Telling The Good News In The Motherland

If it be the Lord's will, I will be on an airplane over the Atlantic just nine days from now. Along with my wife, Kelly, and our personal evangelism minister, Bill Snell (and his wife, Jewell), I am scheduled to spend three weeks on "the Emerald Isle." Two of these weeks will be spent in an intensive evangelistic effort in Northern Ireland. We will be working with Colin Graham in the town of Bangor, just east of Belfast. Colin and his family have been serving the cause of Christ in Northern Ireland for many years, and we hope to be a boost in whatever way we can to the churches of Christ in that part of the world.

During the first week, Bill will conduct an evening hours personal evangelism "how to" seminar for those who are already in Christ. The daytime hours will be spent making personal contacts and passing out literature and invitations to the gospel meeting that is to be held during the second week. Colin has suggested a theme of, Bible Names for that meeting.

Inasmuch as Colin knows the Irish people and their spiritual needs far better than I, this will be precisely the course we will pursue. The evenings of Sunday through Wednesday will be dedicated to studying Bible Names For God, Bible Names For The Gospel, Bible Names For Christ, and Bible Names For The Church. For those of us who have been part of God's kingdom for many years, these topics will surely sound very rudimentary. However, when one considers the religious landscape and political history of Northern Ireland, these studies that Colin has suggested seem to be precisely what these people need to hear.

Gone (for now) is the tumultuous life of fear and terror that once characterized life in cities such as Belfast and Derry. Cease fire agreements and treaties have brought an end to what was some of the most devastating violence to be found anywhere in the world during the 1970's, 1980's, and 1990's. The I.R.A. (Irish Republican Army) has been virtually silent since "The Belfast Agreement" (as it is commonly known) was signed in 1998. "The Troubles" (as the locals have dubbed these former times) were a result of religious division mingled with political resentment. During these times of peace, this may be a supremely advantageous time to expend our efforts in reaching a people still very confused from a religious standpoint.

Since I was just a wee lad, I have harbored a fervent desire to visit Ireland, since my ancestry is overwhelmingly Irish. My fourth great grandfather grew up in and around Belfast in the mid-1700's before he emigrated to the Colonies. He would fight alongside many other Irishmen in the Revolutionary War who held great disdain for the British Army. My father's side came from County Leitrim in the northwestern part of what is now known as the Republic of Ireland. Somewhere along the line, one of my relatives dropped the "O" from our surname. What started as "O'Rourke" became just "Roark."

Why am I detailing all this information? Simply to say this: I am as excited as any man can be about anything at the prospect of telling the good news in "The Motherland." For the soles of my shoes to tread the same soil upon which my great grandfathers and grandmothers walked while doing the work of the Lord thrills my spirit beyond my ability to tell. I hope this is just the first of many such trips I make.

Your prayers for safety and success would be very much appreciated. I will be keeping a regular travel blog up to date (that is, as long as technology cooperates). If you would like to keep up with what's going on, bookmark this site. We're scheduled to leave on Monday, July 21st with a return date of Monday, August 11th.


P.S. -- If you notice the heading on the travel blog site says, "The Baron - Ryan Roark," that's because I had to specify a user name. When I was a wee lad of just three, my uncle dubbed me "The Red Baron" because of my shiny red hair that everyone loved to rub for "luck." He even had a little t-shirt custom made for me to wear around with "Baron" emblazoned across the back. Just wanted to explain the history on that!

r2

A Book Of Unique Ability

Jesus said...

If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32, ESV

While praying to the Father, Jesus declared God's word to be truth (John 17:17) -- that is, the objective and absolute standard of life and Godliness. His statement above from the eighth chapter of John's gospel account makes the point that any man or woman who abides in his word will know "the truth." In so stating, Christ makes a powerful and unmistakable claim of deity.

Yes, the word of God the Father and God the Son are one and the same. The word of the Father that sanctifies the soul (John 17:17) is the same word of the Son that sets a soul free from the bondage and condemnation of sin (John 8:31-32).

There exists no other single volume nor collection of volumes that can truthfully make the same assertion. Great literary masterpieces and best sellers have prompted men and women the world over to change their world views and ways of living. Yet, every letter of every word on every page of every copy of every other book ever sold in the history of the world is utterly powerless to set free a soul condemned by sin to die.

There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:12, ESV

If you don't have a Bible, GET ONE.
If you've got a Bible, READ IT.
If you read the Bible, BELIEVE IT.
If you believe the Bible, LIVE IT.

r2

Steak Knife Salvation

In a city synonymous with great steaks, one man is grateful for the steak knife that helped spare his life. Steve Wilder, of Omaha, Nebraska, used a steak knife to perform an at-home tracheotomy. He took this drastic measure because he thought he was going to die one night last week after awakening and being unable to breathe.

Wilder said he didn't call 911 because he didn't think help would arrive in time. So, the 55-year-old says, he got a steak knife from the kitchen and made a small hole in his throat, allowing air to gush in.

As someone who is about as squeamish as any human being can be, this story churns my stomach. I cannot imagine performing my own tracheotomy! However, in addition to being completely "grossed out," it also helps me to reflect on the value of life.

What some people have done in an effort to spare their own lives is astounding. The stories you have, no doubt, heard of men amputating trapped limbs with small, dull utility knives should further serve to illustrate just how far human beings will go to preserve life.

Mr. Wilder was saved from death by his own courage and determination to live. How far will you go to be saved from "the second death" (Revelation 2:11), that is, eternal condemnation and separation from God? The wonderful news is that God's grace has provided the sacrifice we needed, but could not ourselves supply (Titus 2:11) in Christ. God requires only our faith (Hebrews 11:6), loving obedience (John 14:15; Hebrews 5:9), and a humble attitude of self-sacrifice (Romans 12:1-2).

How important is your own life? God has instilled within man an innate desire to live -- both physically and spiritually. When a man loses his desire to live (physically), this indicates a problem...perhaps mental illness. And when a man does not possess a desire to save his own soul, this too indicates a problem...a spirit that needs to be awakened and revived!

Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
2 Corinthians 6:2, ESV

Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Mark 16:16, ESV

r2

The New Slavery?

This morning's edition of NBC's Today show featured an interview with V. Gene Robinson, the bishop of the Diocese of New Hampshire in the Episcopal Church in the United States of America (better known as simply the "Episcopal Church"). You may remember the copious amounts of air time his story received back in 2003 when he was elected to this position. The controversy surrounded his open admissions of homosexual behavior.

In the years that followed these events, numerous congregations within the Episcopal denomination have broken their ties with the governing body and have since aligned themselves with other groups. The reason for Mr. Robinson's appearance on the Today show was the release of his new book, In The Eye Of The Storm: Swept To The Center By God. Robinson also appeared in the film, For The Bible Tells Me So, a documentary promoted at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival (scroll to the bottom of this post and click on the video box to see the trailer for this film).

While listening to the interview this morning, I took a pen and a sheet of paper and jotted down a few of the more notable statements made by Mr. Robinson. Here are just a few:

• Robinson compared himself to the prophets of the Bible, citing the persecution he feels.
• He likened the "discrimination" against gays to the subjugation of women and slavery.
• Mr. Robinson said he knows many people who are "unashamedly gay and unashamedly Christian."
• He said there is a need to "re-interpret the Scriptures."
• Robinson claims that God has called him into the lifestyle of homosexuality so that he can fulfill the role he is now playing.

Where does one begin in answering these statements? Let's briefly take them one by one, shall we?

• The prophets of the Bible were persecuted for their unwavering support and defense of God's word; Mr. Robinson is being criticized for his blatant disregard for that same word.

• The opposition Mr. Robinson receives from Bible believers is not to be compared with social disasters like slavery and racism. Individuals who supported slavery in the past, and individuals who harbor racist attitudes today violate the word of God in so doing. Those who lovingly teach the truth about the sin of homosexuality as it is revealed in Scripture are following in the footsteps of the Lord. Does anyone else find Mr. Robinson's comparison to slavery offensive?

• There is no such thing as a homosexual Christian. The two terms contradict one another. A Christian is one who follows the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. If there are "gay Christians," as Mr. Robinson claims, there must also be adulterous Christians, fornicator Christians, thief Christians, and the like. The truth of the matter is that no man or woman who continues in a lifestyle of sin and rebellion to God's word will inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:9-10).

• The need is not in "re-interpreting the Scriptures." The need is for more people to show genuine love for Christ by humbly obeying Him (John 14:15).

• God does not call men to a lifestyle of sin. He does not compel anyone to practice that which will leave their soul in peril. On the contrary, the Lord calls men out of darkness and into the light of truth by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14).

It should be noted that we should never support any effort that would attack another human being, be it by words or physical violence. Anyone who spews venomous, hateful words in the direction of another also violates the law of God.

This being said, it is truly unfortunate that the propaganda machine used by many so-called "gay rights" groups paints with such a broad brush. Those of us who defend the truth and purity if the Bible and its teachings on homosexuality are often lumped in with the screaming, red-faced radicals hurling profanity-laced insults. Truly unfortunate.

It can only be hoped that those who have honest and sincere hearts can step back from the useless political debates to see the difference between those who hate homosexuals and those who love them enough to tell the truth. Gene Robinson would have you believe a loving attitude and teaching the sinfulness of homosexuality are mutually exclusive. That's a claim that will sell books...maybe even get him on a bestseller's list or two. But it is a claim that cannot be backed up by the word of God.

Let's speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

r2

Preachers & Politics

The media firestorm that has resulted in the outlandish statements of Jeremiah Wright has brought the mingling of religion and politics to the forefront. And, as foolish as Mr. Wright's statements have been, they are but the latest example of a prominent religious leader "throwing his hat into the ring" of politics.

To be fair, Wright is not the first. He is simply the latest in a growing line of so-called spiritual leaders that deem it appropriate to preach any number of political messages from the pulpit. Pat Robertson of The 700 Club has kept one foot in the political world for many years, even running a brief campaign for President a time or two. Robertson often weighs in on various political candidates and the policies of various politicians.

Billy Graham has been known as a "preacher to the Presidents," gaining much of his fame and influence from his close associations with several Commanders In Chief. Graham befuddled multitudes when -- in the wake of President Bill Clinton's scandal involving Monica Lewinsky -- Graham excused his actions by saying in an NBC Today Show interview, "He has such a tremendous personality that I think the ladies just go wild over him."

It is certain that faith and politics overlap in some ways. However, when preachers use a pulpit to push political agendas, to campaign for a candidate (no matter who it is), and to draw fame and attention to themselves or an organization, the recipients are poorer for having heard such. If a man claims to be a servant of God -- speaking the message of the Almighty -- he has an obligation to do just that. When politics replace preaching, grandstanding supplants gospel, and Washington displaces the word, God is most certainly not honored.

Inspired by the Spirit of God, Paul said it to Timothy in this way:

I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
2 Timothy 4:1-5, ESV

We have enough political pundits as it is. If anyone claims to be speaking the word of God, he ought to do exactly that.

Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies--in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever.
1 Peter 4:11, ESV

Peddling one's political views and agendas wrapped in a "gospel package" is deplorable, to put it kindly.

r2

Life Without The Letter "J"

For the past three days, I have been typing on my laptop computer without the use of the "j" key. The small mechanism that is pushed down when a finger strikes the "j" key is still intact, so I am able to type j's when needed (though it must be done far more deliberately).

How did I lose my "j" key, you ask? I was sitting on the couch at home doing some work on Monday evening when Louis, our 105-pound Yellow Lab decided he wanted to sit on top of me (Louis thinks he's an eight-pound lap dog). Since the laptop was resting on my lap (hence the name), one of Louis' rather large paws raked across the keyboard, taking out the "j" key in the process.

Looking on the bright side, if Louis absolutely had to take out one letter, "j" was a good choice. I have been surprised how infrequently the letter "j" is used when compared to other letters in the alphabet. Still, I got to thinking about some of the words we couldn't say or write without the use of the great letter "j."

Here are just a few to consider:



Joy
The inexpressible result of salvation in Christ

"May the God of hope fill you with all JOY and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." (Romans 15:13, ESV)

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, JOY, peace..." (Galatians 5:22, ESV)

"Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with JOYthat is inexpressible and filled with glory..." (1 Peter 1:8, ESV)


Justified
To be regarded as innocent

"Therefore, since we have been JUSTIFIED by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:1, ESV)

"Since, therefore, we have now been JUSTIFIED by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God." (Romans 5:9, ESV)

"You see that a person is JUSTIFIED by works and not by faith alone." (James 2:24, ESV)


Jesus
King of kings, Lord of lords; the Son of God and Savior of mankind

"Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this JESUS whom you crucified." (Acts 2:36, ESV)

"But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely JESUS, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering." (Hebrews 2:9-10, ESV)

"My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, JESUS Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world." (1 John 2:1-2, ESV)



Aren't you glad we have the letter "j"?

r2

God's Grace As A Teacher

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ...
Titus 2:11-13, ESV

Men and women through the centuries have extolled the magnificent grace of God. Beloved old hymns and countless sermons have impressed upon the minds of multiplied millions the wonders of God's undeserved yet unreserved kindness to man. Consider the following brief points from the inspired words Paul wrote to Titus...


A. God's grace brings salvation (v. 11a).
B. God's grace has appeared to all men (v. 11b).
C. God's grace teaches six crucial concepts (v. 12-13).

1. We must renounce ungodliness (v. 12a).
2. We must renounce worldly passions (v. 12b).
3. We must live self-controlled lives (v. 12c).
4. We must live upright lives (v. 12d).
5. We must live godly lives (v. 12e).
6. Doing all the above will enable us to anticipate the return of Christ (v. 13).

r2

Read The Rainbow

I recently came across a fascinating image that displays the vastly interconnected nature of the Bible (click image at right to enlarge).

Two individuals set out to create a visualization of the Bible's immense network of cross references. The result was a beautiful series of more than 63,000 multi-colored bows showing the supreme internal agreement of the text of the Bible.

The following is a quote from one of the designers:


"Together, we struggled to find an elegant solution to render the data, more than 63,000 cross references in total. As work progressed, it became clear that an interactive visualization would be needed to properly explore the data, where users could zoom in and prune down the information to manageable levels. However, this was less interesting to us, as several Bible-exploration programs existed that offered similar functionality (and much more). Instead we set our sights on the other end of the spectrum – something more beautiful than functional. At the same time, we wanted something that honored and revealed the complexity of the data at every level – as one leans in, smaller details should become visible. This ultimately led us to the multi-colored arc diagram you see below.

The bar graph that runs along the bottom represents all of the chapters in the Bible. Books alternate in color between white and light gray. The length of each bar denotes the number of verses in the chapter. Each of the 63,779 cross references found in the Bible is depicted by a single arc - the color corresponds to the distance between the two chapters, creating a rainbow-like effect."

How does one explain such flawless agreement without contradiction, particularly when one considers the Bible was written by forty individuals spanning some 1,600 years? The sacred writings of other religions cannot hold a candle to this feat, nor can the text of any secular volume ever produced. Couple this perfect union of ideas and teachings with the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy, and we can be positive that this is no document of mere human invention. The God of the universe breathed out every word of the Bible (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16).

** Image taken from ChrisHarrison.net (hi-res image also available)

r2

Lost In Translation

God's word is a precious gift...a wonderful manifestation of divine grace. The gospel is the singular source of power from above that rescues the souls of men from eternal torment (Romans 1:16). Since this is the case, it is in the best interest of all mankind to preserve the accuracy and reliability of the Bible text.

Thousands upon thousands of sermons have been preached, debates have been waged, and articles have been penned with regard to the Bible translation question. Countless sincere souls have asked in some form or another, "Which Bible translation should I use?". Such a query is legitimate and should be considered in light of the fact that different versions have been produced to serve different purposes than others (e.g. translations versus paraphrases).

From time to time, however, one will come across individuals and organizations that staunchly hold up a singular translation as not only superior (a matter of opinion in itself), but also the only reliable translation in existence. Most of my dealings have been with those who advocated a "King James Version only" point of view.

I will personally laud the King James Version for the excellent translation it truly is, but to hold up any translation as the only true Bible is walking on thin ice, to say the least. Inasmuch as every translation is a product of fallible men, there are strengths and weaknesses to be found within each one. The "autographs" of every book in the Bible (i.e. the original documents penned by Paul, John, Peter, etc.) are indeed breathed out by God. However, when one makes the claim that a translator (or group of translators) was inspired by God, he makes an ignorant and unsustainable statement.

For those who take a "King James only" position, can you answer the following?

• The King James Version underwent many changes between 1611 and 1769 (with revisions in 1613, 1629, 1638, 1762, and 1769). Which of these King James Version versions is to be taken as "the" Bible?
• Since the 1611 version of the King James Version included the Apocrypha, and since the book of Second Maccabees teaches the concept of "purgatory," are you saying the one and only true translation of the Bible teaches the erroneous concept of purgatory?
• What will be the fate of the non-English speaking world? If they cannot read the KJV, does this mean they cannot possibly have access to the Bible and will, therefore, be lost due to their inability to read English?
• Did you know that the Textus Receptus, from which the KJV was translated, was based on a half dozen small manuscripts, none earlier than the 10th century?
• Did Paul use the KJV?
• Did Jesus speak in Old English?
  

I have a list of more than 70 additional questions the "King James only" advocate must answer in order to sustain this position. Truthfully, not a single one of these questions can be logically answered by someone who holds to the idea that the King James Version is the one and only Bible.

Much as in many other areas, we must seek balance here. To say there is one and only one translation is just as unsustainable as saying any translation goes (even paraphrases, the Jehovah's Witnesses New World Translation, and the like). The most rewarding study comes when one utilizes several reliable translations, recognizing the strengths and weaknesses that come with each one.

For those who make "King James only" conformity a test of fellowship, you have a heavy burden of proof laid upon you which no such advocate has been able to bear to this point. We all have our favorite and preferred translations, but let us lay ego aside as well as "what we heard so-and-so say" and use level-headed logic and reason to work toward a mutual understanding.

r2

Eight-Ball Evangelism

A good friend sent an eye-opening story via email earlier this week. The piece from the Nashville Tennessean highlights the use of billiards by a young preacher at a middle Tennessee church of Christ (you may click here to read the article in its entirety).

According to this young fellow, "if God has blessed you with five talents, he wants you to use all of them." So, by employing this line of reasoning, if a preacher should happen to have a talent for mixed martial arts (see Ultimate Fighting Championship), he should schedule a fight for one Sunday evening and quote Bible verses between rounds? And since I have learned to play the brutally-beautiful sport of rugby, should I invite my team to demonstrate proper form in rucks, scrums, and mauls as I quote verses from the Scriptures?

The point here is this: Where do we get the idea that God wants us to use all our talents in the proclamation of his word? Using illustrations that engage the mind of the listener is one thing; creating a "side-show" atmosphere during the preaching of the gospel is another thing entirely. God has chosen preaching as the method for imparting the good news of salvation to mankind (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). To alter that blueprint is tantamount to the poor judgment used by Nadab and Abihu...and many of us remember the outcome of that ordeal (Leviticus 10:1-2).

The young man highlighted by this article makes a good point in saying that he can go to pool halls and talk with them about Christ because of his gift. Hopefully, we can all find creative ways to communicate with our neighbors as we fulfill the "great commission." The problem lies in creating a "showtime" effect in worship. God seeks those who will worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:24).

For those who have been, as one church member puts it, "re-energized" by the pool-playing interspersed with preaching, just what is it that has caused this re-energizing? Is it necessary to supplement the gospel message with entertainment? If so, to what are we being converted -- the message of Christ, or the splendor of spectacles? And if it takes trick billiards shots or anything else under the sun to "re-energize" us, what will it take to keep us energized?

My friend, it's the same old thing that has been attempted thousands of times in hundreds of varying ways...and it never works. There is no staying power in gimmickry. Converts made by carnal means will not remain converted for long.

What was the explanation God gave in this vein through his apostle?

And I, when I came to you brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.
1 Corinthians 2:1-5, ESV

What happens when someone is converted by "Billiards Evangelism," and places their membership at a congregation where the preacher is not a pool shark? If being "wowed" by trick shots did indeed play a significant role in their obedience to the gospel, that soul will almost certainly be headed for lukewarmness and, eventually, outright unfaithfulness.

So, the question must be asked: What are we hoping to accomplish when preaching the gospel? If it is conversion and dedication to Christ, the gospel contains sufficient power to to the job (Romans 1:16)! To wrap it in gimmicks and hoopla only diminishes the might of God's only prescribed method for saving a lost human race.

r2

Isaiah: A Pattern For Soul Winners

Isaiah was one of the most evangelistic prophets of the Old Testament. The God-breathed message he composed is comprised of 66 chapters. Many familiar hymns have been written based on certain sections of Isaiah's prophecy.

For example:

"Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Though Your Sins Be As Scarlet, by Fanny J. Crosby; cf. Isaiah 1:18)

And another:

"O Jesus is a rock in a weary land, a shelter in the time of storm." (Shelter In The Time Of Storm, by Vernon Charlesworth; cf. Isaiah 32:2)

And perhaps one of our most well known "evangelistic" songs:

"Here am I, Lord, send me; Here am I, ready at thy bidding, Lord, send me." (There Is Much To Do, by M.W. Spencer; cf. Isaiah 6:8).

When Isaiah responded to the Lord's request for a messenger by saying, "Here am I! Send me," it was the result of a process designed by God to show Isaiah the proper mindset in soul winning. Observe...

• Isaiah saw himself as God saw him (Isaiah 6:5a)
• Isaiah saw his own need (Isaiah 6:7)
• Isaiah saw the needs of others (Isaiah 6:5b)
• Isaiah was given the call to teach others (Isaiah 6:8a)
• Isaiah willingly responded to this call (Isaiah 6:8b)

The message preached by Isaiah is encapsulated by these words:

Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
Isaiah 55:6-7, ESV

Backing up to verse one in this same chapter, we find this invitation issued by Isaiah to anyone who would hear:

Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
Isaiah 55:1, ESV

My friend, let's get our own lives in order that we may, like the prophet Isaiah, be used by the Lord in rescuing souls in peril.

"Here am I! Send me."

r2

Wolves In Wool

The following article was provided by Ben Galloway. He is a close friend of mine, primarily because he is married to my sister! Ben works with the West Fayetteville church of Christ (Fayetteville, TN). Although he is just embarking on his life as an evangelist, he is a very capable speaker and writer. I would recommend him highly to anyone looking for a speaker for a youth event, as he has a background in counseling young folks. This piece follows up the previous article (immediately below this entry) that examined the beliefs and teachings of Robert H. Schuller. Ben came across a brief video that shows Schuller interviewing Billy Graham. Neither of these pieces contain personal attacks on an individual, nor is any malicious intent contained therein. That being said, no apology is necessary for contrasting what these two men espouse with the words of Christ. The statements made by both parties in this brief conversation are eye-opening.

r2

Robert Schuller and Billy Graham (shown in a 1951 photo at right) are two of the most well known evangelicals in this nation. Through Schuller’s “Hour of Power” television program and Graham’s countless “crusades” they have entered the living rooms of millions throughout their careers. No doubt, they are two of the more respected “preachers” the denominational world has to offer.

Based on their sterling (and undeserved) reputations as men of God’s Word, the following conversation (on Schuller’s television program) between these men should come as a surprise to many…

Schuller: “What is the future of Christianity?”

Graham: “I think that everybody that loves Christ, or knows Christ, whether they are conscious of it or not, they are members of the body of Christ. And that's what God is doing today. He's calling people out of the world, for His name. Whether they come from the Muslim world, or the Buddhist world, or the Christian world, or the non-believing world, they are members of the body of Christ because they have been called by God. They may not even know the name of Jesus, but they know in their heart that they need something that they don't have, and they turn to the only light that they have, and I think that they are saved and they are going to be with us in Heaven.”

Schuller: “Fantastic. I’m so thrilled to hear you say this. You’re saying there is a wideness to God’s mercy!”

(You may see and hear this conversation for yourself in the video posted at the bottom of this article.)

Startling theory espoused by Mr. Graham, isn’t it. While I’d gladly break down the errors in the teachings of Mr. Graham, Jesus Christ says it far more succinctly and eloquently than I could ever manage.

Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.
Matthew 7:13-14, ESV

Jesus clearly states that the wide path is the path to destruction. In the New Testament there is no mention of salvation for those who deny that Christ is the Son of God (Muslims) or for those who are idolaters (Buddhists) or those who deny the existence of our Heavenly Father (non-believers). That is the wide path to destruction that Jesus warns us of. Graham’s doctrine of universal salvation is in direct defiance of the teachings of Jesus Himself!

Isn’t it interesting that Christ follows that warning with this…

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
Matthew 7:15, ESV

Indeed, Robert Schuller and Billy Graham are those wolves in sheep’s clothing of which Jesus warned us. When they lack the courage to stand up for Christ -- to declare Him as the one path to the Father -- they become false prophets. Their doctrine would mean Christ hung on the cross in vain, and His teachings were false.

Sadly, many good intentioned souls have been lead down the wide path to destruction by these men. As Christians we must have a ready answer when presented with false doctrine and a willingness to teach, in love, those who lack the knowledge or understanding of what must be done to be saved!

-- Ben Galloway
BenGalloway@gmail.com

Christ Is Optional?

You may be familiar with some individuals and groups who profess to be followers of Christ that teach universal salvation. With the increasing pressure to be "politically correct," and pluralistic worldviews shaping the minds of upcoming generations, this comes as no real surprise.

However, most of these groups and individuals have traditionally been on "the fringe" of what the world sees as Christianity (as opposed to the New Testament). Most "mainstream" personalities and groups would never consider Christ to be optional -- take Him or leave Him.

One of the most prominent figures in the "mainstream" of denominational religion who has taught the supposed non-compulsory nature of Christ is Robert H. Schuller (pictured at right). You may know Schuller from his long-running nationally televised program, The Hour Of Power. Schuller and his son, Robert A. Schuller, preach at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California -- although the elder Schuller officially retired back in 2006.

Approximately five years ago, I watched Robert H. Schuller (the father) as he was interviewed on a news magazine program. Although I cannot give you his exact words (I am still trying to locate the transcript for that program), Schuller made several statements that indicated people of all faiths (i.e. Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, etc.) would receive the grace of God and an entry into heaven. Certainly, this is nothing new. However, for individuals such as Schuller who most consider to be an "evangelical" or in the "mainstream," this is considerably more noteworthy.

Clearly, Mr. Schuller does not teach the divinely given method of redemption, nor does he teach the singularity of the Lord's church (i.e. "one body," Ephesians 4:4). Therefore, diligent students of the Bible know that Schuller is a false prophet -- not a Christian as that term is used in God's own word.

That fact notwithstanding, the world in general recognizes Mr. Schuller as a "Christian," and so do millions of individuals who comprise the multitude of denominations in existence today. What should we say to men like Schuller and those who agree with this false, pluralistic corruption of the gospel?

Say nothing -- only allow the word of the Lord to be heard. Jesus said...

I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
John 14:6, ESV

Without the WAY, you cannot go.
Without the TRUTH, you cannot know.
Without the LIFE, you cannot grow.

Friend, if "life" is what you desire, "truth" is what you must obey, and "the way" is what you must travel to attain it. There is no such thing as salvation outside of Christ...no matter who teaches anything to the contrary.

r2

A Secret And Hidden Wisdom Of God

Yet among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away. But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory.
1 Corinthians 2:6-7, ESV

The God-breathed words written by the apostle refer to a certain "secret and hidden wisdom of God. Contextually, this section of Paul's epistle to the church of Christ in Corinth is contrasting the manner in which the world proclaims wisdom with the manner used by the apostle and his fellow laborers.

This "secret and hidden wisdom" (mystery, NKJV) to which Paul refers is simply that which had not been revealed of God's will until the time of Christ and the period immediately following his resurrection and ascension. Thus, by the preaching of the apostles, this divinely given wisdom was being conveyed to mankind.

In the words that follow the verses above, the Scriptures reveal at least six phrases describing how the "secret and hidden wisdom of God" was made known:

• They (i.e. secret and hidden wisdom) were prepared by God (v. 9)
• God revealed them to us through His spirit (v. 10)
  
• We have received the Spirit who is from God (v. 12a)
  
• We can know the things freely given to us by God (v. 12b)
  
• These things were spoken by the apostles (v. 13a)
  
• The Holy Spirit taught them what to speak (v. 13b)
  

How wonderful it is to know the words spoken and written by the apostles of Christ are trustworthy. The precepts of the New Testament are principles upon which a sound life is built -- not because they were spoken by wise and respected men -- but because they reveal to us the very mind and will of the eternal God.

r2

Do Words Have Meaning?

I sometimes wonder if words have lost all meaning.

Today on my lunch hour, I went by the Comcast customer service center to return our cable and internet equipment. Without even intending to do so, I noticed a very large sign on the door that read, "NO SOLICITING."

As I walked up to the window to turn in the equipment, I overheard the customer at the adjacent window say, "I'm not soliciting, but..." In my experience, when someone begins a statement by saying, "I'm not __________, but...," that generally means they are about to do or say exactly that which they just said they are not doing or saying.

This woman wanted to drop off coupons for her business. The sole purpose of her presence in that office was to direct increased traffic to her business...also known as SOLICITING. Despite the obvious flagrant disregard for the company's rule, the Comcast employee accepted the coupons.

So I ask, do words even have meaning anymore?

Much of our society has fallen into intellectual laziness -- the kind that bristles at the use of simple logic or proper use of terms. This has spilled over mightily into the spiritual realm.



For example, when the Bible says...

He who believes and is baptized shall be saved (Mark 16:16),

The world says, "Baptism isn't necessary to be saved."

When the Bible says...

There is one body (Ephesians 4:4), the church, which is His body (Ephesians 1:22-23),

The world says, "There are many churches, and one is as good as another."

When the Bible says...

God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24),

The world says, "There is no right way and wrong way to worship God."




My friends, there can be no doubt that when it comes to certain matters, for some, words have lost all meaning. Seeing that the method by which God has revealed His will to mankind is through the written and spoken word, this is a genuine tragedy.

The Holy Spirit guided inspired men to write "all the truth" (John 16:13). The truth has been conveyed by words, and it is these truths alone that have the ability to set the soul of every man free from the grips of sin and death (John 8:32).

It is time to renew our appreciation for words and their meaning -- especially when it comes to the words of the Almighty God.

r2

The Heart Of The Holy Spirit

Sometimes, we shy away from studying the Bible's teaching on the Holy Spirit of God. Without a doubt, this is primarily due to the abundant misunderstanding and rampant false teaching regarding this third person of the Godhead.

Admittedly, there are certain facets of such a study are difficult. Some questions we may not be able to answer. However, that which we can know and understand with regard to this Being should be studied and considered on a regular basis.

One area that has been plainly revealed is the emotional character possessed by the Spirit of God. We see language that implies the nature of God includes many of the same emotions you and I possess. Additionally, the Scriptures declare our thoughts and deeds to be directly linked to the Holy Spirit -- a truth that is attributable to the Holy Spirit's role in revealing God's word to the hearts of men (John 16:7-15; 1 Corinthians 2:13).

Consider this: God's people can...

1. Grieve the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 63:10; Ephesians 4:30)
2. Resist the Holy Spirit (Acts 7:51)
3. Lie to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3)
4. Test the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:9)
5. But we can -- and should -- hear His voice (Revelation 2:7)

Let us never shy away from the rich and rewarding study of the Holy Spirit!

r2

The "Prosperity Gospel": Reaping What They Have Sown

Hundreds of millions of dollars, millions of viewers, thousands of church members, and two divorces.


If you were to turn your television to channels such as the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), INSP (The Inspirational Network), or The Word Network, you would see men like Rod Parsley, Creflo Dollar, Kenneth Copeland, T.D. Jakes, Benny Hinn, and women such as Joyce Meyer, Paula White, Juanita Bynum just to name a few.


You would more than likely not see these individuals preaching about the tragedy of sin, the good news of salvation in Christ, the need to worship God in spirit and in truth, or any other Biblical doctrine. The odds are that you would hear a motivational speech on wealth and prosperity.


In what has become known as the "Prosperity Gospel," these and other neo-Pentecostal charlatans have convinced the world that God wants all believers to be exceedingly wealthy. The sentiment is that if you are not financially rich, you are doing something wrong. The sermons invariably consist of either no Scripture whatsoever, or a sprinkling of Scripture taken woefully out of its rightful Biblical context.


Recently, two very prominent married couples in the "health & wealth" movement announced they were filing for divorce. Kenneth Weeks and his wife, Juanita Bynum, are in the midst of a bitter divorce that has quickly become a public spectacle. These two "preachers" were married in what their church called "the wedding of the century," the tab for which exceeded $1-million in 2003. This couple was famous for their marriage and couples retreats wherein they supposedly bestowed the secret to marital bliss to those in attendance.......for a hefty fee, of course. Now, after less than four years of marriage, they are divorced.


Randy and Paula White of Without Walls International Church in Tampa announced their intention to divorce in August of this year. I have personally been very well acquainted with the Whites' dealings since I grew up in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. They have been fixtures in both the Tampa Tribune and the St. Petersburg Times for their shady financial dealings and dishonest ways.


The Whites' Tampa home on Bayshore Boulevard (one of the most exclusive parts of town) has an assessed value of more than $2.22-million. They also have substantially expensive homes in San Antonio, Texas, New York City, and Malibu, California. Now, really...how many mansions does a preacher need?


I recall an article in the Tampa paper several years ago wherein Mr. and Mrs. White flaunted their expensive homes, automobiles, and wardrobes, saying God was using them to show believers everywhere how He wants to bless their lives.


My friends, the preachers of and adherents to the "Prosperity Gospel" are finally beginning to reap what they have sown. These two cases come in the wake of Richard Roberts' (son of Oral Roberts) scandal, wherein it was shown he and his wife had been using millions of dollars of university funds for lavish homes and vacations. And yet, despite all the dishonesty and transparent greed, these figures are still as loved today by most of their followers as Jim and Tammy Faye Baker were in their own day.


My friend, whether it be in this life or that which is to come...

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
Galatians 6:7-8, ESV

And this is precisely the problem: The preachers and peddlers of the "prosperity gospel" are sowing to their own flesh. They are corrupt, and will in turn reap corruption. May we reach all we can with the TRUE gospel...the one that contains the power of God to salvation (Romans 1:16)!

r2

Where Are All The Preachers?

Reports in recent years have revealed an increasing dearth in preachers among the churches of Christ. Multiple studies have concluded that pulpits are being vacated far quicker than men are being trained to fill those same pulpits.

I suppose we could list any number of possible causes for this trend. Irrespective of the reasons, the body of Christ simply must make it a greater priority to train young men to preach.

Some of our pulpits are being filled by well intentioned men who have little to no formal training. Certainly, I am not alleging that it takes a degree to preach God's word. However, like anything else, preaching is a skill that ought to be honed through education and study whenever and wherever possible.

How can the preacher shortage be remedied? Consider just a few suggestions:

1. Encourage those who are but small boys now to be aspiring preachers. You never know how planting that little "seed" of encouragement early on can blossom at a later time!
2. Be careful how you speak of preachers and elders, particularly in the company of children. How many young men will want to go to school to be trained as a preacher when he grew up hearing mom and dad badmouth the preacher and elders?
3. Support one or more preacher training schools in your monthly budget (we have several schools doing a fine job).
4. Remember that no preacher is as great as some brothers and sisters think, nor as bad as others think. The respectable preacher is one who sees himself as one among many humble servants of God, laboring alongside every member of a local body of Christians.

In an address at Transylvania College in Lexington, Kentucky, Edgar DeWitt Jones said...

The preacher for this day must have the heart of a lion, the skin of a hippopotamus, the agility of a greyhound, the patience of a donkey, the wisdom of an elephant, the industry of an ant, and as many lives as a cat.

Friend, we need better men for better churches. Inspire today's children to dream of preaching the gospel; support and encourage those presently being trained and schooled; and work willingly alongside those who even now address the saints from time to time with messages from God's own word.

r2

Why You And I Need Christ

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and he life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
John 14:6, ESV


Without the WAY you cannot go.
Without the TRUTH you cannot know.
Without the LIFE you cannot grow.

r2

Beckham's Fans Know His Voice...Or Do They?

With "Beckham Mania" in full swing here in the "States," it was only a matter of time until someone tried to use the excitement to their advantage.

Check out this story...

An imposter pretending to be soccer superstar David Beckham made a dozen prank calls to county offices to chat about charity work and drop names of celebrity friends, officials said.

County Public Information Officer Judy Hammond said the bogus Beckham also suggested bringing underprivileged kids to a practice session of the Los
Angeles Galaxy, Beckham's new team.

Clerk Maria Saenz and student worker Susana Guillen, avid fans of the real Beckham, "were just jumping up and down" after the first call, Saenz said.

Officials realized the calls were a hoax after Department of Children and Family Services staffers grilled the caller.

"It just smacked of bogusity," department spokeswoman Louise Grasmehr said.

Representatives of Beckham confirmed he had not made the calls.

The matter was being investigated to "see if it rises to the level of some kind of offense," sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore said.

County Chief Executive William T. Fujioka said officials were never really duped.

"We're not country bumpkins," he said.

Even some of David Beckham's most avid fans were not able to recognize the imposter's voice. Jesus said...

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
John 10:27, ESV

Those who follow Christ are those who are able to discern truth from error. The wisdom of man has concocted a virtually endless supply of false religion and perverted doctrine. The real danger lies in that which has just enough truth to take on "a form of Godliness" (2 Timothy 3:5), but stops short of being the doctrine of Christ. Anything outside the genuine gospel of Christ is utterly powerless to save a single soul (cf. Romans 1:16; Galatians 1:6-10)


Is this not exactly what enabled the bogus Beckham to get as far as he did with his prank? He used the right name, and I assume even used the British accent to win the trust of a few naive office staff. In the end, just because someone says something does not make it truth. To claim oneself as a disciple of Christ is wonderful, but to prove it by obedience to his unmistakable voice is the true test of fellowship (see 2 John 9-11).

r2