I came across these paraghraphs recently in a little booklet by Louis Entzminger and wanted to share it. I had often thought of the first reference he uses, but I liked the way he quoted B.H. Carroll who developed the thought as follows:
I never could understand why some Baptists rejoice to say there is no church succession.
I would like for them to take hold of these two passages in this chapter, "To the intent that now unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places might be made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord," coupled with the last verse, "Unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations forever and ever. Amen."
Whenever church work stops) then the glory stops. Did God intend for it to stop? If he did, why did he say, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world"? And why should we tell the church when celebrating the Lord's Supper, "As often as you do this you show forth the Lord's death till he come"? Why does he provide for perpetuity? I am not discussing church history now. I am discussing God's purpose in establishing the church. Jesus said, "The gates of hell shall not prevail against it." I do not believe they have. They have never been able to convince me that the gates of hell have prevailed against the church.
I believe that God not only has had people in all ages, but that he has had an organized people.
He provided for transmission: "The things which I have committed to you, the same commit thou to faithful men." How do men have faith? By hearing. How can they hear without a preacher, and how can they have a preacher unless he be sent? Did he not send the church all gifts – apostolic gifts, prophetic gifts, evangelistic gifts, and pastoral gifts? He set every one of them in the church. The apostles and prophets served the church; when they were taken away, there remained pastors, evangelists, teachers. On whose authority? Christ's. Where placed? In the church. I am satisfied that if the angels, after watching the unfolding of the wisdom of God in the gospel of Jesus Christ, from the time Christ died until the time the apostles died, they have not had a recess since of a thousand years. They are not left in suspense, vainly bending over to learn more through silent centuries. The school goes right on. The purposes ripen. The ordinances continue to tell their story. Churches come from churches somewhat as horses come from horses. History cannot trace every detail of the pedigree showing how a certain drove of wild mustangs in western Texas are descendants of the Spanish barbs, brought here by the discoverers 400 years ago. The fact that the mustangs are here proves the succession, since only like begets like.
I do not undervalue church history, but far more important to me than fallible human records of passing events is the New Testament forecast of church history. The former may err – the latter never.
The booklet is "Studies in the New Testament Church". What books/booklets do you favor on this topic? You can read more of this lecture at http://sglblibrary.homestead.com/files/bhcarroll/Volume_15.htm.
What is "The Cloud"?
I came across a great YouTube on "the cloud". I have heard a lot about it lately, and went looking for info, and this you tuber has a lot of good info on his many videos. I can see how this could be beneficial in a lot of ways ie: my files at church and my files at home, so I thot I'd share it here for anyone who cares.
On a side note, at the Spiritual Leadership Conference in Lancaster, CA, they released a new app for the iPhone or Android. It's a app for soulwinning contacts! It looks really nice, and they have been testing it for a year. They just got it approved at iTunes, and you can get it there for 99 cents. It's called "Outreach", and here is a link that tells more about it: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/outreach/id447923900?mt=8 "Once installed you can track the progress of each of your soulwinning prospects— you can quickly view a map to their home, make a phone call, and record each contact and spiritual decision. You can also view and organize your prospects into custom lists."
On a side note, at the Spiritual Leadership Conference in Lancaster, CA, they released a new app for the iPhone or Android. It's a app for soulwinning contacts! It looks really nice, and they have been testing it for a year. They just got it approved at iTunes, and you can get it there for 99 cents. It's called "Outreach", and here is a link that tells more about it: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/outreach/id447923900?mt=8 "Once installed you can track the progress of each of your soulwinning prospects— you can quickly view a map to their home, make a phone call, and record each contact and spiritual decision. You can also view and organize your prospects into custom lists."
I don't have either phone yet :( but it anyone has used it, please post on it! I'd love to hear about how it works and what it can do!
The Deception of Sin
Romans 7:11 For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
I could not help but think of this verse and the topic of the deception of sin this morning. As a pastor, I have the privilege of speaking and counseling with many people. My heart often breaks for those who are grieved by the choices of the family they love. Fathers and mothers praying and pleading with their children and grandchildren; kids hoping and praying that their family will stop sending them to church on the church van and actually come with them one Sunday morning; a strained relationship between spouses that weighs heavy on their heart. Unfortunately, I could go on and on. Why so much heartache? Why so much hurt and confusion? It is a simple answer, with devastating consequences – sin.
Satan has fed mankind the lie that sin is not that big of a deal, and there are no consequences to deal with. When that young lady decides to take that first drink of alcohol, she never plans on becoming a drunk who ruins her family, and even worse, takes the life of a innocent bystander because of her choice to drink and drive. That young man, when he decides for the first time to search and find pornography on the internet, never thinks that eventually his heart will grow away from his wife and kids and he seek immorality with another woman and tear his family apart and scar his children for life. Often, when faced with the temptation of sin, we do not consider the long-term consequences that it will bring. Unlike Moses, we decided to enjoy the pleasures of sin, but that pleasure is fleeting. We have been deceived, and the pain and destruction can last a lifetime.
But God has not left us without an answer.
Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
What is needed today is honesty. Honesty with ourselves – yes, we have a sin problem. No more excuses. And honesty with God – God, I am a sinner. By your Holy Spirit working through me, help me to recognize my besetting sin and lay it aside. Let’s make this our prayer today.
Spiritual Leadership Links
If you sent me an email in the last ten days, you may want to send it again. I am still catching up with the many emails I get due to all my blogs, and don't want to miss yours. I was at the Spiritual Leadership Conference at Lancaster, CA. The conference was a blessing, and I came away rejuvenated with a lot of ideas and motivated to serve in my ministries more. One thing I really like about Lancaster Baptist Church, is that they share their resources so freely. I have used some of the articles from Ministry127 here as well as Pastor Chappell's devotions on the Devos side of IFBKJV.com.
They are in the process of loading all the workshops, so you can download them for free online! There are tracks for pastors, assistants, pastor wives, ladies, men, choir directors, educators, teens, etc. I really think it is wonderful how they freely share these and many ministry helps at no cost. They stay connected and properly use the internet as a tool. Even on YouTube, I find that most of the songs I go looking for there are uploaded by someone at Lancaster Baptist Church.
Here is the link to download the workshops and sermons, and a list of all available workshops to date. You can even download the notebook we used in class for all the workshops. If you only have time to listen to one now, the one I most enjoyed from the ones I heard was Sam Davidson's sermon on Tuesday night - AMEN! http://www.strivingtogether.com/pages/Spiritual-Leadership-Conference-Downloads.html
Sunday Morning—Sam Davison
Sunday Evening—Mike Norris
Monday Evening—Pastor Paul Chappell
Tuesday Morning—R.B. Ouellette
Tuesday Evening—Sam Davison
Wednesday Morning—Bobby Roberson
Wednesday Evening—Don Sisk
Pastors and Missionaries
Learning to Pray—Dan Reed
Instilling Biblical Principles in Your Local Church—John Goetsch
Will Ye Also Go Away?—John Goetsch
Finding God's Grace in Trials—Max Barton
Maintaining Joy through Seasons of Ministry—Jim Schettler
The Heart of God for Missions—Wayne Sehmish
Mentoring Young Men in Ministry—Dave Hardy
The Pastor's Family—John Wilkerson
Encouraging Fellow Pastors—Kevin Folger
Preparing for a Revival Meeting—Lou Rossi
Raising Your Family and Leading the Church—Dave Teis
Having a Resilient Spirit in Ministry—Frank Gagliano
Missionary and National Pastor Relationships—Sogoro Ogawa
Transferring God's Vision to Your Church Family—Alan Fong
How to Stay in Ministry All Your Life—Don Sisk
They are in the process of loading all the workshops, so you can download them for free online! There are tracks for pastors, assistants, pastor wives, ladies, men, choir directors, educators, teens, etc. I really think it is wonderful how they freely share these and many ministry helps at no cost. They stay connected and properly use the internet as a tool. Even on YouTube, I find that most of the songs I go looking for there are uploaded by someone at Lancaster Baptist Church.
Here is the link to download the workshops and sermons, and a list of all available workshops to date. You can even download the notebook we used in class for all the workshops. If you only have time to listen to one now, the one I most enjoyed from the ones I heard was Sam Davidson's sermon on Tuesday night - AMEN! http://www.strivingtogether.com/pages/Spiritual-Leadership-Conference-Downloads.html
Sunday Morning—Sam Davison
Sunday Evening—Mike Norris
Monday Evening—Pastor Paul Chappell
Tuesday Morning—R.B. Ouellette
Tuesday Evening—Sam Davison
Wednesday Morning—Bobby Roberson
Wednesday Evening—Don Sisk
Pastors and Missionaries
Learning to Pray—Dan Reed
Instilling Biblical Principles in Your Local Church—John Goetsch
Will Ye Also Go Away?—John Goetsch
Finding God's Grace in Trials—Max Barton
Maintaining Joy through Seasons of Ministry—Jim Schettler
The Heart of God for Missions—Wayne Sehmish
Mentoring Young Men in Ministry—Dave Hardy
The Pastor's Family—John Wilkerson
Encouraging Fellow Pastors—Kevin Folger
Preparing for a Revival Meeting—Lou Rossi
Raising Your Family and Leading the Church—Dave Teis
Having a Resilient Spirit in Ministry—Frank Gagliano
Missionary and National Pastor Relationships—Sogoro Ogawa
Transferring God's Vision to Your Church Family—Alan Fong
How to Stay in Ministry All Your Life—Don Sisk
Me Obey Him ‘vs’ Me Submit to Him
In the husband/wife relationship, is it... "me obey him" or... "me submit to him"? Did you know there is a difference? True... to obey requires one to submit, and to submit means you obey the wishes of another, but the processes of the two are very different.
As basic as I can state it - to obey means to be obedient and carries with it an authoritativeness that says, "This is the way it’s going to be; it is not open for discussion; this is non-negotiable." Whereas to submit, to be in submission to another, carries with it a subdued form of authority that allows room for negotiation and consideration. Submission allows one to have a voice and an opinion, whereas obedience does not allow this considered negotiation.
For example, we are commanded to obey God’s commandments, which are not subject to negotiation or debate... God said it and that settles it. Obviously, we have no righteousness of our own, nor any omniscient power of our own to negotiate any subject matter with our Holy God. God’s ways are not our ways, but we can be assured that He always has our best interest in mind, hence the reasons we are commanded to obey God. (Deuteronomy 11:27, 28; 26:17; 27:10; 28:9; 30:2, 8, 16; 32:4; I Samuel 12:14, 15; Jeremiah 42:6; Psalm 19:8; 119:75; Romans 7:12; I Peter 4:17) But there are also two other authoritative relationships mentioned in the Bible: the relationship of children with their parents (Ephesians 6:1; Colossians 3:20; Deuteronomy 21:18-20) and servants with their masters (Ephesians 6:5; Colossians 3:22). It is both interesting and necessary to note that these other two relationships (of children/parents and servant/master) are to be patterned in much the same way, for many of the same reasons. (Exodus 20:12; 21:15, 17; Leviticus 19:3; Deuteronomy 8:5; 21:18-21; Proverbs 13:24; 20:20; Psalm 123:3; Mal. 1:6; Ephesians 6:5-7; Colossians 3:22-25; 4:1; I Timothy 6:1, 2: Titus 2:9, 10; I Peter 2:18, 19)
Have you ever notice that the Bible never says, "Children submit to your parents," or "Servants submit to your masters"? There isn’t the slightest hint of these relationships being of the negotiating kind. In all three of these examples, the command is to obey and there is no suggestion of a negotiating relationship, and it is this command of obedience that also carries with it the hand of chastisement (Deuteronomy 11:1, 2; Hebrews 12:7-11). All three of these relationships are based on a superior and subordinate design... but the husband and wife relationship is a unique unity and is designed to be different, hence the reason why the Bible repeats, "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands..." in Ephesians 5:22 and Colossians 3:18.
In the Bible, it is only with the husband/wife relationship that we see submission and that is because marriage is not to be a domination relationship. (I Peter 3:1-5; Ephesians 5:21, 22) Marriage is about two becoming one flesh, not just physically (bodily) speak, but more importantly mind, and soul; becoming soul-mates. It is only submission that encourages this as a reciprocating relationship which results in the unique unity of marriage (I Corinthians 7:3, 4; I Peter 3:7; Genesis 2:23, 24; Matthew 19:5, 6). And, with this unique unity of marriage, submission does not allow a husband to dominate his wife. He is also not allowed to chastise his wife in any form or manner. Christ set the example of how a husband is to treat his wife, in Ephesians 5:22-33, and Christ does not dominate. Even when God has to chastise a wayward Christian, we are corrected as a child, not a bride. (Deuteronomy 11:1, 2; Hebrews 12:7-11)
Thank you for reading my post, your questions and comments are welcomed.
God Bless,
Jane Coley
As basic as I can state it - to obey means to be obedient and carries with it an authoritativeness that says, "This is the way it’s going to be; it is not open for discussion; this is non-negotiable." Whereas to submit, to be in submission to another, carries with it a subdued form of authority that allows room for negotiation and consideration. Submission allows one to have a voice and an opinion, whereas obedience does not allow this considered negotiation.
For example, we are commanded to obey God’s commandments, which are not subject to negotiation or debate... God said it and that settles it. Obviously, we have no righteousness of our own, nor any omniscient power of our own to negotiate any subject matter with our Holy God. God’s ways are not our ways, but we can be assured that He always has our best interest in mind, hence the reasons we are commanded to obey God. (Deuteronomy 11:27, 28; 26:17; 27:10; 28:9; 30:2, 8, 16; 32:4; I Samuel 12:14, 15; Jeremiah 42:6; Psalm 19:8; 119:75; Romans 7:12; I Peter 4:17) But there are also two other authoritative relationships mentioned in the Bible: the relationship of children with their parents (Ephesians 6:1; Colossians 3:20; Deuteronomy 21:18-20) and servants with their masters (Ephesians 6:5; Colossians 3:22). It is both interesting and necessary to note that these other two relationships (of children/parents and servant/master) are to be patterned in much the same way, for many of the same reasons. (Exodus 20:12; 21:15, 17; Leviticus 19:3; Deuteronomy 8:5; 21:18-21; Proverbs 13:24; 20:20; Psalm 123:3; Mal. 1:6; Ephesians 6:5-7; Colossians 3:22-25; 4:1; I Timothy 6:1, 2: Titus 2:9, 10; I Peter 2:18, 19)
Have you ever notice that the Bible never says, "Children submit to your parents," or "Servants submit to your masters"? There isn’t the slightest hint of these relationships being of the negotiating kind. In all three of these examples, the command is to obey and there is no suggestion of a negotiating relationship, and it is this command of obedience that also carries with it the hand of chastisement (Deuteronomy 11:1, 2; Hebrews 12:7-11). All three of these relationships are based on a superior and subordinate design... but the husband and wife relationship is a unique unity and is designed to be different, hence the reason why the Bible repeats, "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands..." in Ephesians 5:22 and Colossians 3:18.
In the Bible, it is only with the husband/wife relationship that we see submission and that is because marriage is not to be a domination relationship. (I Peter 3:1-5; Ephesians 5:21, 22) Marriage is about two becoming one flesh, not just physically (bodily) speak, but more importantly mind, and soul; becoming soul-mates. It is only submission that encourages this as a reciprocating relationship which results in the unique unity of marriage (I Corinthians 7:3, 4; I Peter 3:7; Genesis 2:23, 24; Matthew 19:5, 6). And, with this unique unity of marriage, submission does not allow a husband to dominate his wife. He is also not allowed to chastise his wife in any form or manner. Christ set the example of how a husband is to treat his wife, in Ephesians 5:22-33, and Christ does not dominate. Even when God has to chastise a wayward Christian, we are corrected as a child, not a bride. (Deuteronomy 11:1, 2; Hebrews 12:7-11)
Thank you for reading my post, your questions and comments are welcomed.
God Bless,
Jane Coley
G-d helps those......
.....who help others! Yep....you read that right. Usually, G-d just lets those who help themselves do it all as He stands by and waits to see when they've struggled enough and will get with His program.
Did you know that G-d has a program for getting through life? It isn't the "Pull yourself up by your own bootstraps" program. It isn't "I did it my way" program. It's not "Take care of #1" program either. No, G-d's program follows the JOY anagram: Jesus-Others-You.
The body of Christ consists of many members with different functions, right? Not one of us is the body wrapped up in one individual. G-d doesn't believe in self-sufficiency. II Corinthians 3:5 tells us, "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of G-d." His economy is based on the body acting like a body---each member functioning in a healthy way, fulfilling their role so that there isn't a lack in any part of the body.
Still not convinced? How about II Corinthians 8:14, 15--"But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: As it is written, he that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack."
For most of us, it's "feast or famine". We never can achieve an even keel on life. We tend to live in valleys and mountain tops---in lush plenty or scrappy wilderness.
I'd venture to say that these days there's a lot of wilderness living going on. I don't know about where you live, but in our neck of the woods, unemployment is high! It's downright tough to land a job....even a fast food job. Let's face it, we all are having to take a step back and re-evaluate our finances, priorities, budgets, etc. Some of us are really having to live a whole lot more Spartan lifestyle. Beans and rice sound familiar? Been there, done that.
During lean times, it's so easy to focus on our own needs and lack. In doing so, we run the risk of being egocentric and not considering that others are going through tough times, too.
G-d's program for wilderness living is really simple: Be generous with others. Instead of thinking of ourselves, we need to see how we can be a blessing to someone else in need. Why should G-d bless us with extra just so we can use it selfishly?
James 4: 3 says, "Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts."
See, I truly believe that if the L-rd knows that we will share what He blesses us with, He will trust us with more. G-d provides us with blessings so we can bless Him by blessing others. That is G-d's economy. I know this is true.....my husband and I have tried to live by this and we are proof of this truth. I challenge you to search the Scriptures and find anything different.
But, (you say)---I have to be careful and keep as much money, stuff, food, (you fill in the blank) as I can in case we need it!! I can't afford to help someone else.....I have too many needs of my own! I have to put my family first before others. If I don't take care of myself, no one else will.
So, how well are you doing, living by your program? Less stressful? Have enough and then some?
Here's a wonderful promise for those who practice G-d's program:
"Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the L-RD will deliver him in time of trouble.
The L-RD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies."~Psalm 41:1,2
I don't know about you, but I'm hanging onto that!! A little unselfishness goes a long way in G-d's economy! If we help others, G-d will help us....and look how much help He provides:
1. G-d will deliver us in time of trouble.
2. G-d will preserve us and keep us alive.
3. G-d will bless us here on earth.
4. G-d will not let our enemies have their way with us.
Now who would we rather have take care of our needs---ourselves or G-d??
Isn't the L-rd such a wonderful, big, almighty, generous G-d?!!! What an awesome G-d we serve! We can be a blessing to G-d and love others by helping them with what we have (little or not), and G-d sends in the big tanks to help and bless us in a huge way!
Let's be more like the Philippian believers who helped meet Paul's needs time and again as he states in Philippians 4. Paul left them with this promise (vs. 19) because of their sacrificial giving in helping him, one of G-d's servants: "But my G-d shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
With the L-rd's help, I challenge us all to try living by G-d's program!
Did you know that G-d has a program for getting through life? It isn't the "Pull yourself up by your own bootstraps" program. It isn't "I did it my way" program. It's not "Take care of #1" program either. No, G-d's program follows the JOY anagram: Jesus-Others-You.
The body of Christ consists of many members with different functions, right? Not one of us is the body wrapped up in one individual. G-d doesn't believe in self-sufficiency. II Corinthians 3:5 tells us, "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of G-d." His economy is based on the body acting like a body---each member functioning in a healthy way, fulfilling their role so that there isn't a lack in any part of the body.
Still not convinced? How about II Corinthians 8:14, 15--"But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: As it is written, he that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack."
For most of us, it's "feast or famine". We never can achieve an even keel on life. We tend to live in valleys and mountain tops---in lush plenty or scrappy wilderness.
I'd venture to say that these days there's a lot of wilderness living going on. I don't know about where you live, but in our neck of the woods, unemployment is high! It's downright tough to land a job....even a fast food job. Let's face it, we all are having to take a step back and re-evaluate our finances, priorities, budgets, etc. Some of us are really having to live a whole lot more Spartan lifestyle. Beans and rice sound familiar? Been there, done that.
During lean times, it's so easy to focus on our own needs and lack. In doing so, we run the risk of being egocentric and not considering that others are going through tough times, too.
G-d's program for wilderness living is really simple: Be generous with others. Instead of thinking of ourselves, we need to see how we can be a blessing to someone else in need. Why should G-d bless us with extra just so we can use it selfishly?
James 4: 3 says, "Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts."
See, I truly believe that if the L-rd knows that we will share what He blesses us with, He will trust us with more. G-d provides us with blessings so we can bless Him by blessing others. That is G-d's economy. I know this is true.....my husband and I have tried to live by this and we are proof of this truth. I challenge you to search the Scriptures and find anything different.
But, (you say)---I have to be careful and keep as much money, stuff, food, (you fill in the blank) as I can in case we need it!! I can't afford to help someone else.....I have too many needs of my own! I have to put my family first before others. If I don't take care of myself, no one else will.
So, how well are you doing, living by your program? Less stressful? Have enough and then some?
Here's a wonderful promise for those who practice G-d's program:
"Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the L-RD will deliver him in time of trouble.
The L-RD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies."~Psalm 41:1,2
I don't know about you, but I'm hanging onto that!! A little unselfishness goes a long way in G-d's economy! If we help others, G-d will help us....and look how much help He provides:
1. G-d will deliver us in time of trouble.
2. G-d will preserve us and keep us alive.
3. G-d will bless us here on earth.
4. G-d will not let our enemies have their way with us.
Now who would we rather have take care of our needs---ourselves or G-d??
Isn't the L-rd such a wonderful, big, almighty, generous G-d?!!! What an awesome G-d we serve! We can be a blessing to G-d and love others by helping them with what we have (little or not), and G-d sends in the big tanks to help and bless us in a huge way!
Let's be more like the Philippian believers who helped meet Paul's needs time and again as he states in Philippians 4. Paul left them with this promise (vs. 19) because of their sacrificial giving in helping him, one of G-d's servants: "But my G-d shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
With the L-rd's help, I challenge us all to try living by G-d's program!
New Song of the Month, Lyrics
I will pass this way but once,
If there's any good that I can do,
Let me know it now,
For I'll never pass this way again.
I wil see this day but once,
If there's any kindness I can show,
Let me show it now,
For I'll never see this day again.
CH: Tomorrow may be too late, my friend,
To do all the good that your command;
So reach out to those who need you,
And lend them a helping hand.
I will know this world but once,
If there's any love that I can give,
Let me give it now, Oh Lord,
For I'll ever know this world again.
I Will Pass This Way But Once - http://www.godlychristianmusic.com/music/play2.aspx?id=862&type=song.mp3
This website has original songs from singer/songwriters. You have to weed through them, but there are many very nice songs to choose from. They have some really cute kid's songs and teen choruses. I am always looking for new songs to sing in church that others may have never heard of. There are also a lot of scripture songs, but be aware, not all use the KJV.
If there's any good that I can do,
Let me know it now,
For I'll never pass this way again.
I wil see this day but once,
If there's any kindness I can show,
Let me show it now,
For I'll never see this day again.
CH: Tomorrow may be too late, my friend,
To do all the good that your command;
So reach out to those who need you,
And lend them a helping hand.
I will know this world but once,
If there's any love that I can give,
Let me give it now, Oh Lord,
For I'll ever know this world again.
I Will Pass This Way But Once - http://www.godlychristianmusic.com/music/play2.aspx?id=862&type=song.mp3
This website has original songs from singer/songwriters. You have to weed through them, but there are many very nice songs to choose from. They have some really cute kid's songs and teen choruses. I am always looking for new songs to sing in church that others may have never heard of. There are also a lot of scripture songs, but be aware, not all use the KJV.
Why I Think John The Baptist Was The Greatest!
I've always wondered why Christ labelled John the Baptist the greatest person born of a woman. I mean SERIOUSLY O.o greater than Paul?, John?, Moses?, Esther?, Peter?, Abraham?, Elijah?, Joshua?, David?, Josiah?, etc etc you get the point.
Then again who am I to question our Saviour :), if he said "Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist" I believe him without doubt.
I had never really properly studied the life of John the Baptist through the gospels until this morning. I wanted for myself to see why he was the greatest, and after studying it out I thought I would relay back my thoughts.
It is very easy to read in Luke 3 the emergence of John the Baptist on the scene, preaching the baptism of repentence for the remission of sins, but what I think made Christ speak so highly of his cousin was his preparation.
In Luke 1 v80, we get a bit more background on John and that for the best part of 30 years he waxed strong in spirit in preparation for his shewing unto Israel.
There was great spiritual and political upheavals happening about the time of his short-lived ministry, and it would have taken someone "a little rough round the edges" to make people stand up and take notice. John the Baptist was that man, a worthy forerunner for Christ.
I personally believe his greatness stems from the Spirit of God upon him. In the wilderness/desert or solitudes of our rooms or quiet times what greater teacher is there than the Holy Spirit?
John was a hairy preacher both metaphorically and literally, he came preaching salvation and rebuked the religious hypocrites of his day, and what greater honour is there than to be killed for speaking the truth?
How does this tie into missions/evanglism/soul-winning? Well consider this! John even in his short ministry, baptised hundreds of converts. He had the power of God in his work, I don't know about everyone else, but I find that when I don't pray for God to help me, or spend time in his Word, I find my evangelistic work lacks the cutting edge it needs to be effective. I find my flesh taking over and leaving me apathetic to what is happening around me.
Is your spirit stirred?
Preparation is the key, waxing strong in spirit is necessary, John epitomised this perfectly and the effects and legacy of his work?...well take note of what our Saviour had to say about him and the amount of people who were converted under his ministry. Also The term "Baptist" has over history denoted people who have shown a certain tenacity in the face of persecution and error.
As I Was Commanded
Ezekiel 24:15-18 - Also the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, behold, I take away from thee the desire of thine eyes with a stroke: yet neither shalt thou mourn nor weep, neither shall thy tears run down. Forbear to cry, make no mourning for the dead, bind the tire of thine head upon thee, and put on thy shoes upon thy feet, and cover not thy lips, and eat not the bread of men. So I spake unto the people in the morning: and at even my wife died; and I did in the morning as I was commanded.If we slow down and read the book of Ezekiel carefully we will find a number of things God told Ezekiel to do that leaves the 21st century Christian a tad troubled. Before us is one of those places. It is easy to read past it and fail to grasp the gravity of what Ezekiel has been instructed to do.
It can be summarized in short order. God was going to take Ezekiel's wife and he was instructed to show no sign of mourning. This is incomprehensible to our minds and we find ourselves on the verge of questioning God. But to do so would not be productive and assumes that we could possibly know better than God. This is not a conclusion with which I am comfortable. He is in heaven and I upon earth. He is eternal and I have been around 48 years.
While it may not be productive to question God's reason for the seeming madness the Scriptures answers the purpose for which God had Ezekiel do this.
Verse 24 - Thus Ezekiel is unto you a sign: according to all that he hath done shall ye do: and when this cometh, ye shall know that I am the LORD GOD.
This explanation may not do much to comfort our hearts but it does inform our intellect. We at least know the purpose even if we don't understand the reason.
Ezekiel in so many cases became God's living object lesson! Ezekiel, even though we are far removed from the intent of this prophecy concerning the nation of Israel, still leaves a lesson for us in his behaviour.
Verse 18 is striking. So I spake unto the people in the morning: and at even my wife died; and I did in the morning as I was commanded.
Ezekiel had been commanded to do something that was very unnatural. He was called upon to suppress the mourning for his wife. He was in effect to go about his day as though nothing had happened. He was not to weep, cry, or mourn. He was to get dressed and go about his business. This is a remarkable thing that he is being called upon to do.
What is Ezekiel's response. . . . . I did in the morning as I was commanded.
Lord help me this morning and every morning to do as I am commanded.
Four Types of “Fruity” Christians
Are you sometimes a banana-skinned Christian, easily bruised, allowing the things others say and do to easily offend you? Or maybe you’re sometimes like another type of fruit...
I’ve learned that when I start to let my emotions get the best of me, it’s evidence of my lack of how near I have drawn myself to God.“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you...” James 4:8
1.) Thin skinned / soft fruit - such as - Grapes, Kiwi, Peaches, Plums.
These fruits are usually expensive because they take so much special care. They can be damaged so easily. Their skin is thin and it doesn’t protect the soft fruit from damage, it's only enough to keep the fruit from getting dirty.
*These Christians are high-maintenance people and they are offended often and easily. You have to watch what you say around them because they are so sensitive, it's like walking on egg shells. They are the type of Christian who struggles with being faithful to church because they are somewhere else nursing another emotional injury waiting for someone to “pet” on them.
2.) Thin skinned / hard fruit - such as - Apples.
The appearance of this fruit can be deceiving because this fruit often rots from the inside out. It also bruises easily.
*This Christian has become emotionally hard in order to protect themselves. But all the while, they are rotting away on the inside from all the bitterness they are harboring. They are not joyful Christians, their pleasure is in the calamities of others.
3.) Thick skinned / soft fruit - such as - Bananas, Oranges, Grapefruits.
The skin of these fruits seem to be able to hold up to normal bumping around, but it’s not until you open them up that you find the fruit inside has been bruised.
*These Christians are easily crossed or offended but will usually keep quiet until they find their moment to lash out, and, like their fruit counterpart, they can be very acidic with others - hurting others because they have been hurt. They also like to gossip.
4.) Tough skinned / soft fruit - such as - Passion Fruit.
The skin of this fruit is almost like a shell protecting the delicate fruit inside. This fruit does not have to be handled cautiously, it can take some stress while the inside fruit is still soft, almost liquidity, and delicious.
*This is the type of Christian we need to be. Strong enough on the outside to take the offenses of this world, while still tender enough on the inside to have compassion for others.
A reflection of our quiet-time with God is revealed through how we deal with offences.
“Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Psalms 119:165.
“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.” - Proverbs 3:1, 2.
By Jane M. Coley
I’ve learned that when I start to let my emotions get the best of me, it’s evidence of my lack of how near I have drawn myself to God.“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you...” James 4:8
1.) Thin skinned / soft fruit - such as - Grapes, Kiwi, Peaches, Plums.
These fruits are usually expensive because they take so much special care. They can be damaged so easily. Their skin is thin and it doesn’t protect the soft fruit from damage, it's only enough to keep the fruit from getting dirty.
*These Christians are high-maintenance people and they are offended often and easily. You have to watch what you say around them because they are so sensitive, it's like walking on egg shells. They are the type of Christian who struggles with being faithful to church because they are somewhere else nursing another emotional injury waiting for someone to “pet” on them.
2.) Thin skinned / hard fruit - such as - Apples.
The appearance of this fruit can be deceiving because this fruit often rots from the inside out. It also bruises easily.
*This Christian has become emotionally hard in order to protect themselves. But all the while, they are rotting away on the inside from all the bitterness they are harboring. They are not joyful Christians, their pleasure is in the calamities of others.
3.) Thick skinned / soft fruit - such as - Bananas, Oranges, Grapefruits.
The skin of these fruits seem to be able to hold up to normal bumping around, but it’s not until you open them up that you find the fruit inside has been bruised.
*These Christians are easily crossed or offended but will usually keep quiet until they find their moment to lash out, and, like their fruit counterpart, they can be very acidic with others - hurting others because they have been hurt. They also like to gossip.
4.) Tough skinned / soft fruit - such as - Passion Fruit.
The skin of this fruit is almost like a shell protecting the delicate fruit inside. This fruit does not have to be handled cautiously, it can take some stress while the inside fruit is still soft, almost liquidity, and delicious.
*This is the type of Christian we need to be. Strong enough on the outside to take the offenses of this world, while still tender enough on the inside to have compassion for others.
A reflection of our quiet-time with God is revealed through how we deal with offences.
“Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Psalms 119:165.
“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.” - Proverbs 3:1, 2.
By Jane M. Coley
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