The Christian Message

Gambling - the old traditional, destructive (sinful) vice

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 02:38:00 +0000

Gambling - the old traditional, destructive (sinful) vice - No matter how it is masked, it remains the old traditional, destructive (sinful) vice

It is said about gambling that:

“A racehorse is an animal that can take several thousand people for a ride at the same time.”

“Every man has three secret wishes – to outsmart racehorses, women, and fish.”

“There are two times in a man’s life when he shouldn’t gamble when he can’t afford it and when he can.”

“No horse can go as fast as the money you bet on him.”
“No one has more faith than the person who plays a slot machine.”
“The worst evil of gambling is that the odds are always with the house.”
“The best throw of the dice is to throw them away.”
“Gambling is just plain stealing by mutual consent.”

“Gambling is like diving into an empty swimming pool. The chances that you’ll hit bottom are about the same.”

"Gambling is the child of avarice, the brother of iniquity, and the father of mischief.”

[“Quips and quotes” -- E.C. McKenzie]

Why gambling has always been considered a destructive (sinful) vice:

Gambling is often advertised as a “quick get rich” scheme to acquire large sums of money. The games of gambling appeal to the base [fallen] human nature of avarice, covetousness, greed and materialism. 1 Timothy 6:6-19 ; Luke 12:13-48

Gambling is fueled by chance, which results in odds against the participant – “Heads,” the gambling establishment wins; tails, the gambling establishment still, wins” -- 5% chance, (and / or, much less), the participant wins. What parachute jumping enthusiast would truly enjoy his sport, knowing that there is a 1 in 20 chance that his parachute will never open?

A gambling (realistic) scenario:

Given that “odds” are against the gambler, the gambler will attempt to “beat the odds” and continue his steady pace of gambling. [Gambling appeals to a person’s pride – to that “ultra ego” that will not refuse to give up or be beaten down] Hence, chances are very poor, for the individual, to come out a financial winner. Many gamblers don’t know when to quit. They often gamble with money that should be budgeted to pay family necessities, such as food, mortgage, rent, utilities, etc. Consequently there are forced upon families of gambling enthusiasts and addicts, humongus economic stresses.

Not only are there tremendous financial stresses put upon spouses and family members of gamblers, but there are financial stresses upon the gambler himself, to win the money back he lost and to "break even" or to come out “ahead.”

There are nagging emotional and guilt stresses for having lost money that should have gone to feed his family and pay for family necessities of food and shelter. Hence, with guilt over subjecting family income to a gambling addiction, plus (previous gambled, outstanding debt), gamblers have sadly, resorted to suicide. To them, this dead end “avenue,” is the only way out of the hole that they have dug for themselves. Once having rid themselves of the shame and debt of their losing gambling habit, the families of the deceased (suicide) gamblers are forced to start over. Society ends up “picking up the pieces,” doling out of the public tax rolls welfare aid to needy families.

The old gambling contention [rationalization]:

Gamblers and gambling establishments will be quick to point out that [to them] gambling is a very healthy option of “Entertainment.” They will readily (and falsely) say that an obsession with gambling, is only indicative of problem or compulsive gamblers. But now, suppose we would employ that same logic when it comes to teens, drinking adult beverages. Our present US society frowns on teenage “drinking,” and great lengths are sought to do everything possible to prevent young people from imbibing adult beverages. Why?

Statistics tell the grim story of teenage deaths and other deaths that are tied to teenage driving and drinking. However, regarding teenage gambling, and the human carnage that is the result, government and society look the other way. Rose colored eye glasses are the norm as legalized gambling is incorrectly perceived as a “win / win” situation as it [supposedly] stimulates the “economy.” Such is not the case when analysed by economists and social workers.

Why gambling appeals to the non-Christian and to the naive [nominal] Christian:

To the non-Christian and to the unsuspecting, uninformed, naive (nominal) Christian, money and possessions are perceived as having been acquired through [their] hard work and determination. To the materialistic person -- especially the person who believes in evolution [molecules to man], the aspect of Creator God’s undeserved Grace and Mercy is a non factor. James 1:17 ; Titus 3:3-5 ; Titus 2:11-14 ; John 1:12-16 ; Ephesians 2:4-9

But, to the serious Christian disciple, there is the recognition that “the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof.” [Psalm 24:1] The humble soul who looks to Creator God will readily recognize the import of that famous hymn lyric: “All depends on our possessing, God’s abundant grace and blessing.”

To Christ’s disciples, money and material wealth are a “trust” given by God who will some day enquire as to the “stewardship” with which he has endowed his creation. After all, was not the Creator’s first command, in the beginning, to “Be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth?” [Genesis 1:28] Understanding the Triune God's call to stewardship and financial responsibility, is what makes gambling such an abhorrent activity to the trusting soul who relies upon Creator God for his sustenance, provision and guidance. The Christian disciple believes that whatever he “has,” is a gift from his loving God, to be utilized for the highest good - and, responsibly as a good steward. Hence:

Christian discipleship regards gambling as sinful. It is:

Wasting resources of monetary and material wealth - Luke 15:11-32 – Note: Luke 15:13;14
Wasting time - Ephesians 5:15;16;17
Feeding the insatiable base sinful desire of the love of money to acquire wealth, without working for it - 1 Timothy 6:6-11 ; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12
Stealing from others (by coming away with another person’s wealth) – [Romans 13:8-10 ; Galatians 5:13-14] Note: Please read the following for a clearer understanding:

Gambling: A sin, or not?

Some Christian churches wrongly take the stance of only warning against gambling because it can lead to evil and that it [gambling] is not in, and of itself sinful. In taking this position, that would place gambling in the same category as card playing, dancing and drinking alcoholic beverages. Gambling is not in the same category. God has granted Christians the liberty to make use of things that are morally neutral. Gambling is not morally neutral.

The following letter to the editor appeared in a major denominational monthly paper:

Everyone who gambles hopes to win. To win, another player or players must lose. If my neighbor must lose for me to win, I am sinning against the law of love. The apostle Paul states that love does no harm to its neighbor. [Romans 13:10] Luther, in agreement with Paul, states that we are to help our neighbor protect his possessions and income and that we are not to seek to get our neighbor’s inheritance or house by a show of right. One who gambles is not helping his neighbor protect his possessions, but is scheming to get his inheritance (money) in a way that only appears right.

I commend the CTCR [Commission on Theology and Church Relations] for sounding a strong warning against the evils that gambling promotes. I also appreciate the fact that the CTCR does not wish to impose human laws that go beyond the Word of God. I would hope, however, that the CTCR would reconsider its document and not be so reluctant to call sin, sin.

[Bob Kass: “Letters to the Editor” (LCMS “Reporter,” April, 1996]

One thing that people don’t generally talk about on their deathbed:

One thing that I never experienced as a former denominational Christian parish pastor, were the sick and dying talking about money and possessions. I specifically remember this moment of an old gentleman who was excommunicated from the local church before I became the pastor. That did not matter to me as I would visit with him and his (church member) wife. This man was one of the wealthiest persons in the community. His life was cut shorter by an auto accident. I had the privilege of ministering to him on his deathbed and he very willingly partook of the Sacrament of the “Lord’s Supper.” Not once did he mention his wealth or make any type of reference to his worldly possessions. His faith grew to be that of a child’s. He graciously and eagerly hung onto my every word of comfort and assurance. This dear soul’s earthy money and possessions meant nothing to him in comparison with eternity to come.

“WWJD?” – What would Jesus do?

I’m sure that you’ve heard the modern day expression put in form of a question: “What would Jesus do?” Let me ask you – especially you who are not convinced about the sin and sinful nature of gambling. “Would Jesus Christ, himself, gamble - and, would He encourage any form of it?” I believe that we have every indication that He did not.

There is no mention of Christ gambling, in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. Rather, we have portrayed, an obedient Son of His Father doing His father’s will, on a mission to be born, live, suffer, die and to be risen again from the dead. No gamble here, but only destiny. No gamble here, but only purpose with the clear goal in Christ’s mind to finish the course and to complete the sinless mission to die for humanity’s sin. Why? To make it possible by His sacrifice so that sinful human beings such as you and I might experience the perfection of heaven and the sweet fellowship of our Creator Christ. Colossians 1:13-20

Finally: For you who are caught up in the sin and sinful nature of gambling - and, encouraging others to do so:

Sinner, friend, if you are caught up in the sin and sinful nature of gambling, and / or encouraging others to do so, - know for a reality that your soul, compared to the love and coveting of money is, priceless. [Matthew 16:24-27 ; Luke 12:13-56 ; Luke 16:19-31] Don’t allow gambling to be the trap to steer you away from your Creator God and / or to poison your fellowship and friendship with Him!

If you are caught up in the sin and sinful nature of gambling and its proliferation - and attempting to live your life without your Creator Christ [Colossians 1:13-20]– then, I pity you. I pity you because you will have squandered - “gambled” the opportunity of a lifetime and of an eternity. [Luke 16:19-31] You will have bartered your priceless soul for worthless human depravity and for the lust of money, of which will do you no good when you lie on your deathbed.

Whether you like to realize it or not, you are a sinner who needs Christ’s eternal forgiveness and love. If you reject Him and go your own way, He will not stand in the way of the free will that He has granted you. Luke 16:19-31

Sinner friend, as a Christian, and as a Christian pastor, I urge you to discover through earnest and humble search, what is, of priceless eternal worth. [Proverbs 1:1f ; Psalm 1:1f ; Luke 18:9-14] May you come to realize that the lust and lure of human monetary wealth is fleeting, and certainly, not worth your priceless soul! May you come to realize that only in the Lord, Creator Jesus Christ, will you find the truth – and not only the truth, but genuine peace and the eternal respite for your ongoing existence after death. May you, through repentance over personal sin, [Psalm 51:5; Luke 18:9-14 ; Luke 19:1-10] and faith in Christ, [John 3:14-21 ; Matthew 7:13-29] be granted life eternal, rather, than death eternal. Matthew 10:28 and Matthew 10:32-39

Amen.

Note: Please return to visit this topical message, as this pastor intends to post some help links for those who desire help from their gambling obsession.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:

The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

1 Kings 21:1f – The greedy and coveting sin of King Ahab – the evil consequences for his neighbor and the just punishment of Creator God upon King Ahab and his wicked wife

Luke 12:1f – Christ explains, what is truly important -- Note: Christ's parable in this chapter -- Luke 12: 13-21

1 Timothy 6:6-11 and 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12 -- Feeding the insatiable base sinful desire of the love of money to acquire wealth -- and, without working for it

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The "Words in Season" topical messages and related worship format are not intended to discourage or replace the Christian worship and assembly of Christians at their particular places of church worship. As this website's author, it is my prayer and hope, that many souls will find the topical messages, related worship format and other material, a useful and valuable Christian resource.

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Sinners Refuse to Acknowledge Their Personal Sin to Their Soul's Eternal Damnation

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 27 May 2012 05:24:00 +0000

Sinners Refuse to Acknowledge Their Personal Sin to Their Soul's Eternal Damnation - They are repelled to accept the pathetic and damning truth about their souls

Of all the amazing sayings of Christ as recorded in the Christian 4 Gospels, Christ made the following stunning statement to certain Jewish people who continually hounded Him during His 3 year ministry John 5:16;17;18:

"But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life." John 5:40

On another occasion, Christ said:

"And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God." John 3:19;20;21

During my undergraduate academic schooling years, I was accustomed to (erroneously) think, that people (by and large) were repelled from the Christian Message and Faith, because they were generally ignorant of the Christian Religion's unparalleled historical roots, oftentimes substantiated by other "Christian evidences," such as archaeology.

I would often think that a person could be convinced of the historical fact of Christ, by logical persuasion and intellectual argument. By achieving that process, I falsely believed that such and such a person, then, was well underway, doing the best thing for his precious soul, and thereby in the (final) process, would believe, and than would avoid the just punishment for personal sin, administered by a holy and just Creator God.

However, my reasoning was false. That foolhardy thinking does not match up with Christ's own words, as referenced above. Even though souls could and would come back from the dead to convince people of the realities of eternity and the horrors of hell, humans will not be persuaded to change their thinking and behavior and to put their faith in Christ. Christ's Parable of the Rich Man and Lazurus tells us so. Luke 16:19-31 - especially Luke 16:27;28;29;30;31

Even at death's door people will generally live their remaining moments as they have lived, all their life

Death bed conversions are few and far between. I'm convinced that they are as scarce as hen's teeth. That is one of the reasons why the Good Lord urges: "Seek the Lord while He may be found..." Isaiah 55:6-7

One of the worst civilian airline crashes in history took place on the Canary Islands in 1977 when two Boeing 747's collided. I remember hearing Dr. James D. Kennedy one Sunday. In his sermon message he related how many of the passengers reacted upon the fiery impact. He stated that many of them were heard to have spoken their last, in profusely, cursing fashion. Rather than making their "peace with God," their last earthly moments, some were cursing God - living their last gasping [for air] moments in the smoking inferno, the same way they had lived their lives.

The sad fact remains - people will clasp and grasp their personal sin until their life's end. By and large most people will not recognize the present and eternal reality of unforgiven sin in their lives. They will take that sin to their deaths and enter a godless eternity -- thinking that they do not qualify for a holy Creator God's just accounting. [Romans 3:23] Others, are just as without a clue, in that in this life, they deny their created existence and deny the very God that rules all.

Wise up Friend and smell the "Gospel coffee"

Sinner, friend, even if you have the worst impression of Christian people, the Christian religion and the Christian holy book, the Bible, you owe it to your priceless soul to read the words of Christ. Of all the books in the world - past and present, the New Testament Gospels are the most important.

Don't allow someone's opinion or interpretation to formulate your thinking about Jesus Christ; what he said and the purpose for which he lived, died and rose from the dead. Don't allow yourself to be sweet talked and snake charmed that you and your human ancestors evolved from some lower form of life. Don't allow anyone to belittle or demean your eternal and priceless soul.

Come to realize that you are a sinner, by God's standards - not your own. After all, His standards are the only that ultimately count. Even if your mind cannot fathom many realities, expose your sinful life to that of Christ's sinless existence. Read those Gospels and pay particular attention to the prophesied fulfillment of Christ's birth, life, death, burial and resurrection from the dead, (documented in human history). Regard your soul with kid gloves. Cry out to Christ that he be merciful to you, a sinner. Luke 18:9-14

May you also face the reality that your soul is not yours to save by repeating a prescription prayer formula. [John 1:12-13 ; John 3:1-21] Realize as the thief crucified by Christ, that you have nothing to offer, but your sorry soul and life. [Luke 23:39;40;41;42;43] Recognize as did the "Lost Son" [Luke 15:11-32] that you have "sinned against heaven" [Luke 15:17 -19] Come as a pauper to God and believe His gracious call to repent of your sins and believe. Acts 3:19 ; Acts 17:16-31 ; John 3:14-21

May God grant you the faith to trust Christ, [1 Peter 3:23] that you may have true life and that you may have life everlasting, sparing your soul from death everlasting John 3:16-17 ; John 11:25 ; Mark 8:35-37 ; Luke 16:19-31

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:

The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Psalm 1:1-6 - The way of the righteous and the way of the unrighteous

John 3:1-21 - Christ must illuminate the needy and sinful human soul. Most Bible translations render [the wording] that the sinful soul must be "born 'again.'" [John 3:1f] However, the more correct Greek rendering, is the phrase in John 3:3 -- being born "from above." ["ανωθεν" -- "from above; by analogy from the first; by implication anew: - from above, again, from the beginning (very first), the top" - Strong's C.] This correlates with John 1:12-13. Even though a sinner is commanded to repent and believe, that process initiates from the good and gracious action of a loving Triune God.

1 Peter 1:21;22;23 - The Lord's initiating action at work in the believing soul

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Occupy Until I Come – Christian Responsibility

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 20 May 2012 05:59:00 +0000

Please note: Luke 19:11-27 is copied at the end of this message

Sometimes I’ll relate to Christian hospice patients the parable of Christ about the master (nobleman) who went on a journey to acquire a kingdom. This parable is often referred to as the “Parable of the Minas.” [In the days of Christ, a mina was an exchange of money] But, before the nobleman left, he entrusted his three servants sums of money to be used for constructive and productive, trade. His parting words were: “Occupy until I come” [back]. I’ll tell Christian hospice patients that in spite of their condition, there are family members to visit and prayers for those family members, to be offered. I relate to these Christian dying patients, that they can utilize the remaining time the Lord gives them by being God’s faithful servants, “occupying” until the Lord summons their soul to His heavenly graces.

This parable of Christ about the nobleman, who went to another country to acquire a kingdom, is somewhat similar to another – the one about the talents. But, this parable of Christ introduces a fourth element, besides the 3 servants. The fourth element was those people who made it clear that they did not want the Master to rule over them.

Now, I don’t portend to interpret this parable of Christ and then say that I correctly interpreted it. The parables of Christ were earthly stories with heavenly meanings, which Christ utilized to teach the people of His day. These parables are now codified in Scripture for our learning and benefit. 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Sometimes Bible scholars and others, take a parable of Christ and attempt to analogize it down to the knat’s eyelash. They will see this and that comparison and then claim to tell others the exact meaning. I will not claim to be either a Biblical scholar or one who claims to have the last word on the meaning of Christ’s parables, and, also, this message’s highlighted parable of Christ.

However, - be that as it may, I believe that this parable refers to Christ’s disciples’ responsibilities here on earth with handling the divine revelation gift – God’s Word (the Bible), which He left to His people. Christ, after He lived that perfect life and suffered and died as God’s perfect sacrifice for human sin, then rose from the dead. He then ascended into heaven. But, before He left, He gave the promise of His Holy Spirit to be with His disciples to guide them into all the truth. John 14:1f ; John 16:1f. He also, gave His disciples and to His present day disciples, the commission to spread the Scripture Word – His Gospel (good news) to the world, in every age and century. Matthew 28:18-20.

It is this parable of Christ, which gives us present day Christians a clear vision of what the Lord expects of us. It is clear for those who have ears to hear and spiritual vision, to see. Luke 19:11-27

How Christians and [so-called] “Christians” bungle the Holy Scripture Revelation

The primary manner, in which Christians are disobedient to God’s revelation Scriptures as the one servant in Christ’s parable was remiss with his monetary portion, is that Christians fail to genuinely understand their place in “God’s economy.” Christians fail to act accordingly, as members of God’s kingdom. Jesus stated to Pontius Pilate that His “kingdom was not of this world.” [John 18:37] And so, Christians today, fail to understand the great expanse of God’s spiritual kingdom. They live and move in their church buildings as if that were their proper and only place. They fail to understand that they were called to be God’s royal priests in a sinful and dying world. They fail to integrate themselves into the culture to be spotlights of Christian witness in their employment and in social gatherings.

Now, please don’t misunderstand me. I am not saying it is wrong, nor improper to attend church worship services and to participate in some way in “church life.” But, as with anything, some Christians have gone hog wild and invest all their time between two activities, - employment and time at church with all its many and seemingly endless preoccupations (meetings, volunteer activities, etc).

I’ve said it before and I might as well say it again, - many Christian church people know how to be sociable, but they don’t relate in a very friendly fashion. New church members are often treated like second class citizens. Sometimes, they are ignored, altogether. In order for some of these new church members to be fully recognized, they would have to wait 30 years to finally be appreciated, loved and accepted as equal members of Christ’s church going people. Sadly, too many Christian churches are rife with their pecking orders and their own totem polls of self importance. Hence these Christian churches have little effect upon the very communities and culture, in which they exist.

Please note: The Priesthood of All Believers and why Christian churches end up, stooping to gimmickry - www.thechristianmessage.org/

How are Christians to occupy themselves until they die, or, until the Lord returns?

There are three Scriptures with which I like to refer. They are as follows. They (at least to me) best exemplify how Christians are to “occupy, “ – how they are to live responsible lives as caretakers of God’s blessings to them:

(1) Faithful Christians are to feed their faith with God’s Word

14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:14-17

(2) Faithful Christians are to spread God’s Word, in keeping, with Christ’s Great Commission charge:

18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:18-20

3) Faithful Christians are to defend the Christian Faith

3 Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. 4 For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude1:3;4

Think of a three legged chair. Without one of the legs, the chair is virtually useless. Also, Christians, who only read and study their Bibles but don’t disseminate God’s Word and defend it, become like cesspools of stagnant water. Christians who only defend God’s Word, without feeding their faith on it and spreading the good news of Christ, become useless. Often these Christians are involved with only debating and discussing Christian doctrine (teaching). That endless parade of exchanged personal commentaries about various Biblical teachings becomes unproductive and doesn’t carry out Christ’s Great Commission Call to a world of dying priceless souls. Wrangling about Scriptures, certainly doesn’t give time and opportunity for Christians to defend and contend for the Christian Faith in their communities out in the decadent culture.

You non-Christian – You are also represented in this parable which Christ, related

Here’s the end of the parable which relates the verdict and judgment of those who did not want the Master nobleman to rule over them:

But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’” Luke 19:27

You non-Christian – You unbeliever – your very unbelief and disloyalty to your Creator God will spell your perdition doom. [Mark 16:16 ; 2 Thessalonians 1:6;7;8;9] Your unbelief in Christ the Savior will lead you to a forever hell, because you will have rejected the One who died for all your sins. Only through faith in Christ, will you be set free from your arrogant and stubborn unbelief.

You may try as you may to reason and say that, such is unfair and unjust. But, as much as you object and make yourself the object of your own reasoning, you will further dig your way to perdition. You must have God’s cleansing for your sins against His holiness, His commandments and your sins of commission and omission which you have committed against yourself and your fellowman. Without the forgiveness of sins for all your transgressions against God, His commandments and your sins against yourself and your fellowman, there is no eternal life for you, - only eternal death. You must come to faith in the Savior who was God’s perfect sacrifice for your sins. Without faith in Christ, your soul will not enjoy heaven’s glories but be ravaged by the torments of hell. Luke 16:19-31

Sinner friend, I cannot whip up a prescriptive “sinner’s prayer” for you as a chef readily whips up some scrabbled eggs. In fact there is no step by step prescriptive plan for you to walk from your wide road of unbelief into the narrow path of belief in Christ, your Creator, Savior and Lord. You can’t even pray, because you have no faith.

However, I can tell you how you can attain faith. I can direct you that way, although I cannot guarantee that you will come to faith, - as I am not (of course) God’s Holy Spirit. But, I will tell you this – “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.” [Romans 10:17] Other Scriptures that you can look up, for you to recognize your need to expose yourself to the Scriptures, are, as follows:

Hebrews 4:12;13 ; Romans 1:16 ; Luke 16:19-31 ; Colossians 1:4;5;6 ; James 1:18;19;20;21 ; 1 Peter 1:23;24;25

May God grant you His grace (undeserved mercy and kindness) as you avail yourself of His life giving Words. May you, by those Scriptures and others, come to the point where you finally believe in Christ your Savior.

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:

The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

The Parable of the Minas

11 Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately. 12 Therefore He said: “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’ 14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’

15 “And so it was that when he returned, having received the kingdom, he then commanded these servants, to whom he had given the money, to be called to him, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. 16 Then came the first, saying, ‘Master, your mina has earned ten minas.’ 17 And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.’ 18 And the second came, saying, ‘Master, your mina has earned five minas.’ 19 Likewise he said to him, ‘You also be over five cities.’

20 “Then another came, saying, ‘Master, here is your mina, which I have kept put away in a handkerchief. 21 For I feared you, because you are an austere man. You collect what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.’ 22 And he said to him, ‘Out of your own mouth I will judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I was an austere man, collecting what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow. 23 Why then did you not put my money in the bank, that at my coming I might have collected it with interest?’

24 “And he said to those who stood by, ‘Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has ten minas.’ 25 (But they said to him, ‘Master, he has ten minas.’) 26 ‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 27 But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’”

_____________________

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Unregenerate Sinners stereotype and judge Christians without knowing why

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 13 May 2012 05:05:00 +0000

Please note - the principle Scriptures which drive this message: 2 Corinthians 4:3;4 ; 2 Corinthians 2:14;15;16 ; Philippians 1:27;28;29

Also note - the definition for “unregenerate”

Recently, I had an online forum comment directed my way. I sometimes participate on my town's online forum. Rather than remaining anonymous, like most of the participants, I freely use my own name. Hence, I am an easy target.

This following comment is not unusual. I've heard forms of this type of judgmental criticism, before:

"emeritus — adj (usually postpositive ) retired or honorably discharged from full-time work, but retaining one's title on an honorary basis: a professor emeritus.

Tell me, what is so honorable about you. Your posts seldom have any positive message, something that I find odd about a Pastor. If the pastor at my church was as honorable as you, we would be looking for a new one."

Accordingly, I replied. My comment was pointed and lengthy. However, (here) I will attempt to briefly summarize:

In my response comment, I stated that he was stereotyping me, - that he was making blanket charges without foundation and evidence. I explained that his flawed and flaccid reasoning would bar Christians and Christian pastors from exercising their God given rights to express themselves and that those same persons have a right to free speech according to our nation’s Bill of Rights’ 1st Amendment. I also, (basically) told him that there are plenty of pastors out there, who are mealy mouthed and that I was not one of them. And, that he should not be so quick to judge me from his limited experience.

I also corrected him about his slanted definition of what constituted, an "emeritus" pastor, giving him the (older dictionary) definition which states:

"....having served out one’s time........retired from active service, usually for age, but retaining one’s rank or title....."

I further explained: "From my life long academic and living learning experience, I've known this title of "emeritus" to usually be a title attributed to clergy and professors."

Why do unbelieving souls so often take exception with Christians? Why the clash?

It is the unregenerate nature's bent, not to want to hear any message which runs contrary to one's thinking. People will say that they are open to reality and truth, but, when push comes to shove, they will abhor that reality and truth when it presents itself on their life's doorstep. There is the familiar adage which states: "A person convinced against his own will, is of, the same opinion, still."

And, when a non-Christian often communicates with a Christian, there is a "disconnect" which often takes place. This disconnect has really nothing to do with the Christian, but, of the unbelieving soul. The Bible gives us an indication, for this disconnect:

Please note again - 2 Corinthians 4:3;4 ; 2 Corinthians 2:14;15;16 ; Philippians 1:27;28;29

The Bible states – “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” [Amos 3:3] There will always be miscommunication between the unregenerate non-Christian and the disciple of Christ. Such, is unavoidable. On one hand, the Christian is in communion with the Lord [1 Corinthians 6:17] and the non-Christian is spiritually bankrupt. [1 Corinthians 2:14] So, on this basis, Christians and non-Christians, clash.

Christians are commanded not to lend their ears to the advice of unbelievers. [Psalm 1:1f] Unbelievers have not been [spiritually] born from above [John 3:8] and therefore do not have the spiritual capacity to appreciate the spiritual as do Christ’s disciples. 1 Corinthians 2:14

Christian – count it a privilege to be separated from the world of unbelief

I think that some of the loneliest people (humanly speaking) are Christians. Christ prophesied that life would not be easy for His disciples. John 15:1f ; 2 Timothy 3:12

However, faithful Christian – take heart! Know and be reassured that you have the communion of the Triune God within your [His] spiritual sphere. [1 Corinthians 6:17] God has not abandoned you, but has set you apart. Romans 12:1;2 ; Philippians 1:27;28;29

Christian – your godly behavior is noticed by the non Christian world

My fellow Christian, if you are like me, you become discouraged. Sometimes you feel that you are being scorned and laughed at, behind your back. Sometimes you feel all alone, as if no one is there to help you battle the spiritual darkness that pervades the decadent culture. When you read and view the daily news, you become even more frustrated and wonder if people have any moral smarts. You ask yourself: “Why are they so stupid to believe all these political promises and lies?”

Take heart, dear Christian friend. Your prayers, your conduct, your daily life is in full view. It’s in full view of the unbelieving world in your particular niche of this world’s sinful culture. Here’s what the Scripture, says, is taking place:

…….Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,…… - Philippians 1:27;28;29

Non-Christian, friend and, unbeliever

The reason that you act the way you do towards Christ’s disciples, is very plain. The very Scriptures which you distrust and sometimes ridicule, tell, what your mode of behavior, is like.

First of all, the Scripture says that you are a dead man walking. [Ephesians 4:17;18;19] The Scripture also says that your understanding of spiritual realities is zero. [1 Corinthians 2:14] The Bible states, that because of your lost condition, Christians living around you become offensive. Their very presence makes you feel uncomfortable [2 Corinthians 2:14;15;16] You instinctively despise them and even sometimes hate them.

Secondly, that same Scripture, you despise, says that you will be damned in hell when you die, because you will have rejected the Lord Jesus Christ, who came to rescue you from your sins against God, sins against His holy commandments and sins against your fellowman. Romans 3:23 ; John 3:36 ; Mark 16:16 ; Romans 1:18

Third, the very reason that you harass Christians and give them a difficult time, is that you are one of those spoken about in the aforementioned Philippians 1:27;28;29 Scripture. Instinctively, you know that you are headed for hell. But, you can’t seem to do anything about your lost, perverse and pathetic condition.

There is hope, my friend. And, that hope, which is an eternal hope, can be found in the very divine revelation you scorn and cannot understand. Why do you continue to scorn and distrust God’s divine historic revelation and the prophesied and fulfilled Christ, of human history? Is your posture to God’s Word a convenient excuse to slap him in His face by accepting, for instance, the false religion of evolution, - that pseudo science, which conveniently leaves God out?

Don’t trample the divine revelation. The Scriptures are God’s gift to you. They can smarten you up. [2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; Romans 10:17] Those same Scriptures reveal your Savior to you. [John 3:14-21] Those same Scriptures are to be read, heard and even studied by you. God will not grace you with understanding them, apart from simple faith in the Christ, of the Scriptures. Only God’s Holy Spirit can work within you to change your attitude and rebellious spirit which is set against Him. I encourage you to begin your quest. May you be like the Ethiopian eunuch. [Acts 8:26-39] Read God’s Word as did that heathen man. And, may God grace you with the faith to believe and be baptized. Romans 10:17 ; Hebrews 4:12;13 ; Romans 1:16 ; Luke 16:19-31 ; Colossians 1:4;5;6 ; James 1:18;19;20;21 ; 1 Peter 1:23;24;25

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Psalm 1:1f and Psalm 2:1f

Also, the following New Testament Scriptures:

"But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost; in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." KJV - 2 Corinthians 4:3;4 – [Note: Please read the whole chapter for context]

For better understanding - read the following Scriptures in their context (before and after):

Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? - 2 Corinthians 2:14;15;16

"Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake....." - Philippians 1:27:28;29

_____________________

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

What is the Gospel? How is it perverted?

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 06 May 2012 03:40:00 +0000

I often take walks while listening to my audio Bible. What I have found, is that my “intake” of God’s Word, seems to be heightened. Most of my life, I’ve read the Bible, material about Scripture and listened to preached sermons. But in my (now) later years, I very much enjoy uninterrupted hearing from the Biblical (spoken) text.

This last week, on one of my walks, I listened to the New Testament book of Galatians 1:1f and some of Ephesians 1:1f. I was particularly struck by the references to “faith” in Galatians – specifically, Galatians 2:16:

Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. [KJV] - Galatians 2:16

Now, I don’t by any stretch of the imagination claim to be an expert Bible scholar, steeped in the Scripture languages of Hebrew and Greek. Nor do I tout any worldly titles and / or degrees. But, as an aging emeritus Christian pastor and continued student of God’s Holy Scriptures, I, would just like to simply think of myself being in the same simple league as (were) my first century ancestor Christian brothers and sisters:

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. [KJV} - Acts 4:13

What is the “Gospel?”

Tersely put, the Christian Gospel is the good news of (about / concerning) Jesus Christ, true God and true man, who was prophesied in the Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures hundreds of years before His virgin birth, holy life, (divine) sacrificial suffering and death and resurrection from the dead. [1 Corinthians 15:1;2;3;4;5] That “good news” becomes priceless and eternal “good news” to sinful human beings, when; they by faith receive the Lord Jesus Christ.

This reception of [belief / faith in] Christ, is a result of God the Holy Spirit’s working in their life, to bring them to repentance [change of heart / mind / direction] and the faith. Please note that I mentioned, “the faith” and not necessarily, “their” or “one’s” faith. And, please note the Galatians 2:16 Scripture, above. Also, zero in on the following Scriptures, as many people erroneously think that human souls can drum up (by and for themselves) Christian saving faith by their own reason, or strength, (thinking or human efforts). Dr. Martin Luther, the notable and God blessed Christian messenger whom God raised up to bring back to our world the essence of true Scripture teaching, made the following precious statement in his explanation of the Third Article of the Apostle’s Creed:

“I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength, believe in Jesus Christ my Lord, or come to Him. But the Holy Ghost [Spirit] has called me by the Gospel……..:”

The following Scriptures, help to evidence Luther’s simple explanation of how a human soul comes into the (saving) Christian faith:

Matthew 16:17 ; John 3:3-7 ; John 1:12;13 ; John 6:65 ; Romans 9:15-18 ; Ephesians 2:1-10 ; Galatians 1:15;16 ; Colossians 1:20;21 ; 1 Peter 1:3 ; 1 Peter 1:23 ; 1 Peter 1:5 ; 2 Thessalonians 2:13;14 ; Titus 3:5 ; Philippians 2:13 ; James 1:18 ; 1 John 5:4

How is the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ, Perverted? Doubtless, there are many ways in which the Christian Gospel can be, and has been perverted. But, for purposes of keeping this topical message from being too lengthy, I'll focus on but one major Gospel perversion.

There is a present odious element in the Christian world. It's many followers have left the divine revelation teaching documents, of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures, and gone their own way. Their odious and destructive element, "tool" is referred to, as UOJ - "universal objective justification." Basically, this anti-Scriptural teaching rejects the Scriptural principle truth of the sinner being "justified by faith, alone," - the same Scripture reality that was revived by the Reformation, championed by Dr. Martin Luther and faithful Biblical scholars, leaders and pastors who followed him.

This UOJ deadly disease (tool) has spiritually infected a large portion of Christianity. This spiritual disease, with its often, high and mighty (ecclesiastical) church leaders, and, also, pastors and teachers, end up leading human souls, astray. This false teaching pacifies sinners and heavily contributes to leading those same sinners upon the roadways to eternal destruction in hell. Remember the old adage about what the goal of a faithful Christian preacher, should be? It is this: "To comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable." Not so with the UOJ leadership crowd, (though) as they do the opposite! Instead, what makes the UOJ teachers so deadly, is that their "universal objective justification" teaching, lulls sinners to a soul damning (permanent) sleep!

The UOJ followers' error? They magnify the grace of God, while at the same time, pathetically and incorrectly diminishing the Scriptural reality of personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, which places the sinner at peace with God. They essentially disregard how this all takes place, in the person and work of God, the Holy Spirit. This faith which justifies the sinner, is initiated and generated by the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity (Triune God). Lord, only knows the far reaching and destructive trail results this infectious perversion of Scripture has cost needy priceless souls. And, Lord only knows the divine judgment He will bring upon those who have led priceless souls upon the path to perdition!

Note: To find out more about the soul destructive and damning teaching of UOJ - "Universal Objective Justification," - please access the following:

"Hunnius - Reviewed by Brett Meyer" - "Theses Opposed to Huberianism: A Defense of the Lutheran Doctrine of Justification" - Sunday - May 6, 2012 - ichabodthegloryhasdeparted.blogspot.com/

A Gospel Without the Holy Spirit, Working Faith, Is a Worthless Gospel of Cheap Grace

I will have to admit that as an emeritus Christian pastor, I have (at times) neglected to adequately highlight God, the Holy Spirit, and His work. Instead, I've indirectly referred to His work by mentioning "God," the Father and "Jesus Christ," God's Son. However, be that as it may, Jesus promised His [then] disciples,before he was sacrificed upon the Cross, that He would send His Spirit to them and His future Christian disciples, when He would be no longer physically walk this earth. [John 14:1f ; John 16:1f ; Matthew 28:18-20] It was and is this same God, the Holy Spirit, whose job is it is, to ".....reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." John 16:8 - See, also: Acts 16:29—30

My fellow sinner – The Triune God did not abandon this earth after the personal ministry of Christ. He carries it on with and through His Holy Spirit. The message of man’s sin and of God’s holy righteousness is being heralded. If you miss that message about how you can escape God’s wrath and punishment because of your sins against God and His commandments – and, against your fellowman, - if you fail to put your faith in Christ to save you from God’s just wrath to come (on account of all your sins), you will end up forever damned in a real place of eternal torment.

Our Holy Creator God cannot allow sin in His holy heaven. And, so He provided the means to escape that certain and just punishment, in the person of the Holy Christ, who was sacrificed for your sins. Now, just because Christ died for your sins, does not translate you to be in heaven, someday. You must come by faith to enjoy and fully experience the Lord’s gifts upon your needy and priceless soul! That faith cannot be manufactured at a whim,by personal fiat, a "sinners prayer," – or by walking umpteen times to some church structure altar. That faith can only come by God’s Holy Spirit, as the aforementioned Scriptures convey. But that (same) faith can be spurned if you would spurn the very holy Christ who made it all possible for you to be clothed with His holy righteousness. Matthew 22:1-14 ; Philippians 3:7;8;9-14

Part and parcel of Christ's promise to His disciples was, that the [His] Holy Spirit would guide and lead his present and future disciples into all the truth. [John 16:13-15] We can witness from history some of that fulfillment in the Christian ministries of Martin Luther, and other Christian notables such as William Tyndale, Jon Hus, Richard Wurmbrand and other Christian martyrs. These God blessed men of faith (and, there were many Christian women who are seldom if ever are mentioned) were God’s messengers and royal priests sent by the Lord to often highlight erroneous Scripture teaching and steer God’s people to follow the Lord as disciples committed to His Scriptural truth.

Back to Christians (or, at least, CINO’S – Christians in name only), perverting the Gospel as it is from Genesis to Revelation

When Christians emphasize part of Scripture at the expense of other Scriptures, they are riding on thin spiritual ice. Christ made the following strong statement:

Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. Mark 8:38

Please note, of the aforementioned verse, - the discipleship context stretching back to Mark 8:34;35;36;37

Those words by Christ contain a very strong statement and warning. That statement and warning by Christ is to be taken even more seriously, when considering that all of the divine revelation of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures are Christ's total composite Word (s)! He, as the Nicene Creed correctly states, is “very God of very God.” Also, see - 2 Timothy 3:1-5 ; Psalm 40:7 ; Hebrews 10:7 ; 2 Peter 1:16;17;18;19;20;21

However, Christian pastors and teachers and their perspective ecclesiastical "leaders," often and continually disregard Scripture’s teaching and take it upon themselves to falsely fulfill, (for themselves) - for instance, the following verses of Scripture:

2 Corinthians 5:18 - And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; [KJV]

2 Corinthians 5:19 - To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. [KJV]

2 Corinthians 5:20 - Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. [KJV]

2 Corinthians 5:21 - For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. [KJV]

These (often), pious, (perverting Scripture) Christians will enthusiastically and also, (not so enthusiastically) twist the Scriptures in order that they might (somehow) play their part in the Lord's Great Commission directive, [Matthew 28:18-20] to spread God's Word throughout the world. Often, in their pathetic efforts, to do this, they misconstrue Scripture, by placing a cock-eyed emphasis on God's grace and His blanket forgiveness to all mankind in the once for all sacrifice of the holy Messiah Jesus Christ. They will end up (falsely) concluding, that God, in the person and sacrificial sin offering work of Christ, ended up providing the necessary blanket pardon that is [therefore] imputed to all sinners.

I’m sorry, sinner, friend, - and sinner Christian friend – just because you and I see a cookie jar on the kitchen cupboard, - that, presence of a cookie jar, does not indicate that cookies are contained, in that cookie jar. Just because Christ died on the Cross for all human sin, that, does not signify that all sinners are absolved and pardoned for their sins against God, His holy Commandments, their fellowman; and sins of commission and omission.

Friend, I can’t offer you a 3 or 5 point prescription to put you on the road to eternal life with all the saints in heaven. If I did that, and if I gave you the impression that you were put right with God and on the way to heaven because Christ died for your sins, I would be an unworthy servant of Christ. I can only tell you what you are and what Christ has done. You are a sinner with a priceless soul, headed for God’s just punishment in hell, forever. Unless you repent of your sins and believe in Christ as the [your] Savior for all of your sins, and are baptized in His Name, you will be miserably lost. John 3:14-21 ; Mark 16:16 ; Acts 2:38

Friend, what I can tell you, is that you need to regard your soul as priceless. All that will be taken from you when you breathe your earthly last will be your priceless soul. However, if you are a genuine disciple of Christ, that genuine faith in Christ, will follow your priceless soul to heaven’s gates and glories. If you do not possess that genuine faith in Christ, which the Scripture so often relates, I pity your lost soul. Faith in Christ is not something that can be drummed up on its own – or, even by your own machinations and / or, self will. True faith is a gift from God. [Ephesians 2:8;9] That faith “comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.” Romans 10:17 ; 2 Timothy 3:14;15;16;17 ; Acts 8:26-39

Amen.

______________________________________

An aging Christian mother was anxiously approached by her dear Christian son, who intensely asked her, point blank: "Mom, how do you know that you are saved?" To that, his mother perked up and stoutly stated: "Because, I believe God's promises!"

__________________________________

I know my faith is founded on Jesus Christ, my God and Lord; and this my faith confessing, unmoved I stand upon His Word. Man's reason cannot fathom the truth of God profound; who trusts her subtle wisdom, relies on shifting ground. God's Word is all sufficient, it makes divinely sure, and trusting in its wisdom, my faith shall rest secure.

[Above hymn lyric from - TLH - "I Know My Faith Is Founded" - C. 1941 - CPH]

Note: Click here to acquire the remainder of this hymn's verses and the music.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

The Gospel - 1 Corinthians 15:1f

Conversion - John 1:12-13 ; John 3:3 ; Matthew 16:17 ; Ephesians 2:8-10 ; James 1:18

Divine Mercy, Favor and Blessing - Romans 9:15-24 ; Matthew 20:1-16

A historical account of a soul who believed - Acts 8:26-39

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Stupid Christians - Why Christians are often foolish

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 05:12:00 +0000

Note: What I communicate in this message about Christians is what I have generally observed. I also include myself in this message's title, as I have been guilty throughout my life of sins of stupidity and foolishness; also, sins of commission and omission.

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This last week, there appeared in the national news media, the account of "Joe the Plumber," and his remarks about our present White House occupier (usurper), Barack Hussein Obama, as his Christian “brother.” Joe the Plumber, (Mr. Samuel Wurzelbacher achieved national poster child press coverage (fame) over the question he personally posed Barack Hussein Obama and, over Obama's ill-advised answer. Mr. Wurzelbacher, since then has been often called, "Joe the Plumber," because that was his trade before the happen-chance meeting with Obama on the 2008 presidential campaign trail. Incidentally, and presently, Joe the Plumber is currently running for political office in the state of Ohio.

When I read the news about Joe the Plumber regarding Obama as his Christian brother, I was sickened. I was disappointed that Mr. Wurzelbacher, a professed Christian, should regard Barack Hussein Obama, as a fellow Christian.

Please don't misunderstand, as I would be happy if Mr. Obama was, indeed, a genuine Christian, but, I was frustrated because Mr. Wurzelbacher just didn't utilize much, (if any), spiritual discernment. He made the naive [dumb / stupid] blunder of taking Barack Hussein Obama, at Obama's word. Please see the following, for further understanding:

"Obama Not Christian – No More Than the Man in the Moon" - moralmatters.org/

Recently there was (also) the news about the Christian mega-church leader, Joel Olsteen expressing his assertion that Obama is a Christian. His reason? Essentially, because Obama said so, - the same (lame brained) excuse reason that Joe the Plumber, offered. Didn’t these two Christian buffoons ever learn that Jesus Christ distinguished between cheap talk and actual (meaningful) actions? Matthew 7:1f

Why are Christians often lacking in spiritual discernment? Why do Christians act so foolishly?

I've been known to say that every seminary and Bible school lacks a required course of time, spent, living on a sheep farm. Throughout the Scriptures, God's divine revelation often refers to God's children, as sheep. [Isaiah 53:6] That word is an excellent description, as sheep are unsuspecting creatures of habit and often prone to go astray. What saves sheep from being devoured by wild beasts is that they have a shepherd who loves and cares for their safety and ongoing preservation.

Basically, sheep are dumb and foolish. They aren't the smartest animals. And, as such, they wander away from the sheepfold and from the shepherd, seeking greener pastures. I think that you catch the picture.

Also, systemic of sheep, are, that they are creatures who do not foresee danger in their short-term or long-term future. They go about their simple existence eating, resting and sleeping. They desperately need the shepherd of their flock to guard and protect them from the dangers of the wild and from animals who would love delicious mutton meals.

Christians are like sheep

Not only do the Holy Scriptures of the Hebrew and Christian divine revelation depict God’s children as sheep [Isaiah 53:6] – those same Scriptures depict Jesus Christ, God’s (perfect) Savior / Messiah to be the Shepherd of the sheep – God’s children. John 10:1f

Christians are like sheep. Once they are separated from their Shepherd [Christ] they are likely to be devoured (destroyed) by “the evil one.” The devil is not the only “personable” influence which wars against Christian sheep and is intent to destroy their faith in Christ. But there is, also, the worlds’ decadent (and politically correct) culture [cosmos] which is continually shifting for the worse to press “Christian ‘sheep’” into its evil mold. [Romans 12:2] Added to the evil influence of the evil one (Satan) and the “world” is the Christian’s own sinful nature, which was passed on by birth because of man’s (Adam and Eve’s) first sin. Genesis 3:1f; Romans 5:12

In short, Christian sheep are up against a 3 front war. There is the battle with the devil; the world’s (declining and decadent culture) – and, their own sinful human nature. A Christian’s sinful dilemma can be liken to a mouse trap, the cheese on that trap and the mouse who craves to eat that cheese. The motivation for that mouse to eat the cheese is his inert desire (craving) for that delectable food. And, what, (or who) daily places these delectable mouse traps in front of Christian sheep? The evil one, (the devil). However, no analogy is perfect, and, I am not a Christian who is on a continual rampage to blame the devil for everything and offer the simplistic excuse: “The devil made me do it.”

Christian sheep can be safe sheep when they listen and follow their good Shepherd, Christ

Christians need not endanger themselves and their priceless souls by allowing themselves to be siphoned off by the devil, the world and their own sinful flesh. [John 2:15-17] We need to do all “possible” to resist the 3 enemies of our priceless souls. We need to put on the “whole armour of God” to withstand (against) this spiritual onslaught, bent upon transforming our lives and our priceless souls into the devil’s workshop, disciples. [Ephesians 6:10-18] Notice that the Ephesians Scripture says, “armour of God?” We do not resist evil and follow after God’s calling, and all that is holy and righteous and good in this life, on our own.

The Scripture makes that clear. It says: “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:13] We are also exhorted by the words of Jesus, Himself, in John 15:4 to “abide” in Him. But notice the reciprocal context of that precious Scripture. The Christian is to put his faith in this Savior / Shepherd, but, at the same time, the Lord says – “……for apart from Me, you can do nothing.” John 15:5 Is this a contradiction? Of course not. Rather, it is one of Scripture’s many paradoxes. Human reason can never fathom God’s workings. Such workings must be accepted by faith, as God’s doings are often above and beyond our human understanding.

Sinner – you are not a sheep but a goat

You sinner, who is not one of Christ’s sheep, - I hate to relate to you that you are a “goat” in God’s eyes. In your unregenerate (unconverted) sinful state, you are headed for hereafter perdition (hell). Without (genuine) faith in Christ who was born for you and who lived a holy life for you – and, who suffered and died a perfect sacrifice for you – and, who rose from the dead; - without Him abiding in you, it will be a horrific day for you when you die. Your soul will speed its way to a Christless and utterly sinful place in hell to be tormented by its torturous environment and the devil and his minion demons. You may not think this is real or possible, but, God does not lie. He warns you in His Scripture revelation, and by His sent messengers. [Luke 16:19-31] Then, when Christ returns in glorious triumph to this earth at the end of this world, - and the resurrection of the dead takes place, your torment will increase, because your body will be reunited with your tormented soul to suffer as one of God’s rejected goats – forever! Matthew 25:31-46

However, - sinner – There’s good news for you

Sinner – There’s good news for you. The very Scripture Bible which you have refused to take seriously has for you the good news that can affect your status to become one of God’s children, Christian sheep. You can escape the goat status when you die and on the day of eternal judgment, if, by faith, you repent of your sins and receive the Lord Jesus Christ, as your Savior from your sins against your holy Creator God, and His holy commandments. This cannot be accomplished by personal fiat or by willy-nilly prescription schemes.

Christian – You don’t have to be a stupid and a foolish Christian like Joe the Plumber and mega church pastor, Joel Olsteen

When you take your spiritual eyes off your Good Shepherd, Christ, you are bound for trouble. Your cultural surroundings will ensnare you to be the prey of your own sinful nature and the evil one to have you saying things that aren’t true. You will be telling lies to yourself and others, not having the capacity of retaining the truth of God’s divine revelation, because you have separated yourself from the green and nourishing pastures of His very Word, found in the holy Scriptural revelation.

Sinner – You don’t have to be like our nation’s White House occupier – Barack Hussein Obama

Sinner – you don’t have to delude yourself and play games with yourself and your fellowman. You don’t have to play the “big guy” and go it alone like you are a “rock and, an island.” Your stout independence is a hindrance to your priceless soul. Your reliance upon human reasoning and evolution’s pseudo science will permanently trap your soul from being subject to the green pastures of God’s written revelation. Your very willful arrogance, denial and stubbornness to resist God’s powerhouse of spiritual regeneration will eternally do you in. Failing to heed God’s written revelation, the Scriptures, will guarantee your future perdition residence. Luke 16:19-31

The Scripture says:

“Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat....." Isaiah 55:1f

.....Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”..... John 7:37;38

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

The Scriptures call for you to repent of your sinful thinking and lifestyle and believe God’s Word [Acts 2:38]. That very same revelation which pronounces you dead in your sins [Ephesians 2:1;2;3] can make you spiritually alive. [Ephesians 2:1-10] But, you must come, God’s way – not with human reason, doubting God’s two edged Scripture sword. Hebrews 4:12 ; also, John 3:14-21

Sinner, - may you by God’s grace come to the point in your temporal and fleeting existence [1 Peter 1:24;25] to hear and read God’s revelation Scriptures! May you be like the Ethiopian who searched, believed and was baptized! Acts 8:26-39

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Isaiah 53:1f – Christ and His mission foretold (in Old Testament prophecy) hundreds of years before his birth

John 10:1f – Christ, the Good Shepherd

John 15:1f – The absolute necessity of having Christ; abiding in Him and the promise of Christ to be with his own when persecution is exacted by the world’s current culture

Romans 10:17 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17 - The absolute necessity of exposing oneself to God's Divine Revelation

Acts 8:1-40 - Two accounts of Philip's ministry - especially, take note how God's Holy Spirit (through the Scriptures) moved the Ethiopian to belief in Christ and the desire to be baptized

Luke 15:3-7 – Christ’s parable of the lost sheep

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”
2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian

Liars go to hell

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 01:47:00 +0000

While being raised as an adolescent and teenager, I would sometimes hear the phrase: “Liars go to hell.” I have to say, that at that time, I didn’t know that reality was actually stated in the Bible. At the time, it made all the (moral) sense in the world to me. Telling the truth was always considered the healthy moral norm and lying through one’s teeth was the abnormal thing to do. I say “abnormal” as opposed to being honest. But, as a child, I would do my share of lying.

I won't ever deny that I lied as a child, as I believe every child lies. No one has to teach children to lie. It comes as a natural (part and parcel) result of our sinful nature territory, as all human beings are born sinners. Psalm 51:5 ; Romans 5:12

One specific lie, I recall, was deceiving my father. The old church custodian lived near the church building. He took deathly sick and my father encouraged me to visit, old, Otto. Otto would always reward us neighbor children for helping him in any little way. He would reach down into his farmer jeans pocket with his large hands for that ever familiar squeezable small coin purse. We all loved Otto as he seemed to us (at our tender ages) to be a permanent fixture to the church, as even the steeple, itself.

Shortly after lying to my father, Otto died - and, I hadn’t visited him, as my father, exhorted. And, before Otto passed away, my father asked me if I saw Otto. I told him "Yes," - lying through my childish teeth. As I look back, my grief over Otto's death was compounded because I had lied to my father and I was doubly troubled over the regret of not visiting dear old Otto, when I could have and should have, after being encouraged by my father.

People lie to other people all the time

Perhaps, the most prevalent example of people lying to other people, are politicians of all levels - federal, state, county and local "leaders" who campaign for public taxpayer paid offices and who make all types of campaign promises, only to go back on those promises and shaft the very voters who voted them into office. Often their lies end up in harmful actions, taking advantage of the citizens they were voted in to represent. See: "Political Extortion" - thechristianmessage.org

Chief among present day US politicians is our White House Occupier. Currently, he is under investigation for forgery. Not only is he being investigated for various illegal activities, he is under heavy criticism for usurping the US presidency because he does not meet the US Constitution's requirement for being a "natural born citizen." When Obama campaigned for US president he made lofty and admirable promises for transparency in his administration, should he be elected president. Sadly, the majority of the voting electorate believed his snake charming promises and voted him into office.

There are all types of examples how people lie to one another. It takes place in personal relationships; spouses cheating on one another and sneaking around, lying to their married partners. Business partners lie to one another by withholding essential information, to gain a selfish influential and financial advantage. That same scenario also takes place in private business and the public stock market sphere where information is withheld or illegally secured and insider trading takes place to reap profits off

unsuspecting shareholders. We could go on and on listing the various ways in which deceit is utilized by people, against (other) people for selfish and covetous purposes. It amounts to lying. And, lying - not telling the truth, takes on various malevolent forms of deception.

People often lie to themselves

People are so busy lying to others that they end up lying to themselves. Because of their many deceptions, attempting to gain superior advantages over their peers and others, the liars themselves become trapped in their own deceptions. They become reprobate and can no longer distinguish truth and reality from their own manufactured worlds of sham and trickery.

Pardon me for again bringing up our US White House occupier [so-called] “president” into an example focus, but, he is a suitable example of a person lying to himself. He actually believes that he is helping the financial poor by all his re-distribution of wealth schemes and extortion maneuvers. As he does this, our America becomes a much less stable financial environment in which the poor are less capable to gain employment to benefit and upgrade their citizen, financial and personal status well-being.

Christians lie to themselves – Case in point: “Playing with the ‘fire’ of Gender neutral Bible Translations”

A form of lying to oneself is becoming overcome by deception. Christians sadly fall, prey. Christians are exhorted and warned to put on the whole armor of God [Ephesians 6:10-18] in order to withstand against the wiles and distortions of the evil one, the devil. [1 Peter 5:8] When Christians entertain and consider, for usage, (as some Christians are currently doing), the current culture’s politically correct Bible translations, (which depart from the original patriarchal language of the ancient Biblical manuscripts), those Christians, are actually deceiving, – lying to themselves, (when they speak with forked tongues), claiming that they are totally committed to the inerrancy of Scripture.

The worst type of lying, is lying to God

The one Scripture which highlights why lying to God is so damning for human beings – (especially their priceless souls), is that New Testament Scripture of Romans 1:18-32. Incidentally, this Scripture is especially offensive to homosexual activists because it hones in on their specific deadly sin.

People fail to honor God, as He intended to be honored. They become unthankful to God. Hence, they become “vain” in their thinking -- and, without understanding. As a direct consequence, their hearts become darkened to the truth of God. They then profess to be wise; but God says that they have become fools. These unthankful, vain, (without understanding fools) then (instead) falsely worship themselves and graven images. Romans 1:23-25

The Scripture speaks of a certain “delusion” which falls upon individuals as a result of their refusal to honor God as He intended to be honored. Romans 1:18-32 ; 2 Thessalonians 2:10;12

When a Christian or non Christian fails to honor God as He has plainly made know, - that failure is a result of lying to God – refusing to worship Him as God commands. Refusing to honor God and His holiness, is deceiving one’s own being. It is lying to yourself, - convincing yourself that you must (somehow) know what is best for your life and priceless soul. That type of lying deception shuts God out of the (saving) process and invites all but God’s truth and divine revelation to make inroads upon your very priceless soul.

Sinner friend - It is a certain trait of your fallen human nature, to avoid, shun and eschew the truth. Millions upon millions of people today flee from reality. You are one of them. Facing the truth about your spiritual depravity and sinful condition is not natural. [1 Corinthians 2:14] Lying to your neighbor, yourself and God, comes naturally. Unless the Lord breaks reality upon your unregenerate [unrepentant] heart and soul, there can be no acceptance of His Gospel truth, and even your capacity to repent and believe in Christ, and follow through with Christian baptism. Psalm 80:3;7;19 ; Lamentations 5:21 ; Acts 3:26 ; Phil. 2:13 ; James 1:16-18 ; John 1:11-13 ; John 3:3-6 ; John 3:14-21

Do all liars go to hell? Will you go to hell?

The three Scriptures that tell us that liars will end up with everlasting damnation in hell are: Revelation 21:8 ; Revelation 21:27 and Revelation 22:15

If you have lied just but once in your life, you qualify for hell. We are told in God’s holy book, the Bible, that if we only sin once, we are guilty in God’s estimation, for having broken all of His Commandments. Breaking, (disobeying) God’s commandments, is “sin.” And, the Bible says that sin brings upon his created human beings, total alienation from Him and all that is right, just and holy. Being sinners by birth [Psalm 51:5 ; Romans 5:12] makes all of us future recipients of a punishing forever perdition.

But, will “all” liars end up in hell?

If we only consulted the aforementioned Scriptures, we would have to conclude that all liars will suffer eternal damnation, including this emeritus Christian pastor, Nathan Bickel. Revelation 21:8 ; Revelation 21:27 and Revelation 22:15 – tell us this.

However, there is eternal hope and forgiveness. That hope and forgiveness is based, totally on the grace of God, because of Christ’s holy life, suffering, death and resurrection from the dead. Through faith in Christ, and His sacrifice for all of our sins, we can escape the just and eternal punishments of a forever future hell for all of our sins against God and our fellowman [Ephesians 2:8-9 ; John 3:14-21 ; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4]. Only because of Christ, can the holy and perfect God acquit us of all of our sins – whatever and how many, they may be. Hebrews 10:14 ; John 8:31-36

Lying sinner, friend, – repent of your sins. Turn from them. Change your thinking. Believe in the Christ of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. Seek Him for the truth’s sake [John 18:37] and for the sake of your priceless soul! [Luke 16:19-31] And, may God in His grace grant you a heart of belief and repentance, for without His mercy upon your soul, you are incapable of both repentance and belief. Hence, you will be damned forever. But, what can you do? What will you do? If you have eyes to see, read the Scriptures. If you have ears, to hear, listen to those Scriptures! The Bible says that “faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” [KJV] Romans 10:17 ; Acts 8:1-40

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Romans 10:17 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17 - The absolute necessity of exposing oneself to God's Divine Revelation

Acts 8:1-40 - Two accounts of Philip's ministry - especially, take note how God's Holy Spirit (through the Scriptures) moved the Ethiopian to belief in Christ and the desire to be baptized

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

Pathetic Prayer without Genuine Substance

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 20:18:00 +0000

Widely reported in the news media this last week has been the report of a Planned Parenthood group’s “prayer” effort:

“Planned Parenthood launches ‘40 Days of Prayer’ for abortion”- lifesitenews.com/

Here, we have an appropriate example of the abuse of Christian prayer. This molestation of prayer is a natural for these people who support the needless and wanton destruction of preborn human life, by their support of a taxpayer funded group which launders that money into blood money, for abortionists who exterminate human baby life within mothers’ wombs. This (bogus) effort of prayer by this California Planned Parenthood affiliate group is sham and hypocrisy. Their prayers will not reach the Triune God. Rather, God is angry with such sinners. Psalm 7:11

What is “bogus prayer?”

I am reminded of Shakespeare’s, “Hamlet.” Hamlet’s father was the king until his brother (Hamlet’s uncle) murdered him to take over the Throne. Starkly reminded and haunted of his murderous sin, the king (Hamlet’s uncle) rushed into his chamber and attempted to pray. As he looked up, he (pathetically and, correctly) exclaimed:

“…..My words fly up, my thoughts remain below; words without thoughts, never to heaven go.”

Need it be said that the usurping king in Shakespeare’s Hamlet could not legitimately offer true prayer because he had blood on his hands and did not repent of his treacherous actions, against God’s Commandments and against his fellowman?

In short – this (aforementioned) Planned Parenthood group is abusing the privilege of prayer, and increasing God’s loathsome displeasure (anger) of them Psalm 7:8-17 - see, especially Psalm 7:11.

See, also the two informational links about prayer:

"Authentic and Counterfeit Prayer" - thechristianmessage.org

Prayer offered by "believers"

Prayer is often misunderstood

Perhaps, the most confusing and misunderstood concept about [Christian] prayer, is what people often say. They will often talk about the “the power of prayer.” They have an anticipated and favorable outcome to their prayers, and instead of thanking God who grants the answers to their prayers, they will often attribute their prayers for the positive outcome. Hence, they are (in a sense) patting themselves on the back for praying and getting others to pray for what they requested.

It is the true God who answers prayer

It is not because one prays unselfish prayers with a sincere heart that the Triune God answers those prayers. It is strictly because of God’s grace and mercy that He does so. Genuine prayer to the true God cannot be made because of the virtue or goodness of the one seeking, because we are all sinners by birth (nature) and practice before Almighty holy God. Genuine prayer is prayer offered because of Christ the Savior. Prayer in His Name is what makes for proper prayer. Not prayers which would depend upon our own graces. See the topical message:

"Authentic and Counterfeit Prayer" - thechristianmessage.org

Also - See:

Prayer offered by "believers"

It does no good to pray with blood upon one’s hands - Isaiah 59:1-14

It is fruitless to pray when one has blood upon his hands. The historical account of King David and his sins of murder and adultery specifically illustrate this truth. It took the prophet, Nathan, to reach King David with the message that he was guilty before God of shedding innocent blood. [2 Samuel 12:1-14] King David’s prayers of confession [Psalm 6:1-10 ; Psalm 32:1-11 ; Psalm 38:1f - Psalm 40:1f ; Psalm 51:1f] are testimony to the reality that he needed cleansing of his sins [2 Samuel 11:2-5 ; 2 Samuel 11:6-25] before he could again approach God.

Genuine prayer is listening to God

Perhaps, the most misunderstood about prayer, is that it is a one way street. Many prayers by Christians are a waste of their time and energy because those same Christians either did not read or understand what they read, in God’s divine revelation, the Scriptures. Praying without being obedient to God, is only a foolish and fruitless exercise of futility.

God will not listen when prayer is uttered by the hypocritical and unrepentant:

"If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear." - Psalm 66:18

Note also: Isaiah 1:15 [in context] - Isaiah 59:2 ; Matthew 15:8-9 ; 1 Peter 3:12

To you non Christians:

The Triune God will not hear your prayers. He hears the prayers of His children. [Matthew 7:7-11] See also:

"God is not your heavenly father unless you are one of His children" - thechristianmessage.org

You may think that because you are sorry for your many sins that God will hear you. Judas, who betrayed Christ, was also sorry. Your sorry must have contrite legs – such as the sorry (repentance) of the Apostle Peter when He denied Christ. No “sinner’s prayer” can save you from God’s just sentence and eternal punishment upon your soul because of your many sins against God and your fellowman.

The only way that God will eventually hear and answer your prayers is that you come to God by faith, in full recognition that you are a damnable sinner. You need to put true faith in Christ the Savior and be baptized. [John 3:14-21] It is Christ who died for your sins and rose from death to not only purchase for you, God’s forgiveness of your sins, but also eternal life with Him in heaven, rather than eternal damnation in hell.

Sinner – may you come by way of the Cross of Christ. May you do everything you humanly can to pull your attention away from yourself and your selfish pursuits and fix your attention on what God has done for you, in the historical person of Christ! And, may God in His grace grant you true repentance and faith so that you can genuinely pray, not pathetic prayers, but prayers of genuine substance.

Amen.

Prayer Is the Soul's Sincere Desire:

Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, unuttered or exprest,the motion of a hidden fire that trembles in the breast.

Prayer is the burden of a sign, the falling of a tear,the upward glancing of an eye, when none but God is near.

Prayer is the simplest form of speech that infant lips can try; prayer the sublimest strains that reach the Majesty on high. - TLH - 1941; CPH

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simpleworship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

See: Prayer offered by "believers"

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place

3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian

Pathetic Prayer without Genuine Substance

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 02:29:00 +0000

Widely reported in the news media this last week has been the report of a Planned Parenthood group’s “prayer” effort:

“Planned Parenthood launches ‘40 Days of Prayer’ for abortion”- lifesitenews.com/

What is “bogus prayer?”

“…..My words fly up, my thoughts remain below; words without thoughts, never to heaven go.”

In short – this (aforementioned) Planned Parenthood group is abusing the privilege of prayer, and increasing God’s loathsome displeasure (anger) of them Psalm 7:8-17 - see, especially Psalm 7:11.

See, also the two informational links about prayer:

"Authentic and Counterfeit Prayer" - thechristianmessage.org

Prayer offered by "believers"

Prayer is often misunderstood

It is the true God who answers prayer

"Authentic and Counterfeit Prayer" - thechristianmessage.org

Also - See:

Prayer offered by "believers"

It does no good to pray with blood upon one’s hands - Isaiah 59:1-14

Genuine prayer is listening to God

God will not listen when prayer is uttered by the hypocritical and unrepentant:

"If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear." - Psalm 66:18

Note also: Isaiah 1:15 [in context] - Isaiah 59:2 ; Matthew 15:8-9 ; 1 Peter 3:12

To you non Christians:

The Triune God will not hear your prayers. He hears the prayers of His children. [Matthew 7:7-11] See also:

"God is not your heavenly father unless you are one of His children" - thechristianmessage.org

Amen.

Prayer Is the Soul's Sincere Desire:

Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, unuttered or exprest,the motion of a hidden fire that trembles in the breast.

Prayer is the burden of a sign, the falling of a tear,the upward glancing of an eye, when none but God is near.

Prayer is the simplest form of speech that infant lips can try; prayer the sublimest strains that reach the Majesty on high. - TLH - 1941; CPH

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

See: Prayer offered by "believers"

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place

3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian

He is Risen!

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 03:10:00 +0000

Christ’s Resurrection From the Dead -- The Christian believer’s certification of the truth and assurance of eternal life, as opposed to that of eternal death

“……For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.” John 18:37

“…..I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die…” John 11:25-2

“….Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures… 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

People display their foolishness

This emeritus Christian pastor is no stranger to some online forums. I find that if a person wants proof of human foolishness, all one has to do is access some web forums. There exhibited, are more often than not, comments by people who defy human logic and scatter sound reasoning to the four winds. The minority comments are those whose forum personalities think through their responses and clearly communicate, sanely.

Recently, there was a comment on this one national forum that illustrated an erroneous universal conception of the Lord Jesus Christ. The forum personality stated that Christ never existed and that there was no evidence of him on the historical scene. And, this foolish forum personality brazenly went on to illogically assert that because we have no personal writings of Christ, - that, (in itself) was evidence for his non existence.

Of course, we know that few (by comparison in number) people, who lived in the past, leave little in the way of historical documentation. And, unless they have made provisions while they lived – and their family members didn’t destroy those personal writing provisions – there is none of that particular "proof" that these people ever existed. But, as I just stated, if you desire evidence of human foolishness, just go and visit, online forums.

Of all people who have ever lived, Jesus Christ is more evidenced by human history:

It is fallacious reasoning to insist that people from the past must have personal writings to establish their existence. Foolish people who accept this false premise are very quick to dismiss both the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. They refuse to accept these historical documents at face value and to recognize that the major theme in its composite 66 books is the person of Christ. People who will find their souls damned in hell forever with death everlasting will have refused to accept the testimony of history with the Christian Faith being spread in all corners of the world with groups of Christians who worship Christ. They fail to understand that history was, and still is, (by many) to be divided by BC and AD.

Refusing to accept the historical person of Christ is a smoke and mirrors excuse:

As I stated in a previous message, people refuse to accept divine Scripture, God, Christ, and His saving sacrifice for their souls because they love to live with their sins and sinful lifestyles. They would rather give their souls to the devil and all of hell’s eternal damned rather than humbling themselves and accepting that they are sinners who have offended a just and holy God – and, who, must, according to his holy nature prohibit them from His holy heaven, except they be covered with the forgiving holiness of Christ, who was sacrificed on their behalf. Philippians 3:8;9 ; Matthew 22:1-14

People who refuse to accept Christ, who He claimed to be, prefer to go it alone in eternity. They would rather dismiss the Scripture’s prophetic message of Christ and His God revealed Scriptural biography:

“……For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.” Gospel of John 18:37

“…..I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die…” Gospel of John 11:25-26

“….Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures… 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

The Gospel Good News of the Christ being your sacrifice for your offensive sins against God and fellowman takes on new meaning when we consider that He now lives, having been risen from the dead:

Not too long ago I talked with someone who was bothered about his hereafter existence. He knew that his time here was very limited. I told him that I don’t believe in those 4 or 5 point prescriptions that are used to convince a person that they are one of God’s children. Rather, I pointed him to some basic Scripture realities about human sin; God’s wrath and displeasure over sin; His judgment of sin and the sinner – but also, His love in Christ, who came to be the holy and just God’s “Lamb” sacrificed for sin, in order to allow the sinner to be accepted by God and His heaven. I explained about the thief on the cross next to Jesus, and said to this fairly young man – “Look to Jesus Christ whose work for you, was to be God’s cleansing for all of your sins. Trust Him and His sacrifice for you.”

Friend, it is not that complicated – especially when you are able to leave your sinful excuses behind and come as the Prodigal [Lost] Son who had nothing to offer, except a contrite “sorry” for having sinned against God commandments and his fellowman. Luke 15:1f

Friend, I would be wasting my time to attempt to convince you of evident realities, except it be for the grace of God. Only through the grace of God will you come to the knowledge of the truth. May the Christ who claimed to be total truth and, who, history testifies to His resurrection from the dead, -- may He by God’s grace and mercy, (by His Holy Spirit) lead you to encounter the Truth and lead you to life everlasting.

My father taught me this declaration every Easter morning, as he would go room to room waking up his sons. He would declare: “He [Christ] is risen!” And then he would expect the following reply: “He is risen, indeed!” Such was the declaration and response of the early Christians every year commemorating the death and resurrection of the Christ of history.

"He is risen!" "He is risen, indeed!"

Amen.

Short music video - "Up from the grave He arose" - youtube.com

Old Testament:

Isaiah 53:1f ; Psalm 16:10 -- Prophecies hundreds of years before His birth, Christ’s life, suffering, death and resurrection

New Testament:

Matthew 27:1f – 28:1f – The fulfillment of Hebrew [Old Testament] Scriptural prophecy about Christ

1 Corinthians 15:1f – The Resurrection chapter

Also, please note: "Rejecting the Resurrection Reality"

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

Note: This message, (with the exception of some minor editing) was previously posted online by Nathan Bickel

Fickle Human Nature

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 03:52:00 +0000

“Schizophrenia,” is the term given by behavioral “experts” (psychiatrists), to describe a person’s mental state. A person, who possesses schizophrenia, is a person who has a serious mental disorder. That particular “schizophrenic,” disorder by dictionary definition, is:

"Also called dementia praecox. A severe mental disorder characterized by some, but not necessarily all, of the following features: emotional blunting, intellectual deterioration, social isolation, disorganized speech and behavior, delusions, and hallucinations. 2. A state characterized by the coexistence of contradictory or incompatible elements.” – dictionary.reference.com

A common example of schizophrenia is someone who is supposedly “normal” one moment and then goes berserk, the next moment. Such was the recent incident which took place on a commercial airliner where the pilot of the aircraft all of a sudden went out of control, and had to be subdued by the flight’s passengers:

"Passengers subdue 'screaming' JetBlue captain as mid-air rant diverts flight" - nypost.com/

A Hollywood version of schizophrenia can be viewed in the famous two movies, called “Psycho” I and II - moviesdatacenter.com/

Schizophrenia is a severe form of fickle human behavior. Human fickle behavior is human behavior which is inconsistent, capricious, vacillating, unpredictable, erratic, and changeable. Perhaps, all these one word descriptions of fickle human behavior can be related to schizophrenia, or, at least behaviors which are forerunners to that severe form of human mental contradictory behavior.

Perhaps, the most striking example of the fickleness of human nature is that which Christians celebrate each year

This Sunday again, marks the Christian world’s beginning of “Holy Week.” That particular day which initiated Christ’s last week on earth before His resurrection from the dead, is usually referenced, as “Palm Sunday.” Jesus entered Jerusalem to be met with hordes of crowds, singing his praises. [Matthew 21:1-9] However, 5 days later on [Good] Friday the crowds of people were demanding Pontius Pilate for Christ to be crucified.

What can explain this radical change of behavior of that crowd who called for Christ’s crucifixion?

On the surface, we can point to massive schizophrenia. Human fickle behavior was rampant. Within 5 days of singing Christ’s praise, they were damning Christ, viciously calling for His death. Truly, it was inconsistent, capricious, vacillating, unpredictable, erratic, and changeable human behavior at work!

Behind the scenes the Jewish religious leaders engineered Christ’s demise and stirred up the people. Should we then blame massive hysteria for Christ’s death? Should we blame the Jewish temple leaders and Judas for betraying Jesus? All these human factors can be thrown into the mix but, behind the human scenes, the Triune God allowed all of this to happen so that Scripture’s prophecies could be fulfilled But, more than that, God’s plan from the beginning to send His only begotten Son, was being played out. John the Baptist’s words at Christ’s baptism, found their fulfillment with Christ’s bloody divine sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. John 1:29

Every human being is infected with sin - hence all human beings are fickle

The Bible proclaims that all human beings are sinners by birth and by practice. As a consequence, we possess the disposition to be fickle. We can "turn on a dime." We become unpredictable and inconsistent with our behavior toward our holy Creator God and toward our fellow human beings. We sin often because we are sinners to the core. Romans 5:12

The disciple of Christ has the advantage, though. Even though Christians will be sinners until the day they die, just as non Christians, - there is a huge difference. Christians possess a "new nature." Their new nature is the Spirit of the Lord Christ. [Romans 8:9] Thus, Christians, not only have the “sin nature” [the “Adamic nature” – known as the old sinful nature, the old Adam or the old man] but also the “new nature” of God’s Holy Spirit dwelling in them. As a result, Christians are always called by God to “seek after the spiritual.” [Colossians 3:1-10]

You, pathetic non Christian – all you have is the sin nature

Before you non Christians think that you are in the “same boat” as Christians, you are sorely mistaken. Your sinful nature is utter and nasty to the core, with nothing to check it or keep it in place. Your very nature is so fickle that you could go psycho at any time. You do not have the spirit of Christ. You do not have the Christian’s new nature that would compel you to seek after the spiritual things of the Triune God. Baring repentance and faith in Christ, you will spend an eternity in hell, when you die. You have nothing to look forward to, except fleeting time in this world. You will only look as far as the next meal; the next drink; the next drug; the next entertainment; the next human encounter. And, at anytime, you could die of natural causes; a brutal instant accident or a swift growing disease.

What will you do? How will you make future plans for your priceless soul? Can you force yourself to be God’s friend to escape His disfavor because of your sins against His holy commandments? Does it really bother you that your time in this life is so severely limited? Or, do you talk foolishness to yourself and say that the only life you’ll ever live, is, in the present?

May the Triune God have mercy on your soul – you who are not God’s children by faith in Christ Jesus! As I’ve stated sometime before, I have no 4 or 5 point prescription plan for you to come into God’s good graces, and for you to come away with a clean conscience. Saying a prayer and then having someone tell you, that because of your prayer, you are then a Christian and are going to heaven, is utter nonsense. You can’t work or earn your way into God’s good graces and into his holy heaven. You must have put on the righteous (holy) clothes of Christ’s holiness for God to accept you. [Matthew 22:2-14 ; Philippians 3:8;9] Christ died for all your sins – past, present and future. But, that does not make you into being one of God’s dear children, anymore than the presence of a cookie jar possessing cookies within its container.

The Bible tells the sinner that he must repent and believe. It says that “he who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who believes, not, will be damned.” [Mark 16:16] You must have a change of heart and mind and actually believe in the Savior Christ. [John 3:14-21] But, without the power and presence of God Almighty, it is impossible for you to repent and believe. Your sinful and fickle human nature will not allow you to repent and believe. It would take a miracle for that to happen. But, that miracle happens all the time. It’s the miracle of believing; of “conversion.” It’s all the operation of God to "father" you to become one of His children. John 1:1-14 ; James 1:18 ; Ephesians 2:1-10

Please note: "God is not your heavenly father unless you are one of His children"

Friend, you need to avail yourself of the Scriptures. Faith comes by way of God’s Word [the Bible – Romans 10:17] You shut yourself off from God’s Good News Message for you, and you consequently cut yourself off from God, His forgiveness and His holy heaven.

Sinner - Come and take freely of the “water of God’s Word” [Isaiah 55:1-2] By exposing yourself to the divine revelation, God’s Holy Spirit is able to convict your sinful soul. He is the very “agent” that can bring you to genuine and saving faith. Don’t delay in becoming serious about your priceless soul! May the good and gracious God, have mercy upon your soul and may He remove those mental obstacles that you put in the way of your priceless soul.

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Conversion - John 1:12-13 ; John 3:3 ; Matthew 16:17 ; Ephesians 2:8-10 ; James 1:18

Salvation - John 1:12-13 ; James 1:18 ; Matthew 16:17 ; Ephesians 2:4-5 ; Ephesians 2:8-10 ; 1 Peter 1:3 ; 1 Peter 1:23 ; Colossians 1:20-21 ; John 3:5-8 ; John 6:65 ; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 ; Romans 8:29-31 ; Romans 9:15-18 ; Titus 3:3-7 ; Philippians 2:13 ; 1 John 5:4 ; 1 Peter 1:5 ; Hebrews 2:3

Old nature - Romans 7:18-25 (in context with the whole chapter)

New nature - Romans 7:23-25 - Please read the whole chapter to profit from the context. Also, note the whole chapter of Colossians 3:1f for further understanding

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

The Denial Factor

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 02:20:00 +0000

Basic Definition of “Denial” – Saying, “No,” to something, rather than an affirmative “Yes.” Disowning someone, such as the refusal of accepting a family member. Refusing to believe a reality and accepting its contradiction. Refusing to believe an important religious teaching

Examples of denial

It never ceases to amaze me the capacity of us humans to deny something. It is the most natural thing for us to say “No.” Just observe new parents interacting with their small child. No one has to teach that little individual to be defiant and to refuse his parent’s loving direction.

Another example, - and, we read about this type of denial every time some person is highlighted in the news competing in some sporting event, not having the normal physical capacity. People who have no legs or even one leg will tempt fate by pushing themselves to compete in sporting events which require a normal set of legs. Little do they care to acknowledge, that down their life’s chronological path, they will have done great damage to their leg stumps. Peoples' refusal to accept physical realities and adjust to new horizons, are astounding. [I am a polio survivor. I know whereof, I speak]

Perhaps, one of the greatest present day examples, is in the political world – our current US White House occupier. I don’t like to utilize the word “president” to describe him, because, it would be insulting the Office of US President. The denial factor is in full mode. In fact it has been in deceptive overdrive for now over 3 years now, ever since Barack Hussein Obama was elected to be US president, - and, even before that. However, and unfortunately for our US America, Mr. Obama never did meet one of the US Constitutional standard to be legitimate US president. That, (sadly) being the case, it has never been an impediment for millions of Americans to accept this grand deception. This deception (hoax) is sparked by umpteen politicians and a kowtowing media, who continue to impede reality by their denial and, who, in the same arrogant and strident denial, continue to perpetuate this charading deception.

Please reference the recent topical message, as to this charading deception, herd mentality denial, since this message is not intended to focus on our current US putative “leader:”

Reference - “Pontius Pilate and Political Correctness” - thechristianmessage.org/ In this message, there is further explanation and some helpful informational links.

Christians “beat up” on historical Biblical characters

Having been raised in a Christian home and regularly attending church and Sunday school, I’ve heard my annual share about Christ’s disciple, Peter, and his glaring denial of Christ. It’s the traditional thing for Christian preachers and for Sunday school lessons and teachers, to highlight past believers’ sins and their failures to live up to God’s Ten Commandment standards. And, I must admit that believers, as recorded in the historical Old Testament and Christian Scriptures, are easy targets for “modern-day” [sometimes, holier-than-thou] Christians to “beat up” on.

It’s the easiest thing to criticize believers of the past and thereby ignore our own present day denials. Christians today deny Christ everyday. As part of that “Holy Christian Church / Communion of saints” crowd, [see: Nicene Creed] we deny Christ by our sins of commission and omission. We often fail to model the life of Christ in our everyday living. Christians are prone to exhibit road rage, speak ill and nasty of their fellow employees, ignore the needs of their families, and fail to love those within the direct spheres of their influence.

Christians are top notch offenders - often in denial of Christ

Not only do Christians deny their Lord and Savior Christ by unkind behaviors and sins of omission toward those in their geographical spheres of influence, Christians deny and offend their Christ by not loving one another. Their tolerance to one another is often noticed by an unbelieving community. Christ, Himself made the (following) observant statement about His disciples:

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35

There are many examples where Christians are in denial. Like Christ’s disciple, Peter, Christians refuse to believe and acknowledge Christ and His teaching in their everyday lives. Their emphasis is on repetitive doctrinal (teaching) without the practice of "connecting the dots."

One prominent example that readily comes to mind, is the gullible acceptance of Christians to accept hook, line and sinker modern Bible translations which are noticeably gender neutral. To accept them as equal to non gender neutral Bible translations, or, even to consider them for acceptable use, is, in essence a form of denying Christ. After, all, Christ, is the author of Scripture. He is, as the Nicene Creed states, “very God of very God.” And, the Scriptures teach that all of Scripture is “God-breathed,” – even the very words, which God’s Holy Spirit directly intended to convey to the divinely hand picked “human authors.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; Proverbs 30:5-6 ; 2 Peter 1:20-21] To consider and / or, then to choose a Bible translation which alters the patriarchal language of Scripture, which God directed to be written, is not only irresponsible, but plainly foolish. In short, it is a form of denying Christ, and not giving Him His proper, due. It is, bending to the whims of the ever-changing political correctness culture and paying obeisance to carnality and to the sin stained cosmos. [1 John 2:15;16;17]

Non Christians (unbelievers) relish highlighting the failures of Christians and to accuse them of being “hypocritical”

We live in a “debunking” cultural. Scores of satirists, comedians and some radio talk show hosts, love to spotlight Christians’ inconsistencies and specific instances where Christians have sinned – and, in short, denied their Christian (professed) Faith. This debunking practice has always existed, since those who are on the road to eternal damnation (hell), love to ridicule Christians. It’s part and parcel of their way to deny Christ:

Absolutes and Christ’s often misunderstood words of “Judge not…”

The greatest deniers of Christ are those who do not [genuinely] believe in Him

Denying the existence of the Christ of history is utter arrogance. Even agnostic and atheistic historians, know better. Denying Christ’s presence, purpose and teaching, is, utter spiritual foolishness which leads a person’s priceless soul to a Christless, hereafter. An eternity without Christ is a treacherous and torturous existence.

The holy Christ came for precious human souls. He spent His short and sinless life in preparation for His perfect sacrifice offering of suffering and death. He did all that with the world’s totality of human sins – past, present and future, upon His back. He did all that to be the sinners’ substitute sacrifice and punishment, - such sacrifice, sentence and punishment which had to be exacted to please and placate a holy and just God offended by His creation’s sins, against His holy Commandments.

Friend, there can be no (perfect) heaven for you, the sinner, who hasn’t received Christ, as God’s gift to cover your sins, and thereby make you “righteous” (holy, fit) for heaven’s eternal reward. The greatest mistake you can ever make, is to be in denial of Christ, your Creator / Savior.

May you, with all the human diligence you can muster, do all you can to discover the Messiah Christ of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. If you deny its validity and reliability, I pity you. I pity you, because you will have closed yourself off from the very power and instrument of Almighty God to work, by His Holy Spirit, the necessary faith in you, to become Christ’s saved child. Read and hear the Christian Scriptures. Lay aside your doubts and skepticism. Search for divine revelation truth.

Read the Gospels about Christ’s birth, life, suffering, death and resurrection. Then read the other Christian New Testament books which are, in part, a commentary on those Gospels. Notice how the Hebrew Old Testament Scriptures, prophesied of the coming Messiah, Christ. But, above all, expose yourself to God’s Holy Scripture Word, so that faith may grow in your person. [Romans 10:17 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17] Come to an end of your selfish and sinful denying self and realize that the same God who hates your sin and must eternally punish you severely because of your sin, loved you enough to send His perfect Son to die for you, so that you may have that gift of the forgiveness of your sins, in order to be a candidate for God's holy heaven. [John 3:14-21] May God the Holy Spirit make inroads within your sinful and denying spirit!

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

John 13:36-38 ; Luke 22:31-34 – Peter’s denial foretold by Christ

Luke 22: 54-62: Peter’s denial

Matthew 13:13-17 – Peter’s prior profession of faith and Christ’s answer to him. Note what Christ said about “flesh and blood” (human endeavor).

It should be noted that the Apostle Peter, who earlier denied Christ, was truly repentant for his sin. He did not allow that past sin to discourage him from publicly proclaiming Christ, as historically recorded in the Christian New Testament book of Acts. His life, witness and even New Testament Scripture writings were testament to the reality of him having been forgiven and having moved on. History has it, that he met a Christian martyr’s death, by crucifixion. He confessed Christ, to the end.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Pontius Pilate and Political Correctness

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 02:58:00 +0000

Note the Scriptural Narrative: "Christ before Pontius Pilate:" Matthew 27:1,2 ; Matthew 27:11;12;13;14 ; Mark 15:1-5 ; Luke 23:1-6 ; John 18:12-28

As related in the Gospel Scriptures of Jesus Christ before the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate’s words and actions, lead us to believe that he was very reluctant to sentence Christ to death. Scripture indicates that he did all that he could to avoid and remove this Jewish political ("hot potato") situation from his presence and jurisdiction. His effort to ship off Jesus to King Herod and to present the vile criminal, Barabbas, in Christ's stead, fell flat. Pontius Pilate must have viewed himself on "the hot seat" having been "forced" by the clamoring Jewish crowd, to make a life and death decision, - even though his wife warned him to steer clear of Jesus, altogether.

What was Pontius Pilate to do in his highly charged political situation?

We know the answer, as we can read history with retrospect. Pontius Pilate ended up making a "political correctness" decision. Pontius Pilate was obviously and unduly motivated by the clamoring crowd. Public opinion was stridently aiming at him, charged with emotion, vitriol and hatred for Jesus. Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor, who was given the duty to not only govern his Roman people, but also the conquered Jewish people (nation) who was under the Emperor, Caesar's thumb.

What is political correctness and how does it play into our everyday decisions when we choose right from wrong?

Political correctness is the culture’s push and pull of perceived influence. Here’s just one example: When Barack Obama was campaigning for the office of US president, some of his following would be quick to brand their candidate’s opposition “racist,” if their opposition directly attacked Obama’s character. Thus, if someone did not care to be labeled a racist and hate-monger, they shied away from questioning Obama’s professed “Christian” religious convictions. It did not matter if Obama’s professed beliefs did not match his actions and political record. All that mattered to the Obama political correctness crowd was that the political opposition did not slur their choice for president by calling into question his flawed and hypocritical type, character and behavior.

Please note: "The President of the United States: A Sex Offender? - Why Obama's support of the abortion industry is the worst molestation of youth"

Also: It is worthy to mention, that Obama has not met the US Constitution's requirement of being a "natural born citizen." Thus, our "President" is an illegal [bogus] White House occupier (usurper). And, what compounds this serious Constitutional crisis is that (by and large) those in government have turned a blind eye and deaf ear to this pathetic situation, thus making them part and parcel of this deceiving charade.

See: Putative President Barack Obama’s Unconstitutional Amending of Article II’s “Natural Born Citizen” - http://puzo1.blogspot.com/

Returning to the subject of Political Correctness, what happens and still continues to transpire is that one side defines the debate and discussion. Once that foundational framework is laid, how dare anyone step on that foundation without paying the price of being labeled a racist, bigot and / or, hate-monger! And, so the political liberal extremists have defined other issues, such as them being “pro-choice,” and trumpeting women’s rights, when in reality these people are supportive of a culture of death resulting in our American abortion genocide.

A partial definition of political correctness

“......The essence of political correctness is to brand those who voice another point of view, as bigots, hate-mongers and racists, because what they say and do is (perceived) as offensive by someone or some group.....”

Please also note: “Definitions page” - Various words used in “The Christian Message” website

Also: Political Correctness – Why is it such a devastating sin?

What motivates people in our present day culture to bow to the god of political correctness?

The Bible tells us that we are sinners by birth and sinners by practice. [Psalm 51:5 ; Romans 5:12 ; James 2:10 ; Romans 3:23 ; 1 John 1:8;9;10. Sinners and Christian disciples ultimately choose to do evil not because of the pressures of the culture’s political correctness, but because we cave [in] to the old sinful nature and to our own sinful desires. 1 John 2:15-16.

Political correctness pressures and bowing to them are in addition to sinners’ sinful natures and the willful breaking of God’s Ten Commandments. Human nature craves a pat on the back rather than a pointed finger in the face. Human nature loves praise rather than (often needed) pointed criticism. Human nature seeks approval rather than disapproval. Human nature feels secure being part of the herd mentality rather than being a lone dissenter. Human nature gravitates to the political correctness security of the collective thought as was portrayed in Han’s Christian Anderson’s tale of "The Emperor's New Clothes."

God rules over all and has everything under control - Colossians 1:15;16;17 ; Hebrews 1:3

Although Pontius Pilate was guilty for his part in the innocent and holy Christ’s sentence and execution, the Triune God allowed Pontius Pilate to bow to pressures of political correctness. [Proverbs 21:1] Remember what Jesus said to Pontius Pilate? [John 19:10;11] God allowed the Jews to turn on their Messiah Christ. He allowed them to reject Him. They exercised their own free will. And, you, the sinner also exercise your free will when you decide to dismiss and reject the Savior Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and your soul’s eternal deliverance from the just sentence and punishment of your sins against God and His holy commandments.

Pontius Pilate washed his hands, but he could not avoid Christ, no more than you can

It's impossible, (as Pontius Pilate found out) to avoid and be rid of Jesus Christ. Why? - because, in the first place, He is your Creator. [Colossians 1:15;16;17] Secondly, all human history revolves around this one central person, whose birth, perfect life, suffering, death resurrection from the dead is most crucial to your life, here and now, and where you will spend the hereafter (in eternity). [Acts 17:16-34] Your soul is priceless and without Christ owning your soul, you will be damned forever. Matthew 25:31-46 ; John 3:14-21; 36

This year marks another Good Friday. Without the Good Friday crucifixion of Christ for the pardon of past, present and future human sins, our world and the world’s cultures would be left without a clue. But, even greater than a “clue,” is the historical Christ, as recorded in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. He came from His holy heaven to live the perfect life no human could ever live and be the supreme human offering (sacrifice) for human sin to appease and remove God’s just and holy eternal sentence and punishment because of human sin.

Friend, don’t allow the push and pull of the culture’s political correctness to drive you away from your one and only Savior who can be the present and hereafter difference for your sinful and needy soul. Read, listen, and hear the Bible Scriptures! In those Scriptures there is found the Savior and the eternal life that only He can give! [John 5:39 ; 2 Timothy 3:14;15;16;17 ; Acts 8:26-40 ; 1 Corinthians 15:1f May God move you to search for this priceless Treasure. And, may you by God’s Grace find Him!

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Christ before Pontius Pilate: Matthew 27:1,2 ; Matthew 27:11;12;13;14 ; 15:1-5 ; Luke 23:1-6 ; John 18:12-28

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Definitions page - Various words used in “The Christian Message” website

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 01:38:00 +0000

Note: Check this page occasionally, as it is subject for continued additions

Free will (free moral agency) - Every person has the God given freedom to choose between good and evil. This freedom is commonly known as “free will,” or, “free moral agency.”

A person can either be restrained to do evil, having been alerted by an active conscience. Or, a person of his own free will can resist the restraints of his conscience and do evil. [Romans 2:14-15] Note, that this is not to suggest that a person can in any way contribute (affect and effect) the "saving" of his sinful soul. The deliverance (salvation) of a sinful soul for forgiveness of sins and eternal life, rather than eternal damnation, (hell, in the hereafter), is a special gift conferred upon an individual by the grace of God. [Ephesians 2:1-10] It is the grace and mercy of Almighty God, through the merits of Jesus Christ and the working of the Triune God's Holy Spirit, which makes this all a reality. John 1:11;12;13 ; 1 Corinthians 12:3 ; Phil 2:13

Note, example: "All moral values are not equal"

Gospel - "Tersely put, the (Christian) Gospel is the good news of (about / concerning) Jesus Christ,true God and true man, who was prophesied in the Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures hundreds of years before His virgin birth, holy life, (divine) sacrificial suffering and death and resurrection from the dead. [1 Corinthians 15:1;2;3;4;5] That “good news” becomes priceless and eternal “good news” to sinful human beings, when; they by faith receive the Lord Jesus Christ...............

Note: For further explanation, reference the following message: What is the Gospel? How is it perverted?

“Imprecatory prayer" -- Containing a prayer for evil to befall the wicked

Note examples:

Human (Unregenerate) Nature is No Surprise

The Eternal Relief Of The Righteous -- Psalm 9:5-17

Multiculturalism - Multiculturalism is the principal (godless) belief that holds everyone's value systems as morally equal – all, except, the Christian’s value system, which is based upon the Hebrew Old Testament and Christian New Testament Christian Scriptures.

Note, examples:

The Infanticide / Abortion Genocide US "President" Obama

Religious Confusion -- Why do some people become so mixed up?

Paradox - A “paradox” is “a statement that seems contradictory, unbelievable, or absurd but that may actually be true in fact.” (Webster) - "Paradox" - something that seems contradictory, but is not

Note, examples:

"Understanding the Bible – Reasons Why Non Christians Don’t Comprehend the Holy Scriptures:"

"The Eternal Relief Of The Righteous -- Psalm 9:5-17:"

“The Paradox of the Flesh and Blood Religion:”

"Political correctness" - would discourage 1st Amendment speech and practice by denying and working against those who simply voice another point of view. The essence of political correctness is to brand those who voice another point of view, as bigots, hate-mongers and racists, because what they say and do is (perceived) as offensive by someone or some group.

The principle and / or action of needlessly "taking offense" at something which someone may say or do, - or, what has been said or done, and then intolerantly criticizing others, is used by the news media to herd collective thought and mold public opinion. Thus, for example, cursed be anyone who steps out of line and would call Barack Obama a fake president because he has not met the US Constitutional requirement for being a "natural born citizen." How dare these "carnival barker" "birthers" suggest that America's first elected black president, be unconstitutional, and, therefore, "fake" - so, the political correctness crowd would [illogically] speak.

“Political Correctness” in our culture allows for the direct discrimination (and singling out) of a legitimate traditional entity, preventing that entity (or person), from common sense expression of United States of America, First Amendment Rights. [The right to “free” speech]

Definition of Political Correctness by Conservapedia.com

Note, example: "Political Correctness – Why is it such a devastating sin?"

Also: Pontius Pilate and Political Correctness

Offense (Giving and taking offense) - "An offense is something that is said or done whereby our opinion of God and men is distorted; and an offense is active when I give it, passive when I take (patior) it." [Luther]

Note, example: "The communication problem which Christians and non Christians share, alike

Offense (of the Cross) - See message - "Human Nature is Contrary to Divine Purpose"

Unregenerate - Not regenerated; not renewed in heart; remaining at enmity with God. Those who do not acknowledge the Triune God and have not experienced His saving power and grace upon their sinful lives.

Note, example: Human (Unregenerate) Nature is No Surprise

Death - People don’t just, “pass” – they “pass away”

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 22:25:00 +0000

"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish." Psalm 1:1-6 - KJV

People Don’t Just, “Pass” – They “Pass, Away” - To their own eternal peril, they ignore, euphemize and minimize, the inevitable

It is interesting how the culture "fine tunes" its language. As a child who father was a Christian pastor, I would attend various Christian funerals at the church. Dad never was one to attempt to shelter his children from the stark reality and inevitability of death. Across the dinner table he would freely converse with my mother. He would mention upon occasion that so and so "passed away."

"Passed 'away'" isn't the description utilized (much), anymore, in our culture. The politically correct phrase is, just, "passed." So and so, "passed." The least people have to deal with death, it seems, the better -- so, they think. Softening (altering) the language -- "passed," rather than, "passed away," or "died," is culture's manner of dealing with life's finality.

Our culture does not like to think too much, about "finality." Saying that someone "passed away" or "died" is even considered inappropriate by some, in our culture. It is also, considered inappropriate to take children to a funeral home or to a church funeral. But, it’s okay to allow them to soak up the slice and dice culture of Hollywood, through the family TV screen – but, oh, don’t ever allow them to walk up to a casket of a friend or family member and truly experience the finality and inevitability of death!

Death is a proud stalker

Reality is all around us. We cannot escape the daily news which brings us numerous reports about catastrophes – whether personal, self inflicted, natural disasters or acts of brutal terrorism. One “thing” is the common denominator. It is that Death is a viscous stalker. Death is always lurking behind the scenes, ever nimble and ready to abruptly grab its next victim and do what it does best -– silence a speaking voice; still a beating heart; halt a pair of walking legs; render a hearty smile and laughter, lifeless.

A schizophrenic attitude about death

Our sinful culture is often schizophrenic. It considers death, a relief. Far be it from me, that this emeritus Christian pastor should touch on all the impressions that people have about death. But I do know that one of the most eternally dangerous impressions that many people have about death and its imminence, is that it will finally bring some type of relief to their nagging pain or the relief of continual physical and / or, emotional agony of their loved ones.

Families of the dying often introduce their loved ones into an environment that is designed to assuage the blunt force of the sometimes, lengthy dying process. “Hospice” is the most culturally acceptable mode of practice, whereby family members can say goodbye to their loved ones. And, of course, the dying, to their family members. However, -- even with all the best environment (to die) in the world – death continues to be the unwanted and forbidden visitor. It eventually enters every physical body; ceases all life giving blood flow; and halts every beating heart.

Even in the best of comfortable environments, death stalks its prey with unending ruthlessness. People – human souls, just, don’t “pass,” – they “pass away” – they die; they cease to be what they were. They and their souls no longer inhabit this world, but are now permanent inhabitants, in the hereafter eternity. And yet, family members, left behind, sadly and pathetically consider their loved ones, who have died, to have finally found, “relief.”

However, friend, there is no relief, in death, apart from having died “in the Lord.” The Scripture relates to us that “precious in the sight of the Lord, is the death of His saints.” [Psalm 116:15] What makes a “saint?” Having been washed in the holy sacrificial blood of the God-Man, Jesus Christ. That sacrificial blood of Christ is the required "holy clothing" that is necessary for heaven's perfect environment glory. Philippians 3:9 ; Matthew 22:1-14

Those of you who do not die, “in the Lord,” – your eternal status, will be utterly deplorable Friend, whether you realize it or not, you are either a saint or a sinner – at least in the narrow sense. Christ stated (as recorded in the Gospels): “......strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13-14] If you don’t by faith know Jesus Christ as your Savior from your damning sins of thought, word and deed, then, you are a lost sinner, headed down the path to death eternal. [Hell]

Only those who, by the grace of God, are able to believe and put their faith in Christ will be considered “saints” in God’s eyes. They will be awarded “life everlasting” rather than a just sentence of punishment in hell for their lifetime sins and, for having rejected Christ, as their eternal rescuer.

Sinner - do you see and recognize why Jesus Christ is so important? Without Him you will not stand in the "congregation of the righteous" [Psalm 1:1-6] in the hereafter! You will not stand the (proverbial chance) of a “snowball, in hell.” In fact, without Christ and His forgiving cover for all your sins against God and your fellowman, you will pay dearly and for an eternity, with your priceless soul.

You may attempt to ignore God’s directive, recorded in His Holy Scripture for you to repent and believe – but no matter what you attempt to do or to believe contrary to God’s written revelation, will make no difference. You may even attempt to deny the existence of the life your soul will experience, after you die. You may even hide behind the current and popular euphemism that you will only, “pass.” But no matter what you believe (apart from saving grace) – your thoughts and your efforts will do you no good, and, only spell your eternal gloom for a future spent in hell’s just punishments.

Scripture tells us the truth about death

Death is an enemy and the Scripture says that it is the "last enemy." World culture may attempt to ignore and minimize the inevitable. But, death is a reality of such, that it is an enemy. Scripture talks about it, as the “last enemy.” [1 Cor. 15:25-26] Even to Christians who truly believe, death is a reality that is (naturally) feared. [Psalm 23:1-6] However, even though Scripture states that death is the “last enemy,” Scripture also relates that Jesus Christ stalked that last enemy. So much so, did He stalk the last enemy of death – He also rendered it defeated by his entrance upon our world by his holy birth, life, sacrificial suffering and death and finally, His Resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:1-58

You non-saint / sinner, -- read, listen and study the Holy Scriptures – the Triune God’s most precious gift to you. Read in the Hebrew Scriptures, how sin came to be. Read God’s promise to send His only begotten Son to be the perfect remedy for your sins. Read, and keep on reading and listening, -- and cry out to God, for the sake of Christ, to have mercy upon your sinfully wretched soul. Come, and freely take the water of life He offers you. Isaiah 55:1-13

Amen.

Isaiah 55:1-13 – The Triune God’s invitation to drink of the eternal waters

John 3:14-21 – The “Gospel” which is absolutely necessary for the human soul

John 3:36 – God’s eternal condemnation [damnation] of those who reject His soul saving gift of Christ

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

The Infanticide / Abortion Genocide US "President" Obama

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 00:44:00 +0000

In the latest CNN Republican presidential primary debate, the liberal media moderator asked a question about the recent forced contraceptive mandate by the HHS Obama Administration. The question never went any further with any answers, as it was stopped short by the comment of candidate Newt Gingrich. He correctly pointed out the following:"

I just want to point out, you did not once in the 2008 campaign, not once did anybody in the elite media ask why Barack Obama voted in favor of legalizing infanticide. OK? So let's be clear here. If we're going to have a debate about who the extremist is on these issues, it is President Obama who, as a state senator, voted to protect doctors who killed babies who survived the abortion. It is not the Republicans." [Source – HuffingtonPost.com - Newt Gingrich, GOP candidate for 2012 president]

Please note:

"Links to Barack Obama’s votes on Illinois’ Born Alive Infant Protection Act:"

.......Senate Bill 1662, Born Alive Infant Protection Act

Obama’s “no” vote in the Senate Judiciary Committee, March 6, 2002

Transcript of Obama’s verbal opposition to Born Alive on the IL Senate floor, April 4, 2002, pages 28-35

Obama’s “no” vote on the IL Senate floor, April 4, 2002

Listen to audio from Obama’s 2002 IL Senate floor debate wherein he argued that while babies might be aborted alive, it would be a “burden” to a mother’s “original decision” to assess and treat them.

Meanwhile, the federal Born Alive Infants Protection Act with a “neutrality clause” added passed the U.S. Senate 98-0, the U.S. House overwhelmingly, and was signed into law August 5, 2002. The pro-abortion group NARAL expressed neutrality on the bill...... - [jillstanek.com/]

The moral and political double standard of the ungodly extremist media

The same liberal mainstream media which have been ignoring important issues regarding our present White House occupier, did not (in the first place) do its job scrutinizing Mr. Obama's past Illinois Senate record and his past unsavory personal and political associations. Furthermore, nor, did this same media investigate Constitutional claims of Mr. Obama's ineligibility status to be put on the presidential ballot in 2008. At present, Obama has not met the Constitutional requirement of being a "natural born citizen" as required by the United States Constitution, - and, he never will, by virtue of his father's foreign birth status at the time of Obama's birth. And, even to this present date, there has been no legal authority that has vetted Obama Jr. to be legally placed on the presidential ballot in 2008 and now, the 2012 presidential election ballot.

But, be that as it may, the liberal mainstream media (and, sometimes, FOX, included) will ignore unfavorable news about Obama, but, on the other hand, for example, are very swift to scrutinize and criticize a presidential GOP candidate, such as Rick Santorum, who recently was hauled out on the political carpet for his 2008 remarks questioning Obama's "theology." [“Rick Santorum questions Obama's Christian values” - http://www.mlive.com/]

In short, the liberal media (moral) double standard is this:

Mainstream liberal (extremist) media ignores, denies and works against the Christian religion and its followers, unless that same Christian religion is professed by one of its own. It's OK for media to scrutinize Christian Conservative and Republican opposition for their religious Christian faith, but, woe to anyone who scrutinizes or is critical of their liberal politician darling, Barack Obama, and his (professed) "Christian" faith.

Liberal mainstream media will even go so far as to “cover” for their favorite political rock star:

"Obama Admits He Is A Muslim:" - youtube.com/ - Please note in this short video, the ABC interview with George Stephanopoulos, in which the interviewer corrects Obama, so that Obama can still pose as a “Christian.” This, begins at about the 50 second mark during the utube video.

And, while we are on the subject of the United States (putative) president’s religious faith, please note the following:

"7 Reasons Obama is NOT a Christian:" - squidoo.com/

"Obama Is No Joshua" -- by Cal Thomas -- .....Obama can call himself anything he likes, but there is a clear requirement for one to qualify as a Christian and Obama doesn’t meet that requirement. One cannot deny central tenets of the Christian faith, including the deity and uniqueness of Christ as the sole mediator between God and Man and be a Christian. Such people do have a label applied to them in Scripture. They are called “false prophets.” - calthomas.com/

How can it be honestly concluded that Barack Obama is not a Christian who has actively supported infanticide, - and who now, actively supports genocide?

There is no active evidence that Obama is a (genuine) Christian

Christ taught His followers that they were to judge a good tree by its "fruit." A person's actions and life are to mirror Christ. Does anyone in his right mind think that Obama's actions, both personal and political, mirror Christ and the Gospel which He taught?

How can a president, who makes executive domestic and national policy decisions so contrary to the teachings of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures, including Christ's Gospel teachings, even honestly claim to be one of Christ's disciples? Obama is no more Christian, than the man in the moon.

The following 2 subjects relating to Obama's actions, connect the dots of why he is "Christian" in name only.

"Abortion genocide:" - conservapedia.com/

.....Abortion is the genocide of the pre-born one by one.....Abortion genocide not only ends the life of the immediate pre-born target, but has shocking implications. Abortion affects posterity -- future generations of potential life that would have been a direct result of the first life, snuffed out.

Abortion Genocide of Posterity as Described in Reference to the Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures

In Genesis 4:8 we have the picture of Cain murdering his brother Abel. Cain believed no one saw him commit this heinous act. However, God asked Cain, “Where is your brother, Abel?” Cain lied. “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?” Then God let Cain know He had seen the treacherous act. “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground.” In Hebrew, the word “blood” is plural, "bloods." Not only was Abel’s blood crying out to God, but all the generations Abel would have produced if he had lived were also crying out....... - conservapedia.com

"Hate-monger:" - conservapedia.com/

....A Hate-monger can also be a person who does not voice hate speech. A hate-monger can also be defined by a person’s “hateful” actions.....Hate-mongering can take the form of policy, agenda and support for the destruction of pre-born life – and posterity. Current day, example: ......

.....Granted, the USA president is not another hate-mongering Hitler. No one could take the place of Hitler and his extermination sanction of 6 million Jews, gassed and burnt in Nazi holocaust concentration camps. But President Obama gives his presidential blessings to Planned Parenthood groups which pay for and participate in the unrelenting genocidal abortion slaughter. He has also lifted restrictions of USA taxpayer dollars which promulgate unrestricted, wanton and needless abortions, outside our country’s borders.

Hitler did not personally gas and load bodies into Nazi oven chambers. Neither does Obama poke and mutilate pre-born babies as they are in their mother’s protective wombs and also those babies imminently about to be born. But he is, as guilty of hate-mongering as Hitler, by virtue of his leadership role in support of the continuing abortion genocide. - conservapedia.com/

Note: Please also reference:

The President of the United States: A Sex Offender? - Why Obama's support of the abortion industry is the worst molestation of youth - thechristianmessage.org/

Also note:

"How Babies Were Left to Die: Nurse Recounts Horrors of Infanticide Practice Barack Obama Protected" - lifesitenews.com/

"Obama Cover-up Revealed On Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Bill" - lifesitenews.com/

President Barack Obama’s Pro-Abortion Record: A Pro-Life Compilation - lifesitenews.com/

Although, I am elated that a number of high profile Christian leaders finally kicked up their heels at the latest government intrusion upon religious liberty and Christian conscience, I believe that there needs to be some “carry through,” and follow-up. It’s not enough for church leaders and Christians to object because one’s church or denomination would lose some freedom and be financially limited and stressed and be forced to act against Christian conscience. There is a much larger picture to be seen and experienced. Church leaders and their Christian flocks need to understand that our present culture is under genocide assault. And, those assaults not only take place by global Muslim massacres, but, right here in our own American backyards vis-à-vis the continued taxpayer funding of unrestricted and wanton abortion as is taking place by Planned Parenthood.

It’s time for Christian denominational and pastor leaders, along with their church membership followings, to utilize their God-given free speech (US) 1st Amendment rights to publicly speak out, condemning (rebuking) government of all forms (local, county, state and federal) for its culture of death activities, agenda and policies that would continue to cut short the “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” of those pre-born members of our human community. This is no time to cower in fear of losing government granted, tax exempt status. This is no time to hide behind certain Scriptures which deal with the Christian’s attitude and submissiveness to government. [Romans 12:1f] The good Lord has blest this nation with its Constitutional Republic, making public protest and civil disobedience appropriate within the law and Scriptural directives.

Please note:

"Christian Citizenship: Part 2 -- What is the Christian’s duty and responsibility to a USA (putative) president who has and practices, opposing moral values:?"

How does all of what I've related (the aforementioned) relate to you?

When there is the absence of vigilance and pro-active positive and godly behavior, evil people will foist their global godless agendas upon culture and individual societies. Such, as is, already taking place in the United States with the political leadership of president Obama, his liberal / extremist political party and the complacent kowtowing, (encouraging) mainstream liberal media.

Although America enjoys its free speech 1st Amendment rights, there are many signs of freedom erosion, due to the liberal extremist religion of political correctness and multiculturalism. Political correctness would discourage 1st Amendment speech and practice by denying and working against those who simply voice another point of view. The essence of political correctness is to brand those who voice another point of view, as bigots, hate-mongers and racists, because what they say and do is (perceived) as offensive by someone or some group. Multiculturalism is the principal (godless) belief that holds everyones’ value systems as morally equal – all, except, the Christian’s value system, which is based upon the Hebrew Old Testament and Christian New Testament Christian Scriptures.

Already these two religious tenants of political correctness and multiculturalism are being played out in the culture. Just a small example: Some websites limit free and proper online comment (written / posted) speech by warning against using any Nazi (Hitler) terminology or reference, to include within one’s particular comments. Why would this be? Just observe and notice the similarities of the present US White House occupant’s view regarding abortion. How dare anyone compare the "family man," Obama to the ruthless Hitler? To that, I quote from Conservapedia.com :

To those of you who are non Christians and Christians, - and, who have no spiritual clue

These important life and death issues, which I’ve been relating, might not seem important or that relevant, at all, to you. I can only say, that I can only imagine that the reason you might not be that upset and moved, is that you lack the spiritual perspective. Morality based upon the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures may mean little to you. Instead, you ride the media roller coaster of being a passive observer, going along with the political “favor” of the day and being convinced that you had better shut up and not speak out. However, I will vehemently state that it makes no difference what you think and what your spiritual perspective might be. Why? When the good Lord says in the Ten Commandments, “Thou shall not murder,” the sin of determined, wanton and needless abortion is not exempt from that command. Exodus 20:13

“Sin” in a holy and just God’s estimation, excludes a person's soul from the life hereafter in heaven’s perfect abode. Those who die in their sins without having the forgiveness of the shed blood of Christ are destined to spend their forever soul’s existence, not in heaven’s “life eternal” but in hell's “death’s eternal.” Luke 16:19-31 ; John 3:14-21 and John 3:36

May all who desire to live a life of good conscience and a life pleasing to God apart from their sinful nature and their daily sins, seek Him by way of the written revelation He has provided. [2 Timothy 3:14-17] May you come to know the living God and Christ who can set you free from sin bondage and make your soul ready for a future eternity of “life” everlasting, rather than “death” everlasting. Matthew 7:13-29 ; John 1:1-18 ; John 10:1-30 ; Luke 16:19-31

Amen.

Note: Please see below - "Informative Links Regarding the Continuing Abortion Genocide"

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Old Testament:

Genesis 9:6 ; Psalm 139 ; Proverbs 31:8 ; Jeremiah 22:3 -- The Creator's perspective regarding the fetal baby and his / her development

Deuteronomy 19:11-13 -- God's promise of judgment against a nation that sheds innocent blood

Psalm 31:8 ; Psalm 79:11 ; Proverbs 24:11-12 ; Psalm 82:3-4

New Testament

Luke 1:1f -- The pre-born John the Baptist and the Lord Christ

Informative Links Regarding the Continuing Abortion Genocide

“What Does God See and Hear?” -- “…….Millions of babies are aborted every day. It is this culture's way of eradicating the image of the Triune God in which the human race was created. Genesis 1:26 Doctors, nurses, and professionals may refer to a newly formed baby as blastocyst, an embryo or a fetus, but the bottom line is the little one is a triune human being with a body, a soul, and a spirit. The pre-born baby allowed to reach adulthood has the potential to bring forth more generations. Psalm102:18 When an apple is cut open the seeds are able to be counted. But, only God can tell how many apples are in one seed. God knows the generations which should have been produced by every aborted baby. They are all written in His book. Psalm 139:16 …….” -- Source: “Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength," 5/15/09 -- mycalvaryslove.com

King's Niece: "Racism and Abortion Stem from the Same Poisonous Root"http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/apr/08041403.html

“Obama Is No Uncle Tom” – “…..As an African-American woman -- from Chicago, no less -- I wanted to be delighted by the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States. But his disregard of both unborn human lives as well as of those who would try to protect them renders him more similar to enablers of slavery than to the noble men and women in Stowe's story……

http://www.politicsdaily.com/2009/05/29/obama-is-no-uncle-tom/

Note: Abortion Methods:

http://www.lifesitenews.com/abortiontypes/

Rachel's Vineyard – Healing the pain of abortion – one weekend at a time -rachelsvineyard.org/

“The Surprising Link” -- “….Abortion is the single most avoidable risk factor for breast cancer.....” – “Life Issues Television Series Starts Today on LifeSiteNews.com -- First video presents moving, compelling evidence of abortion/breast cancer link”

http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2009/feb/09020616.html

Obama's First 100 Days: The anti-life plan is now established

http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2009/may/09050808.html

The ironic and sorry consequence of disobeying God’s first command of being fruitful and multiplying – and the needless and wanton national sin of abortion -- “Muslim Demographics” -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-3X5hIFXYU

Outside view: Flawed logic [Roe v Wade, Doe v Bolton]
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/843429/posts

Baby’s First Picture -- ......The science called “fetology”, the study of children in the womb, clearly confirms the facts. Through the sonogram, we are given a window into the first home of children. And, we are reminded, that every one of us lived in that same home. It was once the safest place on earth and universally recognized as a sanctuary. It was also held in great awe and respect. Children in the womb were protected and mothers were given the special treatment that they deserved. The insane fabrication of the abortion movement, that the child is an extension of the woman’s own body, has met more than its rhetorical match. It has run headfirst into medical science. For example, research has proven that the child secretes hormone mixtures, found in the placenta, in order to protect its position in the first home and to secure itself within the womb against the immune system of the mother which is made to fight against “foreign” substances. The child is no “foreign substance” but rather a member of the family......
http://www.catholic.org/printer_friendly.php?id=1904&section=Featured+Today

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

Understanding the Bible – Reasons Why Non Christians Don’t Comprehend the Holy Scriptures

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:19:00 +0000

Note: This message uses the word “Scripture” and “Bible” interchangeably

Some time ago, my wife and I viewed a history network (TV) special on the “Exodus.” Without exception, all the miracles recorded in Scripture dealing with the Israelite exodus, were explained by some sort of “naturalistic” explanation. What, by and large, our culture fails to realize, is, that the God who created the universe, needs no natural phenomena to take place in order to exact (make) the type of changes in human history which He desires to make.

The same God who created the universe is the same Triune God who created human history. [Genesis1:f] He is, by definition “supernatural.” And, what He does, He does, supernaturally. God’s supernatural behavior and acts supersede the scientific. I prefer to reference “science,” not so much as truth, but reality. When it comes to the truth, Christians who believe in the Triune God look to Christ who claimed (and still claims) to be the Truth. For us, the truth is a no-brainer. The Scriptures tell us that in Christ, “are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3

Non Christians, fail to understand “paradox”

Scripture is replete with examples, which, to the unregenerate mind, are contradictory. One example keeps “cropping up” with unbelievers. They will unfairly charge God with not being true to His loving nature. They ask the question: “How can a loving God be a loving God that He claims to be and then send people to hell when they die?” Somehow, they overlook that the Bible has given the answer to that question. But, they have already dismissed the God-given gift of “free moral agency” (free moral will) granted to every human who has ever lived and who will live, upon this earth. Hence, people, end up rejecting God’s free “salvation” gift of the Savior Christ. They end up, in effect, rejecting God’s forgiveness for their sins against God and their fellowman, thereby (and, consequently) shutting themselves off from a God blest hereafter in holy heaven.

Sinful humanity will generally and continually view God’s Gift, the Bible, as contradictory because they don’t realize that there is such a reality as the “paradox.” A “paradox” is “a statement that seems contradictory, unbelievable, or absurd but that may actually be true in fact.” (Webster) To say that God is not a God of love, simply because He allows those who choose not to have anything to do with Him, to go to hell, is unreasonable, unfair and absurd.

God is, a “God of Love” – but, at the same time, He is a “God of Justice.” He gives the unbelieving soul their “free will” choice. He will not force the sinner and drag him into His Holy heaven! This is not contradictory. This reality is more of a paradox. God loves the sinner. But God will punish the sinner if he does not believe and repent. No contradiction here -- only for the unregenerate mind.

Understanding Biblical Interpretation

Scripture, itself, claims to be God’s Word. God is the ultimate author who utilized His specific chosen people, (the ancient Israelites and Roman subjugated Jews and Gentiles) to pen what He so desired, to convey upon scroll and parchment, His written revelation of Law and Gospel. 2 Peter 1:21 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Scripture was written by various human authors, using a variety of literary styles – and, as such, must carefully be interpreted and understood “exegetically” in context. [Note: The Book of Psalms as compared to Proverbs] Scripture writings contain poetry, prose, history, prophecy, etc. And, they contain various literary “devices” such as hyperbole, figurative language and symbolism, etc.

Scripture, itself, claims to be without error, as the Triune God, by His holy nature, cannot lie. Psalm 12:6 ; Psalm 19:7 ; Psalm 119:144 ; John 17:17

Scripture is the primary “vehicle” (“means” of divine grace) to bring people to saving faith in Jesus Christ. Psalm 19:7 ; Psalm 119:144 ; Psalm 119:151-152 ; John 17:17 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; Romans 10:17 ; 1 Peter 1:22-23 ; James 1:21

Scripture does not claim to be a science or biology book. Many people and skeptics throughout history have derided the Bible because they have found what they “think,” are contradictions. However, upon the passage of time and continuing archaeological and scientific discoveries, they have been proven wrong and have been exposed for having presumed Scripture to be just like any other human book.

Principles of Biblical Interpretation

Scripture's purpose is to reveal the Messiah, the Savior. Isaiah 53:1f ; 1 Corinthians 15:1:f ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Scripture was [is] God’s revealed communication method to transmit what is necessary for sinful souls. It principally highlights the major (basic) problem of the human race and, the solution answer in the person of the (prophesied) Christ, whose life in the Christian New Testament Scriptures, fulfill the previous prophecy and also document the virgin birth, holy life, suffering, death and resurrection of the forgiveness of sins person of Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4:1f

Scripture must be understood as a historical document. Rules of normal interpretation apply. It was written to people (cultures) during a span of some 2000 years, - in their language. Hence, phrases, such as the “ends of the earth” are to be accepted as normal speech, - just as we (so-called) “modern” day people speak of the “sun rising” and “sun, setting.” Romans 15:4

Scripture must be understood, as a whole. Although it is compiled of 66 books [Protestant designation] its message is central – Sin / Savior. John 3:14-21 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Scripture interprets itself. Example: The major prophecies of the Messiah Christ, as divinely documented in the Old Testament, and divinely fulfilled in the New Testament Scriptures. [Principal example: Hebrew prophecy Scripture, Isaiah 53:1f and the fulfillment of it as illustrated in the Christian New Testament 4 Gospels, beginning with Matthew 1:1f and ending with John 1:1f]

Scripture is sometimes “paradoxical” but not contradictory. Examples: God’s Law and His Gospel; old and new testaments; sin and grace, etc.

Scripture is the divine revelation of God’s Law and God’s Gospel. Either confusing God’s Law and Gospel or haphazardly mixing God’s Law with the Gospel, can diminish both the force and effect of the whole of preached and taught Scripture. [Example: Galatians 5:22-23 – denying salvation and heaven for the disobedient sinner. Confusing the sin with the ongoing lifestyle of sin, as expressed in Romans 1:16-31]

Scripture must be (first) understood by its clearest passages. Other passages [verses, -- whether figurative, allegorical, or, whatever] then, are correctly interpreted in the light [on the basis] of the clear passages of Scripture. Matthew 25:1f and Revelation 20:1f

Scripture must be understood as God "inspired" [authored] - See 2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; 2 Peter 1:21

A person’s spiritual understanding must be “opened up” to grasp the divine revelation spiritual truths. 1 Corinthians 2:14 ; Luke 24:45

Note: The above principles of Biblical interpretation are just several. There are, of course, more, - too many to list for purposes of this topical message.

The major reason why a sinful soul cannot understand (comprehend) the Bible

Why can’t a sinner understand (comprehend) the Bible? The answer to that question is partially, in the question. The person is a sinner. Unless a sinner (and, we are all sinners), comes to the saving knowledge of Christ, His Savior, [“becomes saved” or, “is a believer] that sinner is without the necessary forgiveness of sins which is the absolute requirement for a hereafter heaven.

The Bible teaches that all people born sinners. [Psalm 51:5] “Sin” is an inherited spiritual disease. [Romans 5:12] In fact, it is the worst disease anyone can possess. Why? Because, it not only results in physical death [Genesis 2:17 ; Genesis 3:19] and spiritual blindness while the person is living, but brings eternal (hereafter) spiritual death. This spiritual death is not something which cannot be sensed or felt. It is a forever death of insurmountable proportions – never ending, in torment and agony. Luke 16:10-31 ; Matthew 25:31-46

The reason for the physical and forever spiritual (hellish) death is that the holy Triune God cannot allow into his heaven, any human soul which has been tainted and stained with sin. Sin is a transgression (act) against God’s Ten Commandments. Sin also encompasses “sins of omission,” such as failing to do good and love our neighbor when it was within our realm and capacity to do so.

When the our first parents (Adam and Eve) sinned in the beginning, that sin set off a chain reaction which resulted in the condition of “original sin.” [Psalm 51:5 ; Romans 5:12] But, we humans not only are born with sin, we willfully sin. We sin against God’s holiness and His commandments – and, against our neighbor by our wrongful actions (practice). Genesis 6:5-6,11 ; Genesis 8:21

What then will you do, - you who actually realize your sinfulness?

I love the one hymn lyric from the age-old hymn, “Rock of Ages:”

Not the labors of my hands can fulfill Thy Law’s demands.

Could my zeal no respite know, could my tears forever flow

All for sin could not atone; Thou must save, and Thou alone. - [TLH-1941-CPH]

Sinner – there is nothing you can do to gain God’s good favor, His forgiveness and His holy heaven

You can sadly attempt to manufacture some sorry. You can even adopt some type of 5 point formula and pray a “sinner’s prayer.” You can even attend church and walk to an altar. But, those actions without the Holy Spirit calling you to [genuine] faith will not make one (iota) of blest difference before God.

Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling.

Naked, come to Thee for dress; helpless, look to Thee for grace.

Foul, I to the fountain fly, - wash me, Savior, or I die! - [TLH-1941-CPH]

Friends, it takes the God initiated faith to even admit your sinful condition. It takes God’s Holy Spirit working in you to convict you of your sin before him and for you to come to an utter realization of your sinfulness and helplessness. Your priceless soul desperately needs to realize that Christ was born for you; that He lived the perfect life that you could never live; that He suffered and died, as God's perfect sacrifice for your sins; and that He rose from the dead to evidence His victory over sin and its eternal death consequences which grip your priceless soul!

He did all that for you! God's just wrath and punishment for your sins was poured out on Christ for you. And, as a result, Christ's accomplish work absolves you before a holy God. Because of Christ, your heavenly attorney, your guilty plea is dismissed in God's Court of Law.

When you, in faith believe Christ; when you accept His sacrifice gift of forgiveness on your behalf, then He is truly yours for now and eternity. God will no longer damn you because of your sins, but, accept and receive you because of His only begotten Son, who lived and died in your stead.

But faith to believe all what God has done for you on your present and eternal behalf, isn't yours to glibly come by.

The Scripture says:

“……no man can say that Jesus is Lord, but by the Holy Spirit.” 1 Corinthians

12:3

Also, Christ as recorded in the Gospel of John, said:

"No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day." John 6:44

Note: See also Titus 3:5 ; John 1:12,13

It takes saving faith to believe in Christ, the Savior. Since the Scripture relates the obvious that we can’t drum up that faith (in anyway, shape or form) on our own, we must rely upon the mercy and grace of God. But, the good news, is that God says that faith comes by His revelation gift, the Bible. [Romans 10:17] We are also told that those same Scriptures “make us wise to salvation, through faith in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:14-17

May you, who are dead and dying in your sins [Ephesians 2:1-10] humbly put away from yourself all personal notions and biases that you have had, against God’s revelation book, the Bible. May you cast aside the skepticism of your learned past and eagerly search with child-like glee upon this wonder book which is God’s vehicle (through His Holy Spirit’s workings) to create saving faith within your needy and priceless soul!

Amen.

Alas, my God, my sins are great, my conscience doth upbraid me.

And now now I find that in my strait no man hath pow'r to aid me.

And fled I hence in my despair in some lone spot to hide me.

My griefs would still be with me there and peace still be denied me.

Lord, Thee I seek. I merit naught; yet pity and restore me.

Just God, be not, Thy wrath my lot. Thy Son hath suffered for me. - [TLH-1941-CPH]

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Conversion - John 1:12-13 ; John 3:3 ; Matthew 16:17 ; Ephesians 2:8-10 ; James 1:18

Divine Mercy, Favor and Blessing - Romans 9:15-24 ; Matthew 20:1-16

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Trusting a Theory or Trusting the God of Human History

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:29:00 +0000

Whenever the topic of "evolution" comes up on an Internet forum -- invariably, there will be some comments by those who utilize the [illogical] argument [assertion] that "science," as explained by Darwinists or evolutionists, must be more credible from their perspective, because they [the "scientists"] deal with "science" and not the age-old Scriptures [the Bible].

For those of you who think in such a fashion, I challenge you to visit 2 premier creationist websites. I say, "premier" because in addition to respecting the Scriptures as the unique divine revelation that it claims itself to be [2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; 2 Peter 1:19-21] -- and the Triune God's masterful gift to humanity, they also believe in science. I say, "science" that can be verified -- not pseudo science, based upon theory and conjecture, (such as Darwinism or evolution), but science in the traditional [repeatable / verifiable] sense.

Following, [below] are the two creationist websites [linked below]. And, those who choose to check them out, will find that Scripture does not contradict genuine, science. I might add, that a common [illogical] human error is, to stamp something unreal or incorrect, because our human knowledge about any given subject, is always imperfect and incomplete. And, fallen [sinful] human nature is such, that it makes the mistake of calling something a "contradiction" when there only "appears" to be a (seeming) contradiction. The rational thought of something being paradoxical, is not, considered.

"Institute for Creation Research" -- icr.org

"Answers in Genesis" -- answersingenesis.org/

It all boils down to the element of faith. Would you rather believe in a Divine Being who relates in His revelation book, what He tells you is necessary for your present and forever welfare? Or, on the other hand, do you choose to allow your life to be guided by an unproven theory, which, basically, amounts to a lousy "crap shoot?"

Even if all the "evidence" and "proof" were available for unbelieving souls, to put their faith in a loving and just, Creator, Triune God, -- and, reject the theory of evolution for the reason for their existence, people will not be persuaded, against their sinful and willful persuasions. Such, was the case of the "wealthy" man in Christ's parable about "The Rich Man and Lazarus:"

........ And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. “Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’..........“Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’” Luke 16:29-31

Finally, for any Christians who think that they can embrace the theory of evolution as the basis for their existence, -- they had better think twice:

"'Evolution:' Rejected by Jesus Christ" -- thechristianmessage.org/

When people accept evolution as the reason for their existence, their spiritual senses are dulled. Evolutionary teaching negates the Biblical revelation of the reason for the Savior. In the very beginning, sin corrupted the then know human race, - and, since then. Scripture teaches that sin resulted not only in imperfect human beings, but the whole of nature. Hence, the first promise of the Savior (from human sin) as recorded in Genesis 3:15.

Evolution and its acceptance, cannot rescue sinful human souls who are destined for divine accountability, sentence and eternal punishment. Only through the sacrificial merits of Savior Jesus Christ, can human souls be set free to experience perfection beyond earthly compare in a God promised heaven to those who have received God's free gift of forgiveness, offered by the Savior, Christ. John 3:14-21 ; John 1:12-13

Amen.

Reasons Why Non Christians Can Never Understand the Holy Scriptures

5 Principles of Biblical Interpretation

Scripture's purpose is to reveal the Messiah, the Savior

Scripture must be understood, as a whole

Scripture interprets Scripture - it interprets itself

Scripture must be understood (first) by its clearest passages. Other passages [verses, -- whether figurative, allegorical, or, whatever] then, are correctly interpreted in the light [on the basis] of the clear passages of Scripture.

Scripture must be understood as God "inspired" [authored] - See 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Note: An example of this aforementioned 4th principle, can be illustrated by Christ's clear teaching of the end of the world, in the Gospel of Matthew 25:1f and subsequent Scriptures, for instance, in the book of Revelation.

Romans 1:18-32 - The Triune God makes evident His creative work

Luke 16:19-31 - Christ's parable of "The Rich Man and Lazarus"

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

What Does the Bible Say About the Poor?

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:45:00 +0000

The longer I read and study the Hebrew Old Testament and Christian Scriptures, the more I am convinced that government of all forms, which disregard the poor, (by negligently creating an environment for their poverty), will be cursed. But why, would this emeritus Christian pastor, make such a statement?

Throughout the Bible’s many compiled books, we are continually presented the Creator’s thoughts regarding the poor. “Poor” to the Creator, does not translate into what some United States' citizens, would term, as the “lazy welfare recipient.” The poor, as portrayed in Holy Scripture (apart from the “’spiritually’ poor,”) are those, who, for various reasons, are less financially well to do, and, who are often persecuted and taken advantage of, by those people, who often are in political power, and, who, are much more financially endowed. These same people (who are financially well to do) are often leaders in the culture, be it in business or government. It is their political influence which often creates an unhealthy economic environment, in which the poor suffer and become more monetarily strapped.

Now, please hear me carefully. I am not at all saying that free enterprise (capitalism) is to be discouraged by government policy. Christ's Parable of the Pounds," [Matthew 25:14-30] and Scripture throughout, illustrate that the Triune God expects his creation to be industrious. The very first command given to mankind was, "be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth." Genesis 1:28

The book of Proverbs relates how the wise are to be like the common ground ant, hard-working and preparing for the future. Laziness, idleness and slothfulness are contrasted with diligence and productivity. Proverbs 6:6-11

Often, politicians will confuse and misconstrue the proper role of government in fostering a helpful environment where business, employment and the work ethic can flourish. This past week the (putative) "president" of the United States again spoke before thinking. His remarks illustrate government's unhealthy and destructive role, punishing the rich, and thereby (financially) hurting the poor. Using the National Prayer Breakfast as his political campaign platform, Barack Obama misinterpreted Holy Scripture.

Following, is what Christian pastor Michael Youseff correctly related concerning the (putative) "president's" remarks:

........Well, he did it again at the National Prayer Breakfast. I never understood that name since very little prayer, if any, takes place. Instead, perhaps it should be called the National Breakfast Gathering.

The president quoted the Bible to justify punishing those who have worked hard, and most of whom are very generous givers, in order to take their money and give it to many of his constituencies who are always standing outside the doors of the White House with out-stretched hands.

Mr. Obama, in justifying his misguided policy, quoted Jesus in Luke 12:48:  “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”

No, you do not have to have a seminary degree to know that Jesus is talking about individual stewardship in an individual’s relationship with God.

For it is God who gives each person different portions of gifts, talents, and treasure to manage according to His sovereign will. It is God who entrusts people with what they have, not the government.

God is the One who will judge the faithfulness of each individual’s stewardship and blessing, or lack thereof. In Luke 12:48, Jesus, God the Son, is exhorting individuals to be faithful and give generously without regret.

Understanding this, one has to wonder if Mr. Obama has replaced God with his administration. He must believe that when he says “much is given,” he refers to what is given by the government, and “much is demanded,” as that which is demanded by the government. This is 180° opposite to the truth.......

"President Obama and the Bible:" - michaelyoussef.com/

In my country

In my country, umpteen (political) city halls express in attitude, agenda and present practice, local resident taxpayer strangulation. Flowing from city hall politics, (elected and appointed politicians and special interest personalities), there is a steady stream of action which result with little regard, (or, with an open ear), for genuine input (feedback) from bread and butter taxpayers who fund these same local politicians’ livelihoods.

This type of local political oppression (multiplied hundreds of times over, throughout the United States) is severely felt and experienced in a number of ways – but especially among the less financially endowed – among whom are many senior citizens; the disabled; and those on fixed incomes – the (financially) poor. Added to this sad mix are unions who force their wills and fattened financial package agendas upon taxpayers because elected government representatives (politicians) are easily swayed by their powerful special interests. They easily overlook and often forget the rank-in-file overburdened taxpayers who voted them into political office.

Then, there are the various state governments, which add to the financial burden of rank-in-file taxpayers, among whom are the financially poor. Add, to state government overspending and tax strangulation is the federal (national) United State government with the ever increasing trillions of dollar debt, unrestrained entitlement programs, exorbitant wages, benefits and retirement pay for federal employees and politicians. That's not even counting the wasted monies which are spend on political pet projects (earmarks) and oodles of taxpayer monies spent attempting, to (needlessly) police the world.

Also, government, and club type (forceful) unions, often have the nasty habit of interfering with the God blessed work ethic by initiating excessive burdensome taxes and business / work regulations.

Please note: "Political Extortion"

Having stated the above, here (following) are some Scriptures regarding the poor and their “treatment.” Mind, you, these Biblical passages are not referring to those who deliberately make themselves financially poor when they gamble away their livelihoods and fritter away their financial resources through unhealthy sinful lifestyles and ignorant or willful poor decision making.

Scripture references the poor throughout its pages

With one of my Scriptural concordances, I was able to list close to 200 verses, with the one word, “poor,” common to all those verses. For the remainder of this Sunday’s topical message, my words will be fewer, as I will provide some of those Scriptures which speak about the poor – including God’s specific words of condemnation to those who oppress not only the poor, but the afflicted and needy.

God’s view on the oppression of the poor:

Deuteronomy 15:7 ; Deuteronomy 24:14 ; 2nd Samuel 12:1-15 ; Proverbs 28:27 ; Job 24:4 ; Job 24:14 ; Psalm 72:4 ; Ezekiel 16:49 ; Ezekiel 18:12 ; Ezekiel 18:17 ; Ezekiel 22:29 ; Daniel 4:27 ; Amos 2:6 ; Amos 4:1 ; Amos 5:11 ; Amos 5:12 ; Amos 8:4 ; Habakkuk 3:14 ; Zechariah 7:10 ; Luke 14:21 ; James 2:6

God’s descriptions of those people who oppress the poor

Psalm 37:14 ; Psalm 10:1f ; Proverbs 28:15 ; Proverbs 29:7 ; Isaiah 10:2

God's judgment of those who oppress the poor

Psalm 72:4 ; Proverbs 17:5 ; Proverbs 21:13 ; Proverbs 22:16 ; Proverbs 28:27 ; Isaiah 3:14 ; Amos 5:11

God's call to help the poor and needy

Proverbs 31:9 ; Isaiah 58:7; Mark 10:21; Luke 14:13 ; Luke 18:22 ; Galatians 2:10

God blesses those who regard the poor

Proverbs 28:27 ; Isaiah 58:10-11 ; Luke 18:22 ; Luke 19:1-10

God's deliverance of the poor, needy and afflicted

Psalm 14:6 ; Psalm 35:10 ; Psalm 72:12 ; Psalm 140:12 ; Isaiah 11:4 ; Isaiah 41:17 ; Jeremiah 20:13

How people treat the poor is a very good indicator of their spiritual condition

Based upon the following Scriptures, it is not difficult to judge a person’s spiritual character and status based upon how that particular person treats the poor. The Scripture calls those “wicked” who mistreat the poor. [Psalm 101f ; Psalm 37:14 and Proverbs 29:7] Just as a person’s treatment of animals is an indication of character, so is a person’s treatment of the poor, an accurate barometer of one’s true character. Proverbs 12:10

Creator God has higher standards for those in authority and those who are financially gifted. God expects more from whom He has blessed with much. Those well to do and those politically influential have God directed obligations to be fair and just. To do otherwise is to commit acts of thievery upon others. Please review the article: “Political Extortion”

The Lord Christ became "poor" that all might become spiritually rich

The Christian New Testament Epistle of 2 Corinthians 8:9 says this of Christ:

"For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. " - 2 Corinthians 8:9 [ESV]

Creator Christ humbled Himself and was born into human history to accomplish the necessary sacrifice pleasing to God in order to lift God’s eternal judgment upon human sin. Only through this Savior and one true God, [Acts 4:10-12] can a person find genuine comfort and hope for the forgiveness of personal sin – including the oppression of the poor. Acts 3:18-21

May God grant faith and repentance [Luke 18:9-14] to politicians and various influential special interest personalities -- and, to all, who are guilty of the sin of oppressing the poor. [Isaiah55:6-8] May they be granted the grace to accept and receive Christ’s eternal forgiveness and to repent of their sins. [Luke 19:1-10] May this be the same reality also to all of us who hear and read this message. Acts 17:16-31

Amen.

Job 1:1f-2:1f - The physical and financial poverty of Job

2 Samuel 9:1-13 - King David's kindness to disabled, Mephibosheth

Being, bereft of a father or a husband, is a type of poverty:

James 1:27 - "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction,and to keep himself unspotted from the world." [KJV]

Note, also: Acts 6:1

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

God’s Temple, the Christian’s body

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:06:00 +0000

This message will obviously be uncomfortable to some – especially for Christians [or, so-called “Christians"] who have little (proper and priority) regard for the Triune God’s revelation Scriptures. This message concerns our very "bodies." And, I know that when it comes to talking about peoples' very bodies, some people become personally offended. However, I make no apologies. (If, you are offended, it is because you have personally taken [on] needless and illegitimate offense).

If I say some things and bluntly say them, and if I support what I say, by preaching and teaching the Scripture Bible faithfully; and if what I preach and teach is disturbing to you, then, it ought to disturb. And if you, the hearer are upset, then what you might be feeling is your conscience being stirred and / or bludgeoned by the influence force of God's "Hammer." [Jeremiah 23:29] I might also add, the Scripture, also claims of itself, to be a "two edged sword," "piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joints and marrow, and, is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12-13

Our present masquerading Christian culture

What constitutes an ignorant and fallen Christian? Regretfully, our present culture is anything but "Christian." And, I contend, that most of what is passed around as "Christian," is no more "Christian" than the proverbial "Man in the moon." In other words, what is "Christian" much of the time is only "masquerading Christian behavior" and spoken platitudes. It is quite genuinely different than the actual teachings of Jesus - His actual recorded Words in the Gospels and His Words elsewhere in the remainder of the Scriptures.

We are told in the Holy Scriptures, that in the "last days" there will be people acting wickedly and that they will have "the form of godliness," but in reality, they will be "denying its power." Moffatt's translation states: "for though they keep up a form of religion, they will have nothing to do with it as a force." The New English Bible translation well states: "They will be men who put pleasure in the place of God, men who preserve the outward form of religion, but are a standing denial of its reality." 2 Timothy 3:1-5

And the Scripture says that this will be the case with people in general. It does not say that this "form of religiosity" and the "denial of its reality" [its power; authority] will only take place in the lives of the ungodly:

"But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" II Timothy 3:1-5

"Having a form of godliness; preserving the outward form of religion, but, denying its power; denying its reality." That is the "Masquerade." That is the grand and glaring "Deception."

Charles and Camilla -- A public example of “Having a form of godliness,” yet, “Denying its power”

The news media widely reported about England's Prince Charles and his "for years" mistress, Camilla. According to the media, they had some civil marriage ceremony, and then afterwards, they received the Church's blessing from one of England's clergy.

Where did Charles and Camilla go wrong? Obviously, they went wrong when they both engaged in their own fornicating affairs with each other, which had been common knowledge for years. But then, they opted for a legalized marriage and sought to make something holy of which had been unholy. Where was the admission of any guilt on their part for their past fornication and adultery? Perhaps we had all missed that part in the news, but I think not. And then, Charles and Camilla were presented by the old mainstream liberal media, to be worldwide role models! Not that what they had been doing, for years, was anything new or innovative -- the cheating and the adultery. But I suppose Prince Charles and his former mistress, Camilla, exemplified the changing cultural drift of misplaced sinful attitudes and values.

Prince Charles and Camilla's actions, along with scores of couples throughout the world today, take the following route:

After having trashed traditional values, morality and marriage, by their continued lifestyle of fornicating [type of cohabiting] behavior, they then turn around and desire the blessing of the Christian Faith -- the Christian Church, by attempting to embrace the traditional values and vows of the Christian institution of marriage, they had thus, previously trashed!

The "Masquerade" - The "'Form' Of Godliness" II Timothy 3:1-5

So, with Charles and Camilla, we have a somewhat, recent example of taking upon themselves the "form of godliness" (religion) when in actuality they were "masquerading" and denying its "power (reality) of godliness!"

They could have exercised the "power (reality) of godliness" and confessed their past and present sins and rebellion against God and His Commandments. They could have, after true contrition and repentance [then] began to live their lives in accordance with "God's Program" of faith in Christ and "exercise" themselves "unto godliness." And then, God could have been a reality (a power) in their lives. But the huge problem (all along), being -- is that they had to do things their way! And they are now obviously continuing to do things their way and not God's way!

Christians fall into the same trap

Christians who fall into this same type of lifestyle trap, and if they continue in this type of lifestyle - doing things their way with their own bodies, rather than God's way, they will never rise to the level of realizing their true identity with (and in) Christ! In fact, they are, in reality, living their whole lives, desecrating God's Image and their own bodies, of which God calls, His "temple!" They are, in a very genuine spiritual sense, playing "Russian Roulette."

Focus

The New Testament Christian Scripture which I have based this topical message, speaks very directly concerning the individual Christian's physical body. It says:

"Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are." 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

The Christian’s Physical Body Belongs to God

Years ago there was a song popularized by Frank Sinatra: "I Did It My Way." Hell will be littered with the souls of the damned and they will screech out in agonizing forever torment, gnashing their teeth, regretting that they did things in their life upon earth, "their way."

It was against this pagan and vile immoral "backdrop," in which the First Corinthian Bible letter was written to the Corinthian Christians. The Corinthian assembly of Christians had many problems to be addressed - and that they were, with two Scriptural letters from the Apostle Paul. But the most challenging problem to the Corinthian body of Christian believers, was to keep themselves clean and clear from all the moral defilements that were part and parcel of the morally corrupt Roman Empire.

No “Right to privacy”

When the Lord says in His Scripture that our bodies are His temples, He means that we don't have a "right of privacy." God will not afford us that so-called and ill-conceived Supreme Court concept. We don't have a right to our own bodies - they belong to the Lord. They are His temples.

A military story

A friend of mine related to me some of his military experiences. One story was an incident that took place at the DMZ at the border of North and South Korea. A couple of drunken U.S. military soldiers wandered across the demilitarized zone and cut down, what was regarded to be a sacred North Korean tree. The two drunken soldiers never made their way back. They paid for their desecration and destruction of the sacred tree, by having their heads chopped off.

The self desecration and destruction of one’s body

The Lord says that the Christian's body is His temple and that if the Christian defiles it, the Christiaian will pay with dire and sorry consequences. The desecration of one's body isn't restricted to sexual immorality. It includes anything and everything that we may do to our own body that may hurt, harm or shorten its life. And the grave sin against the defilement of God's temple, a person's body, is that there is the added offense and crime of sinning against the First Commandment -- "Thou shall have no other gods before me!" [Exodus 20:1f] When we make ourselves and our own preferences, options, to take the place of God's Will and His Commandments in our lives and bodies, we are then sinning against the First Commandment and defiling His "body temple."

The 5th Commandment [Exodus 20:13] can also be sinned against in that we can set in motion the eventual "murder" of our own bodies with destructive behaviors such as overeating; drunkenness; smoking; and, an excessive reliance upon prescription drugs. Also, we can sin against God's temple, by not receiving enough exercise and securing enough sleep. Added to these self destructive [slow suicide, life shortening lifestyles] are also other ill-advised lifestyle behaviors.

The continued desecration and destruction of God's "body building" without contrition and repentance [godly sorrow; decision and change] -- and faith in the Lord Jesus, will lead the soul straight down the road to death [hell] everlasting. Galatians 5:19-21 ; Luke 18:9-14 ; Luke 19:1-10

This has been a very long message and I will say no more except to end with the reading of Hebrews, 13:4 and 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. The good, gracious, loving and just Lord can sum up, far better and beyond, some of the divine revelation reality truths that I have attempted to relate to you:

"Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge." Hebrews 13:4

All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Foods for the stomach and the stomach for foods, but God will destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God both raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by His power. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a harlot? Certainly not! Or do you not know that he who is joined to a harlot is one body with her? For the "two," He says shall become one flesh." But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him. Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or, do you not know, that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

Please note some of the following Gospel Scriptures [below] as their is forgiveness and reconciliation with God for having desecrated his body temple.

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simpleworship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Old Testament:

Psalm 51:1f -- A Psalm of forgiveness and cleansing

Isaiah 64:1-9 -- The humble soul will recognize the Triune God as father and master potter maker

New Testament:

Luke 15:1-10 -- Heaven has much joy over one sinner's repentance

Luke 15:11-32 -- Christ's Parable of the Prodigal [Lost] Son

Luke 18:9-14 -- God has mercy upon the soul that confesses his sin

Luke 19:1-10 -- The appropriate corresponding response of a sinner who sought Christ

2 Corinthians 4:1f -- The grateful and spiritually alive Christian will recognize his person and body as being a humble "earthen vessel" of which the Lord uses for His Glory.

Please note: The Following Scriptures are clear instructions for Christians on dealing [living] with sin within the "Christian 'camp:'"

1 Corinthians 5:9-10 -- "The Corinthians mistook Paul's letter to mean that, on separating from sin, they should disassociate themselves from all immoral persons, including non-Christian people. Instead, Paul meant that they should separate from immoral persons in the church who claimed to be Christian brothers." 1 Corinthians 5:10-11

1 Corinthians 5:11 -- "With such a one do not even eat......"

"Calling oneself a Christian while continuing to live an immoral life is reprehensible and degrading, and gives a false testimony to Christ. If the true Christian has intimate association with someone who does this, the non-Christian world may assume that the church approves such immoral, ungodly living and thus the name of Christ would be dishonored. Questions could arise concerning the true character of the Christians own testimony." Romans 16:17-18 ; 2 Thessalonians 3:6 ; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15

Also note: Matthew 10:37 and Luke 14:26 -- "'hate' his father".....a vivid hyperbole meaning that one must love Jesus even more than his immediate family Malachi 1:2-3

[Above 1st Corinthian and Gospel Scripture notes, quoted from the 1984 c. NIV Study Bible]

Finally -- The Holy Scriptures are replete with examples of what God regards as sin and what He has done in the past to keep his people free from sin's contaminations. A few [among many] Scriptures are: Exodus 32 ; Joshua 7 ; Numbers 12:1f

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Note: This edited message was previously posted online by Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel

All religions are not "roads" that lead to the same God! - What makes the Christian Faith most credible?

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 04:21:00 +0000

One of the most popular misconceptions is the misleading notion that "All religions are but various avenues (paths) that lead to the same God." Often added to this universal cardinal [false] belief, is the notion that, "As long as a person is sincere, that is what counts!" Nothing could be farther from the truth. Do all roads lead to Bay City, Michigan? Of course not! But often people, when they are confronted about their own immorality and mortality, they will conveniently abandon intellect, logic -- and, especially their conscience.

If we are to acknowledge "hook, line and sinker," the politically correct and multicultural ideas of the day and accept the notion premise that all religions have equal value, then we would have to accept without reservation and prejudice the rabid, murderous and destructive religious beliefs which motivate Muslims to strap bombs about themselves and their children, while they ruthlessly position their own bodies as explosive projectiles.

After all, these human bombers are sincere. They believe in Allah [their god]. They believe in all earnestness, according to their religious belief, that if they sacrifice themselves for Islam, that they will be transported to eternal happiness and the waiting sensual embrace of umpteen female virgins. This extreme terrorist (perverted version of religious belief) is, considered, (1) a road to God; and, (2) it is firmly held, with all sincerity. It meets the universally held criteria of the popular notion (conception) that "All religions are but various avenues (paths) that lead to the same God," and, "As long as a person is sincere, that is what counts!"

Jesus Christ makes it clear that He is the "Road" to God

The Christian New Testament Gospel of John is a very fascinating book, all in itself. It is mainly a Collection of the sayings of Christ, (humanly written, yet, God, authored), by one of Christ's 12 earthly Disciples. If a person who reads this Gospel seriously, cannot recognize the uniqueness of Christ, then, that person, is totally missing out on the thrust of this literature masterpiece.

In the 10th Chapter of the Christian New Testament of the Gospel of John, Christ is recorded to have spoken one of his famous "I am" discourses. Christ talks of Himself, as being the "Great Shepherd" and the "Door" [of the sheep] and the one who lays down His life for the sheep.

I have always been captivated with the one verse - above all the other 42 verses in this chapter. That verse, is, verse 8: "All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers......" John 10:8

Here, Christ exclaims his uniqueness. He claims His exclusivity. He makes the assertion here and in other Gospel statements, that He alone is the one and only avenue [road] to God. We can talk grammatically about present, past and imperfect tense, etc. - but this one lone verse, is, of an "eternal" tense. It directs us to Jesus Christ's eternal presence, as His claim is similar to that, found in New Testament, Revelation 1:8 and Revelation 22:13 - "Alpha" and "Omega"- "the first and the last;" "the beginning and the end." Furthermore, these Scriptures coincide so closely with that of Colossians 1:12-20.

I believe it can be not only safely said, but categorically and clearly indicated, that Christ does not and would not believe our cultures' false and misleading misconception of: "All religions are but various avenues (paths) that lead to the same God." Nor could it be said, that Christ would endorse the political and multicultural concept that "As long as as person is sincere, that is what counts!"

The devastation of sin upon humanity

It is an almost universal conception that "heaven" is a place of peace and perfection. Yet, our earthly existence is cluttered and fraught with every kind of imperfection imaginable and, unimaginable. [Romans 1:18-32] The Hebrew and Christian Scriptures correctly call this "imperfection," - "sin!" Psalm 51:5 and Romans 3:23

This "sin," entered a perfectly created (by God) world, when the first humans "sinned." They "disobeyed" God - which is one definition of sin. Later on, the Triune God instituted His Ten Commandments. To violate (or disobey) these commandments, (also) constitutes, "sin." And, the Bible makes it clear that all humanity, past present and future is stuck with the deplorable, degenerative and damnable ongoing human condition of sin. Romans 5:12 and Romans 1:18-32

God's just punishment for sin

It is both illogical and inconceivable that a fallen (sinful) humanity can have any part and parcel with a Holy Creator God. Yet, people often and mistakenly continue to believe and live that they can please God and gain the perfection of heaven in the life to come, by their own agendas and efforts. Sadly, this is not God's agenda and plan. [Romans 3:19-20 ; Titus 3:3-7 and Ephesians 2:1-10] Unless a person is clothed with the proper garments of Christ's righteousness, he / she is doomed to die in one's sins. Matthew 22:2-14 ; Romans 10:3 ; 2 Corinthians 5:21 and Romans 2:1-9

Christ, God's Son - the only One who could carry humanity's load of sin

Why is Jesus Christ "the only 'Road' to God?" Because He was [is] the holy Creator's sent One who came to earth for the expressed purpose of dealing with mankind's sin problem. Why would you desire to look to a sinful (dead and gone) leader of another religion? Why would you desire to claim Allah for the true God, when this earthy representative was just as imperfect as every human being? Why would you desire to embrace any religion that has zero capacity to deal once and for all - and, for all eternity, with your sin problem and the whole worlds'?

The Hebrew Old Testament and Christian Scriptures make it very plain in many of its writings, that only one person could satisfy the demands of Holy Creator God for all the sins of humanity, - thus making it possible for individuals such as you and I, to gain the [needed] perfection "clothing" of heaven. That person was [is] the [holy and without sin] God-man, Jesus Christ. 1Timothy 2:3-5 and Matthew 22:2-14

What distinguishes the Christian Religion against all others, is the person of the historical, Christ. No other religion or spiritual belief system can compare to the Christian Faith.

What makes the Christian Faith so unique?

(1) The Divine origin of Christ [John 1:1f ; Luke 1:1f] -- and also His

(2) Sinless Divine Sacrifice. [Isaiah 53:1f ; John 3:14-21] -- and, finally, Christ's

(3) Bodily Resurrection from the dead [Matthew 28:1f ; 1 Corinthians 15:1f]

Christ was qualified [Hebrews 4:15 ; Hebrews 9:28] to rescue (save) you and me from our damnable condition and eternal consequences of sin, which, if left untouched and unforgiven, will send us into a Godless eternity - hell, itself. Ephesians 5:5-6 ; Luke 16:19-31 ; Matthew 25:10 ; Matthew 25:30 ; Matthew 25:41 ; Matthew 25:46

The follies of this present culture would pressure us to believe the lie that we can forge our own road to God

Don't think for a moment that you can travel the road to God, fueled on the fumes of your own goodness or efforts. [Ephesians 2:1-10 and Titus 3:5-7] Don't delude yourself into thinking that in order to be fashionable and accepted, that you must accept the present prescriptive beliefs of society.

Friend, know for a spiritual and Biblical reality, that you can do nothing to rescue your wretched sinful self and soul from God's just and holy punishment upon all your youthful, present and future sins. Know that you have no "covering" of your own, except for that of the holy and priceless blood of Christ which was shed for you, for the forgiveness of all of your sins! Isaiah 53:1f

Will you for one moment believe that One far greater than yourself loves you enough to have dethroned himself of heaven and to have been born a sinless human baby? Will you for one moment believe that, the [once] infant Christ lived in a human body, apart from this world's sin, and offered Himself to take away your just and promised eternal punishment, for all your sins?

My dear sinful soul - in order to escape your future banishment from a holy and just God and his perfect heaven -- and, to avoid an eternal hell, [Luke 16:19-31] you must travel the road that He has designed. You must come by way of Christ - the only true and holy God who offered Himself for you and your imperfect self! John 3:14-21 Once, you have believed Him and entrusted yourself into his present and eternal care - then, and only then will you be able to fully understand and comprehend why, "All religions are not roads that lead to the same God" - and, "What makes the Christian Faith most credible?"

Amen.

Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures

Job 19:25-27 -- God's suffering servant, Job, realizes his Redeemer God.

2 Samuel 12:1-23 - King David's sin exposed and his recognition of that sin

Psalm 51:1-12 - King David's prayer of confession and his recognition of God's forgiveness and present and eternal deliverance

New Testament Christian Scriptures

John 1:1-36 -The eternal uniqueness of Christ; His Divine origin and that He is the "Lamb of God" sacrificed for the sins of the world

Acts 17:16-34 - The resurrected Christ who will judge the world according to His Righteousness

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

Authentic and Counterfeit Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 00:49:00 +0000

Christ tells the parable to "some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others." He describes the Pharisee. A Pharisee was a member of a religious sect which rigidly observed the written Jewish Law and insisted on observing the "oral" [traditional] law which grew out of the popular usage of Jewish law.

"Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank You that I am not like other men-extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.' And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 18:9-14

The Pharisee

The religious leader in Christ's parable essentially, trusted in himself. And, as the parable enfolds, the Pharisee actually prayed to himself. Apparently, he prided himself in his religious observances and heritage. He asked no petition from God, but only congratulated himself!

Furthermore, the Pharisee was not conscious of any need that he may have had. Instead he denigrated and "put down" other people, as highlighted by his remarks about the Tax Collector:

"The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank You that I am not like other men-extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector.'" Luke 18:11

The Pharisee exhibited no devotion; no dependence upon God; no contrite emotion, but only pride and self trust, despising, others.

It might as well be noted, that the Pharisee's prayer was showy. Far be it for me to judge the religious / spiritual intents and motivations of a person's heart, but, I think it is fair to question people and professed Christians, such as the current and popular football star, Tim Tebow, for ostentatious behavior in public. [Luke 20:47 ; Matthew 6:3] That behavior, no matter how religious it may appear, smacks of a "Pharisaical nature," as noted by Christ's parable of the proud Pharisee and the humble Publican (tax collector). Luke 18:9-14

The Tax Collector

The Tax Collector's attitude and character, as opposed to the Pharisee, was so much different. You could say that it was the exact, opposite. Tax Collectors in Roman times often were unscrupulous characters. They had the habit of cheating the public and keeping some of the collected tax money for themselves. They had a "thing" going with Roman soldiers who were in, "on the take." The Tax Collectors would pay off the soldiers who would then make sure that the people paid their taxes. The tax bill would be exaggerated and, unfair, for the common people, but lucrative for the Tax Collectors and the accommodating Roman soldiers.

Christ states in His parable, that two men went to the Temple to pray. The Tax Collector was truly humble. He realized that he was nothing before God. His body language was such that he did not make a big show, but beat upon his chest, sighing the simple prayer: "God be merciful [propitious] to me -- the sinner!" Luke 18:9-14

The Tax Collector's Prayer Sprang Out of a Deep Conviction of Sin

It is apparent that the Tax Collector's prayer is evidence of a conscience at work. The man was definitely "struck!" He doesn't pray: "God, be merciful to me, 'a' sinner," as some translations of the Bible have it, (as the original Greek language makes it clear). He prayed: "God be merciful to me, "the" sinner!" The Tax Gatherer takes personal blame for his sin! He doesn't blame other people!

Not only, does the Tax Gatherer understand that he is "the" sinner, he knows that his sins are against God! He comes to God, with no excuses. He readily recognizes that he has sinned against God. He isn't only concerned about his outward conduct, but he is grieved in his heart about his wicked inward conduct. He recognizes God's Law pointing to an offending sinful attitude, desire, disposition and thoughts.

Unlike the holier-than-thou Pharisee, the Tax Collector is so overwhelmed with his own sin, that he gives no thought at what others are doing and how they are behaving in the Temple, but he cries out as if he were the only one guilty before God: "God be merciful [propitious] to me -- the sinner!" Luke 18:9-14

The Tax Collector's Prayer Sprang Out of a Sense of Helplessness

The tax gatherer's prayer was a prayer for mercy. Without making any excuses, he readily acknowledged his sin before God. His urgent and earnest cry was not based upon any merit of his (own) as he realized that he could do nothing to gain God's favor. And, that's the reason why he plead for God's Mercy. He had no merit on his own behalf and had to throw himself upon God's favor, for the forgiveness of his sin.

Doesn't the Scripture say? "It is by grace you have been saved; through faith; an that, not of yourselves; it is a gift of God; not by works - lest any may should boast." [Ephesians 2:8-9] The Pharisee was boasting, but not the Tax Collector! God puts every human being on the same level. The Scripture says: "There is no difference - for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God!" Romans 3:23

It is, at this point where many Christians, fail. At times, Christians give vent to the devil, the push and pull of the corrupt culture - and, their own fallen sinful natures. Like the holier-than-thou Pharisee, Christians, often love to pat themselves on the back and take credit for whatever good they think comes from them and from whatever they feel, "they" are accomplishing. Christian churches in their weekly worship service bulletin announcements, are rife with examples of Christians self congratulating themselves for special monetary offerings and works of service to the local church. Christians, often daily forget that God's Mercy and their own merits are incompatible. They often overlook the reality of the words of that one notable hymn: "All depends on our possessing, God's abundant grace and blessing."

You who would access network TV or Internet video "Christian" preachers and worship services - beware of those who preach a mixture of [human] merit and mercy!

It isn't that we "find Christ," but rather that "Christ finds us!" "We love Him, because He first loved us!" [1 John 4:19] Turn off the radio or TV; close out the Internet video when you hear that mixture of merit, your own self worth and effort, coupled, with God's Mercy! That wicked convoluted message, isn't the Bible's message, but the diluted message of sinful humanity! If you can't detect within a supposed "Christian" message, the Scriptural truths of the universal atonement and objective justification of the sinner, [because of Christ] -- then, above all, be very suspect and highly skeptical!

The Tax Collector's Prayer was a Cry of Faith

The New Testament Greek text makes it clear that the Tax Collector was aware of the "atonement." [Ιλασθητι - hil-as-kom-mai] -- Ιλασθητι means, mercy. This mercy that the Tax Collector sought was God's Mercy that was based upon "sacrifice," - blood. He prayed that prayer in the Jewish temple where there was a continual burning of animal sacrifice. He was approaching God, only on the basis of sacrifice - the blood that God required! The Scripture tells us that it is only through Christ's sacrifice - His holy precious blood shed for us that makes it possible for us to approach God. It isn't our own sense of self importance. It isn't our own worthiness. It isn't our own efforts or our own merit - but, only through the merits of Christ and His finished work on the Cross for us!

In short, the Tax Collector did not attempt to justify himself. He was truly penitent. He was truly humble and sorry for his sins. He trusted in God's Sacrifice for Him. He trusted in God's justification. He had faith - not in himself, but in God's Mercy - God's sacrifice of blood for him!

You who trust in yourselves and your own goodness - know for a spiritual reality that your attitude and practice of self righteous prayer is anathema before God. The Scriptures declare that "flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God." [Matthew 16:17] God will not hear your prayers of pride and self importance. Like the prayer of the Pharisee, he will turn His ears away. You will only be praying to yourself. Prayers not based upon God's Mercy will be only words without penitent thoughts. They will be like the prayer which Shakespeare described: "My words fly up; my thoughts remain below; words without thoughts, never to heaven go!"

Authentic (genuine / successful) prayer is the prayer of the Tax Collector, as told by Christ, in His parable. Unless we approach God, because of His Christ, who was sacrificed for our sins, our prayers are only human pleas without true merit. We must come as the Tax Collector in true humility and earnestness. We must make our appeal to God on what He has done for us on the bias of His Mercy in Christ! We need to pray like the Tax Collector: "God be merciful [propitious] to me -- the sinner!" Luke 18:9-14

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Psalm 51:1-19
Ephesians 2:8-9
John 1:12-13
Luke 18:9-14

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

Miracles

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 17:01:00 +0000

Miracles - - Why some people have a difficult time accepting their reality

I don’t think there are many people who haven’t heard of a particular miracle. These “miracles,” are happenings that are amazing and without rational explanation. In fact, that is the definition of a “miracle,” – some particular incident which has happened, that should not have happened, - (at least) according to the laws of nature and unadulterated science. Theopedia.com gives an excellent definition:

"A miracle, broadly defined, is any action in time where the normal operation of nature is suspended by the agency of a supernatural action." -- theopedia.com

Miracles can range from a failing parachute landing survivor, to someone coming back from the dead. Recently it was widely reported in the news, about a mother and her newborn baby, dying, – only after long moments (afterwards) of coming back to life. Miracles can take the form of very unusual happenings which take place among almost impossible odds. The continued existence of the modern state of Israel is one of them. After being outnumbered by her enemies in the 1967 Six Day's War, there is no rational explanation why her multi nation (numbered) attackers did not prevail.

This past week the Associated Press had a story of a Japanese Atom bomb survivor:

“Double Atomic bomb survivor dies in Japan: -- TOKYO – Tsutomu Yamaguchi, the only person officially recognized as a survivor of both the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings at the end of World War II, has died at age 93. Yamaguchi was in Hiroshima on a business trip for his shipbuilding company on Aug. 6, 1945, when a U.S. B-29 dropped an atomic bomb on the city. He suffered serious burns to his upper body and spent the night in the city...." - abcnews.go.com

Often, when people think about Miracles, they think of the miracles recorded in the Bible

The Hebrew and Christian Scriptures are full of history’s recorded (documented) miracles – those ranging from miracles of nature, to miracles of healing. Often one of the miracles which comes to mind and was depicted in a 1950’s movie, was the parting of the Red Sea and the crossover on dry land by the people of Israel. [Exodus 14-15 ; Hebrews 11:29]. The global flood and Noah’s Ark, comes to mind, [Genesis 6-8] along with the Lord's destruction of the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorah. [Genesis 10:1f] Often we can think of all the miracles performed by the historic Christ of the Christian New Testament Scriptures, – not only miracles of healing, but miracles such as feeding 5,000 plus people with a couple of handfuls of food. [John 6:1f] Greater miracles than healings can be called to mind -- miracles of people being raised from the dead, – not after a couple minutes, but after hours. Luke 7:1f ; John 11:1f ; Matthew 27-28:1f

The major reason why some people have a difficult time accepting the reality of miracles

One of the greatest of all miracles is Creation. [Genesis 1:1f-2] If a person cannot believe the first verse of Holy Scripture, he or she will always have problems believing in miracles and accepting their reality. If a person cannot believe in a one supreme eternal, all knowing and all powerful God, he or she will always be plagued with doubt about their existence and future. People often neglect to realize that Creator God is not confined by the natural laws that He, Himself, put in place. For instance, God not only created the law of gravity, but, He, Himself is not confined by it. He has often, (as recorded in Scripture) worked His specific miracles outside the laws of nature -- being (of course) above nature.

However, there are a fair amount of people who will accept the religious values of evolutionists who teach that humans exist because of random chance, and that we are somehow, products of the primeval slime. In spite of having no scientific basis for their theory, these evolutionists, (and those who follow them) dismiss the Triune God of the historical Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. These type of people firmly deny the Lord's creation, in their limited knowledge of "rational" human perception. They will dismiss and deny human life (personhood) in the womb -- yet they will go berserk to find the discovery of one single molecule on the planet, Mars.

So much for the ability of humans to deny and dismiss their Maker. Essentially, a soul in its unregenerate state, does not have the ability to believe, understand and appreciate and practice the Christian Faith, or give homage to the One Triune God, who dispenses faith, to whom He may.

Why the Miracle of the Virgin Birth [Luke 1:26-38] could be considered the greatest of all miracles

If you were all powerful; all knowing and all holy – why would you desire to give up your place in (perfect / sinless) heaven and become born as a human baby, - and, then, in addition to that, – after birth, spend the next 33 human years on sinful earth, before you would die, one of the most humiliating and excruciating deaths? Yet, that is what God, who created you and me, did. As the song lyric describes, "He left the splendor of heaven, knowing His destiny…."), - so that He could render Himself the perfect sacrifice to satisfy an angry and judgmental God, because of all of our sins against Him and our fellow human beings.

You might be wondering why the “Christian” God is supposed to be far better than anyone else’s’ particular god?

Continually, I run into people who are unwilling to part with their politically correct, multi-cultural (secular) mindset. To them all religions have some redeeming (equal) value. And, in their minds, it doesn’t matter what religion one believes or practices – just so long as the believer and practitioner are sincere.

Recently, a well know media anchor man was hauled out on the (politically correct) carpet because he said that the world renowned golfer, Tiger Woods, would be able to salvage and survive his double life marital adulteries and find some peace and forgiveness, if he would, but, embrace the Christian Faith:

"Journalist: Jesus Christ - 'two most explosive words in English language'" -- WASHINGTON - Fox News analyst Brit Hume says he doesn't regret urging Tiger Woods to become a Christian so the golfer can find forgiveness for marital infidelity. Hume told CBN News that "Christianity is a religion for sinners -- and I think that Tiger Woods has an opportunity here, and my prayer would be that he would take it." Hume has been denounced for saying that he doesn't think the famous golfer's belief in Buddhism "offers the kind of forgiveness and redemption that is offered by the Christian faith." -- onenewsnow.com

The Miracle of God being born into human flesh – makes the true [Triune] God, obviously authentic and unadulterated:

It’s the “forgiveness” aspect, that makes the Christian Faith so genuine and effective. It is the “forgiveness” thing, that makes God being born into human flesh, the most astounding miracle. Why? Because the whole purpose of God dethroning and debasing Himself upon our world, was because of His eternal love for sinners, such as you and I. And because of that eternal love of Christ, being made Man; living a holy life; suffering and being sacrificed for all of humanity’s sins – because of that divine love, there is the divine rescue from sin and all its eternal devastating and damning consequences.

God knew and knows the eternal consequences of human sin for His creation. [Luke 16:19-31 ; Matthew 25:31-46] Ever since the first humans sinned [Genesis 3] the Triune God has made provision for the sin problem. In fact the whole thrust of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures is testimony to the reality of God providing an eternal escape from human sin and its damning eternal consequences. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; John 3: 14-21

Friend – if you have a difficult time accepting the miracles recorded in the historical pages of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures, I can do nothing to convince you of its divine origin and truthfulness. Only by God’s grace can you come to accept His overwhelming loving presence for your needy sinful soul and His divine revelation in the Scriptures. May you hear, read and study those Scriptures – because in those sacred pages are its prime miracle Focus and prime miracle Author. John 5:39 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simpleworship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:

The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures:

Genesis 1:1f -- The miracle of Creation

New Testament Christian Scriptures:

Luke 2:1-20 -- The miracle of the birth Christ -- Note the preceeding Scripture: Luke 1:26-48

Colossians 1:26-27 -- The miracle of Christ formed in the Christian believer

1 Corinthians 15:1f -- The miracle of the resurrection

1 Timothy 3:16 -- "Great is the mystery of godliness...."

Oh the height of Jesus’ love higher than the heavens above

deeper than the depths of sea, lasting as eternity.

Love that found me – wondrous thought – found me when I sought Him not.

______________________

All that I was, my sin, my guilt, my death, was all mine own;

All that I am I owe to Thee, my gracious God, alone.

The evil of my former state was mine, and only mine;

The good in which I now rejoice is Thine, and only Thine.

The darkness of my former state, the bondage, all was mine;

The light of life in which I walk, the liberty, is Thine.

Thy Word first made me feel my sins, it taught me to believe;

Then, in believing, peace I found, and now I live, I live!

All that I am, even here on earth, all that I hope to be,

When Jesus comes and glory dawns, I owe it, Lord, to Thee.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

Yours to Live and Plan? The New Year 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 02:21:00 +0000

“Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters….” Isaiah 55:1-2

A common human trait:

It is a common human trait, to be in control – or, at least, think we are in control. We love to make plans and to act upon them. And, to a certain extent, that is not a bad thing. Not to plan and act upon those plans would be irresponsible as we could become lazy couch potatoes. Not to make plans and act upon them could result in a very disorderly world. We humans live by time. We act upon time. We set our lives in order by time. We are, essentially ruled by time. Without schedules, our lives would be in disarray.

However, to take for granted that we are in control and that our plans are always commendable, and, that those plans should not be altered – that, type of thinking, is neither advisable, nor, wise -- at least, from a divine perspective.

The Scriptures make it clear that it is the Triune God who created us, and, not the other way, around [Psalm 100:3 ; Colossians 1:13-20] We live in His world – not, ours. Sometimes, we would like to think that this world is ours. But, in reality, we are only passing through. Psalm 103:15 ; Psalm 90:1f

A non common human trait:

It is a non common human trait to acknowledge that we are not in control. It is not common to acknowledge the Triune God in our everyday affairs. But that is what we are to do.

The Scriptures state:

"Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." [KJV] Proverbs 27:1

Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” James 4:13-17

It is not wrong or unscriptural to plan. It is not improper to take control of our lives and run them by schedules and the clock. What is improper, wrong and even sinful, is to do all that without acknowledging the Lord of all.

Why is it wise to always acknowledge the Triune God in all our plans and endeavors?

First of all, it is wise to acknowledge the Triune God in all our plans and endeavors, because that godly practice continually reminds us that we are not ultimately in control and that we need to humbly realize the Triune God’s divine sovereignty and provision in our lives. [See the concise explanation of the 1st article of the Apostle's Creed]

Secondly, we live in a fallen world. We can be going about our business (as, scheduled) and, be doing everything right [so, we think] – and then (without fault or error on our behalf) have calamity come upon us. We live in an imperfect world. Though we may follow all the rules – all it takes is for someone to screw up – someone to cross the center line on the highway; crash into us – and, we are laid up – with all our (well intentioned) plans put on hold.

You, who do not (genuinely) know the Triune God – You, are, at most risk

The Scripture says that a person is to acknowledge the Triune God in all his ways and that He would “make straight [his] your paths.” [Proverbs 3:5-6] But you who neither acknowledge the Triune God, nor believe His Savior Christ – you are absolutely incapable of acknowledging or obeying God. You, are bereft of His direction, comfort and support. The Scripture states that you are a dead [man] person walking. Your tracks are frozen in your sin. [Ephesians 2:1-10 ; Eccl. 7:20 ; Mark 7:21-23] Your present and eternal fate could be like the one man in the parable which Christ told:

The Parable of the Rich Fool -- Luke 12:15-21

......And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’

“So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” ..... Luke 12:15-21

What will you do – you, who recognize your precarious position – and that your soul is priceless?

If you have reached the point where you recognize yourself a sinner, worthy of the Triune God’s just and equitable sentence and eternal punishment, there is hope for you. If you finally realize that your soul is (eternally) priceless, you are on the right track. But in spite of all your awareness, you are still helpless. You can fool yourself and try all you may to repeat a 4 or 5 part "spiritual formula" and then call yourself a Christian, [supposedley] "saved" by Christ. But that would be hypocritical because you’ve then circumvented the grace of God by going to a step by step formula to save your wretched soul. Only Christ can save a soul. And, the Scripture tells us that a soul is delivered from present sin and eternal damnation, [hell] strictly by God’s grace, through faith. Ephesians 2:8-9

Then, how will you gain the faith to believe? How will you trust your Creator God to accept the reality that you are a sinner whose sins Christ lived, suffered and died for?

The Scriptures, itself tell us that “faith” comes by “hearing and hearing by the Word of God.” [Romans 10:17] The good and gracious Lord has done all he could to purchase your soul for His eternal keeping. And, He has given His world the Divine revelation of the Holy Scriptures, ".....which, are able to make you wise to salvation, through faith, which is in Christ Jesus…...” 2 Timothy 3:15-17

May you, who cannot save yourselves from your sin, be like the Ethiopian eunuch. [Acts 8:26-40] Read the Scriptures and humble yourselves to have them explained. May you come to the point where you can believe like him and love the same Christ, who lived, suffered and died for your sins, - and, who, made eternal provision for your fallen and sinful soul, by suffering the torments of hell on your behalf. Isaiah 53:1-12 ; Matthew 27:46

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:

The Order of Morning Service - and, the The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message:

Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures:

Psalm 73:1f -- The righteous contrasted with the unrighteous soul -- the slippery fate of the wicked

Isaiah 55:1-2 -- The Triune God's call to the thirsting soul

New Testament Christian Scriptures:

Luke 16:19-31 -- Christ's parable about another rich fool

Acts 8:26-40 -- The conversion of an Ethiopian eunuch

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- An in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel
http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The "Words in Season" topical messages and related worship format are not intended to discourage or replace the Christian worship and assembly of Christians at their particular places of church worship. As this website's author, it is my prayer and hope, that many souls will find the topical messages, related worship format and other material, a useful and valuable Christian resource.

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place

3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian

Note: The above sermon message (with minor editing) was previously posted online by Nathan Bickel

Why Christ became a man

noreply@blogger.com (Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 06:05:00 +0000

“Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters….” Isaiah 55:1-12

Why Christ became a man - Christmas 2011

It was the harshest of all frontier winters. The man’s wife and children left for the Christmas Eve worship. He could not bring himself to believe in the Christ of Christmas. To him, God, becoming a man to “save” humanity, was, absurd.

The old Indian chief’s community weather forecast proved to be false. Rather than just a few flurries there appeared on the horizon a cold wind of blanketing heavy snow. As the wind increased with intermittent gusts and the snow began to drift, the man scurried to gather the farm animals into the barn.

Once inside the sheltered barn with all the animals intact, the man noticed the birds being blown hither and yon by the gusting winds. It was if they also wanted in the sheltered barn to be delivered from the treacherous storm. The man, who loved birds and often welcomed their nests as perched residences within his barn, sadly paused before closing the door. He thought to himself:

“If only I could coax them inside, they would not freeze and would be saved from the wintry blast. It’s too bad I can’t be a like a bird and communicate with them to coax them into my barn. If only briefly, I could transform myself into a bird, I could fly to the flock, inform them of the present danger they face and end up rescuing them into my barn of safety – free from the present dangers and ultimate devastation of the wind, snow and cold.”

Upon hearing himself think these [above] thoughts, there flashed into the man’s mind, the clear and simple meaning of the First Christmas.

My friend, the simple, yet clear meaning and significance of Christmas, is the celebration of Jesus Christ. He came as God, in human flesh to destroy sin, (eternal) death and the devil. He came to rescue us from our sins and eternal death (damnation) by His birth, [holy] life, suffering, death and resurrection. He came to deliver us from being children of God’s just and holy wrath [because of our sins] and call us into His family. [Ephesians 2:1-10] The Lord God could do that masterful divine work, no other way, than to communicate with us -- and He did so with flesh and blood. He did it by being born as you and me [yet, without sin]. He did it by living a sinless life, (of which we could not), and by suffering and dying [as God's perfect sacrifice for human sin] upon a cross. He completed his rescue and sealed its eternal finality by rising from the dead.

It is my prayer that those of you who visit this site, would come to know the one and only Triune God, who manifested Himself in the Savior person of, Jesus Christ. The good Lord did not leave His creation without a clue. He provided for us the Holy Scriptures -- His Divine Revelation for that very purpose. [2 Timothy 3:14-17] May you utilize this website to help equip you to understand, that, which only the Lord of all, can reveal to you.

Amen.

Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Scriptures:

Old Testament Hebrew Scriptures:

Isaiah 9:6-7 -- The Savior, Christ, prophesied 700 hundred of years before his birth

New Testament Christian Scriptures:

Luke 2:1-20 -- The first Christmas -- Jesus Christ, the Savior, is born

Matthew 7:13-29 -- Words of Jesus, the Christ

John 3: 14-21 -- The Gospel Message

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

__________________________________________

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The "Words in Season" topical messages and related worship format are not intended to discourage or replace the Christian worship and assembly of Christians at their particular places of church worship. As this website's author, it is my prayer and hope, that many souls will find the topical messages, related worship format and other material, a useful and valuable Christian resource.

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

Note: The above sermon message (with minor editing) was previously posted online by Nathan Bickel