The Bible Answers Life's Questions

One Biblical Reason Why Christians Should Vote-Part One

2012-01-24T10:15:00.001-05:00

Since 2012 is the year that Christian Americans have the opportunity (along with all Americans) in choosing their own president, I think it is important to remember from a biblical perspective why one should vote. Although there isn't a biblical command to go out and vote, I believe there is a strong biblical reason given by the Scriptures that compells us to fulfill our duty as Christian Americans. Here is the one biblical reason why Christian Americans should vote--we have a biblical example through the Apostle Paul of using our citizenship for the furtherance of the gospel.

The Apostle Paul (called Saul at this time) was saved by God's grace in Acts 9: 1-22 while he was on the road to Damascus to imprison Christians for teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. At this point in Saul's life, he was not a Christian, but rather one of the chief persecutors (Acts 9:1-2; Galatians 1:13-14) of the early church. Once the Apostle Paul met the Lord Jesus and was converted by the Gospel, he spent his life no longer defending his former faith, but rather seeking to live out and reach others for Christ (Acts 13:1-3; Galatians 2:20). During his ministry, there were times that he ran into obstacles (from his point of view, but not God's--Romans 8:28) that seem to be obstructing his path in fulfilling God's calling on his life. It is interesting to note that during some of these times he takes advantage of being a Roman citizen, and uses his earthly citizenship to help him further the Kingdom of God. Lets look at some of these times in the historical Book of Acts in the New Testament (This post will examine just one example with later posts exploring other examples.).

In Acts 16 the Apostle Paul and his companion Silas are beaten and thrown into prison for preaching the gospel in Philippi. God rescues Paul and Silas from jail through an earthquake, causing the doors of the prison to open up. The next day, the Philippian Jailer, who just converted to Christianity (see Acts 16:27-33), told them that they were free to leave according to the magistrates of the city. It is here in Acts 16:37-40 that the Apostle Paul states that he and Silas are Roman citizens and that what the magistrates did to them was illegal without a trial. The result of Paul and Silas exercising their citizenship? Paul and Silas were apologized to by the magistrates and were allowed to leave the city in success. What was their success? The success was they left behind Christians who were encouraged through Paul's example to be faithful to God and to exercise their new faith in Christ (Philippians 1:5). If you examine the church the Apostle Paul founded in Philippi, the church ended up being known as very faithful to the Gospel and full of love and care for all (See the New Testament Book of Philippians).

Now what is the lesson for Christian Americans from this account in Paul's life? The lesson is using earthly citizenship can open up doors of ministry and encourage Christians to be more bold in their faith. As Christian Americans vote according to their bibilically guided conscience they help pass laws and elect representatives that will allow the churches in America to have the freedom to exercise their faith without being hindered. This in turn encourages Christians to be more bold in sharing Christ. Therefore this year vote! Vote in such a way that the Kingdom of God can have more opportunity to spread and grow in the United States of America!

The next post will deal with another example from the Apostle Paul's ministry: Acts 22:25-30.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Why Is Reading the Bible So Important? - Answers in Genesis

2012-01-04T15:48:00.000-05:00

Why Is Reading the Bible So Important? - Answers in Genesis

It is totally vital for the Christian life to follow some sort of Bible reading schedule. I hope you are on a Bible reading schedule for the new year. If not, there are many plans available. Here is one I found online: http://www.ewordtoday.com/year/.

The above link from Answers in Genesis is an article that tells you about the benefits for reading the Word of God. If you are not on a plan, you need to be. Your life will be more blessed as a result.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Will the World End in 2012? - Answers in Genesis

2011-12-28T06:11:00.000-05:00

Picture is from Apollo 17 in 1972

Feedback: Will the World End in 2012? - Answers in Genesis

As 2012 quickly approaches, I am sure the comments that the world will end will spring up also. I found this article on the Answers in Genesis website that provides a biblical worldview on how to answer the question of the world ending in 2012.

It is important to remember what the Bible says about the end and God accomplishing His purposes:

Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,' calling a bird of prey from the east, the man of my counsel from a far country. I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it. "Listen to me, you stubborn of heart, you who are far from righteousness: I bring near my righteousness; it is not far off, and my salvation will not delay; I will put salvation in Zion, for Israel my glory. Isaiah 46:8-13

Remember this whither you fear the Lord God of the Bible or not: God will accomplish everything He has planned and the world will come to end exactly as He pleases.

And He said to me, "Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near. Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy." "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay everyone for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." Revelation 22:10-13

Therefore, make sure you are ready today to meet the Lord God who made the heavens and the earth, and all that exists. For the one who is ready to meet his Maker today has no reason to fear tomorrow (Isaiah 33:5-6).

Pastor Steve

Psalm 119:89

For Unto Us a Child Is Born

2011-12-27T00:26:00.000-05:00

For Unto Us a Child Is Born--Ken Ham

Enjoy!

Pastor Steve

Psalm119:89

Christmas from a Shepherd's Perspective | SharperIron

2011-12-21T12:11:00.000-05:00

Christmas from a Shepherd's Perspective | SharperIron

Enjoy this article I found on SharperIron.

Psalm119:89
Pastor Steve

Christmas time--a time to be wise fishermen? Proverbs 11:30

2011-12-19T06:56:00.000-05:00

The Bible says this in the book of Proverbs:

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. Proverbs 11:30

What does this verse teach us?

To be brief, the first part of the verse, "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life," teaches us that the righteous (meaning the one who is in a right standing before the Lord) will bring forth fruit through his actions and lifestyle that will influence other people for the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the natural characteristic of the genuine Christian. This agrees with what the Lord Jesus said that a good tree brings forth good fruit (Matthew 7:17-20). The second part of the verse, "and he that winneth souls is wise," fits with the first part by letting us know that the one who seeks to winneth (or "captures" as in the ESV) souls, or one that seeks to be a "fisher of men" (Keil & Delitzsch--Matthew 4:19), is a wise person. Note what the ESV Study Bible says about this verse:

The life of the righteous leads not only to blessing for themselves but also provides fruit that “captures souls” in the sense of leading people out of the path that ends in death.

How does this verse fit with Christmas time?

This verse fits with Christmas well because this is the time of year that a Christian probably has the greatest ability to have a godly influence on others. The Christian, who is seeking to bring forth good fruit all the time, is able to capitalize on the message of the Christmas account through the open door provided by his testimony. Are you seeking to do this through your life now?

Personal Application:

I was reminded first hand of this truth recently when I had someone just hours after reading Proverbs 11:30 approach me concerning some genuine questions about the Bible. I was able to use the message of Christmas and other verses to help explain to them the reason why Christ came to earth and the salvation that He provides through His sacrificial death to pay for our sin. The person was very receptive and inquisitive. It appeared to me that the Lord was working on their heart. I would like you to pray for this person's salvation if you yourself are a Christian. In light of what has happened to me, my prayer for you is that all of you who read this post also will have many opportunities in the next week or so to go fishing for Christ.

May the Lord reward you labor of love by allowing your righteous life to bring forth many souls for the Lord Jesus Christ this Christmas.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Christmas Marvel | SharperIron

2011-12-15T15:04:00.000-05:00

Christmas Marvel | SharperIron--article by John C. Whitcomb

Enjoy this article about the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pastor Steve

Psalm 119:89

Christmas--The Birthday of the King

2011-12-06T08:35:00.001-05:00

One of the messages of Christmas that often is overlooked by the world is that the virgin birth of the Lord Jesus Christ is about the birthday of a King. Where you may say do we find this message? The message is found in the pages of God's Word the Bible. In the Gospel of Luke the Bible says:

And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." And Mary said to the angel, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" And the angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy--the Son of God. Luke 1:30-35

What you just read is one of the familiar accounts often read during this time of year in the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Notice that this message given by the angel is for the purpose to bring comfort and remove fear. This is the case today also. The announcement of the birth of the King brings comfort by reminding us the following truths:

The birth of King Jesus reminds us that God is a God who saves and rescues people from sin (And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.). The name "Jesus" means that God is the one who saves. What does Jesus save us from? Jesus saves us from our sin against our Creator, the Lord God. In fact, when the angel spoke to Joseph, he communicated to him the purpose of the birth of Christ. The angel told him that the child will be called Jesus because "he will save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21). This is the main purpose of the birth of Jesus Christ the King. Jesus came to earth from the throne of heaven for the purpose to purchase us from our sin through the shedding of his blood on the cross of Calvary (John 3:13-18; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). We rebelled against our loving Creator (Genesis 3), but our Creator loves us so much that He made the way back from our rebellion against Him through Jesus Christ (John 14:6). What about you? Have you come back to God and asked Him for forgiveness? Do so now while you still have this moment.
The birth of King Jesus reminds us that Lord God is the One who rules the world (And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David). The Lord God created the entire universe in 6 days as written in Genesis 1. The Lord God is the one who also promised King David of Israel that through his offspring his throne will be established forever (2 Samuel 7:1-29; Psalm 89: 20-29; Hebrews 1:1-12). Jesus Christ is this one who God promised to David. The Bible teaches us that one day Jesus Christ will come back a second time to rule the world as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:11-21) and will rule forever (his kingdom there will be no end).

In light of the wonderful fulfilled promises of the coming of Christ, and the many future promises of Christ's return--have you submitted your heart to the rule of Jesus Christ? Do so now willingly so you will not have to one day at the Day of Judgment (Revelation 20:11-15). On that Day it will be too late to receive forgiveness of your sin--rather you will your eternal punishment!

I close with Philippians 2: 5-11:

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on across. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that JesusChrist is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Is the Wood Recently Found on Mt. Ararat from the Ark? - Answers in Genesis

2011-11-25T08:04:00.000-05:00

Is the Wood Recently Found on Mt. Ararat from the Ark? - Answers in Genesis

Interesting article. It is a little technical, but it is still clear enough to help us understand whether the wood recently found in 2010 could be Noah's Ark.

Pastor Steve

Psalm 119:89

Will there be a one world government? The Bible says yes!

2011-11-06T08:01:00.000-05:00

I recently listened to an interview of Congress Woman Michele Bachmann whereby she spoke of the push of some in the American government for the surrendering of American's sovereignty to international organizations for the purpose to bring about a one world unity. The interviewer, a famous talk show host, asked if the fear over the years of a one world government are real, and she said yes--and her presidential campaign is committed to protecting American sovereignty and reversing this course.

So is what Michele Bachmann spoke about a push for a one world system ever going to come true? I am afraid the answers is yes--according to the Bible. In fact, the desire to be one world, one people, one government is not a new idea, but actually is a very ancient one. Where you may say? Look at Genesis 11:1-9:

Now the whole earth had one language and the same words. 2 And as people migrated from the east, they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there. 3 And they said to one another, "Come, let us make bricks, and burn them thoroughly." And they had brick for stone, and bitumen for mortar. 4 Then they said, "Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be dispersed over the face of the whole earth." 5 And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of man had built. 6 And the LORD said, "Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them. 7 Come, let us go down and there confuse their language, so that they may not understand one another's speech." 8 So the LORD dispersed them from there over the face of all the earth, and they left off building the city. 9 Therefore its name was called Babel, because there the LORD confused the language of all the earth. And from there the LORD dispersed them over the face of all the earth.

Here is the passage whereby we learn how historically languages came about. At this point in history, the world was one people--decedents of Noah and his family. These offspring were commanded by the Lord to scatter over the whole earth and subdue it (Genesis 9:1). This is a repeat of the command given by the Lord to Adam and Eve in Genesis 1:28. Did the people obey the voice of the Lord? The answer is no. Here we find in Genesis 11 that the people came together in the Land of Shinar (To learn more where the Land of Shinar is see: Where in the World Is the Tower of Babel?) with the purpose to build a city, to make a name so they will not be dispersed over the whole earth.

Concerning the oneness of humanity, notice what God says in verse 6--remember God is not a man that He should lie (Numbers 23:19)! God says that when humanity is one, they will accomplish whatever they purpose! You may say, "What is the danger of that?" The danger is a one world together will leave out the Creator who made them in His image (Genesis 1:26-27). You and I were created for the purpose to give God glory (Revelation 4:11). On the other hand, thepeople at the tower of Babel were full of pride and set on directinghumanity on a path to totally forget God. Here is what the ESV study Bible states about the passage of Genesis 11:1-9:

Thisepisode is significantly more important than its length suggests. Itpresents a unified humanity using all its resources to establish acity that is the antithesis of what God intended when he created theworld. The tower is a symbol of human autonomy, and the city builderssee themselves as determining and establishing their own destinywithout any reference to the Lord.

Did the confusion of the language by the LORD God at the Tower of Babel totally destroy the Devil's attempt (for the Devil is the instigator of the one world movement) to get humanity to totally forget God? The answer is no--it just greatly set back the Devil's effort. The Devil continually today seeks to get humanity to be one so there will be no need to trust and worship their Creator. For example, could it not be that the effort today in America to get people every where to accept molecular to man Evolution as fact really be a means of the Devil to get people to forget about God?

Getting people to forget about God is not the only purpose of the Devil. His ultimate goal is to get the whole world to look to him as being their god. This is why the push today for a one world system is so dangerous because the end goal is people will forget their Creator and will end up worshiping the Devil. One day humanity, for a short period of time according to the Bible ( see Revelation 13: 1-18), will worship the Devil and his earthly representative the Anti-Christ (called also Man of Lawlessness, the Beast in the NT). This will happen in the future after the Church is gone (2 Thessalonians 2:7) and before the return of the Lord Jesus Christ to earth a second time (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12; Revelation 19:1-21).

Yet, despite this apparent victory of a one world system headed by the Devil, the Lord Jesus Christ will return to earth a second time to rightfully claim the world as His own--and no one will be able to stop the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords (Joel 2:1-11; Revelation 19:11-16). From this point of time forward there will be a new one world government, but this time with Jesus Christ as the King (Isaiah 9:6-7; Daniel 2:44; Zechariah 14:1-9). All the world will worship Jesus Christ! His kingdom will be a kingdom of peace, fulfilling all the promises He made to Abraham, King David and the people of Israel (Isaiah 11:1-10; Joel 3: 1-21; Zephaniah 3:8-20). What the Bible records for us will happen and I believe that what we are seeing today in our world is a precursor to these future events that will come.

In closing, my question to you is, "Are you looking for a one world government whereby the world is one without God, or are you looking for a one world government with Jesus Christ ruling?" Your answer gives indication of your heart and whom you love (1 John 2:15-17). If you choose to love the world, know this--you will stand before the Lord Jesus Christ one day and will confess Him as Lord (Philippians 2: 5-11), but it will be too late for you to have your sins forgiven. Rather than face that fateful day of judgement, why not come now and confess Jesus Christ as Lord and have a new heart (John 3:7) and receive eternal life that will last forever with joy (John 3:36).

I finish with the final chapter of the Bible:

Revelation 22:1-21 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. 6 And he said to me, "These words are trustworthy and true. And the Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, has sent his angel to show his servants what must soon take place." 7 "And behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book." 8 I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me, 9 but he said to me, "You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers the prophets, and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God." 10 And he said to me, "Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near. 11 Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy." 12 "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay everyone for what he has done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." 14 Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. 15 Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. 16 "I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star." 17 The Spirit and the Bride say, "Come." And let the one who hears say, "Come." And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. 18 I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book. 20 He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.

Maranatha!
Pastor Steve

Psalm 119:89

Trials, With God, are Better Than Gold!

2011-10-30T11:58:00.002-04:00

In the Bible, the Book of James, Chapter 1, verses 2-4 state this:

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

Here is a question, how can trials be joyful when trials tend to be so painful? Some people I know are going through physical trials, many financial, some both--while others go through trials like loosing their love ones. How can the Bible state that when all kinds of trials come there should be joy? The answer, for the Christian, is that God is in total control of each and every trial, knowing full well in His infinite wisdom that the trial facing the Christian is the best thing for them at this time (see Romans 8:28-39). How can that be so?

You see, James is writing to people who have trusted the Lord with their life. These people can go through their life here on earth knowing that God is making them more like Jesus Christ. James is reminding them of this important truth. Therefore these people can rejoice through their trial and not be fretful like the world around them who have no certain hope. In fact, not only can they have joy James says, but also the knowledge that the trials that they are experiencing are trials designed by God for a purpose--to make their faith in Him stronger! The end game is that the Lord wants to make them a mature, complete Christian--one who is not only totally trusting in Christ for their salvation from sin, but also for their daily lives. These people, as God perfects them in Christ, will in the process be a wonderful testimony to their neighbor who doesn't know Christ and the God of Heaven! Notice what the Apostle Peter writes in 1 Peter:

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9

My question to you is not are you going through a trial right now, but are you going through a trial with the Lord Jesus as the Captain of your soul? All people go through trials because we live in a sin cursed world, but only those whose faith is in Christ can go through trials knowing that the end result will be better than gold!
I close with what James says later in chapter one:

Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits. Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:9-12

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

Feedback: Can We Know When Jesus Will Return? - Answers in Genesis

2011-10-21T05:50:00.001-04:00

Feedback: Can We Know When Jesus Will Return? - Answers in Genesis

This is in response to Harold Camping's prediction that today is the day the Lord returns--remember, no one knows the day or hour.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Are you living the godless lifestyle? 2Timothy 3

2011-10-11T08:34:00.001-04:00

The Bible says this in 2 Timothy 3: 1-5:

But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.

In the above verses is a list of qualities of those who are godless. Concerning these godless people, the Apostle Paul is warning Timothy about their desire to come in and not only pervert the truth, but the people to whom Timothy ministers to. Paul reminds Timothy that he is different than the godless because Timothy listened to the doctrine of Christ (2 Timothy 3:10-15) and has the Scriptures to make him totally able to handle all situations (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Why do I bring up this list of godless qualities as a post? Because there are many Christians who may have a right profession but live a lifestyle that disprove their profession. Let me clarify by stating what James said in his epistle:

What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, "You have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe--and shudder! Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness"--and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. James 2:14-24

My point is I want to emphasize what the Bible teaches: if you are a Christian, your life will prove you are a Christian. Works do not save a person from sin, but works prove whether a person's profession about being born-again is valid or not.

Notice this list in 2 Timothy 3. These godless people are self-lovers and money lovers--these two qualities fly in the face of what the Bible teaches about loving God first, and others second ( Matthew 22:37-38) and that the love of money being a root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10). It has been said that everything else in this list given by the Apostle Paul comes from these two qualities (See John MacArthur, The MacArthur New Testament Commentary 2 Timothy, p. 108., Moody Press, 1995). Can these two qualities be the leading heart qualities of a person who claims to be a servant of God? The answer is a resounding no!

Notice the last two items in the list: pleasure-lovers and not God-lovers (vs. 4). It is interesting to note that these godless people are ones who have replaced loving God with loving pleasure. Pleasure is their god! To how many so called Christians does the motto "if it feels good, do it" apply? Again, a person who is true Christian cannot serve pleasure as god and Christ as God.

Now if you realize that you have these godless qualities dominating your life you need to consider some things.

First, consider whether or not you are really a Christian. A true Christian, once they recognize their sins, are quick to confess them and forsake them--see King David's reaction to Nathan the Prophet pointing out David's sin about Bathsheba and killing her husband (2 Samuel 12: 1-13). If you realize you have sinned, but have no desire to change--this is evidence that maybe you are still in your sins. You need to honestly evaluate your heart and see if you need to become a Christian (see the page How Do I Become a Christian?). If you decide to wait till later to be honest about your heart's spiritual status you may miss the opportunity because today could be your last day on earth. Only faith alone in Jesus Christ alone (John 14:6) can save you from the coming judgment of God upon your sin (Colossians 3:5-6).

Secondly, recognize that if are a Christian, you don't have to live in sin. You can find forgiveness with Christ (1 John 1:9) and be able to have victory over sin controlling your life ({Romans 6:1-23). Ask the Lord today to help you through His grace live out the Christian life (Ephesians 2:8-10). Christ through His blood have given you the victory over sin's power!

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57

Pastor Steve
Psalm119:89

Knowledge and Natural Revelation | SharperIron

2011-10-03T06:11:00.000-04:00

Click on Knowledge and Natural Revelation | SharperIron to view article by Kevin Bauder

Quote from Article:

We do not discover God. We already know God. The knowledge of God is hardwired into us. At the most fundamental level, no one needs to be convinced that God is and God has spoken. Every human being has this knowledge. Dr. Kevin T. Bauder

Good Article to read.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Are You Following Heresies? - Answers in Genesis

2011-09-26T05:41:00.003-04:00

Are You Following Heresies? - Answers in Genesis

"A heretic is someone who adheres to beliefs contrary to what has been commonly accepted by that group. In Scripture, it refers to someone who introduces or follows doctrines contrary to the teachings of Christ and His apostles (2 Peter 2:1)." From the Devotional from Answers in Genesis.

I encourage you to read the devotional and think about your own desires to do your own thing a part from others of the
same faith.

Pastor Steve
Psalm119.89

Student Project Portrays 9/11 Testimony of American Airlines Pilot | Bob Jones University

2011-09-06T18:11:00.000-04:00

Student Project Portrays 9/11 Testimony of American Airlines Pilot | Bob Jones University

Very sobering. I encourage you to watch it.

Pastor Steve
Psalm119:89

Future Events: The Rapture and World Wide Judgment. Will You Escape The Coming Tribulation?

2011-09-06T07:59:00.001-04:00

Last post I dealt with the Rapture, explaining what it is and going over the two largest passages that support this teaching in the Bible. This post will provide further evidence for the Rapture by explaining from Scripture common elements associated with the Rapture event. The goal of this post is to demonstrate that when it comes to the judgment of the wicked, God will save Christians from future world wide judgment.

Let me explain some elements that are associated in context to the Rapture event:

Christians: Christians are the ones taken up by the Lord Jesus at the time of the Rapture (some also argue the resurrection of OT saints takes place here). Who are Christians? Christians are those who believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ as their only means of salvation from their sin (John 3:14-18). Christians believe that Jesus Christ, God's only begotten Son, who is God (John 1:1), was born of the virgin Mary, lived a sinless life, died on a Roman cross for the purpose of saving people from their sins, and rose again the third day from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Christians believe that Christ is now with the Heavenly Father, preparing a place for all who come to Him for salvation from sin by faith (John 14: 1-3). Christians also believe Christ will return again a second time to earth.

Figure 1. Click on image to see larger picture of the timeline of future events. Many of these items are referred to in the following bullets.

Rapture: The event at the end of the church age (the age we are now in Biblically) before the world wide judgment (Tribulation). The event occurs when the Lord Jesus Christ descends from heaven, resurrecting all the bodies of dead believers first and then calling up all living Christians from the earth. All these people will have glorified bodies like Christ (1 Corinthians 15:50-57). Everyone will meet the Lord Jesus Christ in the sky to live forever with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). After this Rapture, believers in Christ will stand before Christ and give an account for how they served Him on earth. Also, in addition, many believe that after this accounting (called the Judgment Seat of Christ--2 Corinthians 5:10), believers will celebrate the Marriage of the Lamb (Revelation 19: 1-10).

World Wide Judgment: World wide judgment has occurred once before with the global Noah's flood (if you doubt the Bible's account look at all the billions of dead things, buried in rock layers, laid down by water, all over the earth!). Word wide judgment will occur a second time between the Rapture of Christians and the Second Coming of Christ to the earth. This period is called the Tribulation (Matthew 24: 21-31--See Figure. 1). The purpose of this judgment is to judge humanity for their sin because they have reject Jesus Christ as being their Lord and Savior and have in-turn trusted in the another called by many Anti-Christ (See Daniel 7:1-28; 9: 24-27; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12; 1 John 2:18-22; 4:3; 2 John 1:7) as being their god. This judgment begins when the Lord Jesus breaks the first seal of judgment (Revelation 5:1-14). There are a total of 7 seal judgment (See Figure 2), with each judgment being worse than before. The last seal judgment contains all 7 trumpet judgments. These judgements are worse than the seals. The last trumpet judgment brings in the bowl judgments which are extremely severe and focus primarily on the rule of Anti-Christ and his worldwide kingdom . At the end of this judgment period, the Lord Jesus Christ returns to earth a second time to defeat the nations, the Devil (the Devil will be bound), Anti-Christ, the False Prophet, and begin His 1000 year reign from Jerusalem. After the 1000 year reign of Christ, the Devil will be loosed for a short season and there will be a final judgment (Great White Throne) that will begin Eternity. At this point of final judgment, the Devil will be cast into the Eternal Lake of Fire along with (the next two have been there since the Second Coming of Christ) the Anti-Christ, the False Prophet, and those people whose names were not found written in the Book of Life.

Figure 2: Timeline of the Seal, Trumpets, and Bowl Judgments

Second Coming: Christians also believe that Jesus is coming back a second time to earth physically, not as a Savior this time, but as a King (Acts 1:11; Revelation 19:11-21). Many Christians believe that this event takes place after the Tribulation. In this Second Coming, the Jewish people will realize that Jesus Christ is their Messiah and believe on Christ for Salvation (Zechariah 12:1-14; Zechariah 14:1-9). Once Christ returns, He will reign from Jerusalem, and for a thousand years the world (Revelation 20: 1ff) will be under the direct rule of Christ, fulfilling in the process all the promises made to Abraham and David in the Old Testament. The Second Coming is not the Rapture event because during the Rapture event the Lord only meets His people in the air.

There will be one more post on this subject concerning the Rapture. I hope this information is helping you to understand the importance of being ready to meet the Lord. The Rapture could occur today. Tomorrow could begin the period of judgment called the Tribulation. No one but God the Father knows the day or the hour. Therefore, you need to be ready. Turn from your sin today! Trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior! It is a frightful thing to fall into the hands of an angry God who is perfectly holy and just and is all seeing and knowing (Proverbs 15:3).

A future post will deal with the historical events in the Bible that help give more evidence that there is a coming Rapture of God's people.

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

What is the Rapture?

2011-09-01T05:13:00.000-04:00

Understanding what the Rapture is can be a confusing task. This post is designed to clarify by explaining from the Bible what the Rapture is and demonstrating from the Scripture that the Rapture is not only a real event that will occur someday, but fits the pattern of God removing the righteous from danger when He judges the ungodly. Because the subject matter has the potential to be very broad, these posts will not deal with every passage of Scripture that supports the Rapture.

What Does The Word Rapture Actually Mean And Where Did It Come From?

What does the English word Rapture mean? The word Rapture means in a nut shell "caught up." Now if you have tried to look up the word rapture in the English Bible, I am sure you have discovered to your alarm that the word rapture is not found there. Does this mean that the idea of a rapture is not a biblical idea? The answer is no. This is because the word rapture as used today by Evangelical Christians comes from the Latin word "rapturo." Rapturo was used in the Latin translation of the key passage for the teaching of the Rapture: 1 Thessalonians 4:17.

So why is the word rapture not found in the English Bible? It is because good English translations base their translation off of the Greek New Testament (which is what the New Testament was originally written in). The Greek did not use the Latin word "rapturo." The Greek word is the word "harpazō." The idea from the Greek is "to seize or carry away by force; to snatch out of the way" (Thayer). Therefore, based off this Greek word, many popular good English translations use the translation "caught up" such as the English Standard Version, 1901 American Standard, and the King James Version.

Where Is The Teaching Of The Rapture Found In The Bible?

There are two main places in the Scriptures where the teaching of the Rapture is found: 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 and 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. Both of these passages together teach us several important truths:

The Rapture event occurs to only those (whether dead or still alive at that time) who are born again (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). To understand what being born again means, please read John 3:1-21. The Rapture is possible because Jesus Christ Himself rose from the dead and is alive (1 Thessalonians 4:14).
The Rapture will occur when three things happen: "Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God" (1Thessalonians 4: 16).
The Rapture will first occur to those who are "dead in Christ," then to those who are alive who are Christians (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
Everyone will meet the Lord in the air and forever be with Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
The Rapture is an immanent event before world wide judgment (1 Thessalonians 5:1-4).
The Rapture is the fulfillment of God's promise that God's people are not appointed to receive the wrath of God (1 Thessalonians 5:9-10).

What About Those Who Are Not A Christian At The Time Of The Rapture?

Those who are not Christians at the time of the Rapture will be left on the earth to face the immanent judgment of Almighty God (Rev. 6:1ff). During this Tribulation, there will be many people turning from their sin to Christ for salvation (Rev. 7: 9-17). Unfortunately, the majority of the world will be duped and believe the Anti-Christ (The Man of Lawlessness), rejecting salvation from sin ( 2 Thessalonians 2: 9-12), resulting with God's just judgment on them (2 Thessalonians 1: 5-12).

Why Did The Lord Give Us The Teaching On The Rapture Since The Event Is Taking Place At Least 2000 Years After His Resurrection?

The main purpose of the teaching of the Rapture is to encourage Christians who have lost love ones who also were Christian (1 Thessalonians 4:18; 5:11). The point is since the Rapture is a real event that will occur, the Christian doesn't have to sorrow like the rest of the world. Death for the Christian is just a temporary event that one day will be reversed when Christ comes and calls the dead in Christ to rise. This is a certain hope. I will deal more with this resurrection hope in a future post.

I hope this has been helpful. On the next post I will deal with how the Rapture fits the pattern found in Scripture of God removing the Righteous from judgment.

Rev. Steve
Psalms 119:89

Intelligent Design Is Not Enough

2011-09-01T04:42:00.001-04:00

Intelligent Design Is Not Enough

Enjoy this post from Ken Ham.

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

How Can We Stand on Scripture in an Evolution-Pushing Culture? - Answers in Genesis

2011-08-06T07:09:00.000-04:00

How Can We Stand on Scripture in an Evolution-Pushing Culture? - Answers in Genesis

This is an excellent article to ponder for a while--especially for those who live in America and call themselves a Bible believing Christian.

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

Van Dyke, Margaret--home with Jesus her Lord.

2011-07-26T07:10:00.001-04:00

Van Dyke, Margaret-link to her obituary.

Today, I will be giving thanks to God for my Godly grandmother. She was ready for eternity--are you?

God in His infinite wisdom (Romans 8:28) allowed her to suffer for many years at the hand of dementia. Yet, through it all, God was always faithful to her and just like the Good Shepherd (Psalm 23: 1-6), led her home to glory.

Rev. Steve
Psalm119:89

Some Wise Words From King Solomon

2011-07-23T09:26:00.002-04:00

Laural Grove Cemetery in Totowa, NJ

In the Old Testament Book Ecclesiastes, the Preacher (who I believe is really King Solomon) teaches us some vital wisdom regarding life and death. He says this in chapter 7, verses 1-4:

A good name is better than precious ointment,
and the day of death than the day of birth.
It is better to go to the house of mourning
than to go to the house of feasting,
for this is the end of all mankind,
and the living will lay it to heart.
Sorrow is better than laughter,
for by sadness of face the heart is made glad.
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning,but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.

Here we learn that there is more value added to some one's life when they attend a funeral or a grave side service of a love one than when a new born baby is born (Ecclesiastes 7:1) or when they go to a party (Ecclesiastes 7:2,4). What is the value? The value is that the living will realize the reality that death is certain and is coming to them in due time. Partying ("house of mirth") only adds forgetfulness of troubles, and the birth of a baby brings joy ("day of birth")--but both fail in comparison to give the wisdom ("heart of the wise") of being prepared for death and eternity ("the living will lay it to heart"). With this passage in mind, let me ask you a question, "How wise are you in preparing for your end here in this life?

When I was at the above cemetery in Totowa, NJ this past winter, conducting my grandfather's funeral, I was struck with the reality as I saw tombstones as far as the eye can see the reality of Ecclesiastes 7:1-4. Some of the people buried were ready for death, others were not. Regardless if the people were ready or not, death came--and then it was too late for them. This reality is a perfect example of what the Bible states in Hebrews 9:27 that it is appointed to man once to die, and then the judgment. Death is appointed by God for all people. If fact Psalm 139:16 says:

Your eyes saw my unformed substance;
in your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.

God knows the days that were formed for each one of us. God knows how we will end this life. God knows everything about us. The question is do you and I understand everything that God wants us to know about Himself so that we can be ready for death whenever that day comes? You may ask, "Well, how can I be ready?" You can be ready by seeking to understand what God has already spoken in His Word, the Bible.

What does God say in His Word? Well lets start back at Hebrews 9:27. In this verse, not only does this verse mention a day of death being appointed for everyone, but also mentions something else for everyone: judgment. What is this judgment you may ask? The word here for judgment is a general word that includes both Christians (2 Corinthians 5:10) and non-Christians alike (Revelation 20:11-15). Every person who has lived, lives now, and will live will face judgment. The difference between the people are some are judged according to their works after they have had their sins forgiven (2 Corinthians 5:10), the other by their works alone (Revelation 20:12). The ones who stand before the Lord forgiven will be at a seat of judgment that focuses on what kind of eternal rewards they will receive for how they lived for Christ after salvation; the ones who stand before the Great White Throne Judgment will be judged according to their works and receive eternal judgment. John MacArthur in his notes on the judgment for the unsaved from his study Bible says this,

Their thoughts (Luke 8:17; Rom. 2:16), words (Matt. 12:37), and actions (Matt. 16:27) will be compared to God’s perfect, holy standard (Matt. 5:48; 1 Pet. 1:15–16) and will be found wanting (Rom. 3:23).

Isn't that a sobering reality? Isn't this why the Preacher of Ecclesiastes 7 reminds us of the wisdom of being ready for the day of death? No person can hope to reach heaven somehow by way of their works because all of us have sinned against God's perfect commands (Romans 3:10). This sin started in the Garden of Eden by Adam (Romans 5:12), bringing sin, separation from God, suffering, death, and judgment to all who would be born after him. But fortunately, God in His Wisdom, made a way that you and I do not have to face death condemned before God for our sin against Him. God made a way for forgiveness through His Son, the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ:

For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. 1Timothy 2:5-6.

The Bible teaches us that Jesus Christ, who being God (Philippians 2:6; 1 Timothy 1:1), became a man for the express purpose to purchase us salvation from sin. Jesus Christ purchased us by shedding His blood as payment for our sin on the cross and taking on our behalf the punishment for our sin (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; 1 Peter 2:24). Why did Christ do this? He did this because He loves us (John 3:16)! Since Jesus Christ is alive, so all who come to the Lord and ask for forgiveness is given eternal life (John 3:36; Ephesians 2:8-9).

So, are you ready for death? My grandfather was ready. I am ready. You too can be ready for death by taking heed to the Word of God, letting it work in your heart. If you want to be ready, just admit to God your sins against Him, believe on Jesus Christ and what He did on the cross was also for you, and confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and God.

If you have any further questions about salvation from sin, search my blog under the words sin, salvation.

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

Hasn’t Evolution Been Proven True? - Answers in Genesis

2011-07-10T07:16:00.003-04:00

Hasn’t Evolution Been Proven True? - Answers in Genesis

To many Evolution is a proven fact--even among Christians. Is that really the case?
Read this article and see that logically Evolution is not so "proven" as many think.

"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." Psalm 19:1

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119: 89

How Long Will America Last? A Biblical Perspective on America's Greatness

2011-07-04T08:43:00.001-04:00

On Fourth of July America will celebrate its Declaration of Independence from Great Britain 235 years ago. To me, the Fourth of July is almost a sacred day because of the many sacrifices of patriots since July 4, 1776. The Forth of July is a time for me to reflect on those sacrifices, being reminded again that my liberty came at the great cost of my countrymen generations ago. I can claim no credit for my freedom except that by the Lord's providence, I was born in America. I have pondered this thought a lot.

In addition, I also have pondered that America's greatness today is not just the direct result of its patriots. As I study American history, I am struck with the fact that it is the providence of Almighty God that had time and time again delivered America through great turmoil (like the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Civil War, World War II, etc). I think this delivery by God's providence came as a result that America had many who were God's people--American citizens who were also citizens of God's Kingdom. If you check it out, you will find that America in its history has enjoyed many spiritual revivals--three of them being called Great Awakenings--during its short time of liberty from Great Britain. Yet, when I look at today, I am struck at the reality that America of 2011 is going in the opposite direction of its spiritual heritage. Many of American's citizens are not children destined for heaven, but rather are slaves of sin, living only for today, not thinking of the eternal consequences of their sin tomorrow. This present reality is truly sad news and breaks my heart as an American. Why you may ask? The reason is that the Bible makes it clear that those who live in sin (sin is breaking God's Law--like the 10 Commandments) will not experience God's blessing, but rather His chastisement and judgment. America, if it doesn't reverse its sin loving course, will ultimately go down the slippery slope to moral destruction and God's judgment.

Where is this proof that America is going in the opposite direction of the Lord, heading down a road to moral destruction and God's judgment? The proof is found in God's Word, the Bible.

Consider this list of the following Scriptures. Some are direct references to nations, others are to Israel, but all can be directly applied to any group of people who forget the Lord and live for self and sin:

Therefore the LORD, the God of Israel, declares: 'I promised that your house and the house of your father should go in and out before me forever,' but now the LORD declares: 'Far be it from me, for those who honor me I will honor, and those who despise me shall be lightly esteemed. 1 Samuel 2:30

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD. Psalm 33:12

Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people. Proverbs 14:34

Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, or his ear dull, that it cannot hear; but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies; your tongue mutters wickedness. No one enters suit justly; no one goes to law honestly; they rely on empty pleas, they speak lies, they conceive mischief and give birth to iniquity. They hatch adders' eggs; they weave the spider's web; he who eats their eggs dies, and from one that is crushed a viper is hatched. Their webs will not serve as clothing; men will not cover themselves with what they make. Their works are works of iniquity, and deeds of violence are in their hands. Their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed innocent blood; their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; desolation and destruction are in their highways. The way of peace they do not know, and there is no justice in their paths; they have made their roads crooked; no one who treads on them knows peace. Therefore justice is far from us, and righteousness does not overtake us; we hope for light, and behold, darkness, and for brightness, but we walk in gloom. We grope for the wall like the blind; we grope like those who have no eyes; we stumble at noon as in the twilight, among those in full vigor we are like dead men. We all growl like bears; we moan and moan like doves; we hope for justice, but there is none; for salvation, but it is far from us. For our transgressions are multiplied before you, and our sins testify against us; for our transgressions are with us, and we know our iniquities: transgressing, and denying the LORD, and turning back from following our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart lying words. Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away; for truth has stumbled in the public squares, and uprightness cannot enter. Truth is lacking, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey. The LORD saw it, and it displeased him that there was no justice.
Isaiah 59:1-15

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. Galatians 6:7

For the day of the Lord is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head. Obadiah 1:15

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. Romans 1:18

Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. Hebrews 13:4

Just in this short list of verses, it is made evident that trouble and not blessing comes to those who forget God. America, if it doesn't turn back to God, will eventually cease to be a great nation. But the fantastic news is that it is not too late for America to return! How can America return? All America has to do is for its citizens to repent (see their sin as God's sees it ) of their sin against God and to turn to Him for salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:6), the Savior of the World:

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God." John 3:14-21

As a side note, if you know the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, I challenge you as I was challenged yesterday that America needs intercessory prayer (1 Timothy 2:1-5). The challenge was not just to realize the wrong being done (like in Isaiah 59:9-14), but to be in prayer on behalf of the nation (Isaiah 59:15-16), its leaders, and its people that Americans will realize their sin, and come back to the only God who is strong enough to save from sin. Remember: "the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, or his ear dull, that it cannot hear." Isaiah 59:1

I close with some lines from our national anthem and My Country, 'Tis of Thee:

The Star-Spangled Banner:

Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preseved us a nation! Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just, And this be our motto: "In God is our Trust!" And the Star-spangled Banner in triumph shall wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.

My Country, 'Tis of Thee:

Our fathers' God, to Thee, Author of liberty, to Thee we sing: Long may our land be bright With freedom's holy light; Protect us by Thy might, Great God our King."

Psalm 119:89
Rev. Steve

Less Christian Every Day—What Is Wrong with the Church?

2011-07-03T06:56:00.000-04:00

Less Christian Every Day—What Is Wrong with the Church? Around the World With Ken Ham

I encourage you to read this post from Ken Ham about the decline of the church in America. In my opinion, he hits the nail right on the head regarding the reason.

Psalm119:89
Rev. Steve

How Does A Christian Deal With Adversity?

2011-06-18T07:43:00.016-04:00

As a Christian, the joy of knowing your sins are forgiven and that you have a home in heaven is often met with the daily reality that life on this side of heaven is just plain difficult. It can be anything from lack of funds to pay bills, to sickness, to working with antagonistic people. What should the Christian do to help himself overcome the adversity? Here are some things from Scripture that I have found helpful as I battle adversity in my life.

Remember that you live in a sin cursed world--everything and everyone is effected by sin (Romans 5:12; Romans 8:18-22).
Remember that God is in control--nothing happens to you as a Christian unless it comes through the will of God (Job 1:1-22; Psalm 25:10; Psalm 23:1-6; Romans 8:28-30).
Remember that the Devil prowls about like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5: 6-10).
Remember that you wrestle not against flesh and blood--if things are causing you adversity as you seek to serve Christ righteously, remember that most likely behind the scenes spiritual warfare is going on (Ephesians 6:10-18; Romans 16:20).
Remember that Christ over came the world (John 16:33; Luke 24:26-28).

Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. Psalms 119:49-50

I hope these verses help you as they often help me as I deal with adversity in my own life in trying to serve the Lord in a sin-cursed world. I included a link to Jim Berg's Book, "When Trouble Comes" that you may find as a resource if you are going through some troublesome times right now.

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

How Can We Rejoice Through Pain? - Answers in Genesis

2011-06-05T07:15:00.000-04:00

How Can We Rejoice Through Pain? - Answers in Genesis

A Good Article from Answers in Genesis that helps explain the command in Scripture for all Christians to rejoice always.

Here is another verse that has at times helped me through times of difficulty--like when my mother went home to be with the Lord back in 2006: "All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness,
for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies." Psalm 25:10 This verse reminds me that all the paths of the Christian who is keeping God's Word, no matter how hard it may be, are ones that are full of the Lord's love and undying faithfulness. Imagine that, the Lord, who created everything, makes sure that the path I am on is always under His watch care. The key to this verse is that the Christian must be one who keeps "his covenant and his testimonies." If I am keeping His Word, I do not have to fear. If I am not keeping His Word, then I must realize that God will deal with me and my sin unless I practice 1 John 1:9. May the Lord by His grace keep me as David prayed in verses 4-7 of Psalm 25:

"Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
Remember your mercy, O Lord, and your steadfast love,
for they have been from of old.
Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
according to your steadfast love remember me,
for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!"

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

Time for a different look. Psalm 5:3

2011-05-27T10:54:00.002-04:00

I changed my look on Blogger today--I have been wanting to do so for a while. The content is staying the same for now. I hope you fine the lighter background color easier to read. One devotional thought for today on having a different look:

To the choirmaster: for the flutes. A Psalm of David. Give ear to my words, O LORD; consider my groaning. Give attention to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you do I pray. O LORD, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch.
Psalms 5:1-3 ESV

I heard a message recently by Rev. Pastor Baker of Madison Baptist, and he made the point that the idea of watching in verse 3 is that David was praying to the Lord with the expectation by faith that God would answer his prayer. This truth is important for us to remember as we pray. We need to be like David and expect God to answer our prayers of faith to Him. For the one who declares the LORD to be his King and God, that one can always be confident that their prayers will be answered. What kind of look do you have today? Is it a different look than the world's at your life's situation? Are you looking to the Lord for your help? Are you confidently asking the Lord by faith to consider your groans? If you are not looking to the Lord right now, time for a different look!

Rev. Steve
Psalm119:89

Feedback: Can We Know When Jesus Will Return? - Answers in Genesis

2011-05-21T08:43:00.002-04:00

Feedback: Can We Know When Jesus Will Return? - Answers in Genesis

Read this article I found on Answers in Genesis' website. This article goes into more depth than me about Harold Camping and May 21,2011. One point I didn't point out in my post, and one that is made here in this article, is the fact that a lot of what Camping is saying jives with what Scripture warns as a false prophet. Even the Scripture I posted two days ago, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, states this about the danger of being deceived about the Lord's return:

"Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we ask you, brothers, [1] 2 not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. 3 Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness [2] is revealed, the son of destruction, [3] 4 who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God."

Here is a quote I totally agree with from the article:

"If anyone reading this article is or has been among those deceived, I want to make something very clear—Harold Camping is the one who deceived you, not the Bible. The Bible is still the inspired, accurate, and authoritative Word of God, and it does not set May 21, 2011 as Judgment Day."

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

Noah Knew? Why Harold Camping is Wrong about May 21 | SharperIron

2011-05-21T08:16:00.001-04:00

Noah Knew? Why Harold Camping is Wrong about May 21 | SharperIron

This article is from Arron Blumer, administrator for SharperIron. An excellent article that looks at a little more detail than my blog about the Lord's return and Harold Camping.

Rev. Steve
Psalm119:89

Is the Lord Returning May 21, 2011? What Happens if the Lord Doesn't Return Then?

2011-05-20T06:17:00.002-04:00

For a little while, Family Radio has been stating that the Lord Jesus Christ will come back the second time on May 21, 2011. Is what they are saying true? Well, let me first say that Family Radio is accurate in stating that the Lord definitely will return. There is no doubt about that. The passage I posted last night on 2 Thessalonians 2:1-16 makes that point very clearly (there are other passages besides just this one).

So what is the problem? The problem is the Bible speaks of the Lord's return as being as a thief in the night (2 Peter 3:10). If the Lord is returning as a thief, then no one will know when He is returning--if they did know when (like tomorrow), then the Bible would be wrong to say that the Lord is coming like a thief. In addition, the Lord Himself speaks of His second return as being like the days of Noah where it will come so quickly that the world will be too late to escaped His judgment (Matthew 24: 36-44). In addition, in the passage of Matthew 24, the Lord states that no one knows the time of His return, only the Heavenly Father knows (Matthew 24:36)! Clearly, Family Radio is misguided in interpreting the plain understanding of the Scriptures! The Lord may return today--we do not know!!! Therefore, let us be ready to meet Him now so His coming doesn't surprise us like a thief!

Now that I have stated some biblical reasons why Family Radio is wrong to declare a date that tomorrow is the return of Christ, I will look at how they arrived at their wrong conclusion. Family Radio, according to their website (www.familyradio.com) took the 7 days mentioned in Genesis 7:4 and coupled it to 2 Peter 3:8 which states that a day with the Lord is as a thousand years. Their conclusion then is that the days of Genesis 7:4 must equal 7,000 years and should be interpreted as such. If you take this premise and add 7,000 years to the year God rescued Noah and his family ( and animals) from the global judgment, and drop off one year to account for the change from BC to AD, you come up with 2011. The month and day are figured out because May 21 is the same calendar time as Genesis 7:10-11.

Is this the case? Is this group accurate? I think not. Why? Because they miss interpret several key things about the Scripture. Let me explain.

One of the principles of studying the Scripture is you should always allow the context of a verse to speak for itself. Words themselves are important, but the meaning of words should always be interpreted with the primary weight given to how they are used in the immediate surrounding context. For example--for God to tell Noah that the 7 days means 7 thousand years is nuts because there is nothing in the immediate context that gives any reference that the word "day" means "thousand." The context makes the most sense in Genesis 7 that "day" should be taken as a 24 hour period.
Another principle is that you should always take a conclusion somebody makes and compare it with the body of Scripture. For example, where in Scripture does it state that seven thousand years after Noah entering the ark the Lord's second coming will come? The answer is nowhere. In fact, the Bible directly speaks about us never knowing the exact time of the Lord's return in Matthew 24.
The Bible speaks of a calling up of God's people (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-11) since He has destined His people not for wrath, but for obtaining salvation in Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:9-10). This calling up takes place before the Tribulation and the Lord Jesus' Second Coming.
One last principle is that you should never contradict a clear statement of Scripture that is very plain in its meaning. Since the Bible clearly speaks of the time of the Lord's return as being unknown to man, then to contradict a clear statement in Scripture is foolish and sinful.

In closing, you may ask why I have taken such time to explain to you why Family Radio is wrong in declaring tomorrow as the Day of Judgment. The reason is Family Radio is ignoring what the Bible actually states. They are ignoring that God has left it a mystery so that the Second Coming of Christ will be a surprise to the world. I firmly believe the Lord Jesus is coming back a second time--and He will just like He did the first time (Acts 1:11; Revelation 6: 12-17)! Do I know when? No. But, I know if the Lord doesn't return today, we are one more day closer to that Day when He will return. My challenge to you right now is if you are not ready for His return, get ready. Place your faith in Christ now for salvation from your sin! Do not listen to the lies of the Devil that the Lord is never coming back. He is coming! We just don't know when.

"Matthew 24:29-51 ESV "Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. 32 "From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 34 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 36 "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. 37 For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 38 For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, 39 and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one left. 42 Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. 43 But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. 45 "Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? 46 Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. 47 Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. 48 But if that wicked servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed,' 49 and begins to beat his fellow servants and eats and drinks with drunkards, 50 the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know 51 and will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

Maranatha!
Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

PS: I am updating this on October 21, 2011--the second date Camping has given for the Lord's return. The above statements I made in May still apply today and will always apply until the Lord actually does return.

When is the Lord Returning? Should We Listen to Family Radio?

2011-05-19T21:25:00.001-04:00

The Bible makes its pretty clear that the exact time of when the Lord is returning a second time is a mystery, so to be frank, we shouldn't listen to Family Radio's prediction that the Lord is coming back Saturday. In fact, He may return tonight!
Here is a passage of Scripture which helps explain part of my reasoning. Let the Bible speak for itself. I will explain more reasons in an another post.

"2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 ESV 1 Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we ask you, brothers, 2 not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. 3 Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, 4 who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God. 5 Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? 6 And you know what is restraining him now so that he may be revealed in his time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, 10 and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. 11 Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, 12 in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 13 But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. 14 To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter. 16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word."

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

Who is the Last Adam? Watch the Last Adam video.

2011-05-11T06:13:00.000-04:00

Below is the video seen in the Creation Museum in Ky that explains who the Last Adam is. This is one of my favorite films that I have seen at the many visits I have made to the Creation Museum. It has a very powerful message. Rev. Steve, Psalm 119:89

Do You Know That Your Redeemer Lives? Resurrection Hope for a Suffering Sin-Cursed World.

2011-05-11T05:50:00.000-04:00

"For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!" Job 19:25-27 ESV

These verses are from one of the oldest accounts in the Bible, the Book of Job. Job was a righteous man who lived not long after the flood. We learn in this account that Job was suffering great physical and emotional pain while he was in the process of trying to live for the Lord (See Job 1 for why suffering came). What caused his pain? His pain came from loosing almost his entire family, loosing his wealth, and loosing his health.

In this pitiful, painful state of suffering, Job makes the statement of faith that is copied for you in the above verses. His statement gives hope to all, including you, who are suffering today. Job lets us know that suffering for the one who trusts in his Redeemer is only temporary. Lets us break down his statement and examine how Job, although he was suffering greatly, was able to have this certain hope of deliverance.

Job knew he had a Redeemer who was living.

Job had a certain faith--he knew he had a Redeemer!

The word used for "know" here refers to certain, experiential knowledge.
Job was certain that whatever happened to him, even in death, he has a Redeemer.

In the Old Testament, the word "Redeemer" refers to a kinsman-redeemer, one who will avenge or take up his cause on his behalf. The Scriptures speak of God being that very Redeemer for those who trust in Him (Isaiah 41:14). God will always take up the cause of His people when His people are living according to His Word.

I believe Job, through faith, is looking at the Lord Himself as being his Redeemer. We know from later Scriptures that Jesus Christ, the Eternal Son of God, who was born in the manger, paid the ultimate redemption price and fulfilled forever the role of being the Redeemer of all who place their faith in Him (Galatians 3:13; Galatians 4:5; Titus 2:14).

Job then, and all believers in Christ today, can rest for certain knowing that the Lord God who created everything, will always do what is best and good for His people (Romans 8:28). The Lord is the Redeemer, the only One who will come to aid and save His people.

Job knew his Redeemer was alive.

He wasn't stating he had a hope in some dead memory of someone that would help him, or in some great ideology that would rescue him.
Job's faith was in the person of the Lord who always has existed in eternity past, and will always live forever (Hebrews 13:8)!

Job knew he would one day see his Redeemer

Job states that after death, in his own flesh, he would see God with his very own eyes!
How can Job have such certainty that he will see his Redeemer? Job's certain hope lies in the ultimate reality of the historical event of Christ's resurrection (1 Corinthians 15: 1-28). Since Christ overcame the grave, sin, and suffering, so all who in Him also will overcome and live forever (John 3:16; John 11: 25-26). Although Job may of not know all the details of how he would see God after death in his own resurrected body, yet his faith rested in what he knew at that time that God would send one born of a woman who crush the Serpent fatally (Genesis 3:15). His faith rested in the knowledge that there was a certain hope of resurrection of life for the righteous man who trusted in God.

The main thing I learn from Job here is that no matter what suffering may be going on to me in this sin cursed world, I know my Lord will take care of me. I know that since my faith rests in the Righteous Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who is alive, I too have a certain hope of eternal life (John 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). What about you? Do you know that your Redeemer lives today? Do you like Job understand that although death is certain for you, you too can in your own flesh see God? Salvation from sin and judgement, and eternal life forever all hinges on the reality of what took place that Good Friday where Christ died for our sins and then resurrected that Easter Morning (John 6:40; John 11:25-26; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4). No matter what you are going through right now in life, you too can have a certain hope--a hope that never will perish--because your Redeemer lives forever. If you have not placed your hope for heaven and eternal life in Christ yet, do so today before you perish in your sins. I close with the words of Jesus Christ, the Son of God:

"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life." John 5:24

“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25-26

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

How to Defend the Christian Faith in Today’s World

2011-04-25T06:17:00.000-04:00

How to Defend the Christian Faith in Today’s World

This is a link to Ken Ham's blog. This is an outline to one of his many speeches he gives while ministering around the country. Enjoy!

Rev. Steve
Psalm119:89

Will We Perish? - Answers in Genesis

2011-04-19T06:03:00.000-04:00

Will We Perish? - Answers in Genesis

Have you ever thought about how important the resurrection of Christ is to the gospel and to those who believe in the gospel? Read this article from Answers in Genesis to be reminded of the importance of Easter.

Rev. Steve
Psalm119:89

Is Sin Really a Big Deal to God? When Society and Scripture are at Odds.

2011-04-08T06:28:00.002-04:00

Sin is really a big deal to God! Sin is defined as one who doesn’t keep God’s Word ( 1John 3:4). Unfortunately as our society drives farther and farther away from the Word of God, more and more of what God says is sinful is not considered sinful anymore. Does this mean that now it is OK to do the things that are clearly stated in God's Word as being sin? No! Sin is still sin to the Lord. Remember, society's morals are very subjective because its morals are often not grounded on absolute truth. For example, marriage in our American society use to be held in high honor among many Americans a few generations ago; now many people in America view marriage as not necessary if a man and a woman wants to live together. To cohabit together is considered by many of my generation the new normal, the new right thing to do when a man and a woman love each other. Although society sees cohabitation as perfectly fine in 2011, is it truly fine with God? Actually, cohabitation is not fine with God—it is sin! God’s Word is still the same—cohabiting together outside the bonds of marriage is fornication (Hebrews 13:4). This issue is just one of many in our society today whereby it and the Bible are in direct conflict.

Since sin is still a big deal to God, what should you do when your society is in conflict with the Scripture? What happens if you find yourself in a conflict between those who oppose your view of God and the Scripture?

1. Remember, do not fear humanity, but rather keep trusting what you know the Lord has said in His Word:

"The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe." Proverbs 29: 25

"In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?" Psalm 56:4

"But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. " 2 Timothy 3:14-16

2. Pray for the Lord to strengthen you and help you be salt and light to those you interact with:

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

“You are the salt of the earth" Matthew 5:13

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." Matthew 5:14

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:16

"Yet have regard to the prayer of your servant and to his plea, O Lord my God, listening to the cry and to the prayer that your servant prays before you this day." 1 Kings 8:28

3. Pray for those who you are in conflict that the Lord will open the door for you to lovingly share the truth of God's Word, if possible, in a non-confrontational way. Leave the results to God.

"Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness"2 Timothy 2:14-16

"So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. " 2 Timothy 2:22-26

"I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry." 2 Timothy 4:1-5

I hope this is helpful to you as you seek to serve the Lord in this increasingly wicked society that no longer respects the Word of God. Sin is truly a big deal to God. If you know the Lord, stand firm for the truth, and lovingly seek to win your opponents. Who knows, by your strong Christ-like testimony, you may just give a door for the Holy Spirit to break down the hard heart of those who are caught up in society's ungodly lifestyle.

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

What More Could You Want Out of Life? - Answers in Genesis

2011-03-31T06:23:00.000-04:00

What More Could You Want Out of Life? - Answers in Genesis

I hope you enjoy this article.

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

Is the God of the Bible Too Judgmental? A Look at Ezekiel 18: 1-32

2011-03-17T09:47:00.220-04:00

Have you ever heard the statement that the God of the Bible is too judgmental? This is often the charge of scoffers against Christianity. Is this the case? Let's look at Ezekiel 18 too see if the charge is accurate.

In Ezekiel 18: 1-32, the Lord is dealing with individuals, their personal moral actions, and the generation in which one lives. The focus is that one's moral actions has consequences that effect the generation in which that person lives. Although the original recipients of His message was Israel, like all Scripture, there are timeless principles that need to be applied to our time today.

In Ezekiel 18, the first section of the chapter deals with the Lord declaring that each person is accountable for their individual choices. If they live righteously, they will live; if they live sinfully, they will perish (Ezekiel 18:1-20). The main conclusion throughout this section is found in verses 4 and 20 that states that "the soul that sins will die." There is nothing here of the Lord being too judgmental. He is making it plain that since He owns all souls (Ezekiel 18:4), each person (father and son) will receive the consequences of their own actions (Ezekiel 18: 19-20). The focus clearly is on individual accountability. Notice how this passage sounds familiar to Romans 3:10, Romans 3:23; and Romans 6:23 in the New Testament? This is because the Lord is the same Lord (Hebrews 13:8) who we read of in the New Testament who speaks of loving your enemies (Matthew 5:44).

The next section of Ezekiel 18 deals with the reality that if a person changes course in his ways, the Lord will reward him likewise (Ezekiel 18: 21-24). Notice what the Lord says in verse 23:

Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, declares the Lord God, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?

This verse shows us the heart of God. God doesn't take pleasure in people dying in their sins! In fact, death itself was never a part of God's original creation (Genesis 1:31). The reason there is death and suffering in the world today is because humanity sinned against God (Romans 5:12). Originally, the Lord created us to live forever in perfect fellowship with Him! Since all of us are sinners (Romans 3:10), all of us will perish in our sins unless we turn from our sins and turn to the Lord, the only One who can give eternal life (idea of "live" in this passage). This is the Lord's desire for you--He wants you to repent (to change one's mind and course) of your wickedness (2 Peter 3:9)! Isn't it wonderful to know that no one is stuck in his or her lot of life regarding wickedness? I see in this passage hope for all people who want to be liberated from their sinful ways and have the eternal life that only God can give (John 5:24; John 6:40; John 10:28; Romans 6:23; 2 Corinthians 5:17)!

In Ezekiel 18:25-29 God deals with the wrong assumptions of His people Israel who believed that God should not hold each person accountable, but rather deal with them because of what happened before them in the previous generation (Ezekiel 18: 2, 19). Fortunately, the Lord already stated in verse 20:

The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father, nor the father suffer for the iniquity of the son. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself.

The conclusion from verses 25-29 is that God is just in holding people accountable individually for their actions in the generation in which they live.

Here in the final section (Ezekiel 18: 30-32) the Lord states that He will judge everyone according to His actions (verse 30), and challenges everyone to repent and change so sin doesn't ruin them. How about you? Are you living in sin right now? Change now so you will not be judged according to your sins! How do you change? Cast away your sin (verse 31) and make a new heart (A new heart is reference to a new spiritual heart). How do you make a new heart? The answer is you must be born again (John 3:3) by the Lord God (Titus 3:5). To be born again means to let the Lord give you a new heart and a new spirit. This conversion comes about when a person repents of his sin and believes what the Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. What does the Bible teach? The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay for the penalty of your sins and rose from the dead the third day to give eternal life to all who believe in Him (John 3:16-21; Romans 10: 9-13; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).

Is God too judgmental? The answer is no. Rather He is loving to allow each to live according to his free will, holding him accountable for his actions. God is love, and made the way possible through the death of His beloved Son for all to have the opportunity to change and be delivered by His righteous love. If you haven't yet been born again, do so now so you too will live and not die!

Rev. Steve
Psalm 119:89

Is the New Testament Reliable? - Answers in Genesis

2011-03-17T05:17:00.000-04:00

Is the New Testament Reliable? - Answers in Genesis

Is the New Testament an accurate account of what occurred in the first century? Read this helpful article to have more understanding about the New Testament as being the Word of God.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

Is the Old Testament Reliable? - Answers in Genesis

2011-03-09T04:35:00.001-05:00

Is the Old Testament Reliable? - Answers in Genesis

Enjoy this article from Answers in Genesis.

To many who call themselves Christian the Old Testament is no longer reliable. Is that the case? Read this article to find out if the Old Testament is reliable for today.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

What Does the Bible Say About Marriage and Same-sex Unions?

2011-03-05T09:47:00.008-05:00

This post will examine the heated topic today in our American society about marriage and same-sex unions. With topics like this, it is important to leave behind the debates between men’s opinions, and go to the only source that is not subject to change: God’s Word the Bible. In general, many opinions regarding the definition of marriage are changing because the definitions have no anchor in objective/absolute truth. Here, in God’s Word, not only we have objective/absolute truth (John 17:17; Romans 3:4), but an account from the Righteous Creator who made us (Genesis 1:27) that doesn’t play favorites with any person (Deuteronomy 10:17; Romans 2:11). The Bible gives us an accurate account of God’s righteousness rules (Psalm 19:7-9) whereby all people of the world, regardless of who they are, will be held accountable to. Therefore, it is important to know what God says since He is the Righteous Judge who will judge us according to our works (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Romans 2:12-29; Revelation 20:11-12). Let us see what God says in His Word, and then let us change our view to match the Bible.

The Lord God says the following in His Word about marriage:

The Bible states marriage is between one man and one wife:

Genesis 2:23-24 Then the man said, "This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Matthew 19:3-6 And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, "Is it lawful to divorce one's wife for any cause?" 4 He answered, "Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, 5 and said, 'Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate."
Mark 10:7-9 'Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, 8 and the two shall become one flesh.' So they are no longer two but one flesh. 9 What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate."
Ephesians 5:31 "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh."

The Bible clearly states in plain language that marriage is to be between only one man and one wife. Therefore, to change the definition of marriage due to society’s desire is sin since God created marriage to be between one man and one wife. It is very clear that God does not permit in His Word homosexuals to be considered married. For a nation, a government, a people to decide that marriage should be redefined is another evidence that they are in rebellion against their Creator who made them in His image (Romans 1: 18-25). Rather God states homosexuality to be a sin, a perversion of what God intended, just like any other sin ( Romans 1:26-32; 1 Corinthians 6: 9-10; Galatians 5:19-21; Ephesians 5:4-5; Hebrews 12:14; Hebrews 13:4). The conclusion from the Bible is that all sin is equally evil and equally deserve God’s just punishment (Romans 6:23).

Concerning the battle over the definition of marriage, the issue is really a heart issue, and whether each person has recognized he or she is accountable to God and His rules. The more one fears God and His Word, the more marriage will be according to the Scripture:

Psalms 19:9-11 “The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.”

What if I Realize I am in Rebellion Against God???

Although all of us have sinned against God’s rules (Romans 3:10; Romans 5:12), and all of us deserve His judgment for our rebellion (Romans 6:23), God has made a way of restoration to righteousness. This restoration is found only in His Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16; John 14:6) and not in our works (Titus 3:5). Although the Lord will judge us according to our works (see verses above), our works of righteousness are not good enough to get us into heaven. The Bible speaks of our works of righteousness as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6), with all of us falling short of being able to reach God's standard of perfection (James 2:10). Therefore Jesus Christ, being God, took on humanity and kept God's rules for us and became the righteous sacrifice to pay for all our sins against God’s rules and authority (Isaiah 53:3-6; John 1:29; 2 Corinthians 5:21). Christ Jesus took the punishment you deserve so you can be forgiven and stand in the presence of the Lord as if you never had sinned at all (Romans 3:20-26; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 2:1-2). All you have to do to receive this salvation and liberty from your sin is to confess Jesus Christ as your Lord, believing that what He did on the cross was for you (Romans 10: 8-13; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1John 1:7). Do not delay to be saved! If you are outside of God’s salvation, come today and be rescued by Jesus Christ the Savior of all humanity!

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

What will the future be like for Egypt? Part Four

2011-03-02T06:29:00.000-05:00

Here is the last post about the future the Lord God has for the nation of Egypt as stated in Isaiah 19:1-25.
The previous posts were about verses 1-15 that dealt primarily with judgment. This post will deal with the blessing that one day the entire Egyptian nation will know and worship only the Lord God of the Bible. Isaiah 19:16-25 reveals this future blessing with the key phrase “In that Day.”

“In that Day” is found at the beginning of verses 16, 18, 19, 23, and verse 24. The rule of thumb when reading the Old Testament is when you see that phrase, the Lord God is referring to a time that is future to our day. Usually, the phrase is associated with the Tribulation, the Second Coming of Christ, and the Millennium.

In the Book of Isaiah, the phrase “in that Day” is used about 43 times, sometimes with the other key prophetic phrases like “the Day of the Lord” as in Isaiah 2:10-21, or in conjunction with the names and ministry of Christ as in Isaiah 4:1-6. Clearly, upon examining the phrase “in that Day” as used by the prophet Isaiah, the phrase is speaking to future events.

Here in our passage the phrase “in that Day” neatly breaks up the prose section of blessing for the nation of Egypt:

Verses 16-17 refer to the Egyptians becoming fearful because they understand that the Lord is judging them.
Verses 18 speaks about five cities giving their allegiance to the Lord, speaking the language of God’s people. Edward J. Young says that the language will be “the language in which the God of the Israelites is worshipped.” (Young, The Book of Isaiah, A Commentary by Edward J. Young, Vol. 2, p.35.) Egypt will one day be a Christian nation!
Verses 19-21 speaks about an altar to the Lord being in Egypt and the Egyptians calling out the Lord to rescue them from oppressors. The Bible says that the Lord will send a Savior to deliver them. I think this is probably a reference to Christ. In the end, the Egyptians will be healed by the Lord and have an intimate personal understanding of Him, being exclusive worshippers of the True and Living God, the God of the Bible.
Verse 23 refers to the enemies of Israel being worshippers of the Lord.
Verse 24-25 refers to Egypt being a blessing to the earth and being God’s people.

Truly the future of the nation of Egypt is glorious! But before the glory must come the judgment of its sins, idolatry and thousands of years of not worshipping the Lord God of Israel. Unfortunately, many Egyptians have already and will die in their sins unless each have personally make a profession of allegiance to the Lord God of Israel, the Lord Jesus Christ.

What about you? Have you sworn allegiance to Jesus? Or, are you still in your sins? Unless you come to know the Lord Jesus Christ, you to will face certain judgment for your sins and will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven (John 14:6).
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

What will the future be like for Egypt? Part 3

2011-02-23T06:24:00.002-05:00

Here is the third section concerning the Lord’s future reality for Egypt as stated in Isaiah 19: 1-25.
Last post we examined the first four verses that states that the Lord will stir up a civil war in Egypt swiftly causing all Egyptians to be thrown into turmoil with a harsh ruler ruling over them (Isaiah 19:1-4). Many believe verse four specifically refers to one of the many invasions of Egypt already in history (Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Ethiopians), and others believe that this could be a reference to the Anti-Christ ruling Egypt one day. Although the Lord purposefully leaves out the details, Egypt is no longer the world empire it once was after it was invaded by the Assyrians shortly after Isaiah’s day. Many therefore believe that this part of the prophecy has already been fulfilled.

From verse four, this post will deal briefly with Isaiah 19:5-15. At verse 15, the poetry ends, and so does the major section of judgment prophecy.

The Lord will one day in the future judgment dry up the River Nile, causing total economic disaster and causing hunger. These verses (5-10) appear to be references to events that have not happened yet:

The Nile will be in drought (vs. 5).
Irrigation canals will dry up along with the Nile delta (vs. 6).
vegetation along the Nile will dry up (vs. 7).
Fisherman who fish in the Nile will suffer (vs. 8).
Those who weave cotton will be in despair (vs. 9).
Those who are pillars in society will be crushed and those who receive wages will grieve (vs. 10).

In verses 11-15, the Lord will totally confound (vs. 14) the wisdom of the rulers from Egypt so that they are unable to figure out what the Lord is doing to them (vs. 12).

In these first fifteen verses of this chapter, God demonstrates His ability to throw a nation into turmoil because the people do not fear Him. Let me share a summarization from these verses that are not original with me, but are from Dr. Peter A. Stevenson’s commentary on Isaiah, pages 164-165 about these judgments in Isaiah 19:1-15:

God can use “civil war” (vs. 1-2)
God can use a “rule by a tyrant” (3-4)
God can use “calamity in nature” (5-10)
God can use a “lack of leadership” (11-15)

All of these are the “options available to God as He punishes those who refuse Him.” IBID

I hope you are learning as we study this passage about Egypt and its future that it is not a light thing to trifle with Living God of the Bible. If you are reading this and know you are not in a right relationship with the Lord, why don’t you come now and rend your heart and get right with God. This is God’s will for you today that you may come to Him and be rescued from your sin and not have to suffer the judgment that your sin justly deserves. Jesus Christ took your punishment for you on the cross;His blood washes away your sin. Come today, don’t delay!
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

What will the future be like for Egypt? Part Two

2011-02-18T06:24:00.004-05:00

Last post I inserted a passage from Isaiah 19 that speaks about the Lord’s future plan for Egypt. This post and others will deal with the details of that future reality from the content of the passage.
As I begin with Isaiah 19:1-25, I think it is necessary to point out some key background things about this passage:

The passage can be broken neatly into two major sections. The first 15 verses deal directly with judgment written in the style of poetry, the last 10 verses are in written in prose and deal mostly with the Lord’s future blessing of Egypt. The main character speaking and subject of this chapter is the Lord God.
The passage ultimately has not been fulfilled yet. It will be totally fulfilled during the time the Bible refers to as the Millennial Kingdom. The Millennial Kingdom takes place when the Lord Jesus Christ comes back to earth a second time (Zechariah 14:1-9; Acts 1:11; Revelation 19: 11-21), establishes His kingdom in Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:1-4), and rules the entire world for 1000 years (Revelation 20: 1-6).

Now that we understand the prophetic context upon which this passage is set, let us begin to examine the text of Isaiah 19.

Isaiah 19:1-4 deals with the LORD God speaking about a period of time in Egypt where there will be civil war that will be provoked by the Lord (verse 2) that will cause all Egyptians to be against each other. This civil war will be so extensive that every relationship from family to political will be effected (verse 2). The Egyptians during this time will seek for help in various ways, but in the end, are unable to escape God’s judgment. The conclusion to the civil war is a a harsh ruler will reign over them (verse 4). Egypt, a nation far from the saving knowledge of God of the Bible, will reap the fruits of its ungodliness and idol worship. Edward Young, in his classic commentary on Isaiah (Vol. 3) says this about this civil war that the Lord starts on page 15:

“True unity, we may learn from this passage, comes from the Lord; and when He sets a nation against itself, there can be no unity”

This is a vital lesson for all to learn! Only God brings peace and only those who have faith in Christ possess peace! Egypt has and will continue to experience these periods of unrest (since Isaiah wrote this prophecy under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Egypt has experienced many periods of unrest throughout history) until the day when Egypt will know the Lord God of the Bible. The lesson is true for all nations (and its people!), including America: if nations place their trust in anything but the Lord God of the Bible, there will be judgment upon that nation and unrest will certainly come!

Obadiah 1:15 “For the day of the LORD is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head.”

The application so far from these first four verses is found in Isaiah 55:6-11:
"Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; 7 let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, 11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

What will the future be like for Egypt?

2011-02-11T06:32:00.003-05:00

When I started hearing about the news coming out of Egypt, my mind was drawn to search the Bible. Why? The reason is I remember reading in times past that the Lord promises a future of blessing for Egypt—a blessing that will occur when Egypt as a nation will walk after the Lord God of the Bible. This future blessing will only occur after The Lord deals with the nation’s sin and idolatry.
Here is the passage I found that speaks of Egypt’s future judgment and blessing:

Isaiah 19:1-25
“An oracle concerning Egypt. Behold, the LORD is riding on a swift cloud and comes to Egypt; and the idols of Egypt will tremble at his presence, and the heart of the Egyptians will melt within them. 2 And I will stir up Egyptians against Egyptians, and they will fight, each against another and each against his neighbor, city against city, kingdom against kingdom; 3 and the spirit of the Egyptians within them will be emptied out, and I will confound their counsel; and they will inquire of the idols and the sorcerers, and the mediums and the necromancers; 4 and I will give over the Egyptians into the hand of a hard master, and a fierce king will rule over them, declares the Lord GOD of hosts.
5 And the waters of the sea will be dried up, and the river will be dry and parched, 6 and its canals will become foul, and the branches of Egypt's Nile will diminish and dry up, reeds and rushes will rot away. 7 There will be bare places by the Nile, on the brink of the Nile, and all that is sown by the Nile will be parched, will be driven away, and will be no more. 8 The fishermen will mourn and lament, all who cast a hook in the Nile; and they will languish who spread nets on the water. 9 The workers in combed flax will be in despair, and the weavers of white cotton. 10 Those who are the pillars of the land will be crushed, and all who work for pay will be grieved.
11 The princes of Zoan are utterly foolish; the wisest counselors of Pharaoh give stupid counsel. How can you say to Pharaoh, "I am a son of the wise, a son of ancient kings"? 12 Where then are your wise men? Let them tell you that they might know what the LORD of hosts has purposed against Egypt. 13 The princes of Zoan have become fools, and the princes of Memphis are deluded; those who are the cornerstones of her tribes have made Egypt stagger. 14 The LORD has mingled within her a spirit of confusion, and they will make Egypt stagger in all its deeds, as a drunken man staggers in his vomit. 15 And there will be nothing for Egypt that head or tail, palm branch or reed, may do.
16 In that day the Egyptians will be like women, and tremble with fear before the hand that the LORD of hosts shakes over them. 17 And the land of Judah will become a terror to the Egyptians. Everyone to whom it is mentioned will fear because of the purpose that the LORD of hosts has purposed against them.
18 In that day there will be five cities in the land of Egypt that speak the language of Canaan and swear allegiance to the LORD of hosts. One of these will be called the City of Destruction.
19 In that day there will be an altar to the LORD in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the LORD at its border. 20 It will be a sign and a witness to the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt. When they cry to the LORD because of oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and deliver them. 21 And the LORD will make himself known to the Egyptians, and the Egyptians will know the LORD in that day and worship with sacrifice and offering, and they will make vows to the LORD and perform them. 22 And the LORD will strike Egypt, striking and healing, and they will return to the LORD, and he will listen to their pleas for mercy and heal them.
23 In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria, and Assyria will come into Egypt, and Egypt into Assyria, and the Egyptians will worship with the Assyrians.
24 In that day Israel will be the third with Egypt and Assyria, a blessing in the midst of the earth, 25 whom the LORD of hosts has blessed, saying, "Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel my inheritance."”
Later posts will go through this passage.
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Cain’s Wife—Who Was She? - Answers in Genesis

2011-02-06T05:55:00.000-05:00

Cain’s Wife—Who Was She? - Answers in Genesis

I hope you enjoy this article I found from the Answers Book. The Bible tells us that Adam and Eve had other "sons and daughters" in Genesis 5:4. Cain's Wife was his sister. Read this article for more information about Cain, his Wife, and the effects of sin on the human gene pool.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Did Jesus Christ Come to Fulfill The Old Testament? Part 2

2011-01-24T08:04:00.000-05:00

Two posts ago, I dealt with this question by examining Matthew 5:17 and what Christ said about Himself. We learned from Matthew 5:17 that the Lord Jesus Christ didn’t come to abolish or do away with the Law or the Prophets (a reference to the Old Testament), but rather to fulfill them. This post examines what Christ said about the Word of God and how it will not change until He has accomplished everything that is written in the Word of God (Old and New Testament) about Him.

In Matthew 5:18 Christ states, “For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” There are four main things that need to be looked at in this verse. The first area to examine is Christ saying, “For verily I say unto you.” The commentator John Broadus states that the word “for” shows “what follows as a confirmation of what precedes” (John Broadus, Commentary on Matthew, p. 100). The next part of the phrase, “verily I say unto you,” refers to a strong pronouncement (αμην --“amen” or “truly”) that what He is saying next is authoritative. Generally, the Lord uses this phrase “at the beginning of important sayings” (Leon Morris, The Gospel According to Matthew, p. 109).

The second detail to examine is “Till heaven and earth pass.” “Heaven” refers to the physical universe that surrounds earth. “Earth” coupled with the word “heaven” is speaking about all of creation. Christ is saying that while creation remains, the Law will not change.

The third detail to examine is the “one jot or one tittle.” A “jot” or “iota” (smallest Greek letter) is believed to refer to the Hebrew letter yod (י), and the “tittle” or “stroke” refers to the distinguishing marks on Hebrew letters to differentiate between different letters (examples: h, j). The Lord is saying that God’s Word will not be changed at all—not even in its letters—until it is accomplished. Christ here is not speaking about a particular translation of Scripture we should use (if He was we would only have Hebrew/Aramaic OT and a Koine Greek NT), rather He is speaking about what was originally breathed out by God (2 Timothy 3:16) through the Holy Men of Old (2 Peter 1:20-21). As long as heaven and earth remain, what God has originally spoken will never change, but always will be relevant and apply to all ages of humanity.

The fourth and last thing to examine in this verse is the phrase “till all be fulfilled.” The previous phrase helps us understand that nothing will change in God’s Word at all. The question remains: when are all things accomplished? It appears that the Lord is referring to when every little detail has been completed by Him—this includes what He did at the cross, His resurrection, what He is doing now through His church, and what He will do one day in the future when He comes back a second time. All of this is spoken of in the Old Testament and further explained in the New Testament. Until all is accomplished, the Word of God will not change.

My challenge in light of Matthew 5:18 is since the Word of God will not change until Christ has fulfilled everything stated in Scripture, why are you not spending time in God’s Word and getting to know this Wonderful Savior?
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

In Memory of a Godly Man-George Stanley VanDyke

2011-01-17T07:42:00.001-05:00

On December 28, 2010, George Stanley Vandyke, my grandfather, went home to be with the Lord Jesus Christ at the age of 89.
Besides my parents, my grandfather has a lot to do with who I am today. He was a godly man who always trusted in Christ and always encouraged me to keep trusting the Lord regardless of any situation. He was a man of prayer, who I knew prayed for me and my family every night. Grandpa was a man who loved to sing about Christ and the joy that awaits all Christians in heaven.

Although I will miss Grandpa, I know that one day I will see him in heaven.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.
14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.
15 For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep.
16 For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.
17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.
18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.

Below is the link to my grandfather’s obituary:
http://www.funeralquestions.com/obits/browning-forshay/memorial.asp?listing_id=165879
Pastor Steve
Psalm119:89

Did Jesus Christ Come to Fulfill the Old Testament?

2011-01-12T03:33:00.004-05:00

I hope this study will be helpful to you in answering the question did Jesus Christ come to fulfill the Old Testament. Although there are many specific prophecies about the Lord Jesus in the Old Testament, we will examine two verses that help answer the question: Matthew 5:17-18. This post will deal with Matthew 5:17 and the next post will deal with Matthew 5:18.

Matthew 5:17-18 is within a larger segment of Scripture called The Sermon on the Mount (found in Matthew 5-7 and Luke 6:17-49). The Sermon on the Mount took place after Christ named the 12 disciples and during the time in His ministry when many were seeking to know Him. The event occurred on a level place on a mountain. Here a great (mentioned in Luke) multitude of followers gathered who were not well familiar with Christ.

The Lord, after dealing with the Beatitudes in verses 3-12 and the responsibility of believers to be salt and light (verses 13-16), comes to a section that ends with the central statement of the Sermon on the Mount: “For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20).

In verse 17, Jesus states, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” The words “think not” imply that some were thinking that Christ was destroying the law because He was not keeping the Pharisaic customs (“washings, special tithes, [and] extreme Sabbath observance” (John MacArthur, Matthew 1-7: The MacArthur New Testament Commentary, p. 253). Others were possibly thinking back to Jeremiah 31:31, believing that the Messiah would topple the Mosaic Law and start over. The word nomizw (“think”) is used in a way that demonstrates Christ is telling the listener to not think at all about supposed preconceived notions about Himself. By Christ telling us not to think wrongly, He is demonstrating the important reality to make sure that ones own view of Christ is based on the facts as found in Scripture.

After the Lord tells them to “think not,” He tells them that He did not come to destroy or annul the Law or the Prophets. When the Lord says “I am come,” He is making a statement regarding the purpose why He is here. According to Leon Morris, this statement of purpose is unusual, for He was referring to Himself and He was using the statement to refer to a certain task (Leon Morris, The Gospel According to Matthew, p. 107).

The next word helps explain the reason for His coming, kataluw. He did not come to annul the Law or the Prophets. The word kataluw refers to tearing something down—like a building. It is interesting that the words “Law” (nomon) and “Prophets” (προφήτης) are used with definite articles. This means that the Lord is referring not to the tradition of the Pharisees, but to the very Old Testament of God. The “Law” referred to the first five books of the OT, called the Pentateuch, and the “Prophets” is a broad term referring to the rest of the Old Testament. John Broadus states, “All Jews of our Lord’s time would understand ‘the Scriptures’ or ‘the law and the prophets’ as meaning a well known and well defined collection of sacred books, the same as our Old Testament” (John Broadus, Commentary on Matthew, p. 99). The Lord made it clear to the entire multitude that His purpose was not to set aside the Old Testament.

Since the Lord states that He did not come to destroy the Old Testament, He then states why He has come: “to fulfill” (πληρόω̄). There is some debate regarding to what extent Christ did “fulfill” the Old Testament. The word itself refers to “making full,” or “complete.” Because it is in the infinitive mood, it refers to the reason of His coming. One way to interpret the word “fulfill” is that Christ came to keep what the Law mandated. Another view (proposed by John Broadus) is that Christ was referring to what He says next in the Sermon on the Mount—His added clarification to what was said (verses 21 through the end of chapter 5). In addition, a third way to interpret would be that Christ is referring to Himself as being the completion of the moral, ceremonial, and judicial law. Although each one of the interpretations has truth in it, it appears the first interpretation regarding obedience to the Law has the least support because the word “‘fulfill’ does not mean the same as ‘keep’” (Morris, p. 108). “Fulfill” is more than just keeping what the law says. Since the word “fulfill” also refers to “Prophets,” it seems best to say that the third interpretation regarding Christ being the One who completes everything has the most support. This of course is central to the Gospel: Christ, who fulfilled the law of God, became to be the perfect sacrifice to God to take away the penalty for our sins (1 Cor. 15:3-4).

The next post will speak about the continued work of Christ, and the fulfillment of all Scripture.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Why Did The Creator Become a Man?

2010-12-25T08:07:00.001-05:00

Sometimes in our celebration of Christmas we forget to consider the most obvious observation about the birth of Christ: Why did the Creator become a man? As mentioned before in other subjects and posts, the place to start is the Bible because the Bible is God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16).

The first thing I want to do is lay some foundational knowledge (a more complete list is on the home page of my blog) from the Bible about Jesus Christ:

The Bible teaches that the Lord Jesus Christ is eternal God (John 1:1-3, 14, 18; John 10:30; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 2:3-5; 2 Peter 1:1).
The Bible teaches that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Creator (John 1:1-3; John 1:10; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2; Hebrews 11:3; Revelation 4:11; Revelation 10:6).
The Bible teaches that the Lord Jesus Christ was born of a virgin (Matthew 1:18-23; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6-7; Philippians 2:6-7).
The Bible teaches that the Lord Jesus Christ lived a sinless life (Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22-23; 1 John 3:5).
The Bible teaches that the Lord Jesus Christ is the only sacrifice for our sin (2 Corinthians 5:21; Titus 2:14).
The Bible teaches that the Lord Jesus Christ rose victoriously from the dead (Romans 1:4; Romans 4:25; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Now that I have laid down some Scriptural foundation about the person of Jesus Christ, I want to draw some conclusions about the Lord Jesus:

Jesus Christ is both 100% eternal God and also is 100% man.
Jesus Christ was born sinless, lived a life without sinning, yet Christ experienced every temptation that we face today.
Jesus Christ came into the world for the purpose to forgive our sins.
Jesus Christ accomplished forgiveness by sacrificing Himself on the cross and received our punishment for the sins we committed against Him.

In addition to the Scriptural foundation about who Jesus Christ is, I need to lay some Scriptural foundation about who we are to God:

The Bible teaches us that we have rebelled against God (Psalm 14:1-3; Romans 3:10; Romans 3:23).
The Bible teaches us that our sin makes us enemies of God (Romans 5:1-15).

This leads me to the final point in answering the question: Why did the Creator become a man?
The Lord Jesus Christ, although being God Himself, became a man because our sin keeps us from fellowship with Him. Christ through the sacrifice of Himself, made the way (John 14:6) that you and I might be able to once again be in fellowship with Him as He originally intended back in the Garden. It was because of love, and only love, that Jesus Christ came and took on flesh and was born in a manger in Bethlehem.

One final thought I leave with you is this (for those who have yet to receive the Lord Jesus as Savior): Since the Lord has demonstrated to you so much love, why do you persist to live in your sin and be in rebellion against Him? Christ has done the work of reconciliation. You just need to come to Christ and ask Him for forgiveness (1 John 1:5-10; 1 John 2:1-2). If you need help, read on my home page "How Do I Become a Christian." Merry Christmas!

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Peace on Earth? - Answers in Genesis

2010-12-19T08:08:00.000-05:00

Peace on Earth? - Answers in Genesis

If the birth of Lord Jesus Christ brings peace, how come there is no peace today? Is the Bible wrong? Is Christmas just a nice fairly tale? This article, from Answers in Genesis, compares and contrasts our day with Noah's, and helps the reader understand that peace with God comes only by believing in Christ.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Why is Christmas so Important to Humanity?

2010-12-13T09:40:00.003-05:00

In this day where Christmas is the center of legal battles between atheists/ humanists and Christians in the public square, and stores trying to finish the year in the black, the importance of Christmas is totally lost to a large majority of American people.
Since this is the present reality in which many Americans live, it is important to once again look to the Scriptures, God’s Holy Word, and see what the Bible teaches us about why the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas was so important to all of humanity.

Christmas is important because God created you in His image and for His glory. Genesis 1:26-27; Revelation 4:11

One of the amazing things we learn from the Bible is that every person on this planet was created in the image of God. No matter who they are—rich, poor, healthy, sick, smart, not so smart, etc. . . –all bear God’s image. You ask, “What proves that humanity is in the image of God?” I say, “Just look at all fact that humanity is the only created creature on this planet that seeks to worship others and is religious.” Also, consider that only humanity has the ability to create, to speak, to write, to invent.
Another thing we learn from the Bible is that God made us in His image for a purpose. That purpose is found in Revelation 4:11. You and I were created to give the Lord glory. We were made to worship and fellowship with the Lord!

Christmas is important because you and I have rebelled against His authority. Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23; Romans 5:8, 12

We learn from the Bible that although we are created in His image, and for Him, you and I chose to go our own way and live a life apart from God (Romans 1:18-25).
In Genesis 2:15-17 and Genesis 3:9-11 we learn that humanity was given one command to obey to maintain a relationship with God. We learn that Adam chose to rebel by eating the fruit which God told him not to eat (1 Timothy 2:13-14). By his rebellion against God, all of humanity is now in sin through birth and by nature (Romans 5:12; Romans 3:10, 23).

Christmas is important because God loves sinful humanity. Genesis 3:15; Luke 2:10-11; Romans 5:8

The Bible teaches us that although we are in rebellion against God by nature (Ephesians 2:1-3), God demonstrated His mercy and grace to humanity by promising in Genesis 3:15 that One would come from the seed of the woman who would fatally crush the head of the Serpent.
This promise was fulfilled by Jesus Christ, being born of the virgin (Isaiah 7:14, 9: 6-7; Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:26-35) for the direct purpose to save people from their sins. Christ was born for the purpose to be the atoning sacrifice to pay for all the sins of humanity (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45; John 1:29; Romans 5:1-15; Galatians 1:4; 1 Timothy 2:3-6; 1 John 2:1-2).

Christmas is important because God wants you to trust in His promise of eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; John 3:16; 2 Peter 3:9).

The Bible, which is all about Jesus Christ, teaches us that Christ was born to reconcile humanity back to God. This was done through the death of Christ on the cross. The shedding of Christ’s blood cleanses us from all our sin (1 John 1:7).
The Bible teaches us though that Christ didn’t stay dead, but that He rose again the third day from the tomb (1 Corinthians 15:1-8)! What is important about this is that since Christ is alive, He gives eternal life to all who believe in Him (John 3:14-18).
Jesus Christ, the Christmas gift from God, was born so that you and I can once again be restored to fellowship with God and be forgiven of all our sins that we have done against Him! My question to you is have you received this Christmas gift from God?
All you have to do to receive this gift is to believe that the work of Christ was on your behalf (Romans 10:9-11), and ask the Lord Jesus Christ to forgive you of your sin (Acts 16:31; Romans 10:12-13).

Wherever you are this Christmas season, I pray that you have received Jesus Christ, the Christmas gift from God, and that you know the reality of eternal life in the Eternal Son of God (John 1:1) who took on flesh (John 1:14) and was born that Christmas day in a manger in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).

And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold,

I bring you good news of great joy

that will be for all the people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior,

who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:10-11

Pastor Steve

Psalm 119:89

Noah's Flood and the Earth's Age - Audio Download - Answers Bookstore

2010-12-04T04:49:00.001-05:00

Noah's Flood and the Earth's Age - Audio Download - Answers Bookstore

This download is free from Answers in Genesis until December 6th according to the website.

If you want to read more information about Noah and the world wide flood, read the account in Genesis 6:1-Genesis 9:17.

You may ask, "What is the big deal about Noah and the Flood?" The big deal is that the flood itself was God's judgment against all the wickedness of man and the violence by all flesh in the earth (Genesis 6:5, 11-12). If it wasn't for God's grace shown to Noah, then humanity never would have been rescued from their sin by Jesus Christ. Noah was a type of Christ in that all who believed God's coming message of judgment (120 years, Genesis 6:3), and by faith obeyed God's Word and got on the Ark, were rescued from their sin and were saved. Unfortunately, only Noah's family believed God's Word. Today, just like then, judgment is coming. This time not by water, but by fire (2 Peter 3). The solution is the same: believe God's Word, trust in Him by believing in what Christ has done by paying for your sins on the cross, and you will be rescued from your coming judgment.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Does God speak to us today outside of the Scriptures?

2010-11-25T08:48:00.000-05:00

For now, this will be the last of my posts concerning this subject.

In previous posts we learned, by looking at specific statements in the Bible, that the Lord is revealing Himself today to all humanity through creation. Through these verses we saw that there is a purpose for God to reveal Himself this way: so all can know that there is a God in heaven.

We learned from these Scriptures that this general revelation cannot rescue people from sin, but can lay the foundation to open up further revelation from God’s Written Word through the Bible (Psalm 19: 1-14; Acts 14:15-17; Acts 17:22-31). In addition to these verses, the Bible also teaches us that the creation itself is the perfect witness against humanity’s rejection of God’s authority. This truth is found in our last passage.

The last passage I would like to highlight is the passage found in Romans 1: 18-25. In this passage we learn that creation clearly reveals who God is to humanity’s conscience. This passage teaches us that the rejection of this testimony by humanity has led to its just judgment of receiving the wrath of God in the day of judgment (Romans 1:18).

To make the point clearer lets first look at the larger context of our passage.

Our passage is in the greater context of Romans 1:18-3:20 which teaches us that the wrath of God comes upon those who are sinners. In this larger section, we learn that every person is guilty of God’s wrath because all have sinned against a just and holy God (Romans 2:1-6; Romans 2:11-12; Romans 3:9-23).

Now that we have examined the greater context, lets break down a few verses in our passage.

Romans 1:18 begins this section by letting us know that God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all men who suppress or hold down the truth. What is this truth? The truth is found in the next verses.

Romans 1:19-20 teaches us the truth of God is clearly revealed through creation to men’s hearts, namely His eternal power and divine nature. These verses tells us that humanity is without excuse! No one can stand before the Lord on that judgment day and say, “Lord I didn’t know you existed!” All of creation was witnessing to them that the Lord God is the Creator and the One they should worship. Truly, no matter what, it is humanity’s fault that humanity failed to trust in God. No one can escape from the consequences of this objective truth.

The final verses of Romans 1:21-25 help us understand that since man in his “wisdom” exchanged God worship for creature worship, God gave them over to their wicked hearts. These verses help us understand the free will of man.

As I close this post, I challenge you to read the Book of Romans in its entirety. Also, if you haven’t read the account of Genesis, you should also read at least the first 11 chapters of the book. Read also the Gospel of John and the Book of Revelation. Reading these Books will give you a greater big picture understanding of this study and the importance of why people need to trust in the Lord Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior.

If you haven’t personally trusted in Christ yet, why not? For the Lord has also revealed His righteousness in the Gospel (Romans 1:16-17) to rescue you from the sin that condemns you against Him (Ephesians 2:1-9).

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Who Sustains Us Every Day? - Answers in Genesis

2010-11-21T07:16:00.000-05:00

Who Sustains Us Every Day? - Answers in Genesis

Often we forget who truly keeps us going. It is easy in a fast pace society to think that you are the one who keeps yourself going. It is important to be reminded everyday that the Lord is the One who gives you your daily bread, and the One who helps you by His grace to make it through this sin cursed world. I hope you enjoy this article I found.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

two ways to live- the choice we all face

2010-11-01T17:01:00.001-04:00

two ways to live- the choice we all face

From http://www.matthiasmedia.com.au/2wtl/

What way are you living?

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Does God speak to us today outside of the Scripture?

2010-10-31T08:23:00.002-04:00

Thus far in our Bible study we have examined several different passages: Psalm 19:1-6; Psalm 50:6; Psalm 97:6. Each of these specifically speak to all humanity that there is a Lord God who created all.

There are a few other passages in the Bible that specifically speak about the Lord revealing Himself outside of the specific revelation of the Scripture.

In Acts 14:17 the Bible states, "Yet he did not leave himself without witness, for he did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness." This verse falls in the context of the Apostle Paul and Barnabas being in the city of Lystra, where the Lord healed a man who was lame in his feet (Acts 14:8-10). After the man who was lame was healed, the people thought that Paul was Hermes and that Barnabas was Zeus. Through this apparent confusion, the Apostle Paul questioned them and asked them why they do these things (Acts 14:15), and told the people that they bring good news that they should turn from their vain idolatry and turn to the Living God who is the Creator.

It is interesting that the Apostle Paul states to the people of Lystra in this discourse that during their time of ignorance of the Lord, the Lord was witnessing to them through several things: rain, fruitful seasons, food, and gladness. The Bible states here that the goodness of the Lord to them (through these things) was a testimony to these people (and all people today) that He is the Lord.

Think of all the times the Lord has allowed you to be like the people in Lystra. Maybe you have a farm and your crops are good, free of disease and pest damage and as a result, you are able to turn a profit of some sorts that puts food on the table and pays the bills. This is a witness to you that there is a God in heaven who is concerned about you and loves you. Maybe you don't have a farm, but some family members who you are able to be together with, enjoying good food and gladness--this too is a witness that the Lord loves you!

We could keep going through circumstances where the Lord, through His common grace to all, is testifying to them that He is in heaven, that He made them, and that He is a good God and Savior. The point I see in this passage is just acknowledging this witness of God alone isn't good enough. God wants more than just a appreciator of good workmanship; He wants to fellowship with you. The Lord wants you to turn from the vain things you serve right now and turn to Him, the Living God, who can give you eternal life if you confess your sins, turn from your evil ways, and turn by faith to Him through Jesus Christ who paid for your sin on the cross of Calvary.

I leave with some final thoughts about Acts 14: are you living for vanity, or are you living for the Lord God who made you, who loves you? This Lord God is also your Judge (Hebrews 9:27 Acts 17:31), but has through His shed blood, made possible the redemption of your soul from His just judgment against your sin. If you are not living for God today, turn from your evil, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will surly be rescued (Acts 16:31)!

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Is There Really a God Who Created the Universe? - Answers in Genesis

2010-10-29T05:37:00.000-04:00

Is There Really a God Who Created the Universe? - Answers in Genesis

I hope you enjoy.

Pastor Steve
Psalm119.89

Did God Really Say the Flood Was Global? - Answers in Genesis

2010-10-16T07:08:00.000-04:00

Did God Really Say the Flood Was Global? - Answers in Genesis

Some people believe the flood was only local. Is that the case? Steve Ham provides some biblical information in the form of a devotional.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

Does God speak to us today outside of the Scripture?

2010-10-04T09:06:00.000-04:00

A little bit ago we saw from Psalm 19 that the Lord does speak to humanity today through the witness of creation, specifically through the heavens, the day, the night and the Sun. We learned that these general witnesses are constant proclaimers of His glory to all humanity.

There are at least two other verses related to Psalm 19.

One is in Psalm 97: 6 (the other I know of is Psalm 50:6-- I am primarily dealing with Psalm 97:6 because Psalm 50:6 is related in its subject matter.), "The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory." This verse is in the context of God's supreme rule over all. Psalm 97:5 speaks of God being the Lord over all the earth, Psalm 97:9 speaks of the Lord being the most high over all the earth. Seeing what God has created demonstrates as a witness to all humanity that He is supreme (consider that all true science--observational science--proclaims His glorious handiwork) . The sad reality is that most of humanity fails to recognize His kingship due to their sin and suffers the consequences as a result (Philippians 2:5-11).

Psalm 97:6 teaches us that the heavens proclaim specifically the righteousness of the Lord. As I understand it, this verse mainly is a reference to the future (at this point in history in the Psalms and today) when the Lord will return and judge humanity because of their sin (Psalm 50:6; Revelation 16:5; Matthew 24:30; Revelation 1:7; 19: 11-13). I think the fact that the last part of the verse states, "and all the peoples see his glory" gives strong evidence that this verse is speaking about Christ's second coming to earth. Are you ready to meet the Creator and Judge of all humanity (Psalm 50:6)?

At the second coming, the Bible states that every eye will see Christ (Revelation 1:7; Zechariah 12:10).The Scripture teaches us that the first time Christ came to earth as a Lamb (John 1:29) to take away the sins of the world; the Scriptures also teaches us that there is a second coming in the future where the Lord will return as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:1-14). Why? The reason is the Lord needs to judge humanity's sin (Psalm 50:6; 2 Peter 3:7,10), and fulfill all His promises (like the land promises for Israel) He has made to Abraham, King David, to the people of Israel, and to the church. Christ is coming, the heavens declare His righteousness, and all will see His glory as He judges justly. Again, are you ready?

The fact that from Scripture we learn that the heavens speak today offers hope to all humanity that they too can know personally God's glory as Savior (2 Peter 3:7-10). God does not take delight in judging the sinner (Ezekiel 18:23; 32); rather, God prefers that the sinner turns from his sin to realize salvation in Him. Have you done that? Have you turned to Christ and been rescued from the wages of your sin? If not, do so now before the Lord returns or before you die. Remember, once your life ends it is too late to be saved (Romans 6:23).

Is There Really a God? - from Answers in Genesis

2010-10-03T07:31:00.001-04:00

Is There Really a God? - Answers in Genesis

This article is from the book called "The New Answers Book," published by Master Books.

This is the first chapter of the book. Answers in Genesis has made this first chapter available online. It is an excellent article to help you understand real proofs from creation (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20) and the Bible.

I am providing a link to ordering the book from Amazon if you want to buy the book. It is a great resource for Christian apologetics.

Enjoy,
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

Is Hell Forever? Evangelicals and Eternal Retribution | SharperIron

2010-09-29T07:25:00.000-04:00

Is Hell Forever? Evangelicals and Eternal Retribution. From SharperIron.org

This post on SharperIron provides addition information about hell and is it eternal or not.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

Does God speak to us today outside of the Scriptures?

2010-09-21T08:58:00.005-04:00

As stated in the last blog post, I will start with the Scriptures answering the question does God really speak to us today outside of the Scriptures.

My answer is yes! You ask, "Where in the Bible does it state that God speaks to us outside of His Word?" The answer, given by the Scripture, is found in Psalm 19:1-6.

"To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. 2 Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, 5 which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. 6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat."

Here in this Psalm we learn several important things:

First we learn that the creation proclaims the glory of its Maker. The "heavens," which include even the starry sky at night (last night I was enjoying the beauty of viewing Jupiter and the Moon!), declare everyday that God is truly glorious. Think about all the things we can see at night with the naked eye and all that we can see now through technology into the deep places of space! All of it speaks that there is a wonderful Creator! Truly it "proclaims" His wonderful work! In fact, as I understand it, the words "declare" and "proclaim" here has the idea of continually doing this. Their testimony is totally consistent: God is the Almighty One!

Secondly, we learn in Psalm 19:2-6, that creation's proclamation is continual. Every day the day pours out like a fountain (idea of the word "pour") speech, and the night declares knowledge. We learn from these verses that their proclamation is a silent testimony, available for all people to gain knowledge about their Creator God. Charles Spurgeon said this in his classic commentary on the Psalms, "The witnesses above cannot be slain or silenced; from their elevated seats they constantly preach the knowledge of God, unawed and unbiassed by the judgments of men.. . their teaching is not addressed to the ear, and is not uttered in articulate sounds; it is pictorial, and directed to the eye and heart." Even the Sun [created in day four of the creation week-see Genesis 1:14-19], spoken of in Psalm 19:4-6, demonstrates the all encompassing testimony of God's glory. Some commentators even speak of the Sun's effect and power as a picture of God's grace, mercy and power that effects everyone who comes to Him.

So does God speak to us today outside of the Scripture? The answer is yes. As I type, I am witnessing the Sun's rays blast its way through the trees and warm my Kentucky home. Everyday I can be reminded that there is a God in heaven who is all powerful and all loving.

Before I end though, there is one key thing to understanding this silent but totally powerful testimony. It only provides enough general information to man to cause man to understand that there is a God and Creator and that man is accountable to Him (Romans 1:18-20). The testimony of creation isn't complete in itself to teach us why there is sin, evil, suffering, pain, trouble in the world, or provide solutions to humanities problems. To understand these realities, you need the specific revelation of God's Word (Genesis 3:1-24; Romans 5:12-21).

The power of specific revelation is spoken of in the rest of Psalm 19: 7-14. Here in this part of the Psalm we learn the qualities of God's Word, the blessings of keeping God's Word and even that only the Lord is the Rock and Redeemer of sinners.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

NOTE: the link I provided to the book above is an excellent resource to understand how astronomy fits better with the testimony of the Bible than with man's big bang speculations. Also, the book contains beautiful photos of deep space.

Does God speak to us today outside of the Scriptures?

2010-09-17T16:43:00.001-04:00

Depending on who you ask, some will say yes and some will say no. Some will say that God speaks to them in dreams and visions, through "words of knowledge," through people (the Pope) and even other publications (Book of Mormon).

Answering this question is a bit dangerous because many people who call themselves Christians have many emotionally charged answers that supposedly have proofs of experiences that says, "Yes, God does speak in other ways today; you just don't know how to discern His voice." To focus on answering these emotionally charged answers is not profitable because the experiences themselves are not verifiable as to whether or not they are the direct result of God speaking. No person who claims that their experience is proof that God speaks outside of Scripture can prove through their experience that God has truly spoken through them (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

So how does one answer this question? Well, the best place to start is the Scripture. You may say, "But you are being circular in your reasoning, since you are starting with the Scripture, you will conclude that only the Scripture is where God has spoken." Well, think about this, because of 2 Timothy 3:16 and 2 Peter 1:19-21, I know that the Bible is God's Word. Therefore to leave out the Bible is foolish. It is verifiable through the Scriptures that the 66 books we have today are God's revealed Word. To leave out the Bible indicates that the premise for answering the question "Does God speak to us today outside of the Scriptures?" is bound to be inaccurate. Therefore, over the next several posts, I will seek to answer, based on Scripture, the question, "Does God speak to us today outside of the Scriptures."

Pastor Steve
Psalm119:89

How Does Biblical Authority Affect Your Everyday Life? - Answers in Genesis

2010-09-06T05:29:00.000-04:00

How Does Biblical Authority Affect Your Everyday Life? - Answers in Genesis

A good article to read. Since God is the Creator, and the Bible is His Word, how are you living in response to His Authority? Are you a rebel, or are you a servant?

Pastor Steve
Psalm119.89

Is Hell a real place of eternal suffering? Part Four

2010-09-04T14:00:00.002-04:00

This is the final section of this four part series on hell (Gehenna). If you have any questions about how to be rescued from your sins and judgment of Gehenna, consult the columns on the right hand of the screen that are full of Scripture how to become a Christian.

Gehenna is a place for those who are religious hypocrites (Matthew 23:15; Matthew 23:33)

The Lord in this passage is speaking against the Pharisees and those who are religious hypocrites (plays the part). The Pharisees were the religious leaders during the time of Christ’s ministry on earth. They held to a body of traditions that they added to the Scriptures, believing that by keeping these traditions, they would be righteous in the sight of God. Of course, in their keeping of their rules, they didn’t care about whether their heart was right with God, only that their rules were kept. In fact, often they didn’t keep their rules, but expected everyone else to do so! These people caused many to miss God’s righteousness found by faith in Him. This is why the Lord was so hard on these people and called them hypocrites. See Christ’s description of them in Matthew 23:1-12.

Those who seek to convert others to their self-righteous, man made religion (Matthew 23:15).

A “proselyte” has the understanding of a Gentile person who would convert to Judaism because he believes that Jehovah is the only God. He would be persuade to be circumcised, and to keep the Law of Moses.

“A son of Gehenna” has the understanding of one having a character of hell, one that is like the parent. The condemnation from the Lord is that the one who followed the Pharisee’s beliefs was twice as wicked as they were. They were more of a hypocrite than their Jewish parents were. They kept the Pharisee’s rituals, but their heart was the same as the heathen who knew nothing of God’s Word.

Those who are self-righteous in their heart (Matthew 23:33).

Verse 33 falls within the section from verses Matthew 23:28-36 which the Lord describes the Pharisees as equal to those who killed the prophets. The prophets Christ is referring to is the Old Testament prophets who were killed by Jew in history to this time who didn’t follow God’s Word but their own religious plans.

“Brood of Vipers” refers back to verse 31 where the Lord calls them “sons of those who murdered the prophets.” The Pharisees committed the same wicked acts as those who killed the prophets, therefore, because of their sins; it is impossible to see any way that they could escape the same result of those who proceeded them.

In the phrase “damnation of hell,” “damnation” should be better understood as “judgement” because of the Greek word “krisis.” The Pharisees received the judgement of Gehenna because they were wicked like those who before them were enemies of the Gospel.

Final Conclusion of this study: The Lord presents Gehenna in the Gospels as a place of tremendous torment, far beyond our comprehension. Truly, the Lord does not take sin of any kind lightly! If you do not know the Lord right now as your Savior, today ask Him to save you from your sin, and from the terrible sentence of Gehenna! It is a place you do not want to go to when you die! If you ask the Lord to save you, He will give you eternal life. The Lord shed His blood so that you might be free from the power of sin, and rose from the grave to give you eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) Place your trust into Christ today for the salvation of your eternal soul!

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Is Hell a real place of eternal suffering? Part Three

2010-09-03T15:56:00.009-04:00

Here is the next two sections of the topical study of Gehenna, examining the words of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The first section focuses on the Lord Jesus Christ speaking of Gehenna in light of judgment, the second section the Lord specifically describes Gehenna.

Again the purpose of this is to help you understand that Gehenna is a real place of eternal suffering. Remember, Gehenna is spoken of in the Gospels 11 times, with the Lord Jesus being the one speaking. He speaks of Gehenna more than of heaven.

Gehenna is a place for sinners (Matt. 10:28; Luke 12:5)

Here we find the Lord speaking to His disciples.

Jesus is telling His disciples that Gehenna is a place of judgment (probably on two different occasions- Matthew being when He commissioned the 12, Luke warning against the leaven of the Pharisees); warning them not to be afraid of those who would persecute them because they can only kill the body, but be afraid of the One who can cast both body and soul into Gehenna. This reference to “body” and “soul” give understanding that it is the entire person who will be suffering in hell; the sinner has an immortal body and will be suffering forever for his sins that he committed against the Lord (Revelation 20: 11-15).

Gehenna is an eternal fiery place (Matthew 18: 9: Mark 9: 43-47)

In both Matthew 18 and Mark 9, these passages are parallel and deal with the same issue: causing one to stumble. The first half of the passage, the Lord deals with stumbling blocks in reference to little children (spiritually and also physically). If one should cause a little child to stumble, they should have a mill stone (size of one turned by a donkey) tied around their neck and thrown into the sea (drowning was a punishment used by the Greeks, Romans, Syrians, an Phoenicians, and in the Sea of Galilee through the early part of Herod’s reign.).

In Matt. 18:8ff, and Mark 9:43ff the idea switches from causing others to stumble to causing oneself to stumble because of sin. The remedy is similar to Matthew 5; radical mortification of the flesh and the judgment for sin being Gehenna.

Gehenna is spoken of as being unquenchable (Matt. 18: 8-9, Mark 9:43).

This fire of Gehenna is spoken by our Lord as being a fire that does not end. Therefore, the fire is eternal. This fire for the wicked will never go out, but rather will last for eternity. In Matt. 18:8, the word Gehenna is not used, but is in the context of Gehenna (verse 9), and describes the punishment of sinners as an “eternal fire.” It is for this very reason why our Lord speaks of the importance of making sure that all who hear the Word understand that God does not look upon sin lightly. Sin requires Divine eternal judgment because sin is against an Eternal, Holy God.

Gehenna is spoken of as a place for a sinner to be cast into (Mark 9:45).

“Be cast into hell is a stronger term than that used in verse 43.” (D. Edmond Hiebert, The Gospel of Mark, An Expositional Commentary, BJU Press, p.269). This phrase has the idea of one being forced to go there.

Gehenna is spoken of a place where the worm never dies (Mark 9:47-48).

Here the Lord is speaking about things which is future: “enter into the kingdom of God” is referring to the future aspect of the kingdom. “To be cast into Gehenna” is also referring to that which is future.

Mark 9: 48 provides us with two destructive forces which take place in Gehenna: the worm and the fire. Worm refers to a “destructive force that is inherent” (Hiebert, p. 269). Fire refers to “punitive force applied from without” (Hiebert, p. 269). These are spiritual realities, which belong to those who are lost. The picture presented by the Lord concerning Gehenna is an unending punishment, which is extremely painful to the lost sinner who is cast there because of their sin. Truly, this is a grim picture of the fate of the lost. This should cause us as those who know Him to make sure we give the Gospel to every man we meet! If you today do not know the saving grace of Christ, come now while you still live!

I added some sermons from Evangelist Steve Pettit about this passage of Scripture. I encourage you to listen to these messages:

The Danger of Dying Without God. Mark 9: 43-37. Evangelist Steve Pettit
The Danger of Dying Without God. Mark 9:43-48. Evangelist Steve Pettit

Pastor Steve

Psalm119:89

Is hell a real place of eternal suffering? Part two

2010-08-24T07:50:00.002-04:00

The next Scriptural evidence that hell (Gehenna) is a place for eternal suffering is found later in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5: 27-30) where the Lord Jesus Christ deals with the sin of adultery. The following section also is from the same sermon outline I wrote several years ago.

"Within verses 27- 30, the Lord expands (and completes the Law--see Matthew 5: 17) upon the Law of committing adultery. This is the second section of illustrations given by the Lord explaining what God truly means by statements of the Law [see Exodus 20:14; Deuteronomy 5:18]. Here the Lord classifies adultery as not just as sexual act with a neighbor’s wife, but lustful thoughts about a woman. These thoughts refer to that which is “ an intentional looking for the purpose of stimulating, and delighting in, impure desire.” John Broadus, Commentary on Matthew, p. 108."

"Unlike the going from the altar to make amends with your brother when you are angry, here the Lord suggests radical mortification of the sinful desire. If lusting women is a problem, than take out your eye so you do not sin! This does not mean one should literally remove their eye, but the Lord demonstrates the seriousness of adultery committed in the heart."

"The one, who commits lustful activity, is worthy to be thrown into Gehenna. The same is in store for the one whose right hand causes him to stumble; it is better for him to remove radically his right hand than to be thrown into Gehenna. In verse 29-30, one gains understanding that the sinner is placed in Hell as a punishment, and is where the sinner as a person will be punished."

The conclusion we learn from this section is that the thoughts of man condemn man as a sinner. Man commits sinful actions because they begin in the heart of sinful man. Actions follow the heart (Matthew 15:18-19). Have you ever committed adultery in the mind? If so, you are guilty enough of Gehenna. The conclusion you should reach upon reading this passage of Scripture how can I then be saved from my sin against a holy God? The answer lies in what Jesus Christ did for you. He, being sinless, died in your place on the cross to take the punishment for your sin (Romans 5:1; John 3:14-18). He died so you don't have to. All you must do to receive this forgiveness of sin and avoid your just sentence of Gehenna is to "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved" (Acts 16:31)

“In God’s sight the inward desire is just as much sin as the outward act. Putting on a nice facade does not fool God” Dr. Stewart Custer, The Gospel of the King, p. 79.

Pastor Steve

Psalm 119.89

Dinosaurs—Alive After Babel? - Answers in Genesis

2010-08-23T05:39:00.002-04:00

Photo I took at the Creation Museum

Dinosaurs—Alive After Babel? - Answers in Genesis

Enjoy the article. Babel took place after the flood. The historical account is in Genesis 11.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

Is hell a real place of eternal suffering? Part One

2010-08-09T06:15:00.001-04:00

This is a very real question that everyone needs to consider. Like all questions, the best place to get the answer is from the Bible. The aspect of hell the Bible speaks as being the place of eternal suffering is called Gehenna.

Gehenna is found in the New Testament twelve times. Interestingly, eleven of those times the word is found in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) with the author of the statements being the Lord Jesus Christ (Matt 5:22; Matt 5:29-30; Matt 10: 28; Matt 18:9; Matt 23: 15,33; Mark 9:43,45,47; Luke 12:5). With these eleven statements, the Lord Jesus Christ speaks more of Gehenna than He does of Heaven. Why does He do so? I believe He does so to warn us so we can avoid going there when we die.

Let us look now at the statements of the Lord Jesus Christ about Gehenna in thematic order. I will be dealing with this question over the next several posts from a sermon outline I prepared some years ago.

The Lord Jesus Christ speaks of Gehenna being a place for those who have sin in their heart (Matt. 5:22, 29-30).

Within these passages of the Gospel of Matthew, the Lord demonstrates His authority over the Scribes and Pharisees by further expanding the Law [the Law is typically summarized in the Ten Commandments--read Exodus 20], from just an outward conformity to an obedience from the inner most thoughts of the heart. The Lord Jesus did this because the Scribes and Pharisees taught that it was the outward conformity to the Law that was important to God.

The Lord Jesus does this by illustrating the fruitless effort of trying by our righteousness to go to heaven (Matt. 5:20). He lets us know that only if we can be more righteous than the Scribes and Pharisees can we get into heaven (the Scribes and Pharisees were regarded by the people of Israel as the most righteous people). The conclusion the Lord wants us to make is that just trying to look the part outwardly of being good cannot change the reality of sin reigning in the heart.

Gehenna [Hell] is the eternal abode for those who are angry with their brother. (Matthew 5:22)

Verses 21- 26 is the first section whereby the Lord illustrates His further expansion of the Law. This deals with the issue of a person being angry with another person in the heart. The Lord makes the statement that every one who is angry with any other person (understanding “brother” as referring to all mankind) and calls him Raca (Aramaic word meaning “empty,” “empty head,” equivalent to our word “blockhead.” from John Broadus, Commentary on Matthew, p. 103), or fool (general term referring to “an expression of contempt in all languages” (Ibid., p. 103), is worthy to face the same punishment as murder. The Lord is dealing with the issue of maliciously attacking another human being without having any kind of just cause.

The one who harbors anger in their heart against their brother is guilty enough to receive the same condemnation as a murderer: “a fiery hell” or literally, “Gehenna of fire.” This is the first recorded time our Lord referred to Gehenna in the Gospels. Here our Lord reveals that Gehenna is a fiery place.

We learn from this passage that being angry at someone makes you guilty enough to suffer in Gehenna.

What an amazing thing to learn from the Lord Jesus, the Creator and Redeemer of all humanity! By being angry at someone, you are too sinful to enter into heaven! If we are honest with ourselves, all of us have at one time been unjustly angry at someone. How often to you call someone "Raca" when you drive your morning commute in rush hour traffic? How often have you been unjustly angry with your co-worker? All of us are guilty of Gehenna when we are judged according to the righteousness of God.

The solution that the Lord wants you to understand is that to go to heaven, you need to forsake works righteousness (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5), and trust in Him alone as the source of eternal forgiveness and salvation from your sin (John 14:6; Romans 5:8; Romans 6:23; Romans 10: 9-13).

The next post on Gehenna will further give evidence on hell being an eternal place of suffering.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

What Is Marriage? | Around the World with Ken Ham

2010-08-09T04:59:00.000-04:00

What Is Marriage? | Around the World with Ken Ham

God's Biggest "Problem"--Answers in Genesis

2010-08-04T10:21:00.000-04:00

I found this article on answersingenesis.org website today. It is related to a post I made "Why is Life So Tough if God is so Loving?"

I hope you enjoy. Here is the link:
God's Biggest "Problem" from Answers in Genesis

Pastor Steve
Psalm119.89

What does it mean to be saved?

2010-07-19T07:10:00.002-04:00

If you have ever received a Gospel tract from someone you have probably read somewhere on the tract the idea of needing to be saved. Or, maybe you have read a bumper sticker on a car or a sign on a church property that says, "Jesus Saves."

What does this common church phrase mean? What does it mean to be saved? What is a person saved from?

The Bible gives us the answer about what it means to be saved.

Let's consider some references found in the New Testament:

Being saved results from believing or placing your faith in the work of Jesus Christ, the Son of God:

John 3:16-18 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

Acts 2:21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Acts 4:12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."

Acts 16:30-31 Then he brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 And they said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household."

Romans 10:9-13 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. 11 For the Scripture says, "Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame." 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. 13 For "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Being saved means you are no longer going to suffer in hell for your sins against the Almighty God:

Romans 5:8-11 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11 More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

John 3:16-18 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

Being saved is an act of God's grace and mercy to the repentant sinner:

Ephesians 2:4-9 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ--by grace you have been saved-- 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Titus 3:4-7 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

I hope this has helped you understand from God's Word the Bible what it means to be saved. The list I made is not exhaustive. To summarize, being saved means you have personally placed your faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God who came to this earth to live a perfect life for you and to die in your place on the cross as payment for your sins (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). He arose the third day from the dead and gives eternal life to all who call upon Him for salvation. Being saved cannot occur from us being good since all of us have already sinned and come short of God's holiness (Romans 3:10, Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23). If you fail to believe in the Gospel, you will suffer eternally for your sins (Luke 16:24) because you have not believed in the name of the Son of God (John 3:18).

If you have not believed in Christ today for salvation from your sins, do so now and be saved from the wrath of God (Romans 5:8-11).

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

12 Arguments Evolutionists Should Avoid- from Answers in Genesis

2010-07-03T13:10:00.002-04:00

I found this article on the www.answersingenesis.org website. I hope you enjoy.

Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

Where is the Promise of the Lord's Coming?

2010-06-19T14:42:00.002-04:00

You have probably heard this question before or at least thought this when you heard a sermon or read something that spoke of the Lord coming back. Is the Lord really coming again? The answer according to the Bible is yes! Jesus Christ is returning a second time! The Apostle Peter states this question under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit in verse 4 in 2 Peter 3: 4-10:

"They will say, "Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation." 2 Peter 3:4

He states this question in the context of people who are living in the last days. The Scripture speaks of the "last days" being the time after the resurrection of Christ. We are living in the "last days" today. Peter states that these people who are primarily asking this question are scoffers who live a sinful lifestyle (2 Peter 3:3-4).

The Apostle Peter then answers these scoffers by pointing out several things:

1. They deliberately forget that since God created the world, He judged the world once through Noah's flood (2 Peter 3:5-6; see the historical account in Genesis 6:1-9:17). In this global flood, all life on land, except that which was on the Ark, perished ( I believe this is where most of our billions of fossils we find today--including Dinosaurs--were created. To learn more about the geological impact of the flood, click this link to www.answersingenesis.org).

2. They fail to understand that the Bible speaks of God now storing up wrath for the world and those who are ungodly (2 Peter 3: 7).

3. They fail to understand that the Lord is outside time, so our time schedule is not His (2 Peter 3:8).

4. They don't recognize that the Lord's apparent delay is for them to have an opportunity to repent of their sins (2 Peter 3:9).

5. They don't recognize that the Lord will return suddenly like a thief who breaks in at the night (2 Peter 3:10; see Matthew 24:37-44). The Lord Jesus Christ points out in Matthew 24 that His return will be like the time of Noah when the flood hit. It will happen suddenly, even while people are carrying on their "normal" lives, and no one will escape (Matthew 24:39; 1 Thessalonians 5:3).

Is the Lord coming back? The answer is yes! The question is for you now- are you ready? Have you confessed your sins to Him? Have you asked Him to save you from the judgment you deserve? If you have not come to Jesus Christ for salvation today, then do so and be saved from the judgement of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:1-10). To understand more how to become a Christian, look at the column on the right hand side of the blog.

In Christ,
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119:89

For more detailed information about the Lord's return, I recommend this book:

The 15 Questions of Life - Answers in Genesis

2010-05-19T10:08:00.001-04:00

These are questions that many people have concerning life. The link will take you to answersingenesis.org and "The 15 questions of Life." Lord willing I will seek to further expand some of these from the Scripture in the near future.

The 15 Questions of Life - Answers in Genesis

Posted using ShareThis

Enjoy,
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

What Happens to Me Once I Die?

2010-05-05T09:55:00.007-04:00

For just a little over 5 years I worked for a national lawn-care company while being the Assistant Pastor of Madison Baptist Church. During that time I had the opportunity to access different places in Central KY that normally are off limits to the public. I have treated the lawns of several top-notch horse farms, different state government buildings in Frankfort, and some very expensive properties in some exclusive neighborhoods. There is one place I have treated that forever will etch into my mind the reality of death: Georgetown Cemetery.

I had to treat the property (along with two others) over a two day time (its that big!). I was fine the first day while treating the grass. It was sunny, and I was enjoying hearing the birds singing and smelling the spring air of KY. I was also reading the tombstones while I was working nearby, noticing all the epitaphs that were written. I realized I was learning history of people who lived as far back as mid-19th century.

Then came the second day. The weather was still perfect KY spring weather, but a sobering reality struck me. The epitaphs of the tombstones still were there; they still read the same as the day before. The finality of death hit me; once you are dead, you are permanently separated from this life. No more can the corpse enjoy the spring weather I was enjoying. No more can they laugh. No more can they enjoy the love of family. When I was done working, I went home to my family to enjoy lunch. These corpses still lay there-and will for the rest of time until the Lord returns. Whatever history I read on those tombstones then became to me a burning and sobering question: I wonder where those people are spending eternity right now?

What I experienced that day was a personal illustration to a passage in the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes is a book of wisdom. It was most likely written by King Solomon, using the name the Preacher (Ecclesiastes. 1:1). He was the wisest man to ever live outside of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Preacher states this wisdom in chapter seven verses one through four:

Ecclesiastes 7:1-4 A good name is better than precious ointment, and the day of death than the day of birth. 2 It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart. 3 Sorrow is better than laughter, for by sadness of face the heart is made glad. 4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.

These verses teach us that it is wise to consider death. It was wise that the tombstones instructed me in the reality that death is final. In our passage, the Preacher is teaching us that there is more to be learned about the end of life at a funeral than at a place of partying. Why is it better to consider death? Because the Preacher tells us in verse two that death is the end of every person and that it will cause those who are still alive to consider there own end. Have you considered your own mortality?

I hope you have considered how short your life really is. I also hope you have considered the mortality of your life to the point that you are concerned about where you will spend eternity.

There is an account in Luke 16 the Lord Jesus Christ gives about a man who was rich who wasn't ready for death. This man had a servant whom he treated poorly. Here is the account:

Luke 16:19-31 "There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. 20 And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 24 And he called out, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.' 25 But Abraham said, 'Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.' 27 And he said, 'Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father's house-- 28 for I have five brothers--so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.' 29 But Abraham said, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.' 30 And he said, 'No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' 31 He said to him, 'If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.'"

Fortunately for you, if you are reading this, you are still alive and are able to do something about where you will spend eternity once you die. Listen to the Words of Abraham in Luke 16, listen to Moses and the Prophets and be like Lazarus when you die--going to heaven! Moses and the Prophets all pointed to the coming of Jesus Christ (Luke 24:25-27) and His work on the cross to pay for the penalty of sin so you and I do not have to suffer in Hades and Gehenna when we die! If you turn from your sin and believe in the Gospel (1 Cor. 15:1-4) that Jesus Christ died for your sin and that He rose the third day from the dead, you will go to heaven when you breath your last breath (John 3:16). Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved (Acts 16: 31; Rom. 10:10-13)!

In Christ,
Pastor Steve
Psalm 119.89

Is the Bible Really God's Word?

2010-04-28T09:24:00.014-04:00

Is the Bible the Word of God or is it just another book of man that claims to be divine? To answer this question properly, it is important to look at the Bible to see what it says about itself.

The Bible states that it is God's Word:

2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness

Here we see that the Bible (another name for Scripture) states that it is breathed out by God. What does breathed out mean? Breathed out is a word (one word in the Greek language) that means "divinely inspired." The Bible is saying in this verse that all of it--every part of the Scripture--was spoken by God. This is important to understand. The Bible is a book that not just contains God's words, rather all of the Bible is God's Word. Therefore, since the Bible is God's Word, what is said in it is important and must be listened to. Take heed to the written Word of God!

The Bible states that it originated from the mind of God:

2 Peter 1:20-21 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The Bible says that according to verse 20 of Second Peter, no part of prophecy in the Scripture came from someone's own mind. What you read in the Bible is not just opinions of the future or of current events in their time. Rather the Bible is saying that it was only produced when God had them write ("carried along by the Holy Spirit"). Verse 21 teaches us that God used the talents, the personalities, and the intellect of the men when He had them write Scripture ("men spoke from God"). How was this accomplished? It is in many respects a divine mystery, but one thing for sure is the Lord divinely superintended the writing of Scripture to insure that it was exactly written as it should be written. Therefore, you and I can confidently say when we hold the Bible in our hands that we are holding the Word of God.

The Bible states that its Author is without error:

Titus 1:2 in hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began.

2 Samuel 7:28 And now, O Lord GOD, you are God, and your words are true, and you have promised this good thing to your servant.

Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.

Psalms 12:6 The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.

John 17:17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

These verses point out some very important things about the Word of God. The Bible is either the truth or a lie. It is either all error or totally accurate. The Bible cannot be both true and untrue at the same time. Each of these passages reminds us several things about the Bible:

First, God is not a liar like men (Titus 1:2). Everything God states is true (2 Samuel 7:28) because every word proves itself to be true (Proverbs 30:5). What man can make that claim? What philosophy can state that everything it says is truth and prove it? None. Take evolution for example. Evolution is full of supposed historical observations that are fact, but where are the evidences? Where are the transitional fossils demonstrating molecule to man evolution? How come every missing link is found eventually not to be a missing link? How many times does evolution have to backtrack or change to remain supposedly true? The Bible on the other hand doesn't change because the Lord doesn't change. You may say what about the evidence? Isn't the Bible lacking evidence also? I would argue no. Look at the changed lives of those who honestly seek to practice what the Bible says. People who are seeking to live out the Word of God are different than those who just causally read the Bible. Besides changed people, you can also look at the world and perform observational science and you will find that God's world confirms God's Word (i.e. the fossil and geological record are evidence of a global flood as stated in Genesis; the fact that life has to come from life; the fact that all changes in a kind still remain that kind, etc.). The Bible is true and will always be confirmed as true.

Secondly, Psalm 12:6 reminds us that what God states is totally pure. The Lord doesn't have alterer motives. What He stated should be taken at face value. Therefore, it is important for you to believe His promises because not only does He mean them, but He is more than able to execute them! What man can accomplish everything he has stated? Again, the answer is none. Only God can!

Lastly, John 17:17, words of the Lord Jesus Christ in His high priestly prayer, remind us that the Bible is truth itself. When Christ states that your word is truth, He uses the noun form of truth. This means that objectively the Bible is the truth whereby everything else must be weighed against. Since the Bible is the standard, everything should rest upon this foundation. The Bible should be the glasses whereby we evaluate and see the world in which we live in. Therefore if you want to know true faith and forgiveness, begin with the Bible. If you want to know true history, begin with the Bible. If you want to know true morality--go to the Scriptures. Only by building upon the standard of Scripture will life and society be best. What about you? Who are you seeking to weigh your life against? What is the foundational standard of your life? Is it others? Is it ever changing man's opinions? To measure your life against anything else but the Bible is misleading (Psalm 19: 1-14; Psalm 119: 1-176). I challenge you to stop wasting your time with vain things and allow the Lord to change you through the Word of God.

In conclusion I hope you understand the answer to the question, is the Bible really God's Word? The answer is yes. I hope this helps you understand what the Bible says about itself. It is the Word of God. It is all the Word of God. It is totally true. Therefore, you need to listen to what it says.

In Christ,
Rev. Steve

Why Did Jesus Die on the Cross? John 19:30

2010-04-12T08:33:00.007-04:00

"It is finished" are the last words of Jesus Christ when He gave up His life on the cross for you and me that we might have eternal life. Why did He have to die? Was there any other way to purchase salvation for sin? The answer is no. There was no other way. Romans 6:23 lets us know that the wages of sin is death. Originally, when the Lord created all the universe in 6 days, everything was created perfect (Genesis 1:1-31) including humanity. But when Adam sinned against an all loving, all holy God, he brought death to all (Romans 5:12). Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the last Adam ( 1 Corinthians 15:45), had to die so that once for all He could pay for our sin against a Holy and Eternal God.

The Cross was the reason why Jesus Christ came into the world:

The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. John 1:29

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 1 Timothy 1:15

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:5-12

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.Philippians 2:5-8

Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree. Galatians 3:13

And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby. Ephesians 2:16

But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. Hebrews 2:9

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2

Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 1 Peter 2:24

For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit. 1 Peter 3:18

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself. Colossians 1:20

Jesus Christ died for your sins according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) so that you do not have to suffer the wages of your sin. You and I should have been on that cross because we are the ones who sinned against God. But God, being rich in love and mercy, instead sent His only begotten Son (John 3:16; Romans 5:6-8) to take your place. God's love for you is certain because He sent Jesus Christ, His sinless Son, to the cross!

What is wonderful is that when Christ stated "It is finished" He completed the Father's will. Redemption for your sin was completed. The judgment of your sin was fully paid! The love of God was fully completed.

Jesus Christ rose the third day from the dead (Luke 24: 1-43; 1 Cor. 15:4-8), bringing eternal life to all who trust in Him (John 6:40; John 11:25; Rom. 4:25; Rom. 10:9). Because Jesus Christ is alive today, you too can also be alive from sin, having the promise of eternal life. You can now experience the love of God first hand by believing in Jesus Christ, that He died for you, and rose physically from the dead the third day according to the Scriptures. The question is do you have eternal life in Christ today? Do you know personally God's love for you? Do you know that your sins can now be forever forgiven? It is possible to know right now:

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? John 11:25-26

Do you believe? I do. I believe and I know my sins are forever forgiven. I know I have eternal life because I know my Savior is alive. You can know to. Ask Jesus now to forgive you of your sin, confess to Him in thanksgiving that He died in your place on the cross, that He rose the third day from the grave.

I found a couple of sermons (one I heard in person in 1994) from Dr. Bob Jones Jr. who went home to be with the Lord in November 1997. Dr. Bob Jones Jr. is alive now with the Savior. If you turn to Christ today, you too can be with him and me in heaven, rejoicing in the wonderful greatness of the Lord.

"Sitting Down They Watched Him" Matthew 27: 33-36 Dr. Bob Jones Jr.

"Joyous Account: Resurrection" Luke 23-24, Dr. Bob Jones Jr.

He is Risen, He is Risen indeed.

Rev. Steve

Why is life so tough if God is so loving? When circumstances seems to contradict God's Word.

2010-03-23T07:54:00.020-04:00

Maybe you have thought this question in your life. This question is a serious one to comprehend because the Bible presents God as being love (1 John 4:8); yet we know that bad things happen all the time to people who appear good and innocent. Why is there such an apparent inconsistency between the Bible and reality? Is this proof that the God of Scripture doesn't exist (this was the conclusion of Darwin when his 10 year old daughter died--see Darwin's Daughter's Death for more information)?

Although it is impossible from our point of view to understand every reason behind everything that happened (like Job), one thing is definitely sure, the Bible does give us the answer why life is the way it is in 2011. The answer we find in the Bible is that God is love and that He never intended us to suffer like we do today. We learn from reading the Book of Genesis that everything was once very good.

And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day. Genesis 1:31

When the Lord stated that everything was "very good" He was stating there was perfection throughout all the creation. There was no death, no weather catastrophes, no suffering, no murder, no hate, no evil--everything was perfect and without blemish!

What happened? Why is life today so different from the "very good" at creation? Did the Lord mess up somewhere? No, the Lord didn't make any mistakes (Deuteronomy 32:4). One thing many forget is that the Lord created man different from all the rest of creation, He created us as free moral agents. In fact, the Bible states that we are created in His image.

Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.Genesis 1:26-27

Since the Lord created us in His image, we therefore have the ability to make rational choices. Humanity was created with the ability to either love God and His Word, or reject Him and go our own way. We learn from reading the Bible that humanity did make a choice--that choice was to go our own way apart from God's Word. All choices have consequences, and the Bible lets us know that there were world wide consequences for humanities' rejection of God's authority.

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. Romans 1:18-25

The Bible teaches us that the troubles we have in life today are a direct result of man's sin against His Creator. The Bible states in the Book of Romans:

Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned. Romans 5:12

As it is written: "None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one." "Their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive." "The venom of asps is under their lips." "Their mouth is full of curses and bitterness." "Their feet are swift to shed blood; in their paths are ruin and misery, and the way of peace they have not known." "There is no fear of God before their eyes." Romans 3:10-18

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

The Lord never intended for us to be living in the world we are now living. He created us to have fellowship with Him and live in a world that was perfect. The sin of man has brought all the trouble to our world, including our lives.When did this separation and trouble begin? It began in the Garden of Eden as stated in Genesis. God gave Adam one rule to live by with consequences for disobeying.

The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, "You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." Genesis 2:15-17

We learn while continuing in our reading of Genesis that Eve was temped by Satan (click Who is Satan? to learn more about who Satan is).

Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God actually say, 'You shall not eat of any tree in the garden'?" And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, 'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.'" But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths. Genesis 3:1-7

The Bible tells us in the New Testament about Adam and Eve at the fall of man;

For Adam was formed first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor.1 Timothy 2:13-14

Adam willfully disobeyed the Lord's command, resulting in death and suffering for all humanity and all creation.

Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned. Romans 5:12

So if all the struggles in this world, including death, are the result of man's sin against God, how is God still a God of love? God is love because He made the way of redemption from sin through the death of His sinless Son, The Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21; Isaiah 53:5-7; John 1:29). The Son of God, who is God, created you, and died to pay for your sins against Him (Hebrews 1:1-3). The Lord Jesus did this so you and I no longer have to stand in judgment for our sin, but by believing in Him we can have forgiveness of sin and eternal life. Jesus Christ rose the third day, therefore, all who place their faith in Him for salvation is guaranteed eternal life (1Corinthians 15:20-22). In addition, the one who places faith in Christ is also promised His presence in every storm of life (Matthew 28:20; John 16:33; Hebrews 13:5) because that one has been made a part of the family of God (John 1:12-13; Acts 27:23).

Please consider carefully what the following passages from the Bible say:

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 3:16-18

Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life [note: words are from Christ Himself-Rev. Steve]. John 5:24

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

For one will scarcely die for a righteous person--though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die-- but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. Romans 5:7-9

Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you--unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4

For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.1 Corinthians 15:22

because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, "Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame." For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Romans 10:9-13

the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.1 John 2:1-2

In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.1 John 4:9-10

Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.1 John 4:15

Looking again at the question, why is life so tough if God is so loving, I hope you saw from the Bible the answer that life is tough because we have sinned against God. I also hope you saw the answer to the sin question from the Bible that God is love because He sent His only begotten Son into the world to rescue you and me from the judgment of our sin. The key to this question is are you going to continue living life in this sin cursed world apart from the love of God in Jesus Christ, or are you going to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? To continue in sin results in judgment and eternal fire (Daniel 12:2; Revelation 20:12-15); to believe in Christ results in eternal life (John 3:16) and the joy of knowing that as you live the rest of your life in this sin cursed world, you have the promise of His presence (John 16:33; Matthew 28:20). The choice is yours to make, the consequences of your choice are eternal. "Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Corinthians 6:2. Once you breath your last breath it is too late for you to make your relationship right with God.

And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment. Hebrews 9:27

I encourage you right now to "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved" Acts 16:31.

If you have any furthur questions about eternal life in Christ, email me at psalm119.89@gmail.com.

In Christ,
Rev. Steve
Psalm 119.89

Welcome!

2010-03-09T06:37:00.010-05:00

Welcome to the blog that seeks to give glory to the Lord Jesus by proclaiming the wonderful reality that Jesus Christ is the only Lord and Savior of all men and women. This blog is about Jesus Christ, the Bible, and the salvation from sin that is offered to all by faith alone in Jesus Christ.

You may have visited here as a result of the gospel tract you received; thank you for taking the time to visit this blog. May the information here from the Bible encourage you to consider your life's circumstances and what God has spoken to all of humanity about His eternal purpose for your life (2 Peter 3:9).

The goal is to help you answers life's questions. The Bible, being the history book of the universe (Genesis 1:1-31 ff.), is God's revelation of Himself to you. The Bible is given to us by the Lord so you and I can know who He is, who we are, why we are here, and what the future holds for all of us when we pass away from this life. I challenge you to to examine the Bible, dig through it, study it, memorize it, and let the Word of God speak for itself.

As stated in the Book of Hebrews, chapter one, verses one through three, God has always sought to communicate with man (Heb. 1:1) He has spoken in the past through the Old Testament prophets about the coming Christ (Heb. 1:2). God has spoken from Matthew to Revelation about Christ's earthly ministry, Christ's reconciliation of humanity back to Himself through the cross, Christ's resurrection, and how His followers are to live in this world until Christ returns to judge humanity and to rule (Heb. 1:3-4).

In the Bible, and only through the Bible, God has spoken to humanity. God today has already spoken to you. Are you listening? The Lord God cares so much about you that He has given you the Divine account. He expects a response, therefore come to know this wonderful Lord and Savior by knowing what He has spoken through His Word.

Hear the Word of the Lord through the Apostle Peter:
2 Peter 1:16-21
16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
17 For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,"
18 we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain.
19 And we have something more sure, the prophetic word, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts,
20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation.
21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

In Christ,
Rev. Steve
Psalm119.89