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.

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In The Out & Out The In

Upon one of my recent trips to the local Target here in the bustling metropolis that is Mechanicsville, I observed a most curious sight. As I walked toward the front of the store from the parking lot, I noticed two families. One was entering the store, and the other was exiting store at precisely the same time. What's so unusual about that? Nothing at all...except for this: The family entering the store was walking through the doors clearly labeled "EXIT," and the family leaving the store was walking through the doors clearly labeled "ENTER."

I had to chuckle at this sight. Maybe it's just the mind of a preacher, but the statement made by the Lord to his people in the book of Isaiah immediately came to mind:

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!
Isaiah 5:20, ESV

Now, please do not misunderstand my point here. I am not suggesting these families have subjected themselves to the wrath of God for entering and exiting through the proper doors (though they may have to answer to Target's red-clad security team). My point here is that this scene was a visual representation of what God describes here in the message of the prophet Isaiah.

When the murder of precious unborn boys and girls is lauded as "freedom" or as "a woman's right to choose," that is the very essence of calling evil good.

When teenagers are given contraceptives by their schools (or even their parents, for that matter), this is the epitome of putting darkness for light.

When judges who were appointed to uphold laws and morality deem marriage between persons of the same sex to be wholesome and legal, this is very much a case of putting bitter for sweet.

Do yourself a favor and read through the rest of the fifth chapter of Isaiah and notice how the Lord regards such blatant disregard for His law. It's rather obvious at this point that the laws of this once great nation are being chiseled away little by little by our lawmakers and judges. God's laws, however, have been "firmly fixed in the heavens" (Psalm 119:89). What God has ordained as law will always remain law.

May we never be guilty of calling "evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!"

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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.

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Appearance Can Be Deadly

Jessie Vigil of Las Vegas, New Mexico, has a unique automobile. He customized his Ford Mustang (seen at right) to replicate the police cars seen in the movie, Transformers, citing his seven-year-old son's love for the blockbuster film.

According to New Mexico State Police, what Mr. Vigil has done with his car is not illegal as long as he doesn't "act like a police officer."

Even though Vigil may not actually be trying to impersonate an officer of the law, there are some who find it advantageous to do so in the perpetration of crimes. Quite a few criminals have taken advantage of unsuspecting citizens by adequately passing themselves off as members of a law enforcement agency.

How is it these men convince motorists and pedestrians of their supposed status as law officers? Are they successful in carrying out these schemes by flashing a flimsy toy badge or donning a cheap imitation of a real uniform?

When successful in carrying out their cruel and heinous acts, these criminals are able to do so because their badges, uniforms, and flashing blue lights are so convincing -- so close to the real thing that the minute differences are virtually undetectable to the average citizen. That is what makes these individuals so dangerous. The penalty for impersonating an officer is stiff, but probably ought to be even more severe.

There is an important spiritual parallel in thinking about how this deception is accomplished. How are individuals convinced that a religious group or organization is "from God" when, in fact, they do and teach that which is not congruent with the Scriptures? Many times, the answer lies in what we observed in the impersonation of police officers.

These groups establish their legitimacy by sticking very close to the teaching of the Bible, thus piggybacking on the authority the name of Christ carries. However, an up-close examination of a given group may reveal some doctrines and practices that have no Biblical foundation. The Bible speaks of certain groups or individuals that may "disqualify you" (Colossians 2:18). These groups do so by doing that which is "according to human precepts and teachings" (Colossians 2:22). The final analysis of organizations such as these is that...

...these have indeed an appearance of wisdom...but they are of no value...
Colossians 2:23, ESV

Just as a criminal with evil intentions -- who looks for all the world exactly like a law officer -- can have deadly consequences, so too can aligning oneself with a church or other religious body that has only an "appearance" of wisdom and truth. Appearance only goes so deep. If we would invest more time in honest investigation of what our particular church or group teaches and how it accords with the word of God, there would be drastic changes in the world of religion.

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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)

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Moses On Drugs?

Benny Shannon, a professor of cognitive psychology at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, recently published a study wherein is claimed Moses was high on psychedelic drugs when he heard God deliver the ten commandments. Furthermore, according to Mr. Shannon, Moses must have been under the influence of the same substances when he thought he saw the burning bush.

In an interview with Israeli Public Radio, Mr. Shannon said he himself has dabbled with such substances -- an admission that pretty well gets to the bottom of Shannon's published "study."

Obviously, very few sober-minded, rationally thinking people will put any stock in Mr. Shannon's theories. They have no factual basis whatsoever. They serve merely as another talking point for those who simply cannot accept the Biblical record as it is...despite the overwhelming proof of its veracity.

The exploits of Mr. Shannon and those like-minded are most reminiscent of the philosophers of Athens to whom Paul preached. Of them it was said, "Now all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there would spend their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new" (Acts 17:21, ESV).

The minds of men and women like these are seemingly so wrapped up in the glory of academia and devising endless philosophies sometimes lose sight of common sense. They marvel at new theories and conjecture even when those new thoughts completely contradict other lines of reasoning which they hold to be true. One theory may have no more merit than another despite its overwhelming amount of credible evidence. "Open mindedness" is heralded as the order of the day; but it would seem their minds have been so "open" that they have fallen out and lost them altogether!

The science of logic has given way to the art of uncertainty and objectivity. Benny Shannon and his theories of Moses' use of hallucinogens are not the first illogical and unsustainable doctrine to come along, and neither will they be the last. They are just the latest; and the modern-day "Athenians" will have moved on to the latest "something new" in short order.

Let's have minds that are open to truth and perceptive enough to recognize error.

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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.

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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.

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The Wonderful Simplicity Of God's Law

When a judge in Greensboro, North Carolina issued the oath of citizenship to fifty individuals, he advised them to obey the "Ten Commandments." If they did, he said, they need not worry about keeping over 35-million laws which have been enacted in their new country.

A disclaimer needs to be made here. Students of the Bible will observe that we are under a different law today -- that is, "the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). It will also be observed that in death, Christ abolished the Old Law (Colossians 2:14), thus placing into effect a new and better covenant (Hebrews 7:22; 8:6). Thus, any council to live one's life by a set of religious laws that were for a different people at a different time may not be wise.

However, it is the sentiment of this judge that we might deem to be wise. The idea is that if we will take the comparatively succinct and simple laws of God found in the pages of the Bible, there will be no pressing need to memorize the myriad of laws on the books in this or any other country. One who truly follows Christ is one who will be a good citizen, faithful in paying taxes and obeying the law of his land (when and where it does not conflict with the supreme law of God). Read Romans 13:1-7 and notice the character of the disciple of Christ when it comes to submitting oneself to civil government.

God's law is amazingly simple when one considers the timeless wisdom and applicability. We serve an infinitely wise God who has provided us with everything we need to live in peace with both God and man!

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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.

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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!

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Ehh....Close Enough

A bank teller in South Carolina refused to open a new checking account for a man after he handed her a $1-million bill (a photo of which is at right). Alexander Smith of Augusta, Georgia was arrested on forgery charges for attempting to pass off this counterfeit bill as legal U.S. tender.

By the way, the United States Treasury has never printed a $1-million bill.

Despite the fact that this case involved a somewhat obvious counterfeit bill, it still amazes me how precise many counterfeiters can be in their attempts at duplicating genuine notes. Add to that the hundreds of millions of dollars worth of counterfeit merchandise sold every year (such as footwear, clothing, watches, electronics, DVDs, pharmaceuticals, etc), and this country has an epidemic.

There is something for you and I to consider here relative to matters of faith: You and I need to be on guard for counterfeit Christianity.

The Bible speaks of the danger of joining oneself to such a group:

But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
2 Timothy 3:1-5, ESV

Friend, be very cautious when it comes to your inner man -- the part of you that will exist throughout all eternity. Pay close attention to how the church you attend compares to the Scriptures. Are there any conflicts? Perhaps only small ones?

Let's go back to the counterfeit bill for a moment. The difference between the best "fakes" and the genuine article is minute -- undetectable by most! But go into a bank and try to open an account with counterfeit bills and see if they say, "Well, these bills do not match authentic currency....they cannot be real....but hey, they are VERY close. So we are going to accept them and open your account." Not going to happen, folks!!

Under the inspiration of God, one true apostle of Christ wrote to God's people regarding false apostles of Christ:

For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15, ESV

Here is a fact: Some people know very well they are deceiving souls, and some do not. The ones who do not know they are teaching falsely are themselves deceived. Now, whether one deceives another intentionally or unintentionally, the problem remains. The only solution is to expose them to truth and hope the heart is soft enough to be receptive thereto.

Let every last one of us always keep these questions before us:

1. Why do I believe what I believe?
2. Why do I worship in such a way?
3. Why am I a member of _______________ church?

If the answers ever become something other than, "Thus says the Lord," we can be certain that our source of authority has become something other than God's word; and any source of authority outside of that word will be woefully insufficient as we plead our case before the judgment seat of Christ.

Friend, let's get back to God's way of doing things.

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Boundless Divine Care

"As the host of heaven cannot be numbered and the sand of the sea cannot be
measured, so I will multiply the offspring of David my servant, and the Levitical priests who minister to me."
Jeremiah 33:22, ESV

In 1837, Johann Hey wrote a poem that would later become the lyrics to a hymn we sing to this day. The words were set to a German Folk tune. Do you recognize them?

Can you count the stars of evening

That are shining in the sky?

Can you count the clouds that daily

Over all the world go by?

God the Lord who doth not slumber,

Keepeth all the boundless number:

But He careth more for thee,

But He careth more for thee.

Hipparchus, who lived several hundred years after the prophet Jeremiah (ca. 150 B.C.) confidently asserted his knowledge of the "fact" that there were exactly 1,026 stars in the universe. Ptolemy, the renowned Roman scientist who lived in the time of Christ, disagreed with the findings of the great Hipparchus. He claimed knowledge of an additional 30 stars, which brought the number up to 1,056. It was not until Galileo's telescope that man began to understand the firmament of the Lord contains a vast, "boundless number" of stars.

It is estimated by current astronomers that there are about Ten Billion galaxies within range of the powerful 200-inch telescope. Consider the fact that Einstein figured total space to be at least 100,000 times greater than observable space, and our most recent and best guesses bring the total up to at least 100 Septillion stars in the universe!! If you have trouble visualizing that figure (like me), here is what it looks like written out...

100,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 (that's a one with 26 zeros behind it!)

When God used the hand of Jeremiah to write, "the host of heaven cannot be numbered," he really meant it!!! To count the stars would be like trying to count every single grain of sand on all the shores of the earth (Genesis 22:17). If everyone in the world were to unite in an effort to count the stars, each person would count more than 50 Billion of them without the same star being counted twice! Is it not amazing that the God who made them all knows each one by name (Psalm 147:4)? Is it not even more impressive that he cares for you and me more than these (Matthew 6:25-34)?

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Highlights From The 2007 Cold Harbor Lectureship Book

The eleventh year of the Cold Harbor Lectureship will feature relevant topics, qualified speakers, and outstanding singing. Every year, we publish a book to go along with the oral lectures. The speakers spend great amounts of time in authoring manuscripts several months before they ever step behind the microphone to deliver their message.

Whether you hear these lectures in-person (obviously the ideal), via the live broadcast on the Cold Harbor website, or on a set of DVDs or CDs, you will be greatly enriched by having the corresponding manuscripts. Several of our speakers will change their oral presentation to such as degree that you will benefit doubly by both hearing and reading the information they provide.

The following are just a handful of quotes from some of the authors in this year's book:

"The essence of wisdom is to learn of the ways of God as revealed in His divine inspired word and apply its contents to life." ~ Jimmy Clark

"It is becoming harder and harder as a Christian to be a patriot of this nation. The more man enacts laws legalizing and legitimizing abortion, homosexual behavior, etc., the more difficult it is to be a supportive, loyal citizen of this country." ~ David Sain

"Let us be reminded: The faithful Christian is obsessed! A radical! A fanatic! A revolutionary! Christianity is their vocation (their work and other activities are their avocation). The dedicate, determined, zealous follower of God will not allow anything or anyone to come between him and his charted course." ~ Paul Sain

"In becoming like God we do what honors and glorifies God. In becoming like God we do what is ultimately best for us. In becoming like God we do what is ultimately best for those around us. We must learn to be like God, learn to imitate the nature and character of God in every respect possible. In brief, we are to take his nature, copy it, and make it our own." ~Jody Apple

"Conscience is not our morals or ethics. Conscience is that facet of our minds that tells us that we ought to do right, but it does not tell us what right is. We are taught right by hearing God's word." ~ Glenn Colley

"Fearing God should cause us to obey him, not from abject terror, but from a healthy respect built on understanding. We owe him respect as the Almighty Creator. He has shown that he is fair, loving, understanding, wise, and consistent." ~ Nick Genter

"Thankfully, when a mother trains a child to live for God, the child usually chooses a Godly life. Such a life is the natural result of training arising from a mother's immense love. It is a love that encompasses kindness, patience, and endurance. It is a sacrificial love that is not irritable or resentful. Rather, it is defined by all that is hopeful and good. With her love comes a protective nature. It compels her to do everything she can to secure her home, especially in the spiritual sense." ~ Teresa Hampton

"Money is morally neutral, being neither good nor bad. It has potential for good or bad, depending on how it is earned, how it is used, and attitudes associated with it. Money is a tool to be used and should never be an end in itself. If money becomes the goal rather than a tool to accomplish a goal, disappointment will follow." ~ Dwayne Wilson

"A person's life cannot even 'get off the ground' until an humble respect for God and his will is in place. Once the prerequisite of genuine regard for God is intact, the individual is in a position to hear God and to begin the process of assimilating God's wisdom as it relates to a variety of life's characteristics, including pride/humility, wealth/poverty, sin, folly, goodness, use of the tongue, vengeance, strife, gluttony, justice, love, lust, laziness, death, friends, and the family." ~ Dave Miller

These snippets scarcely even "touch the hem of the garment," but hopefully they have piqued your interest sufficiently to look into ordering a copy of two of this year's book. The book is LOADED with helpful and thought-provoking material based on the book of Proverbs.

If you are interested in ordering this year's book or any of our past years' books, visit the Cold Harbor website by using the link on the right side of this page, then click on the "Lectureship" button on the home page.

We hope these books will provide relevant Biblical teaching for many years to come!

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A Lesson From A Hungry Boy

Perhaps you read about the little six year old Colorado boy who smashed up his grandmother's car last week.

It seems this little tike has really taken a liking to "America's Favorite Neighbor," Applebees. This little guy was hungry, and in his mind, Applebees was the only logical destination. So, he grabbed his grandmother's keys, wisely transferred his booster seat from the back seat to the front, and started the car!

He only made it about 75-feet, unable to get the car out of reverse. He crossed the street, hit a curb, and continued moving backward until he slammed into a transformer and communication box, knocking out power and phone service to dozens of nearby townhomes.

Thankfully, nobody was injured, and the little driver got out of the car and informed his grandmother of what had just occur ed. If Applebees has not yet secured this little guy's endorsement services, they really need to do so. "Applebees.....So good we make six year olds think they can drive!"

If we can learn anything from the saga of this wee lad, it is in the realm of desire. Obviously, his childish decision making process is another matter, but reflect for a moment on the drive that motivated him to make "the drive."

Do we have a genuine desire to know and do the will of God? The Bible says, "Delight yourself also in the Lord, and he shall give you the desires of your heart" (Psalm 37:4, NKJV).

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Ezra's Example Of Success

Ezra descended from the lineage of Hilkiah, the high priest (Ezra 7:1). However, Ezra was not able to serve in such a capacity himself during the time of captivity. Still, he gave his time in study of the Scriptures (Ezra 7:6).

Ezra became one of Israel's great restoration leaders. He led the reconstruction of the temple as well as the effort to restore the religious life and institutions of the people. Ezra was very successful in accomplishing these tasks. The following statement is most revealing as we consider the source of his success:

For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.
Ezra 7:10, ESV

Notice Ezra's focus in these three areas:

1. He set his heart on the study of the Scriptures
2. He set his heart on the doing of the Scriptures
3. He set his heart on the teaching of the Scriptures
   

In can neither do nor teach something with which I am unfamiliar. Personally speaking, I cannot repair a radiator on a car, nor could I teach anyone else how to do so. Why? Simply because I have not applied my mind to study the discipline of auto mechanics.

God requires study of his word for the purpose of our own obedience as well as the transmission of his divine truths from one man to another, from one generation to the next.

Your success and mine is a direct result of how well we know the Bible.

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How To Be A Better Listener

The Lord is interested in our hearing. He has given mankind direction on the proper way to listen in the pages of Scripture. In one place, the Bible says, “let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). This is a principle which certainly does not come naturally to most of us! Many times, I want to talk as opposed to listen. More often than not, the subject I am prone to discuss is my favorite...ME! Yet God instructs us to take a radically different approach to our conversational skills.

The above quote from the book of James must be kept in its proper context if we are to derive the most benefit. The topic at hand is the fact that “every good and every perfect gift” comes directly from the Lord (James 1:17). Included, of course, is “the word of truth” (James 1:18), easily one of the greatest of God’s gifts to mankind. Verse eighteen indicates that God “brought us forth by the word of truth that we might be a kind of first-fruits of his creatures.” The gospel has the power to save (Romans 1:16-17) and thus change lives. Thus the instruction to “be swift to hear, slow to speak.” The principles and commands contained in Scripture are not up for negotiation. We have not the liberty to “make deals” or select which portions of the Bible we will accept. Why are so many uncomfortable or even irate at one or more commandments of God’s word today? It is simple really: They are swift to speak, slow to hear, and swift to wrath!

In the days of Christ, many of the Jews heard, but they did not really hear! Many today hear, yet fail to listen. There are several varieties of listeners today. Here are a handful of examples:

• One can listen and criticize; they can pick the words, sentences, or facts apart. They hear the language errors a speaker makes, but are impervious to the truth.


• There are those who listen in resentment. They hear, but they do so with great hostility in their heart. Truth does not alter their intellect, but rather fires their passions.


• Some listen in sheer superiority. These individuals do not listen, but merely hear your words to be polite.


• Some, however, listen to learn. They have an open, honest, yet discerning heart. They are seeking, knocking, and asking. These listeners will hear and obey the truth. They will experience great spiritual growth, and be blessed because they have taken the admonition of James chapter one and verse nineteen seriously.

Friend, how are your listening skills? Applying God’s counsel in hearing his word will certainly help you in your social listening as well. Everyone likes a good listener. Instead of consistently dominating the conversation, “be swift to hear, slow to speak.” If you apply this principle in social settings, people will appreciate you. If you apply this principle in your dealings with the Bible, God will surely bless you!

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SEARCH

In the 2001 blockbuster, A Beautiful Mind, Russell Crowe plays John Nash, the brilliant but mentally unstable mathematician whose work won him a Nobel Prize. The irony of a brilliant mind being handicapped by its own schizophrenic tendencies provides for an intriguing story.

The New Testament records a statement in the book of Acts that reveals what God considers a "beautiful mind" to be:

These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.
Acts 17:11, NKJV

This God-breathed statement describes the noble nature of the men and women in the city of Berea when it came to receiving the word of the Lord. Obviously, then, there is a right way and a wrong way to receive spiritual teaching. The Scriptures teach that searching the word of God is an attribute of a beautiful mind.

How should we search the Scriptures?

S -- seriously (1 Peter 4:7)
E -- earnestly (Hebrews 2:1)
A -- anxiously (2 Timothy 2:15)
R -- regularly (Deuteronomy 6:7-9)
C -- carefully (Joshua 22:5)
H -- humbly (James 4:10)

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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).

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