Exposing the Lie Behind the "Coexist" Movement

Each time I see a "coexist" bumper sticker on a car, I think about how naive such a person must be in order to think such a cohesion of views (some often being violent, threatening, and damaging to a person's spiritual destiny) would ever be possible to be achieved in this fallen world.  Don't get me wrong - perhaps the sentiment of the person posting such a message intends to mean well. 

But the truth of the matter regarding the obvious and continuous increase of sin, evil, and death in our current world (all of which, unfortunately, contains a plethora of views that tend to reject God, the Bible, and Jesus Christ) does not allow the "coexist" mantra to lead anyone to absolute truth, salvation of the soul, reconciliation with God, or eternity with our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.

My blogging friend Neil over at Eternity Matters has a good post up and at the end of it I noticed the following graphic that explains the truth of the lie behind the "coexist" movement:




The graphic below and to the right, further explains the contradictions of the coexist movement. [Right click on graphic to enlarge.]

John 14:6 explains why they can't all be true:

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. - John 14:6 (NKJV)

Hat tip:

Eternity Matters

America's Providential History

About a week ago, the mailman accidentally (or, perhaps, providentially?) left a copy of my neighbor's "Enjoying Everyday Life" magazine in my mailbox.  It is published by Joyce Meyer Ministries.*  I found the same magazine online, and wanted to share a commentary about a book that I think all Americans should read.  The book is entitled, "America's Providential History." by Mark A. Beliles and Stephen K. McDowell.

The two authors of the book wrote an excerpt and placed it in the "America At Its Best" section of the magazine.  It is entitled "A Land of Religious Freedom:  God's Plan of Colonization for the United States."

I am looking forward to getting a copy of this book.  It was written for the purpose of giving readers insight into God's hand at work as we discover the true and genuine history of America (often, unfortunately, left out of secular classrooms) and the spreading of the Gospel worldwide.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the birth of our nation is contained in this quote:

"Every attempt to colonize...the U.S. was met with failure.  God was preserving [it] for a people He had yet to prepare."

No wonder our Founders spoke and wrote about Divine Providence in our Founding Documents!  They truly knew, realized, and respected God's Hand at work in the birth of our great nation!

Our nation is in moral, financial, educational, and especially spiritual trouble.  Why?  Many reasons, but the lack of good leadership stands out since 2008.  I continue to pray for restoration of our nation and the future appointment(s) of more Godly leaders

~  Christine



The following is a copy of the excerpt:

In 1492, Christopher Columbus [whose name meant “The Christbearer”] opened up the New World to civilization. We all know of this event, but do we know what motivated Columbus to embark on such an arduous and dangerous journey? The following excerpts from his diary will tell us.

“It was the Lord who put it into my mind —I could feel His hand upon me—the fact that it would be possible to sail from here to the Indies…

“All who heard of my project rejected it with laughter, ridiculing me… There is no question that the inspiration was from the Holy Spirit, because He comforted me with rays of marvelous illumination from the Holy Scriptures… For the execution of the journey to the Indies, I did not make use of intelligence, mathematics, or maps. It is simply the fulfillment of what Isaiah had prophesied…

“No one should fear to undertake a task in the name of our Savior, if it is just and if the intention is purely for His Service… The fact that the Gospel must still be preached to so many lands in such a short time – this is what convinces me.”

While Columbus discovered the New World, God did not allow the country from which he sailed to colonize the territory which originally comprised the United States. ...Explorers carried with them the seeds of religious tyranny, and God had plans for America to be planted with seeds of liberty.

Historian Daniel Dorchester writes:

“While thirst for gold, lust of power, and love of daring adventure served the Providential purpose of opening the New World to papal Europe, and Roman Catholic colonies were successfully planted in some portions, the territory originally comprised within the United States was mysteriously guarded and reserved for another—a prepared people.”

During the century following the discovery of the New World, colonization occurred in much of South and Central America. In 1493 the Pope gave Africa, Asia, and Brazil to Portugal and the rest of Latin America to Spain.  This is reflected in the colonization that followed.  Every attempt to colonize the territory comprising the original United States was met with failure.  God was preserving this land for a people whom He had yet to prepare.


In 1497, John Cabot, landing near the St. Lawrence River, laid claim to America for England. At this time, England, as all of Europe lived under civil and religious tyranny, yet…God would be at work in the sixteenth century to assure that this was changed.

B.F. Morris writes of God’s providential hand at work during this era:

“No era in history is more signally and sublimely marked than that of the discovery and Christian colonization of the North American continent.

“The intervening century was in many respects the most important period of the world; certainly the most important in modern times. More marked and decided changes, affecting science, religion, and liberty, occurred in that period than had occurred in centuries before; and all these changes were just such as to determine the Christian character of this country. Meantime, God held this vast land in reserve, as the great field on which the experiment was to be made in favor of a civil and religious liberty. He suffered not the food of Spaniard, or Portuguese, or Frenchman, or Englishman to come upon it until the changes had been wrought in Europe which would make it certain that it would always be a land of religious freedom.”

This copy is an excerpt from Mark A. Beliles and Stephen K. McDowell’s book, America’s Providential History.

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A Note from Dave Meyer:

In the sixteenth century, God began to move in the hearts of many across Europe—especially throughout England. In order to establish America as a free Christian nation, God had to first do a work in the lives of those who would become the founders of this great nation. America’s Providential History describes how key players such as William Tyndale, the puritans, William Bradford and even people like Henry VIII and “Bloody” Mary each had a part to play in the birth of the United States and how hundreds of others were used by God to develop and establish this nation for His glory. America’s history is truly His story. If you want to read the rest of the story, I encourage you to get this book.
 

This book and others can be found at: Providence Foundation

Hat Tip: Joyce Meyer.org

*Note: This post should not be construed as a blanket approval of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Hopefully, she leads an accurate and true Bible-based Christian ministry.  At this time, I do not have enough information about the ministry to make an informed decision on all that she preaches or publishes.

Is Christianity Just a Philosophy, a Religion, or a Faith?

Before we delve into answering that question, I would like to share this weekend's Turning Point devotional message:

Weekend, December 8 and 9

Not So Familiar Christmas Scripture: Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

Recommended Reading Isaiah 9:1-7

Each of the titles in Isaiah 9:6 describes a different attribute of the Lord Jesus. He came as a Child and identified Himself as a Son. He wonderfully counsels us, is the Father of our Faith, brings peace to our lives, and is God Himself.

Let's focus on His counseling ministry. In the Gospels, distressed parents came to Jesus for help. The sick and diseased sought Him out. Wealthy men like Nicodemus and the Rich Young Ruler asked His advice; and the poor heard Him gladly. He counseled both men and women, both young and old. He guided His disciples through emotional problems, and even gave life-changing counsel to the repentant thief on the cross.

Today He still counsels us through His Word and by His Spirit. When you don’t know what to do or need a corrective or encouraging word, open your Bible. He's still the Wonderful Counselor. As hymnist John Morison wrote in 1781: "His Name shall be the Prince of Peace, forevermore adored, the Wonderful, the Counselor, the great and mighty Lord."

Read-Thru-the-Bible
James 3:1-5:20, 1 Peter 1:1-2:25

 

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Recently, Bill O'Reilly had a debate on his show, The O'Reilly Factor, with a self-described atheist. The usual back-and-forth arguments occurred;  about Christmas displays of the Nativity, calling decorated trees "Christmas trees," and the erroneous claims of  "separation of church and state." However, O'Reilly tried to claim that "Christianity is a philosophy." Well, that is partly true and may be what some focus on entirely.   The definition for the term "philosophy" includes:

1. the rational investigation of the truths and principles of being, knowledge, or conduct.

3. a system of philosophical doctrine

5. a system of principles for guidance in practical affairs.
 

Those definitions can be applied towards Christianity.  However, there is more to it than just being a philosophy.

There are people who may or may not adhere to Christianity (in general) and choose to focus on everything secular about Christmas (in particular), while ignoring the truth involved in the religion and the true Reason for the season - Jesus Christ.

Most Bible-believing born-again Christians consider their own Christian faith as a personal relationship with Christ.   We would most likely apply the word origin and history definition of the term "philosophy" because of its accuracy in describing what we gain from studying the Bible:

Word Origin & History

philosophy

c.1300, from O.Fr. filosofie (12c.), from L. philosophia, from Gk. philosophia "love of knowledge, wisdom," from philo- "loving" + sophia "knowledge, wisdom," from sophis "wise, learned."

 

It was interesting to see the atheist on O'Reilly's show become all upset about the "Christianity is a philosophy" argument that Bill opined during the debate.   The atheist wanted Bill to admit that Christianity is a religion. O'Reilly stated that a "Methodist" is a religion, and if someone was trying to promote only the Methodist religion at Christmastime, he would be on the atheist's side.

What???

Sounds confusing, doesn't it?

Well, O'Reilly put up a bit of a smokescreen during the argument; perhaps in an effort to try and win the debate. People often do such things. However, I watched the interview two times (it was repeated yesterday while Laura Ingraham was subbing) and did not hear the term "faith" discussed.   For some reason, Bill left that out; probably because it would have forced him to admit that Christianity is a religion.

 O'Reilly stated that Jesus "was a man" when the atheist (who figuratively was turning blue in the face with frustration) continued to argue that Christianity is a religion.

 Of course it is!

There are self-described "Christian religionists" who have their own kind of twisted beliefs that don't match up to what the Bible teaches.  That is a huge mistake!  Jesus informs us that the Father's "Word is Truth" and he asks the Father to "sanctify them by Your truth."

Jhn 17:17

"Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

Jesus asks each of us, "Who do you say that I am?"

Mat 16:15

He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"

How one answers that question reveals just what kind of faith one has and whether or not one has a personal, soul-saving relationship with the one true God and only Savior, Lord, and King of the universe.

Peter got it right:

Mar 8:29

He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered and said to Him, "You are the Christ."

Hat tips:

Turning Point Devotional
Dictionary.com
Blue Letter Bible

Last Ounce of Courage

Saw the movie Last Ounce of Courage today. I don't want to include any spoilers here, but I will say it was inspiring, encouraging,  and contained a really great message!! The description of the movie at the movie guide site link does not really do it justice. 

Click here at Stand U.S.A. to see a clip of the movie. That site has a better description.  Although the movie does concentrate on the issue of Christmas, it more about individuals taking a stand (no matter the cost) to protect our freedoms.

The fact that the issue of being able to freely celebrate Christmas or display Christian symbols in a town, outside your own home, at a soup kitchen, or even in a school play are several examples of how creeping secularism is attempting to destroy MANY of our freedoms, one by one. There are those who, though they are most affected by it all, unfortunately just sit and take it.

Great song at the end!  Gave me goosebumps!  I would highly recommend this movie. Bring some tissues. I plan to purchase and read the book, too.

~ Christine

Rick Warren Goes Over the Deep End - Again!

I have written about Rick Warren's heresy in several blog posts in the past, however, the new revelation about Warren's error-laden Chrislam beliefs take his apostasy to a whole new level!

Warren is an example of why liberal Christianity DOES NOT WORK. It is NOT BIBLICALLY BASED, and therefore, does not adhere to the truth of God that is represented by His Living Word - our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ - or the written Word of God - the Bible.

There is such a thing known as outreach to people of other faiths. But when a lie is being promoted as the basis of such an "outreach," there is no absolute truth to hold it together!

Please educate yourself if you think that Warren is correct in his thinking that "Christians and Muslims worship the same God." THEY DON'T - PERIOD!!!. Please read the first post by clicking on this LINK.

There are several additional posts to read under the first one at that link above which might further cement in any reasonable mind all information why it is impossible for Christians and Muslims to be considered as worshipping the same God!

I present a copy of the original post on this page. In addition to my explanation, there are two links (at the bottom of this page) to excellent essays done by Bill Muehlenberg of CultureWatch:

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Why Muslims Don't Worship the Same God as Christians

While sharing comments at Sarah Palin's Face Book page, I pointed out to a young man who had written that "Muslims, Jews, and Christians all worship the same God" that he is incorrect. I referred him to an essay I had written back in 2006 at my Talk Wisdom Discussion Forum. I thought that it might be a good idea to share it on this blog so that when you encounter people (even some Christians!) who state that "we all worship the same God," you can be armed with the truth.


Do Muslims and Christians Worship the Same God?

The short answer is no! The bottom line is this - Hal Lindsey does not believe that Muslims worship the same God as Christians and Jews and I agree with him and his reasoning on the subject.

However, I also realize that some Christians do differ on this issue. In fact, President Bush once stated (incorrectly, IMO) that Islam worships the same god as Christians and Jews. I disagree and I will share many reasons that will explain to you why this is not possible.

First, a summary:

Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heavens glory and will return again, to earth, to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. (Matthew 1:22-23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-5; John 14:10-30; Hebrews 4:14, 15; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Romans 1:3,4; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:14,15; Titus 2:13.)

The Koran denies that Jesus is the Son of God although it describes the virgin birth in a passage similar to Luke 1:26-38 (Surah 3:45-47) (Note: Surah is in the Koran).

The Koran calls Jesus a prophet, equal to Abraham, Jonah and others, but places Him in rank far below Muhammad. Surah 4:171 says that "Jesus...was only a messenger of Allah...Far is it removed from His transcendent majesty that He should have a son."

Muhammad totally ignored the claims that Jesus made about Himself. Jesus said, for example:

"I and the Father are one" (John 10:30).
"Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father" (John 14:9).
"Before Abraham was born, I am" (John 8:58).

The Bible also states that God Himself called Jesus His Son (see Matthew 17:5).

Demons trembled as they recognized the Son of God (see Matthew 8:29).

Doubting Thomas acknowledge Him as "my Lord and my God" (John 20:28).

John identified Christ as the author of creation (John 1:1-5); so did Paul (Col. 1:15-17) who also said, "In Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form" (Col. 2:9).

The only way to deal with this kind of evidence is to do what Muhammad did - simply ignore or deny it. Islam denies Jesus Christ's Deity so they do not worship the same 'god' in their god of Allah.

Next, a response to someone who thinks Allah and Yahweh are one in the same.

In response to an individual who was attempting to equate Allah with Yahweh, I wrote the following response and included some comments from others who agree with my stance:

What Muslims believe:

"Christ, the son of Mary [note: not as the "son of God"], Was no more than A Messenger; many were Messengers that passed away Before him [here, equating Jesus with mere Messengers, or perhaps prophets, but certainly not the Son of God]. Sura 5:75, Abdullah Yusef Ali, 10th ed. reprint, 2001.

"The similitude of Jesus Before Allah is as that of Adam; He created him from dust . . . ". Sura 3:59. A subsequent "created" man, like Adam. Not God.

What Christians believe:

However, "And the angel [being Gabriel, the same angel that allegedly dictated the "Holy Koran" to Muhammad] answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" (Luke 1:35, KJV).

The Scriptures refer to Christ as "the seed of the WOMAN," knowing that no woman has any seed. The seed has to come from the male; Christ, as the Word incarnate (John 1:14), in an INCORRUPTIBLE SEED (1 Pet. 1:23) not like unto "corruptible MAN" (Rom. 1:23). Not like Adam, a created man who was not the son of God.

Thus, it comes down to a choice between these two disparate positions.

Either God showed up in the flesh, or he did not.

At this point in history, that makes you either believe God's inspired Scriptures testifying of himself in the flesh, or Allah's declaration that he did not visit in the flesh nor will he return once again.

The Koran indicates there WAS AND IS NO SON OF GOD in the flesh at any time. Muhammad thus cuts off the Isaac line through David to Jesus by God acting through Mary, and substitutes the illegitimate Ishmael to substitute himself for Jesus Christ as the New Testament "Comforter".

Jesus would then have been the son of Joseph (a corruptible man, dead and buried without resurrection), and therefore could not be the Son of God.

What does that make Muhammad?

I realize that some readers will regard this as harsh. I am just sharing the truth of the matter.

We are warned about such non-scripture by Paul when God cursed Muhammad (and any angel with whom he was consorting) for preaching "another gospel" (Gal. 1:8-9).

Below, are more differences that I have gathered through other's postings. (I will include first names or screen names only)

1. Muhammad sought earthly power and riches, including women from conquest. Jesus taught us that the Kingdom of Heaven is not of this world, and he gave up His life, via a gruesome Roman execution, so that we all might live again in the Kingdom of heaven, with all the angels and saints. And a final human act of murder and self-destruction will not gain one access to that Kingdom of Heaven, much less 72 dark-haired perpetual virgins. No, allah and God are quite different beings, with different requirements for believing in them. (contributed by John)

2. No Muslim believes that Jesus Christ in the trinity is one with God and God. Therefore they do not worship the same God. Allah does not reflect John 1:1 at all. Hence the reason one can not preach the teachings of Christ around Mecca. (contributed by Merle)

3. It is TOTALLY ILLOGICAL to say the god of Islam and God of the Jews and Christians are one and the same. Islamic scripture KORAN and Hadith is rife with Allah's disdain and hate of the the Jews and Christians. It is IMPOSSIBLE for God to hate the people (Jews and Christians) He created. Therefore Allah of Islam and God are not the same. (contributed by Paul)

4. To base arguments on the superficial use of the word 'God' misses the mark entirely. Even cults use the word 'God'. It is true that Judeo-Christian and Islamic beliefs have Abraham in common. From there though, Islam takes every Judeo-Christian belief and turns it upside down. (contributed by Terry)

5. Perhaps I can fill you in on some key points as to why I have trouble (with anyone who holds the opinion) that Allah is the same God of the Bible - God of Christians and Jews. First we need to be careful to resist our natural urge to claim common ground for the sake of unity and peace. Instead we need to look at historical facts and religious aims to see whether such commonality is possible. And we need to proceed LOGICALLY. The question we are asking is : Who is Allah? Here we are asking who Allah, the God of Islam is. We are asking who is the Allah god muslims worship to?

The Koran points out that Allah is the same as the God of Jews and Christians ( "the People of the Book") And muslims claim their faith as "the faith of Abraham" in one Creator God. So the question is settled? Well, not so fast!

As well meaning religious people, we like to see unity and peace. And we like to establish commonality with our neighbors. However to answer this key question, we need to be more objective. So let's clear up our mind and approach this question from the standpoint of a new muslim convert who is being introduced to Islam. What is the most important statement of Islam? It is the Shahada: That there is no deity but Allah and Muhammad is his prophet. This all important pledge states that Allah is the only God there is and Muhammad is his prophet. If you say this before two witnesses, you become a muslim. This all important claim of Islam DEFINES Allah.

Note that there are two parts to Shahada - "Allah is [the] only God that exist[s]" and "Muhammad is Allah's prophet". In other words, Shahada states "There is only Allah" but who is this god, Allah? "Allah is Muhammed's God" because Muhammad is his spokesman (prophet).

So the fundamental axiom of Islam DEFINES who Allah is. Allah is the God Muhammad worshipped! And this is a point that ALL MUSLIMS, CHRISTIANS, AND JEWS CAN AGREE ON.

Allah is the god Muhammad worshipped. This is how we should clarify who Allah is. This statement: "Allah is the God Muhammad worshipped daily" is a statement we all agree on.

Now we examine cold and hard historical facts.Was Muhammad ever a Jew? Nope. Was Muhammad ever a Christian? Nope. In fact, historians would agree that Muhammad was an Arab pagan who worshipped at Kaaba temple of Mecca. And he worshipped the supreme deity of Arab paganism - Allah of Mecca. We know that there is connection between the God of Christians and the God of Jews BECAUSE JESUS HAS BEEN A JEW AND SO WERE ALL EARLY CHRISTIANS. We can safely say that Christianity is a branch, if you will, out of Judaism because all early Christians were Jews and Christians accept Jewish Old Testaments VERBATUM.

By the same key criteria, we cannot say that Islam is a growth out of Judaism nor Christianity. Muhammad had never been a Jew nor a Christian and muslims do not accept the Bible verbatum. Instead Islam AIMS TO REPLACE THE BIBLE WITH THE KORAN. Because they believe that the Bible is full of errors while the Koran is the perfect book from the Heaven.

So let us summarize the above point why Allah is not the same as the God of Christians and Jews.

a. "Allah is the God Muhammad worshipped." If you want to talk Islam, you have to start from the Shahada. If you are unwilling to see the meaning of Shahada, we are talking at cross purpose. Shahada says that Allah is the God Muhammad worshipped and he is the only God there is. All other deities are idols to be denied and oppressed. (This is a point that all muslims, Christians, and Jews can agree on. )

b. Muhammad was an Arab pagan who worshipped at Kaaba temple of Mecca. (This also is a point that all can agree on. ) He was and never had been a Christian nor a Jew.

c. Therefore, Allah is NOT the God of Christians and Jews. (contributed by Jay)

I am very politically aware of what is going on in the world today. In fact, here in America, as long as your god is just a word, the world has no problem with you. However, mention the name of Jesus Christ and they do have a problem. Why is that? Why is Jesus so offensive to those who do not believe in him?

Perhaps you already agree that we Muslims and Christians do not worship or serve the same God.

Christians believe in the Trinity (I John 5:7). God the father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit.

Jesus said, "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30).

"If you have seen me you have seen the Father" (John 14:9).

In non-theological words, Jesus is God revealed to us in the flesh. Muslims do not believe in the same god, that is the God of the New Testament Bible. Let's just call it like it is. People must not try to trivialize our differences for the sake of peace.

When I was debating an individual about this topic, at the very beginning I had stated, "Since you are using a book - Koran - that I view as an improper addition to the Bible, anything I might say to rebut your allegations will probably not be accepted by you.

I do not say that the Koran is an improper addition to the Bible with a mean-spirited goal, it is just the truth as I see it being a born-again Christian. The Bible gives us a double warning in Revelation 22:18,19 not to add nor subtract from what is written, therefore, any book written after Revelation would be adding (and, in some cases subtracting, according to what is written in them) to God's Word which we are told not to do according to these verses."

With that said, I will share a few points regarding his dismay when I called Ishmael illegitimate.

I am currently in the middle of a Bible study on the book of Genesis. Here is a partial recap of chapter 16:

Here we find Sarai and Abram frustrated by the passing years without a son. So they devise their own strategy for "fulfilling" God's promise--and reap the consequences. Read Genesis 16.1.

It has been ten years since Abram and Sarai entered Canaan. What action does Sarai how suggest (16:1-2)?

Suggested Abram sleep with her maidservant to build a family through her.

2. What do you think this indicates about their trust in God?

They doubted that His promise would be fulfilled without them stepping in and "helping it along" the way. Sarai influenced Abram to commit adultery. (Another point to recognize is the name changes of both Sarai and Abram to Sarah and Abraham before Isaac was born; but even more significantly this occurred after Ishmael was born. A name change in Scripture is quite significant in that it indicates a great change in the path of the person. We see this in the New Testament when Saul was renamed Paul after his encounter with Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus and thus his conversion from not only just Judaism, but from being a persecutor of Christians to becoming one of the greatest apostles for Christ!)

3. How can our impatience with God's timetable lead us into unbelief and even disobedience?

It led to the sin of adultery in order to get the child they so desperately wanted. In fact, God did come through later with the conception and birth of Isaac.

7. Ishmael means "the God who hears." What does that reveal about the outcome in 16:15-16?

The Lord heard the child and Hagar's misery. Even though He told her the good news that He would increase her descendants so that they would be too numerous to count, He also told her the bad news; that Ishmael would be Gen 16:12- "And he will be a wild man; his hand [will be] against every man, and every man's hand against him; and he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren."

This is indicative of the hostility we have seen between Arabs and Jews throughout the centuries. We also see it in the radical fringe of Arab/Muslim terrorism going on around the world. (This is not to say that ALL Arabs/Muslims are terrorists because of course they all are not, but to point out that the hostility predicted in this Biblical account has come to fruition down through the generations and can be seen today as a result of this prophetic description of Ishmael in Genesis 16:12.)

I WILL REPEAT FOR ABSOLUTE CLARITY. I AM NOT SAYING THAT ALL MUSLIMS/ARABS ARE TERRORISTS!

In Chapter 17 we see that God's one and only covenant is revealed through Isaac. I have already included the Bible verses in previous posts.

Lastly, at my Bible study this past Tuesday, we ran across the following verse that reveals an astonishing truth about which son God Himself recognized as Abraham's "only son."

In Genesis Chapter 22 verse 2 we read:

"Then God said, "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about."

Of course, we know that God provided a substitute for Isaac at the last moment by providing a ram caught in in a thicket by its horns (verse 13). This was a foreshadowing of the substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the sins of mankind at the cross.

But notice also that God said that Isaac was Abraham's only son. Thus, we recognize Isaac's line in succession to Jesus Christ, not Ishmael's line of descendants.
__________________
Christine

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8

The eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth to show Himself strong to those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

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Update:

My Face Book friend, who happens to be a Christian biblical scholar from Australia - Bill Muehlenberg - has written two excellent essays on this topic. Please read them and be educated on this issue!

Culture Watch Blog: No, We Do Not Worship the Same God

Culture Watch Blog: What to Make of Allah

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Hat tips to all links.

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Update on 3/4/12:

Rick Warren's Tower of Babel

Most important points:

One critic has accurately commented that rather than obeying the Great Commission and creating disciples of the Jesus of the Bible, Warren is “building a Tower of Babel that leads to nowhere.”

I would agree in that when Christian groups join together with other groups that have such fundamentally divergent goals and doctrines, the danger is always compromise. Throughout the Old Testament, the commandment of God to the Israelites was to never enter into agreements, covenants or marriages with the surrounding peoples, lest the Israelites would find themselves led away to worship other gods. In such a post-modern culture, these concepts may sound amazingly intolerant, but the wisdom of the Lord’s proscription against treaties and partnerships is seen in Warren’s agreement not to evangelize his Muslim “friends” and co-laborers for mutual social causes.

The commandment is no less pressing today. The concept of holiness biblically has always revolved around the idea of separation. The Lord takes covenants, agreements and partnerships very seriously and commands us not to enter into partnerships with those who possess such antagonistic views toward the most essential biblical doctrines of the Trinity, the Incarnation and the Divine sonship of Jesus. Beyond this, while the ultimate emphasis of biblical hope is messianic, looking for the return of Jesus, Muslims await another Jesus who returns to literally abolish Christianity. If Warren was pursuing friendships for the purpose of evangelism, I would openly stand with him in this goal. But I think it is clear that Warren is pursuing an agenda far more in line with the spirit of the age than with the goals of the early Christian Church.

But Medearis and other critics of the concept of “Christianity” fail to consider 1 Peter 4:16-17 where the apostle made the following very clear statement: “However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?”

Beyond this, Jesus’ commandment to baptize and make disciples in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit is an unequivocal call to make converts who make public confessions and identify with a visible community and a specific creed.

While some may argue that Rick Warren’s efforts are in line with what they understand to be the mission of the Church, the slippery slope is seen in syncretistic expression and practices of the Insider Movement, which may truly be called “Chrislam.” While Warren and numerous other well-meaning Christian(?) missionaries who endorse and practice the C5 or Insider methodology believe that they are serving Jesus, their methods always lead to dishonesty, blurring the lines of truth, compromise and eventually outright heresy.

Critics of this blog may ask why I bring up such topics as this one. The answer is because of what is written as a warning in Jude:

Jud 1:16 These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling [words], having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.


Jud 1:17 But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;


Jud 1:18 How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.


Jud 1:19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.


Jud 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,


Jud 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.


Jud 1:22 And of some have compassion, making a difference:


Jud 1:23 And others save with fear, pulling [them] out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.


Jud 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,


Jud 1:25 To the only wise God our Saviour, [be] glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

Mar 13:22 For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if [it were] possible, even the elect.


Mar 13:23 But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.

2Ti 2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Mat 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.


Mat 24:25 Behold, I have told you before.


1Pe 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.


1Pe 2:7 Unto you therefore which believe [he is] precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,


1Pe 2:8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, [even to them] which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.


1Pe 2:9 But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:


1Pe 2:10 Which in time past [were] not a people, but [are] now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

Why National Geographic Shouldn't do Videos About Jesus

The main reason is because much of what they spew IS WRONG! I made the mistake of watching the video Jesus' Arrest on T.V. the other day, and was completely disappointed in what was presented, how it was presented, the lies that were included, and what was purposely left out of the biblical account.

You can go to the link and see for yourself. Compare what is presented in the video against the truth found in the biblical account within the Scriptures, and you will see the clear discrepancies in the video. Oops...sorry. Upon revisiting that link I discovered that there is only a 3 minute excerpt being shown at the site. Perhaps the entire video is available elsewhere on the site.

For the sake of argument, I will point out some of the lies, the incomplete segments, and a few other discrepancies that are evident in the video presentation.


First, when Jesus turned over the tables of the moneychangers, he DID NOT push any of the people involved in the temple corruption. The video incorrectly shows Jesus pushing people and being "violent." Plus, the Nat Geo film neglected to report that Jesus' anger was directed at the moneychangers because "God's House was to be a place of prayer. His anger was justified.

They also got it wrong that Jesus would have objected to the animal sacrifice in the temple. The entire purpose of the Old Testament sacrifices was for the temporary forgiveness of sins given to the person who brought the sacrificial animal as a ransom for the confession of sin. The concept that something unblemished needed to die for the remission of sins was to show how the Messiah, in whom the Jews were looking to appear as promised by God the Father, would be the final perfect (sinless) sacrifice for the sins of the world. Jesus fulfilled all the prophecies that were foretold in the Old Testament (with a few still to be fulfilled at his second coming), and his final sacrifice meant that "it was finished." There was no need for animal sacrifice in the Temple anymore.

Why were there all of these discrepancies? Because they had an agenda, that's why! And it wasn't an agenda that agrees with the true biblical account of the arrest of Jesus.

Another lie is when one man in the video claims that this was Jesus' "first time" at the temple. Recall that Jesus was found by his parents at the temple when he was 12 years old. Plus, Jesus was at the temple numerous times; even if they weren't all recorded in the Scriptures.

Another point, and it's a HUGE ONE, is the fact that Jesus WILLINGLY WENT TO THE CROSS [Jhn 18:11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?] for the sake of mankind so that all who believe in him would not perish but have eternal life! They made the same mistake that most unregenerate people make - blaming Christ's death on the Jews and/or the Roman empire, the soldiers, the people in the crowds etc. The truth is, ALL OF MANKIND was the reason Christ WILLINGLY went to the cross at Calvary! This basic concept of Christianity is, unfortunately, missing from the minds of the video creators.

Such errors often happen when secular entities try to analyze and report on spiritual, biblical matters which they obviously are unable to comprehend.

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Update 12/30/11

As I was reading Simon Greenleaf's essay Testimony of the Evangelicals tonight, I was reminded of the fact that the gospel of Luke revealed that Jesus healed the ear of Malchus when the soldiers came to arrest Jesus and Peter used his sword to slash off Malchus' ear:

Luk 22:50 And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear.


Luk 22:51 And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him.

This information was omitted from the Nat Geo video.

We Need A True TEA Party Candidate! [Update]

When Sarah Palin announced that she would not seek the Republican nomination for president in 2012, I have to admit that I was quite disappointed. However, I certainly could understand her reasons. I wrote the following on her Face book page:

God first, family second, and job third is a great philosophy to live by and I can certainly understand your prayerful decision, Sarah. Many are disappointed, but with God's guidance, you have made your decision. If things change between now and election day, perhaps you might find God leading you to reconsider your decision. Whatever you decide, you have my admiration and respect. The political climate is so awful. The hatred being spewed towards conservative Christians has been ramped up since ObaMAO got into office. Praying that a TRUE conservative Christian will step up and save this nation!

I thought that Herman Cain might be the candidate that the TEA Party has been looking for, but who knows whether or not his candidacy will survive the sexual harassment scandal?

There was some buzz over on Sarah Palin's Face book page that she may be reconsidering running for president, but she hasn't commented about it yet. According to her page, she is planning on making a speech in Florida soon, but I don't think that it has anything to do with reconsidering her position to run in 2012.

If she is reconsidering a run for the presidency in 2012, perhaps she sees that the Cain scandal (whether it is fair or not) might derail his run for the nomination. I recall doing a post at my blog many months ago where she supported his candidacy when he originally announced his run for the Republican nomination.

I really thought that Cain might be the non-political hack type of candidate that the TEA Party needs, but with his flub on the abortion issue during a liberal cable station interview, and now this sexual harassment scandal, I don't know if he will survive and make it to the nomination. There has been some speculation that Rahm Emanuel is behind the exposure of the sexual harassment scandal. If so, then perhaps ObaMAO fears that Cain could beat him?

The media of mass deception has done over 50 reports on Cain's "scandal," whereas they only did 3 on each of Clinton's sexual scandals (far more serious I might add). Recall Paula Jones, Kathleen Willey, and Juanita Broderick? (forget her last name) who was allegedly raped by Clinton?

I don't think that Cain is the political elitists' choice for the Republican nomination. Karl Rove is certainly trying to get people swayed toward Romney (barf!). I don't think Newt is electable, no matter how smart he is because of his sordid past. The elitists are dismissing everyone else too. So who do they want? If they want Obama re-elected, then the Communists/Socialists/Islamo-fascists/Anarchists/ have certainly made it known that they plan to take over and will do ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING to get Obama re-elected.

A LOT of people have awakened to the farce of Dem vs. Republican, but the question remains, will we have the candidate to finally kick the elitists out who are intent on destroying our Constitutional Republic and Capitalistic economic system? I certainly hope so! I pray every day for God to have mercy on our nation and allow our people to wake up and elect a true conservative Christian who supports the Constitution and our Capitalistic economic system into the office of the presidency!

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Update:

More about Sarah Palin reconsidering running for president at:

A Time For Choosing: Breaking: Sources Tell Dr Gina Louden Sarah Palin Is Reconsidering a Presidential Run.

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Update 11/5/11 re: Herman Cain!

Legal Insurrection reports:

All of the sudden, Politico wants to be fair and balanced

Copy of post (go to link for additional links):

After spending a week portraying Herman Cain as a sexual predator, allegations which so far have resulted in NO FACTS sustantiating the innuendo, Politico now wants to be fair and balanced and tell us that Cain actually led industry efforts to fight sexual harassment, Under Herman Cain, NRA launched Sex Harassment Fight:

With Cain at the helm as CEO in 1998, the [National Restaurant] association created a video to explain sexual harassment laws to its members – and created a sample sexual harassment policy for individual restaurants to use, according to a Chicago Tribune story at the time.

The NRA’s Educational Foundation began offering a training program for member restaurants called, “What’s the Big Deal? Sexual Harassment Prevention Program,” in addition to its ServSafe safety and alcohol training materials. Today, according to the ServSafe website, restaurants can purchase employee and manager training brochures, as well as DVDs to explain acceptable practices.

Scher, who observed the NRA’s actions at the time and has read about them since, said the organization’s actions were, at the time, a proactive step.

And in a prophetic statement, Cain also warned of the consequences of frivolous suits:

Industry officials saw it coming — none other than Cain himself warned as far back as 1991 that changes in federal law resulting from the hearings could cause problems for employers.

“This bill opens the door for opportunists who will use the legislation to make some money,” Cain, then CEO of Godfather’s Pizza, told Nation’s Restaurant News. “I’m certainly for civil rights, but I don’t know if this bill is fair because of what we’ll have to spend to defend ourselves in unwarranted cases.”

Indeed. But at least you didn’t have Politico in 1991.

It is looking more and more feasible that this sexual harrassment story has been trumped up to destroy Cain's character and candidacy. Isn't it possible that these women may have used Cain to get money through frivolous claims? It is also very telling that one of the accusers refuses to go before the public - so she sent out her lawyer who didn't reveal much detail anyway.

It will be interesting to see just who was initially responsible (Rahm Emmanuel??) for attempting to destroy Cain - just because he isn't a leftist black who toes the liberal Democratic line.

Also see:

Saturday Movie Matinee

posted by nicedeb at Nice Deb - 9 minutes ago

Herman Cain, in case you haven’t heard, has beaten the vague, anonymous, not necessarily sexual harassment rap in what has turned out to be a one week fakestorm. The lib media gave it their best, throwing every vague innuendo they could muster at the wall to see what would stick, but the wall stands tall and unblemished among the huge piles of slime that surround it. His poll numbers are soaring.

Jesus Makes Our Hearts Whole Again

As a Christian believer in Jesus Christ (who is the Son of God, Lord, Savior, Creator and King) my work here at this blog is, unfortunately, sometimes shunned (or even mocked) by non-believers. Why do they feel that way? Why do they feel the need to mock such beliefs? It could be due to a myriad of reasons.

Dr. David Jeremiah covers many of them in his new book, I Never Thought I'd See The Day! Culture at the Crossroads. However, there is one reason for such angst that is common amongst most skeptics. In my own research that I had done years ago, it was helpful to study the writings of people who posted at a skeptics website forum called "Skeptics Annotated Bible."  I must warn you that people there can be brutal, but it helps you to develop a thick skin during confrontation.  The day that I found another website entitled, "Skeptics Annotated Bible Refuted" actually made my task against them easier.  Eventually, I stopped showing up there and started my own forum (now discontinued due to this blog). 

During that time, I discovered that angry skeptics are just lost people who have a severe hole in their heart (whether they want to admit it or not) that can never be filled until they are redeemed through the Cross of Christ and reconciled back unto God. That is when a person becomes whole spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and even physically!

Every testimony that I have ever heard - from a new believer in Christ all the way up to the more seasoned believers in the Lord Jesus Christ - included such healing. The salvation of the soul is instantaneous at the born-again moment of genuine conversion. However, the healing of the whole person continues on until the day we die. This is known as sanctification. Please see Becoming a Christian for more detailed information.

Studying the Bible for over 23 years now has enabled me to be more and more confident in what I share regarding the way of God in truth. It is not because of who I am, but because of Who Jesus is that I can have such confidence. The Bible is God's written Word of truth without any error. The Bible reveals Jesus Christ - God's Living Truth!   The Old Testament pointed towards the coming Messiah. The New Testament reveals Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah spoken about in the Old Testament. Prophecies regarding Jesus (and there are over 300 of them!!) have mostly been fulfilled. Those that haven't been fulfilled yet WILL BE at the end of the age.

The creation of the State of Israel in 1948 was a huge, modern times fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Israel became an independent, united nation for the second time in history, and for the first time in 2,900 years! But did you know that nine additional prophecies where fulfilled in 1948? Many people are not aware of that fact.

Think about all of the centuries where non-believers scoffed at those ten prophecies; thinking that they would never be fulfilled! I think that the same thing is happening today regarding the return of Jesus Christ.   It truly saddens my heart to realize that fact.  Dr. Jeremiah's new book reveals the main reasons why our culture has shifted so drastically from the Judeo-Christian roots that our Founding Fathers so wisely utilized in the formation of the United States of America. 

You might ask, 'What happens to the non-believers?"  The Bible reveals their fate.  Look it up!  When Jesus does return, those who did not accept Him as Lord and Savior of their lives will grieve deeply over their wrong decisions.  But there is no good reason for them to continue to be snared in the trap of "the marketplace of sin" when  Jesus Christ paid a ransom price to redeem mankind out of it!

I can't wait to get to the end of Dr. Jeremiah's book where the chapter tells us, "When Changing Your Mind Could Save Your Life."

I would encourage anyone who does not know Jesus Christ and/or the Bible as well as they should to read the book of John. That is the very first book that I read when I seriously started studying the Bible. It enabled me to re-dedicate my life to Christ after years of wandering away from Him. It is the one book of the Bible that I recommend for anyone who is still searching for the truth.

Below is Turning Point's daily devotional for this weekend. It fits right in with this post!

Have a blessed weekend!

Yours in Christ's service,
~ Christine

Weekend, October 15 & 16


Day of the Cross: God Provides Redemption


In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 1:14


Recommended Reading
Colossians 2:13-14
Some theologians limit the purpose of Christ's death on the cross to being an example of sacrificial love, an illustration of His words in John 15:13: "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." Jesus proved that such costly love was possible when He illustrated it by His own sacrificial action.


Jesus certainly was an example of love and other godly attributes as well--imitated by the apostles (1 Corinthians 11:1). But something more profound than an example happened on the cross: Jesus Christ paid a ransom price to redeem mankind out of the marketplace of slavery to sin (Galatians 3:13; 1 Timothy 2:6). The most important transaction in history took place: Jesus exchanged His innocent life for our sin-stained life, dying the death we deserved that we might, by God's mercy, be spared the judgment we richly deserved. Because God was pleased with Christ in every way, the Cross turned away the wrath of God (Romans 5:9).


Take a moment today to thank God for the Day of the Cross and your redemption from sin.


The heart of the gospel is redemption, and the essence of redemption is the substitutionary sacrifice of Christ.
C. H. Spurgeon




Read-Thru-the-Bible
Luke 23:1-John 3:21

Hat Tips:

Watchman Bible Study

David Jeremiah.org

Angels Helper

The Battle For The Truth [Update 2]

My blogging friend Bill Muehlenberg who writes at the blog Culture Watch has a very thought provoking post up called The Attempted Eradication of Christianity.

Excerpt:

The secular jihadists have declared war against Christianity, and are working overtime to ensure that it is eradicated in the Western world. This site has documented many dozens of examples of this, and each new week provides further case studies in this.

The secular crusaders think all would be sweetness and light in this world if we could only get rid of those pesky Christians and their awful religion. They somehow expect us to believe that utopia will arrive on planet earth when Christianity is gone and secularism reigns supreme.

Yeah right. More people were killed last century in the name of secular humanism than all the world’s religious conflicts put together. The bloody side of secularism is unfortunately a historical reality. And the overwhelming good which Christianity has done for the world is also a matter of historical fact, as I discuss elsewhere: A Review of How Christianity Changed the World by Alvin Schmidt.

Personally, I think that the secular jihadists are hell-bent on attacking Christianity because deep down they know that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the truth. Such people war against the truth because it hurts to face the facts contained within the truth of the Gospel. The rebellious nature of unrepentant, sinful men causes them to refuse to give up their soul-destroying error(s). This occurs mostly because they are entrenched in the pride of life and have faith only in themselves. No wonder the world is such a mess!

What I think is ironic is that secular jihadists who hate Christianity find themselves willing to compromise the truth of Christian faith, yet embrace false religions/teachers such as Islam. Thus, they form a kind of unholy alliance with them. Who would have thought that liberal leftist, atheistic progressives could compromise their secular beliefs with Islamists who want to impose Shariah law here in the U.S.? But it's happening! Why? Because both agree on at least one thing - the desire to be persistent viruses attacking Biblical Christianity. You know the old phrase, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend." But don't you wonder why they would submit to compromise in order to commit such dastardly deeds?

I think that it has to do with lies. The lies that atheists/agnostics/skeptics believe against the God of the Bible and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, can work in alliance with the lies of the Islamic religion; as long as they are in agreement about one or more humanistic ideas/principles.

For example, recall in a previous post where I shared that the secular atheist billionaire, George Soros, once approached Qaddafi (leader of Libya) regarding some sort of "deal" that Soros wanted done. I think that it had to do with a green Socialist initiative. When Qaddafi backed out, he became an enemy of Soros. As we know, Soros is the puppeteer (at least one of them) behind the puppet pResidency of Barack Hussein Obama. So it is likely that Soros was the one behind getting the U.S. and NATO involved with bombing Libya during the Arab Spring uprisings. (When I find links to previous blog posts about this I will add them here).

So you see, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" can quickly devolve into a new kind of enemy.

In John MacArthur's book, The Truth War several of his quotes can easily be applied here:

Uncertainty is the new truth. Doubt and skepticism have been canonized as a form of humility. Right and wrong have been redefined in terms of subjective feelings and personal perspectives.

We have witnessed the appeasement of Islamists by the secularist New York mayor, Michael Bloomberg, who gave approval to a mosque being built near Ground Zero. Yet, at the same time, Bloomberg and others are fighting to refuse to allow the display of the cross at the almost completed memorial - which was formed by girders in the 9/11/01 terrorist attack wreckage. Why? Why was one religious request granted and the other denied? I think that it is because Islam and secular atheism are like two peas in a pod. Both are in error of what God's Word teaches and both are involved with evil.

John MacArthur writes:

The arrogant rationalism that dominated the modern era is already in its death throes. Most of the world is caught up in disillusionment and confusion. People are unsure about virtually everything and do not know where to turn for truth.

BINGO!! MacArthur hits the nail right on the head with that quote! In fact, he mentions Islamic jihad on page 29:

We live in an era when religious fanatics routinely blow themselves up, fly planes into buildings, or commit unthinkable evil acts of barbaric terrorism in the name of religion. The biblical strategy for spiritual warfare has nothing whatsoever in common with the tactics of Islamic jihad.

Scripture is clear that physical force is not a legitimate tool for the advancement of the kingdom of God.

You see, radical Islam is intent on warring against and conquering other religious faiths and nations in order to achieve their end times goals.

As far as Christianity goes, the Truth War has nothing to do with carnal warfare or physical violence. There are, however, times when evil makes warfare absolutely necessary.

John MacArthur notes:

Of course, believers who are policemen, soldiers, or otherwise agents duly authorized by the government must be willing to use deadly force when necessary as part of their duty to the civil government. Scripture nowhere endorses any kind of absolute pacifism.

In fact, Romans 13:1-4 expressly grants governments the authority to wield the sword in order to punish evildoers, defend their national security, and maintain civil peace.

Going to war against those who attacked us on 9/11/2001 was necessary in order to protect our nation and people from further attacks by radical Islam. Unfortunately, the creeping Sharia infiltrating our nation through liberal court judge decisions is making it easier for the false religion of Islam to take hold here in America. We would learn a good lesson if we would heed the warnings from Great Britain where unrestricted Muslim immigration created fierce cultural battles within their nation. They are now seeing that the multiculturalism they embraced over the last few decades is turning against them in cities where Muslim dominance reigns. But that's another subject for another blog post.

In conclusion, John MacArthur instructs us:

The Truth War is not a carnal war. It is not about territory and nations. It is not a battle for lands and cities. It is not a clan war or a personality conflict between individuals. It is not a fight for clout between religious denominations. It is not a skirmish over material possessions. It is a battle for the truth. (emphasis mine).

Paul makes this clear in 2 Corinthians 10:5, where he spells out the ultimate objective of the Truth War: "casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ." The battlefield is the mind; the goal is the absolute triumph of truth; the priceless spoils of conquest are souls won out of the bondage of sin; the outcome is our willing submission to Christ; the highest prize is the honor given to Him as Lord; and the ultimate victory is completely His.

Hat Tips:

Culture Watch

John MacArthur: The Truth War (Note: Excerpt of book at this link. Scroll down to "Read Excerpt PDF.")

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Update:

Bill Muehlenberg has written a new blog post about multiculturalism:

Force-Fed Multiculturalism

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9/4/11 Update

Be sure to read Noisy Room: The Hate That Never Ended.

Excerpt:

If you are a Jew, they kill you. If you are a Christian, you convert, pay the Jizya tax or they execute you. If you are gay, you will be put to death. Women are property and slaves. Sexual abuse is legal and rampant. Beheading is the preferred method of execution. And the list goes on and on… Imagine a worldwide Caliphate where this is the norm, where a fascist theocracy rules the day and freedom no longer exists. This is what these people bring. They bring evil, slavery, darkness and death.

We are at war with millions of Islamic radicals who believe this. These are the radical Islamists and their hate never ended after 9-11.
It has been going on since Islam began and we are fighting for our lives and our way of life. We better start acting like it if we don’t want something much worse than 9-11 to play out on the lawn of the White House or in some mall in middle America.

The Jihadists need to understand this… We will never submit. We will never forget. We will fight you and the other enemies America faces within and without and we will win. That’s what good does – it wins, it overcomes. We will put an end to your hatred that never ended one way or the other. Evil is stupid and cowardly and in the end – it always loses.

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Update 2:

Bloomberg isn't the only one promoting Islamic mosques and Sharia law in New York. Take a look at this blogpost, 2 videos, and startling article about the New York Times support for Sharia law!

We The People: New York Times is Now Promoting Shariah Law

Excerpt:

The NY Times puts for its drivel following the startling predictions of Avi Lipkin seen in the video below.  Take it for what it is worth my friends, but Sharia hasn’t been creeping through America, it’s been galloping.  Readers of this column are already aware that Sharia Law has been used in Court Cases in 23 States of our United States. 

As the man in the Of Mosques and Men: Reflections of the Ground Zero Mosque video over at Answering Muslims says at the end of the Youtube video:

"Come out of the cave America - it's dark in there."

Atheists Sue To Prevent WTC Memorial Cross Display

This morning, I read a post over at The Blaze: Atheists Sue to Stop Display of Cross at World Trade Center Memorial.

Excerpt:

A group of atheists is up in arms over the display of a cross at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. The World Trade Center memorial, which is intended to serve as a reminder of the tragic terror attack that occurred nearly 10 years ago, is scheduled to open on the event’s 10th anniversary.

(Read what Meredith Jessup has to say about this legal challenge over on the blog.)

When the Twin Towers collapsed on September 11, 2001, two beams perfectly formed the cross, which many view as both symbolic and iconic. It is this object — a steel cross — that is perfect fodder for atheists and non-believers who do not wish to see any religious items included in the memorial.

Continue reading here.




It is interesting to read the various comments over there. Please view the video (at The Blaze link above) of the blessing of the cross, then you will understand my comment better.

Christinewjc
Posted on July 28, 2011 at 10:38am
I would expect Mayor Bloombutt to sign the complaint, but Gov. Chris Christie? What a huge disappointment! Christie has lost my respect. During the video, the brother read a letter where someone claims that “we all worship the same God,” and that includes Muslims. Well sorry – but that statement is incorrect. Of course, the writer has the right to say and believe what he/she wants. But it doesn’t make it true. Read my essay about this at Talk Wisdom:   Why Muslims Don’t Worship the Same God as Christians.

How ironic it is to realize that Bloomberg approves of the 9/11 mosque being built, but objects to the display of this cross at the memorial! Unequivocal bias anyone?? Muslims and atheists probably have more in common because both obviously worship a different kind of god – a humanistic one.

Hat Tip: The Blaze

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In other news - The Blaze: McCain References TEA Party Hobbits on Senate Floor

I saw the RINO progressive try to distance himself from his own remarks on Hannity last night. Fat chance! Hannity wasn't fooled and neither are GENUINE CONSERVATIVES! I heard that Sharron Angle stated that McCain just "through her and his former running mate, Sarah Palin under the bus."

The thing that this debt crisis debate is bringing out for all to see is just who in the Republican party are genuine Conservatives that support the principles and values of what the TEA Party Patriots are trying to do to correct the corruption and stop the out-of-control spending in Washington D.C. Was McCain blind to the results of the 2010 mid-term election? Ah! It grieves me to see him do this.

But one comment over at The Blaze jumped out at me. It actually makes McCain look quite foolish on this issue:

dr_funk
Posted on July 27, 2011 at 8:47pm
He obviously hasn’t read the Tolkien series, because if he had, he would know that the Hobbits were the only ones with any courage, and that they persevered in the face of all sorts of evils, betrayers, and nay-sayers, and eventually brought down the most powerful evil empire in existence that, if they had not destroyed it, would have conquered the whole of middle earth.

Obviously, McCain has no concept of “courage” or “principle”.

Urgency and Necessity of The Truth War

Chapter Three of John MacArthur's book, The Truth War: Fighting for Certainty in an Age of Deception is entitled "Constrained Into Conflict: Why We Must Fight for the Faith."

I have had this book for a long time. Every so often, I go back and read some of the chapters. If you do a search on this blog, you will find at least four blog posts about the book. Recently, I ran across a link to several John MacArthur Videos. Many of them are excerpts from his book The Truth War.

Years ago, I bookmarked the final three pages of chapter three. It is subtitled, "When It's Time To Go To War." I found it very interesting that the verse in Jude 3, which contains the phrase "contend earnestly for the faith" is actually stronger in meaning when translated from the Greek. MacArthur writes:

The expression "contend earnestly" is translated from a strong Greek verb epagonizomai,literally meaning "agonize against." The word describes an intensive, arduous, drawn-out fight. There is nothing passive, peaceful, or easy about it. Jude "exhorted" them - meaning he urged and commanded them - to wage a mighty battle on behalf of the true faith.

So then literally, we are to "agonize against" the falsehoods that creep up into Christianity that often, quite frankly, turn Christian truth into something unrecognizable. I could cite dozens of examples. But two of the most contentious moral problems of our time are the acceptance of homosexual behavior and abortion of children in the womb.

There will always be people who try and twist the truth to their own advantage. Many times it is used as an excuse to cover their sins. But there is only One Provision for the forgiveness of sins - and that is Jesus Christ's sacrificial death on the cross. Christ is the only way to be reconciled unto the Father.

MacArthur continues:

Jude himself says he felt the necessity to write this command. He employs a verb that speaks of pressure. In other words, he sensed a strong, God-given compulsion to write these things. He was not writing them because he took some kind of perverse glee in being militant. He was not responding to a momentary whimsy or personal anger. This was critical, and since the writers of Scripture never wrote by human self-will, but only as they were moved by the Spirit of God (2 Peter 1:21), the extreme urgency of Jude reflects the sovereign influence of the Holy Spirit, and therefore also the mind of Christ.

I love that last line - "This was critical, and since the writers of Scripture never wrote by human self-will, but only as they were moved by the Spirit of God (2 Peter 1:21), the extreme urgency of Jude reflects the sovereign influence of the Holy Spirit, and therefore also the mind of Christ."

I don't know about you, but in my lifetime I have NEVER seen so many liars getting away with their sin and corruption than over the past two and a half years. It seems that ever since the Obama administration got into office, any semblance of a reasonable government was out the window. As one example, we only need to turn on the T.V. each day and hear the bad news about the current debt crisis to understand how fallen man has gotten us into such a mess. Then, in the next news segment we find out that Obama has raised 86 million dollars for his re-election campaign. Why would anyone in their right mind want to re-elect this monster?? Answer: money, power, influence, and the desire to "fundamentally transform America" which is code word for collapsing our Constitutional Republic Capitalist system and bringing in a cesspool combination of communism, socialism, Islamo-fascism and sharia law. What could go wrong? But all of that is for another blog post.

MacArthur continues:

We thus have an urgent mandate from God Himself to do our part in the Truth War. The Holy Spirit, through the pen of Jude, is urging Christians to exercise caution, discernment, courage, and the will to contend earnestly for the truth.

Notice what we are supposed to be fighting for. It is not anything petty, personal, mundane, or ego related. This warfare has a very narrow objective. What we are called to defend is no less than "the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints."

Jude is speaking of apostolic doctrine (Acts 2:42) - objective Christian truth - the faith, as delivered from Jesus through the agency of the Holy Spirit by the apostles to the church. As he says in verse 17: "Remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Notice: no one discovered or invented the Christian faith. It was delivered to us. It was not as if someone mystically ascended into the transcendental realm and drew down an understanding of the truth. We don't need an enlightened guru to open the mysteries of the faith for us (cf. 1 John 2:27). The truth was entrusted by God to the whole church - intact and "once for all." It came by revelation, through the teaching of the apostles as preserved for us in Scripture. Jude speaks of "the faith" as a complete body of truth already delivered - so there is no need to seek additional revelation or to embellish the substance of "the faith" in any way. Our task is simply to interpret, understand, publish, and defend the truth God has once and for all delivered to the church.

The fact that the Bible is the Written Word of God, Jesus is the Living Word of God, and the Holy Spirit of God guides us into all truth allows born again believers in Jesus Christ to "interpret, understand, publish, and defend the truth God has once and for all delivered to the church." How can we spot untruths, heresy, apostasy and lies? By making sure that what is being espoused by any preacher, teacher, or layperson is not contradictory to what the Bible teaches!

John MacArthur explains:

That is what the Truth War is ultimately all about. It is not mere wrangling between competing earthly ideologies. It is not simply a campaign to refine someones religious creed or win a denominational spitting contest. It is not a battle of wits over arcane theological fine points. It is not an argument for sport. It is not like a school debate, staged to see who is more skilled or more clever in the art of argumentation. It is not merely academic in any sense. And it is certainly not a game. It is a very serious struggle to safeguard the heart and soul of truth itself and to unleash that truth against the powers of darkness - in hopes of rescuing the eternal souls of men and women who have been unwittingly ensnared by the trap of devilish deception.

This is a battle we cannot wage effectively if we always try to come across to the world as merely nice, nonchalant, docile, agreeable, and fun-loving people. We must not take our cues from people who are perfectly happy to compromise the truth wherever possible "for harmony's sake." Friendly dialogue may sound affable and pleasant. But neither Christ or the apostles ever confronted serious, soul-destroying error by building collegial relationships with false teachers. In fact, we are expressly forbidden to do that (Romans 16:17; 2 Corinthians 6:14-15; 2 Thessalonians 3:6; 2 Timothy 3:5; 2 John 10-11). Scripture is clear about how we are to respond when the very foundations of the Christian faith are under attack, and Jude states it succinctly: it is our bounden duty to contend earnestly for the faith.

I have to chuckle each time I see someones car with the bumper sticker that says "COEXIST" where each letter represents a different religion. It seems to me that the liberal/progressive advocates of such a symbol often hate those who adhere to true Christian faith and they tend not to hide their disdain. Just watch some of the alphabet soup news programs and commentary shows out there and you will see what I mean!

Why is there such hatred for Christians? I think that it is because of what Jesus told us in these verses:

Jhn 15:18 "If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before [it hated] you.

Jhn 15:19 "If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.

Jhn 15:25 "But [this happened] that the word might be fulfilled which is written in their law, 'They hated Me without a cause.'

Read the entire chapter of John 15. It starts out Jhn 15:1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser." Jesus is speaking in these verses and He goes on to reveal that Jhn 15:5 "I am the vine, you [are] the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."

John 15 is such a comfort these days. Why? Because Jesus has warned us that followers of him will be hated. It is part of the "turf" in the warfare we are in for the souls of men.

John MacArthur continues:

Notice carefully: Jude is not suggesting (nor am I) that Christians should contend among themselves over every petty disagreement or divide into factions over every personality conflict. In fact, that is the very thing the apostle Paul condemned in 1 Corinthians 3:3-7. Divisiveness and sectarianism are terrible sins that hurt the church when major divisions are manufactured out of petty differences over trivial, doubtful, indifferent, or less-than-vital matter (Romans 14:1).

We cannot include differences over abortion or homosexual practice. They are not in the "petty disagreement" categories. Both of them break at least one, if not more of the Ten Commandments. However, a difference over whether a hard Christian rock band sings a Christmas song or a more traditional choir sings it better would be a petty argument. Such a thing is a matter of taste.

John MacArthur continues:

Now, you might think that the difference between a picayune disagreement and a serious threat to some core truth of Christianity would always be obvious and clear-cut. Usually, it is. Most of the time, it is easy enough to see the distinction between a peripheral issue and a matter of urgent and fundamental importance. But not always. And here is where mature wisdom and careful discernment become absolutely crucial for every Christian: sometimes serious threats to our faith come in subtle disguise so that they are barely noticeable. And false teachers like to surround their deadly error with some truth. Therein lies the seduction. We must never assume that things like the teacher's reputation, the warmth of his personality, or majority opinion about him are perfectly safe barometers of whether his teaching is really dangerous or not. We also shouldn't imagine that common sense, intuition, or first impressions are reliable ways of determining whether this or that error poses a serious threat or not. Scripture, and Scripture alone, is the only safe guide in this area.

As Dr. MacArthur states in that last paragraph sentence, "Scripture, and Scripture alone, is the only safe guide in this area."

Amen!!!

The term "Scripture" itself appears in the Bible 32 times!

This is a beautiful verse:

Gal 3:22 But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.

Hat Tips:

Grace To You.org - The Truth War pp. 74-77

Blue Letter Bible and all links.