Hello all, I hope this finds you all doing well. We are blessed of the Lord and enjoying an evening at home with the family. I was sitting at my desk just letting rambling thoughts bounce back and forth in my head and thought I would share a few with you.
If 80% of America believes in God and with more Churches than the rest of the world combined, how come there are still homeless, hungry, and hurting people in our country? I mean, think about it; Jesus' teachings and guidance for the Church were pretty simple: Feed the hungry, heal the sick, visit the prisoners, and take care of orphans and widows. But then again, and this is directed at you Pastors and leadership out there, is your church doing all of that? You mis-read that, not this or that, but all of that? That could be part of the solution there, huh?
Or maybe we don't need to believe IN God per se, but just BELIEVE God.
Now that's a concept. Just imagine what would happen if we just believed what God has promised! If one believer with faith the size of a mustard seed can command a mountain to jump in the sea and have it obey, what if a whole Church had that much faith? What about two churches? Now how about all of them? Wow, would we get things done!
All of this debate we are having in Washington and all the other problems facing our country...gone. We wouldn't really need health care reform because the 80% of us who were Christians would just go to the Great Physician. We could actually elect folks that believe what we do, and the ten commandments would be posted wherever we wanted to post them.
Man, what a concept! Of course, all would not be perfect, as that will not happen until Jesus returns to earth, but it sure would be better than what we have now. Preachers are leaving the ministry in record numbers, all Churches outside the Assemblies of God and the Church of God saw reduction in membership last year, according to Time magazine. And of those 80% that believe in God- fewer than half believe Jesus is the only way to heaven and only 27% believe in a real hell.
Of course, this all must come to pass before the end, but it sure is frustrating to watch from a ministers perspective.
I say lets just take a first step and just stop attacking each other. We have hundreds of denominations, and true we have many differences. But what we share should trump all of our differences. Most of our differences are over really petty things; when it comes to the only true thing that matters, we are pretty much in agreement. That is the Gospel of the Blood of Jesus Christ. I will admit that there are many gray areas, and many questions that we do not know the answer to, but we DO know that there is One God manifested in three distinct offices of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, that God sent His Son Jesus to die on a cross, and that by His Blood all men could be saved. We believe the Bible is His Word that He gave through the Spirit so that we may know Him and become closer to Him. All that He wants us to know is in there. He may reveal more to us for clarification, but will never show us, reveal to us, or teach us anything contrary to His word.
Is that not enough? Sure we can differ on how women should dress or style their hair, whether predestination means all men were chosen and then choose to reject God, or that only certain men are chosen, whether justification comes upon repentance or Baptism, the King James Bible is the only true Bible or any of those other things we disagree about. We can disagree- but lets not condemn each other. The ONLY way to get to heaven is through Christ, of that there is no debate among real Christianity...
Right?
The Blood is powerful...surely it can bring us together to tackle that whole hunger, hurting, homeless, drug addiction thing.
And we know that at the end there will be two distinct Churches- the true one that is raptured and the Apostate one that deceives humanity. You can find both today.
I was actually thinking about much more, but this just started flowing once I began and I know I will get hundreds of e-mails telling me your way is the only way and your church is the only church.
So before e-mailing and wasting your time, let me go ahead and reply here, for it will be the same to you all:
Christ is the Only Way, and HIS Church is the only Church. Read Romans and Hebrews if you are not sure where yours stands, and hit 1 Corinthians while your at it, and it will answer all of your questions.
A ministers teachings and explanations of just about anything related to Christianity, Psychology, Counseling, or anything elso that may come up. Everyone is welcome, as is any questions or comments. As long as they are not vulger in nature, feel free to speak your mind.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
What a promise!
The Lord says, " I will rescue those who love Me. I will protect those who trust in My Name. When they call on Me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue them and honor them. I will satisfy them with a long life." Psalms 91:14-16
What a promise!
Are you feeling a little weary right now? Yeah you. maybe in a little trouble...maybe just feeling lost, or maybe are lost.
Re-read that verse. Do you love Him? Then He WILL rescue you from whatever it is. This may be drug addiction or any other sin, or may be a clod marriage, a wayword son, a lonely wife. This does not promise "if it is His will, or if we pray hard enough," it says I WILL.
Do you trust Him? Don't have to be much. Just try it. Tell Him right now "I trust you Lord. I may not see the outcome, and I may not know the answer, but I trust You and know that you do". Still don't feel convinced? Keep telling Him. He will take care of the rest.
Have you called on Him? Or have you tried to fix it yourself first? Maybe we should call on Him first and then follow His guidance. It will come (see trust above).
Now notice the last part. The King of all ages, who deserves all honor and glory and has no reason to do so, but still promises to "rescue them and honor them and satisfy them.
OK, no scoffing till you've tried it.
This works in Germany too (love ya Sis).
Until next time, may His Peace and Mercy be upon you!
Brother JR
What a promise!
Are you feeling a little weary right now? Yeah you. maybe in a little trouble...maybe just feeling lost, or maybe are lost.
Re-read that verse. Do you love Him? Then He WILL rescue you from whatever it is. This may be drug addiction or any other sin, or may be a clod marriage, a wayword son, a lonely wife. This does not promise "if it is His will, or if we pray hard enough," it says I WILL.
Do you trust Him? Don't have to be much. Just try it. Tell Him right now "I trust you Lord. I may not see the outcome, and I may not know the answer, but I trust You and know that you do". Still don't feel convinced? Keep telling Him. He will take care of the rest.
Have you called on Him? Or have you tried to fix it yourself first? Maybe we should call on Him first and then follow His guidance. It will come (see trust above).
Now notice the last part. The King of all ages, who deserves all honor and glory and has no reason to do so, but still promises to "rescue them and honor them and satisfy them.
OK, no scoffing till you've tried it.
This works in Germany too (love ya Sis).
Until next time, may His Peace and Mercy be upon you!
Brother JR
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Funny touching video
Hey, here is a funny post I did using a collection of funny military pictures I collected from friends from Iraq. These represent American, British, and Canadian soldiers entertaining themselves. Nice to know soldiers could at least have a little fun in trying circumstances.
Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KosXMQEO2s
Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KosXMQEO2s
ACLU Attack
Our beautiful, quiet, rural community has been sued by the ACLU on behalf of a Baptist Ministers Son to remove the ten commandments from our small county courtroom!
The ACLU states that now is the time to attack these rural communities because of the economy; most do not have the money to fight back, so most will settle out of court. The gentleman who filed the complaint states that he is a christian, but just is interested in the separation of Church and state. The fact that he is a newcomer and having financial difficulties and him asking for financial compensation due to "pain and hardship" have nothing to do with it.
Yeah right. Fighting God for money is a very dangerous ground.
I have volunteered to spearhead the community action against this, so please pray that our community of 99.9% Christian will not sit on their posteriors over this and will rise up together and stand against this. Our Judge Executive has vowed to fight this at enormous political risk, so pray for him as well. If we win, they will have to pay court cost...but if he does, our county will go bankrupt.
Pleas pray and please feel free to post ideas on organizing our community and any suggestions you may have.
One quick update on my health: Cancer Free!!! Can a get a Praise the Lord!
Can we get over our differences and unite under the one thing that we all have in common, which is the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the power of His Blood. All of us, regardless of the sign outside the door, have at least this in common. Lets put the petty arguments aside for a second and rally around our God and our community. The ACLU supposedly upholds and fights for our constitutional freedom. Even though it was started by a communist and tramples Christian rights daily to uphold the minorities rights. One person can stop the rights and choice of the rest of the county. MM, MM, what is this world coming too.
SO pray...I have contacted Liberty Counsel, Sean Hannity, Bill Oreilly and other "Conservative" public figures, so pray that they step up and show that they are true conservatives and not just "anti-democrats".
I will define true conservatism in a future post. We CAN as a church support politicians without being partisans and without interfering with the healthy aspect of Separation of Church and State...without advocating a Theocracy, but just upholding the rights given us by our Constitution.
Thank you in advance for standing with us in prayer. I will keep you all updated on our progress!
Until next time, may the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ richly bless you in everything you do!
Brother JR
The ACLU states that now is the time to attack these rural communities because of the economy; most do not have the money to fight back, so most will settle out of court. The gentleman who filed the complaint states that he is a christian, but just is interested in the separation of Church and state. The fact that he is a newcomer and having financial difficulties and him asking for financial compensation due to "pain and hardship" have nothing to do with it.
Yeah right. Fighting God for money is a very dangerous ground.
I have volunteered to spearhead the community action against this, so please pray that our community of 99.9% Christian will not sit on their posteriors over this and will rise up together and stand against this. Our Judge Executive has vowed to fight this at enormous political risk, so pray for him as well. If we win, they will have to pay court cost...but if he does, our county will go bankrupt.
Pleas pray and please feel free to post ideas on organizing our community and any suggestions you may have.
One quick update on my health: Cancer Free!!! Can a get a Praise the Lord!
Can we get over our differences and unite under the one thing that we all have in common, which is the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the power of His Blood. All of us, regardless of the sign outside the door, have at least this in common. Lets put the petty arguments aside for a second and rally around our God and our community. The ACLU supposedly upholds and fights for our constitutional freedom. Even though it was started by a communist and tramples Christian rights daily to uphold the minorities rights. One person can stop the rights and choice of the rest of the county. MM, MM, what is this world coming too.
SO pray...I have contacted Liberty Counsel, Sean Hannity, Bill Oreilly and other "Conservative" public figures, so pray that they step up and show that they are true conservatives and not just "anti-democrats".
I will define true conservatism in a future post. We CAN as a church support politicians without being partisans and without interfering with the healthy aspect of Separation of Church and State...without advocating a Theocracy, but just upholding the rights given us by our Constitution.
Thank you in advance for standing with us in prayer. I will keep you all updated on our progress!
Until next time, may the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ richly bless you in everything you do!
Brother JR
Monday, May 11, 2009
Still Here
Hi all, just a quick note to let you all know I am still here. To say the last few weeks have been challenging would be a gross understatement. Please keep us all in your prayers because we are really going through some things right now as a family. A lot of times God delivers us from some things, but yet sometimes He chooses to deliver us through them. But know this; God is concerned! And He's working it out, and we will come out the better for it.
I do not want to get into specifics, but just know that when you pray, God knows what we are going through and what we need before we even ask, so just mention us...He will know what you are talking about. I look forward to posting a testimony after we have overcome these obstacles in Jesus' name. The ministry is still going strong, although I fear that it is suffering due to our battles. But again, we still have our Jesus and still are soldiering on. We have quiet a few folks nearing the end of there "victory" over their addictions, and hope to have them post their testimonies on the web site. May God bless you in all you do, and thank you all so much for the kind e-mails offering support and prayer, and even the ones asking if I had died or something (got a chuckle out of them). Again, God bless and keep tuned in, because we are anticipating a victory and having a rip roaring summer.
PS: Please pray for me for June 6, as I will be performing my first wedding (did the whole funeral thing last week...). I am excited about it, but a little nervous as well. Been in the ministry a short time, but this is the first time I was asked to do this. Also remember to mention our mission trip to Africa in October, and our mens conference at The Potters House in Dallas, which I pray I will be able to attend. God Bless!
I do not want to get into specifics, but just know that when you pray, God knows what we are going through and what we need before we even ask, so just mention us...He will know what you are talking about. I look forward to posting a testimony after we have overcome these obstacles in Jesus' name. The ministry is still going strong, although I fear that it is suffering due to our battles. But again, we still have our Jesus and still are soldiering on. We have quiet a few folks nearing the end of there "victory" over their addictions, and hope to have them post their testimonies on the web site. May God bless you in all you do, and thank you all so much for the kind e-mails offering support and prayer, and even the ones asking if I had died or something (got a chuckle out of them). Again, God bless and keep tuned in, because we are anticipating a victory and having a rip roaring summer.
PS: Please pray for me for June 6, as I will be performing my first wedding (did the whole funeral thing last week...). I am excited about it, but a little nervous as well. Been in the ministry a short time, but this is the first time I was asked to do this. Also remember to mention our mission trip to Africa in October, and our mens conference at The Potters House in Dallas, which I pray I will be able to attend. God Bless!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Then.....
Just think of what the disciples must have been feeling on this day between the crucifixion and resurrection. All their dreams shattered. All that He had told them...lies. All that He promised them....never could possibly happen. "I will never leave you, nor forsake you. I am with you til the end, even to the end of the world", He said, not even 24 hours ago. And now here He was, dead. They had seen Him die. Seen Him entombed. Seen Him sealed. All hope was lost, all dreams shattered by the ringing of that hammer on those old spikes. But guess what???
Then Came The Morning.........................
Hope you all are taking time to reflect on just what that phrase means, He has risen.
He is alive, and we will get to meet Him soon. I would love to see you there! So if you need directions to our meeting place and time, just shoot me an e-mail! Or just start reading the book of John in the Bible...its a pretty good road map, especially the third chapter!
Also check out Romans 10:13, and then Acts 10:30-31, but for the easiest path, check out Acts 2:14-41.
But there is a little catch. There is only One Way. Only One Path. Nothing you can do or say will make any difference on whether you get there or not. It is not about me, you, or anyone else. It is about HIM and WHAT HE DID. What did He do? Why he took your place. It should have been you and me taking those lashes. You should have taken those nails. You should have had that spear cast through YOUR side.
But you didn't. He Did! Just for you.
Questions? Just shoot me an e-mail!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Running Behind
Hey all, first off let me assure you that I have not forgotten about the Apostles post and will hopefully get it up tonight. Thanks for all of your input and opinions; please know that I read them all and will use many in the post.
I am way behind in just about everything. The sinus problem has turned into another infection, but seems to have hopefully run its course. If I didn't write about it before, let me briefly explain. I started with a horrible sinus infection because they just would not drain. The doctors finally ran a CT scan and saw what they thought was a tumor in one of those sinuses. After further testing, and lots of laying on of hands at Church, it turns out to be a cyst which is being treated with steroids and another round of antibiotics...but the doctor thinks it is nothing to worry about. Can I get a Praise the Lord!! Another Victory in the Name of Jesus!!
But of course, the enemy cannot let someone who blacks his eye off easy, so the back problems flared up again, resulting in ANOTHER surgery last Wednesday (the 18th). Turned out to be a very, very painful procedure. And of course, I went on the 25 mile horse ride the following Saturday and pulled the stitches out. But I gave the kids my word (from the ministry...these kids parents are either in jail or undergoing treatment for addiction, but my kids went too) and they really need a good role model, so it was worth the extra pain. Still a little tender, but all in all doing better. Sometimes the Lord delivers us from things, and some He delivers us through; these back problems that came as a courtesy of Uncle Sam are one of the things He delivered me through. As much as I wished He would totally deliver me from it, I must accept that He is the Master of all Things, and His Word says that "by His stripes we ARE healed". Notice He did not say: might, or maybe, or if you belong to this denomination or that one, or "if it is His will", He said we ARE healed. And I rest on that promise, and take the little Victories in great anticipation of the greater one that I absolutely know is coming.
For those asking about the ministry website, please understand that we WILL get it complete, but things here on the ground have to take priority. We are still having "online success" with the food addiction program, and will incorporate that soon. OR...pray that God blesses us with the financial ability to hire a Webmaster to do all of this for us, as my web building skills are limited, and as of yet we do not have anyone who is much better.
We had to turn down one of our grants because the new administration does not want us to include "Christ" in our treatment plan. Well, God really does not need the money and I know He will provide a replacement. I will not allow this ministry to compromise the Word of God, or our belief statement. We would not have a 96% success rate if it were not for Christ, and we accomplished without their grant. We took a lot of heat, and I was even called a fool by our Senator for refusing the money, but if I am a fool, I am a fool for Christ.
Again, hope to have the post up later tonight, and thanks again for the prayers. They are much appreciated. God Bless you all richly, and may you all prosper even while the world around you perish!
I am way behind in just about everything. The sinus problem has turned into another infection, but seems to have hopefully run its course. If I didn't write about it before, let me briefly explain. I started with a horrible sinus infection because they just would not drain. The doctors finally ran a CT scan and saw what they thought was a tumor in one of those sinuses. After further testing, and lots of laying on of hands at Church, it turns out to be a cyst which is being treated with steroids and another round of antibiotics...but the doctor thinks it is nothing to worry about. Can I get a Praise the Lord!! Another Victory in the Name of Jesus!!
But of course, the enemy cannot let someone who blacks his eye off easy, so the back problems flared up again, resulting in ANOTHER surgery last Wednesday (the 18th). Turned out to be a very, very painful procedure. And of course, I went on the 25 mile horse ride the following Saturday and pulled the stitches out. But I gave the kids my word (from the ministry...these kids parents are either in jail or undergoing treatment for addiction, but my kids went too) and they really need a good role model, so it was worth the extra pain. Still a little tender, but all in all doing better. Sometimes the Lord delivers us from things, and some He delivers us through; these back problems that came as a courtesy of Uncle Sam are one of the things He delivered me through. As much as I wished He would totally deliver me from it, I must accept that He is the Master of all Things, and His Word says that "by His stripes we ARE healed". Notice He did not say: might, or maybe, or if you belong to this denomination or that one, or "if it is His will", He said we ARE healed. And I rest on that promise, and take the little Victories in great anticipation of the greater one that I absolutely know is coming.
For those asking about the ministry website, please understand that we WILL get it complete, but things here on the ground have to take priority. We are still having "online success" with the food addiction program, and will incorporate that soon. OR...pray that God blesses us with the financial ability to hire a Webmaster to do all of this for us, as my web building skills are limited, and as of yet we do not have anyone who is much better.
We had to turn down one of our grants because the new administration does not want us to include "Christ" in our treatment plan. Well, God really does not need the money and I know He will provide a replacement. I will not allow this ministry to compromise the Word of God, or our belief statement. We would not have a 96% success rate if it were not for Christ, and we accomplished without their grant. We took a lot of heat, and I was even called a fool by our Senator for refusing the money, but if I am a fool, I am a fool for Christ.
Again, hope to have the post up later tonight, and thanks again for the prayers. They are much appreciated. God Bless you all richly, and may you all prosper even while the world around you perish!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Up coming post
OK here's the deal on the upcoming post's. On here you know I have my opinions, rants, raves, and even some really good spiritual lessons and all. But on these coming up, I am going to do some teaching. I will be learning at the same time, so bear with me. I will do the first one on Apostles later this week. The article I posted earlier had some history on what the modern church, or at least the Pentecostals, believe and where they are going today. I am interviewing some other denominations to get their views. Believe you me, I know all 1500 or so of you are not Pentecostals, as your e-mails about "choice" and "grace" have shown. But still, only one posted on here, so you will never get to see the rest of them.
My next post will be on prophets. Basically a history, the difference between a New Testament and Old Testament prophet, and why there are not more prophets speaking in the church today like the Scripture says their should. (read 1 and 2 Corinthians before you write to tell me prophesy died with the 12 Apostles)
And the last will be on the Spiritual Gifts; basically what they are, and why they are not manifested in all of the churches today. Some have a few, some have a lot, some have none, but none, or at least very few have all. I will speak at length on why I think that is so, and why I think they are present but not being manifested.
Keep me in your prayers, as I once again am having some health problems. I have an cyst in one of my sinuses that has abscessed and is trying to get into my brain...can't have that can we. I need that thing. Seems like Satan is trying everything in his power to keep me from going on the missions trips I have planned for the summer and fall. But since I was called, I WILL go. For God would not have called me if He was not going to equip me to go, right??
Until next time, may the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ richly bless you beyond measure and manifest Himself in your life and actions. And remember above all else: LOVE. Without it, your Christian walk is worthless. It should shine in everything you do. Amen.
Jesse
My next post will be on prophets. Basically a history, the difference between a New Testament and Old Testament prophet, and why there are not more prophets speaking in the church today like the Scripture says their should. (read 1 and 2 Corinthians before you write to tell me prophesy died with the 12 Apostles)
And the last will be on the Spiritual Gifts; basically what they are, and why they are not manifested in all of the churches today. Some have a few, some have a lot, some have none, but none, or at least very few have all. I will speak at length on why I think that is so, and why I think they are present but not being manifested.
Keep me in your prayers, as I once again am having some health problems. I have an cyst in one of my sinuses that has abscessed and is trying to get into my brain...can't have that can we. I need that thing. Seems like Satan is trying everything in his power to keep me from going on the missions trips I have planned for the summer and fall. But since I was called, I WILL go. For God would not have called me if He was not going to equip me to go, right??
Until next time, may the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ richly bless you beyond measure and manifest Himself in your life and actions. And remember above all else: LOVE. Without it, your Christian walk is worthless. It should shine in everything you do. Amen.
Jesse
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Are there still Apostles?
New Note: Sorry for all of the mistakes in grammar and all in the original post. I have now fixed most of them. I would like to add to the disclaimer that the article is posted as a reference point and some background history on the subject. In my next post, I will use the scriptures to let you know what I think and believe about Apostles. Thanks to all that pointed out the grammar, and on the disclaimer let me add again, I know many of you are not Pentecostal and are from many denominations, and even some non-denominational churches as well. I just wanted to be sure everyone knew my background. Thanks again for reading!
This post is in response to an e-mail question I received the other day. BTW, sorry it has been so long since the last post, but have been going through finals at school and preaching a Revival at the same time. Really no excuse, but just wanted to keep you all updated.
The question was: "Are their still Apostles in the Church today? My Church teaches that Apostles, Prophets, and miracles told about in the book of Acts stopped when the last Apostle (John) died. I can find no biblical references stating that these had quit, or that the gifts in 1 Corinthians are no longer valid?"
This is a great question, and is debated even among us Evangelicals. As most of you that attend church know, Pentecostals teach and believe that the Spiritual Gifts and the Church Offices spoken of in the New Testament are still valid. (Disclaimer: I believe this also, and am also a Pentecostal; I am a member of the Church of God, Cleveland). I will address all three in three different posts. Below you will find an article from Charisma Magazine Online by J. Lee Grady which does an outstanding job going over the history and current goings on of this debate within the Evangelical community. I will post later on my thoughts, and will address Prophets and Spiritual Gifts in later posts. Until next time, be blessed, and enjoy the article. You can find many more articles of this kind by clicking the link for Faith News on the left of the blog.
The Bible tells us there are both true and false apostles. Let’s learn to discern the difference.
By J. Lee Grady
For many years traditional denominations taught that the ministry of the apostle passed away after the New Testament era. It was assumed that the only people who served in apostolic roles were early followers of Jesus who witnessed His resurrection. Cessationists (those who believe that miracles stopped after the canon of Scripture was completed) believe that healing, deliverance, prophecy and all other supernatural phenomena ceased and that apostles are no longer necessary.
But as Christians in recent years began to experience the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit, church leaders and even some theologians began to teach that the gift of apostle is vital if we hope to advance the gospel in our generation. The logic makes sense: If we still need pastors, teachers and evangelists (all part of Jesus’ five-fold ministry mentioned in Ephesians 4:11), we also need the apostles and prophets who are listed in the same passage. The Bible never says these functions were discontinued.
During the 1990s there was a renewed interest in the ministry of the apostle. Many books were written on the topic, explaining that the Greek word apostolos refers to God’s special ambassadors, or “sent ones,” who are commissioned to contend for pure doctrine, preserve unity among the saints, equip leaders, model Christian character and help the church advance into new territory.
But a strange thing happened on the way to recovering genuine apostolic anointing. In true American fashion we began to merchandise it.
No sooner had the first book on apostles been written that some men began to claim the title and print it on their business cards. Apostleship became a fad. Before too long, some men were creating networks of independent churches answerable to a governing apostle who took ownership of their buildings and controlled their congregations.
Some charismatic apostles became mini-popes who carved out their fiefdoms. Suddenly the independent charismatic movement had more invasive authoritarianism than the denominations these pastors abandoned 10 years earlier.
In some circles apostles demanded total allegiance from the leaders who were “under” them. Some required a policy of “tithing up,” creating a monstrous organizational structure similar to a spiritual Amway. So-called apostles with huge “downlines” made exorbitant amounts of money. One leader even offered pastors the opportunity to become “spiritual sons” by contributing $1,000 a month to his ministry.
Apostolic covering could now be bought. And apostolic grace was reduced to the level of a motivational coach. May God forgive us for reducing the value of such a precious gift.
I still believe we need the apostolic anointing—and I know many wonderful apostles who have planted churches in many parts of the world. As I have watched them, and studied the life of the apostle Paul, I’ve seen three key truths we must reclaim today:
1. True apostles are servants. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 12:28: “And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, various kinds of tongues” (NASB, emphasis added). When carnally minded people read this verse they assume God has set up some kind of ecclesiastical hierarchy, with apostles sitting on thrones at the top.
But if we view leadership in the way Jesus taught it, we know that being first is not about being on top. Apostles are at the bottom of the pecking order. They are the servants of all. And because they serve a foundational role, their work will often remain hidden in obscurity. They are not looking for fame or celebrity, nor are they grasping for a title; their role is to empower everyone else.
2. True apostles are unselfish. I know one apostle in India who goes by the name of Pastor Howell. He has planted 600 churches in the Punjab region, trained countless young church leaders in a makeshift Bible school and led thousands of people to Christ. He has also seen whole villages impacted by the gospel through one miracle of healing. He has never ridden in a limousine and he lives in a modest home with a straw roof that he shares with about 12 Bible college students.
The apostle Paul would have gagged if he could see how some modern American apostles profit from their downlines or how they require pampered treatment. Apostleship has nothing to do with privilege. In fact Paul sometimes made tents for a living in order to avoid the appearance of entitlement.
3. True apostles share Christ’s suffering. True apostles live on the edge. They push the boundaries of Christianity forward, into hostile territory—and as a result they encounter more than their fair share of persecution and spiritual warfare. They are never content to live in a comfort zone. Yet even in foreign prisons they find joy and fulfillment.
One of my new heroes is a Nigerian pastor named Tunde Bolanta, who bases his ministry in the dangerous northern area of his country. I spent time with him last month when I was visiting England. He lives in a city where Muslims have killed pastors, maimed Christians with machetes and drowned their children in wells.
For Tunde, apostleship is not about getting the best seat on a plane or having the largest TV audience. It is about teaching his congregation to remain faithful to Christ even when receiving death threats. And it is about sending his church members into difficult regions where they could face martyrdom.
As our nation faces a turbulent economic crisis, I pray that we will allow the Holy Spirit to shake the greed, pride and self-centeredness out of our movement. False apostles prefer the primrose path over the Calvary road. May God grant us true apostolic anointing that is marked by New Testament courage, unquestionable integrity and Christ-like humility.
J. Lee Grady is editor of Charisma.
(Source: Charisma online)
Friday, February 20, 2009
Perfection
I don't really have a whole lot to talk about today. I have had one of the nastiest sinus infections ever known, so have really not been able to accomplish much these past two weeks. Seems to be getting better, but still feel miserable. Really just wanted to post so you would not think I had given up or died or something.
I have been thinking alot lately about perfection. So many of us strive for perfection in all that we do. We are called perfectionist's. Well I have been working on mine for years, and except for a few flare ups have been pretty good with it.
But talking about our Christian works, so often we think they are the perfection that gets us into heaven. Read your Bible for a second and you will see that is not the case.
See, we are perfected. And our works are perfected. So is our Faith. Perfected by what? By the Cross, thats what. You could say we are perfected by love. Because while the Cross was about redemption and Grace, it all started with love. God created us in love. We became separated from Him by sin. But He still loved us, but couldn't invite us to join Him because sin cannot be in His presence. And no matter how good we act, we are still far from being sin free.
So out of His great Love, He made a provision for us.
He heard the cries of the broken, saw the shackles of the slaves, from the onset of time. And the cry went out, "Is there anyone Worthy to go and redeem My Creation...Who is worthy."
And Jesus stood and said, "I AM."
And He was. It is His provision that gives us the ability to approach the throne of God. Our sins are covered by His blood. SO when you face God on that day, and believe in Him or not, you will face Him, He will see one of two things: You as the sinner that you are, or the Blood of His Son.
And He will say one of two things: Well Done My good and faithful servant, come and enter the rest of your Lord.
Or, Depart from me forever, for I do not know you, thou wicked servant.
Which will it be for you?
And here is the really awesome thing: IT IS YOUR CHOICE!
Choose wisely, for time is short.
I have been thinking alot lately about perfection. So many of us strive for perfection in all that we do. We are called perfectionist's. Well I have been working on mine for years, and except for a few flare ups have been pretty good with it.
But talking about our Christian works, so often we think they are the perfection that gets us into heaven. Read your Bible for a second and you will see that is not the case.
See, we are perfected. And our works are perfected. So is our Faith. Perfected by what? By the Cross, thats what. You could say we are perfected by love. Because while the Cross was about redemption and Grace, it all started with love. God created us in love. We became separated from Him by sin. But He still loved us, but couldn't invite us to join Him because sin cannot be in His presence. And no matter how good we act, we are still far from being sin free.
So out of His great Love, He made a provision for us.
He heard the cries of the broken, saw the shackles of the slaves, from the onset of time. And the cry went out, "Is there anyone Worthy to go and redeem My Creation...Who is worthy."
And Jesus stood and said, "I AM."
And He was. It is His provision that gives us the ability to approach the throne of God. Our sins are covered by His blood. SO when you face God on that day, and believe in Him or not, you will face Him, He will see one of two things: You as the sinner that you are, or the Blood of His Son.
And He will say one of two things: Well Done My good and faithful servant, come and enter the rest of your Lord.
Or, Depart from me forever, for I do not know you, thou wicked servant.
Which will it be for you?
And here is the really awesome thing: IT IS YOUR CHOICE!
Choose wisely, for time is short.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Ramblings and Clearing the Air
Thought I would post a quick one to update everyone on what we are doing and to clear the air on a couple of things. We have been busy around here recovering from the big ice storm. We have had a couple of days of sunshine, and I was actually able to take a few hours off and go on a 20 mile horse ride with a couple of friends. Contrary to what many think or believe, I usually stay going seven days a week and rarely take time for just me. I do not recommend that schedule as it can burn a person out pretty quickly. But there is nothing like a horse ride to recharge your battery and bring a sense of peace and calm back to your life. I am not bragging here, but to give you an example of what I am involved in to show you what I mean. I do this not to bring credit upon myself, but to hopefully teach someone a lesson about taking on too many obligations. Of course I am a minister and am in the process of helping to build both an online and local addiction ministry. This in itself is a full time job, but it is my passion. I feel a great burden, as anyone with a call from God on their lives should, to help as many as possible by allowing God to use me to show Christ as the answer. I am also our county weather reporter. This usually just means calling the current temps, highs, lows, and rainfall/snow amounts to the weather service and a local TV station. But during a major event it also includes taking pictures and sending in damage reports, etc. I am a Father to 5 boys, and we have a mini zoo to look after consisting of two horses (so far), 3 dogs, 3 cats, and one rabbit. And as a minister, you have all of those things no one ever sees, like helping people find jobs, houses, money, and all of that stuff. I also am the resident animal "doc" of the county since our veterinarian has moved away. As some of you know, way back I started out in college to be a vet and worked as a vet tech for a long time. I don't charge anything, but am thinking maybe I should to break even. I am also attending college to get my PhD in Christian Counseling.
Whew! Quiet a lot huh? But look, I almost never sleep, and rarely get a day off. My advice to you would be to plan your day carefully, and put your call from God first. All parents and husbands and wives have a call to each other (Ephesians Ch 5-6) first off. Then to your call to service, and we all have one. Be careful what you obligate yourself too, and learn to say no. I need help in that matter, because saying yes all the time can allow you to become easy for others to take advantage of. Like I said, I am not trying to brag, but just want to let you know why it sometimes takes a week to answer your e-mails.
Now to clear something up. Quiet a few have asked about my constant references to Pharisees and legalism. Some are not sure who or what they are, some think I am too hard on them, and some think I am too easy on them. While you cannot please everybody in a forum like this, I try to stay within the confines of Scripture, so if someone disagrees with me, they can take it up with the Man upstairs. But nothing spells controversy like mentioning Pharisees in today's Church. Some accuse me of judging, and others think I am a Pharisee myself. So lets see if we can straighten this out.
Pharisees were a sect of Judaism that we would call neo-conservative in today's language. They taught a very strict adherence to the Law of Moses, and added to it a very burdensome Oral Law that they said was passed down by word of mouth from Moses until their day. They were perfectionists and though that anyone who did not agree with them and act just like them was condemned to hell. At the same time, their customs made it nearly impossible for anyone but them to get into heaven. They started out in opposition of the Greeks, and were lauded as heroes for not folding into Greek demands to stop worshiping Jehovah and only worship Greek Gods. By the time the Romans took over rule of Judea and Palenstine, they had become a political sect as well as a religious sect.
That brings us to the days of Jesus. While on earth, Jesus did not condemn or judge one sinner. But the Pharisees did. Jesus did not reject one cry for help. But the Pharisees did. A a matter of fact, you will find Jesus' behavior in the Gospels to tbe the exact opposite of the "religious, church going" pharisees. And even Jesus did not condemn them; only their behavior. The only words He spoke in anger were directed at them. They were almost exclusively responsible for His Crucifixion, and yet He still did not condemn them...as a matter of fact He forgave them.
IN several places in the Bible, you will find Jesus at odds with them, but the best place to look is in Matthew Chapter 23. You will also see some behavior exibited by some in the Church today. While some believe the modern day Pharisee and legalism movement is setting the stage for the "one world religion" or "Apostate Church" spoken of in Daniel and Revelation, I made a vow long ago to confront and teach against this practice. In 23:3, Jesus told us to copy their observances, but not their works. These people I constantly rail against really try to impress God by their works. And preachers saddle entire congregations with back breaking rules not in the Scripture's and at the same time shut out any that do not conform to their twisted beliefs.
If you witness or evangelize for very long, you will find hundreds that have been hurt by church members (who end up blaming the Church itself), and if you dig just under the surface you will find legalism to blame. While Jesus was condemned by the Pharisees for eating, drinking, healing, and associating with sinners, modern day Pharisees do the same to other workers of the Kingdom for doing the same. A an example, I was severely chastised for going and visiting a drug dealer and for being seen with a known drug user in town. ummm, thats kind of what I do for God's sake! How can I help druf addicts if I don't seek them out?
Jesus and the Apostles taught inclusion, love, patient, and forgiveness. And Pharisees will teach that, but their actions condemn their own behavior. Now please don't get me wrong, I strongly am against sin. Name any sin mentioned in the Bible, and you will find some reference somewhere where Jesse condemns it. Hate sin! But do not hate the sinner! For are we not all just sinners ourselves, saved by the Grace of God? How can we witness if we turn everyone away at the door? How can we invite the sinner to come to Church if we only visit Church Members on visitation day?
Do you really think that God, after watching His Son die the most gruesome death known to look past what He did to send us to hell because our womwn wear makeup and jeans and our men miss one Church service?
Read Matthew 23 before you send me any hateful e-mails. Do you preach love, yet your actions prove hate? Do you burden members of your congregation with hundreds of rules not spoken by Christ? Haven't we all heard someone making known how often and long they pray, how much money they give, and how holy they are? Do we not know some preacher or teacher who loves the title before their names and the abbrevation after it more than God?
Look at verse 13- does your actions and beliefs shut anyone out of the kingdom of Heaven?
Let me be clear, with all the authority given to me to preach the Gospel ffrom Christ Himself, no man is capable or authorized to judge any other. None. Not one. We can firmly say that a particular action will send you to hell, but we cannot Scripturally say "Joe, John, or Sally" is going to hell. For if we could, we wouldn't need God. And Jesus would have died in vain. Why have the perfect sacrifice if God was going to allow man to decide who gets into heaven or not?
So that is my beef with legalism and Phariseeism. It is a parasite that destroys individual Churches, and has kept more people from coming to know God than the meanest demon in hell.
So instead of a bunch of rules, how about these two that Jesus said were more important than all the rest: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind and then to Love your neighbor as yourself.
Love. Forgiveness. Kindness. Service. Faith.
Those are the keys to a real Christian life. SO disagree if you like. Just remember when Jesus points to Matthew Chapter 23 on judgement and ask you if that wasn't warning enough that you will have no excuse, because now you have been told.
Stop judging. Stop hating. Start loving.
PS- this is not a rant, so I hope it doesn't sound like one, ha. I was in danger of doing the exact behavior I had condemned in earlier posts by judging these legalist and Pharisees. I will not do that any more, but I will not recant from pointing out their very un Christ like behavior.
Untill next time, may the God of Abraham, Jacob, and Issac and the Father of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, bless you with vineyards you did not plant, wells you did not dig, and houses and barns you did not build! Shalom and God Bless!
Whew! Quiet a lot huh? But look, I almost never sleep, and rarely get a day off. My advice to you would be to plan your day carefully, and put your call from God first. All parents and husbands and wives have a call to each other (Ephesians Ch 5-6) first off. Then to your call to service, and we all have one. Be careful what you obligate yourself too, and learn to say no. I need help in that matter, because saying yes all the time can allow you to become easy for others to take advantage of. Like I said, I am not trying to brag, but just want to let you know why it sometimes takes a week to answer your e-mails.
Now to clear something up. Quiet a few have asked about my constant references to Pharisees and legalism. Some are not sure who or what they are, some think I am too hard on them, and some think I am too easy on them. While you cannot please everybody in a forum like this, I try to stay within the confines of Scripture, so if someone disagrees with me, they can take it up with the Man upstairs. But nothing spells controversy like mentioning Pharisees in today's Church. Some accuse me of judging, and others think I am a Pharisee myself. So lets see if we can straighten this out.
Pharisees were a sect of Judaism that we would call neo-conservative in today's language. They taught a very strict adherence to the Law of Moses, and added to it a very burdensome Oral Law that they said was passed down by word of mouth from Moses until their day. They were perfectionists and though that anyone who did not agree with them and act just like them was condemned to hell. At the same time, their customs made it nearly impossible for anyone but them to get into heaven. They started out in opposition of the Greeks, and were lauded as heroes for not folding into Greek demands to stop worshiping Jehovah and only worship Greek Gods. By the time the Romans took over rule of Judea and Palenstine, they had become a political sect as well as a religious sect.
That brings us to the days of Jesus. While on earth, Jesus did not condemn or judge one sinner. But the Pharisees did. Jesus did not reject one cry for help. But the Pharisees did. A a matter of fact, you will find Jesus' behavior in the Gospels to tbe the exact opposite of the "religious, church going" pharisees. And even Jesus did not condemn them; only their behavior. The only words He spoke in anger were directed at them. They were almost exclusively responsible for His Crucifixion, and yet He still did not condemn them...as a matter of fact He forgave them.
IN several places in the Bible, you will find Jesus at odds with them, but the best place to look is in Matthew Chapter 23. You will also see some behavior exibited by some in the Church today. While some believe the modern day Pharisee and legalism movement is setting the stage for the "one world religion" or "Apostate Church" spoken of in Daniel and Revelation, I made a vow long ago to confront and teach against this practice. In 23:3, Jesus told us to copy their observances, but not their works. These people I constantly rail against really try to impress God by their works. And preachers saddle entire congregations with back breaking rules not in the Scripture's and at the same time shut out any that do not conform to their twisted beliefs.
If you witness or evangelize for very long, you will find hundreds that have been hurt by church members (who end up blaming the Church itself), and if you dig just under the surface you will find legalism to blame. While Jesus was condemned by the Pharisees for eating, drinking, healing, and associating with sinners, modern day Pharisees do the same to other workers of the Kingdom for doing the same. A an example, I was severely chastised for going and visiting a drug dealer and for being seen with a known drug user in town. ummm, thats kind of what I do for God's sake! How can I help druf addicts if I don't seek them out?
Jesus and the Apostles taught inclusion, love, patient, and forgiveness. And Pharisees will teach that, but their actions condemn their own behavior. Now please don't get me wrong, I strongly am against sin. Name any sin mentioned in the Bible, and you will find some reference somewhere where Jesse condemns it. Hate sin! But do not hate the sinner! For are we not all just sinners ourselves, saved by the Grace of God? How can we witness if we turn everyone away at the door? How can we invite the sinner to come to Church if we only visit Church Members on visitation day?
Do you really think that God, after watching His Son die the most gruesome death known to look past what He did to send us to hell because our womwn wear makeup and jeans and our men miss one Church service?
Read Matthew 23 before you send me any hateful e-mails. Do you preach love, yet your actions prove hate? Do you burden members of your congregation with hundreds of rules not spoken by Christ? Haven't we all heard someone making known how often and long they pray, how much money they give, and how holy they are? Do we not know some preacher or teacher who loves the title before their names and the abbrevation after it more than God?
Look at verse 13- does your actions and beliefs shut anyone out of the kingdom of Heaven?
Let me be clear, with all the authority given to me to preach the Gospel ffrom Christ Himself, no man is capable or authorized to judge any other. None. Not one. We can firmly say that a particular action will send you to hell, but we cannot Scripturally say "Joe, John, or Sally" is going to hell. For if we could, we wouldn't need God. And Jesus would have died in vain. Why have the perfect sacrifice if God was going to allow man to decide who gets into heaven or not?
So that is my beef with legalism and Phariseeism. It is a parasite that destroys individual Churches, and has kept more people from coming to know God than the meanest demon in hell.
So instead of a bunch of rules, how about these two that Jesus said were more important than all the rest: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind and then to Love your neighbor as yourself.
Love. Forgiveness. Kindness. Service. Faith.
Those are the keys to a real Christian life. SO disagree if you like. Just remember when Jesus points to Matthew Chapter 23 on judgement and ask you if that wasn't warning enough that you will have no excuse, because now you have been told.
Stop judging. Stop hating. Start loving.
PS- this is not a rant, so I hope it doesn't sound like one, ha. I was in danger of doing the exact behavior I had condemned in earlier posts by judging these legalist and Pharisees. I will not do that any more, but I will not recant from pointing out their very un Christ like behavior.
Untill next time, may the God of Abraham, Jacob, and Issac and the Father of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, bless you with vineyards you did not plant, wells you did not dig, and houses and barns you did not build! Shalom and God Bless!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Our Promise
We just returned from the funeral home, and while sad I was struck with the most beautiful thought. The Holy Ghost reminded me of a promise Jesus made to all those that followed Him. He was explaining to them that He had to go away. They were sad and He also promised them a Comforter. He told them two different things: 1. Rejoice that I go away because if I go, then the Comforter (the Holy Spirit) will come, and 2. "Do not be sad that I am leaving you. For if I leave, I go to prepare a place for you, so that where I am you may come also".
We can hold to that promise to know beyond a doubt that we will see Jesus, but also that we will see those that go on before us that know Him as their Savior. How?
Quiet simple. If our loved ones know Him, meaning they are washed in His blood and therefore "saved", they are going to where Jesus is. And if we know Him, we will go there also when we die.
Its hard to see through our grief and sadness this mighty promise, but we know Jesus told us that for our own comfort. And we know that God knows what we are going through.
Do you know where God was when your __________ died? Maybe your son, daughter, mother, or friend. Know where He was? The same place He was when His Son died- right there where He has always been...just a prayer away.
What a promise! What an Awesome and All Knowing God! And He can be all yours, friend. You can know where you will be after your death. You can also help ensure that those you love are there too. Wanna know how? Just e-mail or write us, and I will be blessed to share this wonderful promise with you!
We can hold to that promise to know beyond a doubt that we will see Jesus, but also that we will see those that go on before us that know Him as their Savior. How?
Quiet simple. If our loved ones know Him, meaning they are washed in His blood and therefore "saved", they are going to where Jesus is. And if we know Him, we will go there also when we die.
Its hard to see through our grief and sadness this mighty promise, but we know Jesus told us that for our own comfort. And we know that God knows what we are going through.
Do you know where God was when your __________ died? Maybe your son, daughter, mother, or friend. Know where He was? The same place He was when His Son died- right there where He has always been...just a prayer away.
What a promise! What an Awesome and All Knowing God! And He can be all yours, friend. You can know where you will be after your death. You can also help ensure that those you love are there too. Wanna know how? Just e-mail or write us, and I will be blessed to share this wonderful promise with you!
Update? Blessed in tradegy??
Its been a little while, and man have we been busy. We are at the heart of the huge ice storm, and everything has kind of taken a backseat to that. So for those looking at the website for the updates and things, we will get to those as soon as possible. We have been extremely busy here trying to help as many people as possible stay warm and fed. We have had quiet a few lose their jobs and were about to get their electric, water, or phone shut off (yes, they will even do that right before an ice storm...even the day of), so we were running through hoops trying to get enough money together to at least keep the lights on and the heaters running. THEN, almost everyone lost their power any way, so it was another marathon seeing that as many as possible had propane, kerosene, or another place to go. Also spent time getting hay out to some elderly folks cows and horses, and even rounded some up to keep them away from the trees during the worst of it.
I say all of that not to brag, for that is what being a Christian is all about, serving others. I say all of that so you will know that we are not slacking off or getting lazy in the drug ministry, but we have been serving the Lord.
And then to top all of that off, a dear, dear saint and friend of ours went home to be with the Lord. When we came to Kentucky, we literally sold everything we had and came here on a promise from God that there was a work here, and we were called to do it. We began to be attacked by the devil the minute we arrived. The house we were buying did not have any water, Roxann totally lost it seeing how far away from civilization (as we knew it anyway) we were, and we hadn't been here 10 minutes before a car pulled in the drive way and two saints, Junior and Mable Smith pulled up. They gave us water to drink, and over the next three years became family. As a matter of fact, my kids call Junior PawPaw and Mable Granny and just loved them to death. Being in the military, they never got to be around their grandparents, and took up with the two of them like they had known them their whole lives.
Junior was always available for a laugh, a cry, or just plain ole wisdom any time you needed it. Just go over and sit by the fire, and things just didn't seem too bad any more. He always believed in the Lord, but only within the last year had he gave his life to him. I remember the day clearly; I went to visit him, and he was sitting at the table reading the bible. I had just come back to the Lord myself after a brief respite in the woes of pain medicine and Jack Daniels. As soon as I walked in the door, he looked up at me and I saw tears running down his face. He said, "Jesse, it has all been in their the whole time...right there under my nose and I missed it. Just think at the difference it would have made to my sons if I had seen this forty years ago." And I sat down, and he asked me at least a 100 questions, just to make sure it was right. He told me he could have asked Mable, or his new Pastor (hers for years, but "his" only then), but he said he just felt I would actually listen to him and level with him. He asked, "Jesse, that should have been me on that cross, shouldn't it?" I told him yes. And then comforted him by telling him how we should rejoice in that cross, not feel sad or shame!
Any way, my heart is now buried in sorrow...and tears now are falling on the keyboard. Man, I loved him so much...but I know he is with his Jesus. He told me not long ago that he was getting ready to go, but I told him to quit talking like that. And recently because of a disagreement with his son I stopped visiting. We talked on the phone, but I did not want to start trouble and get them upset, so I stayed away. I was a fool to do so, but I can't go back and revisit.
But I am rejoicing as well. He was in constant pain, but not no more. He was saddened because of the choices and the lives three of his children were living...even blamed himself for it, but not no more! He will never cry or be sad again. Ever. Thats a long time.
But he is in our future. After I get over the awe of King Jesus and get settled in my mansion, I'm gonna look ole Junior up. It may be a couple thousand years, but I will find him. I know he will have a fire built (he loved a good fire in the fireplace, and heaven is all of our joy, so he will have one, and I know there will be a seat there for me.
See you on the other side ole friend!
I say all of that not to brag, for that is what being a Christian is all about, serving others. I say all of that so you will know that we are not slacking off or getting lazy in the drug ministry, but we have been serving the Lord.
And then to top all of that off, a dear, dear saint and friend of ours went home to be with the Lord. When we came to Kentucky, we literally sold everything we had and came here on a promise from God that there was a work here, and we were called to do it. We began to be attacked by the devil the minute we arrived. The house we were buying did not have any water, Roxann totally lost it seeing how far away from civilization (as we knew it anyway) we were, and we hadn't been here 10 minutes before a car pulled in the drive way and two saints, Junior and Mable Smith pulled up. They gave us water to drink, and over the next three years became family. As a matter of fact, my kids call Junior PawPaw and Mable Granny and just loved them to death. Being in the military, they never got to be around their grandparents, and took up with the two of them like they had known them their whole lives.
Junior was always available for a laugh, a cry, or just plain ole wisdom any time you needed it. Just go over and sit by the fire, and things just didn't seem too bad any more. He always believed in the Lord, but only within the last year had he gave his life to him. I remember the day clearly; I went to visit him, and he was sitting at the table reading the bible. I had just come back to the Lord myself after a brief respite in the woes of pain medicine and Jack Daniels. As soon as I walked in the door, he looked up at me and I saw tears running down his face. He said, "Jesse, it has all been in their the whole time...right there under my nose and I missed it. Just think at the difference it would have made to my sons if I had seen this forty years ago." And I sat down, and he asked me at least a 100 questions, just to make sure it was right. He told me he could have asked Mable, or his new Pastor (hers for years, but "his" only then), but he said he just felt I would actually listen to him and level with him. He asked, "Jesse, that should have been me on that cross, shouldn't it?" I told him yes. And then comforted him by telling him how we should rejoice in that cross, not feel sad or shame!
Any way, my heart is now buried in sorrow...and tears now are falling on the keyboard. Man, I loved him so much...but I know he is with his Jesus. He told me not long ago that he was getting ready to go, but I told him to quit talking like that. And recently because of a disagreement with his son I stopped visiting. We talked on the phone, but I did not want to start trouble and get them upset, so I stayed away. I was a fool to do so, but I can't go back and revisit.
But I am rejoicing as well. He was in constant pain, but not no more. He was saddened because of the choices and the lives three of his children were living...even blamed himself for it, but not no more! He will never cry or be sad again. Ever. Thats a long time.
But he is in our future. After I get over the awe of King Jesus and get settled in my mansion, I'm gonna look ole Junior up. It may be a couple thousand years, but I will find him. I know he will have a fire built (he loved a good fire in the fireplace, and heaven is all of our joy, so he will have one, and I know there will be a seat there for me.
See you on the other side ole friend!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Tithing
Ok, here is the post on tithing, but only a week late. First of all, what is tithing? For those that don't know, tithing is giving a portion of your possessions to God. In the US, this usually means money, but when we worked in Germany, it was not uncommon to get portions of a farmer's harvest, clothes, food, etc. Some Churches take tithing to the extreme by even tithing your time, gas in your car, etc. Some of the more liberal Churches don't teach tithing at all, but most Evangelical's agree that a "tithe" is 10% of your income. And there is even debate here between gross or net pay.
Confused yet? Lets see if we can get this sorted out.
The word itself means "tenth" in Hebrew
First off, tithing was commanded in the Law of Moses and was quiet complicated and depended on where you stood in society, and even what Tribe you were from (Levite's were exempted), and 10% is commanded for most people. But the concept has been around longer than that; look at Genesis 14:20 and find Abram giving tithes to Melchizedek, King of Salem (who was also a Priest of "the most High God" wh the book of Hebrews states Jesus was descended from).
The Promise from God is that if you give, He will bless you 10 times over. Look in the Old Testament book of Malachi 3:6-15, and you will find that God considered it robbery for the Israelites not to tithe (vs 8-9) and then see the blessing in verses 10-12.
That brings us into the New Testament, and the debate in some Churches today. Should we tithe?; Who do we tithe too?; What does Jesus say about it.
You will hear the arguement that Jesus never commanded us to tithe. And that is correct, BUT He did teach on tithing! He taught in Matthew 6:1-4 (Almsgiving in the KJV) on how and who to tithe. How was in secret so you could not brag or be embarrassed, and to God who knows what you gave. He also taught a parable about a widow who gave a penny, and He said she had given "more than all the rich people combined" because she gave all that she owned, while others only gave a portion in Luke 24:1-4.
So now what? I think we confuse tithes with giving sometimes, but I was alway taught that a tithe was the first 10%, and a gift was anything above that. The best New Testament teaching I can point you too is 2 Corinthians Chapters 8 and 9. Go ahead and read it, I'll wait....
Finished? OK, now here is my spill on the entire thing. I think that at a minimum a Christian should give 10% of his or her incomes to God. I am not going to get into the debate about where it goes, but it is usually easier to give this to the Church. As for me personally, I give to my Church as well as to a few other ministries, and I try to outgive myself every year. Why? The blessings of God in my life has been ten fold. I believe part of that is that I am a cheerful giver.
For those that are worried that your Church is not spending money the way you think it should, I will tell you this. Give any way. If your church is misusing its resources, then the people that oversee that are accountable to God. I repeat, you will NOT be accountable for what organizations do with your gift. If you know beyond a shadow of a doubt, I would be looking for a different place to worship.
Over all, I would be scared to death to stand before God's throne, and Him call me a thief! I will promise you this, you will not EVER be able to out give God. As His Word States, He will give us "vinyards we did not plant, wells we did not dig, and houses we did not build."
And above all else, this is between you and God. pray, and seek His will; He will show you where your gift is needed most. Some will tell you that your tithe belongs to the Church, and that is final. I am not arguing against them, but I have it on good Authority that my gift giving is blessed!
Giving goes back to our main theme here, love. If you give God a gift begrudgenly and with a heart that is not clear, if you grumble about haveing to give, your gift is worthless (Remember 2 Corinthians?) But if you are living a life of Love as Jesus taught, you will love giving. Give to your Church (after all, their bills have to be paid too), give to those less fortunate...JUST GIVE, and GIVE OFTEN, and you will see blessings of the Most High God rain down from heaven. Friends, that is not Jesse speaking, thats the Word of God.
But if you are still struggling with Love and Forgiveness...keep knocking, keep seeking, and God will use the Holy Ghost to pierce your heart and show you the "better way" (1 COR 13).
Until next time friends, I love you all, and thanks for listening in. Keep those e-mails coming.
Note: I know most of you receive this blog by e-mail, but I want to encourage you to visit the site here and offer your comments or questions. While I welcome the e-mails, and answer most of them, their is lots I would like to share here with our other readers. And this is not to improve our counter, as it only counts you once (it copies your IP Address...even the anonnymous ones) on your first visit. We also have a FAQ up at the ministry site, which is still a work in progress. BTW, we just had our first person officialy clear the "6 month Clean" mark, which scientifically says they are "cured" from their addiction (now all of us ex addicts know that is not true), but it is a milestone that is not easy to reach, so lets Praise the Lord together. He is in the process of writing his testimony for the website, and I hope to have it posted soon. January has been a busy month for us, as we settle into a new church, get the online ministry going, and also enrolled a "record" number of people to receive help for The Only One (JESUS) who can heal their brokenness. Thanks again!! God bless you all!!
Confused yet? Lets see if we can get this sorted out.
The word itself means "tenth" in Hebrew
First off, tithing was commanded in the Law of Moses and was quiet complicated and depended on where you stood in society, and even what Tribe you were from (Levite's were exempted), and 10% is commanded for most people. But the concept has been around longer than that; look at Genesis 14:20 and find Abram giving tithes to Melchizedek, King of Salem (who was also a Priest of "the most High God" wh the book of Hebrews states Jesus was descended from).
The Promise from God is that if you give, He will bless you 10 times over. Look in the Old Testament book of Malachi 3:6-15, and you will find that God considered it robbery for the Israelites not to tithe (vs 8-9) and then see the blessing in verses 10-12.
That brings us into the New Testament, and the debate in some Churches today. Should we tithe?; Who do we tithe too?; What does Jesus say about it.
You will hear the arguement that Jesus never commanded us to tithe. And that is correct, BUT He did teach on tithing! He taught in Matthew 6:1-4 (Almsgiving in the KJV) on how and who to tithe. How was in secret so you could not brag or be embarrassed, and to God who knows what you gave. He also taught a parable about a widow who gave a penny, and He said she had given "more than all the rich people combined" because she gave all that she owned, while others only gave a portion in Luke 24:1-4.
So now what? I think we confuse tithes with giving sometimes, but I was alway taught that a tithe was the first 10%, and a gift was anything above that. The best New Testament teaching I can point you too is 2 Corinthians Chapters 8 and 9. Go ahead and read it, I'll wait....
Finished? OK, now here is my spill on the entire thing. I think that at a minimum a Christian should give 10% of his or her incomes to God. I am not going to get into the debate about where it goes, but it is usually easier to give this to the Church. As for me personally, I give to my Church as well as to a few other ministries, and I try to outgive myself every year. Why? The blessings of God in my life has been ten fold. I believe part of that is that I am a cheerful giver.
For those that are worried that your Church is not spending money the way you think it should, I will tell you this. Give any way. If your church is misusing its resources, then the people that oversee that are accountable to God. I repeat, you will NOT be accountable for what organizations do with your gift. If you know beyond a shadow of a doubt, I would be looking for a different place to worship.
Over all, I would be scared to death to stand before God's throne, and Him call me a thief! I will promise you this, you will not EVER be able to out give God. As His Word States, He will give us "vinyards we did not plant, wells we did not dig, and houses we did not build."
And above all else, this is between you and God. pray, and seek His will; He will show you where your gift is needed most. Some will tell you that your tithe belongs to the Church, and that is final. I am not arguing against them, but I have it on good Authority that my gift giving is blessed!
Giving goes back to our main theme here, love. If you give God a gift begrudgenly and with a heart that is not clear, if you grumble about haveing to give, your gift is worthless (Remember 2 Corinthians?) But if you are living a life of Love as Jesus taught, you will love giving. Give to your Church (after all, their bills have to be paid too), give to those less fortunate...JUST GIVE, and GIVE OFTEN, and you will see blessings of the Most High God rain down from heaven. Friends, that is not Jesse speaking, thats the Word of God.
But if you are still struggling with Love and Forgiveness...keep knocking, keep seeking, and God will use the Holy Ghost to pierce your heart and show you the "better way" (1 COR 13).
Until next time friends, I love you all, and thanks for listening in. Keep those e-mails coming.
Note: I know most of you receive this blog by e-mail, but I want to encourage you to visit the site here and offer your comments or questions. While I welcome the e-mails, and answer most of them, their is lots I would like to share here with our other readers. And this is not to improve our counter, as it only counts you once (it copies your IP Address...even the anonnymous ones) on your first visit. We also have a FAQ up at the ministry site, which is still a work in progress. BTW, we just had our first person officialy clear the "6 month Clean" mark, which scientifically says they are "cured" from their addiction (now all of us ex addicts know that is not true), but it is a milestone that is not easy to reach, so lets Praise the Lord together. He is in the process of writing his testimony for the website, and I hope to have it posted soon. January has been a busy month for us, as we settle into a new church, get the online ministry going, and also enrolled a "record" number of people to receive help for The Only One (JESUS) who can heal their brokenness. Thanks again!! God bless you all!!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Who do you Love?
OK, I am behind on my post's and thanks for all of the reminders. I know I said I would next post about tithing, but God has led me in a different direction tonight. More Love talk!!
Read Revelation 2:1-7. Go ahead, I'll wait....
This message to the Church at Ephesus could very well have been written to some of us personally today. We have left our First Love. Now this was a message to a Church that was working for God. Jesus listed quiet a few things they were doing right, but He had one thing against them. In spite of all the works they were doing, they had "left your first love."
Have you? This post today is for the Christians out there. Who is your first love? So many people I see "working" for God are running around with a frown on their face, and you ask them how they are doing, and you'll here: " I'm Making it." "I am keeping on." "I am wore out." And they look just pitiful and miserable. Now this is a minority of the Church any way, as most members of our churches don't do anything. But when you see them on Sunday, you will hear the same thing. But we are not talking about them today. But this message is for all Christians, I was just using that as an example because I witnessed it today.
What is your first love? Is it your job? It might be. Will you get up at 5am, stand in the snow, scrape ice off your windows, and drive for an hour in bad weather to go to Church? Visit the hospital or nursing home? Take food to a widow or elderly couple? Most don't, but they would for $10 an hour.
Is it your car? Would you spend $100 on cleaning supplies and spend three hour cleaning your church? Or someone you know who has been sick or having a hard time; would you do that to their house?
Is it your television? Would you stay up late to be with someone who is lonely? Would you go visiting on Tuesdays with your Church during American Idol? How many hours do you spend watching TV? How many hours do you spend reading your Bible?
So what is it? Sports? Women? Men? Pets?
Here is a quick test. If you love something, you will spend time caring for, nurturing, and showing it off. The thing you spend the most of your time doing is probably your first love.
Now you know where this is going.
Know who your First Love should be?
Is He?
Verse five tells us how to remedy this, and it comes from the mouth of Jesus Himself. And He also tells you in the same verse what will happen if you don't repent and re-find your first love.
And Verse seven tells you what reward you will receive.
So I ask you again; who is your First love?
(And there is a hidden message here for all of you Pharisees that are wrapped up in legalism and works. Without love, it is all for nothing. Stop judging, and start working for your First-Love with love.)
Read Revelation 2:1-7. Go ahead, I'll wait....
This message to the Church at Ephesus could very well have been written to some of us personally today. We have left our First Love. Now this was a message to a Church that was working for God. Jesus listed quiet a few things they were doing right, but He had one thing against them. In spite of all the works they were doing, they had "left your first love."
Have you? This post today is for the Christians out there. Who is your first love? So many people I see "working" for God are running around with a frown on their face, and you ask them how they are doing, and you'll here: " I'm Making it." "I am keeping on." "I am wore out." And they look just pitiful and miserable. Now this is a minority of the Church any way, as most members of our churches don't do anything. But when you see them on Sunday, you will hear the same thing. But we are not talking about them today. But this message is for all Christians, I was just using that as an example because I witnessed it today.
What is your first love? Is it your job? It might be. Will you get up at 5am, stand in the snow, scrape ice off your windows, and drive for an hour in bad weather to go to Church? Visit the hospital or nursing home? Take food to a widow or elderly couple? Most don't, but they would for $10 an hour.
Is it your car? Would you spend $100 on cleaning supplies and spend three hour cleaning your church? Or someone you know who has been sick or having a hard time; would you do that to their house?
Is it your television? Would you stay up late to be with someone who is lonely? Would you go visiting on Tuesdays with your Church during American Idol? How many hours do you spend watching TV? How many hours do you spend reading your Bible?
So what is it? Sports? Women? Men? Pets?
Here is a quick test. If you love something, you will spend time caring for, nurturing, and showing it off. The thing you spend the most of your time doing is probably your first love.
Now you know where this is going.
Know who your First Love should be?
Is He?
Verse five tells us how to remedy this, and it comes from the mouth of Jesus Himself. And He also tells you in the same verse what will happen if you don't repent and re-find your first love.
And Verse seven tells you what reward you will receive.
So I ask you again; who is your First love?
(And there is a hidden message here for all of you Pharisees that are wrapped up in legalism and works. Without love, it is all for nothing. Stop judging, and start working for your First-Love with love.)
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Ministry Update
It is 5:30 in the morning, and I have literally worked all night working on something that I am really proud to announce to all of you. I have finally, by the Grace of Almighty God, got our ministry website up and running. It is far from being where I want it, but hey, it is up and running. This is a dream that I have had for a really long time, and is what I believe is part of my calling from God.
We have worked for 2 years trying to build a Christian Counseling Ministry and Drug Addiction Center here on the ground, and have met road block after roadblock, and obstacle after obstacle. Most of those hurdles were from the Churches in the area believe it or not. They all want to talk and preach about working for God on Sunday, but when it comes to supporting something or actually working, other than the Pastors (and only a few of them) you are on your own.
But through this blog God has allowed us to help and counsel so many people, I decided to make a full time, online ministry out of it. And Praise His Holy Name, a big step in that direction has happened today. An online, Christian Counseling site, where any one can come for help for where they hurt, and get an unbiased, Bible based, Christ focused plan of action for their situation. This can range from drug addiction, to marital problems, or just plain ole Bible questions no one will answer them in English with. And it won't cost them a dime. I am not some snake-oil salesman offering a cure for money...just plain Bible advice.
Now, of course this cost's money, and if I am not going to charge what most counselor's would charge $50-75 per hour for, how are we going to pay for it? Well, as you will see, on the website, we have actually set up two different Amazon Stores. One, we sell the things ourselves, and that consists of items (mostly books and antique things) that have been donated to us, or that Roxann has found out at the flea markets and yard sales. And the other one is where third party vendors sell their stuff through our site. This is all Christian oriented stuff like Bibles and Gospel Cd's and other Christian items, which we get a small percentage of the proceeds. And finally, we sell advertising on our site through Google and Bravenet, which should be Christian tiered as well. (or at least, PG rated...no XXX sites or violent video games). Of course, noone has to buy anything, and we will not actively "sell" either, but if you are going to be shopping anyway, Amazon has just about anything you need. So instead of going to Amazon's site directly, you can use our site, and support the ministry at the same time. We will eventually have a way to offer donations (people always ask how to donate), but as of yet we haven't figured out that part yet. we want it to be transparent enough that you can easily tell we are not pulling a Benny Hinn on you and becoming millionares. I assure you, that after administrative cost's, 100% of the proceeds will go right back into the ministry...after all, we want to build our 2 million dollar treatment facilty debt free. And we will do it to.
SO here are the sites. Check them out when you have time, and remember they are still a "work in progress", and we will get it right after the inevitable hiccups.
Our main site is: http://rmbooksandcollectibles.com. We are working on changing the domain name, but we already owned that one, so we are using it until we get the money to buy another one. Don't worry, this blog will stay the same, and will not change. You can access it directly from the site as well.
The link to both stores are on the site as well, but you can also go to our personal store at http://gracecounselingstore.com. Everything is safe and secure in both, as they are both managed by Amazon.
So please check them out and tell me what you think. And please, please, interact on the site. Use the forums, Q&A's, and all the other resources on there. And I could use all the feedback you could offer and will treat all with respect and consideration. Thanks alot, and God Bless!
We have worked for 2 years trying to build a Christian Counseling Ministry and Drug Addiction Center here on the ground, and have met road block after roadblock, and obstacle after obstacle. Most of those hurdles were from the Churches in the area believe it or not. They all want to talk and preach about working for God on Sunday, but when it comes to supporting something or actually working, other than the Pastors (and only a few of them) you are on your own.
But through this blog God has allowed us to help and counsel so many people, I decided to make a full time, online ministry out of it. And Praise His Holy Name, a big step in that direction has happened today. An online, Christian Counseling site, where any one can come for help for where they hurt, and get an unbiased, Bible based, Christ focused plan of action for their situation. This can range from drug addiction, to marital problems, or just plain ole Bible questions no one will answer them in English with. And it won't cost them a dime. I am not some snake-oil salesman offering a cure for money...just plain Bible advice.
Now, of course this cost's money, and if I am not going to charge what most counselor's would charge $50-75 per hour for, how are we going to pay for it? Well, as you will see, on the website, we have actually set up two different Amazon Stores. One, we sell the things ourselves, and that consists of items (mostly books and antique things) that have been donated to us, or that Roxann has found out at the flea markets and yard sales. And the other one is where third party vendors sell their stuff through our site. This is all Christian oriented stuff like Bibles and Gospel Cd's and other Christian items, which we get a small percentage of the proceeds. And finally, we sell advertising on our site through Google and Bravenet, which should be Christian tiered as well. (or at least, PG rated...no XXX sites or violent video games). Of course, noone has to buy anything, and we will not actively "sell" either, but if you are going to be shopping anyway, Amazon has just about anything you need. So instead of going to Amazon's site directly, you can use our site, and support the ministry at the same time. We will eventually have a way to offer donations (people always ask how to donate), but as of yet we haven't figured out that part yet. we want it to be transparent enough that you can easily tell we are not pulling a Benny Hinn on you and becoming millionares. I assure you, that after administrative cost's, 100% of the proceeds will go right back into the ministry...after all, we want to build our 2 million dollar treatment facilty debt free. And we will do it to.
SO here are the sites. Check them out when you have time, and remember they are still a "work in progress", and we will get it right after the inevitable hiccups.
Our main site is: http://rmbooksandcollectibles.com. We are working on changing the domain name, but we already owned that one, so we are using it until we get the money to buy another one. Don't worry, this blog will stay the same, and will not change. You can access it directly from the site as well.
The link to both stores are on the site as well, but you can also go to our personal store at http://gracecounselingstore.com. Everything is safe and secure in both, as they are both managed by Amazon.
So please check them out and tell me what you think. And please, please, interact on the site. Use the forums, Q&A's, and all the other resources on there. And I could use all the feedback you could offer and will treat all with respect and consideration. Thanks alot, and God Bless!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
A Story
OK, most of us have pretty good imaginations, so I would like you to use them in this little story. This is a TRUE story at its base, but I have changed the circumstances for reasons you will see shortly.
Imagine for a minute that you decided to take a trip to an exotic location. It doesn't matter which one, just make one up, like one you have always wanted to go. So you are in this place, and aside from the strange customs and people, you are enjoying yourself.
You meet some friends and decide to go out one night to a local spot off in the woods, or wild, to a nice little park. While there you hear a commotion, and see that a crowd of people are approaching you. Come to find out, they are all policemen. They tell you you are under arrest. You are flabbergasted, but have no choice but to go with them.
They bring you before the Judge, and without even telling you the charges, the judge declares you guilty and then immediately sentences you to death. And not just any execution, but a special one for thieves and rapists. No matter how much you beg and plead and tell them you are not guilty, it does no good. The mode of death is that they nail you to a wood pole and let you slowly die over several days.
So they drag you to the pole, and it takes quiet a few of them, but they finally stretch your first hand out. The guard places the nail against your wrist...you can feel the point digging into your flesh. Another guard has a large hammer, and he rears it back, preparing to strike. But then all of a sudden a voice rings out..."Wait, wait, " it yells. This gentleman deserves to die, but instead I would like to take his place.
The guards were surprised and talked among themselves and then told the newcomer, " We must clear this through the Judge, for someone must die today for those crimes." It just so happens that the Judge was in the crowd that had gathered. The Judge slowly walks to the man and says to the guard, this man is my Son. "But He insists," the guard said. And the Judge declared, "As long as it is of His own free will, I will allow my Son to take the place of this criminal."
And that is just what happened.
Sound unbelievable? But something very similar happened. You see, the human race had become so corrupt and vile that the Lord God was going to condemn every living soul to death.
That was, unless a worthy sacrifice could be found. And after looking all through the Heavens and earth, a Worthy Sacrifice was found.
Revelations Chapter 5, verse 12 states: " Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain."
You see, that Lamb was Jesus, and He died a horrible, horrible death...in your place.
No matter how good a person you are, or how many good things you have done, you will never be worthy enough to stand before God. For even the best among us has sin. It was imparted to us at our birth.
So those 39 stripes...three nails...1 spear...and countless beatings- God plainly says that should have been you. But Jesus chose to take your place. And if you are washed in His blood, then you become worthy to stand before God. You know, God could have asked one of the angels to go...maybe Michael, or Gabriel, and they would have obeyed. But instead He came Himself.
Every man, woman, and child will one day stand before Gods throne, and bow upon our knees. But Jesse, you say, I don't believe in all that. Well that's ok, you will still bow.
And God will see one of two things: He will either see you for what you really are (a sinful human being), or He will see the Blood of Jesus Christ, which covers you at Salvation.
But He will not pass judgment yet. He will look over at His Son, who is sitting at His right hand and ask, "My Son, do you know this person?" And if Jesus says Yes, then you will hear these beautiful words: Well done My good and faithful servant; come in and share the bounty of your Lord." Or if He says no, you will hear: "Depart from me forever more and you will be thrown into the darkness (hell) where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Note: You can find a parable where Jesus explains this very thing in Matthew 25:14-30)
So see, why wait? The penalty has already been paid, so why not accept His free gift to you?
Which answer will you hear when God asks His son "Do you know this person?"
I know the answer for me...but do you. If you would like to know how to receive this free gift, shoot me an e-mail and I will get in touch with you!
PS- I hope to have a Plan of Salvation posted here soon for those of you that have suggested it. I just have learned how to post these, so please be patient!!
Jesse
Imagine for a minute that you decided to take a trip to an exotic location. It doesn't matter which one, just make one up, like one you have always wanted to go. So you are in this place, and aside from the strange customs and people, you are enjoying yourself.
You meet some friends and decide to go out one night to a local spot off in the woods, or wild, to a nice little park. While there you hear a commotion, and see that a crowd of people are approaching you. Come to find out, they are all policemen. They tell you you are under arrest. You are flabbergasted, but have no choice but to go with them.
They bring you before the Judge, and without even telling you the charges, the judge declares you guilty and then immediately sentences you to death. And not just any execution, but a special one for thieves and rapists. No matter how much you beg and plead and tell them you are not guilty, it does no good. The mode of death is that they nail you to a wood pole and let you slowly die over several days.
So they drag you to the pole, and it takes quiet a few of them, but they finally stretch your first hand out. The guard places the nail against your wrist...you can feel the point digging into your flesh. Another guard has a large hammer, and he rears it back, preparing to strike. But then all of a sudden a voice rings out..."Wait, wait, " it yells. This gentleman deserves to die, but instead I would like to take his place.
The guards were surprised and talked among themselves and then told the newcomer, " We must clear this through the Judge, for someone must die today for those crimes." It just so happens that the Judge was in the crowd that had gathered. The Judge slowly walks to the man and says to the guard, this man is my Son. "But He insists," the guard said. And the Judge declared, "As long as it is of His own free will, I will allow my Son to take the place of this criminal."
And that is just what happened.
Sound unbelievable? But something very similar happened. You see, the human race had become so corrupt and vile that the Lord God was going to condemn every living soul to death.
That was, unless a worthy sacrifice could be found. And after looking all through the Heavens and earth, a Worthy Sacrifice was found.
Revelations Chapter 5, verse 12 states: " Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain."
You see, that Lamb was Jesus, and He died a horrible, horrible death...in your place.
No matter how good a person you are, or how many good things you have done, you will never be worthy enough to stand before God. For even the best among us has sin. It was imparted to us at our birth.
So those 39 stripes...three nails...1 spear...and countless beatings- God plainly says that should have been you. But Jesus chose to take your place. And if you are washed in His blood, then you become worthy to stand before God. You know, God could have asked one of the angels to go...maybe Michael, or Gabriel, and they would have obeyed. But instead He came Himself.
Every man, woman, and child will one day stand before Gods throne, and bow upon our knees. But Jesse, you say, I don't believe in all that. Well that's ok, you will still bow.
And God will see one of two things: He will either see you for what you really are (a sinful human being), or He will see the Blood of Jesus Christ, which covers you at Salvation.
But He will not pass judgment yet. He will look over at His Son, who is sitting at His right hand and ask, "My Son, do you know this person?" And if Jesus says Yes, then you will hear these beautiful words: Well done My good and faithful servant; come in and share the bounty of your Lord." Or if He says no, you will hear: "Depart from me forever more and you will be thrown into the darkness (hell) where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Note: You can find a parable where Jesus explains this very thing in Matthew 25:14-30)
So see, why wait? The penalty has already been paid, so why not accept His free gift to you?
Which answer will you hear when God asks His son "Do you know this person?"
I know the answer for me...but do you. If you would like to know how to receive this free gift, shoot me an e-mail and I will get in touch with you!
PS- I hope to have a Plan of Salvation posted here soon for those of you that have suggested it. I just have learned how to post these, so please be patient!!
Jesse
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)