YOU ARE IN GOOD HANDS
A friend of mine from India sent this to me the other day. I have seen it- before and perhaps you have, but it is a timely reminder:
A basketball in my hands is worth about $19.
A basketball in Michael Jordan's hands is worth about $33 million.
It depends whose hands it's in.
A baseball in my hands is worth about $6.
A baseball in Roger Clemens' hands is worth $475 million.
It depends on whose hands it's in.
A tennis racket is useless in my hands.
A tennis racket in Andre Agassi's hands is worth millions.
It depends whose hands it's in.
A rod in my hands will keep away an angry dog.
A rod in Moses' hands will part the mighty sea.
It depends whose hands it's in.
A slingshot in my hands is a kid's toy.
A slingshot in David's hand is a mighty weapon.
It depends whose hands it's in.
Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in my hands is a couple of fish sandwiches.
Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in Jesus' hands will feed thousands.
It depends whose hands it's in.
Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse.
Nails in Jesus Christ's hands will
Produce salvation for the entire world.
It depends whose hands it's in.
As you see now, it depends whose hands it's in.
So put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes, your dreams, your families and your relationships in God's hands because...
It depends whose hands it's in.
Looking at the circumstances that America finds itself in, on this month of celebrating our nation’s birth, and considering the challenges facing our church and evangelical Christianity as a whole, could lead us to throw up our hands and give up! In one sense, that would be a good thing!
If we give up on trying to be God and fix things beyond our control and lift our hands in praise and faith to an Almighty God we beseech in prayer, then that is a great thing! That isn’t to say that God might not see fit to use us as extensions of His hands, but that is the key after all. Too often we try to use God as our servant to accomplish our will, when He wants to use us as His servants to accomplish His will. But that can only be done as we relinquish control—letting go and letting God. This isn’t passivity, but it is Divine activity. Jesus gave the formula in John15:5-8:
5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
It would be good to recall the simple truth many of us learned as children: “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands!” That’s you and me, brothers and sisters.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
NOTHING TO BRAG ABOUT
Al Mohler had this excellent post on his blog:
The issue of homosexuality presents all morally serious persons with an unavoidable question: What is the moral status of homosexual acts and relationships? One way or the other, some judgment on this matter will be made.
Are homosexual acts inherently wrong, dishonorable, and sinful? Or, is homosexuality morally neutral, with specific sexual acts and relationships determined to be either right or wrong by context and intention? Are homosexual acts morally good and honorable? These assertions of moral judgment represent something of the range of possibilities and cover most of the main alternatives.
Most Americans come to moral judgments by a complex and often confused process that combines moral intuition with emotivism and some (often quite minimal) knowledge of the history of moral judgment. Add to this the fact that most Americans are highly influenced by popular culture and mass opinion. In the end, as many observers have argued, most Americans are probably moral pragmatists at heart.
On an issue as controversial as homosexuality, moral confusion abounds. Americans respond to questions related to homosexuality with a range of often inconsistent and contradictory moral judgments. Ask a question about same-sex marriage one way and you get one answer. Change the question slightly, and you might get a very different response from the very same person.
President Barack Obama recently signed a proclamation designating the month of June as "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month, 2009." The President declared:
Forty years ago, patrons and supporters of the Stonewall Inn in New York City resisted police harassment that had become all too common for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. Out of this resistance, the LGBT rights movement in America was born. During LGBT Pride Month, we commemorate the events of June 1969 and commit to achieving equal justice under law for LGBT Americans.
President Obama is not the first American president to make such a declaration. In 2000, President Bill Clinton signed a similar executive order declaring June of that year as "Gay and Lesbian Pride Month." At that time, President Clinton stated:
This June, recognizing the joys and sorrows that the gay and lesbian movement has witnessed and the work that remains to be done, we observe Gay and Lesbian Pride Month and celebrate the progress we have made in creating a society more inclusive and accepting of gays and lesbians. I hope that in this new millennium we will continue to break down the walls of fear and prejudice and work to build a bridge to understanding and tolerance, until gays and lesbians are afforded the same rights and responsibilities as all Americans.
President Obama's proclamation goes far beyond the statement signed by President Clinton. After meeting massive opposition to his proposal to allow openly-homosexual citizens to serve in the Armed Forces, President Clinton crafted the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. In his declaration, President Obama pledges to end that policy. President Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996. President Obama has called for a repeal of that legislation.
In issuing his order, President Obama applauded the successes of the gay rights movement to date, but affirmed his judgment that "there is more work to be done." He called for enhanced federal hate crimes laws, adoption rights for homosexuals, and for "civil unions and Federal rights for LGBT couples," among other goals.
Nevertheless, the most morally significant dimension of President Obama's proclamation is the use of the word "pride." With the stroke of a pen, a vast moral judgment was communicated.
Given the background noise of cultural conversation, most Americans probably gave little thought to that word. Yet, by means of this proclamation President Obama called for all Americans to find pride in the fact that some of our fellow citizens are homosexual, bisexual, or transgendered.
This poses a big problem for citizens who believe that homosexuality is inherently sinful. Can we find pride in what we know to be sin? That question contains its own answer. There is no way that biblical Christians can join in the chorus of gay pride. The Bible is straightforward in its consistent identification of homosexual acts as inherently sinful. Homosexual acts are not singled out as the only form of sexual sin. The Bible condemns any number of heterosexual sins, ranging from fornication and adultery to a catalogue of forbidden acts and relationships.
Beyond sexual sins, the Bible condemns sins as various and deadly as anger, envy, covetousness, disobedience, gluttony, greed, and dishonesty. The Bible declares all of us to be sinners and makes clear that no one of us can even understand the full sinfulness of our own sin. Sin is deceptive and addictive. Sin leads to death, judgment, and eternal destruction.
The Bible allows no room for finding pride in sin. Indeed, such pride amounts to further evidence that sin is deceptive and subversive. Perhaps one of the most horrifying aspects of sin is just this -- we will find a way to be proud of our sin and the sins of others.
In signing this proclamation, President Obama put the issue right before us all. During the 1980s the gay rights movement began using the "pride" language in an effort to defy negative moral judgments about homosexuality. Calls for gay liberation became calls for gay pride. The new theme brought political, strategic, and psychological advantages. The assertion of homosexual pride is the ultimate rejection of normative heterosexuality.
Those citizens who believe that morality is mere social construction can go along with this. Those who believe that homosexuality is morally positive will champion the call for gay pride. Most Americans will probably give passing attention to the President's call. But Christians committed to the authority of the Bible as the Word of God cannot find pride in sin. To do so is not only to confuse sin, but to undermine the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Morally serious persons must take the President's proclamation as a morally serious act. As such, it demands a response. Evangelical Christians dare not respond with a claim of moral superiority as if we are not ourselves sinners. But we must be clear that we cannot find pride in sin, whether these are our own sins or those of others. The Gospel of Christ simply does not allow us to see sin -- any sin -- as a matter of pride.
© 2009, All rights reserved, www.AlbertMohler.com
Al Mohler had this excellent post on his blog:
The issue of homosexuality presents all morally serious persons with an unavoidable question: What is the moral status of homosexual acts and relationships? One way or the other, some judgment on this matter will be made.
Are homosexual acts inherently wrong, dishonorable, and sinful? Or, is homosexuality morally neutral, with specific sexual acts and relationships determined to be either right or wrong by context and intention? Are homosexual acts morally good and honorable? These assertions of moral judgment represent something of the range of possibilities and cover most of the main alternatives.
Most Americans come to moral judgments by a complex and often confused process that combines moral intuition with emotivism and some (often quite minimal) knowledge of the history of moral judgment. Add to this the fact that most Americans are highly influenced by popular culture and mass opinion. In the end, as many observers have argued, most Americans are probably moral pragmatists at heart.
On an issue as controversial as homosexuality, moral confusion abounds. Americans respond to questions related to homosexuality with a range of often inconsistent and contradictory moral judgments. Ask a question about same-sex marriage one way and you get one answer. Change the question slightly, and you might get a very different response from the very same person.
President Barack Obama recently signed a proclamation designating the month of June as "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month, 2009." The President declared:
Forty years ago, patrons and supporters of the Stonewall Inn in New York City resisted police harassment that had become all too common for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. Out of this resistance, the LGBT rights movement in America was born. During LGBT Pride Month, we commemorate the events of June 1969 and commit to achieving equal justice under law for LGBT Americans.
President Obama is not the first American president to make such a declaration. In 2000, President Bill Clinton signed a similar executive order declaring June of that year as "Gay and Lesbian Pride Month." At that time, President Clinton stated:
This June, recognizing the joys and sorrows that the gay and lesbian movement has witnessed and the work that remains to be done, we observe Gay and Lesbian Pride Month and celebrate the progress we have made in creating a society more inclusive and accepting of gays and lesbians. I hope that in this new millennium we will continue to break down the walls of fear and prejudice and work to build a bridge to understanding and tolerance, until gays and lesbians are afforded the same rights and responsibilities as all Americans.
President Obama's proclamation goes far beyond the statement signed by President Clinton. After meeting massive opposition to his proposal to allow openly-homosexual citizens to serve in the Armed Forces, President Clinton crafted the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. In his declaration, President Obama pledges to end that policy. President Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996. President Obama has called for a repeal of that legislation.
In issuing his order, President Obama applauded the successes of the gay rights movement to date, but affirmed his judgment that "there is more work to be done." He called for enhanced federal hate crimes laws, adoption rights for homosexuals, and for "civil unions and Federal rights for LGBT couples," among other goals.
Nevertheless, the most morally significant dimension of President Obama's proclamation is the use of the word "pride." With the stroke of a pen, a vast moral judgment was communicated.
Given the background noise of cultural conversation, most Americans probably gave little thought to that word. Yet, by means of this proclamation President Obama called for all Americans to find pride in the fact that some of our fellow citizens are homosexual, bisexual, or transgendered.
This poses a big problem for citizens who believe that homosexuality is inherently sinful. Can we find pride in what we know to be sin? That question contains its own answer. There is no way that biblical Christians can join in the chorus of gay pride. The Bible is straightforward in its consistent identification of homosexual acts as inherently sinful. Homosexual acts are not singled out as the only form of sexual sin. The Bible condemns any number of heterosexual sins, ranging from fornication and adultery to a catalogue of forbidden acts and relationships.
Beyond sexual sins, the Bible condemns sins as various and deadly as anger, envy, covetousness, disobedience, gluttony, greed, and dishonesty. The Bible declares all of us to be sinners and makes clear that no one of us can even understand the full sinfulness of our own sin. Sin is deceptive and addictive. Sin leads to death, judgment, and eternal destruction.
The Bible allows no room for finding pride in sin. Indeed, such pride amounts to further evidence that sin is deceptive and subversive. Perhaps one of the most horrifying aspects of sin is just this -- we will find a way to be proud of our sin and the sins of others.
In signing this proclamation, President Obama put the issue right before us all. During the 1980s the gay rights movement began using the "pride" language in an effort to defy negative moral judgments about homosexuality. Calls for gay liberation became calls for gay pride. The new theme brought political, strategic, and psychological advantages. The assertion of homosexual pride is the ultimate rejection of normative heterosexuality.
Those citizens who believe that morality is mere social construction can go along with this. Those who believe that homosexuality is morally positive will champion the call for gay pride. Most Americans will probably give passing attention to the President's call. But Christians committed to the authority of the Bible as the Word of God cannot find pride in sin. To do so is not only to confuse sin, but to undermine the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Morally serious persons must take the President's proclamation as a morally serious act. As such, it demands a response. Evangelical Christians dare not respond with a claim of moral superiority as if we are not ourselves sinners. But we must be clear that we cannot find pride in sin, whether these are our own sins or those of others. The Gospel of Christ simply does not allow us to see sin -- any sin -- as a matter of pride.
© 2009, All rights reserved, www.AlbertMohler.com
Monday, June 08, 2009
WHAT’S RIGHT WITH THE CHURCH?
Yes, you heard me correctly—but, doesn’t it sound strange? We hear so much about what’s wrong with the church—and believe me, there are plenty of flaws to point out—that to even ask the question, “What’s right with the church?” is arresting to our ears. Are we fearful that we can find no answer?
Don’t worry—there is a lot that is right and good about the church. Even, more specifically, there is much to be thrilled about at Pole Creek. Let me list a few things:
God’s glory is the focus of our worship. Do we always hit the target? Not a bull’s eye every time, but it is always our goal. That is a good thing.
Someone could be saved at any service at Pole Creek. We unashamedly proclaim that Jesus saves—and that He is the only way to heaven. The cross is still central in our sanctuary and if a lost person attends, they will not be able to accuse us on the Day of Judgment of failing to share the Gospel.
The Holy Spirit still works. Would we pray for a mightier move of God’s Spirit? Sure—but He is moving. There will be those who are stirred, convicted, challenged and empowered by the ministries of the Body of Christ at Pole Creek.
The Bible is believed, taught and preached as the inspired Word of God. We have not deviated from sound doctrine. That can’t be said of every church in our area. You wouldn’t have to travel far to find apostasy just down the road—but the Scripture is foundational in what we do.
The Blessed Hope is still anticipated. We warn of hell, but we sing of heaven. Though there are members who likely give scant thought to the eternal state, so wrapped up in this present world are they. Yet, the core of this congregation is looking up and longing for the return of Christ.
Family is celebrated. Single adults are valued. We care for those with broken hearts and broken homes. When a marriage breaks, we grieve and seek to help people pick up the pieces. If someone is struggling with sexual sin, homosexual or otherwise, they will find Pole Creek speaking the truth in love. What you won’t find here is acceptance of abominable practices and unholy unions.
Children and teens are targeted for ministry. Pole Creek recognizes that the heritage of faith can’t die out with an older generation. Our commitment is to transmit the truth to those who will mature into young champions for Christ. Do we need more involvement and commitment to help in these ministries? Absolutely—but don’t miss the reality that a lot of good is being done.
Good music that is Bible-based, emotionally stirring and presented with excellence is featured. We may not hit a home run every time, but the musical score is more often than not a winner!
Sacrificial service is a hallmark. It would be wonderful if every member would be a minister. That’s ideal. However, if you began to add up the number of hours invested, the giftedness and energy utilized, and were to attempt to pay these workers it would be a staggering amount requiring millions of dollars. Do a few serve Christ for applause? Do some want a position without really performing? Grudgingly, we would say, “Yes”—but not a lot! Most serve only for the glory of God and the good of the church—motivated by love for Christ and His church alone!
Missions is still supported. Pole Creek is literally having an impact around the world. Through our prayers, our giving, and our going souls are being brought into the kingdom in places with names we can’t even pronounce. We could and should do more, but that doesn’t negate the fact that we do a lot—an incredible amount at home and abroad. We have young people answering the call to full-time Christian service. We have adult professionals that are giving of themselves to travel abroad and take the redeeming story of Jesus. There are senior adults that will work long hours for the Lord, though they are retired from secular jobs. Hallelujah!
Prayer is still offered. You will not get an argument from me, that we need a lot more participation in our prayer meetings. Yet, I would underscore that we do have a loyal band of intercessors—some praying in the morning at 6, others praying in the evening at 7, and all hours in between—some in group gatherings and more in private quiet places. God still answers the prayers of Pole Creek people.
Generosity is evident. Is there a need? People move to meet it. Over and again we have seen this church give and give to support the Lord’s work and to aid the Lord’s people. The economy has turned down, yet giving is actually up! That can’t be said everywhere. It costs more to do the work of the kingdom than ever while we struggle with family budgets where it costs more to make ends meet. A few may have cut back in their giving, but others have stepped up. In this we rejoice!
Fellowship is enjoyed. We like to get together. Some hang back. A few drop out. A handful may be harboring grudges. Let me tell you—I miss my church family when I can’t be with them and can’t wait till we get together again! Almost all of us feel the same way and that is something that brings joy to our Lord.
We have a committed and gifted staff. Don’t put us on a pedestal. We aren’t that good—but we ain’t too shabby either. I know these folks in the church office. I work with them. I see their lives and hear their prayers. Their heart for God and Pole Creek is indisputable. We are flawed flesh and blood—just like everyone reading this. Yet, God uses us by His grace.
Get the picture! There is a lot right with the church! I have only scratched the surface.
Now, you will hear a few critics from time to time. Frankly, ours isn’t the only good church around and if it were me and I weren’t happy, I’d find one where I would be. Trouble is, we usually take ourselves wherever we go and if we are unhappy people, it won’t be long until we’re unhappy somewhere else.
When two people marry, they suddenly realize that all is not as rosy as they thought. In courtship we choose to focus on the good stuff and in marriage to underscore the bad stuff. Both are there. Continue to look for the bad in your spouse and you’ll find it and before long divorce may seem the only way out—so you can remarry and make somebody else miserable! Wouldn’t it be better to extol the virtues of your mate—to love them warts and all? Maybe they will return the same courtesy to you!
That’s the way we ought to view Pole Creek. Not a perfect place—but we do have a lot of things going for us. Those who enjoy it have chosen to focus on the strengths. There is a lot that is right with the church!
Thursday, May 07, 2009
AMERICAN IDOLS
Here is an article from Kairos Journal that needs to be considered:
American Astarte
“No trees. No telephones. No Jesus.” Thus begins a National Geographic article (September, 2002) on the paganism of supposed Eastern Orthodox Christians in Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains, east of the Black Sea. The title of the piece—“Crucible of the Gods.”
Though they traffic in the names of Christian saints and touch base with the liturgy and Christian symbols, their deepest devotion is to a spirit they call Khati. Beer is a sacred beverage, and animal sacrifice is common. At the same “service,” the citizens both read from the Bible and dip their hands in goat’s blood. And the ceremonial stone house, with its bell and brightly colored cloths, stands on a rise reminiscent of the “high places” used for idol worship in Bible times.
Sunday school children read about Moloch, Ashtoreth, and Baal in the Old Testament. For application, their teachers likely suggest that our “idols” are luxury cars, vacation homes, and championship trophies. But ancient paganism and idolatry are making a strong comeback in the midst of Western Civilization. It is not at all unusual to find self-proclaimed heathen material at local newsstands and in chain bookstores. Those wanting to order a devotional image of the goddess Astarte can turn to the ads in the back of pagan periodicals. (A nine-inch, $42 dollar model is available by mail from Sacred Source in Crozet, Virginia.) This is the same Astarte who appears as Ashtoreth in 2 Kings 23:13. Good King Josiah demolished her, but she’s back.
Type “pagan” into Internet search engines, and you’ll be overwhelmed by their products. There is even one for child raising, paganparenting.net. Through the catalogue store, Mom and Dad can order a pentagram-adorned t-shirt, ball cap, or coffee mug proclaiming, “Proud to Be a Pagan Parent.” Under “Kids’ Stuff,” they find new words for a familiar bedtime prayer—“Earth and Water, Fire and Air, Stay with me while Mom's not there.”
Meanwhile, in the Nevada desert, 120 miles north of Reno, 25,000 revelers recently attended the 17th annual Burning Man festival. Started in San Francisco, this arts-and-orgy campout culminates in the incineration of a 70-foot-high wooden man, while cheering celebrants dance below. The sponsors disavow occult connections, but many celebrants disregard the disclaimer.
The words “pagan” and “heathen” were coined with reference to those primitives who lived so far out in the wilderness (on the heath) that they’d missed out on the spread of Christianity in the cities. Now American towns have pagan chapters of their own. It is ironic that the mailing address for a leading Shamanic Wiccan church is Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin. That town is the namesake of the site where Moses dealt with worship of the golden calf (Ps. 106:19-20). Now Christians must once again deal with idolatry at Horeb—and in Chicago, London, and Rio.
Certainly, pastors should focus on the “gods” of materialism, ambition, and sensuality when preaching on idolatry. But they should not consider the Old Testament condemnation of graven images and pagan ritual as curious, ancient insects trapped in amber. These errors are alive and well, buzzing about in the atmosphere.
Missiologists tell us that conversion comes easier to a pagan or idol worshipper than to a Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, or atheist. Perhaps that is even true for those who have slid from Christian church attendance into heathenism. Whatever the case, the message of response is simple—Christianity 101: There is one God. His Only Begotten Son is Savior and Lord. Salvation comes by grace through faith. Repent, trust, and follow Jesus.
Here is an article from Kairos Journal that needs to be considered:
American Astarte
“No trees. No telephones. No Jesus.” Thus begins a National Geographic article (September, 2002) on the paganism of supposed Eastern Orthodox Christians in Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains, east of the Black Sea. The title of the piece—“Crucible of the Gods.”
Though they traffic in the names of Christian saints and touch base with the liturgy and Christian symbols, their deepest devotion is to a spirit they call Khati. Beer is a sacred beverage, and animal sacrifice is common. At the same “service,” the citizens both read from the Bible and dip their hands in goat’s blood. And the ceremonial stone house, with its bell and brightly colored cloths, stands on a rise reminiscent of the “high places” used for idol worship in Bible times.
Sunday school children read about Moloch, Ashtoreth, and Baal in the Old Testament. For application, their teachers likely suggest that our “idols” are luxury cars, vacation homes, and championship trophies. But ancient paganism and idolatry are making a strong comeback in the midst of Western Civilization. It is not at all unusual to find self-proclaimed heathen material at local newsstands and in chain bookstores. Those wanting to order a devotional image of the goddess Astarte can turn to the ads in the back of pagan periodicals. (A nine-inch, $42 dollar model is available by mail from Sacred Source in Crozet, Virginia.) This is the same Astarte who appears as Ashtoreth in 2 Kings 23:13. Good King Josiah demolished her, but she’s back.
Type “pagan” into Internet search engines, and you’ll be overwhelmed by their products. There is even one for child raising, paganparenting.net. Through the catalogue store, Mom and Dad can order a pentagram-adorned t-shirt, ball cap, or coffee mug proclaiming, “Proud to Be a Pagan Parent.” Under “Kids’ Stuff,” they find new words for a familiar bedtime prayer—“Earth and Water, Fire and Air, Stay with me while Mom's not there.”
Meanwhile, in the Nevada desert, 120 miles north of Reno, 25,000 revelers recently attended the 17th annual Burning Man festival. Started in San Francisco, this arts-and-orgy campout culminates in the incineration of a 70-foot-high wooden man, while cheering celebrants dance below. The sponsors disavow occult connections, but many celebrants disregard the disclaimer.
The words “pagan” and “heathen” were coined with reference to those primitives who lived so far out in the wilderness (on the heath) that they’d missed out on the spread of Christianity in the cities. Now American towns have pagan chapters of their own. It is ironic that the mailing address for a leading Shamanic Wiccan church is Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin. That town is the namesake of the site where Moses dealt with worship of the golden calf (Ps. 106:19-20). Now Christians must once again deal with idolatry at Horeb—and in Chicago, London, and Rio.
Certainly, pastors should focus on the “gods” of materialism, ambition, and sensuality when preaching on idolatry. But they should not consider the Old Testament condemnation of graven images and pagan ritual as curious, ancient insects trapped in amber. These errors are alive and well, buzzing about in the atmosphere.
Missiologists tell us that conversion comes easier to a pagan or idol worshipper than to a Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, or atheist. Perhaps that is even true for those who have slid from Christian church attendance into heathenism. Whatever the case, the message of response is simple—Christianity 101: There is one God. His Only Begotten Son is Savior and Lord. Salvation comes by grace through faith. Repent, trust, and follow Jesus.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
DEALERS IN HOPE
John Maxwell says that leaders are “dealers in hope.” In these distressing times, I am confronted with this pivotal responsibility. All about us, it seems like things are coming unglued. The government is spending us into oblivion. Terrorism is still a clear and present danger. American Christianity is in decline while those of other faiths and the strident anti-faith storm troopers are in the ascendancy. Along with the moral freefall and economic downturn, it seems reasonable to feel like Custer at Little Big Horn.
“What then shall we say to these things?” We join the Apostle Paul in asking that vexing question. Yet, we dare not neglect the confident assertion that follows, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)
Facing a seemingly impossible task and intractable foes, this little Jew marched out and took the message of hope and change (REAL hope and change—not empty political promises) to the nations and the world has never been the same! Beaten, burdened, broke and besmirched, this faithful servant of Christ met each obstacle as an opportunity and with the dawn of every day drank in the sunshine of hope, and went about dispensing it to all the thirsty souls he encountered in his travels.
We are not like the goofy Alfred E. Newman of MAD magazine fame—a fictional figure of epic naïveté whose favorite expression is, “What, me worry?” Neither are we Glumm the Lilliputian cartoon character in The Adventures of Gulliver who met each difficulty by saying, “We’re doomed! We’ll never make it!” Our feet are firmly planted in reality, while our faith is grounded in revelation—God’s sure and steadfast promises! Jesus presented this balance when He stated, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but, be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Child of God, you have every reason to be filled with hope! Not wishful thinking—not hope so, maybe so kind of stuff—but, hope that is “an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast” (Hebrews 6:19a). When all that is of this world is shaky, we need not be shaken, recognizing God is just sifting out the dirt until all that remains is pure gold of eternal quality. My prayer for each of you is, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NIV). What else would you expect me to say? It’s my job! I am a dealer in hope.
John Maxwell says that leaders are “dealers in hope.” In these distressing times, I am confronted with this pivotal responsibility. All about us, it seems like things are coming unglued. The government is spending us into oblivion. Terrorism is still a clear and present danger. American Christianity is in decline while those of other faiths and the strident anti-faith storm troopers are in the ascendancy. Along with the moral freefall and economic downturn, it seems reasonable to feel like Custer at Little Big Horn.
“What then shall we say to these things?” We join the Apostle Paul in asking that vexing question. Yet, we dare not neglect the confident assertion that follows, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)
Facing a seemingly impossible task and intractable foes, this little Jew marched out and took the message of hope and change (REAL hope and change—not empty political promises) to the nations and the world has never been the same! Beaten, burdened, broke and besmirched, this faithful servant of Christ met each obstacle as an opportunity and with the dawn of every day drank in the sunshine of hope, and went about dispensing it to all the thirsty souls he encountered in his travels.
We are not like the goofy Alfred E. Newman of MAD magazine fame—a fictional figure of epic naïveté whose favorite expression is, “What, me worry?” Neither are we Glumm the Lilliputian cartoon character in The Adventures of Gulliver who met each difficulty by saying, “We’re doomed! We’ll never make it!” Our feet are firmly planted in reality, while our faith is grounded in revelation—God’s sure and steadfast promises! Jesus presented this balance when He stated, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but, be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Child of God, you have every reason to be filled with hope! Not wishful thinking—not hope so, maybe so kind of stuff—but, hope that is “an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast” (Hebrews 6:19a). When all that is of this world is shaky, we need not be shaken, recognizing God is just sifting out the dirt until all that remains is pure gold of eternal quality. My prayer for each of you is, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NIV). What else would you expect me to say? It’s my job! I am a dealer in hope.
Friday, February 13, 2009
THE TENSION OF SUBMISSION TO AUTHORITY AND SPEAKING PROPHETICALLY
There is a tension between the need to speak out to the sins of society and the the need to respect government authority. Scripture is clear that the Christian is to submit to the authority of government since it is instituted by God. Beyond that, even those in power are appointed by God. They may act like the devil, or may be ambivalent to their God-ordained responsibility, but irrespective of that we are to respect the position, even if we have difficulty respecting the person and especially their policies! The exception to this being that if human authority calls upon us to violate God's law, we must obey God rather than man, as did Peter and John when threatened by the government for preaching the Gospel.
So, how does one respectfully speak to immoral and unjust policies without coming across as sarcastic or disrespectful? That's the tough part. Surely, we cannot be silent when it comes to crying out against legalized murder--what we call abortion--or the destruction of free enterprise through a Marxist philosophy--what is termed economic stimulus--or the proliferation of pornography--what is promoted as free speech.
The balance is what Paul called, "speaking the truth in love." Surely, it is what Moses did when confronting Pharaoh. It was doubtless the tone taken by Nathan as he exposed King David's sin. It is what Elijah did when addressing Ahab. It was the manner of John the Baptist preaching to Herod. It is how Paul dealt with the authorities of his day. Supremely, it is how Jesus spoke to Pilate. Those are our models.
We cannot be so passive as to cower down and refuse to stand for righteousness and against evil. Otherwise, we are complicit with the assault on God and people, much as many Germans who looked the other way when Hitler was pursuing his "Final Solution." How can that be real love--love for God and love for people--that would allow sheep to be herded to the slaughter? That is what we are witnessing in America today--the trail that leads to the butcher shop! But neither can we condone violence in our methods or racism in our messages that show disregard for both truth and love. Some of the "challenges" addressed to the current administration seem to have these as undercurrents, and that is a polluted stream.
Revival or ruin? Which path will we take? Let us pray for our elected officials as Scripture enjoins us. When they are offtrack, let us speak the truth in love. May we not be silent when we ought to speak and speak righteously and respectfully--we don't have to sacrifice one for the other. It is a tension and it is tough. But it can be done. It must be done, for Christ has called us to be in the world, yet not of the world. For the present we are here, and who knows but what we have come to this kingdom for such a time as this?
There is a tension between the need to speak out to the sins of society and the the need to respect government authority. Scripture is clear that the Christian is to submit to the authority of government since it is instituted by God. Beyond that, even those in power are appointed by God. They may act like the devil, or may be ambivalent to their God-ordained responsibility, but irrespective of that we are to respect the position, even if we have difficulty respecting the person and especially their policies! The exception to this being that if human authority calls upon us to violate God's law, we must obey God rather than man, as did Peter and John when threatened by the government for preaching the Gospel.
So, how does one respectfully speak to immoral and unjust policies without coming across as sarcastic or disrespectful? That's the tough part. Surely, we cannot be silent when it comes to crying out against legalized murder--what we call abortion--or the destruction of free enterprise through a Marxist philosophy--what is termed economic stimulus--or the proliferation of pornography--what is promoted as free speech.
The balance is what Paul called, "speaking the truth in love." Surely, it is what Moses did when confronting Pharaoh. It was doubtless the tone taken by Nathan as he exposed King David's sin. It is what Elijah did when addressing Ahab. It was the manner of John the Baptist preaching to Herod. It is how Paul dealt with the authorities of his day. Supremely, it is how Jesus spoke to Pilate. Those are our models.
We cannot be so passive as to cower down and refuse to stand for righteousness and against evil. Otherwise, we are complicit with the assault on God and people, much as many Germans who looked the other way when Hitler was pursuing his "Final Solution." How can that be real love--love for God and love for people--that would allow sheep to be herded to the slaughter? That is what we are witnessing in America today--the trail that leads to the butcher shop! But neither can we condone violence in our methods or racism in our messages that show disregard for both truth and love. Some of the "challenges" addressed to the current administration seem to have these as undercurrents, and that is a polluted stream.
Revival or ruin? Which path will we take? Let us pray for our elected officials as Scripture enjoins us. When they are offtrack, let us speak the truth in love. May we not be silent when we ought to speak and speak righteously and respectfully--we don't have to sacrifice one for the other. It is a tension and it is tough. But it can be done. It must be done, for Christ has called us to be in the world, yet not of the world. For the present we are here, and who knows but what we have come to this kingdom for such a time as this?
Thursday, February 12, 2009
THURMAN AND TWITTER
I am now "a twitter" or is that a "tweeter?" Irrespective, I am attempting to leverage a new technology to accomplish my mission in life, "to reache people where they are and lead them to become like Jesus." How all this will work remains to be seen. If anyone has suggestions, I am open to them.
I am now "a twitter" or is that a "tweeter?" Irrespective, I am attempting to leverage a new technology to accomplish my mission in life, "to reache people where they are and lead them to become like Jesus." How all this will work remains to be seen. If anyone has suggestions, I am open to them.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
THE WINDS OF CHANGE
The winds of change are blowing. In a few days, we will witness the beginning of change of leadership in our country. Unlike many nations around the world, the citizens will determine the outcome—no dictatorships. Power will be transferred without bloodshed—no military coup d’états. As we approach the Thanksgiving season, we can be grateful for America—with all her flaws—that we still have the freedoms we enjoy.
Yet, those freedoms can be lost. We can be thankful for the brave men and women of our military who sacrifice so much—even their very lives—to preserve these liberties we cherish. We appreciate those blood-bought privileges too much to surrender them.
Or will we?
Many Americans will refuse to participate in the political process. Disenfranchised, disgruntled, disillusioned—all this and more—are reasons (excuses) presented by citizens for dropping out of involvement. No one would argue that real change is hard to come by. Our government features a monstrous, entrenched bureaucracy that is slow to affect. The winds of change required to turn that around would need to be hurricane force! Still, with the help of God, they could be generated by “we the people.”
One of the saddest things is when Christians divorce their faith from their politics. Some will not even register and cast a ballot. When that happens, things still change—for the worse. If God’s people are not influencing the nation by letting their light shine, then darkness will only deepen. Should we fail to be the salt of society, the rottenness will only spread. That is beyond sad—it is sinful! For that is what Christ has demanded we do (Matthew 5:13-16). “To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17).
How can we consider the legal execution of infants inside the “gas chamber” of their mother’s womb through abortion and not be involved in the political process that has given us this holocaust? How can we sit by while fundamental morality is undermined by a government that is giving us same sex marriage? Just days ago, a group of first-grade school children were taken on a “field trip” in San Francisco to “celebrate” the wedding of their teacher and her lesbian lover. How dare we avoid bringing biblical values to bear in our decision-making? Some would protest, “But those are decisions made by judges!” Who appoints those judges? Who holds them accountable? That is the duty of our elected officials. So, who then is responsible for them? Look in a mirror.
If we continue on our current course as a country, the winds of change will blow—and God will generate them. Here will be the results, predicted in Revelation 6:13-17:
I read a bumper sticker the other day, “God is not a Republican.” Of course not—and neither is He a Democrat! Recall how Joshua came to the siege of Jericho with the armies of Israel when a Man with drawn sword appeared. General Joshua’s question was, “Are you for us or against us?” That Man was the Lord, and His answer was basically, “I didn’t come to take sides; I came to take over.” You say Jesus is Lord. That means He is Lord of the polling place, also. Our responsibility isn’t to try to convince God to join our party, but for us to be obedient to Him. Abraham Lincoln said it this way, “My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side, for God is always right.”
Be informed. Be praying. Be involved. I’m not going to tell you how to cast your vote. You have the freedom to vote for whom you wish. Just remember that we will all give an account to God for all our actions one day.
The winds of change are blowing. Let us set our sails to head in the right direction.
The winds of change are blowing. In a few days, we will witness the beginning of change of leadership in our country. Unlike many nations around the world, the citizens will determine the outcome—no dictatorships. Power will be transferred without bloodshed—no military coup d’états. As we approach the Thanksgiving season, we can be grateful for America—with all her flaws—that we still have the freedoms we enjoy.
Yet, those freedoms can be lost. We can be thankful for the brave men and women of our military who sacrifice so much—even their very lives—to preserve these liberties we cherish. We appreciate those blood-bought privileges too much to surrender them.
Or will we?
Many Americans will refuse to participate in the political process. Disenfranchised, disgruntled, disillusioned—all this and more—are reasons (excuses) presented by citizens for dropping out of involvement. No one would argue that real change is hard to come by. Our government features a monstrous, entrenched bureaucracy that is slow to affect. The winds of change required to turn that around would need to be hurricane force! Still, with the help of God, they could be generated by “we the people.”
One of the saddest things is when Christians divorce their faith from their politics. Some will not even register and cast a ballot. When that happens, things still change—for the worse. If God’s people are not influencing the nation by letting their light shine, then darkness will only deepen. Should we fail to be the salt of society, the rottenness will only spread. That is beyond sad—it is sinful! For that is what Christ has demanded we do (Matthew 5:13-16). “To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17).
How can we consider the legal execution of infants inside the “gas chamber” of their mother’s womb through abortion and not be involved in the political process that has given us this holocaust? How can we sit by while fundamental morality is undermined by a government that is giving us same sex marriage? Just days ago, a group of first-grade school children were taken on a “field trip” in San Francisco to “celebrate” the wedding of their teacher and her lesbian lover. How dare we avoid bringing biblical values to bear in our decision-making? Some would protest, “But those are decisions made by judges!” Who appoints those judges? Who holds them accountable? That is the duty of our elected officials. So, who then is responsible for them? Look in a mirror.
If we continue on our current course as a country, the winds of change will blow—and God will generate them. Here will be the results, predicted in Revelation 6:13-17:
13 And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind.
14 Then the sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved out of its place.
15 And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains,
16 and said to the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!
17 For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?”
I read a bumper sticker the other day, “God is not a Republican.” Of course not—and neither is He a Democrat! Recall how Joshua came to the siege of Jericho with the armies of Israel when a Man with drawn sword appeared. General Joshua’s question was, “Are you for us or against us?” That Man was the Lord, and His answer was basically, “I didn’t come to take sides; I came to take over.” You say Jesus is Lord. That means He is Lord of the polling place, also. Our responsibility isn’t to try to convince God to join our party, but for us to be obedient to Him. Abraham Lincoln said it this way, “My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side, for God is always right.”
Be informed. Be praying. Be involved. I’m not going to tell you how to cast your vote. You have the freedom to vote for whom you wish. Just remember that we will all give an account to God for all our actions one day.
The winds of change are blowing. Let us set our sails to head in the right direction.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
REVIVAL? OF WHAT?
Well, it's been a while since I posted anything. So, why not come back with a bang! Perhaps you've heard of the revival in Lakeland, Florida? If not, you will. My question is, "What is it a revival of?" Consider the following article:
“BAM! BAM! BAM!” said the false prophet
By Marsha West
Faith evangelist Todd Bentley has drawn hundreds of thousands to his Florida Healing Revival to “soak in the glory and spread the fire.” Before you pack up the car or purchase an airline ticket and head to Lakeland Florida, here’s a word of warning: Christians who play with fire will get burned.
All the controversy over the Lakeland Outpouring is causing deep division within the Church. Some Christians believe Bentley is bringing a long overdue revival. They argue that since people are getting healed it’s a move of God. But a growing number of believers say he’s a fraud. So which is it? Is Todd Bentley a prophet of God, or just another huckster? Let’s examine the evidence to find out if a genuine revival is going on in Lakeland.
There’s a plethora of video clips online that show Bentley in all his raging glory, stalking the stage. In one clip I watched, he’s bragging about “grounding and pounding” people who have come to him for healing. In another clip he declares that God told him to batter a woman’s legs with a baseball bat. He then boasts how he has applied choking moves on sick people who come to him for help. Then there’s the story of the “Chinese guy” he “hit so hard that a tooth popped out of his mouth.” Bentley’s “healing” is often so brutal that some witnesses compare it to WWF Smackdown! The man may be a wrestling aficionado, but he’s definitely not a prophet of God. No offense, but he is as phony as most professional wrestlers. But don’t take my word for it. Watch the video clips in this article and you’ll discover that I’m not making any of this up. Here’s the first clip: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_K8XjObzfXM
What struck me about this clip is that people in the audience, most of whom are professing Christians, laughed and applauded as Bentley blamed God for telling him to inflict pain on people! The Apostles never behaved in such an appalling manner. Would Paul kick a senior citizen in the head, even with lightweight sandals on his feet? Peter may have been hotheaded, still he would never have resorted to grounding and pounding the sick in order to heal them. Now, imagine John choking someone and saying that God told him to do it! What I have just described is Todd Bentley’s WWF style of healing.
Many of Bentley’s “healings” are not instantaneous, by the way. For example, a man claimed partial restoration of his hearing on Wednesday and on Thursday he claimed his hearing was completely restored. Both Jesus and the Apostle’s healings were instantaneous, and that’s because they were authentic. People were restored to full health. Not in Lakeland, though, where they experience “miracles in progress.”
Something I found odd is how Bentley feigns wide-eyed surprise at some of his “miracle healings.” Since he’s allegedly healed masses of people for a number of years, why does he look so amazed when people are healed? The answer is obvious. He plays the audience! And he’s oh so effective at “priming the pump” to keep their minds engaged.
Restoring someone’s missing eye or severed hand is an outward healing. Todd Bentley’s “healings” are inward. Glaringly absent are restored body parts. Several video clips show people allegedly healed of cancer, heart problems, tumors, diabetes, deafness, asthma, fibromialgia, broken bones, and so on. Again, Bentley’s healings are not outward like the genuine healings of Jesus and the Apostles. Moreover, he claims to have raised people from the dead!
The obvious question is if miraculous healings like the sort Jesus performed are actually taking place in Lakeland, where’s the proof? Photos and videos of people with restored limbs and missing body parts would be splashed all over national TV and the Internet, especially on Christian news sites. Where are the “before” and “after” pictures of burn victims, kids with cleft pallots and other obvious birth defects? Absent are stories from Alzheimer’s sufferers who miraculously regained their memories. One blogger made this astute comment:
“Bentley’s close friend and mentor, Bob Jones is sick with kidney problems and is obese. Todd Bentley is overweight and balding and had a recent heart attack. Quite a few of Todd Bentley’s musicians and singers, as others have remarked, are also very big so there is no miraculous weight loss anointing or healing baldness anointing or any healing anointing working among them -- and Todd claims the anointing drops pounds off fat people and puts hair on heads. James Goll’s wife is seriously ill with cancer. Get my drift?” [1]
In the next clip an eleven-year-old boy with Cerebral Palsey who cannot walk without a walker has a dream of running around the baseball diamond. The boy sincerely believes he’s been healed. (This one brought me to tears.) He struggles to speak as he relays his “healing” experience to the crowd. All the while his mother holds onto his shaky body to keep him from falling. The boy cannot stand alone, let alone run. Yet he’s told by Bentley that he’s a “healing in progress.” Then before the boy knows what hit him, BAM! he’s “slain in the spirit” (pushed to the floor). Watch it and weep: http://youtube.com/watch?v=dcqmShgqbw8&feature=related
What did Jesus do?
“Then he [Jesus] said to the paralytic, ‘Get up, take your mat and go home.’ And the man got up and went home” (Mat 9:6-7).
What about Peter?
“As Peter traveled about the country, he went to visit the saints in Lydda. There he found a man named Aeneas, a paralytic who had been bedridden for eight years. ‘Aeneas,’ Peter said to him, ‘Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and take care of your mat.’ Immediately Aeneas got up. All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord” (Acts 9:32-35).
The obvious question is, does Satan have the power to heal? The answer is that he gives the appearance of healing, but it’s a counterfeit. It’s true that God performs miraculous signs and wonders. And the apostles performed signs and wonders and miracles by the power of the Holy Spirit. Sorcerers perform “miraculous lying signs and wonders” that lead people astray and keep them from the truth. But lying signs and wonders may not be miraculous at all. Satan has the power to deceive, “even the elect—if that were possible.” Some faith-healers use social emotional and psychological manipulation to get people to to change their behavior, their attitude, even their morals. In a crowded setting people are more susceptible to manipulation tactics. This is known as peer pressure. Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature.
In his article SOAKING? A spiritual discipline or Eastern Mysticism, Gary Gilley describes psychological manipulation thus:
“John Arnott writes [in his book The Father’s Blessing]: It is no coincidence that we have seen people prophetically acting like lions, oxen, eagles and even warriors. In Steve Witt's church in St. Johns, New Brunswick, I saw all four of those manifestations happening at the same time -- the ox, the eagle, the lion and the man (warrior). The lion and eagle manifestations accompanied prophesying. The man who was acting out the part of the warrior had both hands gripped together around the hilt of a sword, and he was swinging it. These warrior actions give the observer a real feel of battlefield action. The people who were doing this were mostly credible pastors or leaders. I was astonished but sensed the awesome presence of God.
"One lady who played the keyboard and weighed about 115 pounds was on all fours, snorting and pawing the ground like an angry ox or bull. It was obvious that she was surprised and a bit frightened by what was happening, but at the same time she seemed determined to follow the Spirit's leading (p. 178).”
People who follow the “Spirit’s leading” in this way look like they’re crazy, drunk or possessed, which is the reason Scripture doesn’t support foolish behavior! In this next clip a group of people line up to receive the “anointing.” This is actually scary! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTsYSR9kEeg
Scripture never mentions lying supine on the floor sizzling like bacon in a frying pan as Bentley induces people to do. Nor does it mention crying or laughing hysterically, screaming, shaking all over, clucking, mooing, barking and roaring “in the spirit.” This may come as a surprise to some Christians, but being slain in the spirit is not normative in Scripture. Read 1 Cor. 14 to learn what God wants a church service to look like. Paul makes it clear that, “Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
I find the next clip disturbing on so many levels. Watch what’s taking place in the Ashrams of India, the cults, the New Age movement, even inside the church! Popular Word of Faith teacher Kenneth Copeland gets in on the act and comes close to mussing his hair: Watch the mindless mind: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtVGxJU-j2I
In Galatians 5:22-25 Paul describes the “fruit of the spirit” and how to live a Spirit-filled life. Ponder these verses and decide for yourself if the fruit produced by the Lakeland Outpouring is fresh or rotten. The fruit of the Spirit is “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit”
I wonder, are faith-healers recruited by the U.S. military to heal soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center who have sustained horrific injuries, from lost limbs to burns to blindness. Benny is always trapsing around the world to bring healing to the sick. One can’t help but wonder how much time he spends bring healing to our brave American soldiers. Our Lord healed the sick in his own backyard:
As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." He called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" "Lord, I want to see," he replied. Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God” (Luke 18:34-43).
Now for more “fire burning heat healings” from Todd Bentley. Only this time he takes credit for a three year-old girl’s resurrection from dead. http://youtube.com/watch?v=-u56Z2A2NoA&feature=related
According to Charisma Magazine, Arnold Palmer Hospital denied the report. A blogger who believes the girl was healed claims that the she died a second time “under mysterious circumstances.” [2]
After watching Bentley in action, any reasonable person would have to conclude that the Florida Healing Outpouring is not a movement of the Holy Spirit as those involved in it believe. This so-called “revival” was birthed in the pit of hell. And speaking of hell, Bentley claims that the audible voice of God told him to pretend to be demon possessed during a Charismatic Catholic meeting. At first he argues with “God” about it, but then caves in and does as the voice tells him. Suddenly he finds himself “writhing around on the floor like a serpent.” Then a demonic power commences speaking from his mouth and he starts cursing and using profanity. Fortunately for him a first-rate faith-healer is on the scene to grab the bull by the horns. The “healer” proceeds to cast twenty-five demons out of Bentley’s body. Don’t take my word for it, watch the next clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtSK9TyduR4
Bentley has a demon alright -- the demon of heresy! (Naming demons is not biblical, by the way, nor is “binding demons.” But that’s another article.) How can a born again Christian be possessed by demons when the Bible says, “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1John 4:4). The Holy Spirit indwells true Christians. Moreover, the New Testament does not mention that believers should be concerned with becoming demon possessed. So let’s set the “demons can possess believers” myth to rest once and for all. It can’t happen. Oppressed, yes, possessed, never!
Not surprisingly, Todd Bentley is obsessed with angels. Many of his followers have heard his tall tale of how a 14-foot angel “towers in the apartment,” where he lived. Seven days after the “visitation” he went into ministry. Listen to him “telling the honest truth” about a “visitation from heaven” and how it led to his healing ministry in Albany, Oregon: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSlt0_8HwMk&feature=related
It matters not to Bentley’s followers that his angel encounters are unbiblical. He has received “visitations” from the “Winds of Change” and his money gathering angel, Emma. On money matters Bentley offers this advice in his article, Angels and the Florida Healing Revival:
"So when I need a financial breakthrough I don't just pray and ask God for my financial breakthrough. I go into intercession and become a partner with the angels by petitioning the Father for the angels that are assigned to getting me money: ‘Father, give me the angels in heaven right now that are assigned to get me money and wealth. And let those angels be released on my behalf. Let them go into the four corners of the earth and gather me money.’"
Where do I begin? First, and most importantly, Bentley’s understanding of angels is unbiblical. God does not instruct humans to partner with angels, nor are we to pray to an angel. The word “angel” means “messenger.” God sends messengers to humans via elect-holy angels. Humans are to pray directly to the Father in heaven. Nowhere in the bible are believers instructed to elicit the help of an angel to accumulate wealth! Hence, the “angels” Bentley prays to could not possibly be messengers from God. If you believe that he’s “telling the honest truth” about his “visitations,” understand that the advice he receives is from fallen angels, AKA demons. Had Todd Bentley taken the time to study the Bible to find out what it says about the host of heaven, he’d know that his “visitations” are from the dark side! (Angelology is out of the scope of this article. If you wish to find out what the Bible says about angels, visit NewsWithViews.com and read my articles on angels 3.)
Todd Bentley says he has conversations with God. He continually spouts, “the Lord told me…” and passes along to the audience what the Lord supposedly said. But would God really instruct him to kick a woman in the face with a biker boot? First of all, if he actually “obeyed” the voice, he’d have been arrested for battery! Or sued!
What’s up with the people Bentley employs? There are a number of them on stage with him at all times. Apparently they stood idly by when he assaulted helpless sick people, even knocked a man’s tooth out! The question Bentley’s devotees must ask themselves is does this sickening behavior in any way glorify the Holy Trinity?
I’m inclined to believe the “voice” Todd Bentley says he hears is not God at all. Either he’s hearing from demons or it’s a figment of his imagination. It is not in God’s character to lie, nor would the Almighty honor someone who blatantly twists Scripture.
Following is an excerpt from an article I wrote, Found: God’s Will:
“God speaks to us through the pages of Scripture. ‘For all our talk about sola Scriptura,’ says Greg Koukl, ‘many also hold that God speaks to them on a regular basis giving true information about Himself and specific directions for their lives. Their claim is, essentially, “I believe the Bible is a bona fide source of information and the Spirit also gives private information directly to me.” The second step frequently follows the first: The personal, subjective sense of what a person thinks God is telling him trumps the objective Scripture.’
“Koukl makes an important point. Should what we hear in our mind take precedence over what Scripture says? Christians will often toss out the phrase, ‘God told me’ that they should do this or that. Or ‘I felt led,’ or ‘I sensed that God wanted me to___’ You fill in the blank. Televangelists, who pretend to have a direct pipeline to God, prance around in front of the TV camera, claiming to hear a ‘word from the Lord.’ At the risk of sounding negative or divisive, most televangelists teach outright heresy (I can prove it), so why would God speak to them at all? Frauds should not expect to hear from God; they should expect to be rebuked by God.” [4]
And by the way, it’s blasphemous to blame God for giving you instructions that goes against the teaching of Scripture!
Bud Press made this insightful comment about Bentley:
“Bentley has a desire for power and experience, which has become the ruin of many before him. If one takes Bentley’s view as realistic and tries to make it normative for today, then maybe we should continue to write Scripture and add it to the Bible. Because that is exactly what Bentley is doing.” [5]
In their book Overrun By Demons: The Churches New Preoccupation With The Demonic, the authors explain the working of the Holy Spirit:
“The Holy Spirit is the One who works in us and leads us, while the Word of God is the means that He uses to bring this about. They are best friends and never travel alone. In addition, they never have an argument; they always agree. After all, the Holy Spirit is the agent used by the Father to write the Scriptures, so He knows them quite well! Therefore the Holy Spirit would never lead anyone to do anything which conflicts with the written Word of God, no matter how convincing the circumstances or intense the experience” [6]
Satan’s counterfeit signs and wonders have one purpose: To destroy the work of Christ. For those who are all caught up in the “sings and wonders” movement here are a few scriptures to ponder:
“Do not listen to what the prophets are prophesying to you; they fill you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD” (Jer 13:16)
“A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." Jesus then left them and went away” (Mat 16:4).
“Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears” (Acts 20:30-31).
“Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!” (Gal 5:7-8).
“The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved” (2 Thes 2:9-10).
“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” (2 Tim 4.3-4).
There are other verses that support this point, but you get the idea. Video clips exposing the Lakeland Outpouring abound. Some of them are far worse than those few I have selected. Most who watch Todd Bentley in action conclude that the man is a false prophet. In my opinion he’s deeply troubled and in dire need of prayer.
Over the years I’ve corresponded with a number of charismatics who have accused me of “quenching the Holy Spirit.” What I’ve found is that if you don’t share their experiences, you’re considered “outside.” In other words, if you don’t buy into the apostate “signs and wonders” movement you lack “divine revelation.” Since when does “experience” override Sola Scriptura? “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching [Scripture], you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’" (John 8: 31-32).
This is why committed Christians must be in the Word – so that they will know the truth! Knowing Scripture is the only way to become spiritually attuned enough to spot a counterfeit. False teachers are thriving! But in the end they will lose all they have gained here on earth. In Mat 7:21 our Lord gives this stern warning: "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!'”
So when a “miracle” takes place, test what the person is teaching! “Do not believe every spirit,” warned John, “but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world (1 John 4:1-2).
Now, I don’t claim to know Todd Bentley’s motives, only God knows what he’s up to, but I can certainly judge his words and actions. His words are lies and his actions are dishonoring to God. Thousands are streaming into Lakeland to receive the false anointing. Visitors are treated to a magical mystical experience and a bizarre floorshow – literally! Countless people have found themselves on the floor “sizzling in the spirit.” This is not an authentic revival it is a counterfeit! True revival accompanies preaching about sin, sanctification, and salvation. The unsaved leave Lakeland with no concept of sin and repentance. They have not heard the true gospel from Bentley. “By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain” (1 Cor 15:1-2).
After watching Bentley’s performance, I’m convinced this is not a move of God; it’s a move of the Adversary. I’m also convinced that the charismatic revival, hailed as another Great Awakening, is a lying sign and a false revival. I realize that some lost souls are coming to Christ in Lakeland but they’re being saved in spite Todd Bentley, not because of him! This has all come about because of a lack of spiritual depth and transformation among those who claim to be committed Christians.
One last comment. Any pastor who advises his/her flock to visit the Lakeland Outpouring cannot be trusted for the simple reason that he/she is sorely lacking in spiritual discernment. Consider looking for a new church!
Footnotes:
[1] End Times Prophetic, Prophecy, Visions, Dreams, Revelation, Christian Blog
http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2008/05/27/video-of-todd-bentley-choking-the-flock-quite-literally/
[2] Miracles, Part 3, blog http://groups.msn.com/TheConservativeVillage/coffee.msnw?action=get_message&mview=1&ID_Message=51024
[3] Articles By Marsha West (A slew of angel verses in Additional Reading below)
http://newswithviews.com/West/marshaA.htm
[4] For a biblical understanding of angles, read Unbiblical Ideas About Angels, By Marsha West
http://newswithviews.com/West/marsha59.htm
[5] An Open Heaven- Todd Bentley's Highway to Heaven, By Bud Press
http://www.letusreason.org/Latrain45.htm
[6] Overrun by Demons: The Churches New Preoccupation With The Demonic, By Thomas Ice and Robert Dean, Jr., page 88, Harvest House Publishers
Additional Reading:
What Is True Revival? Originally published August, 1989, By Charles Woodruff
http://thirdmill.org/newfiles/cha_woodruff/cha_woodruff.whatistruerevival.html
Scriptures on angels from Sola Scriptura Project website: http://solascriptura.com/tp_angels.php
Signs and Wonders, Heresy, and Love for God, By Mike Ratliff http://mikeratliff.wordpress.com/2008/06/11/signs-and-wonders-heresy-and-love-for-god/
Holy Laughter or Strong Delusion, By Warren Smith
http://www.discernment-ministries.org/Holy_Laughter.htm
Other Todd Bentley “healings” on YouTubeDistributed by www.ChristianWorldviewNetwork.com
So there--is this a revival? Of demonism? Spiritism? Charismania? Occultism?
Real revival means--humilty not celebrity; prayer not flair; passion for God not passion for the odd; conviction of sin not confusion of speech--then God hears from heaven, forgives our sin and heals our land (see 2 Chronicles 7:14). That's what we need, and rather than this circus being an evidence of revival, it is an evidence of the need for it! We are so far from God, we can't even recognize where to find Him--but I would suggest you save your time and not look in Lakeland, Florida.
Well, it's been a while since I posted anything. So, why not come back with a bang! Perhaps you've heard of the revival in Lakeland, Florida? If not, you will. My question is, "What is it a revival of?" Consider the following article:
“BAM! BAM! BAM!” said the false prophet
By Marsha West
Faith evangelist Todd Bentley has drawn hundreds of thousands to his Florida Healing Revival to “soak in the glory and spread the fire.” Before you pack up the car or purchase an airline ticket and head to Lakeland Florida, here’s a word of warning: Christians who play with fire will get burned.
All the controversy over the Lakeland Outpouring is causing deep division within the Church. Some Christians believe Bentley is bringing a long overdue revival. They argue that since people are getting healed it’s a move of God. But a growing number of believers say he’s a fraud. So which is it? Is Todd Bentley a prophet of God, or just another huckster? Let’s examine the evidence to find out if a genuine revival is going on in Lakeland.
There’s a plethora of video clips online that show Bentley in all his raging glory, stalking the stage. In one clip I watched, he’s bragging about “grounding and pounding” people who have come to him for healing. In another clip he declares that God told him to batter a woman’s legs with a baseball bat. He then boasts how he has applied choking moves on sick people who come to him for help. Then there’s the story of the “Chinese guy” he “hit so hard that a tooth popped out of his mouth.” Bentley’s “healing” is often so brutal that some witnesses compare it to WWF Smackdown! The man may be a wrestling aficionado, but he’s definitely not a prophet of God. No offense, but he is as phony as most professional wrestlers. But don’t take my word for it. Watch the video clips in this article and you’ll discover that I’m not making any of this up. Here’s the first clip: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_K8XjObzfXM
What struck me about this clip is that people in the audience, most of whom are professing Christians, laughed and applauded as Bentley blamed God for telling him to inflict pain on people! The Apostles never behaved in such an appalling manner. Would Paul kick a senior citizen in the head, even with lightweight sandals on his feet? Peter may have been hotheaded, still he would never have resorted to grounding and pounding the sick in order to heal them. Now, imagine John choking someone and saying that God told him to do it! What I have just described is Todd Bentley’s WWF style of healing.
Many of Bentley’s “healings” are not instantaneous, by the way. For example, a man claimed partial restoration of his hearing on Wednesday and on Thursday he claimed his hearing was completely restored. Both Jesus and the Apostle’s healings were instantaneous, and that’s because they were authentic. People were restored to full health. Not in Lakeland, though, where they experience “miracles in progress.”
Something I found odd is how Bentley feigns wide-eyed surprise at some of his “miracle healings.” Since he’s allegedly healed masses of people for a number of years, why does he look so amazed when people are healed? The answer is obvious. He plays the audience! And he’s oh so effective at “priming the pump” to keep their minds engaged.
Restoring someone’s missing eye or severed hand is an outward healing. Todd Bentley’s “healings” are inward. Glaringly absent are restored body parts. Several video clips show people allegedly healed of cancer, heart problems, tumors, diabetes, deafness, asthma, fibromialgia, broken bones, and so on. Again, Bentley’s healings are not outward like the genuine healings of Jesus and the Apostles. Moreover, he claims to have raised people from the dead!
The obvious question is if miraculous healings like the sort Jesus performed are actually taking place in Lakeland, where’s the proof? Photos and videos of people with restored limbs and missing body parts would be splashed all over national TV and the Internet, especially on Christian news sites. Where are the “before” and “after” pictures of burn victims, kids with cleft pallots and other obvious birth defects? Absent are stories from Alzheimer’s sufferers who miraculously regained their memories. One blogger made this astute comment:
“Bentley’s close friend and mentor, Bob Jones is sick with kidney problems and is obese. Todd Bentley is overweight and balding and had a recent heart attack. Quite a few of Todd Bentley’s musicians and singers, as others have remarked, are also very big so there is no miraculous weight loss anointing or healing baldness anointing or any healing anointing working among them -- and Todd claims the anointing drops pounds off fat people and puts hair on heads. James Goll’s wife is seriously ill with cancer. Get my drift?” [1]
In the next clip an eleven-year-old boy with Cerebral Palsey who cannot walk without a walker has a dream of running around the baseball diamond. The boy sincerely believes he’s been healed. (This one brought me to tears.) He struggles to speak as he relays his “healing” experience to the crowd. All the while his mother holds onto his shaky body to keep him from falling. The boy cannot stand alone, let alone run. Yet he’s told by Bentley that he’s a “healing in progress.” Then before the boy knows what hit him, BAM! he’s “slain in the spirit” (pushed to the floor). Watch it and weep: http://youtube.com/watch?v=dcqmShgqbw8&feature=related
What did Jesus do?
“Then he [Jesus] said to the paralytic, ‘Get up, take your mat and go home.’ And the man got up and went home” (Mat 9:6-7).
What about Peter?
“As Peter traveled about the country, he went to visit the saints in Lydda. There he found a man named Aeneas, a paralytic who had been bedridden for eight years. ‘Aeneas,’ Peter said to him, ‘Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and take care of your mat.’ Immediately Aeneas got up. All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord” (Acts 9:32-35).
The obvious question is, does Satan have the power to heal? The answer is that he gives the appearance of healing, but it’s a counterfeit. It’s true that God performs miraculous signs and wonders. And the apostles performed signs and wonders and miracles by the power of the Holy Spirit. Sorcerers perform “miraculous lying signs and wonders” that lead people astray and keep them from the truth. But lying signs and wonders may not be miraculous at all. Satan has the power to deceive, “even the elect—if that were possible.” Some faith-healers use social emotional and psychological manipulation to get people to to change their behavior, their attitude, even their morals. In a crowded setting people are more susceptible to manipulation tactics. This is known as peer pressure. Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature.
In his article SOAKING? A spiritual discipline or Eastern Mysticism, Gary Gilley describes psychological manipulation thus:
“John Arnott writes [in his book The Father’s Blessing]: It is no coincidence that we have seen people prophetically acting like lions, oxen, eagles and even warriors. In Steve Witt's church in St. Johns, New Brunswick, I saw all four of those manifestations happening at the same time -- the ox, the eagle, the lion and the man (warrior). The lion and eagle manifestations accompanied prophesying. The man who was acting out the part of the warrior had both hands gripped together around the hilt of a sword, and he was swinging it. These warrior actions give the observer a real feel of battlefield action. The people who were doing this were mostly credible pastors or leaders. I was astonished but sensed the awesome presence of God.
"One lady who played the keyboard and weighed about 115 pounds was on all fours, snorting and pawing the ground like an angry ox or bull. It was obvious that she was surprised and a bit frightened by what was happening, but at the same time she seemed determined to follow the Spirit's leading (p. 178).”
People who follow the “Spirit’s leading” in this way look like they’re crazy, drunk or possessed, which is the reason Scripture doesn’t support foolish behavior! In this next clip a group of people line up to receive the “anointing.” This is actually scary! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTsYSR9kEeg
Scripture never mentions lying supine on the floor sizzling like bacon in a frying pan as Bentley induces people to do. Nor does it mention crying or laughing hysterically, screaming, shaking all over, clucking, mooing, barking and roaring “in the spirit.” This may come as a surprise to some Christians, but being slain in the spirit is not normative in Scripture. Read 1 Cor. 14 to learn what God wants a church service to look like. Paul makes it clear that, “Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
I find the next clip disturbing on so many levels. Watch what’s taking place in the Ashrams of India, the cults, the New Age movement, even inside the church! Popular Word of Faith teacher Kenneth Copeland gets in on the act and comes close to mussing his hair: Watch the mindless mind: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtVGxJU-j2I
In Galatians 5:22-25 Paul describes the “fruit of the spirit” and how to live a Spirit-filled life. Ponder these verses and decide for yourself if the fruit produced by the Lakeland Outpouring is fresh or rotten. The fruit of the Spirit is “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit”
I wonder, are faith-healers recruited by the U.S. military to heal soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center who have sustained horrific injuries, from lost limbs to burns to blindness. Benny is always trapsing around the world to bring healing to the sick. One can’t help but wonder how much time he spends bring healing to our brave American soldiers. Our Lord healed the sick in his own backyard:
As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." He called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" "Lord, I want to see," he replied. Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God” (Luke 18:34-43).
Now for more “fire burning heat healings” from Todd Bentley. Only this time he takes credit for a three year-old girl’s resurrection from dead. http://youtube.com/watch?v=-u56Z2A2NoA&feature=related
According to Charisma Magazine, Arnold Palmer Hospital denied the report. A blogger who believes the girl was healed claims that the she died a second time “under mysterious circumstances.” [2]
After watching Bentley in action, any reasonable person would have to conclude that the Florida Healing Outpouring is not a movement of the Holy Spirit as those involved in it believe. This so-called “revival” was birthed in the pit of hell. And speaking of hell, Bentley claims that the audible voice of God told him to pretend to be demon possessed during a Charismatic Catholic meeting. At first he argues with “God” about it, but then caves in and does as the voice tells him. Suddenly he finds himself “writhing around on the floor like a serpent.” Then a demonic power commences speaking from his mouth and he starts cursing and using profanity. Fortunately for him a first-rate faith-healer is on the scene to grab the bull by the horns. The “healer” proceeds to cast twenty-five demons out of Bentley’s body. Don’t take my word for it, watch the next clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtSK9TyduR4
Bentley has a demon alright -- the demon of heresy! (Naming demons is not biblical, by the way, nor is “binding demons.” But that’s another article.) How can a born again Christian be possessed by demons when the Bible says, “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1John 4:4). The Holy Spirit indwells true Christians. Moreover, the New Testament does not mention that believers should be concerned with becoming demon possessed. So let’s set the “demons can possess believers” myth to rest once and for all. It can’t happen. Oppressed, yes, possessed, never!
Not surprisingly, Todd Bentley is obsessed with angels. Many of his followers have heard his tall tale of how a 14-foot angel “towers in the apartment,” where he lived. Seven days after the “visitation” he went into ministry. Listen to him “telling the honest truth” about a “visitation from heaven” and how it led to his healing ministry in Albany, Oregon: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSlt0_8HwMk&feature=related
It matters not to Bentley’s followers that his angel encounters are unbiblical. He has received “visitations” from the “Winds of Change” and his money gathering angel, Emma. On money matters Bentley offers this advice in his article, Angels and the Florida Healing Revival:
"So when I need a financial breakthrough I don't just pray and ask God for my financial breakthrough. I go into intercession and become a partner with the angels by petitioning the Father for the angels that are assigned to getting me money: ‘Father, give me the angels in heaven right now that are assigned to get me money and wealth. And let those angels be released on my behalf. Let them go into the four corners of the earth and gather me money.’"
Where do I begin? First, and most importantly, Bentley’s understanding of angels is unbiblical. God does not instruct humans to partner with angels, nor are we to pray to an angel. The word “angel” means “messenger.” God sends messengers to humans via elect-holy angels. Humans are to pray directly to the Father in heaven. Nowhere in the bible are believers instructed to elicit the help of an angel to accumulate wealth! Hence, the “angels” Bentley prays to could not possibly be messengers from God. If you believe that he’s “telling the honest truth” about his “visitations,” understand that the advice he receives is from fallen angels, AKA demons. Had Todd Bentley taken the time to study the Bible to find out what it says about the host of heaven, he’d know that his “visitations” are from the dark side! (Angelology is out of the scope of this article. If you wish to find out what the Bible says about angels, visit NewsWithViews.com and read my articles on angels 3.)
Todd Bentley says he has conversations with God. He continually spouts, “the Lord told me…” and passes along to the audience what the Lord supposedly said. But would God really instruct him to kick a woman in the face with a biker boot? First of all, if he actually “obeyed” the voice, he’d have been arrested for battery! Or sued!
What’s up with the people Bentley employs? There are a number of them on stage with him at all times. Apparently they stood idly by when he assaulted helpless sick people, even knocked a man’s tooth out! The question Bentley’s devotees must ask themselves is does this sickening behavior in any way glorify the Holy Trinity?
I’m inclined to believe the “voice” Todd Bentley says he hears is not God at all. Either he’s hearing from demons or it’s a figment of his imagination. It is not in God’s character to lie, nor would the Almighty honor someone who blatantly twists Scripture.
Following is an excerpt from an article I wrote, Found: God’s Will:
“God speaks to us through the pages of Scripture. ‘For all our talk about sola Scriptura,’ says Greg Koukl, ‘many also hold that God speaks to them on a regular basis giving true information about Himself and specific directions for their lives. Their claim is, essentially, “I believe the Bible is a bona fide source of information and the Spirit also gives private information directly to me.” The second step frequently follows the first: The personal, subjective sense of what a person thinks God is telling him trumps the objective Scripture.’
“Koukl makes an important point. Should what we hear in our mind take precedence over what Scripture says? Christians will often toss out the phrase, ‘God told me’ that they should do this or that. Or ‘I felt led,’ or ‘I sensed that God wanted me to___’ You fill in the blank. Televangelists, who pretend to have a direct pipeline to God, prance around in front of the TV camera, claiming to hear a ‘word from the Lord.’ At the risk of sounding negative or divisive, most televangelists teach outright heresy (I can prove it), so why would God speak to them at all? Frauds should not expect to hear from God; they should expect to be rebuked by God.” [4]
And by the way, it’s blasphemous to blame God for giving you instructions that goes against the teaching of Scripture!
Bud Press made this insightful comment about Bentley:
“Bentley has a desire for power and experience, which has become the ruin of many before him. If one takes Bentley’s view as realistic and tries to make it normative for today, then maybe we should continue to write Scripture and add it to the Bible. Because that is exactly what Bentley is doing.” [5]
In their book Overrun By Demons: The Churches New Preoccupation With The Demonic, the authors explain the working of the Holy Spirit:
“The Holy Spirit is the One who works in us and leads us, while the Word of God is the means that He uses to bring this about. They are best friends and never travel alone. In addition, they never have an argument; they always agree. After all, the Holy Spirit is the agent used by the Father to write the Scriptures, so He knows them quite well! Therefore the Holy Spirit would never lead anyone to do anything which conflicts with the written Word of God, no matter how convincing the circumstances or intense the experience” [6]
Satan’s counterfeit signs and wonders have one purpose: To destroy the work of Christ. For those who are all caught up in the “sings and wonders” movement here are a few scriptures to ponder:
“Do not listen to what the prophets are prophesying to you; they fill you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD” (Jer 13:16)
“A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." Jesus then left them and went away” (Mat 16:4).
“Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears” (Acts 20:30-31).
“Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!” (Gal 5:7-8).
“The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved” (2 Thes 2:9-10).
“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” (2 Tim 4.3-4).
There are other verses that support this point, but you get the idea. Video clips exposing the Lakeland Outpouring abound. Some of them are far worse than those few I have selected. Most who watch Todd Bentley in action conclude that the man is a false prophet. In my opinion he’s deeply troubled and in dire need of prayer.
Over the years I’ve corresponded with a number of charismatics who have accused me of “quenching the Holy Spirit.” What I’ve found is that if you don’t share their experiences, you’re considered “outside.” In other words, if you don’t buy into the apostate “signs and wonders” movement you lack “divine revelation.” Since when does “experience” override Sola Scriptura? “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching [Scripture], you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’" (John 8: 31-32).
This is why committed Christians must be in the Word – so that they will know the truth! Knowing Scripture is the only way to become spiritually attuned enough to spot a counterfeit. False teachers are thriving! But in the end they will lose all they have gained here on earth. In Mat 7:21 our Lord gives this stern warning: "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!'”
So when a “miracle” takes place, test what the person is teaching! “Do not believe every spirit,” warned John, “but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world (1 John 4:1-2).
Now, I don’t claim to know Todd Bentley’s motives, only God knows what he’s up to, but I can certainly judge his words and actions. His words are lies and his actions are dishonoring to God. Thousands are streaming into Lakeland to receive the false anointing. Visitors are treated to a magical mystical experience and a bizarre floorshow – literally! Countless people have found themselves on the floor “sizzling in the spirit.” This is not an authentic revival it is a counterfeit! True revival accompanies preaching about sin, sanctification, and salvation. The unsaved leave Lakeland with no concept of sin and repentance. They have not heard the true gospel from Bentley. “By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain” (1 Cor 15:1-2).
After watching Bentley’s performance, I’m convinced this is not a move of God; it’s a move of the Adversary. I’m also convinced that the charismatic revival, hailed as another Great Awakening, is a lying sign and a false revival. I realize that some lost souls are coming to Christ in Lakeland but they’re being saved in spite Todd Bentley, not because of him! This has all come about because of a lack of spiritual depth and transformation among those who claim to be committed Christians.
One last comment. Any pastor who advises his/her flock to visit the Lakeland Outpouring cannot be trusted for the simple reason that he/she is sorely lacking in spiritual discernment. Consider looking for a new church!
Footnotes:
[1] End Times Prophetic, Prophecy, Visions, Dreams, Revelation, Christian Blog
http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2008/05/27/video-of-todd-bentley-choking-the-flock-quite-literally/
[2] Miracles, Part 3, blog http://groups.msn.com/TheConservativeVillage/coffee.msnw?action=get_message&mview=1&ID_Message=51024
[3] Articles By Marsha West (A slew of angel verses in Additional Reading below)
http://newswithviews.com/West/marshaA.htm
[4] For a biblical understanding of angles, read Unbiblical Ideas About Angels, By Marsha West
http://newswithviews.com/West/marsha59.htm
[5] An Open Heaven- Todd Bentley's Highway to Heaven, By Bud Press
http://www.letusreason.org/Latrain45.htm
[6] Overrun by Demons: The Churches New Preoccupation With The Demonic, By Thomas Ice and Robert Dean, Jr., page 88, Harvest House Publishers
Additional Reading:
What Is True Revival? Originally published August, 1989, By Charles Woodruff
http://thirdmill.org/newfiles/cha_woodruff/cha_woodruff.whatistruerevival.html
Scriptures on angels from Sola Scriptura Project website: http://solascriptura.com/tp_angels.php
Signs and Wonders, Heresy, and Love for God, By Mike Ratliff http://mikeratliff.wordpress.com/2008/06/11/signs-and-wonders-heresy-and-love-for-god/
Holy Laughter or Strong Delusion, By Warren Smith
http://www.discernment-ministries.org/Holy_Laughter.htm
Other Todd Bentley “healings” on YouTubeDistributed by www.ChristianWorldviewNetwork.com
So there--is this a revival? Of demonism? Spiritism? Charismania? Occultism?
Real revival means--humilty not celebrity; prayer not flair; passion for God not passion for the odd; conviction of sin not confusion of speech--then God hears from heaven, forgives our sin and heals our land (see 2 Chronicles 7:14). That's what we need, and rather than this circus being an evidence of revival, it is an evidence of the need for it! We are so far from God, we can't even recognize where to find Him--but I would suggest you save your time and not look in Lakeland, Florida.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
PAID IN FULL
When Jesus died on the cross, He cried, “It is finished!” It was not the scream of a victim, but the shout of a victor—not resignation, but jubilation. This expression is rich in meaning. It was the word used to declare a prisoner was free to go. It was used by a soldier to state the battle is over. The term meant to set sail for a mariner and to unyoke the oxen for a farmer. To the merchant it said, “The debt is paid in full!”
Our debt is paid. Jesus died so that we may be forgiven.
Still the possibility of forgiveness is conditional—we must receive it. But, there is another condition—I must extend it. If I want to be forgiven, then I must be willing to forgive. Consider the following story.
Are you trying to extract that last pound of flesh from someone who has hurt you, disappointed you, and that perhaps unwittingly? Let it go. Release them of the debt. They’ll be glad—and so will you.
Happy Easter,
Dennis
When Jesus died on the cross, He cried, “It is finished!” It was not the scream of a victim, but the shout of a victor—not resignation, but jubilation. This expression is rich in meaning. It was the word used to declare a prisoner was free to go. It was used by a soldier to state the battle is over. The term meant to set sail for a mariner and to unyoke the oxen for a farmer. To the merchant it said, “The debt is paid in full!”
Our debt is paid. Jesus died so that we may be forgiven.
Still the possibility of forgiveness is conditional—we must receive it. But, there is another condition—I must extend it. If I want to be forgiven, then I must be willing to forgive. Consider the following story.
A visiting professor giving a lecture on stress management, raised
a glass of water and asked the audience, “How heavy do you think this
glass of water is?”The students answered in a range of very light to 2 pounds. Someone even shouted an ounce and a half!
The professor ignited their curiosity when he said no matter what weight you think the glass of water is—it doesn't matter! He went on with his explanation, “The absolute weight does not matter. It depends on how long you hold it. If I hold this glass of water at arms length for one minute—I'm OK. If I hold it for an hour—an ache will appear in my arm. If I hold it for a day—call 911 and ask them to expedite an ambulance. The weight of the glass of water never changes but the longer I hold it—the heavier it becomes.”
He continued, “un-forgiveness at the moment of confrontation is of no account, but if I hold on to un-forgiveness for a day it begins to drag me down. If I carry un-forgiveness for a month, year or a lifetime I will not be able to carry it—the burden will become increasingly heavier day after day. Like the glass of water that I had to let go to find relief from pain—to find relief from un-forgiveness I must let it
go.”Jesus definitely said it best in Luke, “Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.”
Are you trying to extract that last pound of flesh from someone who has hurt you, disappointed you, and that perhaps unwittingly? Let it go. Release them of the debt. They’ll be glad—and so will you.
Happy Easter,
Dennis
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
MAXED OUT MEN MASQUERADING AS MAXIMUM MEN
I read this and thought--that hits the nail on the head! Guys, see if this isn't true to life.
I read this and thought--that hits the nail on the head! Guys, see if this isn't true to life.
How Are Men Doing?By Patrick Morley
This is an excerpt from the book I'm currently writing, Pastoring Men. Please let me know if you see something that doesn't look right to you, or if you have something to add. Thanks!
Demographically, men are quite different. They are black, white, Hispanic, rich, poor, rural, suburban, urban, white collar, blue collar, conservative, liberal. For every man who sits on a Board, another lays on a jail bunk. Some like to ponder over chess, others prefer screaming at touchdowns.Yet whether I am speaking with men from Alabama or Alaska, at the Pentagon or in prison, executives in New York City or Mennonite farmers in Pennsylvania, cowboys in Texas or Chinese businessmen in Malaysia, I have found that our similarities dwarf our differences.You’ve heard the numbing statistics about men and the havoc they have created. Instead of recounting those stats, I want to give you a psychographic profile of men of how men are doing. How are men doing, really?Tired
First, men are tired. If there is one thing you can know for sure about your men, it’s that they’re tired. You know the words that get tossed around: stressed, slammed, weary, in need of relief, wasted, fragile, short-fused. They are all synonyms that add up to “tired.”The average Christian male is up to his gold cross in debts and duties. He has a “picture” in his mind of what it means to be a “good Christian.” He believes in this picture—it’s what he thinks he “needs” to do to be a “good boy”—to be happy.I need to spend quality time with my wife.
I need to be a super dad to my kids and attend (maybe coach) all their activities. My dad did (or didn’t) do this for me, and I’m going to be there for them.
I need to make lots of money so my family can live in a beautiful home in a “better” neighborhood, my kids can wear the right labels, there is less pressure on my wife to work, and I can become financially independent.
I need to join a men’s small group where I can grow with some brothers.
I need to attend a weekly home growth and fellowship group.
I need to have a daily quiet time for fellowship with God.
I need to keep the Sabbath and have my family in church to worship God.
I need to serve God through a personal ministry—probably through the church.
I need to be a good citizen and neighbor.
I need to be a star at work if all this is going to happen.
I need a successful and satisfying career.
I need some time for myself.
No wonder men wince when you ask them to do something. No wonder men plop down in front of the television to vegetate instead of read a book or converse with their wives. We have created a culture which requires more energy than men have to give. Sometimes we call this the rat race.
A Lingering Feeling
Second, men often have a lingering feeling that something isn’t quite right about their lives. This is the inevitable result of running the rat race. A woman told me she was having difficulty figuring out how to offer support to her husband. He loves his work. Occasionally, for stretches of months at a time, he will work 12 hour days. Then suddenly his mood will swing, and he will mope around for months.“What is it that you want?” she asks him. He cannot articulate an answer.
She said, “I can chart these cycles on paper. They're completely predictable. I just don't know what to do for him anymore. He is extremely successful. He has the job he always wanted. We have a beautiful home and two lovely children. What's his problem?”
It does beg the question: How can a man get exactly what he wants and still not be happy?
Life Is Not Turning Out As Planned
Third, men’s lives are not turning out like they planned. Each week, on average, four to eight new men visit the Man in the Mirror Bible Study I teach in Orlando. Our average visitor is typically friendless, over-extended in most areas, has at least seen his Bathsheba, is up to his eardrums in debt, lacks meaning and purpose, feels under a lot of pressure, and is generally miserable. All of this is carefully masked behind a game face because the man knows that if the sharks smell blood it’s over.Many of these men have made a profession of faith in Christ, but they have not been trained (discipled) to integrate their faith into their daily lives. As a result, they get caught up in the rat race—the conflict between who they are created to be and who they are tempted to be. When they lead unexamined lives, men tend to be Christian in spirit, but secular in practice.
Unglued
Fourth, a lot of men feel like their lives are coming unglued. The problem is not that men are failing to meet their goals. In most cases they are. The problem, it turns out—they’re the wrong goals.A man in his 30s said, “When I got out of school I made out a list of everything I thought I would need to be happy. Fifteen years later I have everything on my list. Now I realize…it’s the wrong list.” How does a man give his best years to a system that never had any possibility of satisfying the hunger of his soul?Nobody Cares
Fifth, most men feel like nobody, with the possible exception of family, really cares about them personally. A pastor invited one of his businessmen—a prominent one—to lunch one day. The man took the pastor to his private club. After 45 minutes of eating and exchanging social pleasantries, they finished their meal. The man set down his napkin and said, “So tell me. What’s on your mind? What can I do for you today?”
The pastor said, “Nothing, really. I just wanted to spend some time with you and get to know you better as a person.”
“Well, there must be something I can do for you.”
“No, not really.”
“Are you sure? How are our finances?”
“No, really…I just wanted to get to know you better—man to man.”
Two or three more similar exchanges took place. The man sat there incredulous. Belief slowly crept across his face, and tears welled up in the man’s eyes. He struggled to maintain control of himself. A minute went by. The man regained his composure and said, “In my entire career, no one has ever asked me to lunch unless they wanted something from me.”Conclusion
No man fails on purpose, but most men are under a lot of pressure. When a man fails it sets powerful forces of bondage and brokenness in motion. It can take several generations to break the cycle. As America staggers beneath the load of a 100 major problems like divorce, fatherlessness, poverty, pornography, adultery, abortion, disrespect for authority, ethical failures, and truancy—where have the men gone? What has happened to our men? At the root of virtually every problem is the failure of a man, ironically a man who got up this morning wishing that his life would make a difference. A man for whom Christ died.© 2008. Patrick Morley. All rights reserved. This article may be reproduced for non-commercial ministry purposes with proper attribution.Any thoughts? Can I pray for you about something?
Want to get together for lunch--just to hang out? What about some other guys you know? How can we support and encourage each other as God's men?DON'T BE A MAXED OUT MAN MASQUERADING AS A MAXIMUM MAN!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
THE BAPTIST FAITH AND MESSAGE, Article Twenty One
This is Part 21 of a continuing series of articles examining the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. This statement of faith was adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention, meeting on June 14, 2000 “to set forth certain teachings which we believe.”
The Family
God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. It is composed of persons related to one another by marriage, blood, or adoption. Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. It is God's unique gift to reveal the union between Christ and His church and to provide for the man and the woman in marriage the framework for intimate companionship, the channel of sexual expression according to biblical standards, and the means for procreation of the human race.
The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in God's image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation.
Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord.
Parents are to demonstrate to their children God's pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents.*
Mike Huckabee is a Neanderthal—a leading candidate for his party’s nomination for President of the United States, a former governor of Arkansas, highly educated, very articulate—but a Neanderthal. At least that is what some would conclude because as a former pastor and President of the Arkansas Baptists, he believes the Bible, especially this nonsense about a wife being submissive to her own husband. How could a civilized man hold such archaic thoughts?
Now, this is not an article endorsing Governor Huckabee or criticizing him. It is rather about what the Word of God has to say about the family. Ever since the Southern Baptist Convention adopted this statement of belief concerning the family, our denomination has been classified as a bunch of fundamentalist ayatollahs, members of the Flat Earth Society, knuckle-draggers, and the like, by liberals and egalitarians.
How dare we say what the Bible says? I ask, “How dare we not say it?” Just because something isn’t “politically correct” doesn’t make it wrong.
Family life is broken. Marriage as we know it has been decimated by the forces of hell masquerading as voices of reason, equality and enlightenment. Children are the broken pieces left in the rubble. Do not ask yourself if the above statement is popular; ask yourself is it biblical? If it is, then we ought to believe it, live it and teach it—unashamedly. This is God’s blueprint for the family. It will work! I still believe men and women are different—not one better than the other—just different. I still believe in the institution of marriage—not shacking up, not serial polygamy (divorce, remarriage, divorce, remarriage…), not homosexual love (whatever that is), the need to discipline children, and such ancient truths. Count me among the Neanderthals! Happy Valentine’s Day!
* Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; 3:1-20; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Joshua 24:15; 1 Samuel 1:26-28; Psalms 51:5; 78:1-8; 127; 128; 139:13-16; Proverbs 1:8; 5:15-20; 6:20-22; 12:4; 13:24; 14:1; 17:6; 18:22; 22:6,15; 23:13-14; 24:3; 29:15,17; 31:10-31; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 9:9; Malachi 2:14-16; Matthew 5:31-32; 18:2-5; 19:3-9; Mark 10:6-12; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Corinthians 7:1-16; Ephesians 5:21-33; 6:1-4; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Timothy 5:8,14; 2 Timothy 1:3-5; Titus 2:3-5; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 3:1-7. (Baptist Faith and Message, 2000)
This is Part 21 of a continuing series of articles examining the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. This statement of faith was adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention, meeting on June 14, 2000 “to set forth certain teachings which we believe.”
The Family
God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. It is composed of persons related to one another by marriage, blood, or adoption. Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. It is God's unique gift to reveal the union between Christ and His church and to provide for the man and the woman in marriage the framework for intimate companionship, the channel of sexual expression according to biblical standards, and the means for procreation of the human race.
The husband and wife are of equal worth before God, since both are created in God's image. The marriage relationship models the way God relates to His people. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect, and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She, being in the image of God as is her husband and thus equal to him, has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to serve as his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation.
Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord.
Parents are to demonstrate to their children God's pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents.*
Mike Huckabee is a Neanderthal—a leading candidate for his party’s nomination for President of the United States, a former governor of Arkansas, highly educated, very articulate—but a Neanderthal. At least that is what some would conclude because as a former pastor and President of the Arkansas Baptists, he believes the Bible, especially this nonsense about a wife being submissive to her own husband. How could a civilized man hold such archaic thoughts?
Now, this is not an article endorsing Governor Huckabee or criticizing him. It is rather about what the Word of God has to say about the family. Ever since the Southern Baptist Convention adopted this statement of belief concerning the family, our denomination has been classified as a bunch of fundamentalist ayatollahs, members of the Flat Earth Society, knuckle-draggers, and the like, by liberals and egalitarians.
How dare we say what the Bible says? I ask, “How dare we not say it?” Just because something isn’t “politically correct” doesn’t make it wrong.
Family life is broken. Marriage as we know it has been decimated by the forces of hell masquerading as voices of reason, equality and enlightenment. Children are the broken pieces left in the rubble. Do not ask yourself if the above statement is popular; ask yourself is it biblical? If it is, then we ought to believe it, live it and teach it—unashamedly. This is God’s blueprint for the family. It will work! I still believe men and women are different—not one better than the other—just different. I still believe in the institution of marriage—not shacking up, not serial polygamy (divorce, remarriage, divorce, remarriage…), not homosexual love (whatever that is), the need to discipline children, and such ancient truths. Count me among the Neanderthals! Happy Valentine’s Day!
* Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; 3:1-20; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Joshua 24:15; 1 Samuel 1:26-28; Psalms 51:5; 78:1-8; 127; 128; 139:13-16; Proverbs 1:8; 5:15-20; 6:20-22; 12:4; 13:24; 14:1; 17:6; 18:22; 22:6,15; 23:13-14; 24:3; 29:15,17; 31:10-31; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 9:9; Malachi 2:14-16; Matthew 5:31-32; 18:2-5; 19:3-9; Mark 10:6-12; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Corinthians 7:1-16; Ephesians 5:21-33; 6:1-4; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Timothy 5:8,14; 2 Timothy 1:3-5; Titus 2:3-5; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 3:1-7. (Baptist Faith and Message, 2000)
Thursday, January 03, 2008
HERESY WITH A SMILE
Joel Osteen--he's so...nice. Confused, but nice. Biblically illiterate, but nice. We could call it heresy with a smile. I'm not a heresy hunter by nature, but sometimes duty demands we speak out. Because of his popularity, wide audience, and influence in evangelicalism--likely even among some of our church members--it's important to look beyond the smile and listen to what he says. Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. Here's an article from Steve Camp:
By Steve Camp Posted: 12/31/2007
How Wide is the Narrow Road at Lakewood Church?...Pastor Osteen believes Mormons are Christians too
"[The Pastor] must hold firm to the trustworthy
word as taught, so that he may be able to
give instruction in sound doctrine
and also to refute those who contradict it."
-Titus 1:9
Pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church in Houston, TX was on Chris Wallace's excellent news broadcast this morning: Fox New Sunday with Chris Wallace.
Once again, Joel speaks sentimentally about spiritual things, but shies away from speaking clearly and biblically about the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. And more importantly, speaking against the unorthodox beliefs of those who represent a false gospel dressed in Christian rags - such as Mormonism.. This interview represents the tragedy of unbiblical compassion... resulting in a distortion of the truth, an acceptance of a different gospel, and an ecumenical accommodationalism that defects from the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.
This interview is disappointing on three levels:
1. Joel is a pastor and failed to speak biblically as a pastor on an essential of the faith: what is the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and do Mormon beliefs pass the test of orthodoxy according to the standard of Scripture?
2. Because of Joel's large TV audience (especially among nonbelievers) many folks will surely come away from today's broadcast thinking that Mormons are truly Christian when in fact they are not at all.
3. Mitt Romney, though a fine politician, is now further confirmed in his unbelief and his heart a bit more calloused against the biblical gospel because of Joel's words.
This is serious beloved. What Joel affirmed is nothing short of a compromised gospel worthy only of eternal damnation. Mormons believe a different gospel than the biblical gospel and cannot be considered as part of orthodox Christianity under any circumstance (here is an excellent apologetic site that has numerous detailed articles about Mormon beliefs and doctrines.)
In the wake of this unfortunate interview, my prayers today are twofold:
1. that Joel Osteen would daily study to show himself approved unto God as a workman unashamed by handling accurately the word of truth. Eight years is a long enough time beloved for any man in pastoral ministry (seminary educated or not) to be thoroughly acquainted with the essentials of the faith - especially the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and to clearly represent its truth.And 2. that the Lord would bring truly saved men and women into the Romney household to proclaim to them the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ; warning them to flee the wrath to come; compelling them to be reconciled to God; commanding them to repent of their sins; and calling them to deny themselves, take up their cross, and by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone... follow Him as their Lord and Savior.
Below you will find a section of the transcript of the broadcast. The video can be watched here or read the entire transcript can be read here.
WALLACE: And what about Mitt Romney? And I've got to ask you the question, because it is a question whether it should be or not in this campaign, is a Mormon a true Christian?
OSTEEN: Well, in my mind they are. Mitt Romney has said that he believes in Christ as his savior, and that's what I believe, so, you know, I'm not the one to judge the little details of it. So I believe they are. (emphasis mine).And so, you know, Mitt Romney seems like a man of character and integrity to me, and I don't think he would — anything would stop me from voting for him if that's what I felt like.
WALLACE: So, for instance, when people start talking about Joseph Smith, the founder of the church, and the golden tablets in upstate New York, and God assumes the shape of a man, do you not get hung up in those theological issues?
OSTEEN: I probably don't get hung up in them because I haven't really studied them or thought about them. And you know, I just try to let God be the judge of that. I mean, I don't know.I certainly can't say that I agree with everything that I've heard about it, but from what I've heard from Mitt, when he says that Christ is his savior, to me that's a common bond.
Distributed by www.ChristianWorldviewNetwork.com
Joel Osteen--he's so...nice. Confused, but nice. Biblically illiterate, but nice. We could call it heresy with a smile. I'm not a heresy hunter by nature, but sometimes duty demands we speak out. Because of his popularity, wide audience, and influence in evangelicalism--likely even among some of our church members--it's important to look beyond the smile and listen to what he says. Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. Here's an article from Steve Camp:
By Steve Camp Posted: 12/31/2007
How Wide is the Narrow Road at Lakewood Church?...Pastor Osteen believes Mormons are Christians too
"[The Pastor] must hold firm to the trustworthy
word as taught, so that he may be able to
give instruction in sound doctrine
and also to refute those who contradict it."
-Titus 1:9
Pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church in Houston, TX was on Chris Wallace's excellent news broadcast this morning: Fox New Sunday with Chris Wallace.
Once again, Joel speaks sentimentally about spiritual things, but shies away from speaking clearly and biblically about the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. And more importantly, speaking against the unorthodox beliefs of those who represent a false gospel dressed in Christian rags - such as Mormonism.. This interview represents the tragedy of unbiblical compassion... resulting in a distortion of the truth, an acceptance of a different gospel, and an ecumenical accommodationalism that defects from the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.
This interview is disappointing on three levels:
1. Joel is a pastor and failed to speak biblically as a pastor on an essential of the faith: what is the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and do Mormon beliefs pass the test of orthodoxy according to the standard of Scripture?
2. Because of Joel's large TV audience (especially among nonbelievers) many folks will surely come away from today's broadcast thinking that Mormons are truly Christian when in fact they are not at all.
3. Mitt Romney, though a fine politician, is now further confirmed in his unbelief and his heart a bit more calloused against the biblical gospel because of Joel's words.
This is serious beloved. What Joel affirmed is nothing short of a compromised gospel worthy only of eternal damnation. Mormons believe a different gospel than the biblical gospel and cannot be considered as part of orthodox Christianity under any circumstance (here is an excellent apologetic site that has numerous detailed articles about Mormon beliefs and doctrines.)
In the wake of this unfortunate interview, my prayers today are twofold:
1. that Joel Osteen would daily study to show himself approved unto God as a workman unashamed by handling accurately the word of truth. Eight years is a long enough time beloved for any man in pastoral ministry (seminary educated or not) to be thoroughly acquainted with the essentials of the faith - especially the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and to clearly represent its truth.And 2. that the Lord would bring truly saved men and women into the Romney household to proclaim to them the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ; warning them to flee the wrath to come; compelling them to be reconciled to God; commanding them to repent of their sins; and calling them to deny themselves, take up their cross, and by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone... follow Him as their Lord and Savior.
Below you will find a section of the transcript of the broadcast. The video can be watched here or read the entire transcript can be read here.
WALLACE: And what about Mitt Romney? And I've got to ask you the question, because it is a question whether it should be or not in this campaign, is a Mormon a true Christian?
OSTEEN: Well, in my mind they are. Mitt Romney has said that he believes in Christ as his savior, and that's what I believe, so, you know, I'm not the one to judge the little details of it. So I believe they are. (emphasis mine).And so, you know, Mitt Romney seems like a man of character and integrity to me, and I don't think he would — anything would stop me from voting for him if that's what I felt like.
WALLACE: So, for instance, when people start talking about Joseph Smith, the founder of the church, and the golden tablets in upstate New York, and God assumes the shape of a man, do you not get hung up in those theological issues?
OSTEEN: I probably don't get hung up in them because I haven't really studied them or thought about them. And you know, I just try to let God be the judge of that. I mean, I don't know.I certainly can't say that I agree with everything that I've heard about it, but from what I've heard from Mitt, when he says that Christ is his savior, to me that's a common bond.
Distributed by www.ChristianWorldviewNetwork.com
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
THE BAPTIST FAITH AND MESSAGE, Article Twenty
This is Part 20 of a continuing series of articles examining the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. This statement of faith was adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention, meeting on June 14, 2000 “to set forth certain teachings which we believe.”
Religious Liberty
God alone is Lord of the conscience, and He has left it free from the doctrines and commandments of men which are contrary to His Word or not contained in it. Church and state should be separate. The state owes to every church protection and full freedom in the pursuit of its spiritual ends. In providing for such freedom no ecclesiastical group or denomination should be favored by the state more than others. Civil government being
ordained of God, it is the duty of Christians to render loyal obedience thereto in all things not contrary to the revealed will of God. The church should not resort to the civil power to carry on its work. The gospel of Christ contemplates spiritual means alone for the pursuit of its ends. The state has no right to impose penalties for religious opinions of any kind. The state has no right to impose taxes for the support of any form of religion. A free church in a free state is the Christian ideal, and this implies the right of free and unhindered access to God on the part of all men, and the right to form and propagate opinions in the sphere of religion without interference by the civil power.*
Baptists have historically championed the separation of church and state. Just because that expression has been abused, does not mean that it is not a valid belief. But we need to understand what that phrase truly means and why we ought to embrace it.
We do not subscribe to the separation of church and state because it is stated in the United States Constitution. Despite the common perception, it is not there. The reason we have and should stand for religious liberty is that it is true to the teaching of the New Testament.
In Scripture we find that we are free to choose—we can receive Christ or reject Him. We can love God or turn from Him. That is the powerful gift of choice that our Creator has endowed upon us. Love cannot be coerced, or it ceases to be love. If I compel a woman to surrender to my embrace, it isn’t love—it is rape. God would never force Himself upon us—but, we must live with the consequences of rejecting Him should that be our choice.
True to that spirit, we cannot compel the citizens of the United States to become Christians. The church cannot impose its will on the people by force. It has been tried in Europe and has failed—both the church and the state come out losers in such an arrangement. In so many of those countries you have a state church that is an empty shell—a façade of faith in a massive cathedral—cold and silent—having lost its prophetic voice and become wed to the government. Those same governments have become secularized and are increasingly hostile to God and His moral decrees.
Our Baptist forefathers, along with dissenters of other denominations, formed a powerful catalyst when they arrived in this country seeking religious liberty—freedom to practice their faith according to the dictates of their conscience. By the providence of God, such a nation was established.
In the correct sense of the word, America was birthed as a Christian nation. That doesn’t mean that everyone who founded the United States was a Christian, or even that the majority were. It means that this nation was begun with laws rooted in the moral law of God—acknowledging Him and His Providence. The underpinnings of our society are fundamentally connected to faith.
Yet that same God permits us to follow Him or forsake Him. Sadly, many have. As a consequence we see a vocal and powerful group, hostile to faith that promotes separation of church and state as the detachment from God and government. Such a distortion of the establishment clause of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution would been horrifying to the men who penned the words, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”
The secularist who owes his freedom to adopt such a perverse philosophy by that very means now undermines the foundation of that religious liberty established by the Creator! Repeated assaults have been made to strip away the mention of God from the public arena, to ban the name of Christ from the public square and seal Him up behind the walls of a church building. There is no reading of the founders of America that can lead one to such conclusions. It is revisionist history—it is militant secularism.
The implications are that from a Christian government designed to open doors to the expression of faith, guaranteeing freedom to belief or even disbelieve, we have moved toward a government that seeks to close those doors and keep Christians out of politics, the Bible out of schools, morality out of laws—God out of government. Christians know that we cannot compartmentalize faith—we cannot make a distinction between the secular and sacred. If our faith is real, then it affects all we do—how we vote, whom and what we support, our obedience to the laws of the land, praying for government leaders, and the like.
God has established human government. It has its role. It functions best when a moral environment is provided that causes faith to flourish due to the freedom it affords. If the pendulum swings to the wedding of church and state or the isolation of God from government, then the citizens suffer.
This is an important year—an election year—and believers need to be involved in the decision. We may not always like our choices, but we should prayerfully make the best ones we can while we still can. God has called us to be salt and light. Our intent is not to become a Baptist Taliban—that is an oxymoron. Christians have the right to be involved and the church has a right to speak to the issues of the day. But, we do realize that even though government has a role, there are limits to what it can do. The state can never bring in the Kingdom of God. It is the responsibility of the church to change hearts—one at a time—through the Gospel of Christ, freely shared and freely received. If we fail to exercise our responsibility and rights as citizens of both the United States and ultimately the kingdom of God, then we will lose the opportunity to continue to exercise those liberties.
* Genesis 1:27; 2:7; Matthew 6:6-7,24; 16:26; 22:21; John 8:36; Acts 4:19-20; Romans 6:1-2; 13:1-7; Galatians 5:1,13; Philippians 3:20; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; James 4:12; 1 Peter 2:12-17; 3:11-17; 4:12-19. (Baptist Faith and Message, 2000)
This is Part 20 of a continuing series of articles examining the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. This statement of faith was adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention, meeting on June 14, 2000 “to set forth certain teachings which we believe.”
Religious Liberty
God alone is Lord of the conscience, and He has left it free from the doctrines and commandments of men which are contrary to His Word or not contained in it. Church and state should be separate. The state owes to every church protection and full freedom in the pursuit of its spiritual ends. In providing for such freedom no ecclesiastical group or denomination should be favored by the state more than others. Civil government being
ordained of God, it is the duty of Christians to render loyal obedience thereto in all things not contrary to the revealed will of God. The church should not resort to the civil power to carry on its work. The gospel of Christ contemplates spiritual means alone for the pursuit of its ends. The state has no right to impose penalties for religious opinions of any kind. The state has no right to impose taxes for the support of any form of religion. A free church in a free state is the Christian ideal, and this implies the right of free and unhindered access to God on the part of all men, and the right to form and propagate opinions in the sphere of religion without interference by the civil power.*
Baptists have historically championed the separation of church and state. Just because that expression has been abused, does not mean that it is not a valid belief. But we need to understand what that phrase truly means and why we ought to embrace it.
We do not subscribe to the separation of church and state because it is stated in the United States Constitution. Despite the common perception, it is not there. The reason we have and should stand for religious liberty is that it is true to the teaching of the New Testament.
In Scripture we find that we are free to choose—we can receive Christ or reject Him. We can love God or turn from Him. That is the powerful gift of choice that our Creator has endowed upon us. Love cannot be coerced, or it ceases to be love. If I compel a woman to surrender to my embrace, it isn’t love—it is rape. God would never force Himself upon us—but, we must live with the consequences of rejecting Him should that be our choice.
True to that spirit, we cannot compel the citizens of the United States to become Christians. The church cannot impose its will on the people by force. It has been tried in Europe and has failed—both the church and the state come out losers in such an arrangement. In so many of those countries you have a state church that is an empty shell—a façade of faith in a massive cathedral—cold and silent—having lost its prophetic voice and become wed to the government. Those same governments have become secularized and are increasingly hostile to God and His moral decrees.
Our Baptist forefathers, along with dissenters of other denominations, formed a powerful catalyst when they arrived in this country seeking religious liberty—freedom to practice their faith according to the dictates of their conscience. By the providence of God, such a nation was established.
In the correct sense of the word, America was birthed as a Christian nation. That doesn’t mean that everyone who founded the United States was a Christian, or even that the majority were. It means that this nation was begun with laws rooted in the moral law of God—acknowledging Him and His Providence. The underpinnings of our society are fundamentally connected to faith.
Yet that same God permits us to follow Him or forsake Him. Sadly, many have. As a consequence we see a vocal and powerful group, hostile to faith that promotes separation of church and state as the detachment from God and government. Such a distortion of the establishment clause of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution would been horrifying to the men who penned the words, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”
The secularist who owes his freedom to adopt such a perverse philosophy by that very means now undermines the foundation of that religious liberty established by the Creator! Repeated assaults have been made to strip away the mention of God from the public arena, to ban the name of Christ from the public square and seal Him up behind the walls of a church building. There is no reading of the founders of America that can lead one to such conclusions. It is revisionist history—it is militant secularism.
The implications are that from a Christian government designed to open doors to the expression of faith, guaranteeing freedom to belief or even disbelieve, we have moved toward a government that seeks to close those doors and keep Christians out of politics, the Bible out of schools, morality out of laws—God out of government. Christians know that we cannot compartmentalize faith—we cannot make a distinction between the secular and sacred. If our faith is real, then it affects all we do—how we vote, whom and what we support, our obedience to the laws of the land, praying for government leaders, and the like.
God has established human government. It has its role. It functions best when a moral environment is provided that causes faith to flourish due to the freedom it affords. If the pendulum swings to the wedding of church and state or the isolation of God from government, then the citizens suffer.
This is an important year—an election year—and believers need to be involved in the decision. We may not always like our choices, but we should prayerfully make the best ones we can while we still can. God has called us to be salt and light. Our intent is not to become a Baptist Taliban—that is an oxymoron. Christians have the right to be involved and the church has a right to speak to the issues of the day. But, we do realize that even though government has a role, there are limits to what it can do. The state can never bring in the Kingdom of God. It is the responsibility of the church to change hearts—one at a time—through the Gospel of Christ, freely shared and freely received. If we fail to exercise our responsibility and rights as citizens of both the United States and ultimately the kingdom of God, then we will lose the opportunity to continue to exercise those liberties.
* Genesis 1:27; 2:7; Matthew 6:6-7,24; 16:26; 22:21; John 8:36; Acts 4:19-20; Romans 6:1-2; 13:1-7; Galatians 5:1,13; Philippians 3:20; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; James 4:12; 1 Peter 2:12-17; 3:11-17; 4:12-19. (Baptist Faith and Message, 2000)
WHAT'S SO IMPORTANT ABOUT A BABY IN A MANGER?
The following article is located at:http://www.christianitytoday.com/biblestudies/areas/biblestudies/articles/071205.html
Are There Many Paths to God?There is only one way to heaven, and that is through Jesus Christ.
by Lee Strobel
Jesus often surprised people with teachings that cut across the grain of human nature. "Lose your life to save it." "The first will be last." "The meek will inherit the earth." "Rejoice in persecution." "Pray for your enemies." "It's better to give than to receive." "Turn the other cheek." These are revolutionary teachings.
But by far the most outrageous assertion that Jesus ever uttered is in John 14:6: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." This claim rankles people like nothing else. It's been called narrow-minded. It's been called bigoted. It's been called snobbish. Some of you are seekers and something inside of you chafes at the idea that Jesus is the only way to God, for you are living in a world where there seems to be endless options in virtually every area of life. For some of you this is a stumbling block to faith.
Why is this claim so controversial? One reason is that it strikes at the core of three great myths about religion.
Myth 1: All religions are basically the same.The first myth is that all religions are basically the same. You've probably heard people say through the years that there may be distinctions between various world religions, but if you strip them down to their essentials, all religions fundamentally teach the same thing. In other words, all spiritual paths lead up the same mountain because all religions basically teach the brotherhood and the sisterhood of men and women and the universal fatherhood of God.
Let's concede that there is some common ground shared by many of the world's religions, especially when you look at the level of basic values and statements of belief about morality. Respectful dialogue between people who represent different faith systems is a great starting point. But, at the same time, there are significant differences between the world religions that cannot be papered over. In fact, with this one outlandish assertion, Jesus boldly puts Christianity in a class by itself, because if the path to God is through Jesus, then Christianity cannot be reconciled with any other religion.
The uniqueness of Christianity is rooted in the uniqueness of Jesus himself. Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you how to find the truth." But Jesus says, "I am the truth." Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you the way to salvation." But Jesus says, "I am the way to eternal life." Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you how you can become enlightened." But Jesus said, "I am the light of the world." See the difference?
There are drastic and irreconcilable differences between Christianity and all other belief systems. Every other religion is based on people doing things through their struggling and through their striving to earn the good favor of God. They say people have to use a Tibetan prayer wheel, or they have to go on pilgrimages, or they have to give alms to the poor, or they have to avoid eating certain foods, or they have to perform a certain number of unspecified good deeds, or they have to pray in a certain way, or they have to go through a cycle of reincarnation. These are attempts to reach out to God.
But Jesus Christ is God reaching out to us. Jesus taught the opposite of what those other faiths teach. He said that nobody could do anything to merit heaven, so you might as well stop trying. He said that we're all guilty of wrongdoing. That's consistent with our experience. We know that not a single person here today would claim to be perfect.
Jesus also said that our wrongdoing separates us from our God because God is holy and perfect. Because God is a righteous judge who by his very nature must judge wrongdoing, our wrongdoing has to be paid for. Because he loves us, because Jesus and God are for us and not against us, Jesus voluntarily offered himself as our substitute to pay the penalty that we owe because of our wrongdoing. When we receive his sacrifice on our behalf, we become reunited with God forever.
This distinction is starkly demonstrated by comparing a parable that was taught by Jesus with a similar story that is found in Buddhist literature. Both stories involve sons who became rebellious and left home in a huff, but who later saw the error of their ways and decided to return home. But it's the ending of the two stories that so clearly points out the difference.
In the Buddhist story, the errant son is required to work off the penalty for his past misdeeds through years and years of servitude. But the Christian parable of the prodigal son ends with the repentant son being warmly welcomed home by a loving father who showers him with undeserved forgiveness and undeserved grace.
There are other fundamental differences:
For instance, Christianity says that there is one eternal God who created the universe. But Hinduism says that everything is God; you are God, I am God, this podium is God. Islam denies that Jesus was God and that Jesus died for our sins. All religions are not the same.
While other religious leaders can offer wise sayings and helpful advice and insights, only Jesus Christ, the perfect Son of God, is qualified to offer himself as payment for our wrongdoing. No other religious leader even pretended to be able to do that. Theologian R.C. Sproul puts it this way, "Moses could mediate on the Law. Mohammed could brandish a sword. Buddha could give personal counsel. Confucius could offer wise sayings. But none of these men was qualified to offer an atonement for the sins of the world." Jesus alone was qualified.
Myth 2: Christianity is simply one philosophy among many.The second myth that Jesus dispels is related to the first myth. The second myth says that even though Christianity might be different, it's just one philosophy among many, and it's only as valid as any other religion. In other words, even if there are differences between religions, they all have equal claims on the truth. You have your truth, and I have my truth.
This myth is appealing because it seems to reflect the pluralistic attitude of the United States. On one level, that attitude is helpful. It is important that we are tolerant of people who believe differently than we do. The Bible tells us that those of us who are followers of Jesus need to be loving and respectful and accepting toward people of all faiths. Under our Constitution, all religious viewpoints are equally protected; anybody can believe whatever they want. But the problem is that some people jump to the erroneous conclusion that because different philosophies are equally protected, they must be equally valid. That's just not the case.
The concept behind what our Supreme Court calls the "marketplace of ideas" is that truth and falsehood will grapple in unhindered debate, so that truth will prevail in the end. So even though all religions are equally protected under our Constitution, this has nothing to do whatever with whether they are based on truth.
A few years ago, in one of his classic columns, Mike Royco said in a tongue and cheek way that he was a member of what he called "The Church of Asylumism." He explained that this church believes that there was an advanced civilization that lived in a distant galaxy millions of years ago. One day a few hundred of these aliens ate some tainted veggie dip and as a result, a virus hopelessly scrambled their brain. They tried to treat these victims, but nothing would work. So they decided to take them to an uninhabited planet that would serve as an asylum and where they could roam free and act goofy. That planet, Royco said, was earth. We're all descendants of those aliens. Royco said, "You want proof? Read history books! Look at the newspaper! Look at the TV news! Then tell me this isn't one big loony bin."
Royco, I hope, was kidding about being part of the Church of Asylumism. But in this country people have the right to believe whatever they want. If there really was a church of asylumism, under our Constitution, it would be as equally protected as Willow Creek Community Church, as the Methodist denomination, as the Episcopalians or any other religious group. But friends, that would not mean that the teachings of the church of asylumism were true.
Of course, this gives anybody in the country freedom to make the claim, as Jesus did, that they are the way and the truth and the life; that they are the only way to God. The question is, how do we know that Jesus was telling the truth?
Jesus backs up his claim with unique credentials. Jesus authenticated his claim of being God by living a perfect life, by embodying the attributes of God, and by fulfilling dozens of prophecies written hundreds of years before Jesus came to this planet. Unlike other religious leaders, Jesus also authenticated who he was by performing great miracles in broad daylight, in front of skeptics. He demonstrated his mastery over nature. He demonstrated his mastery over sickness. He demonstrated his mastery over death by bringing Lazarus back to life after four days in a cold, damp tomb. In the most spectacular demonstration of his deity, Jesus fulfilled his own prediction by being resurrected from the dead, in an historical event that was witnessed by more than 500 people and that sparked a spiritual revolution that has been unparalleled in the history of the world.
Christianity is not just a philosophy; it is a reality. Jesus didn't just claim that he is the one and only Son of God. He validated his claim with convincing evidence like nobody else in history.
Myth 3: Christians are narrow-minded to think Jesus is the only way to heaven.The third myth says that Christians are narrow-minded and snobbish when they say that Jesus is the only way to heaven. If there were many roads to God and Christians were claiming, "Ours is the best," I would agree they were being narrow and arrogant. But that's not what Christians are saying. They are saying that somebody has got to pay the penalty for the obvious wrongdoings that keep us separated from God. By virtue of his sinlessness and by virtue of his divinity, Jesus is the only one qualified to be our substitute. That, friends, is the reality of the situation. It is not narrow-minded to act in accordance with the evidence and to pursue truth.
A few years ago, some friends' baby girl developed jaundice, which is a disorder of the liver that caused her skin and the whites of her eyes to turn yellow. Of course her parents were very concerned, so they took the child to the pediatrician. The pediatrician told them jaundice is a potentially devastating disease, but it is also easily cured: all they had to do was to put the baby under a special light that stimulates healthy liver function.
The parents could have listened to this from the doctor and said, "That sounds too easy. Just put her under a light? What if instead we scrub her with soap and water and dip her in bleach? Certainly if we worked hard enough we could get her normal coloring back."
The doctor would have looked at them and said, "You don't understand. There is only one way to cure your daughter." They could have replied, "What if we just ignore all this and pretend everything's okay. The jaundice is your truth, doc; it's not our truth. If we sincerely believe that, things will turn out for the best in the long haul."
The doctor would have said, "You're going to jeopardize the life of your child if you do that. There is only one way to cure her. You're hesitant to pursue treatment because it sounds too easy. But look at the credentials on my wall. I've studied at medical school. I've used what I've learned to treat and to cure countless babies. Trust me."
Would anybody accuse those parents of being narrow-minded if they trusted a doctor with credentials and pursued the only course of treatment that was going to cure their little girl? Of course not! That is not being narrow-minded. That is acting rationally and in accordance with the evidence.
Every person in this room has a terminal illness called "sin." The reason those of us who follow Jesus cling to him so tightly is that he is the Great Physician who has the only cure. We could try to scrub away our sins with good deeds, but it will not work. We can sincerely think that there are other ways of dealing with it. But we would be sincerely wrong. The truth is that only the Great Physician offers a treatment that will erase the stain of sin. He has credentials and credibility to back him up. So when we turn to him, we're not being narrow-minded. We are acting rationally and in accordance with the evidence.
In addition to not being narrow-minded, it is anything but snobbish for Christians to believe Jesus is the only way to heaven. For a Christian to act holier than thou is snobbish, but to believe that Jesus is the only way is not. Let's pretend there are two country clubs. The first country club only admits people who have earned their membership. In order to get into this club, you have to obtain superior wisdom. You've got to fulfill a long list of demands. You've got to somehow attain certain spiritual advancement. You've got to go through cycles of reincarnation or whatever. Despite their best efforts, many people will not make the grade, and in the end, the door will be slammed in their face. They're not going to be good enough. They're not going to make the qualifications to get in.
This is what other religions are saying when they teach that people have to try and try to work their way to God. But Christianity is different. Christianity is like the country club that invites anyone who is interested, because Jesus has already paid for his or her membership. Rich or poor, black or white, regardless of your ethnic heritage, regardless of where you live, we would love to include you. The doors are wide open. Entry is not based on your qualifications. Entry is based only on you accepting Christ's invitation. Which faith system is snobbish?
Christianity is unique. It cannot be reconciled with any other religion. It backs up its truth claims with the credentials and credibility of Jesus Christ, which cannot be duplicated by any other spiritual leader. That's why when Jesus said he was the way and the truth and the life, history does not laugh; history has been revolutionalized by Jesus.
Copyright © PreachingToday.com, Christianity Today International
In our world filled with political correctness, it is vital to know what the Son of God coming to earth means to us. Consider the following article.
The following article is located at:http://www.christianitytoday.com/biblestudies/areas/biblestudies/articles/071205.html
Are There Many Paths to God?There is only one way to heaven, and that is through Jesus Christ.
by Lee Strobel
Jesus often surprised people with teachings that cut across the grain of human nature. "Lose your life to save it." "The first will be last." "The meek will inherit the earth." "Rejoice in persecution." "Pray for your enemies." "It's better to give than to receive." "Turn the other cheek." These are revolutionary teachings.
But by far the most outrageous assertion that Jesus ever uttered is in John 14:6: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." This claim rankles people like nothing else. It's been called narrow-minded. It's been called bigoted. It's been called snobbish. Some of you are seekers and something inside of you chafes at the idea that Jesus is the only way to God, for you are living in a world where there seems to be endless options in virtually every area of life. For some of you this is a stumbling block to faith.
Why is this claim so controversial? One reason is that it strikes at the core of three great myths about religion.
Myth 1: All religions are basically the same.The first myth is that all religions are basically the same. You've probably heard people say through the years that there may be distinctions between various world religions, but if you strip them down to their essentials, all religions fundamentally teach the same thing. In other words, all spiritual paths lead up the same mountain because all religions basically teach the brotherhood and the sisterhood of men and women and the universal fatherhood of God.
Let's concede that there is some common ground shared by many of the world's religions, especially when you look at the level of basic values and statements of belief about morality. Respectful dialogue between people who represent different faith systems is a great starting point. But, at the same time, there are significant differences between the world religions that cannot be papered over. In fact, with this one outlandish assertion, Jesus boldly puts Christianity in a class by itself, because if the path to God is through Jesus, then Christianity cannot be reconciled with any other religion.
The uniqueness of Christianity is rooted in the uniqueness of Jesus himself. Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you how to find the truth." But Jesus says, "I am the truth." Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you the way to salvation." But Jesus says, "I am the way to eternal life." Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you how you can become enlightened." But Jesus said, "I am the light of the world." See the difference?
There are drastic and irreconcilable differences between Christianity and all other belief systems. Every other religion is based on people doing things through their struggling and through their striving to earn the good favor of God. They say people have to use a Tibetan prayer wheel, or they have to go on pilgrimages, or they have to give alms to the poor, or they have to avoid eating certain foods, or they have to perform a certain number of unspecified good deeds, or they have to pray in a certain way, or they have to go through a cycle of reincarnation. These are attempts to reach out to God.
But Jesus Christ is God reaching out to us. Jesus taught the opposite of what those other faiths teach. He said that nobody could do anything to merit heaven, so you might as well stop trying. He said that we're all guilty of wrongdoing. That's consistent with our experience. We know that not a single person here today would claim to be perfect.
Jesus also said that our wrongdoing separates us from our God because God is holy and perfect. Because God is a righteous judge who by his very nature must judge wrongdoing, our wrongdoing has to be paid for. Because he loves us, because Jesus and God are for us and not against us, Jesus voluntarily offered himself as our substitute to pay the penalty that we owe because of our wrongdoing. When we receive his sacrifice on our behalf, we become reunited with God forever.
This distinction is starkly demonstrated by comparing a parable that was taught by Jesus with a similar story that is found in Buddhist literature. Both stories involve sons who became rebellious and left home in a huff, but who later saw the error of their ways and decided to return home. But it's the ending of the two stories that so clearly points out the difference.
In the Buddhist story, the errant son is required to work off the penalty for his past misdeeds through years and years of servitude. But the Christian parable of the prodigal son ends with the repentant son being warmly welcomed home by a loving father who showers him with undeserved forgiveness and undeserved grace.
There are other fundamental differences:
For instance, Christianity says that there is one eternal God who created the universe. But Hinduism says that everything is God; you are God, I am God, this podium is God. Islam denies that Jesus was God and that Jesus died for our sins. All religions are not the same.
While other religious leaders can offer wise sayings and helpful advice and insights, only Jesus Christ, the perfect Son of God, is qualified to offer himself as payment for our wrongdoing. No other religious leader even pretended to be able to do that. Theologian R.C. Sproul puts it this way, "Moses could mediate on the Law. Mohammed could brandish a sword. Buddha could give personal counsel. Confucius could offer wise sayings. But none of these men was qualified to offer an atonement for the sins of the world." Jesus alone was qualified.
Myth 2: Christianity is simply one philosophy among many.The second myth that Jesus dispels is related to the first myth. The second myth says that even though Christianity might be different, it's just one philosophy among many, and it's only as valid as any other religion. In other words, even if there are differences between religions, they all have equal claims on the truth. You have your truth, and I have my truth.
This myth is appealing because it seems to reflect the pluralistic attitude of the United States. On one level, that attitude is helpful. It is important that we are tolerant of people who believe differently than we do. The Bible tells us that those of us who are followers of Jesus need to be loving and respectful and accepting toward people of all faiths. Under our Constitution, all religious viewpoints are equally protected; anybody can believe whatever they want. But the problem is that some people jump to the erroneous conclusion that because different philosophies are equally protected, they must be equally valid. That's just not the case.
The concept behind what our Supreme Court calls the "marketplace of ideas" is that truth and falsehood will grapple in unhindered debate, so that truth will prevail in the end. So even though all religions are equally protected under our Constitution, this has nothing to do whatever with whether they are based on truth.
A few years ago, in one of his classic columns, Mike Royco said in a tongue and cheek way that he was a member of what he called "The Church of Asylumism." He explained that this church believes that there was an advanced civilization that lived in a distant galaxy millions of years ago. One day a few hundred of these aliens ate some tainted veggie dip and as a result, a virus hopelessly scrambled their brain. They tried to treat these victims, but nothing would work. So they decided to take them to an uninhabited planet that would serve as an asylum and where they could roam free and act goofy. That planet, Royco said, was earth. We're all descendants of those aliens. Royco said, "You want proof? Read history books! Look at the newspaper! Look at the TV news! Then tell me this isn't one big loony bin."
Royco, I hope, was kidding about being part of the Church of Asylumism. But in this country people have the right to believe whatever they want. If there really was a church of asylumism, under our Constitution, it would be as equally protected as Willow Creek Community Church, as the Methodist denomination, as the Episcopalians or any other religious group. But friends, that would not mean that the teachings of the church of asylumism were true.
Of course, this gives anybody in the country freedom to make the claim, as Jesus did, that they are the way and the truth and the life; that they are the only way to God. The question is, how do we know that Jesus was telling the truth?
Jesus backs up his claim with unique credentials. Jesus authenticated his claim of being God by living a perfect life, by embodying the attributes of God, and by fulfilling dozens of prophecies written hundreds of years before Jesus came to this planet. Unlike other religious leaders, Jesus also authenticated who he was by performing great miracles in broad daylight, in front of skeptics. He demonstrated his mastery over nature. He demonstrated his mastery over sickness. He demonstrated his mastery over death by bringing Lazarus back to life after four days in a cold, damp tomb. In the most spectacular demonstration of his deity, Jesus fulfilled his own prediction by being resurrected from the dead, in an historical event that was witnessed by more than 500 people and that sparked a spiritual revolution that has been unparalleled in the history of the world.
Christianity is not just a philosophy; it is a reality. Jesus didn't just claim that he is the one and only Son of God. He validated his claim with convincing evidence like nobody else in history.
Myth 3: Christians are narrow-minded to think Jesus is the only way to heaven.The third myth says that Christians are narrow-minded and snobbish when they say that Jesus is the only way to heaven. If there were many roads to God and Christians were claiming, "Ours is the best," I would agree they were being narrow and arrogant. But that's not what Christians are saying. They are saying that somebody has got to pay the penalty for the obvious wrongdoings that keep us separated from God. By virtue of his sinlessness and by virtue of his divinity, Jesus is the only one qualified to be our substitute. That, friends, is the reality of the situation. It is not narrow-minded to act in accordance with the evidence and to pursue truth.
A few years ago, some friends' baby girl developed jaundice, which is a disorder of the liver that caused her skin and the whites of her eyes to turn yellow. Of course her parents were very concerned, so they took the child to the pediatrician. The pediatrician told them jaundice is a potentially devastating disease, but it is also easily cured: all they had to do was to put the baby under a special light that stimulates healthy liver function.
The parents could have listened to this from the doctor and said, "That sounds too easy. Just put her under a light? What if instead we scrub her with soap and water and dip her in bleach? Certainly if we worked hard enough we could get her normal coloring back."
The doctor would have looked at them and said, "You don't understand. There is only one way to cure your daughter." They could have replied, "What if we just ignore all this and pretend everything's okay. The jaundice is your truth, doc; it's not our truth. If we sincerely believe that, things will turn out for the best in the long haul."
The doctor would have said, "You're going to jeopardize the life of your child if you do that. There is only one way to cure her. You're hesitant to pursue treatment because it sounds too easy. But look at the credentials on my wall. I've studied at medical school. I've used what I've learned to treat and to cure countless babies. Trust me."
Would anybody accuse those parents of being narrow-minded if they trusted a doctor with credentials and pursued the only course of treatment that was going to cure their little girl? Of course not! That is not being narrow-minded. That is acting rationally and in accordance with the evidence.
Every person in this room has a terminal illness called "sin." The reason those of us who follow Jesus cling to him so tightly is that he is the Great Physician who has the only cure. We could try to scrub away our sins with good deeds, but it will not work. We can sincerely think that there are other ways of dealing with it. But we would be sincerely wrong. The truth is that only the Great Physician offers a treatment that will erase the stain of sin. He has credentials and credibility to back him up. So when we turn to him, we're not being narrow-minded. We are acting rationally and in accordance with the evidence.
In addition to not being narrow-minded, it is anything but snobbish for Christians to believe Jesus is the only way to heaven. For a Christian to act holier than thou is snobbish, but to believe that Jesus is the only way is not. Let's pretend there are two country clubs. The first country club only admits people who have earned their membership. In order to get into this club, you have to obtain superior wisdom. You've got to fulfill a long list of demands. You've got to somehow attain certain spiritual advancement. You've got to go through cycles of reincarnation or whatever. Despite their best efforts, many people will not make the grade, and in the end, the door will be slammed in their face. They're not going to be good enough. They're not going to make the qualifications to get in.
This is what other religions are saying when they teach that people have to try and try to work their way to God. But Christianity is different. Christianity is like the country club that invites anyone who is interested, because Jesus has already paid for his or her membership. Rich or poor, black or white, regardless of your ethnic heritage, regardless of where you live, we would love to include you. The doors are wide open. Entry is not based on your qualifications. Entry is based only on you accepting Christ's invitation. Which faith system is snobbish?
Christianity is unique. It cannot be reconciled with any other religion. It backs up its truth claims with the credentials and credibility of Jesus Christ, which cannot be duplicated by any other spiritual leader. That's why when Jesus said he was the way and the truth and the life, history does not laugh; history has been revolutionalized by Jesus.
Copyright © PreachingToday.com, Christianity Today International
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