12/22/25 BELIEVING DOES NOT MAKE A LIE BECOME TRUTH
Along with something else I recently said, you can believe in as many gods as you want to, but you cannot believe there is more than one God if you are a Christian. It is impossible to be a Christian and believe there is more than one God.
Those who believe that there are multiple gods should call themselves by the name of their religion, and they should not pretend that they are Christians.
It is dishonest to claim to be a Christian if you do not believe what the Bible says about God. It is inaccurate to claim to be a Christian if you don't believe what the Bible says about God. It is identity theft (taking the name of God in vain), it is deception and blasphemy.
It is a major mistake to believe anyone who tells you that Christians believe there is more than one God. If they lie to you or if they are so ignorant about such a foundational truth, then they are not worthy to teach or lead anyone. And no one should be so gullible that they believe the errors spouted by another person.
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
12/18/25 ALL THAT GLITTERS IS NOT...
12/18/25 ALL THAT GLITTERS IS NOT...
This post is "sketchy" (not qualitatively, but quantitatively).
You can believe what you want to believe, but you cannot be a Christian if you do not believe what the Bible says.
You can be a Mormon, but you cannot be a Christian and a Mormon at the same time, since a Christian believes the Bible as the only and final source of Divine authority.
Any teaching that contradicts the Bible is opposed to the word of God.
Brother Wade and I witnessed to a man yesterday (we will call him Mr. X). Mr. X told us about the many struggles he has faced in his life. This is not unusual when we witness to people. We care about them and their lives, and they understand our concern. After listening closely to his extensive problems, brother Wade asked him about his relationship with the Lord in the midst of all those troubles. Mr. X then gave a detailed account of his becoming a Mormon. This came out of left field and surprised us.
He told us that years ago, he had been visited by two Mormon "Elders" (missionaries). Per their instruction, he came to the conclusion that the Book of Mormon was the revelation of God. He mentioned several false beliefs during his lengthy statement. One error was the idea that Joseph Smith had to have divine instruction to write the Book of Mormon. He gave several faulty reasons for his belief.
I gave Mr. X the opportunity to explain his beliefs clearly, and then I interjected a Biblical response to his misplaced confidence.
I did not address Joseph Smith's plagiarizing the Bible and other writings of his day. This is a good point to make, but it relies on authorities aside from the Biblical record, and I wanted to present a Biblical argument only.
I told Mr. X (with examples), that over a period of many years, I had talked to a large number of Mormon "Elders" about this very subject and told him that without exception, the "Elders" had informed me that they believed "there is only one God." I would ask them several times, and they would repeat their assertion. I would finally tell the Mormon "Elders" that I knew what they actually believed, and after more denial, they would finally admit that they believe there is more than one god. I told Mr. X that the Mormon "Elders" had deliberately lied to me on those occasions. They knew full well that they believed in many gods, but they knew it would create a barrier between us (At this point his mind lost contact with what I was saying because he was trying to give me his canned Mormon answers, which are not grounded in the Bible, or history, or other facts.) His response was that I was mistaken about Mormon beliefs and that he never met an "Elder" that said the things that I said they told to me. I told Mr. X I was not surprised that they had not told him, but that this was their belief, nonetheless.
I won't go into the many errors we discussed, but it was interesting and sad to see a person who was so thoroughly misled that he could not even think clearly about facts, truth, revelation, logic. laws of interpretation, linguistics or history.
Mr. X would make blatantly erroneous statements concerning Biblical passages.
I would tell him that the Bible does not say what he claimed it said.
He would try to find evidence for his position by using his phone. Then he would not understand why he could not find what he had asserted.
I would tell him he could not find it in the Bible because it is not in the Bible.
I would then tell him to ask his phone if the Bible says there is only one God.
He asked, and the answer was, "Yes. The Bible says there is only one God." He was still perplexed.
I told him to ask his phone if the Bible says there is more than one true God.
He asked and his search said, "No." He became even mor perplexed and disconnected.
Though he denied that Mormons believe the Mormon "father god" was once a man and became a god, he did say that Jesus as a son of god (admitting that Mormonism teaches their "father god" had other sons, including Lucifer [Satan]).
He went on to say that "begotten" simply and strictly means "born."
Brother Wade pointed out that "only begotten," as used in John 3:16, means unique, one of a kind.
Of course, brother Wade was right, but Mr. X would not even accept the reality of sound hermeneutics, linguistics in Bible translation. He claimed that Bible translation is only human opinion and human opinion is wrong.
I agreed that legitimate Bible translators have opinions, but legitimate translations are based on scholarship rather than personal opinions.
Mr. X said that scholarship is "crap." (I don't use the word, which is a euphemism for human waste, but I am quoting Mr. X).
I repeated his words back to him and he agreed, "scholarship is crap."
I said, "Well, that explains why you believe Mormonism."
Isn't it strange that a person would criticize Biblical, linguistic, historical, cultural, theological scholarship (evidence) as being "crap," while blindly accepting the self-contradictory and unsubstantiated teaching of a faulty religion, and even accepting the teaching of a stranger who is only in his or her 20s as being accurate concerning information, on which our eternal destiny depends?
Mr. X continued to become more self-contradictory and disconnected.
Mr. X was probably the most conversant Mormon I have ever met, though he was also greatly misinformed by his Mormon teachers. He is the victim of Mormon theology and other Mormon deceptions. He does not even know what Mormonism actually teaches. He does not know what the Bible says and he certainly does not know the facts of, or the importance of original languages in translation.
There were other subjects discussed. My whole point was to get him to see that Mormonism denies and denounces Biblical revelation. He can be a Mormon if he wants to be, but he cannot be a Mormon and a Bible believer at the same time.
At some point I did tell him that throughout all the decades I have been talking to innumerable Mormon "Elders," that I invited to come back for a follow up discussion. They usually (if not always) said they were interested and they would come back. Like the Kingston Trio said in their song, THEY HAVE NEVER RETURNED. They lied to me. They lied to me about their beliefs, and they lied to me about their willingness to come back and talk more about Biblical Christianity.
My point is, you cannot trust a person who lies to you, and especially a person who lies to you about their beliefs in God.
Mr. X said that he liked the discussion we had and would be interested in further discussion. I gave him my card (he would not accept a Gospel tract I was offering him), and I invited him to call me sometime. I doubt he will.
If you have questions about Mormonism, let me know. Maybe we can talk about it.
You can believe what you want to believe, but you cannot be a Christian if you do not believe what the Bible says.
You can be a Mormon, but you cannot be a Christian and a Mormon at the same time, since a Christian believes the Bible as the only and final source of Divine authority.
Any teaching that contradicts the Bible is opposed to the word of God.
Brother Wade and I witnessed to a man yesterday (we will call him Mr. X). Mr. X told us about the many struggles he has faced in his life. This is not unusual when we witness to people. We care about them and their lives, and they understand our concern. After listening closely to his extensive problems, brother Wade asked him about his relationship with the Lord in the midst of all those troubles. Mr. X then gave a detailed account of his becoming a Mormon. This came out of left field and surprised us.
He told us that years ago, he had been visited by two Mormon "Elders" (missionaries). Per their instruction, he came to the conclusion that the Book of Mormon was the revelation of God. He mentioned several false beliefs during his lengthy statement. One error was the idea that Joseph Smith had to have divine instruction to write the Book of Mormon. He gave several faulty reasons for his belief.
I gave Mr. X the opportunity to explain his beliefs clearly, and then I interjected a Biblical response to his misplaced confidence.
I did not address Joseph Smith's plagiarizing the Bible and other writings of his day. This is a good point to make, but it relies on authorities aside from the Biblical record, and I wanted to present a Biblical argument only.
I told Mr. X (with examples), that over a period of many years, I had talked to a large number of Mormon "Elders" about this very subject and told him that without exception, the "Elders" had informed me that they believed "there is only one God." I would ask them several times, and they would repeat their assertion. I would finally tell the Mormon "Elders" that I knew what they actually believed, and after more denial, they would finally admit that they believe there is more than one god. I told Mr. X that the Mormon "Elders" had deliberately lied to me on those occasions. They knew full well that they believed in many gods, but they knew it would create a barrier between us (At this point his mind lost contact with what I was saying because he was trying to give me his canned Mormon answers, which are not grounded in the Bible, or history, or other facts.) His response was that I was mistaken about Mormon beliefs and that he never met an "Elder" that said the things that I said they told to me. I told Mr. X I was not surprised that they had not told him, but that this was their belief, nonetheless.
I won't go into the many errors we discussed, but it was interesting and sad to see a person who was so thoroughly misled that he could not even think clearly about facts, truth, revelation, logic. laws of interpretation, linguistics or history.
Mr. X would make blatantly erroneous statements concerning Biblical passages.
I would tell him that the Bible does not say what he claimed it said.
He would try to find evidence for his position by using his phone. Then he would not understand why he could not find what he had asserted.
I would tell him he could not find it in the Bible because it is not in the Bible.
I would then tell him to ask his phone if the Bible says there is only one God.
He asked, and the answer was, "Yes. The Bible says there is only one God." He was still perplexed.
I told him to ask his phone if the Bible says there is more than one true God.
He asked and his search said, "No." He became even mor perplexed and disconnected.
Though he denied that Mormons believe the Mormon "father god" was once a man and became a god, he did say that Jesus as a son of god (admitting that Mormonism teaches their "father god" had other sons, including Lucifer [Satan]).
He went on to say that "begotten" simply and strictly means "born."
Brother Wade pointed out that "only begotten," as used in John 3:16, means unique, one of a kind.
Of course, brother Wade was right, but Mr. X would not even accept the reality of sound hermeneutics, linguistics in Bible translation. He claimed that Bible translation is only human opinion and human opinion is wrong.
I agreed that legitimate Bible translators have opinions, but legitimate translations are based on scholarship rather than personal opinions.
Mr. X said that scholarship is "crap." (I don't use the word, which is a euphemism for human waste, but I am quoting Mr. X).
I repeated his words back to him and he agreed, "scholarship is crap."
I said, "Well, that explains why you believe Mormonism."
Isn't it strange that a person would criticize Biblical, linguistic, historical, cultural, theological scholarship (evidence) as being "crap," while blindly accepting the self-contradictory and unsubstantiated teaching of a faulty religion, and even accepting the teaching of a stranger who is only in his or her 20s as being accurate concerning information, on which our eternal destiny depends?
Mr. X continued to become more self-contradictory and disconnected.
Mr. X was probably the most conversant Mormon I have ever met, though he was also greatly misinformed by his Mormon teachers. He is the victim of Mormon theology and other Mormon deceptions. He does not even know what Mormonism actually teaches. He does not know what the Bible says and he certainly does not know the facts of, or the importance of original languages in translation.
There were other subjects discussed. My whole point was to get him to see that Mormonism denies and denounces Biblical revelation. He can be a Mormon if he wants to be, but he cannot be a Mormon and a Bible believer at the same time.
At some point I did tell him that throughout all the decades I have been talking to innumerable Mormon "Elders," that I invited to come back for a follow up discussion. They usually (if not always) said they were interested and they would come back. Like the Kingston Trio said in their song, THEY HAVE NEVER RETURNED. They lied to me. They lied to me about their beliefs, and they lied to me about their willingness to come back and talk more about Biblical Christianity.
My point is, you cannot trust a person who lies to you, and especially a person who lies to you about their beliefs in God.
Mr. X said that he liked the discussion we had and would be interested in further discussion. I gave him my card (he would not accept a Gospel tract I was offering him), and I invited him to call me sometime. I doubt he will.
If you have questions about Mormonism, let me know. Maybe we can talk about it.
12/18/25 EACH GENERATION MATTERS
12/18/25 EACH GENERATION MATTERS
I am thankful for the One who brought me through the storm, and for those who prayed for me in the midst of my storm.
This is personal, but I am glad to shout it from the housetop.
As some of you know, I suffered a major physical setback three years ago. I not only looked like I was in trouble, but the doctors and the hospital staff acknowledged the looming threat of my condition.
I have enjoyed a very definite touch of God in my life since then. God is good. But while I was finishing up my daily walk last night, I thought about my present condition and how far God has brought me.
I also thought about the people who love me and prayed for me. Though I do not know everyone who called on God on my behalf, I do know that He heard your prayers.
I know the folks in our church lifted me up, and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate their support.
Of course, my family prayed, and I don't take that for granted. I am blessed to have family members who care about me.
And, as always, Martha was praying and providing the support, love, energy patience I needed, without complaint.
But I especially want to mention how much I appreciate the love and prayers of my grandchildren, who called on God for me. I know they had a part in God delivering and restoring me. They still remember their visits with me in the hospital. It was a time of seriousness. It was evident that we could have been on the edge of an earthly goodbye. But they prayed, and their fervent prayers were heard.
I am glad for God's touch. I am glad to still enjoy my life with my beautiful and wonderful wife. I am glad to have the family time with children and their spouses. I am glad to be able to fellowship with fellow church folks and to have the opportunity to be their friend and to serve as their pastor. And I am glad to be able to enjoy and love and minister to my grandchildren, who have been with me in those very difficult days.
I am thankful for the One who brought me through the storm, and for those who prayed for me in the midst of my storm.
This is personal, but I am glad to shout it from the housetop.
As some of you know, I suffered a major physical setback three years ago. I not only looked like I was in trouble, but the doctors and the hospital staff acknowledged the looming threat of my condition.
I have enjoyed a very definite touch of God in my life since then. God is good. But while I was finishing up my daily walk last night, I thought about my present condition and how far God has brought me.
I also thought about the people who love me and prayed for me. Though I do not know everyone who called on God on my behalf, I do know that He heard your prayers.
I know the folks in our church lifted me up, and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate their support.
Of course, my family prayed, and I don't take that for granted. I am blessed to have family members who care about me.
And, as always, Martha was praying and providing the support, love, energy patience I needed, without complaint.
But I especially want to mention how much I appreciate the love and prayers of my grandchildren, who called on God for me. I know they had a part in God delivering and restoring me. They still remember their visits with me in the hospital. It was a time of seriousness. It was evident that we could have been on the edge of an earthly goodbye. But they prayed, and their fervent prayers were heard.
I am glad for God's touch. I am glad to still enjoy my life with my beautiful and wonderful wife. I am glad to have the family time with children and their spouses. I am glad to be able to fellowship with fellow church folks and to have the opportunity to be their friend and to serve as their pastor. And I am glad to be able to enjoy and love and minister to my grandchildren, who have been with me in those very difficult days.
12/18/25 RESETTING YOUR "ROUTINE"
12/18/25 RESETTING YOUR "ROUTINE"
I had to adjust my workout schedule recently. (This is an illustration of something much greater than physical training).
I work to maintain and improve what good health I have. (Of course, the Biblical principle is applicable [we do the planting, but God gives the increase]).
Almost a month ago I reached a personal bench press goal of 175#. This was a milestone in my health recovery and an encouragement for my future well-being.
However, I am 78 years old, and it takes me longer to recover after a strenuous workout. My body knows this, but my mind still thinks I am 37. After I maxed out at 175#, I was weaker and actually had congestion problems; therefore, it took me two weeks before I resumed my weight routine. I actually questioned if I would be able to recover and progress in my health and strength.
As a result, I rethought my schedule and sets and reps. Not only do I not "bounce back" as quickly as before, I also lose more ground when I have injuries or setbacks. I resumed my exercise routine after a couple of weeks of recuperation. I settled for a slower and lower level, but I soon found out I was on a comeback. However, it is important to recognize legitimate limitations and set reasonable goals. With God's calling comes God's enabling.
I realize that my opportunities are not the same as they were earlier in my life. As the song says, "That was yesterday, and yesterday's gone." Though former opportunities may be unattainable now, God has new directives for present opportunities. I can't recover those times, or lost opportunities, but I can "redeem the time" (start making good use of what time I have left).
I can't lift what I would have been able to lift; I can't reach the people that I could have reached, therefore, I must adjust to my new reality. I can't allow my missed opportunities to rob me of my present and future opportunities. Though I may not have the same abilities I use to have, I now have assets that I did not have in the past. Also, now I can teach, direct, instruct and warn younger people about the pitfalls and the possibilities they face.
I encourage everyone and especially young people, be all you can for Jesus, do all you can for Jesus and give yourself fully to pursuing all of God's will for your life, for the rest of your life. By doing this you will avoid many disasters, heartaches, regrets. We can only live one moment at a time, choose to live your life in the Spirit and your life will count for God's glory, forever.
I had to adjust my workout schedule recently. (This is an illustration of something much greater than physical training).
I work to maintain and improve what good health I have. (Of course, the Biblical principle is applicable [we do the planting, but God gives the increase]).
Almost a month ago I reached a personal bench press goal of 175#. This was a milestone in my health recovery and an encouragement for my future well-being.
However, I am 78 years old, and it takes me longer to recover after a strenuous workout. My body knows this, but my mind still thinks I am 37. After I maxed out at 175#, I was weaker and actually had congestion problems; therefore, it took me two weeks before I resumed my weight routine. I actually questioned if I would be able to recover and progress in my health and strength.
As a result, I rethought my schedule and sets and reps. Not only do I not "bounce back" as quickly as before, I also lose more ground when I have injuries or setbacks. I resumed my exercise routine after a couple of weeks of recuperation. I settled for a slower and lower level, but I soon found out I was on a comeback. However, it is important to recognize legitimate limitations and set reasonable goals. With God's calling comes God's enabling.
I realize that my opportunities are not the same as they were earlier in my life. As the song says, "That was yesterday, and yesterday's gone." Though former opportunities may be unattainable now, God has new directives for present opportunities. I can't recover those times, or lost opportunities, but I can "redeem the time" (start making good use of what time I have left).
I can't lift what I would have been able to lift; I can't reach the people that I could have reached, therefore, I must adjust to my new reality. I can't allow my missed opportunities to rob me of my present and future opportunities. Though I may not have the same abilities I use to have, I now have assets that I did not have in the past. Also, now I can teach, direct, instruct and warn younger people about the pitfalls and the possibilities they face.
I encourage everyone and especially young people, be all you can for Jesus, do all you can for Jesus and give yourself fully to pursuing all of God's will for your life, for the rest of your life. By doing this you will avoid many disasters, heartaches, regrets. We can only live one moment at a time, choose to live your life in the Spirit and your life will count for God's glory, forever.
12/18/25 SET OUR EYES ON THE GOAL
12/18/25 SET OUR EYES ON THE GOAL
After going to bed @ 11:30 pm Wednesday night, I realized I had missed my 10,000 steps by 1.3 miles. I hate to miss my goals, so I jumped out of bed and started stepping. I only had 25 minutes to reach my goal. It was going to be close, but I figured I could do it if I gave it my best shot.
Praise the Lord. At 3.4 mph, I finished my steps before midnight, with 1 minute and 20 seconds to spare.
Setting goals is crucial, and reaching them is equally important. Success leads to success. Success builds confidence and assurance. Whatever we do, we should do unto the Lord. We should be determined to make it a habit to obey and please God in everything.
I realize that my hope and my help (as in "deliverance"); are from the Lord. He is my strength and my shield and my song. He is my all in all.
If I "succeed," He is the reason for my victory. When I suffer loss, He is still my victory. I am more than a conqueror through Christ. God causes me to always triumph in Christ.
I am the earthen vessel; He is the glorious Treasure.
Find God's will, commit your way to the Lord, and God will lead and enable you.
After going to bed @ 11:30 pm Wednesday night, I realized I had missed my 10,000 steps by 1.3 miles. I hate to miss my goals, so I jumped out of bed and started stepping. I only had 25 minutes to reach my goal. It was going to be close, but I figured I could do it if I gave it my best shot.
Praise the Lord. At 3.4 mph, I finished my steps before midnight, with 1 minute and 20 seconds to spare.
Setting goals is crucial, and reaching them is equally important. Success leads to success. Success builds confidence and assurance. Whatever we do, we should do unto the Lord. We should be determined to make it a habit to obey and please God in everything.
I realize that my hope and my help (as in "deliverance"); are from the Lord. He is my strength and my shield and my song. He is my all in all.
If I "succeed," He is the reason for my victory. When I suffer loss, He is still my victory. I am more than a conqueror through Christ. God causes me to always triumph in Christ.
I am the earthen vessel; He is the glorious Treasure.
Find God's will, commit your way to the Lord, and God will lead and enable you.
12/17/25 IT IS EITHER/OR, YOU DECIDE
12/17/25 IT IS EITHER/OR, YOU DECIDE
The only answer for a world in chaos is the work of the Holy Spirit. He not only gave order to this world when it was formless and void, but He also gives life, order, meaning, and fulfillment to us individually when we believe and receive Christ as Lord and Savior.
We are living in a world system that rejects and rebels against the God of the universe. Killing, robbing, oppressing, lying, perversion, and every other evil action can be conquered by faith in and surrender to the Jesus of the Bible. Yet humanity continues to walk in wickedness and spread corruption, while seeking to use contaminated and evil ways of this world, and rejecting the only way to deliverance. Remember, Jesus said that He is The Way, The Truth, The Life, The Light, The Resurrection, and no one comes to the God the Father, except through Christ. Jesus came to save His people (those who believe Him, and believe in Him) from their sins, in this present evil world
Neither religion, politics, philosophy, culture, academia, economics, nor laws will save anyone from their sins or from eternal punishment. The only hope is Jesus. There is no hope for those who resist and reject Christ.
The sins of hatred (including veiled anti-Jew and anti-Israel corruption), murder, stealing, lying, coveting, lusting, adultery, perversion, oppression, idolatry (including selfism and Statism), and all kinds of wickedness are removed from the heart of the truly saved, born-again, converted believers in Christ.
Either our minds will be filled with the love of God, which saves us from sinning against God and our fellow man, or our hearts and lives will be polluted, including our thoughts, words, and deeds.
God hates sin. God delivers His children from sin. God is holy, righteous and pure. God makes His believing children holy, righteous and pure. Without holiness (of heart and life) no one shall see the Lord.
The world and its false paths have plenty of propagators, money, and expertise. Christians should be spending their lives, their time, their talents and their treasures in the proclamation of salvation and the edification of believers. Redeem the time and the resources you have. Use them for eternal purposes. Otherwise, you are robbing God and the people He wants you to reach.
The only answer for a world in chaos is the work of the Holy Spirit. He not only gave order to this world when it was formless and void, but He also gives life, order, meaning, and fulfillment to us individually when we believe and receive Christ as Lord and Savior.
We are living in a world system that rejects and rebels against the God of the universe. Killing, robbing, oppressing, lying, perversion, and every other evil action can be conquered by faith in and surrender to the Jesus of the Bible. Yet humanity continues to walk in wickedness and spread corruption, while seeking to use contaminated and evil ways of this world, and rejecting the only way to deliverance. Remember, Jesus said that He is The Way, The Truth, The Life, The Light, The Resurrection, and no one comes to the God the Father, except through Christ. Jesus came to save His people (those who believe Him, and believe in Him) from their sins, in this present evil world
Neither religion, politics, philosophy, culture, academia, economics, nor laws will save anyone from their sins or from eternal punishment. The only hope is Jesus. There is no hope for those who resist and reject Christ.
The sins of hatred (including veiled anti-Jew and anti-Israel corruption), murder, stealing, lying, coveting, lusting, adultery, perversion, oppression, idolatry (including selfism and Statism), and all kinds of wickedness are removed from the heart of the truly saved, born-again, converted believers in Christ.
Either our minds will be filled with the love of God, which saves us from sinning against God and our fellow man, or our hearts and lives will be polluted, including our thoughts, words, and deeds.
God hates sin. God delivers His children from sin. God is holy, righteous and pure. God makes His believing children holy, righteous and pure. Without holiness (of heart and life) no one shall see the Lord.
The world and its false paths have plenty of propagators, money, and expertise. Christians should be spending their lives, their time, their talents and their treasures in the proclamation of salvation and the edification of believers. Redeem the time and the resources you have. Use them for eternal purposes. Otherwise, you are robbing God and the people He wants you to reach.
12/17/25 LOSING A LOVED ONE
12/17/25 LOSING A LOVED ONE
I don't use a walking cane at this point in my life, but I do have this one (in photo). My niece, Danielle, gave me this cane, which had belonged to her father (my brother), before he passed away. I keep it near the door to my rec room and use it daily to open and close my curtains. I do this as a daily reminder of my U.K. family. I did not even know I had a brother until 2013 (I was 66 years old). Lydia, Mark, and I then visited and met some of our U.K. family in England, Wales, and Scotland.
It is sad that we missed all those previous years with them. It is sad that I did not have more time with him. It is sad when we lose loved ones.
In a different sense, we all lose loved ones long before physical death separates us. The only real unifier is the One who delivers us from sin and death, Jesus Christ.
Christians often think about family members, both the living and deceased. We love and miss the ones who have died, and we hope for a reunion in the sky. We also miss the ones who are separated from us relationally because they choose to live for themselves rather than live for Jesus.
I get a warm feeling when I see this walking cane, but I am also reminded that this life is just a vapor. Lord, use me to help someone in their walk with Jesus today.
I don't use a walking cane at this point in my life, but I do have this one (in photo). My niece, Danielle, gave me this cane, which had belonged to her father (my brother), before he passed away. I keep it near the door to my rec room and use it daily to open and close my curtains. I do this as a daily reminder of my U.K. family. I did not even know I had a brother until 2013 (I was 66 years old). Lydia, Mark, and I then visited and met some of our U.K. family in England, Wales, and Scotland.
It is sad that we missed all those previous years with them. It is sad that I did not have more time with him. It is sad when we lose loved ones.
In a different sense, we all lose loved ones long before physical death separates us. The only real unifier is the One who delivers us from sin and death, Jesus Christ.
Christians often think about family members, both the living and deceased. We love and miss the ones who have died, and we hope for a reunion in the sky. We also miss the ones who are separated from us relationally because they choose to live for themselves rather than live for Jesus.
I get a warm feeling when I see this walking cane, but I am also reminded that this life is just a vapor. Lord, use me to help someone in their walk with Jesus today.
12/16/25 LET'S JUST BE BIBLICAL
12/16/25 LET'S JUST BE BIBLICAL
When you hear that someone has unleashed violence on an individual or a group of people, you can be sure it was not a Christ-following, Spirit-born, Bible believing Christian. It is not an opinion. It is a fact. Any time, or anywhere, that anyone violently attacks anyone else, it cannot be an enlightened, obedient, regenerated Christian. In fact, such behavior is condemned by the New Testament.
There are people who call themselves Christian, and people who believe themselves to be Christian, but they are not following the teachings of Christ and the New Testament concerning Christian behavior. People who take violent actions against other people may have been Christian, and they may eventually return to being Christian through repentance and faith, but a person cannot take another person's life and be following and obeying God's revelation at the time they are violently taking another person's life.
This does not fit Roman Catholic teaching, and it does not agree with Reformed Theology or Protestant Doctrines, but it is the revealed truth of the New Testament.
Most people in modern Christian churches (especially in the west) have been misled to follow the teachings of errant men, who teach the doctrines of demons, as if they are the word of God.
Christians do not kill the enemies of Christ.
Christians do not kill people who rob them, oppress them, injure them, threaten them (or kill those who attack their family members). Read the New Testament. Whatever disagrees with the New Testament also disagrees with the Holy Spirit and therefore disagrees with the doctrines of the Church. "The Church"' is not the Roman Church or the Greek Church or the Protestant Church. The Church is the born again, blood washed, Spirit regenerated, Bible believing followers of Christ.
Any religion (whether it calls itself Christian or not) or preacher, who teaches Christian violence is leading people away from God and His word.
God gives the State (not the Church), the responsibility to provide and enforce the protection of the righteous and the punishment of the wicked. The State and the Church are separate from one another, and they have distinct responsibilities.
Christians are first and foremost part of the Church (locally and universally). We are directed to obey our earthly leaders, UNLESS and UNTIL our earthly leaders (whether family, church or State) direct us to act in violation of the known will of God. Those who are lawless are the enemies of God and those who don't obey God are the enemies of God.
Let me say this one more time.
There is not one place in the New Testament that Christians are commanded to be violent, commended to be violent or condoned for being violent. Instead, the New Testament clearly condemns violence by His people.
When you hear that someone has unleashed violence on an individual or a group of people, you can be sure it was not a Christ-following, Spirit-born, Bible believing Christian. It is not an opinion. It is a fact. Any time, or anywhere, that anyone violently attacks anyone else, it cannot be an enlightened, obedient, regenerated Christian. In fact, such behavior is condemned by the New Testament.
There are people who call themselves Christian, and people who believe themselves to be Christian, but they are not following the teachings of Christ and the New Testament concerning Christian behavior. People who take violent actions against other people may have been Christian, and they may eventually return to being Christian through repentance and faith, but a person cannot take another person's life and be following and obeying God's revelation at the time they are violently taking another person's life.
This does not fit Roman Catholic teaching, and it does not agree with Reformed Theology or Protestant Doctrines, but it is the revealed truth of the New Testament.
Most people in modern Christian churches (especially in the west) have been misled to follow the teachings of errant men, who teach the doctrines of demons, as if they are the word of God.
Christians do not kill the enemies of Christ.
Christians do not kill people who rob them, oppress them, injure them, threaten them (or kill those who attack their family members). Read the New Testament. Whatever disagrees with the New Testament also disagrees with the Holy Spirit and therefore disagrees with the doctrines of the Church. "The Church"' is not the Roman Church or the Greek Church or the Protestant Church. The Church is the born again, blood washed, Spirit regenerated, Bible believing followers of Christ.
Any religion (whether it calls itself Christian or not) or preacher, who teaches Christian violence is leading people away from God and His word.
God gives the State (not the Church), the responsibility to provide and enforce the protection of the righteous and the punishment of the wicked. The State and the Church are separate from one another, and they have distinct responsibilities.
Christians are first and foremost part of the Church (locally and universally). We are directed to obey our earthly leaders, UNLESS and UNTIL our earthly leaders (whether family, church or State) direct us to act in violation of the known will of God. Those who are lawless are the enemies of God and those who don't obey God are the enemies of God.
Let me say this one more time.
There is not one place in the New Testament that Christians are commanded to be violent, commended to be violent or condoned for being violent. Instead, the New Testament clearly condemns violence by His people.
12/16/25 AGAINST THE CURRENT
12/16/25 AGAINST THE CURRENT
You are either moving closer to Christ, or you are moving away from Him. Whether moving forward or remaining firm in your relationship with Christ during times of extreme trial (which is actually moving forward), it requires obedient faith and spiritual determination. Being faithful is not a passive position; it is a deliberate decision.
Drifting is allowing the prevailing currents of the world (wind and waves) to determine your direction. In other words, to drift is to be carried away from God.
An anchor (a stationary anchor) is used to keep a vessel from drifting while it is at rest. This can be during a storm or for other reasons essential to a safe voyage.
Sea Anchors and Drogues can be used during storms or heavy, following seas. It allows you to maintain your course as you head into the storm. This keeps you from capsizing or being blown off course. It maintains a "Steady as you go" posture. Sometimes these two kinds of anchors are used to hold your course while fishing a specific location.
Too many "Christians" are "adrift". They are not "staying their course"; they are not "holding fast"; they are being "tossed about by every" contrary wind and wave of life. They are focused on the carnal, the worldly, the nether worldly, the cultural, the empty forms of "godliness" but they do not have the power of God, the power of salvation.
If you are already adrift or if you sense that you have loosed your moorings, then you need to draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. God is calling you. If you hear Him, then now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation. If you are not sure that you are hearing Him call you back to Himself, then you need to cry out, asking and believing that God will hear you and call you to repentance.
Following Christ is essential to the Christian life, from the time you are called to salvation until the time He calls you home.
(copied from a post I made 6 years ago)
12/31/19 POWERED BY PERFECT LOVE
Christians are powered by perfect love:
for God (Father, Son, Holy Spirit),
His word,
other people (family, friends, foes).
An original DLG poem (from the 1960s) , appropriate for the New Year.
(with Background, Poem, Imagery Explained & Personal Challenge, copied from my 2015 Blog).
BACKGROUND
In the late 60's a hurricane threatened Carteret County. Just before it was suppose to hit I ventured out on the Sportsman's Fishing Pier (Atlantic Beach). While standing there, God gave me a poem. The night was like pitch, the wind was howling, the pier was shuddering as the waves pulled at its underside and crashed against its pilings. The only lights were the white caps reflecting the lights reaching out from the shore.
POEM
Staring out at the deep dark sea,
Arouses thoughts that challenge me,
To shove my Bark through the crashing waves,
And reach a land that my spirit craves.
In spite of dark and tossing brine,
And chills that grip this mortal spine,
My soul cries out for that waiting shore,
Where wind and wave offend no more.
Though darkness and the strength of hell,
Are bound up in each rising swell,
My chart and compass point above,
I'm steered and powered by perfect love.
IMAGERY EXPLAINED
The sea is the life, darkened by sin, corruption, temptation, loss and suffering.
A "Bark" is a type of sailboat.
Heaven is the desired destination.
Each test, each trial, each temptation is meant to intimidate the believer, but it only sets our resolve.
The recurring testing of life is each ground "swell."
The Chart is the Bible.
The Compass is the Holy Spirit.
Perfect love is the life of Entire Sanctification lived in the power of the Holy Spirit.
PERSONAL CHALLENGE
God intends for us to be victorious in the trials of life. I hope you attend a church that teaches and preaches that Christ is greater than any problem you will ever have; that where sin did abound, grace did much more abound; that Jesus came to save us from our sins; that the blood of Christ cleanses from all sin; that God always leads us in triumph; that the Holy Spirit bears holy fruit in our lives and thereby bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
You are either moving closer to Christ, or you are moving away from Him. Whether moving forward or remaining firm in your relationship with Christ during times of extreme trial (which is actually moving forward), it requires obedient faith and spiritual determination. Being faithful is not a passive position; it is a deliberate decision.
Drifting is allowing the prevailing currents of the world (wind and waves) to determine your direction. In other words, to drift is to be carried away from God.
An anchor (a stationary anchor) is used to keep a vessel from drifting while it is at rest. This can be during a storm or for other reasons essential to a safe voyage.
Sea Anchors and Drogues can be used during storms or heavy, following seas. It allows you to maintain your course as you head into the storm. This keeps you from capsizing or being blown off course. It maintains a "Steady as you go" posture. Sometimes these two kinds of anchors are used to hold your course while fishing a specific location.
Too many "Christians" are "adrift". They are not "staying their course"; they are not "holding fast"; they are being "tossed about by every" contrary wind and wave of life. They are focused on the carnal, the worldly, the nether worldly, the cultural, the empty forms of "godliness" but they do not have the power of God, the power of salvation.
If you are already adrift or if you sense that you have loosed your moorings, then you need to draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. God is calling you. If you hear Him, then now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation. If you are not sure that you are hearing Him call you back to Himself, then you need to cry out, asking and believing that God will hear you and call you to repentance.
Following Christ is essential to the Christian life, from the time you are called to salvation until the time He calls you home.
(copied from a post I made 6 years ago)
12/31/19 POWERED BY PERFECT LOVE
Christians are powered by perfect love:
for God (Father, Son, Holy Spirit),
His word,
other people (family, friends, foes).
An original DLG poem (from the 1960s) , appropriate for the New Year.
(with Background, Poem, Imagery Explained & Personal Challenge, copied from my 2015 Blog).
BACKGROUND
In the late 60's a hurricane threatened Carteret County. Just before it was suppose to hit I ventured out on the Sportsman's Fishing Pier (Atlantic Beach). While standing there, God gave me a poem. The night was like pitch, the wind was howling, the pier was shuddering as the waves pulled at its underside and crashed against its pilings. The only lights were the white caps reflecting the lights reaching out from the shore.
POEM
Staring out at the deep dark sea,
Arouses thoughts that challenge me,
To shove my Bark through the crashing waves,
And reach a land that my spirit craves.
In spite of dark and tossing brine,
And chills that grip this mortal spine,
My soul cries out for that waiting shore,
Where wind and wave offend no more.
Though darkness and the strength of hell,
Are bound up in each rising swell,
My chart and compass point above,
I'm steered and powered by perfect love.
IMAGERY EXPLAINED
The sea is the life, darkened by sin, corruption, temptation, loss and suffering.
A "Bark" is a type of sailboat.
Heaven is the desired destination.
Each test, each trial, each temptation is meant to intimidate the believer, but it only sets our resolve.
The recurring testing of life is each ground "swell."
The Chart is the Bible.
The Compass is the Holy Spirit.
Perfect love is the life of Entire Sanctification lived in the power of the Holy Spirit.
PERSONAL CHALLENGE
God intends for us to be victorious in the trials of life. I hope you attend a church that teaches and preaches that Christ is greater than any problem you will ever have; that where sin did abound, grace did much more abound; that Jesus came to save us from our sins; that the blood of Christ cleanses from all sin; that God always leads us in triumph; that the Holy Spirit bears holy fruit in our lives and thereby bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
12/13/25 "ONE ANOTHER" IN THE CHURCH
12/13/25 "ONE ANOTHER" IN THE CHURCH
One of the great songs that sister Robin wrote has four verses with four lines each, with 16 phrases from the New Testament referring to the Christian relationship to One Another. Here are some of the clear statements on how we are to relate to One Another. Remember, these are not pious platitudes; these are admonitions from God to be adopted and followed.
This is not the song, but these are the truths the song includes.
Be at Peace with One Another. (Mk. 9:50)
Give Preference to One Another. (Ro. 12:10)
Love One Another as He Loved Us. (Jn. 13:34)
Be Devoted to One Another. (Ro. 12:10)
Edify One Another. (Ro. 14:19)
Be of the Same Mind with One Another. (Ro. 12:16)
Serve One Another. (Ga. 5:13)
Be Subject to One Another. (Ep. 5:21)
Be Kind to One Another. (Ep. 4:32)
Be Hospitable to One Another. (1 Pe. 4:9)
Forgive One Another. (Ep. 4:32)
Pray for One Another. (Ja. 5:16)
Encourage One Another. (He. 10:25)
Fellowship with One Another. (1 Jn. 1:7)
Comfort One Another. (1 Pe. 5:14)
Love One Another in Christ. (1 Jn. 4:7).
We are many members, but we are One Body in Christ.
We are many members, but we are to have One Mind in Christ.
We are many members, but we have One Head, the Lord Jesus Christ.
This kind of relationship does not just happen accidentally. We live in a dynamic, challenging world. A right relationship with One Another happens because we make a deliberate choice, facing and dealing with changes in circumstances, emotions, and viewpoints. Being in unity with others does not mean we conform to the other people, and it does not mean that the other people need to conform to us. We all need to conform to Jesus. As we draw closer to Him, we will also draw closer to One Another.
One of the great songs that sister Robin wrote has four verses with four lines each, with 16 phrases from the New Testament referring to the Christian relationship to One Another. Here are some of the clear statements on how we are to relate to One Another. Remember, these are not pious platitudes; these are admonitions from God to be adopted and followed.
This is not the song, but these are the truths the song includes.
Be at Peace with One Another. (Mk. 9:50)
Give Preference to One Another. (Ro. 12:10)
Love One Another as He Loved Us. (Jn. 13:34)
Be Devoted to One Another. (Ro. 12:10)
Edify One Another. (Ro. 14:19)
Be of the Same Mind with One Another. (Ro. 12:16)
Serve One Another. (Ga. 5:13)
Be Subject to One Another. (Ep. 5:21)
Be Kind to One Another. (Ep. 4:32)
Be Hospitable to One Another. (1 Pe. 4:9)
Forgive One Another. (Ep. 4:32)
Pray for One Another. (Ja. 5:16)
Encourage One Another. (He. 10:25)
Fellowship with One Another. (1 Jn. 1:7)
Comfort One Another. (1 Pe. 5:14)
Love One Another in Christ. (1 Jn. 4:7).
We are many members, but we are One Body in Christ.
We are many members, but we are to have One Mind in Christ.
We are many members, but we have One Head, the Lord Jesus Christ.
This kind of relationship does not just happen accidentally. We live in a dynamic, challenging world. A right relationship with One Another happens because we make a deliberate choice, facing and dealing with changes in circumstances, emotions, and viewpoints. Being in unity with others does not mean we conform to the other people, and it does not mean that the other people need to conform to us. We all need to conform to Jesus. As we draw closer to Him, we will also draw closer to One Another.
12/13/25 TEAMING FOR VICTORY
12/13/25 TEAMING FOR VICTORY
"Teaming" is a way to victory, whether personal or corporate. There is always a need for private and personal commitments in the life of a Christian, but nothing takes the place of corporate action. God designed us to be a part of a group (family, church, community). Other areas of life (business, labor, athletics, music) also benefit from cooperative interaction and interdependence. Some things in life are personal, but even our personal development depends on the work and contributions of other people. Some things can only be done by one person, but some ventures need coordinated participation and mutual support. The person who is only focused on his own personal world will not accomplish as much (even for himself) as the person who works with others for a greater purpose. Christian unity is not just another word for getting along agreeably. Christian unity is having the same mind and being committed to the same mission.
God is a Unity, but He is a Trinity of Divine Persons. God created us as a psycho-physical totality (body, soul, and spirit). Our body is made of many different parts working together for our well-being. Families are made up of parts.
God wants us to come APART from the world and our daily routines to spend personal time with Him. But God wants us to be A PART of His family, His body, His workforce.
The work of God in us is connected to the work of God through us. We are not saved by our works. We were saved to do good works. We are not saved to be Lone Ranger Christians. We are called to be fishers of men, warriors against darkness, co-laborers with Jesus and His children. Even Jesus committed Himself to His earthly ministry, for the good of mortal man.
Don't miss your calling. Your calling includes corporate worship of God, mutual love and concern for fellow believers, and being part of a Divinely appointed mission to the lost, working together as one body, but exercising various gifts of the Spirit to reach and teach the world for Jesus and to build up the local body of Christ. This is becoming more essential and evident as our world becomes more hostile to Christ, His word, and His people.
Team up. It is God's will. It is normal. It is natural. It is Divine. It is productive.
"Teaming" is a way to victory, whether personal or corporate. There is always a need for private and personal commitments in the life of a Christian, but nothing takes the place of corporate action. God designed us to be a part of a group (family, church, community). Other areas of life (business, labor, athletics, music) also benefit from cooperative interaction and interdependence. Some things in life are personal, but even our personal development depends on the work and contributions of other people. Some things can only be done by one person, but some ventures need coordinated participation and mutual support. The person who is only focused on his own personal world will not accomplish as much (even for himself) as the person who works with others for a greater purpose. Christian unity is not just another word for getting along agreeably. Christian unity is having the same mind and being committed to the same mission.
God is a Unity, but He is a Trinity of Divine Persons. God created us as a psycho-physical totality (body, soul, and spirit). Our body is made of many different parts working together for our well-being. Families are made up of parts.
God wants us to come APART from the world and our daily routines to spend personal time with Him. But God wants us to be A PART of His family, His body, His workforce.
The work of God in us is connected to the work of God through us. We are not saved by our works. We were saved to do good works. We are not saved to be Lone Ranger Christians. We are called to be fishers of men, warriors against darkness, co-laborers with Jesus and His children. Even Jesus committed Himself to His earthly ministry, for the good of mortal man.
Don't miss your calling. Your calling includes corporate worship of God, mutual love and concern for fellow believers, and being part of a Divinely appointed mission to the lost, working together as one body, but exercising various gifts of the Spirit to reach and teach the world for Jesus and to build up the local body of Christ. This is becoming more essential and evident as our world becomes more hostile to Christ, His word, and His people.
Team up. It is God's will. It is normal. It is natural. It is Divine. It is productive.
12/11/25 HERESY AND DAMNABLE HERESY
12/11/25 HERESY AND DAMNABLE HERESY
There is Heresy, and there is Damnable Heresy. Sometimes there is a very thin line of separation between them. Heresy and damnable heresy are dangerous variations from established Christian beliefs. Heresy can refer to minor differences of belief. But Heresy can also refer to differences in beliefs about more important doctrines. Damnable Heresy is believing a false doctrine that is essential to salvation, or the nature of God. It is important to avoid false doctrines, erroneous beliefs, and heresies concerning non-essential points of doctrine. Minor Heresy can lead to multiple Heresies, which may result in believing Damnable Heresies.
Belief in Sound doctrine is the opposite of Heresy. It should be the intent of every Christian to believe God's truth and only God's truth; however, we know that most Christians disagree with other Christians concerning various Biblical issues. Obviously, believers must agree with Scripture and one another about the doctrines of salvation.
Knowing the "Truth" is liberating. Believing a lie is destructive. When we are born again, we do not have perfect knowledge about God and salvation. It is normal and expected for new Christians to seek information, knowledge, understanding, and wisdom concerning God and His salvation. We are expected to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus. Healthy Christians pursue deeper knowledge and understanding concerning God, His word, and prayerful submission to God's truth. And though we will learn throughout our Christian life, we will always be able to learn more.
Since Christians expect to be imperfect, they often settle for unnecessary imperfections. They settle for limited knowledge, understanding and wisdom. The problem with this complacency is that a person may be settling for something that is robbing them of grace and victory. They may lose the treasure of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the assurance of salvation because they listen to the voice of Satan, telling them that they do not need to grow in spiritual understanding, and they do not need to hold fast to the promises of God.
There are damnable heresies that people believe to be Biblical truths. One DAMNABLE HERESY is the demonic notion that God does not deliver His children from sinning in this present life. Another Damnable heresy is the lie that God does not purify the hearts of His faithful believers. There are other false doctrines that lead to unBiblical actions and behavior. We make our calling and election sure by aligning our faith with Biblical truth. We must know the truth if we want to be set free from deception and sin. We must walk in the light if we want to be cleansed from all sin. We must be doers of the word and not just hearers of the word.
There is Heresy, and there is Damnable Heresy. Sometimes there is a very thin line of separation between them. Heresy and damnable heresy are dangerous variations from established Christian beliefs. Heresy can refer to minor differences of belief. But Heresy can also refer to differences in beliefs about more important doctrines. Damnable Heresy is believing a false doctrine that is essential to salvation, or the nature of God. It is important to avoid false doctrines, erroneous beliefs, and heresies concerning non-essential points of doctrine. Minor Heresy can lead to multiple Heresies, which may result in believing Damnable Heresies.
Belief in Sound doctrine is the opposite of Heresy. It should be the intent of every Christian to believe God's truth and only God's truth; however, we know that most Christians disagree with other Christians concerning various Biblical issues. Obviously, believers must agree with Scripture and one another about the doctrines of salvation.
Knowing the "Truth" is liberating. Believing a lie is destructive. When we are born again, we do not have perfect knowledge about God and salvation. It is normal and expected for new Christians to seek information, knowledge, understanding, and wisdom concerning God and His salvation. We are expected to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus. Healthy Christians pursue deeper knowledge and understanding concerning God, His word, and prayerful submission to God's truth. And though we will learn throughout our Christian life, we will always be able to learn more.
Since Christians expect to be imperfect, they often settle for unnecessary imperfections. They settle for limited knowledge, understanding and wisdom. The problem with this complacency is that a person may be settling for something that is robbing them of grace and victory. They may lose the treasure of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the assurance of salvation because they listen to the voice of Satan, telling them that they do not need to grow in spiritual understanding, and they do not need to hold fast to the promises of God.
There are damnable heresies that people believe to be Biblical truths. One DAMNABLE HERESY is the demonic notion that God does not deliver His children from sinning in this present life. Another Damnable heresy is the lie that God does not purify the hearts of His faithful believers. There are other false doctrines that lead to unBiblical actions and behavior. We make our calling and election sure by aligning our faith with Biblical truth. We must know the truth if we want to be set free from deception and sin. We must walk in the light if we want to be cleansed from all sin. We must be doers of the word and not just hearers of the word.
12/09/25 MAKING MEMORIES
12/09/25 MAKING MEMORIES
They will never know how special those times were for me. A lot of older people miss the times they spent with young family members.
This memory showed up tonight. Martha was watching it and we both laughed and reminisced.
Fifteen years ago, this was Timothy and me spending some quality time. Through the years I spent a lot of time with our children and grandchildren, playing games, babysitting, attending special events, goofing off, making up stories, competing, singing, fishing, kayaking, playing ping pong, and tons of other activities. Those were times of bonding, sharing, mentoring, learning, laughing, exploring, teaching, hugging, or just hanging out. I used those moments to build them, challenge them, entertain them, and enjoy them.
They will never know how special those times were for me. A lot of older people miss the times they spent with young family members.
This memory showed up tonight. Martha was watching it and we both laughed and reminisced.
12/09/25 ALIGN WITH GOD
12/09/25 ALIGN WITH GOD
It is one thing to have a precious pet become rabid in your home, attacking your children; it is another (insanely wicked) thing to "adopt" rabid dogs to attack your children.
Trump, like anyone else, can turn on his people (especially since he is not a believer or follower of Christ). It is admirable and vital for him to prioritize American interests before Globalism and self-advancement, but we have seen evidence of potential dangers to the country. Always be on the alert.
But those who voted for Biden and Obama and their Democrat pack of rabid anti-Bible, anti-family, anti-American, pro-Islamic, pro-Communist, pro-Woke, pro-insanity, pro-globalist platform and agenda, chose to adopt rabid dogs and turn them loose on the family.
If you chose to bring a pack of mad dogs into our home, you should publicly repent. If you see your precious pet becoming rabid, you need to separate yourself from that relationship.
The only hope for anyone and everyone is salvation through faith in Christ.
America will not turn from darkness, but Americans individually can. You need to put your whole self into following, supporting, and propagating the only true Deliverer, Jesus Christ.
It is one thing to have a precious pet become rabid in your home, attacking your children; it is another (insanely wicked) thing to "adopt" rabid dogs to attack your children.
Trump, like anyone else, can turn on his people (especially since he is not a believer or follower of Christ). It is admirable and vital for him to prioritize American interests before Globalism and self-advancement, but we have seen evidence of potential dangers to the country. Always be on the alert.
But those who voted for Biden and Obama and their Democrat pack of rabid anti-Bible, anti-family, anti-American, pro-Islamic, pro-Communist, pro-Woke, pro-insanity, pro-globalist platform and agenda, chose to adopt rabid dogs and turn them loose on the family.
If you chose to bring a pack of mad dogs into our home, you should publicly repent. If you see your precious pet becoming rabid, you need to separate yourself from that relationship.
The only hope for anyone and everyone is salvation through faith in Christ.
America will not turn from darkness, but Americans individually can. You need to put your whole self into following, supporting, and propagating the only true Deliverer, Jesus Christ.
12/08/25 AWARENESS IS NOT ENOUGH
12/08/25 AWARENESS IS NOT ENOUGH
(This is just an illustration. It is not really about physical exercise.)
I have exercise equipment in my "rec room." I know how to use it safely and effectively. I am aware of the benefits of a fitness program because I have seen the evidence in documentation, in other people's lives, and in my own experience.
But having equipment, facilities, and the know-how does not get me the desired results unless I apply myself to the discipline and effort of working out.
The Bible says,
1 Timothy 4:8
8 For bodily exercise profits little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
(I believe this passage is primarily referring to religious exercises or activities (diets, fasting, festivals, singing, sacrificing), but the principle is also true concerning physical exercises or activities.)
(This is not shouting, it is emphasizing. )
BUT GODLINESS IS PROFITABLE UNTO ALL THINGS, HAVING THE PROMISE OF LIFE THAT NOW IS, AND THAT WHICH IS TO COME.
Godliness involves the whole person (the inner man [spirit] and the outer man [physical body]) in the practice of spiritual service, with the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
(Referring to 6:16-18, Paul said) ...
2 Corinthians 7:1
1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
We need to employ spiritual exercises (reading Scripture, prayer, meditation, worship in spirit and in truth (privately and corporately), giving (time, talents, treasures), serving others, praising God, doing good works, witnessing, and testifying to other folks about the goodness and grace of God.
1 Timothy 4:15-16
15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
The Bible tells us we will reap what we sow.
Galatians 6:6-10
6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
(This is just an illustration. It is not really about physical exercise.)
I have exercise equipment in my "rec room." I know how to use it safely and effectively. I am aware of the benefits of a fitness program because I have seen the evidence in documentation, in other people's lives, and in my own experience.
But having equipment, facilities, and the know-how does not get me the desired results unless I apply myself to the discipline and effort of working out.
The Bible says,
1 Timothy 4:8
8 For bodily exercise profits little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
(I believe this passage is primarily referring to religious exercises or activities (diets, fasting, festivals, singing, sacrificing), but the principle is also true concerning physical exercises or activities.)
(This is not shouting, it is emphasizing. )
BUT GODLINESS IS PROFITABLE UNTO ALL THINGS, HAVING THE PROMISE OF LIFE THAT NOW IS, AND THAT WHICH IS TO COME.
Godliness involves the whole person (the inner man [spirit] and the outer man [physical body]) in the practice of spiritual service, with the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
(Referring to 6:16-18, Paul said) ...
2 Corinthians 7:1
1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
We need to employ spiritual exercises (reading Scripture, prayer, meditation, worship in spirit and in truth (privately and corporately), giving (time, talents, treasures), serving others, praising God, doing good works, witnessing, and testifying to other folks about the goodness and grace of God.
1 Timothy 4:15-16
15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
The Bible tells us we will reap what we sow.
Galatians 6:6-10
6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
12/08/25 BASIC TRUTH CLIP
12/08/25 BASIC TRUTH CLIP
Don't be tricked by false "Bible teachers" or deceived believers into following a sinning religion. Either sin will separate you from God, or God will separate you from sin. It is your choice.
It is not the will of God that any should perish.
God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.
God only holds us accountable for our own sins.
Christ died for the whole world.
It is God's will to save us from our sins (past) and from sinning (presently disobeying God's known will).
God has provided salvation for whosoever will BELIEVE that Christ died for their sins and rose physically from the dead, and CONFESS CHRIST AS LORD THEIR LORD (God, Master, Head).
Christ died and rose again to cleanse our hands (from evil deeds) and to purify our hearts (from the Old Man, the Carnal Mind, the Double Mind, the Mind of the Flesh, the Law of Sin and Death).
Christ came to save us from sin's penalty, power, and pollution.
Jesus saves all who believe Him from all our sin, including incurred and inherited sin.
Jesus saves all those who deny themselves, take up their crosses daily, and follow Him, by walking in the light as He is in the light.
The product and the proof of salvation is loving God with all of our being and loving our neighbor as ourselves, made possible by faith in His death and resurrection and submission to His Lordship.
Jesus is either LORD of all in our life, or He is not LORD at all.
Don't be tricked by false "Bible teachers" or deceived believers into following a sinning religion. Either sin will separate you from God, or God will separate you from sin. It is your choice.
It is not the will of God that any should perish.
God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.
God only holds us accountable for our own sins.
Christ died for the whole world.
It is God's will to save us from our sins (past) and from sinning (presently disobeying God's known will).
God has provided salvation for whosoever will BELIEVE that Christ died for their sins and rose physically from the dead, and CONFESS CHRIST AS LORD THEIR LORD (God, Master, Head).
Christ died and rose again to cleanse our hands (from evil deeds) and to purify our hearts (from the Old Man, the Carnal Mind, the Double Mind, the Mind of the Flesh, the Law of Sin and Death).
Christ came to save us from sin's penalty, power, and pollution.
Jesus saves all who believe Him from all our sin, including incurred and inherited sin.
Jesus saves all those who deny themselves, take up their crosses daily, and follow Him, by walking in the light as He is in the light.
The product and the proof of salvation is loving God with all of our being and loving our neighbor as ourselves, made possible by faith in His death and resurrection and submission to His Lordship.
Jesus is either LORD of all in our life, or He is not LORD at all.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
12/06/25 GOD'S ANSWER TO INTERNAL STRIFE
12/06/25 GOD'S ANSWER TO INTERNAL STRIFE
If you repair the holes in the hull, you won't need to bail the hold to stay afloat.
And this is what I have been crying aloud for half a century. Not only has the American Church failed to repair its doctrinal and ministry damages, but it has also been allowing loose cannons (unsaved people and carnal believers) to cause even more damage. Each person determines his own relationship with God and the family of God. This is why there is resistance and rebellion in the local church. People do not want to submit to legitimate authority.
God is the Ultimate Authority; He is our Commander; He is our King of kings and Lord of lords; He is our Sovereign Ruler. God has given mankind free will. We choose to either submit to God's rule or rebel against His rule. Rebelling against God's rule will be punished by God. Rebelling against God's rule is sin, and the wages of rebellion is death (eternal separation from God).
God has many different roles and titles. God is King, Lawmaker, Judge, Lord, Shepherd, King of kings, Lord of lords, Savior. But as the Ultimate Authority, He has appointed human leaders to lead according to His will.
God has set up a system of rules and relationships.
God created the family, with the husband and father in authority over the family.
God extended the family to tribes and a nation (Israel).
God appointed leaders over tribes and nations as His representatives.
God's appointed leader of the nation of Israel was a Shepherd/King.
The shepherd cares for, protects, leads, and feeds his sheep.
God wanted to be King of Israel, but He allowed them to appoint a human king. This was a mistake on Israel's part.
God wanted a Shepherd/King relationship with Israel, and God extended that model to human leadership.
In the New Testament, the kingdom of God is not a national entity, but a spiritual family, which the Bible calls "The Church."
The Church is universal, with only one Lord, but the Church also has a local presence, and God appoints qualified men to be servant-leaders in those local churches.
It is the responsibility of the Officer In Charge (Pastor) to keep the local church ship-shape and to launch an offensive against the enemy. Very few have cried aloud, very, very few have launched an offensive against the wiles of the wicked one.
Personal holiness of heart and life is neglected and rejected by a vast number of "pastors" in America, and social holiness, which is corporate Christian action in society (not to be confused with humanistic "social justice"), is left undone, allowing darkness to invade every area of life, beginning with very young children.
We should not only speak out against the powers of darkness, but we should also mount a concerted offensive against the gates of hell, and a vigorous rescue effort to set the prisoners of sin free.
We don't reach our destination by letting the ill winds and contrary tides direct our course. We must take steps to become what God wants us to become, and our churches must come under God's authority and submit to Spirit-led leadership in order to fulfill God's call to reconcile the lost to Jesus.
Programs, ministries, projects, and goals are valid, provided they are according to God's will, and empowered by God's Spirit and carried out by believers who are sanctified and fit for the Master's use.
It is commendable for a Christian to want to grow in grace and progress in sanctification, but desire and growth do not replace faith and following. God wants us to be filled with His Spirit NOW; God wants us to be pure NOW; God wants us to be obedient and productive NOW.
In the same way that a sinner (an unsaved person) becomes a believer (justified, a child of God) in the moment they trust God for salvation, so too a believer becomes a Spirit-filled, heart-purified, entirely sanctified Christian at the moment the believer trusts God to purify their heart.
Some folks have intentions to become a Christian, but without faith, surrender, repentance, and following Jesus, then all that the person has is GOOD INTENTIONS, and someone has said, "The road to hell is paved with good intentions."
Some folks get a good start by turning from sin and turning to Jesus, but they must move on to the Spirit's fullness.
12/06/25 WITNESSING TO SOMEONE IS PERSONAL
12/06/25 WITNESSING TO SOMEONE IS PERSONAL
Sometimes people resist or reject a Christian's attempt to witness to them by saying, "Religion is a personal matter." (Don't worry about the word "religion" here. We know what they mean. They are referring to their "spiritual life" or their relationship with God.)
And yes, it is a personal matter. But that does not mean it is a private matter or a secret matter. "Personal" is not to be confused with "intimate." Health, safety, economics, and morality are all personal matters, but that does not exclude them from being addressed in public or interpersonal communications. But this is a different discussion.
I want to point out that witnessing (sharing our own testimony concerning Christ and His salvation is not only personal for the hearer, but it is also personal for the Christian who is witnessing.
This is part of the problem with many who want to be "spokesmen" for God. They see themselves as "recruiters," "salesmen," "way showers." Actually, a witness is like one hungry person telling another hungry person where to find bread, or one traveler who has expert guidance available helping another person who is lost.
Witnessing for Christ is not policing for Christ, or judging for Christ or sitting on a jury for Christ or executing the sentence for Christ. Witnessing is offering to those who are enslaved to sin a way out of sinning and offering to the terminally ill healing and deliverance from their malady and offering to the guilty an advocate and a new life, and offering to the prisoner deliverance and freedom. We are not God's legal representatives; we are God's diplomatic corps, offering reconciliation to His enemies.
But our responsibility is not simply reporting; our responsibility is to tell folks the Good News in love. The old saying, "I don't care how much you know until I know how much you care," applies to those who are God's ambassadors. Witnessing is not simply giving a news update or book report. Witnessing is giving of ourselves to other people. Witnessing is putting our lives on the line for another person's salvation. Remember, the Greek word for "witness" is the same word as "martyr."
We need to be in a right relationship with God to be a witness to others. In fact, Christians need to be emptied of self and filled with the Holy Spirit in order to be Biblically qualified. Remember, after Jesus told the disciples to go into the world and be His witnesses, He told them to wait for the Baptism (purifying fullness) of the Holy Spirit.
This is essential because being a witness for Christ is not simply about words; it is about the life transforming power of God in the life of a believer. Our whole life is our witness, not simply our words. Our life needs to be totally surrendered to God at all times. People will decide whether our message is valid by the way we live. The New Testament constantly addresses this issue. We are to surrender completely to Christ, and we are to walk consistently in His light. We are to do good works so that men might see Christ in us and glorify our Father in heaven.
Do not think that the main thing is to broadcast the Good News, we are to live the Good News. We are the examples of Christ's saving power. God not only commands us to be holy, but He also makes us holy if we totally surrender to Him. We are directed to become living sacrifices, not conformed to the world, but transformed into the image of God's Son. We are to love God with our whole being and to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. This is not just an appearance; this is the reality of Christ in us. This is not superficial; it is our inner man reaching out in love to those who are in need.
This kind of life is not cheap or flippant. It is not simply a form of godliness; it is true salvation with the power of the Holy Spirit.
This is very personal, but people should be able to see the salvation of God through our behavior.
Sometimes people resist or reject a Christian's attempt to witness to them by saying, "Religion is a personal matter." (Don't worry about the word "religion" here. We know what they mean. They are referring to their "spiritual life" or their relationship with God.)
And yes, it is a personal matter. But that does not mean it is a private matter or a secret matter. "Personal" is not to be confused with "intimate." Health, safety, economics, and morality are all personal matters, but that does not exclude them from being addressed in public or interpersonal communications. But this is a different discussion.
I want to point out that witnessing (sharing our own testimony concerning Christ and His salvation is not only personal for the hearer, but it is also personal for the Christian who is witnessing.
This is part of the problem with many who want to be "spokesmen" for God. They see themselves as "recruiters," "salesmen," "way showers." Actually, a witness is like one hungry person telling another hungry person where to find bread, or one traveler who has expert guidance available helping another person who is lost.
Witnessing for Christ is not policing for Christ, or judging for Christ or sitting on a jury for Christ or executing the sentence for Christ. Witnessing is offering to those who are enslaved to sin a way out of sinning and offering to the terminally ill healing and deliverance from their malady and offering to the guilty an advocate and a new life, and offering to the prisoner deliverance and freedom. We are not God's legal representatives; we are God's diplomatic corps, offering reconciliation to His enemies.
But our responsibility is not simply reporting; our responsibility is to tell folks the Good News in love. The old saying, "I don't care how much you know until I know how much you care," applies to those who are God's ambassadors. Witnessing is not simply giving a news update or book report. Witnessing is giving of ourselves to other people. Witnessing is putting our lives on the line for another person's salvation. Remember, the Greek word for "witness" is the same word as "martyr."
We need to be in a right relationship with God to be a witness to others. In fact, Christians need to be emptied of self and filled with the Holy Spirit in order to be Biblically qualified. Remember, after Jesus told the disciples to go into the world and be His witnesses, He told them to wait for the Baptism (purifying fullness) of the Holy Spirit.
This is essential because being a witness for Christ is not simply about words; it is about the life transforming power of God in the life of a believer. Our whole life is our witness, not simply our words. Our life needs to be totally surrendered to God at all times. People will decide whether our message is valid by the way we live. The New Testament constantly addresses this issue. We are to surrender completely to Christ, and we are to walk consistently in His light. We are to do good works so that men might see Christ in us and glorify our Father in heaven.
Do not think that the main thing is to broadcast the Good News, we are to live the Good News. We are the examples of Christ's saving power. God not only commands us to be holy, but He also makes us holy if we totally surrender to Him. We are directed to become living sacrifices, not conformed to the world, but transformed into the image of God's Son. We are to love God with our whole being and to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. This is not just an appearance; this is the reality of Christ in us. This is not superficial; it is our inner man reaching out in love to those who are in need.
This kind of life is not cheap or flippant. It is not simply a form of godliness; it is true salvation with the power of the Holy Spirit.
This is very personal, but people should be able to see the salvation of God through our behavior.
Friday, December 5, 2025
12/04/25 BEING ON MISSION
12/04/25 BEING ON MISSION
Always on duty.
Always on call.
Always on mission.
We hear these phrases used in reference to doctors, law enforcement, pastors, and mothers.
The principle is also applied to children of God (followers of Christ).
Being a Christian is a full-time reality (commitment, relationship, experience). I am not referring to nominal Christians (Christian in name only), or to cultural Christians; I am referring to actual Christians (born again, Christ-following, Bible-believing).
Though the three phrases are good, I choose to use the phrase, "Always on Mission."
"On Duty" might imply "forced compliance." As Christians, we do have duties, but we do not do our duty because of Divine oppression or legalistic rules. We do the will of God because we love Him, not because we are coerced, or because we are seeking rewards, or because we are earning our pay. It is true that we owe God everything, but we gladly surrender to Him because He is worthy and because we are grateful.
"On Call" indicates that we are not actively involved at a particular time. We tell folks, "Call me if you need me," but that is not the viewpoint of a Christian toward God. The fact is, we are already called, and we are answering that call. We are not putting God's call on hold. We wait for God's leading, but not for His call. As sinners (people living in sin), we are called to salvation (faith, obedience, and newness of life), and as believers, we are called to service. As Christians, we have accepted the call to salvation and the call to service. God leads us day by day and step by step, and we follow when He leads us in a new or distinctly different pathway, but that is part of our call. Jesus said, "If any man will be my disciple, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me."
"On Mission" is a phrase that indicates we are currently active in our service to God. Our mission is an ongoing, never-ending life mission. There will be times when we have special or particular "missions" within our (life) mission.
I am always "on mission," but sometimes I am called, led, or directed to do a specific mission within my life mission. Witnessing for Christ (telling others the Good News and manifesting His presence in my life) is my mission. My constant mission is to love, follow, and serve God and to tell others around me about Christ. I am always a witness (because my life witnesses to my relationship with God, either good or bad), and as a faithful witness, I am always ready to give my witness (tell someone about my relationship with God), but sometimes I am sent specifically to witness to others about Christ.
Therefore, when I am involved in daily or routine activities, I am still on mission. God's word tells us, "Whatever you do, do as unto the Lord." In my daily activities, I am watching and listening for God's leading to tell the Good News to someone. But sometimes I go out into society for the express purpose of sharing my testimony and proclaiming the Good News to others.
In my going, I may share with several people, but I am always asking God to lead me to the person He has prepared for this encounter. I also ask God to give me the opportunity and ability to be a "meaningful" witness.
In fact, the other day I was "voice texting" a message to myself, which I wanted to put on Facebook. In the text, I was pointing out the importance of asking God to lead me to a person with whom I could have a meaningful witness. While I was dictating on my phone, God actually took me straight to someone. I had to stop dictating my post in order to do my mission within my mission. As I had been praying, it was not only an opportunity to share with someone, but it was a very meaningful and successful encounter.
I had at least three meaningful witnessing opportunities on our trip to Morehead on Wednesday. There are various ways an encounter can be categorized as meaningful, and you may not always know how meaningful your witness has been. Remember, just like everything else, which we do as believers, "we witness by faith."
Always on duty.
Always on call.
Always on mission.
We hear these phrases used in reference to doctors, law enforcement, pastors, and mothers.
The principle is also applied to children of God (followers of Christ).
Being a Christian is a full-time reality (commitment, relationship, experience). I am not referring to nominal Christians (Christian in name only), or to cultural Christians; I am referring to actual Christians (born again, Christ-following, Bible-believing).
Though the three phrases are good, I choose to use the phrase, "Always on Mission."
"On Duty" might imply "forced compliance." As Christians, we do have duties, but we do not do our duty because of Divine oppression or legalistic rules. We do the will of God because we love Him, not because we are coerced, or because we are seeking rewards, or because we are earning our pay. It is true that we owe God everything, but we gladly surrender to Him because He is worthy and because we are grateful.
"On Call" indicates that we are not actively involved at a particular time. We tell folks, "Call me if you need me," but that is not the viewpoint of a Christian toward God. The fact is, we are already called, and we are answering that call. We are not putting God's call on hold. We wait for God's leading, but not for His call. As sinners (people living in sin), we are called to salvation (faith, obedience, and newness of life), and as believers, we are called to service. As Christians, we have accepted the call to salvation and the call to service. God leads us day by day and step by step, and we follow when He leads us in a new or distinctly different pathway, but that is part of our call. Jesus said, "If any man will be my disciple, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me."
"On Mission" is a phrase that indicates we are currently active in our service to God. Our mission is an ongoing, never-ending life mission. There will be times when we have special or particular "missions" within our (life) mission.
I am always "on mission," but sometimes I am called, led, or directed to do a specific mission within my life mission. Witnessing for Christ (telling others the Good News and manifesting His presence in my life) is my mission. My constant mission is to love, follow, and serve God and to tell others around me about Christ. I am always a witness (because my life witnesses to my relationship with God, either good or bad), and as a faithful witness, I am always ready to give my witness (tell someone about my relationship with God), but sometimes I am sent specifically to witness to others about Christ.
Therefore, when I am involved in daily or routine activities, I am still on mission. God's word tells us, "Whatever you do, do as unto the Lord." In my daily activities, I am watching and listening for God's leading to tell the Good News to someone. But sometimes I go out into society for the express purpose of sharing my testimony and proclaiming the Good News to others.
In my going, I may share with several people, but I am always asking God to lead me to the person He has prepared for this encounter. I also ask God to give me the opportunity and ability to be a "meaningful" witness.
In fact, the other day I was "voice texting" a message to myself, which I wanted to put on Facebook. In the text, I was pointing out the importance of asking God to lead me to a person with whom I could have a meaningful witness. While I was dictating on my phone, God actually took me straight to someone. I had to stop dictating my post in order to do my mission within my mission. As I had been praying, it was not only an opportunity to share with someone, but it was a very meaningful and successful encounter.
I had at least three meaningful witnessing opportunities on our trip to Morehead on Wednesday. There are various ways an encounter can be categorized as meaningful, and you may not always know how meaningful your witness has been. Remember, just like everything else, which we do as believers, "we witness by faith."
Thursday, December 4, 2025
12/04/25 PROPER ALIGNMENT
12/04/25 PROPER ALIGNMENT
Christians are children of God, members of God's family, parts (members) of Christ's church (Body of Christ, Bride of Christ, Building of Christ). The Church has only One Head, and His Name is Jesus. Christians are strangers, aliens, sojourners, foreigners in this world; we are in this world, but we are not of this world. Christian citizenship is in heaven. God is our King, and we are His ambassadors. When there is conflict, we are to obey God and not man.
Since we are citizens of heaven and since God is our King and since we are God's ambassadors, Christians live according to the law, rule, authority of God and we represent Him faithfully in this world, submitting to legitimate authority but giving our unrestricted allegiance to only God. The kingdoms (nations) of this world are temporal. Even the best and greatest of nations are fallible and will fail because of their own rebellion against God.
Christians appreciate the sacrifices made by people for the public good, but Christians are first of all, subjects of God and serve His purposes. If the direction of any people conflicts with the will of God, Christians are faith-bound and duty-bound to be faithful to God's eternal purposes.
Christians must be faithful to God's word, to God's will, to God's way. This means we are not committed to establish any human purpose which is in conflict with the revelation of God. Being part of the global community, a nation, a political party, a local community, a culture, a religious organization, a local church, a family is always subsidiary and secondary to being a follower of Christ.
If you want to be a New Testament Christian, then you need to have no other gods before you. Your life, your belongings, your relationships, your goals, your vote, your service, your very life belongs to Jesus.
God should never be "second" on the list. God should never get your "leftovers," your extras. To surrender anything less than your all to Jesus is not even within the realm of salvation.
The Father gave His all, the Son gave His all, and those who love and trust Christ give their all to God.
Christians are children of God, members of God's family, parts (members) of Christ's church (Body of Christ, Bride of Christ, Building of Christ). The Church has only One Head, and His Name is Jesus. Christians are strangers, aliens, sojourners, foreigners in this world; we are in this world, but we are not of this world. Christian citizenship is in heaven. God is our King, and we are His ambassadors. When there is conflict, we are to obey God and not man.
Since we are citizens of heaven and since God is our King and since we are God's ambassadors, Christians live according to the law, rule, authority of God and we represent Him faithfully in this world, submitting to legitimate authority but giving our unrestricted allegiance to only God. The kingdoms (nations) of this world are temporal. Even the best and greatest of nations are fallible and will fail because of their own rebellion against God.
Christians appreciate the sacrifices made by people for the public good, but Christians are first of all, subjects of God and serve His purposes. If the direction of any people conflicts with the will of God, Christians are faith-bound and duty-bound to be faithful to God's eternal purposes.
Christians must be faithful to God's word, to God's will, to God's way. This means we are not committed to establish any human purpose which is in conflict with the revelation of God. Being part of the global community, a nation, a political party, a local community, a culture, a religious organization, a local church, a family is always subsidiary and secondary to being a follower of Christ.
If you want to be a New Testament Christian, then you need to have no other gods before you. Your life, your belongings, your relationships, your goals, your vote, your service, your very life belongs to Jesus.
God should never be "second" on the list. God should never get your "leftovers," your extras. To surrender anything less than your all to Jesus is not even within the realm of salvation.
The Father gave His all, the Son gave His all, and those who love and trust Christ give their all to God.
12/04/25 CULTURE MATTERS
12/04/25 CULTURE MATTERS
Being a Christian means becoming a new creation and becoming a part of a new family. This includes changes in your nature, beliefs, thinking, speaking, behavior, relationships.
I asked Google, "What does culture include?" It gave me an AI answer along with other links. I share this AI response below, which is thorough and accurate. I sometimes use computer searches for general information, if it is valid and saves me time. I don't let AI do my thinking or guide my Bible study or belief system.
CULTURE does influence and impact our beliefs and behavior. If your salvation (your right relationship with God through Jesus) does not transform you and correct the detrimental parts of your cultural experience, then you are not going to be conformed to the image of God's Son and you will not fully follow Jesus.
Being conformed to the image of Christ includes instantaneous changes and progressive changes. Sound doctrine and the whole counsel of God are essential for experiencing and living the Spirit filled life. This will include cultural changes, which come by, "walking in the light, as He is in the light," and "doing that which is pleasing in His sight."
Sadly, people want their eternal status changed but they do not want their lives changed; they want God's blessings, but they do not want to accept God's Lordship. People refuse to let Biblical Christianity change their cultural values and they reject Biblical changes that their children need to make, enslaving their children with cultural heritage. Do not hold on to your earthly culture. The new life, the new path of salvation will lead you out of the entanglements and darkness of the old life.
Remember, the Bible says, "we are new creations in Christ, old things are passed away and all things become new," and we are to, "walk in newness of life," and "come out from among them and be ye separate, says the Lord."
If your culture is not dominated by salvation, then your culture becomes your god. Don't hold on to a "worldly treasure." Take hold of the heavenly treasure with both hands.
Each phrase in the following description of CULTURE should be considered. Your culture will either agree with the Bible, or it will not. This is where the importance of the great Biblical truth of "being crucified with Christ," becomes evident.
In our New Birth we put on the New Man, we receive life from Christ; but in our being Crucified with Christ we put off the Old Man, we die to the world, the flesh and the devil and we are made pure, even as Christ is pure. As the Scripture says, "Cleanse your hands you sinners and purify your hearts you double minded."
Consider the following points as they relate to the Christian experience and life. Salvation is a "WHOLE PERSON" reality. It transforms the whole person, and it makes the person whole.
GOOGLE AI said...
Culture includes shared behaviors,
beliefs,
values, and attitudes,
as well as the
social norms,
institutions, and
knowledge
of a particular group of people.
It encompasses both
nonmaterial aspects like language, religion, and customs,
and
material aspects such as tools, art, and physical objects.
Nonmaterial culture
Beliefs and values:
Shared understandings of what is right and wrong, good and bad, and what is important to the group.
Language: Spoken and non-verbal forms of communication that allow for social interaction and influence how people think and perceive the world.
Norms and customs:
Rules and expectations for behavior, including social habits, etiquette, and rituals.
Symbols:
Things that stand for or represent something else, such as gestures, objects, or ideas.
Material culture
Artifacts:
Physical objects created by a group, including tools, technology, clothing, and art.
Institutions:
Organized systems that shape society, such as legal, political, economic, and educational systems.
Cuisine and music:
The specific foods, music, and other arts that are characteristic of a group.
Being a Christian means becoming a new creation and becoming a part of a new family. This includes changes in your nature, beliefs, thinking, speaking, behavior, relationships.
I asked Google, "What does culture include?" It gave me an AI answer along with other links. I share this AI response below, which is thorough and accurate. I sometimes use computer searches for general information, if it is valid and saves me time. I don't let AI do my thinking or guide my Bible study or belief system.
CULTURE does influence and impact our beliefs and behavior. If your salvation (your right relationship with God through Jesus) does not transform you and correct the detrimental parts of your cultural experience, then you are not going to be conformed to the image of God's Son and you will not fully follow Jesus.
Being conformed to the image of Christ includes instantaneous changes and progressive changes. Sound doctrine and the whole counsel of God are essential for experiencing and living the Spirit filled life. This will include cultural changes, which come by, "walking in the light, as He is in the light," and "doing that which is pleasing in His sight."
Sadly, people want their eternal status changed but they do not want their lives changed; they want God's blessings, but they do not want to accept God's Lordship. People refuse to let Biblical Christianity change their cultural values and they reject Biblical changes that their children need to make, enslaving their children with cultural heritage. Do not hold on to your earthly culture. The new life, the new path of salvation will lead you out of the entanglements and darkness of the old life.
Remember, the Bible says, "we are new creations in Christ, old things are passed away and all things become new," and we are to, "walk in newness of life," and "come out from among them and be ye separate, says the Lord."
If your culture is not dominated by salvation, then your culture becomes your god. Don't hold on to a "worldly treasure." Take hold of the heavenly treasure with both hands.
Each phrase in the following description of CULTURE should be considered. Your culture will either agree with the Bible, or it will not. This is where the importance of the great Biblical truth of "being crucified with Christ," becomes evident.
In our New Birth we put on the New Man, we receive life from Christ; but in our being Crucified with Christ we put off the Old Man, we die to the world, the flesh and the devil and we are made pure, even as Christ is pure. As the Scripture says, "Cleanse your hands you sinners and purify your hearts you double minded."
Consider the following points as they relate to the Christian experience and life. Salvation is a "WHOLE PERSON" reality. It transforms the whole person, and it makes the person whole.
GOOGLE AI said...
Culture includes shared behaviors,
beliefs,
values, and attitudes,
as well as the
social norms,
institutions, and
knowledge
of a particular group of people.
It encompasses both
nonmaterial aspects like language, religion, and customs,
and
material aspects such as tools, art, and physical objects.
Nonmaterial culture
Beliefs and values:
Shared understandings of what is right and wrong, good and bad, and what is important to the group.
Language: Spoken and non-verbal forms of communication that allow for social interaction and influence how people think and perceive the world.
Norms and customs:
Rules and expectations for behavior, including social habits, etiquette, and rituals.
Symbols:
Things that stand for or represent something else, such as gestures, objects, or ideas.
Material culture
Artifacts:
Physical objects created by a group, including tools, technology, clothing, and art.
Institutions:
Organized systems that shape society, such as legal, political, economic, and educational systems.
Cuisine and music:
The specific foods, music, and other arts that are characteristic of a group.
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