Social Christians

 Social Christians

The book of revelations speaks of the Church at Sardis. It states, 

“To the angel of the church in Sardis write: 

These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.  

Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your deeds complete in the sight of my God.  

Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; obey it, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you. 

Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy.  

He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and his angels.  

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelations 3:1-6. 

Here is a church that appears to be alive but is in fact dead. 

It is possible for a church to seem to be doing all the right things yet not be doing what God wants them to do.

There are many churches that hold great orchestrated praise and worship services. That follow a systematic study of the Bible. That have prayer meetings. Help the poor and much more.

    These churches on the outside look fine but all they are doing is following an empty scripted program. They are ministering to their congregation but not doing what God wants them to do.

That’s true for people to. An individual can seem like they have got it all together. They attend church both on Sunday and during the week. They go to prayer meetings even go to other Christian events. The trouble is they are simply doing it because they feel this is what a person should do. They are not doing what God wants them to do. They are as one person put it “social Christians”. 

I think these were the kind of Christians Jesus talked about when he said,

“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  

Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23

     Please think about it.

Types

Types
Jesus said,
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!”Matthew 7:21-23.
In our world today especially here in North America there are two kinds of Christians, “true believers”.
True believers are those who love Gods word. Who do their best every day to follow Christ in word and in deed. Those who’s life is truly centred around living as Christ would have them live.
The other kind of Christians are “social Christians”. Social Christians are men and women who are Christians because it is the thing to do. They may have said the sinners prayer. They may go to church every Sunday and during the week. They may even be pastors, evangelist, and priest. But their life does not reflect that of Christ. They fail to show the love and mercy of God to those around them be they family, friends, or foe.
These are the men and women Christ is talking about in the scripture above. Thus the question becomes what kind of Christian are you?
Please think about i

You Christians

You Christians
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Mahatma Gandhi wrote,

Jesus is ideal and wonderful, 

but you Christians - you are not like him.

                                            Mahatma Gandhi.

Michael Flynn wrote,
“Jesus said the weeds would grow with the wheat until the Judgement," Dietrich answered, "so one finds both good men and bad in the Church. By our fruits we will be known, not by what name we have called ourselves.” Michael Flynn, Eifelheim.
Sadly people look on people who claim to be Christians and assume they are. Nothing could be further from the truth. Just because someone claims to be Christian does not mean they are. Even if they can quote the whole Bible from memory.
Christians sadly, not wanting to judge others do not police themselves very well. Yet the apostle Paul said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Thus many in the world see the negative things that are done in the name of Christ and equate them with being Christians.
Like Jesus said
 “Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
What I would ask anyone outside the church who sees negative things done by anyone claiming to be a Christian is hold your judgement. For there are many, many Christians who are showing the love of Jesus. People who are living their life in a way that glorifies God.
Please think about it.

Christian?

Christian?
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Not everyone who says they are Christian is a follower of Christ Jesus. Just because someone goes to church does not make them a true follower of Christ. Just because someone is a minister or speaks from the pulpit be it in a church or in the media does not make them a true follower of Christ.
As I quoted Jesus saying,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Living in North America I see many people in the media and in church, who call themselves Christians but are not. A quick look at what they teach shows they are not true followers. A quick look at their lives shows they are far from Christ.
They may claim they are prophesying, driving out demons and performing miracles but are they really?
It’s hard to tell if such things are truly happening especially through the lense of the media. The media be it the internet, television or radio can hid the truth.
I always say while the media is a good way to proclaim the message of Christ Jesus one should always be careful. There are a lot of false teachers out there.
I believe it is imperative that first of all, all believers in Christ pray and read the Bible for themselves. To ask God for guidance and show them the truth.
I believe also it is equally imperative that all believers in Christ Jesus should be a part of a church congregation near where they live. This way you get to know who the pastor and teachers within the congregation are. You see their lives and see if they are truly following the teachings of Christ Jesus in word as well as in deed.
Please think about it.

Keep True to The Faith

Keep True to The Faith
The apostle Paul writing to Timothy states,
“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.  
Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.  
They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth.  
For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,  because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. 
If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.  
Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.  
For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 
This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance  (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:1-10.
Here the apostle Paul is telling Timothy a young minister to teach the word of God correctly. Not to stray from the truth. He tells Timothy that people will arise claiming to be teaching the Gospel message but are not. They are teaching things Jesus never taught.
Jesus told this parable about the church,
“Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field.  
But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away.  
When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. 
“The owner’s servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’ 
“ ‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. “The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ 
“ ‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them.  
Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.’” Matthew 13:24-30.
Christianity has been around for a long time and like anything that has been around for a long time it has picked up things that are not Christian. Things are done in the name of Christ and the church that are not true.
What the apostle Paul stated,
“...in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” is happening today.
There are those claiming to be Christians both in the media and out, that are not Christians. Such people will be around until the return of Jesus. Ultimately however they will be judged by God for their misdeeds. Ultimately what Jesus said when he said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23. Will happen.
For the moment however false teachers are still around thus we must be cautious.
To those on the outside of the church and to many within the church it can be hard to tell the difference between what is true and what is not. That is why Paul states,
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.”
In order to do this we need to study the Bible. We need to know what it says. What those who actually were there with Jesus said and believed.
Please think about it.

Watch out

Watch out
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.  
By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles?  
Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.  
A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.  
Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.  
Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. 
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 
Matthew 7: 15-23.
Jesus here warns believers to watch out for “false prophets”, false teachers. He notes that  “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
Christianity today in the twenty-first century like any faith or group of any kind that has been around a long time has people who call themselves Christian but are not.
They say they follow the teachings of Christ but one look at their life and lifestyle tells you they are a long way from Christ.
Now it must be said here the average Christian is far from perfect. However as someone once said

“Christians may not be perfect, but they are progressing

 toward what Jesus want for them in their life.” 

It can be hard for a non-believer or for that matter true Christians to tell who is a true Christian and who is not.
However I believe there are several things that mark a true believer in Christ. In brief they are,
1. They Love.
Jesus said,
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40.
2. They love even their enemy
Jesus said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,...” Matthew 5:43,44.
3. They obey Jesus who said,
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” Matthew 7:12.
4. They truly believe Jesus when He said

,“I am the way and the truth and the life. 

No one comes to the Father except through me.” 

 John 14:6

   5. They believe you get to heaven by the grace of God through faith. The apostle Paul saying,

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith

and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God

 not by works, so that no one can boast.”  

 Ephesians 2:8,9.

6. They believe in living at peace with all men. The apostle Paul saying,

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, 

live at peace with everyone.”

Romans 12:18

7. They will be subject to the rulers and authorities living a good life. Paul writing,

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, 

to be obedient, 

to be ready to do whatever is good,

  to slander no one, 

to be peaceable and considerate, 

and to show true humility toward all men.”

Titus 3:1,2.

A true Christian will also want to tell you about the most important thing in their life Jesus Christ. Obeying the words of Jesus who said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20.
A true Christian will do all of the above not only because it is what God requires of them but to show the non-believer the way to heaven. And that to a Christian is of paramount importance.
Please think about it.

Not Everyone is

Not everyone is
Jesus said,
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:21-23.
I hear non-Christians say all the time, “why should I become a Christian, because I see may who claim to be Christian. Who go to church all the time and my life is better than theirs.”
I see their point. I as a Christian know many who go to church who, judged by the way they act at least are not Christians.
Just because someone calls themselves a Christian and goes to church does not make them a Christian. That’s why Jesus said,  “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.’
Sadly over the centuries the Christian church has picked up a lot of baggage that is not Christian. The Christian faith has been used to justify everything from the crusades, to slavery to justifying injustice on various groups of people to killing thousands if not millions of non-Christians.
Today there are people calling themselves Christians, who are trying to restrict the rights of those they disagree with.
I as a Christian have my doubts that such people are Christian.
A Christian is called to by God to Love God, their neighbour and even their enemy. Jesus when asked
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
      And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40  
Jesus went further than that saying,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.  
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?  
  And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?  Matthew 5:43-47.
To be a Christian is to love all people. The apostle Paul setting the Christian standard for love when he wrote,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 
Love never fails....
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”  1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13.
To be a Christian is to do no less than to love all people.
What I would say to a non-Christian who sees a person calling themselves a Christian and not loving, not showing genuine love to those around the is disregard them.
There are true Christians out there. Men and women who truly love God, their neighbour, and even their enemy.
What I would suggest is visit a Church and ask the pastor what he or she believes and why.
Please think about it.

A note about Christians

A Note about Christians
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Throughout the centuries until the present day there are many who call themselves Christians who are not. It’s easy to call yourself a Christian quote some Bible references and not be a Christian. Going to church or saying you are a Christian does not make you a Christian anymore than standing in a fire station and calling yourself a fireman make you one.
There are many sitting in every church around the world today that are not Christians. There are may preachers, pastors, evangelist, priests and other preaching from the pulpit, be it in the church or in the electronic media that are not Christian.
Evangelical Christians in a nutshell will tell you that in order to be a Christian you must recognize Jesus as the One and Only Son of God, accept Him into your heart and life. That you must confess your sins to God. And accept the Saving Grace God offers you through Jesus.
It’s a simple and true formula. However far too many who call themselves Christians follow the formula only. They fail to let Jesus lead them. They fail to follow the teachings of Christ. They do things that God never intended them to do.
A true Christian is called to love God, their neighbour and even their enemy to do less is to question if the person is a Christian at all.
Jesus when asked,
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40
Jesus also said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,...” Matthew 5:43,44
Note Jesus tells Christian to Love God, their neighbour, and even their enemy.
Jesus tells Christians
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:1,2.
The apostle Paul states,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Christians are not allowed to judge those outside the church that is God’s job. Christians may judge those inside the church but that is to make sure the person is teaching the word of God correctly.
The apostle Paul tells Christians
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  
gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”   Galatians 5:22,23.
Here the apostle Paul tell Christians what attributes a Christian should show in their life. Positive things, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  Attributes respected by all people.
James the half brother of Jesus said,
“What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?  
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.  
If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?  
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 
But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.  
You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. 
You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?” James 2:14-20.
What James is telling Christians is that Christianity while believing the individual is saved by the grace of God. That same faith should result in actions to help the needy and others.
The Writer of Hebrew tells Christians,
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14.
This is what it is to be a true Christian. To be and do less is to question if a person is truly committed to Christ.
Please think about it.

About Christians

About Christians
Mahatma Gandhi wrote,
"Jesus is ideal and wonderful, but you Christians - you are not like him.”
Mahatma Gandhi.
I as a Christian believe what Gandhi said with a caveat. I would say many whom Gandhi seen who called themselves Christians were not indeed Christians. They were not following the teachings and lifestyle that Jesus requires of all believers.
Jesus even said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:22,23.
Just because someone says they are a Christian or goes to church does not make them a Christian.
There is in the United States especially and to a lesser degree in Canada a, for lack of a better term “Christian culture”. People who grow up in the church and go to it because their parents and grandparents went to church. They can quote parts of the Bible but are far from being a true Christian.
A true Christian follows the teachings and lifestyle Christ asks of them. A true Christian has accepted Christ as their Lord and Saviour. They believe that Jesus is the Son of God the Saviour of mankind.
They believe what the apostle Paul wrote when he said,
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—  not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8,9.
They believe what Jesus said when asked,
 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  Matthew 22:36-38
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40.
Jesus also tells Christians,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,...” Matthew 5:43,44.
They believe what Jesus said,
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:1,2
          The apostle Paul saying,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?” 1 Corinthians 5:12.
They believe what the writer of Hebrews said,
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14.
This is what a true Christian believes and puts into action.
A true Christian truly believes they have the most important message the world needs to hear and does what Jesus said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20.
Please think about it.

About Christians

About Christians
Mahatma Gandhi said,
“Jesus is ideal and wonderful, but you Christians - you are not like him.”
I am convinced from this statement of Gandhi’s that he met many people claiming to be Christians that were most definitely not.
 I as a Christian can see what he was saying is correct.
Many calling themselves “Evangelical Christians” particularly in the United States and to a lesser degree in Canada, mix politics with religion. This is not a good combination. Someone once told me,
“Mixing politics and religion is like mixing water with gasoline. The gasoline is unusable and the water is undrinkable. Not only that it is a flammable and destructive mix.”
Jesus however knew this would happen he said,
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7:21-23.
The Apostle Paul wrote,
“For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.  
They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.” 2Timothy 4:3,4.
This is happening today.
The Church is old. It has gained a lot of baggage over the centuries. Baggage Christ and God never intended it to have. People have in the name of Christianity committed murder, launched crusades and done unspeakable things. But the same can be said of almost all groups in the world.
For me being a Christian is to want to tell people about the most important thing in my life Jesus Christ. Jesus said,
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12.
He said when asked,
 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40
He also said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” Matthew 5:43-45.
Simply put anyone who calls themself a Christian and do not practice Love of God, Love for your neighbour, and love for your enemy, I would doubt you are a Christian at all.
The Christian message sadly has to a degree been highjacked particularly here in North America, by people both in the media and out, who call themselves Christians who are not.
Still the message of Christ is going forth. The message true Christians want non-Christian to hear is simple.
Jesus said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.
Jesus makes it clear who he is when he says,
“...“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” 
John 14:6.
The apostle Paul tells us,
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8
The apostle John tells us,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.  
If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.” 1John 1:9-10.
Paul speaking to the Corinthians said,
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—  not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8,9.
Writing to the Romans Paul says,
“That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.  
As the Scripture says, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”  
For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him,  for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved”
Romans 10:9-13.
The true Christian will tell you that through Jesus God entered the world out of love for the man He created. Offering each individual the free gift of Salvation.
C. S. Lewis said,
“He died not for men, but for each man. If each man had been the only man made, He would have done no less.”  
  Thus you have a Choice. Speaking of himself Jesus said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son”. John 3:16-18.
Please think about it.

Sometimes I shake my head

Sometimes I shake my head.
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                                               1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Sometimes I shake my head when I listen to things that are happening in the United States. Not so long ago I heard of a store that didn’t want to serve gays. They said it was against their belief as Christians.
For me when I heard this I immediately thought of the bad old days of segregation when there were those who refused to serve people because of the colour of their skin.
I wonder would the people who want the right not to serve gays, would they extend that to Muslims, to Atheist?
Would they refuse to serve someone who commits adultery after all adultery is wrong according to Christian belief. Would these people even turn the clock all the way back and not serve people based on skin colour?
Think of the message they are sending. They are claiming to be Christians but are saying to a segment of society that they are not welcome. That is not the way to win souls for Christ.
As Christians we must follow the teachings of Christ. Christ did not discriminate. In Christ’s day tax collectors were considered sinners. Yet Christ had dinner with them. Matthew’s gospel records,
“While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and “sinners” came and ate with him and his disciples.  
When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and ‘sinners’?” 
On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.  
But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” 
                         Matthew 9:10-13.
In  John 4:6-26, John records Jesus as speaking to a Samaritan woman. Jews and Samaritans didn’t speak to each other at that time. Samaritans were discriminated against. Yet Jesus spoke to this woman, who was also an adulteress.
The fact is we are all sinners. The apostle Paul stating,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” 
                                                                                  Romans 3:23,
That all means all, you, me and all who are living or have ever lived. The apostle Paul states,
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” 
Romans 5:8.
Paul also makes it clear that Christians are not to judge those outside the Church he states,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                                         1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Jesus speaking of Himself said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
            John 3:16,17 
Jesus showed by example how we are to reach the world. Jesus showed that we are to welcome everyone in love. Jesus told us to love God, our neighbour and even our enemy. He told us to go into all the world and make disciple of all nations. We cannot do that if we discriminate against even one person.
The apostle Peter said,
“Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.  
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 
                                                                                         1 Peter 2:11,12.
The Writer of Hebrews said,
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” 
Hebrews 12:14.
A true Christian one who is dedicated to Christ and doing His work in this world will welcome with open arms anyone. They will do there best to live at peace with all men and open a dialogue between themselves and others that they may reach that person to Christ.
I believe as a Christian I and all Christians have a duty to love God, our neighbour and even our enemy. We are to offer in love, the same choice Jesus gave to us when speaking of Himself said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son”. 
                                                                                                              John 3:16-18.
This for me is the most important choice ever offered to mankind.
Unfortunately there are many in the world who think they are Christians but are in name only. Jesus even said,
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  
Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 
                                                                                                                        Matthew 7:21-23.
It is these people, people who say they are Christians that are not, that distort the message of Christ in the eyes of non-Christians.
Please think about it.

The Church and Fake Christians

The Church and Fake Christians
The Apostle Paul writes,
“For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.  
They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.” .
                                                                                                     2Timothy 4:3,4.
I as a Christian admit there are men and women in the media and churches that are not putting up with sound doctrine. This should not be so.
False teachers can be hard to spot as they sound good. They put scripture together in such away that it’s hard to tell if they are right or wrong at times.
We had a man come to preach at our little church once. Our pastor was going on holiday and this man a former pastor himself came recommended.
I happened to be on sound that day and from the sound booth I could see he was getting the congregation excited.
Unfortunately he wasn’t far into his sermon when he started to misquote scriptures. There were several afterwards that came up to me and mentioned that what he was saying was wrong. I knew it, and took the tape and a written transcript of the tape of the sermon to our pastor noting the errors, when he returned the next week. These were errors a Sunday School child could see.
In the eighty minute plus sermon there were dozens of errors. But because he was an excellent speaker, he made the garbage he spouted sound good.
The sad thing in all of this was the majority of the congregation did not see the errors. They trusted the man because he was in the pulpit.
Christians are not alone every institution has it’s charlatans. In the secular world one only has to look at wall street. Thousands of people trusted Bernie Madoff and many lost their life savings.
Daily there are many around the world falling for phone scams and other tricks.
   One should not look on someone calling themself a Christian, who quotes from the Bible and judge them to be a Christian simply because it may not be so.
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 
                                                                                                          Matthew 7:22,23.
For non-Christians it can be very hard to see a real Christian from a fake. There are however some things that are evident.
Most if not all good Christian ministries make their finances public.
In the case of the church I attend and all churches and charities in Canada, they must give an accounting as to where the money goes, to their congregations yearly. That includes how much is paid out in wages and benefits to the pastor and staff.
Also when it comes down to teaching in the church. The Bible is the absolute authority. Additionally while there may be minor differences in interpretation the basics, are still the same.
The Apostles Creed while not written by the apostles gives the basic beliefs of Christians,
1. I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth:
2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord:
3. Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary:
4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, died and buried: He descended into hell:
5. The third day he rose again from the dead:
6. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father      Almighty:
7. From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead:
8. I believe in the Holy Ghost:
9. I believe in the holy catholic** church: the communion of saints:
10. The forgiveness of sins:
11. The resurrection of the body:
12. And the life everlasting. Amen.
**that is, the true Christian church of all times and all places.
Another clue as to a whether a church congregation or preacher is a legitimate Christian is they are open to questions. You should be able to approach the senior pastor and ask him or her questions about their beliefs.
In our church and many other churches I know big and small you can do just that and the pastor will take time to explain what they believe and why.
Our church is only small but we conduct our bible study in a very open way. I lead the study but everyone in the study has the right to give their interpretation of what they are studying, and the reason they believe so. If people disagree with the interpretation they are free to express their disagreements and explain why they disagree. We do not accept the answer “such and such a preacher said so”. People are expected to think and back their beliefs from the scriptures.
Everything is up for debate.
It is our goal to get to the unadulterated truth in what we are studying. We used  various commentaries, not just one. We delve into the history books and other resources  if necessary to understand things.
    It has resulted in the changing of some peoples minds on what they believed on some important issues.
I and other leaders in the church find that encouraging people to study the Bible themselves and asking questions is a good thing.
It keeps everyone on their toes and seeking truth.
This is what all who call themselves Christians should be doing.
Christianity is not a dictatorship. And good churches while they do have a doctrinal statement they follow is always open to questions.
So for those non-Christians reading this I would encourage you to start reading at least the New Testament and think about attending a local church. I recommend Baptist churches because they are open an honest about what they believe no matter where they are in the world.
Please think about it.

Of "Some Christians" and storm troopers

Of “Some Christians” and Storm Troopers
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 
                                                      Matthew 28:18-20.
Note in the above quote from Jesus never said go and protest against the government of Rome or overthrow the religious leaders of the day. He said,
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Jesus in a nutshell taught his disciples to Love God, their neighbour and even their enemy. He made it clear that He was the way to heaven.
Over and over again in the teachings of Jesus and the apostle we read,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”  
                                                                                                      Romans 12:18
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,  to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.” 
                         Titus 3:1,2
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  
gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”  
                                                                                  Galatians 5:22,23.
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.” 
                                                                                           1 Peter 2:12.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
                                                                                                    Matthew 5:9.
Sadly I have heard those calling themselves Christians who were protesting outside of an abortion clinic and protesting against same sex marriage, storm troopers.
These people have not learned from history. Hitler tried to change the world by force. To impose his view on people. To no avail. Sadly however to stop his madness cost in excess of fifty-six million lives.
In the 1920's in the United States, “holier than thou” people passed the prohibition laws yet if some reports are to be believed more alcohol was consumed during prohibition than before it and not only that the money went into the hands of criminals.
Prior to legalizing of abortions, abortions were carried out sometimes with tragic consequences not only to the child but to the mother.
When it comes to same sex marriages it’s a moot point whether to call them marriages or civil unions it’s the same thing. Christians don’t own the word marriage.
Not only that those who oppose same sex marriage and abortion are not considering God in all of this. God knows what is right and wrong. It is God and God alone that must judge every individual and that includes those protesting.
Tony Campolo the American evangelist got it right when he said,
“We ought to get out of the judging business. We should leave it up to God to determine who belongs in one arena or another when it comes to eternity. What we are obligated to do is to tell people about Jesus, and that's what I do.”
                               Tony Campolo.
The apostle Paul wrote,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                             1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Sadly those calling themselves Christians and wishing to impose Christian values on people are committing a sin. They are judging others when they themselves certainly have sin in their lives.
You cannot legislate morality it must come from within the person. You cannot impose by force your values on anyone. They will not listen. That’s why the Apostle Paul said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church?”
We can however judge those inside the church the apostle Paul saying,
“Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
In demonstrating against anyone or protesting to restrict the rights of those who are not hurting anyone is simply wrong.
The time, money and effort used to protest could be better spent on evangelism. On providing well publicized alternatives positive alternatives to abortion.
On reaching out and building bridges to the LGBT community.
Christianity is first and foremost a faith of Love. Love for God, one’s neighbour and even one’s enemy. We should be living our lives in such a way that non-Christians want to at the very least emulate us.
The Writer of Hebrews tells us,
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” 
          Hebrews 12:14
Unfortunately many calling themselves Christians fail to read and understand Hebrews 12:14.
If they don’t change I believe many of those who are protesting will be judged by God and hear the words Jesus who said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” 
                                                                                           Matthew 7:22,23.
Please think about it.

Not all Christians are

Not all are Christians are

“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
                                                                                                            Matthew 7:22,23.
Here is a note to non-Christians. Not all who claim to be Christians are indeed Christians. They run the spectrum from those who wish to separate people from their money to those who are simply misguided.
While there is within Christianity a differences of interpretation of some passages of Scripture. All true Christians have a common set of beliefs. These beliefs are summed up in the Apostles creed.
Although not written by the apostles it does sum up basic Christian beliefs. It states,

1. I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth:

2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord:

3. Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary:

4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead and buried:

 He descended into hell:

5. The third day he rose again from the dead:

6. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty:

7. From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead:

8. I believe in the Holy Ghost:

9. I believe in the holy catholic** church: the communion of saints:

10. The forgiveness of sins:

11. The resurrection of the body:

12. And the life everlasting. Amen.

(**that is, the true Christian church of all times and all places).

True Christians believe the words of Jesus who when asked,
 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” 
                                                                                       Matthew 22:36-40
Jesus also said
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
                                                                                       Matthew 5:43,44 
A true Christian will take to heart and practice what the apostle Paul wrote,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.  
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink...” 
    Romans 12:18-20a
A True Christian will love and not judge. Again they will follow the teachings of the apostle Paul who said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                                                1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
If those claiming to be Christians are not following these basics I would question if they really are Chrsitians.
Please think about it.

Of Christians and others

Of Christians and others
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                                              1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
The other day I heard a person claiming to be a Christian criticising what he called the “homosexual community”. He was saying those in the LGBT community were all going to Hell.
If there is one thing that gets me up set, it is when someone claiming to be a Christian attacks people in the LGBT community.
Christians have no right to criticise or attack anyone. The scripture I quoted above makes it clear we as Christians have no right to judge those outside the church and a true Christian will not.
I have found over the years that those who “claim to be Christians” and attack those outside their faith may in fact not be Christians. If they are they are by the slimmest of margins and are not interpreting the Bible correctly.
We as Christians are to follow the example and the teachings of Christ.
Jesus never once attacked anyone outside his faith. He a Jew criticized those Jewish leaders who were misinterpreting scripture. But as a Jew he had that right.
If we look at the life of Jesus he never criticized the Roman government. Nor did any of his disciples.
The Apostle Paul when visiting Athens with all the temples to various god’s never criticized them. Nor did Paul or any of the disciples criticize the life and lifestyle of those who were not of their faith.
It is wrong for a Christian to speak ill of those outside their faith.
Christians have one job to do. That is to reach people with the love of God. Jesus said,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
                                                                           Matthew 28:18-20.
Christians are not to attack or judge anyone. The message we are to take into the world is simple. It was expressed by Jesus and recorded by the apostle John.
Jesus said,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son”. 
                                                                                                           John 3:16-18.
This is a message we as Christians are to present to the world. It is up to those who hear that message to believe it or not.
To attack those of a different lifestyle, faith, or ethnicity is wrong and not in keeping with the teachings of Jesus and may have eternal consequences.
Please think about it.

Of Christians

Of Christians

“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 
                                                                                Matthew 28:18-20.
The above scripture from the gospel of Matthew says it all. The job of the Christian is to go into all the world make disciples and teach the new converts and anyone else who will listen what Jesus taught.
Jesus did not at any time say go and protest outside of abortion clinics. He never told us to protest against laws that granted people of different lifestyles, races and religions the same rights as us.
Jesus and his followers never protested against the secular civil authorities of Rome.
True he did speak against the wrong practices of Jewish religious leaders of his day. But Jesus was a Jew and had the right to do so. Still even with the religious leadership he never led protests, nor did his disciples.
The early Christian church was persecuted by Jews and Gentiles alike yet the early church never protested demanding their rights.
This is the way Christians should be today. We Christians should be reaching out to the world in love.
Only when our right to worship as we see fit, or the rights of others are being restricted should Christians be protesting the government.
The apostle Paul who suffered persecution under the emperor Nero, one of the most vicious persecutors of Christians said,
“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” 
                                                                                                                                  Romans 13:1.
The apostle Paul also said,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?  
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.” 
                                                                                          1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
Calling all Christians everywhere to refrain from judging those outside the church and keep our own house in order. Reminding us only God has the right to judge people. For only God knows why a person is the way they are. Only God knows the hearts of the individual.
Tony Campolo the American evangelist said,
“These issues are biblical issues: to care for the sick, to feed the hungry, to stand up for the oppressed. I contend that if the evangelical community became more biblical, everything would change.”
Tony Campolo
I agree with him. Sometimes you have to help those you fundamentally disagree with. But in doing so you also build bridges between you and them.
The words of the Apostle Peter are as true today as they were when he wrote them. Peter said,
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 
                                                                                          1 Peter 2:12.
For me a Christian is not just someone who believes Jesus is the Son of God the Saviour of mankind. One who has accepted Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour. A Christian to me is much more. They are people who are following the teachings of Jesus.
Jesus when asked
 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’  
This is the first and greatest commandment.  
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” 
                                                                                   Matthew 22:36-40
Jesus also calls believers in Him to go one step further saying,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
                                                                                                         Matthew 5: 43,44
The apostle Paul writes,
“On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink....”
      Romans 12:20a.
To be a Christian is to show love and understanding not just to those who agree with you. Those of your faith, but to God, your neighbour whoever he or she may be, as well as to your enemy.
As I a Christian look at those who call themselves Christians here in North America I see many who need to read the bible and the teachings of Jesus again lest they hear the words of Jesus who said,
“Many will say to me  on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’  
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ 
                                                                                                                   Matthew 7:22,23
Please think about it.