I recently saw this post, and it got me thinking. I have recently been looking a little closer at how most contraceptives work, and well, I am not happy with what I am finding.
So, in the beginning, the "pill" was meant to prevent ovulation and conception. Personally, I have no problems with contraceptives that are designed like this. But, it turns out that the "pill" was not effective enough. The hormones didn't work for everyone, so they decided to change it. Now, the "pills" also affect the uterine wall, which prevents implantation OR promotes a very early miscarriage. This is were most Christians (including myself) have problems. I believe life begins at conception. I don't want to add something to my body that will promote the loss of life. I know it happens naturally sometimes, but that doesn't mean I want it to happen artificially. Some might take the stand that preventing implantation is okay (often the medical definition of life begins at implantation), but what the "pill" does now even would be a loss of life to those people. This goes for the mini pill too! Oh, and the IUD. And the patch, and well, pretty much all non-barrier contraceptives...
So, now to Santorum's point. I am not completely up on politics. I live in a state with a later primary, so I am waiting until things "thin out" to look too closely. But, I wonder if SOME of his point is that this should be a state issue - not a federal issue. Our federal government has definitely overstepped its rights recently. If you look at the rolls of the federal government, many of the things our current government handles it shouldn't. The states have a lot less power than our founding fathers planned/desired/wanted.
Now, with that being said, do I think all contraceptives should be outlawed? No. I personally have 0 problem with the barrier options. Condoms, etc I don't think should ever be outlawed. But, I think those methods of birth control that do increase the likelihood of an early miscarriage should, at the VERY LEAST, be only offered once how they work is fully explained. People need to know that it isn't that much different than the morning after pill.
Now for those that say without contraceptives women are going to have a ton of babies are also wrong. There are also natural ways to control when you get pregnant. NFP, etc are almost as affective when you have regular cycles. Now there are devices to help even those with irregular cycles determine when they are fertile, which means a form of NFP can be used (I don't know if they are available in the US just yet, but one article I read said they are in Europe and the FDA is working on approving them here). But, it means women have to do a little more than taking a pill a day, which I guess some people don't want. But, if it was the only option, I bet most would use it! Add in the barrier options, and I bet our birth rates wouldn't change much. I would venture to bet that the abortion rate (assuming it was still legal) would even drop because women would be more aware of their bodies, etc...
Showing posts with label Religion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Religion. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Friday, April 17, 2009
Gay Marriage
Personally, I don't think it should be legal. But there is more to this than that. Most of it comes down to what rights they don't have/do have.
Does a gay/homosexual person have the right to marry?
Yes
Does a gay have the right to marry the person he/she loves?
No, but we aren't guaranteed that right either. What if you loved your sister? Could you marry her? No. What if you loved a married man, could you marry him? No. There are lots of cases where you can't marry the person you love... and I don't hear people crying foul on these...
Are there things the government needs to work out in terms of rights?
Depends on the state. Most states have expanded the next o kin to include persons chosen by the injured/sick/deceased. But, you have to have a will/living will for this to work. Many companies and states have allowed domestic partners to receive benefits as well. The only thing that I know of that is totally not accessible to domestic partners (verses married couples) is Social Security. And personally, I think this program is falling apart enough as it is... I just wish we could get rid of it because it is going bankrupt. No one should depend on getting money out of it if you aren't at or very near retirement right now...
What are your thoughts? What rights do gays not have? By giving them those rights, are we opening ourselves up for greater issues later?
Does a gay/homosexual person have the right to marry?
Yes
Does a gay have the right to marry the person he/she loves?
No, but we aren't guaranteed that right either. What if you loved your sister? Could you marry her? No. What if you loved a married man, could you marry him? No. There are lots of cases where you can't marry the person you love... and I don't hear people crying foul on these...
Are there things the government needs to work out in terms of rights?
Depends on the state. Most states have expanded the next o kin to include persons chosen by the injured/sick/deceased. But, you have to have a will/living will for this to work. Many companies and states have allowed domestic partners to receive benefits as well. The only thing that I know of that is totally not accessible to domestic partners (verses married couples) is Social Security. And personally, I think this program is falling apart enough as it is... I just wish we could get rid of it because it is going bankrupt. No one should depend on getting money out of it if you aren't at or very near retirement right now...
What are your thoughts? What rights do gays not have? By giving them those rights, are we opening ourselves up for greater issues later?
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Birth Control
This post will be about the basic options and the moral issues some have with them. Feel free to share what you think! This is just a basic overview of what I know...
Hormone Options (Pill, Patch, etc)
The originally, the goal of these methods was to prevent the body from ovulating. But, they found out that even with high doses, some women still ovulated. So, now they also prevent implantation in the event you do ovulate, etc. As a result, many Christians have issue with these. Because they prevent implantation, there can still be conception. So, many feel that this method causes very early abortions. Also, for some women (like Mrs. Duggar), the embryo will implant but will not survive due to the poor uterine lining caused by the birth control.
Barrier Options (Condom, Diaphragm, etc)
These methods prevent the sperm from getting to the egg. The only object some have with these methods (morally) is that you are having relations without a chance of conception. You are relations without a chance of pregnancy (i.e. the Catholic objection to most birth control). But, in my mind, God can still cause the barrier to fail if He wanted you pregnant - they are 100% effective!
Surgical Methods (Tubal Ligation/Vasectomy)
These two methods (as well as the new Essure method) create a "hole" in one partner's plumbing so that either the egg or sperm is not available for conception. The moral objections to a vasectomy are the same as to the barrier methods. With the tubal ligation, there may be an increased chance of ectopic pregnancy. So, as a result some women choose to not have it done because they are afraid of being the cause of causing a child to die (similar to the issues with hormonal methods).
Family Planning
There are many versions of this, but the general principle is that you chart and determine when you ovulate. You refrain for relations or use a barrier method during the period of time you may become pregnant. The only moral objection to this is not giving God complete control (in some people's minds).
How do you feel about birth control? Did you know about all of these moral issues? Do you know of more moral issues?
Please Share Your Ideas!
Hormone Options (Pill, Patch, etc)
The originally, the goal of these methods was to prevent the body from ovulating. But, they found out that even with high doses, some women still ovulated. So, now they also prevent implantation in the event you do ovulate, etc. As a result, many Christians have issue with these. Because they prevent implantation, there can still be conception. So, many feel that this method causes very early abortions. Also, for some women (like Mrs. Duggar), the embryo will implant but will not survive due to the poor uterine lining caused by the birth control.
Barrier Options (Condom, Diaphragm, etc)
These methods prevent the sperm from getting to the egg. The only object some have with these methods (morally) is that you are having relations without a chance of conception. You are relations without a chance of pregnancy (i.e. the Catholic objection to most birth control). But, in my mind, God can still cause the barrier to fail if He wanted you pregnant - they are 100% effective!
Surgical Methods (Tubal Ligation/Vasectomy)
These two methods (as well as the new Essure method) create a "hole" in one partner's plumbing so that either the egg or sperm is not available for conception. The moral objections to a vasectomy are the same as to the barrier methods. With the tubal ligation, there may be an increased chance of ectopic pregnancy. So, as a result some women choose to not have it done because they are afraid of being the cause of causing a child to die (similar to the issues with hormonal methods).
Family Planning
There are many versions of this, but the general principle is that you chart and determine when you ovulate. You refrain for relations or use a barrier method during the period of time you may become pregnant. The only moral objection to this is not giving God complete control (in some people's minds).
How do you feel about birth control? Did you know about all of these moral issues? Do you know of more moral issues?
Please Share Your Ideas!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Children/Age of Accountability
Here is Jen L's question:
I've been thinking a lot about kids and Christianity. A friend recently posted on FB that her 18 month old son had helped her lead worship at school one morning (she's the music director at a church school) and that he was clapping and raising his hands in praise and she was so proud of him for worshiping like that. Maybe I'm rude for saying this, but I think he was just imitating behavior he had seen. Our kids are only a few months behind him age-wise, and I don't think either of them really understands the concept of praise and worship, no matter how much we've ha them in church. I grew up in church and did a lot of the same things I saw the adults doing, but until I was around 7, I didn't really start to understand. I don't think it was until I was in middle school that I really understood the idea of praise and being a Christian. It is definitely importatnt to instill our Christian values in our kids from a very young age, but I guess my question for discussion is what is the age of accountability? When do you think kids are really able to grasp the concepts of what it means to be a Christian? Obviously it's a constant process, as I am still learning new aspects of it myself. An interesting topic for us moms of youngsters, I think!
I don't know if there is an actual age for the age of accountability, but it is something I definitely believe in (see David's son for an example). Some kids I think can grasp the concept at 5 or so. Others don't grasp it until 7 or 8 I bet. Then there are those with mental impairments that may never be able to fully grasp the concept.
I totally agree with you that the 18 month old was probably just mimicking. But, this is a great way to teach the little ones how to behave in church, etc. If you set the examples early on, it is easier to get them to follow it. This is why I am actually glad AJU5 sits with me most Sundays at church. We got to a very small church, and so we don't have a true nursery (we have a room, but there aren't enough kids to really have someone in there during service). She is learning how to sit in church, how to pray, and how to worship God. These are things we will have to explain to her later, but she is getting the ideas now.
I think you are also right when you say it is all a process. There are teenagers and adults even that have accept Christ as their Saviour but have not fully understood what it meant. They just followed along. Now, that isn't to say that these people aren't saved, but it is a big reason for discipleship and Christian education. I know I am still learning a lot about my faith! There are things I believed when I first was saved that I don't agree with now. There are things I didn't even know about then that I have strong convictions on now.
+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+
So, I answered the "two" questions I got. I don't know if anyone else reads this, but if you have other things you want me to discuss, let me know! I am more than willing to try and conquer any question!
I've been thinking a lot about kids and Christianity. A friend recently posted on FB that her 18 month old son had helped her lead worship at school one morning (she's the music director at a church school) and that he was clapping and raising his hands in praise and she was so proud of him for worshiping like that. Maybe I'm rude for saying this, but I think he was just imitating behavior he had seen. Our kids are only a few months behind him age-wise, and I don't think either of them really understands the concept of praise and worship, no matter how much we've ha them in church. I grew up in church and did a lot of the same things I saw the adults doing, but until I was around 7, I didn't really start to understand. I don't think it was until I was in middle school that I really understood the idea of praise and being a Christian. It is definitely importatnt to instill our Christian values in our kids from a very young age, but I guess my question for discussion is what is the age of accountability? When do you think kids are really able to grasp the concepts of what it means to be a Christian? Obviously it's a constant process, as I am still learning new aspects of it myself. An interesting topic for us moms of youngsters, I think!
I don't know if there is an actual age for the age of accountability, but it is something I definitely believe in (see David's son for an example). Some kids I think can grasp the concept at 5 or so. Others don't grasp it until 7 or 8 I bet. Then there are those with mental impairments that may never be able to fully grasp the concept.
I totally agree with you that the 18 month old was probably just mimicking. But, this is a great way to teach the little ones how to behave in church, etc. If you set the examples early on, it is easier to get them to follow it. This is why I am actually glad AJU5 sits with me most Sundays at church. We got to a very small church, and so we don't have a true nursery (we have a room, but there aren't enough kids to really have someone in there during service). She is learning how to sit in church, how to pray, and how to worship God. These are things we will have to explain to her later, but she is getting the ideas now.
I think you are also right when you say it is all a process. There are teenagers and adults even that have accept Christ as their Saviour but have not fully understood what it meant. They just followed along. Now, that isn't to say that these people aren't saved, but it is a big reason for discipleship and Christian education. I know I am still learning a lot about my faith! There are things I believed when I first was saved that I don't agree with now. There are things I didn't even know about then that I have strong convictions on now.
+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+
So, I answered the "two" questions I got. I don't know if anyone else reads this, but if you have other things you want me to discuss, let me know! I am more than willing to try and conquer any question!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Baptism
Baptize is from the Greek word "Baptizo" which means immersing.
Chronologically, one of the first mentions of baptism in the Bible is in Matthew 3:
5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. ...
11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Here John the Baptist is baptizing Jews prior to Jesus beginning His ministry. This baptism was a symbolic washing away of sins committed. It was similar to the washing the high priests did before offering the prayers of the people up to God in the Temple.
Later in that chapter, John the Baptist baptizes Jesus:
13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”
15 But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.
16 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Jesus did not need to have the cleansing from sins - as He was sinless. Instead, He was baptized as an example for us. (These verses also give us evidence of the Trinity in that all three parts of God are described individually).
Later, at the Great Commission, we are instructed to go and baptize:
Matthew 28:
19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
It is clear that baptism is something the saved should partake in. But, is it required for salvation?
I do not believe it is. First, salvation is by faith and not works. Baptism is a work. Second, one of the thieves at Calvary was saved but not baptized (Luke 23:39-43). There are verses that state baptism and salvation in the same sentence, but if you look at the sentence structure in the Greek, it seems clear that it is not a requirement of salvation (I don't remember the exact verses for this, but if you would like, I can look it up).
Now, for the method of baptism: If you read the first line of the post, baptism should be an immersion, because that is what baptism means. Also, that is how it was done in the New Testament - submersion in the river. So, I do not agree with the sprinkling form of baptism. I also don't agree with infant baptism. I believe baptism is something you do in response to faith. It should be done by the saved as an act of obedience to God. It is a form of public confession of our faith. An infant is not able to make that statement of faith, and therefore I don't believe an infant should be baptized. I know some parents do it as a sign they are going to raise the child in the nurture and ammunition of the Lord, but I think a dedication service is a better fit for this statement.
Questions? Comments?
Chronologically, one of the first mentions of baptism in the Bible is in Matthew 3:
5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. ...
11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Here John the Baptist is baptizing Jews prior to Jesus beginning His ministry. This baptism was a symbolic washing away of sins committed. It was similar to the washing the high priests did before offering the prayers of the people up to God in the Temple.
Later in that chapter, John the Baptist baptizes Jesus:
13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”
15 But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.
16 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Jesus did not need to have the cleansing from sins - as He was sinless. Instead, He was baptized as an example for us. (These verses also give us evidence of the Trinity in that all three parts of God are described individually).
Later, at the Great Commission, we are instructed to go and baptize:
Matthew 28:
19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
It is clear that baptism is something the saved should partake in. But, is it required for salvation?
I do not believe it is. First, salvation is by faith and not works. Baptism is a work. Second, one of the thieves at Calvary was saved but not baptized (Luke 23:39-43). There are verses that state baptism and salvation in the same sentence, but if you look at the sentence structure in the Greek, it seems clear that it is not a requirement of salvation (I don't remember the exact verses for this, but if you would like, I can look it up).
Now, for the method of baptism: If you read the first line of the post, baptism should be an immersion, because that is what baptism means. Also, that is how it was done in the New Testament - submersion in the river. So, I do not agree with the sprinkling form of baptism. I also don't agree with infant baptism. I believe baptism is something you do in response to faith. It should be done by the saved as an act of obedience to God. It is a form of public confession of our faith. An infant is not able to make that statement of faith, and therefore I don't believe an infant should be baptized. I know some parents do it as a sign they are going to raise the child in the nurture and ammunition of the Lord, but I think a dedication service is a better fit for this statement.
Questions? Comments?
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Sanctity of Life
Thirty-six years ago, Roe v. Wade was decided, allowing abortion on demand in the United States. I have already posted my views on abortion, but after suffering a miscarriage at the beginning of the year, I have an even greater feeling for babies aborted at six weeks or later. I have ultrasound pictures of our Junior #2 that measured him/her at 6 wks 5 d (although now we feel that the baby may have been old gestationally). It looked like a baby. It is our baby. Our AJU5 is a big sister, with a baby brother or sister in heaven waiting for us. Focus on the Family has a campaign to get women considering an abortion an ultrasound to see their children. I hope this helps these women see what they are doing...
Today in the local university's student newspaper, a letter to the editor claims that those of us who are pro-life want to return to the back alley abortion days. This is not the case! We want no child to be aborted (with the exception of to save a mother's life). I wish we lived in a world where sex was saved for marriage. I wish no child was conceived to parents that would consider to abort it. I wish we lived in a perfect world. But, we live in a human world. And our human sin nature is always causing problems. Children are conceived to parents who aren't ready and willing to raise the child. They are conceived to women who aren't wiling to allow the chld to grow inside of them and then give the baby to two adults that are willing to raise it. Instead, we live in a selfish society. We live where what "I" want is more important than what is means to others around me.
Today in the local university's student newspaper, a letter to the editor claims that those of us who are pro-life want to return to the back alley abortion days. This is not the case! We want no child to be aborted (with the exception of to save a mother's life). I wish we lived in a world where sex was saved for marriage. I wish no child was conceived to parents that would consider to abort it. I wish we lived in a perfect world. But, we live in a human world. And our human sin nature is always causing problems. Children are conceived to parents who aren't ready and willing to raise the child. They are conceived to women who aren't wiling to allow the chld to grow inside of them and then give the baby to two adults that are willing to raise it. Instead, we live in a selfish society. We live where what "I" want is more important than what is means to others around me.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Z is for...
Zealous.
Are you zealous for God?
Are you zealous for payer?
Are you zealous about the Bible?
Why or why not?
Are you zealous for God?
Are you zealous for payer?
Are you zealous about the Bible?
Why or why not?
Sunday, November 23, 2008
T is for...
Truth.
Jesus is the way, the TRUTH, and the light. IN a world where many do not believe in absolute truth, those of us who are Believers do. Jesus is that truth. The Bible is true. If it wasn't, our faith would be meaningless. Personally, I hold to a literal translation of the Bible. Unless it is clear to the average person that the passage is symbolic, then I believe it should be taken literally. Other believers say that parts can not to be taken literally. But, I feel that if you only take some parts literally, how do you know what should be literal? It would be easy to say the whole Bible was just a fictional story in that case.
What do you think?
Jesus is the way, the TRUTH, and the light. IN a world where many do not believe in absolute truth, those of us who are Believers do. Jesus is that truth. The Bible is true. If it wasn't, our faith would be meaningless. Personally, I hold to a literal translation of the Bible. Unless it is clear to the average person that the passage is symbolic, then I believe it should be taken literally. Other believers say that parts can not to be taken literally. But, I feel that if you only take some parts literally, how do you know what should be literal? It would be easy to say the whole Bible was just a fictional story in that case.
What do you think?
Saturday, November 22, 2008
S is for...
Salvation.
Salvation is a free gift from God. All we have to do is accept this gift How do you accept the gift? Admit you are a sinner, Believe on Jesus Christ, and Confess that He is the Lord of your life. It is that easy! Some religions say you have to work for your salvation, but that is not the case with Christianity. Salvation is completely by faith. Now, once you have faith, you should do works, but they are not required for salvation. Works are how we show our faith to the world.
Salvation is a free gift from God. All we have to do is accept this gift How do you accept the gift? Admit you are a sinner, Believe on Jesus Christ, and Confess that He is the Lord of your life. It is that easy! Some religions say you have to work for your salvation, but that is not the case with Christianity. Salvation is completely by faith. Now, once you have faith, you should do works, but they are not required for salvation. Works are how we show our faith to the world.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Q is for...
Quiet.
* I know I got off on the alphabet. I blame it on Blogger. I had drafts set up in my other blog, and it wasn't sorting them correctly. I thought the next draft was R, when it should have been Q.
How did God speak to Elijah (1 Kings 19:11-12)?
Was He in the wind? No.
Was He in the earthquake? No.
Was He in the fire? No.
He was in the still small voice. We have to be quiet in order to hear from God. Most of the time He isn't going to yell at us or make things perfectly clear. Instead, we have to be still and wait for His answer. During these quiet times, try praying or studying your Bible. The Bible is the Word of God, and some times He speaks through that. Other times He will lay the answer on your heart while you pray. Very few people will claim to have heard the audible voice of God. But many have heard His answer in the still, small voice.
* I know I got off on the alphabet. I blame it on Blogger. I had drafts set up in my other blog, and it wasn't sorting them correctly. I thought the next draft was R, when it should have been Q.
How did God speak to Elijah (1 Kings 19:11-12)?
Was He in the wind? No.
Was He in the earthquake? No.
Was He in the fire? No.
He was in the still small voice. We have to be quiet in order to hear from God. Most of the time He isn't going to yell at us or make things perfectly clear. Instead, we have to be still and wait for His answer. During these quiet times, try praying or studying your Bible. The Bible is the Word of God, and some times He speaks through that. Other times He will lay the answer on your heart while you pray. Very few people will claim to have heard the audible voice of God. But many have heard His answer in the still, small voice.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
R is for...
Righteous.
We serve a righteous God. He can only do right. When Jesus was here on earth, He never sinned.
Are we righteous? No. We sin - each and everyone of us. Some will say they are good, but do they live up to God's standards? No. That is the thing we have to remember - we are not living up to man's standards. We are living up to God's. Since we will never live a sinless life, we do not meet His standard of righteousness. Therefore, we do not deserve to go to heaven. It is only by the gift of God that we get that opportunity.
Romans 3:10
As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
We serve a righteous God. He can only do right. When Jesus was here on earth, He never sinned.
Are we righteous? No. We sin - each and everyone of us. Some will say they are good, but do they live up to God's standards? No. That is the thing we have to remember - we are not living up to man's standards. We are living up to God's. Since we will never live a sinless life, we do not meet His standard of righteousness. Therefore, we do not deserve to go to heaven. It is only by the gift of God that we get that opportunity.
Romans 3:10
As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
P is for...
Peace.
Do I believe we will ever see world peace? Not in my life time! I think the first time there will be world peace is during the Tribulation. (And since I believe in a Pre-Tribulation Rapture, I will not be on earth during this time). The first few years (3.5 ish) will be peaceful because of the peace treaty. Then there will be wars and worse things until Christ returns for the Battle of Armageddon. Then there will be peace for 1000 years (the Millennium). This will be followed by one final war.
So, should we pray for peace? Yes. I think that God does listen to our prayers. I think that if there is enough pray then the wars won't be so terrible - fewer deaths, fewer injuries, shorter. But there will still be wars. Why? Because we humans are greedy! We want land. We want power. As a result, men will fight to win the spoils of war. As we approach the last days, the wars will increase because of the rising evil in the world.
There is a lot more I could say about the Tribulation, wars, etc. But I know that even true Christians differ on these issues. I want everyone to remember the most important thing - belief! Things like the Rapture and creation are important to how you interpret the Bible, but saved men stand on all sides of the fence on these issues. Debate is fine, but arguing over these issues is not. This is especially the case with non-believers. The most important thing is to show them who Christ was and lead them to salvation. It is not if they believe in creation or evolution... or how they feel about gay marriage... or about abortion...
Do I believe we will ever see world peace? Not in my life time! I think the first time there will be world peace is during the Tribulation. (And since I believe in a Pre-Tribulation Rapture, I will not be on earth during this time). The first few years (3.5 ish) will be peaceful because of the peace treaty. Then there will be wars and worse things until Christ returns for the Battle of Armageddon. Then there will be peace for 1000 years (the Millennium). This will be followed by one final war.
So, should we pray for peace? Yes. I think that God does listen to our prayers. I think that if there is enough pray then the wars won't be so terrible - fewer deaths, fewer injuries, shorter. But there will still be wars. Why? Because we humans are greedy! We want land. We want power. As a result, men will fight to win the spoils of war. As we approach the last days, the wars will increase because of the rising evil in the world.
There is a lot more I could say about the Tribulation, wars, etc. But I know that even true Christians differ on these issues. I want everyone to remember the most important thing - belief! Things like the Rapture and creation are important to how you interpret the Bible, but saved men stand on all sides of the fence on these issues. Debate is fine, but arguing over these issues is not. This is especially the case with non-believers. The most important thing is to show them who Christ was and lead them to salvation. It is not if they believe in creation or evolution... or how they feel about gay marriage... or about abortion...
Monday, November 10, 2008
H is for...
Holiness.
God is holy. He is the only one who is worthy of our worship. He is the one that is perfect in everything. He is the only one who isn't going to make bad choices. Therefore, we are to continually strive to be holy as God is holy. This isn't easy. But, it should be our daily goal. We will never actually be holy here on earth. We will fail daily. But, along the path, we should become more holy, more like God. We may have some setbacks, but our overall course should be towards perfect.
God is holy. He is the only one who is worthy of our worship. He is the one that is perfect in everything. He is the only one who isn't going to make bad choices. Therefore, we are to continually strive to be holy as God is holy. This isn't easy. But, it should be our daily goal. We will never actually be holy here on earth. We will fail daily. But, along the path, we should become more holy, more like God. We may have some setbacks, but our overall course should be towards perfect.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
G is for...
Goodness.
Have you ever noticed that God and Good are similar words. What about Evil and Devil? I don't think it is coincidence. God is an example of all that is good. The devil is an example of all that is evil.
Psalm 25:8 (KJV) says:
Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way.
He shows us the good path, although it is narrow. Jesus is our example. He was able to live a life here on earth without sinning, something no one else has been able to do or will ever be able to do! So, if you want to know what is good, seek to know what God's will is!
Have you ever noticed that God and Good are similar words. What about Evil and Devil? I don't think it is coincidence. God is an example of all that is good. The devil is an example of all that is evil.
Psalm 25:8 (KJV) says:
Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way.
He shows us the good path, although it is narrow. Jesus is our example. He was able to live a life here on earth without sinning, something no one else has been able to do or will ever be able to do! So, if you want to know what is good, seek to know what God's will is!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
F is for...
Faithful.
1 John 1:9 (KJV)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
God is faithful. He keeps His promises and is with us through everything. Since He already knows what is going to happen, nothing surprises Him. There is nothing we could do to lose His love or our salvation. He is faithful!
We are to be faithful as well. We are to daily read His word, daily spend time with Him in prayer, regularly fellowship with other believers in corporate worship. If we are faithful in these things, we will be close to God. Although we will still face challenges along the way, we will deal with the trials better because of our strong relationship with the One who created everything and is in charge of everything! Now if only I could do this without stumbling so often...
1 John 1:9 (KJV)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
God is faithful. He keeps His promises and is with us through everything. Since He already knows what is going to happen, nothing surprises Him. There is nothing we could do to lose His love or our salvation. He is faithful!
We are to be faithful as well. We are to daily read His word, daily spend time with Him in prayer, regularly fellowship with other believers in corporate worship. If we are faithful in these things, we will be close to God. Although we will still face challenges along the way, we will deal with the trials better because of our strong relationship with the One who created everything and is in charge of everything! Now if only I could do this without stumbling so often...
Friday, November 7, 2008
E is for...
Everlasting.
Or Eternal.
What does eternal mean? Does it mean going on forever (like a ray)? Or does it mean existing forever int he past and forever in the future (like a line)? Well, God is eternal because He has exited from eternity past and will exist into eternity future. We are everlasting, existing into eternity future. But, we have not existed from eternity past. The Saved will spend eternity in Heaved and the Unsaved in Hell. We will all exist for eternity though.
Or Eternal.
What does eternal mean? Does it mean going on forever (like a ray)? Or does it mean existing forever int he past and forever in the future (like a line)? Well, God is eternal because He has exited from eternity past and will exist into eternity future. We are everlasting, existing into eternity future. But, we have not existed from eternity past. The Saved will spend eternity in Heaved and the Unsaved in Hell. We will all exist for eternity though.
Monday, November 3, 2008
B is for...
Believe.
Believe is the B in the ABC's of Christianity:
A - Admit to God that you are a sinner and repent and turn away from your sin.
B - Believe that Jesus is the Son of God and gave His life for you and me.
C - Confess your faith in Jesus as your Savior and Lord forevermore.
Works are not what save us - it is believe (and hence faith). Many religions put the ownership of salvation on the individual to work for it. There are certain things you must do to be saved is what they tell you. In Christianity, it is 100% by faith - not any work that we do. All you have to do ie believe. The book of Romans gives a good outline for salvation - often referred to as the Roman Road to Salvation (google it if you haven't heard of it before).
Believe is the B in the ABC's of Christianity:
A - Admit to God that you are a sinner and repent and turn away from your sin.
B - Believe that Jesus is the Son of God and gave His life for you and me.
C - Confess your faith in Jesus as your Savior and Lord forevermore.
Works are not what save us - it is believe (and hence faith). Many religions put the ownership of salvation on the individual to work for it. There are certain things you must do to be saved is what they tell you. In Christianity, it is 100% by faith - not any work that we do. All you have to do ie believe. The book of Romans gives a good outline for salvation - often referred to as the Roman Road to Salvation (google it if you haven't heard of it before).
Sunday, November 2, 2008
A is for...
Almighty
Our God is the almighty God. El Shaddai.
The name El Shaddai is used 48 times in the Old Testament to refer to God. Most of those are in the book of Job. It is interesting that it is used in Job because of the story that it told there. At the request of Satan, God allows everything to be taken away from Job except his wife and his health. Still, Job will not curse God. He knows that God is in control and is able to give and take away. He is the the God Almighty.
We try to be mighty and powerful, but we tend to fall short. We think we can take car of things on our own, but we often fail. When we put our trust in El Shaddai, it turns out things are easier. He is all-powerful. He is able to do everything. I am glad I have put my faith and hope in the One who is able to do all things!
Our God is the almighty God. El Shaddai.
The name El Shaddai is used 48 times in the Old Testament to refer to God. Most of those are in the book of Job. It is interesting that it is used in Job because of the story that it told there. At the request of Satan, God allows everything to be taken away from Job except his wife and his health. Still, Job will not curse God. He knows that God is in control and is able to give and take away. He is the the God Almighty.
We try to be mighty and powerful, but we tend to fall short. We think we can take car of things on our own, but we often fail. When we put our trust in El Shaddai, it turns out things are easier. He is all-powerful. He is able to do everything. I am glad I have put my faith and hope in the One who is able to do all things!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
License to Sin?
Many believe that Christianity teaches that you have a license to sin once you have become a Christian. But, the Bible is very clear that this is not the case.
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Romans 6:1-2 (KJV)
These two verses are ones I feel make it clear that we are not given a license to sin. Instead, we are to abstain from sin. This does not mean we will live a perfect, sinless life. We will fall and sin daily, but the sin should not the purposeful. We are not to do something just because we know God will forgive us when we ask it of Him.
What about where the Bible says we are to be sinless?
Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. 1 John 3:6
In English, it seems that if we sin we are not Christian. But, the problem is the English language and the lack of verb tenses. The sin mentioned in the above verse is that of continual sin - a life of sin. We are to not live a life of sin. We are to daily refrain from sin. If the verse above were saying one sin took away your salvation, then there is a great contradiction in 1 John:
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 1 John 1:8-10
These verses make it clear that we will not be perfect. To think that we are is actually a sin.
**************************************************
Today I finished reading The Face of God by Bill Meyers. This book is very thought provoking. THe main characters are: a Christian trapped in a world of legalism and works, a young man raised in the church who doesn't know what to believe, a Jew by genetics but an atheist by faith, a "mainstream" Muslim, and a fanatical Muslim extremist. A key thought in the story is "thou hast left thy first love" (Revelations 2:4b). I think is the a huge problem in Christianity today. We are caught up in serving God without spending the time to fellowship with God. We are doing so much for Him and the world that we forget about Him. We lean on our own strength and understanding, and not His. I highly recommend this book to anyone who sees hypocrisy in the Church or is confused about the difference between Islam and Christianity.
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Romans 6:1-2 (KJV)
These two verses are ones I feel make it clear that we are not given a license to sin. Instead, we are to abstain from sin. This does not mean we will live a perfect, sinless life. We will fall and sin daily, but the sin should not the purposeful. We are not to do something just because we know God will forgive us when we ask it of Him.
What about where the Bible says we are to be sinless?
Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. 1 John 3:6
In English, it seems that if we sin we are not Christian. But, the problem is the English language and the lack of verb tenses. The sin mentioned in the above verse is that of continual sin - a life of sin. We are to not live a life of sin. We are to daily refrain from sin. If the verse above were saying one sin took away your salvation, then there is a great contradiction in 1 John:
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 1 John 1:8-10
These verses make it clear that we will not be perfect. To think that we are is actually a sin.
**************************************************
Today I finished reading The Face of God by Bill Meyers. This book is very thought provoking. THe main characters are: a Christian trapped in a world of legalism and works, a young man raised in the church who doesn't know what to believe, a Jew by genetics but an atheist by faith, a "mainstream" Muslim, and a fanatical Muslim extremist. A key thought in the story is "thou hast left thy first love" (Revelations 2:4b). I think is the a huge problem in Christianity today. We are caught up in serving God without spending the time to fellowship with God. We are doing so much for Him and the world that we forget about Him. We lean on our own strength and understanding, and not His. I highly recommend this book to anyone who sees hypocrisy in the Church or is confused about the difference between Islam and Christianity.
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