As most of you know my middle son is in the Army Reserves, and I work with the Family Readiness Group with his unit. The FRG does a lot of different things, for instance when a soldier is deployed we will help their family with things like getting the resources needed to meet a financial emergency, or if say a spouse or child needs counseling due to the soldier being deployed in harms way. We also have different fund raisers during the year so that we can have a "Family Day", where we bring all the soldiers, and all their families together for a day of fun and fellowship, so that we can become one big family, so we can support each other if our loved ones have to go overseas. This weekend was our Family Day, while getting ready for it, I started thinking about how the life of a soldier is so much like the life of a Christian.
1. We make the choice to be a soldier/Christian
Rm 10:9, "If thou shalt confess with thy mouth...thou shalt be saved" (13) "Whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved".
Joshua 24:15 "Choose you this day whom ye will serve;...but as for me and my house we will serve the LORD".
2Tim. 2:3 "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ".
God uses other Christians to recruit us, but it is by His power we are convicted of our sin, and through that conviction we decided to join His family/army. Remember the old song "I'm in the LORD's army".
2. Church/Bible study is our training
Rm 10:17 "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God".
John 14:26 "But the comforter...shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you".
1Cor 4:17 "...as I teach every where in every church"
We learn the things we need to know to be a good soldier, going to boot camp (church), and through our personal study of the word of God. There is no substitute for either, there are things we learn in one place that can not be learned in the other.
3. We receive our orders through prayer
1Kg 9:3, Mt ch. 6, Mk 11:24
Lk 10:2 "The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the LORD of the harvest, that He would send forth labourers into his harvest".
Lk 18:1 "And He spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint"
When we talk to God, He talks to us. We may not always hear an audible voice, but He speaks to us in other ways. If we listen to His voice He will direct our paths.
4. Once we have received enough training--We go into combat
Eph. 6:11 "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may beable to stand against the wiles of the devil".
2Tim 2:4 "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please Him who hath chosen him to be a soldier"
1Tim 1:18 "This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare"
From the moment we accept Christ into our hearts, Satan and his henchmen are looking for any opportunity to tear us down. But, through the grace of God we will have the victory, if we fight for it.
5.When we finish the job we are sent to do, we get to go home.
Eph 1:10, 2:6, 3:15
Heb 11:16 "But now they desire a better country, that is an heavenly...for He hath prepared for them a city"
John 14:2-3 "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I woul have told you. I go to prepare a place for you..."
Just as the soldier in combat looks forward to the day his tour is over, and he gets to go to the safety of home and to loved one's. We should be looking forward to the day we go to our home in heaven.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Commitment
A couple of days ago I had some plans that I had been looking forward to. It was something that I really wanted to do, however when I got up that morning I did not feel real good. It's not that I felt bad, I just didn't feel good. So I canceled my plans. The next day I got up and felt horrible, however I got dressed and went to town. I had told a friend I would do something with them, and even though it was something I did not want to do to begin with, I went even as bad as I felt. A few days later someone asked me, why I canceled my plans, that I wanted to do when I did not feel that bad, and yet did something I did not want to do when I felt even worse. My answer was that I had made a commitment to someone else, and they were counting on me, and I always keep my commitment's unless something really major happens. I have went to work with a fever of 102F. Why? I had made a commitment to be there, and the company was counting on me to do my job, especially since I was the only one in my department, and there was a large order to get out.
I got to thinking about being asked the question about why I did what I did, and I got to thinking about my commitment to God. Luke 12:48b says, "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required:". You see, when we say that prayer, and ask God into our heart to be our Saviour, we make a commitment to Him, to do His will, and obey His commands. God says in Acts 13:22b "I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all my will (23) Of this man's seed hath God according to His promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:"
I had to start asking myself if I was fulfilling my commitment to God. Am I doing everything He wants me to do? Am I obeying all His commands to me? After all He is faithful to keep His commitment to me. He promised to forgive all my sins, and to seal me into His family, making my salvation permanent unto eternity. "For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day" 2Tim. 1:12. Paul said God is able to keep what we give Him, all the way until the judgment day. When we accept Him in our hearts, we are giving Him our bodies to use, and our souls to take into glory when the day comes. Jesus promises us in John 14:14 "If ye shall ask any thing in my name I will do it". That is a promise, God never breaks His promise. Then He goes on in vs 15 to say "If ye love me, keep my commandments". (vs16) "And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever:". Jesus was telling us how much He loves us, and that the Comforter would be with us forever, but right in the middle of that He adds, "If ye love me keep my commandments". He just sandwiches what He expects of us, between what we can know that He will do. Notice those two words "expect" and "know", what is the difference between those words? I'll let you think about that on your own.
Jesus made the ultimate commitment to us when he went to the cross, He died for us, and all He ask in return is that we live for Him. That we tell others about Him, that others see Him in the way we live, the way we compose ourselves, how we handle trials, and troubles. He ask that we spend time studying His word, not just reading, but studying, commiting it to memory. He ask that we spend time in prayer talking to Him, and listening to Him. If we love Him we should want to do these things.
But too often it's this way, I know that my wife loves "Moose Tracks" ice cream. So I buy some to surprise her, I take it home expecting her to eat it, but she takes it from me, sits it on the table and it sits there until it melts. This never happens, if I bring it home, she eats it, but so many times in our spiritual lives we take the ice cream which represents the Bible, and prayer, and we just let it sit there until it is of no use to us. Just as I would not be able to understand why she did not eat the ice cream, I have to imagine that God looks down and wonders why we pass up His word, and conversation with Him.
I am going to leave you with one more passage 1Peter 4:18-19 "And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to Him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator".
I got to thinking about being asked the question about why I did what I did, and I got to thinking about my commitment to God. Luke 12:48b says, "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required:". You see, when we say that prayer, and ask God into our heart to be our Saviour, we make a commitment to Him, to do His will, and obey His commands. God says in Acts 13:22b "I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all my will (23) Of this man's seed hath God according to His promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:"
I had to start asking myself if I was fulfilling my commitment to God. Am I doing everything He wants me to do? Am I obeying all His commands to me? After all He is faithful to keep His commitment to me. He promised to forgive all my sins, and to seal me into His family, making my salvation permanent unto eternity. "For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day" 2Tim. 1:12. Paul said God is able to keep what we give Him, all the way until the judgment day. When we accept Him in our hearts, we are giving Him our bodies to use, and our souls to take into glory when the day comes. Jesus promises us in John 14:14 "If ye shall ask any thing in my name I will do it". That is a promise, God never breaks His promise. Then He goes on in vs 15 to say "If ye love me, keep my commandments". (vs16) "And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever:". Jesus was telling us how much He loves us, and that the Comforter would be with us forever, but right in the middle of that He adds, "If ye love me keep my commandments". He just sandwiches what He expects of us, between what we can know that He will do. Notice those two words "expect" and "know", what is the difference between those words? I'll let you think about that on your own.
Jesus made the ultimate commitment to us when he went to the cross, He died for us, and all He ask in return is that we live for Him. That we tell others about Him, that others see Him in the way we live, the way we compose ourselves, how we handle trials, and troubles. He ask that we spend time studying His word, not just reading, but studying, commiting it to memory. He ask that we spend time in prayer talking to Him, and listening to Him. If we love Him we should want to do these things.
But too often it's this way, I know that my wife loves "Moose Tracks" ice cream. So I buy some to surprise her, I take it home expecting her to eat it, but she takes it from me, sits it on the table and it sits there until it melts. This never happens, if I bring it home, she eats it, but so many times in our spiritual lives we take the ice cream which represents the Bible, and prayer, and we just let it sit there until it is of no use to us. Just as I would not be able to understand why she did not eat the ice cream, I have to imagine that God looks down and wonders why we pass up His word, and conversation with Him.
I am going to leave you with one more passage 1Peter 4:18-19 "And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to Him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator".
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Angels
I want to say thank you to all of you who were praying for me yesterday. I knew when I did not post, that you would know that I was having an extremely bad day. Actually I am going through one of my bad cycles and will be having problems for a few more weeks before it lets up.
Let's just jump right into our devotion this morning. What exactly is an angel? In Col. 1:16, we see that they are created beings. They have not always existed, and they have jobs to do in God's kingdom. First let's look at how the angels are classified. The first classification is the archangel. There is only one particular angel associated specifically with this role, Michael. However in Daniel 10:13 we are given an indication that there might be more than just one archangel. Then there is Gabriel, let's call him God's messenger. Next is the cherubim, it appears their role is as a guardian. First in the garden of Eden after the banishment, on top of the ark of the covenant. Then there is the seraphim, only mentioned once in the Bible in
Isaiah chapter 6. The only thing we know about them is they cry to each other "Holy holy, holy is the LORD of host; the whole earth is full of His glory". Although they may have other roles, we are not told about.
"Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation"? Heb. 1:14. The first way we see the angels ministering to us, is by guarding us. There was Daniel in the lions den, then in 2 Kings 6 we see where Elisha was going up against the king of Syria. Elisha's servant saw the Syrian army and was afraid, so Elisha prayed that the man's eyes would be opened, "and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha". God had sent an army of angels to protect Elisha. Then there was Peter and John in prison, and during the night an angel entered the jail, opened the doors and brought them out. Don't forget when Peter was in prison alone, and the angel led him out past the guards who did not see Peter walking out. In Matt. 18:10 we are told that our angels "do always behold the face of My Father, who is in heaven".
We should be able to take comfort in knowing that the angels transport us. Look at the story of Lazarus and the rich man. When Lazarus died he was "carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom". Jesus said the angels carried him, not escorted but carried him.
We see several times in scripture when an angel delivered a message from God to a man. There was Lot before Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed. Moses, Balam, Joshua, Gideon Manoah, Zechariah and David all received visits from angels. In the New Testament there was Zachariahs before the birth of John the Baptist, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds all foretelling the birth of Christ. Then an angel brought the good news of the resurrection. The apostle Paul in Acts 27:22-25 concerning the safety of the passengers on the ship.
"Do we receive special messages through angelic visitors today"? I believe that once the scriptures were completed most all communication with angels ceased. With the Bible complete there is no need for special divine revelation. Rev. 22:18 tells us, "If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book". However, I am not saying all communication has ceased, after all Heb 13:2 says "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unawares". If you remember a couple of months ago, I told you about my friend that had an experience that we believe was a visit from an angel.
We also see in scripture, where the angels rejoice over a sinner who repents. In Revelation we see all the things the angels will do concerning the rapture, and second coming, and the defeat of Satan's army.
Now I want to make this clear, Col. 2:18 "Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind". Under no circumstance are we to worship angels. They are God's servants, and nothing more. Worship of angels, is actually worship of false gods. God uses His angels to minister to us, to guard us, to communicate with us, and to fight Satan's army. God will have an angel deliver a blessing to us, but the angel on their own can do nothing to bless us, or minister to us, or even communicate with us. But, just knowing that God still uses His angels to minister to us, should give us peace when we are troubled, joy when we are sad, and hope when things appear hopeless, not because of the angel, but because of their service to God.
Let's just jump right into our devotion this morning. What exactly is an angel? In Col. 1:16, we see that they are created beings. They have not always existed, and they have jobs to do in God's kingdom. First let's look at how the angels are classified. The first classification is the archangel. There is only one particular angel associated specifically with this role, Michael. However in Daniel 10:13 we are given an indication that there might be more than just one archangel. Then there is Gabriel, let's call him God's messenger. Next is the cherubim, it appears their role is as a guardian. First in the garden of Eden after the banishment, on top of the ark of the covenant. Then there is the seraphim, only mentioned once in the Bible in
Isaiah chapter 6. The only thing we know about them is they cry to each other "Holy holy, holy is the LORD of host; the whole earth is full of His glory". Although they may have other roles, we are not told about.
"Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation"? Heb. 1:14. The first way we see the angels ministering to us, is by guarding us. There was Daniel in the lions den, then in 2 Kings 6 we see where Elisha was going up against the king of Syria. Elisha's servant saw the Syrian army and was afraid, so Elisha prayed that the man's eyes would be opened, "and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha". God had sent an army of angels to protect Elisha. Then there was Peter and John in prison, and during the night an angel entered the jail, opened the doors and brought them out. Don't forget when Peter was in prison alone, and the angel led him out past the guards who did not see Peter walking out. In Matt. 18:10 we are told that our angels "do always behold the face of My Father, who is in heaven".
We should be able to take comfort in knowing that the angels transport us. Look at the story of Lazarus and the rich man. When Lazarus died he was "carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom". Jesus said the angels carried him, not escorted but carried him.
We see several times in scripture when an angel delivered a message from God to a man. There was Lot before Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed. Moses, Balam, Joshua, Gideon Manoah, Zechariah and David all received visits from angels. In the New Testament there was Zachariahs before the birth of John the Baptist, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds all foretelling the birth of Christ. Then an angel brought the good news of the resurrection. The apostle Paul in Acts 27:22-25 concerning the safety of the passengers on the ship.
"Do we receive special messages through angelic visitors today"? I believe that once the scriptures were completed most all communication with angels ceased. With the Bible complete there is no need for special divine revelation. Rev. 22:18 tells us, "If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book". However, I am not saying all communication has ceased, after all Heb 13:2 says "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unawares". If you remember a couple of months ago, I told you about my friend that had an experience that we believe was a visit from an angel.
We also see in scripture, where the angels rejoice over a sinner who repents. In Revelation we see all the things the angels will do concerning the rapture, and second coming, and the defeat of Satan's army.
Now I want to make this clear, Col. 2:18 "Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind". Under no circumstance are we to worship angels. They are God's servants, and nothing more. Worship of angels, is actually worship of false gods. God uses His angels to minister to us, to guard us, to communicate with us, and to fight Satan's army. God will have an angel deliver a blessing to us, but the angel on their own can do nothing to bless us, or minister to us, or even communicate with us. But, just knowing that God still uses His angels to minister to us, should give us peace when we are troubled, joy when we are sad, and hope when things appear hopeless, not because of the angel, but because of their service to God.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Show Me the Path
Good morning, let's start in Ps. 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth". I have been thinking about this verse, since yesterday morning. As you know I had told you that as of yesterday I would be correcting the misspelling in the address of the blog. Thursday afternoon (or whatever day I posted that), I checked and verified that the corrected address was available, which it was. Then Monday morning when I went in to actually make the change, I found out someone had claimed it out from under me. So now I am facing a couple of decisions. First of all, I want the address correct, this is God's work it should be correct in every way, He deserves it.
There are two ways I can correct this, I can either find another address totally, which I have thought about making some rather large changes. After all this has evolved into something different than I originally thought it would be. So if I go with a different name, then I can make sure things are correct. However, I feel the name "My Conversation with God", is one I want to stick with.
The other option is to move to a different host. With that option, there are hundreds of host available. So that thought is almost overwhelming.
So right now I am sitting here trying to "be still and know the He is God". I am waiting on Him to show me His plan. If you remember our lesson on 1Kings 19:12, when God sent Elijah onto Mount Horeb, there was a series of natural disasters, then the still small voice of God. Elijah stayed put where he was supposed to be, he did not turn and run, and because of that he was blessed by hearing the voice of God. That voice told him what he was to do next. I am waiting on that voice, I have heard that voice several times in my life, and I know that God will tell me what He wants me to do.
I feel that He is giving me a test right now. He is also teaching me again to wait on Him to direct my path. Ps. 16:11 "Thou wilt shew me the path of life; in they presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore". This is something that I must remember.
I have to admit that the last few weeks I have had to rely on Ps 27 especially starting with vs 11 "Teach me thy way O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies. (13) I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. (14) Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say on the LORD".
First I want to make it clear that there are no human enemies. There are people that I have had conflict with, but they are not my enemies. They are good Christian people there was just some misunderstandings between us. Now Satan has tried to use that conflict to discourage me. Do you remember a couple of months ago we talked about the meaning of the word "wait". Do you remember how I showed that it means to depend on God for everything. Again that may not be the "original" meaning, but if you follow the phrase "wait on God, (the LORD)" you will see that once you put all the times it was used together, there is a common theme, wait on God to provide (whatever is needed at the moment), strength, wisdom, guidance, provisions, in other words everything.
Worrying about a small misspelling may seem silly to some, and any other time I would agree. But God has directed me to be a steward of this blog. He has made a special place in my heart for this work, after all this was originally intended to help me, to give me a place to connect His word to the trials, tribulations, and pain I go through. Coming here everyday, brings joy to my heart. I was told that I needed to stop trying to help others, until I knew what I was talking about. What that person does not understand is that I am not here to help others, I am here for me. But, God is here to help the rest of you, He is just using my struggles to do it. I have never claimed to be an expert, just a normal Christian with problems, that is depending on God to carry Him through, and I am willing to share my problems with you, as He told me to.
Ps. 26:6-7, "I will wash mine hands in innocency; so will I compass thine alter, O LORD: That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all they wondrous works".
There are two ways I can correct this, I can either find another address totally, which I have thought about making some rather large changes. After all this has evolved into something different than I originally thought it would be. So if I go with a different name, then I can make sure things are correct. However, I feel the name "My Conversation with God", is one I want to stick with.
The other option is to move to a different host. With that option, there are hundreds of host available. So that thought is almost overwhelming.
So right now I am sitting here trying to "be still and know the He is God". I am waiting on Him to show me His plan. If you remember our lesson on 1Kings 19:12, when God sent Elijah onto Mount Horeb, there was a series of natural disasters, then the still small voice of God. Elijah stayed put where he was supposed to be, he did not turn and run, and because of that he was blessed by hearing the voice of God. That voice told him what he was to do next. I am waiting on that voice, I have heard that voice several times in my life, and I know that God will tell me what He wants me to do.
I feel that He is giving me a test right now. He is also teaching me again to wait on Him to direct my path. Ps. 16:11 "Thou wilt shew me the path of life; in they presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore". This is something that I must remember.
I have to admit that the last few weeks I have had to rely on Ps 27 especially starting with vs 11 "Teach me thy way O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies. (13) I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. (14) Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say on the LORD".
First I want to make it clear that there are no human enemies. There are people that I have had conflict with, but they are not my enemies. They are good Christian people there was just some misunderstandings between us. Now Satan has tried to use that conflict to discourage me. Do you remember a couple of months ago we talked about the meaning of the word "wait". Do you remember how I showed that it means to depend on God for everything. Again that may not be the "original" meaning, but if you follow the phrase "wait on God, (the LORD)" you will see that once you put all the times it was used together, there is a common theme, wait on God to provide (whatever is needed at the moment), strength, wisdom, guidance, provisions, in other words everything.
Worrying about a small misspelling may seem silly to some, and any other time I would agree. But God has directed me to be a steward of this blog. He has made a special place in my heart for this work, after all this was originally intended to help me, to give me a place to connect His word to the trials, tribulations, and pain I go through. Coming here everyday, brings joy to my heart. I was told that I needed to stop trying to help others, until I knew what I was talking about. What that person does not understand is that I am not here to help others, I am here for me. But, God is here to help the rest of you, He is just using my struggles to do it. I have never claimed to be an expert, just a normal Christian with problems, that is depending on God to carry Him through, and I am willing to share my problems with you, as He told me to.
Ps. 26:6-7, "I will wash mine hands in innocency; so will I compass thine alter, O LORD: That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all they wondrous works".
Monday, September 6, 2010
Statement of Faith Pt. 3
Good Labor Day to Everyone, I hope all of you have a good day celebrating with family and friends. But let's not forget the main reason we have to celebrate, our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. I am going to finish up on the statement of faith study today. It did not quite turn out as I intended, but hopefully we all have a better understanding of what is contained in this important statement, and why it is so important.
7. Baptism is commanded in order to show our obedience to Christ, and does not in any way affect our salvation. It represents Christ death, burial, and resurrection, in the movements, and act of immersion in water. If we truly accept Christ as our Savior we should have a desire to show our relationship with him through baptism.
Matthew 3:6, 3:16, 28:19-20; Acts 2:41, 8:36-39; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12
As someone enters the water, it represents Christ time on the cross, as they are lowered into the water, it represents His death and burial, then just as that person is raised out of the water, Christ victoriously arose from the dead, and the grave. This is just another way to demonstrate our love for Him, and our obedience to His commandments. After all He died for us, surely we can get wet for Him.
8. The global church is comprised of all believers worldwide. The local church is a congregation of baptized believers meeting together as a family to worship God, and learn about Him through the preaching of His word. The local church is autonomous, free of control by any outside organization, board, or person.
A. The true mission of the local church is found in the “Great Commission”. First to make individual disciples and to teach and instruct them, second to build up the church, and third to reach out in a spiral from the church, starting in the local community, then the region, then nationally, and finally the whole world, through national, and international missions.
B. Even though men and women are equal in God’s eyes, He has established certain requirements for jobs within the church, women are never to be over men, and accordingly only men are eligible to be pastors, elders, and deacons.
Leviticus 27:30-32; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42, 4:42-47, 6:2-3, 14:23, 15:22-23; 1Corinthians 5:11-13, 16;1-2; Ephesians 1:20-23, 5:23-24; Colossians 1:17-18; 1Timothy 2:12, 3:1-13
I tried my best to separate these three items, but all of the supporting verses would have been the same for all three (to a point anyway), so it just made sense to put them all together. I am probably as much for equal rights as anyone else when it comes to the workforce, but the Bible is clear about the role of women and men in the church, and the home.
9. Civil Governments are of divine appointment, in order to control society, and should always be obeyed except when they oppose the laws of God. God’s law always takes precedence.
Matthew 10:28, 22:21; Romans 13:6-7; Titus 3:1 1Peter 2:13-17
Does this need to be explained?
10. Scriptural giving is one of the fundamentals of the faith. We are commanded to tithe 10% of our income before any deductions are made, to the local church. We are also commanded to cheerfully give above and beyond the tithe by faith to support mission work and the furtherance, and spread of the Gospel. At the same time we are commanded also to be witnesses in our local community our self.
Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 23:23, 28:19-20; Acts 4:32-37, 11:27-30; Romans Ch. 15; Hebrews 7:2-4; 1Corinthians 16:2, 15-17; 2Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-7
Notice that the tithe comes out from the income amount before any deductions. Also notice that missions offering is made by faith, over and above the tithe. I promise that if you are faithful to give the missions offering then He will be faithful to bless you for it.
That is all of this list, as I said to start with I have seen some list that were quite extensive, covering a lot more subjects, with a lot more per subject. However this is a blog, not a church I just want to give a basic idea of what I believe in. Hopefully I covered all I need to cover, and did so adequately.
7. Baptism is commanded in order to show our obedience to Christ, and does not in any way affect our salvation. It represents Christ death, burial, and resurrection, in the movements, and act of immersion in water. If we truly accept Christ as our Savior we should have a desire to show our relationship with him through baptism.
Matthew 3:6, 3:16, 28:19-20; Acts 2:41, 8:36-39; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12
As someone enters the water, it represents Christ time on the cross, as they are lowered into the water, it represents His death and burial, then just as that person is raised out of the water, Christ victoriously arose from the dead, and the grave. This is just another way to demonstrate our love for Him, and our obedience to His commandments. After all He died for us, surely we can get wet for Him.
8. The global church is comprised of all believers worldwide. The local church is a congregation of baptized believers meeting together as a family to worship God, and learn about Him through the preaching of His word. The local church is autonomous, free of control by any outside organization, board, or person.
A. The true mission of the local church is found in the “Great Commission”. First to make individual disciples and to teach and instruct them, second to build up the church, and third to reach out in a spiral from the church, starting in the local community, then the region, then nationally, and finally the whole world, through national, and international missions.
B. Even though men and women are equal in God’s eyes, He has established certain requirements for jobs within the church, women are never to be over men, and accordingly only men are eligible to be pastors, elders, and deacons.
Leviticus 27:30-32; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42, 4:42-47, 6:2-3, 14:23, 15:22-23; 1Corinthians 5:11-13, 16;1-2; Ephesians 1:20-23, 5:23-24; Colossians 1:17-18; 1Timothy 2:12, 3:1-13
I tried my best to separate these three items, but all of the supporting verses would have been the same for all three (to a point anyway), so it just made sense to put them all together. I am probably as much for equal rights as anyone else when it comes to the workforce, but the Bible is clear about the role of women and men in the church, and the home.
9. Civil Governments are of divine appointment, in order to control society, and should always be obeyed except when they oppose the laws of God. God’s law always takes precedence.
Matthew 10:28, 22:21; Romans 13:6-7; Titus 3:1 1Peter 2:13-17
Does this need to be explained?
10. Scriptural giving is one of the fundamentals of the faith. We are commanded to tithe 10% of our income before any deductions are made, to the local church. We are also commanded to cheerfully give above and beyond the tithe by faith to support mission work and the furtherance, and spread of the Gospel. At the same time we are commanded also to be witnesses in our local community our self.
Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 23:23, 28:19-20; Acts 4:32-37, 11:27-30; Romans Ch. 15; Hebrews 7:2-4; 1Corinthians 16:2, 15-17; 2Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-7
Notice that the tithe comes out from the income amount before any deductions. Also notice that missions offering is made by faith, over and above the tithe. I promise that if you are faithful to give the missions offering then He will be faithful to bless you for it.
That is all of this list, as I said to start with I have seen some list that were quite extensive, covering a lot more subjects, with a lot more per subject. However this is a blog, not a church I just want to give a basic idea of what I believe in. Hopefully I covered all I need to cover, and did so adequately.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Statement of Faith Pt. 2
Let's just jump right in and see how far we get today.
4. The Genesis account of creation is correct and that it is to be accepted literally. All life was created by God in its present form, and there has never been, nor will there ever be any form of evolution. All life was created in two forms, male and female, and the only legitimate marriage is between man and woman. All forms of homosexuality, bi-sexuality, and bestiality is in and of itself sin. Man was created in innocence but fell by voluntary transgression of God’s Word, and is therefore under condemnation, and deserving of eternal punishment.
Genesis 1:1 &11 &24 &26-27, 2:21-23, 3:1-6 &24, John 1:3, Acts 4:24, Romans 5:12
This is repeated through out the Bible, "In the beginning God created the heavens and earth". "All that was made was made by Him and for Him", we are here for His pleasure, and not the other way around. If it wasn't for the vicarious suffering of Christ on the cross, we would be condemned to an eternity in hell, because of our own wickedness.
5. Jesus Christ was miraculously born of a virgin. He is both Son of God, and Son of Man. Mary conceived when the Holy Spirit moved on her, and miraculously planted the Christ child in her. But, at no time was there sexual intercourse between the Holy Spirit and Mary, otherwise she would not have been a virgin, and also God can not sin, premarital sex is a sin.
Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:18-25, Mark 1:1, Luke 1:35, John 1:14 Galatians 4:4
We see in the Old Testament where the virgin birth was prophesied, and in the New Testament where it was fulfilled. But, at no time do we see where the Holy Spirit sinned by having premarital relations with her, which is something that He is incapable of, and would have made her of no use to Him anyway.
6. Salvation is by the Grace of God, and there is nothing man can do to obtain salvation on his own, by any work or effort. We are justified by faith in Jesus Christ and His sinless life, His voluntary death on the Cross, and His victory over death as a result of His resurrection. There can be no salvation without the shed blood of Christ to cover our sin.
Isaiah 53:4-7, &11-12; Matt 18:11; John 3:16, 10:17-18; Acts 15:11; Romans 3:23-24; Ephesians 2:8; Hebrews 7:25, 9:12-15, 12:2
There are people who think that if they live "good enough" they will be saved, other people think that there is some other way to be saved, but we are clearly told that "No man cometh to the Father but by Me", and "without the shedding of blood there can be no remission of sin." This is one of the main points of the Christian faith, belief in Jesus Christ as our Savior. God makes His salvation available to all men, but without faith in Jesus we can not hope to obtain it.
I'll finish up tomorrow, I hope everyone has a good day at church.
4. The Genesis account of creation is correct and that it is to be accepted literally. All life was created by God in its present form, and there has never been, nor will there ever be any form of evolution. All life was created in two forms, male and female, and the only legitimate marriage is between man and woman. All forms of homosexuality, bi-sexuality, and bestiality is in and of itself sin. Man was created in innocence but fell by voluntary transgression of God’s Word, and is therefore under condemnation, and deserving of eternal punishment.
Genesis 1:1 &11 &24 &26-27, 2:21-23, 3:1-6 &24, John 1:3, Acts 4:24, Romans 5:12
This is repeated through out the Bible, "In the beginning God created the heavens and earth". "All that was made was made by Him and for Him", we are here for His pleasure, and not the other way around. If it wasn't for the vicarious suffering of Christ on the cross, we would be condemned to an eternity in hell, because of our own wickedness.
5. Jesus Christ was miraculously born of a virgin. He is both Son of God, and Son of Man. Mary conceived when the Holy Spirit moved on her, and miraculously planted the Christ child in her. But, at no time was there sexual intercourse between the Holy Spirit and Mary, otherwise she would not have been a virgin, and also God can not sin, premarital sex is a sin.
Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:18-25, Mark 1:1, Luke 1:35, John 1:14 Galatians 4:4
We see in the Old Testament where the virgin birth was prophesied, and in the New Testament where it was fulfilled. But, at no time do we see where the Holy Spirit sinned by having premarital relations with her, which is something that He is incapable of, and would have made her of no use to Him anyway.
6. Salvation is by the Grace of God, and there is nothing man can do to obtain salvation on his own, by any work or effort. We are justified by faith in Jesus Christ and His sinless life, His voluntary death on the Cross, and His victory over death as a result of His resurrection. There can be no salvation without the shed blood of Christ to cover our sin.
Isaiah 53:4-7, &11-12; Matt 18:11; John 3:16, 10:17-18; Acts 15:11; Romans 3:23-24; Ephesians 2:8; Hebrews 7:25, 9:12-15, 12:2
There are people who think that if they live "good enough" they will be saved, other people think that there is some other way to be saved, but we are clearly told that "No man cometh to the Father but by Me", and "without the shedding of blood there can be no remission of sin." This is one of the main points of the Christian faith, belief in Jesus Christ as our Savior. God makes His salvation available to all men, but without faith in Jesus we can not hope to obtain it.
I'll finish up tomorrow, I hope everyone has a good day at church.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Statement of Faith Pt. 1
I guess a day late is better than never. I was just wondering the other day, just how many of us have actually sat down and read the Christian Statement of Faith. There are as many different versions as there are people who have written them. When I say different versions, I mean that they all should say the exact same thing, however one person might just give a basic one page statement, with 10 points, and just one or two sentences on each point. The next person may, take 4 or 5 pages, to cover the exact same 10 points. What I grouped together in one point someone else may list separately as 4 points. I have copied and pasted (with permission) two different list since the beginning of the blog, one was just a basic set, the other an extremely complex list. However I did not like either, if it's too basic there just is not enough information for someone who is not a Christian to understand completely, if it is too complex, even the most mature Christian can have trouble following it, and will get bored. So I have sat down and tried to make it as simple to read as possible, while including good amount of information without going into overload. I have to admit, that it is going to be difficult to do much more than just paste the list here. I believe I have explained things about as well as they can be explained in the list. I gave supporting verses for each one of the points, but I just gave chapter and verse, with anywhere from 5-10 verses for each point, it would have increased the length to a point of enormous length, so I will probably just expand a few of those verses, and tie them together. I am just going to have to pray and let God lead, and control my fingers, I always try to "let Him use my fingers to do the walking". I know He is leading me to do this, so I know He will help me.
1. The Bible is the inspired Word of God. It was written by men, as God placed it on their hearts. As such it is without error, is infallible and is the standard by which we should live.
Acts 1:16, Romans 15:4, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, 1 Peter 1:23, 2 Peter 1:21,
Revelation 22:18-19
What else needs to be said? God spoke through the prophets of old to write the 66 books that we have now. The Bible contains no errors, it is perfect in every way, it is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.
2. There is only one living and true God, who exist in a Trinity consisting of God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Three persons inhabiting the same body equal in divine perfection, executing distinct buy equal functions.
Genesis 1:26, Matthew 28:19, Mark 12:30, John 4:24, 10:30, 1Corinthians 8:6, 12:4-6,
2Corinthins 13:14, Ephesians 2:13-18, Philippians 2:5-6, Hebrews 9:14, 1Peter 1:2
Isn't it great to know that we do serve a living God? Our God is not a piece of wood, or stone, our God is actually capable of thought, of assisting us, of loving us. Our God does not have a spot or blemish, He is not cracked, or molded, or termite infested.
3. Satan was once a holy angel, but through pride and ambition to be equal to the Almighty God, fell from grace, and is now man’s great tempter and the enemy of God. He is destined to be defeated at the hands of God the Son, and eternal damnation in hell.
Isaiah 14:12-15, Matthew 4:1-3, 25:41, Luke 22:3-4, 2Corintians 11:13-15, Ephesians 2:2
1Thessalonians 3:5, 2Thessalonians 2:8-11, Revelation 19:20, 20:1-3 &10
I believe that Satan is jealous of man, we have God's love, we have been invited into heaven, he was kicked out. Even though it is not possible for us to be equal with God, Jesus did become equal with man for a short time, and Satan was made lower than man.
I'm going to stop there for today, to stay within the average length I have tried to maintain from the beginning. I hope to cover more tomorrow, because there won't be a need for the beginning explanation.
1. The Bible is the inspired Word of God. It was written by men, as God placed it on their hearts. As such it is without error, is infallible and is the standard by which we should live.
Acts 1:16, Romans 15:4, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, 1 Peter 1:23, 2 Peter 1:21,
Revelation 22:18-19
What else needs to be said? God spoke through the prophets of old to write the 66 books that we have now. The Bible contains no errors, it is perfect in every way, it is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.
2. There is only one living and true God, who exist in a Trinity consisting of God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Three persons inhabiting the same body equal in divine perfection, executing distinct buy equal functions.
Genesis 1:26, Matthew 28:19, Mark 12:30, John 4:24, 10:30, 1Corinthians 8:6, 12:4-6,
2Corinthins 13:14, Ephesians 2:13-18, Philippians 2:5-6, Hebrews 9:14, 1Peter 1:2
Isn't it great to know that we do serve a living God? Our God is not a piece of wood, or stone, our God is actually capable of thought, of assisting us, of loving us. Our God does not have a spot or blemish, He is not cracked, or molded, or termite infested.
3. Satan was once a holy angel, but through pride and ambition to be equal to the Almighty God, fell from grace, and is now man’s great tempter and the enemy of God. He is destined to be defeated at the hands of God the Son, and eternal damnation in hell.
Isaiah 14:12-15, Matthew 4:1-3, 25:41, Luke 22:3-4, 2Corintians 11:13-15, Ephesians 2:2
1Thessalonians 3:5, 2Thessalonians 2:8-11, Revelation 19:20, 20:1-3 &10
I believe that Satan is jealous of man, we have God's love, we have been invited into heaven, he was kicked out. Even though it is not possible for us to be equal with God, Jesus did become equal with man for a short time, and Satan was made lower than man.
I'm going to stop there for today, to stay within the average length I have tried to maintain from the beginning. I hope to cover more tomorrow, because there won't be a need for the beginning explanation.
Christian Character
Today we were supposed to start a series on our Statement of Faith, however I had a bad night last night and was not able to get it ready. So I am going to pull one from my notebook that I already had ready.
Turn to 2 Pet. 1:1 "Simon Peter a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith...", because Peter knew this would be his last letter he wanted the believers to understand who he was and how he felt about himself. If you look at the original meanings of "a servant and an apostle", you see that Peter was calling himself both a slave and an apostle. In doing so he affirmed both a sincere humility and a position of authority.
Now look down at verses 5-7, "And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience, and to patience godliness, and to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness charity". In vs. 1 we see that he considered himself equal with everyone else who had obtained a faith of equal privilege, a faith that is essential to salvation, and Christian growth.
Once we are saved then we are obligated to make every effort to supplement our faith with first, virtue. Virtue is goodness, or moral excellence. To virtue or moral excellence, we are to add knowledge, the understanding and insight that comes from diligent study of the Bible under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It is a practical, applied knowledge, not simply a theoretical one.
To spiritual knowledge is added temperance, or self-control. The God-given ability to take charge of your own life, and control the passions and desires that the Devil uses to undermine people's spiritual lives. In addition to temperance we are to add, patience or endurance. This is what Paul talked about in Heb 12:1-2 "...run with endurance the race...for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross...".
As we are focusing on Jesus we develop godliness, or being God-like, the quality of living reverently in God's presence. Even though God has given us everything we need, we must diligently pursue godliness.
The first five qualities in this quest for Christlike character are climaxed by two kinds of love. The first, and lessor is brotherly kindness, or affection (philadelphia), which is a family like love, that involves a willingness to sacrifice for each other. This leads to the highest aspect of all Christian character, charity or Christ like love (agape). That is unconditional love, it was agape love that motivated God to send His only Son to die for us. It is the kind of love we are commanded to have for each other.
Verses 8-9 "For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our LORD Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins".
Turn to 2 Pet. 1:1 "Simon Peter a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith...", because Peter knew this would be his last letter he wanted the believers to understand who he was and how he felt about himself. If you look at the original meanings of "a servant and an apostle", you see that Peter was calling himself both a slave and an apostle. In doing so he affirmed both a sincere humility and a position of authority.
Now look down at verses 5-7, "And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience, and to patience godliness, and to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness charity". In vs. 1 we see that he considered himself equal with everyone else who had obtained a faith of equal privilege, a faith that is essential to salvation, and Christian growth.
Once we are saved then we are obligated to make every effort to supplement our faith with first, virtue. Virtue is goodness, or moral excellence. To virtue or moral excellence, we are to add knowledge, the understanding and insight that comes from diligent study of the Bible under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It is a practical, applied knowledge, not simply a theoretical one.
To spiritual knowledge is added temperance, or self-control. The God-given ability to take charge of your own life, and control the passions and desires that the Devil uses to undermine people's spiritual lives. In addition to temperance we are to add, patience or endurance. This is what Paul talked about in Heb 12:1-2 "...run with endurance the race...for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross...".
As we are focusing on Jesus we develop godliness, or being God-like, the quality of living reverently in God's presence. Even though God has given us everything we need, we must diligently pursue godliness.
The first five qualities in this quest for Christlike character are climaxed by two kinds of love. The first, and lessor is brotherly kindness, or affection (philadelphia), which is a family like love, that involves a willingness to sacrifice for each other. This leads to the highest aspect of all Christian character, charity or Christ like love (agape). That is unconditional love, it was agape love that motivated God to send His only Son to die for us. It is the kind of love we are commanded to have for each other.
Verses 8-9 "For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our LORD Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins".
Thursday, September 2, 2010
CHANGE OF WEB ADDRESS
Beginning Monday, September 6th 2010, I will be correcting a misspelling in the page address. The new address will be http://myconversation.blogspot.com. Originally I left the "a" out of "conversation", there has been some confusion on finding the page. Thank you for your understanding.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE!!!!
PLEASE TAKE NOTE!!!!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Such a Time as This
It took me a little while to get over the stuff that happened last week, but last night God gave me Ester 4:14 "For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"So I knew that I needed to get back to work no matter what. I did not realize just how much this blog meant to me, until I started back writing. It lifts my soul, it gives me joy, and I learn so much. But more importantly I feel the presence of God around me as I write.
In the Bible we see a lot of people that were put where they were for such a time as this. First of course is Ester, as she saved the Jews from annihilation by Haman. Then there was Isiah who said "Here am I send me", in Is 6:5. There was Philip who was in the right place to witness to the Ethiopian, starting in Acts 8:26.
Hebrews chapter 11 list several people who where there for such a time as this. There was Abel, who offered a better sacrifice. Enoch who walked with God, and was translated. Then there was Noah, who built the ark and saved his family, and all the animals. Abraham and Sara, who obeyed God and became parents at 100 years old, and gave birth to the nation of Israel. Moses and his parents were at the right place at the right time. Joshua and Israel as they took over the promised land. Rahab the harlot as she saved the spies. And so many more that there is not room to list them all.
Yes I know that Hebrews 11 is technically a list of those with great faith. However is faith not being where God wants you, when He wants you there and doing what He wants you to do when you are there. When the time is right, God puts us all where He wants us, and He has something for all of us to do while we are there. The question is do we have the faith we need in order to do it.
Ester was afraid for her life, yet she had enough faith to be used of God, where she was, when she was there.
What is your "such a time as this"? Do you have enough faith to do what God wants?
In the Bible we see a lot of people that were put where they were for such a time as this. First of course is Ester, as she saved the Jews from annihilation by Haman. Then there was Isiah who said "Here am I send me", in Is 6:5. There was Philip who was in the right place to witness to the Ethiopian, starting in Acts 8:26.
Hebrews chapter 11 list several people who where there for such a time as this. There was Abel, who offered a better sacrifice. Enoch who walked with God, and was translated. Then there was Noah, who built the ark and saved his family, and all the animals. Abraham and Sara, who obeyed God and became parents at 100 years old, and gave birth to the nation of Israel. Moses and his parents were at the right place at the right time. Joshua and Israel as they took over the promised land. Rahab the harlot as she saved the spies. And so many more that there is not room to list them all.
Yes I know that Hebrews 11 is technically a list of those with great faith. However is faith not being where God wants you, when He wants you there and doing what He wants you to do when you are there. When the time is right, God puts us all where He wants us, and He has something for all of us to do while we are there. The question is do we have the faith we need in order to do it.
Ester was afraid for her life, yet she had enough faith to be used of God, where she was, when she was there.
What is your "such a time as this"? Do you have enough faith to do what God wants?
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