The Death of Saddam Hussein

Saddam Hussein is dead; hanged by his countrymen for one of many crimes against his own people. Under Saddam, Iraq continually threatened neighboring countries, shook its fist in the face of the world, and killed many of its own citizens. Now the murderer has paid for his crimes with his own life.

His death by capital punishment is supported by the teaching of Scripture. Romans 13 is written in the context of a citizen’s responsibility to obey the government. In God’s plan the government’s role, in part, is to execute justice on evil doers. “But if you do evil, be afraid; for he [government – bh] does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.” Romans 13:4. Several other passages could be cited but such proof is not the purpose of this post.

As I looked at pictures of Saddam on the Internet I felt disturbed by his pending death. It isn’t that I felt that it was wrong for Saddam to die for his evil. I feel quite the opposite. Such punishment is fair and correct, especially in light of his crimes.

The reason I feel disturbed is because even though Saddam was an evil man, Saddam has a soul. He will be ultimately judged by God and will spend eternity dealing with the consequences of that judgment.

Death is very final. Upon death our opportunity for course correction is over. Our chance to right wrongs is gone. The chance for someone to influence a spiritual change in us is past. That disturbs me.

In a way, Saddam’s death sentence could have been a favor to him. He knew his death was eminent. He could make some final preparations and changes. Our own death may well come without any early warning such as in a car crash, a heart attack or a fatal gun shot.

Some say that capital punishment is not a deterrent to crime. Each time I hear of a death sentence being carried out, I shudder a bit as I think about my own death. Am I ready? Are there things I need to resolve in my life? Have I adequately taught my children the important, spiritual lessons they need? Have I said what needs to be said to those around me who need encouragement to make some course correction themselves?

For me, capital punishment is a very sober reminder that we will never get out of this world alive. Death is certain and we must be prepared.

“…it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” Hebrews 9:27

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” 2 Corinthians 5:10

Wealth

The United Nations recently released (2006) its study called, “The World Distribution of Household Wealth.” As best I can determine, household wealth is measured by summing up one’s total assets. That means adding together the value of your house, your cars, your savings accounts, retirement, etc.

Here are some conclusions I draw from the report. Since you are reading this blog, you are probably in the top 50% of the world’s wealthy people. That isn’t hard considering that you only need assets of $2,200 to qualify. Most reading this blog are in the top 10% of the worlds wealthy. To qualify for that rank your assets must total $61,000 or more. Some reading this blog are the top 1% of the world’s wealthy, having assets of $500,000 or more.

Since this blog attempts to address spiritual matters, what should we take away from this survey?

Be Thankful. “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” (Matthew 7:11). The Lord has tremendously blessed each of us. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Share. “But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” Hebrews 13:16. In 1 Timothy 6:18-19, Paul exhorts the rich, “Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” By using our blessing to help others we bring glory to God, the source of our wealth.

Have Humility. Our wealth can create distractions that become stumbling blocks in our service to God. The rich young ruler turned away from Jesus after being told to go and sell his goods and give to the poor. Jesus then said, “For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." Luke 18:25

Recognize God as the source of our wealth. “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.” 1 Timothy 6:17. Such recognition will help us have a proper attitude in regard to our things.

To Those With Less. To those who do not have so much wealth, the Lord says, “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." 1 Timothy 6:9,10.

To All. The conclusion of Paul’s admonition regarding wealth, or the desire for it, is “But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:11,12.

Thanksgiving Day

One of my most favorite times of the year is Thanksgiving Day. Oh, I love to eat and the football games are fun to watch, but that isn’t why I enjoy Thanksgiving.

On Thanksgiving Day we go over to my parent’s house. In years past that meant loading up the kids, along with our part of the food preparation, and going to dad and mom’s place. All day long we sit around and enjoy each others company. My parents are Christians and they have been a wonderful influence on our children. To watch them interact has always been enjoyable. We usually watch one of dad’s favorite old movies (now favorites of my kids, too) and stay until late.

As the years have gone by, my oldest son has married, adding another delightful family member to this great day. My younger son is away at college and having him home is special too. My two daughters have almost grown up so all the interaction is now mostly on an adult level, often about spiritual matters.

On the next day we have my wife’s family in. Since my oldest daughter was born on Thanksgiving Day, these Fridays have also doubled as the birthday celebration which brings in my dad and mom in the evening. At one time the number had grown to around 40 but it has dwindled in recent years (19 this year) as my wife’s siblings’ children have married and moved to other parts of the country and world. All of these folks are Christians, too, and again there is a lot of spiritual discussion, along with discussions about the SEC championship, business, cooking, the latest jokes, etc. Some folks always stay late and we end up singing spiritual songs together. This family has a lot of great voices and it is very uplifting to sing together.

Each year I find myself more and more thankful for so many blessing in my life that come from these families that my wife and I joined together. When you look up a generation to our still living parents, and out to our brothers and sister, and down to all those children, nieces and nephews (now two generations deep) and find so many mature, dedicated servants of the Lord, I can’t help but stop and give thanks. Each year those thoughts bring me to more and more tears as I become so conscious of just how unworthy I am to receive such wonderful blessings.

Yet in looking at my own children I understand why the Lord enjoys blessing His children. In fact, He said in Matthew 7:7-11, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”

Do you enjoy the blessings of the Lord? You don’t if you are not His child. If you would like more information about how to enter into a relationship with Him, please email me using the link at the left. I enjoy sharing the blessings of the Lord with others and would enjoy doing so with you.

Thanksgiving Day. Indeed!

Redefining Male and Female

New York City is considering a proposal that will allow a person to alter the sex listed on their birth certificate. No sex change operation is required - just some sort of proof that the person has acted like or lived as the opposite sex for at least 2 years.

Such an easy sex change has certain practical implications such as which bathroom will an employer allow "it" to use at work. Or a boy, if he thinks quickly on his feet, will act like a girl for a couple of years and conveniently change sexes just before being required to sign up for Selective Service.

Of course the whole process is designed to make it easier for two males or two females to marry since their birth certificates will indicate that they are male and female, a marriage allowed by New York law. If this proposal becomes law there will probably be the usual outrage expressed by those in the religious community, but I want to suggest that many "Christians" are guilty of similar redefinition.

The Scriptures clearly teach in 1 Corinthians 14:34 "Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says." You see, this passage is as clear as the passages that teach us that homosexuality is "not permitted." Yet many of our religious friends want to redefine the role of women not only to allow them to speak but even to preach rather than to "keep silent in the churches" as Paul commands (see verse 37).

The Scriptures clearly place qualifications upon the role of the bishop (pastor, elder, presbyter). "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence..." (1 Timothy 3:2-4). Yet many of our religious friends want to redefine the role of the bishop, saying it really isn't necessary that the bishop be a married and a male ("husband of one wife") and they appoint unmarried men who have no children ("having his children in submission"). After all, Paul said the bishop "must be" these things (verse 2).

If Christians are going to insist that people must live according to God's teachings in regard to homosexuality and sex changes (and we should), then it is absolutely necessary that we live consistent lives and not take liberty with the Scriptures and presumptuously redefine roles when it is convenient to our own wishes and desires. Submission to God's will is the duty of all men - to those who want to reject His will regarding sexuality AND even to those who call themselves by Christ's name.

The Bible Story

(Note: This is long but I believe it is important. The Bible is a unified story from cover to cover. It is hoped that this brief presentation of that story will encourage you to commit yourself to more Bible study. If you desire, I would be glad to spend time with you studying via email. I also have studies I can send via snail mail.)

Beginnings. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth…” (Genesis 1:1). By simply speaking, God created the entire expanse of the universe. With each creative work He concluded that it was “good.” He focused His attention on one particular planet – earth.
On the earth He created living things, including mankind. Man was given the responsibility of caring for his new home with only one prohibition. “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." (Genesis 2:17). Satan, the enemy of both God and man, tempted the woman to eat of that fruit. She gave it to her husband to eat as well, and they sinned before God. This resulted in their separation from the beautiful garden God had created for them, their separation from God (Isaiah 59:1,2), and their eventual physical death. The remainder of the Bible is devoted to remedying the sin problem upon the earth.

Their sin began to multiply. Because of jealousy, their oldest son killed his brother. By Genesis 6, we find God saying he “was sorry that He had made man.” (verse 6). Only because of one righteous man, Noah, did God spare the earth from total destruction. God saved Noah and his family by instructing them to prepare a large ship that carried them through the flood which engulfed the entire earth. Hebrews 11:7 tells us that Noah was saved by faith when he acted upon God’s commands.

In Genesis 12 we are introduced to Abraham, later known as the father of the faithful. Abraham was a righteous man selected by God to be “a great nation” and through his “seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:1; 22:18). Abraham’s grandson Jacob had 12 sons.

A Great Nation. Those 12 sons and their descendents became the promised great nation – Israel. Under the leadership of Moses, Israel was led out of Egypt to Mount Sinai where they received the Law, which included the Ten Commandments. Under that Law, God gave His temporary remedy for sin. For each sin committed, those under the Law had to offer an animal sacrifice. The blood of the animal served as an atonement for sin. Hebrews 10:1-4 tells us that animal blood was not a sufficient remedy for sin because each year the sins were remembered, requiring another offering.

Every nation needs a land. Just as God had said, Israel was given the Promised Land, an area much larger than that now occupied by modern day Israel. Joshua secured all the land Israel was promised. “So the LORD gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took possession of it and dwelt in it.” (Joshua 21:43).

Israel remained in the land for many years. The kingdom enjoyed tremendous prosperity during the days of David the king. Under his son Solomon, the kingdom was at peace. After the death of Solomon, the kingdom divided and both fragments ceased to be faithful to the Lord. In 721 B.C., the northern 10 tribes fell to Assyria. By 586 B.C., the southern tribes were captive in Babylon. It would seem that God’s plan to bless all nations had failed.

Prior to the captivity of the southern tribes, God had prophesied that they would return and possess the land once again (Jeremiah 29:10). God kept His promises and during the reign of Cyrus the Mead a decree was issued that Israel should return to rebuild and repossess their land. As Old Testament history closes there is promise of One to come and a time when “many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and they shall become My people. And I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent Me to you.” (Zechariah 2:11).

The Fullness Of Times. “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law…” (Galatians 4:4). At the opening of the New Testament, more than 400 years had passed since the last pages of Old Testament history were penned. Jesus was born to a virgin named Mary. At about age 30 He began to teach and preach saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel." (Mark 1:15).

Everything about Jesus failed to meet expectations. He was nothing special to behold and didn’t appear very kingly (Isaiah 53:2). His message excited folks for a time and He drew large crowds. But as the realities of His kingdom began to unfold, “from that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more.” (John 6:66). The Jews had understood that the coming Messiah would establish an earthly kingdom and reign over men from Jerusalem. Jesus didn’t meet their expectations when He said, “My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36). He certainly didn’t meet expectations when He told them He was to be crucified. Even his own apostles didn’t believe His message (Matthew 17:21,22).

The purpose of Jesus’ death would not be understood until several days later. On the night before He was crucified, Jesus told the apostles the purpose of His death. He said, “For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” (Matthew 26:28). When you read of their despair in the days after His death, it is obvious they didn’t understand when He told them previously that He would “be killed, and be raised the third day.” (Matthew 16:21). They were not expecting His resurrection even though He had told them.

After His resurrection, Jesus “presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.” (Acts 1:3). Jesus was more than a mere man. He was “declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.” (Romans 1:4).

The death of Jesus makes sense when we read Hebrews 9:15. “And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.” Finally, the remedy for man’s sin is accomplished.

Jesus is the “Seed” promised to Abraham who would bless all nations of the earth. (Galatians 3:16). Not only is salvation available to Jews, but now all men can now come to God for forgiveness of their sins. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.” (Galatians 3:28,29). If we are in Christ then we, too, are Abraham’s seed. The key is being “in Christ.”

Remedy For My Sin. Are all men saved now that Jesus has died on the cross? Are all men now “Abraham’s seed”? How are my sins forgiven? The Bible story would not be complete without an answer to these questions.

Hebrews 5:9 says Jesus “became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” Are all men saved now that Jesus has died? No. He is the author of salvation to those who obey Him. Those who do not obey are lost.

Who are “Abraham’s seed,” those of all nations who will be blessed by God? Galatians 3 says that those who are “in Christ” are the ones who are Abraham’s seed. How does one get into Christ? Galatians 3:26, 27 teaches, “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” In order to get into Christ one must have faith in Him and be baptized into Him. These are the ones who have “put on Christ.” Only those who have faith in Him and have been baptized can claim to be “in Christ.”

Remember that Jesus said His blood was shed “for the remission of sins”? How are my sins forgiven? Let Jesus and His apostle Peter answer that question. Jesus said, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16). When asked what to do to be saved the apostle Peter answered, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38). Jesus “is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” That obedience includes faith, repentance, and baptism. Nothing short of that will remedy the sin brought on the world by the first two who ever walked here.

Is the Bible story complete in your life? Jesus has accomplished His part. Let Him finish it for you. Come to Him in faith and be baptized for the remission of your sins. Can I help? If so, contact me today.

Bible Blueprints

Blueprints provide a pattern for buildings. If the blueprint is carefully followed, the building becomes exactly what the architect designed.

Paul told Timothy, “Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard.” 2 Timothy 1:13. To be pleasing to God, Timothy was to follow the pattern (blueprint) given by God. Paul warned Timothy that there would be a time when people “will not endure sound doctrine.” (2 Timothy 4:3). The “pattern of sound words” is found in the “sound doctrine” of Jesus Christ.

Many today don’t want to be concerned with doctrine, thinking that doctrine is unimportant compared to preaching loving God. Yet Paul told Timothy to “hold fast the pattern of sound words.” Think about Jesus’ statement in John 14:15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” Isn’t it obvious that by paying careful attention to the doctrine of Christ we are then able to express our love to Jesus and His Father by keeping their commandments?

If everyone followed God’s blueprint, those seeking God could be one. The attitude that doctrine isn’t important leads to all the division we see today. The idea that “it doesn’t matter what you believe as long as you are sincere” is foreign to the teaching of Christ and of Paul, His apostle.

Jesus is building His building (Ephesians 2:19-22). We are workers in that process (1 Corinthians 3:11-15). We need to concern ourselves with following the blueprints given to us by the architect in His word.

The Bereans concerned themselves with the blueprint. When Paul preached to them they consulted the blueprint to be certain that he was building according to the plan. See Acts 17:11.

Is Israel Still Waiting On The Land Promise?

Today, many teach that Israel never received the land that God promised to give them. These teachers and their followers carefully watch events in the Middle East, looking to see if perhaps Israel is about to gain the Promised Land. Like the Bereans who examined all teaching in the light of the Scriptures, let’s ask “What does the Bible say?”

In the summary of the conquest lead by Joshua, the Lord adds some commentary in Joshua 21:43-45. It reads, “So the LORD gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took pos­session of it and dwelt in it. The LORD gave them rest all around, according to all that He had sworn to their fathers. And not a man of all their enemies stood against them; the LORD deliv­ered all their enemies into their hand. Not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to pass.”

Did you notice that statement? “…the Lord gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers…” Can there be a statement any more clear than this? What about the statement “…not a word failed of any good thing which the Lord had spoken…”

The idea that Israel still waits to receive the land promise is false. Those who build their hopes on events in the Middle East are sadly mistaken. The fact is that God’s nation is not Israel but His church. Those who come to Christ and put their hope and trust in Him “are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” They are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” 1 Peter 2:5, 9 -10.

Have you been deceived into thinking the Middle East holds the answers to God’s eternal plan? Clear your mind of these ideas and spend some time simply reading your New Testament. Find out just what God’s church is and how it “makes known the manifold wisdom of God…according to the eternal purpose…” that was “…accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Ephesians 3:10-11.

Email me if you want discuss this further.

Parent to Parent

I wrote this article about 10 years ago. Perhaps it is still helpful -- Bill

Probably no one is ever in a position to give advice in the area of parenting. After all, if you give advice while your children are at home, there is the chance that they will grow up to be unfaithful or half-hearted Christians. But if you wait until they are grown and out on their own, yet still faithful, you have lost touch with the younger folks who are having the children. Your advice falls on ears that think your child-rearing days occurred so long ago that the advice is ancient.

While I am still somewhat close to those early years of child rearing (we have a 4 and 5 year old), I also have some years under my belt (we also have a 12 and 15 year old), so I thought I would give this a try.

Those who are not parents can never fully know the love that develops in parents for their children. The tenderness, the pride, those joyous moments watching their growth and development are wonderful experiences. Far greater is the day your child obeys the Lord and becomes your brother in Christ and stands beside you in the Lord’s work. So how do we get to that point in our children’s lives?

Well, Nan and I are not perfect parents. We thank the Lord often for the four wonderful blessings He gave us. And that’s the beginning.

Pray. You need to be praying for your children - every day. Pray that they will love God all their lives and that He will protect them, keep them and not let them stray. Pray for your efforts as a parent. Ask for wisdom to be a good parent. Ask for forgiveness when you have done wrong as a parent. Pray together and be specific concerning each child and his or her unique personality traits that are either strengths or weaknesses before the Lord. When it comes to your children, "Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5: 17)

Instruct your children in righteousness. Fathers are commanded to do this (Ephesians 6:4) but Proverbs speaks about a mother’s counsel to her children (Proverbs 1:8; 6:20). Daily Bible reading and memorizing verses are important steps toward accomplishing this. Sometimes, instilling the Lord’s righteous principles comes through other opportunities presented during the course of a day.

When your children fuss with each other, talk with them about how God wants us to be kind, thoughtful and sharing people. When you are outside, talk about the wonderful things God made. Show them Abraham’s stars. Keep the Father ever before them. When they speak negatively about someone, let them know that Jesus loves and died for that person too. Even at an early age, when they lie, cheat, steal or use improper speech, teach them about those sins and help them learn how to pray to God for forgiveness.

Teach them obedience to God. Don’t just hope that your child will one day be a Christian. Expect it. Assume it. Talk about it regularly with your children. Make sure they are attentive when someone is baptized and tell them that one day they will be baptized. Be sure they understand the plan of salvation at an early age. And make certain to put as much emphasis on Jesus’ death and resurrection, and on their own faith, repentance and confession, as you do on baptism.

Teach them reverence before God. Part of reverence before God means proper preparation before services. Make sure they get proper rest the night before or on Sunday afternoons. Turn off the car radio on the way to services and perhaps read from the Bible or sing songs. Do the bathroom run before services begin and teach them to wait until services are over before they go again. Children can go hours without a bathroom break when playing. Why can they not make it one hour without a bathroom break during services? The constant stream of children going to the rest rooms is distracting. Instruct them that God is present and we are before Him in worship. By teaching children reverence before God, they will learn to control themselves and bathroom runs will become the exception rather than the rule.

By the time children are three or four, they should be expected to sit in services without having be entertained by storybooks or by drawing pictures. A bible or books about bible characters or events can replace these. Drawing should be replaced by taking notes on the lesson. Children should not sleep (sometimes sleeping is better than fussing if they have missed a nap or are sick). At age five children can listen to sermons and answer questions about them in the car on the way home. They should sing when possible and stand for songs and prayers when the congregation does.

Teach younger children reverence, too. Children will misbehave. When they do, take them out, use proper discipline and bring them back in. When our children were very young, the place of privilege was our "assigned" seat. If misbehaving put us on the back row, no toys, books or writing was allowed. Be sure to take children out immediately. Crying is normal and we all understand. But if you have never tried to preach over a crying baby or a screaming child, believe me, the baby or child will win every time. The speaker loses people’s attention for several rows around the baby and the effort to overcome the noise can cause him to lose his place or his train of thought.

Teach them self-discipline. Children need to learn to turn off the TV or Nintendo game after a reasonable amount of time. Help your children learn to say "no" to self and "yes" to spiritual concerns. Solomon said we need balance in the time we spend in various activities. (Ecclesiastes. 3: 1-8) It is difficult to teach this lesson if we, as parents, spend all of our time with the TV or if we fill our children’s lives with outside activities but neglect to balance their lives with spiritual activities. Gospel meetings and singings are wonderful opportunities to be together in a spiritual setting.

Teach by your example. Do you want your children to be faithful? Be faithful yourself. Do you want them to be reverent? Be reverent. Do they see righteous living in your life, or do they hear the preacher speaking against things that you are practicing? Do you fuss at your children for not being responsible yet shirk your responsibilities? Are your children learning dependence upon God because they see your dependence upon Him? Do your children hear you pray at times other than at meals? Do they see you reading your Bible or teaching others from His word? If your children were asked about what is most important in your life, what would they say? Try asking them.

Our children have free will. They can and will grow up to do what they wish. However, we can provide them with a strong foundation from the very first day. If we do so, I believe and pray that Proverbs 22:6 can be a reality in our children’s lives, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate." (Psalm 127: 3)

May God bless our efforts with our children.

Is the Book of Mormon God's Word?

On the cover of a copy of the Book of Mormon the subtitle reads, “Another Testament of Jesus Christ.” Is this claim accurate?

The Bible claim. Hebrews 9:15-17 teaches that Jesus’ death put His will, the New Testament, in force upon His death. “And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. For where there is a testament, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is in force after men are dead, since it has no power at all while the testator lives.”

Can a man have two wills? The New Testament claims to be the “testament” or will of the “testator.” On the cover of the Book of Mormon, it claims to be “another testament” of Jesus Christ. If a man dies and leaves 2 wills or testaments, the courts must decide which one is the true last will and testament.

Examine the evidence. Jesus has only one will. The Book of Mormon cannot be “another testament of Jesus Christ.” It is either the testament of Jesus Christ or it is a fraud. Examine the evidence for the Bible and the Book of Mormon. See for yourself which one is supported by prophetic, literary and archaeological accuracy. In the end you will see that the evidence for the Bible is solid and strong while the evidence for the Book of Mormon is severely lacking.

Jesus has but one will or testament. It is His new testament, put in force upon His death. It is the will of God for your life. You need to examine it, know it and follow it.

That Suddenly Uncomfortable Cheerleading Outfit

This article by Jeff S. Smith makes a powerful point that those professing godliness should consider soberly. - Bill

Parents in Southern California are understandably disturbed that videos of their teenage daughters cavorting about in sexually tantalizing clothing have been showing up for sale on the internet auction site e-Bay. That's not exactly how the news media begin their reports on the story, but still it is a pretty fair assessment of the situation.

Some lecherous entrepreneur carries his camcorder to high school football games, blending in among the band parents and middle-aged dads reliving their own gridiron glory vicariously through their sons on the field. Lecherous Entrepreneur, however, is not taping the trombonist or right tackle; surreptitiously, his lens is zoomed in on the young girls in miniskirts and belly-bearing tops as they perform gymnastic and dance routines which expose more and more of their desirable flesh. Immoral? Yes. Unjustified? Of course. Exploitative? Obviously. Criminal? Apparently not.

Prosecutors in Southern California would just love to go after this guy, even more forcefully than the investigative reporters who track him down through his Post Office box. The trouble is that there is nothing illegal about videotaping people in public places. He was not peeping through their bathroom windows or hanging out around the locker room. Every detail captured on his camcorder was performed in public before thousands of people.

One family sat down with their cheerleader daughter, and an intrepid reporter, with a copy of the $70 videotape. "You can feel the discomfort in the room and see it on their faces because for the first time they're seeing their child through the eyes of someone else," reports Ana Garcia. Lecherous Entrepreneur has trained his trusty lens "on their mouths, breasts and crotches, freezing shots under their skirts, during kicks and splits."

But there is a short-circuit in everybody's indignation. Lecherous Entrepreneur did not manipulate the video to make it appear these girls were doing things they were not. He did not digitally place their pure heads upon the borrowed bodies of Vegas Showgirls. These young girls performed every suggestive motion and exposed every inch of flesh caught on tape. Mom says, "I don't want that out on the internet. This is really upsetting to me." Granted, the video brings the viewer up close and more personal with her daughter than a spectator would ordinarily get at the football stadium, but, again, the sights that sicken her are on display every Friday night for any pervert with binoculars or a front row seat. And if $70 a pop can be made, apparently legally, on this kind of smut, rest assured that Lecherous Entrepreneur will have company this fall... at a football field near you.

The moral issue with cheerleading is not the leading of cheers, and in its infancy, cheerleading was a rather wholesome celebration of school spirit and youthful beauty. It has evolved through the incorporation of gymnastics and racy costumes to something that is the epitome of lewdness. The uniform skirt has steadily crept up the leg to the point that it affords little coverage to begin with and practically none when the cheerleader moves even slightly, let alone when she performs flips, splits, and tosses. The uniform top has likewise shrunk to the point that it exposes the belly and accentuates the chest, much to the delight of Lecherous Entrepreneur and his satisfied customers. Cheerleading has become something of a misnomer. Few spectators are actually willing to be led in cheers by the young women who spend most of their time performing dangerous gymnastics or often racy dance routines.

In spite of its roots in school spirit and extracurricular participation, modern cheerleading traffics in immodesty and lewdness which cannot be sustained under the New Testament. The Holy Spirit's desire is that women "adorn themselves in modest apparel... which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works" (1st Timothy 2:8-10) having long ago warned that a "lovely woman who lacks discretion is like a swine with a gold ring in its snout" (Proverbs 11:22). She should be defined instead by the hidden person of her heart, having the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit (1st Peter 3:4).

The indecent bodily movements of the modern cheerleader suggest sexual invitation to the young, weak, or perverted heart (Galatians 5:19-21). The private and more alluring parts of her anatomy are exposed, emphasized and animated in an enticing fashion which only a fool would deny. After seeing herself on the e-Bay video, one cheerleader complained, "I won't feel comfortable going out on the football field in my uniform again. You have no clue who is watching you and for what reason." True, but that is the case with or without a camcorder in the hands of Lecherous Entrepreneur. Is this what it takes to get through to the people, many of them Christians, who condone or encourage cheerleading today?

Do you suppose that parents would have a problem with a video being sold on the Internet that contains tape of their darling daughter, modestly dressed, playing the flute in a band concert? Mostly likely they would sue for commission on the sales. Why can't folks see that suggestive behavior and immodest dress, whether for men, women, boys or girls, is wrong, whether or not it is taped and sold? Values have changed and these days Christians are baring it all (well, almost) in bathing suits at the pool, beach, or swim meet or simply while cutting the grass or washing the car. It is even difficult to look at some young women at worship services with their low-cut, cleavage revealing necklines and short skirts.

Can we get back to looking and acting like the people of God rather than imitating the people of the world? Let's wise up, shall we? -- Bill

Christians Bring Down America

So says a recent study of people’s view in several countries, including the United States. You can read the article here on FoxNews.

According to the article, Christians who believe in a literal interpretation of the Bible have blackened the eye of this country, causing us to have the next to lowest score when it comes to belief in the theories of evolution. Only Turkey scored lower and that was attributed to their large population of “Islamic fundamentalists.” Do you see the apparent attempt? Equating Bible believing Christians with Islamic fundamentalists. The next thing you know, they will be calling us terrorists.

I thought it interesting that the article states that the Roman Catholic Church and “mainstream Protestants” do not hold a literal view of the Scriptures. The co-author of the study suggests that “professional clergy and theologians” need to speak up in order to educate the poor, Bible believing common folks.

Perhaps the Pope would like to weigh in on whether or not he believes the heavens and earth were created in 7 days like the Scriptures teach. I do wonder what he believes on that subject. Of course, it doesn’t matter what the Pope believes on the subject, nor is it of any concern what any other man believes.

The Berean people in Acts 17:11 did not consult with their professional rabbis when Paul preached to them about the resurrection of Jesus. Rather, they “searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” I recommend their approach.

When Jesus was asked about marriage and divorce, He appealed to Scriptures. Listen to what He said.

Matthew 19:4-6 “And He answered and said to them, "Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning 'made them male and female, and said, 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."

Mark 10:6-9 “But from the beginning of the creation, God 'made them male and female. For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."

What? Jesus believes in creation? That is what He said. He stated that God “made them male and female” and in Mark’s account He called it “creation.” Surely His audience was just a bunch of unlearned fools, meaning that He must speak to them on their lower level of understanding, but didn’t really believe it Himself. Actually, those who posed the question were the Pharisees, some of the most learned men of the day.

Jesus could have corrected the Genesis account. In fact, this was a great opportunity for Jesus to set the record straight and fix all the problems with the Jewish Scriptures. Instead, Jesus gives full support to those Scriptures, telling the Pharisees that all they had to do was read it for themselves. “Have you not read…” He said.

You see, Christians (meaning those who follow Jesus Christ) are disciples (meaning learners of Jesus). Jesus believed in the Genesis account. That is a pretty good reason for me to believe in creation, instead of the ever-changing theories of the so-called “learned” among us. As for those “professional clergy and theologians” who do not believe the Genesis account… “Have you not read…”

Honoring God

The stories in the Bible serve many purposes. They give us historical information that helps us understand how we came to be where we are today. Those stories of old explain what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. Paul warned the Corinthian church about errors in their manner of life and used Old Testament events to support his point. Then he said, “Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.” Let’s learn lessons about honoring God from some examples in the Old Testament.

Nadab and Abihu. In the opening chapters of Leviticus, God is leading Israel step by step through the worship He wanted them to offer before Him. Suddenly God’s glory appeared to all the people as fire came from the Lord and consumed the offering on the altar. Then Aaron's sons did something in worship that God had not commanded them. “Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.” Leviticus 10:1,2.

In verse 3, God commented on their action. “By those who come near Me I must be regarded as holy; And before all the people I must be glorified.”

What was wrong with what Nadab and Abihu did? They acted without God’s command. They presumed that God would be pleased with their action. By doing something God had not commanded they failed to honor and glorify Him. This cost them their lives.

Moses. Some time later, when the people complained for lack of water God told Moses to speak to a rock and He would cause water to come forth. In his anger at the people Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it. God told Moses, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.” Number 20:12.

Moses failed to honor God because he changed God’s command. Moses had worked many years to bring those people to the promised land but he was not allowed to enter because of his action.

What can we learn from these examples? We can’t honor God by offering Him worship that we think is good or right. We must offer Him the worship He has asked for. If we change what he has said to do we fail to honor Him.

Many people today are trying to honor God but are doing so in their own way. Nearly every kind of activity that people enjoy doing has become a “ministry” in an attempt to justify the action. So we see rock bands, magicians, cowboys, power lifters, motorcycle riders and even model airplane fliers, each one claiming to be “for Jesus.” No doubt many are sincere but who would question Nadab’s, Abihu’s or Moses’ sincerity?

What we need is an understanding of this simple concept taught by Jesus in Matthew 15:8,9. “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men."

Honoring God is a matter of worshipping Him as He desires, not as we desire. Otherwise, our worship is vain.

No Man Ever Spoke Like This Man

In John 7, Jesus’ enemies, the Pharisees, sent officers to arrest Him (v. 32). When the officers returned empty-handed they were asked, “Why have you not brought Him?” (v. 45). They answered, “No man ever spoke like this Man.” (v. 46).

What was different about the way Jesus spoke? Was He an eloquent speaker capable of wowing a crowd with His auricular ability? Did He speak with a captivating, soothing, radio announcer’s voice? An examination of His teachings reveals that He did not use large, fancy words. In fact, the apostle Paul was far more eloquent and verbose than Jesus. Isaiah 53 indicates that there were no physical characteristics about Jesus to draw people to Him.

He Spoke In Parables. Jesus told stories about planting seeds. He talked about people who lost coins and sheep. He told about a lost son and his loving father who kept looking for him. He told about a man who found a valuable pearl and sold all just so he could purchase the prized pearl.

Matthew 13:34, 35 says, “All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: ‘I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world.’” All of His stories had spiritual meanings to those who were inclined to discern the spiritual message. When asked about His parables, He replied, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that 'Seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not understand’.” (Luke 8:10). His parables separated the audience. Some would hear and understand. The rest were not “tuned in” spiritually and therefore turned away from His message.

People today might find it hard to believe that Jesus would deliberately speak in a way to appeal only to a select group of people. As hard as it may seem, that is exactly what He did. He sought those who were drawn to a spiritual calling.

He Spoke Boldly. In John 7:42, the people said, “He speaks boldly….” Jesus was not afraid to tell people what they needed to hear.

To those Pharisees who needed repentance, He said, “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness.” (Luke 11:39). After calling them “blind guides,” and “hypocrites,” He said, “Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell?” in Matthew 23:23, 25, 33.

In John 8, a woman was brought to Him who supposedly was caught in the very act of adultery. To her hypocritical accusers He boldly said, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” (v. 7). One by one they all walked away. Jesus didn’t let the woman go without speaking boldly to her as well. He said, “Go and sin no more.” (v. 11).

Our politically correct world would not accept Jesus if He were among us today. Rather than calling sin as it is, the world wants to cover it up with more pleasing terminology so that perpetrators will not feel guilt for their evil ways.

He Did Not Speak Like Others Religious Teachers. “And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” (Matthew 7:28, 29). The scribes were not willing to speak as Jesus spoke, nor could they. Jesus identified the problem with the teachers of His day. “And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” (Matthew 15:9). Note that Jesus considered that teaching doctrine and following it is worship.

Jesus is at odds with religious teachers today as well. All we have to do is examine His words with those being preached today.

With regard to marriage and divorce, Jesus speaks with a very different voice from today’s religious leaders. When asked if a person can divorce for just any cause, Jesus said, “what God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:6). His answer? No. Is there a proper cause? Yes. He said, “And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.” (19:9). Jesus says if a man or woman divorces his spouse for a reason other than sexual immorality, he becomes guilty of adultery if he remarries. A person who marries another who was divorced commits adultery. Today, people divorce and remarry at will, without regard to Jesus’ teachings. Religious leaders condone, approve, and even conduct unlawful remarriages. Jesus said these remarriages constitute adultery. Adulterers do not have a place in the kingdom of heaven (Galatians 5:19-21).

We have the commandments of Jesus. Those who teach otherwise are teaching the “commandments of men” and are leading their followers into “vain worship.”

He Spoke Words Of Judgment. Jesus was serious about His words. In John 12:48-50, Jesus said, “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him--the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak."

How ironic it will be for those who reject Jesus’ words to stand before Him and realize that the very words they refused to hear will be the standard by which they will be judged in the end. It will be sad to have lived with His words so readily available yet ignored and unheeded. Rather than meet that fate, you can begin listening today. Send me an email if you would like to study the Bible together via email.

No Man Ever Spoke Like This Man. As many were leaving Jesus because they could not bear His words, He asked His twelve apostles if they were going to leave as well. Each of us should reply as Peter did on that occasion. “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68).

Our Mother Who Art in Heaven?

My son Joel wrote this article. I include it for your consideration.

The Presbyterian National Assembly recently agreed to allow references to the Trinity to be changed from Father, Son and Holy Spirit to less “sexist” language. There apparently has been some concern in some Presbyterian circles that the masculine reference to the Trinity promotes men as superior to women. Fox News reported that suggestions for alternative phrases were “Mother, Child, and Womb,” “Rock, Redeemer, and Friend,” and “Lover, Beloved, and Love.” It seems that soon we may be hearing some Presbyterians praying, “Our Mother who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…”

Are we to alter what God has said based on our own politically correct worldviews? Nancy Olthoff, the Presbyterian Legislative Committee chair said that the decision doesn’t alter the church’s theological position, but merely “provides an educational resource to enhance the spiritual life of our membership.” One can clearly see in the alternatives that were suggested that the committee carefully tried to pick alternatives that corresponded well to the “Father, Son, Holy Spirit” model, so what is wrong with the change? Let me list several things:

1. The decision to allow alternative designations shows a clear disregard for the belief that every word of Scripture is inspired. When Jesus was challenged to prove the resurrection in Matthew 22, He responded in verses 31-32 by quoting, “I AM the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” He then pointed out that God was not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. How could He conclude that? Because of the present tense of the verb “to be.” God said, “I AM,” not, “I was,” or, “I will be.” In other words, Jesus believed that not only was every word of Scripture inspired, but even the verb tenses were inspired. Does the Presbyterian National Assembly truly believe that every word of Scripture is inspired (2 Tim. 3:16)? If so, why the change? If not, why bother following anything the Bible says? Did God not have the alternative of choosing some feminine names/pronouns/etc.? Why did He not, if gender was such a non-issue to His character?
   
2. The decision also throws Jesus’ humanity quite a curve ball. Surely a God with foreknowledge would understand that some women might not be able to relate to a male Savior. Why did He not come as a woman, or better yet, just as an “it” so that everyone could relate? Of course if He came as an “it,” who could relate? Hmmm…quite a problem! Why don’t we just stick with Him being a man, as the Scriptures say?
   
3. Finally, though we could go on, the decision gives culture more credence than God. Did Paul or the other New Testament writers cater to Roman culture? If so, why did they not go soft on issues like homosexuality, other kinds of sexual sins, stealing, lying, drunkenness, and all other issues that might offend a group of people? What we see is that cultural concerns did not influence their writings then, nor would they if the inspired men were writing today.
   

The fact that the Presbyterian National Assembly decided this should greatly bother anyone affiliated with them. If they will take steps like this regarding the inspiration of the Scriptures, how can they be trusted with many of the other things they claim to be true? We must have Bible authority for all that we do, not just the approval of large-scale cultural movements of our time. Jesus Christ is the same “yesterday, today and forever.”

Searching the Scriptures makes answering questions such as these easy and it also helps to maintain unity. Life in general, and spiritual life too, is much more simple when we all follow one standard. The Presbyterians may be unified on this teaching but it is likely that the church will divide over the issue. Churches divided over manmade issues, not Biblical issues. -Bill

The Episcopalian's New Female Bishop

On June 18, 2006 the Episcopal Church chose Katharine Jefferts Schori as the first female “chief pastor” or bishop. Let’s apply the attitude and practice of the Bereans, who “searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things” that the apostle Paul taught them were “so.” In other words, if the Bereans were able to discover that Paul taught them something other than what can be supported by the Scriptures, then they would not believe the teaching nor follow it. So what does the Bible say, if anything, about Bishop selection?

There are two passages in the Bible that provide the church with qualifications for the office referred to as bishop, elder or presbyter. Those passages are 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. Let's look at the qualifications pertinent to the discussion.

1 Timothy 3: 1,2 reads:

“This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife…”

Titus 1: 5 – 7 reads:

“For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you-- if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God…”

Notice the wording in both passages. “If a man desires the position of a bishop…” and “If a man is blameless…” Paul used the word “man.” Could it be that Paul is using the word “man” to represent a generic “person”? That question is answered by reading further. In both passages Paul says that this man is to be “the husband of one wife.” It is apparent that Paul is not referring to “men” in general but that he has in mind a male who is married to a wife.

If it is acceptable to set aside this qualification so that a woman may be appointed, then any of the qualifications can be set aside. Are we willing to appoint as bishops those who are “quick tempered” or “unjust” or “unholy” or “violent”, all contrary to the qualifications delivered to us?

No. To approach the question in the same manner as the Bereans, whose attitude is recorded in the Scriptures as an example to all, we must search the Scriptures. In this case we find that the Scriptures show us that the Episcopal Church has not followed the revealed will of God in the appointment of Schori.

Do you have the attitude of the Bereans? Are you willing to let the Scriptures mold and shape your thinking on this subject?

Searching The Scriptures

A young lady was given directions to an unfamiliar part of town she had only ever visited once before. At a certain intersection she was to turn right. Several land marks were given to help her know to turn right. When she arrived at that spot she turned left because the intersection didn’t look like she thought it was supposed to. Needless to say, she was lost very soon.

How important is it for us to carefully follow the scriptures? Is it necessary for us to be certain of every point? Must we be sure we follow every step just like the Bible says? Or can we select a different direction if we are unfamiliar with what God says about a particular point?
The Berean people in the Apostle Paul’s day are commended by God for their daily careful search of the scriptures “to see if those things were so.” Acts 17:11. God has seen to it that their example is in the Bible for us to read about 2000 years later. We can’t afford to be uninformed or just act on our own just because we are not familiar with the scriptures. Like the Bereans we must search the scriptures daily to be certain of the things we believe.

The goal of this blog is to challenge readers to search their Bible for truth. If I can accomplish that goal then I will feel my duty is done.

Please check back often for more posts. I welcome your comments. I hope for this to be an open dialog.