My fairly low key (academic) discussion of Jesus' teaching on the "least of these" is complete, but warrants some outside observations.
While it is true that Christians have historically been leaders in compassion ministries, there is at least the perception that today confessing Christians are at times indifferent to the needs of justice and the poor.
This is at least partially true. We all get caught up in the affairs of our immediate surroundings and forget about others. A reminder is in order from the pulpits across the nation.
The needs of "these brothers of mine" was brought to the forefront last Sunday as the International Day of Prayer for the persecuted church (IDOP). It's very uncomfortable to think about our suffering brothers and sisters in Christ.
The real rub however in what has become a political liberal/conservative debate is theological. It shows itself in two ways.
First, individual responsibility. The statement is true, that if you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day, but if you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime. This illustrates one of the most difficult tensions in our faith. On the one hand encouraging and helping the needy, the sinner, but not condoning what got them there.
Second, the universal deeper spiritual needs. Christ's mandate to make disciples of all nations, and the associated apostostolic follow-up compels this continued ministry to all men and women not only for the physical, but the spiritual needs. Meeting the physical needs are not enough. It is the start, for certain. And sometimes it is recurring, and continuing. But ultimate ministry is to the soul, the spiritual side of our endeavor.
The Christ-like response is simply as He states it: to show compassion to these individuals.
We need to do it passionately. We need to do it diligently. And we need to do it completely. Not only is this the absolute first step to ministry, without it ministry often can't exist.
As to this being the basis for salvation, that simply doesn't add up, period. But the massive needs of humanity all around us leaves us no mistake there is much to do.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
I'm still working on what I promised, but this one got inserted in the middle.
Back to the other project...
This will appear in the Windom paper the Cottonwood County Citizen
…The Least of these
By Pastor Tom Tuura
One of the most enduring story lines are those with a scene where the king is disguised as an ordinary citizen. He goes around in disguise to find out how the people treat one another.
This is in a sense what Jesus is preaching about near the end of the twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew. This is the passage where Jesus gathers all nations before Him and separates the sheep from the goats to the right and the left. Those sheep on His right are ushered into his kingdom with this statement, "Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me: I was in prison and you came to Me."
If that wasn’t amazing enough, listen to the response from the "sheep". "Then the righteous will answer Him saying, "Lord when did we see You hungry and feed you…thirsty and give you drink…etc. The answer is startling. Then the King will answer and say to them, "Assuredly, I say to you inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to me."
All of the parables, and stories in this chapter as well as the one previous are apocalyptic, known as the Olivet Discourse because it was given to the disciples from the Mount of Olives a couple of days prior to Jesus’ crucifixion. There are two major themes that come out of this passage.
First, it deals with the certainty and scope of the Second Coming of Christ. Our church creeds and confessions are right in keeping before the body of believers the legitimate teachings of not only the first advent, but also the second. This passage speaks a word of reverential fear about the coming judgement. No one should think or take lightly what will take place after death.
Second Jesus makes a very powerful statement about the attitudes and action of the sheep. No where does He imply that the loving sacrificial feeding, giving, clothing, visiting is what makes sheep sheep. They are already sheep, and are surprised at the statement of the Lord. They didn’t know they were doing anything other than what was needed under the circumstances.
Many attempts are made to make this the basis for salvation. Even very famous contemporary theologians, have stated so much. However that view would contradict Jesus’ own statements, such as all of John chapter 3, and chapter 5, not to mention the work and teaching of His holy apostles.
It does however teach us of the priority of the ascended and glorified Lord as to looking out and taking action on behalf of the needy "brethren". As one nineteenth century commentator stated, the behavior is evidential of faith, not the attainment.
This is why the goats were judged by the same criteria. If we don’t have this compassion, or if this is absent, then we have to ask if faith is absent!
On the positive side, this passage has ignited a fire of Christian compassion and charity around the world for the past 2000 years. Ever notice how many hospitals are Christian based such as names like St. Mary’s, St. Lukes etc.
Of course we’d all go out of our way for Jesus if He were right here before us. But like the fictional King in disguise, He is the face of the poor and downtrodden. That has always been our mission, and it will always be our mission, both as a corporate body, but also as individuals. But it cannot make us righteous, as those on His right are called. That righteousness was accomplished a couple of days later after telling this parable, when Jesus went to the cross.
That's what I know a poor part-time country preacher.
Back to the other project...
This will appear in the Windom paper the Cottonwood County Citizen
…The Least of these
By Pastor Tom Tuura
One of the most enduring story lines are those with a scene where the king is disguised as an ordinary citizen. He goes around in disguise to find out how the people treat one another.
This is in a sense what Jesus is preaching about near the end of the twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew. This is the passage where Jesus gathers all nations before Him and separates the sheep from the goats to the right and the left. Those sheep on His right are ushered into his kingdom with this statement, "Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me: I was in prison and you came to Me."
If that wasn’t amazing enough, listen to the response from the "sheep". "Then the righteous will answer Him saying, "Lord when did we see You hungry and feed you…thirsty and give you drink…etc. The answer is startling. Then the King will answer and say to them, "Assuredly, I say to you inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to me."
All of the parables, and stories in this chapter as well as the one previous are apocalyptic, known as the Olivet Discourse because it was given to the disciples from the Mount of Olives a couple of days prior to Jesus’ crucifixion. There are two major themes that come out of this passage.
First, it deals with the certainty and scope of the Second Coming of Christ. Our church creeds and confessions are right in keeping before the body of believers the legitimate teachings of not only the first advent, but also the second. This passage speaks a word of reverential fear about the coming judgement. No one should think or take lightly what will take place after death.
Second Jesus makes a very powerful statement about the attitudes and action of the sheep. No where does He imply that the loving sacrificial feeding, giving, clothing, visiting is what makes sheep sheep. They are already sheep, and are surprised at the statement of the Lord. They didn’t know they were doing anything other than what was needed under the circumstances.
Many attempts are made to make this the basis for salvation. Even very famous contemporary theologians, have stated so much. However that view would contradict Jesus’ own statements, such as all of John chapter 3, and chapter 5, not to mention the work and teaching of His holy apostles.
It does however teach us of the priority of the ascended and glorified Lord as to looking out and taking action on behalf of the needy "brethren". As one nineteenth century commentator stated, the behavior is evidential of faith, not the attainment.
This is why the goats were judged by the same criteria. If we don’t have this compassion, or if this is absent, then we have to ask if faith is absent!
On the positive side, this passage has ignited a fire of Christian compassion and charity around the world for the past 2000 years. Ever notice how many hospitals are Christian based such as names like St. Mary’s, St. Lukes etc.
Of course we’d all go out of our way for Jesus if He were right here before us. But like the fictional King in disguise, He is the face of the poor and downtrodden. That has always been our mission, and it will always be our mission, both as a corporate body, but also as individuals. But it cannot make us righteous, as those on His right are called. That righteousness was accomplished a couple of days later after telling this parable, when Jesus went to the cross.
That's what I know a poor part-time country preacher.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Bloggers Block
Okay where was I...
The long (short) summer hiatus slipped a little into the autumn. I haven't forgotten to blog, just haven't had subjects that I felt I could "slice and dice" for this place--until now.
I have compiled a list of a few subjects.
The first is a tough one. (Why do I do this?)
I am working on a reasonable answer to a question many people have on the Bible, having to do with why some Old Testament Scriptures are interpreted literally, and some are seemingly disregarded. I'm thinking of Leviticus 18:22 for example.
This passage is brought up by various people, and the Bible reference is no doubt circulating through classrooms across the country. The topic is relevent because of the conversation and debate going on today regarding sexuality.
So stand by, as I put my thoughts down on paper, and publish it in a few days.
By the way, if they are still posted, check out my previous posts on biblical subjects like literal/figurative interpretation, archaeology and skepticism.
Pastor Tom
The long (short) summer hiatus slipped a little into the autumn. I haven't forgotten to blog, just haven't had subjects that I felt I could "slice and dice" for this place--until now.
I have compiled a list of a few subjects.
The first is a tough one. (Why do I do this?)
I am working on a reasonable answer to a question many people have on the Bible, having to do with why some Old Testament Scriptures are interpreted literally, and some are seemingly disregarded. I'm thinking of Leviticus 18:22 for example.
This passage is brought up by various people, and the Bible reference is no doubt circulating through classrooms across the country. The topic is relevent because of the conversation and debate going on today regarding sexuality.
So stand by, as I put my thoughts down on paper, and publish it in a few days.
By the way, if they are still posted, check out my previous posts on biblical subjects like literal/figurative interpretation, archaeology and skepticism.
Pastor Tom
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Navigating Uncertain Waters
(NOTE: This was written last summer. Since then my own trials have not only continued, but increased. Has it been easy? No. But I still believe these words. For some yet unknown reason, God is allowing me to experience wave after wave of turbulence. So I offer this as one who knows of what he speaks.)
How are you doing in these days?
Gas prices, housing and mortgage crisis, layoffs, war, terrorism, inflation, and recession are all too common words we hear everyday. Uncertain times? Certainly for many.
Nobody knows for sure where these days are leading. If you are laid off, or just struggling to keep your head above water, you are hurting right now.
It’s an election year, and there is plenty of blame for the one candidate, and optimism for the other.
Yet the harsh realities of unemployment and hardships are real. A case can be made that many of our economic woes are due to greed. You can attribute our wars and violence to hatred and distrust. Is this a time for hand wringing?
Is there a way to navigate these uncertain times? I would suggest there is. We navigate uncertain times with a certain God. Because we either live in a random evolutionary world, with it’s impersonal ups and downs, or a world governed by a loving God.
There are many Bible passages that illustrate this but I’ll use two. First of all the Psalmist in Psalm 121, which is a Psalm sung by pilgrims on their way to worship in Jerusalem. The refrain is "my help comes from the Lord". This is a testimony of faithful believers who remind us that this is in fact the case.
We dare not become a society that sits around wringing our hands as if there were no one who watches, keeps, establishes, shields and preserves as the pilgrims in Ps 121 testify. We need to remember this. Our parents and grand parents who’ve been through this, testify to this.
The second is the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness i.e. desert. A reading of the Old Testament tells us there were 600,000 men besides women and children (Ex. 12.37). Now biblical scholars who’ve studied the probable area they traveled, tell us that every journey in these parts goes from water source to water source. Water is an issue, a big issue in a desert. It’s scarce, even for a small group. The point? The Israelites were in danger—real danger—they were in a desert. But God promised to provide for the several million congregation—and He did. In fact the Lord’s Prayer is based upon this very experience.
How does this translate into our lives? Just this: Yes, hard times are real. They are fraught with real danger. Just as the Israelites were in a desert. Yet, God proved faithful and provided for their daily needs. So how do you navigate uncertain times while in real danger? Well it’s not easy, but it helps to remember that God promises "daily bread"—not necessarily the "Sams Club" super sized quantities we may be used to. But He does provide and protect. Also, it helps to restore your relationship with him. Get close, through your devotional life, prayer and Bible Study.
We must check where our trust is directed. Confidence and expectation in this world system, whether it be success in vocation, education, pleasure or relationship, even though promised and at times achieved in varying degrees, always crashes down in disappointment. Meanwhile God’s unchanging Word never changes.
Uncertain, or hard times are not new. In fact our parents and grand parents lived through hard times in a period we call the recession. In addition it was a time when there were two world wars, and retired NBC anchorman Tom Brokaw calls this group the Greatest Generation. No one wants these times of difficulty, but they do seem to make us better people, if for no other reason, than we begin to realize where our help comes from—It comes from the Lord, (Psalm 121).
That's what I know a poor, part-time country preacher
How are you doing in these days?
Gas prices, housing and mortgage crisis, layoffs, war, terrorism, inflation, and recession are all too common words we hear everyday. Uncertain times? Certainly for many.
Nobody knows for sure where these days are leading. If you are laid off, or just struggling to keep your head above water, you are hurting right now.
It’s an election year, and there is plenty of blame for the one candidate, and optimism for the other.
Yet the harsh realities of unemployment and hardships are real. A case can be made that many of our economic woes are due to greed. You can attribute our wars and violence to hatred and distrust. Is this a time for hand wringing?
Is there a way to navigate these uncertain times? I would suggest there is. We navigate uncertain times with a certain God. Because we either live in a random evolutionary world, with it’s impersonal ups and downs, or a world governed by a loving God.
There are many Bible passages that illustrate this but I’ll use two. First of all the Psalmist in Psalm 121, which is a Psalm sung by pilgrims on their way to worship in Jerusalem. The refrain is "my help comes from the Lord". This is a testimony of faithful believers who remind us that this is in fact the case.
We dare not become a society that sits around wringing our hands as if there were no one who watches, keeps, establishes, shields and preserves as the pilgrims in Ps 121 testify. We need to remember this. Our parents and grand parents who’ve been through this, testify to this.
The second is the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness i.e. desert. A reading of the Old Testament tells us there were 600,000 men besides women and children (Ex. 12.37). Now biblical scholars who’ve studied the probable area they traveled, tell us that every journey in these parts goes from water source to water source. Water is an issue, a big issue in a desert. It’s scarce, even for a small group. The point? The Israelites were in danger—real danger—they were in a desert. But God promised to provide for the several million congregation—and He did. In fact the Lord’s Prayer is based upon this very experience.
How does this translate into our lives? Just this: Yes, hard times are real. They are fraught with real danger. Just as the Israelites were in a desert. Yet, God proved faithful and provided for their daily needs. So how do you navigate uncertain times while in real danger? Well it’s not easy, but it helps to remember that God promises "daily bread"—not necessarily the "Sams Club" super sized quantities we may be used to. But He does provide and protect. Also, it helps to restore your relationship with him. Get close, through your devotional life, prayer and Bible Study.
We must check where our trust is directed. Confidence and expectation in this world system, whether it be success in vocation, education, pleasure or relationship, even though promised and at times achieved in varying degrees, always crashes down in disappointment. Meanwhile God’s unchanging Word never changes.
Uncertain, or hard times are not new. In fact our parents and grand parents lived through hard times in a period we call the recession. In addition it was a time when there were two world wars, and retired NBC anchorman Tom Brokaw calls this group the Greatest Generation. No one wants these times of difficulty, but they do seem to make us better people, if for no other reason, than we begin to realize where our help comes from—It comes from the Lord, (Psalm 121).
That's what I know a poor, part-time country preacher
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Afterlife
What has always stood out to me throughout my life about the Bible and Christianity is what it has to say about the afterlife. I frequently refer to a button I got at a Bible camp as a child which said, "Have a nice forever." I may still have it somewhere.
The afterlife, is an issue too for all of us. We may forget about it in the hastles and hectic pace of our lives. But as a pastor, it is on my mind more than most. Because we pastors go from hospital nurseries to funeral homes, burn units to nursing homes. I've been to a few more funerals and wakes this year. That really does it--make me think about it.
It has been stated by philosophers that a legitimate religion has to answer four questions (I'm repeating myself--here). They are our origin, condition, salvation and destiny. See my very first blog entry for additional thoughts about that.
In contrast to the prevailing opinions of the general public, the Bible makes it quite clear that there is a heaven and hell. This is no recent doctrinal interpretation. This doctrine is clear also in the churches various confessions and theology since the first century.
Jesus Himself is quite clear on this. He said to the thief on the cross, "Today you will be with me in paradise." In John 14, he tells the disciples that he is leaving to "prepare a place for you".
Yes the Bible presents us with a clear and wonderful hope of heaven, and the free and certain way for all to get there.
But unfortunately, as Jesus puts it best, not all will travel that road. He speaks as recorded by Matthew 7:13, 14 "Enter in at the narrow gate; for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be who go in that way; Because narrow is the gate and hard is the way, which leadeth unto life, and a few there be that find it."
What does this mean for us? All roads do not lead to the same destination in real life--listen to your Garmin--"Turn right"! And in spite of well-intentioned people in religion, the same is true in our afterlife. We need to get on the narrow road as did the thief on the cross--it's never too late.
You could say the thief on the cross pushed the "On Star" button and received the answer we all want to hear. Push the button today.
That's what I know, a poor part-time Country Preacher.
The afterlife, is an issue too for all of us. We may forget about it in the hastles and hectic pace of our lives. But as a pastor, it is on my mind more than most. Because we pastors go from hospital nurseries to funeral homes, burn units to nursing homes. I've been to a few more funerals and wakes this year. That really does it--make me think about it.
It has been stated by philosophers that a legitimate religion has to answer four questions (I'm repeating myself--here). They are our origin, condition, salvation and destiny. See my very first blog entry for additional thoughts about that.
In contrast to the prevailing opinions of the general public, the Bible makes it quite clear that there is a heaven and hell. This is no recent doctrinal interpretation. This doctrine is clear also in the churches various confessions and theology since the first century.
Jesus Himself is quite clear on this. He said to the thief on the cross, "Today you will be with me in paradise." In John 14, he tells the disciples that he is leaving to "prepare a place for you".
Yes the Bible presents us with a clear and wonderful hope of heaven, and the free and certain way for all to get there.
But unfortunately, as Jesus puts it best, not all will travel that road. He speaks as recorded by Matthew 7:13, 14 "Enter in at the narrow gate; for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be who go in that way; Because narrow is the gate and hard is the way, which leadeth unto life, and a few there be that find it."
What does this mean for us? All roads do not lead to the same destination in real life--listen to your Garmin--"Turn right"! And in spite of well-intentioned people in religion, the same is true in our afterlife. We need to get on the narrow road as did the thief on the cross--it's never too late.
You could say the thief on the cross pushed the "On Star" button and received the answer we all want to hear. Push the button today.
That's what I know, a poor part-time Country Preacher.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
The Greatest Story Ever Told
Yes that's a book written a few years back about the person and life of Christ. Now on the eve of the holiest season on the Christian Church calendar, Holy week and Resurrection Day. I want to extend a sincere invitation to consider, or reconsider the personal message of Easter.
My previous blog entry below has some thoughts about that. Christianity is many things, but the most important thing is it is a personal relationship with Christ Jesus Himself. No matter what your church background is, or if you have no background, this relationship with Jesus is critical.
Also read previous entries from last winter addressing the Bible, whether or not you can succeed at this, and other important thoughts.
Remember, I have nothing to gain from this. I simply want this to be a quiet, non-threatening place to settle and consider Jesus.
...who is the subject of the Greatest Story Ever Told.
That's what I know this Easter--a poor part-time country preacher.
My previous blog entry below has some thoughts about that. Christianity is many things, but the most important thing is it is a personal relationship with Christ Jesus Himself. No matter what your church background is, or if you have no background, this relationship with Jesus is critical.
Also read previous entries from last winter addressing the Bible, whether or not you can succeed at this, and other important thoughts.
Remember, I have nothing to gain from this. I simply want this to be a quiet, non-threatening place to settle and consider Jesus.
...who is the subject of the Greatest Story Ever Told.
That's what I know this Easter--a poor part-time country preacher.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Beginnings. There is only one true beginning. Applied to life events, we can make a list. There is only one “first” job. There is only one “first” kiss. You get the idea.
What about spirituality? Is there a beginning? Is there a beginning, a first in our religious journey? Well yes. That was easy. I think we’re done here.
Not quite.
That’s the easy part. Harder is determining when, and how it started. For example, within Christendom at large, the formal “beginning” is often Baptism. In a few other branches of Christianity, there are other starting points, leading to formal Baptism etc. Then, of course are the various familiar milestones such as confirmation and various graduations.
Flipping on the TV, we turn on to our favorite program and there’s Billy Graham, (now his son Franklin instead). We listen, and hear the familiar invitation to come to the front of the stadium and pray to receive Christ while the choir sings.
Is this real? Where does it fit in?
I’ve talked to a lot of people over the course of my ministry. Of interest to me are the people who are really not connected that closely to their churches of their birth. Also of interest are people who really had no church connection at all either past or present. To them, these things are really a blur.
However many would be surprised to learn a little background from the pages of the Bible in regards to the “beginnings”. While the formal practices of our various churches are important in and of themselves, there are some other details that perhaps haven’t been clear to many.
I’ve tried to clarify some things about the Bible specifically in previous posts which deal with objections etc. Please scroll down to read them at your convenience.
I want to present some very brief thoughts about beginnings using the Bible as a basis. Oh, by the way, the practices of Christian churches regarding Baptism, and other things, do, for the most part have their basis in the Bible. The key phrase is, “for the most part”. The differences between churches on these things are due to difference of opinions on the application and/or practice.
First, the Bible will teach that Christian spirituality is a relationship. Yes, a relationship. This is absolutely critical. Memorizing dogma, outward discipline and church attendance are all very good things in their right place. Who is this relationship with? It is a relationship with the Son of God Himself. Not only is this established in the New Testament, this is taught early in the Old Testament in the relationship of all the patriarchs---oops, that means Adam, Noah, Abraham etc.
Read and think about John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” The believing here is not mere knowledge of facts and details, but personal experience. The Old Testament tells us the Abraham believed God and He credited it to him as righteousness. In other words, God made a promise, Abraham listened, and acted on it IN HIS HEART, and God said, done deal, you are “in”. Then Abraham started knocking off all his impressive feats—but only after he believed.
Second, the Bible teaches us that God accepts us unconditionally. There are no conditions, no strings, no “trial period”. He has no probationary time frame in which he evaluates our performance. It rests not on our skill, or feelings.
He is gracious and forgiving through Christ Jesus, God’s sacrifice on the cross 2000 years ago. This is by no means an excuse to behave sinfully, but even in repeated failures, Christ rejoices to see us return for cleansing sorrowful for our sins.
This is not a Saturday night ritual to erase the week’s reveling. It is not a season of bodily sacrifice proceeded by a festival of debauchery. No, instead truly contrite for our weakness, He freely forgives. Then at the end of our life brings us to a real heaven for all eternity.
Third, the Bible teaches that God is holy and righteous. He cannot tolerate evil in any sort. That is true because He is perfect in every way. No one can see God’s face and live. Our sin and evil acts separate us from approaching God and make it impossible to please him with even the most impressive record of good works. If we could please God because of good works, God’s grace would not be grace, but wages owed. Nobody would claim that.
God has no obligations to any person who has ever lived. Therefore we must turn from all our attempts at righteousness, and sinful pleasures in repentance and plead for God’s forgiveness.
Fourth, God’s absolute holiness and righteousness are the ONLY explanation of placing His only Son to die as a criminal on the cross. Christ’s innocent death as a criminal served as our substitute. He payed for our sins, his life for ours, allows the flow of love and grace to you and me. On this basis alone is forgiveness and complete cleansing showered upon the weary sinner.
Fifth, the Bible sadly teaches that some will not believe this, and consequently not experience His love in this life. Then in the next, will be separated from God for all eternity in a real hell. There is an obvious urgency here because of the brevity of life. God has also appointed a time in which everything will come to an end, and He will separate the righteous from the unrighteous. Note Christ’s righteousness—not our own.
Everything in this post is clearly taught in the Bible and evidenced in the historic creeds of Christendom. Some would say, so what? Well, these things are really not a matter of opinion, mine or anyone else. The creeds serve as a historic straight line showing beliefs that have always been taught and confessed by Christians through the centuries. This is not some recent interpretation. In fact the basics of Baptism as an example are signified in these paragraphs.
There really is an urgency to begin or resume your spiritual walk with Christ through faith. Jesus Himself says in the book of Revelation, “Behold I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and sup with him and he with me.” (3:20).
What a milestone! That’s what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
What about spirituality? Is there a beginning? Is there a beginning, a first in our religious journey? Well yes. That was easy. I think we’re done here.
Not quite.
That’s the easy part. Harder is determining when, and how it started. For example, within Christendom at large, the formal “beginning” is often Baptism. In a few other branches of Christianity, there are other starting points, leading to formal Baptism etc. Then, of course are the various familiar milestones such as confirmation and various graduations.
Flipping on the TV, we turn on to our favorite program and there’s Billy Graham, (now his son Franklin instead). We listen, and hear the familiar invitation to come to the front of the stadium and pray to receive Christ while the choir sings.
Is this real? Where does it fit in?
I’ve talked to a lot of people over the course of my ministry. Of interest to me are the people who are really not connected that closely to their churches of their birth. Also of interest are people who really had no church connection at all either past or present. To them, these things are really a blur.
However many would be surprised to learn a little background from the pages of the Bible in regards to the “beginnings”. While the formal practices of our various churches are important in and of themselves, there are some other details that perhaps haven’t been clear to many.
I’ve tried to clarify some things about the Bible specifically in previous posts which deal with objections etc. Please scroll down to read them at your convenience.
I want to present some very brief thoughts about beginnings using the Bible as a basis. Oh, by the way, the practices of Christian churches regarding Baptism, and other things, do, for the most part have their basis in the Bible. The key phrase is, “for the most part”. The differences between churches on these things are due to difference of opinions on the application and/or practice.
First, the Bible will teach that Christian spirituality is a relationship. Yes, a relationship. This is absolutely critical. Memorizing dogma, outward discipline and church attendance are all very good things in their right place. Who is this relationship with? It is a relationship with the Son of God Himself. Not only is this established in the New Testament, this is taught early in the Old Testament in the relationship of all the patriarchs---oops, that means Adam, Noah, Abraham etc.
Read and think about John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” The believing here is not mere knowledge of facts and details, but personal experience. The Old Testament tells us the Abraham believed God and He credited it to him as righteousness. In other words, God made a promise, Abraham listened, and acted on it IN HIS HEART, and God said, done deal, you are “in”. Then Abraham started knocking off all his impressive feats—but only after he believed.
Second, the Bible teaches us that God accepts us unconditionally. There are no conditions, no strings, no “trial period”. He has no probationary time frame in which he evaluates our performance. It rests not on our skill, or feelings.
He is gracious and forgiving through Christ Jesus, God’s sacrifice on the cross 2000 years ago. This is by no means an excuse to behave sinfully, but even in repeated failures, Christ rejoices to see us return for cleansing sorrowful for our sins.
This is not a Saturday night ritual to erase the week’s reveling. It is not a season of bodily sacrifice proceeded by a festival of debauchery. No, instead truly contrite for our weakness, He freely forgives. Then at the end of our life brings us to a real heaven for all eternity.
Third, the Bible teaches that God is holy and righteous. He cannot tolerate evil in any sort. That is true because He is perfect in every way. No one can see God’s face and live. Our sin and evil acts separate us from approaching God and make it impossible to please him with even the most impressive record of good works. If we could please God because of good works, God’s grace would not be grace, but wages owed. Nobody would claim that.
God has no obligations to any person who has ever lived. Therefore we must turn from all our attempts at righteousness, and sinful pleasures in repentance and plead for God’s forgiveness.
Fourth, God’s absolute holiness and righteousness are the ONLY explanation of placing His only Son to die as a criminal on the cross. Christ’s innocent death as a criminal served as our substitute. He payed for our sins, his life for ours, allows the flow of love and grace to you and me. On this basis alone is forgiveness and complete cleansing showered upon the weary sinner.
Fifth, the Bible sadly teaches that some will not believe this, and consequently not experience His love in this life. Then in the next, will be separated from God for all eternity in a real hell. There is an obvious urgency here because of the brevity of life. God has also appointed a time in which everything will come to an end, and He will separate the righteous from the unrighteous. Note Christ’s righteousness—not our own.
Everything in this post is clearly taught in the Bible and evidenced in the historic creeds of Christendom. Some would say, so what? Well, these things are really not a matter of opinion, mine or anyone else. The creeds serve as a historic straight line showing beliefs that have always been taught and confessed by Christians through the centuries. This is not some recent interpretation. In fact the basics of Baptism as an example are signified in these paragraphs.
There really is an urgency to begin or resume your spiritual walk with Christ through faith. Jesus Himself says in the book of Revelation, “Behold I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and sup with him and he with me.” (3:20).
What a milestone! That’s what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Coming soon
The Nicodemus Moment, or the Damascus Road Moment, i.e. Becoming a Christian.
Is it mere adherence to a doctrine?
Is it 12 years of parochial school?
Is it confirmation, baptism?
Is it a commitment?
Is it going to church?
Stay tuned
Is it mere adherence to a doctrine?
Is it 12 years of parochial school?
Is it confirmation, baptism?
Is it a commitment?
Is it going to church?
Stay tuned
Friday, March 13, 2009
Can You Trust the Bible part 2 Objections
Can you trust the Bible?
Here are some objections. Some of them I've heard personally.
One objection that I have been confronted with on more than one occasion is that there are so many versions of the Bible that who knows what it says or if it is even accurate anymore. Let me give my explanation for this.
Take the King James Version, and the New International Version for example. They are two of the most familiar English Bible versions. These two, and most of the others are simply translations. The translation process is very specific. Each translation goes back to a single, or very limited number of originals called manuscripts. The starting point is always the same. So then each translation is only a one step removed process from the earliest and best original manuscripts.
Probably the best examples of manuscripts are the Dead Sea scrolls. It has been suggested that these would disprove the Bible. It seems everyone is using them to prove their point of view. Whatever they teach us in the future, right now they give us an Old Testament book that is 1000 years older than the earliest manuscripts we had previously. The two versions are virtually identical. It is the book of Isaiah. The one you read in English, is a one-step direct translation process from that scroll. When you read Isaiah, in English, or whatever language, you can be assured that it is what Isaiah wrote when he wrote it.
As for the New Testament, scholars have literally thousands of partial manuscripts in addition to a smaller number of complete New Testaments. They are all hand written copies, of course, and all virtually identical.
There may be many (some would say too many) English versions of the Bible. But in almost all the cases, the text itself is very accurate when compared to the best manuscripts. So accurate that it is not far-fetched to say our English Bible or whatever language you use, is in fact what was actually said and taught or written.
These are examples of external evidence for the reliability of the Bible. The external evidence is very strong. I believe it’s accurate to say that there is no other ancient literature that compares with the Bible in this way.
Another objection is people who say you can’t take the Bible literally. This will be easy. We are coming up on Palm Sunday followed by the greatest Christian worldwide celebration, Easter. Both of these major Christian holidays are founded upon specifics of factual history, and prophecy. The prophecies were specific at the time they were given beforehand and fulfilled specifically in history.
There is a movement even within the church believe it or not, to deny predictive prophecy. Check out the Old Testament prophet Daniel who read another Old Testament prophet’s writing several decades earlier (Jeremiah) and interpreted it literally for his time (Daniel 9:2).
Yes, emphatically there are portions within the Bible that are difficult to understand. There are texts within the Bible that are figurative in language and meaning. And there are even portions that are a combination of both—especially for me. But there’s a gigantic leap from that to saying broadly “the Bible is not intended to be taken literally” as some do.
Like I said, this objection is very popular now, and repeated over and over again, but really nonsensical in substance.
Another point of confusion is from the media and modern scholarship. I watched the PBS documentary entitled something like, “How the Bible Came to Be”. I had to chuckle as I watched because of the way the show unfolded. Part of their show involved archaeology. Using some Egyptian archaeological finds as a baseline, they were successful in confirming biblical people and places. Score one for the Bible—again.
King David, for example as recently as 15-20 years ago was deemed mythological because there was no independent extra-biblical archaeological evidence whatsoever for him or his kingdom. What do you know; now there is. Secularists still debate whether he was the great king of the Bible, or just a tribal leader. (No debate here by the way.) But there is now concrete evidence of a king by the name of David. Why is this important? Mary, Joseph and of course, Jesus are descendants of “the house and lineage of David”.
But what made me chuckle was they were putting very current and convincing archaeological evidence in the documentary, but when they would interview biblical scholars, they would still reference a method of Bible interpretation called the higher critical method.
Now this means nothing to most people. It’s important because you are watching TV and a biblical scholar is explaining something with this terminology. The average viewer, church member knows nothing about this and assumes it is the normal way to understand the Bible. It may be for many classrooms and seminaries. But it is associated with a liberal view of interpretation that often denies even Jesus’ miracles. It is by no means the only method. This is internal evidence, which is not a strong form of evidence.
Call me out of touch, but what surprised me is that these scholars are still using that same method. It dates back to the early 1900’s for sure and probably earlier. I was first exposed to it almost 30 years ago in college.
I appreciated this program on PBS because it showed the Bible’s accuracy by recent archaeology, even though the talking heads (scholars) didn’t really shine with anything new.
The Bible can be trusted. And on one level, this is very comforting and assuring to the average person on the street. Much like many years ago my daughter was comforted by a fence I was building in our yard. When a train approached and it’s whistle sounded, frightened, she moved but only enough to be just inside the fence. The Bible is like a fence.
On another level, however, the realization that the Bible is reliable and trustworthy can, and should, cause a few sleepless nights. If it’s true, then what does that mean for me. It raises questions like, How do I know God? And, How can I be forgiven? Stay tuned.
Other objections people have are hypocrites in the church. Or the alleged wars and fights caused by Christians, or the worldwide imperialism, or the take-over of this country, etc. etc. At some point we all have to ask ourselves the hard question, are these excuses for not believing?
I’m not dodging the answer, but really there’s no end. One either has to start following the Richard Dawkins author of THE GOD DELUSION and embrace atheism, or admit skepticism, or believe.
That’s right, just believe. You're not "kissing your brains good-bye" in doing so.
You'll sleep better for it.
That’s my take on this, a poor part-time country preacher.
Here are some objections. Some of them I've heard personally.
One objection that I have been confronted with on more than one occasion is that there are so many versions of the Bible that who knows what it says or if it is even accurate anymore. Let me give my explanation for this.
Take the King James Version, and the New International Version for example. They are two of the most familiar English Bible versions. These two, and most of the others are simply translations. The translation process is very specific. Each translation goes back to a single, or very limited number of originals called manuscripts. The starting point is always the same. So then each translation is only a one step removed process from the earliest and best original manuscripts.
Probably the best examples of manuscripts are the Dead Sea scrolls. It has been suggested that these would disprove the Bible. It seems everyone is using them to prove their point of view. Whatever they teach us in the future, right now they give us an Old Testament book that is 1000 years older than the earliest manuscripts we had previously. The two versions are virtually identical. It is the book of Isaiah. The one you read in English, is a one-step direct translation process from that scroll. When you read Isaiah, in English, or whatever language, you can be assured that it is what Isaiah wrote when he wrote it.
As for the New Testament, scholars have literally thousands of partial manuscripts in addition to a smaller number of complete New Testaments. They are all hand written copies, of course, and all virtually identical.
There may be many (some would say too many) English versions of the Bible. But in almost all the cases, the text itself is very accurate when compared to the best manuscripts. So accurate that it is not far-fetched to say our English Bible or whatever language you use, is in fact what was actually said and taught or written.
These are examples of external evidence for the reliability of the Bible. The external evidence is very strong. I believe it’s accurate to say that there is no other ancient literature that compares with the Bible in this way.
Another objection is people who say you can’t take the Bible literally. This will be easy. We are coming up on Palm Sunday followed by the greatest Christian worldwide celebration, Easter. Both of these major Christian holidays are founded upon specifics of factual history, and prophecy. The prophecies were specific at the time they were given beforehand and fulfilled specifically in history.
There is a movement even within the church believe it or not, to deny predictive prophecy. Check out the Old Testament prophet Daniel who read another Old Testament prophet’s writing several decades earlier (Jeremiah) and interpreted it literally for his time (Daniel 9:2).
Yes, emphatically there are portions within the Bible that are difficult to understand. There are texts within the Bible that are figurative in language and meaning. And there are even portions that are a combination of both—especially for me. But there’s a gigantic leap from that to saying broadly “the Bible is not intended to be taken literally” as some do.
Like I said, this objection is very popular now, and repeated over and over again, but really nonsensical in substance.
Another point of confusion is from the media and modern scholarship. I watched the PBS documentary entitled something like, “How the Bible Came to Be”. I had to chuckle as I watched because of the way the show unfolded. Part of their show involved archaeology. Using some Egyptian archaeological finds as a baseline, they were successful in confirming biblical people and places. Score one for the Bible—again.
King David, for example as recently as 15-20 years ago was deemed mythological because there was no independent extra-biblical archaeological evidence whatsoever for him or his kingdom. What do you know; now there is. Secularists still debate whether he was the great king of the Bible, or just a tribal leader. (No debate here by the way.) But there is now concrete evidence of a king by the name of David. Why is this important? Mary, Joseph and of course, Jesus are descendants of “the house and lineage of David”.
But what made me chuckle was they were putting very current and convincing archaeological evidence in the documentary, but when they would interview biblical scholars, they would still reference a method of Bible interpretation called the higher critical method.
Now this means nothing to most people. It’s important because you are watching TV and a biblical scholar is explaining something with this terminology. The average viewer, church member knows nothing about this and assumes it is the normal way to understand the Bible. It may be for many classrooms and seminaries. But it is associated with a liberal view of interpretation that often denies even Jesus’ miracles. It is by no means the only method. This is internal evidence, which is not a strong form of evidence.
Call me out of touch, but what surprised me is that these scholars are still using that same method. It dates back to the early 1900’s for sure and probably earlier. I was first exposed to it almost 30 years ago in college.
I appreciated this program on PBS because it showed the Bible’s accuracy by recent archaeology, even though the talking heads (scholars) didn’t really shine with anything new.
The Bible can be trusted. And on one level, this is very comforting and assuring to the average person on the street. Much like many years ago my daughter was comforted by a fence I was building in our yard. When a train approached and it’s whistle sounded, frightened, she moved but only enough to be just inside the fence. The Bible is like a fence.
On another level, however, the realization that the Bible is reliable and trustworthy can, and should, cause a few sleepless nights. If it’s true, then what does that mean for me. It raises questions like, How do I know God? And, How can I be forgiven? Stay tuned.
Other objections people have are hypocrites in the church. Or the alleged wars and fights caused by Christians, or the worldwide imperialism, or the take-over of this country, etc. etc. At some point we all have to ask ourselves the hard question, are these excuses for not believing?
I’m not dodging the answer, but really there’s no end. One either has to start following the Richard Dawkins author of THE GOD DELUSION and embrace atheism, or admit skepticism, or believe.
That’s right, just believe. You're not "kissing your brains good-bye" in doing so.
You'll sleep better for it.
That’s my take on this, a poor part-time country preacher.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Can You Trust the Bible part 1
Can you trust the Bible? Part 1
Short answer? Yes. Why? Let me give my thoughts.
I’m a Bible reader. Though not a scholar with advanced degrees, a professor, or expert in Hebrew or Greek, I’ve read and studied the book daily for over 30 years. Yet, there is so much more that I can and need to learn. I’m just a preacher, who opens it’s pages week after week for the sermon and finds in it not only direction for living, but authority over life. It speaks “Thus saith the Lord”, and “well done thou good and faithful servant”.
It has been observed that the Bible was written over a period of 1500 years by over 40different authors, with many varied backgrounds. The Bible teaches God’s will for humanity through their history.
It’s a book of controversy. Not only controversy within the pages themselves, but controversy over the nature of the book itself. Many everyday people may not realize that this controversy has been at the root of whole denominational splinters and college and university fractures.
Controversy within the church
Why has this book caused so much disruption? Pardon me for being simplistic but the reason is compromise. One side says it’s truth, and truth is important, and the other side says, well, it may or may not be true, but other things like unity are more important.
Here’s my take on this argument. The Bible speaks of unity created by the Spirit of Christ. Unity is taken care of within it’s pages. Done deal. As we grow as Christians, unity takes care of itself in our hearts radiating through our lives by love. But the truth is not sacrificed, or compromised.
The problem is when unity has been politicized externally through mergers, and the truth of the Bible has been sidelined as a non-issue. I’m belaboring this because the ultimate casualty in almost every case has been the integrity of the pages of Scripture.
Controversy outside of the church -(for the most part)
The book has some pretty serious detractors—heavy weight scholars both from within the church—yes, believe it or not—and outside the church over 2000 years after the fact. Question: If the Bible is not as it is widely believed, why are these “heavyweight” detractors even wasting their time with it? What about the enlightenment, and men like the German philosopher Nietzsche and his “God is dead” movement?
One could say, well because it is so widely believed, they are needed. My question still stands.
Here’s the other side of the coin. There are some “heavyweight” serious scholars representing many different traditions, from many academic institutions past and present who believe it to be true.
Bottom line? I argue this. To the honest skeptic, which includes many of my close friends, you can intellectually go either way on the Bible.
But here’s the thing, with the absence of any “death blow” by the skeptics and atheists past or present—even the “God is Dead” philosophy of the late 18th century, by even the minimum standard of debate, the argument for the Bible must logically remain as a legitimate position. In other words, “…through the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night, that our flag was still there” Like the proud Old Glory, still flying through the heat of the night battle, the Bible still remains intact after the smoke clears and the dawn appears.
That’s as a minimum. Look at the Bible for what it is, look at the cosmos, (creation) and your conscience. Then take the intellectual assurance that it is safe to believe it, and all the barriers are lifted to believing the stories of the Old Testament, and New, the miracles of Jesus, and most importantly the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting. So much for the minimum argument, this can become a powerful liberating conviction.
This is why you and I can trust the Bible. Like Old Glory it remains atop the hill in spite of the battle all around--victorious in the message it proclaims. We must not let detractors or controversy distract, or discourage us from trusting it's message. Instead we must allow it to speak for itself as we open it's pages to read.
That’s what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
Short answer? Yes. Why? Let me give my thoughts.
I’m a Bible reader. Though not a scholar with advanced degrees, a professor, or expert in Hebrew or Greek, I’ve read and studied the book daily for over 30 years. Yet, there is so much more that I can and need to learn. I’m just a preacher, who opens it’s pages week after week for the sermon and finds in it not only direction for living, but authority over life. It speaks “Thus saith the Lord”, and “well done thou good and faithful servant”.
It has been observed that the Bible was written over a period of 1500 years by over 40different authors, with many varied backgrounds. The Bible teaches God’s will for humanity through their history.
It’s a book of controversy. Not only controversy within the pages themselves, but controversy over the nature of the book itself. Many everyday people may not realize that this controversy has been at the root of whole denominational splinters and college and university fractures.
Controversy within the church
Why has this book caused so much disruption? Pardon me for being simplistic but the reason is compromise. One side says it’s truth, and truth is important, and the other side says, well, it may or may not be true, but other things like unity are more important.
Here’s my take on this argument. The Bible speaks of unity created by the Spirit of Christ. Unity is taken care of within it’s pages. Done deal. As we grow as Christians, unity takes care of itself in our hearts radiating through our lives by love. But the truth is not sacrificed, or compromised.
The problem is when unity has been politicized externally through mergers, and the truth of the Bible has been sidelined as a non-issue. I’m belaboring this because the ultimate casualty in almost every case has been the integrity of the pages of Scripture.
Controversy outside of the church -(for the most part)
The book has some pretty serious detractors—heavy weight scholars both from within the church—yes, believe it or not—and outside the church over 2000 years after the fact. Question: If the Bible is not as it is widely believed, why are these “heavyweight” detractors even wasting their time with it? What about the enlightenment, and men like the German philosopher Nietzsche and his “God is dead” movement?
One could say, well because it is so widely believed, they are needed. My question still stands.
Here’s the other side of the coin. There are some “heavyweight” serious scholars representing many different traditions, from many academic institutions past and present who believe it to be true.
Bottom line? I argue this. To the honest skeptic, which includes many of my close friends, you can intellectually go either way on the Bible.
But here’s the thing, with the absence of any “death blow” by the skeptics and atheists past or present—even the “God is Dead” philosophy of the late 18th century, by even the minimum standard of debate, the argument for the Bible must logically remain as a legitimate position. In other words, “…through the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night, that our flag was still there” Like the proud Old Glory, still flying through the heat of the night battle, the Bible still remains intact after the smoke clears and the dawn appears.
That’s as a minimum. Look at the Bible for what it is, look at the cosmos, (creation) and your conscience. Then take the intellectual assurance that it is safe to believe it, and all the barriers are lifted to believing the stories of the Old Testament, and New, the miracles of Jesus, and most importantly the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting. So much for the minimum argument, this can become a powerful liberating conviction.
This is why you and I can trust the Bible. Like Old Glory it remains atop the hill in spite of the battle all around--victorious in the message it proclaims. We must not let detractors or controversy distract, or discourage us from trusting it's message. Instead we must allow it to speak for itself as we open it's pages to read.
That’s what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Can you trust the Bible?
Below is the work in progress....stay tuned for the complete article.
Can you trust the Bible?
Short answer? Yes. Why? Let me give my thoughts.
I’m a Bible reader. Though not a scholar with advanced degrees, a professor, or expert in Hebrew or Greek, I’ve read and studied the book daily for over 30 years. Yet, there is so much more that I can and need to learn. I’m just a preacher, who opens it’s pages week after week for the sermon and finds in it not only direction for living, but authority over life. It speaks "Thus saith the Lord", and "well done thou good and faithful servant".
Many have observed that the Bible was written over a period of 1500 years by over 40 different authors, with many varied backgrounds. The Bible teaches God’s will for humanity through their history.
It’s a book of controversy. Not only controversy within the pages themselves, but controversy over the nature of the book itself. Many everyday people may not realize this.
Can you trust the Bible?
Short answer? Yes. Why? Let me give my thoughts.
I’m a Bible reader. Though not a scholar with advanced degrees, a professor, or expert in Hebrew or Greek, I’ve read and studied the book daily for over 30 years. Yet, there is so much more that I can and need to learn. I’m just a preacher, who opens it’s pages week after week for the sermon and finds in it not only direction for living, but authority over life. It speaks "Thus saith the Lord", and "well done thou good and faithful servant".
Many have observed that the Bible was written over a period of 1500 years by over 40 different authors, with many varied backgrounds. The Bible teaches God’s will for humanity through their history.
It’s a book of controversy. Not only controversy within the pages themselves, but controversy over the nature of the book itself. Many everyday people may not realize this.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Addendum to Skepticism
To clarify my thoughts concerning the first few paragraphs below, there are, I'll call them voices, that speak about Christianity. I've mentioned several examples. They fall into three different catagories.
First voices within the church, or at least purportedly so. Note my mention of the preachers, church denominations, indulgences etc.
Second voices from the media, for example the popular book the Da Vinci Code and even the program THE VIEW.
The third voices were from science.
All of these voices raise supposed contradictions, or varying attitudes and opinions. Taken together on an equal basis it is truely a confusing mess.
Heres what I argue, one must continually evaluate all the voices, against a common baseline. To be sure there is a pretty substantial baseline that has existed from the beginning.
The three honest considerations I suggest at the end are briefly,
1. The personal experience of believers.
2. Cutting through the confusion of contradictions.
3. Drawing a straight line (the baseline).
I've observed, most of the "controversies" we hear about now, are not new, but old ones that were settled, long ago, but just rehashed. The three ecumenical creeds of Christendom are examples of that baseline for measurement. Within protestantism, the "confessions" of the early reformers are another example. And the Bible is the starting point, which all that follows is measured. Taken together, this is a very convincing basis for the legitimacy of the Christian faith.
This is good news to an honest seeker after truth Remember it's easy to be a skeptic. To find the truth is harder, but much more rewarding.
First voices within the church, or at least purportedly so. Note my mention of the preachers, church denominations, indulgences etc.
Second voices from the media, for example the popular book the Da Vinci Code and even the program THE VIEW.
The third voices were from science.
All of these voices raise supposed contradictions, or varying attitudes and opinions. Taken together on an equal basis it is truely a confusing mess.
Heres what I argue, one must continually evaluate all the voices, against a common baseline. To be sure there is a pretty substantial baseline that has existed from the beginning.
The three honest considerations I suggest at the end are briefly,
1. The personal experience of believers.
2. Cutting through the confusion of contradictions.
3. Drawing a straight line (the baseline).
I've observed, most of the "controversies" we hear about now, are not new, but old ones that were settled, long ago, but just rehashed. The three ecumenical creeds of Christendom are examples of that baseline for measurement. Within protestantism, the "confessions" of the early reformers are another example. And the Bible is the starting point, which all that follows is measured. Taken together, this is a very convincing basis for the legitimacy of the Christian faith.
This is good news to an honest seeker after truth Remember it's easy to be a skeptic. To find the truth is harder, but much more rewarding.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Are you a Skeptic?
In the continuing parade of "-isms" two seem to be more visible in our day. They are skepticism, and cynicism.
Whoopi Goldberg seems to epitomize a combination of both. In a recent episode of THE VIEW television program, they were talking about Christianity, and Elizabeth and Sherri were making some sort of definitive statement about the faith. Whoopi in her typical cynicism, said something like "I can’t wait till they bring indulgences back". I may not have it word for word, but the gist of it was that there are so many changes in the faith both now and over the years. Her message was clear, in her mind the church is something like a Chevy, that has this or that option over the years, and she wants a model revived that had been discontinued like the Camero.
Which by the way, Bonnie Rochman writing in online TIME, Sunday Feb. 22nd edition explains how indulgences are making a comeback—at least through June.
While it is true there are many voices speaking for this or that issue. There are many preachers that loudly proclaim various doctrines, such as the "health, wealth and prosperity" gospel as an example. There are even a dizzying amount of church bodies, which can’t get along.
Even historical fiction novelist Dan Brown and his book the Da Vinci Code opens the door for questions on the person of Christ himself and centuries of deeply held beliefs about him.
Note the statements of church leaders, scientists, and scholars whose opinions contradict each other, as well as historic church teachings and the Bible. We are taught early on contradictory subjects such as creation/evolution. Archaeologists can’t seem to agree on biblical places and times. We haven’t even mentioned the moral issues of our day such as sexuality.
As if that wasn’t enough, there are probably people who doubt there ever really was a consistent historic church teaching--period.
How is a Whoopi supposed to know what is right? Is it any surprise that there are so many cynics and skeptics? I don’t really have any disdain for Whoopi, or anyone who is skeptical. We all, I think, struggle with cynicism and are tempted with skepticism.
I’ve heard of at least one author who believes that the typical unbeliever is skeptical of Christianity in general. And that the numbers of atheists and agnostics have grown dramatically recently.
Because of all the examples above, it’s very, very easy to be a skeptic.
What’s harder is to consider whether it’s true.
Are you skeptical of Christianity? This is a gigantic issue, and I won’t presume to answer these things here, or anywhere. Let me just share how I deal with these things.
First, let me share my own experience. My beliefs have not been formed in a "sheltered" environment. They have been tested through my own period of rebellion followed by a secular education environment—which is not friendly to historic Christianity. And then refined through formal seminary training. And more recently through various ministry and work experiences. Through this, God’s personal faithfulness has been confirmed. So my own personal experience is key to my faith—but not the ultimate foundation.
Second, we must eliminate confusion. We need to understand the distinction between public "church" voices, and personal ministry of Jesus. Jesus is the head of the church, and all doctrine flows from Him. This is confirmed by the ancient creeds. While it is true there have been more books written about Jesus than any other historical figure, we can bypass them all and go directly to the Source Himself—and read what He said. "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My word will never pass away."—Jesus. This is the foundation, the Bible.
Third, we must draw a straight line. While there are many high level church officials of all stripes making this or that declaration, there are many high and scholarly voices which haven’t budged one iota on the ancient theology of the Creeds and confessions of orthodox Christianity. While our nation’s colleges and universities blow in the direction of the strongest winds, the writing in stone and engraved on their proud buildings testify against them.
What does that mean? It means we must take a look at what hasn’t changed over the biblical period of our theology and what has followed in the successive the years. We will find that not only is there a believable and credible body of truth, but scholarly men and women of high reputation who hold to it.
I guess what I’m saying is, we must unwrap the layers of "stuff" to finally see the consistent thread of the Gospel woven throughout time.
Skepticism and cynicism are easy—and popular. What’s hard is to take a look at the faith, and see it for what it is in its basic form. At that point, it’s hard to dispute.
I’ll share my thoughts on the trustworthiness of the Bible next….
That’s what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
Whoopi Goldberg seems to epitomize a combination of both. In a recent episode of THE VIEW television program, they were talking about Christianity, and Elizabeth and Sherri were making some sort of definitive statement about the faith. Whoopi in her typical cynicism, said something like "I can’t wait till they bring indulgences back". I may not have it word for word, but the gist of it was that there are so many changes in the faith both now and over the years. Her message was clear, in her mind the church is something like a Chevy, that has this or that option over the years, and she wants a model revived that had been discontinued like the Camero.
Which by the way, Bonnie Rochman writing in online TIME, Sunday Feb. 22nd edition explains how indulgences are making a comeback—at least through June.
While it is true there are many voices speaking for this or that issue. There are many preachers that loudly proclaim various doctrines, such as the "health, wealth and prosperity" gospel as an example. There are even a dizzying amount of church bodies, which can’t get along.
Even historical fiction novelist Dan Brown and his book the Da Vinci Code opens the door for questions on the person of Christ himself and centuries of deeply held beliefs about him.
Note the statements of church leaders, scientists, and scholars whose opinions contradict each other, as well as historic church teachings and the Bible. We are taught early on contradictory subjects such as creation/evolution. Archaeologists can’t seem to agree on biblical places and times. We haven’t even mentioned the moral issues of our day such as sexuality.
As if that wasn’t enough, there are probably people who doubt there ever really was a consistent historic church teaching--period.
How is a Whoopi supposed to know what is right? Is it any surprise that there are so many cynics and skeptics? I don’t really have any disdain for Whoopi, or anyone who is skeptical. We all, I think, struggle with cynicism and are tempted with skepticism.
I’ve heard of at least one author who believes that the typical unbeliever is skeptical of Christianity in general. And that the numbers of atheists and agnostics have grown dramatically recently.
Because of all the examples above, it’s very, very easy to be a skeptic.
What’s harder is to consider whether it’s true.
Are you skeptical of Christianity? This is a gigantic issue, and I won’t presume to answer these things here, or anywhere. Let me just share how I deal with these things.
First, let me share my own experience. My beliefs have not been formed in a "sheltered" environment. They have been tested through my own period of rebellion followed by a secular education environment—which is not friendly to historic Christianity. And then refined through formal seminary training. And more recently through various ministry and work experiences. Through this, God’s personal faithfulness has been confirmed. So my own personal experience is key to my faith—but not the ultimate foundation.
Second, we must eliminate confusion. We need to understand the distinction between public "church" voices, and personal ministry of Jesus. Jesus is the head of the church, and all doctrine flows from Him. This is confirmed by the ancient creeds. While it is true there have been more books written about Jesus than any other historical figure, we can bypass them all and go directly to the Source Himself—and read what He said. "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My word will never pass away."—Jesus. This is the foundation, the Bible.
Third, we must draw a straight line. While there are many high level church officials of all stripes making this or that declaration, there are many high and scholarly voices which haven’t budged one iota on the ancient theology of the Creeds and confessions of orthodox Christianity. While our nation’s colleges and universities blow in the direction of the strongest winds, the writing in stone and engraved on their proud buildings testify against them.
What does that mean? It means we must take a look at what hasn’t changed over the biblical period of our theology and what has followed in the successive the years. We will find that not only is there a believable and credible body of truth, but scholarly men and women of high reputation who hold to it.
I guess what I’m saying is, we must unwrap the layers of "stuff" to finally see the consistent thread of the Gospel woven throughout time.
Skepticism and cynicism are easy—and popular. What’s hard is to take a look at the faith, and see it for what it is in its basic form. At that point, it’s hard to dispute.
I’ll share my thoughts on the trustworthiness of the Bible next….
That’s what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Christianity can work for you too
I’ve heard people say, "Christianity isn’t for me". Or something like, "I can’t be a Christian. I tried it and it didn’t work."
Near the top of the list of my favorite country artists are Brooks and Dunn. A few years ago, one of their hits was "Red Dirt Road". I can relate to this song. I can’t say the theology is perfect, or even very good, but I still can relate to the dirt road metaphor—and, of course, finding Jesus.
Here are the words; they may not be exact:
I was raised on rural route three.
Out back where the blacktop ends,
We’d walk to church on Sunday morning, race barefoot back to Johnson’s fence.
That’s where I first saw Mary--out picking black berries.
That summer I turned the corner in my soul on that red dirt road.
It’s where I drank my first beer.
Where I found Jesus.
Where I wrecked my first car—I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to heaven is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on earth isn’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, come to know, there’s life at both ends
Of that red dirt road.
Her daddy didn’t like me much
In my shackled up GTO
I’d sneak out in the middle of the night throw rocks at her bedroom window
Turn out the headlights; drive by the moonlight; talk about what the future might hold,
On that red dirt road.
I’ve been out into the world and I’ve came back in;
I lost Mary and I got her back again.
And drivin’ home tonight seems like I found a long lost friend.
This is a testimony, of life, and firsts. In my life, there was a pretty significant dirt road, a first beer, and a first car—that I didn’t wreck by the way. I drove it up and down that road. But most important, It’s where I found Jesus-well not on that dirt road, but certainly was a part of it. Actually it was in church on Sunday morning.
The song certainly makes for good reminiscing. I guess that’s what I like about good country music. I can relate to it.
The song continues, to talk about being back in the world, and coming back. The whole message of the song is life at both ends of that old dirt road.
It’s funny how something like a dirt road, which at the time is—well under appreciated, but in our memory and returning home after many years takes on new meaning.
I have talked to people who are convinced that Christian faith just doesn’t work for them. It may work for others, but not for them. They may have memories of meeting Jesus on Sunday morning—or on the dirt road of childhood somewhere. But that was a long, long time ago.
Many miles, many people, many transgressions, too many to confess. Or they’ve had an experience, prayed a prayer of invitation, or wept at an altar. But wake up the next morning, fearing it didn’t work.
But that longing for home doesn’t go away. And some are like the car in the song, tore all to pieces.
Now I don’t know about all the fancy excuses, and rationalizations, but I know, that like the song, you and I can at least come back to the Jesus of our youth.
Here are three examples of people who had problems that affected their faith and confidence.
The first was none other then King David himself. Many are familiar with the story of his adulterous affair with Bathsheba. But fewer are aware of the sultry details contained in the Bible story. Namely that in addition to committing adultery causing pregnancy, and covering it up, he ended up murdering her husband, one of his most loyal soldiers and citizens. So we have a religious man committing adultery and then murdering the husband to cover it up.
Well it wasn’t covered up; God made sure of that. But even though David paid dearly in this life for the consequences of his sin, he was forgiven by God, and saved in the end.
Have you denied your Lord? Remember Peter did three times on the night Jesus was crucified, and he was restored. He was literally sought out by the Lord whom he denied for that restoration.
Then there was the famous story of the prodigal son told by Jesus Himself in Luke 15. This young man in his pride insulted his father and family by demanding his share of the inheritance. He left with the money and squandered it in wild living. Penniless he came back to his home asking to be a servant. What he didn’t know is his father was watching for him to return and ran to meet him in forgiveness.
The only human requirement in all three of these situations was sorrow and contrition over their sin, which is hardly surprising that they underwent unbearable guilt and shame for their actions. But there’s something else in common.
It was heaven’s desire to bring these sinful men back. God convincingly made David aware that he couldn’t hide his sin and needed to repent. Jesus speaks of the father that waited and ran to his prodigal son when he returned home.
And Jesus Himself sought out Peter, the rock of the church to personally restore him to his faith and confidence.
Come on home to that "red dirt road" The Savior is waiting.
That's what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
Near the top of the list of my favorite country artists are Brooks and Dunn. A few years ago, one of their hits was "Red Dirt Road". I can relate to this song. I can’t say the theology is perfect, or even very good, but I still can relate to the dirt road metaphor—and, of course, finding Jesus.
Here are the words; they may not be exact:
I was raised on rural route three.
Out back where the blacktop ends,
We’d walk to church on Sunday morning, race barefoot back to Johnson’s fence.
That’s where I first saw Mary--out picking black berries.
That summer I turned the corner in my soul on that red dirt road.
It’s where I drank my first beer.
Where I found Jesus.
Where I wrecked my first car—I tore it all to pieces
I learned the path to heaven is full of sinners and believers
Learned that happiness on earth isn’t just for high achievers
I’ve learned, come to know, there’s life at both ends
Of that red dirt road.
Her daddy didn’t like me much
In my shackled up GTO
I’d sneak out in the middle of the night throw rocks at her bedroom window
Turn out the headlights; drive by the moonlight; talk about what the future might hold,
On that red dirt road.
I’ve been out into the world and I’ve came back in;
I lost Mary and I got her back again.
And drivin’ home tonight seems like I found a long lost friend.
This is a testimony, of life, and firsts. In my life, there was a pretty significant dirt road, a first beer, and a first car—that I didn’t wreck by the way. I drove it up and down that road. But most important, It’s where I found Jesus-well not on that dirt road, but certainly was a part of it. Actually it was in church on Sunday morning.
The song certainly makes for good reminiscing. I guess that’s what I like about good country music. I can relate to it.
The song continues, to talk about being back in the world, and coming back. The whole message of the song is life at both ends of that old dirt road.
It’s funny how something like a dirt road, which at the time is—well under appreciated, but in our memory and returning home after many years takes on new meaning.
I have talked to people who are convinced that Christian faith just doesn’t work for them. It may work for others, but not for them. They may have memories of meeting Jesus on Sunday morning—or on the dirt road of childhood somewhere. But that was a long, long time ago.
Many miles, many people, many transgressions, too many to confess. Or they’ve had an experience, prayed a prayer of invitation, or wept at an altar. But wake up the next morning, fearing it didn’t work.
But that longing for home doesn’t go away. And some are like the car in the song, tore all to pieces.
Now I don’t know about all the fancy excuses, and rationalizations, but I know, that like the song, you and I can at least come back to the Jesus of our youth.
Here are three examples of people who had problems that affected their faith and confidence.
The first was none other then King David himself. Many are familiar with the story of his adulterous affair with Bathsheba. But fewer are aware of the sultry details contained in the Bible story. Namely that in addition to committing adultery causing pregnancy, and covering it up, he ended up murdering her husband, one of his most loyal soldiers and citizens. So we have a religious man committing adultery and then murdering the husband to cover it up.
Well it wasn’t covered up; God made sure of that. But even though David paid dearly in this life for the consequences of his sin, he was forgiven by God, and saved in the end.
Have you denied your Lord? Remember Peter did three times on the night Jesus was crucified, and he was restored. He was literally sought out by the Lord whom he denied for that restoration.
Then there was the famous story of the prodigal son told by Jesus Himself in Luke 15. This young man in his pride insulted his father and family by demanding his share of the inheritance. He left with the money and squandered it in wild living. Penniless he came back to his home asking to be a servant. What he didn’t know is his father was watching for him to return and ran to meet him in forgiveness.
The only human requirement in all three of these situations was sorrow and contrition over their sin, which is hardly surprising that they underwent unbearable guilt and shame for their actions. But there’s something else in common.
It was heaven’s desire to bring these sinful men back. God convincingly made David aware that he couldn’t hide his sin and needed to repent. Jesus speaks of the father that waited and ran to his prodigal son when he returned home.
And Jesus Himself sought out Peter, the rock of the church to personally restore him to his faith and confidence.
Come on home to that "red dirt road" The Savior is waiting.
That's what I know, a poor part-time country preacher.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Your Own Bible
Don't have a Bible?
New or Used?
Sometimes going new is best. Get a Bible that is new and fresh; it will remind you that there is something new in you, or that can be renewed. It's a fresh start. In my humble opionion, it's sad that big publishers market the Bible as a profit making book. You can spend as much as you want on one. For a nice and inexpensive copy, get one at a place like Sam's Club, or a book store. For your first Bible, go cheaper, then get that nice one later on. You may want to sample a few translations before you buy that nice leather bound version anyway.
Maybe you have an old one, or a hand me down. This might be a special Bible of a parent, grandparent, or other loved one. The important thing is finding one and claiming it as yours. It can be one that you can read and enjoy. You can find it, bookmark it, and keep it in a special place and take it with you on trips.
Free Gift:
If you are at a hotel or hospital, feel free to take the Gideon Bible there on the night stand. They have nice helps, and verses listed for various situations, and needs.
Translations:
Many people today find modern translations are easier to understand than the old King James Version. Unless you are use to the old "thee's" and "thou's", a modern translation will be easier to understand. If you are, (like me) needing a few "thee's" and "thou's" a very excellent compromise is the New King James.
Method:
Bible reading is boring only to those who don't know where to read. The new reader should not read the Bible like an ordinary book, from cover to cover--initially. I'm not saying that you should not read the whole Bible. Just don't start from the beginning and try to read through it--at first. There is a time when that is helpful and necessary. But for most new Christians, not initially. I recommend that you take 5 minutes a day and find a verse, or short passage, and read that. Then expand from there. Read that chapter, the one before it, the one after it until either you've read the whole book or you move on to something else. Don't feel you have to keep reading in a particular book or chapter. If you are not understanding something, come back to it later. And for the time being read something you understand. Be sure to pray as you read and during the day. Many find it helpful to make light pencil marks, or to highlight helpful passages. Be careful not to over mark it though, and watch for bleeding through the paper with highlighting pens.
Comfort and Answers:
Ultimately, many people find comfort and peace from reading the Bible, Yes there are passages about wars, etc. but reading in the Psalms for example can bring comfort to one's soul. God's Holy Spirit will begin to work through this Book to bring answers to problems and life's mysteries. Yes there is discomfort too, as the Bible acts like a mirror to show us our sin and need for forgiveness. But best of all, the Bible teaches us about Jesus Christ, and His life on this earth and then his innocent suffering and death on the cross.
Conclusion:
These are only a few thoughts, believe me, much more has been written on this subject. The important thing is that you start, or return to Bible reading. We are not saved by doing this. There is no merit in reading by itself, but we can learn of the grace and mercy of God extended to us through Christ. Accepting it into our hearts through faith then, begins that wonderful journey heavenward.
Another thought from the poor part-time country preacher.
New or Used?
Sometimes going new is best. Get a Bible that is new and fresh; it will remind you that there is something new in you, or that can be renewed. It's a fresh start. In my humble opionion, it's sad that big publishers market the Bible as a profit making book. You can spend as much as you want on one. For a nice and inexpensive copy, get one at a place like Sam's Club, or a book store. For your first Bible, go cheaper, then get that nice one later on. You may want to sample a few translations before you buy that nice leather bound version anyway.
Maybe you have an old one, or a hand me down. This might be a special Bible of a parent, grandparent, or other loved one. The important thing is finding one and claiming it as yours. It can be one that you can read and enjoy. You can find it, bookmark it, and keep it in a special place and take it with you on trips.
Free Gift:
If you are at a hotel or hospital, feel free to take the Gideon Bible there on the night stand. They have nice helps, and verses listed for various situations, and needs.
Translations:
Many people today find modern translations are easier to understand than the old King James Version. Unless you are use to the old "thee's" and "thou's", a modern translation will be easier to understand. If you are, (like me) needing a few "thee's" and "thou's" a very excellent compromise is the New King James.
Method:
Bible reading is boring only to those who don't know where to read. The new reader should not read the Bible like an ordinary book, from cover to cover--initially. I'm not saying that you should not read the whole Bible. Just don't start from the beginning and try to read through it--at first. There is a time when that is helpful and necessary. But for most new Christians, not initially. I recommend that you take 5 minutes a day and find a verse, or short passage, and read that. Then expand from there. Read that chapter, the one before it, the one after it until either you've read the whole book or you move on to something else. Don't feel you have to keep reading in a particular book or chapter. If you are not understanding something, come back to it later. And for the time being read something you understand. Be sure to pray as you read and during the day. Many find it helpful to make light pencil marks, or to highlight helpful passages. Be careful not to over mark it though, and watch for bleeding through the paper with highlighting pens.
Comfort and Answers:
Ultimately, many people find comfort and peace from reading the Bible, Yes there are passages about wars, etc. but reading in the Psalms for example can bring comfort to one's soul. God's Holy Spirit will begin to work through this Book to bring answers to problems and life's mysteries. Yes there is discomfort too, as the Bible acts like a mirror to show us our sin and need for forgiveness. But best of all, the Bible teaches us about Jesus Christ, and His life on this earth and then his innocent suffering and death on the cross.
Conclusion:
These are only a few thoughts, believe me, much more has been written on this subject. The important thing is that you start, or return to Bible reading. We are not saved by doing this. There is no merit in reading by itself, but we can learn of the grace and mercy of God extended to us through Christ. Accepting it into our hearts through faith then, begins that wonderful journey heavenward.
Another thought from the poor part-time country preacher.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Choosing a religion
Why do otherwise intelligent and educated people believe bizarre things about God and the afterlife?
I mean, people who normally apply a certain degree of reason and thought to everyday decisions based on rational things such as past performance, reputation and testimony.
Let me offer a couple of examples. I recently watched an episode of a popular TV show that rebuilds homes for needy people. One couple featured, were having their home rebuilt. If memory serves me correct, at least one of the individuals was in the education field.
Now for the bizarre. They believed their home was haunted by her ancestors. Okay...so before the home was remodeled they had to have a seance (sp?) to contact these ancestors to get their approval. Yes, this is drama for TV. But I don't think this is limited to the silver screen. Art imitates life, or does life imitate art?
Bear with me for one more example. (I'll try to be vague to protect the innocent). A girl I know well got together with some high school friends a few years after graduation. Again, prior to graduating from college. Her friends spoke about how their beliefs had changed about God and right and wrong to some, here's that word, bizarre, explosive moral issues in the spotlight today. A total about-face from what was learned at home.
Here's my point. Ravi Zacharias a noted apologist stated, or repeated the following--(I'll attribute it to him anyway) that legitimate religion has to answer four basic questions. They are origin, sin, salvation and destiny.
I'll argue that Christianity has answered these all to the greatest satisfaction of any. Time will not allow us to detail all of these, though they have been scrutinized by scholars for 2000 years.
Origin--Genesis: Creation God's creation--everything good.
Sin--Man's temptation (testing in the Garden, I believe literally) and original sin--not Karma etc.
Salvation--God seeing man's condition and in mercy sending His Son for redemption and propitiation.
Destiny--The promise of salvation--repeated theme throughout the Bible, honed and explained by Jesus and his followers in the New Testament.
If we apply these questions to our beliefs, how do they compare to the Bible and the Christian faith? Yes, atheists, naturalists, existentialists, evolutionists, humanists, and new agers may tear these four answers to bits based on their own specific point of view.
But yet, they remain. They remain after 2000 years of scrutiny and attack. They have been embraced by intelligent men and women throughout history. The truths of this faith are inscribed in stone in the highest colleges and universities in the west--witnessing to current student bodies and to the world of their past (and present) meaning.
So what do the haunted ancestors in that house think of that?
...But what do I know, I'm just a poor part-time country preacher.
I mean, people who normally apply a certain degree of reason and thought to everyday decisions based on rational things such as past performance, reputation and testimony.
Let me offer a couple of examples. I recently watched an episode of a popular TV show that rebuilds homes for needy people. One couple featured, were having their home rebuilt. If memory serves me correct, at least one of the individuals was in the education field.
Now for the bizarre. They believed their home was haunted by her ancestors. Okay...so before the home was remodeled they had to have a seance (sp?) to contact these ancestors to get their approval. Yes, this is drama for TV. But I don't think this is limited to the silver screen. Art imitates life, or does life imitate art?
Bear with me for one more example. (I'll try to be vague to protect the innocent). A girl I know well got together with some high school friends a few years after graduation. Again, prior to graduating from college. Her friends spoke about how their beliefs had changed about God and right and wrong to some, here's that word, bizarre, explosive moral issues in the spotlight today. A total about-face from what was learned at home.
Here's my point. Ravi Zacharias a noted apologist stated, or repeated the following--(I'll attribute it to him anyway) that legitimate religion has to answer four basic questions. They are origin, sin, salvation and destiny.
I'll argue that Christianity has answered these all to the greatest satisfaction of any. Time will not allow us to detail all of these, though they have been scrutinized by scholars for 2000 years.
Origin--Genesis: Creation God's creation--everything good.
Sin--Man's temptation (testing in the Garden, I believe literally) and original sin--not Karma etc.
Salvation--God seeing man's condition and in mercy sending His Son for redemption and propitiation.
Destiny--The promise of salvation--repeated theme throughout the Bible, honed and explained by Jesus and his followers in the New Testament.
If we apply these questions to our beliefs, how do they compare to the Bible and the Christian faith? Yes, atheists, naturalists, existentialists, evolutionists, humanists, and new agers may tear these four answers to bits based on their own specific point of view.
But yet, they remain. They remain after 2000 years of scrutiny and attack. They have been embraced by intelligent men and women throughout history. The truths of this faith are inscribed in stone in the highest colleges and universities in the west--witnessing to current student bodies and to the world of their past (and present) meaning.
So what do the haunted ancestors in that house think of that?
...But what do I know, I'm just a poor part-time country preacher.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Part-Time Country Preacher
--Under Construction--
I'm just learning, but it't intent is to be a place to read, comment on basic information on religion, and Christianity. I'm NOT an expert on anything, but have learned a thing or two on the way.
I'm an ordained Lutheran Pastor, no way-out beliefs (that I know of) and I espouse, typical orthodox conservative theology from this perspective.
I serve a part-time small Lutheran Congregation in southwestern Minnesota--Living Word Lutheran in Windom.
Relax, and welcome to my "workshop".
Follow and come back often. I've got a few things stored up to post.
Pastor Tom
--Under Construction--
I'm just learning, but it't intent is to be a place to read, comment on basic information on religion, and Christianity. I'm NOT an expert on anything, but have learned a thing or two on the way.
I'm an ordained Lutheran Pastor, no way-out beliefs (that I know of) and I espouse, typical orthodox conservative theology from this perspective.
I serve a part-time small Lutheran Congregation in southwestern Minnesota--Living Word Lutheran in Windom.
Relax, and welcome to my "workshop".
Follow and come back often. I've got a few things stored up to post.
Pastor Tom
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