Signs & Wonders Blog

Addressing a Minister

2012-02-12T04:46:00.002-05:00

Recently I reconnected with a pastor who used to be a co-worker of mine at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. One day we got into a discussion about how pastors should be treated. My friend has congregation members calling him by his first name despite asking to be addressed as “Pastor Lee.”

Romans 13:7 tells us to give honor to whom honor is due. Civil authorities expect to be addressed by certain titles. Courtroom judges are called “Your Honor.” Policemen are often called “Officer.” If you were a White House guest, you would refer to Barack Obama as “Mr. President.” Or if you lived under a monarchy, you would address your king or queen as “Your Majesty.”

When serving in the U. S. Army, I quickly learned to address my superiors the right way or I would quickly be in trouble. If a noncommissioned officer such as a sergeant gave me an order, I was expected to respond, “Yes, sergeant.” If I accidentally addressed him as “Sir” (a title reserved for military officers), the sergeant would yell back, “I’m not a sir…I work for a living!” If I talked to one without addressing him by his rank, he/she would say, “Who you talking to?”

Likewise, I think it’s proper to honor our spiritual leaders. Jesus said in Matthew 10:41, “He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward.” However, some ministers take titles too seriously. One minister I stayed with wanted to call me “Evangelist Post.” I didn’t object since that is my primary ministerial calling. But at the same time, this man wanted to be addressed as “Apostle So-and-so.” At the time, the only ministry I saw him actively involved in was helping out at a local food pantry.

Although I’ve yet to pastor a church, on rare occasions people called me Reverend Post. Personally I don’t care for that title because it sounds old and ancient. It’s also worth noting that the word reverend appears only once in the King James Bible and refers to God Himself. Psalm 111:9 says, “He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.” Catholic priests are called “Father” despite Jesus saying in Matthew 23:9 (AMP), “And do not call anyone [in the church] on earth father, for you have one Father, Who is in heaven.” I find it odd that Mormon missionaries call themselves an “Elder” when most of them are college aged.

The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 1:24, “Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand.” Some spiritual leaders should forget about titles and just do the stuff.

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." - Galatians 3:28

Lengthen Your Life

2012-02-05T15:50:00.002-05:00

George Beverly Shea, who sang at Billy Graham's gospel crusades for more than 60 years, turned 103 years old this past Wednesday. Shea was quoted as saying that his secret to long life is “the Lord, a good wife, and coffee.” That’s good advice!

People have questioned how the earliest patriarchs in the bible lived for hundreds of years. I’ve heard a couple possible explanations. One is that the atmosphere changed after Noah’s flood, which allowed for more of the sun’s ultraviolet rays to affect life on earth. Other ministers have suggested men speaking negative words have shortened lives. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

Nevertheless, believers who know their authority in Christ can live long lives if they desire to. Psalm 90:10 says we can claim a lifespan of at least seventy or eighty years. Genesis 6:3 has been interpreted to mean that men could live for up to 120 years. Despite that, many Christians including ministers have died at a young age. One reason for that is that some of them desired to be in heaven more than staying on the earth.

Aside from perhaps exercise and eating healthy foods, other factors that can contribute to longevity include obeying God’s word…

“That you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days…” - Deuteronomy 30:20

“My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.” - Proverbs 3:1-2

Valuing wisdom…

“Wisdom is with aged men, and with length of days, understanding.” - Job 12:12

“She [wisdom] is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand…” - Proverbs 3:15-16

And respecting our parents…

“‘Honor your father and mother’ which is the first commandment with promise: ‘that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.’” - Ephesians 6:2-3

Don’t let religious people tell you that it’s “your time to go” if the devil attacks you with disease or tries to snuff you out in an accident. Ask God to give you long life and fulfill everything He’s called you to do!

“With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation.” - Psalm 91:16

Why Not Newt?

2012-01-29T01:03:00.002-05:00

During every election, I usually vote for Republican candidates since they tend to make decisions more in line with the Word of God than Democrats. While President Obama will likely be the Democratic nominee again this year, the Republican nomination may not be decided for a while. One man who might represent the GOP in November is Newt Gingrich.

Last weekend, the former House Speaker came from behind in the polls to win the South Carolina Primary. This was surprising especially since two days before, the ABC news program “Nightline” aired a controversial interview with one of Newt’s former wives. Marianne Gingrich claimed that prior to their divorce, her husband wanted “an open marriage” (allowing for him to have a wife and a mistress at the same time). Newt has refuted his ex-wife’s claims.

Many people are quick to criticize Newt Gingrich because he cheated on his two ex-wives and got married a third time. However, he has repented as a result of his conversion to Catholicism. Newt told CBN News, “I have confessed my weaknesses, and I have had to go to God for forgiveness and reconciliation.” Since I have also gone through two divorces (but because of ex-wives being unfaithful to me), I can somewhat relate to the flak Newt has experienced.

For those of you uncomfortable with Newt Gingrich’s past sins, remember that Jesus told the Pharisees regarding the woman caught in adultery, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” (John 8:7) Let’s not forget other U. S. Presidents such as Bill Clinton had extramarital affairs while in office. Certainly I’m not condoning adultery by our politicians. But God has used leaders like King David who committed adultery but were quick to repent.

The day after the South Carolina primary, I happened to watch YouTube videos of Newt Gingrich speaking last year at John Hagee’s Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, Texas. I was impressed with Newt’s knowledge of American history, his support for Israel, and especially his desire to see our country’s godly heritage restored.

I also like the fact Newt wants to revive our nation’s declining space program and put a permanent American base on the moon by 2020. As long as our more immediate problems on Earth are solved, the United States could have a very exciting future.

This article is not an official endorsement of Newt Gingrich for President. Unless a Democrat or independent politician rises up whose voting record is more closely aligned with the Judeo-Christian ethic, I’m praying for God’s choice to win the Republican nomination and the subsequent election. I will say I’d rather have Newt in the Oval Office instead of a Commander-in-Chief who condones killing unborn children and celebrates homosexuality in the White House.

“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” - Proverbs 29:2

Help From Above

2012-01-22T04:55:00.003-05:00

How many times have you heard someone say, “God helps those who help themselves”? Some people quote that like it came directly from the Bible. Yet that phrase is found nowhere in Scripture.

Psalm 46:1 tells us that God is “a very present help in trouble.” He is willing to guide us through any problem we find ourselves in. But in James chapter 2, both verses 20 and 26 say, “Faith without works is dead.” Some Christians expect God to do everything for them when they need to take corresponding action to what they believe.

For example, let’s say you need a job. The first thing you should do is pray for God to lead you to the right one. But unless God gives you specific instructions to wait on Him or apply at a particular place, you might need to fill out a few applications. It’s unlikely an employer will come looking for you. Jesus’ exhortation to “seek and you will find” (Matthew 7:7) could apply here.

At the beginning of 1996 I had just received the revelation that I was called to full-time ministry. After attempting to step out as a full-time evangelist, the Lord quickly showed me it wasn’t time to do that yet. So I resumed working through a temporary agency. But then God instructed me to get a permanent job. I applied for a full-time position at a couple places but didn’t have peace in my heart. For the next few days I got a little anxious because I couldn’t discern where the Lord wanted me to work.

Then one morning, I was at a prayer meeting when the thought popped in my mind about working for Billy Graham. At that time, the world’s best-known evangelist had his ministry headquarters in Minneapolis (which has since moved to Charlotte, North Carolina). Since I knew Billy’s ministry produced films, I inquired about doing audio/visual work for them. At the time, there weren’t any openings in that department. So I initially applied for a mailroom position.

A week later when it came time for my interview, I was told another position had “just opened up.” I immediately knew this was the job God wanted me to do there. Six days later I started work at World Wide Pictures, the film ministry of Billy Graham. My job was calling pastors around the country scheduling evangelistic films to be shown in their churches. I worked there off and on for three years until the Lord told me to leave for good and go on the mission field full-time.

In his book, “It’s Your Move”, Kenneth Hagin Jr. compares our Christian walk to a chess game. When we make a move, then God makes a move. Some believers are reluctant to step out until they see the total picture. But as his father Kenneth E. Hagin often said, “It is easier to steer a car when it is moving than when it is parked.” The Lord usually leads us one step at a time.

On the other hand, many people go the other extreme and try to accomplish things without any reliance on the Lord. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 warns, “then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’ And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.”

Maybe you recall facing a financial dilemma you didn’t know how to resolve but God came through at the last minute. Perhaps you had a sickness in your body that no doctor could cure but the Lord miraculously healed you. No amount of self-help materials would have assisted you out of those situations.

The truth is God helps those who cannot help themselves.

“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.” - Romans 5:6 (NLT)

Agree to Disagree

2012-01-15T01:09:00.004-05:00

One tactic Satan uses to divide believers is doctrinal differences. I saw an example of that at a recent house meeting I attended. After a time of singing worship songs and individuals stepping out to give prophetic words, a traveling preacher began talking about how people often walk out of his meetings. A short time later, this minister gave reasons why he believes Jesus will come back in 2018 (but didn’t mention a specific day). I also overheard his wife say we are already in the tribulation period. As a “pre-trib” believer myself, red flags went up in my mind. It wouldn’t have bothered me much if the preacher simply stated he believes in a post-tribulation rapture and then talked about something else. Instead he continued pushing that doctrine.

Other people in attendance countered things this preacher said by quoting Scripture. Not wanting to add to the confusion, I mostly kept quiet but corrected him on one erroneous statement. The preacher claimed Billy Graham’s ministry produced the 1972 film “A Thief in the Night.” Since I'm a former employee of World Wide Pictures, I politely pointed out that end times movie was produced by Mark IV Pictures. The preacher wasn’t apologetic about his mistake and resumed defending his post-tribulation beliefs. Soon I became grieved in my spirit and decided to leave. Just before I walked out the door, the owner of the house approached me and admitted he also perceived a spirit of confusion operating in that meeting.

Foundational doctrines are not open for debate such as Jesus being the only way to heaven (John 14:6). But with others that have no bearing on a person’s eternal destiny, sometimes it’s best for a preacher to keep his mouth shut about a topic if he knows it will stir up strife among the people he is ministering to. 2 Timothy 2:24 says, “A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient.”

The morning after that house meeting, I kept thinking of an old hit by Dave Mason called “We Just Disagree.” Although it’s not a Christian song, the chorus offers some good advice…

So let's leave it alone 'cause we can't see eye to eye

There ain't no good guy, there ain't no bad guy

There's only you and me and we just disagree

Until the Lord returns, the Body of Christ will continue having differences on how certain Scriptures are to be interpreted. But instead of having a contentious attitude to prove our point (even if we think we’re right), let’s learn to reason together. When necessary, take the initiative to step back and agree to disagree. Our passion should be more for winning the lost than promoting doctrines that won’t mean a thing on the other side of eternity.

“It is honorable for a man to stop striving, since any fool can start a quarrel.” - Proverbs 20:3

Wisdom from a “Religious Fanatic”

2012-01-08T03:22:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday, a Facebook friend from New York City wrote on his wall about getting into trouble for preaching the gospel on a bus. A friend of his who I’ll call Bruce (not his real name) tried to discourage him from doing that. I posted a response quoting Jesus’ commandment to “preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15). During an ensuing exchange of emails, Bruce repeatedly labeled me a religious fanatic.

According to the New Oxford American Dictionary, one definition of fanatic is “a person with an obsessive interest in and enthusiasm for something, esp. an activity.” The fact is everybody gets enthusiastic about someone or something. It’s interesting to note the word enthusiasm originates from a Greek word meaning “possessed by a god” or “inspired.”

I pointed out to Bruce that whenever the Yankees win the World Series or the Giants win the Super Bowl, the streets of New York City become crowded with sports fanatics. Many of these fans are not ashamed to brag about their favorite team in front of strangers on the street, buses, subways, etc. So what’s wrong with believers openly proclaiming the ultimate victory we have in Jesus Christ? Bruce thought this was a terrible analogy because “sports fanatics don't try to convert people.” I disagree for I’ve seen diehard fans trying to convince others that their team is better. For some of them, sports have become their god.

Usually I just do one-on-one evangelism but I know other ministers who regularly preach openly in public places. Either way, persecution will happen but it can be minimized if one follows the leading of the Holy Spirit and not try to force the gospel down people’s throats. Years ago, I heard a minister named Bob Shattles who talked about getting a crowd’s attention by hollering, “I'm in love with a man...and I'm going to marry Him one day...and His name is Jesus.” He would then preach a short evangelistic message. Bob only did this when the Holy Spirit instructed him to and there was obvious fruit. One time at a Shoney’s restaurant, Bob led an audience of 37 people to get born again.

So if you decide to step out and do some open air preaching, let the Lord guide you regarding when and where to do that. I heard evangelist Dwight Thompson say, “I'm just the paperboy.” Our job is to share the Good News and leave the results up to God. But even if only one soul gets saved from your public preaching, then it's worth it from an eternal perspective.

“Enthusiasm without knowledge is no good; haste makes mistakes.” - Proverbs 19:2 (NLT)

Go and Grow in Your Gifts

2012-01-01T02:38:00.000-05:00

As I began seeking the Lord on what to share for the first blog article of 2012, I immediately recalled a vision I had two weeks ago. During a Sunday morning church service, a picture flashed through my mind of a Fisher-Price Corn Popper, a toy some of you might have played with as a kid. The interpretation of this vision is that many people have colorful gifts that will remain dormant until they start moving. Then those gifts will “pop.”

Look at 2 Timothy 1:6-7…

“Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

Many believers quote verse 7 by itself. But often truths in Scripture are revealed only when we read particular verses together. Keep in mind that the chapter and verse numbers in the Bible were not part of the original Hebrew and Greek texts but added by translators to help God’s people find specific passages.

One reason many Christians are shy and fearful is because they are not using all the natural and spiritual gifts God has put into them. Everybody has talents that can be used to minister to others whether you’re a preacher, a businessman, a housewife, or a student. So if you have been negligent in that area, start the New Year off right by making a decision to go and then you will grow.

His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ – Matthew 25:21

Whose Child Are You?

2011-12-25T10:00:00.001-05:00

One song often heard during the holiday season is “What Child Is This?” A question many people need to answer for themselves is “Who’s Child Am I?”

Sometimes while evangelizing, sinners tell me they are going to heaven because they claim to be children of God. It’s true that all men “have been made in the similitude of God.” (James 3:9) But not every person on this earth is technically a child of God. A man or woman who does not become born again has Satan as their spiritual father even if they don’t believe he exists.

Look at this conversation Jesus had with the Pharisees in John 8…

39 They answered and said to Him, “Abraham is our father.”

Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would do the works of Abraham.

40 But now you seek to kill Me, a Man who has told you the truth which I heard from God. Abraham did not do this.

41 You do the deeds of your father.”

Then they said to Him, “We were not born of fornication; we have one Father—God.”

42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me.

43 Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word.

44 You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.

Jesus also said in Matthew 13:38-39, “The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one. The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels.”

Paul confronted a sorcerer named Elymas by calling him a “son of the devil.” (Acts 13:10) The Apostle wrote in Ephesians 2:2 that “the prince of the power of the air [Satan]…works in the sons of disobedience.” Among those works is murder. 1 John 3:12 says that Cain “…was of the wicked one and murdered his brother.”

You might say to yourself, “I’m not a murderer.” It’s likely you never killed anyone (a popular reason people think they deserve to go to heaven). But 1 John 3:15 says, “Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” Verse 9 from this same chapter says, “Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.” The Common English Bible clarifies in this verse, “Those born from God don’t practice sin because God’s DNA remains in them…”

Whose child are you?

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” - John 1:12-13

Go Tebow!

2011-12-18T08:59:00.007-05:00

One of the biggest surprises of the current National Football League season is the success of Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow. Ever since the Heismann Trophy winner became the starter this year, the Broncos have lost only one game. What makes Tim’s success even more amazing is his statistics haven’t been that impressive for an NFL quarterback. Yet the Broncos have pulled off a string of last minute comebacks. Unfortunately for me, one of those wins had to be against my favorite team (the Minnesota Vikings).

People have debated if God involves Himself in the outcome of sporting events. One thing to keep in mind is when two teams are playing, there are usually Christians praying on both sides of the ball. Still only one team can win.

Nonetheless, I believe the Lord will bless athletes who give Him the glory and aren’t ashamed to praise His name in public. In January 2000, Kurt Warner put “first things first” and thanked Jesus on national television after leading the St. Louis Rams to a Super Bowl victory and receiving the MVP award. A few years before that, the late Reggie White not only won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers but also claimed God miraculously healed him from various injuries he suffered on the field. While not as vocal about his Christian faith as the players previously mentioned, Aaron Rodgers is statistically having the best season among all NFL quarterbacks this year while leading the Packers to what may become a rare undefeated season.

Due to Tim Tebow’s habit of getting down on one knee and praying during a game, “tebowing” has become a neologism to describe someone kneeling and praying. While many NFL players often make headlines for negative behavior both on and off the field, it’s refreshing to see an athlete becoming famous for honoring God.

Go Tebow!

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” - Philippians 4:13

Tell Them the Truth

2011-12-11T03:00:00.002-05:00

It's unfortunate that many traditions associated with Christmas have pagan origins. But rather than making a big fuss about them, we could create traditions that glorify the Lord. One of my aunts insists on us singing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus before we open up presents. That’s a clever way to remind people of the reason for the season.

A woman once asked me if it was okay for a Christian to have a Christmas tree. Personally I’ve never owned a Christmas tree but I'm not against Christians that do. Satan is a counterfeiter and simply perverts or steals things that the Lord has created. I don’t think it’s wrong to use a tree to honor our Savior’s birth even though Bible scholars have determined His birth technically did not happen on December 25th.

One holiday tradition that I am strongly against is parents giving presents to their kids saying they are from Santa Claus. Many people think this is harmless fun. But when I was little and discovered that Santa, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy were all fictional characters, I started questioning God’s existence. Parents who don’t tell their kids the whole truth about St. Nicholas are setting them up for a letdown.

Recently a television news anchor got in hot water for speaking the truth about Santa Claus. In response to comments made by a co-anchor regarding gift expectations, Robin Robinson of Fox Chicago said on the air, “Stop trying to convince your kids that Santa is Santa…That’s why they have these high expectations. They know you can’t afford it, so what do they do? Just ask some man in a red suit. There is no Santa.”

Angry parents flooded the station with demands for an apology. Although Ms. Robinson did so the next day (possibly to save her job), it’s the angry parents who should apologize to their children for deceiving them. Most kids are taught by their parents not to lie. Why then do many parents not practice what they preach?

If you’re a parent of young children who “plays Santa” but won’t tell your kids the truth, they will eventually learn it from someone else. (I was in second grade when I first heard the truth about Santa Claus from a friend at school.) Don’t lie to your kids anymore. Tell them the truth!

“Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal truthfully are His delight.” - Proverbs 12:22

All By Myself

2011-12-04T01:05:00.002-05:00

Over the years I‘ve had a few individuals tell me I shouldn’t be street evangelizing alone. They think it’s unscriptural because Jesus sent his disciples out two by two. Certainly there are advantages to going out in pairs or groups. Deuteronomy 32:30 says that if one can chase a thousand, two can “put ten thousand to flight.” There is power in agreement.

However, that doesn’t mean Christians are useless by themselves. There are examples in the Bible where individuals ministered to others without having fellow believers with them such as Philip leading the Ethiopian eunuch to salvation (Acts 8:26-40). While I prefer having a partner with me on the streets, more often than not I minister by myself because no one else is available or willing to join me.

One day while staying at a church in Hanover, Germany, the Lord told me to go out and evangelize that afternoon. But except for handing out a couple tracts, I resisted doing so because I wanted someone ministering with me. While venting before the Lord in the church sanctuary, I received a revelation as to why He often has me witnessing solo. It is to overcome the fear of man. As the old saying goes, “You and God are a majority.”

Because of my disobedience, the Lord kept me in Hanover an extra day and told me to aim for ten salvations. I had to do a lot of “fishing” to find those ten souls. During which, I was also able to share many Scriptures with an atheist, a lesbian, and a young woman promoting the Green Party. After praying with my tenth person that day (a Muslim originally from Lebanon), I was walking back to the church when I felt led to approach a couple talking in front of a tattoo parlor. The woman spoke English and prayed with me to get born again. Praise God for 11 salvations that day!

If Jesus Christ continues to tarry His Second Coming and more laws are passed restricting the preaching of the gospel, we may find ourselves in challenging situations where the Lord will expect us to testify of Him even if other believers aren’t present. Matthew 10:18-20 in the King James Version says, “And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.”

If you were waiting at a bus stop and the Lord put in on your heart to witness to an elderly person standing next to you, would you refuse to do so just because nobody else was with you? I hope not. You could be that person’s final opportunity to receive salvation.

Speaking of the elderly, I recently saw a news report about an 84-year-old New Yorker named Irma Moraes. For the past 41 years, Irma has passed out gospel tracts in the Times Square area almost every day. If an 84-year-old woman can do that all by herself, then how can other Christians have an excuse not to obey the Great Commission?

“For many are called, but few are chosen.” - Matthew 22:14

The Name of the Game

2011-11-27T09:01:00.000-05:00

I enjoy watching football and baseball games on TV…especially if the Vikings and Twins are playing well. But one thing I loathe is the increasing number of sporting events and stadiums named after businesses.

During the 1980’s, organizers of college bowl games started giving corporate sponsors “naming rights.” All these games used to have simple names like the Rose Bowl and the Cotton Bowl. Now we have games such as the Little Caesars Pizza Bowl and The Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas. What’s really confusing is many of these games change their name every few years. For example, this year’s Belk Bowl (to be played at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina) was previously called the Meineke Car Care Bowl, the Continental Tire Bowl, and before that the Queen City Bowl.

Nowadays, most major league teams play in venues named after a corporate sponsor. In 1990 when the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves announced their new arena would be called Target Center, I was surprised. That sounded more like a shopping mall than a sporting venue. Until two years ago, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis hadn’t succumbed to this trend. The stadium has since been renamed Mall of America Field. I could accept the name change if the Metrodome was part of the largest shopping center in the U. S. But the Mall of America is located ten miles away in the suburb of Bloomington.

Even the players now are offering money to get their names recognized at stadiums. E.J. and Erin Henderson of the Minnesota Vikings recently made a $20,000 donation to have a new scoreboard installed at their old high school in Aberdeen, Maryland. In exchange, the two brothers asked for their family name to be displayed on the scoreboard. The Aberdeen School Board denied their request. For one thing, the total cost of a new scoreboard is actually $50,000.

Look at what Jesus said in Matthew 6…

1“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven.

2 Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.

3 But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,

4 that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”

Some churches have miniature plaques or bricks acknowledging the names of donors who contributed to causes such as a building project. If a pastor chooses to honor these donors, that’s between him and the Lord. But congregation members shouldn’t seek public recognition for their giving.

So the next time you are about to give in an offering or fundraiser, examine your motives. God wants us to be generous but with no strings attached.

“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold.” - Proverbs 22:1

Save With Fear

2011-11-20T01:07:00.004-05:00

This past week while walking by a table at a coffee shop, I noticed a Time magazine from earlier this year with the cover story “What If There’s No Hell?” My initial reaction was the title should instead read, “What If There IS a Hell?” Christians have nothing to lose by following the Lord except their sin, sickness, and poverty. The heathen risk spending eternity in the lake of fire. I posted my thoughts about this magazine cover on my Facebook page. One friend responded with her belief that using hell for a fear tactic is satanic.

Romans 2:4 does say it’s the goodness of God that leads one to repentance. Personally I prefer to hear more about the love of God than “fire and brimstone” preaching. On the other hand, Jesus gave many warnings in the gospels about hell.

A fellow minister shared an interesting analogy with me. If you saw your children playing on a busy street, wouldn’t you immediately holler at them to come back into the yard? Of course you would. A car might hit them otherwise. That’s not being judgmental. That’s love!

The mere suggestion that hell may not exist is a vain imagination that must be cast down (2 Corinthians 10:5). Sinners who refuse to repent must be made aware of the consequences. The eternal destinies of these precious souls are at stake.

“And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.” - Jude 22-23

Occupy Till He Comes

2011-11-13T03:16:00.001-05:00

Much has been in the news lately about Occupy Wall Street. According to Wikipedia, “Occupy Wall Street is an ongoing series of demonstrations in New York City based in Zuccotti Park in the Wall Street financial district…They are mainly protesting social and economic inequality, corporate greed, corruption and influence over government—particularly from the financial services sector—and lobbyists.” What began two months ago as a protest in New York City has spread to cities throughout the United States and other countries.

How should Christians respond to this whole Occupy movement? It’s interesting that Jesus Himself said in Luke 19:13 (KJV), “Occupy till I come.” But that doesn’t mean the Lord wants us just sitting around until He returns. The New King James Version of Luke 19:13 reads, “Do business till I come.” Jesus went on to say in verse 23, “Why then did you not put my money in the bank, that at my coming I might have collected it with interest?” This would counter claims by some folk that Jesus was poor.

The Lord wants us blessed so that we can be a blessing to others and have a greater influence for the kingdom of God. If more Bible-believing churches did their part in feeding the poor and housing the homeless, then our governments wouldn’t have to be involved with these things. A friend of mine in London, Ontario who has gotten involved with the Occupy movement there repeatedly points out that Jesus “cleansed the temple” by driving out the moneychangers (Mark 11:15-17). God is not against us having money but having wrong motives for using it.

Everything we do for the Lord should be done with an eternal perspective. My Canadian friend is reaching out to the demonstrators in her city by cooking and eating with them plus sharing the gospel. She has (so far) seen two people there receive Jesus Christ as their Savior.

Every Christian should be active in using their talents and abilities to bless people and ultimately lead them to salvation. What are you doing with yours?

“His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’” - Matthew 25:21

Too Many People?

2011-11-06T01:18:00.000-04:00

This past week, the United Nations reported that the world’s population had exceeded seven billion people. The U. S. Census Bureau states on their web site that this mark won’t be reached until early next year. Either way, numerous individuals are worried about this planet becoming too crowded. Dr. Eric Tayag of the Philippines’ Department of Health said, “We should really focus on the question of whether there will be food, clean water, shelter, education and a decent life for every child. If the answer is ‘no,’ it would be better for people to look at easing this population explosion.”

Conversely, Steven Mosher of the Population Research Institute points out that people are “not just consumers, but producers.” He also stated, “Every stomach comes with two hands attached and every mouth is backed by a creative intelligence equipped to leave the world a better place.”

Steven knows firsthand the devastating results of population control. In 1979, he was invited to Mainland China by the Chinese government and got to witness women being forced to have abortions under that nation’s “one-child policy.” At the time, Mr. Mosher had been a pro-choice atheist but reconsidered his convictions and has since become a practicing, pro-life Roman Catholic.

Twice in the first chapter in the Bible, God commanded man to “be fruitful and multiply.” (Genesis 1:22, 28) Psalm 127:3 (NLT) says, “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.”  Verse 5 from this same chapter proclaims, “How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!” Malachi 2:15 says that the Lord “seeks godly offspring.” God obviously likes large families.

For those of you still concerned about overpopulation, keep in mind that the world will experience significant population decreases before Jesus sets up His millennial reign. First of all, millions of Christians will disappear during the rapture. Then during the seven-year tribulation period, many people will be killed for refusing the Mark of the Beast and from numerous plagues. Revelation 9:18 says, “By these three plagues a third of mankind was killed—by the fire and the smoke and the brimstone which came out of their mouths.”

I once heard a preacher point out that if all the world’s wealth were evenly distributed, every man, woman, and child on this planet would have approximately $10 million. Therefore, hunger and poverty are not the result of too many people and limited resources. One reason is wealthy individuals hoarding up things.

Don’t let the lies of organizations like GrowthBusters and Planned Parenthood stop you from having a large family if that’s your desire. God will provide for you and your children if you put your trust in Him.

“The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.” - Psalm 24:1

Coexisting with the "Tolerant"

2011-10-30T01:14:00.005-04:00

One objection to Christianity I sometimes hear from non-believers is that religious differences have supposedly caused more wars than anything else. As a result, we are now seeing similarly designed bumper stickers urging people to “coexist” and have “tolerance” of one other.

The New Oxford American Dictionary defines coexist as, “exist in mutual tolerance despite different ideologies or interests.” Ironically, many people who advocate tolerance are in reality intolerant of Christianity because of Scripture that won’t condone their lifestyle choices. Ronald Reagan once said, “The frustrating thing is that those who are attacking religion claim they are doing it in the name of tolerance. Question: Isn’t the real truth that they are intolerant of religion?”

Jesus did pray for unity in John chapter 17 but only amongst believers. The Lord doesn’t like strife and division within His body. Psalm 101:5 (NLT) says, “I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride.” We are also commanded in Ephesians 4:27 to give no place to the devil.

There is such a thing as being too narrow-minded when it comes to God wanting to do new things through His people. Rodney Howard-Browne says, “Some people are so narrow-minded that they can look through a keyhole with both eyes.” In Acts 5:38-39, Gamaliel offered sound advice about reacting to new moves of God. Unless disciples are obviously promoting dangerous practices, it is wiser to be tolerant than repressive. Otherswise, we might find ourselves “fighting against God.”

But one thing Christians cannot tolerate is doctrine that clearly opposes the Word of God. One YouTuber wrote to me claiming, “All religions teach the same truth.” Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to Father except through Me.” Notice Jesus said He was THE truth…not a truth.

Nevertheless, Christians should be compassionate towards those that don’t know the truth of God’s word. Some of you might have co-workers or even a spouse who are non-believers. Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”

But some men don’t want to live in peace. Take a look at Islam for example. The God of the Koran is certainly not tolerant of non-Muslims...

“I will throw fear into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Then smite the necks and smite of them each finger. That is because they opposed Allah and His messenger. Whoso opposeth Allah and His messenger, (for him) lo! Allah is severe in punishment.” - Surah 8:12-13

Some people reading this might ask, “What about the Crusades?” Throughout history, atrocities have been carried out in the name of God. But that doesn’t mean God Himself was behind those things. Jesus said in Matthew 5:44 to “love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” Of course, we must resist evil in cases of war and confronting criminals.

As “ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20), we are to be in this world but not of it. Therefore, I exhort you to be intolerant of sin but tolerant of people who hold views contrary to Christianity. By speaking the truth in love, God can use you to lead some of them to Him.

“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord”

- Hebrews 12:14

A Matter of the Heart

2011-10-23T04:59:00.002-04:00

A question I’m occasionally asked regarding my evangelism techniques is whether someone who prays with me to get saved really means it. This issue was brought up again a few days ago after attending a prayer meeting at the YMCA. There I saw a woman smoking outside and felt led to witness to her. I approached Chelonda by handing her a tract and eventually asked where she would spend eternity when her life ended. Chelonda wasn’t sure and so I quoted Romans 10:9 to her. Then I asked Chelonda if she believed Jesus Christ is the Son of God and if He died on the cross and rose again from the dead. Chelonda answered “yes” to these questions. I invited her to pray with me to receive salvation and she did.

Minutes later, a pastor who went to the prayer meeting with me commented that sinners must feel convicted of their need for salvation. He had seen me lead other people to the Lord and questioned if there was genuine repentance. I replied by pointing out that whenever people I witness to don’t want to get born again, they will let me know. (Some of them have gotten defensive even if they claim to believe the gospel.) I could also mention that my salvation prayer begins with, “God in heaven, I know I’m a sinner and I need your help.” Doesn’t that sound that repentance?

I will admit there have been rare incidents when I led people in the “sinner’s prayer” and then found out they really didn’t mean it. But earlier this year I started using a tactic learned from my friend Clint. Whenever I suspect someone might be praying half-heartedly, I close the prayer by having that person confess, “I pray this prayer with all sincerity in the name of Jesus.”

Six years ago while visiting Canada, I led a friend’s mother to the Lord. Because her mother continued living with her boyfriend and didn’t attend a church, my friend questioned the legitimacy of her mother’s salvation. But recently her mother got married and has become part of a fellowship.

I believe the majority of people who are willing to pray with me publicly and confess Jesus openly are sincere. Whether their prayers are genuine or not, that’s not for me to judge. Only God knows the status of a man’s heart.

“For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” - 1 Samuel 16:7

For the Asking

2011-10-16T07:02:00.001-04:00

Some Christians don’t like seeing me asking non-believers to pray with me to get saved. They seem to think if a sinner is ready for that, he or she will initiate their own salvation. But not every sinner who feels convicted of the need to get right with God will immediately know what to say. One example in Scripture is the Philippian jailer who asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30) On the night of my conversion, I didn’t become born again until I responded to my brother-in-law’s offer to pray with me.

There have been occasions when strangers approached me asking for prayer but that doesn’t happen very often. Jesus said in John 6:44, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” God is the One who saves people but He still needs a willing vessel to be His mouthpiece.

I’ve seen some Christians take a lot of time telling sinners how to be saved without inviting them to receive salvation. This would be like a salesman talking about all the benefits of his product without asking his prospects for the sale. That salesman won’t earn much in commissions unless he changes his approach. Likewise, multitudes won’t get saved unless they are confronted with the necessity of making a decision for Christ. Jesus told us in Luke 14:23, “Go out into the highways and hedges, and COMPEL THEM to come in, that my house may be filled.”

Many sinners will gladly come into the kingdom of God if you share the gospel and then confidently ask them to pray with you. But always remember if someone says “no”, they are not rejecting you. They are rejecting Jesus.

“…ye have not, because ye ask not.” - James 4:2 (KJV)

Believe and Receive

2011-10-09T02:23:00.000-04:00

Let’s suppose you were a parent with five children. One of your sons came up and asked if you would take the family to the mall. You reply, “Sure. We’ll go there this afternoon.”

A minute later, your other son who overheard his brother asks if you would take the family to the mall. You reply, “Yes. I already told your brother I’d do that.”

Seconds later, one of your daughters who was within earshot of her brothers approached you and asked about going to the mall. What would your answer be? By this time you might be a little annoyed. But if you were a good parent, you would still say “yes.”

Within the next couple minutes, your two other daughters ask the very same thing. You reply in frustration, “Didn’t you kids believe me when I said ‘yes’ the first time?”

This scenario may sound ridiculous but this is how many people approach God in prayer. There was one prayer group I briefly attended where this sort of thing happened all the time. After discussing our prayer requests, we each took turns uttering petitions before the Lord. The first person prayed for several of the requests mentioned. Then the next person did the same thing, repeating many of the requests the first person already prayed for. Then the third person did likewise and then the fourth person and so on.

Many people aren’t convinced God heard their prayers the first time. Some Christians cite the persistent widow in Luke 18 to justify their pestering God with the same need. But keep in mind the widow was dealing with an unjust judge.

On the other hand, the Lord wants to give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:23). Whenever we need something from God, the best thing to do is to pray and then keep thanking Him until the answer manifests. Jesus said in Mark 11:24, “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.”

Delays in our prayers being answered are not because God wasn’t listening. They are sometimes due to demonic opposition. In Daniel chapter 10, the prophet had been fasting and praying for three weeks. Notice what the angel told Daniel beginning with verse 12…

12 “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words.

13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia.”

There are situations we must be persistent in intercession when it involves other people’s wills. Examples would include the government and a loved one’s salvation. For the latter, it’s better to pray for laborers to cross that family member’s path (Matthew 9:38) instead of habitually praying, “Lord, save So-and-So.” God wants your family members in the kingdom more than you do but needs His people to get the gospel to them.

In some prayer meetings I’d been to, one person would verbally pray for all our needs and rest of us would be in agreement. In other groups, each person would pray for another person’s request. That way everybody took part in praying and every petition was brought before the Lord without it being mentioned over and over.

Jesus warned us in Matthew 6:7-8 against making “vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them.” So the next time you need something from God, avoid the temptation to keep asking for it again and again. Believe and then receive!

“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.” - James 1:6

You Are Worth It

2011-10-02T07:01:00.006-04:00

One day I visited a grocery store that had some very unique items. They included truffles priced at $999.99 per pound and bottles of wine for over $2,000 each! It amazed me how people could spend large amounts of money for stuff like that.

A few days later I got into a discussion with a couple friends about God not being limited by finances. I pointed out that when I’ve traveled on the mission field by bus or train; the Lord often provided money at the last minute when I had to buy the most expensive ticket. For a long time, it puzzled me why the money usually didn’t manifest earlier so I could buy a cheaper ticket.

Then I realized how much God will spend to help us get to wherever He wants us to be. That includes eternal life in heaven. In the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price, Jesus said, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:45-46)

So the next time you are tempted to put yourself down, remember the price the Lord paid for your salvation. You are worth it!

“How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.” - Psalm 36:7 (NIV)

Coming Out From vs. Going Into the World

2011-09-25T06:57:00.000-04:00

Sometimes Christians are presented with opportunities to be a witness for the Lord in unconventional places. One of them might be a secular television program. Back in 1969, Billy Graham appeared on “Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In”, a show that often featured humor with sexual innuendos. Billy issued a statement in response to inquiries from concerned Christians by pointing out, “Jesus moved among the publicans and sinners.”

Last year Welsh minister Dave Vaughan was the runner-up on the U. K. reality show, “Big Brother.” Dave later shared with me how that opened many doors for him to reach non-believers with the gospel.

Then this past week, it was announced Pastor Ted Haggard would appear with actor Gary Busey on the reality show “Celebrity Wife Swap.” When I first heard about this, I was a bit stunned. The dictionary defines wife swapping as “the practice within a group of married couples of exchanging sexual partners on a casual basis.” Some Christians could easily presuppose Ted will be committing adultery. (It’s also worth noting that Gary Busey’s “wife” is actually his girlfriend Steffanie Sampson with whom he fathered a son.)

Since Ted is one of my Facebook friends, I posted a comment of his Wall requesting an explanation. Congregation members responded with assurances that Ted’s TV appearance is for godly purposes and no illicit sexual activity will occur. One man wrote, “Pastor Ted and Gayle [his wife] will be showing Americans what it's like to be a restored Christian and to be able to come back with God's blessings.”

Some Christians might argue that we are to “come out from among them and be separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17). But the next part of that verse says, “Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” We are to separate ourselves from sin but not from sinners. Jesus commanded us to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15)…not stay inside our churches.

Jesus also said in Matthew 10:16, “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” We should always be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading in case a “golden opportunity” turns out to be a set up to place Christians in compromising situations. When that happens, God will “make the way of escape” out of every temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Even if you don’t agree with their decision, let’s pray that Ted and Gayle Haggard’s appearance on “Celebrity Wife Swap” will truly result in them being a witness to people who otherwise might not darken the door of a church.

“When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some.” - 1 Corinthians 9:22 (NLT)

A Vow to Cherish

2011-09-18T07:27:00.006-04:00

Christian television can be beneficial to one’s spiritual growth in addition to attending regular church services. Nevertheless, one shouldn’t blindly accept everything said by any preacher. We must be like the Bereans who “…searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11)

Recently one well-known minister was asked on TV for his counsel regarding a man whose wife suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. Because the wife didn’t recognize her husband anymore, this man started seeing another woman. The minister replied by saying, “I know it sounds cruel, but if he’s going to do something, he should divorce her and start all over again, but make sure she has custodial care and somebody looking after her.”

The minister’s co-host reminded him that marriage vows include taking care of each other “for better or for worse” (the marriage vow also specifically mentions “in sickness and in health”). His immediate response to that was, “If you respect that vow, you say ‘til death do us part...This [Alzheimer’s] is a kind of death.” He went on to talk about a man he knew whose wife also had Alzheimer’s but still saw her every day until she died. In addition, the TV minister encouraged the viewer to “…get some ethicist besides me to give you the answer because I recognize the dilemma.”

While I honor this minister as a man of God, I must take exception to his initial advice. It’s one thing to divorce a spouse who is unfaithful and not willing to make the marriage work. But it’s another thing if your spouse becomes incapacitated. Jesus said in Luke 6:31, “And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.” If you were married and suddenly became bedridden, wouldn’t you want your spouse by your side?

This reminds me of the Terri Schiavo case in Florida a few years ago. In 1990, Terri collapsed due to cardiac arrest and was in a near vegetative state for 15 years. Terri’s husband Michael repeatedly petitioned the courts to have his wife’s feeding tube removed against her parents’ wishes. In the meantime, Michael Schiavo moved in with another woman and fathered two children out of wedlock before Terri died in 2005. Although one might sympathize with Michael’s desire to have normal marital relations again, he still committed adultery.

I also recall Billy Graham’s film ministry releasing a movie in 1999 called “A Vow to Cherish.” Ken Howard played the part of a business executive caring for his wife (portrayed by Barbara Babcock) whose memory was failing due to Alzheimer's. While I personally found the movie a bit depressing, I liked that it showed a husband willing to remain faithful to his wife despite his brother and a new female friend suggesting he “move on” with his life.

God is bigger than any disease and can bring healing to anyone including the elderly and those with Alzheimer’s. As long as a sick spouse is breathing, there is still hope for recovery.

“Moses was one hundred and twenty years old when he died. His eyes were not dim nor his natural vigor diminished.” - Deuteronomy 34:7

When The Towers Fell

2011-09-11T02:08:00.005-04:00

Today on the tenth anniversary of 9/11, many people can still recall where they were and what they were doing during that tragic day. On that Tuesday morning, the Lord had led me to do street ministry in Springfield, Virginia (I was living in the nearby city of Manassas at the time). The first two people I prayed with were teenaged boys on their way to school. Later while browsing around a Barnes & Noble bookstore, I overheard someone talk about a plane crash. I figured if it was something serious, I would later hear about it on the news.

Not long afterwards, I walked into an electronics store and noticed people crowded around a big screen TV. It was then I heard about the planes crashing into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon (which is only ten miles from Springfield)! Increasing boldness came upon me and I altered my evangelism approach for the rest of the day. First I asked people if they heard what just happened in New York City and Washington, DC. Then I asked if they would be in heaven had they perished in one of those attacks. Sadly, many of them were still oblivious to their need for salvation. One man in a military uniform walked away from me without saying a word. Fortunately, five more people prayed to get born again including folks originally from France, India, and Romania.

The next morning, the Lord woke me up at 4:00 AM and told me to go back to Springfield to do more evangelism. That day I prayed with eleven people to receive salvation. One in particular was by far the most memorable. When I returned to that Barnes & Noble bookstore, the instrumental music playing in the background caught my attention. I asked an employee about it and we got into a lengthy conversation. Jaime was a Spanish immigrant who was very friendly and we eventually talked about the terrorist attacks. I found out on September 11th (the day before), Jaime literally saw the plane crash into the Pentagon on his way to work! He then asked why God would allow things like that happen to good people. I explained to Jaime that it’s the devil that influences people to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). Jaime later prayed to get born again. It was definitely a divine appointment.

There were also people I knew who had close calls related to the events of 9/11…

* The wife of my then-pastor worked at the Pentagon. Her office was in the very same section that was hit by the plane, which stopped one wall short of where she was sitting! Fortunately she didn't experience serious injuries.

* The father of a friend of mine in Virginia also worked at the Pentagon. He planned on getting cash at an ATM machine where the plane later hit. This man changed his mind at the last minute. That decision saved his life.

* Two ladies I know who lived and worked at Calvary Campground in Ashland, Virginia took a trip to New York and made plans to tour the World Trade Center on the evening of September 11th. It was a good thing they didn't go up there earlier that day before the planes hit the towers.

* On the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance (September 14th, 2001) declared by President George W. Bush, I felt led to call a friend of mine who lived in the Philadelphia area. Ellen told me a couple we both knew was visiting her and had ministered at a New York church the Sunday before. This couple originally planned on staying in New York two more days to do some sightseeing. But the wife felt a strong prompting to get out of New York sooner.

The next time a horrific event like 9/11 happens, use that as an opportunity to share the gospel with people. Some individuals need a serious wake-up call to realize their lives could suddenly end without warning. A minister I know in New York often says, “Meet your Maker before you meet your undertaker!”

“There will be on every high mountain and on every high hill rivers and streams of waters, in the day of the great slaughter, when the towers fall" - Isaiah 30:25

On God’s Time

2011-09-04T10:03:00.008-04:00

One sign we are living in the last days is that more people are not keeping their promises. While we might think of individuals who dishonor their marriage vows or refuse to pay their bills, another way people break promises is by not being punctual. The dictionary defines punctual as “happening or doing something at the agreed or proper time.”

If we tell someone we’ll pick him up in 5 minutes, we shouldn’t purposely arrive 30 minutes later. I have a close friend who has a weakness in this area. But at least he apologizes when he shows up late. On the other hand, I’ve dealt with people who frequently dawdle and don’t think it’s a big deal. What they are really saying by their actions is, “My time is more valuable than your time.”

Some cultures don’t seem to value punctuality as much as others. While visiting Germany I noticed the Germans themselves were often on time but a lot of the migrants there weren’t. One night I had to wait around for an Asian man I was staying with who took extra time working on a ministry project at somebody else's house. He had originally agreed to drive us home by a certain time. When I reminded him that Jesus said to “…let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:37), this man became very defensive.

A preacher told me about a time he ministered at a Native American church in Oklahoma. Many of the congregation members walked in late during the service. That prompted this preacher to talk about the importance of being on time. The congregation must have felt convicted. When the preacher came back to this church a couple years later, he noticed a sign posted up that read, “We are not on Indian time, we are on God’s time.”

The Lord certainly expects us to keep our word when we agree to do something. Look at the Parable of the Two Sons in Matthew 21…

28 “But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’

29 He answered and said, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he regretted it and went.

30 Then he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, ‘I go, sir,’ but he did not go.

31 Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said to Him, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you.”

Students are taught not to be tardy for class. Most employees show up at their jobs on time or else they might get fired. Shouldn’t we show that same kind of respect for our friends, loved ones, and especially God?

“LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart…he honors those who fear the LORD; He who swears to his own hurt and does not change” - Psalm 15:1-2, 4

Raised From the Dead

2011-08-27T09:39:00.007-04:00

Recently I got together with an old friend for coffee. Her expressing interest in going to Germany inspired me to show her photos on my laptop from the times I went there. A few of the photos were from a Reinhard Bonnke meeting at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. During which, a Nigerian pastor testified of being raised from the dead after receiving glimpses of both heaven and hell. My friend’s attitude suddenly changed as she called that “satanic” and said, “I’ll bet you a million dollars this is not true!” When I mentioned Jesus’ commandment in Matthew 10:8 to “raise the dead”, she said that was for the Jews only.

I found out my friend believes “Paul’s gospel” and claimed the apostle didn’t raise anyone from the dead. In response, I reminded her of the incident of Eutychus falling out of a window. My friend insisted it was Peter who God used to bring that dead man back to life. Not wanting to debate doctrine with my friend, I changed the subject. But when I got home, I read the following verses in Acts 20…

9 And in a window sat a certain young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep. He was overcome by sleep; and as Paul continued speaking, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead.

10 But Paul went down, fell on him, and embracing him said, “Do not trouble yourselves, for his life is in him.”

11 Now when he had come up, had broken bread and eaten, and talked a long while, even till daybreak, he departed.

12 And they brought the young man in alive, and they were not a little comforted.

The next day I got together with my pastor for a prayer meeting. When I told Pastor Chuck what happened the night before, he reminded me of Paul himself coming back to life in Acts 14…

19 Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.

20 However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose up and went into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

Paul also wrote about a third heaven experience he had in 2 Corinthians 12:2-5. Therefore, it is scriptural for Christians to receive glimpses of eternity before they leave this earth for good. During a hospital stay in 1986, my grandmother went into a coma and later revealed she saw deceased relatives in heaven who basically told her it wasn’t time to go yet (Grandma Post lived another fourteen years before she went home to be with the Lord in 2000). Since then, I’ve met numerous individuals who had briefly died but came back to life.

Again I don’t want to stir up strife with my friend. But it would be nice if she had the million dollars she offered to bet me. Then I’d have more than enough finances to fly back to Germany.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

- Hebrews 13:8

How Do You See Yourself?

2011-08-20T10:50:00.007-04:00

While attending a conference at a church in Florida, various slides were put up on the overhead screens including the one pictured here. Immediately I thought of Proverbs 28:1, which says “...the righteous are bold as a lion.” Another verse in Proverbs (chapter 23 verse 7) says that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.

How do you see yourself? Do you picture yourself as “more than a conqueror” (Romans 8:37) or like a grasshopper as the Israelites did outside the Promised Land? Too many Christians think of themselves as the latter. That’s why they are not receiving all the blessings God has for them.

Putting yourself down is not being humble. It’s actually degrading the wonderful creation God made you to be. I heard one minister define humility as “knowing who you are in Christ…and knowing who you are without Christ.”

Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” So the next time you look in the mirror, see yourself as the Lord sees you...a winner!

“I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.” - Psalm 139:14

Not So Super Buffet

2011-08-13T08:11:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite foods is sushi. Because it’s a bit expensive, I often eat sushi at restaurants that include it in a buffet. Earlier this year, I found such a place in Minneapolis called Hibachi that plays Christian music in the background. I made sure I told the manager that I greatly appreciated that.

Another Asian restaurant that I used to frequent is Super Buffet in Fargo, North Dakota. Since they play old secular songs on their sound system, I would dig out my earphones and listen to Christian music on my laptop while enjoying the food. There’s a particular booth I liked sitting in because it was close to an electric outlet. The Super Buffet employees usually cleared the booth for me if they were using it for other purposes. I often left a gospel tract along with a good tip for the waiter.

Last Sunday after church, a group of us talked about going out for lunch. At first everyone else couldn’t decide on a restaurant to go to. I asked if I could make a suggestion. One of the ladies replied, “As long as it’s not Asian.” Another woman (the pastor’s wife) said she didn’t want to eat at a buffet. That shot down my idea of going to Super Buffet, which happens to be just a few blocks from the church. The pastor decided on Culver’s. I later realized this was divine intervention.

The next day after working online for a while at a coffee shop, I went to Super Buffet looking forward to having lunch there. But as I was about to walk in the door, I noticed two posters on their front window advertising Fargo-Moorhead Gay Pride Week. That ruined my appetite. I opted to pick up groceries at a nearby Wal-Mart instead. When I got home, I wrote an email to Super Buffet letting them know they lost a regular customer. I don’t feel comfortable spending money at places that promote the homosexual agenda.

I will go back to Super Buffet in the future only if the Lord leads me to. Until then, I will be on the lookout for another restaurant in Fargo that has a decent selection of all-you-can-eat sushi. It would be a blessing if I found one managed by a brother or sister in Christ.

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” - Galatians 6:10

What’s Your Crutch?

2011-08-07T09:08:00.005-04:00

While he was governor of Minnesota, Jesse Ventura made this statement; “Organized religion is a sham and a crutch for weak-minded people who need strength in numbers. It tells people to go out and stick their noses in other people's business.” In the New Oxford American Dictionary, one of the definitions of crutch is “a thing used for support or reassurance.” An example cited by the dictionary is “they use the Internet as a crutch for their loneliness.”

Everybody has a crutch. For some it is cigarettes. How many of you know people who cannot go a short period of time without smoking? During winter, I’ve seen workers willing to brave freezing temperatures outside just so they can smoke on their breaks.

For other people, their crutch is alcohol. Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx once told Hit Parader magazine, “The thing that inspires me the most is my bottle of Jack Daniels. It's my best friend in the world. Ol' Jack will never let you down. He's always there when you need him.”

Many individuals look to the government as a crutch. They think having a certain politician in office or a particular law passed will help solve their problems.

What’s your crutch?

Non-believers may think believing in God is a crutch for weak people who cannot make it on their own. But the Lord doesn’t want His people to be weak-minded at all. Ephesians 6:10 commands us to “be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”

King David certainly wasn’t a coward. He was a mighty warrior who defeated the giant Goliath and later became king of Israel. But even with all his armies and weapons, David repeatedly humbled himself and sought the Lord for direction. The strongest person on earth is infinitely weaker than God.

The best crutch for people to lean on is not a church, denomination, or minister but in the person of Jesus Christ.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” - Psalm 46:1

A “Ministry” of Criticism

2011-07-31T07:58:00.012-04:00

This past Tuesday, a young man from the Netherlands sent me an email requesting permission to post a video I made with John Crowder on his own YouTube page (for personal reasons I had removed the video from public view). When I examined this Dutchman’s account, I noticed it only contained videos critical of other ministers. This man believes his purpose in life is to warn people of “false prophets.”

During an ensuing exchange of emails, this man suggested I look up two passages of Scripture. One of which was 2 Timothy 4:1-5. I noticed verse 2 says, “Preach the word!” Verse 5 exhorts us to “do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” Constantly criticizing other preachers is not a ministry nor does it advance the kingdom of God. It only brings division amongst the body of Christ.

Certainly I agree rebuke is necessary when a fellow believer is living in blatant sin or preaching false doctrine (in my July newsletter I wrote against those proclaiming "universal reconciliation"). But with the Dutchman, he was mainly criticizing manifestations of the Holy Spirit through ministers that I know proclaim the name of Christ.

1 Corinthians 13:7 says we are to believe the best of every person. So rather than being a faultfinder, I suggested this Dutchman produce his own videos and preach the doctrine he wants heard by others. Then again, people would probably find fault with his videos as well.

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”- Galatians 6:7

Death and Life at 27

2011-07-24T07:15:00.004-04:00

Just before I logged off the Internet yesterday morning, I decided to check the headlines one last time. The news was already full of reports about the mass shooting and bombing in Oslo, Norway the day before. Still I had a hunch another tragedy had just occurred.

On the home pages of Yahoo and CNN, I read “Breaking News” that British singer Amy Winehouse died in her London home. What stood out to me in those headlines was that Amy was only 27 years old. Immediately I thought of other rock stars who died at that very same age: Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, and Kurt Cobain. Like Amy, all of them had a history of drug abuse.

I first became familiar with Amy Winehouse while watching the 2008 Grammy Awards on TV. The singer was nominated for six awards and won five of them, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year for her hit “Rehab.” Amy made more headlines with her erratic behavior and run-ins with the law. Although I wasn’t a big fan of the singer, I occasionally prayed for her. God only knows for sure if Amy (who was Jewish) got right with Him before her passing.

Fortunately, a more positive lifechanging event happened to me when I was 27. After years of pursuing a music career myself, my “old man” died and I became a new creature in Christ Jesus.

“Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.” – Romans 6:6

Are Tattoos Sinful?

2011-07-17T09:33:00.006-04:00

One popular evangelistic slogan you can find on T-shirts and bumper stickers is “Body piercing saved my life.” That phrase is usually accompanied with a picture of a punctured hand symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus. This is a way of witnessing to the Goth community and other folks who are into body piercing.

Two years before giving my life to the Lord, I had my ear pierced and wore an earring. Although I’ve since chosen not to wear it anymore, I still get irritated when earring-wearing men are criticized by religious folk especially female ministers. Who decided that only women should have earrings in the first place? In Old Testament days, both men and women wore them (see Exodus 35:22).

Another trend that has infiltrated the church is tattoos. Until recently, tattoos in Western countries were mostly seen on military men. Nowadays, both men and women from all walks of life have them. When I first noticed tattoos becoming popular, I thought this could be paving the way for the mark of the beast. It’s possible that the mark will be a bar code or some other symbol permanently stamped on people’s hands and foreheads.

Jay Bakker (son of televangelist Jim Bakker) released an autobiography in 2001 called “Son of a Preacher Man.” You can see on the cover that Jay has tattoos. A few years ago, I read Jay’s book and then emailed him about a man I knew who had “666” tattooed on his hand before getting saved. Later my friend had that tattoo redesigned so that it now read “777.” Jay replied by thanking me for loving people who have tattoos even though I personally don’t like them myself.

Since then, I’ve met other ministers with tattoos. One of them is Todd Bentley, the Canadian-born evangelist who led the Florida Healing Outpouring meetings in Lakeland three years ago. As far as I know, Todd got most (if not all) of his tattoos after he went into the ministry. I heard one pastor complain that some kids were inspired by Todd’s appearance to be rebellious and get tattoos against their parents’ wishes.

Ministers who preach against tattoos often quote Leviticus 19:28, “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the LORD.” But the previous verse says, “You shall not shave around the sides of your head, nor shall you disfigure the edges of your beard.” Jay Bakker astutely pointed out in his book how ministers can be selective when preaching from the Law of Moses.

Some Christians believe tattoos of religious symbols can be used as evangelism tools. One could even argue that God Himself has tattoos. Isaiah 49:16 in the Amplified Bible says, “Behold, I have indelibly imprinted (tattooed a picture of) you on the palm of each of My hands.” On the other hand, I heard one minister testify of seeing tattoos supernaturally disappear!

I’m still not in favor of tattoos but will not judge brethren who choose to get one. Nevertheless if you are considering a visit to your local tattoo parlor, I advise you to pray first and examine your motives. 1 Corinthians 6:20 says, “For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.” I know of Christians who got tattoos but then later regretted it.

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." - 1 Corinthians 10:31

Serving God and Country

2011-07-10T07:28:00.007-04:00

This past Monday, the United States of America celebrated its 235th birthday. Despite the increasing problems we have in this nation, I am grateful for being an American. God has richly blessed us with an abundance of natural resources. In this country, we still have freedom to preach the gospel. We really have a lot to be thankful for.

Recently a young minister wrote on her Facebook page, “I will not bow to a country nor will I pledge to a flag. This country is not my home. My home is in heaven as is yours if you know Jesus.” Except for her mentioning heaven and the name of Jesus, this sounds like something I might hear from a Jehovah’s Witness. The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society command their followers not to salute their country’s flag and to avoid military service.

Once in a while when I ask fellow believers where they’re from, they answer “heaven.” I find this response a bit annoying when I simply want to know what city or country a person lives in. Philippians 3:20 does say that our citizenship is in heaven. But until we go home to be with the Lord, each of us has a purpose for being in the nation He’s placed us in.

I have a nephew named Benjamin who is a U. S. Marine. My brother-in-law Greg shared a touching comment his son made one time when calling home from Basic Training. Benjamin was asked what he liked best about being in the Marines. His response was “breakfast and being an example for the Lord.” Greg felt he had succeeded as a father. Benjamin’s platoon mates call him “Holy Man.”

It's not ungodly to be patriotic unless you obey an order that clearly goes against the word of God. Being too nationalistic may cause you to miss God’s will for your life. Bible scholars believe Jonah initially refused his divine assignment to preach in Nineveh because of his pride for being an Israelite.

No country will be perfect until Jesus comes back. So I exhort my brothers and sisters in Christ to be grateful for where you reside and be a good witness for Him in your nation. God can move you if He sees it best for you to live somewhere else.

“Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.” - 1 Peter 2:17

Disabled for Christ?

2011-07-03T07:07:00.007-04:00

A friend of mine sent me an email the other day that intended to be a praise report. Due to personal health issues, he was approved to receive disability payments. This man is now (as he calls it) “disabled for Christ.”

In one way, it’s good news that my friend now has a consistent income stream. From the time I’ve known him, he’s struggled with finances and keeping a steady job. I can identify with creative individuals who have difficulties finding their niche in the workplace. Aside from that, my friend desires to work in ministry.

But on the other hand, I don’t consider being “disabled for Christ” a praise report. Immediately Philippians 4:13 came to my mind, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” My friend once claimed he was healed of all his health issues. If that were true, then wouldn’t it be hypocritical to receive disability payments?

Sadly, there are people who don’t want to be healed for fear of losing money and people’s sympathy. It reminds of a joke I heard a few years ago…

A Republican with a hunched back entered a restaurant one afternoon and asked the waitress for a cup of coffee. He shuffled over to a booth, painfully sat down, and glanced across the restaurant and asked, “Is that Jesus over there?” The waitress nodded, so the Republican said to give Jesus a cup of coffee, his treat.

The second patron to enter the restaurant was a Reform Party supporter on crutches. He hobbled over to a booth, sat down and hollered, “Hey there, sweet thang, how's about gettin' me a cold glass of Coke!” He, too, looked across the restaurant and asked, “Is that God's boy over there?” The waitress nodded, so he said to give Jesus a cold glass of coke, on his bill.

The third patron to come into the restaurant was a Democrat in a wheel chair and he asked the waitress for a cup of tea. He also looked across the restaurant and asked, “Is that Jesus sitting over there?” The waitress nodded “yes,” so he told her to give Jesus a cup of tea on him.

As Jesus got up to leave, He passed by the Republican, touched him and said, “For your kindness, you are healed.” The Republican felt his back straightening up, and he rose up his hands, praised the Lord and did a series of back flips as he went out the door.

Then Jesus passed by the third party guy, touched him and said, “For your kindness, you are healed.” The man felt the strength come back into his legs, got up, and danced a jig out the door.

Then Jesus walked towards the Democrat. Suddenly the Democrat jumped up and yelled, “Don't touch me...I'm drawing disability!”

I’m not saying it’s wrong to receive any form of government assistance. Personally I would like to see more done for our military veterans who sacrificed their lives to protect the freedoms we often take for granted. As a young Christian, I briefly collected unemployment benefits but didn’t feel comfortable with that. Recently I submitted an application for subsidized housing but later found a place to live through a pastor I know. I felt this was a reminder that believers should avoid looking to the government as their source of supply.

God wants to be our provider as well as our healer.

“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases.”

- Psalm 103:2-3

Take Time To Listen

2011-06-26T09:05:00.006-04:00

This past Monday I was riding my bicycle by a convenience store and saw two employees hanging around outside. It looked like the two women were taking a break (though one of them later claimed they were working). Usually when approaching people with the gospel, I prefer doing my "survey technique." But in this case I simply offered the women tracts. Neither of them would take one. So I asked if they knew what the tracts were about. One of them figured it had to do with “church.” It was then the other woman stated, “I have my own beliefs!”

I responded by asking if she knew Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. This woman claimed she did and so I asked her to say, “Jesus is my Lord.” This is my way of testing if someone really is saved for 1 Corinthians 12:3 says, “…no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.”

Her response was “I don’t have to say that to anyone!” I tried to politely tell her that Jesus would not confess her before the Father if she won't confess Him before men. This woman cut me off at mid-sentence and I knew it was time to back off. Still I told the women “Jesus loves you” before leaving.

Minutes later as I was eating lunch, I reflected on how I could have handled the situation differently. It was then the thought crossed my mind of asking this woman to share her beliefs with me. That might have encouraged her to open up more and provided me an opportunity to minister to her and her co-worker. It reminds me of an old saying, “People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

It’s also been said that God gave us two ears and only one mouth because it’s more important to listen than to talk. Sometimes evangelists need to approach people cautiously instead of just blasting them with the gospel. There are individuals who have built up barriers in their hearts because of being mistreated by so-called Christians. In those situations, we would be more effective ministering to them if we take time to listen.

“So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” - James 1:19

A Pain in the Butt

2011-06-19T02:39:00.013-04:00

On this Father’s Day, I want to commend all the dads out there who today face increasing challenges with raising children. Unless your kids are home schooled or enrolled in a Christian school, they are likely bombarded with ideas contrary to Scripture. I would think twice about sending children to public schools that nowadays hand out condoms and teach that it’s okay to have two homosexual parents.

Now the law is getting more invasive in how our children should be disciplined. Last night I found out a mother in Corpus Christi, Texas lost custody of all three of her kids for spanking one of them! As part of a plea deal, Rosalina Gonzales was sentenced to five years probation, ordered to take parenting classes and make a $50 payment to the Children’s Advocacy Center. The kids’ grandmother (who reported the spanking incident) is now looking after them until Gonzales is deemed “capable.”

Perhaps I would agree with this decision if severe child abuse happened. But the prosecutor described it as a “pretty simple, straightforward spanking case.” Gonzales didn't use a belt nor leave any bruises. During the sentencing, Judge Jose Longoria stated, “You don’t spank children today. In the old days, maybe we got spanked, but there was a different quarrel. You don’t spank children.”

This judge should take time to open that Bible people in his courtroom swear an oath on (if they still do that there) and read the following verses…

“He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly.” - Proverbs 13:24

“Chasten your son while there is hope, and do not set your heart on his destruction.” - Proverbs 19:18

“Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; the rod of correction will drive it far from him.” - Proverbs 22:15

“Do not withhold correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.” - Proverbs 23:13

“The rod and rebuke give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” - Proverbs 29:15

I once heard a children’s pastor advise that we shouldn’t spank kids with our bare hands. He pointed out that hands are for holding and loving.

When I was little and got mouthy with my mother, she threatened to take out “the wooden spoon” and occasionally used it. Certainly I didn’t like it at the time I got punished. But I have to honestly say it worked. Frequent sittings in a “time out chair” would not have the same effect.

Years ago an American pediatrician named Dr. Benjamin Spock proclaimed that we shouldn't spank our children. In his book “Baby and Child Care” he wrote, “The American tradition of spanking may be one reason there is much more violence in our country than in any other comparable nation.” I beg to differ. In recent years we have seen a dramatic increase in divorce, youth crime, and teen suicide.

In addition to disobedient children, I believe some of our politicians and judges who “legislate from the bench” could use a good spanking. Maybe that would stop them from passing laws and making ridiculous decisions that are ruining our society.

“Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” - Hebrews 12:11

Living Saints

2011-06-12T03:20:00.006-04:00

Not too long ago I watched a Yahoo video called “The Four Steps to Becoming a Saint”, which claimed the late Pope John Paul II is now one step away from sainthood. Immediately I thought how unbiblical that comment was. Had the pontiff obeyed Romans 10:13 (“whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.”) before he died, then he already took the only step needed. One could make a case that other steps are necessary depending on your method of evangelism (such as the ABC’s of Salvation and the Four Spiritual Laws). Then again, I heard evangelist Stephen Hill testify how he got saved and delivered from drug addiction just by saying the name of Jesus over and over.

The Catholic Church teaches that for a person to be considered for sainthood, he or she must have been dead for at least five years. (Ironically, Pope John Paul II waived this requirement for Mother Teresa.) But there are many Scriptures proving a person cannot become a saint after they die. Revelation 22:11 says, “He who is unjust, let him be unjust still; he who is filthy, let him be filthy still; he who is righteous, let him be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still.” Once a sinner passes into eternity, he or she cannot suddenly become holy by the actions of another person including the pope.

The Catholic Church also teaches that to become a saint, there must be evidence of creating a medical miracle, such as healing of a patient. Jesus told his disciples in Mark 16:17-18, “And these signs will follow those who believe…they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” A divine healing does not make anyone a saint but can be the byproduct of one who knows his authority in Christ.

God’s people in both the Old Testament and the New Testament are referred to as saints. In the King James and New King James Version of the Bible, there are 20 verses in Psalms alone that mention saints. (Modern translations minimize usage of this word with alternative terms like “God’s holy people.”) The ninth chapter of Acts has three references to God’s saints…

“Then Ananias answered, ‘Lord, I have heard from many about this man [Saul of Tarsus], how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem.’” - Acts 9:13

“Now it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda.” - Acts 9:32

“Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive.” - Acts 9:41

In Acts 26:10, the Apostle Paul talked about when he had shut up “many of the saints” in prison. How rational would it be for someone to put dead people in jail?

Paul began several of his epistles by addressing the brethren as saints…

“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in all Achaia”- 2 Corinthians 1:1

“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus:” - Ephesians 1:1

“Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons” - Philippians 1:1

“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. - Colossians 1:1-2

Who in his right mind would write letters to dead people?

In Romans 12:13, Paul wrote about “distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.” A dead person doesn’t need any earthly possessions. As many preachers often say, "I have never seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul trailer.”

Romans 15:26 refers to making “…a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem.” 1 Corinthians 16:1 also talks about “the collection for the saints.” What good is it to receive an offering for a dead person? (One exception could be to cover someone’s funeral expenses.)

Paul also wrote in Romans 15:31, “that I may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints.” A person doesn’t do the Lord’s work to please dead people. It only matters if the Lord tells us, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21 KJV)

Romans 16:15 says,“Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.” Paul wouldn’t greet the dead because the Mosaic Law forbade believers from occultic practices. Jesus pointed out in Luke 16:26 that a dead person cannot speak to one who is alive. Mediums who think they are communicating with the dead are really listening to deceiving spirits.

I’ve heard some Christians borrow Paul’s comment in Ephesians 3:8 and say they are “the least of all the saints.” The New Living Translation of this verse reads, “Though I am the least deserving of all God’s people, he graciously gave me the privilege of telling the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ.” True humility is not putting yourself down but simply recognizing it’s the grace of God that enables you to fulfill His plans and purposes for your life.

On a related note, many believers call themselves “a sinner saved by grace.” If a person really is saved, then he is technically not a sinner but a new creation in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17). A sinner is someone who practices sin.

1 John 3:8 says, “He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” The New Living Translation of this verse clarifies “…when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil…” The next verse reads, “Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God.”

A Christian will not lose his salvation for messing up once in a while. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” But people who willfully keep on sinning and don’t repent of it distance themselves from the Lord.

So if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, then you ain’t a saint. But you can become one by being born again…before you die.

“And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” – Hebrews 9:27

Out on a Limb

2011-06-05T02:44:00.013-04:00

English preacher John Scotland often says at his meetings, “For those of you taking notes…save the trees.” This is meant to be a humorous jab at people who jot down too many notes during church services. However, I recently saw a video that was a bit creepy. In this YouTube clip, members of an environmental advocacy group are bawling over dead trees…

Tree huggers who really want to take their cause to the extreme shouldn't read books, live in wooden houses with wooden furniture or use dollar bills, Kleenex and toilet paper.

If God valued trees as much as humans, then He wouldn’t have told Noah to built an ark out of gopher wood (Genesis 6:14) or instructed His people to use wood for various sacrifices. Fortunately the Creator of the Universe is not worried about earthly shortages. One time I was driving through Yellowstone National Park and saw a mountain range that had a huge amount of trees. At that moment, the Lord spoke to my heart and reminded me of how He has supplied the earth with an abundance of natural resources.

Yet some folks have this idea that trees are an endangered species. While in elementary school during the 1970s, I was taught a poem that went something like this…

Oh, can't you plainly see?
That we are running out of trees?
Chop! That was the last one.

It was also around this time I watched an animated TV special called “The Lorax”, based on a Dr. Seuss book of the same name. The title character kept saying he “speaks for the trees.” Now there’s a movie coming out called “The Lorax” that is scheduled for release next March.

In the months ahead, we might see more tree-talkers manifesting. We can lovingly tell these radical environmentalists about the Son of God who died on a tree but not for a tree.

“Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men with the same nature as you, and preach to you that you should turn from these useless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them.” - Acts 14:15

Speak To Your Storms

2011-05-29T05:56:00.016-04:00

One sign that we are living in the last days is an increase of inclement weather. This year the United States has experienced a record amount of tornadoes. The deadliest of which occurred last Sunday in Joplin, Missouri that killed scores of people.

Earlier that afternoon, another tornado hit north Minneapolis where I’ve been staying with friends. I wasn't even aware a tornado had touched down in the area until hours later after coming home from a bike ride to downtown Minneapolis. An air raid siren had been wailing but I didn't think much of it because it wasn't very loud. I figured it was due to bad weather out in the suburbs...not 20 blocks away!

Meanwhile, my friend Brandon had slept in late and was awakened by the siren. In response, he simply rebuked the tornado. It lifted within five seconds! Five minutes later the sun came out and there was beautiful weather the rest of the day. After Brandon posted this testimony on his Facebook page, several of his friends shared similar praise reports of seeing storms disappear after speaking to them.

Just in case you are skeptical of testimonies like this, here’s one you can see for yourself. Two years ago, Jeff Jansen saw a tornado approaching his ministry headquarters in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. You can hear Jeff speak and then watch the storm dissipate in this video…

Jesus said in John 14:12, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” This includes speaking to storms that threaten our lives. Look at Mark 4…

37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling.

38 But He [Jesus] was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?”

39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.

40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?”

On the other hand, we might find ourselves in storms due to our disobedience (remember Jonah?) or someone else’s like the centurion and the ship’s crew that ignored the Apostle Paul’s warning in Acts 27:10. Despite the resulting shipwreck, Paul and his fellow passengers all escaped safely to land.

Until Jesus comes back to set up His millennial reign, unstable weather will continue to occur throughout the world. So the next time a storm comes near your dwelling, remind yourself of the Greater One who lives on the inside of you. If you have full confidence that you are in the will of God, then there is no need to panic.

Speak to your storms!

“When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, but the godly have a lasting foundation.” - Proverbs 10:25 (NLT)

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

2011-05-22T07:44:00.008-04:00

What if you’re facing a situation that in the natural seems impossible? Because the Bible says, “Faith without works is dead” (James chapter 2), you might ask yourself, “When do you take action and when do you cast all your care upon the Lord?” (1 Peter 5:7) Here are some guidelines to help you determine when to step out and when to ‘let go and let God’…

1) Ask God for direction. James 1:5 in the New Living Translation says, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” Sometimes God allows people to get into difficult situations as a reminder that we are to look to Him as our source.

2) Obey whatever the Lord leads you to do. He might instruct you to do something that seems ridiculous but will ultimately lead to victory. In Joshua chapter 6, the children of Israel silently marched around the walls of Jericho for six days and then shouted on the seventh. The walls then fell flat and God gave them the city.

3) “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts.” (Colossians 3:15) Sometimes you might feel pressured to take action and “step out to find out.” But if you have no peace about the direction you’re heading, don’t move any further. One time I was in Florida preparing to drive up to Minnesota. I perceived God wanted me to leave Florida on a Monday. Some people I was staying with suggested I leave on Sunday but I didn't have peace about leaving early. So I left Florida on Monday morning. That evening I encountered a traffic jam in rural Kentucky. I soon found out that was the result of a tanker explosion hours before that killed some people. The first thought that popped in my mind was, “Had I left Florida a day early, I might have gotten killed!”

4) Use discernment when people try to give you advice. Most of Job’s friends weren’t hearing from God when they gave him reasons why he experienced calamities. Another time I was Kassel, Germany and perceived God wanted me to go to Berlin but initially didn’t have the finances to get there. Someone suggested I get a job so I would have the money to buy a train ticket. This was bad advice considering I couldn’t get a job for not being a German citizen. Aside from that, God sent me to Germany to preach the gospel. So one day I put on some music and starting worshipping the Lord. Not long afterwards, I received an unexpected donation and soon took a train to Berlin.

5) “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) Spend time waiting on God and He will renew your strength (Isaiah 40:31). Once I was facing a legal situation that in the natural looked rather bleak. While lying still before the Lord, “Psalm 57:6” popped in my mind. I grabbed my Bible and read, “They have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down; they have dug a pit before me; into the midst of it they themselves have fallen. Selah.” That verse brought comfort to me and eventually the charges I was facing were dropped.

As I heard one preacher say, “Do what you can in the natural and God will move in the supernatural.” So if you have done all you that know to do, then “Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD.” (Exodus 14:13) Remember that God is bigger than any problem you may be facing.

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” – Romans 8:28

Heavenly Homes

2011-05-15T01:01:00.011-04:00

Just a few days ago, I read that actress Jennifer Anniston purchased a one-bedroom penthouse apartment in New York City for $8 million. Facebook creator Mark Zuckerburg had recently bought a $7 million home in California. Last December it was reported that Michael Jordan is building a home in Florida with an estimated value of $20 million. The secular media doesn’t seem to mind celebrities and athletes having multi-million homes. Yet they will have a conniption fit if a preacher buys (or is given) a house for a fraction of that amount.

Even some believers get critical of brethren with nice domiciles. One time a homeless man I met in Florida complained about a pastor having a $500,000 house. But before you pity this homeless man, I should point out that he was a modern-day Jonah running from the call of God on his life. God will pour out His blessings upon everyone who will obey His will for their lives. Isaiah 1:19-20 says, “‘If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land; But if you refuse and rebel, you shall be devoured by the sword’; for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”

Christians will someday walk through pearly gates on a street of gold and have a mansion in heaven (John 14:1-2). A wall made up of twelve different kinds of precious stones surrounds the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21). Sound like God desires His people to live in beautiful places.

In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus prayed for the Father’s will to be done “…on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10) Joshua 24:13 talks about the Lord giving the Israelites, “…a land for which you did not labor, and cities which you did not build, and you dwell in them; you eat of the vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.” Therefore, a Christian shouldn’t be made to feel guilty by jealous brethren for having numerous possessions including a nice home while on earth. It’s not up to any individual to dictate how much a believer should or shouldn’t have. That’s between him and the Lord.

Earlier this year in Alabama, I met a woman who felt led of the Lord to reside with a group of homeless people in “Tent City”, a makeshift shelter in the woods. Of course, not all Christians are called to live like that. Those that are usually do so for a season in order to reach out to certain individuals. One time in San Antonio, Texas, the Lord led me to stay at the Salvation Army for a night. Although it was an uncomfortable environment, I got to minister to several people there.

Some missionaries like myself have traveled from city to city without a permanent home. In her book “Tramp for the Lord”, Holocaust survivor Corrie ten Boom wrote about living out of a suitcase for years while preaching around the world. Corrie still desired a place of her own. God eventually blessed her with one where she spent the latter years of her life.

Admittedly, there have been times I’ve considered leaving the mission field and go back to working a secular job so I would have a more “secure” lifestyle. Just this past week a Facebook friend posted this comment online…

“A good friend I went to college with started out in full time ministry. He had some bad experiences and decided to become a fireman instead. I talked to him today. He is retiring with great benefits and a nice house at a young age. I told him, ‘I'm jealous of you.’ He said, ‘don’t be, I wish I had the courage to stay with ministry. I'm jealous of you.’ Wow, kind of helped me see things in a different way.”

While I still desire my own house, I will trust God to provide one at the right time and not settle down somewhere for the sake of being comfortable. Serving the Lord occasionally requires sacrifices. But there are rewards when a Christian is willing to give up worldly possessions and the approval of man to obey the call to preach.

“Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life.” - Mark 10:29-30

Setting Soul Goals

2011-05-08T07:30:00.005-04:00

Once in a while I get criticized for sharing praise reports on the number of people I lead to Christ during evangelism outings. One reason is because some Christians think that’s being prideful. My intent is not to brag about myself but what the Lord did through me. As 2 Corinthians 10:17 (NIV) says, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”

One evangelist I know often points out that God is into numbers. The book of Acts specifically mention groups of 3,000 and 5,000 people that gave their lives to the Lord as well as individuals and an entire household in Acts 16:34. There’s even a book in the Bible called “Numbers.”

Before I go out street witnessing, I pray and ask the Lord to direct my steps and for His angels to set up divine appointments for me. God often gives me a number of salvations to aim for.

One day as I was about to evangelize at a college in Ashland, Virginia, the Lord told me to aim for 20 salvations. At first I thought this number was too high since I hadn’t prayed with large amounts of people in Ashland before. But as I neared the center of the college, I noticed there was an abundance of students outside that I could talk to. Within a couple hours, 23 people got born again. God is able to do above and beyond what we can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).

Another time in Mobile, Alabama, I drove to a project area in the northwestern part of the city. There I felt led to ask the Lord for 30 souls. Counting three other people I prayed with hours earlier, I saw 31 people get born again that day. Psalm 2:8 in the King James Version reads, “Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance…”

God wants us to set goals in every area of our lives. That includes winning souls.

“Then the LORD answered me and said: 'Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.'” - Habakkuk 2:2

Crossing Into Eternity

2011-05-01T00:14:00.009-04:00

A minister known worldwide for writing the best selling book “The Cross and the Switchblade” and starting up Teen Challenge has gone home to be with the Lord. David Wilkerson was killed last Wednesday when the car he was driving on a Texas highway swerved into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a tractor-trailer. David was 79 years old.

Back in 1958 while pastoring a small church in Pennsylvania, the Lord compelled David Wilkerson to go to New York City. He later wrote “The Cross and the Switchblade” about his early years in the Big Apple ministering to drug addicts and gang members. Over 15 million copies of that book have been published in numerous languages. David’s story was made into a movie starring Pat Boone as David and Erik Estrada as Nicky Cruz, a gang leader who later became an evangelist.

David also founded Times Square Church in an area of Manhattan that had been infested with X-rated movie houses, strip clubs, prostitution and drugs. The church now has more than 8,000 members and many outreach ministries.

I first heard about David Wilkerson in the late 1990’s. While working at World Wide Pictures (Billy Graham’s film ministry), I occasionally received inquiries for “The Cross and the Switchblade” from pastors who thought the movie was one of our productions. Around this time I made visits to the Brownsville Revival in Pensacola, Florida. Evangelist Steve Hill and his wife Jeri were both discipled through Teen Challenge, a biblically based drug recovery program that David founded. Since then I’ve met other individuals whose lives were transformed through Teen Challenge.

In 2000, a fellow street evangelist gave me one of David Wilkerson’s monthly newsletters. If I recall correctly, the teaching article was about forgiveness. At the time, I was struggling with forgiving a close friend who had betrayed me.

A year later during a road trip through upstate New York, I made a pit stop at a convenience store that happened to be giving away copies of “The Cross and the Switchblade.” One thing I distinctly remember reading in the book was that some of those going through Teen Challenge weren’t totally delivered from drug addiction until they received the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Three years later I watched “The Cross and the Switchblade” movie for the first time (and have since seen it many times). That same year I visited Times Square Church but never got to see David Wilkerson minister there. I later heard David preach via the Internet.

David often wrote and spoke frank prophetic words. I didn’t agree with everything he preached. But there was no questioning David’s compassion for the lost and the impact his ministry had on people. Many saints in heaven are thanking David for his obedience to the Lord.

It’s unfortunate how David Wilkerson died. Had he worn his seat belt like his wife Gwen (who was seriously injured in the accident but is expected to recover), David might still be with us today. Nonetheless, he is with the Lord now. A private funeral will be held tomorrow in Texas. A public memorial service at Times Square Church will be broadcast online on May 14th.

Let’s keep the Wilkerson family in our prayers during this time of transition.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” - Romans 12:15

Witnessing Is Not Soliciting

2011-04-25T06:59:00.004-04:00

Last week I went to Best Buy to return a camcorder purchased two days before. Standing outside the store were four college-aged men. Feeling led to witness to the men, I approached them asking if they would take part in a “survey.” All four were receptive and eventually told me they thought they were going to heaven but for the wrong reasons. Soon I led them all in a prayer to receive salvation.

By this time, the Best Buy manager was standing next to me. She informed me that someone complained because they “felt uncomfortable” with me ministering. I told the manager that I hadn’t witnessed to anyone else there! Whoever complained must have felt conviction by the Holy Spirit while walking by me. (I have since prayed that this person continually feels uncomfortable until he or she becomes born again.)

According to Christian Law Association attorney David Gibbs, Jr., shoppers have the freedom to talk to each other about various subjects. One person might discuss vacations and hand someone a brochure about a vacation destination. So should a Christian be free to share the gospel and hand someone a tract through incidental interactions while shopping. I showed the Best Buy manager my camcorder and receipt to prove I was there for business reasons (but took care of “Kingdom business” first).

The manager then told me, “We don’t allow soliciting here.” I replied by pointing out the U. S. Supreme Court has ruled that one-on-one evangelism in public places is not soliciting as long as you don’t ask for money. Numerous cases related to this issue include…

Lovell v. City of Griffin (1938)

Schneider v. New Jersey (1939)

Jones v. City of Opelika (1942)

Murdock v. Pennsylvania (1943)

Watchtower Society v. Village of Stratton (2002)

I ended the conversation by politely telling the Best Buy manager that these four men received eternal life so they won’t spend eternity in hell and that Jesus loved her also. A few minutes later, I ran into two of the men in the bathroom at a nearby shopping center. That gave me an opportunity to minister to them more without the manager around.

I will continue shopping for souls as the Lord leads. And whenever a store manager or security guard accuses me of soliciting, I will look at it as an opportunity to “solicit” the gospel to them.

“Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there.” - Acts 17:17

Pass Me the Peeps

2011-04-17T04:43:00.005-04:00

Easter is coming up in a few days. Some Christians prefer to call the holiday “Resurrection Sunday.” One reason is because the word Easter supposedly derived from the name of a goddess associated with spring. Because of this, a few Christians consider Easter a pagan holiday and distance themselves from it. Nevertheless, modern dictionaries define Easter as a Christian festival. It’s also worth noting that the word Easter is found in the King James Bible; “And when he [Herod] had apprehended him [Peter], he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.” (Acts 12:4)

I believe some Christians can get too religious about not observing certain holidays. Psalm 118:24 says, “This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Easter is an excellent time to tell sinners about what the Savior did for them so they have the opportunity to receive eternal life.

Last year in Charleston, South Carolina, I took part in an Easter Party Outreach held in a neighborhood park. We reached out to the community with the love of Jesus by giving away food, Easter baskets, and most importantly the gospel. In and around a prayer tent, I got to lead seven people to the Lord and also encouraged a backslider to “slide back” to God. More people received salvation at the end when a local pastor delivered a short sermon and then conducted a group prayer. An interesting side note: the ministry that coordinated this outreach had done (at that point) 83 consecutive outdoor events without it raining once! During this Easter Party Outreach, it was initially cloudy but the skies eventually cleared up. The Lord gave us great weather to harvest more souls for His kingdom.

As a kid, I received candy from “the Easter Bunny.” When I later found out the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus, and the Tooth Fairy were fictional characters, I questioned God’s existence for many years. Parents shouldn’t deceive their children like that. Easter is not about some rabbit delivering candy but a Risen Savior who delivered us from eternal damnation. 1 Corinthians 15:17 says, “And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!”

Let’s tell the world what Easter is truly about. And if offered to me, I will still enjoy some Easter candy. Pass me the Peeps!

“So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.” - Colossians 2:16-17

It’s The Same Old Song

2011-04-10T14:27:00.014-04:00

This weekend I stayed at a Christian retreat center in central Minnesota. In the sanctuary, Terry MacAlmon’s song “Precious Lamb of God” was repeatedly heard on a CD player in between meetings. This is one of my favorite songs by Terry. However, I opted to stay away from the sanctuary as much as possible.

It’s happened many times before when I got tired of a particular song simply because the pastor, worship leader, or person in charge overplayed it. I know one minister who habitually plays the same song over and over on his iPod at the end of his meetings. One of his favorites is Roy Fields’ “In the Presence of Angels.” I liked that song when I first heard it at the Lakeland Outpouring meetings in 2008. But after my minister friend played “Angels” so many times at his meetings, I now cringe whenever I hear it. That’s sad because it’s really an anointed song.

One might argue that they will sing the same song over and over in heaven. Revelation 4:8 says, “The four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!’” But it later says in Revelation 5:9 and 14:3 they “sing a new song” in heaven. Many verses in the Psalms commands us to do the same thing.

Jesus told us in Matthew 6:7 to avoid vain repetitions in our prayers. I believe this also applies to the music we use when worshipping the Lord. God likes variety.

“Sing to the LORD a new song, and His praise in the assembly of saints.” - Psalm 149:1

Who’s Your Daddy?

2011-04-03T15:26:00.004-04:00

One day at the Mall of America in suburban Minneapolis, I had a witnessing opportunity with three kiosk employees who were all Jewish. When I mentioned Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of the Messiah coming from the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:10), one of the women objected because He wasn't born of a human father. A friend of mine later reminded me of Isaiah 7:14, which says that the Messiah must be born of a virgin woman. The Holy Spirit probably didn't bring that Scripture to my remembrance because this Jewish woman was quite contentious and said she had to “get back to work.”

The fact that Jesus had one earthly parent and one divine parent is proof He fulfilled Isaiah 7:14. He had to be born of a virgin woman (not man) so his father had to be God and not a man. This fact speaks for Him and not against Him. Who else could fulfill it?

My friend also pointed out to me that according to Orthodox Judaism the Jewish lineage is inherited through the mother. If the father is an Eskimo (or more rare, if there’s no earthly father) he is still a Jew and from the tribe of the mother, as long as the mother is Jewish.

There’s also the principle of inheritance from the father through adoption. Jesus may not have biologically come from the tribe of Judah, but legally he still is. This would also make Him a true son of David and have a right to inherit the throne of the kingdom according to the prophecy.

Regardless of how your earthly father raised you, you can have a relationship with the perfect daddy in Heaven if you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. The Son of God said in John 14:9, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father.” Jesus said in John 12:44-45, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me.”

Sadly, many people have distorted ideas about Father God. During a recent road trip through Wisconsin, I felt led to witness to a truck stop employee by asking him, “Did you know that God loves you and has an awesome plan for your life?” This man wasn’t open to the gospel because he thought God “took his son.” I pointed out that Satan comes to kill, steal, and destroy but Jesus came to give us life and more abundantly (John 10:10)

Whether or not a person believes in God, he or she has a spiritual father. Jesus told the Pharisees in John 8:44, “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”

Who’s your daddy?

“Hear, my children, the instruction of a father, and give attention to know understanding.” - Proverbs 4:1

Supernatural Speeding

2011-03-26T10:27:00.005-04:00

Christians are living epistles according to 2 Corinthians 3:3. Non-Christians carefully observe the actions of professing believers to see if they are “walking the walk” as well as “talking the talk.” One thing that leaves a bad witness is when God’s people don’t obey traffic laws. Imagine what an unbeliever thinks when he sees a Christian speeding with a “What Would Jesus Do” bumper sticker on the back of his car.

I’ve met a few Christians who try to justify their need to speed but still find themselves in trouble. One morning I rode with a pastor who was running behind schedule. Because of that, he drove well over the posted speed limit on our way to his church. Despite having a radar detector in his car, the pastor was caught by a patrolman and got pulled over. Since I was from out of state, the patrolman searched my luggage to make sure I wasn’t transporting drugs. Fortunately for the pastor, all he got was a warning ticket. In spite of this, we arrived at his church much later than had he obeyed the speed limit in the first place.

There was another incident when a friend of mine went past the speed limit while driving me to the airport. When I suggested he slow down, my friend claimed speeding would help him avoid flying rocks. Nevertheless, a rock hit and cracked his windshield just before we exited off the freeway.

Then a few weeks ago, a man asked me to use his car to drive a female friend of his to work. When I showed up at this woman’s house, she insisted on driving since she knew the way to her workplace. Once we got on the freeway, she started going 80 mph in a 55 mph zone. I politely asked her to slow down. She replied, “I don’t want to lose the job God gave me.” I reminded her what the Bible says about obeying the laws of the land (Romans 13:1-2). She got more defensive and so I prayed quietly in the Spirit. Ironically this woman was forced to slow down due to heavy traffic and still arrived late for work.

Daniel 12:3 says that in the last days, “many shall run to and fro.” In today’s society, multitudes are constantly rushing to go somewhere. While street evangelizing, many people I approach won’t stop to talk with me because they claim to be in a hurry.

Christians don’t have to live under that kind of pressure. God can translate us if He needs us to be somewhere when we cannot be on time by natural means. Personally I know at least two people who experienced translations while driving. In 1992, a former girlfriend testified how God supernaturally got her to church one night faster than the 15 minutes it normally took to get there. When she left her house, the clock in her car read “6:25.” When she arrived at the church, her clock read “6:31.” She got to the church in six minutes without speeding.

Another friend of mine who was on staff at Calvary Campground emailed me a testimony of her being translated. One morning she drove 90 miles from Ashland, Virginia to Washington, DC where she was scheduled to speak at a church. She was running late and had to drive slower than the posted speed limit due to heavy traffic on Interstate 95. But while driving through Northern Virginia, God suddenly moved her forward several miles and got her to the church on time.

Don’t let the busyness of this world prompt you to break the speed limit or do other foolish things that can create more trouble. Trust in the Lord and He will always help you be in the right place at the right time.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way.” – Psalm 37:23

Unequally Yoked

2011-03-20T12:03:00.005-04:00

For over a decade now, I have traveled as a missionary lodging at various places where I usually didn't have to pay rent. At the time of this writing, I am seeking a home of my own instead of constantly living out of a suitcase. One day I browsed through the web site Craigslist thinking I could find a fellow believer who already has a home and is looking for a roommate. However, I noticed this disclaimer at the top of the Craigslist housing ads…

“Stating a discriminatory preference in a housing post is illegal - please flag discriminatory posts as prohibited.”

One example cited by the Federal Fair Housing Act as a “discriminatory advertisement” is stating the religious preference of a desired applicant. This means if I had my own house or apartment and sought a roommate, I couldn’t legally advertise my wanting another Christian living with me. This reminds me of an incident that occurred last July where a Michigan woman faced a civil rights complaint after posting an ad on her church bulletin board seeking a Christian roommate.

God-fearing people are often accused of being intolerant when setting limitations in line with Scripture. Yet there are times we must “discriminate” and avoid close contact with selected people. 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 warns, “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever.” These verses are most often used to advise single Christians not to marry non-Christians. I’ve heard many stories of believers getting hitched to non-believers thinking that will help them win their significant others to the Lord. Often those marriages end in divorce.

Being “unequally yoked” can apply to other situations such as business partnerships and especially roommates. Certain boundaries need to be set if a believer is to have a home that is truly a place of refuge. Personally I couldn’t handle living with someone who smokes, constantly plays ungodly music, or practices witchcraft.

Of course, not all professing Christians make good roommates. During my missionary travels, I have stayed with some difficult people. Several years ago while visiting Florida, a man whom I’ll call “Bernie” invited me to stay in his home. Shortly after moving in with him, I discovered that Bernie was a beer drinker. The next day I had a vision of a beer truck crashing into his house. I felt led to warn Bernie that “his house would collapse” if he continued drinking. Bernie rejected the warning claiming that God often spoke to him while he drank. Over the next few days Bernie’s behavior worsened. While I tried to sleep, he watched R-rated movies late at night, stomped on the floor, and hollered out curse words. Eventually I had to move out since Bernie continued giving place to the devil with his drinking.

Another time I lived with a widower who once went on a missionary trip and so I had the whole house to myself for three weeks. I tried to make use of the privacy by fasting and praying but had a difficult time entering into the presence of God. When I talked to a pastor about this, he correctly discerned it was due to certain objects in the house. My roommate still held onto idols that belonged to his deceased wife, a Buddhist of Japanese ancestry. A fellow missionary who also occasionally stayed at the house had encouraged this man to do some “spiritual housecleaning” a few weeks before. When my roommate returned from his trip, I advised him to get rid of additional items but he was opposed to the idea. Not long afterwards, we started having other differences and I knew it was time for me to move on.

God has used situations like these to help me grow in Christian character. Nevertheless, 1 Corinthians 5:11 commands, “But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner—not even to eat with such a person.”

There are exceptions when the Lord wants us temporarily residing somewhere for the purpose of ministering to the lost. In Luke 19, Jesus briefly stayed at the home of a tax collector named Zacchaeus. Keep in mind that Zacchaeus initially sought after Jesus by climbing a sycamore tree to see Him. Later the tax collector showed remorse for his unethical business practices and said in verse 8, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.”

In October 1996, I made a temporary move to Toronto, Canada. During my first four nights there, I stayed at a youth hostel. The first night I shared a room with a young German man and led him to the Lord. Eventually God led me to a home available to Christians attending revival meetings in the city.

Another time in San Antonio, Texas, I found myself needing lodging and spent one night at the Salvation Army where I got to lead four homeless people to salvation. There was also a time in Spain when I shared a room with a Muslim from Algeria. He asked me many questions about Christianity. Many spiritual seeds were planted.

God might also lead you to temporarily take in an unsaved person who is in need of lodging and medical care. Jesus talked about this in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).

Still we need to use discernment and not extend hospitality to every person who knocks on our door. Christians would be wise not to share their home with people who consistently challenge their faith in Jesus. Look at 1 John 2…

9 Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.

10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him;

11 for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.

So don’t let worldly people talk you into being unequally yoked with roommates who will give you constant trouble. God wants us to have homes that are like heaven on earth.

“My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.” - Isaiah 32:18

Universal Reconciliation

2011-03-14T17:27:00.008-04:00

There are Christians so afraid of offending non-believers that they avoid talking about hell. Some of who are buying into the doctrine of Universal Reconciliation. This is a belief that everyone will have eternal life and even Satan will someday be reconciled to God. The latter concept should immediately raise red flags since Revelation 20:10 says the devil will be “…cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” This Scripture makes no room for parole for the condemned.

It’s true that God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:4) But two chapters later, it says in verse 1, “Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.”

Even some full gospel ministers have embraced Universal Reconciliation. A few years ago, Carlton Pearson (pictured above) began preaching a “Gospel of Inclusion” or “universal salvation.” Bishop Pearson, who had attended Oral Roberts University, formally declared belief in this doctrine at his New Dimensions Church, which later merged into one of the largest Unitarian Universalist congregations in the world. The Joint College of African-American Pentecostal Bishops officially declared him a heretic.

The Bible says that God is love (1 John 4:8, 16) but He’s also a God of judgment. We cannot sugarcoat the truth of Scripture for fear of offending others. I pray that ministers like Carlton Pearson will awaken from this deception and boldly preach the truth about hell…as well as heaven.

“Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off.” - Romans 11:22

Me Is Exalted

2011-03-07T06:37:00.006-05:00

People called to full-time ministry often face the temptation of making things happen by the arm of the flesh. I’ve heard stories about messes ministers created when trying to expand their ministries ahead of God’s timing. Jesus said in Luke 14:11, “For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

I’m willing to help a brother or sister advance in their calling if the Lord leads me to. Romans 12:10 talks about “giving preference to one another.” Still I find it annoying when ministers promote their ministries on my web pages without asking for permission first. A few individuals had frequently done this on my Facebook Wall despite my asking them to stop. That prompted me to change my account settings so people could only write comments in response to my articles and praise reports.

But then just recently, a pastor started posting announcements (irrelevant to my writings) about various endeavors he was involved in. The first two times I simply removed his posts. After a third time, I asked this pastor to refrain from doing that. I pointed out that he wouldn’t like it if I promoted my ministry on his Facebook pages. He initially responded with defensive emails and insisted I repent because I wouldn’t “help Jesus.” Eventually he calmed down and apologized.

The Lord expects us to do our part in fulfilling the Great Commission and assisting brethren in need. But that doesn’t mean we are to be manipulated to join a specific cause. God may direct you not to team up with a particular minister simply because his motives aren’t right. Acts 20:30 warns, “Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.”

Ministers who are truly lifting up the name of Jesus (and not themselves) shouldn’t get upset if a certain Christian won’t support them. Mike Murdock says, “You are not called to everybody but to somebody.” Ministers should also avoid trying to validate themselves. As Proverbs 27:2 says, “Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” God will send the right people to bring encouragement when needed.

Are you called to the five-fold ministry? Great! I encourage you to step out and fulfill what God has put on your heart to do for Him. But don’t try to pressure a church or fellow minister to facilitate you. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 15:20, “And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man’s foundation.” I have friends who have repeatedly but unsuccessfully sought another ministry to intern under. Surely a young Christian needs to be discipled. But there comes a time when one must “walk on the water” and look to God alone for open doors to go through.

Remember when the Lord uses you to advance His kingdom, always give Him the glory and not yourself.

“If you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.” - 2 Corinthians 10:17 (NLT)

Laughing Together

2011-02-28T08:58:00.006-05:00

One of my favorite preachers is Jesse Duplantis. Pastor John Hagee once introduced this evangelist from Louisiana as “the Apostle of Joy.” A few weeks ago I purchased a download of “A Merry Heart Doeth Good Like a Medicine, Volume 3”, a video that contains 16 of Jesse’s funniest stories. I bought this video specifically to hear Jesse imitating a monkey while poking fun at evolutionary theory, something I’ve seen him do live a couple times before.

Last night I started watching the video again in my bedroom but then decided to share it with the men I’m staying with in Alabama. As the four of us watched the “Ragin' Cajun” while relaxing in the living room, I noticed that I laughed a lot more than when I watched it the first time by myself. As I pondered why this happened, a couple Scriptures came to my mind. Jesus said in Matthew 18:19, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” It also says in Psalm 16:11, “In Your presence is fullness of joy.”

We all need time to ourselves and to be alone with God. But we also need to connect with other believers on a regular basis. Some Christians make the mistake of quit going to church just because another believer mistreated them. It’s time for God’s people to grow up! The body of Christ can only function to its fullest when we are in fellowship with one another. That includes having fun and laughing together.

“greatly desiring to see you…that I may be filled with joy.”

- 2 Timothy 1:4

Truths About Tithing

2011-02-20T08:25:00.013-05:00

Some Christians don’t like to talk about money even though there are numerous Scriptures on the subject. One area in particular that has split a few hairs amongst believers is tithing. According to Webster’s 1828 Dictionary, tithe is defined as, “The tenth part of any thing; but appropriately, the tenth part of the increase annually arising from the profits of land and stock, allotted to the clergy for their support.”

Whenever I meet Christians who complain of financial problems, I often ask if they have been tithing. Many times their answer is “no.” I don’t believe this is mere coincidence. Malachi 3:8-9 says, “Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse, for you have robbed Me, even this whole nation.”

The next two verses in Malachi talk about the blessings that result from tithing…

“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this,” says the LORD of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, so that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field.”

Some pastors teach the “storehouse” is your home church. This may be true if that’s your only source of spiritual nourishment. But if God uses other ministries to bless you, He will likely lead you to give to them as well. Galatians 6:6 says, “Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.” On rare occasions, I’ve received tithes (as well as offerings) from people even though I don’t pastor a church.

Even ministers are not exempt from tithing. Nehemiah 10:38 says, “And the priest, the descendant of Aaron, shall be with the Levites when the Levites receive tithes; and the Levites shall bring up a tenth of the tithes to the house of our God, to the rooms of the storehouse.” In his autobiography “He Touched Me”, Benny Hinn wrote about how his ministry struggled financially until he started tithing from the revenue he received.

Nevertheless, there are Christians who claim tithing is “under the law” and not applicable for us today. But tithing existed hundreds of years before the Mosaic Law. In Genesis 14:20, Abraham gave tithes to the priest Melchizadek (referred to again in Hebrews 7:1-6). In Genesis 28:22, Jacob vowed a tenth of all his property to God.

Not once did Jesus tell His disciples they no longer have to tithe. He even acknowledged the Pharisees for tithing. Luke 11:42 says, “But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.” Religious people can do good things but for the wrong motive. One Pharisee bragged in Luke 18:12, “I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.” Yet the Lord was more pleased with a tax collector who humbled himself by asking for mercy.

Rather than look at tithing as a duty, Christians should have the mindset that they get to tithe. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” Once a person is settled in his heart about tithing, he’d be wise to gradually increase his giving. “The generous soul will be made rich,” says Proverbs 11:25.

I want to ask a question to every Christian reading this who still insists you don’t have to tithe. How much of your income goes to the work of the Lord? If you regularly give over 10% of your pre-tax income, then I commend you for going beyond the standard set by God’s Word. But if your total giving is less than 10%, then that would explain why you might feel uncomfortable hearing sermons on prosperity and despise believers who are generous with their finances. Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” As I heard another preacher say, “What you hoard is your lord.”

Recently I read a testimony of a minister who had suffered heart trouble. One morning at 2:00 A.M., he whispered to his wife to pray for him. She sat up in bed, laid both hands on her husband’s chest and boldly prayed, “Father, You promised us that if we would pay our tithes, You would rebuke the devourer for our sakes. Our tithe is paid. This attack is nothing but the devil, and if You don't heal my husband, You are a liar.” Shortly after that, the minister was completely healed!

Now it should be clarified that tithing is not a cure-all to resolving every financial challenge. Other areas of disobedience will stop the blessings of God from manifesting in a person’s life. One of them is negative talking. Hebrews 3:1 says, “Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus.” (Hebrews 6:20 also points out that Jesus became our High Priest “…according to the order of Melchizedek.”) A person can give many offerings but still remain in lack if he constantly complains about adverse circumstances he’s facing.

According to one Barna Group survey, only 9% of all born again adults contributed one-tenth or more of their income. If every Christian gave in faith and out of a heart of love, our churches would have more than enough funds to get the gospel out plus help the poor and needy. So let’s not look at tithing as some legalistic command but as the first step towards good financial stewardship. God wants to bless us so we can be a blessing to others.

“Honor the LORD with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.” - Proverbs 3:9-10

Born This Way?

2011-02-14T03:32:00.010-05:00

Since I’ve worked as a disc jockey and keyboard salesman plus owned my own recording studio, I still have an interest in what’s going on with the secular music industry. During last night’s Grammy Awards, Lady Gaga hatched out of a giant egg as she performed her new release, “Born This Way.” The song’s lyrics (inspired by the old Whitney Houston hit “Greatest Love of All”) promote a message of loving one self. Sorry to say, “Born This Way” also endorses homosexuality and people who live a “transgendered life.”

Surely God wants everyone to have a positive sense of worth and not live in condemnation. But apart from the lordship of Jesus Christ, self-esteem can take people down a destructive path. 2 Timothy 3 says that in the last days “…men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money…lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”

Psalm 139:14 does say that we are all “…fearfully and wonderfully made.” However, we live in a fallen world resulting in some individuals born with diseases and birth defects. God didn’t make them this way. Just like in Bible times, people born blind and crippled are being healed today.

God also didn’t make people born with deviant sexual desires. Personally I know individuals delivered from homosexuality and transvestism. 1 John 5:4 says, “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.”

We were all born with a sinful nature and in need of the Savior. I pray Lady Gaga will someday recognize the necessity of being born again. The “Poker Face” singer could become a powerful (and definitely an interesting) witness for the Lord if she totally submitted her life to Him.

Pigskin Prophecies

2011-02-07T08:05:00.014-05:00

Every year at the request of my parents, I make a Super Bowl prediction. Usually I don’t come close to the final score but there have been exceptions. Prior to Super Bowl XXXVI, I picked the St. Louis Rams to beat the New England Patriots 20-17. (I was specifically rooting for Rams quarterback Kurt Warner who was Super Bowl MVP two years before.) However, I also told my parents that the game could go into overtime with the New England Patriots pulling off an upset. As it turned out, the Patriots won 20-17 on a last-second field goal. That game almost went into overtime.

A similar thing happened two years ago when the Arizona Cardinals faced the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLIII. Wanting to see Kurt Warner (then playing with the Cardinals) win another Super Bowl, I picked Arizona to win 27-24 but had a feeling they would lose. Sure enough, the Steelers won by an almost identical score of 27-23.

Years ago I used to think it would be cool if one could know in advance the results of major sporting events like the Super Bowl. It reminds of the movie “Back to the Future II” in which Marty McFly travels to the year 2015 (now only four years away!). At an antique store called “Blast From the Past”, Marty bought a sports almanac with the intent of bringing it back to 1985 and become rich through gambling. Marty’s plan backfired when his nemesis Biff Tannen temporarily stole the time machine and gave the sports almanac to himself. It resulted in a disastrous change of events that could only be corrected by going further back in time.

In real life, people ruin their lives by attempting to access future information through occultic means such as horoscopes or visiting a fortuneteller. The future ultimately belongs in the hands of God. Some people attempt to discern future events through hidden codes in the Bible. These folks should get to know the actual author of the Bible by reading His word. 2 Peter 1:19 (KJV) says that we have “a more sure word of prophecy.”

Even if you have made bad decisions in the past, your life can be turned around without the aid of a time machine. Joel 2:25 promises, “So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the crawling locust, the consuming locust, and the chewing locust, My great army which I sent among you.” In her book “The Secret to True Happiness”, Joyce Meyer points out, “With God, ‘plan B’ can be even better than ‘plan A’ would have been.”

By the way, in case you’re wondering about my prediction for yesterday’s Super Bowl, I picked the Steelers to win 23-16. Prior to the start of the game, a fellow missionary emailed me his forecast of Green Bay winning 35-27. His prediction was closer to the actual outcome (31-25).

Oh, well. I don't claim to be a pigskin prophet. At least a brother in Christ (Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers) got the MVP award.

“Remember the things I have done in the past.  For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me. Only I can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish.” - Isaiah 46:9-10 (New Living Translation)

Sing to the Lord…a Secular Song

2011-01-31T18:20:00.013-05:00

One of the biggest reasons I resisted Christianity during my youth was because of preachers crusading against secular rock music. I remember hearing one minister in particular who recommended listening exclusively to Christian rock and gospel music. This led me to believe God only approved of songs that made reference to Him. Later I learned there are two books in the Bible (Esther and Song of Solomon) that don’t mention God’s name at all.

Certainly we must be cautious of the words we allow to go into our ears. Jesus said in Mark 4:24, “Take heed what you hear.” Nowadays I avoid listening to most of today’s hits because of the increasing amount of profanity in the lyrics. There are currently two songs in Billboard’s Top 20 that have the F-word in its title. Shockingly, one of them (by rapper Cee-Lo Green) is up for two major Grammy awards: Record of the Year and Song of the Year!

Nevertheless, secular songs can be used by the Lord to minister to people. I attended services at Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship where the worship band played classic rock hits like “Love Is All Around” and “All Right Now” but sang them to the Lord. The same thing was done at a conference in Atlanta, Georgia with the Black Eyed Peas’ smash “I Gotta Feeling.” Another church I visited in Pensacola, Florida modified the second verse of the James Brown classic “I Got You (I Feel Good)” by singing, “I feel nice...because of Christ.” Liverpool, England native John Scotland often sings Beatles songs while ministering when the lyrics fit in with a topic he’s talking about.

Yesterday I met a couple that has a house church in Texas. The wife started talking about the old Eagles song “Desperado” and how the lyrics could describe someone running away from the Lord. That prompted me to find the song on YouTube and play it on my laptop computer. This woman started weeping and interceding as the presence of God came upon her.

Don’t let religious people sell you the idea that all secular music is of the devil. God is the true author of artistic works and can put His anointing on anything used for His glory.

“The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.” - Psalm 24:1

Bravo Brother Bentley

2011-01-24T11:47:00.015-05:00

Shortly after being sworn in as the new governor of Alabama, Robert Bentley spoke at a local Baptist church. The following comments he made there caused a stir in the media…

“There may be some people here today who do not have living within them the Holy Spirit. But if you have been adopted in God's family like I have, and like you have if you're a Christian and if you're saved, and the Holy Spirit lives within you just like the Holy Spirit lives within me, then you know what that makes? It makes you and me brothers. And it makes you and me brother and sister.”

Bentley then stated, “Now I will have to say that, if we don't have the same daddy, we're not brothers and sisters. So anybody here today who has not accepted Jesus Christ as their savior, I'm telling you, you're not my brother and you're not my sister, and I want to be your brother.”

Not surprisingly, the secular press had a field day with the governor’s remarks. One reporter wrote, “Elected officials should not be perpetuating prejudices.” As a result, Governor Bentley issued an apology two days later. Among the things he said was, “If anyone from other religions felt disenfranchised by the language, I want to say I am sorry. I am sorry if I offended anyone in any way.”

Personally I don’t think Robert Bentley needed to apologize at all. He was making an appeal for salvation inside a church and not the governor’s mansion. Notice Robert told the non-Christians, “I want to be your brother.” That’s the heart of an evangelist. The gospel message will always be offensive to those who refuse to accept it.

Since Robert Bentley is a public official representing all the people of Alabama, perhaps he could have taken the time to clarify the definition of Christian brotherhood. Jesus did that in Luke chapter 8…

19 Then His mother and brothers came to Him, and could not approach Him because of the crowd.

20 And it was told Him by some, who said, “Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see You.”

21 But He answered and said to them, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.”

At the same time, Christians should always act Christ-like toward every human being whether they are saved or not. In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37), Jesus lauded the Samaritan as the “true neighbor” to the man in need, not the Jewish priest who ignored him. Galatians 6:10 says, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

In this age of political correctness, it’s encouraging to see authorities like Robert Bentley speaking openly and boldly about their faith in Jesus. Let’s pray that God will give the governor and other born again leaders wisdom to communicate the gospel in ways that will produce more brothers and sisters in Christ.

“Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.”

- 1 Peter 2:17

Swearing to God

2011-01-17T01:00:00.014-05:00

Last week I glanced through a photo album one of my Facebook friends posted and was surprised to see this drawing with the caption “Big F***ing Diamond.” Immediately I thought of Ephesians 4:29, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”

Since my friend is an “on fire for God” believer, I sent her an email asking why she posted this pic. In her response, she apologized if it affected me negatively but then went on to explain this drawing (which she found at an art gallery) represented how she felt “…as an awesome princess and bride of Christ and that I am married to the King of Bling!” I don’t doubt the sincerity of my friend’s love for the Lord. What I question is how some Christians think using profanity glorifies Jesus.

It’s one thing if an unbeliever uses foul language. That’s part of the nature of fallen man. Yet there have been times when I ministered to unsaved people who apologized if a curse word slipped out of their mouths. They were obviously feeling conviction by the Holy Spirit.

But vulgar language should have no part in a believer’s vocabulary. Ephesians 5:4 in the Amplified Bible says, “Let there be no filthiness (obscenity, indecency) nor foolish and sinful (silly and corrupt) talk, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting or becoming; but instead voice your thankfulness [to God].”

Sadly, some Christians get really defensive when asked to watch their mouths. I was once married to a woman who regularly uttered the s-word for feces. When I politely asked her not to use that word around me, she always snapped back, “It’s in the Bible.” 2 Kings 6:25 does mention “dove droppings.” Ezekiel 4:15 makes reference to “cow dung” and “human waste.” Other translations of this verse use the words “manure” or “excrement.” But I’m not aware of any English translation that has the word “s**t.”

I’ve even heard Christians justify casual usage of the word “hell” because it’s in the Bible. In the New King James Version, “hell” is used 32 times but never as an interjection. Over the years, Satan has influenced individuals to use it as a swear word to minimize the reality of that awful place non-believers will spend eternity unless they become born again.

Here are a few more Scriptures to consider...

“But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.” - Matthew 12:36

“But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.” - Colossians 3:8

“In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you." - Titus 2:7-8

God holds His people to a higher standard when it comes to the use of our words.

“Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” - Matthew 15:11

Thoughts and Prayers

2011-01-10T10:39:00.005-05:00

Often when a tragedy occurs such as this past Saturday’s mass shooting in Tucson, Arizona, people will say to victims and family members, “Our thoughts and prayers are with you.” Many of them may be sincere in expressing their condolences. But are they really being helpful just thinking about another person’s calamity? In one of their band’s newsletters, ApologetiX lead singer J. Jackson pointed out that people say “our thoughts go out to you” because it's politically incorrect to say “prayers.” Then he added, “What good are thoughts going to do for me unless there are prayers attached?”

It’s true that thoughts can have a powerful impact on our own lives. Joyce Meyer preaches, “Where the mind goes, the man follows.” As Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” In Matthew 5:27-28, Jesus even equated the thought of committing adultery to the actual sin!

But thoughts can help others only if acted upon. Let’s say the Lord puts it on your heart to give something to someone. Would that person benefit just by you thinking about blessing him? Of course not! James 2:16 says, “…and one of you says to them, ‘Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,’ but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?”

When you encounter people going through a difficult time, don’t use the cliché that you are “thinking” about them. At the very least, pray for them!

“Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.” - James 4:17

The Day of the Lord

2011-01-05T10:47:00.006-05:00

While I was in New York City late last year, I saw other preachers there passing out tracts, open air preaching, and displaying banners. It’s encouraging to see more of God’s people reaching out to the lost. Unfortunately, some of them are really off with their doctrine. At a subway station, I encountered one woman with literature claiming God’s judgment was coming upon the world on May 21st, 2011. When she tried handing me a brochure, I asked her, “Doesn’t the Bible say, ‘No man knows the day or hour of the Son of Man’s return?'” This woman replied, “That was for the church age” and wanted to debate doctrine with me. I opted to walk away. As Titus 3:9 says, “But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.”

Two days ago I read an Associated Press article about other Christians led by a radio broadcaster named Harold Camping proclaiming the rapture of the church will happen on May 21st. One follower named Allison Warden (pictured here) said, “We're hoping people won't take our word for it, or Harold Camping's word for it. We're hoping that people will search the scriptures for themselves.”

I’ve already done so, Miss Warden. While we are to recognize the signs of the end times, Scripture make it’s clear the Lord’s return will happen unexpectedly…

“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.” - Matthew 24:42

“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” - Matthew 24:44

“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” - Matthew 25:13

“For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:2

“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.” - 2 Peter 3:10

The rapture could happen any day including May 21st of this year. But don’t be surprised if there are many disappointed believers still on earth on May 22nd. Miss Warden went on to say, “If May 21 passes and I'm still here, that means I wasn't saved.”

Miss Warden, we are saved solely through faith in Jesus Christ, not by predicting the date of His return.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” - Ephesians 2:8-9

Who’s the Real Bully?

2010-12-30T09:18:00.004-05:00

Three days before Christmas, President Obama signed into law a bill repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” This action now paves the way for outspoken homosexuals to serve in America’s military. Shortly after the bill was signed, I logged onto the White House’s YouTube channel expecting to see a video about that. Instead the featured clip was called “It Gets Better” in which “several LGBT [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender] White House staffers share their messages of hope and support for LGBT youth who are struggling with being bullied.”

As a Christian and as someone who was severely picked on as a child, I certainly don’t approve of bullying anyone. Jesus told us to turn the other cheek and to “love your enemies.” (Matthew 5:44) Every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. Every person deserves to be treated with love and respect even if we don’t agree with his or her behavior.

But while homosexual activists campaign for “equal rights”, many of them threaten lawsuits against God-fearing individuals and organizations that won't embrace their alternative lifestyle choices. The online dating service eHarmony.com was sued for not accepting homosexual advertisements, despite their being other match services available exclusively for gays and lesbians.

Who's the real bully?

Two doctors in California were sued for refusing to artificially inseminate a lesbian because of their personal religious convictions, even though they provided the names of physicians who would provide such services. The California Supreme Court ruled against the doctors!

Who's the real bully?

Recently while walking on the campus of North Dakota State University, I noticed the Memorial Union has a room designated as a LGBT “safe zone.” Yet last July, a Michigan woman faced a civil rights complaint after posting an ad on her church bulletin board seeking a Christian roommate.

Who’s the real bully?

Incidentally, I do not have a victim mentality like some non-believers want to claim. Colossians 2:15 says, “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He [Jesus] made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” In Christ, I am “more than a conqueror.” (Romans 8:37)

The only person I want to bully is the devil.

“And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.  The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” - Romans 16:20

Begotten, Not Forgotten

2010-12-24T05:30:00.007-05:00

Numerous times when I witness to Muslims, they object to Jesus being called “the Son of God” because Allah (the Arabic word for God) supposedly had no sons. When I quoted John 3:16 to one Muslim in particular, this man got hung up on the word "begotten" thinking it only refers to the result of a sexual union.

The words “begot” and “begotten” are used numerous times in the Bible, usually in geneaology listings. But those words have other uses besides records of human offspring. Look at The Message Bible’s rendering of John 1:9-13…

“The Life-Light was the real thing: every person entering Life he brings into Light. He was in the world, the world was there through him, and yet the world didn't even notice. He came to his own people, but they didn't want him. But whoever did want him, who believed he was who he claimed and would do what he said, He made to be their true selves, their child-of-God selves.  These are the God-begotten, not blood-begotten, not flesh-begotten, not sex-begotten.”

1 Peter 1:3 (NKJV) says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” The New Living Translation uses the term “born again” instead of begotten.

Spiritual children of mature Christians can also be “begotten” as referred to in 1 Corinthians 4:15-17…

15 For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

16 Therefore I urge you, imitate me.

17 For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church.

Paul also wrote in the tenth verse of Philemon, “I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains.” Onesimus, a runaway slave, was a spiritual son or protégé of the Apostle.

As you celebrate Christmas this weekend, look for opportunities to remind people of the reason for the season. God desires everyone to be begotten, not forgotten.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” - John 3:16

God With Us

2010-12-18T03:13:00.003-05:00

One of the alternative names for the Son of God is Immanuel (also spelled Emmanuel), which literally means “God With Us.” That name is mentioned three times in the Bible: twice in Isaiah and once in Matthew. Occasionally while street evangelizing, I have ministered salvation to men named Emmanuel. Most of them already knew what their name meant. God is truly with them now.

Many times I hear Christians pray for God to “be with us.” While this may sound holy and religious, it is unscriptural especially in a church service or prayer meeting. Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” Certainly we should ask God for guidance and to order our steps. But the Lord Himself will never depart from our lives unless we renounce our faith in Him.

There are numerous verses stating God will always be with us and never leave us...

“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6

“And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” - Deuteronomy 31:8

“No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you.” - Joshua 1:5

“And David said to his son Solomon, ‘Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God—my God—will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.’” - 1 Chronicles 28:20

“Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Hebrews 13:5

There is one example in Scripture when King Solomon prayed for God to “be with him” (1 Kings 8:57). But keep in mind that was under the Old Covenant. 2 Corinthians 6:16 says, “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” So if you’re a born-again Christian, there’s no need to pray for God to “be with you.” His Spirit already resides on the inside of you!

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” - 1 Corinthians 3:16

The Name of the Lord

2010-12-12T06:48:00.007-05:00

One positive thing about the holiday season is that it causes more people to think about the Savior of mankind. In Matthew 1:21, the angel Gabriel told Joseph (regarding his wife Mary), “And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” The Amplified Bible further states that Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name for Joshua (“Yeshua”), which means “Savior.”

It’s unfortunate that many people only use the name of the Lord when swearing. This past Monday as I boarded a train in Washington, DC for my trip to North Dakota, I requested a window seat but was initially placed in an aisle seat next to a woman going to West Virginia. As I sat down, this woman blurted, “Jesus Christ!”

I turned to her and said, “Oh…you know the Lord, too?”

She gave me a puzzled look and so I explained that I was a minister. She didn’t talk to me much after that. A few minutes later, an Amtrak employee told this woman she needed to be moved to another part of the train, freeing up the window seat next to me. As the woman walked away, I wished her a Merry Christmas and she thanked me for that. Then I added, “Jesus loves you.”

Occasionally I meet people who prefer to call the Son of God by alternative names. Recently while in New York City, I visited a church where the Lord was usually referred to as Yeshua. Now if I'm witnessing to a Jewish person, I'll often use the name Yeshua. Otherwise, I call the Lord “Jesus.”

Isaiah 9:6 says, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” I believe the Lord doesn't mind His people calling Him by different names if done reverently. Married people refer to their spouses by a variety of names: “Honey”, “Sweetheart”, “Dear”, “Darling” and possibly some other nickname in addition to their actual first name.

But when it comes to receiving salvation, it’s important to call on the one name that makes this possible. Some people have told me they will only pray to God and not mention Jesus at all. Nowadays, military and police chaplains are being pressured not to pray in the name of Jesus. That’s like trying to drive a vehicle without any fuel in the tank. Their prayers simply won’t work. Look at what Jesus said in John 14…

12 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.

13 And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

14 If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.”

Strangely enough, I’ve met individuals who object to the name of Jesus simply because the letter “J” didn’t come into existence until about 500 years ago. But regardless of what language a person speaks, there is power when the name of the Lord is spoken with boldness. One morning I was lying in my bed when I suddenly heard a voice speaking in my left ear. Initially the voice repeated the word “attention.” Then it uttered all kinds of profanity at me. After putting up with it for a few seconds, I hollered, “Satan, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus!” Then the demonic voice stopped.

Another time while evangelizing on the streets of Minneapolis, I approached two girls who told me they worshiped Satan. When I started sharing the gospel with them and mentioned the name of Jesus, one of the girls ran away screaming!

Never let anyone discourage you from using the name of Jesus. It’s one of many weapons God has given us to resist the enemy.

“that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” - Philippians 2:10-11

The Reason for the Season

2010-12-06T03:06:00.007-05:00

Three years ago on the day after Christmas, I went to a grocery store with a friend of mine. The store was still running holiday advertisements on their loudspeaker. Not once did I hear the announcer mention the word “Christmas.”

When I was a kid, I often heard people say "Merry Christmas" to each other. Since then the world has gradually removed "Christ" from Christmas. In our politically correct society, Christmas trees are now often called “holiday trees.” School districts refer to Christmas vacation as “Winter Break.” They also prohibit religious songs from their music programs such as “Silent Night” in favor of ditties like “Frosty the Snowman.”

2,000 years ago, the apostles were commanded by authorities “...not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” (Acts 4:18) Today there are businesses requiring their employees to say "Happy Holidays" to customers instead of "Merry Christmas." Some city governments forbid Nativity scenes being on display but allow statues of Santa Claus.

Whose birthday are we celebrating anyway?

It's true that many of the traditions associated with Christmas have pagan origins. But rather than making a big fuss about that, how about coming up with new holiday traditions that glorify the Lord? One of my relatives insists on us singing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus before we open up presents. That's a clever way to keeping Christ in Christmas.

A recent Rasmussen Reports survey revealed that 69 percent of Americans still prefer the greeting "Merry Christmas" to "Happy Holidays.” Still when I encounter someone who says “Happy Holidays” to me, I respond with a big smile on my face and boldly reply, “Merry Christmas.” I encourage you to do the same. It’s one way to remind people of the reason for the season.

“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12

One Bad Apple

2010-11-30T16:30:00.014-05:00

Previously I wrote in this blog about how I prefer not doing business with companies that support abortion and the homosexual agenda. It’s unfortunate that one them is Apple Computers. I just found out that two years ago, the California-based company donated $100,000 to oppose Proposition 8 that defended traditional marriage.

Apple claims to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of religion. Yet they seem to have a double standard by discriminating against the Manhattan Declaration, a Christian organization that promotes family values. Today I learned that the Manhattan Declaration iPhone/iPad application was removed from the iTunes Store some time over the Thanksgiving holiday. This was the result of a small but very vocal protest by those favoring gay marriage and abortion. The Manhattan Declaration app was originally accepted by Apple and rated as a 4+, meaning it contained no objectionable material. Yet the iTunes Store continues to allow apps by Planned Parenthood and numerous gay sex dating sites.

The Manhattan Declaration states the following on their web site…

“We emphasize with great sincerity that ‘disagreement’ is not ‘gay-bashing.’ Anyone who takes the time to read the Manhattan Declaration can see that the language used to defend traditional marriage, the sanctity of human life, and religious liberty is civil, non-inflammatory, and respectful. The Manhattan Declaration clearly calls its signers to reject ‘disdainful condemnation’ of those who disagree and declares that all people are worthy of respect, because all are loved by God.”

Until someone gave me my first MacBook Pro four years ago, I was mainly a PC user because that was my only option when using the Internet at the library. Since then I’ve grown to appreciate Apple products so I'm not yet ready to ditch my MacBook Pro and iPod. However, I’ve already distanced myself from the company by removing photos of me with my laptop computer from my web pages. If Apple continues this hypocrisy by promoting ungodly causes but not allow selected Christians to communicate the truth of God’s word through their apps, then I won’t be making many trips to the Apple Store in the future. I’m sure other ministries and churches that use Apple products would do likewise.

In the meantime, I pray that God anoints people to come up with powerful inventions so Christians won’t have to make buying choices based on moral grounds.

“I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.” - Proverbs 8:12 (KJV)

Marriage Is Not Obsolete

2010-11-24T00:36:00.008-05:00

It’s no secret that the sanctity of marriage has decreased in our society. U.S. Census data released two months ago showed that marriages hit an all-time low of 52 percent for adults 18 and over. Among the reasons for this are a higher number of divorces and the increasing number of unmarried couples cohabitating. Last week, a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center revealed that 39 percent of its respondents now believe marriage is “obsolete." Yet Hebrews 13:4 says, "Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge."

Once while riding a train in Florida, I sat next to a divorced man who vowed never to marry again because of the pain he experienced from his ex-wife. I can relate as I’ve gone through two short marriages with women who weren’t faithful to me. Still I haven’t given up hope of finding a godly woman to spend the rest of my life with.

One thing that I find annoying is when people suggest I can do more for the Lord as a single man. Though the Apostle Paul wrote that singles can “…serve the Lord without distraction” (1 Corinthians 7:35), there are numerous Scriptures that point to the benefits of having a helpmate…

“And the LORD God said, ‘It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.’” - Genesis 2:18

“How could one chase a thousand,  and two put ten thousand to flight…” - Deuteronomy 32:30

“An excellent wife is the crown of her husband…” - Proverbs 12:4

“He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD.” - Proverbs 18:22

“Houses and riches are an inheritance from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.” - Proverbs 19:14

“A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer.” - Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NLT)

“Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.” - 1 Peter 3:7

Incidentally, I’m not putting down individuals who choose to remain single. Some folks don’t have a desire to be married. Nonetheless I’ve heard numerous testimonies of married people who initially weren’t looking for a spouse and God blessed them with one.

If you desire a mate, don’t let well-meaning Christians discourage you from praying for one. And certainly don’t let worldly people try to convince you that the institution of marriage is obsolete. Marriage was God’s idea in the first place.

“As the Scriptures say, ‘A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.’ This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one.” - Ephesians 5:31-32 (NLT)

What Color Is Jesus?

2010-11-18T06:06:00.011-05:00

Sometimes while you are out evangelizing, individuals will try to stump you with challenging questions. One that I’ve heard primarily from African-Americans is “What color is Jesus?” I remember witnessing to one bitter black man who labeled Christianity “a white-man’s religion” that would never work for him. In response, I testified about two African-Americans I had ministered to a few days before who got saved and then immediately healed of bodily injuries! This man was still resistant to the gospel.

One preacher who is part Native American jokingly claims Jesus is an Indian because the Bible says He is “chief cornerstone.” But seriously, Scripture doesn’t give a clear answer as to the color of the Savior’s skin. People tend to picture the Lord based on their own culture. For centuries, Westerners have depicted the Son of God as a Caucasian. However in recent years there’s been increasing amounts of artwork of a black Jesus (the one pictured here is from the old TV sitcom “Good Times”). Since Jesus lived most of His earthly live in Palestine, one could speculate He had a tan complexion like that of a Middle Eastern person.

Perhaps God didn’t allow the writers of the Bible to reveal Jesus’ skin color because He doesn’t want His appearance to be idolized. Exodus 20:4 says, “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.” We are to worship the Lord “…in spirit and truth.” (John 4:24)

Regardless of Jesus’ race, He certainly wasn’t pleasant to look at when He was crucified. Isaiah 53:2-3 says this of the suffering Messiah...

“...He has no form or comeliness; and when we see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him. He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.  And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him;  He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.”

But in Revelation chapter 1, the Apostle John wrote this description of the glorified resurrected Christ…

14 His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire;

15 His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters;

16 He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength.

Who cares if Jesus is white, black, brown, red, or yellow? Jesus came to save all of mankind from spending eternity in hell. So how should you answer someone who asks, “What color is Jesus?” Here’s an analogy the Lord recently gave me; “If you were trapped in a burning house and a fireman came to rescue you, would the race of that fireman matter?”

“It's news I'm most proud to proclaim, this extraordinary Message of God's powerful plan to rescue everyone who trusts him, starting with Jews and then right on to everyone else!”

- Romans 1:16 (The Message)

Reviling Rulers

2010-11-12T06:15:00.010-05:00

Earlier this week, a friend of mine who closely follows the American political scene sent me an article he wrote in response to our recent midterm elections. For the most part I thought his commentary was well written. My friend even admitted he used to be a “bleeding heart liberal” that disliked Ronald Reagan. But three years after the 1980 election, he suddenly became a big Reagan supporter. What made the difference? My friend got born again and in his own words, “...my new Kingdom affiliation had brought about a new worldview!”

However, there was one part of his article that bothered me. My friend labeled Barack Obama a "liar and impostor." Certainly I don't agree with the decisions Obama has made since becoming President. I admit I would be happy if he was removed from office. Then again, I read how the late Ruth Heflin (who hosted a couple inaugural prayer breakfasts) lifted up President Bill Clinton in prayer while he faced impeachment hearings following the Monica Lewinsky affair. Sister Ruth believed an impeachment would have done more harm to our nation.

While the First Amendment gives Americans freedom to criticize government officials, God holds His people to a higher standard. Titus 3:1-2 says, "Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men." The Apostle Paul wrote other Scriptures about submitting to authority at a time when Roman emperors severely persecuted Christians. They were more wicked than most (if not all) of our American politicians.

Look in Acts 23 how Paul responded to one authority figure who gave a commandment that violated the law…

1 Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.”

2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth.

3 Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?” 

4 And those who stood by said, “Do you revile God’s high priest?”  

5 Then Paul said, “I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’”

Paul was making reference to Exodus 22:28, ”You shall not revile God, nor curse a ruler of your people.” The Encarta World English Dictionary defines revile as “to make a fierce or abusive verbal attack on somebody or something."

This is not to say we should passively let our leaders make bad decisions. God’s people should definitely take a stand against ungodly legislation in a reputable but firm manner. Moses repeatedly confronted Pharaoh to “let my people go.”

Although the overall result of the midterm elections was encouraging, we still have a long way to go before this nation becomes what God intended it to be. But uttering harsh remarks about our politicians is not the solution. As Christians we are commanded first of all to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2) even if we didn’t vote for them. The prayers of the prophet Daniel resulted in King Nebuchadnezzar repenting before the Lord. The same thing can happen to the President, congressmen, judges, and other authority figures if we pray more than complaining.

“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” - 2 Chronicles 7:14

Show Me Your Face

2010-11-05T10:21:00.012-04:00

How would you respond if a new neighbor knocked on your door wanting to meet you but disguised himself with a mask or a hood? You would probably think that person is either being weird or has something to hide. That same principle can be applied when it comes to connecting with people on the Internet.

Occasionally I receive Facebook friend requests from individuals that don’t have photos of themselves in their profiles. Usually I’ll accept such requests if I know the person. I recognize that some folks are not computer savvy and may not have photos readily available to post online. But if I don’t know the person, then I’m not obligated to accept their friend request.

This morning I received a friend request from an evangelist I never heard of who had a lion’s face for his Facebook profile photo. I searched through his photo albums but couldn’t find a single picture of this man. Immediately I thought of the Don Potter song, “Show Me Your Face.” While that song is technically about seeking the Lord, I have come to the realization that some Christians need to stop being so shy. Psalm 139:14 says we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Children of God should not be ashamed to show their face in public.

Some of my Facebook friends occasionally use artwork for their profile pictures. I don’t see anything wrong with that unless you are looking to expand your circle of influence. It’s only common courtesy to let people know what you look like by having at least one photo of yourself available for the public to see.

A few people have told me they don’t like using email because it’s seems so impersonal. Even the Bible mentions the value of face-to-face communication. 2 John 12 says, “Having many things to write to you, I did not wish to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, that our joy may be full.”

I’m always open to meeting new people online. But if you are serious about us getting to know each other, don’t hide your profile. Show me your face!

“So the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend.” - Exodus 33:11