About 750 years before Jesus was born, God chides the nation of Israel for their lack of faith in Him. They had turned their hearts to idols and served them as their gods.
As proof of His greatness compared to idols, God said the following in Isaiah 46:9, 10. "Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure.'" The proof He wanted them to see is that He is capable of telling the end from the beginning - that is, He tells us of future events and they happen as He said. The idols Israel served can't even speak and were made by man's hands. God states that fulfilled prophecy is a proof, or convincing reason, why Israel should place their faith and trust in Him.
What Prophecy?
What events does God have reference to in this message to Israel by the mouth of Isaiah? He refers to their history, the "former things of old." Let's look at a few of the events He may have reference to.
The Flood
Those Jews knew about and believed in the flood. Before the flood came, God appeared to Noah. Hebrews 11:7 says, "By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house." God warned Noah about the flood and instructed him about how to save himself and his family from the coming destruction. He foretold the future event of the flood.
Their Land & Nation
Hundreds of years before the nation of Israel came into existence, God said they would exist. Speaking to Abraham God said in Genesis 12:1,2, "Now the LORD had said to Abram: "Get out of your country, from your family and from your father's house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing." God promised Abram a land and the formation of a great nation. Israel was living proof that God can "declare the end from the beginning." Both the land of Israel and their Jewish nation fulfilled those promises to Abram.
The Captivity in Egypt and Their Deliverance
Every Jew knew the history of their captivity in Egypt. God told Abraham that it would happen and how many years it would be before they were to be delivered. In Genesis 15: 13-16 God said, "Then He said to Abram: "Know certainly that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, and will serve them, and they will afflict them four hundred years. And also the nation whom they serve I will judge; afterward they shall come out with great possessions. Now as for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you shall be buried at a good old age. But in the fourth generation they shall return here, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete."
This fascinating prophecy tells of the captivity in Egypt ("strangers in a land" and "serve them") that lasted 400 years ("afflicted" 400 years) and of their deliverance (remember Moses?). So 400 years before the events happen, God reveals them to Abram.
Those Jews in Isaiah's day who were serving false gods had turned their backs on the God who kept His promise, made them a great nation, gave them the land of inheritance, and delivered them from the affliction in Egypt. Isaiah is trying to call them back; to wake them up to the fact that abandoning God would cause Him to keep another promise - loss of that land and a return to captivity at the hands of another nation if they remained unfaithful. Read 1 Kings 9:6-9.
Prophecies of Jesus
I want to list here just a few of the prophecies made concerning Jesus, the Old Testament passage in which they were made, and the New Testament passages that shows their fulfillment.
Jesus Born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2 Luke 2:4-7
Jesus to be a Priest in the order of Melchizedek Ps 110:1,4 Hebrews 5:5-6
Entrance into Jerusalem on a donkey Zechariah 9:9 Mark 11:7-11
Judas paid 30 pieces of silver to betray Him Zechariah 11:12 Matt 26:14-15
30 pieces of silver used to buy a potter's field Zechariah 11:13 Matt 27:5-7
Feet and hands pierced Ps 22:15-16 John 20:25-57
Buried in the tomb of the rich Isaiah 53:8,9 Matt 27:57-60
Jesus would be resurrected Psalm 16:10-11 Mark 16:5,6; Acts 2:30
A Foundation for Faith
Many today are amazed at Leonardo Di Vinci and wonder at the writings of Nostradamus. Neither of these men predicted with the accuracy of fulfilled Bible prophecy. We recognize that if they did see the future, something was revealed to them from outside of this world. If those men fascinate you, consider the fulfilled prophecy found in the Scriptures. This blog barely touches the hem of the garment when it comes to fulfilled prophecy.
The prophets of the Old Testament did not claim any special ability apart from God. They gave credit to God as the source of all their words. It is God who should impress us, not His spokesmen. When He can tell us the "end from the beginning" then do we not believe that He is in control of "the end from the beginning?" Such ability is beyond man. It is a divine ability. As such, this should build our faith in God and cause us to submit to His will. He promises us an eternal reward that is beyond our wildest expectation.
Won't you let fulfilled prophecy be a foundation of faith for you? If you want to study this or other subjects in more depth, please contact me. We can arrange a time to consider the things of God. You can email me or click over the the Facebook page and post a request. Thanks for reading.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Fairy Tales and Myths or Facts?
Reading the book of Luke reveals some very interesting things about the Bible. We'll use Luke chapter 1 as the basis for several key points.
Fairy Tales or Myths?
When you read your child a fairy tale, how does it begin? Something like, "Once upon a time in a land far away..." Notice how Luke's story of Jesus begins. Luke 1:5 reads "There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth." Once upon a time is replaced by "in the days of Herod, the king of Judea" Herod was from a well-known, historical ruling family. The story didn't take place in a far away land. It was Judea, a place we can locate on our maps today. Zacharias was no made up character. He was a priest of the division of Abijah and his wife a descendant of Aaron.
Just the Facts
Luke, the writer, opens himself up for severe scrutiny by giving so much factual information. To witness just how vulnerable Luke is willing to be, read Luke 2:1,2 and Luke 3:1. These were no fairy tales. What we have from Luke is a factual account that takes place at a specific point in time. A point in time that can be verified for accuracy. Luke does not fear this scrutiny, else he would not have made himself vulnerable.
Credible Testimony
Luke was not a blogger. He was an investigator, a physician by trade. He carefully gathered information and assembled an orderly narrative of this story about Jesus. Luke 1:2,3 "...just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account..." Luke took testimony from eyewitnesses. The word "perfect" means complete. His account was not written until he had all the facts together.
The result of Luke's very serious effort is "that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed" Luke 1:4. His writing was not simply to tell a story. Its design is to instill confidence in the reader -- a certainty that the things written are so.
Real Humans
Luke depicts real people who have real life struggles just as you and I. An angel appears to Zacharias. Is he excited about seeing this angel? Luke 1:12 "And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him." Unlike many today who claim to see angels, Zacharias was afraid, like so many others in the Scriptures who experience these heavenly beings. Mary, the mother of Jesus, had a similar reaction when Gabriel appeared to her. Luke 1:30, "Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God."
Because Zacharias didn't believe the angel, he became mute until his promised son was born. Reacting just as humans do, when the child was born the people were trying to communicate with him about the child's name. Luke 1:60 says, "So they made signs to his father--what he would have him called." Zacharias was not deaf, he was mute! Yet the people, in typical human fashion, made signs to him, probably speaking very loudly, asking for the name of the child.
Will You Read With Us?
So the story that continues beyond chapter 1 is designed "to give knowledge of salvation to His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God, with which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." Luke 1:77-79.
Will you read the book of Luke with us? Will you let Luke tell this story of Jesus to you? We offer to read this story with others and discuss what Luke says. We let him teach us and our conclusions come from his testimony, one who lived in the time of Jesus and so ably wrote a narrative to help us come to faith. Send us an email or comment telling us of your desire to read together.
Fairy Tales or Myths?
When you read your child a fairy tale, how does it begin? Something like, "Once upon a time in a land far away..." Notice how Luke's story of Jesus begins. Luke 1:5 reads "There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth." Once upon a time is replaced by "in the days of Herod, the king of Judea" Herod was from a well-known, historical ruling family. The story didn't take place in a far away land. It was Judea, a place we can locate on our maps today. Zacharias was no made up character. He was a priest of the division of Abijah and his wife a descendant of Aaron.
Just the Facts
Luke, the writer, opens himself up for severe scrutiny by giving so much factual information. To witness just how vulnerable Luke is willing to be, read Luke 2:1,2 and Luke 3:1. These were no fairy tales. What we have from Luke is a factual account that takes place at a specific point in time. A point in time that can be verified for accuracy. Luke does not fear this scrutiny, else he would not have made himself vulnerable.
Credible Testimony
Luke was not a blogger. He was an investigator, a physician by trade. He carefully gathered information and assembled an orderly narrative of this story about Jesus. Luke 1:2,3 "...just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account..." Luke took testimony from eyewitnesses. The word "perfect" means complete. His account was not written until he had all the facts together.
The result of Luke's very serious effort is "that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed" Luke 1:4. His writing was not simply to tell a story. Its design is to instill confidence in the reader -- a certainty that the things written are so.
Real Humans
Luke depicts real people who have real life struggles just as you and I. An angel appears to Zacharias. Is he excited about seeing this angel? Luke 1:12 "And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him." Unlike many today who claim to see angels, Zacharias was afraid, like so many others in the Scriptures who experience these heavenly beings. Mary, the mother of Jesus, had a similar reaction when Gabriel appeared to her. Luke 1:30, "Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God."
Because Zacharias didn't believe the angel, he became mute until his promised son was born. Reacting just as humans do, when the child was born the people were trying to communicate with him about the child's name. Luke 1:60 says, "So they made signs to his father--what he would have him called." Zacharias was not deaf, he was mute! Yet the people, in typical human fashion, made signs to him, probably speaking very loudly, asking for the name of the child.
Will You Read With Us?
So the story that continues beyond chapter 1 is designed "to give knowledge of salvation to His people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God, with which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." Luke 1:77-79.
Will you read the book of Luke with us? Will you let Luke tell this story of Jesus to you? We offer to read this story with others and discuss what Luke says. We let him teach us and our conclusions come from his testimony, one who lived in the time of Jesus and so ably wrote a narrative to help us come to faith. Send us an email or comment telling us of your desire to read together.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The Great Chilean Rescue
People all across the globe were riveted to their TVs Tuesday night waiting for the first of 33 miners to emerge from the rescue capsule. For many the rescue of the first man was quite an emotional experience.
A huge crowd gathered around the small opening that served as the life line and escape route for the miners. In the crowd were their rescuers, family and friends, employees of the mining company, the president of Chile, his wife and several others from the government. Surrounding that crowd were many from the media and through their cameras, the rest of the world looked on.
As the first miner emerged the huge crowd erupted into applause and cheers accompanied with tears of joy. Those reporting even gave in to their emotions just a bit as they chronicled the events of the evening. Those of us watching were silently cheering as well. I enjoyed the chants of the crowd as they expressed their national pride shouting, "Chi Chi Chi, le le le, Chile!" Everyone was overjoyed by the deliverance of the miners.
A Similar Picture From Scripture
"Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." Luke 15:10. Imagine a man trapped in sin. He is separated from God by his sin. Without a rescue he will perish in a Devil's hell. Some around him realize his desperate condition and tell Him about a Man who came to rescue him. They teach him of the love of God who sent His Son to pay the price for his sin so that he can avoid the destruction awaiting him.
As he learns more he develops his faith in Jesus. "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6. He understands the need for repentance, a permanent change that must take place in his life so that his life will become like Jesus' life. "[God] commands all men everywhere to repent." Acts 17:30. He confesses His faith in Jesus. "If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9. He responds in obedience by being baptized so that Jesus washes away his sins. "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins." Acts 2:38
Looking on are God and Jesus Christ. With them are the angels in heaven, a huge crowd of heavenly host who want this man to be rescued and saved. When he responds, heaven erupts in joy over this sinner who has repented.
Conclusion
We are so glad that the men in Chile have been rescued and thank God for their safety. We need to realize how many of our friends are trapped in sin, perishing as we live next door to them, work with them, and interact with them socially. Will we help to bring joy to the huge crowd in heaven by opening our mouths and telling these lost ones about the saving grace of Jesus Christ? Let's busy ourselves with an even greater rescue mission that results in even greater joy.
A huge crowd gathered around the small opening that served as the life line and escape route for the miners. In the crowd were their rescuers, family and friends, employees of the mining company, the president of Chile, his wife and several others from the government. Surrounding that crowd were many from the media and through their cameras, the rest of the world looked on.
As the first miner emerged the huge crowd erupted into applause and cheers accompanied with tears of joy. Those reporting even gave in to their emotions just a bit as they chronicled the events of the evening. Those of us watching were silently cheering as well. I enjoyed the chants of the crowd as they expressed their national pride shouting, "Chi Chi Chi, le le le, Chile!" Everyone was overjoyed by the deliverance of the miners.
A Similar Picture From Scripture
"Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." Luke 15:10. Imagine a man trapped in sin. He is separated from God by his sin. Without a rescue he will perish in a Devil's hell. Some around him realize his desperate condition and tell Him about a Man who came to rescue him. They teach him of the love of God who sent His Son to pay the price for his sin so that he can avoid the destruction awaiting him.
As he learns more he develops his faith in Jesus. "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6. He understands the need for repentance, a permanent change that must take place in his life so that his life will become like Jesus' life. "[God] commands all men everywhere to repent." Acts 17:30. He confesses His faith in Jesus. "If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9. He responds in obedience by being baptized so that Jesus washes away his sins. "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins." Acts 2:38
Looking on are God and Jesus Christ. With them are the angels in heaven, a huge crowd of heavenly host who want this man to be rescued and saved. When he responds, heaven erupts in joy over this sinner who has repented.
Conclusion
We are so glad that the men in Chile have been rescued and thank God for their safety. We need to realize how many of our friends are trapped in sin, perishing as we live next door to them, work with them, and interact with them socially. Will we help to bring joy to the huge crowd in heaven by opening our mouths and telling these lost ones about the saving grace of Jesus Christ? Let's busy ourselves with an even greater rescue mission that results in even greater joy.
Friday, September 25, 2009
God's Higher Love
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.”
– Isaiah 55:8-9
Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.”
– Isaiah 55:8-9
Have you ever felt out of your league? Have you been around someone who was so much smarter, so much wealthier, or so much more powerful than you were that you felt intimidated and uncomfortable? Doesn’t it seem that this is how this passage portrays God? It doesn’t matter how wise we are, or think we are – God is wiser beyond comprehension. It doesn’t matter how powerful we are – God is more powerful still. Everywhere we look, and in all things, God is greater than us.
Do you feel intimidated by God? Do you feel like He is watching you at all times, just waiting for you to make a mistake? Do you feel like He just simply refuses to be pleased with how you live your life, no matter how hard you try to please Him? Perhaps God, to you, is like an overly strict father from whose gaze you cannot wait to hide yourself because you know that He is just waiting to see something wrong and punish you to the fullest extent of His power. If that is the case, then perhaps you have read these verses, or ones like them, without reading the verses surrounding them.
Verses 6-7 say this: “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have compassion on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.”
Notice the things that God is trying to emphasize to His people in this passage. Nearness. Reconciliation. Compassion. Pardon. This is not a passage describing God as a distant God – one so remote that He cannot relate to us. Rather, we see God describing Himself as a God who, despite His awesomeness, and yes, distance from a sinful human race, desires very much to be near to men and women who He sees in sin.
So how are we to read and understand verses 8-9, and all of that talk about God’s thoughts and ways being so much higher and better than ours? We are to interpret them in terms of God’s capacity to love, forgive, and show grace to us. One of the main reasons many people view God like a strict, even abusive, parent is that they anticipate that His reaction to their mistakes will be the same as a typical human-being. Lawsuits, vengeance, justice, grudges, and hatred are just a few of many typical ways in which people quickly respond to one another after being wronged. Rarely does a person severely injured in a car accident or in surgery stop to think that an honest mistake might have been the cause. Almost never does the typical person actually completely forgive one who intentionally wronged them, and let them get away “scot-free.” It is not natural to us to instantaneously think in terms of forgiveness and mercy; rather, we more often tend to think in terms of making sure no wrong against us goes unpunished.
But God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. He looked at the race of people He created, and saw our disgusting sins, inexcusable atrocities, and all-out assault on goodness and desired to “abundantly pardon” every miserable one of us. In exchange for that pardon He might have asked more than we could give – He certainly had the right to. If the just penalty for mistreating men is sometimes 25+ years of a person’s life, or at times even the person’s life itself, how much greater is our debt to God after wronging Him so badly? And yet, after offending Him so much, He requires so relatively little. He simply says, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord.” God only asks that we change ourselves completely from how we were living in sin, and seek and serve Him. It requires our total dedication, but that is so much less than He could have asked us to pay! We can celebrate with the psalmist David when he said, “He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor rewarded us according to our iniquities” (Psalm 103:10).
Just because God is so willing to pardon us does not mean that we can take His offer lightly and just assume that He will pardon us without us having to make an effort to change our lives. Isaiah 55:6 says, “Seek the Lord while He may be found.” There comes a point after which one may wish to seek Him, and He will not be found by that person. God’s offer will not last forever. Hebrews 9:27 says, “…it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment.” (See also Luke 16:19-31 and 2 Corinthians 5:10) Let us make sure we take advantage of the grace God has given to us while we still have the time.
--Joel Holt
Saturday, July 25, 2009
FaceBook and Christians
My son laughed at the idea that his mom and dad were on FaceBook. Why, I'm not sure. It isn't like we're backwards from a technology standpoint. I actually feel fairly certain that I'm above average when it comes to the use of technology, both in business and in my personal life.
FaceBook has been an interesting experience. I've enjoyed the way I'm being connected to old friends long forgotten. I have been able to catch up with people last seen over 30 years ago. That has proved fun though it also points out just how many years have gone by. Most of them have raised their children and are even grandparents. I still remember them as they were at 19 and 20 years old.
FaceBook has also been revealing in some other ways. Mostly, this occurs in the status comments where people post how they feel or tell about what they are doing. Some are fun to read. Some are encouraging. Some are innocent. But others are troubling.
Whining. Some Christians, who are supposed to be full of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-24) such as love, joy, and peace, post Facebook status messages complaining about life and its troubles. Some seem to never be able to post positive things. "John is having a bad day." "Karen's friends don't want to spend any time with her." Some complain out loud about nearly everything. Where is the joy of being a Christian? When did we lose the concept of thinking on good things? (Philippians 4:8) These complainers will likely not join us in heaven because they likely blame God for their troubles - not on Facebook mind you, but in their inner hearts.
Disappointing. It has always been discouraging to me to hear about Christians who involve themselves in activities that are questionable, if not sinful, for Christians to be involved in. For example, several have posted on Facebook about movies they've seen, talking about how good the movie was, yet it is rated R. Simply from the previews it is obvious Christians have no business seeing the movie. Others will post a status and use language that is inappropriate for Christians to utter or write. Others post pictures of themselves immodestly dressed so not only am I discouraged by knowing they dress immodestly, I see them dressed immodestly.
Poor Selection Of Friends. Paul warns us about the company we keep. In 1 Corinthians 15:33 he said, "Do not be deceived; Evil company corrupts good habits." Looking at the Facebook pages of some Christians I know, it is obvious that they use poor judgement in their selection of friends. The comments their friends make on their page include inappropriate slang, outright cursing, references to drinking and drugs, etc. Paul indicated that we cannot go out of the world in our effort to avoid sin but he also tells us we must select our company carefully, lest we be corrupted by them. It is obvious that some Christians may have been "deceived" and need to rethink who their Facebook "friends" are and delete them...from Facebook and from their personal lives!
Time Wasting. Sometimes we talk about how hard it is to take the gospel to others. We comment about how our area is a "hard area" and "people are just not interested in hearing the gospel." Sometimes we talk about "how busy we are." It is apparent that many Christians on Facebook are consumed with Facebook and have no time for finding those to study with because they are spending far too much time on Facebook. They have multiple farms, they send hugs, kisses, and presents of all types to all their friends, they take quiz after quiz and score higher and higher on several Facebook games. Christians are to be "redeeming the time" in reference to those outside the body of Christ. (Colossians 4:5) Could Satan be using Facebook to make you an ineffective Christian while you sit for hours at your computer involved in all Facebook has to offer?
No doubt there are good things about Facebook. But for all its good, it must be kept in perspective. It has revealed some things to me that I wish I didn't know about some Christians. I hope they'll repent. The world has a very strong grip on too many Christians these days and I am afraid they have been overcome while feeling they are "okay" with the Lord. The Bible warns again and again, "Be not deceived."
July 27, 2009 Followup: A blog reader suggested this audio link. I think it is worthwhile.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Torchlights To The Cherokees
One place that is near and dear to my heart is called Audubon Acres, located in Chattanooga, TN at the end of Gunbarrel Road in East Brainerd. Many of you may think that I like this sanctuary because of my bird watching hobby. Actually, this place is special for another reason -- its history.
Audubon Acres is the old home place of a man named Robert Sparks Walker. He was born and raised in the log cabin that still stands on the property. His family moved into this cabin after purchasing the land it sat on. The cabin was abandoned by the Cherokee Indians when they were removed from Tennessee during what is now known as the Trail of Tears. Recently I was on the property and stepped into the visitors center. Their bookstore had a book by written by Mr. Walker called Torchlights to the Cherokees. The book chronicles the history of the Brainerd Mission, whose purpose it was to teach the Cherokees Christianity.
As a side note for you Chattanooga area readers, the areas known as Brainerd and East Brainerd take their names from this mission. There is a cemetery located to the right of Eastgate toward the creek, the only portion of the Mission site that is left.
Chapter two records some interesting information that I felt was applicable to our day. Mr. Walker discusses the founding of the Chickamauga Mission (later renamed Brainerd to avoid confusion with the town of Chickamauga) and its purpose to bring Christianity to the natives. Until the mission had been formed there was very little opportunity to influence the Cherokees with the gospel. The following paragraph from the book explains why.
"The natural criterion by which one judges the efficacy of any religion is its visible effects on the character and behavior of its adherents. Many of the Indian's most brutal, selfish and thievish white neighbors claimed to be Christians. It was natural that the Cherokees should judge the value of this new religion by the character of the people who were steadily encroaching upon their property and many of whom had introduced whiskey into their tribes. To them, Christianity was something that they might do well to avoid."
Then he tells of an Indian Chief who would not permit any literature to be distributed among his tribe until he had first read it and approved of it. Mr. Walker continues, "After listening earnestly to a portion of St. Matthew, the old chief dryly, but seriously remarked, "Well, it seems to be a good book, but it is strange that the white people are not better for having had it so long!"
What about our day? What sort of influence do we have on the world due to the influence the Word has on us? How do people view the religion of Christ based upon what they see in my life? Has God's word had a profound impact on me so that my character speaks positively about God and His word?
Fewer and fewer Christians look different from the world. We dress like the world, talk like the world, and there are even those among us who compromise with the world and even attempt to justify the behavior of the world.
For example, women professing to be Christians wear clothing that reveals their cleavage and showing from under their narrow tops are their bra straps. I hear Christians talking about seeing movies that are rated R. The language and certain scenes in those movies are not content that Christians should either see or approve of. Some young men get up and lead in worship yet in their seats it appears they would rather be anywhere than at worship. The language of Christians is getting worse and worse with more use of euphemisms, speech not becoming a child of God, and even text message abbreviations that take the Lord's name in vain.
In His sermon on the mountain Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:13-16).
Just as the Cherokees were not influenced by the Christians among them who did not exhibit the character of Christ, so we cannot influence our generation if we are flavorless salt or if we hide our light in shame, afraid to be recognized as different. Christians who conform to the world and cannot be distinguished from it bring no glory to God.
We need to take a long look at our lives and be certain that we are truly what Jesus wants us to be. It is highly unlikely that we will be what Jesus wants us to be and still be like the people of this world. It will probably be the case that "they think it strange that" you are different and start "speaking evil of you." (1 Peter 4:4). Examine your clothes, your language, what you watch on TV or movies, your interest in the worship of the Lord, your work habits, your attitude, your charity toward others, your willingness to take the gospel to others, how much you think about heaven, your study habits in regard to the word, etc.
Let's make it our aim that if our history is written 100 years from now that it will not be said of us that we failed to influence our peers because our religion had no "visible effects on [our] character and behavior" as Mr. Walker wrote.
Audubon Acres is the old home place of a man named Robert Sparks Walker. He was born and raised in the log cabin that still stands on the property. His family moved into this cabin after purchasing the land it sat on. The cabin was abandoned by the Cherokee Indians when they were removed from Tennessee during what is now known as the Trail of Tears. Recently I was on the property and stepped into the visitors center. Their bookstore had a book by written by Mr. Walker called Torchlights to the Cherokees. The book chronicles the history of the Brainerd Mission, whose purpose it was to teach the Cherokees Christianity.
As a side note for you Chattanooga area readers, the areas known as Brainerd and East Brainerd take their names from this mission. There is a cemetery located to the right of Eastgate toward the creek, the only portion of the Mission site that is left.
Chapter two records some interesting information that I felt was applicable to our day. Mr. Walker discusses the founding of the Chickamauga Mission (later renamed Brainerd to avoid confusion with the town of Chickamauga) and its purpose to bring Christianity to the natives. Until the mission had been formed there was very little opportunity to influence the Cherokees with the gospel. The following paragraph from the book explains why.
"The natural criterion by which one judges the efficacy of any religion is its visible effects on the character and behavior of its adherents. Many of the Indian's most brutal, selfish and thievish white neighbors claimed to be Christians. It was natural that the Cherokees should judge the value of this new religion by the character of the people who were steadily encroaching upon their property and many of whom had introduced whiskey into their tribes. To them, Christianity was something that they might do well to avoid."
Then he tells of an Indian Chief who would not permit any literature to be distributed among his tribe until he had first read it and approved of it. Mr. Walker continues, "After listening earnestly to a portion of St. Matthew, the old chief dryly, but seriously remarked, "Well, it seems to be a good book, but it is strange that the white people are not better for having had it so long!"
What about our day? What sort of influence do we have on the world due to the influence the Word has on us? How do people view the religion of Christ based upon what they see in my life? Has God's word had a profound impact on me so that my character speaks positively about God and His word?
Fewer and fewer Christians look different from the world. We dress like the world, talk like the world, and there are even those among us who compromise with the world and even attempt to justify the behavior of the world.
For example, women professing to be Christians wear clothing that reveals their cleavage and showing from under their narrow tops are their bra straps. I hear Christians talking about seeing movies that are rated R. The language and certain scenes in those movies are not content that Christians should either see or approve of. Some young men get up and lead in worship yet in their seats it appears they would rather be anywhere than at worship. The language of Christians is getting worse and worse with more use of euphemisms, speech not becoming a child of God, and even text message abbreviations that take the Lord's name in vain.
In His sermon on the mountain Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:13-16).
Just as the Cherokees were not influenced by the Christians among them who did not exhibit the character of Christ, so we cannot influence our generation if we are flavorless salt or if we hide our light in shame, afraid to be recognized as different. Christians who conform to the world and cannot be distinguished from it bring no glory to God.
We need to take a long look at our lives and be certain that we are truly what Jesus wants us to be. It is highly unlikely that we will be what Jesus wants us to be and still be like the people of this world. It will probably be the case that "they think it strange that" you are different and start "speaking evil of you." (1 Peter 4:4). Examine your clothes, your language, what you watch on TV or movies, your interest in the worship of the Lord, your work habits, your attitude, your charity toward others, your willingness to take the gospel to others, how much you think about heaven, your study habits in regard to the word, etc.
Let's make it our aim that if our history is written 100 years from now that it will not be said of us that we failed to influence our peers because our religion had no "visible effects on [our] character and behavior" as Mr. Walker wrote.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
'Foul' Speech
From the way the woman was yelling, one might have guessed that the man being yelled at had just insulted her child. The woman accused the man of being ignorant, blind, a poor excuse for a human being, and a myriad of other accusations too numerous to list. The tirade continued, off and on, for about an hour, and when the man would not apologize for what had happened, the woman stormed out of the building muttering her disgust. What had the man done to deserve such treatment? Well, among other things, he had failed to call a few fouls, he had called a few fouls that “should not have been called,” and had “been the reason the [insert sports team here] had lost the basketball game.” Who was the woman? Unfortunately, she was a Christian whose child was on the losing team.
It is alarming how that in some Christian’s minds sporting events have become acceptable venues for all kinds of ungodly behavior. Is it true that we are to “put away anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from our mouth” in every area of our life except in the sporting arena (Col. 3:8)? Does taking our seat in the bleachers relieve us of our responsibility to, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification…so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Eph. 4:29)? Surely we are to maintain our “tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” even when we attend sporting events (1 Tim. 2:2).
Not only do some Christians forget their godly behavior when they attend the games, they also excuse themselves from righteousness whenever the topic of sports comes up. How can two Christians be “diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” when they refuse to speak to each other for a week (or longer) after the annual in-state rivalry football game (Eph. 4:3)? If two Christians cannot sit together and discuss something as eternally irrelevant as a sports rivalry without becoming irritated or angry at each other, have they really learned what it means to be “slow to anger” (James 1:19)? Are they not allowing a mere game to divide two people who should be one in the Lord (John 17:21)?
We can hear the objections now. “Sports officials aren’t bothered by the comments of the fans – they expect to hear those things.” Obviously officials do expect to hear insults during games, but does the fact that one is prepared to hear insulting speech make it acceptable for a Christian to use it? “I may look worked up, but I know deep down it’s just a game.” Christians need to know the difference between enthusiasm and a lack of self-control. It is one thing to cheer loudly, and even to express disapproval of a call in a respectful way, but it is something completely different for Christians to say degrading things and leave the impression to all standing around that they cannot control their tempers. “I was just kidding; don’t think I really meant what I said or did.” It is one thing to give a good-natured ribbing to a rival fan, and it is another to push them to the point of anger. It is one thing for Christians to fake disgust when someone teases them about their team; it is another to allow something so trivial to actually arouse their anger or even to destroy their relationships with others.
A teenager yelling from the bleachers at the high school basketball game had no idea how embarrassed he was about to be. After very angrily yelling some insults at the referee, and making his disgust known to everyone around him, he looked two rows behind him, and to his horror, saw a fellow Christian listening to every word he said. (That man would go on to become an elder in a few years later.) Seeing the man sobered the young man’s attitude quickly, and he spent the rest of the game cheering on his team in a much more civil manner. You see, the reason we have come down so hard on Christians behaving this way is because the author of this article knows first hand how easy it is to forget godliness when it comes to sports – I was that embarrassed teenager. Christian living requires that we make no exceptions when it comes to godly behavior. We cannot be a Christian “most of the time.” It is a full time job, even at sporting events, to “Be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Mt. 5:48)
It is alarming how that in some Christian’s minds sporting events have become acceptable venues for all kinds of ungodly behavior. Is it true that we are to “put away anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from our mouth” in every area of our life except in the sporting arena (Col. 3:8)? Does taking our seat in the bleachers relieve us of our responsibility to, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification…so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Eph. 4:29)? Surely we are to maintain our “tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity” even when we attend sporting events (1 Tim. 2:2).
Not only do some Christians forget their godly behavior when they attend the games, they also excuse themselves from righteousness whenever the topic of sports comes up. How can two Christians be “diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” when they refuse to speak to each other for a week (or longer) after the annual in-state rivalry football game (Eph. 4:3)? If two Christians cannot sit together and discuss something as eternally irrelevant as a sports rivalry without becoming irritated or angry at each other, have they really learned what it means to be “slow to anger” (James 1:19)? Are they not allowing a mere game to divide two people who should be one in the Lord (John 17:21)?
We can hear the objections now. “Sports officials aren’t bothered by the comments of the fans – they expect to hear those things.” Obviously officials do expect to hear insults during games, but does the fact that one is prepared to hear insulting speech make it acceptable for a Christian to use it? “I may look worked up, but I know deep down it’s just a game.” Christians need to know the difference between enthusiasm and a lack of self-control. It is one thing to cheer loudly, and even to express disapproval of a call in a respectful way, but it is something completely different for Christians to say degrading things and leave the impression to all standing around that they cannot control their tempers. “I was just kidding; don’t think I really meant what I said or did.” It is one thing to give a good-natured ribbing to a rival fan, and it is another to push them to the point of anger. It is one thing for Christians to fake disgust when someone teases them about their team; it is another to allow something so trivial to actually arouse their anger or even to destroy their relationships with others.
A teenager yelling from the bleachers at the high school basketball game had no idea how embarrassed he was about to be. After very angrily yelling some insults at the referee, and making his disgust known to everyone around him, he looked two rows behind him, and to his horror, saw a fellow Christian listening to every word he said. (That man would go on to become an elder in a few years later.) Seeing the man sobered the young man’s attitude quickly, and he spent the rest of the game cheering on his team in a much more civil manner. You see, the reason we have come down so hard on Christians behaving this way is because the author of this article knows first hand how easy it is to forget godliness when it comes to sports – I was that embarrassed teenager. Christian living requires that we make no exceptions when it comes to godly behavior. We cannot be a Christian “most of the time.” It is a full time job, even at sporting events, to “Be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Mt. 5:48)
Monday, May 25, 2009
Wild Game Expo & Woof 'n' Worship
During my 50 years on this earth I have seen a lot of change in churches. As our society has become more wealthy and more focused on fun, churches have also grown in resources and have changed their focus to providing fun.
When I was in high school a local denomination put on a presentation for the student body. It was an abbreviated presentation of the "Magic with a Message" event going on at the church. A preacher did some magic tricks that served as a teaser to come and see the full show at the church. Of course, the magic came with a message about Jesus. All that the kids at school talked about afterward was the magic, not the message.
These days churches have gone into the counseling business, and the day care and education business. Many churches are now offering financial planning and most have physical fitness centers that rival the local YMCA where you can exercise to your favorite gospel music.
As churches have innovated and expanded their "services" they have always tried to slip some gospel into those services. That is, until now.
Watching TV the other night I saw an ad being run by the Oakwood Baptist church near Chattanooga, Tn. The ad promoted their upcoming Wild Game Expo. I was very surprised when the ad ended and not one reference was made to any sort of worship, praising the Lord, a time for teaching about Christ, etc. Not only that, to attend the evening event the church is charging $10 for tickets. So I went to their website. I figured they would surely have an agenda of their events that would include some spiritual activities. Here is the content of their site:
Woods-N-Water Wild Game Expo will take place Saturday, May 30, 2009, on the Chickamauga Campus. We are pleased to have Hank Parker as a special guest speaker. Chris McDaniel will provide musical entertainment.There will be a Wild Game Cook-off Competition during the day's events. Samples will be given until they run out. Entries will be judged by an "Oakwood Celebrity" panel. Trophies and bragging rights will be awarded. Contact Michael Swanson for details on competing at 706-375-7236.
Join us beginning at 3 pm for a day of FREE events
Archery Exhibition by Frank Addington, Jr.
Classic/Hot Rod Car Show
Motorcycle Show
Virtual Fishing & Archery by Georiga DNR
Displays by Outdoor Equipment & Supply Vendors
Wild Game Cook-Off Competition
Evening Events (Ticket required)
BBQ Dinner
Special Guest Speaker: Hank Parker
Music provided by Chris McDaniel
Door Prizes
Advance Tickets Now On Sale! Tickets for evening events: $10
There it is. No mention of anything spiritual. Apparently you can go and they won't even try to slip in a message about Jesus. Atheist's should feel comfortable going to this one. In fact, they can attend and perhaps walk away with one of the door prizes! And maybe it won't be a Bible.
I would say that I'm amazed but I am not. This is the natural course of events for churches whose emphasis has become fun and games and pleasing the masses. This falls under the "Recreation Ministry" of the Oakwood Baptist church (wasn't Timothy in the Bible a recreation minister? - I jest).
One of the popular "church growth" teachers today advocates that churches take a survey of the community to learn what they want and then provide it. Perhaps that is what the Oakwood church has done.
Now checkout this link. A church in Weymouth, Massachusetts now offers a Sunday evening service they call Woof 'n' Worship. Since the Scriptures speak of all creatures praising God, the Rev. Rachel Bickford decided to have her church members bring their dogs for worship. She said, "I thought this would be a wonderful opportunity for everyone to get together." She even blesses the dogs that are sick.
By just reading the article you get an idea of who is being pleased by these actions. "I love it. My life revolves around making my dogs happy" one member said. Continuing she said, "It makes me happy and it makes them better socialized and better dogs." Ms. Bickford stated "people were excited to be able to take their dogs to church." Like most politically correct organizations today, the church is an inclusive church. Bickford said she was glad the church was able to include all breeds.
In Acts 20:28, Paul refers to the church as "the church of God which He purchased with His own blood." Do you think Jesus shed His blood so that a church can put on a Wild Game Expo or help dogs be better socialized animals through Wolf 'n' Worship? Such activities border on blasphemy, if they aren't!
During the period of the judges the nation of Israel would cycle through periods of faithfulness to the Lord and unfaithfulness. Those cycles were pretty much timed with their poverty (reliance upon God) and their wealth (their periods unfaithfulness). Twice in the book of Judges we read this statement, "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes." (Judges 17:6; 21:25). That statement characterises several events throughout Bible history. The fact that such a statement is recorded in Scripture is evidence that doing things "our own way" is not acceptable before God.
I'm sure that the Oakwood church and the church in Weymouth, Ma believes they are doing what is right. The problem is, they are doing what is right in their own eyes. Our attitude should be like Jesus' regarding what He could and could not do. "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." (John 12:49). And, "I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me." (John 5:30). You see, unless God has instructed us to do a given thing, then that thing is not authorized and we had better not do it. He told us to "preach the gospel to every creature" and we see how his disciples did that. Not with Wild Game Expos or Woof 'n' Worship services which as designed to appeal to the desires of those participating, but through diligent teaching of His word. No gimmicks, no fleshly appeal - and no charge!
You might want to refer to another post of mine called Noah Was A Failure. You can also click on the tag below called "authority" for more posts related to doing things in God's ways. I would also appreciate your comments. May we all examine our efforts before the Lord and be certain that we are not guilty of doing what is right in our own sight.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Public Opinion and a Christian's Work
A recent Gallup poll indicated that for the first time in 15 years a majority of Americans, 51%, considered themselves pro-life. Fearing an anomaly, Gallup conducted two additional polls and came up with the same results. Also, two corresponding FOX News polls revealed that 49% of Americans considered themselves pro-life, while 43% considered themselves pro-choice. So, the facts are in for this year – more Americans object to abortion than are for it.
From a Christian’s perspective that’s good, so far as it goes. It turns out that last year the same Gallup poll revealed that 50% of Americans considered themselves pro-choice, while 44% considered themselves to be pro-life.
I would like to think that the change is due to the fact that large numbers of people have looked into the issue and have come to the conclusion that life begins at conception, and that abortion is murder. Even better would be if large numbers of people began caring what God’s word teaches about abortion. Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” God obviously felt that Jeremiah was “somebody” before he reached the third trimester. (see also Isaiah 49:1) John the Baptist is called a “baby” in Luke 1:44 prior to his birth while Jesus is called the same thing after He was born, Luke 2:16. Obviously, then, the Bible teaches that a fetus, though undeveloped and unborn, is a child – a person. So, to kill an unborn fetus is to kill a person according to the Scriptures, and therefore it is murder (Romans 1:28-32).
But while it would be wonderful to think that those might be the reasons the majority opinion has shifted on this issue, my gut tells me otherwise. Crowds are easily swayed, and often the majority opinion is determined by how big a push certain propaganda (good or bad) gets. When public opinion on an issue like this changes so drastically in just a year, it smacks of people who make up their minds about moral issues the way divas choose clothes – whatever is in style that season is what gets picked.
This fickleness is not new. Some of the same people who worshiped Jesus as he entered Jerusalem to die (Matthew 21:1-11) mocked Him and demanded His execution a week later (Matthew 27:20-25). The difference? They were stirred up by different people, and got caught up in the moment both times. Exodus 23:2 says, “You shall not follow the masses in doing evil.” Doing wrong because it is the majority opinion does not justify the wrong, but in a similar way, rejoicing because the right choice has been picked by a majority does not necessarily mean that righteousness on an issue is prevailing. Truth is sometimes “in season” and sometimes “out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). Fortunately, on this issue, it may be somewhat more “in season” than it has been in the past, but that doesn’t mean it won’t change for the worse in another year’s time.
The main point Christians need to see in this is that we don’t need to take relief in the fact that the majority is now on “our side.” The majority of people were on “Jesus side” too, early in His ministry,” and He lamented that they were like “sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). Just because people are following the right way on an issue does not mean they always fully understand why they have made that choice. Our job is to educate them about the true reason to believe killing unborn babies is wrong – because God’s word says it is – and then to bring them knowledge of the rest of God’s truths. As Paul told Timothy (2 Timothy 4:2), we are to continue preaching the word when it is “in season” – not take the opportunity to rest because most people are accepting it (or accepting parts of it).
God’s success does not depend on entire nations believing or disbelieving His word – it depends on individuals believing and doing what is right, sometimes in spite of the nation they live in. We need to fight the good fight now more than ever, and if it is the case that public opinion has partially torn down a barrier to some people accepting the truth, then we need to take full advantage by bringing them the rest of the saving plan of God.
--Joel Holt
From a Christian’s perspective that’s good, so far as it goes. It turns out that last year the same Gallup poll revealed that 50% of Americans considered themselves pro-choice, while 44% considered themselves to be pro-life.
I would like to think that the change is due to the fact that large numbers of people have looked into the issue and have come to the conclusion that life begins at conception, and that abortion is murder. Even better would be if large numbers of people began caring what God’s word teaches about abortion. Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” God obviously felt that Jeremiah was “somebody” before he reached the third trimester. (see also Isaiah 49:1) John the Baptist is called a “baby” in Luke 1:44 prior to his birth while Jesus is called the same thing after He was born, Luke 2:16. Obviously, then, the Bible teaches that a fetus, though undeveloped and unborn, is a child – a person. So, to kill an unborn fetus is to kill a person according to the Scriptures, and therefore it is murder (Romans 1:28-32).
But while it would be wonderful to think that those might be the reasons the majority opinion has shifted on this issue, my gut tells me otherwise. Crowds are easily swayed, and often the majority opinion is determined by how big a push certain propaganda (good or bad) gets. When public opinion on an issue like this changes so drastically in just a year, it smacks of people who make up their minds about moral issues the way divas choose clothes – whatever is in style that season is what gets picked.
This fickleness is not new. Some of the same people who worshiped Jesus as he entered Jerusalem to die (Matthew 21:1-11) mocked Him and demanded His execution a week later (Matthew 27:20-25). The difference? They were stirred up by different people, and got caught up in the moment both times. Exodus 23:2 says, “You shall not follow the masses in doing evil.” Doing wrong because it is the majority opinion does not justify the wrong, but in a similar way, rejoicing because the right choice has been picked by a majority does not necessarily mean that righteousness on an issue is prevailing. Truth is sometimes “in season” and sometimes “out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). Fortunately, on this issue, it may be somewhat more “in season” than it has been in the past, but that doesn’t mean it won’t change for the worse in another year’s time.
The main point Christians need to see in this is that we don’t need to take relief in the fact that the majority is now on “our side.” The majority of people were on “Jesus side” too, early in His ministry,” and He lamented that they were like “sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). Just because people are following the right way on an issue does not mean they always fully understand why they have made that choice. Our job is to educate them about the true reason to believe killing unborn babies is wrong – because God’s word says it is – and then to bring them knowledge of the rest of God’s truths. As Paul told Timothy (2 Timothy 4:2), we are to continue preaching the word when it is “in season” – not take the opportunity to rest because most people are accepting it (or accepting parts of it).
God’s success does not depend on entire nations believing or disbelieving His word – it depends on individuals believing and doing what is right, sometimes in spite of the nation they live in. We need to fight the good fight now more than ever, and if it is the case that public opinion has partially torn down a barrier to some people accepting the truth, then we need to take full advantage by bringing them the rest of the saving plan of God.
--Joel Holt
Monday, December 08, 2008
Proposition 8: The Musical
Bill O'Reilly showed a clip of a 3 minute video called "Prop 8: The Musical." The video pits a group of anti-Prop 8 actors against a group of actors dressed up like fundamentalist Christians. Of course, those depicting the Christians are made out to be haters and even say "It is time to spread some hate" with Proposition 8.
Jack Black (I've never heard of him) portrays Jesus who miraculously appears on the scene between the Christians and the supporters of the gay and lesbian community. The "preacher" bows down before Jesus and asks, "Jesus, doesn't the Bible say these people are an abomination?" Jesus replies, "Yeah, but it says the exact same thing about this shrimp cocktail." As he holds up a loaded shrimp cocktail the preacher and his followers lick their lips saying, "Yum!" Jesus continues, "The Bible says a lot of interesting things" and he talks about men selling their daughters into slavery. The preacher replies smugly, "Well, we ignore those verses." To which Jesus says, "Well friend, it seems to me you pick and choose. Well please choose love instead of hate."
There are several problems with the logic used in the arguments this video makes. I seriously doubt that Jack Black and his ilk really care, but here are the difficulties.
Picking and Choosing. If Christians are guilty of being inconsistent in the application of God's word, such guilt does not change the word of God. If it is an abomination to eat shellfish and we choose to eat it anyway, the dismissal of God's word regarding shellfish doesn't argue that homosexuality is therefore okay.
Jesus (not the impostor Jack Black) accused the Pharisees of His day of inconsistently applies God's word. "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone." Matthew 23:23 Jesus didn't excuse the Pharisee's omission of the weightier matters of the law because they ignored them. He said they should have done both. If the Bible teaches that homosexuality is an abomination (admitted in the video) as well as eating shellfish, then both are wrong. Ignoring either teaching does not justify ignoring the other.
The writers of the video are simply encouraging more picking and choosing rather than submitting to the word of God. The real 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." John 12:48.
Ignorance of Sound Teaching. The video reveals the ignorance of Biblical teaching on the part of the writers and producers. Unfortunately this ignorance is shared by many people who call themselves Christians. Without going into a lot of explanation, there is a fundamental teaching in the Scriptures regarding the Old Testament law. That law, which forbade homosexuality and the eating of shellfish, is no longer God's law for man.
In a lengthy discussion that begins in Hebrews 7, the writer of Hebrews argues that the Old Testament law (referred to as the first) was replaced by the New Testament (referred to as the second). He concludes in Hebrews 10:9 that Jesus "takes away the first that He may establish the second." Paul says in Galatians 3:19 that the Old Testament law "was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made" and tells us that the Seed was Jesus. Once Jesus came the old law ended and the law of Christ was established (Galatians 6:2).
So we must determine what the New Testament teaches about homosexuality and shellfish to know what we as Christians can do today.
Teaching Concerning Homosexuality and Shellfish. Here are the New Testament passages regarding shellfish and homosexuality.
Shellfish.
In a discussion about what is proper to eat Paul says, "For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving." 2 Timothy 4:4. The proper conclusion is that anyone may eat shellfish based on the teachings of the apostle Paul, who said, "If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord." (1 Corinthians 14:37).
Homosexuality.
The New Testament teaching regarding homosexuality is also clear and easy to understand. Consider these passages.
"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God." 1 Corinthians 6:9,10.
"For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them." Romans 1: 26-32
"For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; 5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly; 6 and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly." 2 Peter 2: 4-6
Homosexual and lesbian behavior is said by God to be unrighteous, vile, unnatural, shameful and ungodly. But those involved in such are not alone. Those committing adultery and fornication are in the same condition. So are those who murder and those who steal. As well as those who are disobedient to parents.
Inconsistency. Those who demean Christians with such material as "the musical" are inconsistent. The fake Jesus is clearly a mockery of the real Jesus and is an expression of intolerance toward Him. The fake Jesus accuses Christians of being unloving while the real Jesus says "If you love Me, keep my commandments." John 14:15. There is no expression of love for Jesus to be found in the video.
Legislation. Christians may try to force the Lord's ways on others through legislation but until they win the hearts of those in sin over to Christ, no battle has really been won. The homosexual and lesbian community may eventually and probably will secure the legislation they want. A legal victory may temporarily cause them feel justified in their behavior, but the final verdict is Christ's.
Jesus has spoken. His word is clear. All who are in sin must believe in Him (John 3:16), turn away from their sinful behavior in repentance (Luke 13:3), confess His Lordship over their lives (Romans 10:9,10), and be baptized in water to allow his blood to cleanse them of their sin (Acts 2:38; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:4). When one follows those teachings and lives faithfully to the Lord, it can be said of them, "...such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God." 1 Corinthians 6:11.
Jack Black (I've never heard of him) portrays Jesus who miraculously appears on the scene between the Christians and the supporters of the gay and lesbian community. The "preacher" bows down before Jesus and asks, "Jesus, doesn't the Bible say these people are an abomination?" Jesus replies, "Yeah, but it says the exact same thing about this shrimp cocktail." As he holds up a loaded shrimp cocktail the preacher and his followers lick their lips saying, "Yum!" Jesus continues, "The Bible says a lot of interesting things" and he talks about men selling their daughters into slavery. The preacher replies smugly, "Well, we ignore those verses." To which Jesus says, "Well friend, it seems to me you pick and choose. Well please choose love instead of hate."
There are several problems with the logic used in the arguments this video makes. I seriously doubt that Jack Black and his ilk really care, but here are the difficulties.
Picking and Choosing. If Christians are guilty of being inconsistent in the application of God's word, such guilt does not change the word of God. If it is an abomination to eat shellfish and we choose to eat it anyway, the dismissal of God's word regarding shellfish doesn't argue that homosexuality is therefore okay.
Jesus (not the impostor Jack Black) accused the Pharisees of His day of inconsistently applies God's word. "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone." Matthew 23:23 Jesus didn't excuse the Pharisee's omission of the weightier matters of the law because they ignored them. He said they should have done both. If the Bible teaches that homosexuality is an abomination (admitted in the video) as well as eating shellfish, then both are wrong. Ignoring either teaching does not justify ignoring the other.
The writers of the video are simply encouraging more picking and choosing rather than submitting to the word of God. The real 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." John 12:48.
Ignorance of Sound Teaching. The video reveals the ignorance of Biblical teaching on the part of the writers and producers. Unfortunately this ignorance is shared by many people who call themselves Christians. Without going into a lot of explanation, there is a fundamental teaching in the Scriptures regarding the Old Testament law. That law, which forbade homosexuality and the eating of shellfish, is no longer God's law for man.
In a lengthy discussion that begins in Hebrews 7, the writer of Hebrews argues that the Old Testament law (referred to as the first) was replaced by the New Testament (referred to as the second). He concludes in Hebrews 10:9 that Jesus "takes away the first that He may establish the second." Paul says in Galatians 3:19 that the Old Testament law "was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made" and tells us that the Seed was Jesus. Once Jesus came the old law ended and the law of Christ was established (Galatians 6:2).
So we must determine what the New Testament teaches about homosexuality and shellfish to know what we as Christians can do today.
Teaching Concerning Homosexuality and Shellfish. Here are the New Testament passages regarding shellfish and homosexuality.
Shellfish.
In a discussion about what is proper to eat Paul says, "For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving." 2 Timothy 4:4. The proper conclusion is that anyone may eat shellfish based on the teachings of the apostle Paul, who said, "If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord." (1 Corinthians 14:37).
Homosexuality.
The New Testament teaching regarding homosexuality is also clear and easy to understand. Consider these passages.
"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God." 1 Corinthians 6:9,10.
"For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them." Romans 1: 26-32
"For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; 5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly; 6 and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly." 2 Peter 2: 4-6
Homosexual and lesbian behavior is said by God to be unrighteous, vile, unnatural, shameful and ungodly. But those involved in such are not alone. Those committing adultery and fornication are in the same condition. So are those who murder and those who steal. As well as those who are disobedient to parents.
Inconsistency. Those who demean Christians with such material as "the musical" are inconsistent. The fake Jesus is clearly a mockery of the real Jesus and is an expression of intolerance toward Him. The fake Jesus accuses Christians of being unloving while the real Jesus says "If you love Me, keep my commandments." John 14:15. There is no expression of love for Jesus to be found in the video.
Legislation. Christians may try to force the Lord's ways on others through legislation but until they win the hearts of those in sin over to Christ, no battle has really been won. The homosexual and lesbian community may eventually and probably will secure the legislation they want. A legal victory may temporarily cause them feel justified in their behavior, but the final verdict is Christ's.
Jesus has spoken. His word is clear. All who are in sin must believe in Him (John 3:16), turn away from their sinful behavior in repentance (Luke 13:3), confess His Lordship over their lives (Romans 10:9,10), and be baptized in water to allow his blood to cleanse them of their sin (Acts 2:38; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:4). When one follows those teachings and lives faithfully to the Lord, it can be said of them, "...such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God." 1 Corinthians 6:11.
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