Just a quick update today - I've taken (am taking) a brief hiatus from blogging, but will hopefully get back to it in January some time, Lord willing. I've written a couple items but decided they should either wait or weren't intended for public consumption - I know those who blog can relate to that.
I will share some random thoughts that have been crossing my mind the past couple weeks:
-Is anyone really surprised at the Muslim violence in India or the Middle East? Violence, attack and world domination has always been the historic M.O. of Islam - why would it change now?
-Quantum Of Solace - is a movie - not to be mistaken for the name of a new Emergent Church opening in a city near you.
-I miss hearing the phrase "Merry Christmas". I know I can't expect to hear it much anymore - but still miss hearing it.
-Was asked to donate to some cause by a cashier while I was in a local business. When I informed her that I already donate a lot of money to good causes - including the first 10% of my income that goes to the Lord, she replied, "That's how we do it my family too." I hate to say I was shocked...maybe pleasantly shocked would be a better term. I thought, 'Wow, what's the chance of randomly running into a tithing Christian like that?' I instantly checked the alignment of the planets - and promptly went out and purchased a lottery ticket, bought some risky stock, and challenged my kids to a game of Yahtzee. (Just kidding of course ;^)
-I've got the best wife and most awesome children on the planet - (personal bias aside - I'm just saying...)
-I serve at the best church on the planet (see above note).
-So I'm doing the Daniel fast starting January 4 for 21 days - I'm looking forward to it.
-Wasn't a big fan of Christmas Eve services until we had one this year. Whenever you have a service full of people who, A. Really want to be there, and are, B. Passionate about Jesus Christ - that is always a recipe for an awesome corporate time in the presence of God.
Happy New Year everyone!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Christmas Upside Down
If you haven't seen this video yet - you will want to check it out!
Upside Down from Pace Hartfield on Vimeo.
Upside Down from Pace Hartfield on Vimeo.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Initial Physical Evidence
Being a Pentecostal pastor, I frequently am asked about 'speaking in tongues' and why I believe it is the initial physical evidence of when someone is baptized in the Holy Spirit. The following is a little lengthy, but necessarily so in order to convey my scriptural reasoning.
As with any other doctrine that we hold true, we must find our basis for such doctrinal belief squarely rooted in the Word of God. I'm aware that some find it easier to create doctrine to explain away what they either fear or don't understand when it comes to the supernatural - but to do so always puts God in a human box of understanding and eliminates the power in which He gave us to reach a lost and dying world. Paul said the Kingdom of God is not a matter of talk - but of power - and many are asking today - where's the power?
To start, we do know that every believer receives the Holy Spirit at salvation:
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:13-14 (NKJV).
So to say that every true believer is ‘filled with the Spirit’ would be an accurate statement. But in this dispensation of the Holy Spirit, Jesus makes it clear that while all true believers have the Holy Spirit at salvation - He further indicates that there is another experience a believer can have in the Holy Spirit:
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. John 7:37-39 (NKJV).
The Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. John 14:17 (NKJV).
This experience is defined later in scripture as the “Baptism of the Holy Spirit”, or known as being “Filled with the Holy Spirit”.
There are three things we can deduce from John 14:17.
It’s helpful to remember that every single epistle in the New Testament is written to people and by people who understood this experience of being “filled with the Holy Spirit” as the same experience that came at Pentecost (Acts 2:4) and is available to all believers.
In Acts 1, Jesus is making His final statements before ascending to the Father (This statement actually came after the Great Commission). He gave his followers (over 500 present) specific instructions:
And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; “for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Acts 1:4-5 (NKJV).
Here is the future event Jesus was telling His disciples about in John 14. He even referenced this with the statement, “which…you have heard from me.” Jesus also tells us that it will be a baptism with the Holy Spirit. The word “filled” and “baptism” of the Holy Spirit are used interchangeably throughout the New Testament with both terms referring to the same experience – believers receiving another ‘dose’ of the Holy Spirit if you will.
Now as to the main purpose of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, Jesus gives us the reason in Acts 1:8:
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Clearly the purpose of believers receiving the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is for receiving power. Power to do what? Power to reach the lost world, power to live holy, power to overcome temptation, power to witness. Now after days of waiting or tarrying for this promise, the Bible tells us that 120 believers were gathered together on the day of Pentecost. Suddenly the Holy Spirit descended and we find the first example of believers being filled with the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues in Acts 2:4:
And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Five Examples Of Holy Spirit Baptism In Acts
There are five places in the Book of Acts where it describes people being filled with or baptized in the Holy Spirit for the first time. I’ve just shown the first place above (Acts 2:4).
Note that in three of these five examples, it explicitly says that believers who were filled with the Holy Spirit spoke in other tongues. In the other two examples it doesn’t directly say, but additional scriptural evidence points to the fact that they did indeed speak with other tongues when they were filled.
Let’s look at the second example that’s found in Acts 10:44-46:
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. 45 And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Acts 10:44-46 (NKJV).
Peter was preaching to a group of Gentile’s who were subsequently saved - and then filled, or baptized with the Holy Spirit.
We find a third example in Acts 19:
Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.” When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. Now the men were about twelve in all. Acts 19:4-6 (NKJV).
The Apostle Paul met a group of believers (note that they were believers) in Ephesus who had not received the baptism in the Holy Spirit until after they heard about it and were prayed for by Paul.
The final two examples of believers being filled with the Holy Spirit doesn’t directly say they spoke in tongues, but as we shall see, it is strongly implied in other verses. First, let’s look at Acts 8:14-20 at what happened to Samaritan believers:
Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money.
Notice in verse 17 the Apostles are seen laying their hands on believers to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Immediately when this happened a sorcerer named Simon was so impressed by what he saw when the Apostles laid hands on people to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit – he wanted to buy the gift that he thought the Apostles were giving to people:
Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.
Now obviously, as a sorcerer, he was used to doing all sorts of parlor magic and tricks. So for him to get excited by what he saw happening to people when they had hands laid on them clearly shows us that something out of the ordinary was happening. Perhaps these people were “falling” under the power of God. Or, more likely, they were speaking in other tongues as they were receiving the “gift of the Holy Spirit” as was the pattern that we’ve clearly seen in Acts 2:4; 10:44-46 and 19:4-6. The evidence here strongly suggests that something out of the ordinary was taking place at the laying on of hands by the Apostles. It would be quite logical to assume that what was indeed taking place was the same thing that caused the men to marvel when they heard the 120 speaking in tongues in Acts 2:11-13:
Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “Whatever could this mean?” Others mocking said, “They are full of new wine.”
(On a side note, this speaking in tongues being done by those in upper room obviously wasn't a 'sermon' to the hearers around them - Peter obviously had to get up an give a sermon afterward explaining what they heard - but the text itself describes what praying in tongues is - worship that is 'declaring the wonderful works of God').
The last example of someone being filled with the Holy Spirit for the first time in Acts is the Apostle Paul himself. In Acts 9 we see that Paul, then called Saul, was on his way to Damascus to persecute Christians. We know the familiar story of how God literally intercepted him on his journey with a voice from heaven and a blinding light. It was through this experience that He found Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Paul, being blinded from this light, was instructed by God to go to a nearby city and wait for direction. It was then that God spoke to a believer named Ananias (significantly a 'non' Apostle, by the way) to go and pray for Paul that he might receive his sight back. We see that Ananias obeyed and in verse 17-18:
And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.
It was here that Paul received the Holy Spirit. While there is no mention here that Paul spoke in tongues, we do have, however, Paul’s personal testimony that he wrote later to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 14:18:
I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all.
Now where and when did Paul receive this gift? It would once again be quite logical to assume that his experience of being filled or baptized with the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues followed the growing pattern of the other believer’s experience that we’ve read about in the Book of Acts.
Again if we consistently follow the Biblical pattern, I believe that we can safely assume that this gift of speaking in tongues that Paul was testifying about here came when he was filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 9.
As with any other doctrine that we hold true, we must find our basis for such doctrinal belief squarely rooted in the Word of God. I'm aware that some find it easier to create doctrine to explain away what they either fear or don't understand when it comes to the supernatural - but to do so always puts God in a human box of understanding and eliminates the power in which He gave us to reach a lost and dying world. Paul said the Kingdom of God is not a matter of talk - but of power - and many are asking today - where's the power?
To start, we do know that every believer receives the Holy Spirit at salvation:
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:13-14 (NKJV).
So to say that every true believer is ‘filled with the Spirit’ would be an accurate statement. But in this dispensation of the Holy Spirit, Jesus makes it clear that while all true believers have the Holy Spirit at salvation - He further indicates that there is another experience a believer can have in the Holy Spirit:
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. John 7:37-39 (NKJV).
The Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. John 14:17 (NKJV).
This experience is defined later in scripture as the “Baptism of the Holy Spirit”, or known as being “Filled with the Holy Spirit”.
There are three things we can deduce from John 14:17.
- First, no unsaved person can have the Holy Spirit: “the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him;”
- Second, all saved persons have the Holy Spirit already dwelling with them: “…for He dwells with you”. In John 20:22 Jesus breathed on His disciples and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” So we know that all true Christians have the Holy Spirit at salvation.
- Jesus adds a third statement in John 14:17 in which He is obviously referring to a future event that was going to happen to believers: “He (the Spirit of truth)…and will be in you.” Jesus said that the Holy Spirit is now with you, but He will be in you. The word “will” shows a future happening.
It’s helpful to remember that every single epistle in the New Testament is written to people and by people who understood this experience of being “filled with the Holy Spirit” as the same experience that came at Pentecost (Acts 2:4) and is available to all believers.
In Acts 1, Jesus is making His final statements before ascending to the Father (This statement actually came after the Great Commission). He gave his followers (over 500 present) specific instructions:
And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; “for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Acts 1:4-5 (NKJV).
Here is the future event Jesus was telling His disciples about in John 14. He even referenced this with the statement, “which…you have heard from me.” Jesus also tells us that it will be a baptism with the Holy Spirit. The word “filled” and “baptism” of the Holy Spirit are used interchangeably throughout the New Testament with both terms referring to the same experience – believers receiving another ‘dose’ of the Holy Spirit if you will.
Now as to the main purpose of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, Jesus gives us the reason in Acts 1:8:
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Clearly the purpose of believers receiving the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is for receiving power. Power to do what? Power to reach the lost world, power to live holy, power to overcome temptation, power to witness. Now after days of waiting or tarrying for this promise, the Bible tells us that 120 believers were gathered together on the day of Pentecost. Suddenly the Holy Spirit descended and we find the first example of believers being filled with the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues in Acts 2:4:
And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Five Examples Of Holy Spirit Baptism In Acts
There are five places in the Book of Acts where it describes people being filled with or baptized in the Holy Spirit for the first time. I’ve just shown the first place above (Acts 2:4).
Note that in three of these five examples, it explicitly says that believers who were filled with the Holy Spirit spoke in other tongues. In the other two examples it doesn’t directly say, but additional scriptural evidence points to the fact that they did indeed speak with other tongues when they were filled.
Let’s look at the second example that’s found in Acts 10:44-46:
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. 45 And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Acts 10:44-46 (NKJV).
Peter was preaching to a group of Gentile’s who were subsequently saved - and then filled, or baptized with the Holy Spirit.
We find a third example in Acts 19:
Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.” When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. Now the men were about twelve in all. Acts 19:4-6 (NKJV).
The Apostle Paul met a group of believers (note that they were believers) in Ephesus who had not received the baptism in the Holy Spirit until after they heard about it and were prayed for by Paul.
The final two examples of believers being filled with the Holy Spirit doesn’t directly say they spoke in tongues, but as we shall see, it is strongly implied in other verses. First, let’s look at Acts 8:14-20 at what happened to Samaritan believers:
Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money.
Notice in verse 17 the Apostles are seen laying their hands on believers to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Immediately when this happened a sorcerer named Simon was so impressed by what he saw when the Apostles laid hands on people to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit – he wanted to buy the gift that he thought the Apostles were giving to people:
Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.
Now obviously, as a sorcerer, he was used to doing all sorts of parlor magic and tricks. So for him to get excited by what he saw happening to people when they had hands laid on them clearly shows us that something out of the ordinary was happening. Perhaps these people were “falling” under the power of God. Or, more likely, they were speaking in other tongues as they were receiving the “gift of the Holy Spirit” as was the pattern that we’ve clearly seen in Acts 2:4; 10:44-46 and 19:4-6. The evidence here strongly suggests that something out of the ordinary was taking place at the laying on of hands by the Apostles. It would be quite logical to assume that what was indeed taking place was the same thing that caused the men to marvel when they heard the 120 speaking in tongues in Acts 2:11-13:
Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” So they were all amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “Whatever could this mean?” Others mocking said, “They are full of new wine.”
(On a side note, this speaking in tongues being done by those in upper room obviously wasn't a 'sermon' to the hearers around them - Peter obviously had to get up an give a sermon afterward explaining what they heard - but the text itself describes what praying in tongues is - worship that is 'declaring the wonderful works of God').
The last example of someone being filled with the Holy Spirit for the first time in Acts is the Apostle Paul himself. In Acts 9 we see that Paul, then called Saul, was on his way to Damascus to persecute Christians. We know the familiar story of how God literally intercepted him on his journey with a voice from heaven and a blinding light. It was through this experience that He found Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Paul, being blinded from this light, was instructed by God to go to a nearby city and wait for direction. It was then that God spoke to a believer named Ananias (significantly a 'non' Apostle, by the way) to go and pray for Paul that he might receive his sight back. We see that Ananias obeyed and in verse 17-18:
And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.
It was here that Paul received the Holy Spirit. While there is no mention here that Paul spoke in tongues, we do have, however, Paul’s personal testimony that he wrote later to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 14:18:
I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all.
Now where and when did Paul receive this gift? It would once again be quite logical to assume that his experience of being filled or baptized with the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues followed the growing pattern of the other believer’s experience that we’ve read about in the Book of Acts.
Again if we consistently follow the Biblical pattern, I believe that we can safely assume that this gift of speaking in tongues that Paul was testifying about here came when he was filled with the Holy Spirit in Acts 9.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
On The Lighter Side
And on the "I wouldn't want to be following this truck" front:
A dead whale being hauled away from an Australian beach.
A dead whale being hauled away from an Australian beach.
Intolerance Of Christianity Growing
(From The Christian Post.)
A high volume of complaints have forced the Cincinnati Zoo to pull out of a special business partnership with the Creation Museum in nearby Petersburg, Ky., after running for less than three days.
The two institutions had come together to offer a special ticket package that gave visitors the opportunity to drop in on both at a discounted rate while promoting one another at the same time. According to the Creation Museum’s founder, Ken Ham, however, the zoo received hundreds of complaints, many of which were opposed to the faith and ideas that the museum presents. “It’s a pity that intolerant people have pushed for our expulsion simply because of our Christian faith,” Ham said, expressing disappointment in the zoo’s decision but also understanding of its perspective. “Some of their comments on blogs reveal great intolerance for anything having to do with Christianity,” he added.
The Creation Museum, which cost $27 million to build, is a 60,000-square foot facility that opened last year in May and revived the creation/evolution debate among Young Earth creationists, Old Earth creationists, anti-creationism evolutionists, and theistic evolutionists. Packed with high-tech exhibits that include animatronic dinosaurs and a huge wooden ark, the museum attempts to align the Bible’s literal account of creation with natural history. The museum’s founder, like many other Young Earth creationists, believes dinosaurs appeared on the same day God created other land animals. Critics, however, both non-Christians and Christians who are against a literal interpretation of the Bible on life origins, have protested and spoke out against the anti-evolution display, worried that their children will be affected.
The controversy garnered the new exhibit a large amount of media coverage. “Frankly, we are used to this kind of criticism from our opponents,” Ham said regarding the latest controversy, “and so being ‘expelled’ like this is not a huge surprise.” Despite the zoo’s decision, Ham said his museum would continue promoting the “excellent zoo” on its website and in printed material that is passed out inside of the museum. “We are committed to promoting regional tourism,” he explained. Furthermore, the museum will still provide $9 off of the ticket prices (the amount of the discount under the original agreement) from Dec. 2 to Dec. 11, with the exception of Saturday, Dec. 6. "Get the Museum/Zoo Discount Anyway," the museum website says.
Beginning on Dec. 12, the museum will have up its special Christmas display, which includes a live outdoor nativity scene and a special lighted “Road to Bethlehem” trail. Visitors to the museum grounds will also be met with hayrides, seasonal lights and decorations, holiday food, and events and activities for children. Inside the museum, there will be special Christmas exhibits including the Planetarium presentation “The Bethlehem Star.” “We find the two – Creation and Christmas – go very well together,” says Creation Museum co-founder and spokesperson Mark Looy, “and we invite our guests to experience each in light of the other at our special ‘Bethlehem’s Blessings – A Christmas Celebration’ this December.”
Located near the Cincinnati Airport, the Creation Museum is a ministry of Answers in Genesis, a nonprofit Christian organization dedicated to confirming the validity of the Bible from the very first verse.
Since its opening in May 2007, the museum has seen over 600,000 visitors.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Christmas Eve Communion
If you live in the Dayton, Ohio area and you enjoy having communion on Christmas Eve - we would be honored for you and your family to join us at Destiny Church.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Possible Type 1 Diabetes Cure
I believe God is going to heal my 12 year old son of Type 1 Diabetes - either by miracle or by miracle cure - either way God is the giver of all good gifts!
I live my life by this faith building verse:
For with God nothing will be impossible. Luke 1:37
I live my life by this faith building verse:
For with God nothing will be impossible. Luke 1:37
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Assault On Christmas
Hearing "Merry Christmas" is becoming rarer than a white Christmas in these parts. This humorous video conveys some great reasons why retailers shouldn't fear the "C" word.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
New York Churches Ordered To Stop Sheltering Homeless
New York City apparently has a rule that says homeless shelters must be open at least five days a week or not at all. Not sure that makes a whole lot of sense to me.
You can read the whole article HERE.
You can read the whole article HERE.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Missing Ingredient
As Christianity closes in on its 2,000th birthday since the time God revealed Himself through His Son's death and resurrection (Christianity is a revealed faith not an explained faith), we appear to be no closer to fulfilling Christ's Great Commission. Correct doctrine hasn't been able to do it. The vast resources of money and personnel that the church has and has had at its disposal haven't been able to accomplish it.
The irony is that twelve men (disciples) were able to blanket most of the known world in their time - and today we have churches on seemingly every street corner and most of them flail helplessly making little if any impact on their street, much less their world.
What are we missing here?
I believe if we are going to see the kind of breakthroughs in an unGodly culture that Jesus and the early church experienced with regularity we are going to have to embrace what Jesus and the early church embraced: The Holy Spirit.
By and large, the church lacks the power it was created to function with. We've been trying to accomplish our commission without the power given for said commission. Similar to a glider plane - after our initial burst of power (Acts) it seems that the church has severed itself from the Power Source and is content to slowly drift and lose altitude wondering where it will land.
The alternative for us? A vibrant life in Christ Jesus lived out by the power of the Holy Spirit. This Power Source - the presence of the Holy Spirit - terrifies all of hell, destroys yokes, heals sickness, delivers the demonized and liberates those held captive to sins power.
The greatest gift ever given to us was/is the Holy Spirit Himself. So much so - Jesus Himself said it was good for us that He left in order to send the Holy Spirit to us. Those who will embrace Him in all of His goodness will enter into a relationship of intimacy with God like they've never known. And out of this vital relationship will spring a ministry of power that we so desperately need today.
Are you ready to go there?
The irony is that twelve men (disciples) were able to blanket most of the known world in their time - and today we have churches on seemingly every street corner and most of them flail helplessly making little if any impact on their street, much less their world.
What are we missing here?
I believe if we are going to see the kind of breakthroughs in an unGodly culture that Jesus and the early church experienced with regularity we are going to have to embrace what Jesus and the early church embraced: The Holy Spirit.
By and large, the church lacks the power it was created to function with. We've been trying to accomplish our commission without the power given for said commission. Similar to a glider plane - after our initial burst of power (Acts) it seems that the church has severed itself from the Power Source and is content to slowly drift and lose altitude wondering where it will land.
The alternative for us? A vibrant life in Christ Jesus lived out by the power of the Holy Spirit. This Power Source - the presence of the Holy Spirit - terrifies all of hell, destroys yokes, heals sickness, delivers the demonized and liberates those held captive to sins power.
The greatest gift ever given to us was/is the Holy Spirit Himself. So much so - Jesus Himself said it was good for us that He left in order to send the Holy Spirit to us. Those who will embrace Him in all of His goodness will enter into a relationship of intimacy with God like they've never known. And out of this vital relationship will spring a ministry of power that we so desperately need today.
Are you ready to go there?
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
King's Castle - El Salvador
In July of 2009, twenty-five people from Destiny Christian Center will be departing for eight days of ministry in El Salvador at the King's Castle Ministry.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Great Commission Commercialization
A thought provoking post HERE from Jim Thomas about the Church's approach to trying to fulfill the Great Commission:
"We have abandoned the leading and directing of the Holy Spirit in search of another way to fulfill the great commission and see numerical results. So in doing this we embraced the corporate world marketing methods and learned who to sell a product, gain a consumer, retain that consumer, and get them to tell a friend about us. I believe the church has taken the 'Great Commission" and modernized into a corporate business model. We are now operating according to principles that most effectively and efficiently generate growth, incorporate name recognition, produce satisfied customers, and maintain customer retention."
"We have abandoned the leading and directing of the Holy Spirit in search of another way to fulfill the great commission and see numerical results. So in doing this we embraced the corporate world marketing methods and learned who to sell a product, gain a consumer, retain that consumer, and get them to tell a friend about us. I believe the church has taken the 'Great Commission" and modernized into a corporate business model. We are now operating according to principles that most effectively and efficiently generate growth, incorporate name recognition, produce satisfied customers, and maintain customer retention."
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The Day After
Great insightful post here from my friend David Mohler reminding us that politics and policies aren't what save us.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Jesus Costume Deemed Offensive
A school Halloween costume party involving 500 students saw one student sent home because his costume was "offensive". He wasn't dressed indecently, he wasn't dressed as a witch, demon or mass murderer. He was dressed as Jesus. Read the rest HERE.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Trick Or Treat
I remember trick or treating in the 'olden' days when I was knee high to a grasshopper. I remember getting dressed up like a pirate, clipping and gluing the crepe beard on my face along with the obligatory eye patch and then launching out into the neighborhood with my sister and pillow cases in tow to get in on the free candy bonanza.
For some reason down through the years (particularly when my own children came along) I decided that sending my kids on beggar's night to get candy was tantamount to celebrating the devil's holiday - so at the Smith household no one went trick or treating. Somewhere along the line the church where we served began offering a Halloween alternative that involved dressing up in costumes and getting free candy. This was convenient, because now we could dress up, get free candy and feel good about it because we were taking candy from church people at church - this was waaaaay different than going trick or treating....right?
Last year I finally realized the foolishness of it all and began to reconsider the Smith prohibition on trick or treating.
This may sound funny considering what I've just written - but we actually decided to let our kids go trick or treating.
My inescapable thought was - if going trick or treating was celebrating Halloween - then what was attending a Halloween 'alternative' at a church that had the look and feel of going trick or treating - complete with costumes and free candy? If my kids walk around a church gym, hallway or parking lot collecting free candy - how is that any different than walking the streets of my neighborhood taking candy from the very people that I'm trying to reach for Christ? Is the candy given at church sanctified - or is it just candy? Is being in costume at church less celebratory than just wearing it in my neighborhood?
Somehow I lost the connection of how dressing up and collecting free candy did anything to celebrate Halloween or glorify the devil. If we do that on church property does it magically become not celebrating Halloween? Or is the simple truth that neither of these expressions is celebrating Halloween, but rather just some harmless fun? I emphatically decided the latter. A born again Christian does not celebrate an ungodly holiday by dressing up and getting candy - no more than people practicing the Christmas tradition of Wassailing do (you know, "bring me figgy pudding...we won't leave until we get some").
That little crepe beard wearing pirate from the 70's turned out to be a preacher and church planter - not a Satan worshiper. Nor have I ever had the inclination to serve Satan as a result of my youthful trick or treating.
I completely respect (and respectfully disagree) with the view of those who feel that Christian's who go trick or treating are celebrating demons - I only ask that you be consistent with that view and not dress up and go to celebrate Halloween at a church then.
Oddly enough, trick or treat is this Thursday night and my kids have no desire to go. Go figure. Apparently last year satisfied their interest. I guess they discovered that there are easier ways to come up with a few handfuls of candy that don't involve walking a couple miles.
If you disagree, please help me see where I'm missing it. How does trick or treating become celebrating the devil? For comparison - Atheists exchange gifts at Christmas without celebrating Christmas (sadly). Are they unwittingly celebrating Jesus and becoming Christians by doing so?
For some reason down through the years (particularly when my own children came along) I decided that sending my kids on beggar's night to get candy was tantamount to celebrating the devil's holiday - so at the Smith household no one went trick or treating. Somewhere along the line the church where we served began offering a Halloween alternative that involved dressing up in costumes and getting free candy. This was convenient, because now we could dress up, get free candy and feel good about it because we were taking candy from church people at church - this was waaaaay different than going trick or treating....right?
Last year I finally realized the foolishness of it all and began to reconsider the Smith prohibition on trick or treating.
This may sound funny considering what I've just written - but we actually decided to let our kids go trick or treating.
My inescapable thought was - if going trick or treating was celebrating Halloween - then what was attending a Halloween 'alternative' at a church that had the look and feel of going trick or treating - complete with costumes and free candy? If my kids walk around a church gym, hallway or parking lot collecting free candy - how is that any different than walking the streets of my neighborhood taking candy from the very people that I'm trying to reach for Christ? Is the candy given at church sanctified - or is it just candy? Is being in costume at church less celebratory than just wearing it in my neighborhood?
Somehow I lost the connection of how dressing up and collecting free candy did anything to celebrate Halloween or glorify the devil. If we do that on church property does it magically become not celebrating Halloween? Or is the simple truth that neither of these expressions is celebrating Halloween, but rather just some harmless fun? I emphatically decided the latter. A born again Christian does not celebrate an ungodly holiday by dressing up and getting candy - no more than people practicing the Christmas tradition of Wassailing do (you know, "bring me figgy pudding...we won't leave until we get some").
That little crepe beard wearing pirate from the 70's turned out to be a preacher and church planter - not a Satan worshiper. Nor have I ever had the inclination to serve Satan as a result of my youthful trick or treating.
I completely respect (and respectfully disagree) with the view of those who feel that Christian's who go trick or treating are celebrating demons - I only ask that you be consistent with that view and not dress up and go to celebrate Halloween at a church then.
Oddly enough, trick or treat is this Thursday night and my kids have no desire to go. Go figure. Apparently last year satisfied their interest. I guess they discovered that there are easier ways to come up with a few handfuls of candy that don't involve walking a couple miles.
If you disagree, please help me see where I'm missing it. How does trick or treating become celebrating the devil? For comparison - Atheists exchange gifts at Christmas without celebrating Christmas (sadly). Are they unwittingly celebrating Jesus and becoming Christians by doing so?
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Creation Calls
Thought I'd share a couple pictures from my recent Appalachian Trail backpack adventure from a couple weeks ago. These pictures hardly do justice to what it was like to see this in person - but we took these along the trail early in the morning. These clouds were flowing down hill like a 'fog waterfall' into the valley below. The air was so crisp and clean and filled with a pine scent that would make a Christmas shop jealous. It was a surreal moment to witness the Creation of our Awesome God in motion. As I was watching this unfold before my eyes on this very peaceful and still morning, the worship song by Brian Doerksen, "Creation Calls" came to mind: "How could I say there is no God - when all around creation calls - a singing bird - a mighty tree - a vast expanse of open sea..."
Monday, October 20, 2008
Pastor Appreciation Month
Since October is Pastor Appreciation month - I'd like to know what churches are doing to show their pastor that they are appreciated? Any stories, thoughts or ideas? If you are a pastor, does your church do anything special for pastor appreciation?
If you're a pastor - you can go HERE to vote in an online poll.
If you're a pastor - you can go HERE to vote in an online poll.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Sunday Segregation
This is very surprising to me. Apparently Sunday continues to be the most segregated day of the week:
"The Rev. Paul Earl Sheppard had recently become the senior pastor of a suburban church in California when a group of parishioners came to him with a disturbing personal question.
They were worried because the racial makeup of their small church was changing. They warned Sheppard that the church's newest members would try to seize control because members of their race were inherently aggressive. What was he was going to do if more of "them" tried to join their church?"
Read the rest HERE.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Religulous
The new religion mocking film by Bill Maher called Religulous, is due out in theaters tomorrow.
Maher mocking religion is nothing new and he really, to an extent - has a point. When you look back at the Inquisition, pedophile priests, money hungry tele-evangelists and others who have deceived or damaged in the name of God - religion deserves to be mocked.
However his case that religion has been the single greatest cause of death and destruction on the planet is inaccurate. That title belongs to Atheistic communism, which is estimated by some to be responsible for over 100 million deaths.
So religions or religious views aren't the the issue at hand - rather it is mankind's sinful nature that's the problem. This film inadvertently proves that point - we are a fallen and sinful race that has done everything in it's power to reconnect to the God who gave us life - failing miserably at our man made efforts to do so.
Man's only hope for that change of nature and reconnection to God comes only by the transforming power of Jesus Christ - and that has nothing to do with man made religion.
Maher mocking religion is nothing new and he really, to an extent - has a point. When you look back at the Inquisition, pedophile priests, money hungry tele-evangelists and others who have deceived or damaged in the name of God - religion deserves to be mocked.
However his case that religion has been the single greatest cause of death and destruction on the planet is inaccurate. That title belongs to Atheistic communism, which is estimated by some to be responsible for over 100 million deaths.
So religions or religious views aren't the the issue at hand - rather it is mankind's sinful nature that's the problem. This film inadvertently proves that point - we are a fallen and sinful race that has done everything in it's power to reconnect to the God who gave us life - failing miserably at our man made efforts to do so.
Man's only hope for that change of nature and reconnection to God comes only by the transforming power of Jesus Christ - and that has nothing to do with man made religion.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Christians And Christ Followers
Are you a Christian or a "Christ Follower"? Is there a difference? Does it matter? For some - apparently so. I've been somewhat curious as to what's behind this new fad that would cause life long Christians to want to suddenly be referred to as "Christ follower" instead of as a "Christian". Don't get me wrong - a Christ follower is a very good thing and I'm one myself. But why the change? What's the big deal? Is it bad to be called a "Christian"? After all, "Christ followers" have been called "Christians" for nearly 2,000 years. The name started all the way back in Acts 11:26 where we learn that the disciples were first called Christians in the city of Antioch. The Apostle Peter later added: "However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name." 1 Peter 4:16. I do praise God that I bear that name - Christian. And that's why I'm not sure we should be so quick to abandon that name. It's fitly described believers for the last 2,000 years - and now it suddenly doesn't work for some?
I get that there have been plenty of hypocrites, bad eggs and just plain lousy representations of Christianity that have without question hurt the name of Jesus and the name "Christian". But is that alone a good reason to abandon the name 'Christian' - given that the name 'Christian' literally means 'Christ follower' anyway?
I'm a big fan of Ohio State football. I went to the Ohio State/Michigan game a couple of years ago in Columbus with a friend of mine who is a Michigan fan. I wore my scarlet and gray and he wore the Michigan maize and blue. Throughout the day he was treated OK by most of the fans. There were, however, exceptions - exceptions who acted like absolute idiots and embarrassed me as an Ohio State fan. Since that time and despite those bad eggs, I haven't once considered calling myself a 'scarlet and gray follower' instead of a Buckeye fan in order to distance myself from miscreants who like the same team as I. My friend is also smart enough to know that not all Buckeye fans act like some did at that game. I could give other examples - but the point is that you will find clueless, out of touch, ignorant people in ALL genre's of life - so are we going to find other names to label ourselves with when we find whatever term(s) we are labeled with is no longer cool?
History reveals that there have been plenty of fakes and frauds doing terrible things while they carried the name of Jesus - but that didn't cause Luther, Huss, Tyndale or Wesley to abandon the name Christian. Are we smarter than they were?
Do people who prefer the label "Christ follower" really think they they are going to outrun the negative examples and phonies who wear the name of Christ? Good luck with that. Give 'Christ Followers' enough time and they will undoubtedly garner more than their fair share of hypocrites as well. Then what happens? Another name change?
Part of this name change appears to be attempt to put distance between those believers whom they deem to be uncool and/or out of touch. Which leads me to this thought: I don't think we're smarter than the saints of old, but I do think we may be more smug. The smugness with which this "Christ follower" thing is coming off is what bothers me. It's a smugness fed by generational conceit. It's the old "I'm better/smarter/got-it-more-figured-out/ than you do" thinking.
Can we dispense with the 'label war' and let believers be who they are, and concern ourselves with loving our neighbors as ourselves while going after God with every fiber of our being? What's the point of mocking and belittling other believers anyway? Is this what a real 'Christ follower' should be doing?
I guess some believers love their labels more than they realize.
I get that there have been plenty of hypocrites, bad eggs and just plain lousy representations of Christianity that have without question hurt the name of Jesus and the name "Christian". But is that alone a good reason to abandon the name 'Christian' - given that the name 'Christian' literally means 'Christ follower' anyway?
I'm a big fan of Ohio State football. I went to the Ohio State/Michigan game a couple of years ago in Columbus with a friend of mine who is a Michigan fan. I wore my scarlet and gray and he wore the Michigan maize and blue. Throughout the day he was treated OK by most of the fans. There were, however, exceptions - exceptions who acted like absolute idiots and embarrassed me as an Ohio State fan. Since that time and despite those bad eggs, I haven't once considered calling myself a 'scarlet and gray follower' instead of a Buckeye fan in order to distance myself from miscreants who like the same team as I. My friend is also smart enough to know that not all Buckeye fans act like some did at that game. I could give other examples - but the point is that you will find clueless, out of touch, ignorant people in ALL genre's of life - so are we going to find other names to label ourselves with when we find whatever term(s) we are labeled with is no longer cool?
History reveals that there have been plenty of fakes and frauds doing terrible things while they carried the name of Jesus - but that didn't cause Luther, Huss, Tyndale or Wesley to abandon the name Christian. Are we smarter than they were?
Do people who prefer the label "Christ follower" really think they they are going to outrun the negative examples and phonies who wear the name of Christ? Good luck with that. Give 'Christ Followers' enough time and they will undoubtedly garner more than their fair share of hypocrites as well. Then what happens? Another name change?
Part of this name change appears to be attempt to put distance between those believers whom they deem to be uncool and/or out of touch. Which leads me to this thought: I don't think we're smarter than the saints of old, but I do think we may be more smug. The smugness with which this "Christ follower" thing is coming off is what bothers me. It's a smugness fed by generational conceit. It's the old "I'm better/smarter/got-it-more-figured-out/ than you do" thinking.
Can we dispense with the 'label war' and let believers be who they are, and concern ourselves with loving our neighbors as ourselves while going after God with every fiber of our being? What's the point of mocking and belittling other believers anyway? Is this what a real 'Christ follower' should be doing?
I guess some believers love their labels more than they realize.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Growing Up Pentecostal Not What It Used To Be
Last night I got a brief history lesson of what it was like being a Pentecostal Christian back in the 1920's and 30's in America. In our small groups at church my mom shared her experiences of growing up in a Pentecostal family in that era. Hearing her stories I was reminded just how 'leprous' it was to be a Pentecostal Christian in those days. She related how neighborhood children would be her friend until their parents found out that my mom's family were 'tongue talkers' and that would be the end of the friendship - leaving her to play alone most of her growing up years. My mom and grandparents even experienced the people who would literally sneak up to their church in order peer in the windows to see what was happening inside - then wait outside until after service so they could throw rotten tomato's and eggs at the believers coming out of the church. Pentecostal believers know a little bit about the ugliness of prejudice.
I've experienced a little "Pentecostal prejudice" myself - not nearly to the extent of my mom or grandparents endured - but I know what it feels like to be 'left off the list' because of who I am. I've been in various circles and felt the cold icy chill enter the room as I relayed that I was Pentecostal. I have plenty of friends and family who've shared stories of exclusion or wrong treatment by various "Non-denominational Christian" schools and organizations, merely because they found out that they were of the Pentecostal persuasion. It's honestly very easy for me to see why some people hate Christians - I've seen (and still see) that gross, superior, 'Eww, I'm better than you' attitude firsthand in 'Christian' circles.
I see it's ugly head popping up again lately (albeit mostly from secular sources) in the media when they found out that Governor Sarah Palin is a Pentecostal believer and were (are) eager to show that she is some sort of loon.
Meanwhile - there's no comparable Christian movement on the planet to the Pentecostal movement. There are a half a billion Pentecostal believers and growing - and by no accident the Pentecostal movement continues to be the fastest growing movement within Christianity. Some of the harshest critics of Pentecost such as the "speaking in tongues is of the devil" crowd - is dwindling away. (Some of them are Pentecostal believers who now attend my church!)
In spite of all of the prejudice and bitterness that we as Pentecostals have experienced - my heart as a Pentecostal believer and pastor is not to fight back, cop an attitude, or even debate the Holy Spirit Baptism as a doctrine. My desire is that all believers would come to enjoy the fullness of the Holy Spirit Baptism - to enjoy it as the blessing and empowerment from God that it is meant to be. I no longer waste time trying to convince the 'unconvince-able' with scripture or theology - I simply pray that God would reveal Himself to them in ways they've never experienced Him before.
I've experienced a little "Pentecostal prejudice" myself - not nearly to the extent of my mom or grandparents endured - but I know what it feels like to be 'left off the list' because of who I am. I've been in various circles and felt the cold icy chill enter the room as I relayed that I was Pentecostal. I have plenty of friends and family who've shared stories of exclusion or wrong treatment by various "Non-denominational Christian" schools and organizations, merely because they found out that they were of the Pentecostal persuasion. It's honestly very easy for me to see why some people hate Christians - I've seen (and still see) that gross, superior, 'Eww, I'm better than you' attitude firsthand in 'Christian' circles.
I see it's ugly head popping up again lately (albeit mostly from secular sources) in the media when they found out that Governor Sarah Palin is a Pentecostal believer and were (are) eager to show that she is some sort of loon.
Meanwhile - there's no comparable Christian movement on the planet to the Pentecostal movement. There are a half a billion Pentecostal believers and growing - and by no accident the Pentecostal movement continues to be the fastest growing movement within Christianity. Some of the harshest critics of Pentecost such as the "speaking in tongues is of the devil" crowd - is dwindling away. (Some of them are Pentecostal believers who now attend my church!)
In spite of all of the prejudice and bitterness that we as Pentecostals have experienced - my heart as a Pentecostal believer and pastor is not to fight back, cop an attitude, or even debate the Holy Spirit Baptism as a doctrine. My desire is that all believers would come to enjoy the fullness of the Holy Spirit Baptism - to enjoy it as the blessing and empowerment from God that it is meant to be. I no longer waste time trying to convince the 'unconvince-able' with scripture or theology - I simply pray that God would reveal Himself to them in ways they've never experienced Him before.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Christian Singer Ray Boltz Comes Out Of The Closet
A bit of heart breaking news - Christian singer Ray Boltz publicly announced that he is a homosexual last Friday during an interview with the Washington Blade. Boltz is known for mega Christian hits such as "Thank You" & "Watch The Lamb". He had retired from Christian music several years ago.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Dinosaurs, Matt Damon And Four Thousand Years
If you've seen the recent Matt Damon interview (posted below) he states that he wants to know if Governor Sarah Palin "believes that dinosaurs were on the earth 4,000 years ago", stated in the usual condescending, Hollywood elitist way.
His question reminded me of a picture taken of a recent discovery. They say a picture is worth a thousand words (years?) so check the pic below:
What you are looking at comes from the inside of a T. Rex thigh bone found in Montana in 2005. Slide A shows tissue fragments that are still elastic. Slide B shows a rather 'fresh' tissue appearance. Slide C shows regions of bone where fibrous structure is still present!
The problem (for some scientists) is that T. Rex is thought by many to have been extinct for 65 million years - in fact the very bone this tissue sample comes from is said to be around 70 million years old in the National Geographic article!
Does it not beggar belief that this elastic, fresh looking tissue could have really lasted for the last 70 million years?
Dinosaurs on the earth 4,000 years ago?
Here's a better question - can someone with complete honesty and scientific integrity expect me to believe this tissue sample is 70 million years old?
His question reminded me of a picture taken of a recent discovery. They say a picture is worth a thousand words (years?) so check the pic below:
What you are looking at comes from the inside of a T. Rex thigh bone found in Montana in 2005. Slide A shows tissue fragments that are still elastic. Slide B shows a rather 'fresh' tissue appearance. Slide C shows regions of bone where fibrous structure is still present!
The problem (for some scientists) is that T. Rex is thought by many to have been extinct for 65 million years - in fact the very bone this tissue sample comes from is said to be around 70 million years old in the National Geographic article!
Does it not beggar belief that this elastic, fresh looking tissue could have really lasted for the last 70 million years?
Dinosaurs on the earth 4,000 years ago?
Here's a better question - can someone with complete honesty and scientific integrity expect me to believe this tissue sample is 70 million years old?
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Welcome To The Worldview Wars
Politics admittedly is a dirty, and at times, ugly business. The mud-slinging, the attacks, have long been an unfortunate part of the political process in recent American history. But the battle we are currently watching take place in the American political landscape goes way beyond Obama vs. McCain - it even goes way beyond Democrat vs. Republican. What we are watching unfold is literally the clash of worldviews. Governor Sarah Palin (like her or not) is a professing born again Christian, of which she is of the conservative evangelical variety. She believes the Bible cover to cover - she believes God created the earth just like the Book of Genesis says - she believes abortion is wrong - she believes Jesus Christ is man's only hope and salvation.
In the opinion of some, those beliefs make her unfit for public office. Why? Because they don't like them. Those Biblical views clash with the thinking of the unregenerated secular world. Note just two recent examples of some of this harsh criticism of Palin and her worldview:
- South Carolina Democratic chairwoman Carol Fowler sharply attacked Sarah Palin today, saying John McCain had chosen a running mate "whose primary qualification seems to be that she hasn’t had an abortion." That Palin is a woman who is strongly Pro-Life is obviously going to clash with someone with an unbiblical view of life and the unborn - thus the 'snarky' comment.
- The video below is a Matt Damon interview where he was asked what he thought about Sarah Palin. Besides all of the other "nice" comments he makes - notice towards the end of the clip that he takes a swipe at Christianity by stating with a mocking tone: "What I want to know is does she believe dinosaurs were on the earth 4,000 years ago?"
It's not just clashing politics my friends - it's clashing cultures and worldviews.
The Truth:
Isaiah 5:20: Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!
2 Peter 3:3: Knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires.
In the opinion of some, those beliefs make her unfit for public office. Why? Because they don't like them. Those Biblical views clash with the thinking of the unregenerated secular world. Note just two recent examples of some of this harsh criticism of Palin and her worldview:
- South Carolina Democratic chairwoman Carol Fowler sharply attacked Sarah Palin today, saying John McCain had chosen a running mate "whose primary qualification seems to be that she hasn’t had an abortion." That Palin is a woman who is strongly Pro-Life is obviously going to clash with someone with an unbiblical view of life and the unborn - thus the 'snarky' comment.
- The video below is a Matt Damon interview where he was asked what he thought about Sarah Palin. Besides all of the other "nice" comments he makes - notice towards the end of the clip that he takes a swipe at Christianity by stating with a mocking tone: "What I want to know is does she believe dinosaurs were on the earth 4,000 years ago?"
It's not just clashing politics my friends - it's clashing cultures and worldviews.
The Truth:
Isaiah 5:20: Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!
2 Peter 3:3: Knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Despicable Cruelty
Just read a horrific story of how police are seeking 3 or 4 juveniles near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania who set a pit bull on fire burning the poor dog to a crisp.
At the end of the story the District Attorney Lynne Abraham made this statement concerning the case: "How we treat our animals is a reflection upon society as a whole."
The thought that immediately popped into my mind is - how about we replace the word "animals" with "unborn"? That says even more about our society.
At the end of the story the District Attorney Lynne Abraham made this statement concerning the case: "How we treat our animals is a reflection upon society as a whole."
The thought that immediately popped into my mind is - how about we replace the word "animals" with "unborn"? That says even more about our society.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Do We Want A Government Health Care Takeover?
Having spent the last 5 months dealing with the nightmare of my sons newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes - I've been able to see health care in America a little more 'up close and personal' than I ever have before. After the initial panic of realizing that our personal health insurance policy was woefully insufficient to cover our son's disease, I was then blown away at how many other groups, organizations and resources were available for people like me who have catastrophic and reoccurring medical bills.
Just to give you an idea of what my son must have every month to simply survive - the supplies include: two types of insulin, blood glucose meter's, blood testing strips (he uses 8 of these per day and they cost $1 a piece), lancets, syringes, alcohol swab, glucose tablets, emergency glucose gel, glucagon emergency kit, Ketostix test strips and gauze pads. The monthly cost of these supplies is about $650 - Not to mention the software and palm pilot he carries to track his blood glucose level, carbohydrate intake and daily insulin corrections.
Yes, health care is expensive - ridiculously expensive. Good health insurance is equally expensive.
So am I ready for a government takeover of the health insurance industry? Absolutely not. Not now - not ever. That would be disaster of Biblical proportion in my opinion.
While I strongly believe that health insurance companies need to be regulated by the government - that should be the extent of government involvement in health care. The American health care system is certainly not perfect and needs to be tweaked - but I'd much rather have this system as is than have a government bureaucrat handling my medical affairs. Our system, while flawed, is still better than the rest of the world.
To see a good example of what happens when the government takes over health care - check out how much fun they're having with the government run model already in place in Canada.
Something has become crystal clear to me over the past months of frequent doctor, hospital, pharmacy visits and hours and hours of research that my wife and I have done: No one in America goes without health care unless they choose to.
In order to to help sell the very bad idea of government operated health care - we repeatedly hear about the 40 plus million Americans who are uninsured - and certainly that is concerning. But have you ever wondered who these Americans are who have no health care?
Here's the list that brings clarity of thinking to who these millions of people are who don't have health insurance:
Who are the uninsured in America?*
10 million illegal immigrants.
15 million who are eligible for Medicaid but don't apply.
15 million adults whose children are eligible for free insurance - but don't sign up.
10 million childless adults - many of whom choose to go without insurance to save money.
Rather eye-opening isn't it?
(*Statistics from the book, Fleeced, by Dick Morris.)
Just to give you an idea of what my son must have every month to simply survive - the supplies include: two types of insulin, blood glucose meter's, blood testing strips (he uses 8 of these per day and they cost $1 a piece), lancets, syringes, alcohol swab, glucose tablets, emergency glucose gel, glucagon emergency kit, Ketostix test strips and gauze pads. The monthly cost of these supplies is about $650 - Not to mention the software and palm pilot he carries to track his blood glucose level, carbohydrate intake and daily insulin corrections.
Yes, health care is expensive - ridiculously expensive. Good health insurance is equally expensive.
So am I ready for a government takeover of the health insurance industry? Absolutely not. Not now - not ever. That would be disaster of Biblical proportion in my opinion.
While I strongly believe that health insurance companies need to be regulated by the government - that should be the extent of government involvement in health care. The American health care system is certainly not perfect and needs to be tweaked - but I'd much rather have this system as is than have a government bureaucrat handling my medical affairs. Our system, while flawed, is still better than the rest of the world.
To see a good example of what happens when the government takes over health care - check out how much fun they're having with the government run model already in place in Canada.
Something has become crystal clear to me over the past months of frequent doctor, hospital, pharmacy visits and hours and hours of research that my wife and I have done: No one in America goes without health care unless they choose to.
In order to to help sell the very bad idea of government operated health care - we repeatedly hear about the 40 plus million Americans who are uninsured - and certainly that is concerning. But have you ever wondered who these Americans are who have no health care?
Here's the list that brings clarity of thinking to who these millions of people are who don't have health insurance:
Who are the uninsured in America?*
10 million illegal immigrants.
15 million who are eligible for Medicaid but don't apply.
15 million adults whose children are eligible for free insurance - but don't sign up.
10 million childless adults - many of whom choose to go without insurance to save money.
Rather eye-opening isn't it?
(*Statistics from the book, Fleeced, by Dick Morris.)
Testimony From Governor Sarah Palin
I was sent this link today - it's Governor Sarah Palin speaking at a Master's Commission graduation at Wasilla Assembly of God this past June.
Check it out HERE.
Check it out HERE.
Pastoral Malpractice
"Suppose you were to contract a potentially serious medical condition and went to see a doctor. Upon asking him details about the diagnosis and medical consequences you found out that he does not take medical literature literally. In addition, he has not kept up on the latest medical research and has been out of medical school for several decades. He prefers to make his patients happy and comfortable rather than to force them to confront the truth about their health condition. Would you see such a doctor? Neither would I. Such a doctor eventually could be found guilty of malpractice....(if) our souls are more important than our bodies, why do people look to premier doctors to diagnose and treat their physical conditions but select a pastor who sidesteps truth when it comes to their eternal souls? That makes no sense. Apparently many do not truly believe that the condition of their souls is that important..."
Read the rest from Bob Dewaay HERE.
Read the rest from Bob Dewaay HERE.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Cameron Strang's Invitation To Pray At The DNC
"A few weeks ago, I was asked if I’d be interested in possibly praying at the Democratic National Convention. Taken aback, but intrigued at the opportunity, I accepted. What better way to continue positive dialogue, show support for an emphasis on faith issues and pray in a forum where faith isn’t typically thought to be emphasized? To quote someone close to me—and meaning no disrespect whatsoever to Christian Democrats—it was a chance to bring “light in the darkness.” And hey, Jesus told us to pray, right?"
Read the rest HERE.
Read the rest HERE.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Gov. Sarah Palin
Not only is she the first female vice presidential candidate on a Republican ticket - she's also the first Pentecostal Christian to be nominated for the second highest office of the land. She attends this Assembly of God church when she's in Juneau, Alaska.
Here is a picture of her being prayed for by Alaska A/G Superintendent Rev. Ted Boatsman and her pastor Rev. Mike Rose at the most recent Alaska A/G District Council:
Here is a picture of her being prayed for by Alaska A/G Superintendent Rev. Ted Boatsman and her pastor Rev. Mike Rose at the most recent Alaska A/G District Council:
Powerful Picture
This picture below has really touched my heart. It was sent to me by one of our missionaries, and with his permission and the promise of anonymity - I'm sharing it with you. One reason I love this picture because it provides something that we in America often lack - perspective.
Here's why: The people pictured below are Christian's who are risking their lives. They are doing so because those pack horses that they are leading are carrying boxes filled with study Bibles into a country where Bible's are illegal. This precious cargo is being sneaked across the border and will be given away to believers in underground churches who desperately need them.
Kind of makes the typical church problems we deal with seem rather petty and unimportant, doesn't it?
Here's why: The people pictured below are Christian's who are risking their lives. They are doing so because those pack horses that they are leading are carrying boxes filled with study Bibles into a country where Bible's are illegal. This precious cargo is being sneaked across the border and will be given away to believers in underground churches who desperately need them.
Kind of makes the typical church problems we deal with seem rather petty and unimportant, doesn't it?
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Heartbreaking Statistics
In America we are closing 7 more churches a day, than we are opening. - Charles Arn
The United States of America remains the third largest unchurched nation in the world!
In 1900 there were 27 churches for every 10,000 Americans. In 1950 there were 17 churches for every 10,000 Americans. In 1996 there were 11 churches for every 10,000 Americans. -George Gallup
Evangelical churches have failed to gain an additional 2% of the American population in the past 50 years. In other words, we are not even reaching our children! - George Barna
Estimated America Unchurched Population - 195 million (January 1996, Gallup Princeton Religion Report).
Half of all churches last year did not add one new member through conversion growth. - Charles Arn
During the last 10 years, the combined communicant membership of all Protestant Denominations has declined by 9.5% (4,498,242) while the national population has increased by 11.4% (24,153,000).
-ASCG Journal of Church Growth
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