ISAIAH 9:6
Pastor Rick Jackson
During the Christmas season our thoughts are naturally drawn to the birth of Christ. Christians should constantly keep the empty manger, the empty cross, and the empty tomb together to remind them of the full salvation, the abundant life, and the blessed hope which we have in the God-man, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Those of us who believe the Bible believe, of course, in the virgin birth of Christ but do we realize the virgin birth was a necessity? The virgin birth is not just a "supernatural" touch to the Christmas story, the virgin birth is a theological, historical, and redemptive necessity. Why? I am glad you asked. Let us examine 7 reasons showing the necessity for the virgin birth.
THE VIRGIN BIRTH WAS NECESSARY:
I. SO JESUS CHRIST WOULD NOT HAVE A SIN NATURE [Ps. 51:5, Lk. 1:35]
If Jesus had had an earthly father, He would have had a sin nature.
II. SO JESUS CHRIST WOULD BE HUMAN AS WELL AS DIVINE IN HIS NATURE [Phil. 2:5-8]
If Jesus had not been born a human he would not have been truly human. It did not just appear human as some early cults tried to say, He was human!
III. SO JESUS CHRIST WOULD BE DIVINE AS WELL AS HUMAN IN HIS NATURE [Mt. 22:41-46]
IV. SO JESUS CHRIST COULD SERVE AS MEDIATOR [I Tm. 2:5]
V. SO JESUS CHRIST COULD MAKE AN ADEQUATE PAYMENT FOR SIN [I Jn. 2:1-2]
Jesus had to be human in order to die but He had to be god so that His death would be able to pay for all sin.
VI. SO JESUS CHRIST COULD FACE TEMPTATIONS AS ANY MAN [Heb. 2:15-18, 4:15-16]
VII. SO JESUS CHRIST COULD AND WOULD FULFILL SCRIPTURE [Gn. 3:15, Is. 7:14, Jer. 31:22, Mt. 1:20-25, Lk. 1:35]
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
CRITICS OF CHRISTMAS (2)
A follow-up of yesterday's blog with another blast from the past.
ROM. 14:5
Rick Jackson
Last week we saw in the Bible that Jesus WAS born in late December, maybe even Dec. 25th!
This week we look at a few other criticisms of Christmas. Had they put as much work into studying the matter out as they do criticizing they would know the answers themselves. It seems the only exercise they get is jumping to conclusions. Let’s examine some of their complaints and answer them with more Christmas facts!
I. THEY SAY "CHRISTMAS TREES ARE OF PAGAN ORIGIN" [Jer. 10:1-4]
1. Jeremiah is not talking about Christmas trees [Jer. 10:5-15] He is referring to wooden idols, carved by men, overlaid with gold, etc.
2. Christmas trees are actually Christian.
John R. Rice recounts the origin of the Christmas tree.
In the 8th century a missionary named Boniface went to Germany to preach Christ. The Germanic tribes worshipped the oak tree as a symbol of deity. Boniface told them it was a poor symbol for God since it sheds its leaves and appears dead in winter. He told them the tree that should remind them of God was the evergreen. Always green and thriving.Christmas trees became popular in England primarily through the influence of the German-born, Prince Albert, husband of England’s Queen Victoria. In America the trees were introduced by German immigrants in Pennsylvania.
3. The tree reminds me of Calvary [Gal. 6:14, I Pt. 2:24]
4. The light on top reminds me of Jesus. [Jn. 8:12, 9:5, I Jn. 1:5]
5. The other lights remind me of Jesus’ word [Mt. 5:14]
II. Critics say giving gifts has become too commercialized.
It can be but need not be. [II Cor. 9:15, Jn. 3:16, Rm. 6:23, 12:6, Acts 3:6 ]
What are we doing to aid the critics? What are we doing to silence them?
ROM. 14:5
Rick Jackson
Last week we saw in the Bible that Jesus WAS born in late December, maybe even Dec. 25th!
This week we look at a few other criticisms of Christmas. Had they put as much work into studying the matter out as they do criticizing they would know the answers themselves. It seems the only exercise they get is jumping to conclusions. Let’s examine some of their complaints and answer them with more Christmas facts!
I. THEY SAY "CHRISTMAS TREES ARE OF PAGAN ORIGIN" [Jer. 10:1-4]
1. Jeremiah is not talking about Christmas trees [Jer. 10:5-15] He is referring to wooden idols, carved by men, overlaid with gold, etc.
2. Christmas trees are actually Christian.
John R. Rice recounts the origin of the Christmas tree.
In the 8th century a missionary named Boniface went to Germany to preach Christ. The Germanic tribes worshipped the oak tree as a symbol of deity. Boniface told them it was a poor symbol for God since it sheds its leaves and appears dead in winter. He told them the tree that should remind them of God was the evergreen. Always green and thriving.Christmas trees became popular in England primarily through the influence of the German-born, Prince Albert, husband of England’s Queen Victoria. In America the trees were introduced by German immigrants in Pennsylvania.
3. The tree reminds me of Calvary [Gal. 6:14, I Pt. 2:24]
4. The light on top reminds me of Jesus. [Jn. 8:12, 9:5, I Jn. 1:5]
5. The other lights remind me of Jesus’ word [Mt. 5:14]
II. Critics say giving gifts has become too commercialized.
It can be but need not be. [II Cor. 9:15, Jn. 3:16, Rm. 6:23, 12:6, Acts 3:6 ]
What are we doing to aid the critics? What are we doing to silence them?
Monday, December 01, 2008
ANSWERING THE CHRISTMAS CRITICS (1)
I love the Christmas season. Each one is precious to me. Already the politically correct (but theologically incorrect) people are out to ruin Christmas for everyone. Here's a blog I ran based on a sermon I preached (both a few years ago).
ROMANS 14:1-12
Rick Jackson
There was an interesting letter on the editorial page of the Bradford County Telegraph last year (12-1-05). A lady, whom to my knowledge I do not know, wrote,
The following is "Just My Opinion" but I would like to know - "What do you think, are you willing to change?"
My answer is “no”. I am not willing to change because of someone’s opinion. I am willing to conform to the Word of God. Romans 3:4
What is wrong with Christians celebrating the birth of Jesus on his "real" birthday? Why don't Christians just let the world have their "Happy Holidays" their "Santa Clauses," their lighted trees and all the other traditions" that go with Dec. 25? Guys, believe it or not, this is not the day Jesus was born and I can tell you exactly when it was.
It will take a major portion of this sermon to discount this statement But let’s see how her opinion continued.
It was Tishri 15 (that is a Jewish feast day, their New Year or Rosh Hashanah). Jesus fulfilled every one of the Jewish Feast Days. On the exact days those feast happened, in the time of Jesus, those feast were fulfilled. The only feast left to fulfill is the Feast of Trumpets, and that is the Rapture.
There is not one hint in the Scriptures that Jesus was born on Rosh Hashanah. There would have been a lot of Jewish rituals going on during that time and none is indicated by either Luke or Matthew. Matthew’s silence is deafening since his purpose was to present Christ as the King of the Jews and this would certainly have bolstered that claim.
Now, do you understand why the Shepherds were out watching their sheep by night? It was not cold weather in September.
Dr. Mark Cambron, respected Bible scholar had heard this unsubstantiated claim that it is too cold for the sheep in December. We must remember Israel is not North Dakota or even Ohio. Dr. Cambron was at the shepherds’ field in Bethlehem one Christmas eve and noticed there were shepherds present. He asked them, “Why are sheep here and not in folds. Isn’t it too cold?” They replied, “This is when the grass grows best, so we graze here!” Then he noticed the grass was indeed thick and over knee high. Hearsay destroyed by eyewitnesses!
If Christians go to the "real" birth of Jesus and celebrate it, then all those people who are fighting over not having "their" symbols displayed, or the ACLU fighting to eliminate every thing religious, would perhaps stop. No other religion will be allowed to put up their symbol on our special day.It doesn't belong to them, it belongs to the Christians.
That’s a rather naïve view isn’t it? II Th. 1:4, II Tm. 3:11-12
See, right now, they are telling us that Dec. 25 does not belong to Christians, it belongs to those who worship Santa Clause. And you know what? They are right. Separating the two times of the year, would also help teach your child the truth about Jesus, especially if you are a Christian.
I never had a problem teaching my kids the truth about Jesus or Santa. Dt. 6:4-7, Eph. 6:4
See, here is the Christians problem (as I see it). We have put our Lord and Saviors birth right up there with "pagan" beliefs.
Actually Satan constantly tries to get people to believe his lie rather than God’s truth. Jn. 8:44
Does God approve of this? Does God back us in our efforts to keep Jesus as our symbol for this paganism day of worship?
Does she really believe we shouldn’t worship Jesus on any day someone else has set aside for paganism? I worship Jesus on Dec. 25th, July 4th, October 31st and every other day of the year!Jn. 4:24, Rm. 14:5
Now, if you want to support Santa Clause and all that goes with it, I see no problem with that, but just remember - this is not the birth of Jesus. Don't let the attributes of Santa Clause become the same as Jesus' attributes.
Which is it? Does she have a problem with it or does she not? I personally have a problem with it. Is. 42:8, I Cor. 2:8, Ps. 24
Separating of the two times, will put a stop to this.
No. It won’t. Why would it?
The Jewish celebration on or near Dec. 25, called Hanukkah (celebration of lights) has nothing to do with the birth of Jesus. Now, I know this is not pagan; this is a true event for them, the Jews. But it is still not Christmas.
Celebrating God’s light is closer to Christmas than Rosh Hashanah. Jn. 1:1-5, 9-12, 8:12, 9:5
Here is my second problem I see with the Christian community. They are not willing to make any changes, even if it is making a change for the "truth."
Her truth or God’s truth? She hasn’t proved anything. “My problem” “Christian community” Who’s that?
They would rather sit right where they are and let the ACLU and all the other religions of the world dictate to us, about the birth of our Savior; and send money to organizations to fight to keep Dec. 25 for Jesus.
I haven’t sent anyone any money. But if I did it would be to preserve our right to celebrate Christmas in a Christ honoring fashion.
If this world's system eventually gets to the point where there is no "Merry Christmas" and it all becomes "Happy Holidays," guys, don't panic, just remember: It isn't the birth of Jesus any way. Just my opinion.
The last three words are the truest thing she has said in her whole letter. The rest reminds me of the Texas longhorn… a point here and a point there and a lot of bull in-between So can we pinpoint Christmas to December at least. Let’s see.
Bible fact # 1 In I Chr. 24:1-19 David organized the priests for the Temple. There were 24 orders for the 12 months, two orders per month (v. 18-19). Note in the fourth month, the latter part of the month is the order of Abijah (v. 10).
Bible fact # 2 In Ex. 12:2, 13:4 God says the month Nisan is the first month of the Jewish calendar. Nisan falls in our Mar. /Apr. which puts the order of Abijah in our July.
Bible Fact # 3 Zechariah was serving in July. (Lk. 1:5-7) Not yet 50 but advanced in years (people age differently, in US pioneer days the average lifespan was 35). Luke 1:8-23. He went home in August and John the Baptist was conceived in August or September (1:24). Her first month would be Sept. or Oct. Her 6th month would be Feb.-March. (1:26-36 Mary conceived in Elisabeth’s 6th month so her first month would be March-April. Count it out. April, May, June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., December.
Late December is when the shepherds are out in their fields to watch their sheep by night. The night the angels came. Luke 2:8-15. The night, Christ was born. I for one am not going to let the Devil steal my Christmas.
1. Worship in Spirit and truth Jn. 4:24
2. Be fully persuaded in your own mind. Rm. 14:5-6
3. Whatever ye do, do it unto the Lord Col. 3:17-25
ROMANS 14:1-12
Rick Jackson
There was an interesting letter on the editorial page of the Bradford County Telegraph last year (12-1-05). A lady, whom to my knowledge I do not know, wrote,
The following is "Just My Opinion" but I would like to know - "What do you think, are you willing to change?"
My answer is “no”. I am not willing to change because of someone’s opinion. I am willing to conform to the Word of God. Romans 3:4
What is wrong with Christians celebrating the birth of Jesus on his "real" birthday? Why don't Christians just let the world have their "Happy Holidays" their "Santa Clauses," their lighted trees and all the other traditions" that go with Dec. 25? Guys, believe it or not, this is not the day Jesus was born and I can tell you exactly when it was.
It will take a major portion of this sermon to discount this statement But let’s see how her opinion continued.
It was Tishri 15 (that is a Jewish feast day, their New Year or Rosh Hashanah). Jesus fulfilled every one of the Jewish Feast Days. On the exact days those feast happened, in the time of Jesus, those feast were fulfilled. The only feast left to fulfill is the Feast of Trumpets, and that is the Rapture.
There is not one hint in the Scriptures that Jesus was born on Rosh Hashanah. There would have been a lot of Jewish rituals going on during that time and none is indicated by either Luke or Matthew. Matthew’s silence is deafening since his purpose was to present Christ as the King of the Jews and this would certainly have bolstered that claim.
Now, do you understand why the Shepherds were out watching their sheep by night? It was not cold weather in September.
Dr. Mark Cambron, respected Bible scholar had heard this unsubstantiated claim that it is too cold for the sheep in December. We must remember Israel is not North Dakota or even Ohio. Dr. Cambron was at the shepherds’ field in Bethlehem one Christmas eve and noticed there were shepherds present. He asked them, “Why are sheep here and not in folds. Isn’t it too cold?” They replied, “This is when the grass grows best, so we graze here!” Then he noticed the grass was indeed thick and over knee high. Hearsay destroyed by eyewitnesses!
If Christians go to the "real" birth of Jesus and celebrate it, then all those people who are fighting over not having "their" symbols displayed, or the ACLU fighting to eliminate every thing religious, would perhaps stop. No other religion will be allowed to put up their symbol on our special day.It doesn't belong to them, it belongs to the Christians.
That’s a rather naïve view isn’t it? II Th. 1:4, II Tm. 3:11-12
See, right now, they are telling us that Dec. 25 does not belong to Christians, it belongs to those who worship Santa Clause. And you know what? They are right. Separating the two times of the year, would also help teach your child the truth about Jesus, especially if you are a Christian.
I never had a problem teaching my kids the truth about Jesus or Santa. Dt. 6:4-7, Eph. 6:4
See, here is the Christians problem (as I see it). We have put our Lord and Saviors birth right up there with "pagan" beliefs.
Actually Satan constantly tries to get people to believe his lie rather than God’s truth. Jn. 8:44
Does God approve of this? Does God back us in our efforts to keep Jesus as our symbol for this paganism day of worship?
Does she really believe we shouldn’t worship Jesus on any day someone else has set aside for paganism? I worship Jesus on Dec. 25th, July 4th, October 31st and every other day of the year!Jn. 4:24, Rm. 14:5
Now, if you want to support Santa Clause and all that goes with it, I see no problem with that, but just remember - this is not the birth of Jesus. Don't let the attributes of Santa Clause become the same as Jesus' attributes.
Which is it? Does she have a problem with it or does she not? I personally have a problem with it. Is. 42:8, I Cor. 2:8, Ps. 24
Separating of the two times, will put a stop to this.
No. It won’t. Why would it?
The Jewish celebration on or near Dec. 25, called Hanukkah (celebration of lights) has nothing to do with the birth of Jesus. Now, I know this is not pagan; this is a true event for them, the Jews. But it is still not Christmas.
Celebrating God’s light is closer to Christmas than Rosh Hashanah. Jn. 1:1-5, 9-12, 8:12, 9:5
Here is my second problem I see with the Christian community. They are not willing to make any changes, even if it is making a change for the "truth."
Her truth or God’s truth? She hasn’t proved anything. “My problem” “Christian community” Who’s that?
They would rather sit right where they are and let the ACLU and all the other religions of the world dictate to us, about the birth of our Savior; and send money to organizations to fight to keep Dec. 25 for Jesus.
I haven’t sent anyone any money. But if I did it would be to preserve our right to celebrate Christmas in a Christ honoring fashion.
If this world's system eventually gets to the point where there is no "Merry Christmas" and it all becomes "Happy Holidays," guys, don't panic, just remember: It isn't the birth of Jesus any way. Just my opinion.
The last three words are the truest thing she has said in her whole letter. The rest reminds me of the Texas longhorn… a point here and a point there and a lot of bull in-between So can we pinpoint Christmas to December at least. Let’s see.
Bible fact # 1 In I Chr. 24:1-19 David organized the priests for the Temple. There were 24 orders for the 12 months, two orders per month (v. 18-19). Note in the fourth month, the latter part of the month is the order of Abijah (v. 10).
Bible fact # 2 In Ex. 12:2, 13:4 God says the month Nisan is the first month of the Jewish calendar. Nisan falls in our Mar. /Apr. which puts the order of Abijah in our July.
Bible Fact # 3 Zechariah was serving in July. (Lk. 1:5-7) Not yet 50 but advanced in years (people age differently, in US pioneer days the average lifespan was 35). Luke 1:8-23. He went home in August and John the Baptist was conceived in August or September (1:24). Her first month would be Sept. or Oct. Her 6th month would be Feb.-March. (1:26-36 Mary conceived in Elisabeth’s 6th month so her first month would be March-April. Count it out. April, May, June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., December.
Late December is when the shepherds are out in their fields to watch their sheep by night. The night the angels came. Luke 2:8-15. The night, Christ was born. I for one am not going to let the Devil steal my Christmas.
1. Worship in Spirit and truth Jn. 4:24
2. Be fully persuaded in your own mind. Rm. 14:5-6
3. Whatever ye do, do it unto the Lord Col. 3:17-25
Sunday, November 30, 2008
CHRIST OUR PASSOVER
EXODUS 12
Pastor Rick Jackson
1 Corinthians 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:
The passover is a defining moment in Israel's history. It marked the beginning of a new calendar for them, it set the tone for them as a nation, it points back to a milestone and forward to the Rock of Ages, the Lord Jesus Christ. For the Passover to mean something significant in our lives we learn several truths in Exodus 12.
I. IT HAS TO BE PERSONAL [v. 1-13]
1. Its Association [v. 1-5]
2. Its Application [v. 5-7]
3. Its Assurance [v. 8-13] "when I see the blood"
II. IT HAS TO BE PERMANENT [v. 14-27]
1. Picture of Sanctification [v. 14-20]
2. Picture of Salvation [v. 21-24]
3. Picture of Instruction [v. 25-27]
III. IT HAS TO BE POWERFUL [v. 28-51]
1. To overcome the wages of sin [v. 28-30]
2. To overcome the course of the world [v. 31-41]
3. To overcome the tendencies of the flesh [v. 42-51]
Pastor Rick Jackson
1 Corinthians 5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:
The passover is a defining moment in Israel's history. It marked the beginning of a new calendar for them, it set the tone for them as a nation, it points back to a milestone and forward to the Rock of Ages, the Lord Jesus Christ. For the Passover to mean something significant in our lives we learn several truths in Exodus 12.
I. IT HAS TO BE PERSONAL [v. 1-13]
1. Its Association [v. 1-5]
2. Its Application [v. 5-7]
3. Its Assurance [v. 8-13] "when I see the blood"
II. IT HAS TO BE PERMANENT [v. 14-27]
1. Picture of Sanctification [v. 14-20]
2. Picture of Salvation [v. 21-24]
3. Picture of Instruction [v. 25-27]
III. IT HAS TO BE POWERFUL [v. 28-51]
1. To overcome the wages of sin [v. 28-30]
2. To overcome the course of the world [v. 31-41]
3. To overcome the tendencies of the flesh [v. 42-51]
THE UNAVAILABLE OPTION
PSALM 2
Pastor Rick Jackson
The Word of God tells us that there is a spiritual war raging all around us. Since the angel Lucifer turned against God he has sought to turn anyone and anything against God. This is a conflict in which neutrality is an impossibility. The Lord Jesus said in Luke 11:23 He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.
When Adam sinned he aligned the world's system with the Devil's side. This world is no friend of grace. The Bible says [James 4:4] Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
You have a choice but the choice is to be God's servant or Satan's servant. There is no middle ground, no other options, no neutrality. Psalm 2 clearly draws the line in the sand to help you make the decision concerning what side you will be on.
I. THE WICKEDNESS OF THE WORLD [2:1-3]
Pastor Rick Jackson
The Word of God tells us that there is a spiritual war raging all around us. Since the angel Lucifer turned against God he has sought to turn anyone and anything against God. This is a conflict in which neutrality is an impossibility. The Lord Jesus said in Luke 11:23 He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.
When Adam sinned he aligned the world's system with the Devil's side. This world is no friend of grace. The Bible says [James 4:4] Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
You have a choice but the choice is to be God's servant or Satan's servant. There is no middle ground, no other options, no neutrality. Psalm 2 clearly draws the line in the sand to help you make the decision concerning what side you will be on.
I. THE WICKEDNESS OF THE WORLD [2:1-3]
1. It's Rage [v. 1a, Jn. 15:18]]
2. It's Ramblings [v. 1b, Rm. 1:21ff]
3. It's Rebellion [v. 2-3, I Jn. 2:15-17]
II. THE FOCUS OF THE FATHER [2:4-6]
1. Derision [v. 4]
2. Displeasure [v. 5]
3. Determination [v. 6]
III. THE SUPREMACY OF THE SON [2:7-9]
1. The Resurrection Proclaimed [v. 7, Acts 13:33, Rm. 1:4]
2. The Reign Promised [v. 8]
Psalm 110:1 The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Matthew 22:44 The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?
Mark 12:36 For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, The LORD said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Acts 2:35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool .
Hebrews 1:13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?
3. The Reign's Power [v. 9, Rev. 19]
IV. THE SENSIBILITY OF THE SPIRIT [2:10-12]
1. Listen to Reason [v. 10, Is. 1:18]
2. Lean to Rejoicing [v. 11] "Trust & Obey"
3. Learn to Repent [v. 12, John 16:7-11]
Saturday, November 29, 2008
QUESTION OF THE WEEK! - Was Darwin a God-hater?
Q: Was Darwin a God-hater?
A: Darwin was both a product of his times and his own man. Like all of us, he was trying to make sense of his world. Yet true knowledge of the world begins by trusting God and His Word. Unfortunately, our nature is to rebel against our loving Creator.
“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” —1 Timothy 2:3–4
Darwin the God-hater, bent on overturning Christian culture: this is how many Christians view Charles Darwin. But let’s dig a little deeper.
Actually this is easy to do because Darwin kept a personal diary from an early age until his death. When we dig, we find not a satanic ogre but an intellectual who embodied the many contradictions and conflicts prevalent in the British culture of Victorian England—a man like any other, a man whom God wanted to save. Even secular biographies unwittingly shout, “God pursued Darwin.”
Read about what made Darwin tick, who influenced him, and more in The Pursuit of Darwin. It’s a sneak peek at the upcoming issue of Answers magazine.
Christmas Sale
Use coupon code EVERYTHING. Expires December 1, 2008. See site for details.
News to Note Quick Look
The “magic box” of evolution: A grape-sized cell inching along the ocean floor may be one of the world’s “oldest” living fossils. Read more.
Hiding his creation credentials: 2009 marks the anniversary of the birth of one of the greatest scientists of all time. Read more.
Also: Charlie who?; worm glue to ease your pain; would they even want to come back?; we’e quite skeptical, actually; and as if they weren’t close enough already! Read more.
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Creationist resources—are there any?
The big bang—is it true?
Teaching how to think—now that’s radical!
The gap theory—what’s wrong with it?
Extraterrestrial life—in outer space?
After Eden
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
A: Darwin was both a product of his times and his own man. Like all of us, he was trying to make sense of his world. Yet true knowledge of the world begins by trusting God and His Word. Unfortunately, our nature is to rebel against our loving Creator.
“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” —1 Timothy 2:3–4
Darwin the God-hater, bent on overturning Christian culture: this is how many Christians view Charles Darwin. But let’s dig a little deeper.
Actually this is easy to do because Darwin kept a personal diary from an early age until his death. When we dig, we find not a satanic ogre but an intellectual who embodied the many contradictions and conflicts prevalent in the British culture of Victorian England—a man like any other, a man whom God wanted to save. Even secular biographies unwittingly shout, “God pursued Darwin.”
Read about what made Darwin tick, who influenced him, and more in The Pursuit of Darwin. It’s a sneak peek at the upcoming issue of Answers magazine.
Christmas Sale
Use coupon code EVERYTHING. Expires December 1, 2008. See site for details.
News to Note Quick Look
The “magic box” of evolution: A grape-sized cell inching along the ocean floor may be one of the world’s “oldest” living fossils. Read more.
Hiding his creation credentials: 2009 marks the anniversary of the birth of one of the greatest scientists of all time. Read more.
Also: Charlie who?; worm glue to ease your pain; would they even want to come back?; we’e quite skeptical, actually; and as if they weren’t close enough already! Read more.
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Creationist resources—are there any?
The big bang—is it true?
Teaching how to think—now that’s radical!
The gap theory—what’s wrong with it?
Extraterrestrial life—in outer space?
After Eden
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
Friday, November 28, 2008
CHURCH CATS
Johnny's mother looked out the window and noticed him "playing church" with their three kittens. He had the kittens sitting in a row, and he was preaching to them.
She smiled and went about her work. A while later she heard loud meowing and hissing and ran back to the open window to see Johnny baptizing the kittens in a tub of water. She called out, "Johnny, stop that! Those kittens are afraid of water!"
Johnny looked up at her and said, "They should have thought about that before they joined my church."
She smiled and went about her work. A while later she heard loud meowing and hissing and ran back to the open window to see Johnny baptizing the kittens in a tub of water. She called out, "Johnny, stop that! Those kittens are afraid of water!"
Johnny looked up at her and said, "They should have thought about that before they joined my church."
Thursday, November 27, 2008
I AM THANKFUL
I am thankful for the many blessings the Lord us given me personally and us, the human race, collectively. After all, am I the only one who enjoys eating, breathing, thinking, etc.? Two things I wish to share with you are the devotionals I read every day and from time to time have shared with you. But why not sign up for them yourselves? That way you don't miss a single one.
The first is "Days of Praise" from the Institute of Creation Research. This comes every day and has a special Creator God emphasis though certainly not limited to Creation. I have been amazed at how "easily" Creation enters the picture but then again, that only makes sense. We are part of the Creation, we live in the Creation, and we can know the Creator! Here is today's:
November 27 - Fruit of Our Lips
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name." (Hebrews 13:15)
Unique to the United States is the national holiday Thanksgiving. We are encouraged to recognize the bounty and wonder of our land, and express gratitude in some formal way.
In many homes, however, thanks have become a vague expression of happiness for prosperity rather than a "sacrifice of praise" to our El Shaddai.
Would you pray this prayer of thanksgiving with me?
O, Lord God of heaven and earth, our finite minds and feeble speech can never produce fitting praise of Thee. Although our hearts sometime fill with gratitude and overflow with the joy of knowing Thee, we stumble at our innermost thoughts. Please hear the groaning of our spirit as we try to hold Thee to our breast. Please, Father, receive our childlike thanks and our murmured whispers of love.
And, O Father in heaven, we thank Thee for Thy mercy. Every day we claim its renewed power. Every day we must have Thy mercy extended to our lives.
Help us, O God, to heed the prompting of Thy Spirit in our hearts and to obey Thy Word. We accept the gentle chastening of Thy loving hand and yield to Thy voice.
We gratefully acknowledge that all things come from Thee, and we pray that Thy bounty would supply our daily bread, and that Thy mercy and grace would forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. HMM III
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INSTITUTE FOR CREATION RESEARCH http://www.icr.org/
November 27, 2008
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The second devotional is First Light and comes from the Bill Rice Ranch in Murfreesboro, Tn. Longtime readers of this blog know the Ranch has a special place in my heart and rightly so. The Lord has done many things for me through the ministries of the Bill Rice Ranch, and now, every weekday, I get a compelling devotional from the mind and keyboard of my friend, Evangelist Wil Rice. I recommend you sign up for it! Here's today's:
The first is "Days of Praise" from the Institute of Creation Research. This comes every day and has a special Creator God emphasis though certainly not limited to Creation. I have been amazed at how "easily" Creation enters the picture but then again, that only makes sense. We are part of the Creation, we live in the Creation, and we can know the Creator! Here is today's:
November 27 - Fruit of Our Lips
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name." (Hebrews 13:15)
Unique to the United States is the national holiday Thanksgiving. We are encouraged to recognize the bounty and wonder of our land, and express gratitude in some formal way.
In many homes, however, thanks have become a vague expression of happiness for prosperity rather than a "sacrifice of praise" to our El Shaddai.
Would you pray this prayer of thanksgiving with me?
O, Lord God of heaven and earth, our finite minds and feeble speech can never produce fitting praise of Thee. Although our hearts sometime fill with gratitude and overflow with the joy of knowing Thee, we stumble at our innermost thoughts. Please hear the groaning of our spirit as we try to hold Thee to our breast. Please, Father, receive our childlike thanks and our murmured whispers of love.
And, O Father in heaven, we thank Thee for Thy mercy. Every day we claim its renewed power. Every day we must have Thy mercy extended to our lives.
Help us, O God, to heed the prompting of Thy Spirit in our hearts and to obey Thy Word. We accept the gentle chastening of Thy loving hand and yield to Thy voice.
We gratefully acknowledge that all things come from Thee, and we pray that Thy bounty would supply our daily bread, and that Thy mercy and grace would forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. HMM III
Print this article
INSTITUTE FOR CREATION RESEARCH http://www.icr.org/
November 27, 2008
----------------------
The second devotional is First Light and comes from the Bill Rice Ranch in Murfreesboro, Tn. Longtime readers of this blog know the Ranch has a special place in my heart and rightly so. The Lord has done many things for me through the ministries of the Bill Rice Ranch, and now, every weekday, I get a compelling devotional from the mind and keyboard of my friend, Evangelist Wil Rice. I recommend you sign up for it! Here's today's:
First Light
Jeremiah 21:4-5 "Thus saith the LORD God of Israel; Behold, I will turn back the weapons of war that are in your hands, wherewith ye fight against the king of Babylon, and against the Chaldeans, which besiege you without the walls, and I will assemble them into the midst of this city. And I myself will fight against you with an outstretched hand and with a strong arm, even in anger, and in fury, and in great wrath."
Your Phone is Ringing
Nothing is more annoying than a cell phone that will not be answered. And nothing is more embarrassing than realizing it is your phone! You know the feeling, don't you? You hear a phone ringing . . . and ringing . . . and ringing, and you feel like saying, "Will the clod whose phone is ringing please answer it!" While thinking this in your head, you hear someone else's voice saying, "Excuse me, your phone is ringing." You were looking all around, but your number was being called!
God has your number. If you are not careful, you can start looking at everyone else around you when God is "calling" your number. That is exactly what happened to King Zedekiah in Jeremiah 21. He thought Babylon was the problem; as it turned out, he was the problem.
We learn from this passage that God is no respecter of persons. Judah was no better than Babylon in God's sight. God is no respecter of positions. The king was just the same as a peasant in Israel. And God will reward without regard. He says in verse 14, "But I will punish you according to the fruit of your doings. . . ."
Ironically, Israel's condition made Zedekiah's prayer futile. He asked God to remedy the problem, but he was the problem. Don't we do the same thing? We can pray, "God, come clobber this wicked person-take care of this problem," when in fact, we are the wicked ones. Israel had made themselves the enemy of God. They were focused on Babylon, but God said, "I will turn back the weapons of war in your hands. . . . I myself will fight against you. . . ." God took their wickedness seriously!
Think of King David and his righteous indignation to the story the prophet Nathan told him. David could see the injustice and guilt of the man in the story, but he realized his "phone" was ringing when Nathan said, "Thou art the man."
Israel had been given to be a blessing. How sad that God was not able to use Israel to reach Babylon or execute judgment. Israel had made themselves the enemies of God. We learn that our own relationship with God should be our unchanging standard for life.
Near Denver, Colorado, you suddenly leave the flatlands of the state and come face-to-face with the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. You cannot miss the mountains-something that huge and heavy does not move. You can always know the direction you are traveling by using the Front Range as your standard. So it is in your life. The unchanging standard for where you are in life should be where you are in your relationship with God Almighty.
Zedekiah prayed for God to clobber Babylon; a better prayer would have been David's prayer in Psalm 139:23-24: "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Is your phone ringing this morning? May the Lord help us to learn the lesson that Zedekiah learned.
Prayer Requests:
- Happy Thanksgiving from the Bill Rice Ranch!
For more information about the Bill Rice Ranch and to sign up for this devotional visit our website: billriceranch.org
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
THANKSGIVING
I. AMERICAN THANKSGIVING
The Origins of Thanksgiving [from www.christianlaw.org]
Americans are beginning to forget the important origins of our national Thanksgiving holiday. Its spiritual significance is no longer taught in our nation’s public schools. In fact, most school children today are taught that Thanksgiving originated when the Pilgrims invited their Indian friends to dinner to thank them for providing sustenance after the Mayflower landed. As with much of modern American revisionist history, there really is much more to the story.
Coming to America
The Atlantic crossing in the fall of 1620 had been an extremely difficult journey for the Pilgrims. For two months, 102 people were wedged into what was called the “tween decks” of the Mayflower—the ship’s cargo space with only about five-and-a-half feet of headroom. No one was allowed above deck because of the terrible storms. This was no pleasure trip.
The Pilgrims comforted themselves on their journey by singing from the Book of Psalms. This “noise” irritated one of the ship’s paid crewmembers. He told the Pilgrims he was looking forward to throwing their corpses overboard after they succumbed to the routine illnesses common on such voyages. As it turned out, this crewmember himself was the only person to die on the voyage and be thrown overboard.
God providentially protected His own people. A little-known fact about the Mayflower is that this ship normally carried a cargo of wine; and the wine spillage from previous voyages had soaked the beams, acting as a disinfectant to prevent the spread of disease.
During one terrible storm, the main beam of the mast cracked. Death was certain if this beam could not be repaired. At that moment, the whole Pilgrim adventure could very easily have ended on the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. Providentially, the Pilgrims had with them a large iron printing press screw. That screw repaired the beam, saving the ship and all on board.
“Land Ho!”
After sixty-six days at sea, land was sighted off Cape Cod, Massachusetts, not the place these Pilgrims wanted to be. They intended to establish their new colony in the northern parts of Virginia (which then extended to the Hudson River in modern-day New York), but two factors interrupted their plans. The winds had blown them off course, yes; but they later learned that other Englishmen who wanted to settle in the same part of Virginia had actually bribed the ship’s crew to land them farther north.
Despite this chicanery, God was in charge and the Pilgrims landed exactly where God wanted them to be. Had they actually made landfall near the Hudson River, they most certainly would have been immediately attacked by hostile Indians. Instead, they arrived at the one spot along the coast where hostile Indians had been providentially removed from the land.
Many years before the Mayflower journey, local Indians had captured a Frenchman on a fishing expedition to that region. Just as they were about to kill him, the Frenchman warned them God would be angry, would destroy them all, and would replace them with another nation. The Indians boastfully replied that his God could never kill them. Yet, a year or two before the Pilgrims arrived in this very same region, nearly all the native inhabitants had been wiped out by a plague.
Help Arrives
Despite this miraculous provision of safety from hostile Indians, the Pilgrims barely survived their first winter on the Cape. Only four families remained intact; but God was still faithful. In the spring of 1621, He sent Squanto, an English-speaking Indian who offered to teach the Pilgrims how to survive in this strange new land.
Squanto was one of only a few local Indians who escaped the plague. He had been captured as a young man and taken to England as a slave. During that time he mastered the English language. When he was freed, he returned to his native territory on the Cape shortly before the Pilgrims arrived. Probably the most important thing Squanto taught the Pilgrims was how to plant the native winter staple crop--corn.
The Pilgrims thanked God for this wonderful helper. They also repaid Squanto by sharing with him the most valuable treasure they had brought with them from England—the Gospel. Squanto died a year or two after coming to the aid of the Pilgrims, but before his death he asked them to pray with him that he might go to be with their God in Heaven.
Peace and Thankfulness
Squanto introduced other Indians to the Pilgrims, and these Indians were also impressed with the Pilgrims’ God. During the summer of 1621, it appeared the year’s corn harvest would not survive a severe drought. The Pilgrims responded by calling for a day of fasting and prayer. By the end of the day, it was raining. The rain saved the corn, which miraculously sprang back to life.
One of the Indians who observed this miracle remarked that the Pilgrims’ God must be a very great God because when the Indians pow-wowed for rain, it always rained so hard that the corn stalks were broken down. They noticed the Pilgrims’ God acted differently by sending a very gentle rain that did not damage the corn harvest.
It was that miraculous corn harvest in 1621 that provided grain for the Pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving meal with their Indian friends and helpers. The evidence of history shows that on this first Thanksgiving Day, both the Pilgrims and Indians thanked God for His great provision and for His goodness toward them all.
Unlike other Europeans who came to America, these Bible-believing Pilgrims were model Christians in their dealings with the native populations. During their first year on the Cape, Squanto, acting as a friend and interpreter, had assisted the Pilgrims in negotiating an important peace treaty with Chief Massasoit, leader of the nearby Wampanoag Indians. The two populations, Indian and Pilgrim, kept that treaty of peace for more than fifty years.
The Tradition Continues
The story of Thanksgiving doesn’t end there. The holiday itself was not officially celebrated until almost 170 years later, after the Revolutionary War had been won and our American Constitution had been adopted. In 1789, Congress approved the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution. Congress then “recommended a day of public thanksgiving and prayer” to thank God for blessing America. President Washington declared November 26, 1789, as the first national day of prayer and thanksgiving to the Lord.
Another 75 years later, after the Civil War ended, President Abraham Lincoln officially established the last Thursday in November as a day to acknowledge “the gracious gifts of the Most High God,” which He had bestowed on America. Every president continued this tradition until 1941 when Congress officially made Thanksgiving a national holiday.
Teach Your Children
Now that you know the true story of Thanksgiving, this year make sure your children and grandchildren learn it too. As America is currently facing serious challenges both at home and abroad, let’s join together with countless generations before us in giving thanks to God for blessing and preserving our nation. Let’s make sure that all our children and grandchildren learn Whose hand of protection has been on America; and let’s all pray that He will continue to bless and sustain our nation as we continue to acknowledge and honor Him.
II. HEAVENLY THANKSGIVING
1. The Reasons for Heavenly Praise [Ps. 148:1-56]
2. Last Reference to Giving of Thanks [Revelation 11:16-17]
3. The Last Reference to Giving of Praise [Revelation 19:5-6]
Technically as it relates to God, "thanksgiving" is for what He has done, while "Praise" is for Who He is!
III. EARTHLY THANKSGIVING
1. Should Be Sung
Nehemiah 12:46 For in the days of David and Asaph of old there were chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving unto God.
Psalm 69:30 I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.
Psalm 95:2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.
Psalm 147:7 Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God:
Isaiah 51:3 For the LORD shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody.
2. Should be Spoken
Psalm 26:7 That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.
Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Psalm 107:22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.
Psalm 116:17 I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.
2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
3. Should Be Shown
Psalm 50:14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:
Jonah 2:9 But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Colossians 2:7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
1 Timothy 4:3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.
1 Timothy 4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:
The Origins of Thanksgiving [from www.christianlaw.org]
Americans are beginning to forget the important origins of our national Thanksgiving holiday. Its spiritual significance is no longer taught in our nation’s public schools. In fact, most school children today are taught that Thanksgiving originated when the Pilgrims invited their Indian friends to dinner to thank them for providing sustenance after the Mayflower landed. As with much of modern American revisionist history, there really is much more to the story.
Coming to America
The Atlantic crossing in the fall of 1620 had been an extremely difficult journey for the Pilgrims. For two months, 102 people were wedged into what was called the “tween decks” of the Mayflower—the ship’s cargo space with only about five-and-a-half feet of headroom. No one was allowed above deck because of the terrible storms. This was no pleasure trip.
The Pilgrims comforted themselves on their journey by singing from the Book of Psalms. This “noise” irritated one of the ship’s paid crewmembers. He told the Pilgrims he was looking forward to throwing their corpses overboard after they succumbed to the routine illnesses common on such voyages. As it turned out, this crewmember himself was the only person to die on the voyage and be thrown overboard.
God providentially protected His own people. A little-known fact about the Mayflower is that this ship normally carried a cargo of wine; and the wine spillage from previous voyages had soaked the beams, acting as a disinfectant to prevent the spread of disease.
During one terrible storm, the main beam of the mast cracked. Death was certain if this beam could not be repaired. At that moment, the whole Pilgrim adventure could very easily have ended on the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. Providentially, the Pilgrims had with them a large iron printing press screw. That screw repaired the beam, saving the ship and all on board.
“Land Ho!”
After sixty-six days at sea, land was sighted off Cape Cod, Massachusetts, not the place these Pilgrims wanted to be. They intended to establish their new colony in the northern parts of Virginia (which then extended to the Hudson River in modern-day New York), but two factors interrupted their plans. The winds had blown them off course, yes; but they later learned that other Englishmen who wanted to settle in the same part of Virginia had actually bribed the ship’s crew to land them farther north.
Despite this chicanery, God was in charge and the Pilgrims landed exactly where God wanted them to be. Had they actually made landfall near the Hudson River, they most certainly would have been immediately attacked by hostile Indians. Instead, they arrived at the one spot along the coast where hostile Indians had been providentially removed from the land.
Many years before the Mayflower journey, local Indians had captured a Frenchman on a fishing expedition to that region. Just as they were about to kill him, the Frenchman warned them God would be angry, would destroy them all, and would replace them with another nation. The Indians boastfully replied that his God could never kill them. Yet, a year or two before the Pilgrims arrived in this very same region, nearly all the native inhabitants had been wiped out by a plague.
Help Arrives
Despite this miraculous provision of safety from hostile Indians, the Pilgrims barely survived their first winter on the Cape. Only four families remained intact; but God was still faithful. In the spring of 1621, He sent Squanto, an English-speaking Indian who offered to teach the Pilgrims how to survive in this strange new land.
Squanto was one of only a few local Indians who escaped the plague. He had been captured as a young man and taken to England as a slave. During that time he mastered the English language. When he was freed, he returned to his native territory on the Cape shortly before the Pilgrims arrived. Probably the most important thing Squanto taught the Pilgrims was how to plant the native winter staple crop--corn.
The Pilgrims thanked God for this wonderful helper. They also repaid Squanto by sharing with him the most valuable treasure they had brought with them from England—the Gospel. Squanto died a year or two after coming to the aid of the Pilgrims, but before his death he asked them to pray with him that he might go to be with their God in Heaven.
Peace and Thankfulness
Squanto introduced other Indians to the Pilgrims, and these Indians were also impressed with the Pilgrims’ God. During the summer of 1621, it appeared the year’s corn harvest would not survive a severe drought. The Pilgrims responded by calling for a day of fasting and prayer. By the end of the day, it was raining. The rain saved the corn, which miraculously sprang back to life.
One of the Indians who observed this miracle remarked that the Pilgrims’ God must be a very great God because when the Indians pow-wowed for rain, it always rained so hard that the corn stalks were broken down. They noticed the Pilgrims’ God acted differently by sending a very gentle rain that did not damage the corn harvest.
It was that miraculous corn harvest in 1621 that provided grain for the Pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving meal with their Indian friends and helpers. The evidence of history shows that on this first Thanksgiving Day, both the Pilgrims and Indians thanked God for His great provision and for His goodness toward them all.
Unlike other Europeans who came to America, these Bible-believing Pilgrims were model Christians in their dealings with the native populations. During their first year on the Cape, Squanto, acting as a friend and interpreter, had assisted the Pilgrims in negotiating an important peace treaty with Chief Massasoit, leader of the nearby Wampanoag Indians. The two populations, Indian and Pilgrim, kept that treaty of peace for more than fifty years.
The Tradition Continues
The story of Thanksgiving doesn’t end there. The holiday itself was not officially celebrated until almost 170 years later, after the Revolutionary War had been won and our American Constitution had been adopted. In 1789, Congress approved the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution. Congress then “recommended a day of public thanksgiving and prayer” to thank God for blessing America. President Washington declared November 26, 1789, as the first national day of prayer and thanksgiving to the Lord.
Another 75 years later, after the Civil War ended, President Abraham Lincoln officially established the last Thursday in November as a day to acknowledge “the gracious gifts of the Most High God,” which He had bestowed on America. Every president continued this tradition until 1941 when Congress officially made Thanksgiving a national holiday.
Teach Your Children
Now that you know the true story of Thanksgiving, this year make sure your children and grandchildren learn it too. As America is currently facing serious challenges both at home and abroad, let’s join together with countless generations before us in giving thanks to God for blessing and preserving our nation. Let’s make sure that all our children and grandchildren learn Whose hand of protection has been on America; and let’s all pray that He will continue to bless and sustain our nation as we continue to acknowledge and honor Him.
II. HEAVENLY THANKSGIVING
1. The Reasons for Heavenly Praise [Ps. 148:1-56]
2. Last Reference to Giving of Thanks [Revelation 11:16-17]
3. The Last Reference to Giving of Praise [Revelation 19:5-6]
Technically as it relates to God, "thanksgiving" is for what He has done, while "Praise" is for Who He is!
III. EARTHLY THANKSGIVING
1. Should Be Sung
Nehemiah 12:46 For in the days of David and Asaph of old there were chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving unto God.
Psalm 69:30 I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.
Psalm 95:2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.
Psalm 147:7 Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God:
Isaiah 51:3 For the LORD shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody.
2. Should be Spoken
Psalm 26:7 That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.
Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Psalm 107:22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.
Psalm 116:17 I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.
2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
3. Should Be Shown
Psalm 50:14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:
Jonah 2:9 But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Colossians 2:7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
1 Timothy 4:3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.
1 Timothy 4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Water is Basic
Jeremiah 2:13 "For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water."
Water is Basic
My dad-in-law works in the medical profession as an anesthetist. That means he puts people to sleep for a living. I guess we have that in common about our professions! Anytime someone in my family gets sick, my dad-in-law always says, "Make sure you drink plenty of water!" Why? Water is basic. Water sustains life. Any substitute can not fully replace your need for water.
So often we can substitute what is life-giving for something else in order to meet the need we have. Israel had substituted Egypt, false gods, and false confidence for God Almighty. The fact of the matter is we all have needs and we cannot provide for any of them. We are tempted to meet our needs in our own way, or in the strength of someone else, to the exclusion of God's help.
Have you ever been thirsty? I mean really thirsty? When you are, you have three options. First, you can ignore the need and go thirsty-you will die from lack of water. Second, you can exert effort without any benefit-picture a marathon runner who needs water opening a can of soda (effort without benefit). Or third, you can go to the source for water. Only water can meet your need when you are thirsty. All other substitutes only go so far.
I have traveled some backroads in Arizona close to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Down one road is an old ranger station that I enjoy exploring occasionally. Once I discovered a cistern out back which was designed to collect rainwater from the roof. When I lifted the lid on the cistern, there was water in there alright-it had probably been in there for years, evidenced by the dead rats floating on the top! Was I thrilled with this "find"? No-that water will not help anybody. What a lousy substitute for fresh, clear water that refreshes your thirst!
God is the "fountain of living waters." He is the only Source that will quench your thirst. The illustration of cisterns in Jeremiah 2 pictures the choice we have this morning. When one goes without water, he has a choice: he can ignore the need, exert effort without any benefit, or he can go to the Spring of living water. God's power has not diminished over time-He is just as able to quench your thirst as He was for Moses and the children of Israel.
God created us, our need for physical water, and our need for Him. To whom will you look today? The "fountain of living waters" is completely sufficient and able to meet your every need.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Gambling at Calvary
"They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture." (Psalm 22:18)
The 22nd psalm is justly famous as a remarkable prophetic preview of the sufferings and death of the Lord Jesus on the cross, written by David approximately 1,000 years before it was fulfilled. It describes in accurate detail the sufferings of the Lord, and the actions of the sneering spectators as they watched Him die.
One of the most heartless acts of the Roman soldiers carrying out the crucifixion was the indignity of stripping Him of the garments He was wearing and then dividing them among themselves, even gambling to determine who would get His seamless vesture. The significance of this cruel scene is indicated by the fact that it is one of the very few specific events in the life of Christ recorded in all four Gospels.
We must not forget that the Lord Jesus Christ once had been arrayed, as it were, in beautiful garments that "smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces" (Psalm 45:8). But He who was "equal with God" chose to be "made in the likeness of men" that He might eventually suffer "even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:6-8) in order to save our unworthy souls. "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich" (2 Corinthians 8:9).
He who had created the heavens, when He came to earth, had to say that "the Son of man hath not where to lay his head" (Matthew 8:20). And His few remaining possessions were scavenged by His executioners as He died. Yet through His great sacrifice, He has provided "everlasting habitations" for us (Luke 16:9) and "all spiritual blessings in heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3). Indeed, we do know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ! HMM
Print this article
INSTITUTE FOR CREATION RESEARCH www.icr.org
The 22nd psalm is justly famous as a remarkable prophetic preview of the sufferings and death of the Lord Jesus on the cross, written by David approximately 1,000 years before it was fulfilled. It describes in accurate detail the sufferings of the Lord, and the actions of the sneering spectators as they watched Him die.
One of the most heartless acts of the Roman soldiers carrying out the crucifixion was the indignity of stripping Him of the garments He was wearing and then dividing them among themselves, even gambling to determine who would get His seamless vesture. The significance of this cruel scene is indicated by the fact that it is one of the very few specific events in the life of Christ recorded in all four Gospels.
We must not forget that the Lord Jesus Christ once had been arrayed, as it were, in beautiful garments that "smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces" (Psalm 45:8). But He who was "equal with God" chose to be "made in the likeness of men" that He might eventually suffer "even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:6-8) in order to save our unworthy souls. "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich" (2 Corinthians 8:9).
He who had created the heavens, when He came to earth, had to say that "the Son of man hath not where to lay his head" (Matthew 8:20). And His few remaining possessions were scavenged by His executioners as He died. Yet through His great sacrifice, He has provided "everlasting habitations" for us (Luke 16:9) and "all spiritual blessings in heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3). Indeed, we do know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ! HMM
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INSTITUTE FOR CREATION RESEARCH www.icr.org
Sunday, November 23, 2008
MISSOURI, MISERY, & MADNESS
EXODUS 10-11
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. REASONS FOR MISSOURI [10:1-2]
1. To Show the World [v. 1]
2. To Show Future Generations [v. 2a-b]
3. To Show With Certainty the True God [v. 2c]
II. QUESTIONS OF MISERY [10:3-9]
1. How long will you let pride control you? [v. 3-6]
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
2. How long will you let pride destroy us? [v. 7]
3. Who should be allowed to worship God? [v. 8-9]
III. COMPROMISES OF MADNESS [10:10-11:10]
1. Worship God but young people don't need to [10:10-20]
2. Worship God but not with all your belongings [10:21-26]
3. Worship God but don't tell others about Him [10:27-11:10]
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. REASONS FOR MISSOURI [10:1-2]
1. To Show the World [v. 1]
2. To Show Future Generations [v. 2a-b]
3. To Show With Certainty the True God [v. 2c]
II. QUESTIONS OF MISERY [10:3-9]
1. How long will you let pride control you? [v. 3-6]
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
2. How long will you let pride destroy us? [v. 7]
3. Who should be allowed to worship God? [v. 8-9]
III. COMPROMISES OF MADNESS [10:10-11:10]
1. Worship God but young people don't need to [10:10-20]
2. Worship God but not with all your belongings [10:21-26]
3. Worship God but don't tell others about Him [10:27-11:10]
FOLLOWERS OF PAUL, DISCIPLES OF CHRIST
1 Corinthians 4:16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.
1 Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
Philippians 3:17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample
Pastor Rick Jackson
II TIMOTHY
I. THE TENDERNESS OF PAUL
1. We must love the Saviour! [4:8]
Romans 8;28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose
2. We must love the Lost! [2:24-26]
Romans 10:1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
2 Corinthians 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
3. We must love the Brethren [2:2]
Philemon 1:5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;
Philemon 1:7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.
Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
Hebrews 13:1 Let brotherly love continue.
II. THE TOUGHNESS OF PAUL!
1. Stand! - Don't be a compromiser! [2:1-2, 4:7a]
2. Stay! - Don't be a quitter! [2:3, 4:7b, 10]
3. Serve! - Don't be half-hearted! [2:4-5, 4:7c]
Romans 12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
III. THE TESTIMONY OF PAUL!
1. Paul had Confidence! [1:12, 2:15-19]
2. Paul had convictions! [3:15-17]
3. Paul had Courage! [4:6-8]
Acts 20:22-24 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
1 Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
Philippians 3:17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample
Pastor Rick Jackson
II TIMOTHY
I. THE TENDERNESS OF PAUL
1. We must love the Saviour! [4:8]
Romans 8;28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose
2. We must love the Lost! [2:24-26]
Romans 10:1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
2 Corinthians 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
3. We must love the Brethren [2:2]
Philemon 1:5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;
Philemon 1:7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.
Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
Hebrews 13:1 Let brotherly love continue.
II. THE TOUGHNESS OF PAUL!
1. Stand! - Don't be a compromiser! [2:1-2, 4:7a]
2. Stay! - Don't be a quitter! [2:3, 4:7b, 10]
3. Serve! - Don't be half-hearted! [2:4-5, 4:7c]
Romans 12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
III. THE TESTIMONY OF PAUL!
1. Paul had Confidence! [1:12, 2:15-19]
2. Paul had convictions! [3:15-17]
3. Paul had Courage! [4:6-8]
Acts 20:22-24 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
QUESTION OF THE WEEK! - Who is this Darwin guy, anyway?
Q: Who is this Darwin guy, anyway?
A: Throughout 2009 the world will be celebrating Darwin’s birthday (February 12, 1809) and the publication of On the Origin of Species (November 24, 1859). Meanwhile, Bible-believing Christians have had 150 years to reflect on Darwin’s life and work. What have we learned?
First, it’s important to get our facts straight. Darwin was not a demon or an angel, but a human being like the rest of us, struggling with difficult personal and intellectual questions.
Second, Darwin made some valuable scientific observations and raised some good questions. Scientists are still trying to answer many of those questions today.
The January issue of Answers magazine asked leading minds in creation science to share their perspectives on both Darwin and his book, and to report on the latest efforts by creationists to provide an alternative explanation for the origin of species.
To learn more about the special upcoming issue of Answers magazine that could be called a “Creationist Manifesto for the Twenty-first Century,” visit our special Year of Darwin webpage.
Don’t Miss Out!
The next session of our online education courses begins soon and registration is open until November 20. Foundations in Creation Apologetics is a 12-week course designed to equip you to defend your faith in an evolution-dominated world that is increasingly hostile to Christianity. Each weekly lesson is designed so that you can work at your own pace, so it is ideal for both students and working people. The lessons focus on helping you understand the issues involved and how to use the information you learn to share your faith with others. As a student, you will be involved in reading articles, watching videos, discussing ideas with classmates and instructors, and applying what you have learned in the assessments.
Want to learn more about how the Bible is confirmed by archaeology, science, and everything we see around us? Join us for a 6-week study in Creation Apologetics and the Bible. You will explore how we arrive at the age of the earth, the historical accuracy of the biblical record, the authority of Scripture, and more. Interact with other students from around the world and strengthen your faith as you dive deep into God’s Word in this course.
For more information about these learning opportunities, visit edu.answersingenesis.org.
News to Note Quick Look
A “no rejection” solution: It’s a substantial victory in stem cell research—and a reminder that we don’t need to sacrifice life in pursuit of successful therapies. Read more.
Seeing is believing, but they’ll take aliens on faith: Considering all the conclusions astronomers have drawn about exoplanets, it’s surprising that they’ve never actually seen them. That is, until now. Read more.
Also: foot evolution: a big flop; embracing your inner marsupial; are you dumber than Homo erectus?; supposed missing links: Tiktaalik, “Lucy,” . . . hazentine?; all in the family; this is where it gets woolly; water, water everywhere—but nary a hint of life; does this turtle rescue evolution?; and who’s really robbing Genesis? Read more.
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Six periods or six days—can we know?
Meteor showers—evidence for a young universe?
Christians—should they believe in a young earth?
Genesis—does it say how God created?
Gorgeous opals—produced in months?
After Eden
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
A: Throughout 2009 the world will be celebrating Darwin’s birthday (February 12, 1809) and the publication of On the Origin of Species (November 24, 1859). Meanwhile, Bible-believing Christians have had 150 years to reflect on Darwin’s life and work. What have we learned?
First, it’s important to get our facts straight. Darwin was not a demon or an angel, but a human being like the rest of us, struggling with difficult personal and intellectual questions.
Second, Darwin made some valuable scientific observations and raised some good questions. Scientists are still trying to answer many of those questions today.
The January issue of Answers magazine asked leading minds in creation science to share their perspectives on both Darwin and his book, and to report on the latest efforts by creationists to provide an alternative explanation for the origin of species.
To learn more about the special upcoming issue of Answers magazine that could be called a “Creationist Manifesto for the Twenty-first Century,” visit our special Year of Darwin webpage.
Don’t Miss Out!
The next session of our online education courses begins soon and registration is open until November 20. Foundations in Creation Apologetics is a 12-week course designed to equip you to defend your faith in an evolution-dominated world that is increasingly hostile to Christianity. Each weekly lesson is designed so that you can work at your own pace, so it is ideal for both students and working people. The lessons focus on helping you understand the issues involved and how to use the information you learn to share your faith with others. As a student, you will be involved in reading articles, watching videos, discussing ideas with classmates and instructors, and applying what you have learned in the assessments.
Want to learn more about how the Bible is confirmed by archaeology, science, and everything we see around us? Join us for a 6-week study in Creation Apologetics and the Bible. You will explore how we arrive at the age of the earth, the historical accuracy of the biblical record, the authority of Scripture, and more. Interact with other students from around the world and strengthen your faith as you dive deep into God’s Word in this course.
For more information about these learning opportunities, visit edu.answersingenesis.org.
News to Note Quick Look
A “no rejection” solution: It’s a substantial victory in stem cell research—and a reminder that we don’t need to sacrifice life in pursuit of successful therapies. Read more.
Seeing is believing, but they’ll take aliens on faith: Considering all the conclusions astronomers have drawn about exoplanets, it’s surprising that they’ve never actually seen them. That is, until now. Read more.
Also: foot evolution: a big flop; embracing your inner marsupial; are you dumber than Homo erectus?; supposed missing links: Tiktaalik, “Lucy,” . . . hazentine?; all in the family; this is where it gets woolly; water, water everywhere—but nary a hint of life; does this turtle rescue evolution?; and who’s really robbing Genesis? Read more.
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Six periods or six days—can we know?
Meteor showers—evidence for a young universe?
Christians—should they believe in a young earth?
Genesis—does it say how God created?
Gorgeous opals—produced in months?
After Eden
This information was provided by Answers In Genesis, an excellent source of material relating to Creation and evolution. Please visit their website using the link in the upper left.
Friday, November 21, 2008
ARE YOU CONTENDING OR PRETENDING?
Evangelist Matt Downs, 28, a staff evangelist of the Bill Rice Ranch, preached his last message of this revival and like the 6 previous messages it was Biblical, inspirational, and practical. I recommend this young preacher to any Pastor or Church seeking an evangelist for meetings.
Jude 1-3
I. WHAT WE NEED TO CONTEND AGAINST:
1. Unbelief [v. 5]
2. Rebellion [v. 6, I Sam. 15:2-23]
3 things a rebel can't be:
A rebel can't be taught because they think they already know everything.
A rebel can't be corrected because they think they are always right.
A rebel can't be used of God ... period!
3. Fornication [v. 7]
4. False Teachers [v. 11]
II. HOW WE NEED TO CONTEND:
1. Grow Up! [v. 20]
2. Keep Up! [v. 21]
3. Speak Up! [v. 22]
4. Stay Up! [v. 24]
Jude 1-3
I. WHAT WE NEED TO CONTEND AGAINST:
1. Unbelief [v. 5]
2. Rebellion [v. 6, I Sam. 15:2-23]
3 things a rebel can't be:
A rebel can't be taught because they think they already know everything.
A rebel can't be corrected because they think they are always right.
A rebel can't be used of God ... period!
3. Fornication [v. 7]
4. False Teachers [v. 11]
II. HOW WE NEED TO CONTEND:
1. Grow Up! [v. 20]
2. Keep Up! [v. 21]
3. Speak Up! [v. 22]
4. Stay Up! [v. 24]
Thursday, November 20, 2008
SHINE
Brother Downs preached from Mt. 5:13-16 on the subject "SHINE"
Seek to be friendly [Lk. 10:30-37]
Hell is real [Rev. 20:14-15]
Inconvenient opportunities can be turned into great ones [Acts 8:26ff]
Never be discouraged [Heb. 12:2-3]
Explain the Gospel clearly and in your own way [I Cor. 15:1-4]
The people saved this week both expressed a desire to follow the Lord in believer's baptism and continue in fellowship at Bradford Baptist Church. Another lady, Nancy, was led to Christ by Brother Matt after the service.
Seek to be friendly [Lk. 10:30-37]
Hell is real [Rev. 20:14-15]
Inconvenient opportunities can be turned into great ones [Acts 8:26ff]
Never be discouraged [Heb. 12:2-3]
Explain the Gospel clearly and in your own way [I Cor. 15:1-4]
The people saved this week both expressed a desire to follow the Lord in believer's baptism and continue in fellowship at Bradford Baptist Church. Another lady, Nancy, was led to Christ by Brother Matt after the service.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
He Went The Wrong Way!
Tonight Brother Matt Downs preached on Jonah.
I. Jonah Rebelled [Chapter 1]
Why?
1. He thought he was too good.
2. He thought they were too wicked.
3. He didn't want to obey God.
II. Jonah Prayed [Chapter 2]
Why does God allow or sometimes send trouble into our lives?
1. To wake us up
2. To say to us, "Come on back" [Lam. 3:40]Praise the Lord 1 was saved and there were several decisions among Christians.
III. God Repeated the Call [Chapter 3]
IV. God Accepted Nineveh's Repentance [Ch. 4]
I. Jonah Rebelled [Chapter 1]
Why?
1. He thought he was too good.
2. He thought they were too wicked.
3. He didn't want to obey God.
II. Jonah Prayed [Chapter 2]
Why does God allow or sometimes send trouble into our lives?
1. To wake us up
2. To say to us, "Come on back" [Lam. 3:40]Praise the Lord 1 was saved and there were several decisions among Christians.
III. God Repeated the Call [Chapter 3]
IV. God Accepted Nineveh's Repentance [Ch. 4]
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Revival with Evangelist Matt Downs
Tonight Brother Downs preached a very practical message from Mark 4:37-41 on "Obedience to Christ."
He pointed out from the text:
1. Winds Obeyed Jesus Christ [4:39]
2. Wackos Obeyed Jesus Christ [5:1-20]
3. Will You Obey Jesus Christ?
-In Purity [Mt. 5:8]
-In Peacemaking [Mt. 5:9]
-----"I'm sorry. I was wrong."
-----"I forgive you."
-----"I'm listening."
-----I Love you!"
He pointed out from the text:
1. Winds Obeyed Jesus Christ [4:39]
2. Wackos Obeyed Jesus Christ [5:1-20]
3. Will You Obey Jesus Christ?
-In Purity [Mt. 5:8]
-In Peacemaking [Mt. 5:9]
-----"I'm sorry. I was wrong."
-----"I forgive you."
-----"I'm listening."
-----I Love you!"
Monday, November 17, 2008
Revival with Evangelist Matt Downs
Matt Downs is a 28 year-old staff evangelist of the Bill Rice Ranch. We have had Brother Matt at our church previously but never for a full-week meeting. What a blessing this young evangelist has been to us.
He preached Monday night on "David & the Dwarf" from I Sam. 16, 18 & Ps. 51. He pointed out that in Psalm 51 David was praying and asking God to restore what he had previously had had with God. Speaking of when David was anointed and up until he committed the sin with Bathsheba:
1. David was Right with God [v. 10]
2. David had a Relationship with God [v. 11]
3. David was Rejoicing in God [v. 12]
4. David was Reaching others for God [v. 13]
Eph. 2:10 teaches that we are a specific tool that God has for a specific purpose.
He preached Monday night on "David & the Dwarf" from I Sam. 16, 18 & Ps. 51. He pointed out that in Psalm 51 David was praying and asking God to restore what he had previously had had with God. Speaking of when David was anointed and up until he committed the sin with Bathsheba:
1. David was Right with God [v. 10]
2. David had a Relationship with God [v. 11]
3. David was Rejoicing in God [v. 12]
4. David was Reaching others for God [v. 13]
Eph. 2:10 teaches that we are a specific tool that God has for a specific purpose.
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