Worldview Matters

Is Blogging a Journal?

2011-10-25T15:31:00.001-04:00

Need to consider why I have this blog? I tend to use my Facebook page, but this would allow for a more thoughtful examination of what and how I BELIEVE!

God is good; still working on this sinner!

Love Scripture Citings - Who we should Mirror

2011-06-09T09:08:00.001-04:00

John Piper on Hero Worship: Here is one small contribution. In spite of all the legitimate warnings against hero worship, I want to risk waving a flag for holy emulation—which includes realistic admiration. Hero worship means admiring someone for unholy reasons and seeing all he does as admirable (whether it’s sin or not). Holy emulation, on the other hand, sees evidences of God’s grace, and admires them for Christ’s sake, and wants to learn from them and grow in them.

This theme is strong in the New Testament.

“Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).
“Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us” (Philippians 3:17).
“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:9).
“And you became imitators of us and of the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 1:6).
“[Do] not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:12).
“You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness” (2 Timothy 3:10).
“Continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it” (2 Timothy 3:14).
“Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity” (Titus 2:7).

Fulfilling Resolution?

2011-05-19T11:31:00.002-04:00

Restart - Jan thru May

Share More, Blog More (F)
Drink More Water (D)
Time with Family (B-)
Faithfulness (C-) - stirring by the Spirit to grow to a C

(LEGALIST ALERT, THIS MY SCALE and NOT THE COMMANDMENTS - NEED TO ASK GOD WHAT PARTS OF YOUR LIFE HE WANTS MORE OF)

May thru December:
-More time with Jesus, Wendy, Kids and Extended Family
-Thankful for all I need I have!
-Content with Vocation
-Foster/Adopt - His will be done!
-Celebrate: July 15 - 10 year rebirth day and October 27 - 10 years sober.

Ultimately -be content, humble, thankful and look more like the One that Saved me.

Mushy Middle

2011-05-19T11:18:00.002-04:00

Watched a video where Pastor Timothy Keller explains the mushy middle disappearing - more agnostics and more devout, fundamentalist believers. He claims we have much fewer middle of the road/Sunday proclaim followers of Jesus. The result is less publicaly stated Christians/evangelicals, but those that believe are serious about trying to walk as Jesus walked. Pastor Keller says this is a good thing.

I agree. One can be conservative, devoted to Jesus with grace and truth AND not be mad about it. Likewise, an agnostic has a right to follow Darwin and believe that truth is relative. (let's be honest though that both groups can not be right).

Some things are debatable, but not all. Calling a sin and evil or addressing vile thoughts in a call to repentance does not make one intolerant. It is love to serve others for the glory of God and bring them to Jesus (if you believe in TRUTH).

Build up and Tear Down

2011-05-12T11:22:00.000-04:00

Taking a little heat for my support of Jim Tressel. I do think he made some mistakes and as one in his position needs to right the wrong. Also, he has done a lot of good for real people (not many do a lick for others).

Why do we make idols and then tear them down? It is the hole in the heart always seeking to find something.

Find Jesus so the search ends and life begins (+++ we can forgive others)!

Compassion

2011-01-27T11:43:00.004-05:00

Never watch American Idol, but saw this clip and witnessed compassion seen in everday people (even Steven Tyler at the end of the clip):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elaXeN15isM&feature=player_embedded

Francis Chan on living eternally

2011-01-25T18:13:00.000-05:00

2011 Resolution

2011-01-01T14:01:00.001-05:00

To blog more; almost like a journal of the things I see and read from real smart people and from HIS WORD!

Testimony for Luke Russell (BC and AC = Before Christ and After Christ)

2010-10-28T09:35:00.001-04:00

TRUE NON-HOLLYWOOD STORY
bought and paid for by Jesus (Luke is along for the ride)

Before Christ: I honestly do not remember ever hearing the true news of Jesus the Messiah. I do remember thinking about the answers to life (why am I here, what is my purpose, and what is the meaning to life) which created a void (which I believe everyone has in their heart). I was the most self-centered person ever by the time I hit middle and high school. My parent are the GREATEST, perfect upbring, loved and knew it etc..., but sin looks out for self (pride); and man do I loving doing that. I really think all I thought about was ME; many could give testimony to this fact. Around the time I entered college, I thought I would find the answers to fill any void that existed. Not so! I decide a little more partying and playing could be more fulfilling - all the while leaving a path of destruction and hurt. After college I continually strived for a better job with more pay; -- Thinking this was the meaning to my life. Material possessions and my annual salary defined me. I would always use society as my measuring gauge and reassurance that I was a “success”. I was trying to be the best Father and Husband through my actions, but always very inconsistent - always struggling to find my stride. Deep down I knew I lacked an overall purpose or meaning in my life. I was gradually moving up the economic ladder; we were able to buy bigger and nicer THINGS; which were NOT providing true peace. I continued to search. I regularly felt the void and missing piece in my life that did not have any explanation.------------------ ++ Changed by Grace++ For the children’s sake, my wife started to drag me to church. She wanted our children to attend Sunday school and be brought up with Christian beliefs/morals. To say I was reluctant would be an understatement. At first, I thought that everything about Christianity and faith did not apply to me; I was not into the singing and did not understand why people brought black books with them. Through the sermons, I was introduced to the Gospel, and for the first time in my life I learned what it meant to be a Christian (not a religious person). I knew my thoughts and actions did not follow the ideas and the teachings of Jesus. My worldly pursuits and self-ambition were in opposition to the gospel message. I also recognized the real attitude, caring nature, and genuine fellowship exhibited by the Christians I met. I now know how blessed I was and am to learn from real Christians who witnessed to me through their words and actions. Several consuming thoughts began to invade my thoughts during this time. I started to be convicted over thoughts and actions that did not conform to Christian beliefs, and I recognized my actions and behaviors with non-Christians were not changing. But, I did feel a growing sense of purpose and understanding through biblical teaching, bible study and reading and prayer. My priorities and attitude started to change; and the internal void was being filled. These changes were unexplainable (at the time); exciting and intimidating. After skipping a worship service for no compelling reason; I felt the void return that had been disappearing. I felt a conviction in my soul like none ever before, and knew without a doubt that God was asking me to accept and follow what I know to be true, that Jesus died for my sins and he could fill that void. That Sunday (July 2001)evening while reading the Bible, I committed my life to Jesus Christ and turned to HIM and asked for my sins to be forgiven (1 Jn. 1:9). No huge sense of relief/fireworks; rather I understood that the old self-ambition and worldly pursuits were going to be replaced with Jesus through the Holy Spirit. ################ Now, I understand the internal joy of following Christ. From that Sunday on, I have been given by grace a growing purpose and commitment. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I want to mature in Christ. I also know God has a plan to help me grow in my faith. I now rely on the Lord’s guidance, and accept that he will provide what I need to get through this life. (Prov. 3:5-6) When I fall short, which happens very often, I go to the Lord through my relationship with Jesus. My priorities have value and meaning that transcends self-centered ambitions. During times of conflict, I feel a sense of calm and patience knowing my treasure is in eternal life with our Savior. The relationships in my life have flourished. The changes Christ has made in my life has reinforce my trust and faith in Him. I know Christ died on the cross for my sins, and all I needed to do is believe in and trust in him to give me direction. The Void has been Filled, and I realize the hole in my heart was a life without Christ. ************ I pray that you relate to my story. All you have to do is accept Jesus as Savior – He will give purpose and meaning to your life. In Jn. 1:12, John Says “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Please give me a shout out if you read this and are interested, or want share your story, or have ANY questions.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++PEACE W/ GOD: STEP 1: God's Purpose: Peace and Life God loves you and wants you to experience peace and life—abundant and eternal. The Bible says ... "We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." —Romans 5:1 (NIV) "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." —John 10:10 (NIV) Why don't most people have this peace and abundant life that God planned for us to have? STEP 2: The Problem: Our Separation God created us in His own image to have an abundant life. He did not make us as robots to automatically love and obey Him. God gave us a will and a freedom of choice. We chose to disobey God and go our own willful way. We still make this choice today. This results in separation from God The Bible says ... "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." —Romans 3:23 (NIV) "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." —Romans 6:23 (NIV) Our Attempts to Reach God People have tried in many ways to bridge this gap between themselves and God ... The Bible says ... "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear." —Isaiah 59:2 (NIV) No bridge reaches God ... except one. STEP 3: God's Bridge: The Cross Jesus Christ died on the Cross and rose from the grave. He paid the penalty for our sin and bridged the gap between God and people. The Bible says ... "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Jesus Christ." —1 Timothy 2:5 (NIV) "For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." —1 Peter 3:18 (NIV) "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." —Romans 5:8 (NIV) God has provided the only way. Each person must make a choice. STEP 4: Our Response: Receive Christ We must trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and receive Him by personal invitation. The Bible says ... "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." —Revelation 3:20 (NIV) "Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." —John 1:12 (NIV) "That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." —Romans 10:9 (NIV) Where are you? Will you receive Jesus Christ right now? ++++++++++++ Here is how you can receive Christ: 1. Admit your need (I am a sinner). 2. Be willing to turn from your sins (repent). 3. Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the Cross and rose from the grave. 4. Through prayer, invite Jesus Christ to come in and control your life through the Holy Spirit. (Receive Him as Lord and Savior.)

Even in the Worst Trials

2010-10-18T09:10:00.000-04:00

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Imitator of Jesus: Keith G.

2010-07-28T13:22:00.003-04:00

Are You a Good Christ?

2010-07-06T15:49:00.000-04:00

Best One Pager I have read in a LONG time!

http://www.catalystspace.com/content/read/francis_chan/

Defining What Faith Is - Simple:

2010-04-28T12:33:00.000-04:00

The Five Solas of the Reformation

A Brief Statement

Gregg Strawbridge, Ph.D.

This document was originally written for the 1993 Reformation Celebration at Audubon Drive Bible Church in Laurel, MS, as part of a worship service.

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Sola Scriptura: The Scripture Alone is the Standard

The doctrine that the Bible alone is the ultimate authority was the "Formal Principle" of the Reformation. In 1521 at the historic interrogation of Luther at the Diet of Worms, he declared his conscience to be captive to the Word of God saying, "Unless I am overcome with testimonies from Scripture or with evident reasons -- for I believe neither the Pope nor the Councils, since they have often erred and contradicted one another -- I am overcome by the Scripture texts which I have adduced, and my conscience is bound by God's Word." Similarly, the Belgic Confession stated, "We believe that [the] holy Scriptures fully contain the will of God, and that whatsoever man ought to believe unto salvation is sufficiently taught therein...Neither may we consider any writings of men, however holy these men may have been, of equal value with those divine Scriptures nor ought we to consider custom or the great multitude, or antiquity, or succession of times and persons, or councils, decrees or statutes, as of equal value with the truth of God... Therefore, we reject with all our hearts whatsoever does not agree with this infallible rule" (VII).

As the Scripture says,
Open my eyes, that I may behold Wonderful things from Thy law....I will bow down toward Thy holy temple, And give thanks to Thy name for Thy lovingkindness and Thy truth; For Thou hast magnified Thy word according to all Thy name....You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them; and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. (Psalm 119:18; Psalm 138:2; II Tim. 3:14-17)
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Soli Deo Gloria! For the Glory of God Alone

The Reformation reclaimed the Scriptural teaching of the sovereignty of God over every aspect of the believer's life. All of life is to be lived to the glory of God. As the Westminster Shorter Catechism asks, "What is the chief end of man? Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever." This great and all consuming purpose was emphasized by those in the 16th and 17th Centuries who sought to reform the church according to the Word of God. In contrast to the monastic division of life into sacred versus secular perpetuated by Roman Church, the reformers saw all of life to be lived under the Lordship of Christ. Every activity of the Christian is to be sanctified unto the glory of God.

As the Scripture says,
Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God; Whoever speaks, let him speak, as it were, the utterances of God; whoever serves, let him do so as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. To Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen. (1CO 10:31; 1PE 4:11; REV 1:6; 2PE 3:1; EPH 3:21; REV 7:12; ROM 11:36)
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Solo Christo! By Christ's Work Alone are We Saved

The Reformation called the church back to faith in Christ as the sole mediator between God and man. While the Roman church held that "there is a purgatory and that the souls there detained are helped by the intercessions of the faithful" and that "Saints are to be venerated and invoked;" "that their relics are to be venerated" -- the reformers taught that salvation was by Christ's work alone. As John Calvin said in the Institutes of the Christian Religion, "Christ stepped in, took the punishment upon himself and bore the judgment due to sinners. With his own blood he expiated the sins which made them enemies of God and thereby satisfied him...we look to Christ alone for divine favour and fatherly love!" Likewise the Heidelberg Catechism, Question 30 asks, "Do such then believe in Jesus the only Saviour who seek their salvation and happiness in saints, in themselves, or anywhere else? They do not; for though they boast of him in words yet in deeds they deny Jesus the only deliverer and Saviour: for one of these two things must be true that either Jesus is not a complete Saviour or that they who by a true faith receive this Saviour must find all things in him necessary to their salvation."

As the Scripture says,
There is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony borne at the proper time...For He delivered us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. And He is the image of the invisible God, the first-born of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities-- all things have been created by Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; so that He Himself might come to have first place in everything. (1TI 2:5-6; COL 1:13-18)

Sola Gratia: Salvation by Grace Alone

A central cry of the Reformation was salvation by grace. Though the Roman church taught that Mass is a "sacrifice [which] is truly propitiatory" and that by the Mass "God...grant[s] us grace and the gift of penitence, remits our faults and even our enormous sins" -- the reformers returned to the biblical doctrine of salvation by grace through faith. Our righteous standing before God is imputed to us by grace because of the work of Christ Jesus our Lord. In contrast to the doctrines of self-merit taught by Rome, sola gratia and the accompanying doctrines of grace -- total depravity, unconditional election, particular redemption, and perseverance of the saints -- were preached by all the reformers throughout the Protestant movement. As the Baptist Confession of 1689 says, "Christ, by his obedience and death, did fully discharge the debt of all those that are justified; and did, by the sacrifice of himself in the blood of his cross, undergoing in their stead the penalty due unto them, make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God's justice in their behalf;...their justification is only of free grace, that both the exact justice and rich grace of God might be glorified in the justification of sinners."

As the Scripture says,
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us. (Ephesians 1:3-8)

Sola Fide: Justification by Faith Alone

The "Material Principle" of the Reformation was justification by faith alone. As the Westminster Confession of Faith says, "Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness, is the alone instrument of justification: yet is it not alone in the person justified, but is ever accompanied with all other saving graces, and is no dead faith, but worketh by love." The Genevan Confession likewise pointed out the necessity of those justified living by faith saying, "We confess that the entrance which we have to the great treasures and riches of the goodness of God that is vouchsafed us is by faith; inasmuch as, in certain confidence and assurance of heart, we believe in the promises of the gospel, and receive Jesus Christ as he is offered to us by the Father and described to us by the Word of God (Genevan 11).

As the Scripture says,
Even so Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, "All the nations shall be blessed in you." So then those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer. For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who does not abide by all things written in the book of the law, to perform them." Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, "The righteous man shall live by faith." (Galatians 3:6-11)

The Video Posted Below

2010-04-21T14:58:00.002-04:00

I am a big fan of the ministry of Francis Chan. True to the Bible, he and his family will leave the mega church to go make more disciples. I admire their willingness to follow the Spirit and Scripture. THE QUESTION: Should this not be our normal response as disciples of Jesus.

Luke 9: 23 - 27 "And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.”

Trying to remember the last time I truly denied myself to follow Jesus??????

Denying Self For Real: Francis Chan's Wife Speaks -

2010-04-21T14:56:00.001-04:00

John Piper - If your pastor asked, would you stop talking about the doctrines of grace?

2010-03-09T13:43:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LltkcUT-w-0&feature=player_embedded#

I been linked - thanks Joe!

2010-03-08T08:43:00.000-05:00

My good friend, Joe Lookabaugh, has linked this blog on his site www.jesuscleansfeet.com -- this has inspired me to add 2 or 3 pieces each week on this site so that we disciples of Jesus do not allow Satan to own cyberspace!

So please bookmark me and Joe at www.jesuscleansfeet.com

In Christ and His Love, Luke

God wants to work through you

2010-01-21T08:56:00.001-05:00

God wants to work through you

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Men's Study Group

2010-01-19T12:55:00.001-05:00

Where: My House
When: Wednesdays at 6:35 pm.
What: Crazy Love by Francis Chan with some good Biblical cross references.
WHY: Grow and Become more like Christ (and not more like regular pew sitters)

How to Benefit from the Bible

2009-12-15T13:18:00.000-05:00

Very good and helpful article from a man that Loves to read God's Word!

http://blog.harvestbiblefellowship.org/?p=3458

The Gospel Old and New

2009-11-24T14:33:00.001-05:00

The Gospel Old and New

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Praising!!!!

2009-11-18T10:02:00.001-05:00

God is revealing to me my own limits; all the more reason to depend upon Him. I think the Bible calls this being humbled (not pleasant but rewarding).

Good Link

2009-10-26T11:00:00.001-04:00

http://devotionalchristian.com/

I am flesh (and so are you)

2009-10-21T17:31:00.002-04:00

Thought for the day: As God draws me closer, Satan gets worried and the flesh crys out to be feed so the battle rages on.

Yes, this fight against worldliness is dreadful. Followers of Christ experience the confrontation of sin the same as unbelievers -- we ain't no better. church is the hospital for sinners!!!

just FORGIVEN!

Hope in one idol?!?!

2009-10-16T12:42:00.003-04:00

Just read a blog that stated, "the evangelical community has made God's Word an idol." I plead guilt, "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." It is high time the affection of our heart, and and soul is Jesus -- as Lord And Savior.

Just finished....

2009-10-08T15:17:00.001-04:00

Christless Christianity. Awesome book with a message the American church needs to hear - "it ain't about me".

I think pastors that sense the flock is looking out only for self or to have their needs met through the local body should take a look at this book.

Call to Christian Brothers and Sisters

2009-09-18T14:53:00.002-04:00

Let's stay involved politically and bring our light to shine on the darkness (inside the DC beltway is darkness, no doubt);

BUT in doing so let speak the truth in LOVE! I want my theology and faith to match my walk (via the Holy Spirit). If you are called a racist or nazis for what you believe, please remember this is evil and darkness speaking. Never forget He wins (and so do we) in the end.

How to Read the Bible

2009-08-11T17:25:00.001-04:00

Very quick and concise read; may just change your perspective!

How to Read the Bible

Evotional.com

2009-07-16T15:40:00.001-04:00

Evotional.com

Shared via AddThis

Why Not Adopt!

2009-06-16T13:50:00.002-04:00

I want to be careful hear, I know we all have different gifts and talents to due ministry, missions and evangelism. So maybe I write to those seeking to serve or sense God's call to do what he has commanded. Let us deny ourselves and take in a kid - logisticallly it is not all that hard (in the public system it is almost absolutely free of cost and requires some training - foster to adopt). Those we know usually have kids placed with them quickly that need to be adopted.

In Ohio 1400 kids sit in foster care, all searching for a family. We need back up our opposition to abortion by having able body followers of Christ seek to see each of these orphans are cared for!

C.J. Manahaney wrote the forward to a new book getting all kinds of great reviews about adoption -
http://www.sovereigngraceministries.org/Blog/post/Adopted-for-Life.aspx

Mohler on Tiller

2009-06-01T15:14:00.001-04:00

Mohler: "A Wicked Deed in Wichita: A Test for the Pro-Life Movement"

Abortion is murder. What goes on in those clinics is institutionalized homicide, often for financial profit. Abortion is a moral scandal and a national tragedy and a blight upon the American conscience.
But violence in the name of protesting abortion is immoral, unjustified, and horribly harmful to the pro-life cause. Now, the premeditated murder of Dr. George Tiller in the foyer of his church is the headline scandal -- not the abortions he performed and the cause he represented.
We have no right to take the law into our own hands in an act of criminal violence. We are not given the right to take this power into our own hands, for God has granted this power to governing authorities. The horror of abortion cannot be rightly confronted, much less corrected, by means of violence and acts outside the law and lawful means of remedy. This is not merely a legal technicality -- it is a vital test of the morality of the pro-life movement.
The Christian church has been forced by historical necessity to think through these issues again and again. The church has reached a basic moral consensus on issues of violence and governmental obedience, and this consensus requires that Christian citizens work within legal, judicial, and political means to persuade governing authorities concerning what is good, right, just, and honoring to God. Those who operate outside of this consensus and perform acts of violence are rightly understood to abrogate authority to themselves in a way that violates not only the laws of men but the law of God. Civil disobedience may be justified so long as the Christian is willing to suffer at the hands of the governing authorities, but is not justified if the citizen employs violence against the state or against other citizens.
In the case of Dr. George Tiller, the governing authorities failed again and again to fulfill their responsibility to protect all citizens, including those yet unborn. The law is dishonoring to God in its disrespect for human life. The law failed to bring George Tiller to account for what should have been seen as crimes against humanity. But this failure does not authorize others to act in the place of the government, much less in the place of God. The government must now act to prosecute and punish the murderer of Dr. George Tiller.

The Book Review Even Makes Me Think/Discern!!

2009-05-28T13:48:00.000-04:00

http://evangelicaloutpost.com/archives/2009/05/christless_christianity.html

"The Gospel, by its very nature, is not something that you can do; rather it is something that has already been done. This confusion leads to bad preaching. Rather than preaching Christ and the Gospel, pastors try to mine a Biblical text for “practical” life principles that will help to improve your marriage, your finances, your relationship with your children, etc. As a result, many Evangelical churches today are not saying anything that you can’t hear from Dr. Phil, Dr. Laura, or Oprah (and most of the time, Dr. Laura says it better). All of this leads to what Horton calls a Christless Christianity. It is possible to walk into an Evangelical church on a Sunday morning and walk out without ever having heard the Gospel of Christ preached."

Being Born Again = Being a Follower of Christ (ie. Christian)

2009-05-21T15:41:00.001-04:00

Not being born again means I can say I am a Christian, but will Jesus say "I never knew you" or you don't know me.

The first 3 paragraphs nail it:

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,519517,00.html

God Hates Sin!

2009-05-18T12:54:00.000-04:00

Yes, we do have a total depravity problem:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBAjnvJJ-hY

The Heart of Our Faith

2009-05-18T08:55:00.001-04:00

“You cannot open the pages of the New testament without realizing that one of the things that makes it so ‘new’, in every way, is that here men and women call God ‘Father’. This conviction, that we can speak to the Maker of the universe in such intimate terms, lies at the heart of the Christian faith. Through Christ, says Paul, we have ‘access to the Father’ (Eph 2:18).”
- Sinclair Ferguson, Children of the Living God (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1989), xi.

If I could only read one blog, it would be -

2009-04-28T08:47:00.002-04:00

John Piper's http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/ He just gets it, all about the Sovereign God that is full of truth and grace.

Say I had a second blog to pick: http://theologica.blogspot.com/

Both of the writings highlight a relationship with our Creator (and not the crap religion and secularism using by the evil one to get us focused on ourselves).

My Testimony

2009-04-20T14:13:00.000-04:00

MY TRUE NON-HOLLYWOOD STORY: Before Christ: I honestly do not remember ever hearing the true news of Jesus the Messiah. I do remember thinking about the answers to life (why am I here, what is my purpose, and what is the meaning to life) which created a void (which I believe everyone has in their heart). I was the most self-centered person ever by the time I hit middle and high school. My parent are the GREATEST, perfect upbring, loved and knew it etc..., but sin looks out for self (pride); and man do I loving doing that. I really think all I thought about was ME; many could give testimony to this fact. Around the time I entered college, I thought I would find the answers to fill any void that existed. Not so! I decide a little more partying and playing could be more fulfilling - all the while leaving a path of destruction and hurt. After college I continually strived for a better job with more pay; -- Thinking this was the meaning to my life. Material possessions and my annual salary defined me. I would always use society as my measuring gauge and reassurance that I was a “success”. I was trying to be the best Father and Husband through my actions, but always very inconsistent - always struggling to find my stride. Deep down I knew I lacked an overall purpose or meaning in my life. I was gradually moving up the economic ladder; we were able to buy bigger and nicer THINGS; which were NOT providing true peace. I continued to search. I regularly felt the void and missing piece in my life that did not have any explanation.------------------ ++ Changed by Grace++ For the children’s sake, my wife started to drag me to church. She wanted our children to attend Sunday school and be brought up with Christian beliefs/morals. To say I was reluctant would be an understatement. At first, I thought that everything about Christianity and faith did not apply to me; I was not into the singing and did not understand why people brought black books with them. Through the sermons, I was introduced to the Gospel, and for the first time in my life I learned what it meant to be a Christian (not a religious person). I knew my thoughts and actions did not follow the ideas and the teachings of Jesus. My worldly pursuits and self-ambition were in opposition to the gospel message. I also recognized the real attitude, caring nature, and genuine fellowship exhibited by the Christians I met. I now know how blessed I was and am to learn from real Christians who witnessed to me through their words and actions. Several consuming thoughts began to invade my thoughts during this time. I started to be convicted over thoughts and actions that did not conform to Christian beliefs, and I recognized my actions and behaviors with non-Christians were not changing. But, I did feel a growing sense of purpose and understanding through biblical teaching, bible study and reading and prayer. My priorities and attitude started to change; and the internal void was being filled. These changes were unexplainable (at the time); exciting and intimidating. After skipping a worship service for no compelling reason; I felt the void return that had been disappearing. I felt a conviction in my soul like none ever before, and knew without a doubt that God was asking me to accept and follow what I know to be true, that Jesus died for my sins and he could fill that void. That Sunday (July 2001)evening while reading the Bible, I committed my life to Jesus Christ and turned to HIM and asked for my sins to be forgiven (1 Jn. 1:9). No huge sense of relief/fireworks; rather I understood that the old self-ambition and worldly pursuits were going to be replaced with Jesus through the Holy Spirit. ################ Now, I understand the internal joy of following Christ. From that Sunday on, I have been given by grace a growing purpose and commitment. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I want to mature in Christ. I also know God has a plan to help me grow in my faith. I now rely on the Lord’s guidance, and accept that he will provide what I need to get through this life. (Prov. 3:5-6) When I fall short, which happens very often, I go to the Lord through my relationship with Jesus. My priorities have value and meaning that transcends self-centered ambitions. During times of conflict, I feel a sense of calm and patience knowing my treasure is in eternal life with our Savior. The relationships in my life have flourished. The changes Christ has made in my life has reinforce my trust and faith in Him. I know Christ died on the cross for my sins, and all I needed to do is believe in and trust in him to give me direction. The Void has been Filled, and I realize the hole in my heart was a life without Christ. ************ I pray that you relate to my story. All you have to do is accept Jesus as Savior – He will give purpose and meaning to your life. In Jn. 1:12, John Says “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Please give me a shout out if you read this and are interested, or want share your story, or have ANY questions.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++PEACE W/ GOD: STEP 1: God's Purpose: Peace and Life God loves you and wants you to experience peace and life—abundant and eternal. The Bible says ... "We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." —Romans 5:1 (NIV) "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." —John 10:10 (NIV) Why don't most people have this peace and abundant life that God planned for us to have? STEP 2: The Problem: Our Separation God created us in His own image to have an abundant life. He did not make us as robots to automatically love and obey Him. God gave us a will and a freedom of choice. We chose to disobey God and go our own willful way. We still make this choice today. This results in separation from God The Bible says ... "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." —Romans 3:23 (NIV) "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." —Romans 6:23 (NIV) Our Attempts to Reach God People have tried in many ways to bridge this gap between themselves and God ... The Bible says ... "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear." —Isaiah 59:2 (NIV) No bridge reaches God ... except one. STEP 3: God's Bridge: The Cross Jesus Christ died on the Cross and rose from the grave. He paid the penalty for our sin and bridged the gap between God and people. The Bible says ... "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Jesus Christ." —1 Timothy 2:5 (NIV) "For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." —1 Peter 3:18 (NIV) "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." —Romans 5:8 (NIV) God has provided the only way. Each person must make a choice. STEP 4: Our Response: Receive Christ We must trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and receive Him by personal invitation. The Bible says ... "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." —Revelation 3:20 (NIV) "Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." —John 1:12 (NIV) "That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." —Romans 10:9 (NIV) Where are you? Will you receive Jesus Christ right now? ++++++++++++ Here is how you can receive Christ: 1. Admit your need (I am a sinner). 2. Be willing to turn from your sins (repent). 3. Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the Cross and rose from the grave. 4. Through prayer, invite Jesus Christ to come in and control your life through the Holy Spirit. (Receive Him as Lord and Savior.)

Reading is Good

2009-04-20T14:04:00.001-04:00

FROM Great Books: Bible Study & Theology
Mark Driscoll

Grace and I have personally benefited from the following books; they are easy to read and are among the best in their areas of instruction. We have recommended these books many times over the years and have purchased many copies for our friends.
Bibles and Bible Study
Children's BibleThe Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name (Zondervan, 2007) by Sally Lloyd-Jones
InerrancyGod Wrote a Book (Crossway, 2004) by James MacDonald
Bible StudyReading the Bible with Heart and Mind (NavPress, 1996) by Tremper Longman III
Theology
GodThe Knowledge of the Holy (HarperOne, 1978) by A. W. Tozer
TheologySystematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (Zondervan, 1995) by Wayne Grudem
Biblical TheologyAccording to Plan: The Unfolding Revelation of God in the Bible (InterVarsity Press, 2002) by Graeme Goldsworthy
Spiritual WarfareThree Crucial Questions about Spiritual Warfare (Baker, 1997) by Clinton E. Arnold
For those of you wanting to dig deeper and find books in particular areas of study, especially biblical study, you would benefit from bookmarking http://www.bestcommentaries.com/. For those looking to purchase a Bible, the ESV Study Bible is the new standard for study Bibles. Also great for personal reading and note-taking is the ESV Journaling Bible, patterned after the Moleskine.

Loving All of God's People - thought provoking video

2009-04-16T14:38:00.002-04:00

John 17:25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them."

During a recent edition of the "Speaking of Faith" radio program, Chuck Colson, Greg Boyd, and Shane Claiborne were asked to discuss evangelical attitudes towards and dealings with homosexuality - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkWk1ATYHno&feature=related

My King: heard this on the radio, great clip on Youtube

2009-04-10T10:28:00.000-04:00

That's My King! Do You Know Him?

The grave could not hold Him:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z15FlTONVo

Sermon Illustrating the Gospel - by Matt Chandler

2009-04-08T11:25:00.001-04:00

Video "The Rose", really makes us self-righteous church people think:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Y84IO9KyLY

Five Reasons You Need to Study Theology

2009-04-07T10:22:00.000-04:00

Great little read: http://cal.vini.st/2009/02/five-reasons-you-need-to-study-theology/

Truth Makes Grace Amazing (and grace reveals truth?)

2009-04-03T10:53:00.002-04:00

A pastor calls out a wolf. This is a really good piece by Pastor MacDonald on the view we are NOT to be in unity with those that deny the basics of the Bible (those claiming to be "Christian"). Let's be in the world to be the Bible that many will only read, but not of the world.

Grace is great when we understand and acknowledge the truth. Yes, us fallen people are messy - sometimes we do life in real non-Jesus ways, but that is no reason to throw away the Holiness of God (I think it make the Bible all that more relevant and true).

http://blog.harvestbiblefellowship.org/?p=1343

Can Americans Humble Themselves

2009-04-02T10:39:00.001-04:00

We have so much of what we want even in this down economic time:

http://www.sovereigngraceministries.org/Blog/post/Self-Sufficient.aspx

My church - all welcomed!!

2009-04-01T20:00:00.003-04:00

Our website:
http://www.scharlestonfirst.org/welcome.htm

Sermons are posted and a lot of the various ministries to check out.

Church????

2009-03-31T09:35:00.001-04:00

Why Do Church?

http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/1700_why_do_church/

The Reality of Satan - Debate on Nightline

2009-03-30T08:00:00.001-04:00

Does Satan Exist – The Debate on Nightline - http://www.abcnews.go.com/Nightline/FaceOff/

(Please note Pastor Driscoll laying out the gospel in the opening statement.)

Blogs That Make You Think (and my favorites)

2009-03-26T14:48:00.002-04:00

http://theresurgence.com/md_blog

http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/

http://blog.harvestbiblefellowship.org/

http://www.sovereigngraceministries.org/Blog/

http://online.worldmag.com/cat/worldmagblog/

http://www.ligonier.org/blog/?page_url=blog.php

http://theologica.blogspot.com/

http://www.joshharris.com/

http://www.albertmohler.com/blog.php

http://www.thegospelcoalition.org/aggregator/

And of course:
http://lukearussell.blogspot.com/

Basics from John Piper

2009-03-25T10:27:00.001-04:00

Never Let the Gospel Get Smaller By: John Piper

Great piece on keeping first things first, and sometimes the statement "Keep it Simple Stupid" does really apply.

http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/1687_never_let_the_gospel_get_smaller/

Here We Go!

2009-03-25T08:47:00.008-04:00

Trying to find an outlet that allows us non-religious, followers of Jesus share the many great writers and expositors in the blogosphere . I think my profile is adequate, but just a few things for the sake of the readers:

1. I believe the core fundamentals of the faith found in the Bible (yes our God is Sovereign over everything and calls us to repentance and saving faith in Christ alone). The Cross is Central to laying out the Gospel! Jesus was more than a good teacher, prophet, social worker or psychologist.
2. Worshiping in a local church is a real good idea (as is participating in a small group).
3. The first of everything should go to God (praise, energy, time, talents, resources, etc...).
4. Biblical Doctrine does not divide, grace is awesome and legalism is man's attempt to replace God (oh no!).
5. Man's chief end is to Glorify God, and to Enjoy Him forever.

I hope to comment then post links to interesting posts each day. I will start with one of my favorite visits each morning, John Piper's Desiring God:

http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/

This is a group to watch (real gifted teachers):

http://www.thegospelcoalition.org/

(NEXT POST PLAN TO SHARE MY STORY)