tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-108046502024-02-03T00:04:24.363-08:00Christian RuminationsA Discussion on True Christianity, and what separates it from all other religions - Comments intended to assist others in improving their walk with Jesus Christ, or with honest questions about what that means are welcome here.<br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><b>St Anselm</b> said it best back in approx A.D. 1095? -- That than which nothing greater can be conceived, must be and is.The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-18779702296779388432013-02-17T19:49:00.000-08:002013-02-17T22:36:00.129-08:00Snow Mold?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jhKcoeggfLnGrFZLo8BvRMHdvQQkLcPeZ4MmvnJ5ceVyNU0R_QCQTM_BZEzhD5SK3qS5nUcqmryHpnZdD5LSt1xckiSytVdxQjo9N7fsr-uC3iBIhdCYoaUxhUiCi-kH1GL0/s1600/2008Sulfur.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jhKcoeggfLnGrFZLo8BvRMHdvQQkLcPeZ4MmvnJ5ceVyNU0R_QCQTM_BZEzhD5SK3qS5nUcqmryHpnZdD5LSt1xckiSytVdxQjo9N7fsr-uC3iBIhdCYoaUxhUiCi-kH1GL0/s320/2008Sulfur.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Spots of Snow Mold in lawn. Pen demonstrates the size </div>
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I have bof some pink Snow Mold.</div>
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I have given a lot of thought recently to the Snow Mold growing in my yard. Today it reminded me of other things...<br />
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Many people have never heard of Snow Mold. What is Snow Mold? It is a fungus that grows on lawns when winter temperatures are not severe. It can grow underneath snow when the temps are reasonably mild, yet cold enough for the snow to stay there. The treatment is to do a light raking of the grass to break it up as it dries out and put a fungicide on it. The earlier it is treated the less it affects the health of the lawn. We need the fresh air of spring, and summer to restore the health of our lawns. So how is this relevant to a blog about Christianity? Let me explain.<br />
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We could say that the times in our lives when we give in to sin is like winter. The longer we stay in it, the colder and darker it seems. Sin compounds in our lives the way that snow piles up. If we do not shovel the snow off our sidewalks and driveways, we could slip, fall, even hurt ourselves. Others can be hurt as well. Sin is like Snow Mold. It grows in our lives when we keep things covered up. Jesus is the cure. He purchased our forgiveness with the shedding of His blood. We need the fresh air brought by the Holy Spirit to bring life and strengthen us in our desire to cease sinning. It is only through the strength of God that we can truly be made holy and good.<br />
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The Scriptures tell us that every inclination of the heart of man is evil. <i>Genesis 6:5 </i>God gave us the Law (the Ten Commandments & many other laws (600+)) to show us that we can never be good. We need supernatural assistance. Just like our lawns with Snow Mold, we need help. We need Jesus. Fortunately for us, God promised us that although the wages of sin is death, the gift of God is forgiveness for those who trust in Jesus. Forgiveness means that we are brought back into the right relationship with God that He created us to enjoy in the first place. Since we are restored to Him, we no longer need fear death. Our destination is changed. We are not destined to go to Hell, we are destined to go to Heaven.<br />
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Just as our lawns can be restored to health if cared for in time, we can be restored to God if we ask Him to forgive us.The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-43393451478603240532013-02-17T11:22:00.001-08:002018-11-19T18:06:10.966-08:00Sinless Anger?Ephesians 4:26 ESV -- Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,.<br />
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How can we accomplish this?The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-2887056402608907302012-05-28T01:00:00.002-07:002012-05-28T01:00:27.606-07:00Pentecost<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today, Sunday May 27th, we Christians celebrated something unique. No other religion has a celebration of such a day as this. Pentecost. What is it? What does it mean? Why is it unique?</div>
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Pentecost: it is the fiftieth day after Easter, the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus! It correlates to the Hebrew celebration of Shavuot (the feast of weeks) also harvest time. In the Jewish (Hebrew) calendar, there were several days where [ALL] males were required to attend services and present themselves before God at the Temple in Jerusalem. Shavuot was one of those times, therefore many people from all over the [known] world were in Jerusalem for this time of celebration.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMc6AUvCTSMl05VZrANT2LhIjeqFpPQbRTwl0ciqrYpNURKfcjtJ-WyFvl1BX46Ek9VbfA-nZ0zH9lZsU7TCOfQBBMMIp47nyxlw_Qd-soJuE3gHGd4prOxA961UvIixerL6q/s1600/El_Greco_Apostles_Pentecost_525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img alt="Painting of the Apostles @ Pentecost by El Greco" border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMc6AUvCTSMl05VZrANT2LhIjeqFpPQbRTwl0ciqrYpNURKfcjtJ-WyFvl1BX46Ek9VbfA-nZ0zH9lZsU7TCOfQBBMMIp47nyxlw_Qd-soJuE3gHGd4prOxA961UvIixerL6q/s320/El_Greco_Apostles_Pentecost_525.jpg" title="El Greco Apostles Pentecost" width="320" /></a><br />
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The Christian celebration changed on that day, because of the pouring out of the Holy Spirit upon the 120 [main] followers of Christ who were hiding in the upper room for fear of the Jews and Romans. As they were praying, and worshiping God they began proclaiming God's praises and worship loudly and publicly. Enough that it caused a commotion. People from all over the known world heard them speaking in their native languages, and were amazed. They were also acting so joyously, that the people thought they were drunk. The visitors to Jerusalem, and other residents there knew these men to be uneducated people, common workers for the most part, and several of them merely fishermen. This meant that they were very unlikely to have learned the languages they seemed to be speaking. [Makes me wonder if they were speaking foreign tongues, or if the people just heard in their language -- Perhaps God changed their hearing? -- Nah, the Bible said they spoke in the foreign tongues, so we'll stick with that.] </div>
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Peter then spoke up in a loud voice and explained to the people that they were not drunk, as the people supposed. He explained that the same Jesus they had seen crucified a few weeks ago, had risen from the dead, and had promised to send the Holy Spirit to them. This was the fulfillment of this promise. Peter, the same one who had denied even knowing Christ on the night of his betrayal and trial, was now speaking boldly, proclaiming Christ to a horde of strangers and fellow Israelites, as well as any Romans present. He explained the speaking in tongues was an effect of the filling of the Holy Spirit in order that they might all understand the followers and hear the good news [Gospel].<br />
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Over 3,000 people were added to the group of believers that day. What an amazing example of the power of God's love and Holy Spirit. The apostles were no longer afraid, they began meeting in the Temple and synagogues again, and proclaiming the love of Jesus publicly and unashamedly. What is unique about this is that the disciples changed instantly from being afraid to being bold. They spoke in foreign tongues as if they had spoken them all their lives, yet they were unfamiliar with the languages. Many times the number of followers of Christ became converted due to this miracle.<br />
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May God fill all of us with His power, that we may live boldly for Him, and help others to love and accept Him as well!</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-7909533389771145152012-05-26T15:27:00.002-07:002012-05-26T15:27:46.874-07:00Freedom in Christ<div style="text-align: justify;">
Jesus said, "...If the son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:36 (NIV)</div>
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I have been struggling lately. I wonder how much freedom we should allow others. How much freedom should I have? What is true freedom? Where does one draw the line between freedom and responsibility? If Jesus has set me free from my sins, why do I still dwell on them? Why can't I forgive myself?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP38EnZlGxZhMWhH-TqaOczvt64zv0zqFc0raJy2JXYNyfO2pWetiR3h9a96CubJRiNXltlR-GBQgdraft7B_3o3OSVxZFQ9skuYfcTZ8PkjhS8wOhHW0-h_9_Q04RVwZWrQyd/s1600/broken-chains-b-w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP38EnZlGxZhMWhH-TqaOczvt64zv0zqFc0raJy2JXYNyfO2pWetiR3h9a96CubJRiNXltlR-GBQgdraft7B_3o3OSVxZFQ9skuYfcTZ8PkjhS8wOhHW0-h_9_Q04RVwZWrQyd/s400/broken-chains-b-w.jpg" width="342" /></a>Part of this is easy. I have a hard time forgiving myself, because since I am aware of God's love and forgiveness, and His call to "Go forth and sin no more," I should not continue. Because I am keenly aware of His mercy, I should accept and give mercy, and dwell not on failures, mine or others. This does not mean that I accept sin, but rather that when I, or someone else repents, the sin is forgiven, and thrown as far as the East is from the West. That is pretty far. I am grateful. </div>
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Now the more difficult parts... I believe true freedom is internal. No one can make me do anything. It is all my choice. I don't even have to pay taxes. I can choose jail if I wish. Personally this is not the option I choose, so I shall continue to pay my taxes. To extend freedom to others, I must decide how much freedom do I pass on. Since I am not the one who granted freedom, I cannot limit freedom. Jesus has granted freedom to all who call upon His glorious name. I further believe that Christ limits freedom only in how much it impacts on my relationship with Him, or with others. I cannot tread on other people and call it freedom. </div>
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As it is written (in the Scriptures):</div>
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<i><span lang="en-us" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 9pt;">Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge.</span><sup style="text-align: left; text-indent: 9pt;"><span lang="en-us"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=10804650#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title="">a</a></span></sup><span lang="en-us" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 9pt;"> Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. </span><sup style="text-align: left; text-indent: 9pt;"><span lang="en-us">2 </span></sup><span lang="en-us" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 9pt;">The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. </span><sup style="text-align: left; text-indent: 9pt;"><span lang="en-us">3 </span></sup><span lang="en-us" style="text-align: left; text-indent: 9pt;">But the man who loves God is known by God.</span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="en-us"></span><sup><span lang="en-us">4 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">5 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”), </span><sup><span lang="en-us">6 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live. </span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="en-us"></span><sup><span lang="en-us">7 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">But not everyone knows this. Some people are still so accustomed to idols that when they eat such food they think of it as having been sacrificed to an idol, and since their conscience is weak, it is defiled. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">8 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do. </span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="en-us"></span><sup><span lang="en-us">9 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">10 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">For if anyone with a weak conscience sees you who have this knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, won’t he be emboldened to eat what has been sacrificed to idols? </span><sup><span lang="en-us">11 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">So this weak brother, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">12 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">When you sin against your brothers in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">13 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him to fall.</span></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""><sup><span lang="en-us">a </span></sup></a><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';">Or </span></span><i><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';">“We all possess knowledge,” as you say</span></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" title=""><span style="vertical-align: super;"></span></a><span id="__spanCitationData"> <i>The Holy Bible : New International Version</i>. electronic ed. Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. 1 Co 8:1-13</span></div>
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Of course, this does not pertain only to eating certain foods, or about false gods. The principles can be applied universally to our lives. To draw the line between freedom and responsibility, I must realize that I have to consider others as more important than myself. This is the difficult part of life. Christ said if anyone would follow Him, he must deny himself daily, take up his cross, and follow Him! </div>
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Therefore, as a follower of Christ, I have freedom to do what I want. I do not have the freedom to trample on others' freedoms. I must extend at least the same grace to others as I want to receive from them, and from God. For God does not hold blameless those who do not forgive others.<br />
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To make this more real, let's look at one practical application: <br />
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I like beer, wine, and various other alcoholic drinks. I also like the flavor (and effect) of coffee. There are people for whom alcohol is a stumbling block. I once was so addicted to coffee that I could not live without it. Now, I can take it or leave it. I can drink, or not drink. If I am with someone that does not drink alcohol, I do not drink either. I know there are many who are still addicted to coffee, alcohol, or other things. The grace is passed by allowing others to make their decisions as to whether they will drink alcohol or coffee or not. I do not believe there is anything wrong with drinking either one in moderation. However, if there is anyone who has a problem with drinking, or thinks it is wrong, I do not drink around or with them. Nor do I bring up matters of conscience by talking about drinking around them.<br />
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This post kinda took on a different twist as I typed it than I was thinking when I started, so I hope it makes sense to someone other than me.</div>
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</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-27316889702894019552012-02-05T21:17:00.000-08:002012-02-05T21:17:45.510-08:00Last Days?<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Bible says that in the last days, men will gather for themselves teachers that will tell them what they want to hear, and will abandon sound teaching.(see 2 Timothy 4:1-5, Titus 1:9) Men will be lovers of men, and abandon natural relations with women.(see Romans 1:18-32) There will be many false prophets and false Christs.(see 2 Peter 2:1-16, 3:3) Let's look at some examples...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXM7IbahIEUhtgxjl4urDGnqxGDRjp9PVVIMxUrbehZWFUbUjRXWUdBmjz-rUvYH9-8J3ui7N6qFUvzRS3yN0qYhWKSuf2QGLx24VAu-ho-ok7vZSW9RoWz-t9exhO4ZPgnv5O/s1600/FatherTimePrev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXM7IbahIEUhtgxjl4urDGnqxGDRjp9PVVIMxUrbehZWFUbUjRXWUdBmjz-rUvYH9-8J3ui7N6qFUvzRS3yN0qYhWKSuf2QGLx24VAu-ho-ok7vZSW9RoWz-t9exhO4ZPgnv5O/s320/FatherTimePrev.jpg" width="292" /></a>I recently heard a pastor of a large church say that there is really no difference between Christianity and a certain other church headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. After all, they believe in Jesus (or do they?) The Jesus that is of Biblical Christianity is one with the Father, and the Holy Spirit, and was and is God Himself (known as The Holy Trinity)! This other religion believes that Jesus is a created being, that in the "pre-incarnate state" (before becoming man), was a "spirit brother" to Lucifer (a.k.a. Satan) and the only reason Jesus is the Savior instead of Lucifer, is Jesus said yes to "Heavenly Father" and Lucifer said no. So how does this shake out as far as no difference? It is false! </div>
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There are those who would have us believe that all paths lead to the same destination: Heaven! After all, God loves us, and since He loves us, He would not send anyone to Hell! Yet, the Bible is clear that Jesus said He was "The way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the father except through Him!" Doesn't sound to me like Jesus would agree that it does not matter if you are Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, or whatever else you want to be.</div>
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There are many pastors that are preaching and teaching that it is okay to be homosexual. That God didn't really mean it when He said that those who have such lifestyles will not inherit the Kingdom of God. I disagree. I think God meant what He said. However, the Christian Church has failed in its mission to love all men, regardless of the problems and sins in our lives. It is no more acceptable to be homosexual than it is to cheat on one's spouse or "live in sin." Let's call a spade a spade. God is clear on His requirements--holiness! It is a very good thing that He has forgiven me! The Bible clearly teaches that we are only saved through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. There is no other name given under heaven by which we must be saved. (see Acts 4:8-22)</div>
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There are many who would also tell us that we can "do this 40 day program," and be happier, healthier, more successful, blessed, etc. The thing is, Jesus did not promise His disciples an easy, or trouble free life. In fact, He actually promised the opposite. "In this life you will have trouble..." "If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you..." (See John 15:18-25, 16:29-33). People have a tendency to see riches as success, but God measures success differently. If riches and/or success in this world is a measurement of our success in God's eyes, then Tiger Woods, or the Emirs of some foreign lands are more acceptable to God than I am. They have obviously attained God's favor. I don't think so!</div>
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I think we truly are in the "Last Days," but then again, so did the Apostles back in the days immediately following the resurrection of Jesus. So what does this mean for us? We should be sure that we do what we can to love God more than men, and love others as much or more than we love ourselves. The best thing to do is live as if we might go home to meet Jesus tonight, yet realize that we are saved through grace and this by faith. </div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-76360589449615023082012-02-01T21:53:00.000-08:002012-02-05T12:14:06.261-08:00Mincing WordsIn the past couple of weeks, I have watched a few videos on the subject of Jesus and Religion. One is by a guy who says he loves Jesus and hates religion. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IAhDGYlpqY">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IAhDGYlpqY</a> Then, I have watched some that are responses to his rant. One is from a Catholic priest, one is Lutheran, then I read a response to his rant from an Orthodox priest. I also watched a couple videos in response that make little or no sense. I liked the responses of the Lutheran <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwetTNAGC44">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwetTNAGC44</a> and the Catholic Priest <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ru_tC4fv6FE">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ru_tC4fv6FE</a><br />
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Now my beloved wife tells me that people are misunderstanding the guy. That he says "religion" as a metaphor for all that is evil in the church. I am not certain. I do think that if this guy is ranting about the evil present in the church, and not the church as a whole, he suffers from the same thing I do.<br />
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I sometimes say things that do not come across the way I want them to, or think that they will. If we want to be taken seriously, we need to be careful of what we say and especially, of how we say it.<br />
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Anyway, the guy has a few good points, and he has a few points that are contentious. I will leave it up to you to watch and decide what you think. The following is what I think.<br />
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<li>I think if we are going to portray ourselves as experts/poets, we should ensure we are clear on our defiinitions.</li>
<li>I think we should extend grace to others, and not require perfect doctrine. (by this I do not mean that we should allow false doctrine to go unchallenged, but there are many things that are left up to individuals to decide for themselves, and these we should not quibble over.) --statement in ( ) added 2/5/12</li>
<li>I think we need to remember that Jesus founded a church, and said there would be false teachers and false Christs that we would need to watch out for. The question is wise discernment of who is and who is not false. In the Old Testament, God said the test of a prophet is 100% accuracy when they claim to speak for Him!</li>
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<li>Romans 14 says that we are all responsible to our Lord. Perhaps we should remember that He is the boss!</li>
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The bottom line is that we live in a fallen world, society is made up of people and people are inherently evil. So there <b>will be flaws</b> even in the church. So maybe the rant about religion is a good thing. It has gotten people thinking, it has people talking. Let's all let this bring us closer together, not tear us apart.</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-5779912479609373612012-01-15T23:14:00.000-08:002012-01-15T23:14:10.180-08:00Law versus Grace - and ramblings<div style="text-align: justify;">
I read a very interesting and candid interview with Bono, the lead singer from U2,
<a href="http://www.thepoachedegg.net/the-poached-egg/2010/09/bono-interview-grace-over-karma.html">http://www.thepoachedegg.net/the-poached-egg/2010/09/bono-interview-grace-over-karma.html</a> regarding grace and karma this evening. It is well worth the read. It is actually an excerpt from the book<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"> </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1573223093?ie=UTF8&tag=thepoaegg-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1573223093" style="background-color: white; color: #ff9900; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: bold; line-height: 19px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="blank"><em>Bono: In Conversation with Michka Assayas</em></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thepoaegg-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1573223093" style="background-color: white; border-bottom-style: none !important; border-left-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; border-top-style: none !important; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;" width="1" />. </div>
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So what does this have to do with the topic: Law versus Grace? Well, in a way, karma is like the Law. Both teach that we get what we deserve. What goes around, comes around. I know, trite cliches that annoy many people -- sorry about that. However, it is important to note that God offers grace today. Yes at one time, He required sacrifices and the Israelites were bound to the Law. Then Jesus came to Earth, lived as a man, suffered at the hands of the Romans (because of the Pharisees), died on the cross for the sins of the world--which means each one of us!</div>
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Paul, who was once known as Saul, was one of the strictest adherents to the Law when he was a Pharisee. In fact, he was one of those who made it his mission to persecute the followers of "The Way" as it was first known shortly after Jesus was killed and resurrected. </div>
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Once converted to Christianity however, Paul became one of the strongest advocates for Grace! He went so far as to state that those who wanted to go back under the Law should go ahead and emasculate themselves when they try to be circumcised. (see Galatians chapter 3) Now that is harsh! Paul himself points out that none of us can be righteous and earn forgiveness. "I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" <i>The Holy Bible : New International Version</i>, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). Gal 2:21.</div>
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So where do we go from here? Some would say that since we cannot be good, why even try? Well I say that although I cannot be worthy, I can be grateful. The Bible also warns us that those of us that have tasted God's forgiveness should not remain in sin. We should live as good a life as we can, not that we earn His mercy, but rather to show Him our gratitude.</div>
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Thank You, Jesus! </div>
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I have said it many times in this blog, and I will say it many more times. This is the truth that separates Christianity from all other religions. God loved and loves us, He sought and seeks us, He paid the penalty for our sins.</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-90480914141128170302012-01-05T23:19:00.000-08:002012-01-05T23:44:08.832-08:00When Things go Wrong?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some people tell you that a Christian will have a great life and that if you live in accordance with God's laws, everything will go well for you. God will heal your sickness, keep you safe and bless you in every aspect of your life.</div>
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So what does one do when these things do not happen. What happens when a Christian is sick, has cancer, has financial problems, his marriage falls apart? Does this mean he is not a good Christian? Did he fail to give God his entire heart and life?</div>
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Let's check a few facts... Jesus warned His disciples that, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” <i style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). Jn 16:33. </span>The apostles did have troubles especially a few years after Jesus' death and resurrection. They began to be persecuted strongly by the Jews. Jesus had also told them that if the Jews had persecuted Him, the Jews would also persecute them. </div>
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I have known many Christians who have had serious illnesses, that for whatever reason--only God knows--they were not healed despite many prayers and great patience. </div>
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The questions are not always easy to answer. Here are some thoughts that I believe are Biblically sound. </div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">We live in a fallen world. Sin is rampant, not everything/everyone submits to God's authority. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Disease and death entered the world due to man's sin. None of us are immune.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">God DOES heal. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Some people DO NOT get healed. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">11 of 12 Early Church Apostles were martyred. John, the only one not martyred was exiled to Patmos after being boiled in oil, to live the remainder of his days in relative isolation.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The promise of God for Christians is that in the NEXT LIFE, there will be no sickness, death or even tears.</li>
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We believe that God has everything under control, but does not necessarily protect us from ALL harm. He promised that He would give us strength when times are tough and give us the words we need when we are put on trial for His sake.</div>
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I have personally known people who have been miraculously healed of diseases, drug addictions, cancers, and self-destructive habits. Therefore, I know God DOES heal! I just do not know the answers why some are and some are not. I guess that is why I am NOT God!<br />
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So what do we do with the questions? We TRUST GOD. He promised that He would be with us through all our circumstances, trials and tribulations even to the end of time. We hold to the truth that God loves us. We CONTINUE to pray for healing for those we know, and hear about that are sick, injured or are going through hard times. We rejoice with those who rejoice, and mourn with those who mourn. </div>
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I believe that those who claim that our lives should be trouble free when we are Jesus' followers need a reality check. What do you think? </div>
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</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-62824192828503511582012-01-05T00:01:00.000-08:002012-01-05T00:11:46.207-08:00What We Hear and Who We Are<div style="text-align: justify;">
This past Sunday, two of my friends attended the same worship service, heard the same sermon, in all ways external, had the same experience.</div>
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One was excited by what she heard--the message, the speaker's illustrations/experiences, and his dedication and involvement in his message. The other one was not as excited by what he heard--the message or the speaker's experiences and illustrations. </div>
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How can this be, and what does it mean for those who follow Christ?<br />
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I have wondered this for years, as I grew up Roman Catholic and a Christian, and I know many others who are similar. I also know many people who are Roman Catholic, or generic Protestant, that do not seem to know Christ [be a Christian]. I think it is the same as when two or more people witness the same accident. They generally see something different than one another. </div>
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We all filter things [everything] through our own filtration systems, our thoughts, beliefs, philosophies, desires, etc. One person attends church and finds Jesus, another finds nothing. Many people attend church, love Jesus, and yet differ in their experiences at similar or the same worship service as others. </div>
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I believe the bottom line is not what we see or hear, but what filtration process we use. It is all about the heart of the individual. Even Christians who are similar have different filters because of what they have experienced, learned, read, etc.</div>
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We must, if we call ourselves Christian, submit ourselves to Jesus! We must strive to see things His way. Does this mean that we cannot have differences? Absolutely NOT! God did not create robots, and He does not want us all exactly the same. He DOES want us to be sincere about our faith, and it MUST BE an active faith. His word declares that faith without works is dead. So, we should as it says in Romans 14, allow people to have some leeway in how they practice their faith. We need to accept people that see things differently (as long as it is not contrary to sound doctrine). </div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-9415561113875836062012-01-03T20:32:00.000-08:002012-01-05T23:20:32.322-08:00The Standards we Hold<div style="text-align: justify;">
Recently a good friend and I were talking about the standards by which we live our lives. I mentioned that I was trying to get back on track with my relationship with God, and he questioned what I meant. By that, I did not mean that I was trying to earn God's love, forgiveness, or anything else, but rather that I was trying to live the way God wants me to. Jesus forgives us of our sins, not because of anything we do, or can do, or could do, but only because He paid the penalty for us. He calls us to live for Him, and to "Go forth and sin no more." However, it is worth mentioning again, "<i><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-size: 116%;"></span></span></i><span lang="en-us">For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—</span><span lang="en-us">not by works, so that no one can boast." </span><i style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). Eph 2:8-9.</span></div>
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This is the crux of the message of Salvation, indeed the Gospel message.</div>
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Anyway, the standards, how to get back to the standards...</div>
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The Apostle Paul, probably the best at reminding the early Church about living up to standards, was also very free with his grace. He figured that he had been forgiven much, so he must also forgive much. I have to agree with that. The hard part is to raise up a standard that makes some people cringe, yet to forgive them when they fall short. Jesus told us to be holy, even as He is holy. Now that is a tough standard. We can never live up to that one, however we should do our best to do so. I am continually reminded of the warning to be careful how we judge, for the same standards we use will be used to judge us.</div>
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Some people misuse the verse to say that we should not judge at all, but that is not accurate. we are called to judge right from wrong, and to make correction where we see the need. HOWEVER, we are reminded to be careful, as already stated, the other shoe will drop on us someday! </div>
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So. Standards. Gotta have them, gotta live them. But why, if there is grace, do we need to obey standards? Out of gratitude. God created us. God redeemed us. God loves us. God asks us to live by certain standards. I, for one, plan to live by them.</div>
</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-6345293463767164132012-01-02T21:23:00.000-08:002012-01-05T23:20:54.811-08:00New Year's Resolutions and Coffee<div style="text-align: justify;">
New Year's Resolutions - some make them, some don't. Does anyone keep them? I do not know of anyone who makes and keeps their resolutions. It is possible, but I do not know of them. Yet many of us continue to make them. Why?</div>
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I think it is the same reason that we tell our God, other people and ourselves, that we are going to change. We intend to change, but old habits die hard. Does that mean that we cannot change? I don't think so, it is just difficult. It requires effort. A lot of effort.</div>
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Some years ago, I was addicted to coffee. Really addicted. I tried to quit and endured a headache for about 18 days give or take a couple. So I gave in and had a cup of coffee, and BAM, the headache was gone in about an hour. Then a few years later, as I was driving to work, merging onto the freeway, with my coffee cup in hand, as I was being passed by people on the freeway with coffee cups in their hands, I thought to myself, "If America was half as addicted to Jesus as we are to coffee, we wouldn't have half the problems that we do!"</div>
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So, I asked God to help me break my addiction to coffee. I started cutting down on the coffee consumption, and in a couple months, I was only drinking a couple of cups a day. So I quit. No headaches and no coffee for about three months I had no coffee and I was fine. Now I can take it or leave it. Every couple of months, I even quit for a few days just to be sure. I like coffee, always have, probably always will, but now I don't have to have it. Thank you Jesus.</div>
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The point is -- and I know I kinda meandered a little -- New Years Resolutions are like choosing to end a coffee (or any other) addiction. We CAN do it, we just have to be persistent, and forgive the pun, Resolute!</div>
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So, if you have a New Years Resolution, whatever it is, I am sure it is to improve some aspect of your life. So ask God to help you, ask others to help you, resolve to do it, and go for it. If you fail at first, just keep trying. With God all things are possible.</div>
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Remember, "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13</div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""><span style="vertical-align: super;"></span></a><span id="__spanCitationData"><i>The Holy Bible : New International Version</i>, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). Php 4:13.</span></div>
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</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-31615797061419817502012-01-01T13:50:00.000-08:002012-01-01T21:47:34.663-08:00The Man in the Mirror<div style="text-align: justify;">
The other day, I saw some gravestones on Facebook, that had friends names, and birth and "death dates and causes" fictitiously posted, so I accepted the app and allowed it to create one for me as well. Well, it said that I lived 96 years and died by looking in the mirror. Anyway, that got me thinking (actually it got me laughing hysterically, but then I got to thinking.) </div>
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When I look in the mirror, what do I see? Do I see the same thing others see when they look at me? Or more? I have heard it said that the eyes are the window to the soul. I am not sure what this phrase means, but I do know that no one who looks at me, really sees what is inside my soul. Only God and I know what goes on deep inside. </div>
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So who is this man in the mirror? Why would looking in the mirror kill me? And the most important question of all, how does this relate to Christianity? I shall attempt to answer and relate all these questions together in the lines that follow.</div>
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The Bible states that <span xml:lang="en-us">every </span><span class="InnerHit0"><span xml:lang="en-us">inclination</span></span><span xml:lang="en-us"> </span><span class="InnerHit1"><span xml:lang="en-us">of</span></span><span xml:lang="en-us"> man's </span><span class="InnerHit2"><span xml:lang="en-us">heart</span></span><span xml:lang="en-us"> is evil from childhood. Genesis 6: 5, 8:21. Note in the context of these passages it is not singling one particular man out, but emphasizing that we are all evil from childhood. In the New Testament, it states that there are none righteous, not even one. Romans 3:10. Fortunately for me, other people cannot look through my eyes and see the depravity in my soul. Nor can I look into your eyes and see the depravity in you. It is generally through our actions and words that we are judged by others. However, there remains the mirror. When I look into the mirror, I can look at my reflection, or I can look deeper. Sometimes it scares me to look deeper. Maybe someday it will kill me, but for now, not really. </span></div>
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<span xml:lang="en-us">Fortunately, for the Christian, there is forgiveness. It is not that we are better than others, although we SHOULD be, given what we have been given by our Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus forgave us by the shedding of His blood. He</span> willingly paid the debt that we had for our sins. He did ask us to stop sinning, so we really should. We should do as Christ asks, esp. since He has done so much for us. "<span lang="en-us">Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror </span><span lang="en-us">and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><span lang="en-us">But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does." James 1:23-25</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""><span style="vertical-align: super;"></span></a><span id="__spanCitationData"><i>The Holy Bible : New International Version</i>, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). Jas 1:23-25.</span></div>
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So to wrap this article up, let me say that although looking in the mirror will not kill me or you, it should cause us to think of what is happening in our hearts and double check our motives. We should evaluate our lives as we begin the year of 2012 and ask ourselves if we are doing what God wants us to do, or merely gazing at our reflection in the mirror and forgetting what we look like when we turn away?</div>
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</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-85632337695002204902011-12-30T22:22:00.000-08:002011-12-30T22:22:15.449-08:00The End of This YearAs I look back over the year of 2011, I find myself wondering who lived my life this year. I did very little that I had planned to do at the start of it. I just did not seem to have ANY motivation. My life borders on a disaster in many ways. There are many things left undone, and it bothers me.<br />
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So what does this have to do with a Blog based on Christianity?<br />
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God is still on the throne, and despite my failures, He loves me still! Jesus came to heal and to help us. He came to restore our relationship with The Father, the Creator of the universe.<br />
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What makes this relevant to the end of the year?<br />
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Easy, as we end a year, we begin a new one. Personally, I plan to make 2012 a much better year, and to do a better job of fulfilling my obligations and responsibilities. And who knows, maybe the Mayans are right, the world will end, or change, or maybe Jesus will come back. <br />
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The bottom line is that Jesus loves us all and will continue to love us this year, next year and always! He does not give His love or forgiveness conditionally, with the exception of our acceptance of them. Christianity is different from all other religions because all other religions focus on man's seeking God or gods, and Christianity focuses on God seeking man.<br />
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God bless us all!The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-48545768065113687802011-12-28T21:45:00.000-08:002011-12-30T22:27:13.407-08:00The Start of a New YearOn the radio today, I heard a comment about how to start the New Year right. It had to do with letting the old one go, including the past hurts, problems, et cetera.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtCYoYVBlI_QQXUKufSI2qIbH3SyodL7Fag3pIYNnMlwTkegKejzePKl_ybgomIDoF4FAted3-aitjd5Gn48CrQGn7kG8EuxZgLSv0_zHvPJIhyNiA2hwgPfuUsuuhZLIErhu/s1600/kscope1_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtCYoYVBlI_QQXUKufSI2qIbH3SyodL7Fag3pIYNnMlwTkegKejzePKl_ybgomIDoF4FAted3-aitjd5Gn48CrQGn7kG8EuxZgLSv0_zHvPJIhyNiA2hwgPfuUsuuhZLIErhu/s320/kscope1_1.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kaleidoscope picture</td></tr>
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This is true, not only at the New Year but every day as a Christian. Jesus forgives us, and throws our sins as far away as the east is from the west. We too are required to forgive others as Jesus has forgiven us. In fact, Jesus warns us that if we do not forgive others, we will not be forgiven either.<br />
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One of the main differences between Christianity and all other religions, is that Christianity teaches that we cannot ever be good enough to be forgiven or earn God's love and a place in heaven. Instead, Christ paid the penalty for my sins and yours, when He died on the cross. We cannot and do not have to earn forgiveness or the love of our God.<br />
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We celebrate the birth of Jesus each year on December 25th and this is a great place to start thinking about the New Year, new start and new life brought to us by our Savior. He entered this world as a baby so that He could experience life as a human, and sacrifice His life in our place.<br />
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So as we close the chapter on one year of our lives, and begin another, let us put past hurts, mistakes and problems behind us, and begin a new year, new life and help bring healing and grace to ourselves and our fellow man.<br />
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Just as a kaleidoscope is different every time we look in it, let us continue to change and bring glory to our God and Savior, Jesus Christ this New Year!The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-42389740739086309752011-02-14T00:09:00.000-08:002011-02-14T00:09:43.093-08:00The Christian God and the evil we do!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
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One of the biggest questions among many people Christians, and non-Christians alike, is "If God is good, how can He allow so much evil in the world?"<br />
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The answer to this question, and many others like it, although on the surface is simple, is actually quite complex. So let's look at it in detail from the position of orthodoxy. If you read this, and have comments, or questions, feel free to leave them on the site.<br />
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God IS good, and allows evil, so that we CAN CHOOSE good.<br />
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Now that I have expressed the simple, lets dig a little into the complexity. If God is truly good, and All powerful, why would He allow people to hurt others when He COULD prevent it? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP88RkTBDXx6IGN0aqNemq1GfppWGS_yMNaZ9nHfZhJwBdvB5fnVPm6yaaC9ev4BGjBt0ESK8VResRYdr6EzQLmLf1xh9dG9rVYbWmW-r7qEDWhXdTPkNGs-OyC_iNeXOuhlNR/s1600/Crucifix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP88RkTBDXx6IGN0aqNemq1GfppWGS_yMNaZ9nHfZhJwBdvB5fnVPm6yaaC9ev4BGjBt0ESK8VResRYdr6EzQLmLf1xh9dG9rVYbWmW-r7qEDWhXdTPkNGs-OyC_iNeXOuhlNR/s320/Crucifix.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>God is a father, not an inventor of robots. He has chosen to give His children freedom of choice. We are free to choose to do good, or harm. Unfortunately, this means that people get hurt. A wise man once said, "If we are careful enough, we can miss sadness, <i>and happiness.</i>" We cannot truly choose good, if we do not have the opportunity to choose evil. So God allows His children to hurt others. Does He like it? Absolutely NOT! But He HAS to allow it. Could He stop it? Yes He could, but He can't and still allow choice. As a father myself, I have seen my children hurt each other many times. This pains ME, too, but I do not stop them ALL THE TIME ! I could, but then they would not have the opportunity to learn from the tragedy of harming another. Sometimes I do stop them, when it is truly dangerous, or excessively hurtful, and I subject them to a lesson on why they should not act that way! At other times, tho' I let them hash it out, and then they end up making up, and learning for themselves why they should not act that way. They also learn how it feels to hurt, and to be hurt. This actually serves to improve their character. The Bible reminds us that if we, as imperfect as we are, know how to give good gifts to our children, how much more, does our HEAVENLY FATHER Who is perfect give good gifts to His children! (based on Matthew 7:11) Does this mean that it is good for us to be hurt, or to hurt others? God forbid! Of course not, but we CAN learn from it, and the learning to humble ourselves, and apologize, IS good for us. God being both All-Powerful, and All-Knowing, could stop us, and prevent us from harming each other, but again, there is that whole freedom of choice thing. God is also the pure essence of Love, and does not wish any of His children to be hurt, or to hurt others. Again, very complicated, because it is difficult for us to understand how a GOOD, LOVING GOD, could allow such evil, hurtful behavior. It doesn't seem to make sense. What makes even less sense is that this same God, came down from heaven, to live as one of us, to die for us, to make up for the hurt we caused! He created us for love, and fellowship. We turned our backs on Him, and were disobedient. He died to pay the penalty!<br />
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<span lang="en-us">This</span><span lang="en-us"> </span><span lang="en-us">is</span><span lang="en-us"> </span><span lang="en-us">love</span><span lang="en-us">: not that we </span><span lang="en-us">loved</span><span lang="en-us"> God, but that he </span><span lang="en-us">loved</span><span lang="en-us"> us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for</span><sup><span lang="en-us"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title="">b</a></span></sup><span lang="en-us"> our sins. </span><sup><span lang="en-us"> </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.</span><br />
<div style="mso-element: footnote-list;"> <div id="ftn1" style="mso-element: footnote;"><div style="margin: 0in;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><sup><span lang="en-us">b </span></sup></a><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: Footnote Text roman;">Or </span></span><i><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: Footnote Text roman;">as the one who would turn aside his wrath, taking away</span></span></i></div></div><div id="ftn2" style="mso-element: footnote;"><div style="margin: 0in;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2;" title=""><span style="vertical-align: super;"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"></span></span></a><span id="__spanCitationData"><i>The Holy Bible : New International Version</i>, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). 1 Jn 4:10-11.</span></div><div style="margin: 0in;"><span id="__spanCitationData"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin: 0in;"><span id="__spanCitationData">I know, this still does not completely explain the original question! The thing is, a God Who is All-Powerful, All-Knowing, All-Loving, and Perfect allows us to choose, because He wants us to choose to do what is right, even though He knows what we will do, before we even do it. He even already paid the penalty for what we will do! Does this make it ok to do the wrong thing? Absolutely NOT! It just means that He has already also made provision for healing for those who have been hurt, as well as those who hurt others. We just have to CHOOSE to LET Him heal us, and our relationships, and continue to Love Him to the best of our ability.</span></div><div style="margin: 0in;"><span id="__spanCitationData"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin: 0in;"><span id="__spanCitationData">Thank You, Jesus! My Savior, My God, My friend!</span></div></div></div></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-61197610480134583432011-01-26T21:54:00.000-08:002011-02-13T22:25:29.817-08:00Creation and us...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Many people read the Bible and do not believe it, because of what looks like contradictions within it. One such example is the story of the Creation of the Earth and all that is in it. People say that there are two different accounts of the creation. This is actually not true. There is only one story of creation, but it is told two different, yet complimentary ways. First, we have the orderly account in Genesis 1 - 2:4. Second, we have the focus on the creation of man. This second perspective is not a separate view of creation, but rather shows the preeminence of man over all other parts of creation. Man, after all was created in God's image and likeness. God put man in charge of the creation, and told him to fill the earth and subdue it.<br />
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People also get wrapped around the axle on the issue of wives for the first people. The Scriptures tell us Adam and Eve had 3 sons (Cain, Abel, and Seth), then mentions that after Seth was born, Adam lived another 800 years and had other sons and daughters. But it does not talk about where Cain and Seth got their wives. Obviously they married their sisters. Now before you freak out, remember that when man was created, we were perfect, made in God's likeness, and there was no sickness, or genetic problems, therefore this would not create a problem. The Bible also does not lay down timelines of when these people got married, only occasionally when they fathered a particular child.<br />
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Another reason some people choose not to believe it is all the evil in the world. But I will deal with that in a separate post. Look again soon</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-79041153991748904322010-09-08T20:59:00.000-07:002010-11-09T14:30:06.626-08:00Death, Destruction, Rebirth, Reconciliation<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">What does the title of this segment have to do with Christianity, and the difference between Christianity and all other religions? You must read the entire article to see!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Today, I attended the funeral Mass for my uncle Paul. As odd as it may seem, I enjoyed it. Let me explain. I am not glad he is dead. I am glad that he is with Jesus, and not suffering. As it says in the Scriptures</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"> </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">The Holy Bible</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">: New International Version, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). 1 Th 4:13.</span></span></span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">The thing is, we celebrated his life, and our memories of him. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">The sermon (homily) and eulogy were both very appropriate and related well to the Scriptures used in the celebration: Romans 8:18-27 </span></span></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">that</span></span></i></span><sup><span lang="en-us"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title=""><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">a</span></span></i></a></span></sup><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"> the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will.</span></span></i></span></div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" title=""><span style="vertical-align: super;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"> </span><br />
<div><div id="ftn1"><div style="margin: 0in;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""><sup><span lang="en-us"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">a </span></span></span></sup></a><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Or </span></span></span></span><i><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">subjected it in hope. For</span></span></span></span></i></div></div></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). Ro 8:18-27.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">and Matthew 28:16-20 </span></span></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Then Jesus came to them and said, </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in</span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"></span></span></i></span><sup><span lang="en-us"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title=""><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">a</span></span></i></a></span></sup><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"></span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"> the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, </span></span></i></span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”</span></span></i></span></div><div><div id="ftn1"><div style="margin: 0in;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=10804650#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""><sup><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">a </span></span></i></span></sup></a><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Or </span></span></i></span></span><i><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">into</span></span></span></span></i><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">; see </span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Acts 8:16</span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">; </span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">19:5</span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">; </span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Romans 6:3</span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">; </span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">1 Cor. 1:13</span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">; </span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">10:2</span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"> and </span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Gal. 3:27</span></span></i></span></span><span lang="en-us"><span style="font-family: 'Footnote Text roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">.</span></span></i></span></span></div></div></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996, c1984). Mt 28:16-20.</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">The priest talked about how my uncle had lived thru suffering, yet without complaining about it, and how he was looking forward to his new life with God. Not that he gave up fighting for his life here in this world, but he was looking forward to being with God. He spoke about how the Holy Spirit was present with my uncle during his suffering, and then he went on to talk about how Uncle Paul had been a witness to Jesus wherever he went, and in this way, he fulfilled the "Great Commission." </span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">My uncle Jim gave the eulogy, and talked about how uncle Paul was not perfect. He struggled thru life. He was not the best son, the best father, the best husband, or the best brother. But Paul did love his siblings, his parents, his children, and spouse. He was a man sorry for his sins, and interested in reconciliation with those from whom he was estranged. He loved God, and was looking forward to being with Him. Uncle Paul was a great kidder. He loved to tease, but he would always end his visit assuring his host(ess) that he loved him(her). He was a fanatic about bowling, from his early days as a child, setting the pins (yes people had to do that at one time, not machines), then as a professional bowler later he scored 2 perfect 300 games. Uncle Paul had served in the military (Air Force) and was a long haul truck driver. He loved to travel, and enjoyed the diversity America has to offer. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">My uncle Paul had been diagnosed about 20 years ago with esophageal cancer, and given 6 months to live. Miraculously, he not only survived, he thrived for the remainder of his life, until about 10 weeks ago. He succumbed to heart failure, pneumonia, and many other maladies taking him in and out of a hospital and hospice for the last 9 weeks of his life. His body just shut down, and tho' he fought hard, he just could not recover.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f3f3f3;">Death and destruction are normal parts of life. They end our physical life, leading to a rebirth of spiritual life IF we are part of God's family thru Christ. Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, except through me." He also said thru the Apostle Paul, "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old is gone, behold the new is come." Jesus said that he had come that we might have life, and have it abundantly. He sacrificed His life, so we could be reconciled to God. We were separated by sin from God, and suffered spiritual, as well as physical death. Jesus conquered death by willingly dying altho' He had not sinned, thereby breaking the bondage of sin and death. Therefore, those who have been redeemed by Christ's death will not suffer a spiritual death, and even if they die physically prior to Jesus' return, they will be resurrected to spend eternity with Him.</span></span></span></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-11451291787784967722010-07-19T22:15:00.000-07:002010-07-20T05:29:38.910-07:00Logically Speaking...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The </span></span>quote by Anselm which is considered the definitive Ontological proof in the being (not the existence) of God is beyond compare. I say this, because it is logical proof, that has never successfully been challenged since created in the 11th Century AD. All those who have tried to attack, or disprove Anselm's proof have had to change it to attempt to prove their points. So what? You may ask. Well, I follow Anselm's thoughts, and beliefs that echo what the Bible says: The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." Give me an example, some may say, so here goes:<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Anselm stated: "That than which nothing greater may be conceived must be, and is.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Some of the many challenges to this statement include:</div><div><ul><li>If God exists, He could also not exist. (changes being, to existence)</li>
<ul><li>the error here, logically is the difference between existence and being. Now I did not set the rules for this, but the difference is that things with existence, can also lose or not have existence. For example a pie can exist, but as soon as it is consumed, it loses existence. Something with being, has life that although it may change, cannot cease to have life. For example, humans have being. Once created, they never cease to have life. We may live forever with God in heaven, or live forever without God in hell.</li>
</ul>
<li>If God can be conceived to exist, He can also be conceived to not exist. (again the change, but also changes the argument)</li>
<ul><li>For if the being can be conceived to not be, it is obviously not God. For there is nothing greater than a being that not only can be conceived to be, but can not be conceived to not be. Further, God must be conceived to be, by the very definition of this logic. For the progression of this concept, consider the following:</li>
<ul><li>I can conceive of an apple.</li>
<li>I can conceive of the tree which grew the apple.</li>
<li>I can conceive of the planet which enables the tree to grow.</li>
<li>I can conceive of the solar system which contains the planet.</li>
<li>I can conceive of the galaxy in which the solar system is located.</li>
<li>I can conceive of the universe in which the galaxy is located.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which once did not have being, but has being now, and created the universe.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, but someday may not have being, which created the universe.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, and always will have being.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, and always will have being, created the universe, but did not care about it once it was created.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, and always will have being, created the universe, but continued to care for it.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, and always will have being, created the universe, and added life to it, but did not give that creation free will.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, and always will have being, created the universe, and gave the creation free will.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, and always will have being, created the universe, and once the creation thumbed its nose at him, destroyed that creation.</li>
<li>I can conceive of a being which always had being, has being now, and always will have being, created the universe, and despite the creation thumbing its nose at him, said, I still love you.</li>
<li>etc... </li>
</ul></ul></ul><div>So anyway you get the idea. The ultimate end of this argument is that the God of the universe, not only still cares for His creation, but He paid the ultimate price, sending His own perfect son (son only because he was born, after setting aside His divine attributes, to become human) to die (the penalty for sin) even tho' He (Jesus) was sinless, to repair the damage done to the relationship humanity was created to have with God, and make it possible for all those who would come to Him to enjoy this restored relationship for all eternity. The mind boggling thing about all this is that although the God of the universe did this and it is only required that we put our faith in Him to be saved, people still thumb their noses at Him, and say "No thanks!"<br />
<br />
Learn more about Anselms argument at: <a href="http://www.princeton.edu/~grosen/puc/phi203/ontological.html">http://www.princeton.edu/~grosen/puc/phi203/ontological.html</a></div><ul></ul></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-56498696277016857562009-12-30T09:42:00.000-08:002010-01-01T10:13:38.569-08:00The Christmas Celebration & TraditionsMany people do not believe in celebrating the Christmas Holiday the same way as others do. They say that certain holiday traditions originated in pagan times, and are pagan traditions. Therefore, as Christians we should not participate in these pagan rituals. But what is the truth, and what does the Bible say about this apparent problem? That is what I would like to look at in today's blog.<div><br /></div><div>Christmas traditions that have pagan origins are the Christmas Tree; the celebration of Christmas in Winter (by the winter solstice); the Yule log; the giving of gifts; and I am sure there are more, but we will just deal with these for now.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Christmas Tree, Yule log, and the winter solstice, are definitely related to the pagan traditions, but why did the Christian Church adopt them? When humanity was mired in the dark or middle ages, and pagans were converting to Christianity, they were used to celebrating and using these symbols to celebrate the winter solstice. Old habits die hard, and the Christians now found themselves in a quandry about what to do with this time of year. The Christian Church had already adopted the date of 25 December to celebrate Christmas, so that was not a problem, but how to get rid of the old pagan rituals? So the Christian Church changed the rituals into Christian rituals, by associating them with Christian ideas, concepts and Scripture.</div><div><br /></div><div>For Example, the Christmas tree has a double meaning, both the evergreen, showing that Jesus brings eternal life, and as a forewarning of the Cross. For it was wood upon which He was crucified (in many places, the Scriptures prophesy "a tree").<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Now, some people say we should not use a tree, as the pagans used one before Christians did for their rituals and celebrations. But what do the Scriptures say?</div><div><br /></div><div>In Romans, 14 --</div><div><sup><span lang="en-us"><i>5 </i></span></sup><span lang="en-us"><i>One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. </i></span><sup><span lang="en-us"><i>6 </i></span></sup><span lang="en-us"><i>He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. </i></span><sup><span lang="en-us"><i>7 </i></span></sup><span lang="en-us"><i>For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. </i></span><sup><span lang="en-us"><i>8 </i></span></sup><span lang="en-us"><i>If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; ">The Holy Bible : New International Version. electronic ed. Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. Ro 14:5-8</span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This does not apply only to the celebration of a particular day, but if you take this passage (as one must always do) within the context of the chapter, and book, and indeed the entire Bible, you will see that the concept is that we should allow grace to others who believe slightly differently than ourselves. (However this does not mean all teachings, or beliefs are acceptable -- There are limits to orthodoxy.)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Most importantly, the Scriptures tell us to do all things for the Glory of God in Christ Jesus, and to do all things in LOVE. So, just because I do something, or do not do something, does not mean it is right, or wrong for someone else to do it. It depends on their faith journey with their Creator, and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. (see above Scripture again)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Let us all be tolerant of those who disagree with us, and give as much grace to them, as we would like to receive from them!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-4789198225215117892009-12-01T22:34:00.000-08:002009-12-01T23:09:21.404-08:00The RaceThe Poem "The Race" is about a young man who has difficulties, falls three times, yet gets up and finishes the race. <a href="http://www.poemsonly.com/poems/iptherace.php">http://www.poemsonly.com/poems/iptherace.php</a><div><br /></div><div>This poem epitomizes the struggle each of us goes thru in life. Even once we give our hearts and minds to Christ, we still struggle with the sins and habits we had before then. Yet, we have our own cheering section, the Lord Jesus Himself. </div><div><br /></div><div>Several times in the Scriptures, we are instructed to run this race. Paul used the allegory several times, Romans 12:1 for example... "<span lang="en-us"><i>Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and </i></span><span lang="en-us"><i>the</i></span><span lang="en-us"><i> sin that so easily entangles, and let us </i></span><span lang="en-us"><i>run</i></span><span lang="en-us"><i> with perseverance </i></span><span lang="en-us"><i>the</i></span><span lang="en-us"><i> </i></span><span lang="en-us"><i>race</i></span><span lang="en-us"><i> marked out for us."</i> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">. electronic ed. Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. Heb 12:1</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus, although God, became human so He could purchase us back from slavery to sin. Once we are born again, we are no longer slaves to sin. Even if we sin, we are owned by Christ, and He does not abandon us. Jesus is our advocate, and He intercedes for us at The Father's throne. He has purchased us, and by such a price! </div><div><br /></div><div>So let us live in such a way as to bring glory to God, Our Father, and His Son Jesus Christ.</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-835586179538404072009-11-13T08:26:00.000-08:002009-11-13T09:05:58.451-08:00How then do I live?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Paul wrote in </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Colossians</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">: </span><span lang="en-us"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">. electronic ed. Grand Rapids : </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Zondervan</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, 1996, c1984, S. Col 2:8 </span></span></i></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So what are these human traditions, and basic principles that Paul was talking about...?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">First, we must understand the time frame he was writing in, and to whom... Paul was writing to a </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">greek</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> church, in </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Colosse</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and the hollow and deceptive philosophy and traditions had to do with celebrating rituals, and Gnosticism (a form of secret wisdom, which also decried all things physical) see </span><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="http://www.answers.com/gnosticism"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">http://www.answers.com/gnosticism</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> for more information on this heresy. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Second, The point that Paul made frequently in his writings, preaching, and life, is that just as he was not justified in God's sight when he was a zealot in his Judaism, no one can be, or is, justified by works, or by doing anything... We are justified in God's sight ONLY because and THRU Jesus' Suffering, Death on a cross and Resurrection. God has provided grace (unmerited [undeserved] favor) to all who would call out to Him, and admit that we cannot make it to Him, thru our works, efforts, or any other thing, except the substitutionary death of Christ. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">No one understood this more than Paul, who as Saul (his name before becoming Christian) was a leader in the Jewish religion, and was responsible for the death of many Christians, because the Christians were preaching heresy (according to Judaism). Christianity was teaching that Jesus IS God, and that He was raised from the dead. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So, how does this relate to the theme of this blog, and what makes Christianity different from all other religions? Simple, all religions (except Christianity) have to do with man's efforts to reach and to worship some deity, or become divine. Christianity has to do with God's efforts to reach out to, and save humanity from our own sins, and restore His relationship with us. He created us, we rebelled (and still rebel) and yet God loves us, and sent His son, (Himself incarnate [the concept of the Trinity is too much for many people to handle]) to be the sacrifice required to pay the penalty for our sins, and restore fellowship with Him.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Therefore, when the Colossians were being led astray by these philosophies and traditions, Paul had to straighten them out by getting them focused again on Christ.</span></div><div><br /></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-45008571887972588292009-09-10T20:02:00.000-07:002009-10-11T21:38:46.889-07:00Prayers for death?There was quite a bit of discussion recently about a "Christian" pastor, who said that he prays that President Obama dies, and dies of cancer, and goes to Hell. <div><br /></div><div>So what is the REAL CHRISTIAN response to this? There are several. First, Jesus Christ, from Whom we get the name Christian (meaning Little Christ), was persecuted, even murdered by the Chief Priests, with the cooperation of Pontius Pilate, because Jesus said He is God. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus was flogged, had his beard plucked, was spit upon, cursed at, had the robes ripped off his back after the blood congealed into it, carried an approximately 200 pound cross to His own crucifixion on the top of Golgotha, Was nailed to the cross, and mocked, scorned, ridiculed. His response, “<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.</span>” <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">. electronic ed. Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. Lk 23:34</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Therefore, if we are to be "Little Christs," we need to pray for our enemies, not curse them. When one of the most wicked men of the 20th and beginning of 21st centuries (Saddam Hussein) was executed (Definitely deserved, as he was single handedly responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of his own people,) I found myself praying, and hoping that he had repented, and found Christ and forgiveness prior to his last breath, so not even he would spend eternity in Hell.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Although I do not pretend to be the best Christian in the world, I do have a pretty good handle on what a Christian should be and do. Jesus prayed for his persecutors, even at His death. A horrible, painful, lonely death. The lonely part is food for another post, but I digress. Paul, one of the main leaders (not of the Church per se, but of the movement -- called Christianity) said that he would almost rather be cursed himself, if his fellow Jews could be saved by his condemnation. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Therefore, a Christian response to this Christian preacher who said he wished, even prayed for the President's death by cancer and confinement to Hell for eternity, is to pray for him, that he may see the error of his ways, and repent of his evil attitude. I pray that our President will receive wisdom from God, and that he will make good decisions, and lead our country well. I also pray that he will repent of any sin in his life, or that he supports. May God be merciful to us all.</span></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-40235205089418087562009-09-06T12:17:00.000-07:002009-09-06T12:49:31.008-07:00Christians and the Law (part 2)Continuing our discussion on whether Christians must obey the law, I point out that there are many facets to this question... <div><br /></div><div>First, Christianity is founded upon freedom. We are free to choose what to do and what not to do. However this freedom is not license to harm or walk on others. Paul wrote in Romans 13:<sup><span lang="en-us">8 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">9 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">The commandments, “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,”<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span></span><span lang="en-us">and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”</span><span lang="en-us"> </span><sup><span lang="en-us">10 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version. 1996, c1984 (electronic ed.) (Ro 13:8-10). Grand Rapids: Zondervan.</span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">F</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">u</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">r</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">t</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">h</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">e</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">r, He wrote in another place, that if by eating meat, he offended his brother, he would never eat meat again... Therefore, although we have freedom to do what we want, we should always be considerate of others in what we actually do. </span></div><div><br /></div><div>Second, we have the obligation to abide by the (civil) laws enacted by governments, except when they contradict God's Laws... for example, murdering an unborn baby is "Legal" but murder is specifically forbidden, and carries with it a hefty penalty. </div><div>Romans 13:1-5 <span lang="en-us">Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">2 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">3 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">4 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">5 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">. 1996, c1984 (electronic ed.) (Ro 13:1-5). Grand Rapids: Zondervan.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10px;"><br /></span></span></div><div>Third, the Law was written, not so that we could obey it, but to prove to fallen man that we cannot be good enough, obedient enough, to fix the relationship problem we have with God due to our sin. The Law was set up so we would know WE NEED A SAVIOR. Jesus Christ paid the penalty for ALL SIN once for all on the Cross, hence His words "It is finished." His work was to redeem fallen man so that we could be truly free.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, a Christian does, and does not have to follow the Law. We are required to be obedient to God, and to live our lives in a way that glorifies Him. How each Christian works this out, is up to him, and those who love him. After all, we are called to community, and to holding each other accountable, see Galatians: <span lang="en-us">Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should </span><span lang="en-us">restore</span><span lang="en-us"> </span><span lang="en-us">him</span><span lang="en-us"> gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. </span><sup><span lang="en-us">2 </span></sup><span lang="en-us">Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Holy Bible : New International Version</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">. 1996, c1984 (electronic ed.) (Ga 6:1-2). Grand Rapids: Zondervan. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10px;"><br /></span></span></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-46326301943923534732009-09-05T00:18:00.000-07:002009-09-06T08:19:34.919-07:00Christians and the Law (To obey or not to obey, that is the question)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-S9kH7cli62BTvWFaDqWMyJMiKHdtE7hXZBOYNTdOcE_8No562PHA-qUwUg39eAdaKTUjQ9LeO0kbZI54_wQtWjIMc-ckqyuFTtiSxBe2o3nYY_psj2iE6NTPHX6QDv0q7S4/s1600-h/Smiling+Candle.jpg"></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">There is a lot of discussion today about Christians not obeying</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> (or saying they do not have to obey the Law)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">So Let's look at the Rules, and what it means to be a Christian...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Old Testament has 10 Commandments, and approximately 600 laws handed down from God, by Moses... Then there is the Talmud, a discussion on the points of the Law, by the learned Rabbi's </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">(If any Jewish people read this, and I have made an error, please let me know)</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Christians claim that they do not have to obey the Law, because Christ abolished it. Jesus was a Jew, and obeyed the Law, with a few exceptions. He went to church (synagogue) every sabbath, and then broke the law, by hangin' out with sinners. He touched a leper. Jesus did not chastise the woman with the bleeding problem, that touched him, and according to the Law, made Him unclean. Instead, He blessed her and said, "Woman, your faith has made you whole."</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The New Testament has much to say on the Law, and a new concept, Grace. While Jesus walked the earth, He was constantly challenging the leaders of the temple and synagogue because they did not live their faith in such a way as to make life easier on the masses, they made it tougher on them...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-S9kH7cli62BTvWFaDqWMyJMiKHdtE7hXZBOYNTdOcE_8No562PHA-qUwUg39eAdaKTUjQ9LeO0kbZI54_wQtWjIMc-ckqyuFTtiSxBe2o3nYY_psj2iE6NTPHX6QDv0q7S4/s200/Smiling+Candle.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378374140037297138" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Jesus said He did not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it. Yet when He died, the temple veil was torn in half, from top to bottom. Now, to understand this, you must realize that the veil was woven cloth, 12" thick... It was the wall of separation between God (a very Holy God) and fallen man. Only the high priest, once per year could go into the holiest of holies to offer incense to God, because of the sin in our lives. So when the temple veil was rent in half, it signified the end of the separation between God and man. All men now have access to God because Jesus paid the penalty for our sin once for all time.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A Hebrew zealot named Saul was persecuting the believers in Christ early in the Church history, because they followed Jesus, and believed He was God. Then Jesus knocked him off his horse, blinded him for 3 days, and Saul became Paul, one of the greatest leaders in early church history, and the writer (under divine leading) of 13 of our New Testament books. (See his story in Acts chapter 9). One of the books (It was a letter at the time, and is known as an Epistle) that the Holy Spirit wrote thru Paul, was Galatians. Written to the church in Galatia, Paul dealt with the issue of obedience to the Law. Gal 2:21 -- </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing! (NIV)</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> He pointed out to them, that if you cannot obey ALL the Law, then you are in trouble if the Law is your yardstick. Christ satisfied the requirements of the Law, because His blood covers our sins. As it is written throughout the Scriptures, apart from the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin. Jesus is the sacrificial lamb, and His blood shed once for all men for all time, attains us the opportunity to be right with God thru FAITH, not obedience to the Law. </span></span></span></div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10804650.post-3735480231957907072009-07-05T21:54:00.000-07:002009-07-06T12:25:03.532-07:00Patriotism and Christianity<div>I am as patriotic as anyone, probably more than most. I love this country, and am proud to be an American. I served in the US Army for 24 years. I have heard it said that I could not be a Christian and serve in the Army, or be so patriotic. Some people think that Christians cannot be patriotic to America or any other country, or that those who are patriotic, cannot be Christians. These statements are not true. However, as a Christian, our first loyalty IS to GOD. Therefore, when there is a conflict between what a Christian believes or is required to do, and what is demanded of them, or is "Legal" to do as a member of a particular nation, the Christian should do what is required of them, as a Christian, not the conflicting thing. So what would be an example of this? In World War II, there were many Christians in Germany. It was required of German citizens to report Jews, and let the police know where they lived. Some Christians did give into this pressure. Other Christians did the right thing, and hid the Jews they knew, and even helped them escape the Nazis. Those who did this, when caught, were shot, or sent to concentration camps. Today, we have similar, albeit different, and less lethal conflicts. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are those who say that Christians may not speak out on issues that they believe strongly about, or they will be fined for hate speech. In Canada, a preacher was fined because he said that the practice (not attraction, or temptation, but the practice) of homosexuality was sinful, and wrong. The Bible clearly states that the practice of homosexuality is an abomination to God. Therefore, a Christian can and should speak out about it. Just because the law says it is "legal" does not make it right, or acceptable. </div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>But lets get back to the issue. Yesterday, we celebrated Independence Day. The day 233 years ago that citizens of a fledgling nation declared independence from England. This sparked a war that lasted 7 years. Many of the patriots that fought the British were Christians, fighting for their right to believe and practice their faith their way. They were tired of tyranny, unfair taxation, and opression because of what they believed. Today, we have soldiers providing support all over the world to people of other nations that are attempting to do similar things, and fighting terrorists, to help keep our borders more safe. So thank a soldier, airman, marine, or Navy or Coast Guard Seaman when you see them, and pray for their safety. </div><div><br /></div><div>Bottom line, be patriotic, support our nation. It is still the best in the world, even with its problems. Stand tall, salute the flag, remember our history, and our foundational principles -- all based on Biblical principles by the way !!!</div>The Hobbithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08024837970327965272noreply@blogger.com0