Psalm 13
1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?
2 How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me?
3 Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;
4 Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved.
5 But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.
6 I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.
Like all of us there were times the psalmist no longer felt the presence of the Lord. It wasn't that God was no longer there but that His presence, comfort, guidance, etc. was no longer felt. The very real probability here is that this is one of the times of David's sin. All believer's sin since we all still have our old Adamic nature, our sin nature, the old man- Paul calls it. When we let that nature rule, especially for an extended period of time we break fellowship with God (NOT the relationship). We lost the joy of our salvation (but NOT our salvation-see Ps. 51, I Jn. 1, Heb. 12, etc.).
David realized (v.3) if this chastening from the Lord continued it could end in premature death (a truth Paul confirms in I Cor. 11:30 as it is in other Scriptures) and asked God to help him see where he had gone wrong.
The Psalm ends with praise to God for His mercy, His salvation and His grace which David says he will rejoice in and sing about. When was the last time we sang praises to God for His goodness to us?
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
ANSWERING GOD'S CALL
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Bill Rice Ranch | 627 Bill Rice Ranch Road | Murfreesboro | TN | 37128 |
PSALM 12
1-2 To the chief Musician upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David. Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips, and with a double heart do they speak.
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David was not referring to some attack from the outside eliminating the godly, but rather that the godly were ceasing to be godly from the inside. They were becoming corrupt. Paul would say to them, "Are ye not carnal?" That is, fleshly, acting like the lost man?
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3-5 The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things: Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us? For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.
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The LORD will not allow this behavior to go on unpunished forever. He takes note of it and He will repay. He will also take up the cause of the innocent. Perhaps not in or timing or in the way we expect. John the Baptist was taken to Heaven. His safety was certain.
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6-7 The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.
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God's Words are perfect. His Word endures and shall endure, in fact, they are forever settled in Heaven.
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8 The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted.
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Think of Germany in the 1930s to the mid 1940s, think of the Biblical day of the Judges when every man did that which was right in his own eyes, think of America today. If not for God and His Word I would fear for my country like never before... may we pray like never before.
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Consider this verse from Hosea 13:11 I gave thee a king in mine anger, and took him away in my wrath.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
THE WILLING HEART
EXODUS 35
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. WILLING TO OBEY [v. 1-3]
1. The Reminder to Israel [v. 1]
2. The Reverence Involved [v. 2]
3. The Rule Interpreted [v. 3]
They were about to build the Tabernacle- God wanted them to do it but to do it His way.
II. WILLING TO BE WILLING [v. 4-20]
John 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
1. Are you willing to be willing to give? [v. 4-9]
2. Are you willing to be willing to work? [v. 10-18]
3. Are you willing to be willing to serve [v. 19-20]
III. WILLING TO DO [v. 21-35]
1. Are you Willing to Give? [v. 21-24, 27-29]
2. Are you Willing to Work [v. 25-26]
3. Are you Willing to Die to Self? [v. 30-35, John 12:24]
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
1 Corinthians 15:31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily .
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. WILLING TO OBEY [v. 1-3]
1. The Reminder to Israel [v. 1]
2. The Reverence Involved [v. 2]
3. The Rule Interpreted [v. 3]
They were about to build the Tabernacle- God wanted them to do it but to do it His way.
II. WILLING TO BE WILLING [v. 4-20]
John 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
1. Are you willing to be willing to give? [v. 4-9]
2. Are you willing to be willing to work? [v. 10-18]
3. Are you willing to be willing to serve [v. 19-20]
III. WILLING TO DO [v. 21-35]
1. Are you Willing to Give? [v. 21-24, 27-29]
2. Are you Willing to Work [v. 25-26]
3. Are you Willing to Die to Self? [v. 30-35, John 12:24]
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
1 Corinthians 15:31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily .
KNOWING CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
JOHN 8:31-36
Pastor Rick Jackson
Ain't it funny? The things people say you can know that you can't know (peoples motives=hate crimes bills, hook in the back). The things people say you can't know that you can know --- things like there is a God, that you are saved, that the Bible is true. Jesus said knowing the truth about Him will set you free... free from fear, free from sin, free from Satan--- free indeed! It's all tied in with knowing God.
1 Corinthians 8:5-6 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
I. KNOWING GOD PERSONALLY CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
1. We can Know of God Via Creation [Rm. 1:18-22]
2. We can Know about God Via the Bible [2 Peter 3:5, 15-18]
Many say they know God but go against His Word. The song "We Are The World" contains these lyrics:
We are all part of gods great big family
And the truth, you know, love is all we need
We are the world, we are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So lets start giving
There's a choice were making
Were saving our own lives
Its true well make a better day
Just you and me
Send them your heart
So they'll know that someone cares
And their lives will be stronger and free
As God has shown us by turning stones to bread
When did God turn stones to bread? Satan tempted Jesus to do that in Mt. 4 & Lk. 4 but Jesus refused! You can know about God from the Bible... not from some pop song.
3. We can Know God Via the Lord Jesus Christ [Jn. 17:1-3]
2 John 1:9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
II. KNOWING GOD'S PROVISION CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE [Mt. 17:14-16]
1. Bible Faith [v. 17-20]
2 Bible Prayer [v. 21, 21:22]
3. Bible Fasting [v. 21b, 6:16-18]
III. KNOWING GOD'S PERCEPTION CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE [Mt. 6:1-5]
If you do what you do to be seen of men, for the praise of men, know this:
1. You will get nothing from God for that "service"
2. You have your "reward" already
3. You are going to be disappointed in this life by men, and in the next life by yourself
Pastor Rick Jackson
Ain't it funny? The things people say you can know that you can't know (peoples motives=hate crimes bills, hook in the back). The things people say you can't know that you can know --- things like there is a God, that you are saved, that the Bible is true. Jesus said knowing the truth about Him will set you free... free from fear, free from sin, free from Satan--- free indeed! It's all tied in with knowing God.
1 Corinthians 8:5-6 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
I. KNOWING GOD PERSONALLY CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
1. We can Know of God Via Creation [Rm. 1:18-22]
2. We can Know about God Via the Bible [2 Peter 3:5, 15-18]
Many say they know God but go against His Word. The song "We Are The World" contains these lyrics:
We are all part of gods great big family
And the truth, you know, love is all we need
We are the world, we are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So lets start giving
There's a choice were making
Were saving our own lives
Its true well make a better day
Just you and me
Send them your heart
So they'll know that someone cares
And their lives will be stronger and free
As God has shown us by turning stones to bread
When did God turn stones to bread? Satan tempted Jesus to do that in Mt. 4 & Lk. 4 but Jesus refused! You can know about God from the Bible... not from some pop song.
3. We can Know God Via the Lord Jesus Christ [Jn. 17:1-3]
2 John 1:9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
II. KNOWING GOD'S PROVISION CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE [Mt. 17:14-16]
1. Bible Faith [v. 17-20]
2 Bible Prayer [v. 21, 21:22]
3. Bible Fasting [v. 21b, 6:16-18]
III. KNOWING GOD'S PERCEPTION CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE [Mt. 6:1-5]
If you do what you do to be seen of men, for the praise of men, know this:
1. You will get nothing from God for that "service"
2. You have your "reward" already
3. You are going to be disappointed in this life by men, and in the next life by yourself
Saturday, July 18, 2009
QUESTION OF THE WEEK! - Are the skeptics truly skeptical?
Q: Are the skeptics truly skeptical?
A: Many people in modern society label themselves as skeptics. They publish magazines, participate in various organizations, raise funds to support their causes, and lobby the public through roadside signs, podcasts, and advertisements on buses.
Though there are several organizations to which we could refer, we will focus our attention on the Skeptics Society headed by Dr. Michael Shermer for sake of discussing the relevant points of agreement and disagreement. By explaining the positions given by this organization, you can easily apply them to others who share the same basic views. As Christians, we should have a biblically founded skepticism of the claims made by “skeptics” (Proverbs 18:17).
Skepticism is a humanistic philosophy. Humanists consider man to be the measure of all things. That is, the human mind is considered to be the ultimate standard by which all claims are judged. Humanism is a religious system, the deity of the worldview being man himself. Though the humanists would generally reject the label of religious, they certainly hold their views with zeal and conviction.
Another important element of the humanist religion is naturalism (or, materialism). This belief blindly asserts that nothing beyond nature exists; the physical universe is all that there is. Anything that is supernatural is excluded from this belief system. We will explain these two ideas as we look at the beliefs of skeptical humanists and their manifesto.
Read more as Evolution Exposed author Roger Patterson examines skepticism in Self-refuting Skepticism.
News to Note Quick Look
On science and scientists: What do Americans think of science? What do they think of scientists? What do scientists think of science? A Pew Research Center study suggests answers. Read more.
Speciation flies by: Thanks to a difference in a single gene, one bird species is splitting into two. Does this mechanism illustrate how evolution works, or is it compatible with the Genesis model of created kinds? Read more.
Also: a “wonderful design” of evolution?; solving an evolutionary mystery; answering (Times two); and don’t miss . . . . Read more.
Prayer Requests
View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank you!
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Our social ills—what’s the cause?
A nightclub—named after evolution?
Judge says: it’s okay to murder the unborn
Evolution—connected to immorality?
Creation in schools—how do we teach it?
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: Many people in modern society label themselves as skeptics. They publish magazines, participate in various organizations, raise funds to support their causes, and lobby the public through roadside signs, podcasts, and advertisements on buses.
Though there are several organizations to which we could refer, we will focus our attention on the Skeptics Society headed by Dr. Michael Shermer for sake of discussing the relevant points of agreement and disagreement. By explaining the positions given by this organization, you can easily apply them to others who share the same basic views. As Christians, we should have a biblically founded skepticism of the claims made by “skeptics” (Proverbs 18:17).
Skepticism is a humanistic philosophy. Humanists consider man to be the measure of all things. That is, the human mind is considered to be the ultimate standard by which all claims are judged. Humanism is a religious system, the deity of the worldview being man himself. Though the humanists would generally reject the label of religious, they certainly hold their views with zeal and conviction.
Another important element of the humanist religion is naturalism (or, materialism). This belief blindly asserts that nothing beyond nature exists; the physical universe is all that there is. Anything that is supernatural is excluded from this belief system. We will explain these two ideas as we look at the beliefs of skeptical humanists and their manifesto.
Read more as Evolution Exposed author Roger Patterson examines skepticism in Self-refuting Skepticism.
News to Note Quick Look
On science and scientists: What do Americans think of science? What do they think of scientists? What do scientists think of science? A Pew Research Center study suggests answers. Read more.
Speciation flies by: Thanks to a difference in a single gene, one bird species is splitting into two. Does this mechanism illustrate how evolution works, or is it compatible with the Genesis model of created kinds? Read more.
Also: a “wonderful design” of evolution?; solving an evolutionary mystery; answering (Times two); and don’t miss . . . . Read more.
Prayer Requests
View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank you!
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Our social ills—what’s the cause?
A nightclub—named after evolution?
Judge says: it’s okay to murder the unborn
Evolution—connected to immorality?
Creation in schools—how do we teach it?
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, July 17, 2009
True Discipleship
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Thursday, July 16, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
THE HALL OF FAITH
HEBREWS 11:1-3
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. ABEL- A TESTIMONY OF SALVATION [v. 4]
1. Abel's Obedience Testified of His Salvation (like Believer's baptism)
2. God Testified of Abel's Salvation [v. 4, I Jn. 5:9-10, Gn. 4:4]
3. Abel's Testimony Still Resounds Today
II. ENOCH- A TESTIMONY OF SEPARATION [v. 5-6, Gn. 5:22, Amos 3:3, I Jn. 1:6-7]
1. Enoch Believed
2. Enoch Behaved
3. Enoch Beheld
Question- did Enoch's family mourn for him?
III. NOAH- A TESTIMONY OF OBEDIENCE [v. 7, Gn. 6:8, 13-14, 22]
1. Believing Without Seeing
2. Building Without Complaining
3. Becoming Without Deserving
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. ABEL- A TESTIMONY OF SALVATION [v. 4]
1. Abel's Obedience Testified of His Salvation (like Believer's baptism)
2. God Testified of Abel's Salvation [v. 4, I Jn. 5:9-10, Gn. 4:4]
3. Abel's Testimony Still Resounds Today
II. ENOCH- A TESTIMONY OF SEPARATION [v. 5-6, Gn. 5:22, Amos 3:3, I Jn. 1:6-7]
1. Enoch Believed
2. Enoch Behaved
3. Enoch Beheld
Question- did Enoch's family mourn for him?
III. NOAH- A TESTIMONY OF OBEDIENCE [v. 7, Gn. 6:8, 13-14, 22]
1. Believing Without Seeing
2. Building Without Complaining
3. Becoming Without Deserving
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Police comments
The email that was forwarded to me said, "The following 15 Police Comments were supposedly taken off of actual police car videos around the country." [I don't even know what that means. I don't know if they really are legit but they are somewhat humorous so here goes...]
#15. "Relax, the handcuffs are tight because they're new. They'll stretch out after you wear them awhile."
#14. "Take your hands off the car, and I'll make your birth certificate a worthless document."
#13. "If you run, you'll only go to jail tired."
#12. "Can you run faster than 1200 feet per second? In case you didn't know, that is the average speed of a 9 mm bullet fired from my gun."
#11. "So you don't know how fast you were going. I guess that means I can write anything I want on the ticket, huh?"
#10. "Yes, sir, you can talk to the shift supervisor, but I don't think it will help. Oh, did I mention that I am the shift supervisor?"
#9. "Warning? You want a warning? O.K., I'm warning you not to do that again or I'll give you another ticket."
#8. "The answer to this last question will determine whether you are drunk or not: Was Mickey Mouse a cat or a dog?"
#7. "Fair? You want me to be fair? Listen, fair is a place where you go to ride on rides, eat cotton candy, and step in cow DOO."
#6. "Yeah, we have a quota. Two more tickets and my wife gets a toaster oven."
#5. "No, sir, we don't have quotas anymore. We used to have quotas, but now we're allowed to write as many tickets as we want."
#4. "Just how big were those two beers?"
#3. "In God we trust, all others we run through NCIC."
#2. "I'm glad to hear the Chief of Police is a good personal friend of yours. At least you know someone who can post your bail."
And.................... THE BEST ONE !!!!!!!
#1 "You didn't think we give pretty women tickets? You're right, we don't."
#15. "Relax, the handcuffs are tight because they're new. They'll stretch out after you wear them awhile."
#14. "Take your hands off the car, and I'll make your birth certificate a worthless document."
#13. "If you run, you'll only go to jail tired."
#12. "Can you run faster than 1200 feet per second? In case you didn't know, that is the average speed of a 9 mm bullet fired from my gun."
#11. "So you don't know how fast you were going. I guess that means I can write anything I want on the ticket, huh?"
#10. "Yes, sir, you can talk to the shift supervisor, but I don't think it will help. Oh, did I mention that I am the shift supervisor?"
#9. "Warning? You want a warning? O.K., I'm warning you not to do that again or I'll give you another ticket."
#8. "The answer to this last question will determine whether you are drunk or not: Was Mickey Mouse a cat or a dog?"
#7. "Fair? You want me to be fair? Listen, fair is a place where you go to ride on rides, eat cotton candy, and step in cow DOO."
#6. "Yeah, we have a quota. Two more tickets and my wife gets a toaster oven."
#5. "No, sir, we don't have quotas anymore. We used to have quotas, but now we're allowed to write as many tickets as we want."
#4. "Just how big were those two beers?"
#3. "In God we trust, all others we run through NCIC."
#2. "I'm glad to hear the Chief of Police is a good personal friend of yours. At least you know someone who can post your bail."
And.................... THE BEST ONE !!!!!!!
#1 "You didn't think we give pretty women tickets? You're right, we don't."
Monday, July 13, 2009
QUOTES OF THE WEEK!
Someone once said, "You can do more than pray after you pray, but you can't do more than pray before you pray." In other words, you ought to put feet to your prayers and get going instead of waiting on an answer to drop in your lap; but the first thing you should do is pray! - Evangelist Wil Rice IV
...Socialist governments traditionally do make a financial mess. They always run out of other people's money. - Margaret Thatcher, former Prime Minister of Great Britain
"My weakness is a perfect platform upon which God can show His power." - Evangelist Rick Flanders
"Humility is not thinking poorly of yourself; humility is not thinking of yourself at all."
-Evangelist Troy Carlson
Sunday, July 12, 2009
THESE CAME TO JESUS TOO WITH SIGNPOSTS ALONG THE WAY
MATTHEW 8:28-34, MARK 5
Pastor Rick Jackson
I.SIGNS OF SATANIC INFLUENCE [Mk. 5:1-5]
1.Preoccupation with Death [v. 1-3a]
2. Powerful Demonstrations [v. 3b-4 often accompany alcohol, drugs, etc]
3. Personal Destruction [v. 5 cutting, binging, purging, drugs, alcohol]
II. SIGNS OF SPIRITUAL ACTIVITY [v. 6-13]
1. "Religion" Does Not Mean Salvation [v. 6]
2. "Recognition" Does Not Mean Submission [v. 7-8]
3. "Release" Does not Mean Serenity [v. 9-13]
III. SIGNS OF TRUE SALVATION [v. 14-20]
1. Your Decision May be Ignored by the World [v. 14-17]
2. Your Desire Should Be Toward Heavenly Things [v. 18]
Romans 10:1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
1 Corinthians 14:1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
2 Corinthians 7:11 For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
Philippians 1:23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Philippians 4:17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
1 Timothy 3:1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work
Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
3. Your Duty is to Do the Lord's Will (not your own) [v. 19-20]
Pastor Rick Jackson
I.SIGNS OF SATANIC INFLUENCE [Mk. 5:1-5]
1.Preoccupation with Death [v. 1-3a]
2. Powerful Demonstrations [v. 3b-4 often accompany alcohol, drugs, etc]
3. Personal Destruction [v. 5 cutting, binging, purging, drugs, alcohol]
II. SIGNS OF SPIRITUAL ACTIVITY [v. 6-13]
1. "Religion" Does Not Mean Salvation [v. 6]
2. "Recognition" Does Not Mean Submission [v. 7-8]
3. "Release" Does not Mean Serenity [v. 9-13]
III. SIGNS OF TRUE SALVATION [v. 14-20]
1. Your Decision May be Ignored by the World [v. 14-17]
2. Your Desire Should Be Toward Heavenly Things [v. 18]
Romans 10:1 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
1 Corinthians 14:1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
2 Corinthians 7:11 For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
Philippians 1:23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Philippians 4:17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
1 Timothy 3:1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work
Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
3. Your Duty is to Do the Lord's Will (not your own) [v. 19-20]
THESE CAME TO JESUS
MATTHEW 8:1
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. THESE CAME TO JESUS IN FAITH [v. 2-15]
1. The Miserable Worshipper [v. 2-4]
2. The Unlikely Believer [v. 5-13]
3. The Maligned Server [v. 14-17]
II. THESE CAME TO JESUS IN CONFUSION [v. 16-22]
1. Confusion of His Purpose [v. 16-18]
2. Confusion of His Price [v. 19-20]
3. Confusion of His Priority [v. 21-22]
III. THESE CAME TO JESUS IN FOOLISHNESS (needless fear) [v. 18, 23-27]
1. Living by Faith means trusting God in every Situation [2 Chronicles 19:9]
And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in the fear of the LORD, faithfully, and with a perfect heart.
Nehemiah 7:2 That I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many.
2. Living by Faith means taking God at His Word [Matthew 8:26]
And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?
Romans 11:20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
3. Living by Faith means trusting the God of the Word over the Situation of the World [Hebrews 11:27]
By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
Revelation 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. THESE CAME TO JESUS IN FAITH [v. 2-15]
1. The Miserable Worshipper [v. 2-4]
2. The Unlikely Believer [v. 5-13]
3. The Maligned Server [v. 14-17]
II. THESE CAME TO JESUS IN CONFUSION [v. 16-22]
1. Confusion of His Purpose [v. 16-18]
2. Confusion of His Price [v. 19-20]
3. Confusion of His Priority [v. 21-22]
III. THESE CAME TO JESUS IN FOOLISHNESS (needless fear) [v. 18, 23-27]
1. Living by Faith means trusting God in every Situation [2 Chronicles 19:9]
And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in the fear of the LORD, faithfully, and with a perfect heart.
Nehemiah 7:2 That I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many.
2. Living by Faith means taking God at His Word [Matthew 8:26]
And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?
Romans 11:20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
3. Living by Faith means trusting the God of the Word over the Situation of the World [Hebrews 11:27]
By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
Revelation 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
QUESTION OF THE WEEK! - Did Noah need oxygen on the Ark?
A: Why would someone ask this question? Let’s back up and look at this from a big picture. Consider what the Bible says about the voyage of the Ark:
The water prevailed more and more upon the earth, so that all the high mountains everywhere under the heavens were covered. The water prevailed fifteen cubits higher, and the mountains were covered. (Genesis 7:19–20)
People then look at the earth today and note that the highest mountain is Mt. Everest, which stands just over 29,000 feet above sea level. Then they put two and two together and say that Noah’s Ark floated at least 15 cubits above Mt. Everest—and at such high altitude, people need oxygen!
It sounds like a straightforward argument, doesn’t it? But did you notice that I emphasized the word today? In light of this, the solution is quite simple: the Flood did not happen on today’s earth, but rather on the earth of nearly 4,300 years ago (according to Ussher).
The world today is not the same as it was before the Flood, or even during the Flood. For instance, if the mountains, continents, and oceans basins of today’s earth were more leveled out (as would be expected in a global Flood), the planet’s surface water alone would cover the earth an estimated 1.66 miles deep—about 8,000 feet. Yet when I visited Cusco, Peru, which is around 11,000 feet above sea level, I didn’t need an oxygen tank.
Furthermore, atmospheric air pressure is relative to sea level. So as rising sea levels pushed the air column higher, the air pressure at sea level would stay the same.
Continue reading as Bodie Hodge answers the question Did Noah Need Oxygen on the Ark?
Petition for Genesis
Are you a young-earth creationist with a graduate degree in theology or biblical studies? Have you signed our “Affirmations and Denials” document from the book Coming to Grips with Genesis? If not, and you want to learn more, check this out!
News to Note Quick Look
Mental evolution: Several species of chevrotains (mouse deer) hide from predators in the water. Does that prove evolution? Read more.
The content of a codex: The world’s oldest known Bible: should it disturb Christians? Read more.
Also: monkey hear, monkey know?; toys for Batman; keeping the debate one-sided, and don’t miss . . . . Read more.
Prayer Requests
View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank you!
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Anglican Bishops, and the gay issue!
In gay rights debate, Genesis is losing!
Suicide bombing—an evolution product?
The American society—is it Christian?
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.
The water prevailed more and more upon the earth, so that all the high mountains everywhere under the heavens were covered. The water prevailed fifteen cubits higher, and the mountains were covered. (Genesis 7:19–20)
People then look at the earth today and note that the highest mountain is Mt. Everest, which stands just over 29,000 feet above sea level. Then they put two and two together and say that Noah’s Ark floated at least 15 cubits above Mt. Everest—and at such high altitude, people need oxygen!
It sounds like a straightforward argument, doesn’t it? But did you notice that I emphasized the word today? In light of this, the solution is quite simple: the Flood did not happen on today’s earth, but rather on the earth of nearly 4,300 years ago (according to Ussher).
The world today is not the same as it was before the Flood, or even during the Flood. For instance, if the mountains, continents, and oceans basins of today’s earth were more leveled out (as would be expected in a global Flood), the planet’s surface water alone would cover the earth an estimated 1.66 miles deep—about 8,000 feet. Yet when I visited Cusco, Peru, which is around 11,000 feet above sea level, I didn’t need an oxygen tank.
Furthermore, atmospheric air pressure is relative to sea level. So as rising sea levels pushed the air column higher, the air pressure at sea level would stay the same.
Continue reading as Bodie Hodge answers the question Did Noah Need Oxygen on the Ark?
Petition for Genesis
Are you a young-earth creationist with a graduate degree in theology or biblical studies? Have you signed our “Affirmations and Denials” document from the book Coming to Grips with Genesis? If not, and you want to learn more, check this out!
News to Note Quick Look
Mental evolution: Several species of chevrotains (mouse deer) hide from predators in the water. Does that prove evolution? Read more.
The content of a codex: The world’s oldest known Bible: should it disturb Christians? Read more.
Also: monkey hear, monkey know?; toys for Batman; keeping the debate one-sided, and don’t miss . . . . Read more.
Prayer Requests
View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank you!
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
Anglican Bishops, and the gay issue!
In gay rights debate, Genesis is losing!
Suicide bombing—an evolution product?
The American society—is it Christian?
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, July 10, 2009
You Can be Changed
You Can be Changed
From the writings of Sumner Wemp
Jul 10, 2009
You Can Be Changed!
YOU CAN BE CHANGED by renewing your mind! Paul wrote, “Be transformed by the renewing of your minds” (Rom. 12:2). Jesus went up the mountain with Peter, James and John and was transfigured—the same word as transformed. Matthew wrote, “His face did shine as the sun” (Matt. 17:1–2).
Paul wrote, “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit” (2 Cor. 3:18).
Why should you renew your mind? “Because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so” (Rom. 8:7). The carnal mind (the natural mind) that we are born with needs to be renewed by the Word of God and the Spirit of God. We need to live by godly principles. I like to say, “A child of God will never become a man of God without the Word of God.”
O, dear people, set your eyes, soak your soul, saturate your mind with the Word of God. We must spend 30 minutes to an hour a day reading the Word of God in order to renew our minds. It is far more important to read God’s Word and to hear from heaven than to watch TV by the hour or devour the newspaper or curl up with a novel or feed on trashy magazines. How you spend your time makes a world of difference—an eternal difference. If you are not being transformed instead of just being informed by what you read and think about, you are cheating yourself. Doesn’t that make sense?
We are called to “set our affections on things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col. 3:2). The word affections is the Greek word phroneo, meaning “to think, to set the mind on.” The world talks about “meditation” and “contemplation,” but too often people just let their minds think about anything. You can be sure that the devil will let them think on dumb junk.
Prayer: Father, help your children to be transformed to be more like the Lord Jesus daily as they feast on the Word of God. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Quote for the Day: “Don’t give up. Moses was once a basket case!” —Author Unknown
We all need to keep our minds sharp, alert, and attentive to God because the devil is ready to place evil desires and thoughts in our minds. Spend time in the Word of God and in Prayer with Him so as to build a life long relationship.
For more by Sumner Wemp click on the link bearing his name in the upper left hand corner of this blog.
From the writings of Sumner Wemp
Jul 10, 2009
You Can Be Changed!
YOU CAN BE CHANGED by renewing your mind! Paul wrote, “Be transformed by the renewing of your minds” (Rom. 12:2). Jesus went up the mountain with Peter, James and John and was transfigured—the same word as transformed. Matthew wrote, “His face did shine as the sun” (Matt. 17:1–2).
Paul wrote, “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit” (2 Cor. 3:18).
Why should you renew your mind? “Because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so” (Rom. 8:7). The carnal mind (the natural mind) that we are born with needs to be renewed by the Word of God and the Spirit of God. We need to live by godly principles. I like to say, “A child of God will never become a man of God without the Word of God.”
O, dear people, set your eyes, soak your soul, saturate your mind with the Word of God. We must spend 30 minutes to an hour a day reading the Word of God in order to renew our minds. It is far more important to read God’s Word and to hear from heaven than to watch TV by the hour or devour the newspaper or curl up with a novel or feed on trashy magazines. How you spend your time makes a world of difference—an eternal difference. If you are not being transformed instead of just being informed by what you read and think about, you are cheating yourself. Doesn’t that make sense?
We are called to “set our affections on things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col. 3:2). The word affections is the Greek word phroneo, meaning “to think, to set the mind on.” The world talks about “meditation” and “contemplation,” but too often people just let their minds think about anything. You can be sure that the devil will let them think on dumb junk.
Prayer: Father, help your children to be transformed to be more like the Lord Jesus daily as they feast on the Word of God. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Quote for the Day: “Don’t give up. Moses was once a basket case!” —Author Unknown
We all need to keep our minds sharp, alert, and attentive to God because the devil is ready to place evil desires and thoughts in our minds. Spend time in the Word of God and in Prayer with Him so as to build a life long relationship.
For more by Sumner Wemp click on the link bearing his name in the upper left hand corner of this blog.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Psalm 11
1 To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David.
In the LORD put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain?
2 For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart.
3 If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?
4 The LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.
5 The LORD trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.
6 Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: this shall be the portion of their cup.
7 For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.
David knew the Lord. This made the difference in his life. David wasn't perfect and he knew it. The Lord is perfect and David knew that too!
David says, "I'm trusting the Lord- how can you tell my soul to flee to like a bird to your mountain?" Nehemiah knew this trust as well, "Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go."
If the foundations be destroyed... but wait, the foundations of faith can't be destroyed! That's David's point. So why are you worried and why aren't you trusting? God is in His Heavenly Holy Temple, He knows what is going on, He will deal with it, He will reward the righteous [those that by faith have received the righteousness of Christ] for living for Christ out of gratitude for what he did for them AND He will reward the wicked for the wicked unbelief and sin.
A week ago today my brother-in-law and brother in the Lord- Bruce Scott went to be with the Lord unexpectedly [from our point of view]. Ps. 11:7 says, "For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright." For a week now Bruce has beheld the countenance of the Lord... oh what glory!
But just think of stepping on shore and finding it Heaven
Of touching a hand and finding it God's
Of breathing new air and finding it Celestial
Of waking up in Glory and finding it Home.
--Don Wyrtzen
In the LORD put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain?
2 For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart.
3 If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?
4 The LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.
5 The LORD trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.
6 Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: this shall be the portion of their cup.
7 For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.
David knew the Lord. This made the difference in his life. David wasn't perfect and he knew it. The Lord is perfect and David knew that too!
David says, "I'm trusting the Lord- how can you tell my soul to flee to like a bird to your mountain?" Nehemiah knew this trust as well, "Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go."
If the foundations be destroyed... but wait, the foundations of faith can't be destroyed! That's David's point. So why are you worried and why aren't you trusting? God is in His Heavenly Holy Temple, He knows what is going on, He will deal with it, He will reward the righteous [those that by faith have received the righteousness of Christ] for living for Christ out of gratitude for what he did for them AND He will reward the wicked for the wicked unbelief and sin.
A week ago today my brother-in-law and brother in the Lord- Bruce Scott went to be with the Lord unexpectedly [from our point of view]. Ps. 11:7 says, "For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright." For a week now Bruce has beheld the countenance of the Lord... oh what glory!
But just think of stepping on shore and finding it Heaven
Of touching a hand and finding it God's
Of breathing new air and finding it Celestial
Of waking up in Glory and finding it Home.
--Don Wyrtzen
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
LIVING BY FAITH
HEBREWS 10:38-11:3
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. ONLY BY FAITH CAN BELIEVERS PLEASE GOD [10:38, 11:6]
1. Unbelief Calls God a Liar [10:38, Rm. 3:4, I Jn. 1:10]
2. Faith Takes God at His Word [10:39, Rm. 10:17, 3:4]
3. Faith Earns a Good Report from God [11:2]
II. ONLY BY FAITH ARE WE SAVED [10:39]
1. Unbelief Draws Back from God & His Salvation [10:39]
2. Unbelief Draws Back to Perdition & Destruction [10:39, Phil. 3:19, I Tm. 6:9]
3. Faith Accesses Christ's Work & God's Gift for Our Good & His Glory [Eph. 2:8-9]
III. ONLY BY FAITH CAN WE SEE THE UNSEEABLE [11:1-3]
1. The Unseeable Future [v. 1-2]
2. The Unseeable Past [v. 3]
3. The Unseeable God [v. 3]
Pastor Rick Jackson
I. ONLY BY FAITH CAN BELIEVERS PLEASE GOD [10:38, 11:6]
1. Unbelief Calls God a Liar [10:38, Rm. 3:4, I Jn. 1:10]
2. Faith Takes God at His Word [10:39, Rm. 10:17, 3:4]
3. Faith Earns a Good Report from God [11:2]
II. ONLY BY FAITH ARE WE SAVED [10:39]
1. Unbelief Draws Back from God & His Salvation [10:39]
2. Unbelief Draws Back to Perdition & Destruction [10:39, Phil. 3:19, I Tm. 6:9]
3. Faith Accesses Christ's Work & God's Gift for Our Good & His Glory [Eph. 2:8-9]
III. ONLY BY FAITH CAN WE SEE THE UNSEEABLE [11:1-3]
1. The Unseeable Future [v. 1-2]
2. The Unseeable Past [v. 3]
3. The Unseeable God [v. 3]
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
QUOTES OF THE WEEK!
"Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well, the main end of his life and studies is, to know God and Jesus Christ, which is eternal life" (John 17:3). -1636 Rule#2 Harvard Student Handbook
"God is moved by our faith, not our work." - Evangelist Jim Cook
"Prevailing prayer is not a matter of changing God's mind; it is a matter of finding God's mind."
-Evangelist Rick Flanders
"Whenever it's alright with you and God, it will be alright with you and others."
-Evangelist Nathan McConnell
Someone asked me Sunday if I was one of the lucky ones going to Michael Jackson's Funeral. I said, "No, I'm one of the honored ones to have a part in Bruce Scott's Homegoing Service." They said, "You got that right!"
“This world is not my home. I’m just a-passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue.” —Author Unknown
"God is moved by our faith, not our work." - Evangelist Jim Cook
"Prevailing prayer is not a matter of changing God's mind; it is a matter of finding God's mind."
-Evangelist Rick Flanders
"Whenever it's alright with you and God, it will be alright with you and others."
-Evangelist Nathan McConnell
Someone asked me Sunday if I was one of the lucky ones going to Michael Jackson's Funeral. I said, "No, I'm one of the honored ones to have a part in Bruce Scott's Homegoing Service." They said, "You got that right!"
“This world is not my home. I’m just a-passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue.” —Author Unknown
Monday, July 06, 2009
Q: Did “superbugs” evolve?
Q: Did “superbugs” evolve?
A: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has captured national headlines. In the fall of 2007, the CDC (Center for Disease Control in Atlanta) reported that deaths due to MRSA were greater than those caused by AIDS. MRSA is rapidly becoming one of the most prevalent and menacing diseases of our time and increases the risk of time spent in a hospital.
MRSA are bacteria that represent “new” strains of antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Although the media discusses MRSA as a single new strain, in reality MRSA represents more than 1100 distinct strains of S. aureus. S. aureus causes many diseases, including skin boils, infection of leg ulcers, and pressure sores. Occasionally, it can cause more serious disorders such as blood poisoning (septicemia), pneumonia, or bone, joint, or heart valve infection. What makes MRSA bacteria deadly is their resistance to penicillin and its derivatives.
Methicillin is a penicillin derivative that was issued in clinics in most countries in 1959–60, but its use was discontinued after 1961 due to resistant strains appearing. Unfortunately, resistance has increased dramatically since 2000. These bacteria are now categorized as Hospital-Associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) and Community-Associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) depending upon the disease acquisition location.
Yet, we read in Genesis Chapter 1 that God made everything “very good.” If everything that God made was good, where did MRSA come from? What is the origin of this frightening germ? Where does MRSA or “Super Staph” fit in to the creation account? Were they created along with the rest of the life in the first week of Creation or were they created later—after the Fall? Is MRSA a result of the “Curse”? These and other questions have been asked by professional creation microbiologists. Their answers may surprise you.
Read the latest Answers In Depth paper, by Liberty University biologist Dr. Alan L. Gillen: The Genesis of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Petition for Genesis
Are you a young-earth creationist with a graduate degree in theology or biblical studies? Have you signed our “Affirmations and Denials” document from the book Coming to Grips with Genesis? If not, and you want to learn more, check this out!
News to Note Quick Look
When do false dichotomies ever mesh?: In covering a visit by paleontologists to our Creation Museum, the New York Times spreads misunderstanding. Read more.
One blood, three sons: A new genetic study of 53 human populations shows that each falls into one of three genetic groups—yet that the three groups aren’t as different as was thought. The legacy of Shem, Ham, and Japheth (Noah’s three sons), perhaps? Read more.
Also: The Mummy: Tomb of the Fossilized Hadrosaur; Piranha: Before the Fall; Equivocation over “evolution”; and don’t miss . . . . Read more.
Prayer Requests
View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank you!
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
The fossil record—how’d it get there?
The gap theory—does it matter?
Cicadas—“the singing fossils”
The echidna—it’s an evolutionary enigma!
Fossil footprints—why are they disappearing?
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: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has captured national headlines. In the fall of 2007, the CDC (Center for Disease Control in Atlanta) reported that deaths due to MRSA were greater than those caused by AIDS. MRSA is rapidly becoming one of the most prevalent and menacing diseases of our time and increases the risk of time spent in a hospital.
MRSA are bacteria that represent “new” strains of antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Although the media discusses MRSA as a single new strain, in reality MRSA represents more than 1100 distinct strains of S. aureus. S. aureus causes many diseases, including skin boils, infection of leg ulcers, and pressure sores. Occasionally, it can cause more serious disorders such as blood poisoning (septicemia), pneumonia, or bone, joint, or heart valve infection. What makes MRSA bacteria deadly is their resistance to penicillin and its derivatives.
Methicillin is a penicillin derivative that was issued in clinics in most countries in 1959–60, but its use was discontinued after 1961 due to resistant strains appearing. Unfortunately, resistance has increased dramatically since 2000. These bacteria are now categorized as Hospital-Associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) and Community-Associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) depending upon the disease acquisition location.
Yet, we read in Genesis Chapter 1 that God made everything “very good.” If everything that God made was good, where did MRSA come from? What is the origin of this frightening germ? Where does MRSA or “Super Staph” fit in to the creation account? Were they created along with the rest of the life in the first week of Creation or were they created later—after the Fall? Is MRSA a result of the “Curse”? These and other questions have been asked by professional creation microbiologists. Their answers may surprise you.
Read the latest Answers In Depth paper, by Liberty University biologist Dr. Alan L. Gillen: The Genesis of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Petition for Genesis
Are you a young-earth creationist with a graduate degree in theology or biblical studies? Have you signed our “Affirmations and Denials” document from the book Coming to Grips with Genesis? If not, and you want to learn more, check this out!
News to Note Quick Look
When do false dichotomies ever mesh?: In covering a visit by paleontologists to our Creation Museum, the New York Times spreads misunderstanding. Read more.
One blood, three sons: A new genetic study of 53 human populations shows that each falls into one of three genetic groups—yet that the three groups aren’t as different as was thought. The legacy of Shem, Ham, and Japheth (Noah’s three sons), perhaps? Read more.
Also: The Mummy: Tomb of the Fossilized Hadrosaur; Piranha: Before the Fall; Equivocation over “evolution”; and don’t miss . . . . Read more.
Prayer Requests
View the current prayer requests to keep track of and pray for current ministry needs. Thank you!
Answers ... with Ken Ham radio program
The fossil record—how’d it get there?
The gap theory—does it matter?
Cicadas—“the singing fossils”
The echidna—it’s an evolutionary enigma!
Fossil footprints—why are they disappearing?
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.
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