The Gospel's Seed

Identifying False Teachers

2010-01-04T21:23:00.002-07:00

There is a tendency these days to reject preaching that gets too specific, that calls the names of false teachers, that exposes the errors of men. While the Bible continues to command us to "preach the word...reprove, rebuke...," there are those who will not endure sound doctrine nor the opposition of false doctrine (2 Tim. 4:2-4).
A personal test should be taken. How do you react when a person and what he teaches is publicly identified and response is given? Do such personal identifications upset you? Would you prefer only hearing about the principles of truth while avoiding specific doctrinal applications? If so, you are dangerously close to the crowd described in 2 Timothy 4:3-4.
This is not to say that under every circumstance the false teacher must be publicly named for his teaching to be effectively exposed and opposed. Such is not the case (cf. 1 Cor. 15:12). But at times it is necessary for several reasons. These reasons include:
(1) Clearly identifying error and who is teaching it. An example of this is Paul's naming of Hymenaeus and Philetus in 2 Timothy 2:16-18. By naming these men Paul made it clear that their doctrine was overthrowing people's faith and such had to be opposed. Therefore, we are given scriptural prerogative to do the same thing today. At times, we must.
(2) Giving a warning against sin. This is done in 1 Corinthians 5:1. Paul did not call the man by name (they all knew who he was talking about), but identification was made, nonetheless. Such personal identification was needed to warn the brethren not to have fellowship with sin through any conduct which would indicate support (i.e., social contact, 1 Cor. 5:2, 9-11). To avoid fellowship with sin we must know what the sin is and who is committing it (2 Jn. 10-11). This is a matter of protecting the body of Christ from the influences of error. At times this requires personally identifying the teacher or practitioner of error (1 Cor. 5:6-7).
(3) Trying to save the false teacher and those he influences. Unless we are willing to identify and approach the one who teaches error, how shall we persuade him with the truth? Perhaps he simply has not been taught the truth. Peter's public conduct occasioned Paul's public confrontation because he "walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel" (Gal. 2:14). Paul was very specific. At times, so must we (cf. Phil. 4:9).
A number of reasons are offered by those who oppose this approach to contending for the faith (Jude 3). Some prominent offerings are:
(1) It is not edifying. Those who are uncomfortable with naming the names of false teachers tell us that to do so "tears down rather than builds up." Those who have specifically identified false teachers and their false doctrine have been labeled "trouble-makers" and are accused of "running people away." That is nothing new (cf. Elijah and Ahab in 1 Kgs. 18:17-18). If it is really true that by its very nature such an approach is not edifying, then we must include Jesus, Paul and John to Ahab’s list of "trouble-makers" (Matt. 23:2-3; 2 Tim. 2:16-18; 3 Jn. 9-10). In Acts 20:28-32, after warning of future false teachers, Paul commended them to the "word of His grace" which would edify and save them. Edification is compatible with warnings against false teachers.
(2) It is not showing love toward others. This is heard from those who confuse Biblical love with an emotional feeling. They believe that if someone's feelings are hurt, then they have not been treated lovingly. (Do you suppose the scribes and Pharisee's feelings were hurt after hearing what Jesus said about them in Matthew 23?) However, true love seeks the best interests of its object. True love for one another is walking after the Lord's commandments (2 Jn. 5-6). Love does not overlook sin, it helps to overcome it through exposure and repentance (Gal. 6:1; Jas. 5:19-20). Who truly loved Peter in Galatians 2:11-14, the Judaizers who supported his conduct toward the Gentiles, or Paul, who confronted him about his error? Obviously, Paul did. Do not be afraid to "speak the truth in love" (Eph. 4:15).
(3) Since nobody is 100 % doctrinally correct, we should not make an issue out of doctrinal differences. This person fails to appreciate two things about truth: first, that it can be understood correctly, and secondly, that God expects us to know it and to abide in it (Eph. 3:3-4; 5:17; Jn. 8:31-32; 1 Tim. 2:3-4; 2 Jn. 9). This approach to unity in spite of doctrinal diversity will eventually eliminate the Bible as the final standard on matters of revealed faith (doctrine). Even now, those who dare to expose and oppose the false teacher and his teaching is viewed as "legalistic," "credalistic," and as having a "party spirit." Nothing has changed since Galatians 1:6-10 was written. We can understand the gospel and when we do, we will understand it alike. Otherwise, the curse given in Galatians 1 against false teachers and what they teach becomes meaningless.
We must not be afraid to confront false teachers and their doctrinal errors. Such shows love for truth, for lost souls and for those who teach error. Do not be deceived into thinking otherwise (Rev. 2:2-3).
-Joe Price

THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH

2010-01-02T20:33:00.002-07:00

(Matt. 16:18). "...and the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved" (Acts 2:4 7).
From these Scriptures it is evident that Jesus, during the days of His earthly ministry, intended to build His church. In plain language, He said, "I will build My church." And it is equally evident from the latter reference that Jesus honored His promise, for the record reveals that "the Lord added" the "saved" to "the church." Moreover, from Ephesians 3:10, 11, we discover that the church's very existence was in keeping with "the eternal purpose" of God, and from Acts 20:28 we learn that the church was "purchased" with the "blood" of Jesus. In view of these fundamental facts, it is evident that the church one reads about in the New Testament is very important in the eyes of God, and therefore it should be very important to us.But we are living in a religiously divided world. Churches of every description abound, as well as the diverse doctrines they preach. Confusion reigns supreme. In brief, what is the church? How my it be identified? What must one do in order to become a member of the Lord's church -the one about which we read in the New Testament?
"Church" Defined:
EKKLESIA is the Greek word from which "church" is translated. EKKLESIA is a combination of two words, "ek" (out of), and "kaleo" (to call). "Church" therefore denotes the called out. Indeed, Christians (members of the church) have been "called... out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Pet. 2:9), and the medium God uses to call people is the gospel. Hence, to "the church" (the called out) at Thessalonica, the apostle Paul said "God.. called you by our gospel..." (2 Thess. 2:14). In view of these facts, it becomes evident that whatever is involved in one's obedience to the gospel is the same as that which is involved in his becoming a member of the Lord's church. Incidentally, the very definition of "church" proves that the New Testament church consists of saved people; "church," in its biblical sense, never referred to a material structure!
"Church" Used in Two Senses
1. The Universal Sense. When we read of "the church" in "the eternal purpose of God" (Eph. 3:10, 11), it is evident that no specific earthly location is under consideration. The church in its universal sense consists of "the saved" (Acts 2:47), or of those whose names are "registered in heaven" (Heb. 12:23). With regards to the church in its universal sense, there is only one church (Eph. 1:22, 23) and in it "both" Jews and Gentiles may be reconciled "to God" (Eph. 2:16). Briefly put, the church universal has no earthly organization; the Lord keeps the record of its membership (Heb. 12:23; 2 Tim. 2:19); it began on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2), and its membership is not affected by death (Phil. 1:20-24).2. The Local Sense. Whereas there is "one" universal church (Eph. 1:22, 23; 4:4), there are many local churches. Hence, we read of "the church of God ..at Corinth" (1 Cor. 1:2), "the churches of Galatia" (1 Cor. 16:1), "the churches of Judea...in Christ" (Gal. 1:21), "the seven churches in Asia" (Rev. 1:1), etc. The church in the local sense consists of Christians who have banded together to work and worship in keeping with the Lord's directions. The local church has "earthly" organization (Phil. 1:1), and it may consist of both the saved and the lost (cf. Rev. 2:14-16)! Of course, death necessarily affects the membership in the local church.
How To Become A Member
With regards to this issue, we are referring to membership in the universal church. Inasmuch as the universal church constitutes "the saved" (Acts 2:47), then whatever is involved in becoming a part of "the saved" is what one does to become a member of the church.In New Testament days, in order to be saved, sinners had to: (1) Hear the word, for faith comes by "hearing.., the word of God," Rom. 10:17. (2) They had to believe in God (Heb. 11:6), in Jesus Christ (Jn. 8:24), and they had to believe the gospel, Mk. 16:15, 16. (3) They were commanded to "repent" (Acts 2:3 8), an act brought on by "godly sorrow" (2 Cor. 7:10), and which resulted in a change of life, Matt. 3:7, 8. (4) They were required to confess their faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, Acts 8:37; Rom. 10:9, 10. (5) And they were to be "buried" in baptism (Rom. 6:3, 4) "in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins," Acts 2:38. Upon complying with these terms of pardon, people in the first century thereby became a part of "the saved" whom God "added to the church" (Acts 2:41, 47). Inasmuch as we yet live under the same "testament," a testament which became "of force" by reason of Christ's death (Heb. 9:15-17), then if we also become a part of "the saved, "we have to do what they did. And, upon becoming a part of the universal church, we, like Paul, should "join" a local church, and worship and serve God in keeping with His revealed will (cf. Acts 9:26-28).
The Local Church Identified
We may identify a sound local church in the same way we identify anything else; by its marks of identity. (1) It should have a scriptural name. Viewed from its relationship to God, it may be called "the church of God" (1 Cor. 1:2). Viewed from its relationship to Christ, a plurality of such churches may be called "the churches of Christ" (Rom. 16:16). In so doing, a desire to follow the Scriptures and honor God and Christ is reflected. However, the "name" alone is not a sure guide. (2) Its organization should solely consist of bishops, deacons and saints (Phil. 1:1), with the bishops (or elders) limiting their oversight to the local church (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2). In Bible days there existed no earthly church "headquarters," consisting of an ecclesiastical hierarchy exercising control over local churches. (3) Its worship on the first day of the week included teaching the word of God, prayer, acappella music or the singing of praises to God, partaking of the Lord's supper, and contributing of their means as God had prospered them, Acts 2:24; 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:1, 2; Eph. 5:19, etc. (4) Its work consisted simply of preaching the gospel, building up the saints through teaching the Scriptures, and benevolence to indigent saints, 1 Thess. 1:9; 1 Tim. 3:15; Eph. 4:11-16; Acts 11:27-30; 2 Cor. 8, 9, etc. The Lord's church did not try to become a social club, providing for all the secular, social, emotional, and recreational needs and/or desires of its members in particular, or for society in general. Faithful local churches today, abiding in the "apostles doctrine" (Acts 2:42), will reflect the pattern of the worship, work, and organization which characterized the Lord's church in the first century.
Conclusion
Admittedly, in an "anything goes" society wherein multitudes have embraced a "do your own thing" religion, the return-to-the-Bible approach advocated in this article will be ridiculed by some and ignored by most. However, when all is said and done, Jesus Christ is the head of His church (Col. 1:18); He has "all authority" (Matt. 28:18), and the Scriptures instruct us to submit to His authority in whatever we do, whether in "word or deed" (Col. 3:17). Moreover, we are warned of the dire consequences which befall those who "pervert the gospel of Christ" (Gal. 1:7, 8). In fact, the Bible virtually closes with a warning not to "add to" or "take from" that which God has revealed (Rev. 22:18, 19).In view of the fact that God is the Creator and we are the created (Gen. 1:1-17), in view of the fact that "all have sinned" (Rom. 3:23), and "the wages of sin is death" (Rom. 6:23), then it behooves every accountable person to submit to God's will as it is revealed in the Bible, which is "the word of God" (Heb. 4:12). This becomes especially evident when we consider the facts that each one of us "shall give account for himself to God" (Rom. 14:12), and that Jesus will "judge" us by His word (John 12:48). Life is too short, eternity is too long, your soul is too valuable, hell is too horrible, and heaven is too wonderful for any person to disregard the plain teachings of the Bible. Consider ye well!
May the Lord Bless us all!

Our Deepest

2010-01-01T09:48:00.003-07:00

It would be very good and appropiate at this time to meditate on all the things that had happened on the year that just left us.

2009 is now in the book of history, and all we can do is to remember the things that happened in that year.

Nothing can be changed, nothing can be moved nothing can be touched. All is done.

2010 is brand new, 2010 is with us and will remain with us for another 364 days, can we accomplish good things in this 2010? It is up to you and I and the attitude that you present to this new year.

God is always expecting - from us, his children - the best. Resolutions are important only when we want them to work: Resolutions with real commitment are very important.

Are you ready to make any for this 2010?

As christians we must look at the things for God and his church, we must look at the things that edify the members and our own selves, to gain knowledge in the will of God should be the priority of every christians always. John 5:39.

Well, this day January 1 2010 we can start our christians life with the right foot and be loyal to the Lord always.

Christ is coming and we must be prepared to receive our Lord and to be with Him in heaven. Are we ready, are we committed, are we resolved to do the best of this year?

May the Lord bless us to make our Lord and Father proud of who we are.

In Christ.

Eric Castillo

A Rainbow Remembered.

2009-04-20T12:06:00.004-06:00

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father…” James 1:17...
Memories are a gift from God. For instance, remembering the summer that had been a scorcher, the air extra dry. Plants drooped and farmers feared for their crops. Then finally one night the rain came—not as a storm or with beating fury, but gently and tenderly. It continued most of the next day, soaking the ground and saturating thirsty roots. Then, as quickly as it started, it ceased, and the late afternoon sun came out. Memories of holding grandma’s hand that day walking out of the house and into the field fill the mind. “Smell the air,” she said, drawing in a deep breath. “See how tall the daylilies stand, as if they feel stronger.”
“Oh, look,” grandma cried rounding the corner of the barn, “a rainbow!” She spoke about God’s love as she explained the arch of color stretching from horizon to horizon, soaring almost to the zenith.
“Isn’t it wonderful?” she said, kneeling down. “The rain we needed so badly, then the sun, and now this beautiful rainbow.”
When asked, “Do you know what makes a rainbow?” Grandma began tracing the rainbow from end to end, then she suddenly stopped and turning her face and shinning eyes to the child she loved, said: “Of course I do, darling. God made it for us because He loves us so much.”
Take Care.

IGNORANCE IS NOT BLISS

2009-04-18T14:12:00.004-06:00

The days in which the prophet Hosea worked were characterized by a low level of godliness. Consider the very outset of the writing:

The word of the LORD that came unto Hosea, the son of Beeri, in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel. The beginning of the word of the LORD by Hosea. And the LORD said to Hosea, Go, take unto thee a wife of whoredoms and children of whoredoms: for the land hath committed great whoredom, departing from the LORD.
I suggest that you take the time to read “Hosea” in its entirety, as it contains many valuable lessons. However, let’s just quickly note three (3) lessons that come from one specific chapter; chapter 4. Please read that now.
Lesson #1: Ignorance of God is Common (v. 1)
God’s children had enjoyed many manifestations of God’s power in the past. They had profited from His wisdom many times. They were the recipients of many messages from the lips and lives of the prophets. Yet, during the days of Hosea, there was little knowledge of God among His chosen people. Although we are not privy to prophets today, and although we do not live in the age of the miraculous, God has spoken to all men through his Word. He has made Himself and His will known. Yet just as it was then, still today ignorance of God is common.
Lesson #2: Ignorance of God is Often Willful (v. 6, 10)
Note carefully that the people in Hosea’s day had rejected knowledge. Yes, they had left off from heeding God’s counsel. The New King James Version states that they had “ceased obeying the LORD.” You see, these folks were guilty of willful blindness. All those who worship with apostate “churches of Christ” are guilty of the same willful blindness. The truth about the authorized work of the church is not hard to discern… if one is looking with an honest eye. Many who worship with “sound congregations” are also often willfully ignorant about many points of doctrine.
Lesson #3: Ignorance of God is Fatal (v. 6, 7, 9, 10)
Note the penalty the people would incur for their ignorance: God would reject them (6), their glory would be turned into shame (7), they would be punished (9), and their efforts to find satisfaction apart from God would fail (10). The same things await all those who are ignorant of God’s Word today (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:25).
Do not be duped by the wisdom of men! The wisdom of men will profit you nothing (1 Corinthians 1:19). Hear the wisdom of God and learn the lesson well: Ignorance of God’s Word IS NOT bliss.

Contentment

2009-01-23T15:32:00.002-07:00

“...be content with such things as ye have...” (Hebrews 13:5)

If you are not content with what you have then you will never be content with what you might want.

It was Haman who had riches and honor beyond our ability to measure, but he could not be content with Mordecai sitting at the king’s gate. Then there was king Ahab, who wanted Naboth’s vineyard but when it seemed beyond his reach he made himself sick.

Or who can forget that Adam and Eve with a whole new world to themselves were not satisfied because they wanted a little more indulgence, a little more knowledge.

There is no end in discontent.With all his wealth and knowledge, Solomon repeatedly said, “all is vanity and vexation of spirit.” Those that have achieved wealth and recognition find themselves no nearer the longed for contentment.It is for that reason that the Bible says, “Seek the things which are above” (Colossians 3:1). This is the source of contentment.

Jesus said, “He that cometh unto me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).

Paul wrote, “I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (Philippians 4:11). Contentment is a kind of self sufficiency—desiring no more than the bounty God has provided.

God’s grace was sufficient for him, for after all he was a stranger and a pilgrim on this earth, moving rapidly toward a more permanent abode.

To the Christian this is contentment.

Are you content?

Embracing The Truth.

2009-01-21T05:21:00.001-07:00

Eph 1:13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,

After stating salvation from God’s perspective in verse 12, Paul here states it from man’s perspective. Obedience to Christ is your response to God’s elective purpose in your life. Those two truths—God’s initiative and man’s obedient response—coexist throughout God’s Holy Word.Paul rightly called the Gospel “the message of truth” because truth is its predominant characteristic. Salvation was conceived by the God of truth (Psalm 31:5) and purchased by the Son, Who is the Truth (John 14:6) and is applied by the Spirit of truth (John 16:13). To know it is to know the truth that sets men free (John 8:32). Christians are people of the truth (John 18:37), worshipping God in spirit and in truth (John 4:2) and obeying the Word of truth (John 17:17).Yet, as profound and powerful as God’s truth is, people have rejected, neglected, redefined and opposed it for centuries. Some, like Pilate, cynically deny that truth even exists or that it can be known by men (John 18:38). Others foolishly think that denying truth will somehow make it go away.Perhaps you have heard someone say, “Jesus may be true for you, but that doesn’t mean He has to be true for me.” That view assumes that belief somehow determines truth. But just the opposite is the case. Truth determines the validity of one’s belief. Believing a lie does not make it true. Conversely, failing to believe the truth does not make it a lie.The Gospel is true because Jesus is true, not simply because Christians believe in Him and obey Him. His resurrection proved the truth of His claims and constitutes the objective basis of your faith (Romans 1:4; 1 Peter 1:3).You will face today, armed with the message of truth and empowered by the Spirit of truth. Truth is your protection and strength (Ephesians 6:14).
Lost souls desperately need to hear that truth.

Represent it well, and proclaim it with boldness.

May the Lord help us...

Blessing God.

2009-01-20T05:16:00.002-07:00

“Blessed be the God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ...”(1 Peter 1:3)

What did Peter mean when he wrote those words in 1 Peter 1:3?

How did he do that and how can you do it?

In the common use, everyone understands the word “blessing.”

The rain is a blessing. A loving, caring, helpful daughter is a blessing to her aging parents. But how do you bless God?

When you are blessed you have received something. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...” (1 Peter 1:3).

As a Christian, God gives to you a “living hope.” This, however, does not apply to your blessing Him. Gratitude consists of the disposition of returning to another something, if only an expression of thanks, for favor received. In contrast, though you would never be able to return fully your obligation to Him.Your blessing God appears in your thinking well of Him; speaking well of Him; recommending Him to others. Perhaps you can see it praying, “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14). Your “reasonable service” is explained in this verse, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1). Hopefully, this helps you understand better what Peter meant when he would have you bless God.

BE STILL

2009-01-19T17:15:00.002-07:00

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10

How often when we come to a crisis in our life do we immediately try to fix it? We so want to be in control of the situation that we act without giving the Lord time to lead us.

In North America we are taught that we need to be self sufficient, that we are in charge of our destiny. We have forgotten that without God we have nothing and are nothing. Everything comes from God, even the air we breathe.

Just as Joshua thought he had things in control after the Israelites had captured Jericho, he went out to capture Ai and was defeated. If he had asked God before he went, he would have found that there was sin among the people. God’s plans were different than Joshua’s too. Where Joshua took only a few of the men of war to defeat Ai, God saw need for all the men of war to take the city. We all need to take time to pray and ask for God’s guidance in our lives before we rush to fix the problem.The Psalms encourage us to be still and know that God is there for us and to wait for His guidance. There is a need for each of us to take time everyday to thank God for all our blessings and to ask for guidance and wait for direction. God wants to bestow His blessings on us. He sent His Son for the forgiveness of our sins.

Thanks.

"Pointing Fingers"

2009-01-17T12:43:00.002-07:00

I never cease to be amazed at some people's knowledge of the Bible. It seems like some folks, no matter how ignorant they are about God's Word, always know certain verses of Scripture--and often they know these verses for all the wrong reasons. They know, for example, that the Bible teaches that "God is love" (1 Jn. 4:8), but usually because they want to "love" someone in an immoral way (like a live-in girlfriend, or a gay or lesbian "lover"). They also know about the verse that teaches: "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth," but again, it's usually for selfish reasons--they want to take revenge (with God's approval) on someone who's mistreated them.
And of course the one Bible verse that everyone knows is: "Judge not that you be not judged" (Matt. 7:1). Worldly folks want to quote this verse every time you try to point out some error in their lives that needs correcting.
Now, I have to admit that after all these years of preaching, I'm no longer surprised or even disappointed when a worldly person tries to throw this text up at me as I try to help him see the error of his way. But I do get disturbed when my own brothers or sisters in Christ try to use this text to get me "off their case" for the same reason.
Jesus does warn us about judging others (Matt. 7:1); but if you read further in this context, you will see that Jesus more specifically is condemning one who is hypercritical and hypocritical in his faultfinding (7:2-5). When we go looking for a "speck" (or minor fault) in a brother's "eye" (life), we are being hypercriticaland that's wrong. And worse: when we do this while having a "log" (or major fault) in our own eyethat's hypocritical.

And this is the kind of judging that Jesus so strongly condemns.

In Him.

A Command To The Parents!

2009-01-16T17:26:00.008-07:00

Question #1
Being a Christian parent what was your reaction when you held your child in your arms for the first time?
Questions #2
Do you think that the bible is the perfect guide to train your child?
Question #3
What is your philosophy in being a parent and guiding your children?
The work of every parent is to teach their children how to live; our entrance verse to this lesson is
(Listen)Ephesians 6:1-4 “Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honour your father and mother, which is the first commandment with promise: that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth. And you fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord”
The best way to train your children as a parent always has to be based and begin with the word of the Lord, parents and children have to live according to God’s calling. No parent can correctly train a child outside of the word and commandments that God has left us. God calls his children to an obedience, God calls the parents to provide a just guide to their children according to His word. Both parents and children have to realize that this is not easy. There are Christian parents that have lost the significance of raising children according to the discipline and admonition of the Lord. Not to bug them and letting them do what they want can bring grave consequences that can leave a mark in children for all their lives and likewise leave a mark in every Christian parent in front of God. That is why the word of God tells us in Proverbs 22:6 “train up your child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it”. But what happens is that some parents read this passage and think that all that is necessary to train children according to God is to just bring them to church, while not setting a proper example in their everyday life and not acting like true Christians at home. This is the reason why many of our children are losing their interest in God’s will. If we want a strong church in the future it is up to the parents to instruct their children in the discipline and admonition of the Lord. When a parent does not bother to get involved in the life of their child, it is most likely because of two reasons
1) The child has a strong character.
2) Or the parent does not have any character, we can say then that this parent is very short sighted spiritually speaking.
To raise up our children in the admonition of the Lord covers everything, not just to give them their every day needs in their lives. That is why many children say that they have the best parents in the world, only because their parents let them do whatever they want.
The existence to be a parent is much shorter than one realizes. When a child is born one has the tendency to think that to that child there is an eternity awaiting him/her and we see him/her start walking, talking and growing but when we finally open our eyes and realize that that child is in the world, we react to teach him God’s will but it is too late.
The Word of God tells us in Deuteronomy “when your son asks you in time to come, saying “what is the meaning of the testimonies, the statutes and the judgements which the Lord our God has commanded you?”” Like Christian parents how will respond to such a question. Will we have the right response? Many of us know how to guide our children according to God’s word in our minds but in practice we are a disaster spiritually speaking. Someone once said “I am more than enough to guide my children and I don’t need anyone’s advice to rear my children”. Now go look at the families with the parents that talk in this way, you will find children without any interest in God’s will. You will find parents asking themselves in what they have failed. Many times it is the parents that are responsible for the failure of our children, we as Christians are obligated to train our children according to the commandments and statutes of God.
Conclusion
Someone asked a Christian couple what the greatest gift God gave them was, they responded our kids. I think that every parents thinks in the same way, but the question is, How have we brought them up? Would God be happy with us? We as parents know our children and we know perfectly well in what we have failed. Let us not forget our children reveal even the walk of the parents. If the parent is indifferent in the things of God then it is obvious that the children will be indifferent with the things of God, this will result in a Church that is spiritually dead. The word of God exhorts each and every one of us to bring up our children in discipline and admonishment in the Lord (Eph 6:4). A final question, what is your philosophy in being a parent and raising your children?
Are you raising them for God or for the world?
You alone know the answer,
may God bless us today and always.

A Confession

2009-01-02T20:32:00.002-07:00

“Lord, make me to know my end, And what is the measure of my days, That I may know how frail I am.”(Psalm 39:4)
Reading this every day provides a reminder to give thanks to the Father that He is in charge and not this frail, earthly human, who sometimes tries to carry too much on his/her shoulders and falters along the way.
The idea from this scripture seems to denote that we know not how long we will live on this earth, which is to God “...as handbreadths…” and our age is “…as nothing before…” God (Psalm 39:5).
There is no time to waste in doing service toward God within His kingdom, because we do not know how much time is allotted us to be of service to Him. We must prepare to reap salvation and to bear good fruit along the short span of life that we have been afforded (which is as a vapor in the wind). We must confess Christ daily as our Savior and our strength, through our trials. Incidentally, Psalm 39:4 is taped on my refrigerator door at eye level, and in large print so I can't help but be reminded to read it daily. There are others there also. One is, “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2).
I try to remember that even though I may be frail, physically, I can be filled with the Holy Spirit so that “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13).

May the Lord help us...

BELIEVE IN GOD

2008-10-27T16:52:00.002-06:00

“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shalt have no other gods before Me.”(Exodus 20:2-3 NKJV)

Faithful Christians believe in God as Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier.As a Christian, you cannot love God too much. He is in all the universe and He knows everything about every one who has ever lived and who will ever live. Despite the fact that He knows all, the amazing truth is that He loves everyone.God created man and He sustains man throughout life on this earth. Without His loving care, no one in the world could live for even an instant.And above all else that He has given man, He has given Himself in the Lord Jesus Christ to save all men. This is the best gift of all.Thank God for all He has done for you and pray that your heart will be so grateful to Him that you will love and serve Him every day of your life.Thank God that He is God and that He has created you; that He loves and cares for you; providing all your needs. Ask Him for help to be stronger in your faith and that He will help make you a better servant in everything you do.

BEING GODLY

2008-10-21T21:34:00.002-06:00

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

They found no dirt, wrongdoing, faults or sin of neglect on the part of Daniel.

Like Daniel we should be people of character and integrity.

Endure hardship like a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one serving as a devoted soldier gets entangled in affairs of this life. We must seek only to serve the Master (2 Timothy 2:4).

We should strive to be light unto the world like Daniel. Do everything heartily as working for God and we will receive an inheritance (Colossians 3:23, 24).

There will be lions in our lives so we need to prepare ourselves for battle. The devil is like a roaring lion going about seeking whom he may devour(1 Peter 5:8).

When Daniel prayed 3 times daily he was building an inner strength that could later be a comfort and aid in time of need. Daily prayer, repetitious worship, and daily Bible study may at the time not seem important in and of itself but, over time builds strength and fortifies our inner character and faith. It develops within us a reservoir of strength and full assurance that God will deliver us and help us to be able to bear any burden that may come our way.While God rescued Daniel by shutting the lions’ mouths, Daniel still spent all night with them in the lions den.

We often pray and want God to deliver or remove us totally out of crises (sin, sickness, financial difficulty, etc.). This deliverance may not be answered as we would like to see it, but God may still direct a deliverance which enables us to endure or overcome and escape(1 Corinthians 10:13).Jesus Christ through forgiveness on the cross can free us of the lions in our lives giving us the promise and pledge of a resurrection for all (Romans 1:4, 5).

Blessing God

2008-10-20T20:59:00.002-06:00

“Blessed be the God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ...”(1 Peter 1:3)

What did Peter mean when he wrote those words in 1 Peter 1:3?

How did he do that and how can you do it?

In the common use, everyone understands the word “blessing.” The rain is a blessing. A loving, caring, helpful daughter is a blessing to her aging parents. But how do you bless God?When you are blessed you have received something. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...” (1 Peter 1:3).As a Christian, God gives to you a “living hope.” This, however, does not apply to your blessing Him. Gratitude consists of the disposition of returning to another something, if only an expression of thanks, for favor received. In contrast, though you would never be able to return fully your obligation to Him.Your blessing God appears in your thinking well of Him; speaking well of Him; recommending Him to others. Perhaps you can see it praying, “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14). Your “reasonable service” is explained in this verse, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1). Hopefully, this helps you understand better what Peter meant when he would have you bless God.

The Cross As A Story of Love

2008-10-19T15:12:00.003-06:00

What would be the biggest and most famous story of love of all time?

While we think about it, let me tell you a story. We begin with a mother which was trapped in a blizzard accompanied by her little son. As the mother desperately looked for a way to save her son she decided to take off her thick cloths and wrap her son in them. In the morning her body was found lifeless, and frozen next to her body a pile of clothes was found. From that pile of clothes a cry of a baby came out; a child who was in fact alive and safe. When this boy grew he constantly would tell the tale of his mother’s sacrifice and love towards him.

This kind of love story warms our hearts and drives us to love our mothers more. It is always said that the love that always follows the love of God is the love of a mother. If we meditate a bit in this story we will find out that Christ did the exact same thing for us. The word of God tells us that he gave everything up for us and was even willing to die just so that we can have salvation through the sacrifice on the cross at Calvary. Now tell me, just how generous are we, and how much of our lives to we give to him? If we (the ones that say to pertain to the Church of our Lord) meditate and think about the sacrifice of Jesus more often, then we will be more grateful because we see that what Jesus did for us was not something easy. To be humiliated, abused and crucified just so that we can attain salvation through his blood would give us more than a good enough reason to be thankful and grateful to Him every day of our lives. Now let’s think of something else, Was Jesus obligated to give himself up for sacrifice? Of course not, he did this through pure love. If we go to the gospels we will find out how much Jesus suffered, for example if we go to John 19:1-11 it is narrated to us of the arrest of Jesus and the things he suffered for us. “So then Pilate took Jesus and scourged Him. And the soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they put on Him a purple robe”….. “Therefore, when the chief priests and officers saw Him, they cried out saying, “crucify Him, crucify Him” Pilate said to them “you take Him and crucify Him, for I find no fault in Him.””…. “And He, bearing His cross, went out to a place called the place of a skull, which is translated in Hebrew Golgotha, where they crucified Him, and two others with Him, one on either side, and Jesus in the center”.

These things were not written in the word of God so that we can find entertainment in ourselves, they were written so that we can obtain a living faith and so that we can transform our hearts. When we hear of the life and death of our Lord Jesus on the cross we should not hear these things and then forget them. Let us just imagine, if Christ did not come to this earth, what would happen to our lives? Simply put the answer would be that we would be owned by someone else, that is to say the devil. But that is why Jesus came to this earth, so that he could save what was his from the beginning.
Illustration
The story begins with a boy who made a boat with which he went to go play with in the river and while he was playing with it the current snatched the boat from his grasp leaving him desolate and sad. After a few days the boy saw his boat in a pawnshop and saw that his boat was for sale. When he entered the store he told the owner “this boat is mine, I made it but I lost it in the river while I played” the owner responded by saying “someone sold me this boat so if you want it you have to pay me the price that I am asking”, the boy quickly ran home and took out all his savings and ran back to the store to buy back his boat. When he got out of the store he told his boat “I love you a lot because I made you and I bought you. You are mine two times”
This is exactly what has happened to us, He made us. And when the current of sin snatched us away from Him we fell in to the hands of the devil. God sent his son so that he could save us and buy us out of sin through his blood that was shed on the cross. Now we are His twice just like in the story of the boy and his boat, Doesn’t this seem marvelous to you brother? Let’s see what
Matthew 20:28 “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many”
1 Peter 1:18-19 “Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot”.
1 Peter 2:24 “who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died in sins, might live for righteousness- by whose stripes you were healed”.
What else can we say about the story of Christ on the cross at Calvary? Well that it definitely is a story of Love. Let us just remember brethren that we were lost in our sins and our transgressions, we needed someone like Christ to come and save us. The only thing that is left for us to do is to be appreciative of that immense love he has towards us.
Conclusion
Before Jesus died on the cross He said “It is finished” according to John 19:30, after saying this he bowed his head and gave up His spirit. Jesus followed a plan for His life and finally he had fulfilled it. His death was not accidental, no one took his life away from him but rather he gave up His life following the plan of God to redeem us from our sins according to Galatians 1:4 “Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father”. Finally brethren what can we say or do but to thank our God and to be appreciative for all he has done for us.
May the Lord bless us today and always.

Antonio Arguera

A Time For Everything

2008-10-14T20:06:00.002-06:00

“To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, And a time to die; A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted; A time to kill, And a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up; A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones; A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing; A time to gain, And a time to lose; A time to keep, And a time to throw away; A time to tear, And a time to sew; A time to keep silence, And a time to speak; A time to love, And a time to hate; A time of war, And a time of peace.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NKJV)

In Ecclesiastes, chapter three, it tells us that there is a time for everything in heaven. We shouldn’t wish our lives away, but use every day that we have to teach someone else about the salvation of God.

Remember that God has a plan for everybody’s lives. Everything He does for us is not to hurt us, but help us.

There may be some pain along the line, but it is all worth it in the long run. Be happy that God sent His one and only Son to die on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins.This life is short compared to the eternity that we will one day spend with God in heaven.

A PRESENT

2008-10-13T21:40:00.003-06:00

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-33 NKJV)
We often hear,
“I’ll be glad when this day is over” or “I dread tomorrow.”
Obviously, these phrases are often lightly spoken. In reality we can find something good that we have either seen, heard or done each day that we can thank God for giving us, after all that is His present to us.
In Lamentations 3:22-23 Jeremiah says it is the Lord’s mercy and compassion that we have new blessings every morning.
Thank you, Holy Father, for loving us so much.
“Yesterday’s the pastTomorrow’s the future,But today is a giftThat’s why it is called, ‘The Present’Today is a gift from God.”

A CONFESSION

2008-10-12T17:11:00.002-06:00

“Lord, make me to know my end, And what is the measure of my days, That I may know how frail I am.”(Psalm 39:4)
Reading this every day provides a reminder to give thanks to the Father that He is in charge and not this frail, earthly human, who sometimes tries to carry too much on his/her shoulders and falters along the way.
The idea from this scripture seems to denote that we know not how long we will live on this earth, which is to God “...as handbreadths…” and our age is “…as nothing before…” God (Psalm 39:5).
There is no time to waste in doing service toward God within His kingdom, because we do not know how much time is allotted us to be of service to Him. We must prepare to reap salvation and to bear good fruit along the short span of life that we have been afforded (which is as a vapor in the wind). We must confess Christ daily as our Savior and our strength, through our trials.
Incidentally, Psalm 39:4 is taped on my refrigerator door at eye level, and in large print so I can't help but be reminded to read it daily.
There are others there also. One is, “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2).
I try to remember that even though I may be frail, physically, I can be filled with the Holy Spirit so that “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13).

TEACH US TO PRAY

2008-10-01T11:59:00.003-06:00

Any study about prayer starts with a relationship, and this relationship is with God. He is the center of all expression and movement of all true and faithful Christian. Looking for God, to get to know him, to trust in him and obey him according to his word is what molds us to be children of God, if we don’t have the knowledge about who God is, then the prayer of all those who prophesy piety will come to be an empty prayer. The depth of our prayer is the result of the knowledge we have about who God is. The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thess. 5:17 “Pray without ceasing” This means that every Christian needs to have full knowledge to whom we pray to and why we pray. The disciples went up to our Lord Jesus and asked him “teach us to pray” according to Luke 11:1-4. Jesus told them when you pray, say “our father which art in heaven”….. What we note is that our Lord Jesus has a very clear start, beginning with acknowledging the father, with words easy to understand. Jesus gave us the format in which we have to pray but that does not indicate that we are to repeat the same thing every time we go to our father in prayer, considering that prayer is according to one’s own needs. Jesus declares in John 14:13 “And whatever you ask in my name, that I will do, that the father may be glorified in the son.” Prayer is such a small word that describes a great experience for all those that form the kingdom of God (the church). Prayer is to be something natural for everyone one of us, but if we ask what the worst failure in a Christian life is, the answer would easily be prayer. Let’s suppose that someone tells you that a Christian that prays three or four times a day does not indicate that he is more spiritual than a Christian that prays once every two days or once a week. What would you say? Is this possible? Prayer is the only base that we have to communicate with our God. If we only pray once in a while or not at all it is because we don’t trust in God, however His word tells us in 1 Peter 3:12 “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous , and his ears are open to their prayers….” We see then that the disciples were wise in asking our Lord Jesus to teach them how to pray. But for some reason the Christians today try to be better than the apostles by thinking that we don’t have to pray to be right with God. Jesus was the person to have the right to say that he didn’t need to pray since he was God, however we see the complete opposite, as he prayed as much as he could. We confirm this in the gospels when we read that “Jesus went to pray” or “Jesus prayed through the night” or “Jesus prayed till day break”. Someone may ask, what was the purpose for our Lord to pray at every moment? I believe that it is so that we could learn from his example. If Jesus being God and man at the same time needed to pray, then how much more is prayer important to us? If prayer held an important part in the life of Christ, than how much more is prayer important in our lives? Prayer is for those who say “God, be merciful to me a sinner” Luke 18:13. Prayer is confession, submission, is humility of heart to accept that we need help in every moment of our lives. For God the most wonderful thing that comes out of man is a humble prayer coming from a contrite heart. This is what the apostle John wrote in 1 John 5:14 “Now this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us”. These words is what allows us to say that if we persevere in our prayers we convert our Lord God in our helper and our provider, and he is willing to help us in anything of course according to his will as we read in 1 Juan 3:22 “whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in his sight”. What more can we say? Jesus gave us many teachings like the Beatitudes, the Sermon on the Mount or the teaching of the true vine in John 15 among many others, but no teaching can compare to that of His life of prayer He had throughout His three and a half years of his ministry. This is why his disciples asked him to teach them how to pray. How many of us have gone to Jesus and asked him how to pray? Is God obligated to bless us and give us the things we need like if it was magic without remembering him? Prayer is to ask, prayer is to meditate, prayer is to submit and prayer is to call. ConclusionLet me tell you that a just prayer can only come out of a just mind, from someone who has a right life in the eyes of God. It is few that pray and fewer are those who persevere, prayer is indispensible in our lives as Christians. If you don’t seriously involve your life in prayer, then why should God be involved in your life? Just a few words of thought- If we are too busy to pray, then we should be too busy to receive as well.

May be the Lord Bless us today and always.

Antonio Arguera

Finish The Story

2008-09-30T09:38:00.003-06:00

There was once a congregation in which every member was just like you. Each one cooperated and supported every phase of the work just like you. Everyone worked as hard and attended the same services and gospel meetings that you did. The elders, deacons, and preachers were all as interested in the church as you are. They put the same emphasis on recreation, business, and other material affairs that you do. Each member contributed monetarily just like you do. Within a year or so, this congregation… Is that happening here in this congregation?
Think about it, the church will be as strong or as weak as you are. The chruch is composed of members.

When Church Is Boring

2008-09-18T11:18:00.002-06:00

Written by

Frank Himmel
What do you do when you find that church is boring? It's time for a change! Now the question is, change what?
Many folks think the answer is change the church. I just read an article about a new church created for men only, men who find church boring. Discarding more traditional environments, they meet in a gymnasium one Saturday evening a month. A rock band provides the entertainment. The preacher speaks in front of the scoreboard, with the clock running. He guarantees to have them out in one hour! This sort of innovation is not unusual. Many religious leaders hail it as a positive development, a way to reach out to those who otherwise would have no interest in church.
Some might not go that far, yet they still insist on change. Contemporary music, drama, and short sermons that are little more than pep talks are the order of the day. Clapping and cheering have replaced old-fashioned amens. Celebration and praise are the buzzwords, with the world's calendar dictating the subject celebrated.
Malachi lived at a time when people found "church" boring. Speaking of Israel's worship, God said through the Prophet, "You also say, 'My, how tiresome it is!' And you disdainfully sniff at it" (Mal. 1:13).
God proposed two changes to these who turned up their noses at His worship. One was to just stay home. "Oh that there were one among you who would shut the gates, that you might not uselessly kindle fire on My altar! I am not pleased with you" (v. 11). The better solution, the change He preferred, was to repent. "'If you do not listen, and if you do not take it to heart to give honor to My name,' says the Lord, 'then I will send the curse upon you'" (2:2). Notice what God did not approve: changing the structure or activities of wor-ship to accommodate individual tastes.
The preacher can work to make his sermons more interesting, the song leader can try to select more meaningful hymns, and the one who leads in prayer can give more thought to what he says. However, when worship as God directed is boring, the main change that is needed is in the heart of the worshiper.

Preacher, "Your Preaching Is Too Harsh"

2008-09-11T09:35:00.004-06:00

It’s not the first time that I hear people saying that they do not want to come to Northside church of Christ because my preaching is too “harsh”. Some say that I am not a “loving person”. By “loving,” what they really mean is I don’t “tolerate sin”. That’s another way to say that the preacher is not a loving preacher.
I ask my self, what is it that people find “harsh”? Exactly what are these people looking for? What do they want?
Someone told me: I’m shopping around for a church. You hear that, “shopping around”. People are not looking for the truth but for the church that concedes with their lifestyle. Will they find it? Yes, there are thousands of churches that will please this type of people.
But again, what is it that they find harsh about the preacher at Northside church of Christ?
Do they find it harsh that we ask for: Bible book, chapter and verse for everything that we do?
Do they find it harsh that we continue admonishing those in sin to repent?
Do they find it harsh that we admonish those who are forsaking the service to wake up from their apathy and revive their Christian life again?
Do they find it harsh that we in this congregation do not condone sin?
Do they find it harsh that we do not sell a cheap Gospel in order to please people?
Do they find it harsh that we do not commune with those practicing sin?
Do they find it harsh that we do not have a baseball league or teams to compete with sectarian churches?
Do they find it harsh that we do not lie to one another but preach the truth of Jesus?
Do they find it harsh that we do not tolerate inmmodesty in this congregation?
Do they find it harsh that we condemn promiscuity?
Do these people want me to preach lies? I believe that we are reaching the same point as the people of Israel were when they were asking the prophets of the Lord:
Isa 30:10 Who say to the seers, "Do not see," And to the prophets, "Do not prophesy to us right things; Speak to us smooth things, prophesy deceits.
People are asking today, perhaps in a different manner, the same things that the Israelites were asking. Should we please them?
Many want to come to church in their sins and when they hear the preacher attacking sin they say: “This preacher is too harsh.” They want me to congratulate them when they are living in sin and to compromise the truth from God in order to make them feel good. Brothers, should I do that? Should I preach “peace, peace” when there is no peace?
Jer 6:14 They have also healed the hurt of My people slightly, Saying, 'Peace, peace!' When there is no peace.
My preaching is too harsh. I remember that the Jewish were saying the same about Jesus when He was attacking sin. For this reason many did not follow Him anymore, because Jesus was “too harsh”.
John 6:60-61…Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, "This is a hard saying; who can understand it?"61 When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples complained about this, He said to them, "Does this offend you?
Was Jesus begging them to stay? NO, He let them go. Northside is in the same position. If people will not follow Jesus and His truth in all sincerity they can go any time, but we will not change the gospel of Jesus in order to please the masses.
“Preacher, your preaching is too harsh, you are not teaching for the teenagers.” Can someone please show me where in the Bible we find the gospel for: Old, for Young and for Teenagers? Where in the Bible do you hear about “youth preacher”? Was Paul a youth preacher, or Barnabas or Peter? All I read in the Bible is that they were preaching the gospel and those who believed obeyed and were added to the church (Acts 2:47).
“Preacher, your preaching is too harsh when you don’t plan any activities for the ‘youth’”. Do you want to have secular entertainment? Talk to mom and dad, it is their responsibility to entertain you, not the church’s. The work of the church and of the preacher is:
· Edification
· Evangelism
· Benevolence
The preacher is not “Ronald Macdonald” to entertain anyone. His job is to preach and if people are touched in their hearts they will obey.
“Preacher, your preaching is too harsh”. This was the same reason that the Jews killed Jesus, Stephen, James, Paul and the other Apostles.
Mt 15:7-9… "Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: 8 'These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. 9 And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'"
Northside took me as a preacher to preach the truth and not to please people.
May the Lord bless us.
Eric C.

Let Not Your Heart Be Trouble.

2008-09-10T09:52:00.004-06:00

John 14: 1-7-->
I would like to start off by asking a simple question, how many of us have been troubled in our lives? I believe that mostly everyone can say that they have been troubled in their lives. The truth is brethren that to be troubled is something natural in human beings. Whether it be for sicknesses and family problems, human being go through troubled states countless times in their lives and is in fact a part of everyday living. Then we can also find Christians troubled in their spiritual lives. We find many brethren dragging their feet ready to quit the race. But what can we say to these brethren that are in these conditions? Can we use the the scriptures to encourage such brethren and tell them to not give up or risk losing eternal life? The answer is a definite yes. That is why I have title my lesson “Let not your heart be troubled” found in John 14:1.
The message from Jesus to his disciples in John 14 starts with the encouraging words which say

“Let not your heart be troubled”. This message was necessary due to the events that had just occurred in chapter 13. The denial of Peter, Judas leaving them to go betray their Lord and it seemed that the journey to the cross was ever more near. And it seemed that everything was going all wrong for his disciples and their spirits were slowly starting to diminish, but what they didn’t know is that a prophesy was being fulfilled. That is why Jesus being the loving and caring Lord that he was took the time to encourage and edify their faith by telling them the encouraging words “Let not your heart be troubled” and also not to be afraid John 14:27.
Jesus as God knew very well what his disciples were going through and what was awaiting them, that is why these consoling words were necessary as they would help encourage and lift up his disciples to continue this difficult journey. The fact that Jesus uses the word troubled in such a consoling way is something worthy of glorifying, as he is going through the most difficult moments in his life, but what do we see Him worry about the most? At this moment what He is worried about the most are His disciples and their state of mind. The beautiful thing brethren is that this passage does not only reflect on his disciples but can also reflect on us, as we know that our Lord Jesus was going through all this ultimately for our Salvation. Our Lord was suffering for us but at the same time using his suffering to encourage us. But sometimes brethren we read these passages without actually meditating in them. Let’s take the time right now to immerse ourselves in this passage. How many of us have thought about our Lord’s state of mind at these crucial and difficult times? We realize and know that on earth he was a man. Do you think he got troubled with the events that were to happen to him? There is no doubt if there were a time to be troubled, it would be these days, realizing that cruel and difficult road of suffering he had to endure at the cross. And yes we see in the Bible He was troubled when he asked his Father to let the cup pass from Him, Matthew 26:38- 45. It was evident that our Lord was suffering as He said “his soul was exceedingly sorrowful”. He was troubled for what would happen to Him, He was troubled because His disciples could not stay awake to encourage Him with their presence. He was troubled to the extent where we read that His sweat were like great drops of blood. But what do we see brethren our Lord doing? As a man yes He was troubled but as the compassionate Lord that He was, He took his troubled state and His suffering to encourage His disciples and us with His compassionate words. If we take the time to consider the despair our Lord went through for us so that we could have a chance of eternal life, how much more can we give up for our Lord and God, who probably suffered twice as much than we will ever suffer. He gave everything to us. How much do we really give back to him? Our Lord took the time to encourage his disciples giving words to encourage them by showing them the way and the life.
The truth is brethren that the holy Scriptures are drenched with words of encouragement. And the purpose is to lift up and encourage every Christian in times of distress and trouble.
Philippians 4: 13
Ephesians 2: 14
Philippians 2: 1- 2
As we read in these few passages we have a guide in which to turn to when in need and in times of distress. In Him we have peace (Ephesians 2:14), consolation and a way of escape from all our troubles. It is through him that we can do and defeat anything. And it is through his words that we can find consolation to all our troubles.
In conclusion brethren I would like to finish how I started.

Getting troubled is part of everyday life in human beings. But if we understand and apply the Holy Scriptures in our lives we will realize that Jesus is more than sufficient to lay our burdens on Him so that one day we may see that place in our Father’s house with many mansions that is prepared for each and every one of us.
May the Lord bless today and always.
In The Lord

Antonio Arguera.

Seasoned With Salt.

2008-08-23T11:27:00.003-06:00

Paul is exhorting the Colossians that in everything that they do as Christians they must season “their life” with salt. What exactly is the idea of seasoning something? Well, we all know that salt is an ingredient that is used in order to preserve. Salt flavor is one of the basic tastes, and salt is the most popular food seasoning. Salt is also an important preservative. The Bible often uses salt to teach us that we as Christians must season the world in which we are living.
1) Mt 5:13 "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
What Jesus is saying in Matthew is that you and I have the job, the task, to help the world by understanding that we are the salt of the earth. Think of it like this: The world is getting corrupt by sin, the world is getting rotten by sin, the world will be wasted if we as Christians do not add some salt in the life of those who are dying in their sin.
To get comfortable and ignore that the world is dying in sin will not help us. We are the salt of the world. But what will happen when we being as salt compromise with the world?
1) Lu 14:34 "Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?
We must keep that salt in our lives at one point. If we do not know how to use it, then this salt will lose it flavor. We must be on constant guard, making sure that we still have flavor in the sight of God, as salt.
In my passage that I quoted at the beginning Paul is talking to the Colossians and he reminded them who they were and how they are supposed to talk, to act and to conduct themselves, Paul said:
1) Col 4:6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
Everything that we do as Christians must be seasoned with salt! Are we? Are we making sure we are only using conversation which are profitable for you and I? Do we end up in disputes and controversies when we talk because we do not know how to season our conversations?
Think about it, we are the salt and in our every action God is expecting you and I to put some flavor unto those who are sad, disappointed and crying due to difficulties that they are facing in life.
2) Mark 9:50 "Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another."
Jesus in Mark 9:50 is saying that salt by all means is good. If we all have salt in our lives then we will be helping those who are dying in their sins and trespasses but that also we will have peace with one another.
When we lose that sense of responsibility to love one another and to seek for peace among us, then we will no longer have flavor for one another.
Are we responsible enough to think about the lessons from “this good ingredient which is salt”?
May the good Lord help us to understand who we are and our purpose and mission as a church.
In Love
Eric Castillo

The Justification For All Our Sins

2008-08-19T15:39:00.002-06:00

Have you ever confronted someone regarding sin? What were the results? Hopefully, they responded as David did in II Samuel 12:13, admitting their sin and turning from it. Regrettably, however, that has not always been the case has it?
In contrast to David’s appropriate response, you have probably received responses similar to Saul’s response to Samuel in I Samuel 13:11-12.
What was Saul’s biggest concern? “The people were scattered from me.” Who was he trying to protect? “The Philistines will now come down on me.” Who governed his actions? “I felt compelled.” Just in case it was wrong to do, who did he blame? “You did not come within the days appointed.”
Then, of course, there was the day he completely disobeyed God’s command to utterly destroy the Amalekites, including all of their livestock (I Samuel 15:2-3).
When Samuel confronted him, he initially acted as though he had done nothing wrong, saying, “I have obeyed the voice of the Lord” (I Samuel 15:20). He explained that if anyone did anything wrong, it was the people.
After further rebuke, he reluctantly admitted that he had sinned. But he did not stop there. He had to explain why. “I feared the people and obeyed their voice” (I Samuel 15:24).
Too many times when confronted with our sins, we respond as Saul did. We do not admit our sins and turn away from them. Too often we admit them as sins but then justify them, explaining why everyone ought to understand. On our worse days, we do not even admit that they were sins, but rather explain that considering our extenuating circumstances our actions were alright.
What causes this behavior? Saul’s words explain it all—“Me, me, I.” Not only is our self-centeredness the root of all our sins (James 1:14-15). It is also the means by which we justify everything we do. We can easily see everyone else’s sins as sins. But our sins? People should understand. If they had been through what we had been through… If they realized all the hurts and wounds we have endured… If they knew how mistreated we have been… If they would just put themselves in our shoes, they would understand.
But what is happening here? This is all about us. We want everyone, including God, to accept everything we do, whether sinful or otherwise. Why should they do such? Because we were the ones who did it and that justifies it.
That is selfishness. Remember, we are to sacrifice ourselves and our desires, serving the Lord (Galatians 2:20; 5:24). May we all carry our crosses this week, crucifying ourselves with Christ.

In Love.

Eric

You're Never Alone

2008-08-14T17:26:00.001-06:00

“Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’” (Matthew 28:20 NKJV)
Everyone feels alone sometimes. You just suddenly feel like the world has totally turned its back on you, and you just feel like no one cares about you anymore. It’s at these difficult moments in our lives when we need God the most, although sometimes it might feel like He doesn’t care either. But when we feel this way we just have to remember that God has promised to always be there for us, no matter what. We have to keep in mind what Jesus said: “And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” With such a promise, how could we ever feel alone and unloved? Such a promise by Jesus should constantly fill us with unending comfort and hope.There’s a line in the song titled, “Times When I’m Alone,” that expresses exactly how we should all feel when we are down in the dumps. It says: “And though the world seems cold, and nobody ever seems to care, no, I’ll never doubt your love because I know you’re there.”
Who needs the world when you’ve got the Lord?
In love
Eric C

Adorning the Doctrine of Christ

2008-08-13T08:53:00.000-06:00

“Adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.”(Titus 2:10) Servants are to “adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things” (Titus 2:10). That word “adorn” has an interesting background. It is a Greek word and when spelled in English letters comes out, “kosmeo” or, “cosmetic.” Christians are to be the Lord’s cosmetics. McKnight and other commentators provide a deeper meaning to the word “cosmetic” than we usually do. He would, for example, point out in Romans 6:17, that Christians have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine that was delivered. Here is applied cosmetics with the added explanation that is like molded metal poured into a form. It does not come out as it went in. It takes the shape of the mold.What ever the Gospel is, as a Christian, you take on that form. You are the copy of it. Where the Gospel is light, you are illuminated. Where it is salt, you are seasoned. Where it is love, you are loving. Where it is holiness, you are holy and happy in its form. Where it is truth and grace, you are honest and gracious. Your temper, speech, your very presence gives evidence of your “adorning the doctrine.”There are so many areas where this molding should take place that you are required to honestly work on it all the days of your life. Are there times when your zeal for orthodoxy seems to smother other considerations? Does it need to be that way? You cannot renounce charity and candor, but you must combine them with the love and concern that was firmly set by the One who set the mold for you.
May the Lord help us to understand this concept...
in Love
Eric C

At Present

2008-08-11T08:53:00.002-06:00

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-33 NKJV)

We often hear, “I’ll be glad when this day is over” or “I dread tomorrow.”Obviously, these phrases are often lightly spoken. In reality we can find something good that we have either seen, heard or done each day that we can thank God for giving us, after all that is His present to us. In Lamentations 3:22-23 Jeremiah says it is the Lord’s mercy and compassion that we have new blessings every morning. Thank you, Holy Father, for loving us so much.“Yesterday’s the past Tomorrow’s the future, But today is a gift That’s why it is called, ‘The Present’ Today is a gift from God.”

Think about it and praise the Lord.

In Love Eric C

A Great Example.

2008-08-08T16:10:00.000-06:00

“... How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9)Our supreme example for living righteous lives before God is Jesus Christ, His Son. He left the glory of heaven to come to earth to live, suffer, be tempted, and die as a man. Hebrews 4:15 tells us, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are…yet without sin.”In the great Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:48, Jesus encourages us to “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly father is perfect.” However, we sometimes want to make excuses and justify our weaknesses and our shortcomings. We point out that, although Jesus lived as a man, He was also divine, as if that negated His suffering and temptation. We tend to take comfort in and feel justified by verses such as Romans 3:23 in which the Apostle Paul says, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” and 1 John 1:8 where John says, “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.”We have all heard the expression (and maybe said), “Well, I’m only human,” usually to make an excuse for sin and to imply that it is beyond our control. Especially if we have suffered some injustice at the hands of our fellow man, then we really think we have an excuse—the old “He hit me first!” attitude.In Genesis, chapters 37, 39 and 50, we read the story of Joseph. In chapter 39, we read of his temptation and attempted seduction by the wife of his master. Joseph could have given in to the temptation and easily justified the sin in his own mind. After all, he had been almost murdered and sold into slavery by his own brothers. He could have responded, “Why should I try to live right after what has happened to me.” And Joseph wasn’t divine, he was human, a “red-blooded” young man who was likely truly tempted by the repeated advances of Potiphar’s wife. “And who would ever know, anyway? Way off down here in a foreign land, away from anybody who knows me.” But Joseph made no excuses and refused to betray his master’s trust and sin against God (Gen. 39:9).And what did Joseph’s refusal to sin get him? Falsely accused and thrown into prison! Even more justification for saying: “What’s the use? If he was looking for an excuse, he could have said to himself, “Trying to live right is getting me nowhere, but in trouble!” But he didn’t. He continued to do God’s will and God continued to be with him.Then finally, Joseph got his chance for revenge. He was Governor of the whole land of Egypt, there was a famine in the land, and his brothers came down from the land of Canaan to buy grain. Here was his opportunity to repay them for the evil done to him. But instead, Joseph forgave them, embraced them, and provided for them, even after their father’s death.After much adversity, the story of Joseph has a happy ending, and “the good guy wins.” Joseph had never read Romans 8:28, in which Paul says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose,” but he understood its message, and in Genesis 50:20 he told his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good...” Joseph wasn’t perfect, but he apparently also understood the message of 1 Corinthians 10:13: “...And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” And we don’t have to do it alone. Immediately after Paul tells us in Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned...” He continues in the next verse, “…and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” And immediately after telling us in Hebrews 4:15 that Christ was tempted but was without sin, in verse 16 he says, “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” No need for excuses.
May The Lord bless us and help us to be loyal and faithful.
In Love
Eric C.

A Time For Everything.

2008-08-07T08:15:00.003-06:00

“To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:

A time to be born, And a time to die;

A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted;

A time to kill, And a time to heal;

A time to break down, And a time to build up;

A time to weep, And a time to laugh;

A time to mourn, And a time to dance;

A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones;

A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;

A time to gain, And a time to lose;

A time to keep, And a time to throw away;

A time to tear, And a time to sew;

A time to keep silence, And a time to speak;

A time to love, And a time to hate;

A time of war, And a time of peace.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NKJV)

Whenever you are excited about something does it feel like an eternity to wait for it? I know that it is sometimes hard to be patient for things like dating, getting older, driving, and other matter of beings. In Ecclesiastes, chapter three, it tells us that there is a time for everything in heaven. We shouldn’t wish our lives away, but use every day that we have to teach someone else about the salvation of God. Remember that God has a plan for everybody’s lives. Everything He does for us is not to hurt us, but help us. There may be some pain along the line, but it is all worth it in the long run. Be happy that God sent His one and only Son to die on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins.This life is short compared to the eternity that we will one day spend with God in heaven.

Do you realize that?

In Love

Eric C.

Lessons Of Nadab And Abihu

2008-08-05T18:45:00.000-06:00

God has chosen to give us some valuable lessons from the Old Testament.

"For whatever things were written before were written for our learning" (Romans 15:4).

Nadab and Abihu were priests in the tabernacle of God under the Old Testament. One of their duties was to burn incense in the tabernacle at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM each day. "Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the Lord, which he had not commanded them. So fire went out from the Lord and devoured them, and they died before the Lord" (Leviticus 10:1-2).

The KJV says "strange fire". It was "profane" or "strange fire" because that fire was not authorized.
Nadab and Abihu were told in offering the incense they were to "take a censer full of burning coals of fire from the altar" (Leviticus 16:12). Apparently they chose to ignore the Lord’s instructions and do as they saw fit and get the fire elsewhere. Because their sin was doing that which the Lord "had not commanded them", they were struck dead for doing so. Doing that which the Lord "had not commanded" is prohibitive.
If the Lord struck people dead today who are bent on pleasing themselves and not God by engaging in unauthorized religious practices the way He struck Nadab and Abihu, the world population might not be as large as it is. "Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition" (1 Corinthians 10:11).

We will all be held accountable (Romans 14:12). The warning we receive from the example of Nadab and Abihu is the Lord severely punishes those who act in the absence of His authorization.

Thank you all.

Will You Obey Jesus?

2008-08-04T21:56:00.001-06:00

Joe R. Price
Obedience results from recognizing the authority one has over you plus a willingness to yield to that authority. We obey the laws of the land because we recognize the authority of civil government and we willingly comply with its laws and ordinances.
Jesus is obeyed because of his authority. He calls upon us to willingly yield to his authority and obey him today.
1) The wind and the sea obey Jesus. “And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, "Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!” (Lk. 8:25) Jesus possesses power over the elements, being both their Creator and Sustainer (Jno. 1:3; Col. 1:16-17; Heb. 1:3). Should we not learn from the wind and the waves to instantly obey when the Lord commands us?
2) The unclean spirits obey Jesus. “Then they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, ‘What is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.’” (Mk. 1:27; also 9:25-26) The demons tremble with fear before the power of God and His Son (Jas. 2:19; Lk. 8:27-31). Should we not tremble before the great power of God and obey when the Lord commands us?
3) Diseases obey Jesus. “The centurion answered and said, ‘Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed.’” (Matt. 8:8). Christ’s power over illness and infirmities was completely obeyed when He said the word. Should we not completely obey when the Lord commands us?
4) Death obeys Jesus. He commanded Lazarus to “come forth” and death released its grip (Jno. 11:43-44). When Jesus comes again He will command all the dead to come out of the graves, and it will be so (Jno. 5:28-29). Should we not learn from death and fully obey when the Lord commands us?
Why then do so many people disobey Jesus? Why do the elements, the evil spirits, disease and death obey Him, yet most people will not? One reason is free will. We must choose to obey Jesus with our whole heart. Without a willing heart we will never properly obey Jesus (Matt. 15:7-9).
Jesus saves those who obey Him (Heb. 5:9). One does not know God and love God if he or she is disobeying Jesus: “They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work” (Titus 1:16). Be numbered among the faithful disciples and obey all Jesus commands (Matt. 28:18-20). Your profession of faith is genuine when you are always obeying Jesus.

PRAY WITHOUT CEASING.

2008-08-01T21:56:00.003-06:00

Paul encouraged us to
Rejoice always;Pray without ceasing;In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18
Was he encouraging us to stay in our prayer closets for every moment of the remainder of our lives? Was he speaking of some kind of attitude of prayer?
No. He was using a figure of speech. He used it three times. We are to rejoice always.
1 Pray without ceasing.
2 Give thanks in everything.
3 He was using hyperbole, that is, exaggeration to clarify the point.
It works something like this. Have you ever heard someone say they love country music and listen to it all the time? We do not assume they listen to country music every moment of every day. We do not expect to see them hooked into their i-pod during school or the church’s assembly because they claimed to listen to country music all the time. Rather, we recognize they are fans of country music. They listen to it regularly and repeatedly. When given the chance to listen to music, they will most likely listen to country music.
Having said all that. We can all recognize I would never say, “I listen to country music all the time.” I do listen to it sometimes. But I am by no means a country music fan. There are some songs and some artists I like and listen to on occasion. But my two or three times a year foray into country music wouldn’t qualify for the statement, “I listen to it all the time.”
Back to prayer. Paul was using that same hyperbole. We should be able to say, “I love to pray. I Pray all the time.” But recognizing the hyperbolic nature of the statement does not mean we are fulfilling this passage just because we have prayed some in the past week, month or year.
We need to be able to say, “I pray all the time. I pray regularly and repeatedly.” I need to do it always. That is, it needs to be a continually repeated habit. I need to do it without ceasing. That is, nothing interferes with my habit of prayer. Like Daniel who did not even allow the law to stop him from praying, I need to pray without stopping. I need to do it in everything. That is, prayer should be my response in all circumstances. Whether times are good or bad, I should be praying.
Sadly, in our hectic lives, without meaning to, we can end up going all week and then realizing we never stopped to individually pray. We meant to. We just didn’t. We can’t let this be us.
The question for all of us is, “Can I really say I pray all the time?”
In Love.

Jesus, Our Rock

2008-07-31T09:00:00.000-06:00

READ Malachi 3:6
People sometimes say, “The only constant is change.” Fortunately, this is not true. There is One who never changes. Jesus Christ will always remain the same. What a comfort for believers! But it’s hard to find refuge in someone we don’t know well. So let’s explore Jesus’ actions to learn more about His nature.
• Jesus forgave others.
He showed mercy, not judgment, to those who recognized their sin. For example, Jesus had compassion on the woman caught in adultery and stopped her death penalty with a few wise words. Then, instead of pronouncing condemnation, He said that her sins were forgiven and to 'sin no more' (John 8:1-11).
• Jesus comforted the hurting.
He visited Mary and Martha, who were mourning the loss of their brother Lazarus (John 11:1-45).
• Jesus provided for needs.
After spending three days healing all kinds of disabilities, He was concerned that the large crowd hadn’t eaten. He could have sent all 4,000 away to find their own food, but He provided more than enough to satisfy their hunger (Mark 8:1-9).
• Jesus interceded for His disciples.
Just before He was crucified, He asked the Father to protect and sanctify His followers, including you and me (John 17:13-21, especially v. 20).
• Jesus strengthened believers and gave them power to do God’s work.
In Acts 1:8, the Lord sent His disciples out to share the gospel, assuring them, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.”
He still forgives. He still comforts. He still provides. He still intercedes. He still empowers. What a blessing that we can find refuge in our amazing Lord!
In Love
Eric C

Going To Heaven.

2008-07-28T09:41:00.003-06:00

Our number one priority in this life must be to go to Heaven. Nothing else is as important. Jesus says in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Our soul is the most precious thing we have. There is nothing that can equal its value. We read in Matthew 16:26, "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" One certainly does not profit in the tragic loss of his soul.
It is easy in today’s materialistic society to get caught up in the pursuit of materialism if we are not careful. Our Lord says in Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is there will your heart be also." Our bank account needs to be in heaven.
Everyday we need to tell ourselves that the main thing in this life is to go to Heaven. We read in Colossians 3:2, "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." We should regularly think about going to Heaven. Heaven is a prepared place (John 14:2-3) for a prepared people. It will be such a wonderful place, which is beyond our wildest dreams. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 2:9, "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him." There is no way that Heaven can be described so we as mortal human beings can understand how wonderful it will be.
A person will not accidentally go to Heaven. Going to Heaven is a lifelong race as we read in Hebrews 12:1, "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." Going to Heaven requires endurance, patience, and persistence. We must finish the race.

Professor Antony Flew confesses his belief in a creator!

2008-07-25T08:26:00.001-06:00

"the most famous atheist in the academic world over the last half-century, Professor Antony Flew of England's University of Reading, now accepts the existence of God" (Dallas Morning News)

"Professor Antony Flew, a prominent British philosopher who is considered the world's best-known atheist, has cited advancements in science as proof of the existence of God." (Insight On The News)

"British professor Antony Flew, for decades one of the world's leading philosophers of atheism, publicly announced that he now affirms the existence of a deity." (Dallas Morning News)

"Now, in a remarkable reversal, Mr. Flew holds that the universe was brought into being by an infinite intelligence." (Dallas Morning News)

"This is comparable to Hugh Hefner announcing that he is becoming a celibate." (Insight On The News)

It didn't make news, on the front or back pages of leading American newspapers, but Professor Antony Flew, a prominent British philosopher who is considered the world's best-known atheist, has cited advancements in science as proof of the existence of God. This is comparable to Hugh Hefner announcing that he is becoming a celibate.
At a symposium sponsored by the Institute for Metascientific Research, Flew said he has come to believe in God based on developments in DNA research. Flew, author of the book, Darwinian Evolution, declared, "What I think the DNA material has done is show that intelligence must have been involved in getting these extraordinarily diverse elements together. The enormous complexity by which the results were achieved look to me like the work of intelligence."
Associated Press distributed a December 9 story by religion writer Richard N. Ostling about Flew's conversion. Flew told AP that his current ideas had some similarity with those of U.S. "intelligent design" theorists, who believe the complexity of life points to an intelligent source of life, rather than the random and natural processes posited by Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
Flew's statements have been covered in Britain, where he is a professor, but we found nothing about his transformation in major American newspapers such as USA Today, the Washington Post, and the New York Times. Ostling's status as a religion writer may help explain why. The secular press considers this a religion story.
To its credit, however, the Seattle Times permitted Jonathan Witt of the Discovery Institute to write a column noting Flew's conversion in the context of discussing the usually taboo subject of the holes in Darwinian theory.
Witt noted that Darwin and his contemporaries thought a single cell was a simple blob of protoplasm and that it wouldn't have been difficult for nature to randomly produce something so simple. "In those days the cell was a black box, a mystery. But in the 20th century, scientists were able to open that black box and peek inside," he notes. "There they found not a simple blob, but a world of complex circuits, miniaturized motors and digital code. We now know that even the simplest functional cell is almost unfathomably complex, containing at least 250 genes and their corresponding proteins."
"Darwin's Black Box" is the title of Michael J. Behe's 1996 book. Behe, a professor of biochemistry at Lehigh University, emphasizes the complexity of molecular systems such as the bacterial flagellum. Identified by electron microscopes, it is what Behe calls an "irreducibly complex system" that is necessarily composed of at least three parts: a paddle, a rotor, and a motor. He argues that Darwinian theory cannot account for it.
But those who believe in intelligent design or find gaping holes in the theory of evolution frequently encounter a hostile press. The Discovery Institute recently provided to Accuracy in Media a thick file of complaints about the way their representatives have been treated by the media, especially National Public Radio. The Discovery Institute focuses on the issue of whether there is any evidence of design in nature, rather than whether there is a designer. Still, its representatives tend to be portrayed in religious terms by the media.
Such a tactic is common operating procedure by the ACLU, which is determined to portray any alternative to evolution as religious and therefore not allowed to be taught or even discussed in the public schools.
Back in 2001, when the Public Broadcasting Service aired the seven-part series, Evolution, financed by Microsoft co-founder and billionaire Paul G. Allen, it asked Discovery Institute scientists to appear on the last segment dealing with God and religion. It was a trick. The institute rejected this ploy, saying that its representatives had scientific objections to evolution and that they should be included in the scientific episodes.
PBS went ahead with its one-sided program anyway. In response, the Discovery Institute produced a 152-page viewers guide, noting that the series distorts the scientific evidence, ignores scientific disagreements over Darwin's theory, and misrepresents the theory's critics. Because the PBS series is still being marketed to high schools around the country, the Discovery Institute critique continues to be helpful and relevant. You can find it at: www.reviewevolution.com
PBS and the rest of the media would be well-advised to follow the lead of Antony Flew, who said that his life has been guided by the principle of Plato's Socrates: "Follow the evidence, wherever it leads." Journalists can begin their investigation of the Socratic principle by simply reporting the facts surrounding Flew's amazing evolution and the implications that his statements have for a questionable theory that continues to be taught as the Gospel in the public schools.

Tears Of Consolation

2008-07-24T15:12:00.002-06:00

There is a verse that is the smallest in the entire Bible. If I ask you what that text is, would you know which one it is? Little children in Sunday classes recite it often, likewise the adults. The majority of those who say that belong to the Church of the Lord, repeat this verse without thinking of what they are actually saying because it is easy to say since it only has 9 letters. But if we sit and ponder on this short verse for a bit, we will find tremendous teachings.
Like we all should know, Jesus was the perfect man for a noble cause. The word of God shows us that he was without defect and sin. He transmitted the truth with his life.
John 11: 35 Jesus Wept. Tears of consolation.
Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus. His noble heart was shattered when he saw his friends crying for the loss of their beloved brother. How many times do we cry with the loss of a brother in Christ? If you haven’t before, then how unfortunate because this indicates that our Lord Jesus is more sensitive then us. The Tears of Jesus provides great consolation to his friends when they see him crying, as those who were around him quickly said “see how he loved him”. This is great consolation for us also who say to pertain to his Church. But some may ask, what kind of teachings can Jesus’s tears give us today? To be men/women that are hard of heart or to be men/women that are sensitive and understanding to the problems of the brethren. When you are a faithful and true Christian you will be a sensitive person, easy to share your pain with others. But if you are a “half” Christian you will be indifferent to the problems of your brethren. John 11: 33-35 says as follows “Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled. And He said where have you laid him? They said to him Lord come and see. Jesus wept.” Knowing that Jesus knows how great our pain can be, is something that one way or another alleviates our burden and gives us consolation to continue forward. **** It is important to understand this short verse, Jesus was not crying for Lazarus, because he knew that he would soon resurrect him from what was his tomb during four days. Jesus is crying in this occasion for the compassion he felt towards Mary and Martha. Jesus is always willing to help in our pain and suffering, when he cannot remove
it he will share it with us. One thing is for sure what we give one to another in Christ, we give to ourselves. Give words of consolation to someone and you will receive consolation from others as well. Pray for the spiritual growth of other Christians, and you will discover that you yourself will become spiritually rich. Jesus said in the beatitudes “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted” Matthew 5:4
Illustration
A young girl is tardy to get home from playing. Her mother asks her “where have you been” the young girl replies “I have been helping my friend because her doll broke” the mother replies back “you must be lying to me, How were you able to fix that doll?”, the young girl replied back “I was not able to fix it but I was able to help her by sitting beside her and cry with her”.
How many of us think in such a way? Or are we like those who say my problems are my problems and your problems are your problems and taking little into account what our brother is actually suffering. What if Our Lord Jesus thought in this way? What would become of us? Even though John 5:35 is rather short it is still one of the biggest in the entire Bible. We can say that it is a window that allows us to see the way Jesus worries for each and every one of us.
The Question of the day is, How consoling are Jesus’ tears in you life? And how do you share it with others?
May the Lord Bless us today and always.
Antonio Arguera

Father The Hour Has Come.

2008-07-22T23:34:00.002-06:00

If you found yourself going through a time of great stress in your life what would you say in your prayer?
If you knew that tomorrow you would die what would you say in your prayer?
If you have just been hurt by a brother what would you say in your prayer?
If you felt that no one has heard the message from God what would you say in your prayer?
If you were close to being arrested or to be judged falsely and then be executed on a cross what would you say in your prayer?
The hurting, the infirmities and the stress have the tendency to make us selfish when we are full of fear. When we are full of fear and pain it is hard to think of others, but this is not the case with our Lord Jesus Christ. If we look at John 17 we see a teaching for all those who say to be part of the New Testament Church. And not only John 17 but also John 14, John 15 and John 16. In these chapters we understand the beauty and the love the Lord had towards us. The night before our Lord died on the cross Jesus partook with his disciples of the Lords Supper and declares that his spirit is deeply saddened, till the point of death. But even with his sadness and pain that distressed his spirit he gave us the prayer we find in John 17. Many call it the prayer of the Lord given to its beauty, profundity and power and it always leaves us astounded every time we read John as we see our Lord Jesus in his moments of anguish but also at the same time praying for those who would believe in him.
2000 years have already passed and when we take into our hands his word and read Jesus’s prayer we feel like it was said yesterday. Jesus gave all of himself for us and at the same time gave us everything. Let me tell you that there is nothing on this earth or in heaven or in eternity that the son of God will not give us. All we have to do is ask and it will be given, knock and it will be opened. Like you hear it, it’s that easy! Matthew 7:7, 8.
If we say that God gave everything for us, how generous are we towards him and how much of our life do we give him? Because in reality it is through the knowledge that we have in our Lord, that determines our practice of talking to him and being faithful to him in everything. If we don’t involve ourselves seriously in prayer, then why should our Lord get involved in our lives? John 17 shows us everything that a true Christian needs; Glory, humility, obedience, love, unity and eternity. I invite you to read this marvelous chapter and you will understand what I am trying to say and at the same time you will understand the beauty and the love that Christ felt towards you and me. And not only that but it gives us confidence in serving him, knowing who is Jesus, from where he came and what he did for us. This builds up the faith that Jesus himself has given to us, so that we can serve him better everyday.
Lets keep in mind brethren that prayer is a river of gold, where at the riverbanks many die of thirst however at the same time others kneel down and drink and have eternal life.
May the Lord help us today and always.
Antonio Arguera

The Poison Of Bitterness

2008-07-21T16:19:00.002-06:00

Bitterness is an evil that can develop and grow within a person almost unbeknownst to him. I am convinced that it is a tool that Satan uses to entrap even the very ones who have worked hard at ridding their lives of many other sins.The apostle Peter spoke of bitterness as a poison when rebuking the former sorcerer. He said, "I see that you are poisoned by bitterness" (Acts 8:23).Simon's condition was not exclusive to him. None of us are immune to its venom. Husbands are warned against being bitter toward their wives (Col. 3:19). Though the inspired writer did not specifically mention the possibility, I have no doubt that wives can develop bitterness toward their husbands. Certainly, if a father fails to heed the apostle's instructions to avoid discouraging his children by provoking them to wrath (Col. 3:21), they will likely develop bitterness toward him. Do we want that in our families? The answer is no! Do we want that in the church? The answer is no! What can we do then to avoid this problem? Recognize it and repent of it, ask the Lord for forgiveness and have a better relationship with those who are around you. (1 John 1:8-10)
In Love
Eric C

ARE WE SEEKING AFTER GODLINESS?

2008-07-20T00:17:00.003-06:00

We are studying Godliness on Friday night. We are having so many good and beautiful lessons and just last Friday, our attendance at one of our brothers' house was 21. Wow, that is a big number for Bible Study in a house.

I was wondering what the opposite of Godliness is, and I think that it is Ungodliness. Are we Godly or Ungodly? I decided to present these lessons on Godlines because this topic is very important in every church.

People feel offended when we call the non-christians ungodly. But… that is the exact term that Paul uses in Romans 5:6. For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

Are we following after Godliness here in this congregation? I think so, many of our good brothers in this church are now realizing that the days are evil and that we must walk accordingly to our call. We have no time to waste in the dissipations and lust that we lived in, when we were in sin and now, we are moving forward and preparing ourselves for the days that are to come. We all as Christians must understand that if we want to obtain Godliness in our lives, we must be willing to do what God has commanded us in His Word. Godliness cannot be acquired by just being baptized and by not do anything else nor by “just” praying as many are doing. Godliness can be found by: EXERCIZING OUR SELVES IN IT. Get the idea? Exercize! Wow! That means that Godliness will come if I practice it everyday, if I live it everyday and if I teach it every day. Are we doing it? Godliness must be natural in all us.
Paul says: 1 Tim 4:7-8 7 But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. Godliness dear brothers, is good not only for this life, but also for the one that is to come. How much then, are you trying in your life to be Godly? Is this a big priority in your life? Are you teaching your wife, husband, children and other brothers in Christ to seek for Godliness everyday in your life? Listen to Paul: Godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. If we seek for good things we are going to store up treasures in heaven. So logically will be Godly and will be close to God but doing so.
2 Peter 1:3 - as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.

All things that “pertain to life and Godliness” are ours.

What a blessing.

My suggestion this morning is: Do not overlook all the many privileges that we have as Christians. God will reward us soon.

In Love

Eric C

Can I Lose My Way To Heaven?

2008-07-18T08:22:00.002-06:00

Obviously, Paul thought that it was possible.

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14).

In other letter, Paul wrote, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified” (I Corinthians 9:24-27).

Paul understood that if he did not give God is all, it was possible to be disqualified from inheriting eternal life.
Paul not only had concerns about retaining his own salvation, he also told us about those who had lost their right to eternal life. Paul told Timothy that “having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck, of whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme” (I Timothy 1:19-20).

Hymenaeus and Alexander were sailing the seas of faith, but they suffered a shipwreck – they had lost their faith. Peter warned that false prophets would arise from among the people of God in II Peter 2. He did not say they would enter from the outside, but that they would come from within the family of God. In II Peter 2:15, Peter states, “They have forsaken the right way and gone astray.” You cannot forsake a path that on which you were never walked. Concerning these people and those they lead astray Peter warns, “For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them” (II Peter 2:20-21).
Often people will say about a fallen brother, “Well, he never was really saved in the first place.” Yet, it is clear that a person can know the way of righteousness and escape the pollutions of the world and then become entangled in the world of sin once again. This is why Christians must never let their guard down. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:8).

If a Christian could not become lost, there would be no danger from Satan. But while we remain in this world, we must always strive to serve our Lord. We must not become complacent nor arrogant. “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (I Corinthians 10:12).

In Love

Eric C

Do You Love The Lord

2008-07-16T23:03:00.004-06:00

Peter was asked an important question one time by the Lord in John 21:17 (NAS)

"Simon son of John, Do you love Me?"

Yes, this would be an important question that all of us could ponder and answer, Do we love Jesus? Let’s look at the Bible to see what is involved in loving Jesus.
Notice in John 14:15, 21, 23, "If ye love me, keep my commandments...He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him...

Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him."

Now beloved, it is clearly taught by our Lord and Saviour is these passages, that loving Jesus, involves keeping his commandments.

It’s sickening to hear sectarian preaching like "Honk if you love Jesus" or "You don’t have to do anything to receive salvation, just believe."

No, real love and faith moves one to obey the Lord and keep his commandments. People who love Jesus will want to do exactly what Jesus says. His word will be honored and respected, because real love does this. Folks who reject his commandments, but claim to love him and know him, are called liars in the scriptures ! I John 2:4, "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."
Notice the promise to those who love Jesus, "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." IITim.4:8.

Now notice the warning if we don’t love the Lord Jesus, "If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha."

This phrase "Anathema Maranatha" means to be accursed when the Lord comes. Jesus’ great love for us ought to compel us to want to love him, "We love him, because he first loved us." I John 4:19. Do you love the Lord?

In Love

Eric C

Standing Against The World.

2008-07-15T09:54:00.002-06:00

READ 1 John 4:4-6
An example of the antichrist movement is the campaign to remove Christian symbols from public places. Advocates use buzzwords like “religious freedom” to mean freedom from religion. Those listening, even some believers, are fooled into agreeing that worship should be private. The subtle motive often goes unnoticed to push Jesus out of society.The world finds Christ offensive. Many people today claim we each can design our own belief system. But Jesus said faith in Him is the only way to a relationship with the Father.Another worldly, antichrist idea is doing what feels right is fine, as long as no one gets hurt. Yet, Jesus taught that sin of any action, thought, or attitude contrary to God’s principles has consequences.Antichrist philosophies will often sound persuasive because Satan designs lies to appeal to human nature. Therefore, believers must know right from wrong. The Lord has provided three guides for safely navigating through life.

First, the Holy Spirit enables us to discern God’s facts from Satan’s fiction.

Next, Scripture explains the truth about the Trinity and the divine plan for mankind.

Finally, we have access to righteous people who preach and teach authentic Christianity.Even if some unbelievers try to erase Jesus Christ’s name from society, they can’t remove all of His followers. We need to stand firmly rooted in Scripture and proclaim the gospel. God can work through us and win souls for His glory.

Be ready and firm, for hard days await us in the near future.

In Love'

Eric C

The Value Of Humility

2008-07-14T08:22:00.003-06:00

"Better is the one who is slighted but has a servant, than he who honors himself but lacks bread" (Prov. 12:9).

Another rendering of this verse would have it say: "Better is one who is despised;" that is, one who is so poor as to be able barely to have but one servant. Such a man, looked down on by others, is better than a man who boasts of his greatness, when he really doesn't have food to eat. The idea is, of course, that it is better to be poor and ignored or despised by others than it is to boast of one's importance, especially when there is no ground for such boasting. Such a man is despised with cause.
Pride, arrogance and conceit should have no place in the life of a Christian. We should not think of ourselves more highly than we ought to thing, but to think soberly (Rom. 12:3). We are not to be wise in our own opinion (Rom. 12:16). We are each to esteem others better than ourselves (Phil. 2:3), for such was the mind of Christ.
Instead, we should manifest "lowliness of mind" (Phil. 2:3). If life gives us a low rung of the ladder on which to stand, we should be content with what we have (Phil. 4:11; Heb. 13:5), even when others pay us no mind or despise us. We should be of the same mind toward one another, and not set our minds on high things, but associate with the humble (Rom. 12:16). We are to be "clothed with humility," for God gives grace to the humble" (1 Pet. 5:5). What a beatiful thought! Help us Lord to prctice your Word everyday.

In Love

Eric C

Can God Use You?

2008-07-11T12:08:00.003-06:00

READ Luke 10:38-42
Martha of Bethany welcomed Jesus into her home. Her act of service may seem small compared to works like the apostle Paul’s missionary trips and letters. But she and her family provided a place of rest and refreshment for the Savior. This act must have been a welcome pause in His busy week.It’s true that Jesus once corrected Martha for placing too much emphasis on the details of hospitality. But when He visited her home, He no doubt anticipated food and fellowship with people He loved.God’s plan for every believer is made up of a lifetime of small opportunities. No matter what our career or calling may be. We should each seek ways to serve the Lord daily. We do this by ministering wherever we are to family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers.The Lord gives His children gifts and talents for fulfilling His purpose. So, we know He wants to use us. The question we should be asking is, “Can God use me?” That is, have we made ourselves available to follow Him in any circumstance?The areas of service set aside specifically for us are waiting. No one knows ahead of time exactly what God will require, but we can be sure He’ll equip us with the right tools for the task.

Are you ready to say “yes, God can use me?” Tell the Lord that you’re available to work for Him in any way He desires. He will respond by placing people and opportunities in your path. Through His strength, you’ll do more to further the kingdom than you ever imagined. One day and one small act of service at a time.

Are you ready?

In Love

Eric C

Jesus! At The Movies?

2008-07-07T16:30:00.000-06:00

Have you ever tried to picture Jesus sitting next to you while you are sitting at home or in a movie theater watching a movie? Probably not. But think about it. One of the basic principles of Christianity is that Jesus is with us at all times. He promised that.
If we added up the amount of time that we spent going to movies, watching rented movies, watching T.V., And then talking about what we have seen, we would have to conclude that we have invested a great deal of our lives in the Hollywood offerings. So as Christians, we must ask, "What does Jesus feel about all of the time we spend "At the Movies?" What would He have to say? I doubt that He would ask us to boycott the media as some ask us to do. Rather, He would probably do what he did with His disciples back in the Gospels. He would probably say something like, "Take a look at the movie, (fill in the blank), and tell me what it says about the world we live in, and how does it relate to me?" Jesus always seemed to be trying to get people to look around and relate what they saw to Him. If we really think about it, for the most part movies and T.V. really don't teach us much about real life, and they probably don't give us a very accurate picture of who Jesus is.
The media tells us to open up our minds. What they are really saying is, "Don't think. Let us tell you what the world is like, and what to believe, and what values to have." A few years ago a young man wrote the words, "You're so open minded that-your brains leaked out."
One writes: "Suppose you don't like church, but you do like movies. Suppose you find the Bible boring, but love to listen to music for hours. Suppose you have no time for prayer, but all the time in the world for TV. Suppose you don't care to form Christian friendships, but feel right at home with those who disbelieve - even if they're just on a soap or a sitcom. How will you ever know right from wrong? How will you ever know the mind of Christ
Perhaps it is time that we opened our minds - to the truth. I doubt that Christian beliefs will be found in the majority. We may be considered narrow. But that's okay (At one time the majority believed the world was flat). Our beliefs are not just somebody's ideas or opinions.- The Christian faith is based on what is real and right. Let Jesus sit next to you next time you watch TV or go to a movie. It may change the way you think about what you are watching.
In Love
Eric C

Jesus, Our Rock

2008-07-06T23:40:00.000-06:00

READ Malachi 3:6
People sometimes say, “The only constant is change.”

Fortunately, this isn’t true. There’s One who never changes>. Jesus Christ always remains the same. What a comfort for believers! But, it’s hard to find refuge in someone we don’t know well. So let’s explore the Lord’s actions to learn more about His nature.Jesus forgave others. He showed mercy, not judgment, to those who recognized their sin. For example, Jesus had compassion on the woman caught in adultery. He stopped her death penalty with a few wise words. Then, instead of pronouncing condemnation, He said her sins were forgiven.Jesus comforted the hurting. He visited Mary and Martha, who were mourning the loss of their brother Lazarus.Jesus provided for needs. Mark chapter eight records Jesus spending three days healing all kinds of disabilities. Afterwards, He was concerned the large crowd hadn’t eaten. He could have sent all 4,000 away to find their own food. But Jesus provided more than enough to satisfy their hunger.Jesus interceded for His disciples as recorded in John chapter 17. Just before He was crucified, Jesus asked the Father to protect and sanctify His followers, including you and me.Jesus strengthened believers and gave them power to do God’s work. In Acts 1:8,the Lord sent His disciples out to share the gospel. He assured them, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.”Jesus still forgives. He still comforts. He still provides He still intercedes. And, He still empowers. What a blessing that we can find refuge in our amazing Lord!

Can we trust in Our God?

In Love

Eric C

Breaking Free From Sin

2008-07-05T13:30:00.000-06:00

READ Luke 4:14-21
Whatever a man depends upon is his master. Unless he recognizes God as the authority in his life, he will operate on the basis of needs and personal desires.For example, one person may be motivated by approval. Someone else is driven by a dependency on alcohol or cigarettes. Fulfilling a craving can quickly become a destructive habit. A person will likely come to despise this controlling “master” because it repeatedly fails to make him truly happy. And even worse, the most devastating potential consequence of satisfying “self” is eternal separation from the Lord.Perhaps this dangerous path sounds all too familiar. If so, don’t despair. Luke 4:18 records a promise meant for you. Reading from the book of Isaiah, the Lord said, “[God] has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives.” Jesus is the great liberator, who came to set you free. Our Savior’s sacrificial death breaks the chains of sin. Those who trust in Him and obey His commandments on how to be saved receive the Holy Spirit. They’re transformed into new creatures with the desire and capacity to serve Him. Some believers will feel instant freedom from enslaving needs and habits.Others experience liberation over time and through the aid of Christian brothers. But no matter how deep or wide the pit of wrongdoing, Jesus will rescue whoever calls upon His name in faith and obedience. Freedom is yours for the taking because Jesus Christ has already paid the price. Ask for His forgiveness, and He’ll break your bondage to sin.
Are you tired?
render your life to the Lord...
In Love
Eric C

The Believer's Passion.

2008-07-01T13:30:00.000-06:00

READ 2 Timothy 1:1-11
A fire won’t continue to burn strongly unless it’s worked on. Similarly, a believer’s passion , if left untended, can diminish. Some new Christians often share their faith passionately. They sense God’s joy and peace. Yet, this zeal can fade unintentionally. From today’s passage, we gather that Timothy had let his flame of faith cool slightly in verses six and seven.Some believers can experience “cooling” for several reasons. When tragedy strikes, a person may feel his prayers went unanswered. This person may think God doesn’t care. If he then prays less, it’s easy to drift away from the Lord. At other times, some Christians can be sidetracked by the world’s priorities. Timothy’s enthusiasm wavered because of false teaching and fear. Whatever the apparent trigger may be, Satan is the underlying cause. He lures believers away from single-minded devotion to Jesus.Drifting can be subtle and hard to detect. Six questions can help you assess whether your enthusiasm for God remains strong.

First, you should ask yourself if you have joy in the Lord. Do you desire to serve Him and help others in need?

The second question to determine your passion for God is ‘Do you spend time in the Word daily?

Next, do you pray knowing that God is listening and working in your life?

The fourth question to help you determine your enthusiasm for God is ‘Do you faithfully attend church and obey God?

The fifth question is ‘Do you experience joy, peace, contentment, and hope in Jesus?

And finally,

‘Do you stand firm in your godly convictions?

If some of your answers recently changed from “yes” to “no”, your fire may be diminishing. Acknowledge this to the Lord. Ask for His help to fuel your passion.

Love

Eric C

Refusing the Grace From God!

2008-06-27T10:09:00.002-06:00

Grace is God’s favor bestowed on the unworthy. A favor is something that cannot be earned, though it may require conditions of the recipient. The Lord judged Sodom worthy of His wrath (Genesis 19:12-13). When Lot tried to persuade his sons-in-law to leave Sodom, they thought he was joking (verse 14). They refused the grace of God. Sinners find it difficult to believe that their sinful pleasures will come to an end. Lot himself delayed his departure (verses 15-16). Apparently he did not take God’s threat seriously. He even presumed to recommend the best city for his family to enter after escaping Sodom’s destruction (verses 17-19). God’s grace teaches us how to escape another destruction (Titus 2:11-12). Are you listening?

Jesus will come very soon and He wants you and I to be ready for that day that is about to come 2 Peter 3:9-10.

In Love

Eric C

Training Your Children.

2008-06-25T23:49:00.000-06:00

Training Your Children
READ Deuteronomy 6:4-7
Proverbs 22:6 states, “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Training involves purposeful, consistent, and diligent actions. But one research project found, on average, fathers in America spend five minutes or less each day talking with their children.God has a plan to train children as He intended. Teaching our kids starts with a foundation of love. All people, especially the young, desperately need to feel accepted, loved, and valued. If they don’t find validation at home, they’ll look elsewhere. Children need to hear their parents say things like, “I love you,” “I value you,” and “You have what it takes.”A second part of training a child involves the parent’s relationship with God. We can’t share what we don’t have. A person’s relationship with Jesus must be real and exciting. Otherwise, it’ll be impossible to teach others about how to have intimacy with the Lord. You can use two effective training tools with children. The first one is your testimony. Share what God is doing in your life. The second tool is your example. A powerful lesson is driven home when a child sees his parent admitting fault, asking for forgiveness, or expressing gratitude for God’s mercy. The stakes are high. If we disobey the Lord and fail to teach our little ones correctly, we make them vulnerable to the world’s teaching. Not only does this harm our precious children; it also hinders the next generation.

Are we thinking in the next generation?

The let's train our children in the Lord.

In Love

Eric C

What Is Calvinism?

2008-06-24T23:20:00.005-06:00

"Calvinism" refers to five major doctrines of John Calvin.
Who was John Calvin?
John Calvin was one of the most prominent theologians of the Protestant Reformation. He was born in France on July 10, 1509 and died in Geneva on May 27, 1564.
Calvin began studying to become a Catholic priest. But being more interested in law and the humanities, he was not ordained. On November 1, 1533, Calvin gave a speech attacking the Catholic Church and calling for reforms. From that time forward, he became the most influential Reformation theologian. Today, many Protestant denominations adhere to Calvin's doctrines to some degree (some adhere to one of his doctrines, while others adhere to all five).
While Calvin was in Geneva, the Reformed Churches (Presbyterian) accepted his doctrine as though they were infallible. Calvin is, therefore, known as the founder of the Reformed Churches (Presbyterian Church).
Overview of CalvinismJohn Calvin's five main doctrines were adopted as the foundation of the Reformed system of doctrine. They are conveyed in the acronym "TULIP", which was developed by adherents of Calvinism after Calvin's death.
Total inability (total hereditary depravity, original sin): man is totally depraved, the guilt of sin passes from generation to generation originating with Adam.
Unconditional election (predestination): God has predestined certain people to be saved.
Limited atonement: Christ died only for the people who had been predestined.
Infallible grace (irresistible grace): the Holy Spirit operates directly upon people, who have been predestined, to convert them.
Perseverance of the saints (once saved always saved): it is impossible for the elect (the predestined) to fall away once they have been converted.
Total Inability (Total Hereditary Depravity, Original Sin)While John Calvin studied to become a Catholic priest, he undoubtedly learned the Catholic doctrine of original sin. Roman Catholics believe that babies are "born with a fallen human nature and tainted by original sin" (rf. Catechism of the Catholic Church). John Calvin's doctrine of original sin and sprinkling babies is closely related to the Catholic Church's doctrine (rf. Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 4, Chapters 15 and 16).
Calvin is known as the founder of the Reformed Churches (Presbyterian Church). He taught that each person's life perished, "having been extinguished by the sin of Adam" (Calvin's Commentary on 1 John 1:1), and that each person has a depraved nature (rf. Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin). Therefore, Presbyterians believe that each person inherits original sin from Adam and is born lost in sin being hostile to God, slaves to Satan, and servants to sin (rf. Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), The Book of Confessions).
The doctrine of total inability (i.e., total hereditary depravity, original sin) is not taught in the Bible. God tells us that we do not inherit anyone's sin (Ezek. 18:20; cf. 2 Ki. 14:6). We sin after being tempted when we are carried away and enticed by our own lusts (Ja. 1:13-15).
Jesus teaches us that we must become as little children to enter the kingdom of God (Matt. 18:3-4; Lk. 18:16-17) -- we must be as infants regarding evil (1 Cor. 14:20). Babies are not born as sinners (as Calvinists would have us believe). If they die, they are safe, because they have no sin.
Unconditional Election (Predestination)Calvin's doctrine of unconditional election (predestination) contends that God has predestined some people to be saved and some people to be lost. This doctrine maintains that man does not have a free will.
Calvin taught that God did not elect (predestine) people by just looking into the future to see who would and would not obey. Calvin taught that God literally elected some people to be saved and allows everyone else to be lost. Commenting on Matt. 11:25-26, Calvin said, "This verse is impressive in two respects. The fact that not all receive the gospel is not due to the impotence of God, who could readily make all creatures submit to his empire. Secondly, that some arrive at faith, while others remain stupefied and obstinate, is due to his free election. He draws some to himself and passes others by; and in so doing, he himself distinguishes among men, whose situation by nature is the same" (Calvin Commentary VII: Election and Predestination).
Calvin harmonizes his doctrine of unconditional election (predestination) teaching that:
Everyone is born a sinner (total inability, original sin).
God elects (predestines) those who will be saved (unconditional election).
Christ, therefore, just died for the people who had been predestined to be saved (limited atonement).
The Holy Spirit operates directly upon the people who have been predestined to salvation and converts them (infallible grace). He does not work on those who are not predestined to salvation allowing them to be lost.
It is impossible for the elect (the predestined) to fall away once they are converted (perseverance of the saints, once saved always saved).
Calvin's doctrine of unconditional election (predestination) is not taught in the Bible. God desires all men to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4) and does not wish for anyone to perish (2 Pet. 3:9; cf. Ezek. 18:23). God has not predestined anyone to be lost or to perish.
Correspondingly, the Bible teaches that God has given us a free will to either obey or disobey Him. Christians can sin willfully (Heb. 10:26) and are commanded to work out their salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). Christians are not predestined to salvation. They can fall from grace (Gal. 5:4; Heb. 12:15).
Limited AtonementFive-point Calvinists believe that everyone is born in sin (original sin) and that God has predestined (unconditional election) some people to be saved and allows everyone else to be lost. Since God predestined only some people to be saved, they reason, Christ's blood only atoned (limited atonement) for the sins of the people who were predestined. The people who are not predestined to be saved have no way of being saved and are eternally lost from birth.
Calvinism's doctrine of limited atonement is not taught in the Bible. God has not predestined some people to be saved and some people to be lost. God desires all men to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4) and all men to come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9). The Bible says that:
Christ died for all (2 Cor. 5:14-15).
Christ died for the ungodly (Rom. 5:6).
Christ died for us, while we were yet sinners (Rom. 5:8).
Christ died for our sins (1 Cor. 15:3).
Christ died for sins, for the unjust (1 Pet. 3:18).
Jesus did not die for a limited number of people, He died for all (2 Cor. 5:14-15). He is the author (source) of eternal salvation to those who obey Him (Heb. 5:9), and invites everyone to come and be saved (Rev. 22:17). Jesus has not excluded anyone from obeying Him and being saved.
Infallible GraceThe doctrine of infallible grace (irresistible grace) asserts that the Holy Spirit operates directly upon people who were predestined, to convert them. Conversely, the Holy Spirit allegedly does not work upon the people who have not been predestined; therefore, God allows them to be lost. As a result, some denominations require people to have an esoteric spiritual experience to be saved. And, some have developed a doctrine of "praying through" to be saved.
Calvin's doctrine of infallible grace (irresistible grace) is not taught in the Bible.
First, we must remember that God desires all men to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9; cf. Ezek. 18:23). God has not predestined some people to be saved allowing everyone else to be lost. So, Calvin's doctrine of infallible grace is based upon a false assumption.
Second, we must realize that God works through His word to convert people (Rom. 1:16-17; 1 Th. 2:13). The Holy Spirit does not work in some mysterious way to just convert a predestined group of people, but He speaks through the word (Acts 1:16-18; Eph. 6:17; Heb. 3:7; 2 Pet. 1:20-21). The Bible teaches that we are born of the Spirit through God's word (Jn. 3:5-8; 1 Pet. 1:22- 23). So, the Scriptures tell us that:
The Spirit gives life and the word gives life (Jn. 6:63; Ps. 119:50, 93).
God saves through the Spirit and the word (Tit. 3:5; Ja. 1:21; cf. 1 Pet. 1:22-23).
We are washed and sanctified by the Holy Spirit and the word (1 Cor. 6:11; Jn. 17:17; Eph. 5:26; cf. Tit. 3:5; 1 Pet. 1:22-23).
Lastly, we must realize that every example of conversion is ascribed to the word.
Jews gladly received Peter's word and were baptized (Acts 2:40-41).
Samaritans were baptized when they believed Philip's preaching (Acts 8:12-13).
Philip preached from the Scriptures and the eunuch was baptized (Acts 8:35-39).
Saul was told what to do and was baptized to wash away his sins (Acts 9:6, 18; 22:16).
Peter spoke the words by which Cornelius would be saved and he was baptized (Acts 10:22, 33-48; 11:14).
Lydia heard the things spoken by Paul and was baptized (Acts 16:13-15).
The jailer heard the word of the Lord and was baptized (Acts 16:31-34).
The Corinthians heard, believed, and were baptized (Acts 18:8; 1 Cor. 15:1-2).
Men in Ephesus were baptized after Paul taught them (Acts 19:1-7).
Not only is Calvin's doctrine of infallible grace (irresistible grace) a false doctrine, but it is a doctrine of hopelessness. It erroneously asserts that God only helps a predestined group of people. Fortunately, our God is a God of love and wants everyone to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9).
Perseverance of the SaintsThe doctrine of perseverance of the saints (once saved, always saved) asserts that it's impossible for the elect (the predestined) to fall away once the Holy Spirit works to convert them. This doctrine is not taught in the Bible.
Perseverance of the saints may be the most popular of Calvin's doctrines. Yet, the Scriptures clearly teach that once someone is saved, he can be lost.
Christians can fall from grace (Gal. 5:4; Heb. 12:15).
Christians can stray from the truth (Ja. 5:19).
Some Christians will depart from the faith (1 Tim. 4:1-3; cf. Col. 2:16-23; 1 Tim. 6:21; Ja. 5:19-20).
Christians can fall away from God (1 Cor. 10:12; Heb. 3:12; 6:4-8 ).
The branches in Jesus that do not bear fruit are taken away, cast into the fire, and burned (Jn. 15:1-6). Because, they do not keep Jesus' commandments (Jn. 15:10).
The apostle Paul knew that he could be lost after being saved (1 Cor. 9:27; Phil. 3:12-14).
Some Christians had already turned aside after Satan (i.e., fell away) during the first century (1 Tim. 5:15; 6:21).
False prophets and false teachers lead some Christians away from God by exploiting them with deceptive words (2 Pet. 2:1-22; 3:16; cf. Act 20:28-30).
Therefore, Christians are admonished to:
Obey, and work out their own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12).
Take heed lest they fall (1 Cor. 10:12).
Endure, not throwing away their confidence and shrinking back to destruction (Heb. 10:35-39).
Be nourished in the words of faith and in the sound doctrine (1 Tim. 4:6-10).
Take care that they are not hardened by the deceitfulness of sin having an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God (Heb. 3:6-15).
Be diligent to enter heaven, lest they fall away (Heb. 4:11).
Be diligent to make their calling and election sure (2 Pet. 1:10).
Exercise their senses to discern good and evil by becoming skilled in the word of righteousness (Heb. 5:12-14).
A result of this doctrine (perseverance of the saints) is that many people believe they can do anything and still be saved. Unfortunately, the eternal result is damnation.

The Importance Of Baptism.

2008-06-23T09:29:00.003-06:00

READ Matthew 3:13-17
Children sometimes identify themselves with superheroes or other characters. For a season, they'll adopt the mannerisms, dress, and speech patterns of their current favorite. As Christians, we're supposed to imitate Jesus.Our Savior commands us to follow His example in all things, including baptism: Matthew 28:19 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit." At the beginning of His public ministry, Jesus chose to be baptized. John the Baptist was calling the Jewish people to confess their sins and demonstrate repentance through immersion in the Jordan River. Sinless Jesus joined the crowd at the river and asked John to baptize Him. The Lord chose to affiliate Himself with sinful man. When we follow His example in the waters of baptism, we're publicly confessing our faith in the Savior and identifying ourselves with Him. Baptism allows us to demonstrate our connection with Jesus and with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We're all members of one body under the authority of the same Lord. But it's important to remember that faith "alone" is not enough as many in the religious world are teaching, and they are using Ephesians 2:8-9 as an excuse to disobey the commmanment of baptism. Jesus will be pleased if we obey what He is commanding us in his word.
Remember that to obey is better than all the sacrifices that we might give to God in our entire life.

In Love

Eric C

Jesus Is The Way

2008-06-17T23:38:00.002-06:00

In John 14:1-6 we read, "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

There are two lessons we want to draw out from this text.
First, Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us, if we are making the preparations to go to heaven! People do not go to heaven by accident, by mishap, or inadvertently. We must desire to go, for hope is necessary, Rm.8:24-25. We must make a decision to go, which takes place when we obey the gospel, Ac.2:36-41. And we must be faithful till death, Rev.2:10. Yes, heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people.
Secondly, we want to note from our text that Jesus is the way to get to heaven. He is not "a way" but he is "the way." It has been said by men that there are many ways unto to God, not so, Jesus is the way. There is only ONE way to God and to get to heaven, and that is through Christ and his church, Eph.5:32, Ac.20:28.

The gospel brings us the good news of this way of salvation. Have you turned to the Lord Jesus Christ, for he is the way, the truth, and the life?

In Love

Eric C.

Knowing God Our Father.

2008-06-11T08:20:00.000-06:00

READ Matthew 6:9-14
The Lord’s Prayer expresses God’s fatherhood to His human children. In Jesus’ day, calling God “Father” must have seemed like a radical and marvelous concept. The Israelites understood a link between people and a divine being. But Christ’s words implied a personal relationship.Today, adoption into God’s family is still an exciting offer for anyone seeking His love and acceptance. How amazing the Holy Creator wants a relationship with us! By obeying Jesus Christ and His word as Savior, a person is welcomed into the Lord’s family. This happens even though you can never be as holy or perfect as the heavenly Father.The bond isn’t based on your own abilities, but on God’s great love. The wording of the Lord’s Prayer guides Christians to develop intimacy in their relationship with God. This prayer develops a connection between father and child.The relationship Jesus demonstrated directs spiritually-adopted children to share needs, confess sin, and admit weakness. In return, the Father answers prayers. He also makes His presence known during quiet times. God offers comfort and assurance that He is always near.

The "model" prayer is there to help us as to how we must ask the Lord in prayer.

Do you have a relationship with our Father in heaven?

In Love

Eric C

Son And Only Begotten Son.

2008-06-10T16:50:00.007-06:00

By Maurice Barnett
This term "son" has several meanings, as does the word "father." It may refer to the offspring or posterity of a human, such as son or daughter; it may refer to offspring several generations down the line, such as in genealogies. A common use is to refer to sameness or likeness to something.
(1) Mark 3:17 - sons of thunder—an explosive character.
(2) Luke 10:6 - son of peace—a peaceful man.
(3) Luke 20:34 - sons of this world—meaning worldly minded.
(4) John 17:12 - son of perdition—a wicked man.
(5) Acts 4:35 - son of consolation—a helpful man.
In John 10:30, Jesus says that "I and the Father are one." The Jews well understood that this was a claim for Himself of being God. They accused Him of blasphemy and sought to stone Him. For Jesus to say that He was the Son of God meant that He was equal with the Father, He was also God. See also verse 36.
For Jesus to say that "I and the Father are one," was the same as saying that He was the "Son of God" and thus equal with the Father.
Yet, another meaning of His being a Son is found in Psalm 2. The time of the fulfillment of this prophecy is clearly specified in Scripture.
(1) Psalm 2:1-5 speaks of the nations setting themselves against God and His work, but God will overcome them. See Acts 4:23-30.
(2) Verses 8-12 speak of the universal dominion of the Christ. Following His resurrection, Jesus declared that all authority has been given to Him in heaven and on earth, Matthew 28:18. The actual time that this universal dominion began was when He ascended to sit down at the right hand of God, Ephesians 1:19-23.
(3) Verse 6 says that God would set His king on His holy hill of Zion. This refers to the beginning of the rulership of Christ as King on His throne. See Acts 2:29-33 for the fulfillment connected with His resurrection.
(4) Verse 7 says that God has declared the decree, "thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee." Here is the only begotten Son. Acts 13:32-34 says that it was fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus, not His physical birth by Mary! See also, Romans 1:1-4.
(5) This was also the time when He would be High Priest, Hebrews 5:5-6. Psalm 2:7 is specifically referred to in that passage in Hebrews. See also Hebrews 8:4, Zechariah 6:12-13. Jesus did not become High Priest until he went to Heaven following His resurrection.
The prophecy and fulfillment of Psalm 2 and the fact of Jesus’ being the only begotten Son of God relates to the time of His resurrection, not His birth by Mary. Jesus is never referred to as "Son" in the Old Testament except in prophecy.
Further, "Son of God" is used as a title equal to that of "Christ" and "King." Look at the following: Matthew 16:16, 26:63, Mark 14:61, John 1:49, John 11:27. There are numerous other passages that say the same thing.
The phrase, Son of God, declares sameness with the Father and is a title of His position.
Monogenes generally means that which is unique. It may be used to refer to an offspring who is one of a kind, an only child. Luke 7:12 records Jesus’ raising a dead boy, the "only son" of a widow of Nain. Luke 8:42 describes the healing of the "only daughter" of one Jairus. There is something unique about an only child in any family.
Hebrews 11:17 says that Abraham offered his "only begotten son," Isaac. In His instructions to Abraham in the Old Testament, concerning the offering, God refers to Isaac as "thine only son." However, though Isaac was Abraham’s literal offspring, the fact is, Isaac was neither the only son of Abraham nor the first son to be born to him. Ishmael was Abraham’s first born son. This should immediately tell us that the phrase, only begotten son, is being used in some sense other than a literal, physical, offspring. It is a figurative phrase that identifies Isaac as the child of promise through whom the blessings would come, a unique position. In this passage, he was only begotten in that he, not Ishmael, was the sole channel of God’s promises for the future; no other person was to be considered.
In the same manner, Jesus was the Father’s sole representative through whom the promises of salvation would come. He is referred to as the only begotten Son of the Father in several places, John 1:14, 18, 3:16,18, Hebrews 11:17, I John 4:9, but it has nothing to do with His origin, nor a literal father/son relationship, nor to any idea of Jesus’ being less than God, nor that he lost any of His powers and abilities of God. The phrase refers to uniqueness rather than derivation; it carries no idea of generation as it does with humans. We saw this amplified in the previous section on the word "son."
In Love
Eric C

Peace At Any Price?

2008-06-10T16:50:00.003-06:00

READ Romans 12:17-18
God wants our relationships to be peaceful. He understands human nature. God knows there’ll be people that we can’t live in harmony with. Scripture states Christians are responsible to resolve conflict with their fellow man. This doesn’t mean pursuing tranquility at any price.Keeping peace among family, coworkers, or friends sometimes requires going to great lengths. Scripture sets guidelines for frequent forgiveness, godly methods of correction, and right attitudes towards enemies. All of these principles run counter to human nature. The only way to successfully apply them is through the power and grace of Jesus Christ.Despite our best efforts, peace is not always possible. When our actions are repeatedly rejected, ending the quest may be appropriate. If harmony is possible only by violating Scripture, we must refuse to compromise.An attitude of “peace, no matter what” can affect who we become. Genuine feelings are repressed. Resentment and hurt get buried for the sake of pretending that all is well. The result will likely be either emotional turmoil or an explosive release of frustration. Neither is healthy or holy. Instead, approach others honestly. Live in true peace as stated in Romans 12:18 “if possible, so far as it depends upon you”.

In Love

Eric C

The Only Way To God

2008-06-08T08:18:00.001-06:00

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)
"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;" (I Timothy 2:5)
Perhaps you have heard someone say "there are many ways to God". This is a very popular claim but it is simply false. There is only one way to God, and that one way is through Jesus Christ, God's Son.

All other ways will lead you to judgment by God for your sins, followed by punishment in the eternal Lake of Fire.
"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." (Revelation 21:8)
You have broken many of God's laws. You have lied. You have stolen things that did not belong to you. You have dishonored your father. You have had lust in your heart. You have committed many wicked sins. This breaking of God's law is called sin. God is Holy. God is righteous. God must therefore judge your for your sins when you die. God will read out your sins out of books at the Great White Throne Judgment. You will then be cast into Hell to burn there forever as punishment by God for your sins.
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
Jesus died on a cross to pay for your sins. What Jesus did on the cross for you 2,000 years ago is just as effective today as it was then. If you trust Jesus to pay for your sins, then you will not have to pay for these sins yourself in the Lake of Fire when you die. Instead, Jesus will forgive your sins and give you Eternal Life in Heaven with Him when you die.
"And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." (I John 5:11-12)
Jesus died for your sins, was buried, rose again from the dead, and then ascended up into Heaven where He is now seated. The "Good News" or "Gospel", is that salvation from the penalty for your sins is now available to you through Jesus Christ. Jesus loves you and wants you to go to Heaven to be with Him when you die. Trust Jesus to pay for your sins, because Jesus is the only way to be forgiven for your sins by a Righteous and Holy God.

What you need to do in your life is:

Hear the gospel of Jesus-- Romans 10:17

Believe in that Gospel-- Mark 16:16

Repent of all your sins that you have committed in life--Acts 2:38

Confess Jesus as the Son of God in front of others-- Matthew 10:32,33; Romans 10:9, 10

Be baptized in water for the remission of your sins-- Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21

After all that, live faithfully for God until death and He will give the crown of life-- Revelation 2:10.

Please, consider your life and your situation in from of God.

Remember, today is the day of Salvation.

In Love

Eric C.

Duties for June 8 2008

2008-06-08T08:04:00.000-06:00

A.M. Announcements: Yvon H
Songs: Kufre E.
Reading: Chase G.
Lord’s Table: Timothy C & Tito C
Lesson: Maurice B. Gospel Series
Opening Prayer: Ken N
Closing Prayer: Oje I

P.M. Announcements: Yvon H
Songs: Yvon H
Reading: Carlos M
Lords’ Table: Timothy C
Lesson: Maurice B Gospel Series
Opening Prayer: Kelly K
Closing Prayer: Devin L

How To Pass Down Our Faith

2008-06-08T07:55:00.000-06:00

READ Deuteronomy 4:9
The most valuable “possession” believers can leave to family and friends is faith in Jesus Christ. While loved ones must choose to trust in the Savior, Christians can and should share key biblical truths with them.Faith has many essential beliefs. The first found in Acts four is Salvation.

1) Salvation is found only in Jesus Christ. From an early age, children should be taught the most important relationship in their life is with the Lord. Believing in Him and obeying Him is vital.

2) Next, our faith means we believe everything that exists was created by the Lord. He owns it all. We’re managers of our resources, not owners. We’re to invest in God’s kingdom and not just spend on personal pleasures. His priorities are to become our own.

3) Another way we can pass down faith is by sharing God has a purpose for each of us. Ephesians 2:10 says discovering our purpose is very important. We can look for opportunities to share what we’re learning about God’s plan for our life. In the process, our family will become curious about what His purpose is for them.

4) Finally, as we pass on our faith, it’s important to know God will provide whatever we need to carry out His plan. Our heavenly Father gives us talents and spiritual gifts to achieve His purposes. He has promised that we’ll have what’s necessary to live a life pleasing to Him.The best time to share your faith is right now. Each day offers new opportunities to speak of our Savior. Think about those who you could pass along this precious possession to.

May the Lord help us to undestand the importantce of passing our faith to others.

In Love

Eric C

The Landmine Of Sexual Sin

2008-06-07T16:46:00.002-06:00

READ James 1:14-16
Temptation’s power lies in its deceptive offer of instant pleasure without penalty. But the truth is sin always has consequences. The nature of sexual immorality is behavior becomes progressively worse. The costs then get higher and higher.

Rebellion against God causes some Christians to experience guilt and anxiety. Sexual sin carries additional consequences beyond the risk of pregnancy and disease. Sexual sin can cause emptiness, loneliness, and damaged self-esteem.Love should make two people want what’s best for each other. The best is always biblical. Sex apart from marriage is in violation of Scripture. Since the Lord cannot be part of it, some believers who give in to this temptation feel isolated from Him. They sense loneliness despite their human relationships. Their self-worth can easily erode. God created us for intimacy with Him. This can occur only when we’re obedient.

Some believers caught up in immorality may begin to doubt their salvation. They may wonder if their prayers are heard. What’s more, the Lord promises to give people over to their lust if they refuse to return to obedience.

In Romans 1:28, the Lord said He may let their conscience be hardened until they lose the capacity to determine right from wrong.

No momentary pleasure is worth this high price. But there is good news. No matter what we’ve done, Jesus’ blood forgives our sins. He welcomes us back into fellowship with Him when we confess and turn away from wrongdoing. We may still have to deal with physical and emotional consequences. But Jesus restores our spirit to purity.

In Love

Eric C

When We Feel Frustrated

2008-06-05T10:32:00.002-06:00

READ Philippians 4:10-13
Many people have seasons of frustration in life.
Some feel hindered from achieving goals. The natural reaction is to blame circumstances or individuals instead of ourselves. External forces may trigger unhappiness. Sometimes we make changes to avoid irritation like quitting a job, ending friendships, or moving away. But we can’t find genuine peace that way.

When we feel frustrated, we need to investigate the cause. Discontent has three internal roots. One is not being able to accept ourselves as we were created. Our talents, personality, and physical attributes may not be what we desire. But, they’re exactly what we need to follow God’s will for our life. Dwelling on what we lack or what we would change distracts us from service. A second internal root for frustration is an unwillingness to deal with our past. We may have painful memories or recall mistakes that brought heartache. We need to admit their impact. Then we can confront any resulting emotional or psychological issues to move on in peace. The final source of frustration is a refusal to deal with behaviors or attitudes that are outside the Lord’s will. Holding on to an ungodly action often makes us try to justify ourselves to our Father and others.The human solution for frustration by changing external situations will fail every time.

The only way to end frustration is by relying on God for the strength to cope with its source.

Can we do that, Can we trust and depend in Him?

May the Lord Bless us.

In Love

Eric C

Serving God With A Soft Heart.

2008-06-03T09:07:00.002-06:00

READ Jonah 4
Jonah was swallowed by a big fish, while trying to run from God. In the creature’s belly, he decided to follow the Lord’s will. When Jonah was called a second time to preach repentance in Nineveh, he obeyed.The often-overlooked part of this story is what happened after Jonah obeyed.
Jonah warned the people across the city of divine wrath. They responded by turning away from wickedness.The Ninevites’ response should have made Jonah happy. But, Jonah grieved over their sorrow. Jonah was upset about God’s mercy on them. Nineveh and Israel were longtime enemies. Jonah angrily told the Lord he had fled to Tarshish to avoid this time of forgiveness.
Jonah was displeased because his heart was hard. It was just as hard as when he ran to Tarshish. Trapped inside the fish, Jonah changed his mind about following the Lord’s command. He expressed willingness to do whatever God wanted him to do. But, Jonah’s heart still desired the Ninevites’ destruction.

Jonah’s bitterness and reluctance showed through in spite of his righteous actions..

God is not fooled by good behavior from a hard heart. Obeying Him with an unwilling spirit may achieve His purpose, but we lose the joy of our reward.

Perhaps the Lord has called you to serve Him in a way that is personally challenging. As you commit to following His will, pray also for a soft heart. You will find peace and blessing in doing the work, if you follow Him without hesitation.

Remember: "To obey God is better than all the sacrifices in this world"

In Love

Eric C

Duties for June 1 2008

2008-05-31T10:22:00.000-06:00

A.M. Announcements: YH
Songs: MC
Reading: – RC àEphesians 4:1-6
Lord’s Table: KN & ME
Lesson: EC
Opening Prayer: KE
Closing Prayer: LG

P.M. Announcements: YH
Songs: BM
Reading: 2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Lords’ Table: KN
Lesson: EC
Opening Prayer: PC
Closing Prayer: YH

The Blessing Of Others

2008-05-31T07:55:00.000-06:00

READ 1 Peter 1:22
If we responded simply out of our natural impulses, we would probably be nice when people were kind. At other times, though, we would likely be vengeful, angry, or hurtful.Jesus clearly teaches us to love even when those around us seem unlovable. And He lived out what He taught. Christ loved us enough to die for us while we were still sinners. Surely, out of gratitude for what He did and with His strength, we, as His followers, can love others.While it’s hard to respond to unkindness with love, such godly behavior can lead to great blessing.
First, the Father is pleased. This realization should bring His children joy, peace, and a sense of accomplishment. Next, believers ought to feel excitement and anticipation to watch how God will move in the relationship. Finally, there will be an awareness the Holy Spirit is working from within, enabling divine love to flow through yielded human lives.John 13:35 tells of an important benefit. Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Since unconditional godly love is uncommon in our world, people will notice.Treating others as we want to be treated is what builds the deep, satisfying connections that all people desire. Without significant relationships, life lacks meaning…regardless of how many possessions or acquaintances we have. So think about the people you come in contact with throughout the week. Are you treating them the way that Jesus modeled?
This is a very good way to start our mornings!
In Love
Eric C

Dealing With Fear.

2008-05-29T10:55:00.000-06:00

READ Phillipians 4:6
Not only is anxiety an uncomfortable feeling, it also leads to negative consequences. Reasoning becomes cloudy when overwhelmed with worry. So an anxious person will have trouble making wise decisions.

Fear of failure may also lead to procrastination or a lack of productivity. Apprehensions can devastate personal and spiritual growth, relationships, and work. So conquering fear is important. Four steps can help.

First, you need to identify the fear. Ask yourself about the circumstances surrounding your feelings and what triggered them. What message are you telling yourself? Then turn to the Lord.

Remember, God loves you and desires an intimate relationship with you. He’s in sovereign control of your situation, so bring your fear to Him.You should rebuke the fear before God. You have the authority and power in Jesus’ name to reject what isn’t from Him.

Meditate on passages such as Matthew 10:31 and Proverbs 1:33. Let God’s truth replace any wrong thinking.

Finally, cling to your heavenly Father. Take your focus off your circumstances, and look to the One who promises His help. Scripture from Isaiah 41:10 gives this assurance: “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand”.

Circumstances are external and often beyond your control. But your response originates within. It’s amazing how fears diminish in the Father’s presence.

Amen!

In Love

Eric C

Worth The Wait

2008-05-28T10:22:00.003-06:00

READ 2 Timothy 1:7
Throughout Scripture, the Lord gives us evidence that many people deal with anxiety, even those considered pillars of faith. For example, we can deduce from Acts 18:9 that the apostle Paul must have felt fear, since God instructed Him not to be afraid “any longer”.The fact that fear is common, however, does not mean it’s from God. Of course, certain situations… like hearing a loud noise when we’re alone… will trigger a frightened response. But the Lord doesn’t want us to live with ongoing anxiety.Common worries include the fear of death, poverty, illness, old age, criticism, and the loss of a loved one or something cherished. Why do we find it so hard to let go of our concerns, even when the Lord clearly states in Luke 12, “Do not fear . . .”?

Worry can be deeply ingrained in the way we think. Sometimes we have unhealthy thought patterns that stem from feelings of inadequacy, a sense of guilt, or a mistaken view of God.

It’s not uncommon for insecurity in childhood to develop into a lack of confidence later on.

Life experiences can be another factor. A person who’s lost a parent suddenly in a car accident is likely to struggle with worry. Regardless of the cause, anxiety will take our eyes off our loving heavenly Father and focus our attention on our circumstances. No wonder God repeatedly reminds us not to fear. He wants His children to feel secure in His capability and trustworthiness.

I hope that this thought can help us to trust in the Lord every day, every morning and evening.

God is our only source of help and relief.

In Love

Eric C

How To Handle Our Pride

2008-05-27T13:28:00.002-06:00

READ 1 Samuel 24:1-22
Pride causes us to think we can manage life’s situations ourselves and make our own plans. The first two kings of Israel, Saul and David, illustrate different approaches to handling pride.Saul’s high opinion of himself resulted in decisions that were contrary to the Lord’s demand. Saul defeated the Philistines. As king, Saul reasoned he should take some spoils of war. But God had said otherwise. 1 Samuel 15:15 says when confronted by Samuel, the king replied his plan was “to sacrifice the animals to the LORD”. God saw through his words to a heart of pride. If self-centeredness controls our thinking, we’ll seek ways around divine commands to serve ourselves. When caught, we may try to justify our disobedience, as Saul did.Israel’s second king, David, was chosen while Saul was still on the throne. David demonstrated a willingness to wait for God to initiate his actual reign. He endured Saul’s jealous rages and murder attempts but wouldn’t retaliate. David refused to seize the throne when he had the opportunity. He didn’t allow pride to dominate his thinking. Later, he coveted another man’s wife and committed adultery, but his humbled heart prompted repentance.To prevent prideful behavior, we must refuse to act independently of the Lord. Like David, we should handle self-centeredness by turning to God in confession. David’s sins were forgiven. But Saul never admitted he’d made any mistakes. His actions led to his downfall.

Thank you Lord for helping us to undestand meeknes and to depend on you not in us!

In Love

Eric C.

Waiting For God.

2008-05-26T11:04:00.002-06:00

READ Psalm 27:14
Good morning brethern,

Our culture is an “instant” society.

Because of inventions like the computer and the microwave, we’re used to quick results. A fast pace isn’t necessarily bad, but we should guard against becoming so set on immediate fulfillment that we can’t wait for God’s timing.

This problem existed long before the computer age. In Genesis 15:4-5, God revealed to Abraham that though he and his wife Sarah were too old to have children, a great nation would come from him. Abraham believed God but soon decided to handle matters himself. He took Sarah’s servant Hagar as his wife so she could bear the promised son.Abraham probably rationalized his decision, figuring the Lord wanted him to have a son. Since it seemed impossible any other way, surely this must be what God wanted him to do! But it wasn’t. Abraham had to deal with the consequences of his actions, including jealousy and resentment between Sarah and Hagar. These problems in turn created further difficulties, both in the short term and throughout history.The Lord was faithful, though. 14 years later, Sarah gave birth to Isaac. But, the consequences of Abraham’s decision to step out of God’s plan are still with us. The two boys grew to become the fathers of nations which are in conflict to this very day.Like Abraham, we might believe God’s promises but prefer immediate results. Or we may just want things done our way. Instead, ask the Lord to lead you. Then wait for Him. His way may not be what you think you want, but it is always best.
Can you trust in Him?

In Love

Eric C

What Must I Do To Be Saved?

2008-05-24T14:04:00.002-06:00

The Bible says "all have sinned" (Rom. 3:23). Thus, all need the saving power of the gospel (Rom. 1:16).

In Acts 2:37 the Jews on the day of Pentecost asked the question, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" Since these men were unsaved at the time they asked this question we know that man must do something in order to be saved.

What is it that we must do?
1) Hear Christ. Since God has spoken unto us in these last days by his son (Heb. 1:1-2) it is Him we must hear (Matt. 17:5). According to Paul in Romans 10:17, "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Since one cannot please God without faith (Heb. 11:6) we must first hear the gospel of Christ.
2) Believe in Christ. Jesus said in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." We must believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God (Jn. 8:24; 20:31).
3) Repent. In Acts 17:30 we learn God commands all men everywhere to repent. True repentance involves confessing one’s sins to God (Acts 8:22, 1 Jn. 1:9) and turning away from them (Matt. 21:28-30).
4) Confess Christ. A good example of this confession is when the Ethiopian confessed, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God" (Acts 8:37). Timothy made this confession in the presence of many witnesses (1 Tim. 6:12). Confession is made unto (in order to) salvation (Rom. 10:10); one cannot be saved without it.
5) Be Baptized. Jesus said in Mark 16:16, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved…" Jesus placed baptism between the sinner and salvation. That is why every example of conversion in the New Testament involved folks being baptized (Acts 2-19). Baptism is for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38), is immersion in water (Acts 8:38-39, Rom. 6:4, Col. 2:12), puts one into Christ (Gal. 3:27), and into the one body (1 Cor. 12:13), which is the church (Col. 1:24) that Jesus purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:28). Have you submitted to this baptism?
6) Live Faithfully. We are taught to "live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world" (Titus 2:12). The crown of life is promised only to those remaining steadfast and faithful (Col. 1:22-23; Rev. 2:10).
Why not submit to God’s plan of salvation today? "Behold; now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2).

If we can assist you, please contact us.

276-8088

3977557

In Love

Eric C

2008-05-24T13:28:00.012-06:00

A.M. Announcements: Yvon Hotte
Songs: MC
Reading: DL - 2 Cor 11:22-28
Lord’s Table: TC; KK

Lesson: EC
Opening Prayer: TC
Closing Prayer: RG
P.M. Announcements: YH
Songs: EC
Reading: Many Men.

Lords’ Table: TC
Lesson: Singing night
Opening Prayer: KK
Closing Prayer: TC

The Process of Forgiveness...

2008-05-22T14:30:00.000-06:00

READ Ephesians 4:30-32
No doubt, you've been hurt. Most likely, someone you loved and trusted did something unthinkable. Perhaps it was so devastating that it changed your whole perspective on that person. If that's the case, you have a choice. You can either wallow in self-pity, pain, and anger, or you can forgive. Forgiveness is the act of giving up the resentment we have toward someone-along with the desire to retaliate. It involves three important steps.
First, we must release the general feeling of resentment. That is, we must make a decision not to suffer in our pain. This can be difficult! Many people seem to enjoy holding on to self-pity or a sense of martyrdom. They may believe it's just their lot in life to suffer. But that's not true. You can choose to move past it.

Second, forgiveness means we must surrender specific feelings of resentment toward a particular individual. We must let go of our anger at being hurt and seek to restore the broken relationship.

Third, we lay down all claims to revenge. You cannot forgive someone with your words while secretly wishing him or her harm. True forgiveness seeks the other person's good, not punishment. Someone with a forgiving attitude may say something like this:

"Though you hurt me, I choose to forgive you. I won't dwell on this. And, I won't allow it to destroy my life or my attitude. I won't spend one minute plotting revenge. You are God's precious child, and I love you."

Truly forgiving another person carries a price. But without a doubt, the rewards are greater. Unleash the power of forgiveness in your life today.

Look at Jesus and He will help you...

In Love

Eric C

The Reality Of God's Love

2008-05-21T10:00:00.003-06:00

READ 2 Corinthians 11:23-27
Perhaps you feel some past sin keeps God from loving you. If that's the case, think about Paul, a man who violently persecuted Christians before finally turning to the Lord. Paul says God loves you. Do you believe him?Maybe you're someone who wonders how a loving God could allow you to be hurt or abused. Paul endured beatings and imprisonment for preaching the Gospel. And he says God loves you. Do you believe him?

It's possible you feel alone and unlovable. Paul was abandoned by friends, and even shipwrecked. He says God loves you. Do you believe him?

Regardless of your experiences, the apostle Paul probably experienced something you can relate to. But he kept spreading his message of hope, which was God loves us and sent His Son to die for our sins.The situation we find ourselves in may be unfair, painful, or humiliating. But the fact it happened doesn't mean God stopped loving us. Sometimes, we face difficulty because He's polishing our rough edges and molding us into His image. Other challenges are instigated by Satan, but the Lord's permissive will allows them. As Romans 8:28 says, God works everything out to our good, according to His purpose for our life.The key to accepting the truth of God's love is to focus attention on Him rather than your circumstances. When you're learning, talking, and sharing you life with Him, trust and faith naturally replace doubt and fear.
The love of God is real and He wants you to be part of it.

Will you?

In Love

Eric C

2008-05-20T14:25:00.004-06:00

As we already mentioned , the "Memorial" for our beloved sister Pam Bassett will be this coming Friday at 7:30 PM at

Ogden House Senior Club
2102 69th Av S.E
Phone number is 279-2003.
We will be gathering this coming Friday to sing songs of praise to Our Lord, for prayers and also to meditate on the Bible concerning the topic of death.
If you have any pictures of Pam, please send it to Michelle or Cathy so that they can include it in the Power Presentation.
If you want more information regaring the gathering, please don't hesitate to contact our two sisters above for any details...
Thank you for your help and support.
In Christ
Eric C

Building Solid Friendships

2008-05-20T09:32:00.000-06:00

READ Ephesians 6:7-8
Friendships are among our most valuable assets. Acquiring quality companions, who laugh with us in good times and stand by us during trials, requires shared commitment and an investment of time and energy.
We must be transparent and be honest with friends and encourage them to be truthful in return. To preserve a healthy bond, we can’t hide hurts or feelings of rejection they may have caused. Transparency that is tied to accountability can also help make each individual a better person. A solid relationship allows each party to gently point out errors in the other’s life and offer loving correction.
Genuine friendship takes time to develop. We must be willing to put aside other obligations and give priority to moments spent together. A generous portion of our time with each other should be spent talking about our thoughts and desires and also asking questions to prompt our friend to open up. This type of conversation allows a glimpse into the other person’s heart and mind.
Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Expressing thanks when friends are helpful will remind them that we’re grateful to have them in our life. We affirm our love when we communicate how much we enjoy a certain aspect of their personality or remember an occasion that’s special to them.
Being a good friend is a way to serve the Lord. He designed us to be in relationship with others, so we should give our best to every companion God places in our life.
Do you have a good friend? If you don', look at Jesus, he can be you best and incomprable friend.
Thanks
In Love
Eric C

Obedience: The Key to God's Heart

2008-05-19T05:49:00.003-06:00

READ Matthew 12:1-7
You may be familiar with the phrase "holding the key to someone's heart." It means we know what will make someone else happy, and we do those things because we want him or her to feel loved.
Believers hold the key to God's heart. If we want to please Him and show Him our love, we will be obedient to all He commands.
The most important principle for living is submission to God's will. Every other discipline of the Christian life-whether it's worship, devotion, good works, or humility-springs out of obedience. For this reason, Scripture tells us in Hosea 6:6 to love loyalty more than sacrifice. We can't live successfully before God without obeying Him.
Some Christians get caught up in doing everything "by the book," thinking their spiritual actions will prove how faithful they are. They follow all the rules, frown upon those who don't, and feel very pleased with themselves for making it so easy for the Lord to love them. But good behavior designed to impress others doesn't honor God. He wants Christians to act out of love for Him, not out of conceit.
Obedience is more than following a list of rules. A wise believer is, first of all, in touch with the Lord daily to discover His will. Secondly, a mature Christian is committed to obeying whatever he or she is called to do.
Good works and acts of worship may convince the world we are faithful to God. But the Lord knows our intentions. Only through honoring him with our daily obedience can we unlock His heart.
It will be very different if we all learn to undestand this priciple. The church, our families, our friends, etc... they all will be different.
Make sure that everything you do, you do it for the Lord.
In Love
Eric C.

Enjoying The Future

2008-05-17T16:07:00.002-06:00

READ 1 Corinthians 9:24
Many believers are in the midst of a crisis of faith. They desperately desire to move forward in their Christian walk. But, instead, they continually feel as if they're losing ground because of trials and setbacks. How can we move beyond the obstacles and genuinely embrace an active, moving faith?
First, we must understand the importance of assurance. This godly confidence gives us strength to look into the future and see how the Lord's plans will be beneficial. Assurance calms our fears. It reminds us God is in charge and His purposes will be accomplished; no matter what challenges we face.
Second, we must live a life of anticipation. In other words, if we truly believe the heavenly Father will answer our Spirit-led prayers, then we should act as if we believe it! We need to wait expectantly for His answer and plan accordingly.
For example, let's say you're leaving for a wonderful vacation next week. You would no doubt be making preparations for the trip. You'd start to pack, finalize your travel plans, secure time off from work, and check travel magazines or the Internet for interesting tourist attractions. In your mind, you're already enjoying your vacation, even though you haven't left yet!
The same thing should be true in your walk of faith. When you trust that God will faithfully and graciously respond to your petitions, you can rejoice. You'll know He'll make a way, even before you see the results. This is the power of assurance and anticipation. And it can revolutionize your walk with Him.
In order to obtain what we ask for, we MUST believe and trust in The Lord.
Enjoy your days as a Christians and trust God, for He will do great things in your life.
In Love
Eric C.

Laboring For God

2008-05-16T09:30:00.000-06:00

READ John 12:20-26
Good morning Northside.
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are to be living extensions of His life. In other words, we are to be people through whom the Holy Spirit is carrying out the Lord’s work. Following Jesus’ example, we must:
• Learn how to live as God’s servants. We need to let go of control over our time, talent, and treasure, and accept our commission to work in His kingdom. Like our Savior, we are not to act independently (John 5:19). Our assignment is to do whatever God asks of us.
• Be ready to answer His call to aid others.There’s a natural desire to limit our circle to people like ourselves, but we must fight against this inclination. God asks that we reach out to offer help wherever there’s a need—for strangers as well as for individuals we know. Strengthening our relationship with the Lord will help us to recognize and act on the opportunities He has placed before us.
• Motivate one another to good deeds (Hebrews 10:24). We’re to spur each other on to choose godliness and service over worldly pleasure and self-centeredness. Believers are to foster in each other attitudes of gratefulness for what He has done and confidence about what He will do in and through their lives.
Good works are not the means of salvation, but they do affect eternal rewards. At the judgment seat of Christ, believers will be evaluated for what they did on earth. Deeds done without direction from God will be burned up; those accomplished in obedience to the Spirit’s call will be rewarded (1 Corinthians 3:15).
Let your love for God stimulate you to labor in His kingdom.
Everyday that goes by if you plan and do the work of the Lord, will be a day lived according to His commanments and will.
My the Lord always helps us to me the right choices.
In Love
Eric C.

Duties For Sunday May 18 2008 AM & PM Services

2008-05-15T13:39:00.005-06:00

Songs: KE
Reading: YH. James 4:13-17
Lord’s Table: BG & MC.
Lesson: EC
Opening Prayer: EE
Closing Prayer: BM

P.M. Announcements: YH
Songs: KN
Reading: EE John 1:35-42
Lords’ Table: BG.
Lesson: EC
Opening Prayer: TH
Closing Prayer: NA

The Nature Of Strength

2008-05-15T09:07:00.005-06:00

READ Ephesians 6:10-13
The moment a person obeys Christ as Lord and Savior, he or she enters a battle. The Enemy is determined to destroy believers’ testimonies. But God has supplied a mighty weapon to those who serve Him… His Son’s strength flowing through their life.Christ’s power is supreme. Satan, with all his demonic force, can’t throw anything our way to match Jesus’ supernatural strength. Even so, temptations and trials expose weaknesses when most would prefer to appear strong. That is one reason human nature rebels against hardship and tries to avoid it.God wants Christian soldiers to be armed with the Savior’s might so they can confront life’s difficulties. 2 Corinthians 12 says he promises us strength only when we set down pride and accept that we are too weak for battle. And Jesus’ power is available to every believer right now. It’s a gift from the Commander so that His followers can endure conflicts victoriously.The world encourages keeping up the appearance of handling one’s own problems. So, Christian soldiers’ marching orders probably seem quite strange to onlookers. But, arrogance does not bring blessing; rather, it causes confusion, distance from the Lord, and ultimately failure. If we want to be victorious, then we must not follow the worldly strategy of facing the Enemy alone.Until our life is over or Jesus Christ returns, we are locked in a battle with Satan. But God has given us a powerful weapon. When we are totally dependent upon the Lord for His strength, we are filled with supernatural energy and endurance.

In Love

Eric C

Why We Need Spiritual Discerment...

2008-05-14T10:00:00.002-06:00

READ Philippians 1:8-11
Things are not always what they seem is the mantra of mystery novels, but it's also a wise attitude for successful living. Too many people make decisions according to feelings, or they judge situations based only on what appears to be real. The Lord has given every believer a discerning spirit, so we can determine what is best.
Think about how many decisions a person makes in a day—choices about family, finances, work, etc. In an ideal world, a decision would have a correct choice and an incorrect one. As a result, it would be easy to make. In reality, however, what seems right is not always what's best.
Some things that are neither wrong nor sinful are still outside of God's will. Scripture doesn't contain specific directives regarding every possible life scenario. Instead, the Bible is filled with principles. At times, they're explained through stories and often through direct teaching.
Believers have the capacity to grow in spiritual maturity. Biblical principles together with guidance from the Holy Spirit become tools for making godly judgments. The question is not whether a certain choice looks good or feels right. It's whether or not a particular decision is God's will for that point in a person's life.
A well-developed spirit of discernment is essential for living in God's will. Without this sensitivity to the Lord's plan, a man or woman will take everything at face value. Many choices that look good and feel right are actually contrary to what God desires for a believer's life. For that reason, we must evaluate situations from a biblical perspective.
If you are about to make a decision, pray to God and ask Him for Guidance in order to make the right one.
May the Lord Bless Us this morning.
In Love
Eric C.

When We Are Lonely

2008-05-13T08:00:00.001-06:00

Good Morning.
READ Hebrews 4:14-16
Despite the fact that technology enables us to stay connected, we haven’t solved the loneliness problem.

Many people still feel cut off from those around them. The real solution for healing the deep ache of isolation is an intimate relationship with God.As He was about to create Adam, God said in Genesis 1, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness”. One point of resemblance to the Lord is our desire and ability to share intimacy with others. We’re created to commune with God.Adam and Eve had a close bond with the Lord, who spent time with them in the Garden of Eden. But, the couple’s disobedience caused a rift in the relationship. Since God is holy, He can’t allow anything unrighteous into His presence. Once sin entered the world through the first couple, every person born would be tainted with it and separated from God.Yet because of His love, the Lord planned a way to bridge the gap between Himself and mankind. Jesus Christ took our transgressions upon Himself and died on the cross, wiping away the stain of sin. Whoever trusts in His sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins goes over the “bridge” formed by the cross. Each new believer and obedient person is immediately restored to a right relationship with God.
Are you lonely? You dont have to, God want to be with you.

Render your life to Jesus and you will see the changes in your life.

May the Lord Bless Us all.

In Love

Eric C

Blessed Are The Meak

2008-05-12T22:25:00.002-06:00

We studied with Brian tonight and the topic was Meekness.
One of the things that we learned is that "meekness" is not weakness as many continue to believe.
In Matthew 5:5 Jesus said: Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.
We learned this evening that the idea of weakness is not someone who is a coward nor timid, but rather someone who is strong and firm. Moses was "Meek" but was very strong in character (Numbers 12:3)
We also learned this evening that Jesus was "Meek" but always fixed the false religious doctrines of his time. (Matthew 21:12-13. John 2:14-16).
The opposite of "Meek" is "Arrogant, Proud, Boastful etc.." and this is something that we all must avoid.
Meekness is a fruit of the spirit Galatians 5:22. Every christian must grow this fruit in his life in order to imitate Jesus who was meek Matthew 11:28-30.
Please, let's keep in mind that only by using meekness is how we please God and walk according to His will.
Thank you Brian for the lesson, I look forward to next Monday, Lord willing.
In Love
Eric C

"Our Very Best Friend"

2008-05-12T16:55:00.003-06:00

READ John 15:9-15
Jesus is the best friend we will ever have. He has all the qualities that make someone a good companion.
-> He accepts us.
Jesus died for us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8) and offers salvation to us just as we are. All of our sins are forgiven the moment we believe and obey Jesus according to what He already has commanded us.
Furthermore, God adopts us into His family and sends His Spirit to dwell within us. The Spirit’s presence is a sign that our acceptance by God and our adoption as His children are permanent benefits.
-> He hears us.
Jesus serves as our high priest in heaven. He listens to our prayers, represents us before God, and intercedes on our behalf (Romans 8:34). Human friends and family may ignore us, but Jesus never will.He understands us. During His life on earth, Jesus encountered the same type of hardships and challenges we face. He had few material possessions and no place of His own. People asked for His help day and night, so there were constant demands on His time. He experienced the pain of being misunderstood by those He sought to help—and of having His motives questioned by the authorities. What’s more, He can identify with those who suffer physically, as He endured the agony of crucifixion.
-> He gives us wise counsel.
Jesus sent His Holy Spirit to guide us into truth. As we meditate on Scripture, we will receive insight, direction, encouragement to persevere, and warnings for our protection.A relationship with Jesus satisfies like no other.
Is He your best friend?
If Jesus is not your best friend, we will like to invite you to listen and to obey His word today, tomorrow might be too late.
Thank you and may the Lord bless you.
In Love
Eric C.

When Our Faith Wavers

2008-05-12T07:20:00.001-06:00

READ James 1:1-8James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Knowing [this], that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
But let patience have [her] perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
A double minded man [is] unstable in all his ways.

The Bible warns against “wavering faith.”

This is the attitude of someone who goes from feeling certain that God will answer a prayer to merely hoping that He might or becoming convinced He won’t. Of course, since we’re human, we all experience periods of doubt. But what Scripture warns against is a lifestyle of spiritual disbelief.Wavering can have many causes. For instance, one might fail to see God at work in a situation. Or he might worry that trusting Jesus in that predicament conflicts with human reasoning. Another believer, focusing on circumstances rather than the Lord, may allow feelings to overcome faith.A person, who is “driven and tossed by the wind”, may lose confidence in God and find his spiritual growth stunted.

He can become a “double-minded man” because even as he prays, he tends to jump ahead of the Lord’s timing to manipulate a situation for his own desired outcome. When a Christian pays attention to his doubts in this way, he’ll often make costly, wrong decisions. After all the maneuvering, he will frequently end up dissatisfied with the results and bothered by his lack of peace. Even worse, his faith may diminish.Wavering is dangerous, so believers must develop confidence in the Lord. In Mark 11:24, Jesus says, “All things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you.” The closest we get to perfect faith while on earth is the ability to trust that what we ask in God’s will is as good as done.

May our Lord help us to keep our Faith strong and fervent.

In Love

Eric

Fisher's of Men

2008-05-11T13:47:00.000-06:00

Jesus, in the call of Peter and Andrew to become his followers, said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." Matt.4:19. Let’s list some various aspects needed to be a fisher of man.

First, you need a pole to fish with, which is of course, teaching. The Lord has ordained that teaching, is to be the method of reaching the lost. All of us in time are to be teachers, Heb.5:12. If we can open our mouths to talk to our neighbors about everything under the sun. Then surely we can open our mouths to talk to them about their souls and the Lord Jesus and his word!

Secondly, we need "bait" to fish with. This is of course is the gospel message, the good news that man can be forgiven through Jesus Christ, this is our "enticement" to men, John 12:32-33. That’s what Jesus told the apostles to do, Mk.16:15, Matt.28:19. Another aspect needed in fishing, is patience or perseverance. People who go fishing have the temperament to stick to it, when maybe others give up if the fish are not biting. There are some men who will finally take the "bait", if we would just hang in there. Paul said we need patience in teaching those caught in the snares of the Devil, 2 Tim.2:25-26.

Finally, the reward of fishing is stated here in 3 Jn. 4, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." Are we preaching the Word of God? This morning I would like to encourage all, to think about the work that we are supposed to do... Please, in your travels, work, school or wherever you may be; Preach the word!

In Love, Eric

Men's Worship Service Duties

2008-05-10T21:44:00.005-06:00

For May 11, 2008

AM:
Songs: BG
Reading: TC - Mark 4:35-41
Lord's Table: EE & TC
Lesson: EC
Opening Prayer: Oje I
Closing Prayer: ME

PM:
Songs: ME
Reading: BM - Phillipians 2:19-24
Lord's Table: EE
Lesson: EC
Opening Prayer: JH
Closing Prayer: TC

Meditating On Our Blessings

2008-05-09T14:47:00.001-06:00

Let us count our blessings as we live the Christian life and...

Consider the bountiful ways God has blessed us.
Meditate on the blessings that are ours just because we live in the world.
Survey the greatest blessings of all, which are the spiritual blessings "in Christ". These blessings provide us with spiritual, abundant, and eternal life.

Are you "in Christ", where the blessings are to be found?

Welcome to our blog!

2008-05-09T14:47:00.000-06:00

Welcome to our first blog for the brothers and sisters at the Northisde church of Christ. It is going to be an exciting and new way to spread news, details, and discuss topics on this blog. We look forward to what will be coming!

- The Gospel's Seed

chatroom

2008-05-09T13:47:00.030-06:00

The Psalm 1:1 Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
.chatroom is CLOSED right now...