04/29/26 GOD IS IN CONTROL, HE IS NOT ALWAYS THE CAUSE
Yes. God is the sovereign ruler of everything.
No. God is not the author or creator of evil.
Yes. God gave man the ability to make personal, moral choices.
No. No one can create their own reality.
Yes. Everyone will give an account for their thoughts, words, and deeds and will face the Divine consequences.
Now, with that being said...
Some people mistakenly think that since God is omniscient and omnipotent, everything that happens is God's preferred will, no matter how terrible it may be.
Yes, the Bible teaches that God works all things together for good to those who love Him and are called to do His purpose.
This does not mean that everything is good or God's preferred will.
No sin, in any form, is good. Satan is not good. God has provided a plan that reconciles the repentant sinner to Himself. The person saved from his sins turns from sinning. God holds everyone accountable for their deeds, good or bad. Those who have Christ as Lord and Savior no longer live in sin. If they sin, they must confess and repent of their sin
When bad things happen, some people say, "God is in control." This is true, but it does not mean that God preferred evil to happen. God does have a plan for dealing with bad events and the people who are involved in them. Even when God deals with sin, He is loving and merciful. He provides forgiveness, cleansing, and newness of life to the repentant sinner. If the offender refuses to trust Christ, confess his sins, and repent, then God will judge, either immediately or eternally.
Some folks mistakenly think that since God is in charge, Christians should not be concerned with the lost condition of the world and the coming disasters that accompany the end times.
People say, "Jesus is still here," as if the presence and power of sin is automatically rescinded or nullified. God hates sin, God judges sin, but God does not deliver everyone from sin and its ravages. We in the USA have had such a good, free, enriched life that we take these blessings from God for granted. But sin has a cost, and rejecting God opens the door to horrific suffering.
It can be said that Jesus is still in China, in North Korea, in Iran, in Sudan, but that does not mean that there is not any evil, suffering, rebellion, sickness, or oppression. Yes, God can change the conditions of any place, people, or political setting, but there are Divine conditions that must be met. Just as unrepentant societies and governments in other places have fallen into great loss, so too will the USA suffer.
Remember, God draws people to Himself through great blessings, but He will use great suffering to drive the unrepentant to faith and submission.
Yes, Jesus is here. That is not the question. The question is, "Are we where Jesus wants us to be?"
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
04/28/26 IT IS NOT ALWAYS A GAME
04/28/26 IT IS NOT ALWAYS A GAME
"Tell Me Without Telling Me..."
(I am not talking about the game.)
I did not realize there is an actual game by this name until I started this post. The game is played with a variety of categories and subject cards.
Just a WARNING... It appears that some of the editions are rated for ADULTS, which is often a euphemism for "unfit material for Christians."
I have seen the phrase "tell me without telling me" many times on social media. For instance, if someone said, "The Red Wings won the World Cup by two touchdowns," another person would comment with, "Tell me without telling me you don't know anything about Sports."
As I observe our society, and especially folks who claim to be Christians, I have thought, "Tell me without telling me that you don't know the Bible," or "Tell me without telling me that you do not have a vision," or Tell me without telling me that you are not actually saved," or "Tell me without telling me that you are not filled with the purifying presence of the Holy Spirit, or "Tell me without telling me that you are still living in Laodicea," or "Tell me without telling me that you are more committed to your Political Party than you are to the Kingdom of God."
Well, this gives you an idea of what I am thinking.
Make certain that you are the real you that God wants you to be. Make certain that your inner man is conformed to the image of Jesus.
GOD'S SEARCHLIGHT
Psalms 139:23-24
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts;
24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
HIS TRANSFORMING LIGHT IN ME
2 Peter 1:2-11
2 Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord;
3 seeing that his divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that called us by his own glory and virtue;
4 whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.
5 Yea, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply virtue; and in your virtue knowledge;
6 and in your knowledge self-control; and in your self-control patience; and in your patience godliness;
7 and in your godliness brotherly kindness; and in your brotherly kindness love.
8 For if these things are yours and abound, they make you to be not idle nor unfruitful unto the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 For he that lacketh these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins.
10 Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:
11 for thus shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
"Tell Me Without Telling Me..."
(I am not talking about the game.)
I did not realize there is an actual game by this name until I started this post. The game is played with a variety of categories and subject cards.
Just a WARNING... It appears that some of the editions are rated for ADULTS, which is often a euphemism for "unfit material for Christians."
I have seen the phrase "tell me without telling me" many times on social media. For instance, if someone said, "The Red Wings won the World Cup by two touchdowns," another person would comment with, "Tell me without telling me you don't know anything about Sports."
As I observe our society, and especially folks who claim to be Christians, I have thought, "Tell me without telling me that you don't know the Bible," or "Tell me without telling me that you do not have a vision," or Tell me without telling me that you are not actually saved," or "Tell me without telling me that you are not filled with the purifying presence of the Holy Spirit, or "Tell me without telling me that you are still living in Laodicea," or "Tell me without telling me that you are more committed to your Political Party than you are to the Kingdom of God."
Well, this gives you an idea of what I am thinking.
Make certain that you are the real you that God wants you to be. Make certain that your inner man is conformed to the image of Jesus.
GOD'S SEARCHLIGHT
Psalms 139:23-24
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts;
24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
HIS TRANSFORMING LIGHT IN ME
2 Peter 1:2-11
2 Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord;
3 seeing that his divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that called us by his own glory and virtue;
4 whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.
5 Yea, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply virtue; and in your virtue knowledge;
6 and in your knowledge self-control; and in your self-control patience; and in your patience godliness;
7 and in your godliness brotherly kindness; and in your brotherly kindness love.
8 For if these things are yours and abound, they make you to be not idle nor unfruitful unto the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 For he that lacketh these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins.
10 Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:
11 for thus shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Monday, April 27, 2026
04/27/26 THERE ARE WATCHERS
04/27/26 THERE ARE WATCHERS
Don't be caught up in the lie concerning "THE WATCHERS" connected to the false doctrines of the Pseudepigraphal and erroneous teachings of 1 Enoch or other so-called "lost books of the Bible." The whole "LOST BOOKS OF THE BIBLE" theme is a demonic lie. There are no "uncanonical books of the Bible." If they are not canonical, then they are not books of the Bible. In fact, if they are not included in the sixty-six books of the Holy Bible, then they are not God's revealed word.
There are spiritual beings WATCHING and influencing our lives. Some of those WATCHERS are angels sent from God to minister to believers, and some of them are demons, sent from Satan to deceive and destroy. We should not focus on either the angels or the demons. Our focus should be on Jesus and His word. Then we will know if the "unseen" influences are of God.
There are other WATCHERS in our lives. There are WATCHERS on the internet, in the Government, on social media, political and foreign entities, academia, societal, mercantile, and medical, who are after our money, and more importantly, they are after our minds.
The attack from Satan has always been for the mind. Sometimes Satan uses the unseen spiritual powers, and sometimes Satan uses the hidden powers of the natural world. Today's and tomorrow's Machiavellian activity is more intrusive, more encompassing, more personal. We can't stop it, no matter how tech-savvy we may be. However, we can be aware and alert. We must be enlightened and empowered by God's Holy Spirit. This is true, regardless of the form of WATCHER we deal with. (BTW, it is acceptable to end in a preposition.)
This is just a short reminder concerning the spiritual warfare we are facing.
If I see that cyber watchers are undermining my post in the future, I will add my ALL-CAP WARNING.
Y'all be careful out there, it is a jungle.
Don't be caught up in the lie concerning "THE WATCHERS" connected to the false doctrines of the Pseudepigraphal and erroneous teachings of 1 Enoch or other so-called "lost books of the Bible." The whole "LOST BOOKS OF THE BIBLE" theme is a demonic lie. There are no "uncanonical books of the Bible." If they are not canonical, then they are not books of the Bible. In fact, if they are not included in the sixty-six books of the Holy Bible, then they are not God's revealed word.
There are spiritual beings WATCHING and influencing our lives. Some of those WATCHERS are angels sent from God to minister to believers, and some of them are demons, sent from Satan to deceive and destroy. We should not focus on either the angels or the demons. Our focus should be on Jesus and His word. Then we will know if the "unseen" influences are of God.
There are other WATCHERS in our lives. There are WATCHERS on the internet, in the Government, on social media, political and foreign entities, academia, societal, mercantile, and medical, who are after our money, and more importantly, they are after our minds.
The attack from Satan has always been for the mind. Sometimes Satan uses the unseen spiritual powers, and sometimes Satan uses the hidden powers of the natural world. Today's and tomorrow's Machiavellian activity is more intrusive, more encompassing, more personal. We can't stop it, no matter how tech-savvy we may be. However, we can be aware and alert. We must be enlightened and empowered by God's Holy Spirit. This is true, regardless of the form of WATCHER we deal with. (BTW, it is acceptable to end in a preposition.)
This is just a short reminder concerning the spiritual warfare we are facing.
If I see that cyber watchers are undermining my post in the future, I will add my ALL-CAP WARNING.
Y'all be careful out there, it is a jungle.
Sunday, April 26, 2026
04/26/26 NEPHILIM JEANS
04/26/26 NEPHILIM JEANS
DO NOT PAY ATTENTION TO THE FB OR AI OR META EXPLANATIONS CONCERNING THIS POST ABOUT NEPHILIM. THEY ARE FALSE WITNESSES.
I might start a blue Jean company called, "Nephilim."
My marketing phrase would be, "If You See Yourself As A Giant, You Need Nephilim Jeans," or "You Are Not A Giant If You Don't Have Nephilim Jeans."
Of course, this mocks today's cultic view of demigods. But more people are believing the 1 Enoch lies rather than actual Biblical revelation.
DO NOT PAY ATTENTION TO THE FB OR AI OR META EXPLANATIONS CONCERNING THIS POST ABOUT NEPHILIM. THEY ARE FALSE WITNESSES.
I might start a blue Jean company called, "Nephilim."
My marketing phrase would be, "If You See Yourself As A Giant, You Need Nephilim Jeans," or "You Are Not A Giant If You Don't Have Nephilim Jeans."
Of course, this mocks today's cultic view of demigods. But more people are believing the 1 Enoch lies rather than actual Biblical revelation.
Saturday, April 25, 2026
04/25/26 PUNISHMENT IS PERSONAL
04/25/26 PUNISHMENT IS PERSONAL
Suffering because of another person's sins is not the same as being punished because of another person's sin.
Our corrupted nature and impaired condition are because of Adam's sin, but our guilt is because of our own personal sin.
Regeneration, Justification, and Initial Sanctification (cleansing of our conscience, and cleansing our behavior [clean hands]) solve our personal sin problem, and Entire Sanctification, through the fullness of the Holy Spirit, often referred to as "the Baptism with the Holy Spirit", solves our corrupted nature problem (pure heart).
Psalms 24:3-5
3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
James 4:8
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded.
Jesus delivers the faithful believer from all sin, inherited sin nature, and personal disobedience to the known law of God.
Suffering because of another person's sins is not the same as being punished because of another person's sin.
Our corrupted nature and impaired condition are because of Adam's sin, but our guilt is because of our own personal sin.
Regeneration, Justification, and Initial Sanctification (cleansing of our conscience, and cleansing our behavior [clean hands]) solve our personal sin problem, and Entire Sanctification, through the fullness of the Holy Spirit, often referred to as "the Baptism with the Holy Spirit", solves our corrupted nature problem (pure heart).
Psalms 24:3-5
3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
James 4:8
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded.
Jesus delivers the faithful believer from all sin, inherited sin nature, and personal disobedience to the known law of God.
Friday, April 24, 2026
04/24/26 DON'T BE DUPED
04/24/26 DON'T BE DUPED
Don't be one of those misled today by the pagan's lie that claims angels or fallen angels had sexual relations with human women. All of that twisting of Scripture in Genesis, Peter, and Jude is based on demonic teaching from pagan sources in an erroneously called "lost book" of the Bible. The book is called "1 Enoch." There are no lost books of the Bible.
REMEMBER... Enoch lived about 3000 years before Christ, which is about 5000 years ago. The so-called book of 1 Enoch was actually a compilation of traditions and myths, which was compiled (at the earliest) 300 years before Christ, or 2300 years ago. IN OTHER WORDS, someone put Enoch's name on a document that was written 2700 years after Enoch's earthly life. Enoch did not die. Enoch was translated [carried away physically from the earth] before the Noahic flood.
Highly respected teachers have been promoting the 1 Enoch lie of warped Jewish traditions and pagan beliefs. In fact, it is hard to find popular Bible teachers today who don't subscribe to myths of ancient pagan religions.
It is better to view, to understand, and to explain Biblical truths based on Biblical revelation rather than on demon-designed lies that appeal to human, earthly wisdom.
There are no lost books of the Bible. There are no secrets or hidden truths. There is no ancient knowledge or wisdom other than the Holy Bible. There are no sacred books or divine revelations or missing scriptures. Only the sixty-six books of the Holy Bible, contained in the Old and New Testaments are actually the word of God, the revelation of God. Only the Holy Bible is Divinely Authentic, Genuine, and Inspired (these three words are not rhetorical.
Don't be one of those misled today by the pagan's lie that claims angels or fallen angels had sexual relations with human women. All of that twisting of Scripture in Genesis, Peter, and Jude is based on demonic teaching from pagan sources in an erroneously called "lost book" of the Bible. The book is called "1 Enoch." There are no lost books of the Bible.
REMEMBER... Enoch lived about 3000 years before Christ, which is about 5000 years ago. The so-called book of 1 Enoch was actually a compilation of traditions and myths, which was compiled (at the earliest) 300 years before Christ, or 2300 years ago. IN OTHER WORDS, someone put Enoch's name on a document that was written 2700 years after Enoch's earthly life. Enoch did not die. Enoch was translated [carried away physically from the earth] before the Noahic flood.
Highly respected teachers have been promoting the 1 Enoch lie of warped Jewish traditions and pagan beliefs. In fact, it is hard to find popular Bible teachers today who don't subscribe to myths of ancient pagan religions.
It is better to view, to understand, and to explain Biblical truths based on Biblical revelation rather than on demon-designed lies that appeal to human, earthly wisdom.
There are no lost books of the Bible. There are no secrets or hidden truths. There is no ancient knowledge or wisdom other than the Holy Bible. There are no sacred books or divine revelations or missing scriptures. Only the sixty-six books of the Holy Bible, contained in the Old and New Testaments are actually the word of God, the revelation of God. Only the Holy Bible is Divinely Authentic, Genuine, and Inspired (these three words are not rhetorical.
They have theologically technical definitions.
The further people move from the truth, the more entangled they get in Satan's web of deception. Foolish preaching and teaching have been mixing paganism with Divinely inspired revelation. This has led to Biblical ignorance and spiritual corruption. It is part of Satan's plan for end-times deception, and it is falling into place in today's gullible and Biblically ignorant society.
Any word, whether written or spoken, which adds to or takes from the message of the Holy Bible is a false record. This includes Apocryphal, Deuterocanonical, Pseudepigraphal documents, as well as any writings by religions (Roman Catholicism, Augustin, Islam, Mohammed) or religious movements or leaders (Reformed Theology, Replacement Theology, Calvinism, Word of Faith, New Apostolic Reformation), cults (LDS, JWs, SDA, British or Anglo Israelism, Bethel, Hillsong and a host of other counterfeits), or any movement that replaces Biblical truth as God's voice of justice, spiritual unity, moral excellence.
What the world does not need now is exactly what the world is getting. The world does not need "Christian voices" sounding out from Biblically vacant beliefs and proclaimers.
The further people move from the truth, the more entangled they get in Satan's web of deception. Foolish preaching and teaching have been mixing paganism with Divinely inspired revelation. This has led to Biblical ignorance and spiritual corruption. It is part of Satan's plan for end-times deception, and it is falling into place in today's gullible and Biblically ignorant society.
Any word, whether written or spoken, which adds to or takes from the message of the Holy Bible is a false record. This includes Apocryphal, Deuterocanonical, Pseudepigraphal documents, as well as any writings by religions (Roman Catholicism, Augustin, Islam, Mohammed) or religious movements or leaders (Reformed Theology, Replacement Theology, Calvinism, Word of Faith, New Apostolic Reformation), cults (LDS, JWs, SDA, British or Anglo Israelism, Bethel, Hillsong and a host of other counterfeits), or any movement that replaces Biblical truth as God's voice of justice, spiritual unity, moral excellence.
What the world does not need now is exactly what the world is getting. The world does not need "Christian voices" sounding out from Biblically vacant beliefs and proclaimers.
Thursday, April 23, 2026
04/23/26 OUR CHOICE
04/23/26 OUR CHOICE
Sinning is a damnable choice.
Faith that obeys is a saving choice.
Sinning is a damnable choice.
Faith that obeys is a saving choice.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
04/22/26 HIS GLORY, OUR GOOD
04/22/26 HIS GLORY, OUR GOOD
God's commands to us are for His glory and our good.
God's commands to us are for His glory and our good.
Monday, April 20, 2026
04/20/26 THE DOWNWARD SPIRIAL
04/20/26 THE DOWNWARD SPIRIAL
I am seeing more and more "Bible Teachers," "Bible Scholars" teaching more and more lies.
For instance, the idea that the "Sons of God" in Genesis 6 were either angels, or fallen angels, or some other group of "gods" has been a lie of the devil for a long time. However, this deception is becoming popular and widespread today. Along with other false teachings found in (so-called) "lost books of the Bible," this lie is now being taught by some of the leading and popular "teachers" who call themselves Christian.
Many of them rely on the works of Satan rather than the revealed, inerrant, infallible Holy Bible for their authority. They are ready to jump onto some strange doctrine and ignore and reject Biblical truth. They claim to throw light on the word of God by piecing together a patchwork theology of writings that are false in their assertions, false in their authenticity, false in their genuineness, false in their historicity, and false in their doctrine.
There are "teachers" who are held in high esteem by a large number of "Christian" people who readily admit that they interpret the Holy Bible as viewed by extra-Biblical writers and the teachings of mythology.
This is not a surprise. Whenever someone substitutes the word of man for the word of God, there is going to be confusion and deception.
As Christendom (cultural Christianity) replaced Biblical Christianity, truth was mixed with Secularism, Paganism, Humanism, Naturalism, Demonism, and Hedonism.
People prefer the sensational, the so-called "hidden truths," the "secret plan," and the "lost history" of the Bible. People are looking for the conspiratorial and the sensational rather than the truths that conform us to the image of Jesus; the truths that make us righteous, loving.
If it is a doctrine (a teaching) that does not set you free from sin or make you pure, even as He is pure, then you need to step back, examine your belief system, surrender your mind and life fully to Christ, and abandon the self-gratifying, mind-puffing corruptions you are being taught.
America (along with the rest of the Western world, has been moving away from God and His word for so long that the Western mind is more confused about God's word and salvation than the so-called backward countries of the world.
Modern Christianity gets all bent out of shape when they hear the word, RELIGION. Yes, RELIGION is,“
"Belief in a specific supreme being, and a form of worship and service to that supreme being.”
In this sense Christianity is a religion, since we have a belief in the God of the Bible and a systematic form of worshiping and serving Him. But we have more than just religion, we have salvation, which is offered in the Christian religion.
Yet, the problem with the modern Western world is that it has rejected Biblical truth for more convenient and self-gratifying religions. Therefore, I say,
"Give me that old-time religion."
Give me that salvation that delivers from all sin, that purifies the believer completely, that conforms the believer to the likeness of Christ, that fills the believer with perfect love and Divine truth.
I am seeing more and more "Bible Teachers," "Bible Scholars" teaching more and more lies.
For instance, the idea that the "Sons of God" in Genesis 6 were either angels, or fallen angels, or some other group of "gods" has been a lie of the devil for a long time. However, this deception is becoming popular and widespread today. Along with other false teachings found in (so-called) "lost books of the Bible," this lie is now being taught by some of the leading and popular "teachers" who call themselves Christian.
Many of them rely on the works of Satan rather than the revealed, inerrant, infallible Holy Bible for their authority. They are ready to jump onto some strange doctrine and ignore and reject Biblical truth. They claim to throw light on the word of God by piecing together a patchwork theology of writings that are false in their assertions, false in their authenticity, false in their genuineness, false in their historicity, and false in their doctrine.
There are "teachers" who are held in high esteem by a large number of "Christian" people who readily admit that they interpret the Holy Bible as viewed by extra-Biblical writers and the teachings of mythology.
This is not a surprise. Whenever someone substitutes the word of man for the word of God, there is going to be confusion and deception.
As Christendom (cultural Christianity) replaced Biblical Christianity, truth was mixed with Secularism, Paganism, Humanism, Naturalism, Demonism, and Hedonism.
People prefer the sensational, the so-called "hidden truths," the "secret plan," and the "lost history" of the Bible. People are looking for the conspiratorial and the sensational rather than the truths that conform us to the image of Jesus; the truths that make us righteous, loving.
If it is a doctrine (a teaching) that does not set you free from sin or make you pure, even as He is pure, then you need to step back, examine your belief system, surrender your mind and life fully to Christ, and abandon the self-gratifying, mind-puffing corruptions you are being taught.
America (along with the rest of the Western world, has been moving away from God and His word for so long that the Western mind is more confused about God's word and salvation than the so-called backward countries of the world.
Modern Christianity gets all bent out of shape when they hear the word, RELIGION. Yes, RELIGION is,“
"Belief in a specific supreme being, and a form of worship and service to that supreme being.”
In this sense Christianity is a religion, since we have a belief in the God of the Bible and a systematic form of worshiping and serving Him. But we have more than just religion, we have salvation, which is offered in the Christian religion.
Yet, the problem with the modern Western world is that it has rejected Biblical truth for more convenient and self-gratifying religions. Therefore, I say,
"Give me that old-time religion."
Give me that salvation that delivers from all sin, that purifies the believer completely, that conforms the believer to the likeness of Christ, that fills the believer with perfect love and Divine truth.
Friday, April 17, 2026
04/17/26 TWO WITNESSING STORIES, VERY SIMILAR
04/17/26 TWO WITNESSING STORIES, VERY SIMILAR
I witness to people in various ways. Usually I am quiet, personal, conciliatory, loving but firm, but on fewer occasions I have been very to the point, unflinching, speaking loudly to a group, but still speaking the truth in love.
As I was talking with Martha about evangelism this morning, she reminded me about the time, fifty years ago, she and I with our very young son David, stopped for lunch. There was a table with law enforcers sitting next to us. At some point, someone started using profanity in their conversation. I waited, hoping that their sense of decorum would cause them to self correct themselves, but it didn't.
In those days it was illegal for people to use profanity in public, and very seldom did I encounter law enforcement using it in public. WOW, sadly, those days of decency and family values are gone.
On this occasion, I spoke in my usual demeanor. I got up from our table, walked over to their table, and stood in the aisle facing the officers. I greeted them warmly and respectfully, and then I told them that they needed to watch their conversation, especially since they were law enforcement. I pointed out that it was vulgar and offensive, especially since women and children were present. I pointed out that I was sure they were not raised that way and that they would not want anyone talking that way around their children, and also pointed out that everyone needs Jesus in their lives to clean their hearts and their vocabulary. Then I thanked them. Before I was able to return to my table, at least one of the officers stood, spoke up, and apologized, and he thanked me for talking to them. He reached out and we shook hands. I told him that I appreciated his response.
Years earlier, I was at a little restaurant with some fellow students from my Bible college. While we were eating, another large group of guys came in and crowded together at a table. They were part of the local pro-hockey team in the area. As we were eating, they became very vocal and very obnoxious.
In those days I probably weighed less than 150 pounds, soaking wet. But I never let my hulking size and intimidating presence keep me from sharing the gospel (hehehe). I got up from my table, walked over to their table, and greeted them. I asked about their game that night, and they chimed in with a report. I then told them that I was a follower of Jesus Christ, and I knew that He wanted me to share with them. I told them that God was not pleased with them using His name as a curse, but that Jesus died for them, and whoever would open his heart to Christ, God would forgive them and would cleanse their hearts and wash out their mouths. I pointed out that I did not think that any of their mothers would be proud of them talking in such a way, especially in public. I thanked them for listening and told them that I hoped they would enjoy their meal.
I turned to go back to my table, half expecting to be turned into a human hockey puck. But no one reacted. They quieted down, and we were soon finished at our table. We got up, paid our bill, and walked outside.
As we were standing at the front of the restaurant, I saw one of the players get up, leave his table, and head in our direction. I thought, "Oh boy, here it comes." I would not have fought him, not because of fear or intimidation, but because Christians don't fight, and certainly not as part of their evangelistic effort. As a witness for Christ, I did not fear what man could do to me, but I sure did not want to get beaten up.
He came out of the restaurant and walked up to me. He thanked me for saying something to them, he apologized, indicated that he needed to hear what I had to say, and shook my hand.
I hope that all of those guys have thought about that time someone confronted them about their sin and shared the fact that God could and would change them if they would turn to Christ.
I witness to people in various ways. Usually I am quiet, personal, conciliatory, loving but firm, but on fewer occasions I have been very to the point, unflinching, speaking loudly to a group, but still speaking the truth in love.
As I was talking with Martha about evangelism this morning, she reminded me about the time, fifty years ago, she and I with our very young son David, stopped for lunch. There was a table with law enforcers sitting next to us. At some point, someone started using profanity in their conversation. I waited, hoping that their sense of decorum would cause them to self correct themselves, but it didn't.
In those days it was illegal for people to use profanity in public, and very seldom did I encounter law enforcement using it in public. WOW, sadly, those days of decency and family values are gone.
On this occasion, I spoke in my usual demeanor. I got up from our table, walked over to their table, and stood in the aisle facing the officers. I greeted them warmly and respectfully, and then I told them that they needed to watch their conversation, especially since they were law enforcement. I pointed out that it was vulgar and offensive, especially since women and children were present. I pointed out that I was sure they were not raised that way and that they would not want anyone talking that way around their children, and also pointed out that everyone needs Jesus in their lives to clean their hearts and their vocabulary. Then I thanked them. Before I was able to return to my table, at least one of the officers stood, spoke up, and apologized, and he thanked me for talking to them. He reached out and we shook hands. I told him that I appreciated his response.
Years earlier, I was at a little restaurant with some fellow students from my Bible college. While we were eating, another large group of guys came in and crowded together at a table. They were part of the local pro-hockey team in the area. As we were eating, they became very vocal and very obnoxious.
In those days I probably weighed less than 150 pounds, soaking wet. But I never let my hulking size and intimidating presence keep me from sharing the gospel (hehehe). I got up from my table, walked over to their table, and greeted them. I asked about their game that night, and they chimed in with a report. I then told them that I was a follower of Jesus Christ, and I knew that He wanted me to share with them. I told them that God was not pleased with them using His name as a curse, but that Jesus died for them, and whoever would open his heart to Christ, God would forgive them and would cleanse their hearts and wash out their mouths. I pointed out that I did not think that any of their mothers would be proud of them talking in such a way, especially in public. I thanked them for listening and told them that I hoped they would enjoy their meal.
I turned to go back to my table, half expecting to be turned into a human hockey puck. But no one reacted. They quieted down, and we were soon finished at our table. We got up, paid our bill, and walked outside.
As we were standing at the front of the restaurant, I saw one of the players get up, leave his table, and head in our direction. I thought, "Oh boy, here it comes." I would not have fought him, not because of fear or intimidation, but because Christians don't fight, and certainly not as part of their evangelistic effort. As a witness for Christ, I did not fear what man could do to me, but I sure did not want to get beaten up.
He came out of the restaurant and walked up to me. He thanked me for saying something to them, he apologized, indicated that he needed to hear what I had to say, and shook my hand.
I hope that all of those guys have thought about that time someone confronted them about their sin and shared the fact that God could and would change them if they would turn to Christ.
04/17/26 GOD NEEDS NO PROOFREADERS
04/17/26 GOD NEEDS NO PROOFREADERS
If God unilaterally and unconditionally elects individuals to salvation (WHICH HE DOES NOT DO), then God does not need anyone to proofread or inspect His work. Therefore, the Biblical directive to "make your calling and election sure," (which God says, will keep us from falling), is a directive to Christians to make our relationship with God certain, without question. There is no directive for us to "make certain" that God does what He promised, but there are directives concerning our response to God's provided salvation, such as believe, confess, repent, follow, and obey. These are choices God requires us to make. Those who follow God's directives are the people who are actually saved.
If you don't believe, then you are not saved; if you do not confess, you are not saved; if you do not repent, you are not saved; if you do not follow, you are not saved; if you do not obey, you are not saved. It is not a matter of "works salvation," it is the evidence of salvation that works.
God loves sinners. God does not want sinners to go to hell. God provided for sinners to be saved. God makes salvation available to anyone who will accept Christ as Lord of their life and believes that Christ died and rose again from the dead physically. God enables believers to walk in faith and victory. God calls the backslider to repentance and restores those who have failed of the grace of God.
God not only wants us to be forgiven, regenerated and converted, He wants us to be cleansed, made holy, filled with His Holy Spirit and conformed to the image of His Son.
God does the things that only God can do, that are necessary for our salvation. Then He enables whosoever believes to be saved to the uttermost.
So, check yourself according to His word, and with the enablement of the Holy Spirit, then walk in the light as He is in the light.
If God unilaterally and unconditionally elects individuals to salvation (WHICH HE DOES NOT DO), then God does not need anyone to proofread or inspect His work. Therefore, the Biblical directive to "make your calling and election sure," (which God says, will keep us from falling), is a directive to Christians to make our relationship with God certain, without question. There is no directive for us to "make certain" that God does what He promised, but there are directives concerning our response to God's provided salvation, such as believe, confess, repent, follow, and obey. These are choices God requires us to make. Those who follow God's directives are the people who are actually saved.
If you don't believe, then you are not saved; if you do not confess, you are not saved; if you do not repent, you are not saved; if you do not follow, you are not saved; if you do not obey, you are not saved. It is not a matter of "works salvation," it is the evidence of salvation that works.
God loves sinners. God does not want sinners to go to hell. God provided for sinners to be saved. God makes salvation available to anyone who will accept Christ as Lord of their life and believes that Christ died and rose again from the dead physically. God enables believers to walk in faith and victory. God calls the backslider to repentance and restores those who have failed of the grace of God.
God not only wants us to be forgiven, regenerated and converted, He wants us to be cleansed, made holy, filled with His Holy Spirit and conformed to the image of His Son.
God does the things that only God can do, that are necessary for our salvation. Then He enables whosoever believes to be saved to the uttermost.
So, check yourself according to His word, and with the enablement of the Holy Spirit, then walk in the light as He is in the light.
Thursday, April 16, 2026
04/16/26 PUSHING ONWARD
04/16/26 PUSHING ONWARD
A FEW of the things I would like to spend more time studying and doing in my ministry.
I have been pursuing and teaching these studies for sixty-one years, but there is so much to learn and do that it is an ongoing adventure.
Scripture and Biblical word study; Theology and Doctrine; Church History; Outreach (local, cross-cultural, and foreign).
Reaching and teaching more people; Ministry training; community outreach; home Bible studies; developing a local Hispanic ministry, and an online ministry for people in other parts of the world.
I have used a lot of fun and health activities for personal benefits and ministry opportunities, but I am finding these three to be profitable at this stage of my life.
Kayaking, fishing, and kayak fishing (individually, with friends and family) for relaxation, health, fellowship, and ministry.
I have several challenges that I want to do, though I am already in my 80th year (I am 79 years old). I have enjoyed my journey so-far, but I see so much more that needs to be done.
Like Caleb at the age of 85 (though much more vigorous than I), I am thinking, "Lord, give me this mountain (these hills)." I am eager to do more, including equipping others for the work that needs to be done.
Sometimes we get to the point where we are unable to do things we want. We can't help some situations in life, but we should at least live in such a way that we don't disqualify ourselves, and we should always seek and follow the vision that God has for us.
A FEW of the things I would like to spend more time studying and doing in my ministry.
I have been pursuing and teaching these studies for sixty-one years, but there is so much to learn and do that it is an ongoing adventure.
Scripture and Biblical word study; Theology and Doctrine; Church History; Outreach (local, cross-cultural, and foreign).
Reaching and teaching more people; Ministry training; community outreach; home Bible studies; developing a local Hispanic ministry, and an online ministry for people in other parts of the world.
I have used a lot of fun and health activities for personal benefits and ministry opportunities, but I am finding these three to be profitable at this stage of my life.
Kayaking, fishing, and kayak fishing (individually, with friends and family) for relaxation, health, fellowship, and ministry.
I have several challenges that I want to do, though I am already in my 80th year (I am 79 years old). I have enjoyed my journey so-far, but I see so much more that needs to be done.
Like Caleb at the age of 85 (though much more vigorous than I), I am thinking, "Lord, give me this mountain (these hills)." I am eager to do more, including equipping others for the work that needs to be done.
Sometimes we get to the point where we are unable to do things we want. We can't help some situations in life, but we should at least live in such a way that we don't disqualify ourselves, and we should always seek and follow the vision that God has for us.
04/16/26 ONE DIVINE AUTHORITY
04/16/26 ONE DIVINE AUTHORITY
No matter what your spiritual leader tells you, if you have an extra-Biblical source of Divine authority (teaching beyond, "alongside," or in addition to the Bible), then you do not believe the Bible. Whatever you are, you are not a Christian. You can choose to be something other than a Christian, but you cannot add to or take away from God's word and be a Christian at the same time. I don't say this because I hate you. Actually, I say this because I love you, regardless of your belief system.
Extra-Biblical belief is designed by the Prince of Darkness to lead you away from Jesus. Extra-Biblical authority only exists to deny, contradict, or replace the Bible, on the premise that the Bible is not accurate, is not complete, is not adequate. There is no need for extra-Biblical authority if the Bible is God's word. The proponents of extra-Biblical authority claim that the Bible is not accurate, or it is not genuine, or it is not complete. They offer a "new" revelation to correct or complete the Bible. Actually, it contradicts Divine revelation.
Well-meaning people (as well as intentional deceivers) accept other sources as the revealed and authoritative word of God, whether written or spoken. We see this in Islam (which claims that the Bible has been corrupted over time); the so-called "Christian Cults" (Latter Day Saints, Seventh Day Adventists, Jehovah's Witnesses, Christian Science, the New Apostolic Reformation Movement, Roman Catholicism); and a plethora of corrupted Christian groups which follow the teachings of men rather than the teaching of the Bible, such as Modernism (aka Liberalism), Calvinism, Prosperity Gospel, various forms of Pentecostalism and Reformed Theology and so-called "Holiness" groups. In other words, deception has entered into all forms of "Christianity."
Remember, extra-Biblical teaching will contradict God's word, which will rob you of truth, a right relationship with God, and eternal life. Being Biblical in today's mosaic of religious confusion is difficult, but it is necessary to know the truth and come out from those who are teaching alternative doctrines. We should not be surprised at the abounding chaos in the spiritual realm today. Remember, deception and lawlessness are the greatest signs of the end times. Truth is essential and we must find and follow only truth if we are going to be saved.
Perfect understanding of every Biblical passage is not expected but turning to another source as Divine authority is destructive.
Believe a lie, live a lie; live a lie, die a lie; die a lie and you go to the Lake of Fire, forever.
When a Christian, like me, says that misplaced faith, rejection of the Bible as the only inerrant, infallible revelation of God, it is not because we hate people. We are just calling people to be honest. If you are a Christian, you do not have an extra-Biblical source of Divine authority. You can be whatever you want to be and you can believe whatever you want to believe, but if you have extra-Biblical, Divine authority, then you are not a Christian.
No matter what your spiritual leader tells you, if you have an extra-Biblical source of Divine authority (teaching beyond, "alongside," or in addition to the Bible), then you do not believe the Bible. Whatever you are, you are not a Christian. You can choose to be something other than a Christian, but you cannot add to or take away from God's word and be a Christian at the same time. I don't say this because I hate you. Actually, I say this because I love you, regardless of your belief system.
Extra-Biblical belief is designed by the Prince of Darkness to lead you away from Jesus. Extra-Biblical authority only exists to deny, contradict, or replace the Bible, on the premise that the Bible is not accurate, is not complete, is not adequate. There is no need for extra-Biblical authority if the Bible is God's word. The proponents of extra-Biblical authority claim that the Bible is not accurate, or it is not genuine, or it is not complete. They offer a "new" revelation to correct or complete the Bible. Actually, it contradicts Divine revelation.
Well-meaning people (as well as intentional deceivers) accept other sources as the revealed and authoritative word of God, whether written or spoken. We see this in Islam (which claims that the Bible has been corrupted over time); the so-called "Christian Cults" (Latter Day Saints, Seventh Day Adventists, Jehovah's Witnesses, Christian Science, the New Apostolic Reformation Movement, Roman Catholicism); and a plethora of corrupted Christian groups which follow the teachings of men rather than the teaching of the Bible, such as Modernism (aka Liberalism), Calvinism, Prosperity Gospel, various forms of Pentecostalism and Reformed Theology and so-called "Holiness" groups. In other words, deception has entered into all forms of "Christianity."
Remember, extra-Biblical teaching will contradict God's word, which will rob you of truth, a right relationship with God, and eternal life. Being Biblical in today's mosaic of religious confusion is difficult, but it is necessary to know the truth and come out from those who are teaching alternative doctrines. We should not be surprised at the abounding chaos in the spiritual realm today. Remember, deception and lawlessness are the greatest signs of the end times. Truth is essential and we must find and follow only truth if we are going to be saved.
Perfect understanding of every Biblical passage is not expected but turning to another source as Divine authority is destructive.
Believe a lie, live a lie; live a lie, die a lie; die a lie and you go to the Lake of Fire, forever.
When a Christian, like me, says that misplaced faith, rejection of the Bible as the only inerrant, infallible revelation of God, it is not because we hate people. We are just calling people to be honest. If you are a Christian, you do not have an extra-Biblical source of Divine authority. You can be whatever you want to be and you can believe whatever you want to believe, but if you have extra-Biblical, Divine authority, then you are not a Christian.
04/15/26 THE FIELDS ARE READY
04/15/26 THE FIELDS ARE READY
HERE ARE SOME OF THE PLACES, AT WHICH I WITNESSED, WHILE A COLLEGE STUDENT IN THE 1960s (mostly uninvited, but always sent by God).
Of course, I continued to witness through the years, but I was doing at that time the very thing that is now making headlines. And no, not every Christian was this active in the sixties. The sixties were a lot like today; crazy Democrat Party, racial conflict, church bombings, political assassinations, anti-war demonstrations, college campus riots and shootings, religious and philosophical chaos (Eastern Religion, New Age surge, Modernism and Liberalism, vile and abominable Cult activities, Communist and KKK upheaval), drug culture out of control, open and legalized sexual industry.
There were times I expected to suffer physical assault for my witnessing (even from police officers on rare occasions). There were times I expected to go to jail for taking a vocal and brazen stand for Jesus, in a rapidly changing society from Christian culture to blatant Secular Humanism.
Bars.
Coffee Houses (on college campuses).
College Campuses (the malls and gardens).
Public Parks.
Public Transportation (city and regional buses).
Taxi Cabs.
Churches (testimony as God led me to share in open services).
On the streets (pedestrians, delivery people, city workers, tourists, Police, false prophets [Calvinism and Reformed], Prosperity Preachers, cultists [LDS, JW, SDA, RC, new agers, KKK, Anglo Israelism]).
Stores and Offices.
Laundromats, Barbershops.
Public Events (ball games, parades, demonstrations, rallies, conferences, gyms).
Jails, Prisons, Court House's.
Jobsites.
Restaurants and fast-food joints, convenient stores.
Church Gatherings (Bible Studies, Men's Meetings).
And many more.
There was plenty of rioting, demonstrating, protesting in those days. There was very little overt, aggressive proclamation in a society that had moved into a post-Christian mentality and an academic stance of anti-Bible and anti-Christian culture. Yes, it was a lot like today in many ways.
It was dangerous in those days to take a bold, unapologetic stand for Christ. Today it is even more dangerous because people are less principled than previously. It not only requires being bold as a lion but being as wise as a serpent and as harmless as a dove.
Where are the young warriors today? The Fascists have them, the Statists have them, the Socialist and Communists have them, the Woke society has them, the perverts and false religions have them, deception and lawlessness has them, the devil has them, the entertainment world has them, the amusement world has them, the mindless pursuits of the world have them, the empty promises of the world have them, the Public Schools of deception and destruction have them.
Every community should have an army of young men and women who are lovingly, wisely, bravely charging the Gates of Hell; proclaiming the Good News of Christ and His salvation; setting the prisoners of sin free; rescuing the perishing.
Churches should be growing in numbers of on-fire followers of Christ. We need to hear and heed the Great Commission of Christ. We need to let our light shine in the shadows and radiate in the midnight darkness of a godless society. We need to leave all and follow Jesus. We need to walk in the blood-stained steps of the Master.
HERE ARE SOME OF THE PLACES, AT WHICH I WITNESSED, WHILE A COLLEGE STUDENT IN THE 1960s (mostly uninvited, but always sent by God).
Of course, I continued to witness through the years, but I was doing at that time the very thing that is now making headlines. And no, not every Christian was this active in the sixties. The sixties were a lot like today; crazy Democrat Party, racial conflict, church bombings, political assassinations, anti-war demonstrations, college campus riots and shootings, religious and philosophical chaos (Eastern Religion, New Age surge, Modernism and Liberalism, vile and abominable Cult activities, Communist and KKK upheaval), drug culture out of control, open and legalized sexual industry.
There were times I expected to suffer physical assault for my witnessing (even from police officers on rare occasions). There were times I expected to go to jail for taking a vocal and brazen stand for Jesus, in a rapidly changing society from Christian culture to blatant Secular Humanism.
Bars.
Coffee Houses (on college campuses).
College Campuses (the malls and gardens).
Public Parks.
Public Transportation (city and regional buses).
Taxi Cabs.
Churches (testimony as God led me to share in open services).
On the streets (pedestrians, delivery people, city workers, tourists, Police, false prophets [Calvinism and Reformed], Prosperity Preachers, cultists [LDS, JW, SDA, RC, new agers, KKK, Anglo Israelism]).
Stores and Offices.
Laundromats, Barbershops.
Public Events (ball games, parades, demonstrations, rallies, conferences, gyms).
Jails, Prisons, Court House's.
Jobsites.
Restaurants and fast-food joints, convenient stores.
Church Gatherings (Bible Studies, Men's Meetings).
And many more.
There was plenty of rioting, demonstrating, protesting in those days. There was very little overt, aggressive proclamation in a society that had moved into a post-Christian mentality and an academic stance of anti-Bible and anti-Christian culture. Yes, it was a lot like today in many ways.
It was dangerous in those days to take a bold, unapologetic stand for Christ. Today it is even more dangerous because people are less principled than previously. It not only requires being bold as a lion but being as wise as a serpent and as harmless as a dove.
Where are the young warriors today? The Fascists have them, the Statists have them, the Socialist and Communists have them, the Woke society has them, the perverts and false religions have them, deception and lawlessness has them, the devil has them, the entertainment world has them, the amusement world has them, the mindless pursuits of the world have them, the empty promises of the world have them, the Public Schools of deception and destruction have them.
Every community should have an army of young men and women who are lovingly, wisely, bravely charging the Gates of Hell; proclaiming the Good News of Christ and His salvation; setting the prisoners of sin free; rescuing the perishing.
Churches should be growing in numbers of on-fire followers of Christ. We need to hear and heed the Great Commission of Christ. We need to let our light shine in the shadows and radiate in the midnight darkness of a godless society. We need to leave all and follow Jesus. We need to walk in the blood-stained steps of the Master.
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
04/15/26 PUT A SONG IN YOUR STEP
04/15/26 PUT A SONG IN YOUR STEP
While walking around Wally-World today, I thought of this song and pulled it up. What awesome words. This is not only a great song, it is a great Bible truth that God will sanctify us if we consecrate ourselves to Him. "DRAW NEAR TO GOD AND HE WILL DRAW NEAR TO YOU." God will, "Purify unto Himself a peculiar people (a special people, a distinctive people, a select people), zealous of good works." God will enable us to walk in His Spirit, to do good works, to walk in His light, and to walk in His way. God will sanctify the fully dedicated believer, body, soul and spirit in this present evil age. AT LEAST, THAT IS WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES. Enjoy the song.
By Frances Ridley Havergal.
1 Take my life and let it be
consecrated, Lord, to thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.
2 Take my hands and let them move
at the impulse of thy love.
Take my feet and let them be
swift and beautiful for thee,
swift and beautiful for thee.
3 Take my voice and let me sing
always, only, for my King.
Take my lips and let them be
filled with messages from thee,
filled with messages from thee.
4 Take my silver and my gold;
not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect and use
every power as thou shalt choose,
every power as thou shalt choose.
5 Take my will and make it thine;
it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart it is thine own;
it shall be thy royal throne,
it shall be thy royal throne.
6 Take my love; my Lord, I pour
at thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself, and I will be
ever, only, all for thee,
ever, only, all for thee.
Psalter Hymnal, (Gray)
By Frances Ridley Havergal.
1 Take my life and let it be
consecrated, Lord, to thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.
2 Take my hands and let them move
at the impulse of thy love.
Take my feet and let them be
swift and beautiful for thee,
swift and beautiful for thee.
3 Take my voice and let me sing
always, only, for my King.
Take my lips and let them be
filled with messages from thee,
filled with messages from thee.
4 Take my silver and my gold;
not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect and use
every power as thou shalt choose,
every power as thou shalt choose.
5 Take my will and make it thine;
it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart it is thine own;
it shall be thy royal throne,
it shall be thy royal throne.
6 Take my love; my Lord, I pour
at thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself, and I will be
ever, only, all for thee,
ever, only, all for thee.
Psalter Hymnal, (Gray)
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
04/14/26 BE A BLESSING, NOT A BURDEN
04/14/26 BE A BLESSING, NOT A BURDEN
The old illustration is that a young person asked a parent if a person in the church was part mule. The parent was surprised at such a question and said, "No, why do you ask?" The child said, because their face is so long."
Don't be a long-faced, sad, critical, whiny person and expect people to respect you as a Christian.
I heard someone say we should not be the kind of "Christian" that other Christians need to "apologize for" or "make excuses for."
As a child, I remember a relative whom I admired and loved greatly, but as I got older, I saw the snideness, arrogance, unkindness, and meanness that person had for other folks in our family. I was disappointed because I was a young person who wanted to admire my relative. I thought family was supposed to be loving, kind, and supportive. But as the years passed, that person became more obnoxious. Don't allow yourself to fall into such a trap. It is a very special blessing to be held in high esteem by a young person, especially if that young person is in your family. It is a terrible strike against a young person to be treated with disdain by the very people they admire.
The old illustration is that a young person asked a parent if a person in the church was part mule. The parent was surprised at such a question and said, "No, why do you ask?" The child said, because their face is so long."
Don't be a long-faced, sad, critical, whiny person and expect people to respect you as a Christian.
I heard someone say we should not be the kind of "Christian" that other Christians need to "apologize for" or "make excuses for."
As a child, I remember a relative whom I admired and loved greatly, but as I got older, I saw the snideness, arrogance, unkindness, and meanness that person had for other folks in our family. I was disappointed because I was a young person who wanted to admire my relative. I thought family was supposed to be loving, kind, and supportive. But as the years passed, that person became more obnoxious. Don't allow yourself to fall into such a trap. It is a very special blessing to be held in high esteem by a young person, especially if that young person is in your family. It is a terrible strike against a young person to be treated with disdain by the very people they admire.
04/14/26 GOD KNOWS OUR PAIN
04/14/26 GOD KNOWS OUR PAIN
This applies to new acquaintances, old friends, and family members.
My heart aches and breaks for the people who reject what I preach and teach, since I am offering them the unsearchable riches of God. The rebellious are satisfied to wallow in their own chaos and corruption. If I don't keep my mind on Jesus, then the disappointment I feel for them would drive me to despair. I must keep my eyes on Jesus, and I must realize that they are totally responsible for themselves. Regardless of how imperfectly and inadequately I present the truth, the Holy Spirit is actually dealing with them. Therefore, the rejection is not a personal affront to me, but rather to God.
It is bad enough when I see someone resist and reject God's deliverance and enablement when it is first offered to them, but it is more disturbing to watch them falter and fail time after time as they continue to harden their hearts and dull their hearing.
It is like watching a terrible car wreck happen in slow motion. It could have been avoided, but their present course is leading to an irreversible and deadly outcome.
I watch as people shut God out of their lives, as they grip tightly to the weights of wickedness that drag them to destruction. I warn folks of the rocky shoreline, the hidden shoals, the changing tides and winds, but they are headed for a shipwreck. It often starts with a mindless drifting, but it becomes a determined action and then a set course.
I call them, but they will not hear. I throw-out the lifeline, but they will not take hold. I sound the alarm and shine the light, but they sail into destruction.
I know I have friends who are pastors, spouses, parents, offspring, siblings, who experience what I am talking about. We all have loved ones who have heard the truth, and have walked in the truth for a while, but then they changed course. It is hard to watch tragedy unfold day by day.
But remember, another person's decision to go the wrong way is not your fault, even if you have failed in some way. And don't allow them to put the blame on you for their own actions. Everyone makes their own choices.
The sinner wants to deflect, even to the point of blaming God. It has been this way since Adam and Eve.
This applies to new acquaintances, old friends, and family members.
My heart aches and breaks for the people who reject what I preach and teach, since I am offering them the unsearchable riches of God. The rebellious are satisfied to wallow in their own chaos and corruption. If I don't keep my mind on Jesus, then the disappointment I feel for them would drive me to despair. I must keep my eyes on Jesus, and I must realize that they are totally responsible for themselves. Regardless of how imperfectly and inadequately I present the truth, the Holy Spirit is actually dealing with them. Therefore, the rejection is not a personal affront to me, but rather to God.
It is bad enough when I see someone resist and reject God's deliverance and enablement when it is first offered to them, but it is more disturbing to watch them falter and fail time after time as they continue to harden their hearts and dull their hearing.
It is like watching a terrible car wreck happen in slow motion. It could have been avoided, but their present course is leading to an irreversible and deadly outcome.
I watch as people shut God out of their lives, as they grip tightly to the weights of wickedness that drag them to destruction. I warn folks of the rocky shoreline, the hidden shoals, the changing tides and winds, but they are headed for a shipwreck. It often starts with a mindless drifting, but it becomes a determined action and then a set course.
I call them, but they will not hear. I throw-out the lifeline, but they will not take hold. I sound the alarm and shine the light, but they sail into destruction.
I know I have friends who are pastors, spouses, parents, offspring, siblings, who experience what I am talking about. We all have loved ones who have heard the truth, and have walked in the truth for a while, but then they changed course. It is hard to watch tragedy unfold day by day.
But remember, another person's decision to go the wrong way is not your fault, even if you have failed in some way. And don't allow them to put the blame on you for their own actions. Everyone makes their own choices.
The sinner wants to deflect, even to the point of blaming God. It has been this way since Adam and Eve.
04/14/26 SHARPENING OUR FOCUS
04/14/26 SHARPENING OUR FOCUS
Is there anything weird going on in the world?
YEP.
Is all of it important?
NOPE.
Is some of it important?
YEP.
Should I be aware of the weird and wicked things?
It depends.
Should I allow anything other than the revealed word of God to consume or control my attitude, my associations, my actions?
TRIPLE NOPE.
If it is not a Biblical or salvation issue, should the weird and wicked define my life, my relationships, my focus?
ANOTHER TRIPLE NOPE.
Are there negative and destructive realities in our world?
OH YEAH.
Should we be aware of the negative and destructive issues of life?
To some degree, yes.
The Bible gives us "do's and don'ts." We should hear and heed God's warnings and directives. However, we are not called to be doomsdayers (though we will warn people about some dangers in life). We are called to be way-showers (Jesus is the way). Anyone can decry the weird and wicked, but it takes light and love to lead people to deliverance. The old saying is, "It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness."
Regardless of the dangers, the negativity, the weirdness and wickedness of this darkened world, the main point is that God has the answer and we are His messengers of Good News.
Don't misrepresent what I am saying. We do need to, "cry aloud and spare not" concerning the snare of the devil, but we must not drape ourselves in "doom and gloom." We are messengers of light (conquering the darkness), ambassadors of reconciliation (discipling the nations), soldiers of the cross (rescuing the oppressed), we are the keepers of the keys (setting the prisoner free).
Never forget, the real enemy of our soul is Satan and sin is his watchword.
We are sent to set free the prisoner of sin.
We are sent to bring healing to the sin-sick soul.
We are sent to mend broken hearts, lives, and relationships.
We are sent to find the lost and lead them to the Master.
We are sent to enlighten those in spiritual darkness.
It is in knowing the truth that we shall be set free. Jesus is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE.
Light scatters darkness, Hope flushes out despair, Faith replaces doubt, Love conquers evil.
Is there anything weird going on in the world?
YEP.
Is all of it important?
NOPE.
Is some of it important?
YEP.
Should I be aware of the weird and wicked things?
It depends.
Should I allow anything other than the revealed word of God to consume or control my attitude, my associations, my actions?
TRIPLE NOPE.
If it is not a Biblical or salvation issue, should the weird and wicked define my life, my relationships, my focus?
ANOTHER TRIPLE NOPE.
Are there negative and destructive realities in our world?
OH YEAH.
Should we be aware of the negative and destructive issues of life?
To some degree, yes.
The Bible gives us "do's and don'ts." We should hear and heed God's warnings and directives. However, we are not called to be doomsdayers (though we will warn people about some dangers in life). We are called to be way-showers (Jesus is the way). Anyone can decry the weird and wicked, but it takes light and love to lead people to deliverance. The old saying is, "It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness."
Regardless of the dangers, the negativity, the weirdness and wickedness of this darkened world, the main point is that God has the answer and we are His messengers of Good News.
Don't misrepresent what I am saying. We do need to, "cry aloud and spare not" concerning the snare of the devil, but we must not drape ourselves in "doom and gloom." We are messengers of light (conquering the darkness), ambassadors of reconciliation (discipling the nations), soldiers of the cross (rescuing the oppressed), we are the keepers of the keys (setting the prisoner free).
Never forget, the real enemy of our soul is Satan and sin is his watchword.
We are sent to set free the prisoner of sin.
We are sent to bring healing to the sin-sick soul.
We are sent to mend broken hearts, lives, and relationships.
We are sent to find the lost and lead them to the Master.
We are sent to enlighten those in spiritual darkness.
It is in knowing the truth that we shall be set free. Jesus is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE.
Light scatters darkness, Hope flushes out despair, Faith replaces doubt, Love conquers evil.
04/14/26 SPECIFIC FREE WILL
04/14/26 SPECIFIC FREE WILL
God gave us free will to choose or reject Divine truth. Free will does not mean that we create our own reality. It means that we choose to live in a faith and submissive relationship with God or live according to another authority. A faithful, loving submission to God is the choice to live in eternal, loving, Divine presence. Rejection of Divine rule in our lives will bring eternal judgment, separation, and punishment.
God does not want us to be "lost." He wants us to be "saved" from sin, separation, and eternal suffering. God has provided a way of deliverance and reconciliation. Whoever it is, who will be lost for eternity will be lost because they have willfully sinned (rebelled) against God, and they have chosen to never submit to Him.
A lot of religions claim to be God's revealed plan to reconcile lost men with God. However, there is only one way, one truth, and one life of reconciliation. Living faith in the living Lord Jesus is God's provision for anyone who will believe on and receive Christ as Lord and Savior.
The Holy Bible (made up of sixty-six books) is God's complete and final revelation of His salvation plan. A person can choose to believe anything he wants to believe, but belief is only salvific if it is based on Divine revelation.
A person can believe in whatever religious system he chooses, but if it is not God's revealed truth (the Holy Bible) then it is not Christian.
Jesus said that He was the Way, the Truth and the Life, and no man comes to the Father, but through Himself (Jesus).
The teachings of men, intelligent men, informed men, sincere men, influential men do not supersede the authority of the Holy Bible, since the Author of the Holy Bible is the all-wise, all-knowing, all-powerful God of the universe. Those who seek to change the teachings of the Bible, or add to the teachings of the Bible, or take away from the teachings of the Bible are presenting another (a different, a counterfeit) Jesus, another Gospel and another Spirit (than the Holy Spirit).
The counterfeits began showing up during the days of Christ, multiplied after the birth of the Church on the Day of Pentecost, thrived after the Apostolic age (the years of the Apostles) and almost completely hid the teachings of the Bible from the days of the early Church until the Reformation. Even the Reformation was only a partial re-discovery of long abandoned truths.
The Church spread quickly, beginning in Jerusalem. Apostles and other believers took the message of salvation throughout the Mid-East, Asia Minor, Turkey, Arabia, the Balkans, Armenia, Greece, Rome, Egypt, Ethiopia, Europe (southern, eastern, northern, western), India, Nepal, Libya, Persia (Iran), Afghanistan, Russia and eventually to China. This is a partial list of the growth of the early Church.
With this growth, non-Christian influences sprang up and caused divisions and corruptions and false doctrines to spread.
The rejection of corrupted, of early Christian movements in Rome, Constantinople, Jerusalem, Alexandria, Ethiopia, Assyria, Europe (northern and western) were challenged by the Protestant Reformation. But this was only the beginning of a rediscovery of Biblical salvation and a return to New Testament Christianity.
Today there are a plethora of doctrinal attacks from ancient systems, reformed systems, errant beliefs in many denominations, cultic beliefs, and totally anti-Bible religious groups enslaving lost souls to false religion.
You can be a Catholic, an Eastern Orthodox, a follower of sinning religion, a slave of a legalistic group, enamored with man centered and miracle mongering "churches" or a follower of new age, modern cult pretenders to the faith.
If a person wants to be Catholic, Mormon, Watchtower, Seventh Day Adventists, New Apostolic Reformation, Prosperity (Name it Claim it), Reformationists (those who believe that God does not love everyone, that Christ did not die for everyone, that God does not save His people from sin and sinning in this present evil age, those who don't believe a person will not be cut off from God if he returns to sin after being saved), then they are free to do that. However, when you have another Jesus, another Gospel, another Spirit, another authority, then you are not a Bible-believing Christian.
I don't hate those who follow false doctrine. But you cannot take the name of the Lord God in vain, while following a false Christ, without facing the judgment of God.
The attack is ramping up these days, through the internet and public ministries of popular "Christian" speakers, music bands, and organizations.
Two of the main signs of the end times are deception and lawlessness abounding. You better find the right path and live in it faithfully.
If you have serious questions about a group or a person you are following, let me know. Maybe we can talk about it.
God gave us free will to choose or reject Divine truth. Free will does not mean that we create our own reality. It means that we choose to live in a faith and submissive relationship with God or live according to another authority. A faithful, loving submission to God is the choice to live in eternal, loving, Divine presence. Rejection of Divine rule in our lives will bring eternal judgment, separation, and punishment.
God does not want us to be "lost." He wants us to be "saved" from sin, separation, and eternal suffering. God has provided a way of deliverance and reconciliation. Whoever it is, who will be lost for eternity will be lost because they have willfully sinned (rebelled) against God, and they have chosen to never submit to Him.
A lot of religions claim to be God's revealed plan to reconcile lost men with God. However, there is only one way, one truth, and one life of reconciliation. Living faith in the living Lord Jesus is God's provision for anyone who will believe on and receive Christ as Lord and Savior.
The Holy Bible (made up of sixty-six books) is God's complete and final revelation of His salvation plan. A person can choose to believe anything he wants to believe, but belief is only salvific if it is based on Divine revelation.
A person can believe in whatever religious system he chooses, but if it is not God's revealed truth (the Holy Bible) then it is not Christian.
Jesus said that He was the Way, the Truth and the Life, and no man comes to the Father, but through Himself (Jesus).
The teachings of men, intelligent men, informed men, sincere men, influential men do not supersede the authority of the Holy Bible, since the Author of the Holy Bible is the all-wise, all-knowing, all-powerful God of the universe. Those who seek to change the teachings of the Bible, or add to the teachings of the Bible, or take away from the teachings of the Bible are presenting another (a different, a counterfeit) Jesus, another Gospel and another Spirit (than the Holy Spirit).
The counterfeits began showing up during the days of Christ, multiplied after the birth of the Church on the Day of Pentecost, thrived after the Apostolic age (the years of the Apostles) and almost completely hid the teachings of the Bible from the days of the early Church until the Reformation. Even the Reformation was only a partial re-discovery of long abandoned truths.
The Church spread quickly, beginning in Jerusalem. Apostles and other believers took the message of salvation throughout the Mid-East, Asia Minor, Turkey, Arabia, the Balkans, Armenia, Greece, Rome, Egypt, Ethiopia, Europe (southern, eastern, northern, western), India, Nepal, Libya, Persia (Iran), Afghanistan, Russia and eventually to China. This is a partial list of the growth of the early Church.
With this growth, non-Christian influences sprang up and caused divisions and corruptions and false doctrines to spread.
The rejection of corrupted, of early Christian movements in Rome, Constantinople, Jerusalem, Alexandria, Ethiopia, Assyria, Europe (northern and western) were challenged by the Protestant Reformation. But this was only the beginning of a rediscovery of Biblical salvation and a return to New Testament Christianity.
Today there are a plethora of doctrinal attacks from ancient systems, reformed systems, errant beliefs in many denominations, cultic beliefs, and totally anti-Bible religious groups enslaving lost souls to false religion.
You can be a Catholic, an Eastern Orthodox, a follower of sinning religion, a slave of a legalistic group, enamored with man centered and miracle mongering "churches" or a follower of new age, modern cult pretenders to the faith.
If a person wants to be Catholic, Mormon, Watchtower, Seventh Day Adventists, New Apostolic Reformation, Prosperity (Name it Claim it), Reformationists (those who believe that God does not love everyone, that Christ did not die for everyone, that God does not save His people from sin and sinning in this present evil age, those who don't believe a person will not be cut off from God if he returns to sin after being saved), then they are free to do that. However, when you have another Jesus, another Gospel, another Spirit, another authority, then you are not a Bible-believing Christian.
I don't hate those who follow false doctrine. But you cannot take the name of the Lord God in vain, while following a false Christ, without facing the judgment of God.
The attack is ramping up these days, through the internet and public ministries of popular "Christian" speakers, music bands, and organizations.
Two of the main signs of the end times are deception and lawlessness abounding. You better find the right path and live in it faithfully.
If you have serious questions about a group or a person you are following, let me know. Maybe we can talk about it.
Thursday, April 9, 2026
04/09/26 IT IS BEING AND DOING
04/09/26 IT IS BEING AND DOING
Our BE-ing AND Our DO-ing are both involved in God's TRANSFORMING and CONFORMING work of salvation.
All people are born with a "bent to sin." All have sinned. All need salvation.
Some people start life with a mixture of exceptional cultural, familial, moral, relational, educational, financial, physical, and/or spiritual advantages. Those people are often spared some of the horrors experienced by those on the other end of the spectrum. Still, those extremely blessed people need God's salvation through faith in Christ. They need their nature and behavior to be changed. Sadly, many of those people are satisfied with the blessings and never see or accept their need for the Blesser. Though they are not actually, "saved," they fit into the category of "Cultural Christians." Others plunge themselves into a life of chaos and despair, totally separated from the Christian image.
Some people start life in the most deprived and depraved of natural, moral, and spiritual conditions. Though they may realize their seemingly hopeless circumstances, they often cling to their spiritual degradation. They may climb out of their social pigsty, but they refuse to be lifted out of their spiritual cesspool.
So, we end up with two groups of people: the saved and the unsaved. Interestingly, some of those who are unsaved manifest a brighter, more positive, more appealing demeanor than some of those who claim to be in a right relationship with God. It could be that a person had a relationship with Christ, but they have failed to hold-on and, continue, abide, remain, grow, move forward with Christ, live by faith. Or it could be that the believer is young in the faith and is at an early stage of spiritual development, walking in what little enlightenment he has received.
We come out of darkness into light suddenly, but we move into greater light incrementally. We become a believer instantaneously through a crisis (sudden, transforming) experience, but we become more Christlike, more conformed to the image of Christ through growth in grace and walk in faith (progressively). The new believer's sins are washed away in a moment, and the faithful follower of Christ is cleansed from the Old Man (Carnal Mind, Double Mind, the Law of Sin and Death, the sinful nature,) in a moment (subsequent to conversion, the new birth), but our understanding and development is progressive. Purity is instantaneous, but maturity is progressive.
However, choosing to hold on to attitudes and actions which are unlike Christ leads to a separation from Christ. It may start as a slow, quiet drifting, but it will eventuate in an obvious and determined course away from God's leading and light.
If a Christian person refuses to move forward in Christ, refuses to seek God with his whole being, then he is presenting a false image of Christ and His salvation. This turns people away from the true Jesus, and it will result in the "drifter" openly rebelling against the rule (the Lordship) of Christ in his life. Continuing to turn from God leads to hardening of the heart and stiffening of the neck leads to suddenly being cut off, and that without remedy.
The transformation of our being, our nature, begins with the Divine work of regeneration and is eventually followed by the Divine work of being filled with the Holy Spirit (entire sanctification). Our being is changed by Divine action and our lives are changed by faithful obedience to God's indwelling and leading. Being and doing are part of the one life's cycle. The Divine life cycle is to be (become) what God wants us to be, and to do (behave) in the way God wants us to act. The result of a right relationship with God is that we obey God from a pure heart.
1 Timothy 1:5
5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
Our BE-ing AND Our DO-ing are both involved in God's TRANSFORMING and CONFORMING work of salvation.
All people are born with a "bent to sin." All have sinned. All need salvation.
Some people start life with a mixture of exceptional cultural, familial, moral, relational, educational, financial, physical, and/or spiritual advantages. Those people are often spared some of the horrors experienced by those on the other end of the spectrum. Still, those extremely blessed people need God's salvation through faith in Christ. They need their nature and behavior to be changed. Sadly, many of those people are satisfied with the blessings and never see or accept their need for the Blesser. Though they are not actually, "saved," they fit into the category of "Cultural Christians." Others plunge themselves into a life of chaos and despair, totally separated from the Christian image.
Some people start life in the most deprived and depraved of natural, moral, and spiritual conditions. Though they may realize their seemingly hopeless circumstances, they often cling to their spiritual degradation. They may climb out of their social pigsty, but they refuse to be lifted out of their spiritual cesspool.
So, we end up with two groups of people: the saved and the unsaved. Interestingly, some of those who are unsaved manifest a brighter, more positive, more appealing demeanor than some of those who claim to be in a right relationship with God. It could be that a person had a relationship with Christ, but they have failed to hold-on and, continue, abide, remain, grow, move forward with Christ, live by faith. Or it could be that the believer is young in the faith and is at an early stage of spiritual development, walking in what little enlightenment he has received.
We come out of darkness into light suddenly, but we move into greater light incrementally. We become a believer instantaneously through a crisis (sudden, transforming) experience, but we become more Christlike, more conformed to the image of Christ through growth in grace and walk in faith (progressively). The new believer's sins are washed away in a moment, and the faithful follower of Christ is cleansed from the Old Man (Carnal Mind, Double Mind, the Law of Sin and Death, the sinful nature,) in a moment (subsequent to conversion, the new birth), but our understanding and development is progressive. Purity is instantaneous, but maturity is progressive.
However, choosing to hold on to attitudes and actions which are unlike Christ leads to a separation from Christ. It may start as a slow, quiet drifting, but it will eventuate in an obvious and determined course away from God's leading and light.
If a Christian person refuses to move forward in Christ, refuses to seek God with his whole being, then he is presenting a false image of Christ and His salvation. This turns people away from the true Jesus, and it will result in the "drifter" openly rebelling against the rule (the Lordship) of Christ in his life. Continuing to turn from God leads to hardening of the heart and stiffening of the neck leads to suddenly being cut off, and that without remedy.
The transformation of our being, our nature, begins with the Divine work of regeneration and is eventually followed by the Divine work of being filled with the Holy Spirit (entire sanctification). Our being is changed by Divine action and our lives are changed by faithful obedience to God's indwelling and leading. Being and doing are part of the one life's cycle. The Divine life cycle is to be (become) what God wants us to be, and to do (behave) in the way God wants us to act. The result of a right relationship with God is that we obey God from a pure heart.
1 Timothy 1:5
5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
04/09/26 PAYING ATTENTION IN THE PULPIT
04/09/26 PAYING ATTENTION IN THE PULPIT
These three photos give you an idea of my view when I only have online services, sent from my living room.
I can see my front yard, the highway, and my neighbor's front yard. It is a pleasant view. I have a light source for evening and nighttime services. By the end of evening service, the outside view is a wall of darkness.
Most of the time, there is no traffic passing by my house. I am able to see birds and other wildlife as I am preaching and teaching. I use an online Scripture app that has a variety of Bible helps. This allows me to share with everyone the same information I have.
Last evening, while I was preaching/teaching, I saw something that looked out of place. I eventually saw it moving. It was a deer. Martha sits in the same room from which I do my online service. When I saw the deer move, I told Martha. Of course, everyone online heard me. I did not lose my train of thought, but I did realize how strange that would seem to folks (especially if they were not used to my online presence). This is not totally odd for me. During our in-person services, I take note of the comfort of my people (temperature, light shining in someone's eye, audio volume, the presence of a wasp or other critter). I am also alert to events outside of our building. I watch out for potentially dangerous people coming into the building. Going back to the 1970s, I have had my ushers aware of, and alert to the entrance of disruptive visitors with some response protocols in place.
This morning I remembered seeing the deer last night and laughed to myself. Though I am focused on God's message, I pay attention to my surroundings when I am having "in-person" meetings. I am not simply talking to people; I am communicating with them. I am God's messenger, delivering God's message to God's people. I am listening to Him, but I am also "listening to" (watching) my congregation. I am looking for their response, their attentiveness, their receptivity, their agreement, their disagreement, their confusion, their excitement. I am watching to see if I am making my message clear, or if I need to explain it a little more for someone. The background and understanding of my hearers determine the way I proclaim.
Biblical proclamation is a two-way street. Sometimes people are doing things during a meeting that are disruptive to other people in the congregation, either because they were deliberately shutting out the message or for some other reason. I have seen young people "cutting-up" (goofing-off), I have also seen adults being inconsiderate and disruptive. I deal with issues differently. Sometimes I just stop, remain silent, until the silence jars the offender back to reality and proper behavior. Sometimes I address the disturbance without drawing attention to the offender. Sometimes I make a more personal appeal or confrontation, but I try to save their dignity while changing their behavior. On some occasions (very rarely) I have had to deal directly and severely. I am not looking for issues. They just happen and I see them. I don't "ride herd" over my people, or expect perfect decorum all of the time, but I do expect proper respect and courtesy, because I am on a mission to deliver God's message.
Maybe some preachers don't care what the people do during the message, and I know some preachers relish the idea of "riding herd" over the congregation. NOT ME. I love my people and I understand we all have weaknesses. I just want to make sure everyone is given the opportunity to get the message that God is sending through me.
These three photos give you an idea of my view when I only have online services, sent from my living room.
I can see my front yard, the highway, and my neighbor's front yard. It is a pleasant view. I have a light source for evening and nighttime services. By the end of evening service, the outside view is a wall of darkness.
Most of the time, there is no traffic passing by my house. I am able to see birds and other wildlife as I am preaching and teaching. I use an online Scripture app that has a variety of Bible helps. This allows me to share with everyone the same information I have.
Last evening, while I was preaching/teaching, I saw something that looked out of place. I eventually saw it moving. It was a deer. Martha sits in the same room from which I do my online service. When I saw the deer move, I told Martha. Of course, everyone online heard me. I did not lose my train of thought, but I did realize how strange that would seem to folks (especially if they were not used to my online presence). This is not totally odd for me. During our in-person services, I take note of the comfort of my people (temperature, light shining in someone's eye, audio volume, the presence of a wasp or other critter). I am also alert to events outside of our building. I watch out for potentially dangerous people coming into the building. Going back to the 1970s, I have had my ushers aware of, and alert to the entrance of disruptive visitors with some response protocols in place.
This morning I remembered seeing the deer last night and laughed to myself. Though I am focused on God's message, I pay attention to my surroundings when I am having "in-person" meetings. I am not simply talking to people; I am communicating with them. I am God's messenger, delivering God's message to God's people. I am listening to Him, but I am also "listening to" (watching) my congregation. I am looking for their response, their attentiveness, their receptivity, their agreement, their disagreement, their confusion, their excitement. I am watching to see if I am making my message clear, or if I need to explain it a little more for someone. The background and understanding of my hearers determine the way I proclaim.
Biblical proclamation is a two-way street. Sometimes people are doing things during a meeting that are disruptive to other people in the congregation, either because they were deliberately shutting out the message or for some other reason. I have seen young people "cutting-up" (goofing-off), I have also seen adults being inconsiderate and disruptive. I deal with issues differently. Sometimes I just stop, remain silent, until the silence jars the offender back to reality and proper behavior. Sometimes I address the disturbance without drawing attention to the offender. Sometimes I make a more personal appeal or confrontation, but I try to save their dignity while changing their behavior. On some occasions (very rarely) I have had to deal directly and severely. I am not looking for issues. They just happen and I see them. I don't "ride herd" over my people, or expect perfect decorum all of the time, but I do expect proper respect and courtesy, because I am on a mission to deliver God's message.
Maybe some preachers don't care what the people do during the message, and I know some preachers relish the idea of "riding herd" over the congregation. NOT ME. I love my people and I understand we all have weaknesses. I just want to make sure everyone is given the opportunity to get the message that God is sending through me.
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
04/08/26 MISSING GOD'S LEADING IS DANGEROUS
04/08/26 MISSING GOD'S LEADING IS DANGEROUS
I realize that I often address Biblical truths of salvation that all Christians should know. However, I do this because there are so many basic truths that have been twisted or abandoned by churches and individuals who profess salvation, resulting in a Scriptural famine in the land.
The unsaved society formerly had a basic understanding of the Christian faith, but that is far from true today. In fact, many of the people who attend historically evangelically oriented churches today have very little understanding of basic Christian faith. A large number of pastors, teachers, and writers are spreading beliefs that are contrary to Biblical Christianity, and well-meaning people are being led away from God and His salvation.
I try to write basic Biblical truths in a simple-to-understand way. Maybe I will say something that helps you. Maybe I will say something in a way that helps you explain God's truth to someone else.
Do not take it for granted that a person, even a faithful church attender, knows or understands basic Christian truth.
As you share with other people, remember, as essential as it is to get the truth accurately, it is also true that the truth should not only enlighten the mind, but it should produce godliness (holy living).
We learn truth so that we might be delivered from darkness, sin, error. We share truth so that others will be set free from sin.
Jesus sends us out to make disciples, not simply win arguments.
Lack of truth produces error, confusion, division, death.
Where there is no vision, the people perish.
People are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
Because there is a famine of His word in the land, people die.
The blind grope in the darkness because someone is not shedding God's light.
People go astray because they have no shepherd.
Faith comes by hearing the word of God, and hearing the word of God comes from those who carry the word of God.
People are left alienated from God because they are not being sought, found and reconciled by God's ambassadors.
People are entangled and held captive by sin and Satan because no one is setting the prisoners free.
WE should not only lead people to conversion, we should also disciple them, and incorporate them into a local body.
WE have seen decades of decay and the loss of millions of souls because believers did not do what God called believers to do. Even if we see a great revival (which we may not see), then it is too late for those who were taken captive by Satan. Following in the steps of the majority of professing Christians and the actions of thousands of "churches" in America, from the past fifty years of spiritual rebellion and failure is leading to the final falling away that will usher in the Tribulation.
The unsaved society formerly had a basic understanding of the Christian faith, but that is far from true today. In fact, many of the people who attend historically evangelically oriented churches today have very little understanding of basic Christian faith. A large number of pastors, teachers, and writers are spreading beliefs that are contrary to Biblical Christianity, and well-meaning people are being led away from God and His salvation.
I try to write basic Biblical truths in a simple-to-understand way. Maybe I will say something that helps you. Maybe I will say something in a way that helps you explain God's truth to someone else.
Do not take it for granted that a person, even a faithful church attender, knows or understands basic Christian truth.
As you share with other people, remember, as essential as it is to get the truth accurately, it is also true that the truth should not only enlighten the mind, but it should produce godliness (holy living).
We learn truth so that we might be delivered from darkness, sin, error. We share truth so that others will be set free from sin.
Jesus sends us out to make disciples, not simply win arguments.
Lack of truth produces error, confusion, division, death.
Where there is no vision, the people perish.
People are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
Because there is a famine of His word in the land, people die.
The blind grope in the darkness because someone is not shedding God's light.
People go astray because they have no shepherd.
Faith comes by hearing the word of God, and hearing the word of God comes from those who carry the word of God.
People are left alienated from God because they are not being sought, found and reconciled by God's ambassadors.
People are entangled and held captive by sin and Satan because no one is setting the prisoners free.
WE should not only lead people to conversion, we should also disciple them, and incorporate them into a local body.
WE have seen decades of decay and the loss of millions of souls because believers did not do what God called believers to do. Even if we see a great revival (which we may not see), then it is too late for those who were taken captive by Satan. Following in the steps of the majority of professing Christians and the actions of thousands of "churches" in America, from the past fifty years of spiritual rebellion and failure is leading to the final falling away that will usher in the Tribulation.
Saturday, April 4, 2026
04/04/26 PRACTICAL PLANNING
04/04/26 PRACTICAL PLANNING
I had a great time kayaking with brother Wade and Timothy yesterday (Friday). We were out for a couple of hours or so. Kayaking anywhere is a special, happy place for me. It is refreshing, invigorating, relaxing, restorative, fun, inexpensive, exercising, quiet, exciting, private, social and fun. Then I can also add fishing to my kayaking, and wow, my happy place just took on another dimension. It is a good way to unwind and rewind.
If I were starting out as a young man and wanted a boat, here is what I would do.
I would get a good kayak. For me, that would be a fishing kayak, 12 feet long, sit-on-top, medium weight, comfortable seat, stable enough to stand on, with rod holders, dry cargo area, handles for easy carry. I would look for a used kayak in very good shape. It would be great to have one with pedals, and I would plan a small motor for those times I need help getting home more quickly.
With a kayak, it is easy to launch and pack up to go home. With a kayak, you do not have to spend money for gas. With a kayak, you can go into places that are inaccessible to motorized craft. With a kayak, you get a quiet ride (which is like getting free therapy). With a kayak, you get really good exercise. With a kayak, you are conditioning yourself for an active life as you get older. With kayaking, you will have a variety of adventures. With kayaking, you can get to fish in the shallows, in the marshes, in the canals, in the tight places. And did I mention, it is in the sound of silence.
Here are a few pictures I took on a recent "paddle."
I had a great time kayaking with brother Wade and Timothy yesterday (Friday). We were out for a couple of hours or so. Kayaking anywhere is a special, happy place for me. It is refreshing, invigorating, relaxing, restorative, fun, inexpensive, exercising, quiet, exciting, private, social and fun. Then I can also add fishing to my kayaking, and wow, my happy place just took on another dimension. It is a good way to unwind and rewind.
If I were starting out as a young man and wanted a boat, here is what I would do.
I would get a good kayak. For me, that would be a fishing kayak, 12 feet long, sit-on-top, medium weight, comfortable seat, stable enough to stand on, with rod holders, dry cargo area, handles for easy carry. I would look for a used kayak in very good shape. It would be great to have one with pedals, and I would plan a small motor for those times I need help getting home more quickly.
With a kayak, it is easy to launch and pack up to go home. With a kayak, you do not have to spend money for gas. With a kayak, you can go into places that are inaccessible to motorized craft. With a kayak, you get a quiet ride (which is like getting free therapy). With a kayak, you get really good exercise. With a kayak, you are conditioning yourself for an active life as you get older. With kayaking, you will have a variety of adventures. With kayaking, you can get to fish in the shallows, in the marshes, in the canals, in the tight places. And did I mention, it is in the sound of silence.
Here are a few pictures I took on a recent "paddle."
Thursday, April 2, 2026
04/02/26 79 TIMES AROUND...
04/02/26 79 TIMES AROUND...
79 times around the track and starting my 80th lap, but my adjusted goal now is 85 laps. If (or when) I reach the 84th lap, I hope to readjust my goal to 88 or 90 laps. God has a plan, but I want to be ready for what He has in mind.
The Christian life is referred to as walking, running, following, continuing, growing, and fighting. It is also waiting, resting, trusting, remaining, holding on, and standing. The Christian life includes BEING and DOING. Jesus set the standard; He went about doing good. Sadly, most folks just go about... The Biblical standard for SUCCESS is FAITHFULNESS.
God never leads us into a situation that will be greater than His grace. He never leaves or abandons or forsakes us. He has also promised to go with us to the end of the age, and to give us everything we need for life and godliness, and to make us more than conquerors, and to always lead us in triumph and lead us in the way we should go.
We may not know where He is leading or why He is leading in a certain direction or what trials we will face, but we know that God does all things well. We know that He provides grace abounding to His children; He gives joy unspeakable and full of glory; He gives peace that passes understanding: He gives love, love abounding, perfect love; He is the giver of every good and perfect gift; it is the Father's good pleasure to give us the kingdom.
We may fail of the grace of God, we may resist or reject His mercy, kindness, blessing, grace, but God is faithful, and Jesus never fails; heaven and earth will pass away, but Jesus never fails. He not only continues to love us when we fail, but He calls us to return to Him, and He will reconcile and restore us.
Sometimes I have faltered along the way, but Jesus was there, offering His grace, forgiveness, cleansing, renewal, strength, encouragement, and deliverance. And, NO, I don't focus on my failures. When I have fallen, He was there, providing restoration, hope and faith. He was there all the time. Then, by His grace, I was able to trust Him, and He lifted me out of my deep miry clay. By faith, my focus returned to Jesus. My failures were not my blessings, but His grace was always greater than my sin. Jesus told us to let others see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven; therefore, we turn our eyes upon Jesus, and we seek Him with our whole heart. Recognizing our sin does not mean we continue in our sin. We turn from darkness to light, death to life, from the dominion of the devil to the deliverance of the Lord.
Paul said some fitting words about his own response to the call of God in his life. We can learn from it.
2 Timothy 4:1-8 (vss, 7-8)
1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
LIVE AND DIE
Here are a few verses I found today that address the way we should view life and death.
Job 14:14
14 If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come.
Psalms 118:17
17 I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
Romans 8:12-14
12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
Romans 14:7-9
7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.
9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.
2 Corinthians 7:2-3
2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
3 I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.
Philippians 1:18-23
18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
20 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.
21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
79 times around the track and starting my 80th lap, but my adjusted goal now is 85 laps. If (or when) I reach the 84th lap, I hope to readjust my goal to 88 or 90 laps. God has a plan, but I want to be ready for what He has in mind.
The Christian life is referred to as walking, running, following, continuing, growing, and fighting. It is also waiting, resting, trusting, remaining, holding on, and standing. The Christian life includes BEING and DOING. Jesus set the standard; He went about doing good. Sadly, most folks just go about... The Biblical standard for SUCCESS is FAITHFULNESS.
God never leads us into a situation that will be greater than His grace. He never leaves or abandons or forsakes us. He has also promised to go with us to the end of the age, and to give us everything we need for life and godliness, and to make us more than conquerors, and to always lead us in triumph and lead us in the way we should go.
We may not know where He is leading or why He is leading in a certain direction or what trials we will face, but we know that God does all things well. We know that He provides grace abounding to His children; He gives joy unspeakable and full of glory; He gives peace that passes understanding: He gives love, love abounding, perfect love; He is the giver of every good and perfect gift; it is the Father's good pleasure to give us the kingdom.
We may fail of the grace of God, we may resist or reject His mercy, kindness, blessing, grace, but God is faithful, and Jesus never fails; heaven and earth will pass away, but Jesus never fails. He not only continues to love us when we fail, but He calls us to return to Him, and He will reconcile and restore us.
Sometimes I have faltered along the way, but Jesus was there, offering His grace, forgiveness, cleansing, renewal, strength, encouragement, and deliverance. And, NO, I don't focus on my failures. When I have fallen, He was there, providing restoration, hope and faith. He was there all the time. Then, by His grace, I was able to trust Him, and He lifted me out of my deep miry clay. By faith, my focus returned to Jesus. My failures were not my blessings, but His grace was always greater than my sin. Jesus told us to let others see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven; therefore, we turn our eyes upon Jesus, and we seek Him with our whole heart. Recognizing our sin does not mean we continue in our sin. We turn from darkness to light, death to life, from the dominion of the devil to the deliverance of the Lord.
Paul said some fitting words about his own response to the call of God in his life. We can learn from it.
2 Timothy 4:1-8 (vss, 7-8)
1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
LIVE AND DIE
Here are a few verses I found today that address the way we should view life and death.
Job 14:14
14 If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come.
Psalms 118:17
17 I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
Romans 8:12-14
12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
Romans 14:7-9
7 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.
9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.
2 Corinthians 7:2-3
2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
3 I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.
Philippians 1:18-23
18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
20 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.
21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
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