant that will not be forgotten."

Imitate Israel in the days of Jeroboam, who withstood the temptation of the King, and "set their hearts to seek the Lord God of Israel." So you will enjoy the blessing of which David sung, "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, until each appears before God in Zion!"

Beloved, there is a way . . .

from earth — to Heaven,

from sin — to holiness,

from condemnation — to justification,

from eternal death — to eternal life!

That way is Jesus, to that way you are welcome. In that way you may walk and . . .

find peace with God,

enjoy communion with Jesus,

escape dangers, and

obtain everlasting life.

You will either walk in it — or you will not. If you will not, there is but one other way, and that is the way of eternal death! ""Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it!" Matthew 7:13-14.

Therefore Jesus exhorts in another place. "Strive to enter in at the strait gate" — strive as if in an agony — as if eternal life and eternal glory depended upon it — strive, nor leave off striving, until you are safe through the gate, and traveling in the way to eternal glory!

Going The Way Of All The Earth

2011-02-24T05:34:00.001-08:00

Mark, the Restored Deserter

2011-02-17T07:41:00.000-08:00

Valentine "Love"...God's Way

2011-02-14T09:04:00.001-08:00

for February 14

The Ultimate Discovery

"... when the centurion ... saw how he died, he said, 'Surely this man was the Son of God!' " (v. 39) — Mark 15:16-39
Further Study

Additional Verses

John 19:1-15

1 Corinthians 1:1-23

1 Corinthians 2:2-8

Questions to Consider

What was central to Paul's message?

How was the message of Christ's crucifixion viewed?

I cannot believe that God would write a law of "saving by sacrifice" within our hearts and evade it Himself. The psalmist asks: "Does he who formed the eye not see?" (Psalm 94:9). And Browning said: "He that created love, shall He not love?" We might add: "He that created sacrificial love, shall He not sacrifice"? The old Chinese scholar was right who, after listening for the first time to a missionary telling the story of the loving sacrifice of God through His Son on the cross, turned to one of his pupils and said: "Didn't I tell you there ought to be a God like that?" The leaders of the world's religions stumble over this. A leading Muslim said recently during a television debate: "A God who would stoop and suffer is not perfect." And a Hindu commented: "If Brahman would suffer He would be unhappy, and if He were unhappy He would be imperfect, and if He were imperfect He would not be God." The cross spells out the message that God is prepared to take into Himself the suffering caused by sin and, indeed, to take on Himself the very sins of the ones He created. No other religion can conceive of such a thing. The cross raised on Calvary is but a reflection of an inner cross lying in the heart of God. Through it we see that at the center of the universe is redeeming love. No greater discovery could be made or will be made than that - in earth or in heaven. It is the ultimate in discoveries.

"O Father, I see that if self-giving love is the meaning behind the cross, and the meaning of the universe, then it must be the meaning behind my life too. May the cross work itself out in all my relationships from this day forward. In Jesus' Name. Amen. "

Copyright Statement

'Every Day Light' Copyright 2005 © Selwyn Hughes. 'Every Day Light' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with their complete bio and a link to http://www.studylight.org/ 2) 'Every Day Light' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

Understanding The Nature Of Corruption

2011-02-07T09:22:00.000-08:00

Understanding the Nature of Corruption

The technological explosion proliferates in geometric proportion. Yet the human spirit of corruption remains. We are still trying to be God. We still grasp for autonomy, refusing to have God rule over us. We now reach beyond the heights of an ancient ziggurat. We walk on the moon and call it a real step forward for mankind.

We are indeed “enlightened.” No longer do students carry switchblades to school. They carry guns. Gangsters don’t use tommy guns. Machine-gun Kelly has become obsolete in the face of assault weapons and rocket launchers. The battering ram has yielded to the ICBM. Our cities are armed fortresses, and we need more brick and mortar for prisons. We are still confused. Our politicians babble to us daily on the magical technology of television. And still everyone does what is right in his own eyes.

But there is no technology sophisticated enough to fulfill the Serpent’s seductive promise. We are not gods. We shall not be gods. We cannot be gods. Only God can be God. Only God can be supreme. The issue in Eden is the issue today. Who will have dominion over man and man’s technology? Our margin of error shrinks each day. Now we have the technology and techniques not to destroy God, but to destroy ourselves. It is technological madness.

Coram Deo

Examine your personal life. Are you grasping for autonomy? Refusing to let God rule your life? Trying to be as God?

Passages for Further Study

Acts 8:22

Galatians 6:8

Romans 8:21

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Permissions: You are permitted and encouraged to reproduce and distribute this material in any format provided that you do not alter the wording in any way, you do not charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction, and you do not make more than 500 physical copies. For web posting, a link to this document on our website is preferred (where applicable). If no such link exists, simply link to www.ligonier.org.

Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: From Ligonier Ministries, the teaching fellowship of R.C. Sproul. All rights reserved. Website: www.ligonier.org
Phone: 1-800-435-4343

The Great Falling Away-Apostasy

2011-01-29T09:43:00.000-08:00

Are You A Child Of God?

2011-01-22T11:47:00.001-08:00

Point Of Reference

2011-01-22T11:43:00.000-08:00

'Point of Reference' from Fred Price

Week of January 16 - 23, 2011

The Need to Forgive to be Forgiven

The concepts of mercy and grace are cornerstones of the Christian faith; salvation, in part, depending on them. But does the spiritual attribute of mercy have anything to do with our personal relationships with others? We know Jesus, “…came to seek and to save what was lost.” Luke 9:10 He did so by becoming the substitutionary sacrifice for our sin; offering forgiveness and heaven in exchange for a recognition of need, acknowledgement of responsibility and repentance of sin. But to what extent does being merciful apply to us? We certainly can’t “forgive” sin, but we are to, “Be imitators of God.” Ephesians 5:1; modeling our lives on the revelation Jesus gives of a righteous life. He being, “…the exact representation…” of God. Hebrews 1:3; we being told – by Him – to, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful!” Luke 6:36

Yet that’s difficult to do as it goes against human nature. Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7 Which often entails realizing the various ways people need us and responding appropriately. (James 2:14-18) In dealing specifically with forgiveness everyone would agree it’s a nice thought – something we ought to do – and there appears to be ample evidence that our own forgiveness and acceptance before God hinges on it. Jesus pointedly discussing the self-righteous attitudes of some with his disciples, warning that their failure to lead by example could keep them from heaven. (Matthew 5:20)

The Lord’s Prayer cites the forgiving nature that should be the hallmark of every Christians prayer, “Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.” Luke 11:4 In fact, Mark records Jesus as citing one possible hindrance to answered prayer as being an unforgiving attitude. “…when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:25 (See also Matthew 5:23,24) With the assurance that, “…if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14

Some people are hard to put up with. They’re mean, foul, self-centered, and spiteful; actually taking pride in their contrariness and sin. It’s difficult to forgive what someone isn’t sorry for, and Paul warned, “Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 As developing intimate relationships with people living a contrary lifestyle could be counter-productive in a number of ways, but that doesn’t exempt us from being willing to forgive people who express a genuine desire to be forgiven or even when they don’t fully realize the need. We are to, “Bear with each other (putting up with those we don’t always find agreeable) and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13 And how was that? God’s heart was amply demonstrated in that, “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 Before we understood our need, acknowledged our debt, repented of our sin; Christ died for us. Not ignoring intentional sin, but giving us a chance to understand and respond, then giving us room to grow. We must be willing to do the same, for judgment will come to us all (Romans 14:10), our freedom from the punishment of sin being found in Christ alone; but “…judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful.” James 2:13

Which leads us to the question of holding grudges. Is it a pleasant experience? Does it vindicate us or make us better people? Have you ever had someone hold a grudge against you? Was that pleasant? We feel awkward, uneasy and out-of-sorts regardless of which side of the grudge we’re on. Complicating matters, those feelings often turn inward, becoming an even bigger issue and hindrance for us than the one we feel slighted by. That’s why Paul instructs, “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry and do not give the devil a foothold.” Ephesians 4:27 Don’t let hurt feelings, anger or misunderstanding hang around – sleeping on it usually won’t help – the problem will still be there when you awaken; having disrupted your sleep, leaving you on edge and in no shape to handle the issue any better. Problems should be dealt with, not while in the midst of an argument and still “fighting mad” but in a timely manner. Try to ascertain what was actually said and done, why that was so and resolve the issue if at all possible. If not, simply move on; James instructing us to, “…be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” James 1:19

On a practical level, what are the consequences of our not developing a forgiving heart? Holding grudges, remembering slights, refusing to forgive, separates US from God. For even the best of us sin, needing forgiveness. (James 2:10) We often carelessly say things we shouldn’t and do things without thinking that are destructive of relationships and damaging to our witness. You may not steal but do you covet? Coveting being defined as greed for gain, wanting something someone else has; which – unchecked – leads to theft. Have you ever lusted; for things or a person? Lust being an intense desire for and an imagining of possibilities – possessing the object of your desire in your mind – the first step to the accomplishment of such in the physical sense. Have you ever engaged in name-calling? (How bad can that be?) Jesus equating it with murder when we destroy a person’s self-esteem and drive them away from faith in Christ. (Exodus 20:17; Matthew 5:21,22; Matthew 5:27) We are instructed not to be judgmental, which can be confusing. (Matthew 7:1-5) For we must be discerning – knowing right from wrong; at times holding others accountable but not to a standard we can’t or won’t attempt to honor ourselves.

Jesus was pointedly questioned one day about forgiveness. Specifically – how many times are we responsible to forgive an individual? Seven times? Surely that’s more than enough; as most men, then and now, ascribe to the sentiment of – ‘You hurt me once, shame on you. You hurt me twice, shame on me.’! Really now – how much is enough? What did Jesus say? “…not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” What?! Am I supposed to be someone’s punching bag, unable to think for myself or stand against wrong? No. That’s not the point at all. (We are, however, challenged to put up with a lot to preserve and extend our witness – see Matthew 5:38-42) But if we begin setting inflexible limits, we may prematurely cut off our contact with people who really need us and what we have. We must also remember that God forgives us –daily – for sins of commission (things done that shouldn’t be) and omission (things not done that should). James 4:17 If God only forgave you seven times in your life-time, what shape would you be in? Jesus told a parable about an unmerciful servant who had been forgiven much but was disinclined to do the same for someone else. Having been offered forgiveness, he was now severely punished as a result of his unforgiving nature. Jesus ended this lesson by saying, “This is how my heavenly father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” Matthew 18:21-35

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Author's Bio:

Fred Price - married (37 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six. Attends First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana, having served as a Deacon and Discipleship Leader for youth. Fred is currently co-teacher of the College Age Sunday School Class. Factory worker with a heart for young people and the challenges they face today, thus his participation in his church and this column.

Copyright:

'Point of Reference' Copyright 2011 © Fred Price. 'Point of Reference' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Point of Reference' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

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The Great Divide

2011-01-06T08:53:00.000-08:00

for January 6

The Great Divide

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." (v. 14) — John 1:1-18

Further Study

Additional Verses

Isaiah 9:1-6

Isaiah 7:14

Galatians 4:4

Luke 1:30-33

Questions to Consider

How did Isaiah depict the Incarnation?

What was the message of the angel?

We continue meditating on the fact that the Christian faith is unique in that it is the Word not of a prophet but of the Son of God Himself. And when I refer to the Son of God I mean also God the Son. The Son is as much God as God Himself. One commentator says of the verse before us today: "If I were to put my finger on the most important verse in Scripture I would unhesitatingly put my finger on this one: 'And the Word became flesh.' " This verse has been described as "The Great Divide," because no other religion can claim that the word they received from God became flesh. In all other religions the essential element is a word become word - a philosophy, a moralistic system, and so on. Only in Christianity does God appear in human form; the Word become flesh. Early in my career as a minister I found that whenever I tried to present the Christian gospel to people of other faiths, everything I said brought the bland reply: "Yes, what you say is good, but we have the same teaching in our sacred books also." The Sermon on the Mount? Muslims have something similar in the Qur'an. Turning the other cheek? Hindus would reply: "Our sacred books tell us the same." Caring and sensitivity to the needs of others? Buddhists would respond: "We believe in that too, perhaps even more than you." Every issue I raised had its parallel. I was puzzled. Where was Christianity's uniqueness? Then it dawned upon me - the Incarnation. No other religion has anything like the Incarnation.

"O God our Father, just to reflect on the Incarnation is to be filled with amazement and joy. We are not knocking at the door of heaven. You are knocking at the lowly doors of our hearts. How can such a thing be true? Yet it is. I am so thankful. Amen. "

Copyright Statement

'Every Day Light' Copyright 2005 © Selwyn Hughes. 'Every Day Light' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with their complete bio and a link to http://www.studylight.org/ 2) 'Every Day Light' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

Pluralism's Persuasiveness

2011-01-03T08:11:00.001-08:00

for January 3

Pluralism's Persuasiveness

"The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God ..." (v. 20) — Galatians 2:11-21

Further Study

Additional Verses

Acts 4:1-12

1 Timothy 2:1-6

1 Corinthians 3:11

Questions to Consider

What did Peter declare to the Sanhedrin?

What did Paul declare to Timothy?

The argument presented by pluralists that Christians must view their religion as one among many, and Jesus as only one Savior among others, must be firmly resisted. It may sound arrogant to say so but it is nevertheless a fact that Christianity is unique, absolute, definitive, ultimate, and final. Critics of the uniqueness of Christianity can be very persuasive. "The world is under great threat," they tell us, "because of environmental pollution, economic injustice, and many other problems. Nothing that divides us, including our religions, should be considered as important as the need to live together in harmony." Another emphasis is on the need to study comparative faiths. There is a sense in which understanding what other people believe is useful, but not until the claims of Christianity are seen to be definitive and final. Christianity is not a comparative religion; it reveals God's one and only way of entering into a personal relationship with Him. The text before us today in the Amplified Bible reads: "The life I now live ... I live by faith - by adherence to and reliance on and [complete] trust - in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself up for me." Bishop Leslie Newbigin put it well: "If it is really true, as it is, that 'the Son of God loved me and gave himself up for me,' how can I agree that this amazing act of matchless grace should merely become part of a syllabus for the 'comparative study of religions'?" Christ is not first in a class; He occupies the category all by Himself.

"My Father and my God, may the Person of Your Son become as real and as precious to me as He is to You. And teach me more about Him so that I can make clear to others why He is a Savior beyond compare. For His own dear Name's sake. Amen."

Copyright Statement

'Every Day Light' Copyright 2005 © Selwyn Hughes. 'Every Day Light' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with their complete bio and a link to http://www.studylight.org/ 2) 'Every Day Light' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

Bible Verse & Quote

2010-12-31T12:34:00.000-08:00

'Bible verse and quote' from Jan Couns

Week of December 26, 2010 - January 2, 2011

Bible and Quote September 15-19

Then (David said to the priests who followed him into exile with the ark of God’s presence). Take the ark of God back into the city… 2 Samuel 15:25a

We will live for Christ fully only when we are willing to be impoverished, if necessary, in order that others might be helped. James Montgomery Boice, Foundations of the Christian Faith

Then (David said) ‘If I find favor in the eyes of the Lord, He will bring me back (to Jerusalem and His dwelling place) 2 Samuel 15:25b

He who cannot calmly leave his affairs in God’s hand, but will carry his own burden, is very likely to be tempted to use wrong means to help himself. This sin leads to a forsaking of God as our counselor, and resorting instead to human wisdom. Charles H. Spurgeon, 1834-92, English preacher Baptist

(David said that if God chooses not to restore and reestablish him) then I am ready; let Him do to me whatever seems good to Him. 2 Samuel 15:26b

I will not doubt, though all my ships at sea Come drifting home with broken masts and sails; I shall believe the hand which never fails, From seeming evil worketh good to me. And, though I weep because those sails are battered, Still will I cry, while my best hopes lie shattered, “I trust in thee.” Ella Wheeler Wilcox, 1850–1919

David went up the Mount of Olives weeping, head covered . barefooted, and the whole army was with him, heads covered and weeping as they ascended. 2 Samuel 15:30

How shall we comfort those who weep? By weeping with them. Father Yelchaninov

.David was told, ‘Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.’ So David prayed, ‘O LORD, turn Ahithophel's counsel into foolishness’. 2 Samuel 15:31

(Ahithophel was renowned for his wisdom and wise counsel to David. He probably sided with Absalom because of his bitterness over what David did to his granddaughter Bathsheba and to be on the side of power)

We too may pray for God to bring to nought to crafty counsel. A.W. Pink

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Author's Bio:

Birth: 1948, Biloxi, Mississippi Live: Knoxville, Tennessee Hobbies: gardening, Bible study Married, two daughters, one son-in-law, 1 mother, 1 dog

Copyright:

'Bible verse and quote' Copyright 2010 © Jan Couns. 'Bible verse and quote' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Bible verse and quote' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

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Last Days: False Christs, Occult Invasion & Sexual Perversion

2010-12-31T10:50:00.000-08:00

Will You Trust In Christ Or Yourself?

2010-12-20T07:26:00.001-08:00

He Shall Reign!!!!

2010-12-03T10:33:00.001-08:00

The Faith of Moses

2010-11-30T12:16:00.000-08:00

The Sovereignty Of God

2010-11-16T07:58:00.001-08:00

Every Day Light

2010-11-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

'Every Day Light' from Selwyn Hughes

for November 14

What's happening!?

"— perplexed, but not in despair —" (v. 8) — 2 Corinthians 4:7-12

Further Study

Additional Verses

Joshua 1:1-6

Isaiah 54:10

Hebrews 13:5

Questions to Consider

What was God's promise to Joshua and Isaiah?

2.What is God's promise to us?

Today we stay with the thought that half our spiritual perplexities would never arise if we started out by being prepared not to understand immediately the things that God does or allows. We must accept that one of the fundamental principles of the Christian life is the truth that there will be many times when God will work things out in a manner exactly opposite to the way we think He should. If I had been taught this in the early days of my Christian life, it would have saved me from many spiritual struggles. Most of my perplexities arose because I failed to realise that I was dealing with a mind that is omniscient - that God's mind is not like my mind. The ways of God are inscrutable; His mind is infinite and eternal and His purposes are beyond understanding. When we are dealing with such a great and mighty God it should not surprise us that He allows things to happen which we find perplexing. If we insist that everything in life should be plain, we shall soon find ourselves in the state in which the psalmist found himself - full of doubt, disillusionment and fear. We should note, however, that perplexity is not necessarily sinful. It only becomes wrong when we allow our perplexity to drive us to despair. The apostle Paul, as our text for today shows us, was perplexed but he was not in despair. Make sure you understand the distinction. It is not foolish or wrong to say: "I don't know what is happening." It is only foolish to say: "God doesn't know what is happening."

"O Father, how comforting it is to realise that I can be perplexed and yet not fall into sin. Help me to keep this distinction clear. Drive the truth deep into my spirit today that You always know what is happening. In Jesus' Name I ask it. Amen. "

Copyright Statement

'Every Day Light' Copyright 2005 © Selwyn Hughes. 'Every Day Light' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with their complete bio and a link to http://www.studylight.org/ 2) 'Every Day Light' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

Today's Little Lift

2010-11-12T10:34:00.000-08:00

'Today's Little Lift' from Jim Bullington

Nov 12, 2010

Samuel Stood for Right - Period! (11/12/10)

Paul speaking to an assembled crowd in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisidia: “The God of this people Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an uplifted arm He brought them out of it. Now for a time of about forty years He put up with their ways in the wilderness. And when He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, He distributed their land to them by allotment. After that He gave them judges for about four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.” (Acts 13.17-20).

Previously Barnabas had taken the lead in public discourses but Paul’s leadership abilities continued to bloom until we find him as the spokesperson. It is interesting to notice how Paul divided the time of the nation of Israel. There was the Exodus, the wanderings, the period of conquests, the judges, and then the kings. Looking at history in this manner, it was only natural that Samuel would be the first Old Testament worthy mentioned by name in Paul’s discourse; Samuel was the “transition judge.” By that, it is simply meant that his reign was the one in which God chose to allow the Israelites to realize their wish and transition from the judges to a state headship vested in a king.

Note, however, how Paul referred to Samuel; he addressed him as Samuel the prophet. Paul didn’t call him Samuel “the prophet” to distinguish him from all the other Samuels in the Bible; there was but one! He called him Samuel the prophet to highlight the primary significance of his life and influence on the nation of Israel. This man, Samuel, lived and reigned in an extremely volatile period of Israelite history and at a time in which “every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” That very phrase was chosen by the inspired author of the book of Judges to conclude his book; note his words: “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (Judges 21.35). At a time when virtually no one of stature cared enough about God to stand for the right, Samuel stood head and shoulders over the rest of Israel. When the floods of sin swept over the Israelite landscape, Samuel remained moored in the safety of God’s Holy word.

There are a few people in the scriptures who are mentioned extensively but about whom nothing negative is said. There’s Joseph, and of course Jesus, but few others. Samuel is one of those few. When all others about him were losing their heads to follow the crowds, Samuel stood firmly on the word of God; he refused to hear other voices, knowing fully that the ONLY true source of wisdom came from above. When hundreds, thousands, and even millions chanted for a king, Samuel continued to remember God’s inspired counsel delivered through a previous prophet, Moses. He remembered the warnings given by Moses and recorded in Deuteronomy 28 about setting up a human king as the head of Israel; he steadfastly opposed Israel’s attempts to be like the nations about them and continued to call his countrymen back to God.

Like Samuel, we need to stand against ungodly actions regardless of what the polls say!

Questions:

1. How did Paul refer to Samuel in Acts 13?

2. Why would Paul use that descriptor to identify Samuel?

3. Describe the culture and political climate in Israel during Samuel’s time?

4. Why did Samuel oppose a king in Israel?

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Author's Bio:

Jim Bullington - A Christian writer whose insight into the scriptures is reflected in practical application lessons in every article. The reader will find that the Bible speaks directly to him/her through these articles. God is always exalted and His word is treated with the utmost respect in this column.
Copyright:

'Today's Little Lift' Copyright 2010 © Jim Bullington. 'Today's Little Lift' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Today's Little Lift' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

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Following God's Will

2010-11-08T10:02:00.001-08:00

But Suppose God Doesn't Do It?

2010-11-04T10:13:00.001-07:00

Able To Save To The Uttermost

2010-10-29T08:34:00.001-07:00

God's Will Is Not Secret, #1

2010-10-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

I Was a Slave of Drugs and Hated God, Yet He Saved Me

2010-10-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

J.C. Ryle - Christ Crucified

2010-10-19T08:32:00.000-07:00

J.C. Ryle - The Cross of Christ

2010-10-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

Christians and Political Activism

2010-10-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Reality of Apostasy

2010-09-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Resurrection Sunday Dance, Budapest, Hungary

2010-09-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

The Reformation Solas

2010-09-14T15:56:00.001-07:00

Dose of Truth

2010-09-14T15:51:00.000-07:00

'Dose of Truth' from Brent Barnett

Week of September 12 - 19, 2010

Provoked to Action

Isaiah 5:20 says, “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; Who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” A while back, I happened upon an advertisement for a new cable television show in which the whole pitch of the ad was that it was a next generation news show with a sexy, comedic edge. This very worldly show promoted itself by showing a clip of a person making fun of fanatical, religious, right-wing fundamentalists, or something to that effect. The punchline was something like, “What will they get worked up about, the witchcraft or the gay headmaster?” That this followed a commercial in which a lesbian relationship was promoted as the ultimate guy fantasy has made me question whether or not I should even be watching commercials during the occasional sports event that I have the opportunity to watch. Our western society is increasingly getting more blatantly evil, criticizing those who even believe in evil as being evil while they parade around as being the good ones insomuch as they define good as being happy-go-lucky and self-indulgent. Alcoholism and sexual promiscuity are their gospel, and those who believe in calling evil “evil” and good “good” are mocked and ridiculed for taking a stand against what God calls evil. The confusion over good and evil and the outright hatred for those who preach Christ is remarkable. That is not to say that it hasn’t happened before, for it has happened throughout human history, from the fall, to the Tower of Babel, to the apostasy of Israel, to the unbelief of our day. However, the Biblical reality is that things will go from bad to worse morally (2 Timothy 3:13). Yet, even so, I find myself marvelling at how fast it is happening. The question for us as the true church in an age of rampant disbelief, growing universalism, and increasing immorality is what it does to our spirits within us, if anything? Does it make us sick, or does it not really bother us much at all? Does it make us want to stand for truth and do something about it, or do we cower in fear of the certain persecution?

Paul found himself in such a situation in Athens. Acts 17:16-17 says, “Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was being provoked within him as he was observing the city full of idols. So he was reasoning in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and in the market place every day with those who happened to be present.” As Paul observed the rampant arrogance, evil, and idolatry, his spirit was pricked within him, moving him to take a step of action, namely, to start reasoning with the people of the society about Jesus Christ. He was willing to talk with any who would listen, whether practicing Jew, God-fearing Gentile, or outright pagan in the marketplace. He wanted to encourage believers in their faith, and he wanted to try to convince unbelievers of the God Whom they didn’t know. The Holy Spirit within him made him so unsettled with the present reality around him that he couldn’t help but do something and say something. As believers, as society pressures us and as Satan tempts us, are we stimulated to love and good deeds, or are we more interested in conforming to society’s immoral norms? The fact of the matter is that good and evil most certainly exist, and we are called to abhor evil and cling to what is good (Romans 12:9). There is a very drastic choice of action that we are called to, despising one lifestyle and holding on to the other for dear life. It is the Holy Spirit’s job to provoke a response within us and to move us to stand for truth, to speak up, and to do something to remind believers of what is true and to show unbelievers the error of their ways. This is not an easy way to go through this world, for opponents and attackers lie in wait, Satan included. However, it is the only way to go through life spiritually alert and awake.

Ephesians 5:11-12 speaks of taking action, saying, “Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.” Our society is so far gone that it no longer holds its most evil things in secret but instead exposes its wickedness to everybody in utter shamelessness. As Christians, by preaching the gospel and sharing about God’s righteousness according to His revealed moral standards and laws, we can help expose the deeds of darkness around us as being the outright evil that it is. We dare not be the ones who hold the gospel in secret, for the world needs to see their unrighteousness and come to appreciate God’s holiness.

There is no time for spiritually dozing off. The church at Sardis was spiritually sleeping at one point, and God called them to “wake up” (Revelation 3:1-3). Ephesians 5:14-16 says, “For this reason it says, ‘Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you.’ Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.” The days are indeed evil and getting more so every day. As such, we must be careful how we walk, making wise choices and using this time on earth judiciously. We are stewards of the gospel, and we must not shy away from the name of Christ and from all that He has taught us in His Word. As the world gets more evil, the spotlight will shine with greater intensity upon true Christians, giving us a better and better chance to proclaim the gospel and defend its merit. We need to be ready, and we do this by listening to and heeding the Spirit’s prodding in our hearts. He will deal with any sin issues in our hearts first of all. As we deal with these and move to a place of obedience, He will give us chances to serve Him. May the Spirit awaken us where we are sleeping and provoke us to faithful steps of action. What is the Spirit drawing attention to in your heart?

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Author's Bio:

Brent Barnett is founder and author of the Bible teaching ministry, Relevant Bible Teaching, found on the web at www.relevantbibleteaching.com . He has authored Catch Fire: A Call for Revival and Times of Refreshing: 100 Devotions to Enrich Your Walk with God . Brent's greatest joys in life are his wife Sarah, his daughter Anneke, and his son Kyler.

Copyright:

'Dose of Truth' Copyright 2010 © Brent Barnett. 'Dose of Truth' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Dose of Truth' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

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The Lost Gospel (Paul Washer) [@ Sermonindex's 2009 Wales Revival Confer...

2010-09-11T17:50:00.000-07:00

Coming to the Throne of Grace - Bob Jennings

2010-08-17T23:04:00.000-07:00

Hilarity of Life - Oswald Chambers

2010-08-15T11:27:00.000-07:00

I Couldn't Calm My Conscience, I Knew I Was Lost

2010-08-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

Revelation

2010-07-21T16:58:00.001-07:00

God's Great Work in My Life - Testimony of a Young Lady

2010-07-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

Most People Go to Hell - Tim Conway

2010-07-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

Bible Verse & Quote

2010-07-02T08:43:00.001-07:00

Week of June 27 - July 4, 2010

Bible and quote September 3-7

Samuel did not see Saul again until the day of his death; for Samuel grieved over Saul. (Saul never sought Samuel again for advise or to ask God for forgiveness)And the Lord (did not change His mind about removing Saul and his family line from ruling Israel). 1 Samuel 15:35
The love of God, with arms extended on a cross, bars the way to hell. But if that love is ignored, rejected, and finally refused, there comes a time when love can only weep while man pushes past into the self-chosen alienation which Christ went to the cross to avert. Michael Green (1930–)
The Lord said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? .I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king." 1 Samuel 16:1
Some of us become so comfortable living in yesterday and past disappointments, that the thought of stepping out and picking up and moving on scares us.. Phillip Martin, assistant Christian pastor, 1st Baptist Concord, Farragut Tennessee
.Samuel said (to God), "How can I go (to anoint the new king)? If Saul hears it, he will kill me." But the Lord said, "Take a heifer with you, and say, "I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.'1 Samuel 16:2
God, in his mercy, provides covering and protection for his servants in many different forms “The Voice of the Lord” Lewis and Harriet Lederer Foundation, Inc. Messianic Jewish Publishers
(God continues to instruct Samuel) I will show you what you shall do; you shall anoint for Me the one I name to you." 1 Samuel 16:3
Be simple;take our Lord’s hand and walk through things. Father Andrew
“.(Samuel) looked at Eliab (one of Jesse’s sons) and said’ Surely the Lord’s anointed is before Him!” But the Lord said to Samuel ‘ Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature because I have refused him.’ 1 Samuel 16:3-7a
Reason as it exists in man, is only our intellectual eye, and that, like the eye, to see - clearly and far it needs the light of heaven.

Al Mohler on Reading

2010-07-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Steve Lawson on studying God's Word

2010-07-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

War Of The World Views

2010-05-30T08:51:00.001-07:00

The Sacrifice Of Himself

2010-05-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

Today's VIDEO Devotional:
Separating From Unbelievers
By Pastor John MacArthur. This outstanding sermon was given at the 2010 Shepherd's Conference. Please 'forward' this to your church leaders!
Play Video! Download Video
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The sacrifice of Himself!

(Ruth Bryan, "The Marvelous Riches of Savoring Christ!")

"But now He has appeared one time, at the end of the ages, for the removal of sin by the sacrifice of Himself! " Hebrews 9:26

These rich words still follow me.

That word "sin" feels weighty to a sensible sinner.

But oh! that word "Himself!" seems a million times more weighty!

"Himself!" the mighty God, the precious Man Christ Jesus!

"Himself!" by whom all things were created, and for whom they exist!

"Himself!" whose smile is heaven, whose frown is hell!

"Himself!" whom all angels worship, and all devils obey!

"Himself!" the sacrifice for my sin!

Another such sacrifice could not be found! Sins as deep as hell and as high as heaven cannot overmatch it, for it is infinite! Sins of scarlet and crimson dye cannot resist its power, for it makes them whiter than snow!

See as much as you can of the vileness of self, and the demerit of sin--yet "Himself!" a bleeding sacrifice, exceeds it all! Here is the sweet-smelling savor both to the Lawgiver and the lawbreaker. The Lawgiver is honored, the lawbreaker is saved!

See how He stands most lovingly, as with open arms, saying to every laboring, weary, heavy-laden sinner, "Come!" "Come unto Me, and I will give you rest!" "I still receive sinners, to the uttermost I save them, and never am weary of healing their backslidings, forgiving all their iniquities, and multiplying pardons as they multiply transgressions against Me. I blot all out with My blood, and love them freely and forever!"

Sinner, will not this suffice? It will if the Spirit applies it--and opens in a little measure Christ and His sacrifice--in contrast to yourself and your sins. It will take eternity to know it fully; but that your heart may find rest and refreshing in it now, is my affectionate prayer.

"But now He has appeared one time, at the end of the ages, for the removal of sin by the sacrifice of Himself! " Hebrews 9:26

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Dose Of Truth

2010-05-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

'Dose of Truth' from Brent Barnett
Week of May 23 - 30, 2010

Stumbling Blocks

Matthew 18:5-6 says, “And whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me; but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” In Matthew 18, the disciples asked Jesus who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. His answer was to call a child to Himself and emphasize that those who humbled themselves as children were those who would enter heaven and be great. Furthermore, emphasizing His love and care for children, our Lord said that those who receive a child in His name receive Him. In other words, in caring for and protecting the innocent, the weak, the unlearned, the vulnerable, and the needy, we prove our love for the Lord. Part and parcel to being a Christian is looking out for the innocent and naive, doing all that we can to keep others from stumbling.
Christ has one of the most damning statements prepared for those who take advantage of the weak and innocent and lead them astray or into harm’s way. He says that it would be better for them to have millstones hung around their necks and be drowned in the sea rather than be guilty of leading innocent and weak ones astray. Leading others astray when it is in one’s power to do otherwise is beyond despicable before God. It is so contrary to His will, nature, and love to exploit or take advantage of someone in need. According to this passage, it would be better for the person to be drowned in the sea than be given the chance to cause a vulnerable person to stumble. Of course, Christ is not saying to go out and kill everyone who might be capable of leading an innocent one astray, for the fact remains that any and all persons are capable of such evil. Even believers can err and teach wrong doctrine that can lead an eager and willing learner astray. May God help us all rightly divide His Word so that we edify and not deceive unwittingly! We should read these words of our Lord and be moved in compassion and care for those who need our help, instruction, and protection. We should be motivated to teach, to love, and to serve. We should be ready to look after the needs of the less fortunate, and, most of all, we should take heed that we accurately teach and preach the Word of God. God’s desire is that we take sin and error with great seriousness and sobriety. We cannot dare become wishy-washy in our thinking or teaching, for as we ourselves compromise and are led astray, we are vulnerable to leading the vulnerable astray along with us. This is most certainly not the place in which we want to find ourselves.
Verse 7 sums up Christ’s message by saying, “Woe to the world because of its stumbling blocks! For it is inevitable that stumbling blocks come; but woe to that man through whom the stumbling block comes!” The exclamation points are there for a reason. This is something Christ wants us to seriously think about. Unbelievers lead many astray, and they will be held accountable. But as believers, how dare we lump ourselves in with those who either purposefully or inadvertently do things, say things, or give our approval of things that could lead the weak, the innocent, the naïve, or even our very children astray. The words “woe,” “millstone,” “drowned,” and “eternal fire” (v. 8) should catch our attention. This is not to say that just because a good Christian person makes a mistake and causes somebody else to sin that he or she will end up in hell. Even Christians stumble and make mistakes (James 3:2). The message for unbelievers, however, should be more than clear. The relevance of this passage for believers, in addition to taking sin seriously in our lives, is to be wary that we don’t do or say things that could lead others astray, particularly those who might not be as mature or discerning. As Romans 14:13 says, “Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this--not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way.”
Too often, Christian leaders give their commendation, approval, or endorsement of a person or a person’s work without offering a disclaimer or a word of caution. Pastors and church leaders risk being guilty of leading others astray if they assume that everybody in their congregation can differentiate between truth and error to the same extent that they can. For example, listing a book that contains false teaching on a recommended reading list is dangerous, especially if no word of caution is given. We can be guilty of leading others astray by who we rub shoulders with, by who we take the podium with, and by who we quote. We need to let truth stand above all other associations for the sake of the weak, for the sake of the innocent, and for the sake of the vulnerable. If we do not, perhaps we are unwittingly those who are really weak, having already been stumbled and deceived.
Being responsible for somebody else’s downfall is not something we want to have weigh on our conscience. If we have said or done wrong things that led somebody else astray, we should do all that we can to set the record straight. It is imperative that we adopt Jesus’ intensity in exercising extreme caution that we do not put stumbling blocks before others. Unless we know what we are saying and doing is of the Lord, we may well be better off keeping our mouths shut, our keyboards silent, and our lives out of the public eye. When we are sure that we are ready to be those who speak the truth and live it out, let us do it with boldness, courage, and perseverance. We can stand in the gap for the weak and for the innocent, and we can knock stumbling blocks out of their paths.

Author's Bio:
Brent Barnett is founder and author of the Bible teaching ministry, Relevant Bible Teaching, found on the web at www.relevantbibleteaching.com . He has authored Catch Fire: A Call for Revival and Times of Refreshing: 100 Devotions to Enrich Your Walk with God . Brent's greatest joys in life are his wife Sarah, his daughter Anneke, and his son Kyler.

Copyright:
'Dose of Truth' Copyright 2010 © Brent Barnett. 'Dose of Truth' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Dose of Truth' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

Bible Verse & Quote

2010-05-21T07:49:00.001-07:00

'Bible verse and quote' from Jan Couns
Week of May 16 - 23, 2010

Bible and Quote May 10-14, 2010

The Lord tests the righteous and the wicked. Psalm 11:5a Tests expose the false and reveal the true. A.W. Tozer

God’s soul hates the one loving (evil). He shall rain snares on the wicked; fire and brimstone and a scorching wind* shall be the portion of their cup. Psalm 11:5b,6
Human brutes, like other beasts, are allured by their appetites to their destruction. Jonathan Swift *thought to reference the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and miseries in the desert.

For the Lord is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see his face. Psalm 11:7 As believers we will always have a relationship with God but fellowship is conditional. Doug Sager, Senior Pastor, 1st Baptist Concord, Farragut, Tennessee

Help, Lord, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men. Psalm 12:1 We'd be surprised to find where God has His people, waiting to accomplish His will. Others are waiting to stand with you and help you. Warren Wiersbe, American pastor and a prolific writer of Christian literature, b. 1929

They speak idly (false, frivolous, worthless) everyone with his neighbor; With flattering lips and a double heart they speak. Psalm 12:2 Say what you mean and mean what you say. Proverb

Author's Bio:
Birth: 1948, Biloxi, Mississippi Live: Knoxville, Tennessee Hobbies: gardening, Bible study Married, two daughters, two son-in-laws, 1 mother, 1 dog

Copyright:
'Bible verse and quote' Copyright 2010 © Jan Couns. 'Bible verse and quote' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with a link to http://www.liveasif.org/ 2) 'Bible verse and quote' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

Revival For The Nations

2010-04-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

T4G2010_Al Mohler

2010-04-26T11:16:00.001-07:00

The Ten Commandments

2010-04-26T11:00:00.001-07:00

Mark 10:21

2010-04-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

Today's Puritan AUDIO Devotional:
Motes and beams by J. R. Miller
Play Audio! Download MP3
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
What was wrong with him?

(Arthur Pink)

"One thing you lack" Mark 10:21

Those words addressed by our Lord to the rich young ruler who had approached Him with such apparent eagerness and earnestness, and in whom there were some admirable qualities which are rarely found in young men, especially those of affluence.

Yet there was a fatal defect, for the sequel informs us that he turned from Christ, and "went away sad" (Mark 10:22). What was wrong with him? "'One thing you lack--Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.' At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth." (Mark 10:21-22).

There was a struggle between his convictions and his corruptions; he desired to serve two masters--God and mammon; and when Christ told him that was impossible, he was chagrined.

His fatal deficiency may be described in a variety of ways. He had no conviction that he was a ruined, lost and Hell-deserving sinner, no consciousness that he was a spiritual leper in the sight of God, no realization of his utter helplessness to better his condition. Though religious, he was still in nature's darkness, and therefore, his affections were not raised above the vanities of this world. There was no love for God within him; and consequently, he was unwilling to deny himself, abandon his idols, and give God His rightful place in his life--serving, pleasing, and enjoying Him. He lacked a real and unreserved surrender of his heart to God.

Is that the case with you, dear reader?
~ ~ ~ ~ ~

We have published the following short article by Robert Murray M'Cheyne:
Conviction of Sin

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A Backslidden Church

2010-04-18T09:24:00.001-07:00

Testimony

2010-04-14T18:43:00.001-07:00

T4G

2010-04-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

For those interested in this conference...T4G

Sexual Sin & Christian Youth

2010-04-11T18:10:00.001-07:00

Whole Christ-Whole Heart

2010-04-11T09:40:00.001-07:00

Today's Puritan AUDIO Devotional:
The two birds
by J. R. Miller, superb
Play Audio! Download MP3
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
A whole Christ must be received--with the whole heart

(Thomas Sherman, "Aids to the Divine Life--A Series of Practical Christian Contemplations" 1680)

"Yet to all who received Him . . . He gave the right to become children of God" John 1:12

A whole Christ must be received--with the whole heart.

Some in their understanding, assent to the way of salvation--yet do not consent to it with their will. In judgment they are for Christ--but in affection they are for other things. There is only a part of their soul that is for Christ. Others would have the benefits that are from Christ--but have no love for the person of Christ.

Some would have Christ only as a Savior--but not as a Lord. They desire Him only as a Priest to offer a sacrifice for their sins--but not as a Prophet to instruct them, nor as a King to rule over them. So that it is but part of Christ, that they would receive.

But both of these courses are equally dangerous; for, if we would be saved, we must cleave to Christ with all the faculties of the soul--with will, judgment, affection, etc. And so, again, we must cleave to the whole of Christ--Christ in His natures, person, offices, etc. If, therefore, you would rightly receive Christ, see that your whole soul receives a whole Christ.

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The Worker Among The Two Faced

2010-04-10T10:18:00.001-07:00

Letters Of Mary Winslow

2010-04-08T10:31:00.001-07:00

Today's SCRIPTURE Meditation:
Proverbs 31 Play Audio! Download MP3
(Please forward this on to your sisters in Christ)
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
I live now more as a little helpless infant

(Letters of Mary Winslow)

"The world with its lust is passing away, but the one who does God’s will remains forever!" 1 John 2:17

May you be unceasingly led to see, that this world is not worthy of one anxious thought! It is all passing away, and we shall soon stand before the great white throne!

Realize more and more your glorious inheritance, and do not covet the poor trifles of time and sense.

Time is short!

You have much to do for God in a little space.

Eternity will be quite long enough to rest!

I am near my eternal home. Jesus is very precious, and His presence is sensibly with me. I live now more as a little helpless infant upon Christ, than ever I did in my long life!

(Note: We have been having "transmission" problems which are beyond our control, and our web host states that they have been fixed. Some 6,400 subscribers did not receive our last post--hence we are re-sending it. Sorry for any inconvenience.)

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Overcoming The World

2010-04-03T07:41:00.001-07:00

Today's Puritan Audio Devotional:
Choosing to do hard things
by J. R. Miller
Play Audio! Download MP3 Read Text
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Overcoming the world

(Arthur Pink, "Faith as an Overcomer")

"For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith." 1 John 5:4

One of the fruits of the new birth, is a faith which not only enables its possessor to overcome the sensual and sinful customs, and the carnal maxims and policies by which the profane world is regulated--but also the lying delusions and errors by which the professing world is fatally deceived.

The only thing which will or can "overcome the world" is a God-given--but self-exercised faith.

Faith overcomes the world firstly, by receiving into the heart God's infallible testimony of the world. He declares that "the world" is a corrupt, evanescent, hostile thing, which shall soon be destroyed by Him. His Holy Word teaches that the world is "evil" (Galatians 1:4); that "all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father--but is of the world" (1 John 2:16); that "the whole world lies in wickedness" (1 John 5:19) and shall yet be "burned up" (2 Peter 3:10). As faith accepts God's verdict of the world, the mind is spiritually enlightened; and its possessor views it as a worthless, dangerous, and detestable thing!

Faith overcomes the world secondly, by obeying the Divine commands concerning it. God has bidden us, "Do not be conformed to this world" (Romans 12:2); "Do not love the world, neither the things that are in the world" (1 John 2:15); and warns us that "Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world, becomes an enemy of God." (James 4:4). By heeding the Divine precepts, its magic spell over the heart is broken.

Faith overcomes the world thirdly, by occupying the soul with more glorious, soul-delighting and satisfying objects. The more the substance of the heavenly world engages the heart--the less hold will the shadows of this earthly world have upon it. "For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God" (Hebrews 11:10).

Faith overcomes the world fourthly, by drawing out the heart unto Christ. As it was by fleeing to Him for refuge, that the soul was first delivered from the power and thraldom of this world--so it is throughout the Christian life. The more we cultivate real communion with Christ--the less attraction will the baubles of this world have for us! The strength of temptation lies entirely in the bent of our affections, "for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matthew 6:21). While Christ is beheld as "the chief among ten thousand" (Song 5:10) and as "altogether lovely" (Song 5:16) --the things which charm the poor worldling, will repel us.

The world gains the victory over the unregenerate by captivating their affections and capturing their wills. But the Christian overcomes the world, because his affections are set upon Christ and his will yielded to Him.

Here--then, we have a sure criterion by which we may determine our Christian progress or spiritual growth. If the things of this world have a decreasing power over me--then my faith is becoming stronger. If I am holding more lightly the things most prized by the ungodly--then I must be increasing in an experimental and soul-satisfying knowledge of Christ. If I am less cast down when some of the riches and comforts of this world are taken from me--then that is evidence they have less hold upon me.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
We have published the following superb articles:
"Submission to God", by Arthur Pink
"Faith as an Overcomer", by Arthur Pink,
"The Friendship of Christ", by Arthur Pink
"Spiritual Ups and Downs", by Isaac Watts

Grace Gems (choice ELECTRONIC books, sermons & quotes)

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The Power of God in George Whitefield's Life - Steve Lawson

2010-03-30T09:46:00.001-07:00

The Cross, Faith, and the Children of Promise

2010-03-25T11:30:00.001-07:00

The Son Of Man-A Ransom

2010-03-25T08:17:00.001-07:00

Devotional Hours With The Bible

2010-03-23T09:19:00.001-07:00

Today's Puritan Audio Devotional:
Tangles which our fingers cannot unravel
by J. R. Miller Play Audio! Download MP3
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
As the tree falls--so must it lie

(J. R. Miller, "Devotional Hours with the Bible" 1909)

"Let him who does wrong--continue to do wrong; let him who is vile--continue to be vile" Revelation 22:11

The character with which men reach the final judgment--will be their permanent character forever. The man who lives in sin unto the end--is making his own destiny. Habits of sin--make the whole life sinful. It is this that gives such solemnity to life. The seeds of our future eternity--lie in our present.

   Out of our little acts--habits grow;
   from our habits--character springs;
   and our character--fixes our destiny!

Everyone goes to his own place--that is, the place for which he is fitted by his life on the earth. He who has always sinned here on earth--will continue to sin forever. Eternal death--is simply eternal sin, along with the punishments and consequences thereof. The punishment of the wicked will not be an arbitrary punishment--but the natural result of their own choices and acts in this life.

   As the tree falls--so must it lie;
   As the man lives--so must he die!
   As a man dies--such must he be;
   All through the ages of eternity!

It makes a great difference, therefore, how we live in this world. There is an false impression in some people's minds, that they can live in sin all their days, and then by a few tears of penitence and a few cries of mercy in a dying hour--can change all the course of their life and spend eternity in heaven. This verse does not favor such a view. The future life--is but the harvest of this present life.

Men will be judged by their deeds. The New Testament everywhere teaches the same solemn truth. This does not mean that salvation is by works. We are saved by grace--but grace changes the life and makes us holy.

"To die is gain"--only to those who can sincerely say, "To me, to live is Christ!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
We have completed the publishing J. R. Miller's eight volume series, "Devotional Hours with the Bible".

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The Third Day

2010-03-22T11:29:00.001-07:00

Book of Romans Chapter 6 Holy Bible

2010-03-20T07:50:00.001-07:00

Nursing A viper

2010-03-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

Today's Puritan Audio Devotional:
A device for saving people from toil, struggle and responsibility
J. R. Miller Play Audio! Download MP3
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Nursing a viper!

(J. R. Miller, "Devotional Hours with the Bible" 1909)

"Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived." Colossians 3:5-7

A new life in Christ calls for the utter destruction of these evils. It is a shameful list which Paul names. It makes us ashamed to think that such qualities may belong to us--or may nest in our heart! Who would have thought that any these vile things could exist in anyone who wears the human form! Yet many of these ugly things are found in each of us! Our hearts are naturally cages of unclean birds!

What does Paul tell us we should do with these unholy things? He says we are to put them to death. When we find any evil thing in ourselves, we must kill it, for it is not right for it to live. An uncompromising war should be waged against all evil. He who cherishes any impurity in himself--is nursing a viper which will sting him to death by and by!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
We have published J. R. Miller's short articles:
The New Life in Christ
Paul's Counsel to the Thessalonians

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Grace Audio Treasures (choice AUDIO sermons)

Sovereign Grace Treasures (choice PRINTED books)

The Loss Of A Soul

2010-03-08T08:05:00.000-08:00

Today's Puritan Audio Devotional:
The supreme thing in Christian life
by J. R. Miller
Play Audio! Download MP3
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
A mere scratch of a pin

(J. C. Ryle)

"For what shall it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36

The loss of the soul is the heaviest loss that can befall a man. The worst and most painful of diseases; the most distressing bankruptcy of fortune; the most disastrous shipwrecks; are a mere scratch of a pin--compared to the loss of a soul. All other losses are bearable, or but for a short time, but the loss of the soul is forever! It is to lose God, and Christ, and heaven, and glory, and happiness--to all eternity. It is to be cast away forever, helpless and hopeless in hell!

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The Raising Of Lazarus

2010-03-07T14:52:00.000-08:00

"Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted" by Fernando Ortega

2010-03-04T11:29:00.001-08:00

Devotional Hours With The Bible

2010-03-02T07:45:00.001-08:00

Today's Puritan Audio Devotional:

If we were directing the affairs
of our own lives by J. R. Miller
Play Audio! Download MP3

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
They could burn--but they could not turn!

(J. R. Miller, "Devotional Hours with the Bible")

"As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes and all kinds of music--you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up! Whoever does not fall down and worship--will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace!" Daniel 3:5-6

Every child knows this story. It is one of the classics of Christian households. We will never have to meet precisely the same trial of faith, that these three Hebrew children had to meet; but we need just as heroic a spirit--in order to be faithful.

Imposing images are set up even now in many a place--and all are expected to bow down to them--and woe to him who does not kneel!

We all have opportunity enough to be heroic. The popular religion of today, is inclined to limpness of the knees. We have grown wonderfully tolerant in these modern days! We bow to almost anything--if it happens to be fashionable.

"Therefore, as soon as they heard the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp and all kinds of music--all the peoples, nations and men of every language fell down and worshiped the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up!"

But there were some whose knees did not bend!

"Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king: O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and He will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, we want you to know, O king--that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up!" Daniel 3:16-18

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were all young men who were in peculiar circumstances. They were away from home, out from under parental influence and restraints, and exposed to very strong temptation. They had now their choice between duty--and the fiery furnace! We should study this lesson for its example of heroic devotion to duty, regardless of consequences. Even yet, the world's promotion is obtainable ofttimes--only at the price of a trampled conscience!

There are several things to note in these young men.

Note their calmness; they displayed no excitement, no heat of passion. The peace of God ruled in their hearts.

Note also, their sublime courage. They had a contempt of death. They feared only one thing--sin!

Note also, their trust in God. They committed the matter utterly into His hands. They did not know what He would do--but they were sure it would be the right thing.

The king wanted to give them another chance, as he preferred not to burn such useful servants; but they told him there was no need for a second opportunity. They would have no other answer to give. They could make no possible change in their decision. The thing that was demanded of them was contrary to the plain law of their God--and that settled it forever. There was no room for discussion or for deliberation or for persuasion--when it was the law of God that was concerned. They could burn--but they could not turn!
It would save many people a great deal of weighing, balancing, and discussing of fine points--if they would act always on this principle--that the Word of God is final in all matters of duty. When a thing is forbidden in the Word--that should be the end of it.
But too many people parley with such matters--and usually end in yielding to sin. It is never safe to parley with temptation!
It would be well if all our modern Christians had the sublime moral courage of these three Hebrew children.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
We have posted several more superb short articles by J. R. Miller:
Isaiah's Call to Service
The Gracious Invitation
Daniel's Principles
Nebuchadnezzar's Dream
The Fiery Furnace

Grace Gems (choice ELECTRONIC books, sermons & quotes)

Grace Audio Treasures (choice AUDIO sermons)

Sovereign Grace Treasures (choice PRINTED books)

A Wideness in Gods Mercy? (John MacArthur)

2010-03-01T06:49:00.001-08:00

Blessed Purity

2010-02-19T08:21:00.001-08:00