(5/31/16)
TWO STATEMENTS, SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT, BUT BOTH ARE BIBLICAL.
* Sin makes you stupid (a dullard, a simpleton, a fool).
* Sin makes you crazy (uncontrolled and uncontrollable madness, spiritually based insanity, being out of one's mind).
* The first one leads to the second one if the first one is not surrendered to Christ.
The downward spiral of losing your mind.
Psalms 1:1
1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Either surrender to God or God surrenders you over to absolute wickedness.
Romans1:28
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
Wholeness requires total commitment.
Matthew 22:37-38
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
Total commitment acquires wholeness.
Romans 1:1-2
1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
2 Timothy 1:7
7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Saturday, June 25, 2016
(5/29/16) GOOD NEWS IS IN CHRIST, NOT IN THIS WORLD
(5/29/16)
GOOD NEWS IS IN CHRIST, NOT IN THIS WORLD
Since I have moved from MB to Beaufort I have not followed the news very closely. No brag, just fact. What I do hear is that the corruption in Obama and other political leaders and wannabes is still just as wicked and anti-Christian as ever and the world is still still on schedule for total collapse. It seems that the louder I cry, the deafer people become.
I like being informed, aware and knowledgeable concerning social and political changes. I like being able to give accurate and insightful counsel.
However, I realize that the propaganda machine has a lock on the minds of most modern people.
I also realize that the worldview of most people is so warped that the facts don't really matter to them. They are guided by secular humanism and social perception and selfish ambition instead of the truth of Biblical revelation.
The only ones who are going to do right are those who follow Christ and His word. Because of this, I will continue to proclaim the truth of the Bible.
2 Corinthians 6:14 - 7:1
6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
7:1 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.
GOOD NEWS IS IN CHRIST, NOT IN THIS WORLD
Since I have moved from MB to Beaufort I have not followed the news very closely. No brag, just fact. What I do hear is that the corruption in Obama and other political leaders and wannabes is still just as wicked and anti-Christian as ever and the world is still still on schedule for total collapse. It seems that the louder I cry, the deafer people become.
I like being informed, aware and knowledgeable concerning social and political changes. I like being able to give accurate and insightful counsel.
However, I realize that the propaganda machine has a lock on the minds of most modern people.
I also realize that the worldview of most people is so warped that the facts don't really matter to them. They are guided by secular humanism and social perception and selfish ambition instead of the truth of Biblical revelation.
The only ones who are going to do right are those who follow Christ and His word. Because of this, I will continue to proclaim the truth of the Bible.
2 Corinthians 6:14 - 7:1
6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
7:1 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.
(5/29/16) TNH IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY
(5/29/16) TNH
IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY
One of the greatest truths God ever shared with mankind, but also one of the most neglected, rejected and despised truths of modern times, is the importance of the family (blood family and spiritual family). This is because Satan knows that a Christ centered, Bible based, Spirit filled family is his greatest threat.
The family is God's plan for victory, unity, love, fulfillment, satisfaction, accomplishment, support, encouragement, healing, success. The family, which is one in purpose, and selfless in its relationships, is nearly unstoppable. We don't know this to be true because it is so rare and very few people ever witnessed the power of of God in a family.
When the Biblical graces, and the Fruit of the Spirit and godly characteristics, and Biblical lines of authority, submission, sacrifice and love, are present and nurtured and exploited in a family or Church, the light that it shines in a dark world will send the denizens of hell screeching in horror.
But what if a church will not open itself to such Divine power? What if members of a family do not surrender their will to the will of God? Well, we probably won't see this power of God unleashed on a community. However, the fact that others do not surrender, do not trust God, is not a reason for you to shut God out of your life or limit His rule in your life.
If your family fails to be what God wants it to be, if your church fails to reach its full potential, DON'T LET IT BE BECAUSE YOU REFUSED TO FOLLOW FULLY.
But if your family or church ever aligns itself with the heavenly calling, you will be part of the greatest work of God in the universe. Make yourself available to God, to your family, to your church. Not just the outward show, but the internal drive.
IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY
One of the greatest truths God ever shared with mankind, but also one of the most neglected, rejected and despised truths of modern times, is the importance of the family (blood family and spiritual family). This is because Satan knows that a Christ centered, Bible based, Spirit filled family is his greatest threat.
The family is God's plan for victory, unity, love, fulfillment, satisfaction, accomplishment, support, encouragement, healing, success. The family, which is one in purpose, and selfless in its relationships, is nearly unstoppable. We don't know this to be true because it is so rare and very few people ever witnessed the power of of God in a family.
When the Biblical graces, and the Fruit of the Spirit and godly characteristics, and Biblical lines of authority, submission, sacrifice and love, are present and nurtured and exploited in a family or Church, the light that it shines in a dark world will send the denizens of hell screeching in horror.
But what if a church will not open itself to such Divine power? What if members of a family do not surrender their will to the will of God? Well, we probably won't see this power of God unleashed on a community. However, the fact that others do not surrender, do not trust God, is not a reason for you to shut God out of your life or limit His rule in your life.
If your family fails to be what God wants it to be, if your church fails to reach its full potential, DON'T LET IT BE BECAUSE YOU REFUSED TO FOLLOW FULLY.
But if your family or church ever aligns itself with the heavenly calling, you will be part of the greatest work of God in the universe. Make yourself available to God, to your family, to your church. Not just the outward show, but the internal drive.
(5/28/16) TNH BODY ALIGNED WITH HEAD
(5/28/16) TNH
BODY ALIGNED WITH HEAD
(5/28/16) THE ANSWER TO SELF DECEPTION
(5/28/16)
THE ANSWER TO SELF DECEPTION is DIVINE PERCEPTION.SELF PERCEPTION IS SELF DECEPTION
* Males perceive themselves as females and females perceive themselves as males.
Whites perceive themselves as blacks, or whatever combination you want.
Healthy people perceive themselves as handicapped.
Klutzy people perceive themselves as athletic.
Tone deaf people perceive themselves as musical.
Stupid people perceive themselves as smart.
Attractive people perceive themselves as ugly.
SINNERS PERCEIVE THEMSELVES AS HEAVEN BOUND.
* Some self perceptions are funny.
Some self perceptions are sad.
Some self perceptions are scary.
Some self perceptions are dangerous.
But when an unsaved, ungodly person perceives himself as acceptable to God, it is eternally damning.
* It is not how we perceive ourselves to be, but how God views us, that matters.
Today's society strokes self deception.
God condemns self deception.
The word of God provides the corrective lens through which we need to see ourselves.
We must see ourselves from God’s point of view, or we will be deceived.
THE SOLUTION TO SELF DECEPTION IS DIVINE PERCEPTION.
ATTEND A BIBLE PREACHING/TEACHING CHURCH.
* The Commands, Commandments, Law, Rule of God Is Good And Holy And Just.
Romans 7:12
(12) Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
The law of God was given as a tool, a teacher to lead us to God and salvation.
(12) Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
The law of God was given as a tool, a teacher to lead us to God and salvation.
The law of God was not intended to be our salvation.
We are saved by faith in Christ death and resurrection.
Galatians 3:24-26
(24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
(25) But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
(26) For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
* We Are Not Saved By Keeping The Law, But When We Are Saved We Keep The Moral Law Of God.
1 Timothy 1:5
(5) Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
1 Timothy 1:5
(5) Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:
1 Peter 1:18-25
(18) Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
(19) But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
(20) Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
(21) Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
(22) Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:
(23) Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
(24) For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
(25) But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.
* Three Views Of The Law
Legalism is seeking salvation by keeping the law of God.
Libertinism is claiming salvation, while violating the law of God.
Love is the fulfilling of the law, through saving faith in Christ.
* Christians Are Not "Under The Law," But Neither Are Christians Above The Law Of God.
Christians are "under grace," and grace saves us from breaking the law of God.
Romans 6:1-2
(1) What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
(2) God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?Romans 6:14-18
(14) For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
(15) What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
(16) Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
(17) But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
(18) Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
* When Christ Is Lord Of Our Lives, We Are Ruled By...
The Law of Liberty (Ja. 1:25; 2:12).
The Royal Law (Ja. 2:8).
The Law of Love (Ro. 13:8).
The Great Commandment (Mt. 22:36-40).
* Liberty In Christ Is Freedom From Sin, Not Freedom To Sin.
Romans 6:16-22
(16) Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
(17) But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
(18) Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
(19) I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
(20) For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.
(21) What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.
(22) But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
Romans 8:1-6
(1) There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
(2) For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
(3) For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:
(4) That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
(5) For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
(6) For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Friday, June 24, 2016
(5/27/16) MIRACULOUS POWER (even among men)
(5/27/16)
MIRACULOUS POWER (even among men)
We use the words, "love, peace, forgiveness, reconciliation," in ways that are not related to the miraculous Divine work of God. However, the truest meaning must be related to the redemptive work of the risen Christ.
After a person has lived a life of rebellion and debauchery, then honest confession and saving faith in Jesus will reconcile the lost to God as if the sinner had never sinned. Not only are the redeemed forgiven and regenerated and cleansed, they are given an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith. They become joint heirs with Christ and co workers with Him.
BUT THAT IS NOT ALL
But the miracle power of such salvation is also seen in the relationships between people. Years of brokenness, years of betrayal can suddenly be traversed, can be forgiven, and unity of hearts and minds can be restored in an instant. IT IS AMAZING GRACE.
This is not to say that sin does not have lingering effects on people or on their relationships. However, Divinely restored relationships are able to transcend what would otherwise be impossible barriers between people.
What a shame that people hold to the very things that brought brokenness, rather than turn to the One who gives restoration.
MIRACULOUS POWER (even among men)
We use the words, "love, peace, forgiveness, reconciliation," in ways that are not related to the miraculous Divine work of God. However, the truest meaning must be related to the redemptive work of the risen Christ.
After a person has lived a life of rebellion and debauchery, then honest confession and saving faith in Jesus will reconcile the lost to God as if the sinner had never sinned. Not only are the redeemed forgiven and regenerated and cleansed, they are given an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith. They become joint heirs with Christ and co workers with Him.
BUT THAT IS NOT ALL
But the miracle power of such salvation is also seen in the relationships between people. Years of brokenness, years of betrayal can suddenly be traversed, can be forgiven, and unity of hearts and minds can be restored in an instant. IT IS AMAZING GRACE.
This is not to say that sin does not have lingering effects on people or on their relationships. However, Divinely restored relationships are able to transcend what would otherwise be impossible barriers between people.
What a shame that people hold to the very things that brought brokenness, rather than turn to the One who gives restoration.
(5/26/16) TNH TWO WAY STREET
(5/26/16) TNH
TWO WAY STREET
Heart Purity, Entire Sanctification, Perfect Love (Holiness) was correctly described by John Wesley as something that is
Approached gradually,
Entered into suddenly, and
Grown in, forever.
I have also observed that Total Apostasy (complete and final falling away from God) is something that is,
Approached gradually,
Entered into suddenly, and
Seethed in forever.
Holiness is obtained because of deliberate surrender to God and Total Apostasy is obtained because of constantly resisting God.
Be careful with your next choice, it could lead you to your last choice and your final destination.
TWO WAY STREET
Heart Purity, Entire Sanctification, Perfect Love (Holiness) was correctly described by John Wesley as something that is
Approached gradually,
Entered into suddenly, and
Grown in, forever.
I have also observed that Total Apostasy (complete and final falling away from God) is something that is,
Approached gradually,
Entered into suddenly, and
Seethed in forever.
Holiness is obtained because of deliberate surrender to God and Total Apostasy is obtained because of constantly resisting God.
Be careful with your next choice, it could lead you to your last choice and your final destination.
(4/25/16) CONVERSION IS NOT DISCIPLESHIP
(4/25/16)
CONVERSION IS NOT DISCIPLESHIP
Biblical Christianity is so rare today that it is nearly impossible to get people to recognize Biblical authority in the home or in the Church. As a result, Biblical standards, Biblical counsel, Biblical wisdom is lacking in personal lives, families and entire churches.
The answer to godless leadership is not leaderless godliness. I, as a pastor, have the ministry of leadership, like a shepherd. I am not led by my congregation, nor do I drive my congregation to market or to slaughter, nor do I lead them, either out of obligation to a job or desire for a position. The answer to godless leadership is not religious anarchy, where each one does what is right in his own eyes, or religious demagoguery. The answer is following Biblical revelation, leading in love, purity and wisdom, and living in love purity and wisdom.
Lives, families, churches do not get totally ensnared in confusion overnight. Neither are they delivered from years of confusion overnight. Conversion is the beginning, discipleship is the follow through. There are a lot of converts who have made shipwreck because they either did not have Biblical leadership/counsel available or because they refused to submit to Biblical leadership/counsel.
CONVERSION IS NOT DISCIPLESHIP
Biblical Christianity is so rare today that it is nearly impossible to get people to recognize Biblical authority in the home or in the Church. As a result, Biblical standards, Biblical counsel, Biblical wisdom is lacking in personal lives, families and entire churches.
The answer to godless leadership is not leaderless godliness. I, as a pastor, have the ministry of leadership, like a shepherd. I am not led by my congregation, nor do I drive my congregation to market or to slaughter, nor do I lead them, either out of obligation to a job or desire for a position. The answer to godless leadership is not religious anarchy, where each one does what is right in his own eyes, or religious demagoguery. The answer is following Biblical revelation, leading in love, purity and wisdom, and living in love purity and wisdom.
Lives, families, churches do not get totally ensnared in confusion overnight. Neither are they delivered from years of confusion overnight. Conversion is the beginning, discipleship is the follow through. There are a lot of converts who have made shipwreck because they either did not have Biblical leadership/counsel available or because they refused to submit to Biblical leadership/counsel.
(5/25/16) HAVING DEPENDS ON WANTING
(5/25/16)
HAVING DEPENDS ON WANTING
I like computer games, especially puzzles and adventure games. I like the challenge of solving mysteries, uncovering clues. Sometimes the clues are obvious and hidden in plain view.
This is not far removed from real life. God gives us the clues to life, the answers to life's problems, but they often go unseen. They are not necessarily hidden in an enigma, but rather placed before our very eyes. The reason these clues, answers, are not seen is because the person who needs the enlightenment chooses to be blind, chooses to miss the message of God. They choose darkness rather than light, because they want their own way, rather than the way of God. They are blinded to the light because they shut out the call and requirements of God. They are focused on the trivial, and ignore the essential.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him. It is not intellectual prowess or academic accomplishments that bring spiritual insight. It is spiritual desire, hunger, submission to God, faith in Christ.
Just as a person needs to hunger and thirst in order to be filled, and just as a person must search diligently for a treasure, so must a person want spiritual enlightenment. The answers are right in front of us, but we must have eyes that want to see.
This is why a person needs to search the Scriptures, listen to Biblical preaching/teaching/counsel. If a person fills his mind with the passing things of this life, he will only have the passing things of this life until this life has passed.
We err if we think that the way of faith (which is simple enough for a child to understand), is given to those who are non-nonchalant and haphazard in their response to the revelation of God. God's truth is the greatest of treasures, and it must not be handled carelessly.
We have as much of God as we want,
That's why we have as little of Him as we do.
HAVING DEPENDS ON WANTING
I like computer games, especially puzzles and adventure games. I like the challenge of solving mysteries, uncovering clues. Sometimes the clues are obvious and hidden in plain view.
This is not far removed from real life. God gives us the clues to life, the answers to life's problems, but they often go unseen. They are not necessarily hidden in an enigma, but rather placed before our very eyes. The reason these clues, answers, are not seen is because the person who needs the enlightenment chooses to be blind, chooses to miss the message of God. They choose darkness rather than light, because they want their own way, rather than the way of God. They are blinded to the light because they shut out the call and requirements of God. They are focused on the trivial, and ignore the essential.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him. It is not intellectual prowess or academic accomplishments that bring spiritual insight. It is spiritual desire, hunger, submission to God, faith in Christ.
Just as a person needs to hunger and thirst in order to be filled, and just as a person must search diligently for a treasure, so must a person want spiritual enlightenment. The answers are right in front of us, but we must have eyes that want to see.
This is why a person needs to search the Scriptures, listen to Biblical preaching/teaching/counsel. If a person fills his mind with the passing things of this life, he will only have the passing things of this life until this life has passed.
We err if we think that the way of faith (which is simple enough for a child to understand), is given to those who are non-nonchalant and haphazard in their response to the revelation of God. God's truth is the greatest of treasures, and it must not be handled carelessly.
We have as much of God as we want,
That's why we have as little of Him as we do.
(5/25/16) WORK is a "four letter word
(5/25/16)
WORK is a "four letter word," literally, but not euphemistically. However, we can be fooled into having a bad attitude towards work.
I happen to be one of those people who loves my work (though I don't love everything about my work). During my lifetime I have had lots of different jobs.
Busboy
Mate on fishing boats
Boat detailer
Newspaper distribution office
Funeral home worker
Ambulance attendant
Soda jerk
Loading dock hand
Landscaping and lawn care
Pipe fitter assistant
Ditch digger
School teacher substitute
Vehicle escort driver
Bekins loader and driver
Not counting the "jobs" I had as a child: grass cutting, perfume manufacturer and distributor, bellboy.
Each job had its advantages and drawbacks. But I never hated the job.
There were times I did not feel well, but I did not resent my job.
There were times things went terribly wrong, but I never had a bad attitude towards the job.
There were times I would rather be doing something else, but I did not become angry with the job.
There were times that I was tempted to react negatively towards my job, but I refused to fall into that trap.
You see, I learned early that the Christan response to the temptation to complain was to praise. Not only has that saved me from being a whiner, it has saved me from the tyranny of dissatisfaction and negativity, which robs you of your joy and obliterates your Christian witness.
Taking a right attitude towards work early in life is important. The longer you go with the wrong attitude, the more bitter and self oriented you become and the harder it will be to replace gloom with joy.
Even if you have the right outlook on work, the devil is going to try to undermine your positivism and sour you, concerning your work. It takes faith to reject Satan's attacks.
It is God's will that we work, and that we do it with joy.
WORK is a "four letter word," literally, but not euphemistically. However, we can be fooled into having a bad attitude towards work.
I happen to be one of those people who loves my work (though I don't love everything about my work). During my lifetime I have had lots of different jobs.
Busboy
Mate on fishing boats
Boat detailer
Newspaper distribution office
Funeral home worker
Ambulance attendant
Soda jerk
Loading dock hand
Landscaping and lawn care
Pipe fitter assistant
Ditch digger
School teacher substitute
Vehicle escort driver
Bekins loader and driver
Not counting the "jobs" I had as a child: grass cutting, perfume manufacturer and distributor, bellboy.
Each job had its advantages and drawbacks. But I never hated the job.
There were times I did not feel well, but I did not resent my job.
There were times things went terribly wrong, but I never had a bad attitude towards the job.
There were times I would rather be doing something else, but I did not become angry with the job.
There were times that I was tempted to react negatively towards my job, but I refused to fall into that trap.
You see, I learned early that the Christan response to the temptation to complain was to praise. Not only has that saved me from being a whiner, it has saved me from the tyranny of dissatisfaction and negativity, which robs you of your joy and obliterates your Christian witness.
Taking a right attitude towards work early in life is important. The longer you go with the wrong attitude, the more bitter and self oriented you become and the harder it will be to replace gloom with joy.
Even if you have the right outlook on work, the devil is going to try to undermine your positivism and sour you, concerning your work. It takes faith to reject Satan's attacks.
It is God's will that we work, and that we do it with joy.
(5/23/16) TNH MAKE PLANS NOW
(5/23/16) TNH
MAKE PLANS NOW
The Lord willing, next Lord's Day I will preach from Romans 6, concerning the end of the old life and the beginning of the new life. The entire chapter addresses this subject (so it will probably be preached as a short series), and God's deliverance is actually twofold, dealing with "sin" as an action, and "sin" as an attitude.
SINNERS ARE SAVED from sin (the behavior), when they are born again, and as long as they continue to be born of God.
1 John 3:5-9
(5) And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.
(6) Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.
(7) Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
(8) He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
(9) Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
1 John 5:18
(18) We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.
BELIEVERS ARE SAVED from sin (the nature), when they trust Christ for deliverance from the old man, carnal mind, evil heart of unbelief, double mindedness, and they continue to walk in the light.
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.
1 John 1:7
(7) But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
1 John 3:1-3
(1) Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
(2) Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
(3) And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
I hope you will make plans to join us on Sunday morning as we expose the pollution of the old life, and examine the power of the new life.
MAKE PLANS NOW
The Lord willing, next Lord's Day I will preach from Romans 6, concerning the end of the old life and the beginning of the new life. The entire chapter addresses this subject (so it will probably be preached as a short series), and God's deliverance is actually twofold, dealing with "sin" as an action, and "sin" as an attitude.
SINNERS ARE SAVED from sin (the behavior), when they are born again, and as long as they continue to be born of God.
1 John 3:5-9
(5) And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.
(6) Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.
(7) Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
(8) He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
(9) Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
1 John 5:18
(18) We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.
BELIEVERS ARE SAVED from sin (the nature), when they trust Christ for deliverance from the old man, carnal mind, evil heart of unbelief, double mindedness, and they continue to walk in the light.
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.
1 John 1:7
(7) But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
1 John 3:1-3
(1) Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
(2) Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
(3) And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
I hope you will make plans to join us on Sunday morning as we expose the pollution of the old life, and examine the power of the new life.
(5/22/16) NO NEW BEGINNING WITHOUT ENDING THE OLD LIFE
(5/22/16)
NO NEW BEGINNING WITHOUT ENDING THE OLD LIFE
The message today was the beginning of a series, addressing the importance of Leaving the Old Life as we enter into A New Beginning. The newness of life that comes at our New Birth is not to be mixed and mingled with the old life of sin.
2 Corinthians 5:17
(17) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
We must not hold onto the old dead stuff in our sinful life, the old stuff that has passed away.
NO NEW BEGINNING WITHOUT ENDING THE OLD LIFE
The message today was the beginning of a series, addressing the importance of Leaving the Old Life as we enter into A New Beginning. The newness of life that comes at our New Birth is not to be mixed and mingled with the old life of sin.
2 Corinthians 5:17
(17) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
We must not hold onto the old dead stuff in our sinful life, the old stuff that has passed away.
(5/22/16) WE ARE IN THE FORMATIVE STAGE... UNCHANGING MESSAGE
(5/22/16)
WE ARE IN THE FORMATIVE STAGE...
UNCHANGING MESSAGE
As pastor of The NET HOUSE, I am excited about our future. Though we are a new ministry in the area, I have been studying, preaching, teaching, counseling and pastoring (in various places and settings) for over one half of a century. I have a storehouse of Bible truth and Biblical instruction on how to live the Christian life in these end times of moral, social, political, economic and spiritual upheaval, and I want to share it with you.
CHANGING TIMES
I am almost seventy years old, so I probably won't be around for another fifty years of ministry. Then again, I don't think my age is the real concern today. Instead it is the hearts of men turning cold, as the end of this age begins to close in on us.
But, as we are trying to find the best way to reach our community, our format for worship services and outreach are in the formative stage right now. Our schedule has changed.
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
As of next week...
Sunday Bible Classes from 9:45 until 10:40
Worship and Preaching Service from 10:45 until 11:45 (as the Holy Spirit leads). As we grow and as our needs change, we will make other adjustments.
PREACHING AND TEACHING THEME
Our theme in these early months is "NEW BEGINNINGS." All of our studies and messages have addressed the New Beginning that God wants to give us, as a ministry, as seasoned followers of Christ, as novice believers and as new converts.
Bible Class and Preaching Series'
Our Pastor's Bible Class started a new series today, focusing on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. You will find my lesson plan on my Timeline.
The message during Worship and Preaching Service today addressed the fact that, "A NEW BEGINNING REQUIRES AN ENDING TO THE OLD LIFE." Sadly, too many people want to, and believe that they can, bring parts of their old sinful life into the Newness of Life that Christ gives them at salvation. The Lord willing, I will continue to address this important subject on subsequent Sundays.
I hope you come and hear the Bible message, as The NET HOUSE reaches out in the love of Jesus.
WE ARE IN THE FORMATIVE STAGE...
UNCHANGING MESSAGE
As pastor of The NET HOUSE, I am excited about our future. Though we are a new ministry in the area, I have been studying, preaching, teaching, counseling and pastoring (in various places and settings) for over one half of a century. I have a storehouse of Bible truth and Biblical instruction on how to live the Christian life in these end times of moral, social, political, economic and spiritual upheaval, and I want to share it with you.
CHANGING TIMES
I am almost seventy years old, so I probably won't be around for another fifty years of ministry. Then again, I don't think my age is the real concern today. Instead it is the hearts of men turning cold, as the end of this age begins to close in on us.
But, as we are trying to find the best way to reach our community, our format for worship services and outreach are in the formative stage right now. Our schedule has changed.
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
As of next week...
Sunday Bible Classes from 9:45 until 10:40
Worship and Preaching Service from 10:45 until 11:45 (as the Holy Spirit leads). As we grow and as our needs change, we will make other adjustments.
PREACHING AND TEACHING THEME
Our theme in these early months is "NEW BEGINNINGS." All of our studies and messages have addressed the New Beginning that God wants to give us, as a ministry, as seasoned followers of Christ, as novice believers and as new converts.
Bible Class and Preaching Series'
Our Pastor's Bible Class started a new series today, focusing on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. You will find my lesson plan on my Timeline.
The message during Worship and Preaching Service today addressed the fact that, "A NEW BEGINNING REQUIRES AN ENDING TO THE OLD LIFE." Sadly, too many people want to, and believe that they can, bring parts of their old sinful life into the Newness of Life that Christ gives them at salvation. The Lord willing, I will continue to address this important subject on subsequent Sundays.
I hope you come and hear the Bible message, as The NET HOUSE reaches out in the love of Jesus.
(5/22/16) Pastor's Sunday Bible Class lesson THE HOLY SPIRIT IN BELIEVERS
(5/22/16)
Pastor's Sunday Bible Class lesson
THE HOLY SPIRIT IN BELIEVERS
* Christians Are BORN OF THE SPIRIT
John 3:5
(5) Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (Jn. 3:6).
* Christians LIVE, WALK IN THE SPIRIT
Romans 8:12-13
(12) Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
(13) For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
also... (Ro. 8:5,9-10; Ga. 5:16, 25).
* Christians BEAR THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
Galatians 5:22-23
(22) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
(23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
* Christians ARE LED BY THE SPIRIT
Romans 8:14
(14) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
* Christians ARE PURIFIED BY THE SPIRIT
Acts 15:8-9
(8) And God, which knows the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;
(9) And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
also... (1 Th. 4:7-8; 1 Pe. 1:2, 22).
* Christians ARE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT
Ephesians 5:18
(18) And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
also... (Ac.2:13-18; 4:8, 31; 6:3; 11:24).
* Christians ARE ANOINTED BY THE SPIRIT
Luke 4:18
(18) The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
* Christians ARE TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT
John 14:26
(26) But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
also... (Lk. 12:12; Jo. 15:26; 16:13).
* Christians ARE GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT
Hebrews 2:4
(4) God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
also... (1 Co. 12:4).
* Christians ARE EMPOWERED BY THE SPIRIT
Acts 1:8
(8) But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
also... (Ac. 10:38; Ro. 15:13, 19).
* Christians ARE SEALED BY THE SPIRIT
Ephesians 4:30
(30) And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
also... (2 Co. 1:22; Ep. 1:13)
Pastor's Sunday Bible Class lesson
THE HOLY SPIRIT IN BELIEVERS
* Christians Are BORN OF THE SPIRIT
John 3:5
(5) Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (Jn. 3:6).
* Christians LIVE, WALK IN THE SPIRIT
Romans 8:12-13
(12) Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
(13) For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
also... (Ro. 8:5,9-10; Ga. 5:16, 25).
* Christians BEAR THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
Galatians 5:22-23
(22) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
(23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
* Christians ARE LED BY THE SPIRIT
Romans 8:14
(14) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
* Christians ARE PURIFIED BY THE SPIRIT
Acts 15:8-9
(8) And God, which knows the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;
(9) And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
also... (1 Th. 4:7-8; 1 Pe. 1:2, 22).
* Christians ARE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT
Ephesians 5:18
(18) And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
also... (Ac.2:13-18; 4:8, 31; 6:3; 11:24).
* Christians ARE ANOINTED BY THE SPIRIT
Luke 4:18
(18) The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
* Christians ARE TAUGHT BY THE SPIRIT
John 14:26
(26) But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
also... (Lk. 12:12; Jo. 15:26; 16:13).
* Christians ARE GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT
Hebrews 2:4
(4) God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
also... (1 Co. 12:4).
* Christians ARE EMPOWERED BY THE SPIRIT
Acts 1:8
(8) But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
also... (Ac. 10:38; Ro. 15:13, 19).
* Christians ARE SEALED BY THE SPIRIT
Ephesians 4:30
(30) And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
also... (2 Co. 1:22; Ep. 1:13)
(5/21/16) THE WILL OF GOD (VSS.) by dlg
(5/21/16)
THE WILL OF GOD (VSS.) by dlgConsider the things that come to those who follow the will of God.
(I don’t see the downside, y’all).
Let me restate this... WOW, THIS IS AWESOME
Not a single passage that says it is not the will of God to save someone.
Not a single passage that says it is not the will of God to make His people victorious in holiness.
Not a single passage that says it is not His will to deliver His people from all their sins.
The Note has nineteen passages from the New Testament, which are specifically related to the will (decree) of God and the believers ability to either obey or disobey the will of God. These passages include 61 verses.
Let me point out that not one single verse in the New Testament states or implies that it is impossible to do the will of God. Neither is there a single verse that indicates that those who resist the will of God will be saved eternally.
This is not an issue of legalism or works salvation or self justification.
It is a matter of DIVINE DELIVERANCE FROM THE POWER OF DARKNESS, through the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Mark 3:34-35
(34) And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
(35) For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.
dlg note... Those who do the will of God are the family of God.
John 1:12-13
(12) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
(13) Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
dlg note... Those who receive Christ receive the power to become the children of God, which is God’s will.
John 7:15-17
(15) And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?
(16) Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
(17) If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
dlg note... Doing the will of God leads to knowing the will of God.
(17) If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
dlg note... Doing the will of God leads to knowing the will of God.
John 9:31
(31) Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.
dlg note... Doing the will of God is required for God hearing our prayers.
Romans 8:26-28
(26) Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
(27) And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
(28) And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
dlg note... The Holy Spirit intercedes for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
Romans 12:1-2
(1) I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
(2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
dlg note... Those who surrender fully to God are able to do the will of God.
2 Corinthians 8:3-5 (ASV)
(3) For according to their power, I bear witness, yea and beyond their power, they gave of their own accord,
(4) beseeching us with much entreaty in regard of this grace and the fellowship in the ministering to the saints:
(5) and this, not as we had hoped, but first they gave their own selves to the Lord, and to us through the will of God.
dlg note... God wills for us to serve others by first surrendering to God.
Galatians 1:3-4
(3) Grace to you and peace from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ,
(4) who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us out of this present evil world, according to the will of our God and Father:
dlg note... The will of the Father is to deliver us out of this present evil world (present day deliverance).
Ephesians 6:5-8
(5) Servants, be obedient unto them that according to the flesh are your masters, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
(6) not in the way of eyeservice, as men-pleasers; but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;
(7) with good will doing service, as unto the Lord, and not unto men:
(8) knowing that whatsoever good thing each one doeth, the same shall he receive again from the Lord, whether he be bond or free.
dlg note... God expects His children to do His will from the heart, not from legal obligation.
Philippians 2:12-16
(12) So then, my beloved, even as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;
(13) for it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure.
(14) Do all things without murmurings and questionings:
(15) that ye may become blameless and harmless, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye are seen as lights in the world,
(16) holding forth the word of life; that I may have whereof to glory in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain neither labor in vain.
dlg note... When believers do the will of God, it is not simply our best human effort, it is the result of God’s enabling and empowering Holy Spirit.
Colossians 4:12
(12) Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, saluteth you, always striving for you in his prayers, that ye may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God.
dlg note... Believers pray for other believers to STAND PERFECT AND FULLY ASSURED IN ALL THE WILL OF GOD.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-8
(3) For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye abstain from fornication;
(4) that each one of you know how to possess himself of his own vessel in sanctification and honor,
(5) not in the passion of lust, even as the Gentiles who know not God;
(6) that no man transgress, and wrong his brother in the matter: because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as also we forewarned you and testified.
(7) For God called us not for uncleanness, but in sanctification.
(8) Therefore he that rejecteth, rejecteth not man, but God, who giveth his Holy Spirit unto you.
dlg note... God wills for us to be holy, pure, righteous, sanctified in attitude and actions.
1 Thessalonians 5:14-24
(14) Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
(15) See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
(16) Rejoice evermore.
(17) Pray without ceasing.
(18) In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
(19) Quench not the Spirit.
(20) Despise not prophesyings.
(21) Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
(22) Abstain from all appearance of evil.
(23) And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(24) Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
dlg note... A believer’s life of submission to God is manifested in his relationships with other people. God wills for us to be entirely sanctified and God entirely sanctifies the believer who accepts the call of God to holiness of heart and life.
Hebrews 2:3-4
(3) How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
(4) God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
dlg note... God wills for us to have, and to know that we have GREAT SALVATION, and He bears witness to this by signs, wonders, miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit. If people are not expecting and submitting to So Great Salvation, then they should not expect to experience and enjoy Divine power to be displayed in their lives.
Hebrews 10:35-39
(35) Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
(36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
(37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.
(38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
(39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
dlg note... The will of God can be done, must be done, in order to receive the promise of God; but this is only available to those who hold fast to their faith and exercise patience.
1 Peter 3:17-18
(17) For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
(18) For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
dlg note... In this world, it is sometimes the will of God that believers go through trials and suffering. Remember, Christ suffered for us in this life. Still, it is better to suffer for doing the will of God than to suffer for not doing the will of God.
1 Peter 4:1-2
(1) Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;
(2) That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.
dlg note... Believers can have the mind of Christ, which enables and empowers them to be faithful during hard testing and trial. Regardless of how difficult this life becomes, it is the will of God for His children to live in a manner that is pleasing to Him.
2 Peter 1:19-21
(19) We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:
(20) Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
(21) For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
dlg note... Believers have a firm foundation on which to stand: it is the word of God, the revelation of God sent through holy men who were moved by the Holy Spirit, according to the will of God.
1 John 2:15-17
(15) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
(16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
(17) And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
dlg note... It is the will of God to save forever and to the uttermost, believers who do the will of God.
(5/21/16) AIM HIGH OR MISSING THE MARK
(5/21/16)
REMEMBER, we either set our sites on that which is higher or we don't. It is that simple. (3 quick thoughts and a Bible verse).
* To not aim for that which is higher is to aim for that which is lower.
* To not aim for the heart of the target is to aim at missing the heart of the target.
* If hitting the center of the target takes all of our focus, how far off from the center of the target are we going to be if we don't intend, if we don't focus, if we don't aim for the center?
Colossians 3:2
(2) Set your affection (mind, attention) on things above, not on things on the earth.
AIM HIGH OR MISSING THE MARK
REMEMBER, we either set our sites on that which is higher or we don't. It is that simple. (3 quick thoughts and a Bible verse).
* To not aim for that which is higher is to aim for that which is lower.
* To not aim for the heart of the target is to aim at missing the heart of the target.
* If hitting the center of the target takes all of our focus, how far off from the center of the target are we going to be if we don't intend, if we don't focus, if we don't aim for the center?
Colossians 3:2
(2) Set your affection (mind, attention) on things above, not on things on the earth.
(5/20/16) Y'ALL COME (and bring a friend)
(5/20/16) TNH
Y'ALL COME (and bring a friend)
Hey y'all, if you want to hear a new revelation from God or a new doctrine, THEN DON'T BOTHER coming to hear me preach at The Net House, which has Bible Class at 9:30 and Worship/Preaching Service at 11:00 on Sunday morning at The Teachers Pet, located in Morehead City.
You see, I don't have any new revelation or new doctrine from God. But if you want to hear the old time message of salvation from the Holy Bible, then come on out and visit us. All of my beliefs are as old as the Holy Bible, and I just believe what the New Testament apostles taught.
OLD TIME TRUTH
Ephesians 2:19-22
(19) Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
(20) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
(21) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
(22) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Jude 1:3
(3) Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
END TIMES TICKLERS
However, don't be surprised if these old Bible truths are new to you, since the Bible does not get preached as much as it use to be preached.
1 Timothy 4:1-2
(1) Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
(2) Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;
2 Timothy 3:1-5
(1) This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
(2) For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
(3) Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
(4) Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
(5) Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
This Is My Commission From God
2 Timothy 4:1-4
(1) I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
(2) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
(3) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
(4) And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
Y'ALL COME (and bring a friend)
Hey y'all, if you want to hear a new revelation from God or a new doctrine, THEN DON'T BOTHER coming to hear me preach at The Net House, which has Bible Class at 9:30 and Worship/Preaching Service at 11:00 on Sunday morning at The Teachers Pet, located in Morehead City.
You see, I don't have any new revelation or new doctrine from God. But if you want to hear the old time message of salvation from the Holy Bible, then come on out and visit us. All of my beliefs are as old as the Holy Bible, and I just believe what the New Testament apostles taught.
OLD TIME TRUTH
Ephesians 2:19-22
(19) Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
(20) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
(21) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
(22) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Jude 1:3
(3) Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
END TIMES TICKLERS
However, don't be surprised if these old Bible truths are new to you, since the Bible does not get preached as much as it use to be preached.
1 Timothy 4:1-2
(1) Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
(2) Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;
2 Timothy 3:1-5
(1) This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
(2) For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
(3) Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
(4) Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
(5) Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
This Is My Commission From God
2 Timothy 4:1-4
(1) I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
(2) Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
(3) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
(4) And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
(5/20/16) IT IS THIS SIMPLE. (Just 3 sentences)
(5/20/16) TNH
IT IS THIS SIMPLE. (Just 3 sentences)
* A New Beginning REQUIRES Ending The Old.
* Salvation is TRANSFORMATION, not REFORMATION.
* 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
The good news is, God delivers us from enslavement to sin. We become servants of righteousness.
Romans 6:1-23
1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.
8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:
9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.
10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.
21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.
22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
IT IS THIS SIMPLE. (Just 3 sentences)
* A New Beginning REQUIRES Ending The Old.
* Salvation is TRANSFORMATION, not REFORMATION.
* 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
The good news is, God delivers us from enslavement to sin. We become servants of righteousness.
Romans 6:1-23
1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.
8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:
9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.
10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.
21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.
22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
(5/20/16) THE NEW VIEW OF SIN
(5/20/16)
THE NEW VIEW OF SIN
Pretty much (a colloquialism in the place of, "for the most part") sin does not exist in the worldview of modern man. Modern man usually thinks of sin as something that is offensive to him personally or offensive to his chosen value's system.
This is why there is so much actual sin in the world. Actual sin is that which God has declared to be a violation of His will, His law, His authority. Modern man, pretty much, is not offended by that which God declares to be unlawful, therefore it is not awful to modern man until it interferes with his skewed view of right and wrong.
But God has not put His law up for debate or a vote.
God alone decides what is sin and what is not sin.
God alone decides the way of salvation, forgiveness, righteousness.
Isaiah 33:22
(22) For the LORD is our judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our king; he will save us.
Modern man (actually everyone since Adam) has been trying to justify himself and cover over his sin.
But God says...
Isaiah 5:20-21
(20) Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
(21) Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!
We will not see ourselves in need of God's salvation until we see ourselves as violators of God's law.
We will not seek God's forgiveness until we see ourselves under God's judgment.
We will not have eternal life until we quit acting as if we are God, and then yield to the true and living God, through faith in Jesus Christ.
Spiritual life (reconciliation with God) only begins when spiritual death (separation from God) comes to an end through surrender to God.
THE NEW VIEW OF SIN
Pretty much (a colloquialism in the place of, "for the most part") sin does not exist in the worldview of modern man. Modern man usually thinks of sin as something that is offensive to him personally or offensive to his chosen value's system.
This is why there is so much actual sin in the world. Actual sin is that which God has declared to be a violation of His will, His law, His authority. Modern man, pretty much, is not offended by that which God declares to be unlawful, therefore it is not awful to modern man until it interferes with his skewed view of right and wrong.
But God has not put His law up for debate or a vote.
God alone decides what is sin and what is not sin.
God alone decides the way of salvation, forgiveness, righteousness.
Isaiah 33:22
(22) For the LORD is our judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our king; he will save us.
Modern man (actually everyone since Adam) has been trying to justify himself and cover over his sin.
But God says...
Isaiah 5:20-21
(20) Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
(21) Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!
We will not see ourselves in need of God's salvation until we see ourselves as violators of God's law.
We will not seek God's forgiveness until we see ourselves under God's judgment.
We will not have eternal life until we quit acting as if we are God, and then yield to the true and living God, through faith in Jesus Christ.
Spiritual life (reconciliation with God) only begins when spiritual death (separation from God) comes to an end through surrender to God.
(5/20/16) JUST A FACT
(5/20/16)
JUST A FACT
(5/20/16) This ain't gonna win me any Liberal accolades.
(5/20/16)
This ain't gonna win me any Liberal accolades.
To argue for TRANSGENDER rule for public bathrooms, or locker rooms, or showers, indicates something about those who advocate for the GENDER IDENTITY CONFUSION lie.
Either he is...
A man who has lost his memory about the male sexual drive, or he is...
A man who never had sexual drive, or he is...
A man (?) who sexually desires other men,
or she is...
A stupid woman, who follows deceived people, and/or deceiving people, or she is...
A woman who secretly wants a man (other than her husband) to be in a private, intimate, sexual situation with her,
either because...
she wants to be exposed to him, or...
she wants him to be exposed to her or...
This ain't gonna win me any Liberal accolades.
To argue for TRANSGENDER rule for public bathrooms, or locker rooms, or showers, indicates something about those who advocate for the GENDER IDENTITY CONFUSION lie.
Either he is...
A man who has lost his memory about the male sexual drive, or he is...
A man who never had sexual drive, or he is...
A man (?) who sexually desires other men,
or she is...
A stupid woman, who follows deceived people, and/or deceiving people, or she is...
A woman who secretly wants a man (other than her husband) to be in a private, intimate, sexual situation with her,
either because...
she wants to be exposed to him, or...
she wants him to be exposed to her or...
she wants the titillation of sensual thoughts about other men.
All of the Liberal-babble is a smoke screen for those who want to reject decency, common sense, basic values, human dignity and sound mental health.
Remember, "Gender Identity Confusion," is a deviant condition and should be addressed in private therapy, not undressed in public places. Aberrant sexual desires and anti-Christian values accept and promote the LGBT agenda. It has nothing to do with helping the hurting (except in the deluded mind).
"Gender Identity Confusion" is (at best) a human disorder, just as Anorexia and other mental/psychological (?) deviant behavior, which is the depraved results of Adam's sin, or the deliberate choice of the self serving sinner. In either case, it is a spiritual problem needing the salvation of Christ.
All of the Liberal-babble is a smoke screen for those who want to reject decency, common sense, basic values, human dignity and sound mental health.
Remember, "Gender Identity Confusion," is a deviant condition and should be addressed in private therapy, not undressed in public places. Aberrant sexual desires and anti-Christian values accept and promote the LGBT agenda. It has nothing to do with helping the hurting (except in the deluded mind).
"Gender Identity Confusion" is (at best) a human disorder, just as Anorexia and other mental/psychological (?) deviant behavior, which is the depraved results of Adam's sin, or the deliberate choice of the self serving sinner. In either case, it is a spiritual problem needing the salvation of Christ.
(5/18/16) YOU WILL BE IN FOR A BIG...
(5/18/16)
YOU WILL BE IN FOR A BIG...
If you are one of those people who chooses to attack (or ignore) the message of the Bible (based on some erroneous "reason"), because you mistakenly think that such supposed error excuses you from accepting and yielding to the Bible as God's authoritative revelation.
...SURPRISE!
YOU WILL BE IN FOR A BIG...
If you are one of those people who chooses to attack (or ignore) the message of the Bible (based on some erroneous "reason"), because you mistakenly think that such supposed error excuses you from accepting and yielding to the Bible as God's authoritative revelation.
...SURPRISE!
(5/18/16) WHAT WILL IT BE LIKE HERE, AFTER THE RAPTURE?
(5/18/16)
WHAT WILL IT BE LIKE HERE, AFTER THE RAPTURE?
I enjoyed a reflective and restorative time on the waterfront last night (see video on The Net House page). However, after my quiet time, I heard a commotion down the boardwalk. I figured it was some loud and rowdy folks drinking or drugging, and I was right. Though I planned to take the long way around, in order to avoid an unhealthy confrontation, God actually led me into the middle of it. Of course, God does all things well. He gave me a good opportunity to witness.
However, I was thinking later, this is a muted picture of what this world will be like after the Rapture. The restraining influence of the Holy Spirit, through the presence of believers, will be gone.
Imagine the worst of life, the worst of society running lawlessly rampant. Imagine domestic disputes, child abuse, violence in the streets.
Imagine the filth that is kept under lock and key in the jails and prisons filling the community.
Imagine a world, with all of the worst and none of the good.
That is what this world will be like after the Rapture. It will be...
darkness with no light,
corruption with no cleansing,
abuse with no deterrent.
You really don't want to miss the Rapture.
WHAT WILL IT BE LIKE HERE, AFTER THE RAPTURE?
I enjoyed a reflective and restorative time on the waterfront last night (see video on The Net House page). However, after my quiet time, I heard a commotion down the boardwalk. I figured it was some loud and rowdy folks drinking or drugging, and I was right. Though I planned to take the long way around, in order to avoid an unhealthy confrontation, God actually led me into the middle of it. Of course, God does all things well. He gave me a good opportunity to witness.
However, I was thinking later, this is a muted picture of what this world will be like after the Rapture. The restraining influence of the Holy Spirit, through the presence of believers, will be gone.
Imagine the worst of life, the worst of society running lawlessly rampant. Imagine domestic disputes, child abuse, violence in the streets.
Imagine the filth that is kept under lock and key in the jails and prisons filling the community.
Imagine a world, with all of the worst and none of the good.
That is what this world will be like after the Rapture. It will be...
darkness with no light,
corruption with no cleansing,
abuse with no deterrent.
You really don't want to miss the Rapture.
(5/17/16) AN EVEN BIGGER LIE
(5/17/16)
AN EVEN BIGGER LIE
A little known fact of history (ok, it is not a fact, it is an absurdity).
After the men threw Jonah overboard, they got on their social media devices (I told you it was an absurdity) and started telling people that Jonah transferred off of their vessel because he did not like them.
Yep, that is definitely an absurdity. It is so absurd that it could not happen, right? NOW THAT IS AN EVEN BIGGER ABSURDITY.
AN EVEN BIGGER LIE
A little known fact of history (ok, it is not a fact, it is an absurdity).
After the men threw Jonah overboard, they got on their social media devices (I told you it was an absurdity) and started telling people that Jonah transferred off of their vessel because he did not like them.
Yep, that is definitely an absurdity. It is so absurd that it could not happen, right? NOW THAT IS AN EVEN BIGGER ABSURDITY.
(5/17/16) TNH LET'S GO FISHING
(5/17/16) TNH
LET'S GO FISHING
While I was at some restaurants this week I have had the opportunity to talk to folks, telling them about our new ministry in the area, inviting them to services, pointing them to THE NET HOUSE page and asking them about their own relationships with Jesus.
I go out to the fishing grounds expecting to fish, and maybe even catch fish (fishing for men, that is). I look for God's leading and try to say and do that which is pleasing to Him and effective with them.
It is encouraging to have folks actually ask for your name, the name and location of your church, your phone number. This happened a couple of times in the past couple of days.
As I said, I fish with the hope of catching. I saw a young family and entered conversation with them. I discovered that they are actively planning to move to the area. When they asked about my status I explained that I am a pastor, just moving back to the area, and starting a ministry. They were interested and took my number and name. Hopefully we will hear from them for questions, which could lead to worship or Bible study time. In a situation today I sat next to a couple of men during lunch. I kept looking for my opportunity to offer them something from the table of God.
Eventually we started talking about the menu, the area, the sad condition of our society, the advantages of our community (for raising children). I then asked them about their own relationship with Jesus and focused on the importance of men being men of God in these terrible times. Again, the response was positive. I did not talk about THE NET HOUSE at this time. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't. I hope that they remember and think about the importance of men leading children in trusting Christ.
GOOD FISHING Y'ALL
LET'S GO FISHING
While I was at some restaurants this week I have had the opportunity to talk to folks, telling them about our new ministry in the area, inviting them to services, pointing them to THE NET HOUSE page and asking them about their own relationships with Jesus.
I go out to the fishing grounds expecting to fish, and maybe even catch fish (fishing for men, that is). I look for God's leading and try to say and do that which is pleasing to Him and effective with them.
It is encouraging to have folks actually ask for your name, the name and location of your church, your phone number. This happened a couple of times in the past couple of days.
As I said, I fish with the hope of catching. I saw a young family and entered conversation with them. I discovered that they are actively planning to move to the area. When they asked about my status I explained that I am a pastor, just moving back to the area, and starting a ministry. They were interested and took my number and name. Hopefully we will hear from them for questions, which could lead to worship or Bible study time. In a situation today I sat next to a couple of men during lunch. I kept looking for my opportunity to offer them something from the table of God.
Eventually we started talking about the menu, the area, the sad condition of our society, the advantages of our community (for raising children). I then asked them about their own relationship with Jesus and focused on the importance of men being men of God in these terrible times. Again, the response was positive. I did not talk about THE NET HOUSE at this time. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't. I hope that they remember and think about the importance of men leading children in trusting Christ.
GOOD FISHING Y'ALL
(5/17/16) NEVER TOO OLD FOR CHRISTIAN GRACES
(5/17/16)
NEVER TOO OLD FOR CHRISTIAN GRACES
On my next birthday I will be 70 years old (which means I am already in my 70th year). I guess I could quit referring to "old" people as "sir" and "mam" and no one would notice. Well, that is not altogether accurate. I would notice. In fact, I would notice if I did not show the same courtesy and respect to younger people... like... in their 60's, or 40's or 20's or even little children.
I realize I am a provincial anachronism (something from the old southern culture). But that is fine by me. I think "old school" has a lot to offer. Of course, respect and courtesy is more than polite conversation. It is an internal appreciation for someone, even when that someone offers very little to be appreciated. Come to think of it, courtesy and respect and politeness is not simply an old southern culture, it is a Biblical concept.
Not only is it true that individuals don't get too old for expressions of courtesy, the human race does not get too old for social graces either. Too bad that it seems to be a disappearing quality.
Romans 12:9-10
(9) Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
(10) In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another;
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
(4) Love suffereth long, and is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
(5) doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own, is not provoked, taketh not account of evil;
(6) rejoiceth not in unrighteousness, but rejoiceth with the truth;
(7) beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Ephesians 4:32
(32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Colossians 3:12-14
(12) Put on therefore, as God's elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering;
(13) forbearing one another, and forgiving each other, if any man have a complaint against any; even as the Lord forgave you, so also do ye:
(14) and above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness.
2 Peter 1:4-11
(4) whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.
(5) Yea, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply virtue; and in your virtue knowledge;
(6) and in your knowledge self-control; and in your self-control patience; and in your patience godliness;
(7) and in your godliness brotherly kindness; and in your brotherly kindness love.
(8) For if these things are yours and abound, they make you to be not idle nor unfruitful unto the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(9) For he that lacketh these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins.
(10) Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:
(11) for thus shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
NEVER TOO OLD FOR CHRISTIAN GRACES
On my next birthday I will be 70 years old (which means I am already in my 70th year). I guess I could quit referring to "old" people as "sir" and "mam" and no one would notice. Well, that is not altogether accurate. I would notice. In fact, I would notice if I did not show the same courtesy and respect to younger people... like... in their 60's, or 40's or 20's or even little children.
I realize I am a provincial anachronism (something from the old southern culture). But that is fine by me. I think "old school" has a lot to offer. Of course, respect and courtesy is more than polite conversation. It is an internal appreciation for someone, even when that someone offers very little to be appreciated. Come to think of it, courtesy and respect and politeness is not simply an old southern culture, it is a Biblical concept.
Not only is it true that individuals don't get too old for expressions of courtesy, the human race does not get too old for social graces either. Too bad that it seems to be a disappearing quality.
Romans 12:9-10
(9) Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
(10) In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another;
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
(4) Love suffereth long, and is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
(5) doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own, is not provoked, taketh not account of evil;
(6) rejoiceth not in unrighteousness, but rejoiceth with the truth;
(7) beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Ephesians 4:32
(32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Colossians 3:12-14
(12) Put on therefore, as God's elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering;
(13) forbearing one another, and forgiving each other, if any man have a complaint against any; even as the Lord forgave you, so also do ye:
(14) and above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness.
2 Peter 1:4-11
(4) whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.
(5) Yea, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply virtue; and in your virtue knowledge;
(6) and in your knowledge self-control; and in your self-control patience; and in your patience godliness;
(7) and in your godliness brotherly kindness; and in your brotherly kindness love.
(8) For if these things are yours and abound, they make you to be not idle nor unfruitful unto the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(9) For he that lacketh these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins.
(10) Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:
(11) for thus shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
(5/16/16) ENJOYING THE MEAL
(5/16/16)
ENJOYING THE MEAL
Have you ever planned to go with some friends to a favorite restaurant? I have. I really like Rioz, Damon's, Magnolia's, Tony's Seafood, Abuelo's, Plaza Mexico in Beaufort, Carrabba's, P.F. Chang. It is especially fun if you know your friend or guest is looking forward to the meal. ÔK, I admit to excitement just pulling into the parting lot, heightened anticipation as we enter the dining room and sheer ecstasy when the food arrives. Again, the pleasure is multiplied when your dinning companions are also enjoying the meal.
Then again I have been with folks who either showed no pleasure or actually criticized the occasion. The same responses can be manifested when the meal is served at home. A happy and satisfied diner intensifies the joy of a shared meal, and an unresponsive or negative person can ruin an otherwise special event.
Here it comes. Are you ready?
The same is true for going to church. People ought to look forward to joining friends in worship service. There ought to be excitement as they drive up to the gathering location. There ought to be heightened anticipation as they enter the sanctuary. There should be sheer ecstasy as they enter into the presence of God.
But it ain't always that way.
The celebration should not be based on the preacher, the music, the facility, the other worshippers, though all of these things should add to the specialness of the event. The reason for our exhilaration should be the presence of Jesus. If He is not the source of your joy, if He does not fill your heart to overflowing, then you need to repent.
Think about the influence you have on other people in a worship service. If you don't add to the celebration then you are dampening the service for others. You are robbing God of His glory.
Think about your influence on others during a service. Think about how you help or you hinder the pastor.
Psalms 100
1 A Psalm of praise. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
God help you if you enjoy a burger more than you appreciate the presence of the God of the universe.
ENJOYING THE MEAL
Have you ever planned to go with some friends to a favorite restaurant? I have. I really like Rioz, Damon's, Magnolia's, Tony's Seafood, Abuelo's, Plaza Mexico in Beaufort, Carrabba's, P.F. Chang. It is especially fun if you know your friend or guest is looking forward to the meal. ÔK, I admit to excitement just pulling into the parting lot, heightened anticipation as we enter the dining room and sheer ecstasy when the food arrives. Again, the pleasure is multiplied when your dinning companions are also enjoying the meal.
Then again I have been with folks who either showed no pleasure or actually criticized the occasion. The same responses can be manifested when the meal is served at home. A happy and satisfied diner intensifies the joy of a shared meal, and an unresponsive or negative person can ruin an otherwise special event.
Here it comes. Are you ready?
The same is true for going to church. People ought to look forward to joining friends in worship service. There ought to be excitement as they drive up to the gathering location. There ought to be heightened anticipation as they enter the sanctuary. There should be sheer ecstasy as they enter into the presence of God.
But it ain't always that way.
The celebration should not be based on the preacher, the music, the facility, the other worshippers, though all of these things should add to the specialness of the event. The reason for our exhilaration should be the presence of Jesus. If He is not the source of your joy, if He does not fill your heart to overflowing, then you need to repent.
Think about the influence you have on other people in a worship service. If you don't add to the celebration then you are dampening the service for others. You are robbing God of His glory.
Think about your influence on others during a service. Think about how you help or you hinder the pastor.
Psalms 100
1 A Psalm of praise. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
God help you if you enjoy a burger more than you appreciate the presence of the God of the universe.
(5/16/16) TNH THE GREATEST SPIRITUAL WORK (the focus of The Net House)
(5/16/16) TNH
THE GREATEST SPIRITUAL WORK
(the focus of The Net House)
I was asked what was the greatest work of God I have ever seen.
Though I have seen bodies healed, demons cast out and other outward manifestations, the greatest work of God I have seen might not seem to be quite so dramatic or exciting, at least to some people.
Jesus told us not to rejoice that we have power over demons, but rather that our names are recorded in heaven (Lk. 10:20). The greatest work of God is the changing of lives. Authority over demons and power to heal bodies displays God's Sovereignty over His creation. But changing the human soul and conquering a free moral agent through the power of love is far more wonderful than changing the direction of a raging river.
God's greatest work is to change human lives, since He allows us the ability to resist His will. Even when Christ cleansed the the ten lepers, only one returned to give Him thanks. Also, Satan can do mighty works that astound people but he cannot save a soul or change a life for good.
The greatest work I have seen in the spirit realm is when God...
Changes a hateful heart to a loving heart;
Transforms the lustful mind into one that is pure;
Delivers a man from greed, deceit, envy, pride and self-reliance;
Restores a broken relationship;
Heals a broken or bitter heart after a betrayal or the loss of a loved one.
Great numbers of people have been physically healed by God's goodness, only to continue to live in sin; they have been delivered from demonic grip, and then returned to serve the Prince of Darkness. The greatest work of the Spirit is to transform a child of hell into a child of God, to cleanse us from all sin and perfect our hearts in holiness.
I have seen great worship services of praise, shouting, rolling, jumping and swooning and listened to people "give the word of the Lord" and then bicker, backbite and be-little others.
I have seen these "great saints minister under the anointing," then allow their children to "cut the fool" while the eternal Word of God was being preached.
I watched people gossip and call it “prayer request;” brag on themselves and call it “testimony;”
I have seen people shake, shout and shine like the sun, then lord it over their wives, oppress their children, disobey their husbands and bad mouth their parents.
The miracles of God are great, but His miracle of salvation from sin is His greatest miracle. Healing is coming; judgment is coming; a new world is coming, but Now is the Accepted Time, Today is the Day of Salvation (2 Co. 6:2). Repent and Believe (Mk. 1:15).
THE GREATEST SPIRITUAL WORK
(the focus of The Net House)
I was asked what was the greatest work of God I have ever seen.
Though I have seen bodies healed, demons cast out and other outward manifestations, the greatest work of God I have seen might not seem to be quite so dramatic or exciting, at least to some people.
Jesus told us not to rejoice that we have power over demons, but rather that our names are recorded in heaven (Lk. 10:20). The greatest work of God is the changing of lives. Authority over demons and power to heal bodies displays God's Sovereignty over His creation. But changing the human soul and conquering a free moral agent through the power of love is far more wonderful than changing the direction of a raging river.
God's greatest work is to change human lives, since He allows us the ability to resist His will. Even when Christ cleansed the the ten lepers, only one returned to give Him thanks. Also, Satan can do mighty works that astound people but he cannot save a soul or change a life for good.
The greatest work I have seen in the spirit realm is when God...
Changes a hateful heart to a loving heart;
Transforms the lustful mind into one that is pure;
Delivers a man from greed, deceit, envy, pride and self-reliance;
Restores a broken relationship;
Heals a broken or bitter heart after a betrayal or the loss of a loved one.
Great numbers of people have been physically healed by God's goodness, only to continue to live in sin; they have been delivered from demonic grip, and then returned to serve the Prince of Darkness. The greatest work of the Spirit is to transform a child of hell into a child of God, to cleanse us from all sin and perfect our hearts in holiness.
I have seen great worship services of praise, shouting, rolling, jumping and swooning and listened to people "give the word of the Lord" and then bicker, backbite and be-little others.
I have seen these "great saints minister under the anointing," then allow their children to "cut the fool" while the eternal Word of God was being preached.
I watched people gossip and call it “prayer request;” brag on themselves and call it “testimony;”
I have seen people shake, shout and shine like the sun, then lord it over their wives, oppress their children, disobey their husbands and bad mouth their parents.
The miracles of God are great, but His miracle of salvation from sin is His greatest miracle. Healing is coming; judgment is coming; a new world is coming, but Now is the Accepted Time, Today is the Day of Salvation (2 Co. 6:2). Repent and Believe (Mk. 1:15).
(5/15/16) KEY TO SPIRITUAL SUCCESS
(5/15/16)
KEY TO SPIRITUAL SUCCESS
(5/15/16) TNH SERVICES
(5/15/16) TNH
SERVICES
* PASTOR'S BIBLE CLASS
Putting the "Personal" in Personal Salvation is a Personal Responsibility.
We are each responsible for working out our own salvation (Ph. 2:12)
We have not, because we ask not, or because we ask amiss (Ja. 4:2-4).
We have as much of God as we want, that's why we have as little of Him as we do (Mt. 13:10-16).
Though Christ died for the entire world (1 Jn. 2:2), and He saves all those who come to Him by faith (Ac. 2:21; Ro. 10:13), individual development is based on the individual's faith and submission to God (1 Jn. 1:6-10).
God does not force anyone into salvation, and He does not force anyone into a victorious Christian experience, but He provides everything that pertains to life and godliness (2 Pe. 1:3).
Ephesians 4:11-32
GOD PROVIDES CORPORATE SALVATION
(11) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
(12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
(13) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
(14) That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
(15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
(16) From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
(17) This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
(18) Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
(19) Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
GOD REQUIRES PERSONAL RESPONSE
(20) But ye have not so learned Christ;
(21) If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:
(22) That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
(23) And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
(24) And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
(25) Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
(26) Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
(27) Neither give place to the devil.
(28) Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
(29) Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
(30) And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
(31) Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
(32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
* MESSAGE
TO BE IN CHRIST, IS TO BE IN RIGHTEOUSNESS.
Ephesians 4:22-32
(22) That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
(23) And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
(24) And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
(25) Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
(26) Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
(27) Neither give place to the devil.
(28) Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
(29) Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
(30) And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
(31) Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
(32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Quick Overview
GOD CREATES THE NEW MAN, THE INNER MAN IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
We must put off the old life, old self, old man, corrupted and stained with sin. The longer we live in sin, the stronger the sin becomes. We must not simply improve ourselves, nor does God simply improve us. We are in need of a new beginning, and this is why God refers to it as being created and putting on the new life, the new self, the new man.
GOD'S WORD INSTRUCTS US IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
God not only gives us a new beginning, through the new birth, created in true righteousness and holiness, God has given us His word in order to instruct us in righteousness. Righteousness is the standard of living that God expects from His children.
CHRIST WILL JUDGE AND WAGE WAR AGAINST THE LOST WORLD, IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Revelation 19:11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
Though Jesus is the Prince of Peace, to those who submit to His rule, He is the Mighty God who makes war and judges His enemies. This is a picture of Christ returning to set up His kingdom.
GOD WILL JUDGE THE WORLD IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Acts 17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
Christ, Who came, died and rose again in order to become our Savior and Lord, will sit at the judgment bar of history, judging the lost for all of their ungodly deeds and words and thoughts. Righteousness will be the standard.
SERVICES
* PASTOR'S BIBLE CLASS
Putting the "Personal" in Personal Salvation is a Personal Responsibility.
We are each responsible for working out our own salvation (Ph. 2:12)
We have not, because we ask not, or because we ask amiss (Ja. 4:2-4).
We have as much of God as we want, that's why we have as little of Him as we do (Mt. 13:10-16).
Though Christ died for the entire world (1 Jn. 2:2), and He saves all those who come to Him by faith (Ac. 2:21; Ro. 10:13), individual development is based on the individual's faith and submission to God (1 Jn. 1:6-10).
God does not force anyone into salvation, and He does not force anyone into a victorious Christian experience, but He provides everything that pertains to life and godliness (2 Pe. 1:3).
Ephesians 4:11-32
GOD PROVIDES CORPORATE SALVATION
(11) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
(12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
(13) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
(14) That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
(15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
(16) From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
(17) This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
(18) Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
(19) Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
GOD REQUIRES PERSONAL RESPONSE
(20) But ye have not so learned Christ;
(21) If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:
(22) That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
(23) And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
(24) And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
(25) Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
(26) Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
(27) Neither give place to the devil.
(28) Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
(29) Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
(30) And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
(31) Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
(32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
* MESSAGE
TO BE IN CHRIST, IS TO BE IN RIGHTEOUSNESS.
Ephesians 4:22-32
(22) That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
(23) And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
(24) And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
(25) Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
(26) Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
(27) Neither give place to the devil.
(28) Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
(29) Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
(30) And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
(31) Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
(32) And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Quick Overview
GOD CREATES THE NEW MAN, THE INNER MAN IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
We must put off the old life, old self, old man, corrupted and stained with sin. The longer we live in sin, the stronger the sin becomes. We must not simply improve ourselves, nor does God simply improve us. We are in need of a new beginning, and this is why God refers to it as being created and putting on the new life, the new self, the new man.
GOD'S WORD INSTRUCTS US IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
God not only gives us a new beginning, through the new birth, created in true righteousness and holiness, God has given us His word in order to instruct us in righteousness. Righteousness is the standard of living that God expects from His children.
CHRIST WILL JUDGE AND WAGE WAR AGAINST THE LOST WORLD, IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Revelation 19:11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
Though Jesus is the Prince of Peace, to those who submit to His rule, He is the Mighty God who makes war and judges His enemies. This is a picture of Christ returning to set up His kingdom.
GOD WILL JUDGE THE WORLD IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
Acts 17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
Christ, Who came, died and rose again in order to become our Savior and Lord, will sit at the judgment bar of history, judging the lost for all of their ungodly deeds and words and thoughts. Righteousness will be the standard.
(5/14/16) PREACHING PLAN @ TNH 2016
(5/14/16)
PREACHING PLAN @ TNH 2016
YOU REALLY MIGHT FIND THIS INTERESTING
(Y'all come, and please feel free to share.
If you come, you could be pleased with your own growth in grace and knowledge.)
There are a lot of things our new ministry, THE NET HOUSE, does not have at this time (and may never have), but we do offer Holy Spirit led and empowered Biblical training in Christian living.
This year (and as long as God allows us) the underlying theme is A NEW BEGINNING. This is because...
We are a new ministry in the area,
We want to reach people who have never received Christ as Savior and Lord,
We want to disciple Christians who have never been trained in righteousness,
We want to restore the backslider to a living and productive walk with Christ,
We want to provide a spiritual environment that leads children and young people to Christ.
Here is a list of Biblical lessons I hope to address during...
Pastor's Sunday Bible Class,
Sunday Morning Worship,
Midweek Study and Fellowship,
Home Bible Studies.
Themes...
BIBLE SURVEY
BIBLE CHARACTERS
GREAT SCENES (events)
GREAT THEMES (doctrines)
GREAT PASSAGES
These will sometimes be preached and taught in series...
Theology
Hamartiology
Soteriology
Ecclesiology
Eschatology
The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
The Sermon On The Mount
The Mountains of Bible
The Works of the Flesh and the Fruit of the Spirit
The Beatitudes
The Gifts of the Spirit
The Love Chapter
The Faith Chapter
The Divine Shepherd
The Wardrobe of Sinners and Saints
The Christian Walk
The Christian Diet
The Whole Armor of God
The Graces of Life and Godliness
The Promises and The Warnings of the Book of Hebrews
(and there is more).
At least, this is part of the plan, until Jesus comes back, or I go to be with Him.
YOU REALLY MIGHT FIND THIS INTERESTING
(Y'all come, and please feel free to share.
If you come, you could be pleased with your own growth in grace and knowledge.)
There are a lot of things our new ministry, THE NET HOUSE, does not have at this time (and may never have), but we do offer Holy Spirit led and empowered Biblical training in Christian living.
This year (and as long as God allows us) the underlying theme is A NEW BEGINNING. This is because...
We are a new ministry in the area,
We want to reach people who have never received Christ as Savior and Lord,
We want to disciple Christians who have never been trained in righteousness,
We want to restore the backslider to a living and productive walk with Christ,
We want to provide a spiritual environment that leads children and young people to Christ.
Here is a list of Biblical lessons I hope to address during...
Pastor's Sunday Bible Class,
Sunday Morning Worship,
Midweek Study and Fellowship,
Home Bible Studies.
Themes...
BIBLE SURVEY
BIBLE CHARACTERS
GREAT SCENES (events)
GREAT THEMES (doctrines)
GREAT PASSAGES
These will sometimes be preached and taught in series...
Theology
Hamartiology
Soteriology
Ecclesiology
Eschatology
The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
The Sermon On The Mount
The Mountains of Bible
The Works of the Flesh and the Fruit of the Spirit
The Beatitudes
The Gifts of the Spirit
The Love Chapter
The Faith Chapter
The Divine Shepherd
The Wardrobe of Sinners and Saints
The Christian Walk
The Christian Diet
The Whole Armor of God
The Graces of Life and Godliness
The Promises and The Warnings of the Book of Hebrews
(and there is more).
At least, this is part of the plan, until Jesus comes back, or I go to be with Him.
(5/14/16) ABANDON THE SINKING SHIP OF STATE GET ON-BOARD THE OLD SHIP OF ZION
(5/14/16)
ABANDON THE SINKING SHIP OF STATE
GET ON-BOARD THE OLD SHIP OF ZION
I have never lied to you about the relationship between America and the Bible.
I have been ahead of the curve concerning the social, political, religious and moral condition of America (and the world).
I have not claimed to be a prophet or claimed any special insight, revelation or enlightenment, but I have simply looked at life through the eye of God, as revealed in the Holy Bible.
My observations are not distinctively mine, since they are the thoughts of faithful Christians through the centuries.
I do not have any word from God, other than what is written in the Holy Bible.
I have lost friends through the years because I spoke against the popular principles and parties and personalities of our society.
I have appeared radical, not because I went off on a wild tangent, but because I remained faithful to the word of God while the modern/Western church moved away from its historic moorings.
I have been crying aloud for decades, warning of America's collapse and proclaiming God's plan of action for His children.
NOW IT IS BECOMING CLEARLY EVIDENT TO ANYONE WHO IS NOT BLINDED BY SATAN'S DECEIT.
Though there are great numbers of people seeing and realizing the desperate condition of America today, very few heard the call of God through the years, and now America appears to have reached the point of no return.
Yes, I would like to think that we as a nation can turn to God, but I have my doubts that it will happen. But it is not too late for individuals and small groups to save themselves from this untoward generation. However, it will require a total turning to Christ and a total abandonment of that which is not of God.
Too much time has been wasted. Call on Jesus now and follow Him fully.
Hebrews 10:24-31
(24) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
(25) Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
(26) For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
(27) But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
(28) He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
(29) Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
(30) For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
(31) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
GET ON-BOARD THE OLD SHIP OF ZION
I have never lied to you about the relationship between America and the Bible.
I have been ahead of the curve concerning the social, political, religious and moral condition of America (and the world).
I have not claimed to be a prophet or claimed any special insight, revelation or enlightenment, but I have simply looked at life through the eye of God, as revealed in the Holy Bible.
My observations are not distinctively mine, since they are the thoughts of faithful Christians through the centuries.
I do not have any word from God, other than what is written in the Holy Bible.
I have lost friends through the years because I spoke against the popular principles and parties and personalities of our society.
I have appeared radical, not because I went off on a wild tangent, but because I remained faithful to the word of God while the modern/Western church moved away from its historic moorings.
I have been crying aloud for decades, warning of America's collapse and proclaiming God's plan of action for His children.
NOW IT IS BECOMING CLEARLY EVIDENT TO ANYONE WHO IS NOT BLINDED BY SATAN'S DECEIT.
Though there are great numbers of people seeing and realizing the desperate condition of America today, very few heard the call of God through the years, and now America appears to have reached the point of no return.
Yes, I would like to think that we as a nation can turn to God, but I have my doubts that it will happen. But it is not too late for individuals and small groups to save themselves from this untoward generation. However, it will require a total turning to Christ and a total abandonment of that which is not of God.
Too much time has been wasted. Call on Jesus now and follow Him fully.
Hebrews 10:24-31
(24) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
(25) Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
(26) For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
(27) But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
(28) He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
(29) Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
(30) For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
(31) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
(5/13/16) LIBERAL DISORDER (3 posts)
(5/13/16)
LIBERAL DISORDER (3 posts)
* THE MORAL STORM RAGES
If common sense and common decency does not make a person understand the lunacy and perversity of the homosexually driven transgender debacle, then don't waste your time trying to help them understand. They are beyond help. Just put out your big anchor because the attack on moral uprightness is about to reach gargantuan proportions, because our whole society is sailing into a tsunami of uncharted indecency.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
* CONTINUED CORRUPTING
AGAIN, or should I say, STILL, Obama continues to FUNDAMENTALLY CHANGE our country. He now wants to use his position and influence to intimidate the citizenry to do that which is abhorrent and aberrant. ANYTHING THAT UNDERMINES THE MORAL AND CHRISTIAN VALUES OF THIS COUNTRY.
Listen y'all, the LIBERAL segment of our society wants us to think that it is NORMAL for grown men or growing young men to share the bathroom, shower and locker room facilities of girls and women. They act like the only sexual sin is the act of requiring people to use facilities consistent with their ACTUAL sexual identity, at the time of birth.
I am not so easily fooled, as the LIBERAL imagines.
LIBERALS speak as if humans are inherently good, but the fact is that all people have hearts that are a cesspool of evil, until Jesus saves them and transforms them.
LIBERALS act like men in dresses are normal.
LIBERALS talk as if Bible believing Christians have not been compassionate toward those with mental illness or identity confusion. It is true that Christians do not promote or favor or justify aberrant behavior, but Christians have always led the battle to protect the sick and sociopaths. Hospital and prison reform was led by Christian activism. But acceptance of deviance is not part of the Christian position and cannot be part of a sane society's worldview.
LIBERALS are willing to sacrifice their children and grandchildren (and yours) on the altar of MOLOCH, therefore we should not be surprised that they turn them over to the LGBT (HOMOSEXUALS, men and women who have exchanged the natural use of their bodies for that which is unnatural) change agents. They are not satisfied to have protection under the law, they want to destroy Christian rights, and Obama has always led this march of mayhem.
I wish I could tell you that it will turn around in our lifetime, but I cannot. The Bible clearly teaches that sin will abound until Jesus comes back physically to end Satan's reign of terror and to establish God's kingdom in Jerusalem. Hope is good, but only if it is placed in the truth. Hoping for a safe world while attacking the Prince of Peace is not the way of hope.
* GREAT DECEPTION
LIBERAL DISORDER (3 posts)
* THE MORAL STORM RAGES
If common sense and common decency does not make a person understand the lunacy and perversity of the homosexually driven transgender debacle, then don't waste your time trying to help them understand. They are beyond help. Just put out your big anchor because the attack on moral uprightness is about to reach gargantuan proportions, because our whole society is sailing into a tsunami of uncharted indecency.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
* CONTINUED CORRUPTING
AGAIN, or should I say, STILL, Obama continues to FUNDAMENTALLY CHANGE our country. He now wants to use his position and influence to intimidate the citizenry to do that which is abhorrent and aberrant. ANYTHING THAT UNDERMINES THE MORAL AND CHRISTIAN VALUES OF THIS COUNTRY.
Listen y'all, the LIBERAL segment of our society wants us to think that it is NORMAL for grown men or growing young men to share the bathroom, shower and locker room facilities of girls and women. They act like the only sexual sin is the act of requiring people to use facilities consistent with their ACTUAL sexual identity, at the time of birth.
I am not so easily fooled, as the LIBERAL imagines.
LIBERALS speak as if humans are inherently good, but the fact is that all people have hearts that are a cesspool of evil, until Jesus saves them and transforms them.
LIBERALS act like men in dresses are normal.
LIBERALS talk as if Bible believing Christians have not been compassionate toward those with mental illness or identity confusion. It is true that Christians do not promote or favor or justify aberrant behavior, but Christians have always led the battle to protect the sick and sociopaths. Hospital and prison reform was led by Christian activism. But acceptance of deviance is not part of the Christian position and cannot be part of a sane society's worldview.
LIBERALS are willing to sacrifice their children and grandchildren (and yours) on the altar of MOLOCH, therefore we should not be surprised that they turn them over to the LGBT (HOMOSEXUALS, men and women who have exchanged the natural use of their bodies for that which is unnatural) change agents. They are not satisfied to have protection under the law, they want to destroy Christian rights, and Obama has always led this march of mayhem.
I wish I could tell you that it will turn around in our lifetime, but I cannot. The Bible clearly teaches that sin will abound until Jesus comes back physically to end Satan's reign of terror and to establish God's kingdom in Jerusalem. Hope is good, but only if it is placed in the truth. Hoping for a safe world while attacking the Prince of Peace is not the way of hope.
* GREAT DECEPTION
Have you ever noticed that Obama has overwhelmed America with the very abominations that his beloved Islam rejects, like homosexuality and abortion? I have noticed for some time. This is how the enemy adds insult to injury. America is so dumb.
THIS IS DISTURBING
The words of Isaiah to Israel are appropriate to the lost and corrupted condition of America.
Isaiah 1:2-7
(2) Give ear, O heavens, and you, O earth, to the word which the Lord has said: I have taken care of my children till they became men, but their hearts have been turned away from me.
(3) Even the ox has knowledge of its owner, and the ass of the place where its master puts its food: but Israel has no knowledge, my people give no thought to me.
(4) O nation full of sin, a people weighted down with crime, a generation of evil-doers, false-hearted children: they have gone away from the Lord, they have no respect for the Holy One of Israel, their hearts are turned back from him.
(5) Why will you have more and more punishment? why keep on in your evil ways? Every head is tired and every heart is feeble.
(6) The body, from head to foot, is all diseased; it is a mass of open wounds, marks of blows, and broken flesh: the flow of blood has not been stopped, and no oil has been put on the wounds.
(7) Your country has become waste; your towns are burned with fire; as for your land, it is overturned before your eyes, made waste and overcome by men from strange lands.
THIS IS DISTURBING
The words of Isaiah to Israel are appropriate to the lost and corrupted condition of America.
Isaiah 1:2-7
(2) Give ear, O heavens, and you, O earth, to the word which the Lord has said: I have taken care of my children till they became men, but their hearts have been turned away from me.
(3) Even the ox has knowledge of its owner, and the ass of the place where its master puts its food: but Israel has no knowledge, my people give no thought to me.
(4) O nation full of sin, a people weighted down with crime, a generation of evil-doers, false-hearted children: they have gone away from the Lord, they have no respect for the Holy One of Israel, their hearts are turned back from him.
(5) Why will you have more and more punishment? why keep on in your evil ways? Every head is tired and every heart is feeble.
(6) The body, from head to foot, is all diseased; it is a mass of open wounds, marks of blows, and broken flesh: the flow of blood has not been stopped, and no oil has been put on the wounds.
(7) Your country has become waste; your towns are burned with fire; as for your land, it is overturned before your eyes, made waste and overcome by men from strange lands.
(5/11/16) DECLINE THE PITY PARTY AND THE CRITICS CORNER
(5/11/16)
DECLINE THE PITY PARTY AND THE CRITICS CORNER
Hey, did you ever notice that folks who don't carry a lot of baggage in life, such as anger, suspicion, jealousy, envy, pride, fear, doubt, greed, deceit... did you ever notice that those folks have friends or loved ones who carry enough baggage, junk, excesses, for both of them, and then insist that the unencumbered person become laden down with all their trash and garbage?
It is the old principle that misery loves company. And if you are not miserable, don't worry, they will do all they can to make you miserable. It is as if the miserable person will be delivered from their own miserable existence if they can get others to be miserable. Actually, they might find joy in your misery, but they don't find relief from their own misery. And even their joy is poisonous and self destructive.
Trusting, loving, following Jesus is the answer to a life of misery. It is as simple as that. Don't let other people draft you into their pity party or critics corner. Stand apart from the world and be a part of those who are more than conquerors in Christ. Find a good body of believers and grow in grace and knowledge.
DECLINE THE PITY PARTY AND THE CRITICS CORNER
Hey, did you ever notice that folks who don't carry a lot of baggage in life, such as anger, suspicion, jealousy, envy, pride, fear, doubt, greed, deceit... did you ever notice that those folks have friends or loved ones who carry enough baggage, junk, excesses, for both of them, and then insist that the unencumbered person become laden down with all their trash and garbage?
It is the old principle that misery loves company. And if you are not miserable, don't worry, they will do all they can to make you miserable. It is as if the miserable person will be delivered from their own miserable existence if they can get others to be miserable. Actually, they might find joy in your misery, but they don't find relief from their own misery. And even their joy is poisonous and self destructive.
Trusting, loving, following Jesus is the answer to a life of misery. It is as simple as that. Don't let other people draft you into their pity party or critics corner. Stand apart from the world and be a part of those who are more than conquerors in Christ. Find a good body of believers and grow in grace and knowledge.
(5/11/16) FATHER'S DAY is coming soon.
(5/11/16)
FATHER'S DAY is coming soon.
Unhappily special occasions have become less special and more of an occasion, for the occasion's sake. This is true for Christmas (the celebration of the incarnation of God the Son, in the Person of Jesus Christ), and true for the Resurrection of Christ from the dead physically (usually referred to by the pagan name, "Easter"), and true for Mother's Day and Father's Day. Too often people will "celebrate" the occasion, but not really have a living relationship with the one they are supposedly honoring.
As a father, a husband, I like to be honored, loved by my children. Honor and love are not an "occasional" event. Honor and love are a daily reality, relationship. On a much higher note, it is futile to celebrate either the birth of Christ or His resurrection one day a year (or one day a week) if we don't really honor and love Him every day with every fiber of our being.
As a father, a husband, I am NOT interested in expressions of love or honor from any child who does not also love and honor their mother, my wife. (This principle also applies to brotherly and sisterly love in the family). This is basic to husbands and wives being one flesh. But it is also specifically true when the wife, the mother, is worthy of love and respect. To offend my wife is more repulsive to me than to offend me, because I know what a wonderful mother, wife, woman Martha is.
This may sound harsh. IT AIN'T. It is valid. If someone does not like me for what I say, then you need to change the way you relate to your mom and dad. God wants families to be bound together by love, respect. Parents should love their children and bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Children are expected to love and respect (honor) their parents. When that relationship exists, it is as close to heaven on earth as we will find.
So, if you don't honor your mom, don't even think about telling me Happy Father's Day. On the other hand, if you have not honored your mom,
why not repent,
why not make it right,
why not start doing the right thing today?
God is redemptive, and so are moms and dads who love Jesus.
Psalms 133:1
(1) ...Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
FATHER'S DAY is coming soon.
Unhappily special occasions have become less special and more of an occasion, for the occasion's sake. This is true for Christmas (the celebration of the incarnation of God the Son, in the Person of Jesus Christ), and true for the Resurrection of Christ from the dead physically (usually referred to by the pagan name, "Easter"), and true for Mother's Day and Father's Day. Too often people will "celebrate" the occasion, but not really have a living relationship with the one they are supposedly honoring.
As a father, a husband, I like to be honored, loved by my children. Honor and love are not an "occasional" event. Honor and love are a daily reality, relationship. On a much higher note, it is futile to celebrate either the birth of Christ or His resurrection one day a year (or one day a week) if we don't really honor and love Him every day with every fiber of our being.
As a father, a husband, I am NOT interested in expressions of love or honor from any child who does not also love and honor their mother, my wife. (This principle also applies to brotherly and sisterly love in the family). This is basic to husbands and wives being one flesh. But it is also specifically true when the wife, the mother, is worthy of love and respect. To offend my wife is more repulsive to me than to offend me, because I know what a wonderful mother, wife, woman Martha is.
This may sound harsh. IT AIN'T. It is valid. If someone does not like me for what I say, then you need to change the way you relate to your mom and dad. God wants families to be bound together by love, respect. Parents should love their children and bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Children are expected to love and respect (honor) their parents. When that relationship exists, it is as close to heaven on earth as we will find.
So, if you don't honor your mom, don't even think about telling me Happy Father's Day. On the other hand, if you have not honored your mom,
why not repent,
why not make it right,
why not start doing the right thing today?
God is redemptive, and so are moms and dads who love Jesus.
Psalms 133:1
(1) ...Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
(5/13/16) TNH HOME BIBLE STUDIES ARE GOOD FOR EVERYONE
(5/13/16) TNH
HOME BIBLE STUDIES ARE GOOD FOR EVERYONE
(5/10/16) GOD IS NOT A "SHE"
(5/10/16)
GOD IS NOT A "SHE"
So, I met. a woman who believes that God is a woman. I responded with a laugh and said, "Everyone has the right to be wrong sometime." Somehow my new acquaintance did not see the humor in my response.
I thought it was funny, and clever of me to use contradictory terms together: RIGHT/WRONG and GOD/WOMAN. Also, I gave her the benefit of the doubt by implying she was not always wrong.
Herherher (I usually say, hehehe).
Later, as I tried to move to a less volatile subject, she said,
"You think that is funny, don't you." I asked her to what she was referring. She said, "that God is a woman."
I said that it is either funny or tragic and I chose to respond as if it is funny.
She asked why I do not believe God is a woman, so i explained that God, in His word, does not reveal Himself as a woman.
I went on to say that whatever the Bible says about God is true and therefore anything that denies the Bible is either funny or tragic.
I was thinking another play on words; weird type funny, not comedic type funny.
Notice, I did not get angry with her for believing a heresy. After all, she has enough problems. But she was angry with me because I believe the Bible.
What a messed up world that Liberalism has helped shape: it encourages men to wear dresses and call themselves women, and it rejects God's description of Himself in masculine terms, and asserts that He is a female. (It all goes together folks.)
GOD IS NOT A "SHE"
So, I met. a woman who believes that God is a woman. I responded with a laugh and said, "Everyone has the right to be wrong sometime." Somehow my new acquaintance did not see the humor in my response.
I thought it was funny, and clever of me to use contradictory terms together: RIGHT/WRONG and GOD/WOMAN. Also, I gave her the benefit of the doubt by implying she was not always wrong.
Herherher (I usually say, hehehe).
Later, as I tried to move to a less volatile subject, she said,
"You think that is funny, don't you." I asked her to what she was referring. She said, "that God is a woman."
I said that it is either funny or tragic and I chose to respond as if it is funny.
She asked why I do not believe God is a woman, so i explained that God, in His word, does not reveal Himself as a woman.
I went on to say that whatever the Bible says about God is true and therefore anything that denies the Bible is either funny or tragic.
I was thinking another play on words; weird type funny, not comedic type funny.
Notice, I did not get angry with her for believing a heresy. After all, she has enough problems. But she was angry with me because I believe the Bible.
What a messed up world that Liberalism has helped shape: it encourages men to wear dresses and call themselves women, and it rejects God's description of Himself in masculine terms, and asserts that He is a female. (It all goes together folks.)
(5/9/16) TNH THE LEFTIST LOONIES
(5/9/16) TNH
THE LEFTIST LOONIES
(5/9/16) TNH GOD'S EXALTED PLAN FOR MOTHERS
(5/9/16) TNH
GOD'S EXALTED PLAN FOR MOTHERS
(from Sunday's message)
God is not only
1) the Creator, the First Cause, the Fountainhead of Life,
He is also
2) the Author of New Beginnings.
God chose to use a woman in these two great historical events.
1) After God created man and the animals, He created/made woman from the side of Adam, to be Adam's mate, his helpmeet.
Genesis 2:20-24
(20) And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.
(21) And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;
(22) And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
(23) And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.
(24) Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Notice that Adam called her woman, a she-man taken from the side of Adam, fit to be his mate, his wife, his life partner.
2) After the woman was deceived, and after Adam's disobedience, and after God promised to provide a deliverer through the Seed of the woman, then Adam called the woman, "Eve," or the mother of life. How amazing is the promise and provision of redemption of God through woman.
Genesis 3:14-20
(14) And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life:
(15) And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
(16) Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
(17) And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;
(18) Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;
(19) In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
(20) And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living.
Eve was the mother of all living people, but it was Mary who would be the mother of Jesus (He Who is the resurrection and the LIFE; Jesus, the One Who is the Way, the Truth and the LIFE).
In creation and in redemption, God gave woman a high and holy status. Along with man, the husband, the father, God has given the responsibility of loving and providing children with a godly heritage and upbringing. God also requires children to honor and obey their parents.
Mother's Day is a good time for a new beginning in family relationships. Parents must dedicate themselves to godliness and love, and sacrifice, while children must dedicate themselves to love, honor and obedience to their parents.
Christian mothers, especially, are self sacrificing and diligent in providing for their children. They gave life to their children and they sustain the lives of their children, because of love. Obedience to mom should be first time, every time she speaks. Honoring mom and dad is a lifelong reality for a believer.
This kind of relationship in the home will make Mother's Day, everyday.
GOD'S EXALTED PLAN FOR MOTHERS
(from Sunday's message)
God is not only
1) the Creator, the First Cause, the Fountainhead of Life,
He is also
2) the Author of New Beginnings.
God chose to use a woman in these two great historical events.
1) After God created man and the animals, He created/made woman from the side of Adam, to be Adam's mate, his helpmeet.
Genesis 2:20-24
(20) And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.
(21) And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;
(22) And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
(23) And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.
(24) Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Notice that Adam called her woman, a she-man taken from the side of Adam, fit to be his mate, his wife, his life partner.
2) After the woman was deceived, and after Adam's disobedience, and after God promised to provide a deliverer through the Seed of the woman, then Adam called the woman, "Eve," or the mother of life. How amazing is the promise and provision of redemption of God through woman.
Genesis 3:14-20
(14) And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life:
(15) And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
(16) Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
(17) And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;
(18) Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;
(19) In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
(20) And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living.
Eve was the mother of all living people, but it was Mary who would be the mother of Jesus (He Who is the resurrection and the LIFE; Jesus, the One Who is the Way, the Truth and the LIFE).
In creation and in redemption, God gave woman a high and holy status. Along with man, the husband, the father, God has given the responsibility of loving and providing children with a godly heritage and upbringing. God also requires children to honor and obey their parents.
Mother's Day is a good time for a new beginning in family relationships. Parents must dedicate themselves to godliness and love, and sacrifice, while children must dedicate themselves to love, honor and obedience to their parents.
Christian mothers, especially, are self sacrificing and diligent in providing for their children. They gave life to their children and they sustain the lives of their children, because of love. Obedience to mom should be first time, every time she speaks. Honoring mom and dad is a lifelong reality for a believer.
This kind of relationship in the home will make Mother's Day, everyday.
(5/9/16) TNH HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY... BUT MOSTLY...
(5/9/16) TNH
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY... BUT MOSTLY...
I am so thankful for the beautiful grandchildren that my daughters and daughters-in-law have brought into our lives. Each one is special in his or her own way. I am thankful for the loving and sacrificial provision that each of these mothers have made for their children and especially thankful for the loving, humble, Christlike example that is lived before the grandchildren.
BUT MOSTLY I am thankful for Martha, the most wonderful mother any child could have. You deserve all of the best and nothing less. You are not only the best mom, but the best grandmother as well. Any child, and any grandchild would be blessed to have you in their life. I know how much you love, and I know how much you hurt when your children/grandchildren are hurting.
God is always good, even when life is not kind. I wish I could have taken your disappointments and pain through the years, and I appreciate that you always try to relieve me of my disappointments as well. I appreciate those who make you a happy mother everyday. I wish I could promise you clear skies and smooth sailing from this day forward, but I know that life in this veil of tears has more than its share of heartache. I cannot help what other winds may blow your way, but I hope I bring you joy and not grief in the days ahead. I love you.
For anyone who reads this, always do the Christlike thing concerning your mother. Never cause your mother any heartache. Remember, there is never an acceptable reason to be ugly to mom, and in fact, dishonoring mom will incur the displeasure and wrath of God, no matter how much others are fooled by a sugary display.
I am so thankful for the beautiful grandchildren that my daughters and daughters-in-law have brought into our lives. Each one is special in his or her own way. I am thankful for the loving and sacrificial provision that each of these mothers have made for their children and especially thankful for the loving, humble, Christlike example that is lived before the grandchildren.
BUT MOSTLY I am thankful for Martha, the most wonderful mother any child could have. You deserve all of the best and nothing less. You are not only the best mom, but the best grandmother as well. Any child, and any grandchild would be blessed to have you in their life. I know how much you love, and I know how much you hurt when your children/grandchildren are hurting.
God is always good, even when life is not kind. I wish I could have taken your disappointments and pain through the years, and I appreciate that you always try to relieve me of my disappointments as well. I appreciate those who make you a happy mother everyday. I wish I could promise you clear skies and smooth sailing from this day forward, but I know that life in this veil of tears has more than its share of heartache. I cannot help what other winds may blow your way, but I hope I bring you joy and not grief in the days ahead. I love you.
For anyone who reads this, always do the Christlike thing concerning your mother. Never cause your mother any heartache. Remember, there is never an acceptable reason to be ugly to mom, and in fact, dishonoring mom will incur the displeasure and wrath of God, no matter how much others are fooled by a sugary display.
(5/8/16) TNH SEVEN MYSTERIES OF THE BIBLE (or SEVEN SECRETS OF GOD)
(5/8/16) TNH
SEVEN MYSTERIES OF THE BIBLE (or SEVEN SECRETS OF GOD)
Bible Class Lesson today introduced the Seven Secrets (Mysteries) of the Bible. A Biblical mystery is not a "who done it" that can be solved by human wisdom, but it is a secret, hidden with God, and only understood when God reveals it to a person. Basically, every message that brings renewal to a person will be related to these seven secrets of God.
Part of my job, as a pastor, is to explain the "mysteries" of God to people, so that they may live in a way that is pleasing to God.
1 Corinthians 4:1-2
(1) Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.
(2) Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
Success for a pastor is not measured by human standards of success, but rather by his faithfulness to proclaim the truth of God to others.
Briefly, here are the Seven Secrets (Mysteries) of God in the Bible.
1) The Mystery of Godliness
This is the secret that God would become a man in order to save men from their sins.
1 Timothy 3:14-16
(14) These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
(15) But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
(16) And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
2) The Mystery of "Christ in You"
God is not only with His people, and He is not only within some of His people, He indwells all those who are born again.
Colossians 1:25-29
(25) Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;
(26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
(27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
(28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
(29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
3) The Mystery of the Church
God does not have a political or institutional entity today. Instead, He indwells believers and joins the believers together as one His Body, His Bride, His Building. His Church.
Ephesians 5:30-32
(30) For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
(31) For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
(32) This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
4) The Mystery of the Restoration of Israel
God chose Israel to be a vital part of His redemptive plan, and He has set Israel aside during the Church dispensation, but God will restore Israel to an exalted position during the end times.
Romans 11:25-27
(25) For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
(26) And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
(27) For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
5) The Mystery of Babylon the Great
There will be a one world government, one world religion and one world economy when the end time world ruler seems to take control of the world.
Revelation 17:5-6
(5) And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.
(6) And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.
Revelation 17:17-18
(17) For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.
(18) And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.
6) The Mystery of Iniquity
The evil, one world ruler himself (the Anti-Christ, the Beast) is a mystery.
2 Thessalonians 2:2-8
(2) That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
(3) Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
(4) Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
(5) Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
(6) And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.
(7) For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
(8) And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:
7) The Mystery of The Rapture
Not everyone will die. There will be a generation of believers that are caught up to heaven without dying.
1 Corinthians 15:51-55
(51) Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
(52) In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
(53) For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
(54) So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
(55) O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
SEVEN MYSTERIES OF THE BIBLE (or SEVEN SECRETS OF GOD)
Bible Class Lesson today introduced the Seven Secrets (Mysteries) of the Bible. A Biblical mystery is not a "who done it" that can be solved by human wisdom, but it is a secret, hidden with God, and only understood when God reveals it to a person. Basically, every message that brings renewal to a person will be related to these seven secrets of God.
Part of my job, as a pastor, is to explain the "mysteries" of God to people, so that they may live in a way that is pleasing to God.
1 Corinthians 4:1-2
(1) Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.
(2) Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
Success for a pastor is not measured by human standards of success, but rather by his faithfulness to proclaim the truth of God to others.
Briefly, here are the Seven Secrets (Mysteries) of God in the Bible.
1) The Mystery of Godliness
This is the secret that God would become a man in order to save men from their sins.
1 Timothy 3:14-16
(14) These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
(15) But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
(16) And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
2) The Mystery of "Christ in You"
God is not only with His people, and He is not only within some of His people, He indwells all those who are born again.
Colossians 1:25-29
(25) Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;
(26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
(27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
(28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
(29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
3) The Mystery of the Church
God does not have a political or institutional entity today. Instead, He indwells believers and joins the believers together as one His Body, His Bride, His Building. His Church.
Ephesians 5:30-32
(30) For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
(31) For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
(32) This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
4) The Mystery of the Restoration of Israel
God chose Israel to be a vital part of His redemptive plan, and He has set Israel aside during the Church dispensation, but God will restore Israel to an exalted position during the end times.
Romans 11:25-27
(25) For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
(26) And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
(27) For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
5) The Mystery of Babylon the Great
There will be a one world government, one world religion and one world economy when the end time world ruler seems to take control of the world.
Revelation 17:5-6
(5) And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.
(6) And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.
Revelation 17:17-18
(17) For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.
(18) And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.
6) The Mystery of Iniquity
The evil, one world ruler himself (the Anti-Christ, the Beast) is a mystery.
2 Thessalonians 2:2-8
(2) That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
(3) Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
(4) Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
(5) Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
(6) And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.
(7) For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
(8) And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:
7) The Mystery of The Rapture
Not everyone will die. There will be a generation of believers that are caught up to heaven without dying.
1 Corinthians 15:51-55
(51) Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
(52) In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
(53) For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
(54) So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
(55) O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
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