Please Excuse the Christian
Jesus told this parable,
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
Matthew 13:44-46.
Please excuse the Christian if he or she wants to tell you about Jesus. If they seem over eager or overly exuberant at wanting to tell you about Jesus.
You must remember that for we Christians the most important thing in our life is finding Jesus. Is realizing that Jesus is as he said,
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6.
Christians believe the words of Jesus who 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.
Christians believe that in accepting Christ they know here and now in this life that they are going to heaven.
That eternal life with God is an act of Love on God’s part.
That it is a gift from God. The apostle Paul explaining,
“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.
As Jesus explained in the parable at the beginning of this article
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.
When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
Matthew 13:44-46.
So I can hope you understand that because knowing Jesus in a personal way is so important to us as Christians it is only logical that we would want to share that experience with all people whoever they may be.
Please think about it.
Sunday, 6 December 2015
Saturday, 5 December 2015
Your Choice
Your choice
C. S. Lewis wrote,
“He shows much more of Himself to some people than to others-not because He has favourites, but because it is impossible for Him to show Himself to a man whose whole mind and character are in the wrong condition.”
C. S. Lewis.
God exists I believe it. I also believe that Jesus is the one and only Son of God. That He is God incarnate and that He is the Saviour of mankind. These are basic beliefs of Christians.
In order to believe what I do I had to be open to the possibility that God did exist and that he is all powerful able if he wished to do anything. That includes to take a small part of his infiniteness and send that part we know as Jesus into the world He created.
The decision I made was based on what I read in the bible. After reading it, I, while unable to see God I made a leap of faith based on the facts I’d read.
The writer of Hebrews stating,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”.
Hebrews 11:1
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.’”
Hebrews 11:6
This is a decision each individual must make.
In creating man God gave him a freewill. In order for man to have true freewill God allowed man to decide for himself whether God is real or not.
So the choice is yours.
Do you believe in God and that Jesus Christ is His one and Only Son?
Please think about it.
C. S. Lewis wrote,
“He shows much more of Himself to some people than to others-not because He has favourites, but because it is impossible for Him to show Himself to a man whose whole mind and character are in the wrong condition.”
C. S. Lewis.
God exists I believe it. I also believe that Jesus is the one and only Son of God. That He is God incarnate and that He is the Saviour of mankind. These are basic beliefs of Christians.
In order to believe what I do I had to be open to the possibility that God did exist and that he is all powerful able if he wished to do anything. That includes to take a small part of his infiniteness and send that part we know as Jesus into the world He created.
The decision I made was based on what I read in the bible. After reading it, I, while unable to see God I made a leap of faith based on the facts I’d read.
The writer of Hebrews stating,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”.
Hebrews 11:1
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.’”
Hebrews 11:6
This is a decision each individual must make.
In creating man God gave him a freewill. In order for man to have true freewill God allowed man to decide for himself whether God is real or not.
So the choice is yours.
Do you believe in God and that Jesus Christ is His one and Only Son?
Please think about it.
Thursday, 3 December 2015
Lesson from a Blacksmith
Lesson from a blacksmiths
For centuries there have been people who have said Christianity, will disappear. It has not. From the days of it’s inception people have come against Christ.
They crucified Christ yet he arose from the grave walked the earth briefly and ascended to heaven.
The followers of Christ have taken the gospel to the ends of the world.
As you read this Christianity is still welcoming converts even in parts of the world where being a Christian can lead to jail or death.
Christianity is of God.
The book of Acts records an incident where two of Jesus’ apostles were preaching in his name after the resurrection and ascension of Christ.
The book states,
“We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.”
Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than men!
The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree.
God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel.
We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death.
But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while.
Then he addressed them: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men.
Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing.
After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered.
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail.
But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
Acts 5:28-39
Gamaliel was right. Christianity is of God and the message we Christians bring is true. The choice is however up to you.
Do you believe Jesus is the Son of God, God incarnate, God in the flesh, the Saviour of mankind or not.
Please think about it.
Last eve I passed beside a blacksmith’s door,
And heard the anvil ring the vesper chime;
Then, looking in, I saw upon the floor
Old hammers, worn with beating years of time.
“How many anvils have you had,” said I,
“To wear and bater all these hammers so?”
“Just one,” said he, and then, with twinkling eye,
The anvil wears the hammers out, you know.”
And so, thought I, the anvil of God’s Word,
For ages skeptic blows have beat upon;
Yet, though the noise of falling blows was heard,
The anvil is unharmed - and hammers gone.
Anonymous.For centuries there have been people who have said Christianity, will disappear. It has not. From the days of it’s inception people have come against Christ.
They crucified Christ yet he arose from the grave walked the earth briefly and ascended to heaven.
The followers of Christ have taken the gospel to the ends of the world.
As you read this Christianity is still welcoming converts even in parts of the world where being a Christian can lead to jail or death.
Christianity is of God.
The book of Acts records an incident where two of Jesus’ apostles were preaching in his name after the resurrection and ascension of Christ.
The book states,
“We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.”
Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than men!
The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree.
God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel.
We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death.
But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while.
Then he addressed them: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men.
Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing.
After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered.
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail.
But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
Acts 5:28-39
Gamaliel was right. Christianity is of God and the message we Christians bring is true. The choice is however up to you.
Do you believe Jesus is the Son of God, God incarnate, God in the flesh, the Saviour of mankind or not.
Please think about it.
Wednesday, 2 December 2015
You and God
You and God
“No one can read the Gospels without feeling the actual presence of Jesus. His personality pulsates in every word. No myth is filled with such life.… No man can deny the fact that Jesus existed, nor that his sayings are beautiful.”
Albert Einstein
There are many people out there who would deny Christ existed. I disagree and frankly feel they are misguided. The overwhelming evidence is that Jesus existed.
The eternal question people have to ask themselves is who is Jesus.
The gospel of John records this conversation between Jesus and Martha
“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
“Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”
John 11:25-27.
While Martha believed Jesus is the Christ the Son of God, many today as then did not believe.
Jesus made many statements about himself. He said,
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6b.
He made the following statement about himself saying,
“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.
These are important statements that you must believe or reject there is no middle ground. C. S. Lewis noted,
“I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don’t accept his claim to be God. That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic — on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg — or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at him and kill him as a demon or you can fall at his feet and call him Lord and God, but let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about his being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.”
C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity.
The choice is up to you.
Most people think they know who Jesus is and have never read the New Testament for themselves. I would ask you the reader to read the New Testament for yourself. For it is only reading it for yourself that you can make a truly informed decision as to who Jesus is.
Please think about it.
“No one can read the Gospels without feeling the actual presence of Jesus. His personality pulsates in every word. No myth is filled with such life.… No man can deny the fact that Jesus existed, nor that his sayings are beautiful.”
Albert Einstein
There are many people out there who would deny Christ existed. I disagree and frankly feel they are misguided. The overwhelming evidence is that Jesus existed.
The eternal question people have to ask themselves is who is Jesus.
The gospel of John records this conversation between Jesus and Martha
“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
“Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”
John 11:25-27.
While Martha believed Jesus is the Christ the Son of God, many today as then did not believe.
Jesus made many statements about himself. He said,
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6b.
He made the following statement about himself saying,
“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.
These are important statements that you must believe or reject there is no middle ground. C. S. Lewis noted,
“I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don’t accept his claim to be God. That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic — on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg — or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at him and kill him as a demon or you can fall at his feet and call him Lord and God, but let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about his being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.”
C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity.
The choice is up to you.
Most people think they know who Jesus is and have never read the New Testament for themselves. I would ask you the reader to read the New Testament for yourself. For it is only reading it for yourself that you can make a truly informed decision as to who Jesus is.
Please think about it.
Tuesday, 1 December 2015
A Warning
A Warning
“As for cancer or any potentially life threatening situation. You can look at it two ways. One as a thief.
A thief comes and steals what is most precious, your faith.
The other a Messenger.
A messenger that reminds you of your mortality and draws you closer to God.”
Author Unknown.
Cancer is one of the worst things that can happen to a person. Most people regard it as a thief as they would any terminal illness.
But the author above makes a good point when he says you can regard it as “a messenger that reminds you of your mortality and the need to draw closer to God.”
That’s of course if you believe in God. If you don’t and you see nothing beyond the grave any terminal illness can make you worry. After all you are being robbed of the one thing everyone values most, their life.
As a believer in Christ, believer in God I have no fear of death. Death is simply a transition from this life to the next with God. I know where I will spend eternity.
My Pastor showed me how faith in God can give you peace.
I have a great deal of respect for my pastor. He is a man of great faith. He gives praise to God every day of his life in the good times and in the bad.
Five years ago he was diagnosed with colon cancer and told he wouldn’t live more than two years even with surgery and chemotherapy and radiation.
In fact the doctor who did the surgery on him said he would not have gone in had he realized it was so bad. Still he cut away what he could and my pastor underwent Chemotherapy.
My pastor admitted he was down when he first got the news but he said he realized that he served a great and loving God and that His will would prevail.
He took comfort in the fact that God had been there for him in the good times and would now be with him in the bad. And he would be content with God’s will being done in his life.
His trust was well founded. Today five years later they cannot find the cancer and he gives the praise to God.
Talking privately with him he told me that as a Christian he was in a win, win situation. That with Christ as his Saviour he knew where his eternal resting place was. That he would go to heaven. Where there was no more suffering and pain.
At the same time if God had more for him to do here on earth God would heal him and let him continue in his ministry and be with his family.
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.
I myself have proven the words of Jesus to be true. I too had cancer shortly after my operation I developed large blood clots on my lungs and in my groin. They almost killed me. I admit it bothered me. But, and I know this seems odd to the conventional mind, I had peace that God would make things right.
I remembered the twenty-third psalm
The Psalmist wrote,
I made Christ Lord of my life over forty years ago and I can honestly say he has been with me through all that time.
I today am cancer free but still live with Bi-polar disorder (manic depression) an incurable illness that at times causes me a great deal of grief. Never-the-less I know God is with me.
With Christ in my life I am able to do all things. As the apostle Paul wrote,
“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13.
For me knowing God is there for me in good times and bad, makes life worthwhile. Gives life meaning and enriches my very being.
Do you believe in God? Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour? Where will you spend eternity?
Please think about it.
“As for cancer or any potentially life threatening situation. You can look at it two ways. One as a thief.
A thief comes and steals what is most precious, your faith.
The other a Messenger.
A messenger that reminds you of your mortality and draws you closer to God.”
Author Unknown.
Cancer is one of the worst things that can happen to a person. Most people regard it as a thief as they would any terminal illness.
But the author above makes a good point when he says you can regard it as “a messenger that reminds you of your mortality and the need to draw closer to God.”
That’s of course if you believe in God. If you don’t and you see nothing beyond the grave any terminal illness can make you worry. After all you are being robbed of the one thing everyone values most, their life.
As a believer in Christ, believer in God I have no fear of death. Death is simply a transition from this life to the next with God. I know where I will spend eternity.
My Pastor showed me how faith in God can give you peace.
I have a great deal of respect for my pastor. He is a man of great faith. He gives praise to God every day of his life in the good times and in the bad.
Five years ago he was diagnosed with colon cancer and told he wouldn’t live more than two years even with surgery and chemotherapy and radiation.
In fact the doctor who did the surgery on him said he would not have gone in had he realized it was so bad. Still he cut away what he could and my pastor underwent Chemotherapy.
My pastor admitted he was down when he first got the news but he said he realized that he served a great and loving God and that His will would prevail.
He took comfort in the fact that God had been there for him in the good times and would now be with him in the bad. And he would be content with God’s will being done in his life.
His trust was well founded. Today five years later they cannot find the cancer and he gives the praise to God.
Talking privately with him he told me that as a Christian he was in a win, win situation. That with Christ as his Saviour he knew where his eternal resting place was. That he would go to heaven. Where there was no more suffering and pain.
At the same time if God had more for him to do here on earth God would heal him and let him continue in his ministry and be with his family.
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.
I myself have proven the words of Jesus to be true. I too had cancer shortly after my operation I developed large blood clots on my lungs and in my groin. They almost killed me. I admit it bothered me. But, and I know this seems odd to the conventional mind, I had peace that God would make things right.
I remembered the twenty-third psalm
The Psalmist wrote,
“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters,
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
Psalm 23I made Christ Lord of my life over forty years ago and I can honestly say he has been with me through all that time.
I today am cancer free but still live with Bi-polar disorder (manic depression) an incurable illness that at times causes me a great deal of grief. Never-the-less I know God is with me.
With Christ in my life I am able to do all things. As the apostle Paul wrote,
“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13.
For me knowing God is there for me in good times and bad, makes life worthwhile. Gives life meaning and enriches my very being.
Do you believe in God? Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour? Where will you spend eternity?
Please think about it.
Kindness & Love
Kindness & Love
Anne Frank wrote,
“Give of yourself, give as much as you can? And you can always, always give something, even if it is only kindness! If everyone were to do this and not be as mean with a kindly word, then there would be much more justice and love in the world. Give and you shall receive, much more than you would have ever thought possible. Give, give again and again, don’t lose courage, keep it up and go on giving! No one has ever become poor from giving!” Anne Frank
Anne Frank was a young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis in the Netherlands during world war two. She was eventually captured by the Nazis and died in a concentration camp.
Anne knew what it was to be hated simple because of who she was. She also understood kindness and love. The kindness and love of those who at their risk of their own life, hid her from the Nazis.
Our world is becoming a very harsh place. I listen to the leading Republican candidates saying they’ll get rid of all the illegal immigrants in the country. I hear various U.S. states saying they will not take in Syrian refugees.
I see nightly it seems on the news of police killing black men and others. People demonstrating against the legitimate rights of other people simply because of their sexual orientation.
Through all of this I ask where is the love?
Albert Einstein wrote,
“Not until the creation and maintenance of decent conditions of life for all men are recognized and accepted as a common obligation of all men and all countries—not until then shall we, with a certain degree of justification, be able to speak of mankind as civilized.”
Albert Einstein.
As I see it our society is becoming more and more secular. As it does it is becoming a much harsher place to live. Love seems to be absent or at least lost in the cacophony of sounds that make up our society.
The apostle Paul wrote what to me is the best definition of love ever written. He wrote,
Our society will not change until people, individuals, see the need to love. We as individuals can change the world around us if we just show love to our neighbour.
While people may disagree with who Jesus is there is one truth that I would say that all people can agree with. 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
Martin Luther King jr. said,
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Please think about it.
Anne Frank wrote,
“Give of yourself, give as much as you can? And you can always, always give something, even if it is only kindness! If everyone were to do this and not be as mean with a kindly word, then there would be much more justice and love in the world. Give and you shall receive, much more than you would have ever thought possible. Give, give again and again, don’t lose courage, keep it up and go on giving! No one has ever become poor from giving!” Anne Frank
Anne Frank was a young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis in the Netherlands during world war two. She was eventually captured by the Nazis and died in a concentration camp.
Anne knew what it was to be hated simple because of who she was. She also understood kindness and love. The kindness and love of those who at their risk of their own life, hid her from the Nazis.
Our world is becoming a very harsh place. I listen to the leading Republican candidates saying they’ll get rid of all the illegal immigrants in the country. I hear various U.S. states saying they will not take in Syrian refugees.
I see nightly it seems on the news of police killing black men and others. People demonstrating against the legitimate rights of other people simply because of their sexual orientation.
Through all of this I ask where is the love?
Albert Einstein wrote,
“Not until the creation and maintenance of decent conditions of life for all men are recognized and accepted as a common obligation of all men and all countries—not until then shall we, with a certain degree of justification, be able to speak of mankind as civilized.”
Albert Einstein.
As I see it our society is becoming more and more secular. As it does it is becoming a much harsher place to live. Love seems to be absent or at least lost in the cacophony of sounds that make up our society.
The apostle Paul wrote what to me is the best definition of love ever written. 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.Our society will not change until people, individuals, see the need to love. We as individuals can change the world around us if we just show love to our neighbour.
While people may disagree with who Jesus is there is one truth that I would say that all people can agree with. 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
Martin Luther King jr. said,
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Please think about it.
Sunday, 29 November 2015
Warning to all
Warning to all,
“There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day.
At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.
“The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried.
In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side.
So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’
“But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony.
And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’
“He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father’s house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’
“Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’
“ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’
“He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’ ”
Luke 16:19-31.
Here is a warning to all. 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.
In the above parable of Jesus. The rich man either didn’t fear God or did not believe in him. He lived his life without fear of consequences.
When he was finally brought before God for judgement he asked God to send Lazarus back to his brothers so that they wouldn’t make the same mistakes he made.
The parable then notes,
“Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’
“ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’
“He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’"
Christians believe someone, Jesus, did come back from the dead, and still people do not believe.
The apostle Paul notes,
“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.
Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.”
1 Corinthians 1:18-25
As long as man does not fear God or does not believe He exists individuals and groups will arise and do as they please. The extreme example are terrorist but there are others. Businessmen and women who pay their employers poor wages and benefits. Politicians who fail to help the poor and needy.
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.
Do you?
Please think about it.
“There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day.
At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.
“The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried.
In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side.
So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’
“But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony.
And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’
“He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father’s house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’
“Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’
“ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’
“He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’ ”
Luke 16:19-31.
Here is a warning to all. 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.
In the above parable of Jesus. The rich man either didn’t fear God or did not believe in him. He lived his life without fear of consequences.
When he was finally brought before God for judgement he asked God to send Lazarus back to his brothers so that they wouldn’t make the same mistakes he made.
The parable then notes,
“Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’
“ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’
“He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’"
Christians believe someone, Jesus, did come back from the dead, and still people do not believe.
The apostle Paul notes,
“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.
Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.”
1 Corinthians 1:18-25
As long as man does not fear God or does not believe He exists individuals and groups will arise and do as they please. The extreme example are terrorist but there are others. Businessmen and women who pay their employers poor wages and benefits. Politicians who fail to help the poor and needy.
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.
Do you?
Please think about it.
Saturday, 28 November 2015
The Way to Heaven
The way to heaven
The following is what I believe is the way to heaven. I believe it is simple and open to anyone, and I mean anyone to follow.
Ultimately salvation is an act of faith, Hebrews stating,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6
Faith defined as,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
Next it come down to who you think Jesus is and what his purpose on this earth was for, The gospel of John states,
“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.
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
Paul writing to the Romans said,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:23,24.
Sinning is falling short of what God wants for you life. Sin separates us from God and everyone no matter who they are sins,
John noting,
“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.”
1 John 1:9,10.
Paul make it clear salvation is not something we can work for. Paul writing to the Ephesians stating,
“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
Ultimately however like I said, salvation is an act of faith, Hebrews stating,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6
Will you accept Christ into your life today. If you are willing, you can pray this prayer,
Dear Heavenly Father,
I believe in You. I believe that Jesus is your one and only Son. That he came to earth to die for my sins.
Please forgive my sins this day and come into my life. That I may spend eternity with you.
In Jesus name I pray amen.
If you have prayed that prayer in all sincerity I would suggest that you now find a copy of the Bible. There is a free down load called the ‘you version’ bible app that allows you to download various version of the bible. It’s a good app.
When it comes to the Bible there are a lot of translations, I personally use the New International version and the New King James versions. They are in modern English and easy to read.
I recommend starting in the New Testament. You don’t have to read a lot each day. A chapter is good.
When you come to a genealogy such as in the first chapter of Matthew you might want to skip it, although it shows the link between Jesus and those in the Old Testament.
Before you read, pray and ask God to show you the truths within the scriptures, ask him to open your understanding to what is written.
Also pray and ask God to direct you to a good church congregation. One that you are comfortable in.
Congregations vary even within denominations and where you may not be comfortable in one you may in another. So look around.
As these blogs are read all over the world I cannot recommend a specific church. I tend to recommend Baptist churches as they in my opinion tend to interpret the scriptures correctly and their method of worship is fairly consistent around the world, as is the Salvation Army.
In Canada I also know that the Pentecostal Assemblies of God are a good organization as are the Assemblies of God in the United States.
Please take sometime and consider what I have written above.
Ultimately the decision to accept Christ into your life is between you and God. All I have done here is place before you what I believe.
Please think about it.
The following is what I believe is the way to heaven. I believe it is simple and open to anyone, and I mean anyone to follow.
Ultimately salvation is an act of faith, Hebrews stating,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6
Faith defined as,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
Next it come down to who you think Jesus is and what his purpose on this earth was for, The gospel of John states,
“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.
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
Paul writing to the Romans said,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Romans 3:23,24.
Sinning is falling short of what God wants for you life. Sin separates us from God and everyone no matter who they are sins,
John noting,
“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.”
1 John 1:9,10.
Paul make it clear salvation is not something we can work for. Paul writing to the Ephesians stating,
“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
Ultimately however like I said, salvation is an act of faith, Hebrews stating,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6
Will you accept Christ into your life today. If you are willing, you can pray this prayer,
Dear Heavenly Father,
I believe in You. I believe that Jesus is your one and only Son. That he came to earth to die for my sins.
Please forgive my sins this day and come into my life. That I may spend eternity with you.
In Jesus name I pray amen.
If you have prayed that prayer in all sincerity I would suggest that you now find a copy of the Bible. There is a free down load called the ‘you version’ bible app that allows you to download various version of the bible. It’s a good app.
When it comes to the Bible there are a lot of translations, I personally use the New International version and the New King James versions. They are in modern English and easy to read.
I recommend starting in the New Testament. You don’t have to read a lot each day. A chapter is good.
When you come to a genealogy such as in the first chapter of Matthew you might want to skip it, although it shows the link between Jesus and those in the Old Testament.
Before you read, pray and ask God to show you the truths within the scriptures, ask him to open your understanding to what is written.
Also pray and ask God to direct you to a good church congregation. One that you are comfortable in.
Congregations vary even within denominations and where you may not be comfortable in one you may in another. So look around.
As these blogs are read all over the world I cannot recommend a specific church. I tend to recommend Baptist churches as they in my opinion tend to interpret the scriptures correctly and their method of worship is fairly consistent around the world, as is the Salvation Army.
In Canada I also know that the Pentecostal Assemblies of God are a good organization as are the Assemblies of God in the United States.
Please take sometime and consider what I have written above.
Ultimately the decision to accept Christ into your life is between you and God. All I have done here is place before you what I believe.
Please think about it.
A universal truth
A universal truth
Here is something I write to Christians but the principles of Love and Forgiveness are universal truths therefore I set them before anyone who will listen.
Jesus while dying on the cross said,
“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing....” Luke 23:34a.
Matthew’s gospel records,
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?”
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
Matthew 18:21,22
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, 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
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
The apostle Paul wrote,
The apostle Paul also wrote,
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
Romans 12:9-18
The above scriptures are scriptures telling Christians how to live. Love and forgiveness being the principles that guide Christians. They as I said are universal truths.
The apostle Paul defines what love is and in his letter to the Romans makes it clear that our love must be sincere and as far as it depends on us to live at peace with everyone.
It is only when Christians and non-Christians alike learn these truths and practice them, that we can truly have peace in the world.
Please think about it.
Here is something I write to Christians but the principles of Love and Forgiveness are universal truths therefore I set them before anyone who will listen.
Jesus while dying on the cross said,
“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing....” Luke 23:34a.
Matthew’s gospel records,
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?”
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
Matthew 18:21,22
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, 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
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
The apostle Paul 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.The apostle Paul also wrote,
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
Romans 12:9-18
The above scriptures are scriptures telling Christians how to live. Love and forgiveness being the principles that guide Christians. They as I said are universal truths.
The apostle Paul defines what love is and in his letter to the Romans makes it clear that our love must be sincere and as far as it depends on us to live at peace with everyone.
It is only when Christians and non-Christians alike learn these truths and practice them, that we can truly have peace in the world.
Please think about it.
Friday, 27 November 2015
A time to love
A Time for Love,
Martin Luther King Jr. Said,
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
At this writing the terrorist attacks that claimed 130 lives in Paris happened about two weeks ago. Currently there is a massive manhunt in France, Belgium and elsewhere. For others connected to the bombings and other terrorist activities.
One thing that impressed me through all of this was the French President. When asked if he would stop Syrian refugees from entering France he said no. That it was the right thing to continue to accept them.
Here in Canada the government has announced that Canada will take in 25,000 refugees ten thousand before Christmas and the balance by the end of February.
Contrast this to the United States while the president wants to take the refugees in state after state seems to be saying they will not.
Republican presidential candidates are sowing fear by saying the States should not bring in refugees or at least limit them to “Christians”.
It’s shades of what happened during World War two when country after country refused entry to Jews suffering Nazi persecution.
Western countries and particularly the United States who calls themselves bastions of freedom should in love be welcoming these people.
Be you a Christian or not it is only the right thing to do, to help the helpless.
The Jews have a term called “Tzedakah” I a Christian thinks is appropriate for this situation,
The following is as good an explanation of Tzedakah. It comes from a Jewish website,
“Tzedakah is the Hebrew word for acts that we call charity in English: giving assistance and money to the poor and needy or to other worthy causes. However the nature of tzedakah is very different from the idea of charity. The word “charity suggests benevolence and generosity, a magnanimous act by the wealthy and the powerful for the benefit of he poor and needy.
The word “tzedakah” is derived form the Hebrew root Tzadei-dalet-Qof, meaning righteousness, justice or fairness. In Judaism giving to the poor is not viewed as a generous, magnanimous act, it is simply and act of righteousness, performance of a duty giving the poor their due.
Certain kinds of tzedakah are considered more meritorious than others. The Talmud describes these different levels of tzedakah, and Rambam (Jewish scholar) organized them into a list. The levels of charity from the least meritorious to the most meritorious, are:
“Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”
Emma Lazarus.
If ever there was a time for these words to be put into action it is now.
We, people of all faiths and beliefs need to be calling on our governments to reach out in love and welcome those in need.
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
It is time to reach out to our neighbours in distress around the world in love and offer them a safe place for them to live.
Please think about it.
Martin Luther King Jr. Said,
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
At this writing the terrorist attacks that claimed 130 lives in Paris happened about two weeks ago. Currently there is a massive manhunt in France, Belgium and elsewhere. For others connected to the bombings and other terrorist activities.
One thing that impressed me through all of this was the French President. When asked if he would stop Syrian refugees from entering France he said no. That it was the right thing to continue to accept them.
Here in Canada the government has announced that Canada will take in 25,000 refugees ten thousand before Christmas and the balance by the end of February.
Contrast this to the United States while the president wants to take the refugees in state after state seems to be saying they will not.
Republican presidential candidates are sowing fear by saying the States should not bring in refugees or at least limit them to “Christians”.
It’s shades of what happened during World War two when country after country refused entry to Jews suffering Nazi persecution.
Western countries and particularly the United States who calls themselves bastions of freedom should in love be welcoming these people.
Be you a Christian or not it is only the right thing to do, to help the helpless.
The Jews have a term called “Tzedakah” I a Christian thinks is appropriate for this situation,
The following is as good an explanation of Tzedakah. It comes from a Jewish website,
“Tzedakah is the Hebrew word for acts that we call charity in English: giving assistance and money to the poor and needy or to other worthy causes. However the nature of tzedakah is very different from the idea of charity. The word “charity suggests benevolence and generosity, a magnanimous act by the wealthy and the powerful for the benefit of he poor and needy.
The word “tzedakah” is derived form the Hebrew root Tzadei-dalet-Qof, meaning righteousness, justice or fairness. In Judaism giving to the poor is not viewed as a generous, magnanimous act, it is simply and act of righteousness, performance of a duty giving the poor their due.
Certain kinds of tzedakah are considered more meritorious than others. The Talmud describes these different levels of tzedakah, and Rambam (Jewish scholar) organized them into a list. The levels of charity from the least meritorious to the most meritorious, are:
Giving begrudgingly
Giving less than you should, bu giving cheerfully,
Giving after being asked
Giving before being asked
Giving when you do not know the recipient’s identity, but the recipient knows yours
Giving when you know and the recipient’s identity, but the recipient doesn’t know yours.
Giving when neither party knows the other’s identity.
Enabling the recipient to become self-reliant.
In New York harbour stands the Statue of Liberty. On it are these words by Emma Lazarus,“Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”
Emma Lazarus.
If ever there was a time for these words to be put into action it is now.
We, people of all faiths and beliefs need to be calling on our governments to reach out in love and welcome those in need.
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
It is time to reach out to our neighbours in distress around the world in love and offer them a safe place for them to live.
Please think about it.
Thursday, 26 November 2015
A Libertine, a sinner and a Saviour,
A Libertine, a sinner and a Saviour
“Thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondsman in the land of Egypt, and the Lord thy God redeemed thee.”
Deuteronomy 15:15.
I believe it’s at St. Mary Woolnoth an Anglican church in the City of London, that there is a plaque with the words,
“John Newton, clerk, once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was, by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he had long labored to destroy.”
To quote R. J. Morgan from the book 365 scriptures that changed the world (copy right Thomas Nelson Publishers 1998.)
“As a young man, Newton had been a seaman and slave trader whose mouth was a cesspool of profanity, and who liberally helped himself to the female slaves he transported.
But he also became a deserter, flogged by the British Navy, who was reduced to being the slave of a sadistic woman, herself a slave, in Africa.
Out of all this he was saved. And he became one of England’s greatest preachers, the author of the beloved hymn Amazing Grace.”
R. J. Morgan
Over his study desk he had this verse from Deuteronomy
“Thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondsman in the land of Egypt, and the Lord thy God redeemed thee.”
Deuteronomy 15:15.
He reportedly told a friend later in life “My memory is nearly gone; but I remember two things, that I am a great sinner and that Christ is a Great Saviour.”
John Newton’s conversion was dramatic. He went from being a man without principles. A man without a conscience to a man of great principles.
He spoke out against the slave trade and would go on to write hundreds of hymns 280 of which he combined with 68 hymns of William Cowper to form the Olney Hymnal.
We today can look on Newton and see how bad he was and say thank God I am nowhere near as bad as him. He needed a conversion experience. I am far better than him.
Many non Christians I believe today also look at people who go to church. People who claim to be Christians and say, “I know them. I know what they do outside of Church and it isn’t very Christian. Why should I become a Christian because I am better all around than they are.”
That may be so but not everyone who goes to church is a Christian. No everyone who say’s they are Christian are.
Many people as well as Preachers and evangelist will one day stand before God and find they are not accepted into heaven. Jesus saying,
“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.
When it comes to knowing Jesus as one’s Lord and Saviour it is up to the individual to decide. It is between the individual and God.
We should not look on those who are going to church or who claim to be Christians. Simply because many who claim to be Christians and go to church are not Christians.
Each individual needs to look within themselves and ask themselves “am I truly good enough to go to heaven?”
I believe if we are honest with ourselves the answer will be no.
No one is good enough to stand before a holy God.
Isaiah the prophet said,
“All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.”
Isaiah 64:6.
That is why Jesus came.
Another self admitted sinner the apostle Paul wrote these words,
“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
‘But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.”
1 Timothy 1:15,16
I firmly believe that we as individuals must search our heart of hearts and in all humility admit that there is sin in our life. Sin is falling short of God’s ideal for our life.
Then we must turn to Jesus, recognize that he is the One and only Son of God, who died for our sins and ask him to forgive our sins and come into our hearts and lives.
The apostle John telling 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
I believe it is only through Christ that we can truly have our sins forgiven, have our lives changed and spend eternity with God.
Again the apostle John noting,
“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”
John 1:12,13
It happened to John Newton. It happened to the Apostle Paul and it can happen to you.
Please think about it.
“Thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondsman in the land of Egypt, and the Lord thy God redeemed thee.”
Deuteronomy 15:15.
I believe it’s at St. Mary Woolnoth an Anglican church in the City of London, that there is a plaque with the words,
“John Newton, clerk, once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was, by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he had long labored to destroy.”
To quote R. J. Morgan from the book 365 scriptures that changed the world (copy right Thomas Nelson Publishers 1998.)
“As a young man, Newton had been a seaman and slave trader whose mouth was a cesspool of profanity, and who liberally helped himself to the female slaves he transported.
But he also became a deserter, flogged by the British Navy, who was reduced to being the slave of a sadistic woman, herself a slave, in Africa.
Out of all this he was saved. And he became one of England’s greatest preachers, the author of the beloved hymn Amazing Grace.”
R. J. Morgan
Over his study desk he had this verse from Deuteronomy
“Thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondsman in the land of Egypt, and the Lord thy God redeemed thee.”
Deuteronomy 15:15.
He reportedly told a friend later in life “My memory is nearly gone; but I remember two things, that I am a great sinner and that Christ is a Great Saviour.”
John Newton’s conversion was dramatic. He went from being a man without principles. A man without a conscience to a man of great principles.
He spoke out against the slave trade and would go on to write hundreds of hymns 280 of which he combined with 68 hymns of William Cowper to form the Olney Hymnal.
We today can look on Newton and see how bad he was and say thank God I am nowhere near as bad as him. He needed a conversion experience. I am far better than him.
Many non Christians I believe today also look at people who go to church. People who claim to be Christians and say, “I know them. I know what they do outside of Church and it isn’t very Christian. Why should I become a Christian because I am better all around than they are.”
That may be so but not everyone who goes to church is a Christian. No everyone who say’s they are Christian are.
Many people as well as Preachers and evangelist will one day stand before God and find they are not accepted into heaven. Jesus saying,
“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.
When it comes to knowing Jesus as one’s Lord and Saviour it is up to the individual to decide. It is between the individual and God.
We should not look on those who are going to church or who claim to be Christians. Simply because many who claim to be Christians and go to church are not Christians.
Each individual needs to look within themselves and ask themselves “am I truly good enough to go to heaven?”
I believe if we are honest with ourselves the answer will be no.
No one is good enough to stand before a holy God.
Isaiah the prophet said,
“All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.”
Isaiah 64:6.
That is why Jesus came.
Another self admitted sinner the apostle Paul wrote these words,
“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
‘But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.”
1 Timothy 1:15,16
I firmly believe that we as individuals must search our heart of hearts and in all humility admit that there is sin in our life. Sin is falling short of God’s ideal for our life.
Then we must turn to Jesus, recognize that he is the One and only Son of God, who died for our sins and ask him to forgive our sins and come into our hearts and lives.
The apostle John telling 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
I believe it is only through Christ that we can truly have our sins forgiven, have our lives changed and spend eternity with God.
Again the apostle John noting,
“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”
John 1:12,13
It happened to John Newton. It happened to the Apostle Paul and it can happen to you.
Please think about it.
Wednesday, 25 November 2015
A Check list for Love
A check list for Love
1 Corinthians 13:4-8,13 to me is God’s checklist for love. Does the kind of love you have correspond to that list?
Do you put conditions on your love? Love with conditions is not love at all.
As I write this the Syrian refugee crisis is in full swing. The Paris terrorist attacks were just a week ago. And the President of France to his credit while politicians in the United States want to block refugees from entering the States, the President of France says France will continue to take them because quote, “it is the right thing to do”. France is showing the kind Love and compassion we all should be showing.
Christian and non-Christian alike I believe can understand the teachings of Jesus who 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.
Even people who do not believe in God can understand the need to show love to one’s fellow man.
Martin Luther King Jr. Said,
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Many years ago while still in my teens I saw a movie called good by Mr. Chips the theme song of the move has stayed with me all my life its called In the morning of my life and it states,
From the Musical Good by Mr chips
At the end of your life will you be able to say you filled the world with love your whole life through. What will people say about you. What will God say.
Please think about it.
“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,13.1 Corinthians 13:4-8,13 to me is God’s checklist for love. Does the kind of love you have correspond to that list?
Do you put conditions on your love? Love with conditions is not love at all.
As I write this the Syrian refugee crisis is in full swing. The Paris terrorist attacks were just a week ago. And the President of France to his credit while politicians in the United States want to block refugees from entering the States, the President of France says France will continue to take them because quote, “it is the right thing to do”. France is showing the kind Love and compassion we all should be showing.
Christian and non-Christian alike I believe can understand the teachings of Jesus who 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.
Even people who do not believe in God can understand the need to show love to one’s fellow man.
Martin Luther King Jr. Said,
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Many years ago while still in my teens I saw a movie called good by Mr. Chips the theme song of the move has stayed with me all my life its called In the morning of my life and it states,
In the Morning of My Life
In the morning of my life
I will look to the Sunrise
At a moment in my life
When the world is new.
And the Question
I shall ask only God can answer.
Will I be brave and strong and true,
Will I fill the world with love my whole life through?
Will I fill the world with love my whole life through?
In the evening of my life
I will look to the sunset
At a moment in my life
When my life is through.
And the question I shall ask only I can answer
Was I brave and strong and true.
Did I fill the world with love my whole life through?
Did I fill the world with love my whole life through?
At the end of your life will you be able to say you filled the world with love your whole life through. What will people say about you. What will God say.
Please think about it.
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