The Character of Perilous Times

2 Tim. 3:1-5 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

The greatest threat to the kingdom of Jesus Christ today is the carnal, compromising, effeminate, and worldly Christianity the devil has spawned to destroy the faith once delivered to the saints. False teachers promote it on every side. The cure is simple, but few ministers will use it, since most hearers are demanding fables and entertainment instead. The importance of this prophecy cannot be overstated. You are living in the fulfillment of the perilous times!

The OED definition of perilous - very dangerous; full of risk; hazardous; very harmful; dreadful; frightening; threatening; terrible; greatly to be avoided.

Character Traits of Perilous Times

1. Christians shall be lovers of their own selves.
2. Christians shall be covetous of wealth and promote a "results" religion of gain as godliness.
3. Christians shall be boasters by singing their own praise, either directly or indirectly.
4. Christians shall be proud with an excessive and haughty view of themselves as special.
5. Christians shall be blasphemers by their irreverence toward God and the things of God.
6. Christians shall be disobedient to parents and rebell against any and all proper authority.
7. Christians shall be unthankful for the abundance of all things, though living in great plenty.
8. Christians shall be unholy in their affections, speech, and actions by worldly compromise.
9. Christians shall be without natural affection in conduct by perverting ordinary standards.
10. Christians shall be trucebreakers without regard for commitments to peace and unity.
11. Christians shall be false accusers by spreading slander without regard for reputations.
12. Christians shall be incontinent with a great lack of self-discipline and temperance.
13. Christians shall be fierce in their treatment of others without basic kindness and gentleness.
14. Christians shall be despisers of those that are good and righteous by hating holy saints.
15. Christians shall be traitors and manifest great unfaithfulness to duties and commitments.
16. Christians shall be heady with rash and impulsive conduct and decision-making.
17. Christians shall be highminded with lofty opinions of themselves and their thoughts.
18. Christians shall become lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God in carnal living.
19. Christians shall have a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof to control them.

The peril or danger taught here is a widespread powerless Christianity, and it is the great threat to believers.

The Ten Laws of Excellent Speech

1. Speak sparingly - Prov. 17:27 He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.
2. Speak only after thinking - Prov. 29:20 Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
3. Speak honestly - Prov. 12:17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.
4. Speak with grace - Col. 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
5. Speak only acceptable words - Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
6. Speak appropriately - Prov. 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
7. Speak respectfully - 1 Tim. 5:1-2 Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
8. Never speak evil of another - James 4:11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
9. Never praise yourself - Prov. 27:2 Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.
10. Speak the Gospel boldly - Rom. 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Wise, Simple, or Foolish???

The WISE PERSON has the ability and willingness to base all of their thoughts, actions, and decisions on the principles of the word of God.

The SIMPLE PERSON does not have the ability to do this since they are ignorant of Bible principles.

The FOOLISH PERSON has the ability but not the willingness. Their head contains the knowledge, but they have a rebellious heart.

Which type of person are you???

Silencing Foolish Men by "Well Doing"

1 Peter 2:15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:

The blasphemous diatribes of modern evolutionary humanists against the word of God and the testimony of His people are really nothing but arrogant foolishness. The Bible clearly makes this plain in two places;

Romans 1:22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

Psalm 2:4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.

The biblical way to "silence the ignorance of foolish men" is simply by "well doing" as the first text above simply says. Peter makes this point of "well doing" quite effectively in his writing in the word of God. Note the following examples;

1 Peter 2:20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.

1 Peter 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

1 Peter 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

Unbelievers, if they want to badly enough, can reject every argument with some other objection or counter claim, but they have no way to gainsay a godly, law-abiding, righteous, loving life. The unbeliever may riducule this life for a time, but he will eventually come to see its sure foundation. Again, this fact is shown by Peter in the word of God;

1 Peter 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

The main reason for "well doing" is simply that "it is the will of God," as shown in the first listed verse above. If we are "well doing" with our lives, we can safely leave the response of others and the results to Him.

Is your current life one that would be biblically described as "well doing?" If so, keep on "well doing" so that you may eventually silence the fools within the sphere of influence of your life, and testify to the truth of God and His word.

Walking in Truth

2 John 4 I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

3 John 3-4 For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

The principle of "walking in truth" should indeed characterize the Christian's daily life, since;

1. Our Lord and Saviour is Himself "the truth" - John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
2. The word of God which we believe is "truth" - John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
3. And the Holy Spirit who indwells our bodies is the very "Spirit of truth" - John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

The New Testament also uses other characteristics of the Christian life under the figure of walking:

1. New life - Rom. 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
2. Led by the Spirit - Gal. 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
3. With love - Eph. 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
4. In wisdom - Col. 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
5. In the light - 1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

All of these and other similar admonitions can be summarized as simply following the example of Jesus Christ.

1 John 2:6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

Friend, are you walking in truth, following the commands of scripture and the example of Jesus Christ???

Advice to Young Preachers

Dr. Raymond Barber presented a small card with the following outline to my oldest son at a Sword of the Lord Conference many years ago when he had asked him some tips for young preacher boys. It is an outline that should be followed not only by aspiring young preachers, but Christians old and young alike.

1. Keep yourself morally pure.
2. Keep yourself spiritually alive.
3. Keep yourself physically fit.
4. Keep yourself mentally alert.
5. Keep yourself evangelistically fervent.
6. Keep yourself emotionally balanced.
7. Keep yourself financially frugal.

While keeping, keep a sharp Sword, a bended knee, and an eye on the sky!!!

On the flip side of the small card was this other short outline;

Building Blocks for a Successful Ministry

1. Dress appropriately - Eph. 6:10-18 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
2. Study diligently - 2 Tim. 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
3. Pray fervently - James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
4. Preach fearlessly - 2 Tim. 4:1-5 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
5. Run patiently - Heb. 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

A Healthy and Growing Church???

I subscribe to the Baptist Press mailing list which provides daily articles of the SBC news and ministries. The Thursday's edition First-Person article contained a section that really caught my eye and made me sorrowful at the same time. (You can read the entire article by clicking the link above.) The title of the article was "Making Evangelism Good News Again." The auther states a sad statistic of today's SBC church here in America;

"Meanwhile, from 1991-2004 the number of unchurched adults in America rose from 39 million to 79 million. And we are doing worse with young people, with 39 percent of Southern Baptist churches in 2005 reporting baptizing no teens. Really now, can there be any bigger problem that we face than this?"

This is a quote from the article that really caught my eye....

"A study by New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary's Leavell Center for Evangelism and Church Health showed that only 11 percent of SBC churches are healthy and growing (The stat used a formula with four main components: a healthy and growing church must have an increase of church membership of 10 percent over five years; at least one baptism each year for the past five years; a total membership-to-baptism ratio of no more than 35 to one, and at least 25 percent of the additions each year coming from conversions.) Too many churches reach few if any people other than their own children or those from other churches."

Let's review the four main components to understand what they define as a "healthy and growing" church;

1. Increase of church membership of 10% over five years. A church of 100 members would need to grow by 10 members within five years, or an average of 2 members each year. This is a sign of a healthy and growing church???
2. At least one baptism each year for the past five years - only one new convert per year???
3. A total membership-to-baptism ratio of no more than 35 to 1 - out of 35 church members, only one new convert must be won to the Lord and baptized. Doesn't this reflect the sad state of the individual soul-winning efforts of the typical church member of the day??? "It's not my job, that is what the preacher is suppose to be doing."
4. At least 25% of the additions each year coming from conversions - if four new members are added to the church role, one is a new convert, but three are people leaving one other church to join this church???

Think of those components that defines a healthy and growing church, and think of the statement that was made that only 11% of the SBC churches meet the criteria to be called a "healthy and growing" church. Basically only one of ten SBC churches met that criteria..... How sad!!!!!

I think of the early church age as described in Acts and the rest of the NT; you think they would have had any problems meeting the criteria as set up to be called a "healthy and growing" church??? I think of the great revivals here in America during the 1700 and 1800's; you think they had "healthy and growing" churches during that period???

What is even sadder is thinking of how today's independent, fundamental Baptist churches, of which I am a member, would fare if the same criteria was used to see if they were "healthy and growing." Any guess of what percentage would be found "healthy and growing" if we used this same criteria?

Are you helping your church to be "healthy and growing?"

Ten Rules For Converting Nobody to Christ!!!

1. Let your supreme motive in life be popularity, rather than concern for the salvation of those lost around you.
2. Study to please your self and to make a reputation rather than to please God and share the truth with others.
3. Take up popular, passing and sensational themes to draw a crowd around you, and avoid essential doctrines of salvation in conversation.
4. Denounce sin in the abstract but pass lightly over the sins that prevail in those who surround you.
5. If asked about questionable activities, answer very pleasantly, with no words of warning.
6. Speak on the loveliness of virtue and the glory of Heaven but not on the sinfulness of sin and the terrors of Hell.
7. Reprove the sins of those who are not in your company but make those who are present pleased with themselves so that they will enjoy your presence and not go away with hurt feelings.
8. Make the impression on worldly friends and acquaintances that God is too good to send anyone to Hell, if there is even a Hell.
9. Speak about the universal Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man, so as to show that no second birth is really needed.
10. Do not rebuke the worldliness of the church but fall in with the amusement policy; suggest letting the people "sit down to eat and drink and rise up to play" instead of meeting for prayer or evangelism.

Friend, do your words and actions in everyday life point others to Christ???

The Great Rescue???

Passengers aboard a luxurious cruise ship were having a great time when a young woman fell overboard. Immediately there was an 80-year-old man in the water who rescued her. The crew pulled them both out of the treacherous waters. The captain was grateful as well as astonished that the white-haired old man performed such an act of bravery.

That night a banquet was given in honor of the ship's elderly hero. He was called forward to receive an award and was asked to say a few words.

He said, "First of all, I'd like to know who pushed me."

A pastor from Virginia shared this story on a mailing list earlier this week, adding the following statement;

Maybe some of our people need to be "pushed" into soulwinning....

There are many Christians today who are just too busy.......... while there are others just standing along with the crowd watching while others do the rescuing.

The world is full of people who have yet to hear the Gospel..... they are drowning in sin...... would you willingly go and try to save them on your own...... or do you need a push before you finally go into action?????

If you are in that second category...... I'm PUSHING!!!!!!!!!!

RESCUE THE PERISHING by Fanny Crosby

Rescue the perishing, care for the dying,

Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave;

Weep o’er the erring one, lift up the fallen,

Tell them of Jesus, the mighty to save.

Refrain
Rescue the perishing, care for the dying,

Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save.

Though they are slighting Him, still He is waiting,

Waiting the penitent child to receive;

Plead with them earnestly, plead with them gently;

He will forgive if they only believe.

Refrain

Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter,

Feelings lie buried that grace can restore;

Touched by a loving heart, wakened by kindness,

Chords that were broken will vibrate once more.

Refrain

Rescue the perishing, duty demands it;

Strength for thy labor the Lord will provide;

Back to the narrow way patiently win them;

Tell the poor wand’rer a Savior has died.

Refrain

Legalism, What It Is, and What It Is Not

(Modified from an article found at the Middletown Bible Church website. I found it to be a good contrast of a term many like to throw around, usually in a negative way. The true biblical definition is much different than that used today by many people. Please click the link above to see the full article.)

The term "legalism" or "legalist" is not found in the Bible, but the serious error of legalism is certainly dealt with, especially by the Apostle Paul who ever and always boasted in the cross and championed the grace of God (Gal. 6:14; 1:6). Perhaps the best way to see what Paul had to say about how the flesh wrongly uses the law is to read carefully through the epistle to the Galatians.

Legalism, What It Is

1. It is the deadly error of legalism that teaches that justification or salvation is by the works of the law. Gal. 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
2. The law cannot justify; neither can it sanctify. The law can show us that we are unholy but it can never make us holy. Paul argued strongly that the Christian life must be continued on the basis of faith, not on a legal basis: Holiness does not come by seeking to keep the law in the energy of the flesh. Gal. 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Col 2:6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
3. The believer is not under the law. In fact the believer has died to the law that he might live unto God. Gal. 2:19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. Gal. 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.
4. The believer is not lawless. We died to the law so that we might be married to Christ and out of this relationship we bring forth fruit unto God. The life of a true believer should manifest fruitfulness not lawlessness. Rom. 6:1-2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Rom. 7:4 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. Rom 8:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Legalism, What It Is Not

1. Being obedient to God's specific commands is not legalism. 1 John 2:3-4 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
2. Living a holy life that is set apart unto the Lord's service is not legalism. 1 Thes. 4:3,7 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.
3. Living a life separated unto Christ and separated from the fads and fashions of the world is not legalism. Rom. 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
4. Conforming one's life to be in harmony with certain standards decided upon by Spirit-led leaders of a local assembly of believers is not legalism. Acts 15:29 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
5. Forgoing my personal rights for the sake of my brother is not legalism. Rom. 14:21 It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.

Walking Daily in the Word of God

(Here is an excerpt from Bro. Tim Tomlinson's article in the Faith for the Family Journal, volume one, issue one. The outline is very practical and should be a help to those who faithfully desire to read God's word daily, seeking something from the Lord which will make some impact upon their daily Christian walk.)

1. STOP - Before you open God's word, stop all other activities and remove any distractions. Give the Lord your full attention. Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
2. READ - Read the word of God thoughtfully and carefully. Have a planned reading schedule, and read the passage thoroughly. 1 Tim. 4:13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
3. MEDITATE - Think about what you just read, asking the question, "What is God saying?" Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
4. WRITE - As God by His Spirit speaks to you, take the time to write down the truths you are discovering in His word. Make a record of what God is specifically saying to you. Hab. 2:2 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.
5. PRAY - When you are abiding in the Lord and in His word, you are ready to meet Him in prayer. Our Saviour not only longs to speak to us, He also longs to hear us speak to Him. Luke 18:1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
6. OBEY - God's relevation to us demands a response. His word is to be acted upon. The purpose of knowing the Scriptures is not to obtain knowledge, but to glorify God by living in obedience to His will. Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
7. SHARE - The Holy Spirit will continue to teach us His word if we are willing to pass it along to others. Deliberately share with others the treasures you have found in the Scriptures. Be a living testimony of the power of the word of God. 2 Tim. 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

Woe to the Couch Potato

(Here are some notes from a sermon by Dr. Raymond Barber which was published in the March 9, 2007 issue of The Sword of the Lord. A word of warning, however; this may cause some to be convicted about their current service to God and give them a reason to get off the couch and do something for God!!!)

Amos 6:1-6 Woe to them that are at ease in Zion, and trust in the mountain of Samaria, which are named chief of the nations, to whom the house of Israel came! Pass ye unto Calneh, and see; and from thence go ye to Hamath the great: then go down to Gath of the Philistines: be they better than these kingdoms? or their border greater than your border? Ye that put far away the evil day, and cause the seat of violence to come near; That lie upon beds of ivory, and stretch themselves upon their couches, and eat the lambs out of the flock, and the calves out of the midst of the stall; That chant to the sound of the viol, and invent to themselves instruments of musick, like David; That drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the chief ointments: but they are not grieved for the affliction of Joseph.

In our text, Amos addressed a problem in ancient Israel that is also a plague in modern fundamentalism. Apathy, complacency, neglect, laziness, lukewarmness, lameness, sameness - these are just a few of the select names that could be used to describe fundamental Christianity today. We have allowed so many things to take our time, our energy, our money, our devotion, our affection and our priorities that we are almost amalgamated with everybody else. If we are not different, there is no need to exist. We are different, and we must maintain that difference.

One of the great sins that characterize the saints of our time, in my opinion, is the sin of indifference. Do we really care if men go to Hell? Vance Havner said, "Never before have we had so many degrees in the church and yet so little temperature."

Many pastors today are infected with rocking-chair religion, and thousands of others are carriers, even if they are not personally infected. Let me warn you that there are three temptations that will assail every preacher;

1. The temptation to shine - "Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?" Shining - egotism is the hypodermic that God allows a man to administer to himself to deaden the pain of being a fool. Beware the temptation to shine.
2. The temptation to whine - "Oh, dear God, nobody is left who believes the Bible but me. Nobody is evangelizing but me. Nobody is winning souls." Don't invite God to your pity party; He is too busy to attend.
3. The temptation to recline - "I'll get to it, but I'm just so tired right now." Shine, whine and recline!!!

But, thank God, there is a remedy. There is a guaranteed three-fold prescription that will bring a cure;

1. Go see the Great Physician - To paraphrase the old song, a talk with Jesus will make everything right.
2. Take a full dose of Acts 5:42, "And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ." Note that this is a daily dosage!
3. Walk one block - As you go, stop at every house and witness to somebody about Jesus.

Repeat that every day, and I guarantee it will cure you of rocking-chair religion. We are living in the midst of a generation of preachers (and their congregations) with dry eyes, unbent knees, and folded hands. We have lost the wonder of it all. If we had more "knee-ology" in preparation for preaching instead of settling for just sound theology in our sermons, we would experience more "go-tell-ology."

If we invested a fraction of the time, effort and energy in eternal priorities that we do in earthly pursuits, we would evangelize the world in our own generation. We call ourselves independent, fundamental, Bible-believing, conservative, missions-minded, soul-winning preachers; yet we spend more time with the TV than we do with the KJV. We spend more time primping than praying; more time fishing for compliments than fishing for souls; more time analyzing than agonizing; more time minimizing than mobilizing; more time criticizing, fraternalizing, and patronizing than evangelizing.

God did not save us to sit down and sit, but to get up and "git." Don't you think it is time that we started acting like what we have become? We have become the sons of God; let's start acting like sons, reflecting the Father. We have become saints; let's start living like saints and letting the light of Christ shine through. We have become servants; let us don the servant's robe and start serving.

"Woe to them that are at ease in Zion." The time has come when we must get over our easiness.

1. How can we remain at ease on the couch when the majority of the world's population are going to Hell???
2. How can we remain at ease on the couch when Jesus died to save all men from eternal damnation???
3. How can we remain at ease on the couch when the love of God for sinners is inexhaustible and immeasurable???
4. How can we remain at ease, all cozy on the couch, when time is running out and the return of Jesus is pressing nearer with every day that passes???

Seven Simple Steps for Witnessing to Cultists

1. Control the Encounter.

a. Lead off the discussion in prayer if they will allow it.

b. Pray in Jesus Christ's name, asking that the truth will be made known and received.

c. Ask only questions that you know the truth from scripture and your heart.

2. Stick to the Subject.

a. Stay on topic; WHO GOD IS, WHO JESUS IS, whether there are MANY GODS OR ONE.

b. Be polite. Don't allow the discussion to make you angry.

c. If they are not polite, stop the discussion, thank them, and then move on.

3. Emphasize Jesus Christ.

a. Ask questions about Jesus, backing them up with scripture.

b. Give your testimony about how Jesus Christ has changed your life, and how you KNOW that you are going to Heaven.

4. Always use your Bible to Witness or to Ask Questions.

a. Never let them start going to scripture before you. Have questions prepared in advance.

b. Ask only questions that you know are answered clearly in the Bible.

c. Be confident since you are using God's word.

5. Never Give Up.

A good Christian witness brings the non-Christian that much closer to finding the truth.

6. Close in Prayer, if possible.

Once alone, pray to God about your encounter and reflect on what you said and did.

7. Remember; They are going to Hell already.

They already face the worst that can happen, but the best thing is they might get saved.

How to Detect False Bible Teachers

A false teacher, as referred to in the Bible, is a person who instructs others in unbiblical doctrine.

Scripture verses to read and study:

2 Peter 2:1-3 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

2 Cor. 2:17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.

Acts 20:28-30 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

Titus 1:9-11 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.

2 Cor. 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

Matt. 7:22-23 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

False teachers are exposed by the truth of God's word, who handle it deceitfully, just like Satan did with Jesus. False teachers claim to teach God's word, but they do not teach it in truth.

False Teachers:

1. "Corrupt" the word of God - 2 Cor. 2:17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.
2. Handle "deceitfully" the word of God - 2 Co 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
3. Fail to "rightly divide" the word of God - 2 Tim. 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

How important it is for us to be rooted and grounded in the word of God!!!

Practice What You Preach

You can know all the scriptures,
Have all the bibles you can reach,
But when push comes to shove
Do you practice what you preach?

Anyone can go to church
And collapse on the floor,
But when Judgment Day comes
Will you be at Heaven's door?

You can have the biggest of fits
And say the Holy ghost passed through,
But is that really reflected
In the things you do?

You can yell far and wide
Proclaiming your love for Christ,
But what have you given Him
When for you He gave his life?

You can lecture others
About the wrong things they do,
But before you look at others
You need to look at you.

You can damn all the sinners
Tell them they're headed south,
But what have you done lately
Besides run your mouth?

You can call yourself a Christian
Spend all your days at church,
But while you are praising His name,
Have you been doing the Lord's work?

You can boast of good deeds
To show us the spirit is within
But why show it to us?
You should show it to Him!

You can memorize the bible
Know it from front to back,
But you don't use it to regulate others
Regulate how you act!

Take a good look at yourself
Not at what others do,
Because when He comes to get his children ...
Will He be coming for you too?

Author Unknown

A Self-examination for Church Members

What kind of church would my church be..... if every person were just like me?

How many worship services would we have had this year if everyone had stayed at home when I did?

How many times would an evening service or special meeting have been omitted if no one had gone except when I was there?

How many times would the Sunday School have met if they had met only when I attended?

How much Christian instruction would the children of our community receive if everyone showed as much interest in it as I do?

How many of my neighbors would have been invited to worship or welcomed into the church if everyone invited as many as I have?

How many prayers would have been offered for my pastor, the church staff, my neighbors, and my church, if every one prayed as I do?

How many times would the Gospel of Jesus Christ been shared with others?

What kind of church would my church be..... if every person were just like me???

No Condemnation!!!

Rom. 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

"No condemnation!" Can it be
This message sweet is meant for me?
For me who, but for God's free grace,
Would occupy the sinner's place?

"No condemnation!" When, and how?
The word is clearly written - "Now."
Tis wrought through Christ, and Christ alone;
Naught but His blood can sin atone.

"No condemnation!" Fully free!
Though Satan cast his darts at me,
Accuse me oft, and try me sore,
In Christ I stand condemned no more.

"No condemnation!" No more dread
That God's fierce wrath will touch my head.
His Word is true; His promise, sure;
It shall forever more endure.

"No condemnation!" Joy untold!
My heart cannot its praise withhold
From Him who freely bore for me
My condemnation, set me free!

Georgia Knick Horne

Are You The Man of Vision, or The Man of Ambition???

1. The Man of Vision begins with God, while the Man of Ambition begins with man.
2. The Man of Vision does a work of faith, while the Man of Ambition does a work of sight.
3. The Man of Vision believes "If it is right, God will bless it," while the Man of Ambition believes, "If it works, it must be right."
4. The Man of Vision is obedient to God, while the Man of Ambition is in competition with others.
5. The Man of Vision desires God to be glorified, while the Man of Ambition desires approval of man.
6. The Man of Vision is Christ-centered, while the Man of Ambition is man-centered.
7. The Man of Vision serves God, while the Man of Ambition serves self.
8. The Man of Vision lives a life of "simplicity and godly sincerity" (2 Cor. 1:12), while the Man of Ambition lives a life of complexity.

These are two totally different ways of life.

Friend, which path have you taken???

Some "NEVER'S" for the Christian

1. Never say "No" when God says "Yes."
2. Never underestimate the power of a kind word.
3. Never forget the rock from which you are hewn.
4. Never slander another's character.
5. Never betray another's confidence.
6. Never install doubt in the mind of a child.
7. Never use a public forum to reprimand when a private confrontation would serve the end better.
8. Never intimidate a child.
9. Never confuse biblical convictions with personal preferences.
10. Never condone evil, however good the end may seem.
11. Never compromise the truth.
12. Never mock at sin.
13. Never desecrate the holy.
14. Never disappoint God.
15. Never be derelict in duty.
16. Never distort facts.
17. Never placate a guilty conscience.
18. Never orchestrate a shady deal.
19. Never profane the sacred.
20. Never send a wrong signal.

by Dr. Raymond Barber

Religion or Salvation??? Which Have Ye???

Acts 4:12, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

At certain seasons of the year, we find many religious celebrations being conducted. We find that the natural man wants to be religious and at times will do many things thinking that he is performing an act of worship unto God. But the Word of God teaches that religion is not salvation! The Word of God teaches that you can be religious and miss heaven! Our text teaches us that there is not salvation in any other name than the name of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Our text teaches us that there is none other name given under heaven whereby we can be saved. You are saved by Jesus Christ or you are not saved!

How clear and concise. There should be neither confusion nor contradiction. There are many names under heaven in which we can find religion; but salvation can be found in one only, and that is the name of Jesus Christ.

There is no salvation in priests, prophets, penance or prayers, but only in Christ. You may have your service and sacraments, churches and charities, tears and treasure, ritual and reformation, but all are powerless to produce eternal life. The Word of God tells us in I John 5:11,12, "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."

Men are willing to give head knowledge to the claims of Christianity, but they refuse to accept in their hearts the Christ of Christianity.

Men and women are willing to take the high place in the work and ritual of the church; while refusing to take the low place of guilty sinners needing a sinner's salvation.

Men and women are willing to believe in the moral precepts of God's Word, as based on the Ten Commandments; while refusing to believe in, rest on, and receive God's Son as Savior to their souls.

RELIGION is the improvement of the old nature. SALVATION is the imparting of a new nature through receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The Word of God tells us in John 1:12, "As many as received him (Christ), to them gave he power to become the sons of God."

RELIGION clothes us with the robes of our own righteousness and God tells us in Isaiah that our righteousness is as a filthy rag. SALVATION clothes us in the perfect righteousness of Christ, which alone can make us acceptable in the sight of God. God's Word tells us in Titus 3:5, "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us."

RELIGION is what man does for God; SALVATION is what God does for man. Isaiah 53:6 tells us, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him (Christ) the iniquity of us all."

RELIGION says: Something in my hand I bring. SALVATION says: Nothing in my hand I bring. Ephesians 2:8,9 says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.”

RELIGION is trusting in a work we do. SALVATION is trusting in a work that has been done. Hebrews 10:10, "By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

RELIGION depends on our behaving. SALVATION depends on our believing. Acts 16:31, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."

RELIGION says we must act our best. SALVATION says we must accept God's best. Romans 6:23, "The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

RELIGION depends on the sufficiency of character. SALVATION depends on the Sacrifice of the Cross. I Cor. 1:18, "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."

RELIGION tries to furnish a sacrifice. SALVATION trusts in a finished sacrifice. John 19:30, "When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, IT IS FINISHED: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost."

RELIGION is striving for a better attainment. SALVATION is secured through a perfect atonement. I Peter 1:18,19, "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot."

RELIGION tries to bring us from darkness to light. SALVATION does bring us from death unto Life. John 5:24, "He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life."

RELIGION says we must be found in God's house. SALVATION says we must "Be found in Him (Christ), not having” our “own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ." Philippians 3:9.

Again I remind you of our text: "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

My dear friends, do you have Religion or Salvation? If you only have religion, then you will miss heaven and spend eternity apart from God and His son in a place of torment. If you have salvation, you now have the promise of eternal life with God and His Son forevermore.

Beware of Home School Demons

(This article was posted on another mailing list today and I thought I would share it with my faithful blog readers. This one really hits home, as my wife and I have been homeschooling our children now for seventeen years. We have been guilty of some of these areas from time to time and have had to repent and get back on track!!! This is a good checklist to make sure we keep the proper attitude in this area of educating our children.)

Much has been said in the debate on education about public schooling versus home schooling. The issues range from who is really responsible for the education of children, who can best educate them, and the problem of "socialization" for home schooled children, to name a few. From my experience, the socialization that takes place in school settings is usually a major problem itself.

Concerning the public government school system, much has been said about revamping, restructuring and renewing the system. All such talk is nonsense and misses the mark. To speak of fixing the system is tantamount to arguing over how to repair a watch that has been smashed under the tire of an eighteen wheeler. Replacement is the issue, not repair. And that is exactly what home schooling parents have chosen to do. Replace the broken government school system with an effective system known as home education. Thank God for the freedom parents have to exercise the God given responsibility to educate their children.

However, home education in itself does not guarantee quality education. The quality of education provided in the home will be determined by the education of the parents(to a degree) and their commitment(key word) to providing a God centered, holistic education with a true biblical world view, characterized by consistency. I believe home education is superior to the God-excluding government program offered in the current system. I am a home school parent, so naturally you would not expect me to say anything different. With that said, however, let's be realistic about some "demons" that can appear and hinder or destroy the effectiveness of home education.

1. Lack of commitment. No one should begin home education unless they are absolutely committed to following through. It may seem like an easy alternative to some who pull their children from school because they are failing. But if they are failing in a public school, and the cause of failure is rooted in lack of commitment from the parents to initially support and assist their children, it will only get worse in home education, because it requires serious dedication.
2. Not enough structure. I notice a tendency among some home schooling parents to be too laid back. Since home education is not "formal" education (and why shouldn't it be) requirements are sometimes not tough enough (and this can depend of the parents), schedules are not followed, deadlines are not always met and curriculum not completed.
3. Lack of accountability. If some deadlines are not met and some requirements not enforced, who is going to know? If a parent tends to be too laid back with not enough structure, always waiting for that "teachable moment", lack of accountability adds to the problem. Teachable moments are a reality and are great, but structure and accountability are "evils" that are necessary. Besides, we don't wait for "eatable" moments and depend on "sleepable" moments, but schedule them.
4. Denial of reality. Though I believe some real learning disabilities exist, they are not near as common as the purveyors of Ritalin would have us believe. But there can be a tendency among home school parents to go in denial about a legitimate problem that may exist, thinking, hoping, and praying that home schooling in and of itself will effect the remedy. Home schooling is superior, but is not a cure-all, fix-all remedy for real processing problems, genuine cases of dyslexia, etc.
5. Arrogance. Here is a demon that Satan can use in a subtle way. "Our home school kids are better than the heathen in public government schools"

Actually, home school kids have the same level of depravity as all kids. They are inherently no better than other kids, but certainly have a better opportunity for a superior God centered education and less exposure to ungodliness than kids in government and private so-called Christian schools. Perspective will help keep this demon at bay.

Joseph Harris

At The Crossroads

He stood at the crossroads all alone,

With the sunrise in his face;

He had no thought for the world unknown,

He was set for a manly race.

But the road stretched east and the road stretched west,

And the boy did not know which road was the best,

So he took a wrong road, and his life went down,

And he lost the race and the victor's crown;

He was caught at last in a sinful snare,

Because no one stood at the crossroads there,

To show him the better road.

Another day at the selfsame place,

A boy with high hopes stood;

He, too, was set for a manly race,

He was seeking the things that were good.

But one was there who the roads did know,

And that one showed him which way to go;

So he turned away from the road that went down,

And he won the race and the victor's crown.

He walks today on the Highway fair,

Because one stood at the crossroads there,

To show him the better road.

Author Unknown

Are you stationed at the crossroads, pointing people to the right road???

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Saved to Serve

2 Cor. 5:14-20 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

1. We are not here merely to learn, but to lift - Gal. 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
2. We are not here just to absorb, but to give forth - Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
3. We are not here to be ministered unto, but to minister - Mark 10:35-45 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire. And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you? They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory. But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized: But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared. And when the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased with James and John. But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
4. We are not here just to be served, but to serve others - John 21:15-17 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
5. We are not here to hinder, but to help - Mark 14:3-9 And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her. And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me. For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always. She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.
6. We are not here to be a burden to others, but to bear the burden of others - Gal. 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
7. We are not here to stand on the sidelines and criticize the players, but to get into the game and help win the victory - Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

T. Myron Webb

When Christians Destroy

(Here is a post of interest to my readers from my friend Ray Purdue's blog. Click on the title above to follow a link to his blogsite, The OpenDoor News.)

Part of life is realizing that we are all human. Everyone at some point in time will make a mistake. That is a guarantee, and we need to get used to it. The greatest Christian is not perfect, and cannot be as long as he or she walks in this flesh. Even they fall from time to time. But, many times we forget.

I have witnessed many times where Christians, and even entire churches, rise up against a brother or a sister who has fallen by the way. Instead of helping that person get up, we surround them and throw stones at them, kick them and beat them, so that they may "see the error of their way." We think it is out duty to discipline them, and seem to take pleasure in giving out that measure of "discipline". We think we are the "righteous" ones and that we must make examples out of our "wicked" brethren.

Instead of helping them, we drive them away. There are some good people who cannot bring themselves to go back to church because they were hurt in this fashion. Instead of going to see the wounded, we talk about them at our "services". Instead of lifting them up to God, we cut them down before one another.

Much too often we listen to and believe what we "hear", instead of finding out the facts. We are always ready to believe a juicy piece of gossip, and dismiss the truth as lies and hearsay. We become Pharisaical bands of wolves seeking our next wounded prey to tear limb from limb. Good Christian people have their names ruined and are run out of churches; preachers are run out of town, and have their names smeared.

Those that do such things are either, weak or not saved at all. How can a child of God do such things, I ask? Many churches have ceased to be fortresses of the truth, and simply become meeting stations for wolves to gather and hunt for their next victim.

I can understand why some people will not go to church. Yes, they are saved, but they have been hurt severely by a group calling itself a "church". They no longer trust preachers, and do not trust other churches. Too many of us have blood on our hands, and we destroy more every day. Unless you have been hurt by someone, then you have no way of understanding how a person can feel this way.

The Bible has much to say about these bands of wolves that are helping Satan to destroy the Church. For sake of space and time, I'll mention a few of those from Proverbs.

There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness. Proverbs 30:12

Those who attack the wounded, are that "generation" mention in Proverbs 30:12. You cannot claim to be an angel, yet act like a devil. So what if you go to church? Who cares that you give money, go "visiting", or do a host of other "Christian" things? You are as filthy as any unrepentant devil worshipper.

Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place: For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief. Proverbs 24:15-16

Back off! You may think you are getting away with your blood lust, but your day is coming. The righteous may and will fall. But he'll get back up. You may kick him when he's down, destroy his name, and destroy his life, but your mischief will catch up to you. God will reward you for your evil work.

An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbor: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered. He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbor: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. Proverbs 11:9, 11-12

Many say they are Christians, and are not. An hypocrite, one who says he is a Christian, but is not, is the one that will attack and destroy one who is a Christian. And every time it is done with the mouth. Also, a lack of wisdom on our part will cause us to despise others. When you have wisdom - the wisdom that God gives - you will keep your mouth closed, and help that fellow Christian back up, instead of tearing him down.

These six things doth the LORD hate; yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among the breathren. Proverbs 6:16-19

That very famous passage of Scripture describes the actions of those "destroying 'Christians'". Those are the people we should be on the lookout for and run off, not the fallen Christians. Instead of joining their hateful schemes, we should oppose them at every turn, and let them know that they are not welcome in our churches. If we do not, then they will corrupt every single church.

Finally, here are some things we need to do for the fallen, and these will be done for us when we fall:

1. Put yourself in their place. Don't forget that you are human too, and that you could have been the one making the mistake that others are making such a big deal out of. Also, get the truth, don't depend on what "others" have told you, and do not believe everything you hear.
2. Pray for them. Lift them up before God, instead of cutting them down before others. If you want to talk about somebody, talk about them to God. Quit acting like a wolf.
3. Lift them up - encourage them. Help them get back on their feet. If you were the one who fell, you would want someone to do the same for you.
4. Help them get back on track. Let them know they are not alone, and they are not the only ones who made a mistake. This will give them the desire to stay in church, and not get discouraged and leave.
5. Stop beating them senseless. It's not your job to discipline, that belongs to God and God alone. Even if it were your job, you would be guilty of abuse. Whenever a Christian stumbles, we think we should break their arms and legs for the offence.

It's time Christians got right with God, and started helping the wounded soldiers, instead of shooting them in the back.

At Last!!! Evolution Bible Version

Now you can see why I hold to the King James Bible as the final authority as the word of God for the English speaking people - they have finally come out with a "bible" for those who believe in evolution. Look at these links both detailing the same "bible" from World Net Daily and The Christian Post:

http://wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=54518

http://www.christianpost.com:80/article/20070302/26077.htm

Little by little changes have been made to make the word of God "more understandable" (funny thing, as the modern school system puts out more and more less educated students in comparison to the days of the old fashioned one-room school house), incorporating all the more recent scientific evidence (especially the tomb of Christ with his wife and child) and the modern scholarly biblical manuscripts studies, especially during the last fifty years. Now, there is nothing but confusion to the "young" Christian who enters the "Christian" bookstore and stares at the vast variety of available bibles to purchase; he only wants to read and study the truth of God.... but alas, his faith is easily made waverable by the advice of the modern pastor or church leader or bible scholar who says; "Just pick any of them; they all are the same and contain all the foundational thoughts of God. Simply read the words and allow God to speak the truth to you...."

What happened to the days of common sense; step back and view the picture of what is going on today, and tell me if any of this vast variety of God's Truth found in any bible makes sense??? Did God intend to make us search for which one is really His word so that we would spend a lifetime struggling to discern and separate truth from error, simply to follow His commands and guide each step of our life and share this truth with others who need Him??? Or does Satan, who first twisted God's words in the Garden of Eden while speaking to Eve, continue to bring doubt and confusion of who God really is and what He wants us to do with our lives??? Does Satan want us to spend more time debating about which Bible is God's word than share the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world. As the Gospel is presented to the lost man, does Satan bring to his mind all the many different bibles and the many different denominations of the Christian faith, leading him to believe that these Christians are dumb and don't even know what they believe?

Those of you who don't hold to an -only position have no grounds to fight this one. If you can use the modern version you want, they can use the modern version they want.

What do you think??? Are you an -only (place your version of choice before the only) or a many???

God's Servant

We read in the opening verse of several books in the New Testament the writer's statement that he is a servant of Jesus Christ. Listed below are some examples of this fact:

Jude 1:1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:

2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

James 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.

Romans 1:1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

Let us consider several things about the servant and his life as found in the Holy Scripture.

God's Servant

1. A servant is a purchased possession - Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 1 Cor. 7:23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. Eph. 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
2. A servant serves his master well: a) willingly - 2 Cor. 8:12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. b) obediently - Eph 6:5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; c) diligently or heartily - Col. 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; d) honorably - 1 Tim. 6:1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed. e) peaceably - 2 Tim. 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
3. A servant is rewarded for his labors - 1 Cor. 3:8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. Col. 3:24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. 2 John 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Rev. 22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
4. A servant is not greater than his master - John 13:16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. John 15:20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

My desire as a Christian is to be a servant of the Lord, hearing at the end of my life for Him these words from my Saviour, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Friend, what about you???