Thursday, December 31, 2009

Can Your Soul Be Forfeited Forever?

My Friends, I Thank God Always, for the opportunity to share His Words and His ways to all of mankind. And too, I thanked him this day, for All of You!
For I was blessed today, by a special friend,(Teresa) who took the time to visit us here, and was kind enough to make a comment. In her comment, she had mentioned how these "Food For Thoughts" helped her, as well as others search there souls. Hence Thee inspiration I needed, to once again place My "Pen to Paper" for this "Food For Thought" being mindful of my friends remarks. One's Soul!

Can Eternal Life be Forfeited?

My friends, there is a doctrine in the world today that is known as the "Doctrine of the Impossibility of Apostasy," or the "Unconditional Security of the Believer." It means that a child of God, one whose sins have been washed away by the blood of Christ, cannot so sin as to finally be lost. Simply stated, it is the doctrine "Once saved always saved", or "Once in grace always in grace." Have you ever heard of those my friends?

These False doctrines, made up, by foolish man goes back to the old doctrine of predestination and foreordination, the theory that God decreed before the world began that a certain elect number should be saved and a certain fixed number could not be saved. It is the idea that the child of God can never so sin so as to finally be lost. This false teaching has been expressed this way: "If you seek it you can't find it; if you find it you cant get it, if you get it you cant lose it, and if you lose it you never had it."

Well my friends, this "Food For Thought" has to do with the child of God. For I am not discussing God, but the child of God. Can a child of God so sin as to finally be lost? Can the child of God forfeit his eternal life? Can He Loose His Soul? My friends, I'm certain we all can agree that God can do all things. For we dare not ever question His power, His will, His mercy, His love, His goodness, His wrath, or His faithfulness. God has the power to keep one saved, but does he exercise that power? Is man not a Free Moral Agent? Or perhaps is a mere object in God's hand only to be moved by God's impluse? Is salvation conditional or unconditional? Is there anything that man himself can do so as to be lost? These my friends, are the questions that challenge our thinking at this time. Are They Not?

The Origin of "Unconditional Security"

My friends, the doctrine of "once saved always saved" is not new. It originated in the garden of Eden when the serpent came to Eve and said, "Ye shall not surely die" (Gen:3:4). God had already pronounced that the curse of death would be upon Adam the day that he would eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Gen.2:16-17). Adam did not die physically on the day that he ate of the tree because as we all know, he lived several hundred years after that, but he died spiritually. My friends, the word "death" that is translated from the Greek word "Thanatos" is the separation of the soul from the body, but it is also used in the scriptures as "the separation of man from God"

My friends, before people are converted to Christ they are said to be "dead in trespasses and sins" (Eph.2:1,2); that is, they are separated from God, they are lost. Spiritual Life is union with God; Spiritual death is separation from God. For the account in Gen: 2 we can see that when Adam and Eve sinned they separated themselves from God. They were not born sinners, as some foolish man still proclaim today, for we too, like Adam and Eve are not born sinners. Sin is the transgression of the law (1Jno 3:4). Adam and Eve became sinners when they sinned and that is how we become sinners. It was man who separated himself from God. God had the power to prohibit man from sinning but the fact is, God did not exercise that power because man was created as a "Free Moral Agent". "The soul that sinneth, it shall die" (Ezek. 18:20).

Can A Believer Cease To Believe?

My friends, most will agree that salvation is dependent upon faith and obedience to God/Christ and there Word. But is it possible for a child of God to depart from the faith? Is it possible for him to cease to be a believer and obedient, and thereby forfeit his eternal life? For the child of God is one who is in covenant relationship with God by obedience of the gospel(His Word). He is a new creature (2 Cor.5:17) and made such because he was baptized into Christ(Gal 3:27). He is saved believer, but what may happen to his faith? His faith may fail. Jesus said to Peter in Luke 22:32, "but I made supplication for thee, that thy faith fail not." The child of God may depart from the faith (1 Tim. 4:1). Here the Holy Spirit through Paul predicted that men would apostatize from the truth. The child of God may throw away his faith and his good conscience and make shipwreck of the faith (1 Tim. 1:18).

My friends, here, Faith and a good conscience were once possessed but they were thrust away and shipwreck was made concerning the faith. The child of God may deny the faith (1 Tim. 5:8). He may cast off the faith (1 Tim. 5:12). He may even turn after Satan (1 Tim. 5:15). He may err concerning the faith (1 Tim. 6:20,21). His faith may be overthrown (1 Tim. 2:16-18). The word "Faith" in these scriptures my friends, is the word "pistis" in the Greek, the same word that is used in Romans 5:1, where Paul writes that we are "justified by faith." The faith that saves, then can be denied, overthrown, shipwrecked, and cast off. As a result one is turned over to Satan, condemned.

So my friends, I ask, once again, Can a child of God become an "UnBeliever"? And choose to become "Disobedient"? The writer of Hebrews Chap 10:32-39, describes a certain class as those who had been enlightened, endured, and had a better possession. They were exhorted to remain faithful; however, there were some that "shrink back unto perdition." Yes, my friends it is possible that a child of God can go back into perdition and thereby become an unbeliever.

It is Possible For A Child of God to Sin

That it is possible for a child of God to sin is very evident from the scriptures. It is argued, however by foolish man, that it is impossible for a child of God to sin and (1 John 3:9) is often times referred to in an effort to prove there foolish contention. Yet another example of foolish man, to "Add to & Take Away" From the Word of God! Pray for them! For in the first chapter of (1 Jno v.8-9), we find "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all sin." In view of the fact that John tells his readers that if they say that they have no sin they deceive themselves, and because he tells them that if they will confess their sins God will forgive them of their sins, he could not be teaching that it is "Impossible" to sin as in (1 Jno.3:9). So then John wrote in (1 John 2:1), "And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." If it is impossible for a child of God to sin, why this assurance? How could John be saying that it is impossible to sin when he had already told his readers that if they would confess their sins God would forgive them and that if they sin they have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ?

My friends, I recall sharing with you, the thought, that "Words" do matter! In a previous writing. For here, the word "cannot" does not always mean "impossible" as is seen in the following instances. Judah said of Benjamin, "The lad cannot leave his father" (Gen. 44:22). Was it impossible for Benjamin to go down to Egypt? No, because later he did go down to Egypt. Jesus said that the sons of the bride-chamber cannot fast as long as they have the bridegroom with them (Mark 2:19). Was it impossible for them to fast in the presence of the bridegroom? When certain ones were invited to a great feast, they made excuses and one said, "I have married a wife, therefore I cannot come" (Luke. 14:20). Was it impossible for him to attend the supper?

My friends, a child of God cannot make a practice of sin, and continue to be like Christ. He is to exhibit the life of Christ but the practice of sin will prohibit him from doing it. For a gospel preacher one said, "No one who is born of God makes a practice of sinning", referring of course to (1 Jno 3:9).

In Part II of this "Food For Thought"
I'll Be Discussing:

It Is Not Impossible For A Child of God to Sin
The Child of God Can Be Lost
Warnings Against Falling
Examples of Falling

In The Conclusion of This "Food For Thought"
I'll Be Discussing:

How To Keep From Falling
Closing Remarks

Stay Tuned My Friends!

Jim

Monday, December 28, 2009

Curiosity May Have Killed The Cat (Conclusion)

"Food For Thought"

Curiosity Leads to Investigation: For the Truth is Never hurt by Investigation.

My Friends, the Psalmist invites: "O taste and see that the LORD is good.." (34:8). Jesus did not criticize Thomas for saying, "Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will Not Believe" (John 20:25). At their next meeting, Jesus invited Thomas to ".. reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side. "(20:27). He does not want any of us "faithless, but believing" (20:27)

The Ethiopian was curious enough to investigate Isaiah 53, and even invited a stranger to explain its meaning to him. He left the encounter rejoicing (Acts 8:32-40). God counted the Thessalonian Gentile "noble" for their investigation of Paul's sermons (Acts 17:11).

My Friends, as previously stated, I Thanked God, for our little "Mikee D"

For It is good for young people and too, young Christians to ask "Why"?(Thanks Mike)!

For I just love it, my friends, when I hear a young Christian ask "Why" do we take the Lord's Supper every Sunday? Then of course even some New Christians ask "Why" teach baptism for the remission of sins? or "Why" place so much emphasis on missions, and personal work? "Why" not have pianos or organs in our Worship service? "Why" have elders instead of a pastor? "Why" the emphasis on love and marriage? "Why" do women not lead prayers in worship service? "Why" do Christians talk so much about heaven? "Why" does the preacher preach on hell? "Why" not jazz up our services with a choir, or with handclapping, humming, strobe lights, and drama? "Why" withdraw fellowship from a "Wayward" brother/sister? "Why" so much talk of God's grace, mercy, and love? Is there only one church God approves? "Why" have Gospel Meeting and Bible classes? "Why" not baptize babies? "Why" emphasize prayer and providence? It is wrong to dance, pet, dress in brief attire, and drink socially? "Why" is "Church" the center of our lives? "Why" do Christians love each other so much and seem so happy when they are together?

Well my friends, when we become curious enough, we will ask a parent, spouse, teacher, preacher, or elder for some answers (cf. Matt: 17:10; Acts 8:31; 1 Corinthians 14:35). For the Wise will even take out their Bibles and look up the answers so that they can know for sure (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 1:3; John 6:69).

My friends, we all need to have our own faith, not just a "This is what my parents always said" or "Well its our Family Tradition" or "Well, this is what I was taught, so it must be right" or "The Pope, and the priest, and the nuns always said". But then when asked, "What" does God say in His written Word to You/Man"? "Oh, well we dont really do that, but sometimes we do, hmmm not really sure!"

Do You know anyone like that my friends? All Christians need to be able to say, "I Believe this because God said it, in His written Word, to Us"! "And to ignore it, or foolishly attempt to "Add to/Take Away" or just do some of what He says,(Pick&Choose) or even not Believe Him at all, is sin, and sin is what separates us from Him, now and thru eternity". "No Thank You"!

(Romans 10:17)

Investigation Leads to Knowledge which Leads to Faith: (Thanks Ror) "Learn To Be Wise, Is My Suggestion"

My friends, if we give Jesus claims a closer look, we never come away disappointed. He's not less than we've heard, He's more, much more! He astonishes people. People who actually saw Him ".. were beyong measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well..." (Mark 7:37). He is the "Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending" (Revelation 1:8).

My friends, as we look into that "Light that Shineth in a dark place," the day of Faith will dawn, and the "Day star will arise in our hearts" (2 Peter 1:19). His claims are not empty; He is the "Fullness of God" (Colossians 1:19). He is limitless in the extent of His Power and Wisdom, and in the sweep of His duration. He is without Beginning of years or End of days. He is Infinite, Eternal, and Unchangeable in all the Divine attributes. Impressed My Friends? Who Wouldnt Be?

Faith Leads to Obedience Which Leads to Salvation:

Faith led Zacchaeus to "Obey" Jesus (Jesus gave him two commands-make haste, come down-and he readily did both), and Jesus told him, "Salvation is come to thy house" (Luke 19:9). Zacchaeus gives the impression that "Whatever" Jesus asked him to do, he would do.

My Friends, Jesus asks us to, "Hear" Him,(Romans 10:17), "Believe" in Him (John 3:16);8:24; to "Repent"(Turn Away)from " of our sins (Luke 13:3); to "Confess" our faith in Him to others (Matthew 10:32;33); and to be immersed(baptized) in water to have sins forgiven (Mark 16:16). He asks us to "deny ungodliness, and worldly lusts" and live "soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world" (Titus 2:14). For then He will "Add" you, to "His" Church(Acts 2:37)(Romans 16:16) Thus a New Testament Christian thus then Saved!

Faith "Obeys". Note my friends, the progression again: Curiosity leads to Investigation, which leads to Knowledge, which leads to Faith(Rom:10-17), which leads to Obedience (Romans 16:26) which leads to Salvation(Hebrews 5:8,9). As a sinner first coming to Jesus, my Faith (John 3:16), must lead me to Repent(Turn Away) of sins (Luke 13:3), Confess Faith in Christ's deity (Matthew 10:32,33), and be Baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38). Then my Faith must lead me to continue to walk with Jesus for the rest of my life (Revelation 2:19; John 14:15; 15:14).

My Friends, its my Prayer this day for You, that you'll choose to keep feeding your Spiritual Curiosity. You might find something better than "Nine Lives."

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Curiosity May Have Killed the Cat

But my Friends, it Saved Zacchaeus:

Zacchaeus may have been a wee little man, but dont sell him short. He is more than a minor New Testament character (Luke 10:1-10). One characteristic that cause him to stand above the crowd is his curiosity. It was no passsing interest that caused the little man who collected big taxes to run ahead of the multitude and call attention to his short stature by climbing a tree. This curiosity brought "salvation to his house" (19:9).

My friends, I recently had the privilige of reading a "Food For Thought" that was written by a member of my family, who I've always considered "One of a Kind" and has always been very dear to my heart. And who has always brought me pleasure thru her obivious God given talents/skills, mind, as well as her other such fine personal attributes that she clearly possess. For in her writing, she reminded me of how some in this life, choose to be cynical, and too, how others may choose to always ask the question Why?

Well my friends, What about you? Are you like her? Do you have an active mind? Do you find yourself asking, "Why"? more often than most? Does your curiosity spill over into the religious realm? Have you read much of the Bible?(God's Word) to Man! Have you wondered about its claims to be inspired of God, its story of creation, its record of miracles, its discussion of Jesus virgin birth and bodily resurrection, its claims about heaven and hell? If so my friends, I would like to encourage you to keep reading! For I've chosen to prepare this "Food For Thought" with her in mind, and too, Just for YOU my Friends!

Evidently Zacchaeus had heard some pretty amazing things about Jesus: Somebody came through Jericho a while back who said He fed five thousand people up by Lake Galilee.. for another reported seeing Him cast out devils and heal lepers.. rumor was He raised a dead man up on the mountain.. walked on the Sea of Galilee, too, some say.. Just today they said He had healed two blind men, on the other side of town.

And then there were the other things: Jesus didnt tow the party line with those hateful scribes and Pharisees.. He associated with publicans, ate with publicans, made a publican the hero of one of His sermons, selected a publican as of of His apostles, was even known as the "friend of publicans and sinners". He preached about doing away with the tradition of the elders and urged people to follow only the will of God. Well my friends, this was enough to make a man just a little curious. Just like that "One of a Kind" in my family.

Jesus was used to being the object of curiosity. As an infant, He aroused the curiosity of the "Magi" (Matt:2:2); angels peered from heavenly windows to see their Master's new form (Luke 2:15; 1 Peter 1:12); and Simeon couldn't wait to hold Him(Luke 2:28).

As a boy, doctors in the temple found Him very interesting(Luke 2:47). As a man, two of John's disciples were inquisitive about where He lived and were invited to "come and see" (John 1:38,39). A ruler of the Jews named Nicodemus was curious enough to pay Him an "after hours" visit(John 3:2). Simon the Pharisee was curious about "whether he were a prophet or not" and invited Him to a banquet(Luke 7:36). Certain Greeks who came to a feast Jesus also attended asked Philip to arrange for them to meet Jesus. (Their request is ours, too: "Sir, we would see Jesus, (John 12:20,21; cf. 1 John 3:1-3). Interest never waned, my friends, to include with my family member, which I call "Our One of a Kind". And even Herod wanted to see Him because He had heard such marvelous things about Him (Luke 23:8).

My friends, I've found that Most of us first come to Jesus on this level. Even after two thousand years. He is still the most talked about, most controversial, human ever to reside on the Planet. Sure we heard some things, not sure if we believe them yet, but we are curious, are we not? Things like "born of a virgin." Are you for real? (Yes.) "Put His hands on sick people and they got better." Yea right! (Exactly Right.) Walked on the water? C'mon. (The only thing that got wet was the bottom of his feet.) Called His friend and Lazarus come out to see Him from the grave? Sounds like a Halloween story Jim.. (No story. Lazarus is one man who died twice). Murdered by His enemies on Friday, but got the last laugh on Sunday morning. Pretty unbelievable huh my friends? (Thats what makes it a miracle.)

And then, like all of you, that choose to be cynical, and yes, like Zacchaeus, there are the other things for you, and us. For my friends Jesus forgave people of "Anything", once they repented (Turned Away), like a single women living and sleeping with a man, outside of marriage, and having sexual relations with him, and like the woman caught in adultery and that murderer Saul of Tarsus. He even prayed for His executioners! He catered to common folks and tapped ordinary people to be His most relied upon lieutenants. He made it sound like anybody could please Him if they wanted to enough, and everybody could make it to heaven. It's still enough to make a person inquisitive even still today, and perhaps even You, My Friend!

My Friends, it is good for us to be curious about spiritual things, is it not? We were born questioners. For I recall years ago, when I had the privilige and honor to babysit our family's first born boy, who I will call Mikee "D". For I was blessed to see the wonderment in his eyes as we interacted together, just him and me all alone. For I recall his favorite "Word" to me, even til this day, and always just loved it, when He said, "Uncle Jim, Why?" For "Why" was his favorite word. And thus he taught me to use that word, when I was blessed to have children of my own, a few years later, thus encouraging them as well to use it, at every opportunity.
So even today adults should not give up that word too easily. Einstein said, "The important thing is not to stop questioning." Charles P. Steinmetz said, "No man really becomes a fool until he stops asking questions." Samuel Johnson said, "Curiosity is one of the permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous intellect." James Thurber said, "It is better to ask some of the questions than to know all the answers."

Paul taught, "Prove all things; hold fast to that which is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21; cf. Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:10; Philippians 1:10). Jesus told the Jews; "Search the scriptures" (John 5:39), and urged His followers to be "fruit inspectors" (Matt:7:15-20). He insisted that God gave us eyes, ears, and brains for a reason ("Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?" (Mark 7:16; cf. Matt:13-16, Luke 8:18).

For Remember always my friends Curiosity is not a thing to be crushed. Nor Doubt is the prelude of knowledge in this writers subjective view.


In My Conclusion of This "Food For Thought"

Curiosity Will Lead You to
Investigate.

Remembering "Mikee D's" Question
"Why"

Investigation leads to Knowledge
Which Leads to Faith.

Faith Leads to Obedience Which
Leads to Salvation.

Stay Tuned My Friends!

Jim

Monday, December 21, 2009

The Older Women A Lingering Fragrance

My Friends, as I "Penn" This Food For Thought, I'm reminded by all those God Fearing Beauitful Women, who have truly been blessed to possess such fine personal attributes, and have chosen to live there lives in a faithful manner, always encouraging and leading others to Christ and His Ways. For This "Food For Thought" was written, with all of them in mind, and is dedicated to and for my real Help-meet(skye2dy), who has been such a great role model, for all women through out the world today!


A Lingering Fragrance
The life of an older godly
woman is compared to
a beautiful rose.

The mature Christian
woman’s roots are strong and
firm because she is grounded
in God’s Word.

The long graceful
stem, with its many thorns,
represents her life with many
trials and tribulations.

A fragile rosebud is pretty, but not until the petal
begins to unfold do we see the full beauty of the rose.
Likewise, the years unfold showing the true beauty of the
dedicated life of the Christian woman. All her love and
kindness is as the softness of each velvety white petal.

To the heart of the rose comes the bee to gather
nectar for its honey, the sweetest food known to man! From
the loving heart of the older Christian woman comes the
spiritual bread as she teaches and influences the younger
woman in all the ways God has commanded.

Only when the rose bloom reaches maturity do we
catch the full sweetness of the aroma as it emits from the
very heart of the flower. So in maturity, a Christian woman
keeps Christ in her heart and truly loves as Christ loved.

Deep in the heart of the rose is hidden the seed of
life itself. In the pure heart of the Christian woman we find
knowledge and wisdom of how to live the abundant life. She
is not afraid of loneliness, because she knows she is not alone
when God is her constant companion. God’s ever presence
gives her courage.

When the dew of the evening falls on the full blown
rose, it has reached the height of its beauty. The Christian
woman can so live her life that when she reaches the twilight
years she will find them to be the best and most beautiful.

She does not fear death, for she has faith that God will keep
His promise. She finds peace and comfort in the Scriptures,
“And lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world”
(Mat. 28:20).

What Happens To Me, When I Die?

Food For Thought:

My Friends, Remember always, that each one of us, has been created with a soul/spirit within; and that Soul /Spirit Will End up Somewhere, when we die, either in Heaven, or in Hell!

James wrote: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith

without works is dead also” (Jam. 2:26). Man’s spirit inhabits and

motivates the body. Therefore, the body with the spirit is alive, but

the body without the spirit is dead. Whenever we stand before

an open coffin, we are reminded of this inescapable truth.

The Bible plainly, explicitly, and repeatedly sets forth the

fact of man’s having a spirit within his body. For example:

The burden of the word of the Lord for Israel, saith the

Lord, which stretcheth forth the heavens, and layeth the

foundation of the earth, and formeth the spirit of man

within him (Zec. 12:1).

Daniel declared, “I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the

midst of my body, and the visions of my head troubled me” (Dan.

7:15). Paul wrote about the spirit of the Christian, as the “inward

man,” “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward

man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day” (2 Cor.

4:16). While the physical body dies and returns to the dust, the

spirit lives on: “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was:

and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” (Ecc. 12:7; cf.

1 Cor. 15:50-58; 2 Cor. 4:16-5:10; 1 The. 4:13-18). Jesus warned,

“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill

the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul

and body in hell” (Mat. 10:28).

Concerning the continuing existence of man’s spirit, Jesus

spoke of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as yet living, although, centuries

earlier, they had passed from physical life on the earth:

But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not

read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I

am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the

God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of

the living (Mat. 22:31-32).

After death, man’s spirit continues to live in the

hadean (unseen) world. The departed spirit of man maintains

consciousness, identity, and memory in the temporary state of

either rest or torment (Luke 16:19-31). In the hadean abode,

departed spirits await the final judgment to be pronounced

according to the deeds of life (Acts 17:30-31; 2 Cor. 5:10).

Again, our Lord spoke of the eternal nature of man’s

spirit when He pictured this judgment scene (Mat. 25:31-46),

pronouncing the everlasting condemnation of the wicked and

the eternal reward of the righteous. He said, “And these shall

go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life

eternal” (Mat. 25:46).

Therefore, there can be no doubt that man, while he lives

on this earth, has, within his body, a spirit which shall live beyond

the death of the earthly tabernacle in which it temporarily resides.

This spirit, which is of greater worth than the world and all the

things within it (Mat. 16:26), must be born anew (John 3:3-5),

and then continue to grow in order to render faithful service

here and to be readied for entrance into the heavenly home

prepared for the redeemed (John 14:1-4).

In view of this marvelous truth, that man has a spirit within

him that shall live eternally, let us commit ourselves, each day

of our lives, to follow the way that leads to eternal life. As Paul

wrote:

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue

in them: for in doing this thou shalt both

save thyself,

and them that hear thee. (1 Tim. 4:16).

And Finally My Friends, Remember always that its the Wise Man, that will Increase In Learning and Knowledge, and Its the Fool who despises Knowledge and Wisdom!

For Our Lord Jesus Will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who have chosen Not to Obey the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. For these will be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, forever!(2 Thess 6-9)

My Friends, Its my prayer for you this day, that you do not allow this to happen to you!

For Remember My Friends, Always, Trust & Obey, for there is know other way, but to just Trust & Obey!

For Remember Always my friends, that you do have a soul/spirit, and it will end up somewhere!

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Are You Really Ready?

And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead (Acts 17:30-31).

My Friends, there will be a day in which all men will be judged. There is no question that there will be such a day, nor is there any doubt that we all will be there, but, the question is, “Are we ready for the judgment day?”

Life is short, my friends, and death is coming (Jam. 4:14). As surely as we have an appointment with death, we have an appointment with judgment (Heb. 9:27). Let us seek to understand the need for readiness for that great judgment day, to the intent that better understanding will spur us on to being ever watchful.

Jesus promised He will come back (John 14:1-4), but we do not know when (Mat. 24:36). He will return, in His second coming (Heb. 9:28), as the apostles saw Him ascend (Acts 1:11). When Christ comes, He will not set foot on earth, but all (both good and bad) in the graves will be resurrected (John 5:28-29; 1 Cor. 15:50-58), and the saved will “meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord” (1 The. 4:17).

On that day, “the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up” (2 Pet. 3:9), so there will be no earth upon which man could continue to live, nor on which Christ could reign (as premillennialists falsely assert; cf. Dan. 7:13-14; Zec. 6:13; Heb. 8:1-4; 1 Cor. 15:23-24). That day will be the last day, and eternity will begin (John 12:48).

My friends, All nations will be present on that great day (Mat. 25:32). We ALL will be there. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad” (2 Cor. 5:10). Christ will judge the whole world on that day (Acts 17:31), and all those who are ready will be there (Rev. 2:10), but all those who are not ready will also be present, and will be judged (2 The. 1:7-9).

Jesus Christ the Lord will judge (Acts 17:31; John 5:22; 2 Tim. 4:1, 8), and He will separate the good from the wicked (Mat. 25:32). The righteous will be told, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Mat. 25:34), but the wicked will hear: “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels” (Mat. 25:41).

My friends, Jesus said, “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal” (Mat. 25:46).

My friends, are you listening? There will be no “Second Chance” on (or after) the day of judgment. Christ is not coming back to preach the Gospel, for He has already done that (Mark 1:14-15). He is not coming back to invite men to come to Him (Mat. 11:28-30), for He has already done that. All men will settle up with God on that day, the last day (John 12:48), and there will be no more opportunity to hear the Gospel (Rom. 10:17), to believe in Christ (John 8:24), to repent of sins (Acts 2:38), to confess faith in Him (Acts 8:37; Rom. 10:9-10), to be baptized into Christ for the remission of sins (Gal. 3:26-27; Acts 2:38), nor to live faithfully as a child of God (1 John 1:7-10; 1 Cor. 15:58).

If one never found a convenient season before, it will be too late then (Acts 24:25). If one were almost, but not altogether, persuaded, it will be too late on that day (Acts 26:28).

If one knew better, but did not do better, it will be too late. If one had “good intentions” of obeying God, but never did, it will be too late. For church members who warmed a pew, were lukewarm, apathetic, and indifferent, it will be too late. Those who failed to watch and obey will wish forever that they had (Mark 13:34ff).

On that last day, my friends, the standard of judgment Will Not be any of the following: man’s opinions, ideas, wishful thinking, or the doctrines of men (Mat. 15:9). Likewise, these will not be taken into account: what the majority believes, likes, or wants; what loved ones believed or practiced; what the world approved; what appealed to the worldly, ungodly, carnal, or hypocritical; what synods, conventions, and forums of men decided; or what felt good, seemed right, or promoted union (not real unity).

It will not be a day of escape by placing blame on others, and there will be no appeal. The judgment will be righteous (Acts 17:31), based on each man’s deeds (2 Cor. 5:10), as compared with the books (Old and New Testaments), and the Book of Life (Rev. 20:12-15).

Jesus said: “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48).

For all living in the Christian age, the basis of judgment will be the Word of Christ. Teachings of Islam, Confucius, Buddhism, Hinduism, etc., will not be the basis of judgment.

Friends, God means what He says, and He will have the last word. There will be a day when Christ will judge the world (Jude 14-15). None will avoid this day when the Lord will decree eternal destinies for all. For the righteous, and those that wisely obey, there will be great reward, but for the foolish who have chosen to either "Add To,or Take Away" From His Word, and follow the foolish ways of Man and there traditions and doctrines over God's and Christ, ... the wicked, there will be eternal punishment. Certainly, it behooves us to be ready.

My Friends, I pray this day, that you will choose to Be Ready!

Monday, December 14, 2009

Our Most Precious Gift (Our Children) Conclusion

Food For Thought:

My friends, as thee lemented late , Mother would say, "Now Jim, I mean it, you have to make a "List"! So my Friends, I Find myself once again Honoring my Mother, and yes too, "Obeying" Her! Thus, I now present you with "The List"!

So my friends, this list, is not exhaustive. For I'm certain you too, can easily add to it. However some of the major messages with which our children are bombarded with on any given day by the forces of what God hath referred to as "Evil." It is also worth noting that these message that they will be receiving are typically presented in a very, very subtle, attractive, and entertaining ways. And I would like to encourage you, while viewing the following, to examine yourself, and your lives, and your environment, then as my Mother would say "Make Your List"!

: Organic evolution is proven fact, and any reasonable, well educated, intelligent person knows it!

: The earth is billions of years old, and dinosaurs existed millions of years before humans appeared.

: The earth is our "mother," and the other creatures in habiting it are our "relatives."

: Human beings are the worst enemies this earth has, and we must be extremely careful to avoid destroying "her."

: Animals and plants (Yea, the whole of the environment) are to be accorded the same status and protection as are human beings.

: Unborn human beings, however, are not really human beings, and deserve no protection at all.

: Human beings, via science alone, can solve any problem and create a "Perfect" world.

: Nothing is intrinsically good or bad, right or wrong. These matters are determinded by individuals, on the basis of "Situational Ethics" or even "Pragmatism". (Catholics) and others..

: Human beings who possess certain desirable traits (ie.. physical beauty or athletic or intellectual prowess) are more valuable than are those who do not!

: All viewpoints (ie.. concerning God, religion, or our purpose for living) are equally true and valid (unless of course they are dictated by strick faith in the teachings of the Bible).

: Everyone cheats, everyone lies, everyone steals, everyone uses profanity (including euphemisms), everyone dresses immodestly, everyone drinks, ad infinitum.

: If your current marriage partner is not makeing you happy, (No Problem); you can always get a divorce and find another.

: Homosexuality, Cross-dressers, Trans-genders, Transvestites, is moral and normal, and a healthy "Lifestyle," which characterizes a large percentage of our population (most of whom are our "model citizens")

: Homosexuality (much like alcoholism) is genetically pre-determined. Its practitioners have no choice about "the way they are".

: Adolescents "Will" have sex. They cannot help it, and it is foolish to try to stop them. Therefore, it is imperative that we teach them how to "protect" themselves, just give them a condom, and then let them go and have a ball!

: You have to "experience things for yourself (ie. sex alcohol, drugs and, and and) to know if they are really bad.

: The public school system is far better qualified to provide sex education than are parents.

: Any reference to God in the public life of this nation is a violation of its constitution.

: It is improper (at best) to criticize, label or make judgements about anyone or anything. Unless of course you are a lawyer, politican, or thee newly created/developed "State Run Media".that now exists in the United States. "A First in there Nations History"!

: Strict faith and obedience to God, and His Word is a mark of ignorance, superstition, and or insecurity.

: Whatever suffering you may be experiencing is the fault of someone else, and can probably be remedied with a good lawyer and a lawsuit.

: God's pattern for the home (including a submissive role for the wife) constitues an abuse of the rights of women and is tantamount to slavery.

: Spanking is, without exception, a form of child abuse.

: Conservative viewpoints (whether religious or political) are obviously founded upon hard-headedness, narrow-mindedness, cold-heartedness, bigotry, radical xenophobia, and so-forth.

My Friends, our children are not only exposed to these ideas-and others like them-on a daily basis, but in many cases(because of the insidious and subtle nature of the presentation, and mode of communication), they are not even conscious of what they are seeing and hearing.

Many parents may do a poor job of combating these messages simply because they do not realize just how powerful the voices of the world have become. Twenty or even Thirty years ago (when many of the parents of today were growing up) such assults were far less common and far easier to recognize. Times have definitely changed, my friends. However to be honest with all of you, I do Thank God Always, for "Spell Check"!

My friends, one of the most significant factors behind these changes has been the consistent promotion of the "theory of evolution" and the newly debunked "Global Warming" Farce, at all levels within our educational system. These falsehoods, and those philosophy, because it has been accepted as fact, has given rise to a number of other secular ideas. Humanism, moral relativism (particularly with regard to sexuality), materialism, socialism, pluralism, pantheism, and "new age" thinking appear to dominate our world views today. They certainly dominate the message it preaches.

My friends, It's now my prayer for all of you, As I "Pen" this "Food For Thought"; that you will Always Remember!

Times change, season change, styles change, people change, relationships change, thoughts change, attitudes change, fashions changed , hair styles change, shoes change. But God's Word and His Ways for Man, ( Just One of His Many Creations.) "Never Change"!

Yes my friends, our work is definitely cut out for us, requiring nothing less than constant vigilance and a strong, consistent, counter-active influence. Our children need to be taught, from a very early age, as I'm sure you will agree, to recognize the messages of the world and to evaluate them critically in light of God's perfect revealed Will. (His Word)!

My friends, I would like to close out this "Food For Thought" with some "Food For Thought" type of questions for you to ponder.

Do our children know where we stand on these matters and Why? Do we talk (with our children) about them, or do we find ourselves "Talking At" them? Are we finding ourselves discussing these issues with them when we sit in our houses, when we walk by the way, when we lie down, and when we rise up? Do we write them upon the posts of our houses, and on our gates?

So my Friends, perhaps a prerequisite to these questions should be: "Do we know where "We" stand on these vital matters and Why? Have we given them the level of care, thought, and study that they clearly deserve? Are we ready always to give an answer to every man (or child) who asks us a reason for our hope (1 Peter 3:15)? Does our hope and faith and thoughts and actions truly rest on the promises of God, and His Word, and His Ways for Us, rather than on the promises of the world, and those men, in it?

In closing this "Food For Thought" my friends, I would like to share something personal with you, for its a question I was taught years ago during my training years by a wise faithful gospel preacher the lemented John Brewer, who once said to me. "Jim, if ever in doubt about anything or something in life, you may want to remember this question" "Is it From God, or Is It From Man?"

Our Most Precious Gift (Our Children)

What Are Our Precious Gifts (Our Children) Being Taught?

My Friends, I've have been blessed by God with two lovely God Fearing Children, and they too, now have been blessed as well with one of there own.

For it concerns me deeply and I'm sure you, as well, of what they are now exposed to, and what they are being taught.

My Friends, I'm sure we can agree that the influcences of this world are powerful, deceptive, and constant, particularly on young, trusting, impressionable minds.

In this "Food For Thought" I've decided to to place my emphasis on our Most Precious Gift; "The Children"! For what are they being taught, exposed too, and learning from the world? And too, what are we doing in response to all that we must now face? For the Children.

My Friends, the Word of God is replete with warnings, both implicit and explicit, about the wisdom, the values, the allure, and the fate of this world; (eg., Mark 4:19; John 15:18-19; Rom: 12:2; 1 Cor: 1:20ff; 2:6:; Col. 2:8; James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17.

The principle set forth to the Israelites in the book of Deuteronomy Chapter 6, seems particularly relevant to this topic. Concerning the words and commands of God, we should follow the inspired orders Moses gave to Israel and ..."teach them diligently unto (our) children, and talk of them when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thy hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the door-posts of thy house, and upon thy gates(v7-9).

My friends, in other words, we must now as then, godly parents must constantly be engaged in an effort to imbed the precepts of our Creator within the minds of our children. Note this passage goes on to warn that many distractions of this world are going to be encountered, and that the temptation to forget God will be great. This fact highlights the need to make the most of every opportunity to teach and to influence our children, to train them in the way that they think. Ours are not the only voices they are hearing, and as they get older, the time we have to interact directly with them decreases.

Though the idea may sound quaint to some of our fast-paced society, the dinner table and bed time, is still probably the single best opportunity for parents to engage their children in regular conversation about the events of the day. Familes that no longer have meals together on any type of regular basis probably need to re-evaluate some priorities. Obviously, there are countless activities which can occupy our lives and the lives of our children, any many of these pursuits are, intrinsically speaking, harmless or even beneficial(ie..jobs,sports,violin practice, cheerleading, school clubs, and church services/function) These activities, however, have the potential to consume far too much of our time and to prevent families from behaving like families (i.e. spending "Quality" time together, and maintaining close relationships, influencing one another, listening to one another, up-lifting one another, encouraging them, talking "To Them", and Not "At Them"!

So my freinds, I'm sure we too can agree that its vital, that we know whats going on, in all aspects of our childrens daily lives. Is it Not? Yes, I realized as you do, that this assertion, of course, assumes that we are "Interested" in what is going on in their lives. It assumes that our childeren "Know" that we are interested, and that they feel comfortable talking with us about such things in some detail. For these assumptions, in turn, are predicated upon the notion that we have a good healthy relationship with our children. It would be "Naive", to say the least, to think that parents could have a "distant, disinterested" relationship with their children for a period of years and then suddenly become intimately involved at the onset of adolescence, or young adulthood. Such behavior would in all likelihood be met with a great deal of suspicion and resentment on the part of the children, and who can blame them. All One can do, is share with them, have those "Heart to Heart" types of talks, be humble, honest, loving, understanding, patience, and then if all that fails. Hugs!


In My Conclusion I will share some "Food For Thought" "The List", One might want to be looking out for, when it comes to our most "Precious Gift" Our Children!

Stay Tuned My Friends.


Jim

How To Study The Bible (Conclusion)

Food For Thought
Accept All That
Is Given On Each Subject


My friends, the Bible is not like an encyclopedia with complete information pertaining to a topic given under one heading. Different writers in various books may give pertinent details on the same point. Every passage relating to a matter under consideration must be examined, understood and embraced before one piece of divine testimony is to be omitted.

A Failure to take the total teaching on certain, Bible topics is a frequent source of religious "ERROR". Some read John 3:16, or Acts 16:31 and conclude that Salvation is by "Faith" Only ! Well, if they would read a little bit more, in His Word, they will see in (James 2:24) "That man is not justified by Faith Alone". And too, they fail to even look further in there study. For Other passages give conditions of Pardon. See.. (Mark 16:16; Acts, 2:38; 22:16).

To form an opinion without examining the "Entire" body of evidence is "Foolish" and fallacious as to decide contrary to the evidence. No person has a right to hold any theory which he cannot reconcile to "All" parts of the Bible, or which conflicts with any portion of it.

Accept Only What
Is Given On Each Subject


The bible is a pattern; a rule (Heb 8:5; Phil 3:16). Those under the first covenant or the (Law of Moses) were warned again and again "NOT TO ADD TO OR TAKE AWAY" From What God hath said. (Deut. 4:2; 12:32). The New Testament is just as explicit. We are " NOT to go beyond the things, which are written" (1 Cor. 4:6, 2John: 9; Gal 1:8, Rev: 22:18, 19).

My friends remember that Foolish Man, going back to the first century, thru even today, have chosen to rebell against What God/Christ hath said. Thus over 1500 denominational Man Made Churches have popped up. None, mind you, None, Authorized or Approved by God/Christ in His written Word to Man. Oh Foolish Man.. Good News: Heaven Wont be Crowded, when those that choose to Obey Him, get there! Christ Built One Church: His ! Period"!! In (1 Peter 4:11). We read "Every Man should speak only as the oracles of God!"

A person or Group who presumes to teach and practice that which "Is Not" authorized, simply because it may not be specificly prohibited, is following a dangerous path. Ample examples are recorded in the Bible to show that this is an unsafe course. (cf; Lev: 10:1-ff; 1 Chron. 15:2, 13-15).

King Uzziah sinned when he went into the temple and attempted, to sacrifice upon the altar of incense even though God had not expressly forbidden him ( 2 Chron: 26: 16-21). Moses had spoken nothing concerning priests out of Judah (Heb. 7: 11-14) Where God has not directed, "We Dare Not Go".

Take The Bible For What It Says


The Bible means What It Says, and Says what it Means. This ought to be true of every other book. If any book says not what it means, then how can we know what it does mean? If it does not mean what it says then it means nothing at all.

I am not suggesting that every word and sentence should be taken literally. Figurative speech is often employed in the scriptures. "Judah is a lion's whelp" (Gen. 49:9). "Go and say to that fox" (Luke 13:32). "I am the vine, ye are the branches" (John 15:5). Judah was not literally a lion's cub, Herod was not a fox nor was Jesus a vine or His disciples branches. In such expressions the "Figurative" sense is the True meaning. Yet these same "Literal" characteristics are transferred to the "Figurative". Each was like that which they were called.

All words should be considered "Literal" unless the evident sense of the "Contex" forbids it. If a "Literal" interpretation would involve an impossibility or demand wrong acts, then the word must be taken "Figuratively" (cf: Matt: 8:22, 18: 8-9). Also when an author plainly says that his language is "Figurative" we must accept it as such. (cf John 2:18-22; 7:38-39).

While some words allow for various meanings, only one true sense may be attached to any word in one place. An elder was simply an older person (1 Tim: 5:1) yet at times it referred to any "Overseer" in the church (Titus: 1:5, 1 Tim: 3:1). The "Context" will help determine the author's intended use of a particular word.

Words Do Matter!

Words of definite action can have but one meaning as it relates to action. Walk, run leap, sit, weep, sing, dip, pour, sprinkle, all indicate a definite actions with but one possible meaning. Since the Greek word "Bapitizo" means "to dip.... to immerge, to immerse, submerge" (Thayer's Greek-English Lexicon, p. 94) then the command to "Be Baptized" (Acts 2:38) could Never be Obeyed by pouring or sprinkling short of immersion. (Dont tell the Catholics that)

For there Man Made Church was one of the first, that rebelled against God/Christ and His Word. For they created there own Words, which contradicted that Of the Lord's. There Man Made baptism method, is just another example of that groups rebellion against What Christ had said. In Two ways. First there "Sprinkling" & Pouring" when baptizing, 2. To a Young Child or Infant. Are just two examples where by that foolish group chose to ignore what Christ hath said. A prime example of the "Foolishness" of that Man Made organization.

For young children, and infants, dont need to be Saved, For the Lord tells Man, that they already are, for He does not Hold them accountable for sin, and that If One of those should die, they automatically will be with the Lord, in Heaven. But the Catholics, once again dont believe God, Thus "Making Up" there own Ways, thru Creed Books and so-forth versus, Christ Ways. Thus not saved, or in favor of Christ. So they conduct young children, and infants baptism's.. Ole Foolish Man.

Use Common Sense


The Bible is filled with every-day experiences of ordinary people. It was written in the language which they could easily understand. Good judgement is as important in studying this book, as in any other.

Sound judgment is necessary for one to distinguish, "Truth" from "Error". Little understanding can be gained without the ability to draw reasonable conclusions and make practical applications. Increase common sense and judgment can be ours for the asking. (James 1:5). "Pray without Ceasing" ( 1 Thess. 5:17).


Grow In Understanding


Bible knowledge does not come all at once. Think of a young child. "Baby Steps". As in everything else, one must grow. Newborn babes in Christ are urged to "long for the spiritual milk.. that ye may grow thereby unto salvation" (1 Peter 2:2).

One should not continue on milk diet but increase "In the knowledge of God" (Heb: 5:12-14; Col: 1:10; 2 Peter: 3:18). The more one studies the more he is bound to learn. Those passages that once seemed difficult will soon become clearer. (I Promise You) For remember this comes from a "Slow Learner" ME ! In time any sincere diligent student of the Bible will have a much deeper and richer appreciation of its "Sacred" "Truths".

"And now I commend you to God, and to the Word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you the inheritance among all them that are sanctified". (Acts: 20:32)



******Stay Tuned****************

Thanks


Jim

Friday, December 11, 2009

UpDate

My Friends, I Would Like to Welcome you, as My Honor Guest to What I have Called The Place Of "Food For Thought"

For Its my Hope and Prayer, that you will take a minute out, to review some of the topics that I have chosen to Write On! For In them my friends I Pray you will gain much knowledge, and wisdom. I Pray also you may find it necessary to perhaps share them with others. For I've been told that much knowledge and wisdom is gained, when they are read in the order that I published them.

I Feel truly blessed, and honored am very grateful to you, for your visit. Please be sure to ask any question, or make any comments that your thinking as a result of these "Food For Thoughts".

I Assure you, much prayer, and time, has been placed on my writings, prior to me sharing them with you. For In them you will just get the Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth from The Word of God.

For I will be "Writing" additional "Food For Thoughts" Weekly for This Site, (Lord Willing)! Feel Free to Come back and visit at every opportunity.

It's My Prayer and Hope you will truly Gain From These Efforts, and too, share them with Loved Ones, and thus invest and show support in the future of this Lord's Work, here on our site.


And Finally, my friends, If there is a subject matter, or topic that is of concern to you, that you would like to know more about from God's Word, I would like to encourage you, to make me aware of it, in so that I may prepare a lesson (Food For Thought) on it, for you! Feel Free and spend a moment if u will, reading the comments listed below from others such as yourself.

Glad Your Here!

Thank You Much!

Jim

How To Study The Bible (Part III)

Study Diligently:


My friends, There are no short cuts to learning, And this fact comes from a "Slow Learner" (Me). Who Got kicked out of kindergarden, because I refused to play at recess, (Jim Doesnt Play) and Flunked the 3rd Grade, And drank the ink, from my pen, And received a "F" in my typing class, and in my Biology class, and in my chemistry class, and in my Math classes, And, And, And... You get my Point!




Whether a book of science, history or religion, it can only be comprehended by unyielding mental industry. The Bible is no exception!

Moses enjoined Israel: " And these words, which I command thee ths day, shall be upon thy heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto they children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when thy walkest by the way, and when thou liest down and when thou risest up" (Deut: 6:6,7).

God commanded Joshua: "This book of the law shall not depart out of they mouth, but thous shalt meditate there-on day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein" (Josh. 1:8)

For "A fourth part of the day Ezra read in the book, in the law of God distinctly: and they gave the sense so that they understood the reading" (Neh: 9:3; 8:8).

The Psalmist declared: "And on his aw doth he meditate day and night" (1:2); "Oh how love I thy law: it is my meditation all the day" (119:97); "I have more understanding than all my teachers for thy testimonies are my meditation" (119:99). Paul charge Timothy: "Til I come, give heed to reading, to exhortation, to teaching" (1 Tim: 4:13).

My friends, The Bible does not accomplish its purpose by its mere presence like an amulet, a charm, a fetish. It is not to be used as the supersitious use a horse-shoe, a rabbit's foot, a medicine bag, a relic or a rosary, or even a crucifix.

When a wanderer is in a desert, my friends, he locates a fountain of water, well he must drink of it as well as find it, right? if he is to quench his thirst. Even so, one who possesses a Bible must receive the implanted or engrafted Word if it is to save his soul. (James 1:21).
Only thru diligent study can this be achieved. Trust Me, I Know! Remember, this comes from the "Slow Leaner" "Me"!

Study Methodically:


My friends, I've found it, to be wise, to have a definite, workable, sound study plan, and stick to it. Avoid "Desultory Reading", a chapter or verse here or there. Study all of the Bible, not just your favorite book or verses.

It is best to begin with an overall survey of the Bible. Make an outline of prominent persons and events, from beginning to end, in a chronological order.. Be sure to keep in mind the scheme of redemption, which is the Bible's central theme, and notice how it gradually unfolds, thru out.

After obtaining a good bird's eye view of the Bible you will then be prepard to study each book chapter by chapter. Learn something of the author, time and circumstances of writing, and purpose of the book. Jot down the main points in each chapter. Refer to any accounts of the same events that may be recorded in another book.

When a thorough chapter by chapter study has been completed it is good to make a careful paragraph by paragraph, and then a verse by verse, study of each book. This is especially true of the New Testament. (Stay organized) !

Another method is to study subjects or topics. Gather all that the Bible says on a particular subject. It could be a person, command, principle or ordinance. Use a reference Bible or concordance. (They come in real handy)
Outline your findings, listing each item under its proper heading. This will give a comprenhensive analysis of each topic studied.

Underline key passages for easy reference. Memorize those verse that are most frequently used. Practice expressing in your own words(out loud) what you have just learned.


Regard The Divisions Of The Bible:


The major division of the Bible is between the Old Testament and the New Testament. There are 39 books in the Old Testament Begining with the book of Genesis, and ending with the book of Malachi. And there are 27 books in the New Testament Begining with the Book of Matthew, and ending with the Book of Revelation. There were 40 different writers, over a 1500 year period.

The Jews divided their Testament into the Pentateuch or (Law), (5 books of Moses); then the Prophets: (historic and prophetic books) and then the Psalms or simply the "writings". (5 poetical books, plus Ruth, Lamentations, Daniel, Esther , Ezra, Nehemiah and Chronicles). Jesus recognized this divison (Luke 24:44)

The Old Testament embraces two dispensations: The Patriarchal, and The Mosaic. The patriarchal age is so-called because in it family worship was conducted under the leadership of the Chief Father or patriarch.

During this period, which began at creation, God dealt "Directly" with man. He promised to bless all families of the earth through Abraham's seed (Gen. 12:3; 22:18). This was fulfilled in Christ (Gal: 3:8, 16).

Four hundred and thirty years(430) after this promise God gave unto the children of Israel at Mount Sinai, a law through Moses, or also known, and the "Law" of Moses: (Gal:3:17). Because of transgressions it was added to the promise "Til the seed should come" (v 19). None are any longer under the Law of Moses. (v.24, 25; Eph. 2:14-18; Col: 2:14ff-17; Rom.7:4, 6; Heb. 7:12; 10:9) It was never given to Gentiles as such, only fleshy Israel (Deut. 4:8; 5: 1-3; Neh. 9:13, 14; Rom:2:14).

The New Testament is not like the Old Testament. (Jer. 31:31ff-34). It was not added to anything. (John 1:17). Under it we have not only a new covenant (Heb: 8: 6-13) but also a new mediator (Christ) (1 Tim. 2:15), A New Church, (Matt: 16:18) called the Church of Christ Rom: 16:16, and a New promise (Acts 2:38) Christ only Built One Church..HIS!

For there are nearly over 1500 Man Made denominational churches in the world today. None authorize or approve by God or Christ, in there Written Word to Man. For Foolish Man, chose to "Add too, and Take Away" God's Word. For God's Word Was Not enough for them, they needed to create there own creed books/by-laws, and other Man Made Books, and so-forth, thus rebelling against God, and Christ Himself. (sad) For No Where in God's Word are they authorized to exists. But Man being Man, continues to rebel against God's Word. Oh Foolish Man. Good news to that, Heaven Wont Be to Crowded.

Although we are not under The Law, of Moses, we may profit much from studying it and encourage to do so in the New Testament: For Paul declared that "These things happened unto them by way of example; and they were written for our learning" (1 Cor: 10:6, 11) (Rom. 15:4). It foreshadow Christ and the New Covenant (Luke 24:44; John 5:39; Col: 2:17; Heb. 10:1).

My friends, One cannot fully appreciate and comprehend the New Testament with some knowledge of the Old Testament. When One observes scriptures quoted, as thru my writing, what you are seeing: ie.. Matt: 6: 33, That is the name of the book then the chapter, then the verse.

Consider The Context

Webster. New 20th Cen Dictionary, defines Context: as to weave together. 1. The parts of a sentence, paragraph, discourse, etc. that occur just before and after a specified word or passage, and determine its exact meaning; as it is unfair to quote this remark out of its context. 2. The whole situation, background, or environment relevant to some happening or personality".

My friends, each book, chapter and verse should be studied in view of its own surroundings. A word, phrase or sentence taken out of its setting may appear to have a very different meaning. When examinded in it context the meaning should be evident.

Observe who is speaking. Was it God or Satan? If a man, was he inspired? If an uninspired person was he unbiased and truthful?

The Bible records the words of the devil and his agents as well as those of God and His messenger. The serpent said to Eve, "Ye shall not surely die" (Gen 3:4) Rabshakeh asserted that God could not deliver Jerusalem out of the hand of Assyria (2 Kings 18:19-35); and the Pharisees blasphemously accused Jesus of casting out demons "by Beelzebub the prince of the demons" (Matt: 12:24). What these said was untrue but it is a fact that they said it.

Next, see who is addressed. Did they live under the Law of Moses or the Law of Christ? Were they Jews or Gentiles; saints or sinners? Was the command or promise given to a particular persons or to all mankind?

God charged Israel, whom he had brought out of Egypt, to "Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy (Ex. 20:2, 8). They were to keep it thru out their generation as signs between them and God (Ex. 31: 12ff-17) This IS NOT a New Testament command. But some men/man even today doesnt Believe That! Oh Foolish Man.

Peter ordered Simon to "Repent" and pray for forgiveness (Acts 8:22). A careful study of the context will show that Simon like others in Samaria, had already Believed and were Baptized (v. 13, Mark 16:16). Peter's words, then, were directed to an "Erring Saint" rather than the "Alien Sinner".
God commanded Noah to build "An Ark of gopher wood" (Gen 6:14). No ones else was enjoined to do this. Jesus promised His apostles that they would "Be baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days hence" (Acts: 1:5). This promise does not apply to all disciples.

Next; Find out what is being discussed. What is the topic under consideration? The Roman letter will be more easily comprehended by one who is aware that Paul is seeking to show that salvaton for both Jew and Gentile is by the gospel of Christ, or by the "Law of Christ" and Not by the Law of Moses. ( Romans 1:16:17).


In Part IV: How To Study The Bible:

Accept All That is Given On Each Subject
Accept Only What is Given On Each Subject
Take The Bible For What It Says. (Dont "Add To" His Word, Nor "Take Away")
Use Common Sense
Grow In Understanding

Stay Tuned My Friends !

Jim

How To Study The Bible (Part II)

Desire To Do God's Will:


My friends, Truth will not be found by those who read the Bible, with no intention of followig its precepts. For a moment the precious seed reposes upon their hardened hearts only to be quickly shaken off. They may even erect a mental barrier against that which they do not wish to do. It is as difficult for such persons to see the Truth as it was for the prodigal son to see the blessings of his fathers' house.

Jesus said: "If any man willeth to do his will, he shall know of the teaching, whether, it is of God, or whether I speak from myself" (John 7:17)

Without this willingness one is unprepared to receive an understanding of God's Word. He may be reading to gain an academic familiarity with its contents but fail to comprehend its true origin and prupose. Like those described by Paul, he is "ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2 Tim 3:7).

There is today a wide-spread indifference about divine authority. Many feel that it is good to do what God has commanded but not essential. Others, like Balaam, are ready to do His Will as long as it pleases them. It matters not, they think, whether one does exactly what God appointed. They labor under the misconception that He will accept them while they do as they wish. Those who entertain such views can not possible understand the scriptures.

Have An Open Mind


An open mind is an honest heart (Luke 8:15) " One that is receptive to all the words of this Life" (Acts 5:20). This does not mean that one should be gullible or even credulous, but that he be willing to consider fairly that which is read. Like the noble Bereans he ought to receive, "The Word with all readiness of mind, examining the scriptures Daily, wheter these things were so". (Acts 17:11)

My friends, It is very difficult to be altogether unbiased in everything. This is expecially true in religious matters. Many approach the Bible with their minds made up. Their thinking is colored by the influence of parents, friends, religious teachers or some human creed book. As a result they often fail to see what is in a passage because it is contrary to what they have believed; or they read their opinion into a passage because it is contrary to what they have believed; or they read their opinion into a passage even though it is not there. Some have even read plain declarations and then replied, "Well it says it but I still dont believe it". Such closed-mindedness is prejudice and prejudice is sin. (Proverbs 18:13) And Sin separates us from God.

No Man would be so foolish as to asert that he knows everything, to include this writer. However; If one chooses to closes his mind to all that does not agree with what he has learned, then he will never know any more than what he knows, and the very thing that he refuses to learn maybe what he really needs.

The Jews of Jesus' day furnish a very vivid illustration of closed-minds. "And unto them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "which saith by hearing ye shall hear and shall in no wise understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall in no wise perceive: for this peoples heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest haply they should perceive with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand that their heart, and should turn again, and I should heal them" (Matt: 13:14ff) Cornelius and the eunuch, like the Bereans, had open minds. (Acts 10:33; 8:31)

Study For The Right Motive


Jesus accused certain Jews of seeking him "Not because ye saw signs, but because ye ate of the loaves, and were filled" (John 6:26). They followed from wrong motives and were unable to discern the true bread out of the heaven. For the smae reason many now fail to understand the scriptures which they read.

Skeptics search the Bible to find mistakes, and inconsistencies but rarely for "Truth". Invariably they find, to their own satisfaction, that for which they were looking. If they would study correctly it would become evident that the apparent contradictions were due to their own lack of perception.

Many read the Bible to prove what they already believe. Like the skeptic, they succeed by finding in nearly every word and sentence what appears to them to be that proof. We should recognize that the Bible is not a book of proofs for doctrines but is itself the doctrine of God, to Foolish Man. It should be studied to ascertain God's will for Man, Not to try to find our own views therein.

Others when questioned about a practice run to the Bible in an effort to justify it. They did not begin the practice because the Bible taught it, but began it, and then searched for a passage that could be construed as approval. This attitude has blinded so many to the Truth.

Some read the Bible to find that which is quaint or novel. They delight in quoting scripture and reciting genealogies. Such persons wish to be known as of of the great learning. This thirst for distinction and exaltation will hinder one from seeing the plain simple gospel message.

For they will even be foolish enough to refer to themselves as a "Prophet"! Jesus warned against such types. "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A Good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down, and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them. Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord", shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in Heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, "Lord, Lord< have we not prophesied in Your Name, cast out demons in Your Name, and done many wonders in Your Name"? And then I will declare to them, "I NEVER knew you, DEPART from Me, you who practice lawlessness!". (Matt 7:15-23)

If one's motive in Bible study is to know God's Will that he may do all things commanded then it becomes easier to understand.


In Part III Of How To Study The Bible:
I Will Be Talking About:

Study Diligently
Study Methodically
Regards The Divisions Of The Bible
Consider The Context.


Stay Tuned My Friends
Jim

Thursday, December 10, 2009

How To Study The Bible (Part l)

I Thank God Always, for allowing me the opportunity to share His Word, and His Ways, to Man. For recently I was blessed to have had the privilige to conduct "Personal Work" for Him, in the country of South Africa. Which I am in the midst of winding down, as I prepare this "Food For Thought"!

For I have had the privilge of working with all age groups, in there country. I had recieved numerous request from all of them and too, received many a fine personal and special, and heart warming, touching, emails from them. For many had asked me, "Mr Jim, How do we study God's Word, the Bible?" That question from them just pricked my heart!

But to be honest, at that moment, I could not help but to hear my Big Brothers's Words ringing (loudly) thru my ears, and something I'll never forget, and will always be grateful to Him, for that. For he said, in a kind loving gentle caring, (Loud) manner, and yes too, of course some of his well seasoned, (salt and pepper) type of his favorite metaphors that only he can sprinkle on a point he's attempting to stress or make known.

However; I havent gotten His permission to use them here, So now I Thank God, I dont have too! For He said, in the "Edited Editon" ; "Jim, how many times do I have to Tell You, Read The Book"! (Just Loved How He Said That). For my friends I once again Thanked God, for the wisdom, of not responding to the South Africans question with that answer.(Sorry Big Brother, Couldnt Quote You)

Thus I prepared a lesson for them, there in South Africa, as a result of there willingness to learn what God would have them to do, in order to become a New Testament Christian and be saved, and yes too, Pleasing to Him. So now too my friends, I feel inclined to share it with you!


How To Study The Bible:


My Friends, God speaks to men, in the Bible. It is a book of divine instruction. In it alone man's greatest questions are answered: "Who Am I?" "Why am I here?" "Where am I going?" For no other book reveals the truth about God, explains the origin of man, diagnoses the problem of sin, and shows the only way of salvation unto eternal life.

Man's eternal destiny depends, upon his Obedience to God and His Words. "And this is life Eternal, that they should know thee, the only true God, and him whom thou didst, send, even Jesus Christ". (John 17:3). "Not every one that said unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven".(Matt 7:21). "Fear God, and keep His commandments; for this is the whole duty of Man." (Eccl. 12:13)

My friends, no-one, can OBEY, that which he does not understand nor perceive what he has not considered. In order for man to know God's will he must study His Word. The importance of Bible Study can not be emphasized enough, and I would like to encourage you, my friend, to begin to do just that. For Remember always my Friend, when you choose to Study God's Word(Bible), you are literally spending time with Him. Yes, One on One, Just You and Him! What better company can you choose than being with Him?

A great many who read the Bible my friends do not study it. They open it at random, hastily read a chapter, usually with little thought, and then do not look at it again for weeks. It is not suprising to hear such persons complain, "I cant get anything out of the Bible". (Daaa)!

If this precious book is ever to be understood, rules and principles used in the study of other books must be observed, while studying it. The following a basic rules if applied, will enable anyone, to include Me the (Slow Learner) to better understand the Word of God.

Accept The Bible
As The Word Of God

My friends, this is not to say that an infidel cannot know anything revealed in God's Word. This he must do to be save. (John 8:32, 24;20:31). Yet one who regards the Bible as a book of myths and inaccuracies is not likely to make a thorough investigation of its teaching. He may read it out of mere curiosity or to find fault, but hardly with a design to understand.
The greater one's faith the more diligent will be his search for understanding of this divine message. When he accepts it "as it is in truth, the word of God" (1 Thess: 2:13, he will be able to see it more clearly.

Expect To Understand The Bible

"Attitude is Everything"

Many regard the Bible as a sealed book, beyond the comprehension of an average person. (Wrong)!!!! They suppose that one must have a special gift from God, before he can unravel, its "dark sayings" (NOT)!!! Usually the "Clergy" reserve for themselves this right to interpret the scriptures for others. (example of the arrogance of Foolish Man). In this way they they destroy confidence in the Bible and place it, in themselves.

The Bible is a revelation from God. Since it is a revelation it is designed to be understood. If it is unintelligible then,it is no revelation at all. The Bible was given to men through men, in human language, By God. The same familiar words were employed as were used to communicate with one another in other matters. Since they understood words spoken or written by "uninspired" men, then surely they could understand the same words when used by "Inspired" men! (Daaa)!

God's commandments have always been expressed in words that men could understand. Adam and Eve knew that they were not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. They were aware of the penalty for disobedience. (Gen. 2:17; 3:3). Noah understood and did all that God commanded him concerning the ark. (Gen: 6:22). Likewise, Abraham, Moses, David, and others understood fully the Word of God.

Jesus preached in the synagogues, the temple, in the market places, by the sea and on a mountain; and the common people heard him gladly. (Mark 12:37). There was no one to interpret His words for the masses.

Paul's letter were addressed to "all the saints" at a particular place. (Rom 1:7; Eph 1:1, Phil. 1:1, Col: 1:2). The epistle to Thessalonica was to "Be read unto all the brethren" (1 Thess: 5:27). He charged the Chruch of Christ at Colossae: "And when this epistle hath been read amoung you, cause that it be read also in the Chruch of Christ of Laodiceans; and that ye also read the epistle from Laodicea (Col 4:16). . The fact that these letters were both written and read to all the brethren shows that they were intended to be understood by all. (Dont tell the Catholics that though!)

Some think that the Bible itself teaches that the scriptures can not be understood. Paul does refer to the many blessings of the Gospel of Christ, prior to their being revealed, as a mystery. "How that by revelation was made known unto me, the mystery, as I wrote before in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye can perceive my understanding in the mystery of Christ; which in other generations was not make known unto the sons of Men".. (Eph 3: 3-5). He then added: "Unto me... was this grace given to preach unto the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men SEE what is the dispensation of the mystery which for ages, hath been hid in God"(vs. 8, 9) That which was a mystery has now been revealed and men can see it. The Bible nowhere suggest that what has been reveal, cannot be understood: (No-Where)! My friends, we are plainly told to "understand the will of the Lord" (Eph 5:17) .. (Dont tell the Catholics that, ok?)

Love The Truth

Paul wrote : "That some were perishing because they received Not the Love of the Truth, that they might be saved" (2 Thess 2:10). If one is to be saved he must Love the Truth.

That which one loves, he seeks and, if he can, obtains. If he hungers and thirsts after righteousness he shall be filled" (Matt: 5:6) If her preferes error to truth that is what he will pursue and find. "And for this cause God sendeth them a working of error, that they should believe a like; that they might be judged who believe not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness" (2 Thess. 2:11, 12).

One who love the Truth will accept it no matter where it is found or how much it differs from what he and those about him have believed. To Him nothing is more important than Truth (cf. Prov 23:23). He had rather be right than consistent. He desires the approval of God above the plaudits of men. He is ready to "Let God be true, but every man a liar" (Romans 3:4).

In Part II of How to Study The Bible:
I Will Be Discussing:

Desire to Do God's Will
Have An Open Mind
Study for the Right Motive

In Part III of How to Study The Bible:
I Will Be Discussing:

Study Diligently
Study Methodically
Regard the Divisions of the Bible
Consider the Context

In My Final "Food For Thoughts" (Conclusion)
I Will Be Discussing:

Accept All That is Given On Each Subject.
Accept Only What Is Given On Each Subject
Take The Bible For What It Says. (Dont Add To His Word Nor Take From It)
Use Common Sense
Grow In Understanding.

Stay Tune My Friends,

Jim

Pray And Try Again

REMEMBER ALWAYS My Friends;


Life is a long and bumpy road.
We each carry our troubles, like a heavy load.
There are many hard turns and some dead ends.
But whenever we're stuck, We must Pray, and Try Again.

No One's got an easy ride.
But failure can be pushed aside.
When we give up hope nothing good can happen.
So, when all seems lost, Remember my friend, you must Pray, and Try Again.

You can't have a meal, if you dont sit at a table.
You wont learn the moral, if u dont read the fable.
You cant take control, if you are plagued by inaction.
And you wont overcome loss, if you dont Pray and Try Again.

When the coins in the air, if you dont pick heads or tails,
Having not made a choice, you are bound to Fail.
But if you choose wrong, you can always still Win,
Because on the next flip my friend, you cant still Pray, and Try Again.

Those who Succeed seem to have it made.
Basking in the sunshine or lying in the shade.
But they've been down too, my friend, and it was just then
That they picked themselves up, so they could Pray, and Try Again.

So, my friends, when your spirit is Weak and you need to Cry
And you want to be Happy, but you have to Sigh.
When things seem bleakest, that's the time my freind, when
you MUST shrug it all off, and then just Pray, and Try, Try, Again!

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Is The Bible From God or Men (Conclusion)

EXTERNAL EVIDENCES:


Influence: My friends, the teaching of the Bible "Always" Enobles, Elevates, and Purifies. There is a universally accepted principle stated by Christ which can be applied to the Scriptures: "By their fruits ye shall know them" (Matt: 7:16). Think of the fruit the Bible has borne and is bearing today. Whever this Book has gone, civilization has been lifted to a higher plane. It has made better husbands and wives, better sons and daughters, better employees and employers, better neighbors and nations.

Its "Truth" sweetens the home, exalts womanhood, sanctifies childhood, and redeems man. The spirit of this Book is the spirit of Love, Kindness, and Goodwill. Without the Bible's influence for good, our world would be a tragic place in which to live. Surely this influence does not come from a source which is itself a collection of false claims and fables.

My frineds, some have claimed, and still do, even today, that human culture, philosophy, and science are better for man than the Bible.. If so, the map of the world should show it. But when one looks at the history of the nations, he sees that "Human Wisdom" Fails, to purify and build up the morals of the people. Look where the Word of God has gone, been loved and "Obeyed", and there we find the noblest men, the purest women, the greatest liberty, and the best government. Especially, do we see woman, so often the degraded beast of burden, or loved and honored as mother, wife, sister, or daughter.

My friends, lets name the nations of the earth that have been more advanced than others, such as America and Great Britain. There one would fine an open Bible and a ministry that upheld the Christ in all of His glory and excellence of character.

Now name the countries of the world where the people have long been "Half Enlightened", such as China, North Korea, India, South Africa, and Russia. There one will find that the Bible is being either not read, or understood, or even mis-applied, or even in some cases not allowed. Think of the large portions of the earth now in darkness of sin and paganism. There the Word of God is not being read, loved or "Obeyed" and often times misapplied, thus teaching "Error" by the people. Which The Lord warned Man, against such practices.

However as we've seen thru out the world, Man being Made full of Pride, and being "Puffed Up" and too, being foolish, continues to try to "Add To" and "Take Away" From the Word of God! And Man does so, at there own eternal peril, along with all those that follow such false and foolish ways.

The Bible contains the only teaching that can lead mankind to the highest forms of conduct. No height of worldly wisdom and culture can purify the heart and make people what they ought to be. The Bible is worth more to man's spiritual progress and the happiness of the human family than all other books that have ever been written; it has done more to change man's nature for good than all the philosophies of men.

My Friends, every "Baby Step" away from the moral teaching of this Book is in essence a "Baby Step", not forward, but backwards, to materialism, animalism, and barbarism. For he who tries to lessen the influence of the Bible over the nations and of families, are an "Enemy" of God, in this writers subjective view!

Further, any nation on the face of God's earth that neglects teaching the Bible to her children, or who foolishly chooses to "Add To" or "Take Away" from what God haith said, (As is largely being done in America today) will sooner or later reap the horrible results of it. (Eternal punishment).

Example: My Freinds, Is Sin, now legal, in America?(homosexuality).
Is it now illegal in America to point out sin? Are your children being Forced to accept sin as thee Norm? Do you know any parents in America, that now encourages Sin, to there Children and GrandChildren? And choose to turn their backs to what God hath said!?(Live with those of thee opposite sex outside of marriage).

Hence, the very teaching itself is proof of the Bible's divine origin, and we dont hesitate to say that we believe the Bible "IS THE WORD OF GOD" because of the great good it has done and continues to do thru out the world, when read and "Obeyed"!


INDESTRUCTIBILITY:


My friends, the Bible has been in the world in its complete form now for almost two thousand years, yet it is unlike all other books in that it has not become obsolete. It is today more highly respected and more widely printed and sold than any book in all the world. It has been translated into more languages than any other book.. Books, like men, are born, have their day, die, and are soon forgotten. They were once useful, but better books have taken their place and they have become outdated. Not so with the Bible. Age has failed to affect its power; as always, it vibrates with life. (Hebrews 4:12; Romans 1:16).

The Bible has always been fiercely attacked by those foolish men who do not wish to obey it, but it has withstood its furious foes and false friends. Never has there been a book like the Bible that has incurred the hatred of man. It has been the anvil on which many a hammer has been worn out. It has passed through many fiery trials in its course of history as foolish men have attempt to destroy, and "Add To", and "Take Away" from what it says.

For there are now over 1500 Man Made denominational churches thru out the world, None, mind You, are to be found in the Word Of God. Christ built One Church, His! Period! (Matt 16:18, Romans 16:16:)

For Example, the Roman Emperor Diocletian in A.D. 303 issued an edict to destroy the Bible. He thought he had accomplished his goal! But twenty five years later Constantine, the new emperor, commissioned fifty copies of the Bible to be prepared at government expense. Voltaire, the French infidel, in 1776 predicted that in one hundred years the Bible would be lost. But about twenty five years after his death the British and Foreighn Bible Society was founded, and this one Society alone has given to the world millions of copies of the Bible in several hundred different languages. One hundread years later, Voltaire's own printing press, on which his infidelic literature had been printed, was used to print Bibles. The very house in which he had lived was use as a storage room for the Word of God ! Thomas Jefferson, in his book on "Western Virginia", published about the time of Voltaire's death, predicted that fifty years from then there would not be a Bible in America unless found in some curiosity shop.

Likewise, Thomas Paine, in his book "The Age of Reason", predicted the end of the Bible. These men, too, have gone the way of all men of the flesh, but the Word of God still lives. The American Bible Society in New York City has, for many years, been printing and distributing millions of copies of the Bible and portions of God's Word all over America.

Today it would be hard to find a home in the United States where there is not at least one copy of the Scriptures. Also, Robert G. Ingersoll (1833-1899), another infidel in America, highly criticized the Bible. He gave lectures on the "Mistakes of Moses." Today we can turn to the books of Moses and learn of the "Mistakes of Ingersoll"!.

Indeed, my friends, a relentless warfare has for centuries been waged against the Bible, by foolish man. Yet in spite of what these and many others have done in their attacks to destroy it, the Bible is still here. After all the storms of persecution that have been and are hurled against it by atheists, infidels, and higher critics, it lives! God has providentially preserved His Book through all the centuries.

Jesus once said, "Heaven and Earth shall pass away, but My Words, shall NOT pass away" (Matt:24:35). Peter wrote: "The Word of God... Liveth and Abideth Forever." (1 Peter: 1: 23-25). Critics have come and gone, nations have been born and passed away since the Bible was written, but it still stands! The Bible will live to the end of time. Nothing can destroy it, though foolish man will continue to attempt to "Add to", and "Take Away" from it. All the power that could be brought to bear to blot it from the earth has benn tried, and yet it survies. The poet has beautifully expressed this truth in these words:

" Century follows century----There it stands.
Empires rise and fall and are forgotten, There it stands!
Atheists rail against it, There it stands!
Agnostics smile cynically. There it stands!
Profane prayerless punsters caricature it. There it stands!
Unbelief abandons it. There it stands!
Higher critics deny its claim to inspiration. There it stands!
The Flames are kindled against it. There it stands!
The tooth of time gnaws but makes no dent in it. There is stands!
Infidels predict its abandonment. There it stands!
THE WORD OF GOD, WHICH LIVETH AND ABIDETH FOREVER.
(A.Z. Conrad).


CONCLUSION:


These are some of the indisputable proofs that the Bible is the infallible Word, of the Living God: (I) Inerrancy, (2) Fulfilled prophecies.(3)Scientific accuracy.(4)Miracles. (5) High moral and ethical teaching.(6)Great influence for good.(7) Indestructibility.

My Friends, since the Bible is Perfect, Complete, Infallible, and an inerrant Revelation from God to man, needing no Revision, we should Love and Obey its precepts, and NOT, "Add to" or "Take Away" from it. As Foolish man, continues to do, even til today. 1500 Man Made Churches in the world, and growing, None authorized or approved by God, in His Written to to Man.

God alone knows what is right for man, and the Bible is just as relevant to people today as it was in the first century. It is a guide for all men and for all time.

The inspired Scriptures are able to furnish us completely "unto all good works." (2 Tim: 3:17; cf. 2 Peter 1:3) The Bible is our only authoritative rule of faith and conduct, the only rightful creed and book of discipline for the church, the only basis of unity which the Lord has authorized, the only Book that reveals God's plan of human redemption through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 3:23; John 3:16), and the only Book that will judge us in the last day (John 12:48; Revelation 20: 11-13; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

My Friends, not only does the Bible reveal man's origin, nature, and duty, it is the only telescope that reveals the world beyond the grave. We all know that we face imminent departure from this life, but what then?

Scripture declares that this life is but the morning of existence. In John's apocalyptic vision we have a picture of man, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, and of Heaven, the eternal home of the soul (Revelation 7: 9-17); chapters 21 and 22).

My Friends, If our confidence in the Bible as a divine Book is destroyed, then the future we must face is all darkness; we would have no hope! For only in the words of Scripture are to be found the message of "Life and Immortality" (2 Tim: 1:10; cf. Psalm 23).

Therefore, its believe that no group of men, unaided by a higher power, could have written the Bible, for man cannot write such a perfect book. The Bible is, without exception, the world's most wonderful Book (Psalms 119:129). It is preminently the "Book of Books", the one Book forever outshining all other books in the literary firmament, as the sun outshines all planets that move in their orbits. If we my friends will respect and "Obey" its commands, some sweet day heaven will be our home.

"This old Book conatins the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its histories are true, its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.

It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the sailor's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christians's charter. Here Paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. Christ is its grand object, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. My friend, I would like to encourage you, to Read it slowly, Frequently, and Prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgement, and will be remembered forever! It involves the highest responsibilities, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents. (Author Unknown)

My Friends I would like to encourage you , to stay tune!

For I've been asked to share and prepare a "Food For Thought" (lesson) on the topic of "One's Feelings Are they a Safe Guide?


I Thank God Always, for His Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and Brother Cotham for all that they've done, and continue to do, for all of Man.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Is The Bible From God or Men (Part ll)

SCIENTIFIC ACCURACY:

My friends,the Bible is not a text-book on science (its theme is man's salvation from sin through Jesus Christ), but in it we do find incidental reference to various branches of science, and all that it says on these subjects is scientifically accurate. Although there are some who claim that the Bible is opposed to science, it proves itself to be the inspired Word of God because of its scientific wealth and accuracy. In fact, we could say that the Bible is pre-scientific; it anticipates scientific discoveries. These scientific references were made hundreds of years before they became known to man by discovery! We marvel at the accuracy with which Scripture presents these various subjects.

The word Science simply means Knowledge. I perfer to define it, as "Man's Observations of God's Creation". What is commonly called science is frequently nothing more than certain theories and conclusions based on man's limited and imperfect knowledge of God's perfect laws. All of man's theories of science do not always agree with the Bible. (1 Timothy 6:20).

If the Bible agreed with all the theories of science it could not possibly agree with true science. But when a "Truth" or fact has been discovered, we find the Bible, if it speaks on that subject, has already declared that truth. The world is interested in the origin of the universe and man. The idea is presently much discussed.

Thre are (3) verses in the Book of Genesis one that answer more satisfactorily the question people are asking than all the books written by men. "In the begining God created the heavens and the earth" (v.1). "And God said, Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind... and it was so" (v.24) "And God created man, in his own image.. male and female created he them" (v.27; cf: 2:7.

Now note, my friends, "He created Adam and Eve", NOT... Adam and Steve! (Homosexuality) is Sin. And God Hates Sin. For Sin separates Man from God, that leads to eternal destruction(Hell) forever, per His written Word. Christ also said "from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female" (Mark 10:6; cf. 1 Timothy 2:13). Man (DID NOT) evolve from lower animals. He is the "offspring of God" (Acts 17:28, 29); God is the Father of our spirits (Hebrews 12:9).

My friends,the theory of evolution pertaining to the origin of man is unscientific. It has never been proved, nor shall it ever be proven. Life does not come from non-life. The theory of evolution is nothing more than the "flat earth" syndrome of modern foolish man. It is embraced in spite of the evidence-not because of it. Too, the earth is not eternal; it was created. "For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is" (Exodus 20:11). "For every house is builded by some one; but he that built all things is God" (Hebrews 3:4; cf 11:3).

My friends, as to the age of the earth, no one knows, or does the Bible say. The Almighty God, who could create Adam and Eve full-grown, could instantly create a full-grown bed of coal or minerals. "By the Word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the "Breath" of His mouth.. For He spake, and it was Done! He commanded, and it stood fast." (Psalms 33:6,9).

My friends, no scientist can "prove" that this is Not True! For the Bible is clear and accurate, therefore, as to the origin of things; the majestic first chapter in the Book of Genesis contains the only "Authentic" account of creation. It is not a "Myth" or "Fable", as Some Foolish Man have claim, and still do, to this day. If it is, then how can any part of the Bible be trusted? Besides, who is to judge where myth begins, and where it ends? Or, what is "Truth" and what is error? One's view of the Bible is important; it determines his attitude toward its teachings.

For remember, my friends, man, for thousands of years, did not know that the earth was round; he believed it was flat. Yet Isaiah, seven centuries before the birth of Christ, spoke of God as: "He that sitteth above the circle of earth" (Isaiah 40:22). This was scientific "Foreknowledge". The patriarch Job, speaking of God, declared; "He stretcheth out the north over the empty space, and hangeth the earth upon nothing" (Job 26:7)

Today every school boy and girl in America knows that the earth is round, poised in space, hanging "Upon Nothing", and that astronauts have circled the earth and looked down upon it from their spaceships. And Not once, Thanked God,for what they were then seeing! His Creation! How sad is that?

We ask, how was it possible that the writers of the Bible described physical phenomena with such amazing accuracy? There is but one plausible explanation: He who planned and made the vast universe inspired the writers, and that which they recorded was not ancient wisdom but "Divine Revelation".

There is not one real scientific principle known that is in violation of, or contrary to, the Word of God. Nothing that any scientist knows today in any way contradicts any statement of the Bible. A true understanding of the Bible and correct understanding of the facts of science are always found to be harmonious. When one adds together all of the scientific evidence he is overwhelmed with the proof that the Bible must be, as it claims. A "Divine Book".

MIRACLES:

Miracles attest to the divinity of the Bible. Miracles were works of supernatural character such as could not be produced by natural agents or means. For example, when a blind man is healed by medicine, then it is by natural law; but when a blind man is healed instantly(as the blind man mentioned in John 9), then it is a miracle. The raising of Lazarus from the dead was a miracle (John 11). The miracles performed by Christ proved that His message was from God, so that men might believe Him. (John 3:2, 20:30, 31). Miracles were used to show that certain others, as the apostles, had divine power and spoke God's Word; their words were confirmed by "signs and wonders" (Hebrews 2:3, 4).

After the ascension of Christ , the apostles "went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word by the signs that followed" (Mark 16:20). Also, Moses proved by miracles before the children of Israel and Pharaoh that he had the Word of God (Exodus 4: 1-9, 29-31; Chapters 7-13).

Miracles were an indelible stamp of God's approval of His Word and of His messengers. The pretentions of men today to work "miracles" pale into insignificance when compared to the miracles of the Bible; which declares the only "lying wonders" (2 Thessalonians 2:9). However, infidels deny in vain the real miracles of the Word of God because they are a strong proof of its divine origin.

EXALTED MORAL AND ETHICAL TEACHING:

The Bible has given the finest teaching on morals and ethics the world has ever known. Scripture clearly teaches that the highest duty of man is to God his Creator. The duty man owes to others is also set forth, and the duty man owes to himself is defined.

The Bible demands the denial of "EVERY" vice, and the practice of "EVERY" virtue. The degree of enlightenment in the world is in exact ratio with the prevalence of those ethical principles, so clearly taught in the Scriptures. In the realm of law there is no higher code of ethics than that found in the Bible!

The Greeks and Romans never produced such moral and ethical teaching. Where shall we find a legal code that excels the "Mosaic Law" (Exodus 20)? Where did Moses get this law which surpasses the wisdom and philosophy of the most enlightened ages? Where did Jesus get the unparalleled moral teaching of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5, 6, 7) and the idea to fear God and to "Love thy neighbor as thyself" (Matt: 22:36-40), as well as the Golden rule (Matt: 7:12)? Where did the apostle Paul get the beautiful pslam on Christian love ( 1 Corinthians 13)?

It is impossible to account for the exalted qualities of this teaching on any other hypothesis than that the writers were under the special influence of God.

My friends, surly the Bible bears its own witness of its divine origin. Paul said: "The gospel which was preached by me.. is not after man" (Galatians: 1:11).

IS THE BIBLE FROM GOD OR MEN? (CONCLUSION)
I Will Be Discussing:
External Evidences: (Influence):
Indestructibility:
My Closing "Food For Thoughts:

********Stay Tuned My Friends**********


Jim