I have the honor of officiating a wedding in a couple of weeks. My wife is gone for a few days so I thought I would take this opportunity, while the house is quiet, to write notes for the ceremony.
Dear friends, family and loved ones. We are gathered here to witness the marriage commitment of _________ and___________ which they will pledge to each other. It is significant that all who witness this marriage covenant are people who love and including the One who loves them most of all--God, our Father, the author of marriage.
Who gives this woman to be married to this man?
I. Marriage is a mutual commitment--an unreserved commitment that cuts the ties of childhood. The Bible says that a man is to leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife. One of the characteristics of emotional maturity is leaving home. Leaving home is not moving a thousand miles away, it is the ability to live responsibly without reference to mom, dad, brothers and sisters. In marriage that means the spouse comes first. The Bible says, 'When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things ( I Cor. 13: 11).
The seeds of destruction are found in every relationship. Even though a couple seems to be compatible in every way, compatibility is not a guarantee of a successful marriage. The seeds of destruction must be weeded out when they begin to sprout and grow. Weeds are recognized by how they contrast with the crop. Love is the crop, the atmosphere, of marriage. What is inconsistent with love is weeds. In the Bible love is defined this way: "Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in the wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, endures all things. Love never ends . . . (I Cor. 13:4-8). Having a loving heart is essential to a successful marriage. Loves greatest example is Christ Jesus, who died for our sins. "Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for it" (Eph. 5:25).
II. Marriage is to be companionship. Companionship is to be present with. Companionship is shared interests, values and attitudes. It is meeting the joys and struggles of life together!
III. Marriage is coalescence (welding together) The two becoming one flesh. As children come, your love for each other is more important to them than anything else--it is their greatest security.
If the vows which you are about to make be kept faithfully then the sunset days of your life together will be even more radiant and lovely than these dawning days. Please join your right hands if you will accept these ties and vows.
Will you, , have this woman, , whose hand you hold, to be your wife, and promise her that you will loyally fulfill your obligations as her husband to protect her, honor her, love her, and cherish her in adversity as well as prosperity, and so you promise to keep yourself unto her alone so long as you both shall live?
Will you, , have this man, , whose hand you hold, to be your husband and solemnly promise that you will be unto him a tender, loving and true wife, through sunshine and shadow alike, and do you promise to be faithful to him alone so long as you both shall live?
_________will you repeat after me your promises for ________? I ________ from this day forward, take you to be my lawfully wedded (wife/husband)/ to have and to hold, / for better or for worse/ for richer or for poorer/ in sickness, and in health/ till death shall part us.
Rings:
______________What token do you wish to give each other which will be symbolic of your sacred promise? These symbols are good because they will remind you of the promises you have made to each other when you are apart. Gold, a precious metal, represents the preciousness of your relationship. That it is a ring reminds that this relationship is to be endless unless broken by death.
Man: you may take this ring and put it on the wedding finger of and say to her these words: I, , give this ring to you, , and by this act declare/ that I take you to be my beloved wife/ that I will be to you a faithful husband/ until death shall part us.
Woman: you may take this ring and put it on the wedding finger of and say to him these words: I, , give this ring to you, ,/ and thus declare that you are the husband of my choice/ that I will be faithful to you until death shall part us.
BENEDICTION AND FINAL STATEMENT:
As much as you, _______ and _________ have openly declared your wishes to be united in marriage, and in the presence of God and these witnesses have pledged love and fidelity to each other, I pronounce that you are husband and wife. Ladies and gentleman, may I introduce to you for the first time Mr. and Mrs. __________________.
Saturday, October 01, 2016
Tuesday, December 08, 2015
POTUS AND BATTERED WOMAN'S SYNDROME
The democrats, and other liberals in this country, are dealing with domestic terrorism like they have battered-woman's syndrome. Like a woman who continues to stay in an abusive relationship, so the President and other democrat leaders continue on in denial, believing only that this new reality is only minor and that the real problem is guns and/or climate change. Denial is the salient characteristic of battered-woman's syndrome; what is obvious to everyone is denied by the victim.
If the victim is enlightened and finally does admit the abuse is occurring, the next symptom is to blame herself and feel shame. She thinks, "I'm responsible, I'm doing something to bring about this abuse." Even though she is innocent, she believes she deserves it. Isn't that the message that the liberal left attempts to lay on us? "It's America's fault, we are greedy exploiters and thieves of the world's resources. That is why this terrorism is happening."
Another characteristic of the battered-woman's syndrome victim is the false belief that the abuse will diminish over time. It doesn't. Radical Islamic terrorism will not either. Doing nothing is not neutral, it is harmful. The situation becomes worse, not better.
When the victim is truly enlightened, she understands that she has done nothing to deserve her abuse. Attempts by the abuser to shame her and make her the cause of abuse are overcome. She understands that she has a responsibility to herself and her family to end this abuse. Using every legal means she takes positive action to bring it to an end. What ever these means are, it is not a matter of hating, but it is a matter of not being stupid and of doing the right thing.
In the battle against radical Islamic terrorism, however hard it may be, it is not about hating Muslims, but it is about not being stupid and doing the right thing. The first responsibility of the POTUS is to protect the citizens of the US. Obama needs to get over his "battered woman's syndrome" and do the right thing.
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
If the victim is enlightened and finally does admit the abuse is occurring, the next symptom is to blame herself and feel shame. She thinks, "I'm responsible, I'm doing something to bring about this abuse." Even though she is innocent, she believes she deserves it. Isn't that the message that the liberal left attempts to lay on us? "It's America's fault, we are greedy exploiters and thieves of the world's resources. That is why this terrorism is happening."
Another characteristic of the battered-woman's syndrome victim is the false belief that the abuse will diminish over time. It doesn't. Radical Islamic terrorism will not either. Doing nothing is not neutral, it is harmful. The situation becomes worse, not better.
When the victim is truly enlightened, she understands that she has done nothing to deserve her abuse. Attempts by the abuser to shame her and make her the cause of abuse are overcome. She understands that she has a responsibility to herself and her family to end this abuse. Using every legal means she takes positive action to bring it to an end. What ever these means are, it is not a matter of hating, but it is a matter of not being stupid and of doing the right thing.
In the battle against radical Islamic terrorism, however hard it may be, it is not about hating Muslims, but it is about not being stupid and doing the right thing. The first responsibility of the POTUS is to protect the citizens of the US. Obama needs to get over his "battered woman's syndrome" and do the right thing.
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
CHURCH SURVEY: Alta Church of Christ
It has been 2 full months since I last posted. I gave myself some time off after closing the Akron ministry, but now it is time to get going again. One of the projects I have already begun is church surveys. This is important to me because it is important to have some understanding of the relative health of the churches in Northwest Iowa, particularly the independent Christian churches and Churches of Christ.
November 29 I visited the Alta Church of Christ. In the past I filled the pulpit there several times, but it has been close to 10 years since I had been there. I went on line to check for service times. There is no practical on-line presence. One can get their name and address, but no activities, services or times. The church is without a pastor at this time, but a blog or web site with basic information would not be hard to do. Without service time information, I proceeded on the assumption that worship was at 9 and Sunday school was at 10 a.m. because that was their former service times. I was wrong. The times were reversed. There was no adult Sunday school that day.
It was good to worship with old friends. There were about 50 in attendance that day. Music was exactly split between contemporary and traditional--4 of each. Matt Wentz was the guest speaker.
CONCLUSIONS: There appeared to be enough youth in the congregation to have an effective ministry in the community, but they need good leadership. While I received a warm greeting that Sunday, I am not sure that the average visitor would want to come back. I was remembered, new people need the same kind of greeting. There are some simple things that could be done immediately. I'm wondering if this church might be a candidate to be a satellite campus of a larger church?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
November 29 I visited the Alta Church of Christ. In the past I filled the pulpit there several times, but it has been close to 10 years since I had been there. I went on line to check for service times. There is no practical on-line presence. One can get their name and address, but no activities, services or times. The church is without a pastor at this time, but a blog or web site with basic information would not be hard to do. Without service time information, I proceeded on the assumption that worship was at 9 and Sunday school was at 10 a.m. because that was their former service times. I was wrong. The times were reversed. There was no adult Sunday school that day.
It was good to worship with old friends. There were about 50 in attendance that day. Music was exactly split between contemporary and traditional--4 of each. Matt Wentz was the guest speaker.
CONCLUSIONS: There appeared to be enough youth in the congregation to have an effective ministry in the community, but they need good leadership. While I received a warm greeting that Sunday, I am not sure that the average visitor would want to come back. I was remembered, new people need the same kind of greeting. There are some simple things that could be done immediately. I'm wondering if this church might be a candidate to be a satellite campus of a larger church?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
Monday, October 05, 2015
AKRON'S LAST SERVICE
Lord, I believe. Help me overcome my unbelief, (Mark 9:24).
For the record: My last service at the First Church of Christ, Akron, IA was October 4th, 2015. My last sermon was The Distinct Differences Between Faith and Unbelief. Hebrews 11:6 and Mark 9:24 were my texts.
I do feel sorrow at the closing of the church. Looking back, there is one thing I didn't do that I should have done and that is to ask negative people not to serve in leadership positions or even to cease coming to church. Leaders who lack faith are infectious--it is contagious to the whole congregation. A post-mortem of the Akron Church of Christ is indicative of this.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
For the record: My last service at the First Church of Christ, Akron, IA was October 4th, 2015. My last sermon was The Distinct Differences Between Faith and Unbelief. Hebrews 11:6 and Mark 9:24 were my texts.
I do feel sorrow at the closing of the church. Looking back, there is one thing I didn't do that I should have done and that is to ask negative people not to serve in leadership positions or even to cease coming to church. Leaders who lack faith are infectious--it is contagious to the whole congregation. A post-mortem of the Akron Church of Christ is indicative of this.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Monday, September 21, 2015
THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, AKRON, IOWA
I (Jesus) do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You , Father, are in me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me (John 17: 20-21).
The lovely and gracious Helen and I have had to deal with the estates of relatives and loved ones. In sorting through the possessions of those who have passed on, one is confronted with the task of deciding what to keep and what to throw away. The legal matters are obvious, but the legacy and family history issues are not. Helen is a good archivist, so she sees value in things I do not. I tell you this so that as I share with you the Last Will and Testament of the Akron Church of Christ, I will be "painting with a broad brush." It is not my purpose to go into detail.
The history of the First Church of Christ in Akron, Iowa spans some 120 years. In its history there have been many victories. Every person that came to know Jesus Christ and surrender to Him is a victory to be savored and remembered! However, there have been many failures and mistakes too. It serves no constructive purpose to recount those except to admit them, understanding that the church is a hospital for sinners and bringing healing can be a messy business. The memory of those failures can be "flushed" because we have a gracious God and Savior (1 John 1:9).
The legacy the Akron Church of Christ can leave the community is this, "what it means to be simply a Christian." "We do not claim to be the only Christians, but we do claim to be Christians only." Unity is an extremely important topic these days ! The Church at large is facing challenges like it has not seen since the first century when there was no Christian consensus. We simply do not have the luxury maintaining our little denominational kingdoms!
Another legacy slogan of the fellowship of Christian Church and Church's of Christ that is a recipe for unity is this, "No creed but Christ, no book but the Bible, no name but the Divine, no law but love."
1. Christianity is about Christ, who he is and what he has done. He is the one in whom we believe, he is the one in whom we trust, he is the one we follow. Creeds tend to perpetuate division. It is upon Christ that the Church is to be built! (Matthew 16:15-17).
2. Our teaching comes from the Bible, Our people need to be taught the Bible so that they, too, can "accurately handle the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).
3. We wear no name other than the name of the one we serve. Human names tend to perpetuate division too. Throughout history slaves customarily wore the names of their masters. Not only are we slaves of Christ, we are children in the family of God, we wear his name! (Acts 11:26). We have a new name. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, not cousins! Our adversary, the devil, wins when he can keep us confused as to our identity!
4. We are bound by no law but love. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. For this, YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET, and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8-10). Love is to be the motivator of Christian living. Jesus said if you love me you will keep my commandments. Without love, meticulous law-keeping gains nothing (I Corinthians 13:1-7).
These principles are the matters the Akron Church of Christ leaves to the Akron Christian community at large. As churches find the need to unite their efforts in an increasingly secular and pagan culture, may they serve as guiding principles for that effort.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
The lovely and gracious Helen and I have had to deal with the estates of relatives and loved ones. In sorting through the possessions of those who have passed on, one is confronted with the task of deciding what to keep and what to throw away. The legal matters are obvious, but the legacy and family history issues are not. Helen is a good archivist, so she sees value in things I do not. I tell you this so that as I share with you the Last Will and Testament of the Akron Church of Christ, I will be "painting with a broad brush." It is not my purpose to go into detail.
The history of the First Church of Christ in Akron, Iowa spans some 120 years. In its history there have been many victories. Every person that came to know Jesus Christ and surrender to Him is a victory to be savored and remembered! However, there have been many failures and mistakes too. It serves no constructive purpose to recount those except to admit them, understanding that the church is a hospital for sinners and bringing healing can be a messy business. The memory of those failures can be "flushed" because we have a gracious God and Savior (1 John 1:9).
The legacy the Akron Church of Christ can leave the community is this, "what it means to be simply a Christian." "We do not claim to be the only Christians, but we do claim to be Christians only." Unity is an extremely important topic these days ! The Church at large is facing challenges like it has not seen since the first century when there was no Christian consensus. We simply do not have the luxury maintaining our little denominational kingdoms!
Another legacy slogan of the fellowship of Christian Church and Church's of Christ that is a recipe for unity is this, "No creed but Christ, no book but the Bible, no name but the Divine, no law but love."
1. Christianity is about Christ, who he is and what he has done. He is the one in whom we believe, he is the one in whom we trust, he is the one we follow. Creeds tend to perpetuate division. It is upon Christ that the Church is to be built! (Matthew 16:15-17).
2. Our teaching comes from the Bible, Our people need to be taught the Bible so that they, too, can "accurately handle the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).
3. We wear no name other than the name of the one we serve. Human names tend to perpetuate division too. Throughout history slaves customarily wore the names of their masters. Not only are we slaves of Christ, we are children in the family of God, we wear his name! (Acts 11:26). We have a new name. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, not cousins! Our adversary, the devil, wins when he can keep us confused as to our identity!
4. We are bound by no law but love. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. For this, YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET, and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8-10). Love is to be the motivator of Christian living. Jesus said if you love me you will keep my commandments. Without love, meticulous law-keeping gains nothing (I Corinthians 13:1-7).
These principles are the matters the Akron Church of Christ leaves to the Akron Christian community at large. As churches find the need to unite their efforts in an increasingly secular and pagan culture, may they serve as guiding principles for that effort.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Friday, July 24, 2015
WORSE THAN BABARISM
Permit the children to come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these (Luke 18:16).
Barbarism is the thinking and acting of barbarians. The simple, backwards and cruel ways of barbarians are the ways of radical Islam, but there is something worse than the barbarism of radical Islam and that is the cold-blooded sophistication of the Planned-Parenthood doctor. The recently released videos of the Planned Parenthood doctors, sipping wine, eating salad, discussing Lamborghini's all while negotiating the price of baby body parts are absolutely repulsive!!!
The justification of the use of baby body parts is medical research. It must be noted that Dr. Michelle Cretella, of the American College of Pediatricians, has pointed out that like embryonic stem cell research, fetal tissue research has failed to produce a single successful treatment for human disease. Adult stem cell research, however, has yielded treatments for 73 different diseases. Adult stem cells do not require the killing of innocent human life.
Democrats favor abortion at any time, virtually to the time of birth, all in the name of the woman's right to choose. Almost all of these baby body parts come from later-term abortions where baby has a beating heart and can feel pain. How is this different from the Nazi's medical experiments on Jews and gypsies? One can use medical research to justify the most horrible atrocities.
Worse, if the American public accepts this as business as usual, the self-destruction of America accelerates.
Tom
Barbarism is the thinking and acting of barbarians. The simple, backwards and cruel ways of barbarians are the ways of radical Islam, but there is something worse than the barbarism of radical Islam and that is the cold-blooded sophistication of the Planned-Parenthood doctor. The recently released videos of the Planned Parenthood doctors, sipping wine, eating salad, discussing Lamborghini's all while negotiating the price of baby body parts are absolutely repulsive!!!
The justification of the use of baby body parts is medical research. It must be noted that Dr. Michelle Cretella, of the American College of Pediatricians, has pointed out that like embryonic stem cell research, fetal tissue research has failed to produce a single successful treatment for human disease. Adult stem cell research, however, has yielded treatments for 73 different diseases. Adult stem cells do not require the killing of innocent human life.
Democrats favor abortion at any time, virtually to the time of birth, all in the name of the woman's right to choose. Almost all of these baby body parts come from later-term abortions where baby has a beating heart and can feel pain. How is this different from the Nazi's medical experiments on Jews and gypsies? One can use medical research to justify the most horrible atrocities.
Worse, if the American public accepts this as business as usual, the self-destruction of America accelerates.
Tom
Saturday, July 18, 2015
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW 2
Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord ( 2Peter 1:2ff).
Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you," so that we confidently say, "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:5-6).
Yesterday I very briefly discussed the spiritual blessings with which a Christian is blessed--they are worthy of much more discussion! I asked the question, "How do these spiritual blessing help us make a living that will satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children?"
Most likely one can never satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children. In most households there is never enough money to satisfy every one's wants. This kind of household has a spiritual problem. It reduces life to the material, to the flesh. For Christians God has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us. Money is not the solution, God is. A nagging, complaining family needs a spiritual education.
As long as we live in bodies of flesh we will have material responsibilities. God has promised that He would be our helper. One thing we must remember is to ask God's blessing on the things that we have--food is more nutritious with God's blessing, cars last longer with God's blessing and regular maintenance, clothing is more durable and attractive with God's blessing.
If we ask God's blessing on our labors we know that they will be done better than otherwise, and we will be more productive. Asking God's blessing on our lives and labors assures us of His Grace & Peace. Isn't Grace and Peace the foundation of a more productive life?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you," so that we confidently say, "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:5-6).
Yesterday I very briefly discussed the spiritual blessings with which a Christian is blessed--they are worthy of much more discussion! I asked the question, "How do these spiritual blessing help us make a living that will satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children?"
Most likely one can never satisfy a nagging spouse and complaining children. In most households there is never enough money to satisfy every one's wants. This kind of household has a spiritual problem. It reduces life to the material, to the flesh. For Christians God has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us. Money is not the solution, God is. A nagging, complaining family needs a spiritual education.
As long as we live in bodies of flesh we will have material responsibilities. God has promised that He would be our helper. One thing we must remember is to ask God's blessing on the things that we have--food is more nutritious with God's blessing, cars last longer with God's blessing and regular maintenance, clothing is more durable and attractive with God's blessing.
If we ask God's blessing on our labors we know that they will be done better than otherwise, and we will be more productive. Asking God's blessing on our lives and labors assures us of His Grace & Peace. Isn't Grace and Peace the foundation of a more productive life?
Our Father's Blessings,
Tom
Monday, July 13, 2015
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW!
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3; Read through verse 14).
Praise is due to the One who has blessed us with all good things! First and foremost among those good things are the spiritual blessings we have in Christ. In Christ we are God's chosen to be holy and blameless. In Christ it was predestined that we would be adopted as sons of God. In Christ we are redeemed, our trespasses being paid for, and we are forgiven. We know the mystery of God's will in that all things are summed up in Christ. In Christ we are not like orphans, we have an inheritance of hope and the Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of that inheritance.
You might say, "Yes, we have all these spiritual blessings, but how does that help me to put a roof over my head and buy groceries for my family?" We will discuss that tomorrow.
Grace & Peace,
Tom
Praise is due to the One who has blessed us with all good things! First and foremost among those good things are the spiritual blessings we have in Christ. In Christ we are God's chosen to be holy and blameless. In Christ it was predestined that we would be adopted as sons of God. In Christ we are redeemed, our trespasses being paid for, and we are forgiven. We know the mystery of God's will in that all things are summed up in Christ. In Christ we are not like orphans, we have an inheritance of hope and the Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of that inheritance.
You might say, "Yes, we have all these spiritual blessings, but how does that help me to put a roof over my head and buy groceries for my family?" We will discuss that tomorrow.
Grace & Peace,
Tom
Saturday, June 27, 2015
PEACE
Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all (2 Thessalonians 3:16).
This morning is one of those rare mornings in northwest Iowa where one can step out on the deck with a cup of coffee in his hand and sit, enjoy the beauty of the flowers and trees, and listen to the birds sing. That environment of peacefulness inspires reflection and prayer. The chaos and conflict of our times do not seem so troublesome right now.
In our war with the evil one we need the "peace that passes understanding" to sustain us in faithfulness to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
This morning is one of those rare mornings in northwest Iowa where one can step out on the deck with a cup of coffee in his hand and sit, enjoy the beauty of the flowers and trees, and listen to the birds sing. That environment of peacefulness inspires reflection and prayer. The chaos and conflict of our times do not seem so troublesome right now.
In our war with the evil one we need the "peace that passes understanding" to sustain us in faithfulness to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Friday, June 26, 2015
COMMUNION PROCLAIMS
For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes . . . But a man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup (1 Corinthians 11: 26 &28)).
Taking communion is a proclamation of faith. Taking communion is a proclamation of belief in Jesus Christ the Son of God. Taking communion is a proclamation of the truth that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins, He was buried and rose from the grave. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith that Jesus Christ is coming again. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith in Christ, that He is our righteousness in the Day of Judgment.
Communion is a backward look at what Jesus has done for us. Communion is an honest and inward look at our personal lives, recognizing our sinfulness. Communion is a forward look to the return of Christ. Why would taking communion ever become a common thing?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Taking communion is a proclamation of faith. Taking communion is a proclamation of belief in Jesus Christ the Son of God. Taking communion is a proclamation of the truth that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins, He was buried and rose from the grave. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith that Jesus Christ is coming again. Taking communion is a proclamation of our faith in Christ, that He is our righteousness in the Day of Judgment.
Communion is a backward look at what Jesus has done for us. Communion is an honest and inward look at our personal lives, recognizing our sinfulness. Communion is a forward look to the return of Christ. Why would taking communion ever become a common thing?
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, June 06, 2015
A PICTURE OF THE MEN OF PROVERBS
A man who wanders from the way of understanding will rest in the assembly of the dead (Proverbs 21:16).
As with the women of Proverbs, what differentiates between the wise and the foolish men is the fear of the Lord (1:7). Even though a man might be highly skilled, he is still a fool if he does not fear the Lord!
The real men of Proverbs seem to have some common characteristics that are worth noteing:
1. He has an excellent wife (12:4). Real men are wise about the selection of a wife.
2. He has regard for the life of his animal (12:10).
3. Fools are not his companions (13:20). As Pasquinel said in Centennial, "Bad companions bring bad luck" (James Michener).
4. The Lord makes the Godly man's enemies be at peace with him (16:7).
5. He leaves an inheritance to his children's children (13:22).
6. He has good friends in quality, but not a great number in quantity (18:24).
7. He is strong enough to sharpen those around him (27:17).
8. He helps the poor (28:27). " He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses."
9. The pursuit of wealth is not his most important pursuit because there are somethings that money cannot buy (28:22).
I'm sure there are other characteristics of Proverbs that I haven't listed, but these are the beginning of a good portrait of the real man of Proverbs.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
As with the women of Proverbs, what differentiates between the wise and the foolish men is the fear of the Lord (1:7). Even though a man might be highly skilled, he is still a fool if he does not fear the Lord!
The real men of Proverbs seem to have some common characteristics that are worth noteing:
1. He has an excellent wife (12:4). Real men are wise about the selection of a wife.
2. He has regard for the life of his animal (12:10).
3. Fools are not his companions (13:20). As Pasquinel said in Centennial, "Bad companions bring bad luck" (James Michener).
4. The Lord makes the Godly man's enemies be at peace with him (16:7).
5. He leaves an inheritance to his children's children (13:22).
6. He has good friends in quality, but not a great number in quantity (18:24).
7. He is strong enough to sharpen those around him (27:17).
8. He helps the poor (28:27). " He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses."
9. The pursuit of wealth is not his most important pursuit because there are somethings that money cannot buy (28:22).
I'm sure there are other characteristics of Proverbs that I haven't listed, but these are the beginning of a good portrait of the real man of Proverbs.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Friday, May 29, 2015
THE WOMEN OF PROVERBS
The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands (Proverbs 14:1).
The primary author of Proverbs was Solomon. Solomon asked God for wisdom and God granted Solomon's request. Much of Solomon's wisdom was the ability to discern wisdom in others and make it known along with his own wisdom. Chapter 24:23 speaks of the proverbs as being the sayings of the wise. Chapter 30 is credited to Agur the son of Jakeh, the oracle.
The wisdom of Proverbs was for the young, especially boys--it was their text book for social science. One of the topics of study for these young scholars was women. (I found a note pad of my grandfather's that was titled All of What Men Know About Women. Every page was blank.)
One kind of woman mentioned by the Proverbs is the contentious woman. She is mentioned 4 times in the book. "It is better to live in a corner of a roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman" (Proverbs 21:9). The contentious woman is the one who nags, is argumentative and complains. Watch out for this kind of woman!
The woman of folly is another kind of woman the Proverbs warns about. "The woman of folly is boisterous, she is naive and knows nothing" (9:13). One of the keys to interpreting all the kinds of people Proverbs talks about is 9:10: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." This foolish woman knows nothing because she does not fear the Lord! The wise woman is wise because she fears the Lord. The virtuous woman is virtuous because she fears the Lord: "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised" (31:30).
The Proverbs speak truly of human nature. Proverbs doesn't degrade woman, in fact it lifts them up. Wisdom in chapter 8 is used in the feminine voice, suggesting that women are not second class citizens in regard to wisdom: "For wisdom is better than jewels; and all desirable things cannot compare with her" (8:11).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
The primary author of Proverbs was Solomon. Solomon asked God for wisdom and God granted Solomon's request. Much of Solomon's wisdom was the ability to discern wisdom in others and make it known along with his own wisdom. Chapter 24:23 speaks of the proverbs as being the sayings of the wise. Chapter 30 is credited to Agur the son of Jakeh, the oracle.
The wisdom of Proverbs was for the young, especially boys--it was their text book for social science. One of the topics of study for these young scholars was women. (I found a note pad of my grandfather's that was titled All of What Men Know About Women. Every page was blank.)
One kind of woman mentioned by the Proverbs is the contentious woman. She is mentioned 4 times in the book. "It is better to live in a corner of a roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman" (Proverbs 21:9). The contentious woman is the one who nags, is argumentative and complains. Watch out for this kind of woman!
The woman of folly is another kind of woman the Proverbs warns about. "The woman of folly is boisterous, she is naive and knows nothing" (9:13). One of the keys to interpreting all the kinds of people Proverbs talks about is 9:10: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." This foolish woman knows nothing because she does not fear the Lord! The wise woman is wise because she fears the Lord. The virtuous woman is virtuous because she fears the Lord: "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised" (31:30).
The Proverbs speak truly of human nature. Proverbs doesn't degrade woman, in fact it lifts them up. Wisdom in chapter 8 is used in the feminine voice, suggesting that women are not second class citizens in regard to wisdom: "For wisdom is better than jewels; and all desirable things cannot compare with her" (8:11).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
BLESS THE BEASTS AND THE CHILDREN
A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal, but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel (Proverbs 12:10).
Bless the beasts and the children, for in this world they have no voice, they have no choice . . .
A lot can be learned about a person's character by how he, or she, cares for their animals. It is a matter of understanding the animals that one has the responsibility of caring for, much as understanding the children in his care. Proverbs 22:6 tells us that if a child is trained up in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. It is also true of animals and pets. Whether children, pets or animals, if one takes on the responsibility of having them, then it is required that one works at understanding them so that they can be given what they need. Without understanding even compassion can be cruel.
The Carpenters sang "Bless the Beasts and the Children" in the early 1970's. It is a very moving song and I wondered why the pro-life movement didn't make use of it. Having said that, the very first line of lyrics expresses very well God's intentions for our relationship with animals and children.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Bless the beasts and the children, for in this world they have no voice, they have no choice . . .
A lot can be learned about a person's character by how he, or she, cares for their animals. It is a matter of understanding the animals that one has the responsibility of caring for, much as understanding the children in his care. Proverbs 22:6 tells us that if a child is trained up in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. It is also true of animals and pets. Whether children, pets or animals, if one takes on the responsibility of having them, then it is required that one works at understanding them so that they can be given what they need. Without understanding even compassion can be cruel.
The Carpenters sang "Bless the Beasts and the Children" in the early 1970's. It is a very moving song and I wondered why the pro-life movement didn't make use of it. Having said that, the very first line of lyrics expresses very well God's intentions for our relationship with animals and children.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Monday, May 11, 2015
SHADES OF WISDOM
A wise man (person) will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel (Proverbs 1:5).
The book of Proverbs was written for the young and the naive (1:4) to give them wise counsel and to help them develop the skill of discernment and discretion.
The most-used term as a definition for the wise in the book of Proverbs is skillful. How does one develop skills? By learning from a teacher, which, in its self, is often tedious and hard work. It has been said that there is no teaching, only learning, so the fool will not put in the effort to learn and develop the skills that are needed to succeed. The wise of the book of Proverbs are those who are skilled in honest occupations from those who labor with their hands to those who are skilled at teaching and counseling and laboring with their minds. Those who are skilled in dishonesty are the worst kind of fools. Unfortunately, there are way too many of the skilled dishonest, so it is important to develop the skill of discernment so that one doesn't become their victim. It must be added that this kind of wisdom includes women as well: "The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands" (14:1). Women can be just as skillful as men and just as destructive and depraved as men too.
A second word for the wise in the book of Proverbs is one who considers carefully: "A rebuke goes deeper into one who has understanding (is wise) than a hundred blows into a fool" (17:10). As well: "He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but he who is a companion of gluttons humiliates his father" (28:7). Many people are driven by their emotions. They do not stop to think and take time to consider all the issues involved. Our genetics and family systems do play a role in our ability to think critically, but they are not determiners. The ability to think critically can be developed if one is willing to learn!
A third word for the wise in Proverbs has to do with substance: "He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous . . . (2:7). The word is in the feminine gender so that it means the opposite of girls gone wild, but rather girls gone wise. This kind of wisdom is not the kind of popular culture based on the breezes of popularity, but the kind of understanding that has stood the test of time. It has substance. It is true, not trendy!
Finally, the last word for the wise in Proverbs is sakal. There is overlap as to how these words are used, but what makes this word different is that it is active. a sakal person is one who acts circumspectly, prudently and wisely so that others may see and learn. Sakal is used five times in the book of Proverbs and wise action seems to be the consistent thread in its use: "A servant who acts wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully . . . " (17:2). Some will never learn from an other's example, nevertheless, we should live lives of wisdom to inspire others.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
The book of Proverbs was written for the young and the naive (1:4) to give them wise counsel and to help them develop the skill of discernment and discretion.
The most-used term as a definition for the wise in the book of Proverbs is skillful. How does one develop skills? By learning from a teacher, which, in its self, is often tedious and hard work. It has been said that there is no teaching, only learning, so the fool will not put in the effort to learn and develop the skills that are needed to succeed. The wise of the book of Proverbs are those who are skilled in honest occupations from those who labor with their hands to those who are skilled at teaching and counseling and laboring with their minds. Those who are skilled in dishonesty are the worst kind of fools. Unfortunately, there are way too many of the skilled dishonest, so it is important to develop the skill of discernment so that one doesn't become their victim. It must be added that this kind of wisdom includes women as well: "The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands" (14:1). Women can be just as skillful as men and just as destructive and depraved as men too.
A second word for the wise in the book of Proverbs is one who considers carefully: "A rebuke goes deeper into one who has understanding (is wise) than a hundred blows into a fool" (17:10). As well: "He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but he who is a companion of gluttons humiliates his father" (28:7). Many people are driven by their emotions. They do not stop to think and take time to consider all the issues involved. Our genetics and family systems do play a role in our ability to think critically, but they are not determiners. The ability to think critically can be developed if one is willing to learn!
A third word for the wise in Proverbs has to do with substance: "He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous . . . (2:7). The word is in the feminine gender so that it means the opposite of girls gone wild, but rather girls gone wise. This kind of wisdom is not the kind of popular culture based on the breezes of popularity, but the kind of understanding that has stood the test of time. It has substance. It is true, not trendy!
Finally, the last word for the wise in Proverbs is sakal. There is overlap as to how these words are used, but what makes this word different is that it is active. a sakal person is one who acts circumspectly, prudently and wisely so that others may see and learn. Sakal is used five times in the book of Proverbs and wise action seems to be the consistent thread in its use: "A servant who acts wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully . . . " (17:2). Some will never learn from an other's example, nevertheless, we should live lives of wisdom to inspire others.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Wednesday, May 06, 2015
WHAT KIND OF FOOL (am I?)
Do not answer a fool according to his folly or you will also be like him (Proverbs 26:4).
What kind of fool am I, who never fell in love? It seems I'm the only one I have been thinking of . . . (Sammy Davis Jr. made this song a hit in 1962).
It is an appropriate question to ask because there is a little bit of foolishness in all of us. The book of Proverbs lists four different kinds:
1) The naive, simple and unsophisticated. "The naive believes everything, but the sensible man considers his steps (14:15). The positive of the naive is that they are teachable, something that is probably not characteristic of the other kinds of fools. Proverbs was written to give prudence to the naive (1:4).
2) The evil fool is characterized in 1:7, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction." This kind of fool lacks sense, he is emotionally driven, "A fools anger is known at once . . . (12:16). "The way of the fool is right in his own eyes." (12:15). This kind of fool is dangerous because not only is he emotionally driven, but he never sees himself as being wrong or doing wrong. Be careful around this kind of person!
3) The sensual fool is described in 10:23: "Doing wickedness is like sport to the fool . . ." 13:19 says: ". . . it is an abomination to fools to turn away from evil." The desires of the flesh come before the will of God and what is right.
4) The scorning fool or empty fool. Psalms 14:1 tells us that this kind of fool says in his heart, "there is no God." Also, in 1 Samuel 25 is the story of Nabal and Abigail. Read 25:24-25. There we find that Nabal means fool and certainly, this Nabal was a fool! This kind of fool has respect for neither God nor man. Proverbs 17:21 says of this kind of fool, "He who sires a fool does so to his own sorrow, and the father of a fool has no joy."
Each one of these kinds of fools is a different Hebrew word in Proverbs. Proverbs places a lot of emphasis in understanding fools because fools can be very dangerous; one needs tho understand what his is dealing with! "He cuts off his own feet and drinks violence who sends a message by the hand of a fool" (Proverbs 26:6).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
What kind of fool am I, who never fell in love? It seems I'm the only one I have been thinking of . . . (Sammy Davis Jr. made this song a hit in 1962).
It is an appropriate question to ask because there is a little bit of foolishness in all of us. The book of Proverbs lists four different kinds:
1) The naive, simple and unsophisticated. "The naive believes everything, but the sensible man considers his steps (14:15). The positive of the naive is that they are teachable, something that is probably not characteristic of the other kinds of fools. Proverbs was written to give prudence to the naive (1:4).
2) The evil fool is characterized in 1:7, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction." This kind of fool lacks sense, he is emotionally driven, "A fools anger is known at once . . . (12:16). "The way of the fool is right in his own eyes." (12:15). This kind of fool is dangerous because not only is he emotionally driven, but he never sees himself as being wrong or doing wrong. Be careful around this kind of person!
3) The sensual fool is described in 10:23: "Doing wickedness is like sport to the fool . . ." 13:19 says: ". . . it is an abomination to fools to turn away from evil." The desires of the flesh come before the will of God and what is right.
4) The scorning fool or empty fool. Psalms 14:1 tells us that this kind of fool says in his heart, "there is no God." Also, in 1 Samuel 25 is the story of Nabal and Abigail. Read 25:24-25. There we find that Nabal means fool and certainly, this Nabal was a fool! This kind of fool has respect for neither God nor man. Proverbs 17:21 says of this kind of fool, "He who sires a fool does so to his own sorrow, and the father of a fool has no joy."
Each one of these kinds of fools is a different Hebrew word in Proverbs. Proverbs places a lot of emphasis in understanding fools because fools can be very dangerous; one needs tho understand what his is dealing with! "He cuts off his own feet and drinks violence who sends a message by the hand of a fool" (Proverbs 26:6).
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Thursday, April 30, 2015
THE BEGINNING OF A HEALTHY LIFE ( contrasting the wise and the foolish)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7 NASV).
Every person is biased. We all have our presuppositions that form the foundation of our world view. Some believe that God is not; He doesn't exist so human existence must be explained in "natural" terms. Others believe in gods or the True God of the Bible. The truth is that we live out our world view, we live out what we truly believe in. What a person does is way more important than what he says. How we live and the priorities that we have are a clear testimony of the things in which we believe. Reverence and respect for God form the foundation for a healthy life.
Our Father's Love
Tom
Every person is biased. We all have our presuppositions that form the foundation of our world view. Some believe that God is not; He doesn't exist so human existence must be explained in "natural" terms. Others believe in gods or the True God of the Bible. The truth is that we live out our world view, we live out what we truly believe in. What a person does is way more important than what he says. How we live and the priorities that we have are a clear testimony of the things in which we believe. Reverence and respect for God form the foundation for a healthy life.
Our Father's Love
Tom
Friday, April 17, 2015
METRICS OF BEAUTY
The king loved Esther more than all the women, and she found favor and kindness with him more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti (Esther 2:17).
HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS! (Romans 10:15).
The Bible specifically describes Abraham's wife, Sarah and Isaac's wife, Rebekah as being beautiful. Oddly enough, the same Hebrew word that describes Sarah and Rebekah as beautiful also is used to Describe David. Sarah must have kept her good looks well into old age because there were a couple of kings that wanted her even when she was old. While the above text does not say Esther was beautiful it certainly leaves us with the impression that Esther was way above average in looks and grace. She was the total package, being both graceful and good-looking.
Though there are some facets of beauty that are cultural, like weight, length of neck, size of feet and body ornamentation, there are some factors that are recognized universally as being beautiful. As early as 8 months of age babies gaze much longer at symmetrical faces than asymmetrical faces. Clear skin is universally recognized as being essential to beauty. Though the roundness of a woman may be valued differently in different cultures, it is universally recognized that a waist-to-hip ratio of .70 is a metric of physical beauty in a woman. It appears that most of the women of Fox News fall into these physical metrics.
Debrahlee Lorenzana was fired from her position as a business banker for being distractingly attractive to her male colleagues (Psychology Today, 2-14). Because of our highly sexualized culture, being an attractive woman has to be difficult in the work-place, but it also has its advantages. A wise woman will, like Esther, use her beauty in such a way as to bring grace to the work-place. She has to learn how to 'express confidence and competence, to speak with certainty and demonstrate an ability to listen and be present' (PT, Flora, 2014).
Beauty can become ugly if it represents a lot of difficulty. The landscapes of America were not recognized as being beautiful until the railroads could easily carry passengers through the mountains. Prior to the railroads, mountains were obstacles that had to be conquered. As well, a beautiful woman without discretion will not keep her beauty. Forest Gump said, "Stupid is as stupid does," would also agree that beauty is as beauty does.
This is as true for men as it is for women, one can improve his/her looks a whole lot by cultivating the attitudes and actions that help and bless others. A rather plain-looking person becomes very attractive when grace is shown in her/his life.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS! (Romans 10:15).
The Bible specifically describes Abraham's wife, Sarah and Isaac's wife, Rebekah as being beautiful. Oddly enough, the same Hebrew word that describes Sarah and Rebekah as beautiful also is used to Describe David. Sarah must have kept her good looks well into old age because there were a couple of kings that wanted her even when she was old. While the above text does not say Esther was beautiful it certainly leaves us with the impression that Esther was way above average in looks and grace. She was the total package, being both graceful and good-looking.
Though there are some facets of beauty that are cultural, like weight, length of neck, size of feet and body ornamentation, there are some factors that are recognized universally as being beautiful. As early as 8 months of age babies gaze much longer at symmetrical faces than asymmetrical faces. Clear skin is universally recognized as being essential to beauty. Though the roundness of a woman may be valued differently in different cultures, it is universally recognized that a waist-to-hip ratio of .70 is a metric of physical beauty in a woman. It appears that most of the women of Fox News fall into these physical metrics.
Debrahlee Lorenzana was fired from her position as a business banker for being distractingly attractive to her male colleagues (Psychology Today, 2-14). Because of our highly sexualized culture, being an attractive woman has to be difficult in the work-place, but it also has its advantages. A wise woman will, like Esther, use her beauty in such a way as to bring grace to the work-place. She has to learn how to 'express confidence and competence, to speak with certainty and demonstrate an ability to listen and be present' (PT, Flora, 2014).
Beauty can become ugly if it represents a lot of difficulty. The landscapes of America were not recognized as being beautiful until the railroads could easily carry passengers through the mountains. Prior to the railroads, mountains were obstacles that had to be conquered. As well, a beautiful woman without discretion will not keep her beauty. Forest Gump said, "Stupid is as stupid does," would also agree that beauty is as beauty does.
This is as true for men as it is for women, one can improve his/her looks a whole lot by cultivating the attitudes and actions that help and bless others. A rather plain-looking person becomes very attractive when grace is shown in her/his life.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, April 11, 2015
NEUROPLASTICITY OR REPENTANCE?
Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17:30-31).
In my recreational reading I came upon the term "neuroplasticity." Neuroplasticity has to do with the ability of the mind to reorganize its self when it is pushed to do so. The brain is moldable and flexible like plastic not static and unchanging like stone. There are some areas of the brain that even generate new cells to compensate for the death of old ones or to help in the necessary reorganization tasks placed on the brain. The science of neuroplasticity has become very important to stroke recovery and even in the area of self-improvement.
It is this area of self-improvement that made me think about repentance. Metanoia is the Greek word we translate into the English word "repentance." Literally translated, metanoia simply means, "change of mind." I'm not sure that Paul had the science of neuroplasticity in mind when he spoke of repentance in the above text, but one thing is sure, if God is God and Jesus is the Judge then we all need to reorganize our thinking.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
In my recreational reading I came upon the term "neuroplasticity." Neuroplasticity has to do with the ability of the mind to reorganize its self when it is pushed to do so. The brain is moldable and flexible like plastic not static and unchanging like stone. There are some areas of the brain that even generate new cells to compensate for the death of old ones or to help in the necessary reorganization tasks placed on the brain. The science of neuroplasticity has become very important to stroke recovery and even in the area of self-improvement.
It is this area of self-improvement that made me think about repentance. Metanoia is the Greek word we translate into the English word "repentance." Literally translated, metanoia simply means, "change of mind." I'm not sure that Paul had the science of neuroplasticity in mind when he spoke of repentance in the above text, but one thing is sure, if God is God and Jesus is the Judge then we all need to reorganize our thinking.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Saturday, April 04, 2015
THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS IS HISTORY AND HOPE
In as much as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so
that you may know the exact truth about the things which you have been taught (Luke 1: 1-4).
Luke MD, being a professional, was not easily persuaded that a dead person could raise from the dead, he had seen too much of it, but in his gospel he proclaims just that, "He has risen" (Luke 24:6). The resurrection of Jesus Christ from death, which was caused by His crucifixion, was the most essential fact that was to be believed by a Christian--if there is no resurrection, there is no Christianity (1 Corinthians 15: 16-19).
The Christian religion is a faith that is based in history. If the history is not true, neither is the faith; it has been presented that way from the beginning. There was a historical Jesus of Nazareth who performed miracles. There was a historical Pontius Pilate who ordered Jesus' execution on a cross. There was a historical resurrection of Jesus from the dead. If the record is not true on one of those points, the faith is not true. Though the credibility of the Biblical record has been attacked, the credibility of the witnesses has been attacked, the attacks have failed because the Bible is true!
The faith stands true and that is why, still today, Christians are willing to die for their faith. The One who conquered death has conquered death for all believers assuring us of eternal glory.
A word of warning for non-believers, God is now declaring to all men that all people every where should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17: 30,31). While the resurrection means eternal life for some, it means eternal punishment for those who refuse to bow to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love
Tom
that you may know the exact truth about the things which you have been taught (Luke 1: 1-4).
Luke MD, being a professional, was not easily persuaded that a dead person could raise from the dead, he had seen too much of it, but in his gospel he proclaims just that, "He has risen" (Luke 24:6). The resurrection of Jesus Christ from death, which was caused by His crucifixion, was the most essential fact that was to be believed by a Christian--if there is no resurrection, there is no Christianity (1 Corinthians 15: 16-19).
The Christian religion is a faith that is based in history. If the history is not true, neither is the faith; it has been presented that way from the beginning. There was a historical Jesus of Nazareth who performed miracles. There was a historical Pontius Pilate who ordered Jesus' execution on a cross. There was a historical resurrection of Jesus from the dead. If the record is not true on one of those points, the faith is not true. Though the credibility of the Biblical record has been attacked, the credibility of the witnesses has been attacked, the attacks have failed because the Bible is true!
The faith stands true and that is why, still today, Christians are willing to die for their faith. The One who conquered death has conquered death for all believers assuring us of eternal glory.
A word of warning for non-believers, God is now declaring to all men that all people every where should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17: 30,31). While the resurrection means eternal life for some, it means eternal punishment for those who refuse to bow to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Father's Love
Tom
Thursday, April 02, 2015
THE WOMEN'S WITNESS TO THE RISEN CHRIST
Mary Magdalene came, announcing to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord . . ." (John 20:18).
Bill O'Reilly ends his Killing Jesus with the empty tomb. On this matter there is not much disagreement among historians. The disagreement begins with the explanation as to why the tomb was empty. O'Reilly's ending satisfies Christians who believe Christ's resurrection to be the "cornerstone" of the Christian faith and non-believers who believers who believe there are other explanations for the empty tomb.
The location of Jesus' tomb was known to both friend and foe alike. There was a guard posted at the tomb so there was very little opportunity for mischief. The eleven disciples were not acting very courageously at this time. The most courageous were the women. One of the details on which all of the gospels agree is that the women were the first witnesses to the risen Christ. If the gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, were written to "trick" people into becoming Christians, they would not have recorded that women were the first witnesses. Back in Jesus' day women were not highly thought of a witnesses--men were the legal witnesses. To report the women* as being the first witnesses was embarrassing, which is evidence for the credibility of their testimony. Very often God uses that which is counter to conventional wisdom to make His point.
An empty tomb without a risen Christ is the death of Christianity. Tomorrow, will consider other evidence for the risen Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
Bill O'Reilly ends his Killing Jesus with the empty tomb. On this matter there is not much disagreement among historians. The disagreement begins with the explanation as to why the tomb was empty. O'Reilly's ending satisfies Christians who believe Christ's resurrection to be the "cornerstone" of the Christian faith and non-believers who believers who believe there are other explanations for the empty tomb.
The location of Jesus' tomb was known to both friend and foe alike. There was a guard posted at the tomb so there was very little opportunity for mischief. The eleven disciples were not acting very courageously at this time. The most courageous were the women. One of the details on which all of the gospels agree is that the women were the first witnesses to the risen Christ. If the gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, were written to "trick" people into becoming Christians, they would not have recorded that women were the first witnesses. Back in Jesus' day women were not highly thought of a witnesses--men were the legal witnesses. To report the women* as being the first witnesses was embarrassing, which is evidence for the credibility of their testimony. Very often God uses that which is counter to conventional wisdom to make His point.
An empty tomb without a risen Christ is the death of Christianity. Tomorrow, will consider other evidence for the risen Christ.
Our Father's Love,
Tom
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